Edward Tsumele

Edward Tsumele

Students at the South African Roadies' Association (Sara) are currently benefiting from a lighting design course sponsored by the French embassy in South Africa and the French Institute.

Sara trains young people in technical skills necessary for staging live events.

The lighting design course is being taught by one of Europe's best teachers, Vincent Gornet, who is based in Marseille, France.

"The visit by Gornet is a tribute to the successful relationship forged between Sara and the French, which began in 1999," said Sara president Freddy Nyathela.

"Vincent has worked on tours with Youssou N'Dour, Salif Keita, Sally Nyalo and Miriam Makeba and the Sahel Opera. He will help South Africans to perfect their skills.

"The past years have seen ongoing and consistent efforts, both in South Africa and France, that have significantly empowered young South Africans."

The course will also cover various electrical, safety and lighting techniques.

The intensive two-week course ends tomorrow with a graduation ceremony.

The training includes a secondment to Alliance Francaise in Parkview, Johannesburg.