Confidence, Creativity, Resilience: The Impact of ASAP
- We often hear that “the arts build the leaders of tomorrow” but what does that really mean? Research consistently shows that young people involved in arts programmes develop greater creativity, empathy, and resilience than their peers. They learn to collaborate, think critically, and express themselves with confidence. These aren’t just “nice-to-have” qualities; they’re essential for navigating life, education, and careers in today’s world.
- At Lunchbox Theatre’s After School Activities Programme (ASAP), we see this transformation every day. What might begin as a simple hobby often grows into a foundation for lifelong success.
- Take Liyema, for example. What started as a holiday activity soon became a safe and inspiring space where she developed friendships, discipline, and self-belief. Today, those lessons continue to support her academic journey as a Bachelor of Arts student, alongside her active involvement in both sports and the arts.
For Hlengiwe, who joined ASAP at just 11 years old, theatre became more than performance; it was a way to grow. She reflects: “I gained skills of thinking out of the box and how to deal with situations in different ways. Today, I am a smart, independent, and go-getter, confident woman because of ASAP.”
Stories like these remind us why we do what we do. Theatre isn’t just about applause on stage; it’s about nurturing self-belief, resilience, and leadership in the next generation. Programmes like ASAP create spaces where young people can discover their voices and step into their futures with confidence.
This is the heartbeat of Lunchbox Theatre: using the arts as a tool for transformation, one story at a time.
Want to explore more about the impact of the arts on young people? Here are two recommended reads:
- Educating Ourselves about Childhood Arts Experiences and Why They Matter– NEA research on how arts engagement enhances development from early childhood through high school.
- New research reveals the positive life-changing impacts of youth theatre participation– exploring how youth theatre builds confidence, leadership, and emotional intelligence for life.
Note: Contact us if you would like us to create a custom show with a specific message you would like to convey to change our country for the better.
