Minister Fritz celebrates Chrysalis’ 20th anniversary

Today, the Minister of Community Safety, Albert Fritz, unveiled a banner marking the beginning of Chrysalis Academy’s 20^th anniversary. Minister Fritz was joined by the Minister of Social Development, Sharna Fernandez, Chrysalis CEO, Dr Lucille Meyer, and Chrysalis founder, Mark Wiley. 

Chrysalis is the flagship youth-development programme of the Western Cape Government which has upskilled and provided opportunities to over 10 000 students since its inception in 2000. To commemorate the anniversary, Chrysalis will hold a gala event, symposium, cross country run and open a museum of the old Porter Reform School in 2020.

Minister Fritz said, “This year we celebrate Chrysalis’ 20^th anniversary. Chrysalis Academy has come a long way over the past twenty years, and many of its graduates can be found in all sectors of society. Under the leadership and guidance of founder Mark Wiley and CEO Dr Meyer, Chrysalis has become a life-changing experience for many young and vulnerable youth. It provides them with a sense of self-worth, upliftment and purpose. It also challenges youth to live a more active and productive lifestyle.”

“I look forward to working more closely with Chrysalis to expand the programme. This year we will be deepening the work of the Youth Hubs and launching a few new ones.  These Hubs are critical in providing ongoing support to Chrysalis graduates. This will be conducted in line with the violence prevention aims of the Western Cape Safety Plan,” said Minister Fritz.

The DA-led Department of Community Safety will continue to support and enhance initiatives which uplift and provide opportunities to the youth of our province.

Attention broadcasters: please see English audio link attached.