The Klops Kamer is a column that focuses on events and happenings in the world of the minstrels, placing the spotlight on this beautiful part of Cape Town culture…

Every year, when the Young TV Stars from Heideveld enter the minstrel competitions, they are labelled the “underdogs”.

However, this year, their response is simple: “We’re coming for you!”

Young TV Stars, a registered non-profit organisation, has a rich history in the minstrel community, having been founded 21 years ago.

The team was originally co-owned by the well-known Melvyn Matthews, under the name Penny Pinchers All Stars, but they eventually evolved into Young TV Stars.

The Young TV Stars “singpak” get ready for the 2025 season.

Creative differences and the formation of another team close to where they were based, resulted in the owners parted ways, and so the Young TV Stars were born.

Team spokesperson and captain, Safia Abdullah, says the team quickly committed to changing lives, with a strong focus on uplifting the local youth through participating in the minstrel carnival each year.

“By joining the choir or learning to play instruments in our brass band, young people not only gain musical skills but also a sense of community and purpose. Our aim is to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need by keeping them engaged in meaningful activities,“ she said.

Young TV Stars band masters from left are Siraaj Allen, Logan Adams and Carlton Adams

Young TV Stars members hail primarily from Heideveld, Delft, Bonteheuwel and other surrounding areas on the Cape Flats.

“Through our programme, we provide the youth with an alternative to street life, helping to steer them away from negative influences and illegal activities,” Ms Abdullah says.

“We equip them with the uniforms and instruments necessary to participate in the carnival, fostering discipline and teamwork.”

Young TV Stars enjoying the sounds and music of their latest efforts during practice.

Mogammad Jacobs from Heideveld, better known as “Mr Jacobs”, is one of the longest standing members of the team, having consistantly represented them for the past 20 years.

“I was born and raised in Heideveld and about 20 years ago, a very good friend of mine that passed on already, he introduced me to this team, TV Stars and I never looked back,” Mr Jacobs says.

In the early years, he says, the team had no sponsors, but many of the loyal TV Stars members would keep things going by dipping into their own pockets.

“It’s become all about money today, but we ran this team from our own pockets. We fought and argued, but come competition time and you have your new gear on, you think about nothing else but, ‘dis klops tyd’,” Mr Jacobs explains.

“TV Stars is more like a family rather than just a klopse team.”

Mr Jacobs says every year, the team has a Mother’s Day event for the community and each year, it grows.

“Once again, we do this without any sponsorship behind us, just that love and care like a family - a team wanting to make a difference and enjoy this beautiful game,” Mr Jacobs said.

Young TV Stars has warned the minstrel community to be on the look out for them next season.

Ms Abdullah explained while Young TV Stars were aware of their “underdog” status in the KKKA Minstrel Association, they were determined to leave their mark in the 2025 carnival competition.

“With a first-class brass band, skilled bandmasters, talented choir directors, and passionate performers, we’re gearing up for a strong showing in the 2025 carnival,” she proudly says.

Young TV Stars plan to take a troupe of around 1 000 participants to the streets next year, attempting to showcase their “growth and spirit”.

But as a a non-profit organisation, achieving such goals comes with challenges.

“Securing the necessary funding remains a challenge. It takes substantial financial resources to get a team competition-ready, covering everything from uniforms to transportation and food for all carnival days,” she said.

“While we would love to accommodate everyone interested, resources are limited.

“We invite you to follow our journey on social media, where you can witness TV Stars' rise in the 2025 carnival. As one of our leaders proudly says, this year, ‘We’re coming for you!’”

The Young TV Stars either use the Woodlands Primary School in Heideveld or the Voorbrug High School in Delft for practices each week.

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