In light of its commitment to the development of South Africa‘s youth, Anglo American’s enterprise development arm, Zimele, sponsored two concerts by the Johannesburg Music Initiative (JMI) in Rustenburg, on Friday, 25 May 2012.

These shows, which were a fusion of classical music, hip-hop and rap, offered learners and their tutors the opportunity to experience orchestral music first hand, and to hear and see the instruments of the orchestra live and close-up. Further, every participating school received a free CD for future use in Arts and Culture classes.

Managing Director of Zimele, Nick van Rensburg notes that the Fund’s support of the JMI Initiative is linked to its desire to effect positive change for South Africa’s youth.

“During 23 year Zimele’s existence, we have always championed the development of young people, with 48% of our financial support and guidance across our five funds being directed towards South Africa’s youth. This support is not confined to the activities of Zimele, but extends to a resolve to make a real difference in their lives by helping them become well rounded individuals.

“Our partnership with the JMI is therefore consistent with our desire to make sure that young people have the opportunity to thrive, and gain important life lessons that will benefit them for many years to come.”

Since being formed in 1989, Anglo American’s dedicated enterprise development arm, Zimele has achieved tangible results in creating jobs and uplifting South Africans. This assertion is backed by its statistics from 2008 to the end of March this year, with 1 538 transactions having been completed, over 21 000 people having been employed, and a turnover of R2.4 billion generated.

Van Rensburg concludes that Anglo American and Zimele will continue to aid the development of South Africa’s youth.

“Anglo American firmly believes that the youth of South Africa will only be able to reach their full potential if they are exposed to culturally significant and relevant organisations such as the JMI.

“Therefore, Anglo American will not only continue to support the JMI’s activities, but similarly support other organisations that are dedicated to educating our youth, and unlocking their creative talent.”

Ends

For further information, please contact:

South Africa
Hulisani Rasivhaga, Media Relations
Tel: +27 (0)11 638 4401

Notes to editors:
Anglo American is one of the world’s largest mining companies, is headquartered in the UK and listed on the London and Johannesburg stock exchanges. Anglo American’s portfolio of mining businesses spans bulk commodities – iron ore and manganese, metallurgical coal and thermal coal; base metals – copper and nickel; and precious metals and minerals – in which it is a global leader in both platinum and diamonds. Anglo American is committed to the highest standards of safety and responsibility across all its businesses and geographies and to making a sustainable difference in the development of the communities around its operations. The company’s mining operations, extensive pipeline of growth projects and exploration activities span southern Africa, South America, Australia, North America, Asia and Europe.
www.angloamerican.com