Over three unforgettable weeks in May and June, the 2025 Project Zulu Choir Tour brought energy, rhythm and joy to audiences across the South West and Wales.
Twenty young performers and five teachers from Sipheni Senior Primary School and Sithobelumthetho Primary School in Madadeni Township, South Africa, travelled to the UK to share traditional Zulu music and dance. They filled every venue with their energy and joy and were met with heartfelt applause.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of concert audiences, supporters and local partners, the tour raised over £34,000 – the highest amount in Project Zulu’s history! These funds will directly benefit Sipheni and Sithobelumthetho schools, helping to harness solar energy and transform digital learning through better classroom technology and resources. The improvements will support long-term educational outcomes for learners now and in the future.
During their stay, the choir toured Bristol, Bath, Cardiff and Pembrokeshire, with standout performances including a show-stopping Gala Concert at Bristol Beacon. Hosted by Britain’s Got Talent finalist Innocent Masuku – who also joined the choir on stage, the event was a powerful celebration of voice, culture and connection. Other highlights included a performance at a Bristol Bears rugby match and a special community concert in St Davids, supported by Celtic Camping and the St Davids Penknife Club.
But the tour wasn’t just about the music. It offered a wonderful opportunity for connection and cultural exchange. Choir members stayed with local host families, took part in school workshops, joined lessons, and made live appearances on BBC Radio Bristol. For many, it was a trip of firsts – first ferry rides, first game of 10-pin bowling, and first tastes of British foods.
One host family shared:
“We are glad we took part in Project Zulu. It was an amazing experience – the boys were so helpful and filled our house with laughter. We miss the sound of drumming and singing. The supermarket is just not the same without them dancing and singing in the middle of the shop.”
The 2025 tour was only made possible by the kindness and support of so many people – host families, volunteers, venues, schools and partners. Your enthusiasm, time and care helped create lifelong memories for the choir and everyone involved.
Thank you to all who supported the tour. Your impact will continue to be felt in the classrooms of Madadeni and in the stories shared long after the tour has ended.
If you’d like to help continue this work, you can donate to Project Zulu and support future tours and educational development in Madadeni. Every contribution helps create more opportunities for young learners and cultural exchange.
Visit projectzulu.org to find out more and donate
