Award-winning grime duo Krept and Konan will run workshops in Croydon schools in a bid to inspire the next generation of musical talent
They made a surprise appearance at a Croydon Town Hall meeting last night to announce the Positive Direction Foundation scheme.
It will provide secondary schoolchildren with the opportunity to learn and improve skills such as producing, graphic designing and song writing.
The pair are optimistic the project will help to inspire the next generation of musical talent in the area.
Konan said: “I’ve lost and gained so much over the years, but now in my position, I want to breathe life back into the community.
“I chose to give something back to Croydon because it made me who I am today.”
Krept added: “We want to give the youth of Croydon a chance that we never had.
“Paving the way for the next generation is a matter of the heart, and the PD Foundation is in our hearts.”
Krept, real name Casyo Johnson, later posted on Instagram: “Sitting in with the whole of Croydon Council was surreal
“To think years ago the council were saying we couldn’t perform in Croydon because they thought we would attract trouble.
“Now they are side by side with us talking about the future of the ends.
“A lot of people get to a certain position in music but don’t give back where it really counts. This is the start of something massive.”
More than 100 pupils from five secondary schools in the Croydon borough will benefit from the expertise of industry figures including design agency Kritikal Media, musician and sound engineer JC and singer Nia.
The council has pledged a £10,000 investment for the project which will entail after-school mentoring lessons, access to an online community and a graduation ceremony where students will display their creative potential in front of Krept and Konan.
Council Leader Tony Newman said: “We are delighted to be working with Krept and Konan on this fantastic project that will help motivate and inspire young people from across the borough.
“The utmost credit must go to this talented duo for their desire to help and give back to other young people in their home town.
“It shows just how passionate they are about sharing in their success and leaving a positive and lasting legacy on their own community.”
Krept and Konan first discussed the possibility of creating a community project back in last November when Croydon North MP Steve Reed took them on a tour of the Houses of Parliament.
Mr Reed said: “When Krept and Konan came to see me in Parliament it was obvious they really wanted to put something back into the community they came from.
“They are an inspiration to many young people and I’m convinced this project will make a real difference.”
Image courtesy of Virgin via YouTube, with thanks
