Support for Gabriel

Hi friends,

My name is Peter Chown. I am a long-term resident of the area and a local Psychologist.

I am organising this fundraiser to help and support my good friend, Gabriel Otu.

 

Like so many others, Gabriel was severely affected by the devastating floods earlier this year. He lost the cabin that he was renting in upper Main Arm, as well as some of his possessions, including some of the essential tools of his trade – his drums. Gabriel has essentially been homeless since the floods at the end of February. He has been living in temporary accommodation, generously provided by community organisations – but it is temporary. He recently had to move again, and he has not been able to find, or afford, more permanent rental accommodation.

 

Gabriel is a local living treasure. A master drummer, dancer and performer, he grew up on the beaches of Ghana's South Coast, Gabriel started traditional African dance at the ripe young age of 7, continuing in his father’s footsteps playing percussion, singing and carving djembes. He has been based in the Byron Shire since 2015 and has been sharing his passion for traditional African drumming and dancing through countless workshops in local schools, markets and community events. With his band, Happy Africa, he has been entertaining and bringing joy to people on the streets of Mullumbimby, Byron Bay and Brunswick Heads, as well as playing at many local festivals.

 

Gabriel gives all of his heart, soul and incredible skill in his performing and teaching. Now I hope that we as a community, as lovers of music and dance, can give back to him and support him during this difficult time.

 

Specifically, I hope to raise funds to help Gabriel find stable, permanent accommodation. Gabriel also has three young children whom he supports. I also want to help find shelter for the dozens of beautiful African drums that Gabriel has hand-carved for his teaching and performing and which are currently in temporary storage.

 

Gabriel also supports his family back home in Ghana. Unfortunately, as I was writing this piece a couple of weeks ago, Gabriel received the sad news that his Step-Mother who raised him had just passed away. So I’m also hoping that we can raise enough funds for Gabriel to visit his family in Ghana, whom he hasn’t seen in more than 7 years.

 

I ask you to consider donating to support Gabriel in getting back on his feet, finding stable accommodation, supporting his family, and enabling him to visit his homeland of Ghana. Any small amount helps.

 

Please pass this on to your friends and networks so that they may have a chance to contribute.

 

Thank you for taking the time to read this and for your generosity.

 

Many thanks and well wishes,

Peter