While CMDA was not the source of the fire, the impact on the organisation has been significant: the loss of access to a stable venue and performance environment, the interruption of classes, and the knock-on effect of cancelled or postponed opportunities that previously helped sustain CMDA’s programmes and visibility.
Despite these challenges, CMDA is moving forward with resilience and optimism.
From January 2026, CMDA’s White River hub is now based at the Nyoni Education Hub on the Plaston Road outside White River.
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“This move is more than a change of address; it is a renewed commitment to our students and the community,” says Hilton Barnett of CMDA. “CMDA exists because music changes lives. For many of our learners, this is the one consistent, positive structure in their week, a place where discipline, confidence and hope are built, one note at a time.”
A community organisation built on active leadership
CMDA’s board remains fully engaged and hands-on, continuing to apply their individual skill sets, networks and professional experience to actively source funding, build partnerships, and strengthen the Academy’s long-term sustainability.
CMDA is also encouraged by the support it has received historically and remains positive that the government, specifically the National Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, will continue to play a role in supporting the Academy through annual funding and collaboration.
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A positive move – with a very real funding urgency
Even before the fire, CMDA operated under immense financial strain. The disruption has intensified that pressure, and CMDA now faces a critical reality: without renewed sponsorship and community support, the Academy may be forced to reduce programmes or even close its doors.
CMDA’s purpose is simple and powerful: music that keeps our children off the streets and on the stage. It is a pipeline of opportunity for young people who might otherwise lack access to instruments, training, mentorship, and structured creative growth.
To ensure CMDA can continue offering music education and performance development, the Academy is calling on the Lowveld community members and corporates to consider support through:
- Monthly sponsorships (individual or corporate);
- Once-off donations;
- Instruments and musical equipment; and
- Transport support for learners.
CMDA can structure support in flexible ways and welcomes custom CSI sponsorship packages aligned to corporate-social investment objectives, brand visibility, and community upliftment outcomes.
How to help
CMDA’s public fundraising campaign is live here, or contact Hilton Barnett on 082 900 1452 or info@hbaleadership.com.
