Acknowledgements

In creating this project I spent long days trekking my camera equipment into townships, edited footage until late in the night, and pushed myself to connect and thrive in situations that were very foreign to me. I am grateful to all those who have informed and helped me throughout this process.

I would firstly like to thank my parents.  Without their generous support, my goal of making a documentary film could never have happened.  I would also like to thank Stewart, as well as Thabisa and Maggie, for all that they did in facilitating my 3-month experience.  You supported me in my pursuit to make a film, and for helping me through that process I am very grateful.  I must also thank my advisor, Dylan Valley, for meeting with me and providing me with valuable instruction, as well as renewed direction.

To everyone who provided their eyes and opinions throughout the editing process, I thank you as well.  Huge thanks especially my sister Sierra, who helped me understand how stories progress, and Mr. Spitzer, for both reviewing this film and introducing me to the magic of filmmaking.



To everyone at the Oasis Organization, Cliffy, Lukes, Vusi, Thulisile, Kevin, Andrea, Lezarndre, Trevor, Tom, Jeremy, and others, it has been a blessing spending the past month getting to know you.  To Cliffy, thank you for letting a stranger come and document the work that you do.  It was an inspiration seeing the passion you have, and the success you impart.  To Mr. G, thank you for all the rides in the back of your pickup, may it keep running for years to come.

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Vusi and Thulisile: it has been a pleasure getting to know you, and being able to learn from your stories.  It is not easy to open up to such a newcomer, but your willingness to work and engage with me is something I will never forget.  Finally, Lukes, it was an honor getting to know you.  The story of your past is inspiring, but it seems the story of your future will be even more so.  The three of you have reaffirmed the notion that there is beauty to be found in the harshest of situations. I wish you the best in the future and hope that you can continue to make your goals a reality.  To all at Oasis, from the director to the residents, meeting you was the highlight of my trip.