JCI glory beckons gospel star Eric

THATO KALA
Correspondent | Wednesday May 29, 2013 00:00

Eric has been nominated for the awards that recognise the outstanding achievements of young people in their communities.His nomination, the second since he started recording, is in recognition of his humanitarian and voluntary leadership work done through music. The enthusiastic singer is also a volunteer at the Cancer Awareness Association of Botswana.  On the music front, Eric has backed the likes of actress-cum-musician Segofalang Nagafela, budding songstress Charity Boitshoko, and the gospel music duo of Thato Johnson and Bridget Semele.

'It's always a joy to work with young people and help wherever I can and this nomination inspires me to continue influencing people's lives with my music and gifts,' Eric told Showbiz. He added: 'I always find pleasure in seeing the musicians I lend a helping hand progress. I will continue giving them the platform to excel and impact nations for free.'

Eric also works for Hope Worldwide as a volunteer, as well as UNESCO Botswana Youth Forum Committee.The JCI Ten Outstanding Young Persons of the World (JCI TOYP) programme recognises young people who excel in their chosen fields and exemplify the best attributes of the world's youth. Individuals can be nominated in one of 10 categories ranging from business accomplishments and humanitarian efforts to outstanding leadership, medical and cultural achievements. International honourees receive a free round-trip airline ticket to Rio di Janeiro, Brazil to attend the JCI World Congress that runs from November 4 to November 7, 2013. An awards ceremony will also be held during the congress.

Past honourees from Botswana include actor and winner of the pan-African reality television show Imagine Afrika, Kitso Masi, who won the award in 2009.Human rights attorney Uyapo Ndadi also won the award in 2010 as well as last year's winner Keneilwe Moseki. Eric is upbeat he will win this year's award.

'I believe God for a miracle that I am going to win the award,' he said with conviction. Meanwhile, Eric is in the studio recording his third album. He has started programming the album that features South Africa's Buhle Nhlangulela, who has previously worked with Rebecca Malope, Lundi Tyamara, the late Vuyo Mokoena and Sipho Makhabane. 'It will be filled with worship; I believe God is going to continue transforming people through his music that he has given me.'