Vanuatu NGO helping youth marks 30 years

A Vanuatu theatre and arts company, which has diversified into youth and development work around the region, has marked its 30th anniversary in Port Vila.

Wan Smolbag began in 1989 as an amateur theatre company with just over a dozen actors but it has now branched out into other areas of entertainment and has over 800 youths registered.

Tutor Alpha Solong said young people are developing strength and respect through Wan Smolbag's programmes, which include circus training, sports and recreation and music, alongside its theatre and film work.

Mr Solong said the company is also keeping youth out of trouble.

"Get out of drugs, crime, violence. Come here and enjoy activities and enjoy the classes, the creative things. To be always positive, not negative."