3RC Celebrates 25 years of empowering youth through education

To celebrate its 25th anniversary, 3RC (Three Ring Circus), a non-profit company (NPC) dedicated to bridging the gap between education and employment while holistically supporting pupils' emotional and mental well-being, hosted an event called The High Five Show at Micklefield Primary School in Rondebosch on Thursday, August 14.

In 2024, Kay Cheytanov, the founder, introduced The High Five Show, a mental wellness initiative inspired by her daughter’s experience with bullying.

With a focus on bullying awareness, Ms Cheytanov developed a set of five core emotional values aimed at building resilience and self-worth among young learners. 

Micklefield Primary pupils participated in an interactive session where facilitators presented the “Big Five” values: "I’m Kind (to oneself and others), I’m Brave (standing up for a friend), I’m Bouncy (resilient), I’m Safe (feeling secure in one’s surroundings), and I’m Me (embracing one’s uniqueness)".

In 2000, Ms Cheytanov, a former professional musician, said she founded 3RC by blending motivation, music, and multimedia to engage students across the country. From just 25 schools in its first year, the expo now reaches 240 schools and features 46 private tertiary institutions.

“Our aim has always been to educate, motivate, and inspire. We want students to know there are many paths to success beyond state universities,” said Ms Cheytanov.

The flagship Rocking Future Roadshow has since assisted thousands of South African high school pupils seeking clarity and inspiration for life after school. 

“The Rocking Future Roadshow is designed to connect learners directly with tertiary institutions and career opportunities that align with their academic profile and financial accessibility,” Ms Cheytanov said. 

“It’s not about targeting the affluent - it’s about ensuring that the opportunities showcased are relevant and realistically attainable for the learners we engage,” said Ms Cheytanov.

Reese Ernstzen, 19, from Mitchell’s Plain, discovered a passion for architecture after attending the Rocking Future Roadshow while a pupil at Pinelands High School.

“I wasn’t sure what I was going to do after matric,” Reese said. “But after attending the 3RC expo, I gained clarity and became aware of study options I hadn’t even considered.”

Reese is currently completing a one-year Higher Certificate in Architectural Technology and plans to pursue further studies in civil or mechanical engineering next year, with the possibility of returning to architecture later.

“I would recommend 3RC’s guidance platforms to any learner,” she said, “especially if you're not sure about your plans after matric.”

However, the Rocking Future Roadshow faced a major challenge during the COVID-19 pandemic, when in-person engagement was no longer possible. “That’s when 3RC launched Swiwel, the world’s first 3D virtual career expo, accessible to all Grade 8 to 12 learners nationwide,” said Ms Cheytanov.

3RC’s online platform, swiwel.com, is continually expanding. “Soon, students will be able to access downloadable CAPS and IEB past papers, as well as a growing directory of registered psychometrists offering guidance on subject and career choices,” she said.

Looking ahead, the organisation is preparing to launch a new live production called Level Up, aimed at Grade 5 to Grade 7 pupils. “It’s all about helping younger students build decision-making skills, prepare for high school, and develop critical thinking,” said Ms Cheytanov. The pilot is set for 2026, with plans for a nationwide rollout.

Though headquartered in Johannesburg, Gauteng, 3RC operates nationally, hosting events and expos across provinces each year - including schools from Cape Town to Polokwane. 

The team also leverages technology to reach pupils who can’t attend in person.

For more information, follow 3RC on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok, or email vicky.saunders.flaherty@gmail.com