VOICED: Twists and turns have no secrets for Richard and Jonas

In Kinshasa, young acrobats perform on the streets, earning significantly more than the average civil servant, which helps support their families. However, they face risks due to the lack of safety and health insurance. The Congolese Athletics Federation believes these performers should be trained in proper facilities. Despite challenges, the success of acrobats like Richard and Joan has inspired many young people to join the circus trade, highlighting the need for a structured framework to nurture their talents both locally and internationally.

What skill did the performers develop through physical exercise?

• Tightrope walking

• Juggling

• Double Figure 8

• Fire breathing

How much do the street performers earn compared to an average civil servant?

• Twice as much

• Three times as much

• The same amount

• Half as much

What is one of the main risks faced by street performers in Kinshasa?

• Lack of audience

• Weather conditions

• Injury without health insurance

• Competition from other performers

What does the Congolese Athletics Federation believe about the street performers?

• They should be in proper training centers

• They should perform more often

• They should move to another city

• They should focus on academics

What impact did Richard and Joan's success have on the local community?

• It caused a decline in audience interest

• It led to a decrease in street performances

• It discouraged others from performing

• It inspired more youngsters to join the circus trade