Family Channel closes distance on race in an ‘African Skies’ episode

Rory (Simon James) knows something about being the “odd man out.” The only white student at his African high school, he has kept his distance from others and found solace in his best friend Jambele (Rouxnet Brown) under the hot African Skies.

When their teacher gives the class an assignment during a heritage/cultural arts festival, Rory assumes that Jam will be his partner. But when Jam has a chance to be paired up with a girl he has a crush on, Rory is the third wheel.

Soon, Rory’s teacher teams him up with Behema (Lindiwe Shiba), an unpopular girl. While they are both reluctant at first, they find a bond in their outsider status.

Tall and gangly, Rory learns that while Behema seems rather shy in public, she’s actually quite lively and talented. Despite opposition from her traditional and conservative father, she teaches Rory a native dance that they perform together with much success.

“It’s time for Rory to move from visitor to inhabitant,” says consulting producer Phil Savath.

At one point, Rory says, “I’m just skating on the surface; it’s time for me to live in the community instead of off of it.”

“He’s going to finally try and really integrate himself in the community, not just at home on the ranch,” Savath says.

The “Inside Moves” episode of “African Skies” airs Sunday and repeats Saturday on the Family Channel. For ages 8 and up.

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