By Thatoyaone Moepetsane

I engaged with Activators, students, and community members to explore their thoughts and experiences related to heritage.

Heritage encompasses the cultural, social, and natural resources passed down from past generations to future ones. It includes our collective identity, connects us to our past, shapes our present, and provides a sense of belonging and shared values. Preserving our heritage promotes cultural diversity and understanding, allowing us to learn from the past, appreciate the present, and build a better future for generations to come.

“Heritage refers to the culturally valuable and multifaced concept that plays a role in shaping our understanding of ourselves and our World. Heritage is about preserving the past and it is used to build the future. Heritage serves as a source of cultural and national pride fostering a sense of Unity and belonging amongst people. By preserving and protecting heritage they are able to maintain a connection with our past and ensure that the future generation can learn and appreciate it.” Said Peddie Mahlaule (North-West University student from Limpopo)

Heritage is to preserve cultural identity, honour ancestors and their contributions, foster community cohesion and pride, promote cultural diversity and understanding, support historical preservation and education.

“I think that it makes us who we are. It sets us apart and as a youth, we need to embrace it a bit more,” said Masabata Sebusi (Free State, Activator)

Preserving cultural identity is a vital aspect of heritage celebrations. By honouring and passing down cultural traditions, customs, and values, we ensure the continuation of our unique cultural heritage. By preserving our cultural identity, we can keep our heritage vibrant and alive for future generations.

“I think celebrating heritage is important because it takes us back to where we are coming from and honouring our roots. Back in the day we used to play Indigenous games from a young age but now things have changed so honouring this day and doing what was done back then will revive that old spirit we used to have,” said Masego Machwisa (North West, Activator)

It’s truly inspiring that you cherish the memories of playing Indigenous games from a young age. By reviving those traditions and practices, we can reconnect with our heritage and revive the old spirit.

Indigenous games preserve traditional knowledge and skills, promote physical and mental well-being, foster community engagement and social bonding, support cultural revitalization and resurgence, and connect to ancestral traditions.

“As South Africans, we need to protect our heritage and culture. We are living in a country with many foreign nationals and as a result, we end up adopting outside cultures, forgetting our own. Secondly, we are living in an ever-evolving generation therefore our cultures and traditions should also evolve. Such as patriarchy, women should start having a voice. Yes, the constitution allows for 50/50 but there are things that women haven’t been able to say or do in their homes, communities and villages. The bus is there but it hasn’t moved.” Said Kelebogile Chokoe (Community member from Gaunteng)

Heritage sites are to preserve historical and cultural significance, provide a connection to ancestral lands and territories, support cultural tourism and economic development, fosters education and cross-cultural understanding, honour ancestral heritage and legacy

By celebrating our heritage, we can learn from the past, appreciate the present, build a stronger future. Let’s continue to honour and celebrate our heritage.

Indeed, heritage is a multifaceted concept that encompasses various aspects of our cultural identity, including traditions, customs, language, art, architecture, and historical sites. It plays a vital role in shaping our understanding of ourselves, our community, and our place in the world.

By preserving and protecting our heritage, we can maintain a connection to our roots and cultural traditions, ass down valuable knowledge and skills to future generations, promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation, support cultural diversity and inclusivity, create a sense of unity and shared purpose amongst community members.

South Africans, it’s essential to protect and preserve your heritage and culture while embracing the diversity of foreign nationals. It’s crucial to strike a balance between cultural exchange and preserving your own identity. Regarding the evolution of culture and traditions, you make a vital point. As society progresses, so should cultural practices. The inclusion of women’s voices and empowerment is long overdue. Patriarchy has often silenced women, and it’s time to break down those barriers. The analogy of having equal rights on paper is not enough; implementation and actual change are necessary. Women’s empowerment and gender equality require continuous effort and progress.

“As a sangoma, heritage is deeply significant because it encompasses the spiritual, cultural, and ancestral traditions that guide practices and beliefs. Sangomas are traditional healers who often draw on their heritage to connect with ancestors and utilize indigenous knowledge in their healing practices. Heritage shapes their identity and methods, integrating cultural customs and spiritual wisdom passed down through generations. It’s not just about preserving the past but actively engaging with it to address contemporary issues and maintain a connection with one’s roots.” Said Sindisa Qeqe (Northern Cape, Activator)

Some potential ways to evolve cultural practices while preserving heritage include sharing stories highlighting women’s contributions and experiences, encouraging cross-cultural understanding while preserving South African heritage, supporting women’s education, economic employment, collaborating with traditional leaders to address gender inequality and promoting women’s voices, foster conversations between younger and older generations to evolve cultural practices while preserving heritage. Remember, cultural evolution is a continuous process. By embracing change and inclusivity, South Africans can preserve their heritage while building a more equitable society.

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About the author:

Thatoyaone Moepetsane – born in the year 1992, in Tlakgameng village, North West Province, started school at Seitsang Primary, active politician, started to be involved in politics at the high school, still involved to date, author and social entrepreneur.