Mandela honoured with his host family
ALEXANDRA - Youths of Alexandra celebrated Mandela day by retracing his journey from his doorstep and uniting the elderly with those whose generosity contributed to shaping the history of this great giant so that they could together, reminisce on his history.
The young and the elderly of Alexandra celebrated Mandela Day by visiting the home in the township where a young Nelson Mandela boarded.
They house is on 7th avenue and is the homestead of the Xhoma family which through an act of generosity hosted Mandela when he first came to Joburg.
The occasion was attended by 300 children and elderly residents, and was organised by youth group, Tshebelisano Support Network in partnership with FeedSA, traders and liquor associations, and the Hare Krishna community.
Despite the congestion, a peaceful and festive mood prevailed as attendees were given a meal and entertained to music. The network’s secretary, Cedric Chauke said the occasion in its fourth year, was to pay homage to the Xhoma family for their care and support of Mandela.
“Though he has departed in flesh, his spirit lives on and this occasion is a platform to ensure it increases in intensity,” he said. “We have brought together senior citizens together with children so that they can share stories and messages about Mandela’s character which the youth should preserve as heritage, and emulate in their daily conduct at home, school and the community,” he said.
The family representative, Nomalizo Xhoma said, “We feel privileged to host the elderly who still recall Mandela’s time in Alexandra, and to provide a reference point for them to share his legacy with their siblings.”
Details: Cedric Chauke: 073 958 8383
