Prisoners celebrate SA’s rich cultural heritage
As part of the annual Heritage Month in South Africa, inmates took time to celebrate the country's rich cultural diversity, on Tuesday, September 13.
![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/25/2016/09/38AFCULTURE8_19663.jpg)
Dressed up in traditional attire, various cultural groups showcased their respective cultures through special performances, including dance, music, storytelling, poetry and other activities, during the event held at the Boksburg Prison.
Works of art created by prisoners were also on display at the event attended by the Gauteng Department of Arts and Culture’s Andrew Makhanya and other guests of honour.
![The event was made possible by this group of inmates seen with actress-cum-motivational speaker, Theledi Morwesi. They are from left Mpumelelo Gcuze, Bongani Gwebu, Jayson Mokwane, Sifiso Madonsela (chairperson), Tabang Nhlapo and Tshepo Seakamela.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/25/2016/09/38AFCULTURE1_08603-520x390.jpg)
Artists proudly showed off their ornate craft work, mosaics and paintings to the guests.
Makhanya addressed the inmates about the importance of prisoner’s engagement in art and cultural activities.
He asked the inmates to develop pride in their respective cultures and encouraged them to take part in celebrating the diversity of our cultures through entertainment and academic discussions.
![Gauteng Department of Arts and Culture’s Andrew Makhanya addressed the crowd during the event.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/25/2016/09/38AFCULTURE4_45636-520x390.jpg)
Makhanya said his department has undertaken to support and work with local communities including inmates, in preserving and promoting South African cultures.
Ex-offender actress-cum-motivational speaker, Theledi Morwesi, also addressed the crowd during the event. Morwesi was sentenced to 10 years in prison after she was found guilty of fraud in 2012.
![Seen with Gauteng Department of Arts and Culture’s Andrew Makhanya and prison official Joe Seakamela, inmates also used the event to display their artwork and talents.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/25/2016/09/38AFCULTURE7_96900-520x390.jpg)
She made a mess of her life, but as part of the rehabilitation process Morwesi used her time behind to turn over a new leaf.
She encouraged offenders do do likewise.
The event organisers described the event as a roaring success and expressed their appreciation to all who contributed and participated.
![Some of the inmates' artwork.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/25/2016/09/38AFCULTURE5_14204-520x390.jpg)
The celebration was barely ten days before the country celebrates the annual Heritage Day on September 24, a day which will see people from all walks of life celebrating the rich cultures of our country. -@FanieFLK
![The crowd chanted and ululated as the praise singer Siphamandla Xhakaza sang the praises of the Zulu warriors.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/25/2016/09/38AFCULTURE3_96284-520x390.jpg)