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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
