In the spotlight: Get to know Lawrence Vikinduku Mkhonza
Get to know the people of Brakpan.
Dalpark Extension Six resident Lawrence Vikinduku Mkhonza is one of the founding members and chairperson of the Brakpan Museum NPC (non-profit company). The 64-year-old is married to Lydia (63) and has three children, Dumisani (35), Thandisizwe (33) and Bavumile (23). Born in the Brakpan Location and formerly from Tsakane, Lawrence has a keen interest in the history of the town.
Also read: In the spotlight: Get to know Rev Godfrey Booysen
• How did you first get involved with the Brakpan Museum NPC?
A heritage society in Tsakane started the Brakpan Museum NPC in 2002 and it was registered in 2012.
• What is the organisation’s objective?
To promote preservation and conservation of heritage resources and historic cultural places in Brakpan, as well as to establish a museum of cultural history in Brakpan.
• The town is celebrating its centenary this year and the Brakpan Museum NPC will be observing this milestone. What are some of the special events planned?
There will be indoor and outdoor activities in sports, traditional music and dances, memorial lectures, a book fair, open market and a gala dinner in honour of 100 people with outstanding achievements in Brakpan’s 100 years of history.
• You are obviously passionate about the history of Brakpan. What is it about the town that interests you?
Brakpan residents are racial tolerant in spite of its long history of discrimination. I’m not aware of any negative reports about the town.
• Who are some of the great characters from here?
Former Brakpan mayor Jim Vining, matron sister Sills, professor Mbulelo Mzamane and David Bopape.
• Do you remember any great stories or legends about our town?
The Rand Mine Strike of 1922, Bobby Locke (pro-golfer) and Phillip Vusi Dlamini, who in 1992 came second in the World Heavyweight Bodybuilding Competition in Paris.
• Do you believe we study history in order to learn from the past?
“History is written not in order to recall the past nor for the future, but essentially for the present so that members of the present generation might learn its lessons.” – Martin Buber (philosopher).
• What is the most important lesson life has taught you?
Nation building is a lifelong task that requires continued management. Unless we learn to embrace one another as people, our history will continue to be written in blood.
• Who is your role model and why?
David Bopape, a school teacher, civic leader and politician who selflessly served the people of South Africa during our struggle history.
• How would you describe yourself?
Patriotic, a socialite, self-driven and humane.
• Do you have any hobbies or other special interests?
I am a committed, enthusiastic book collector, doyen of libraries and a sportsman.
• What is your favourite thing about Brakpan?
It is a destination for tourism and economic growth. Brakpan has the potential to house a museum and a university.
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