Local school celebrates Mama Winnie’s life
As the whole country was mourning the passing of the mother of the nation, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, Tshabalala Primary School’s teachers in Katlehong held a special ceremony to celebrate the life of an icon.
The ceremony took place at the school on April 13.
They observed a moment of silence, which was followed by a candlelight service.
Bertha Mahlatji, the teacher who came up with the idea, said they wanted to convey their condolences to the family.
“We want them to know that we are with them in this difficult time. Their pain is our pain too,” said Mahlatji.
She said that the country is free today because of Mama Winnie’s dedication to the struggle of fighting against apartheid.
“She dedicated her entire life to fighting against apartheid. That is why we are having this celebration,” Mahlatji said.
She went on to add that women like Mama Winnie are an inspiration to all women in the world.
“What inspired me personally about her is her ability to recognise the value of people. She treated her family and the whole nation in the same way. She had the courage to not let any negative situation drag her down, she always stood tall. Her bravery in confronting the apartheid government and always coming out victorious is the one thing everyone will remember her for.
“Other than all that, she was a very beautiful woman who never took it to herself that she is beautiful. She never wanted all the attention on her. Instead, she treated other people with dignity and respect and always saw the beauty in other people,” said Mahlatji.
In conclusion, Mahlatji said Mama Winnie did not die but has multiplied.
Sifiso Ngobese, the school principal, said he saw it fit that his school joined the rest of the South Africans, and the world, in this celebration.
“The woman we are celebrating today was a phenomenal woman who served the nation with pride and dignity. She was a true inspiration to the world. She will be sorely missed. May her soul rest in peace,” said Ngobese.
