Mpumalanga legends honoured
Mbombela recently hosted a gala honouring the legends of the province.
The Mpumalanga Department of Culture, Sports and Recreation’s MEC Thandi Shongwe has made a call for artists and creatives to be recognised and honoured while they are still alive, instead of having fancy funerals when they are gone.
Speaking during the Art of Legends gala dinner meant to honour and celebrate the province’s legends in the music, arts and literature at the Emnotweni Arena last Wednesday, Shongwe said this initiative is a step in the right direction of changing the face of history.
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“This event is all about embracing and preserving our culture and heritage, celebrating the contribution made to our arts and culture by these legends. These legends are a beacon of hope in this province. We don’t want to come when you are dead and give you special big funerals when we didn’t honour you while you were still alive,” said Shongwe.
The recipients included Dr Rebecca Malope and Derick Ndzimande, both representing the gospel music fraternity. The acclaimed novelists and writers, JJ Thwala and Gubudla Malindzisa, were both awarded in the literature category.
Sarah Mahlangu, who teaches young girls in KwaMhlanga to paint, was recognised for her contribution in the promotion of the Ndebele culture. In jazz music, Vusi Mahlasela was awarded in honour of his contribution to the country’s music industry.
“I’m thankful for this award. It is so special to me. The fact that it comes from my own province, makes it take a special place in my heart,” said Malope.
The awards, which started in 2019, saw some of Mpumalanga’s legends such as Stimela, Nothembi Mkhwebane, Dr Ester Mahlangu and many more being honoured and recognised.
