Vryheid resident Sphephelo ‘Vee’ Vilakazi organised an event called ‘Origin Heritage’, which was held at the Cecil Emmet Hall on September 24. Set to take place annually, Vilakazi explained that, “On this day (Heritage Day), South Africans across the spectrum are encouraged to celebrate cultural diversity, traditions, food and especially meat flavours in the wider context.”
Vilakazi believes in unity and explained that the event is about bringing the community together while giving to charity at the same time. It was a great experience where people were given a platform to showcase their crafts and culture at stalls that were set up.
Vilakazi carried on to explain that, “It’s all about diversity and ensuring that it is open for everyone, both young and old – seeing different cultures and different meals, and learning how each culture does things. In that way, we can move away from judging and instead cater for each cultural difference.”
People from cultures like Zulu, Xhosa and Sotho came to celebrate the day by eating traditional food, dancing and singing to traditional cultural hymns. Businesses also had an opportunity to sell and showcase their wares at the stalls. Activities included a braai competition, best dressed, ubuhlebendalo (Miss and Mr Origin Heritage) and individuals who did amahubo and traditional dances in front of an audience and judges.
Vilakazi mentioned that it is his dream to see more cultures at the ‘Origin Heritage’ event in years to come.
As the organiser, he encountered challenges. “Bearing in mind that the concept is still new, transportation was an issue, as we had to transport artists from local and rural communities to be part of the event. Sponsorship was also a challenge, as well as finding artists that do all sorts of traditional things that would interest people.”
He hopes that, with the growth of the concept, they will be able to reach all the surrounding communities and beyond.
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