“Only people that know each other, respect each other’s cultures, ways and customs can work peacefully together to create a better society for all,”
With these words Anneke van der Hoff, chairperson of Our Spens/Ons Spens thanked the youth from Westonaria, Bekkersdal and Randfontein for their continuous support.
Conversation, banter and even arguments about who is going to do the dishes, talking about fears and aspirations, represent the get-together of the Westonaria Library Coffee Club.
“We are truly a family in diversity,” says programme Librarian, Righardt le Roux, pointing out the bringing together of books, music and people from young to old.
As usual the group ‘Mapping the Soul’s Future’ started off the event with the singing of ‘The family song’.
“Libraries have changed a lot, moving a long way from pre-democratic insularity to mapping multicultural cohesion in our societies,” says community leader, Elsie Dipho Hlasa.
“In Westonaria we see how the library works hand in hand with our youth to continue on their quest for selfhood whilst realising their own possible upward socio-economic movement and reaching out to the needy. Here we see the spirit of Ubuntu in practice.”
Mr John Warner, senior USA diplomat, representing the USA Consulate, Johannesburg office, also congratulated Westonaria Library for the work they do within the community.
The get together was also used to present one lucky pupil with an eTouch tablet sponsored by Preasa/ Nal’ibali.
Westonaria Library wishes to thank all partners like Preasa, Na’libali and the Women’s Agricultural Union (WAU).
“Without your generous support local programming would surely not be as successful,” says Righardt.
Reflecting on the event, Kathlego Bungane, grade 12 pupil from TM Letlhake High School, Simunye, said he is glad to be a part of this community programme initiated by Westonaria Library because not only is it fun getting together with peers from other schools, but also enlightening and it helps one to fight against negative influences and stay focussed on that which is important.
As a grand finale to the May event, Ms Elizabeth Biggs, representing The New Political Forum announced a poetry competition in conjunction with actor Joey Hensen to celebrate the youth during June.
The winners will be announced during the June meeting scheduled for 7 June at the Westonaria Library.
For more information feel free to call the Westonaria Library on 011 278 3044.
