The American pupils enjoyed a week of classes, activities and presentations by renowned members of the South African community. The Democracy Prep teachers explained that the aim was to learn more about the world to make it a better place.
The principal of Sacred Heart College’s High School, Heather Blanckensee, invited renowned speakers and personalities who have produced positive change in South Africa. Having visited many of Johannesburg’s historical museums and attractions, the American pupils were eager to learn more and hear personal accounts from activists. Speakers included the award-winning author Don Mattera (a grandparent at Sacred Heart College), and Wendy Orr (a parent at the College), who calls herself an ‘accidental activist’. She qualified as a medical doctor at the age of 22, and at the age of 24 became the first doctor to disclose the abuse that the police inflicted on detainees during apartheid.
Also sharing their experiences were independent human rights filmmakers, activists and founders of Media for Justice. Journalist Gillian Schutte and Sipho Singiswa who was a prisoner on Robben Island also spoke. Both have children attending Sacred Heart College.
South Africa’s history and the speakers’ versions of events were discussed in depth with the pupils asking probing questions about the struggle and activists’ role in it.
Democracy Prep pupil, Diana Vega said, “I was fascinated by how much history South Africa holds. South African cultures, food and history are so rich and diverse, and the kids at Sacred Heart College are so enthusiastic about their education.”
She was enthralled by her peers’ confidence to share their thoughts and ideas frequently and openly in Sacred Heart College’s classrooms. “This has been an amazing trip.”
-
-
-
-
