Head of Kingsmead College Lisa Kaplan said the events of the past weeks in South Africa have left the school reeling and traumatised.
“The Kingsmead community denounces the violence and senseless acts that have been perpetrated against women and foreigners,” said Kaplan.
She said that despite the negativity, there is a strong element of hope in the school. “Our young students are passionate and enthusiastic and they are wanting to take a stand and make a difference in the country… We do need to let the voices of young people – particularly the girls – be heard.”
Kaplan said the Kingsmead values of purpose, possibility, happiness, responsibility, service and courage have been the anchor of the school for 85 years and provided them with guidance for the way forward. “In the midst of uncertainty and turmoil, Kingsmead remains a beacon of hope and we remain committed to providing the country with strong leaders who will affect the change that we all wish to see in South Africa.”
Head girl of Kingsmead College Tuana Güler said, “Despite the widespread negativity associated with this movement (for obvious reasons), it makes me feel optimistic and enthusiastic knowing that the country is unifying to share their voice of justice. The togetherness and kinship experienced on just one national road during the protest outside Kingsmead College brought a sense of hope to many frightened eyes.”
Güler added, “Ladies, the glass is half full. Gentlemen, it can get fuller with your voices too.”
Grade 12 learner Sarah Storey said the issue of gender-based violence is something she has always been passionate about. “Growing up as a female, I have constantly questioned the world around me. This has made me long for freedom, for safety, for change.”
Storey concluded, “I know that the end of gender-based violence is a long way away and even though it breaks my heart that this is something we have to fight for, I cannot help but remind myself that ‘Angry women will change the world’. On 4 September, Oxford Road was full of angry women who are ready to change the world.”
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