PRESERVING CAPE HERITAGE AND CULTURE THROUGH EXPLORING VISUAL ARTS AND EDUCATION

My Heritage poem

THROUGH YOUR PEN

Liya Mvinjelwa, APEX High School, Stellenbosch

9/16/20241 min read

Rectangular huts, thatched with love and care

In villages nestled, with ancestors to share

The sound of drums, a heartbeat so strong

Calling forth spirits, where traditions belong

Inkwenkwe, the initiate, with painted face

Embarks on a journey, to find his rightful place

The ulwaluko, a ritual, of trials and might To become a man, in the morning light

The women's voices, in harmony so sweet

Singing of struggles, and victories to greet Their beads and blankets, a colorful sight

Telling stories of heritage, through day and night

The clicks and chirps, of the Xhosa tongue

A language rich, with history so young

The respect for elders, a value so true In Xhosa culture, community shines through

From Nelson Mandela, to the everyday Xhosa spirit, lives on, come what may

A culture vibrant, with roots so deep Xhosa pride, forever will keep.

Featured image supplied by Liya Mvinjelwa