On the shoulders of giants

Koketso Mashika contemplates her heritage, drawing strength from her ancestors' struggles, wisdom from their insights, and resilience from their perseverance.

- Koketso Mashika

In the bustling chaos of our daily lives, it is all too easy to overlook the value of our heritage. We've become engrossed in the latest trends and innovations, fixated on the future while neglecting the threads that connect us to the past. I've learned that it is through the lens of our heritage that we gain a deeper appreciation for the struggles and triumphs that have shaped our families and society. In preserving our heritage, we safeguard the stories and traditions that are at risk of being forgotten or, worse, misunderstood.

I still recall that, after giving birth to my daughter 17 years ago, I was told that she and I had to spend three months - yes, 12 weeks! - in isolation. The first month involved being confined to the bedroom, with only a handful of individuals allowed in. For the following two months, we'd be permitted to roam the four corners of the great indoors.