On the Sunday, September 14th, 2025, a workshop was held at the Makukhanye Art Room in Village 4 North, Khayelitsha; to explore cultural rights through a dynamic combination of dialogue and artistic activities, with a particular focus on African identity, unity building, social cohesion, diversity, and youth empowerment. Through open discussions and creative expression, participants delved into the significance of cultural heritage and its role in strengthening community bonds and fostering a sense of belonging among youth.
The workshop covered the following topics:
- African identity
- Unity building
- Social cohesion
- Diversity
- Youth empowerment
Activities of the event
After registration, Sunshine Cinema presented a screening of “Mine Shootdown in Marikana.” This powerful film was followed by a panel discussion that addressed critical topics such as police brutality, the realities of South African culture, ongoing human rights concerns, and broader socio-economic issues. The panel was composed of Siphosethu Dyonasi (Human Rights Peer Educator), a ward council representative from Ward 91, Sive Tofani (Sunshine Cinema), Sive Macibela, Siyanda Mzanzi, Nozuko Mdingi (Lukhanyiso Children’s Home), DJ Ntobsie (Radio Zibonele), and respected elders from the community. The performance program opened with a prayer and welcoming remarks by Siphosethu Dyonasi, a human rights peer educator, setting a reflective and respectful tone for the event. A series of moving performances followed, featuring Desmond Gallant, Umhambi Wendlela, StoiK (Africa Unite Human Rights Peer Educators), Hlasela, Bronwyn February, and Yandisa. These artistic contributions enriched the event and fostered a deeper sense of solidarity and community engagement.
Burning issues that arose during the workshop
Despite the amazing and informative time that everyone was experiencing, the floor was opened for the participants to bring forth the issues that they have witnessed becoming an increasing concern in their communities. They observed a growing lack of discipline among community members towards cultural custodians, expressing worry over the diminishing respect for those who uphold traditional values. Additionally, there was a strong sentiment that parental teachings are increasingly being disregarded or undervalued by the younger generation. Cultural practices, such as greeting parents or elders, which were once cornerstones of community life, are now being neglected, highlighting a broader challenge in preserving and transmitting cultural values across generations. In summary, the issues discussed were;
- Lack of discipline among community members towards cultural custodians.
- Disrespect and undervaluation of parental teachings.
- Cultural issues, such as children not greeting parents or elders
Outcomes of the workshop
The event featured engaging activities, including:
- Participants went out with a better and renewed look at their environment, being urged and advised by the panel to embody the pan African pride, and to move away from negative social interactions.
- Poetry and musical performances by diverse artists
– Film screening by Sunshine Cinema
Overall
Participants engaged widely on the subject of cultural alienation, the lack of equity, mis governance, lack of transparency, and accountability in higher places, ultimately realizing that they have a say as due to their rights being involved. The event was well-attended and successful, thanks to the involvement of stakeholders, community members, and other parties; and ending on a high note, Africa Unite was recommended as a key pillar for Human Rights education!
