On 24 September, the children and staff of Abraham Kriel Children’s Home Nylstroom celebrated Heritage Day along with the rest of South Africa. It was a special day reminding us of the rich variety of traditions that bind our nation together.

The day was filled with colourful attire, music, dance and delicious food  ̶  from milk tart, koeksisters and biltong to mopane worms, dumplings in sauce and braised meat. Each dish reflected a unique culture.

This year, the heritage of Sepedi, Tsonga, Venda, Zulu, Tswana and Afrikaans was proudly showcased. Each group brought something special: Sepedi’s strong sense of community, Tsonga’s rich agricultural heritage, Venda’s spirituality, Zulu music and dance, Tswana ubuntu, and the focus on Afrikaans hospitality and family.

For our children it was a valuable experience not only to celebrate their own backgrounds, but also to learn about and appreciate the traditions of others. In this way we all realise that our diversity is our greatest wealth that brings people and communities closer together.