Thapelo’s poetry book to preserve culture and heritage
Burgersfort
Passionate local author, Thapelo Mabowe Sekhukhune, has launched his poetry book full of factual information that promotes his culture and heritage.
The book, titled, ‘Kgoshi Dinkwanyana, Brother Different’, was officially launched during the unleashing of the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme (PESP3) on Friday 24 May at Thaba Moshate Hotel and Casino in Burgersfort, Fetakgomo Tubatse Local Municipality (FTLM).
The landmark event was attended by representatives from Sekhukhune District Municipality (SDM), Fetakgomo Tubatse Local Municipality (FTLM), National Heritage Council (NHC) and Sekhukhune Community Television (SkCTV).
The gathering followed a full day of activities that commenced at Bushmen Rock Shelter and Phiring Village under the Ba-Dinkwanyane Traditional Authority, which is part of the PESP3 programme implemented by the SkCTV driver, Puleng Mmotla, who is also Communications Officer of Sekhukhune Development Agency (SDA).
Thapelo was encountered remarkably during a recent working session focused on restoring heritage sites in Mashishing, Botshabelo and Fetakgomo Tubatse.
The Lydenburg born 27-year-old young writer, who lives with an intellectual impairment disability, captivated everyone when presenting an essay titled from his book ‘Kgoši Dinkwanyane, Brother Different: My great grandfather’s right to be different and dignified.
The essay, which won admiration from his peers, inspired Thapelo to transform it into a non-fiction book promoting heritage, retaining the same title as his entry for competitions.
Major themes of the book include cultural exploration, youth empowerment and heritage preservation.
Thapelo’s book was presented by NHC representative, Bongiwe Magasela, alongside representatives from FTLM and SDM as part of the PESP3 programme.
The PESP3 aims to create employment for artists, creative and heritage sector workers. The programme has led to the production of several notable works, including the book, ‘Touring with South Africa’s Living Human Treasure’, which honours Queen Katrina Esau and collates experiences of PESP3 participants exploring heritage sites in the Sekhukhune and ZF Mgcawu Districts.
This book launching event also marked the activation of the Platinum Stream Tourism Route, highlighting the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Sekhukhune District and aiming to boost local tourism, promote cultural heritage, and create economic opportunities.
FTLM Local Economic Development (LED) Manager, Romeo Maroga, who was directing the book launch programme, informed that the objective of the launch was to engage the public and media with the PESP3 books, their production processes and their connection to the Platinum Stream Tourism Route.
Mmotla expressed his pride in being an implementing partner of the PESP3, which is funded by the NHC.
He added that the launch was designed to promote the outcomes of PESP3 and showcase the programme’s achievements.
The event featured immersive tourism experiences, book signings and giveaways, generating excitement and anticipation.
Mmotla emphasized that the book launch facilitated networking opportunities, encouraging interactions between authors, readers and industry professionals.
“The official handover of the books to the NHC marked a significant milestone, and he extended gratitude to PESP3 participants for their contributions to literature, promoting a reading culture, and fostering a love for heritage in Fetakgomo Tubatse and the broader Sekhukhune District,” he said.
Thapelo’s mother, Veronicah Thembisile Sekhukhune, expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the community’s support.
She noted that the event was not only a celebration for Thapelo’s achievements but also a powerful affirmation of the importance of voices and contributions from persons with disabilities in society.
