On Thursday 13th May, the Speaker Programme invited three students from Roedean School in Johannesburg South Africa, to have a discussion about racism and gender based violence.

Avela Swana, Mbali Khuzwayo and Phumelela Mazibuko spoke about what they do to combat these issues within their schools and local communities. Avela spoke about her blog where she writes informative articles about controversial subjects and her position in the Transformation Committee at her school which strives for creating an equal society in race, religion, LGBTQ+ and wealth disparities.

Avela also read her poem, My Name, which demonstrates teachers’ and students’ lack of respect when pronouncing young girls names – which have significant cultural and personal importance. Phumelela spoke about her magazine, Mazi, which showcases the youth’s talent and empowers them to stand up against injustices. Mbali spoke about her passion for educating others on these issues. We then continued to have a discussion about a range of topics such as redistribution of wealth, corruption, classism, the impact of gender based violence and the differences in racism in South Africa versus the UK.

The Sixth Form students learned about these topical issues from a new perspective. Avela, Mbali and Phumelela inspired us with the future they see for South Africa.

Pagan Reed, Lower Sixth pupil