Community leader Develd Monyai carries what many describe as ‘pots of wisdom,’ a lifetime shaped by South Africa’s transition to democracy and a continued commitment to community upliftment.

As the country marked Freedom Day on April 27, the founder and CEO of the Kamoraleng Heritage Institute reflected on what freedom truly means more than three decades after the historic 1994 South African general election.

“Today’s generation does not fully understand the significance of Freedom Day,” said Monyai. For him, the annual commemoration is a reminder of a hard-won victory over centuries of colonialism and apartheid and a call to action for a new generation.

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Monyai (53) believes that freedom, in its fullest sense, remains unfinished. “Despite the democratic breakthrough of 1994, many South Africans still live in poor conditions, particularly in informal settlements,” he said. “There is nothing more unequal than the equal treatment of unequals.”

Through the Kamoraleng Heritage Institute, Monyai has dedicated his work to preserving local history and amplifying community voices in Midrand and Tembisa. From heritage tours to legacy awards, the organisation documents oral histories and promotes cultural identity.

“True freedom is not just political… It is about self-empowerment, knowing who you are, and participating meaningfully in the economy.”

His own journey is deeply intertwined with South Africa’s democratic story. During the tense 1994 elections, Monyai served as a young peace monitor under the guidance of Sam Mbalati, working to mediate political conflict between rival groups, including the ANC and IFP. It was a formative experience that shaped his lifelong commitment to social cohesion.

Today, however, he is candid about the challenges that persist. Monyai points to ongoing economic exclusion, land inequality, and bureaucratic barriers as major obstacles preventing many black South Africans from accessing opportunities.

“While programmes such as student funding schemes have brought some progress…inefficiencies and lack of accountability often undermine their impact. Opportunities do exist, but many people cannot access them because of red tape and systemic barriers,” he said.

He is particularly concerned about the everyday struggles faced by informal traders and small entrepreneurs. Poorly structured market spaces and lack of infrastructure, he said, not only limit economic growth but also create tension between street vendors and motorists.

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For Monyai, the path forward lies in shifting mindsets. Rather than waiting for opportunities, he encourages communities, especially young people, to embrace entrepreneurship, take pride in their heritage, and build their own economic futures.
“Abuse of freedom happens when people feel they have no control over their circumstances… We need to create environments where people can use their freedom to thrive.

“The people who should be guiding and educating young people are often not present; that’s why many don’t fully grasp the weight of what Freedom Day represents.”

In his message to South African leaders, Monyai calls for unity and action. He urges them to stand in solidarity and implement meaningful programmes that address the real needs of young people, who are the future of the nation.

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