Auckland Park Preparatory School embraces being African at African Day celebration
In a celebration of all things African, Auckland Park Preparatory School embraced being African with songs, dances, and ululations.
It was the soft beating of the djembe drums and marimbas that welcomed the girls of Auckland Park Preparatory School (APPS) recently, as they observed Africa Day, dressed in colourful headwraps and joyful smiles to match.
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At the foundation phase gate, spontaneous bursts of dancing filled the air, as parents, teachers, and children alike, took part in the morning celebration. The school’s Africa Day assembly, hosted by their isiZulu teacher, Mama Ndaba, set the tone for what was a powerful and heartfelt morning.
Her message was simple, yet profound: “From Cape to Cairo, we are all African.” Her words reminded the audience that Africa Day is not just about tradition and colour; it’s about identity, heritage, and the pride taken from being African. To mark the day, the Grade 6 and 7 girls performed beautifully rehearsed songs from different African countries. Each song, paired with traditional movements that honoured the culture it came from, performed with sensitivity and joy.
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Instead of applause, the audience celebrated each performance with a signature ululation, which brought delight to every face in the hall. When asked why the school celebrated the day, deputy headmistress Marcelle M’Crystal said: “It matters that our girls understand where they come from. That they embrace the richness of their roots and take pride in the diverse cultures that make up this continent.”
When talking on the beautiful headwraps the girls wore, M’Crystal said it was a way for the learners to connect with their roots across this vast continent, because being African means embracing resilience, community, and creativity. “Being African, Africa Day reminds us all of the pride and strength that comes with belonging to this incredible continent.”
Ndaba said Africa Day at APPS is about more than just celebration; it’s about building unity, identity and confidence in the girls. “It’s a way of saying to each one of them: Who you are, every part of you, is something to be proud of. As we celebrate, we learn to appreciate the many stories, traditions, and histories that live together in our community.”
Ultimately, the school believes education should not only inform but also inspire, as days like these remind them of just how deeply learning and joy can go hand in hand.
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