South Africans celebrated Heritage Day on September 24 under the theme ‘Celebrating Our Living Heritage: Strengthening the Ties That Bind Us’. In Vryheid, Local Choice Pharmacy (Remedia Pharmacy) marked the day by hosting its fourth annual Heritage Day celebration, attracting 600 dancers who entertained the audience with vibrant performances celebrating South Africa’s diverse cultures, traditions and heritage.

More than 30 groups showcase their culture

More than 30 groups participated in the competition, each group eager to impress and claim the top prizes. The performers embraced their roots, expressed their culture, and shared what their communities stand for.

Celebrating culture and keeping young people engaged

Ingrid Klingenberg, the founder of the event and manager at Local Choice Pharmacy, said her love for the Zulu nation and the passion portrayed by traditional dancers inspired her to organise the annual celebration.

“I was brought up German and my second language is IsiZulu. I love the passion they showcase when they dance.”

She explained that the event also aims to keep young people off the streets by encouraging them to learn about their culture and heritage while taking part in positive activities. Through the initiative, the pharmacy also gets an opportunity to connect with the community and demonstrate its commitment to helping people.

Call for government support

Klingenberg has appealed to government officials to support the initiative through sponsorships, saying this would help young performers develop their talents and get recognition worldwide.

She expressed her gratitude to all the groups that participated, praising them for their beautiful and exciting performances, which contributed to the day’s entertainment and success. She also thanked Sikhumbuzo Mbuyazi from Leaf Products for his contribution towards the event and sponsoring the technical side of the programme.

Winners celebrate their success

The competition saw talented groups compete across six categories, with the winners announced and prizes presented by the Local Choice Pharmacy team.

Modern dance

• First place: Teddy Bears
• Second place: Rasco
• Third place: Damara

Shemeni

• First place: Izimpisi
• Second place: Amajundu
• Third place: Amavukelambuso

Ingoma

• First place: Izimpande
• Second place: Osebancane
• Third place: Amafikalishine

Umbholoho

• First place: Amawundlu
• Second place: Isiqalo
• Third place: Isibani

Indlamu

• First place: Fisokuhle
• Second place: Isiqalo
• Third place: Delinkani

Afro Gospel

• First place: Amawundlu
• Second place: Isiggi
• Third place: ITG

The Heritage Day celebration is expected to return next year, giving more dancers an opportunity to showcase their talents and celebrate South Africa’s rich cultural heritage.

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.