Inquisitive minds and attentive ears filled the Nelson Mandela Foundation’s theatre room on Human Rights Day for the Making Reading Fun event.

Read more: 17-year-old author launches her first book at Rosebank Mall

As South Africans reflected on the legacy of Sharpeville and the ongoing struggle for dignity and equality, families united at the Nelson Mandela Foundation, marking the day with a focus on a fundamental, yet often overlooked right: The right to read.

Making Reading Fun was launched on April 15, 2023, to encourage reading and literacy among South Africa’s children and to impart knowledge of Mandela’s extraordinary life story, along with his values, which are celebrated worldwide.

Emerging voices, such as Gomolemo Moagi, Naledi Setzin, and Mahlohonolo Thulo, highlighted the role of reading in building informed, empowered, and free societies.

Mathabo Tlali, MC of the reading event, has been leading the programme using storytelling and civic education to promote literacy among children and families.
Author of The Jacaranda Tree, Setzin said the morning was a memorable and significant one in her career. “I had the opportunity to read at the Nelson Mandela Foundation. I decided to read here today because I wanted to share the story and message behind my book, which is about the importance of nature, the power we have in our voices, and how, as a nation, we can be united in action.”

Also read: The Veyrith hits shelves at Rosebank Malls Exclusive Books

Access to reading is connected to human rights. It shapes how children understand the world, claim their voices, and participate fully in society. Without it, inequality deepens. With it, possibility expands.

@caxtonjoburgnorth WATCH: Authors Naledi Setzin and Mahlohonolo Thulo spent the morning of Human Rights Day reading to children at the Nelson Mandela Foundation, and reflect what the day meant to them. Video: Asanda Matlhare #Rosebank #Humanrights ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

Author of Little Rosie and the Garden Visitors, Thulo said her books were aimed at teaching children and adults about connecting and healing their inner child. “It’s mostly for children. It teaches them about the importance of having a positive mindset, the power of gratitude, and contentment.”

The author added that she was excited to be at the foundation. It was her first speaking engagement about her work, and she was especially excited because she was a new author and hoped to connect with other authors.

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!