Today we did one of the most interesting and informative activities since we've been in Soweto. Us Culcheth High school students and members of the Matseliso Debate team all came together in the school library and sat in a huge circle, all of us mixed together, I was sat next a student named Precious.
Mrs Lakin did an introduction and then we started off the conversation by introducing the topic of how people may face discrimination in our own society at home. This progressed and the Matseliso students shared with us how even in their very accepting society, students may be subject to name-calling or abuse if they have really dark skin, and the lighter skin learners may be more accepted. Next, we asked the students what message they want us to take home with us , and their responses were so enlightening and emotional, it was really amazing. Every single one spoke of how we need to realise that being individual and different is so important that we need to accept ourselves and others for who they are. The way the students spoke really resonated with me because it made me realise that I need to judge people less and be more confident in myself.
We next moved through different topics such as abortion, divorce, marriage and relationships, it was really interesting to learn their opinions. We learned how divorce was also common among parents here in South Africa; and also how that marriage can be common at 16 years old and even culturally at 12.
It was truly inspirational to speak to the students and learn about the challenges they have overcome ,also how similar our struggles are, but the thing I will take away with me is the positive outlook they have an life and that how proud I should be of who I am.
Caitlin Thomas
Mrs Lakin did an introduction and then we started off the conversation by introducing the topic of how people may face discrimination in our own society at home. This progressed and the Matseliso students shared with us how even in their very accepting society, students may be subject to name-calling or abuse if they have really dark skin, and the lighter skin learners may be more accepted. Next, we asked the students what message they want us to take home with us , and their responses were so enlightening and emotional, it was really amazing. Every single one spoke of how we need to realise that being individual and different is so important that we need to accept ourselves and others for who they are. The way the students spoke really resonated with me because it made me realise that I need to judge people less and be more confident in myself.
We next moved through different topics such as abortion, divorce, marriage and relationships, it was really interesting to learn their opinions. We learned how divorce was also common among parents here in South Africa; and also how that marriage can be common at 16 years old and even culturally at 12.
It was truly inspirational to speak to the students and learn about the challenges they have overcome ,also how similar our struggles are, but the thing I will take away with me is the positive outlook they have an life and that how proud I should be of who I am.
Caitlin Thomas