Heritage month opens the door to see the world differently
- Wits University
A celebration like no other as staff lunch in the dark.
They arrived dressed in splendour representing the rich diversity of South Africa’s cultural heritage and ethnic groups.
Spirits were high as complements flowed freely admiring the various traditional outfits with a twist of modernity. Unbeknown to the group was that this was not a typical Heritage Month celebration.
It’s Lunch in the Dark, announced a voice behind the microphone – taking Witsies by complete surprise. No doubt many thought load-shedding is visiting again!
Staff in the Registrar’s Division were immersed in a sensory experience as they engaged in a three-course meal blindfolded. The lunch organised by the Division's Transformation Committee, representing eight different departments within the Division, sought to promote awareness about visual impairment and the world of the blind. September is also seen as disability awareness month as Casual Day, a campaign which which brings the spotlight on fundraising and advocacy for persons with disabilities, is observed annually September.
The event was aptly held at the Origins Centre, a museum dedicated to exploring and celebrating the history of modern humankind and the San people. Biodiversity also took it’s place of pride as each table was adorned with the wonder plant Spekboom known as isimuncwana (isiZulu).
Guest speaker Dr William Rowland, honorary president of the South African National Council for the Blind, shared his own story of living with blindness. He inspired many as a well-travelled champion who has visited more than 90 countries leading advocacy, he founded Optima College for the blind and holds three academic degrees from the University of South Africa, a doctorate from the University of Cape Town, and qualified as physiotherapist at the RNIB in London.
Loss of Control and Gratitude
In between the serving of the meals, staff were invited to reflect and were also introduced to outstanding visually impaired achievers, through short multimedia presentations during the course of the lunch.
The experience struck a nerve with Nodene Sheik, a consultant at the Student Enrolment Centre. Sheik, whose had two eye operations at different times in her life due to glaucoma, said the experience and the life of Rowland has made her brave. “If I ever go blind, I will be able to face the world with courage and also with the gratitude that I was at least able to see the world.”
For many, the loss of control, not knowing what’s on the plate, eating different textures without priming the mind exposed how dependent they were on only one sense – sight.
Long Service Awards
The event also celebrated long serving staff members in the Registrar’s Division:
- Nosimilo Dladla (Student Enrolment Centre) – 41 years
- Gabi Mazibuko (Student Call Centre) – 35 years
- David Rambevha (Exams and Graduations Office) – 34 years
The Best Dress award went to Thingatshili Mukwevho from Central Records Office for her Tshivenda inspired outfit.