‘the brink, the brim, the cusp’
I“In today’s sharp sparkle, this winter air, anything can be made, any sentence begun. On the brink, on the brim, on the cusp...”
Iam in New York City. I took a subway to the United Nations headquarters where we, South Africans, can vote in our elections. I am voting and witnessing this historic moment with fellow South Africans Nomsa Chabeli as well as PJ Hope and Anton Katz SC, both lawyers studying towards their master of law degrees.
There is a bevy of American friends acting as cheerleaders on this momentous occasion. Also here are the legendary Hugh Masekela and great saxophonist Khaya Mahlangu, who are on a tour of the US.
It is pandemonium, with folks crying and performing their joy. Someone in the crowd exclaimed: “This is the greatest thing that has happened to me with my clothes on.” There is abundant joy.
South Africa, the whole of humanity is cheering you into being. For me, the dream of this moment will never die. Some of us cannot even fathom in this moment that there are years to come when this dream will start to fade because of the misgovernance to which we will be subjected.
As joyous as this act of democracy is, it will take a lot of work, imagination and fortitude from us to reclaim the dream of this moment and make it a daily lineament of our lives. We will continuously need to recover our agency as citizens.
Each generation, already here and to come, will have to bend the politics and politicians t is with a profound sense of awe, pride, gratitude and sheer joy that I write this note to you on the day of our first democratic elections. It is absolutely unbelievable that this day has come to pass in my lifetime.
I honour the sacrifices of so many that have brought this moment to come to pass. This victory is a testament to their courage in the face of a violently brutal oppressive system and a manifestation of my people’s resilience, bravery and fortitude.
Take this moment in, breathe deeply and remember this feeling. This is just the beginning of a long and arduous
of this country towards our desires as an engaged citizenry.
South Africa, this is the only way we will make this joint live up to its billing as the country of struggle and freedom – as Nelson Mandela’s Republic.
Sincerely,
Oyama Mabandla agenda to radically deconstruct and dismantle the systems of racial injustice, marginalisation and oppression that have plagued our society for generations.
The road ahead will be bumpy, challenging and peppered with seasons of crushing defeats, but you must never be defeated, discouraged or hopeless. You must stay true to the mission of reconstruction and remember that all construction is messy and intense, and usually takes longer than anticipated.
In those moments of incredible difficulty, remember who you are. Recall the strengths and bravery of the giants on whose shoulders you stand. Make the necessary adjustments and keep moving forward.
You’ve got this.
Sincerely, 1994: Medical officer at Baragwanath Hospital
2024: CEO and founder of Mohau Equity Partners