Never forget heroes – Zondo
SOUTH African cricketer Khaya Zondo, 28, says today’s youth should never forget the sacrifices that were made by the Soweto school children of 1976 as well as other freedom fighters.
And it should not just be on days of commemoration like June 16 that we are thankful, he says. “We can show appreciation of sacrifices that were made by making sure opportunities which are now available in a democratic country are not wasted.
“As a young South African, I’m grateful for the opportunities that one has available to us today, especially in the sporting codes,” says Zondo, who is the son of Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo.
“As you get older, you start to realise the impact and influence that coming from a good background have and having people to guide and counsel whenever you need it.”
The Durban-born batsman plays for the Dolphins and has also represented the country as a member of the Proteas squad.
“I’m happy with what I’ve achieved, but there’s more to do to get to the top of my game. I’ll keep working hard to make sure I can leave the best legacy.”
He says his father has made a big impact on his life, particularly in encouraging people to abide by the Constitution and what it represents. “So I know what is right and wrong, and try to be a good example to everyone who is watching me.”
Zondo says there are many unsung heroes who are not recognised today for the contributions they have made to freedom in South Africa.
“We often remember those in our faces as leaders, but there are people we don’t know about who left their families fighting for democracy. Some of them died.”
He says people also need to realise that they probably often drive past someone in the street, not knowing that person fought for freedom and equality in South Africa.
“And because they were fighting for years, they now don’t have education or jobs, are not successful in life, but we still reap the rewards of their hard work and sacrifices.
“It is of such people that I often think – the unsung heroes,” he says. tribute to those who fought for