The lunch hour concerts are not enough, and when the OVUWA cultural ensemble announced their Heritage Day Celebration Concert, University of Pretoria students, alumni and many more made sure to be there. PDBY was lucky enough to sit in the front row at the breathtaking celebration of culture. Heritage Day is a beautiful holiday which allows South Africans to celebrate our diversity and express pride in our cultural heritage – a privilege which many South Africans did not always have. When asked about the significance of Heritage Day, Andile Mathe, UP’s 2026 SRC head of Transformation and Student Success, explained that this is a day where we are finally able to celebrate South Africa and celebrate that, as diverse as we are, South Africans are a collective of people from various cultures who share one common goal on one land. He stated that events like OVUWA’s heritage celebration are a reminder that we have not lost our roots. This is a very true sentiment. Celebration of one’s cultural identity is a key part of the transformative goals of South Africa as a nation.
Even before the Aula doors opened, the campus was covered in audience members dressed proudly in their cultural attire, eager to see what the ensemble had to bring – and they did not disappoint. What was most beautiful about OVUWA’s performance was the performers. Their cultural pride shone through their bright smiles as they provided a spectacular experience. In a time where hatred seems so prevalent, such a passionate expression of our diversity evokes pride so strong you have to cheer, ululate and sing along.
Through the Heritage Day celebration, OVUWA provided visibility for and recognition of the rich cultures which form South Africa. OVUWA Chairperson and Ensemble Well-being Logistics Officer, Masego Christopher Mahlangu, described the ensemble as “a tool for remembrance, preservation and celebration”. This highlights that the ensemble’s mission is more than just to entertain. This celebration showcased the beauty of South African diversity and its indigenous cultures.
At the end of the celebration, OVUWA’s Conductor and Logistics Coordinator, Mxolisi Manamela, reminded us of the age-old saying “I am Because You are” – umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu. This is what Heritage Day is about – being proud of our cultural identity, the community and history which have made us who we are.
Image: Souced
