UKZN Students Celebrate Culture and Unity

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Staff and students from UKZN’s Department of Student Residence Affairs (DSRA) attended the Amatshiwelele Festival, an event that celebrates and honours Zulu maidens known as Amatshitshi.

Held at the Curries Fountain Sports Development Centre in Durban, the festival was a vibrant hub of cultural expression as young women from across KwaZulu-Natal gathered.

Hosted by the renowned cultural influencer Zamambo Mkhize, affectionately known as “Itshitshi lecountry”, the festival celebrated culture, heritage, empowerment, and community unity.

Students from various university residences arrived adorned in white traditional attire, representing not only their cultures but also their unity and pride. The attire, paired with the powerful themes of the day, created a vibrant and affirming atmosphere that allowed students to reflect on their identity and voice.

The event featured speeches from several dignitaries, including a standout address by Ms BongekileHadebe, Residence Life Coordinator of the Howard College and Medical School campuses. She encouraged Amatshitshi in attendance to embrace their identity with pride, stay focused on their academic goals, and resist societal pressures that may threaten their dignity and well-being. Her message emphasised the significance of cultural values in combating gender-based violence (GBV) and fostering a sense of self-worth.

The heart of the festival unfolded with dynamic music performances and dance, culminating in a rousing performance by the host herself, Zamambo Mkhize. Her act celebrated womanhood and the collective strength of young African women.

The statement piece of the festivities was a symbolic walk to raise awareness around gender-based violence (GBV). Carrying placards with messages such as “Stop Women and Children Abuse” and “Amatshitshi Are Against Drugs and Alcohol Abuse”, the walk set a powerful tone for the day’s focus on advocacy and cultural values. Leading the procession were Amatshitshi, who made a compelling call for social accountability and the protection of women and children.

DSRA Interim-Director, Ms Sisana Machi, said the festival left a lasting impression as students reported feeling reconnected to their heritage and more confident in expressing their identity. ‘The event enhanced the University’s connection to the community and promoted unity and sisterhood among the attendees,’ Machi said.

‘The Amatshiwelele Festival was more than an event; it was a movement. Through culture, music, speeches, and visibility, the young women of the DSRA found empowerment, solidarity, and pride.

‘The GBV awareness walk, in particular, was impactful, sharing information around GBV, protection, respect, and the dangers of substance abuse.’

Machi added: ‘The DSRA Residence Life Team’s involvement played a crucial role in ensuring student access to this transformative space, and student feedback affirms the importance of continuing such culturally responsive engagements in the future.’

Words: Sisana Machi

Photographs: Supplied