On 28 April, Orange Farm’s Tshaba Tsohle Initiation and Tradition (TTIT) took a bold step in restoring dignity, unity and pride in African cultural practices through the powerful Thula Haefele event held at Mafatsane Hall in Evaton.
The event brought together over 260 initiated women from both the AmaZulu and Basotho communities, under the banner of shared purpose, cultural pride and mutual respect. Its main aim was to break down tension and division among initiated women and replace it with a strong spirit of sisterhood and unity.
Organised by cultural activist Portia Manoto, the gathering carried a powerful message – that initiation is not defined by tribe or location, but by dignity, purpose and values. It called on all initiated women to come together, to uplift one another and to honour the traditions passed down by elders with grace and love.
Portia Manoto, told Orange Farm News: “The day was filled with happy singing, dancing and deep respect for everyone. There was no place for division, only peace, joy and a strong feeling of unity.”
The event was fully sponsored by TTIT and exceeded expectations. The positive turnout and emotional impact demonstrated a growing desire among women to reclaim their cultural identities with pride.
Manoto added: “We want to restore the dignity of our culture. Many people have a negative perception of initiation schools – often associating them with violence or wrongdoing. But that’s not our story. Our great-grandparents upheld these traditions with honour and care, and that’s what we are bringing back.”
The Thula Haefele event proved that tradition can be a force of healing, connection and empowerment. Through this initiative, TTIT is calling on more women -from all backgrounds – to rise, unite and walk together in dignity.
Images supplied by TTIT
