The Zulu word “Sawubona” means “I see you,” and the response “Ngikhona” means “I am here.” The junior class at Mount Madonna School chose this name to represent their upcoming South Africa trip. For the students, this unusual learning journey will be about seeing and gaining a new understanding of people in a part of the world that is far different from the one in which we live. In June 2013, sixteen students from the School’s Values in World Thought class will leave for Cape Town, their first stop on a journey of a lifetime.
To help this trip possible the students are fundraising, with a goal of raising enough to bring donations to the social service projects they will visit. A Mediterranean dinner will be held on Monday, March 11 at Zameen Mediterranean Cuisine (7528 Soquel Dr., Aptos). The dinner is $40. To RSVP or for more information contact zameendinnerforjuniors@googlegroups.com or Diane Turk at (408) 847-2717.
Also, a rummage sale to support the trip is planned for Saturday, March 23 at the Santa Cruz Flea Market (2260 Soquel Drive, Santa Cruz). If you have items to donate for the sale, contact Diane Turk at (408) 847-2717.
In South Africa the students will interview Nobel Peace Laureate, Archbishop Desmond Tutu; F.W. de Klerk, the last president during the apartheid-era; and engage with several charitable causes, including the Philani Child Nutrition Center in Khayelitsha township; and the Botshabelo Children’s AIDS Village near Johannesburg.
The last leg of the journey will be to Kruger National Park to learn about the unique ecosystem of South Africa. They will tour this huge wildlife refuge for two days to develop an understanding of what it takes to conserve this important world treasure.
Sawubona is a common greeting in parts of Africa. In this spirit, the students will develop an understanding that to truly see and be seen by another human being is a great gift. South Africa is a country of contrasts with a unique history and much to teach the world about our humanity. The students understand that whatever they are bringing as gifts and support is just one way of saying “thank you” for the gifts of the human spirit they will receive from the people they encounter.
Come on out to the flea market, look for the “Sawubona” signs marking their space, find some great treasures, and support a worthwhile effort!