Uplifting the Heritage of Soweto

The NHC has funded the Soweto Festival Expo 2023 which intend to have the rich heritage
of Soweto to be recognized and celebrated through the Presidential Employment Stimulus
Programme (PESP). The project is funded under the component of Research and
Documentary; Education and Awareness workshops about the over 90 years old township
that was home to our country’s most illustrious struggle heroes and heroines like; Mama
Winnie Madikizela-Mandela; Tata Walter and Albertina Sisulu, Mme Charlotte Mannya-
Maxeke; Mme Lilian Ngoyi.
The festival saw a total of 43 local entrepreneurs employed towards this project and to
ensure that it was a success. Researchers, writers, directors, producers, narrators, painters,
photographers were also part of the overall project.
A recording of a documentary about Soweto where community members were told about the
history and heritage of the township was screened at the festival, local schools and
community halls.
Heroes of June 16 were awarded blue plaques as a way of respect and honouring their
legacies. Stories about Blue Plaque Heroes and their homes like; James Mpanza’s home,
Saul Mashinini house, Sebina Letlalo House, Dr Melville Edelstein, Mama Letta Mbuli, were
shared by Narrators.
A heritage photo exhibition by the legendary photographer, Jacob Mawela and heritage
lecture tours around Soweto were done.