Our work focuses on addressing the challenges that impact daily life in our community, and raising awareness about the deep complexities of poverty is an important part of that mission. At the same time, we want to highlight the positive aspects of traditional rural life that make our community truly special. Focusing solely on what’s “lacking” risks reducing our story to one of hardship alone. Our community is so much more than its challenges. We are rich in ways that rarely make the news or statistics. Here’s a glimpse into what we believe we are truly rich in.
We are rich in vast arable land—a privilege that many worldwide, and certainly within South Africa, do not have. This land is a cherished resource, supporting our families through subsistence farming and livestock rearing, and it connects us to the wisdom of generations past. One of the most important lessons from rural life is how to live sustainably with nature. Here, we understand that the land’s resources are finite and must be used with care. This respect for the earth runs through every practice: we use only what we need and respect natural cycles. This sustainable mindset is woven into our community’s farming practices, water conservation, and deep knowledge of local ecosystems.
Because of our remote location, our traditions, language, and way of life have remained essentially unchanged for centuries. In a rapidly developing world, this preservation of culture is unique, and it’s remarkable to think that life here, even 100 years ago, didn’t look so drastically different from today. Our culture is vibrant and alive—filled with the sounds of dancing, singing, laughter, and joy. Ceremonies are held frequently and bind our community together. There are no guest lists; everyone is welcome and attends. This rich, living culture, shaped by generations before us, is an invaluable part of who we are and a legacy in which we take pride.
Our community also exemplifies the strength of true social cohesion. Relationships run deep; everyone knows one another, and no one passes without a warm greeting. It feels like a big family where connection and trust bring natural resilience in ways that are rare today.
At the heart of this support system is Ubuntu, the principle that “I am because we are.” When someone is struggling, the community steps in to help—whether they need food, shelter, or just someone to listen. You will not see a person who is homeless on our roads. This spirit of Ubuntu contrasts with the individualism that often defines contemporary life, where success and well-being are viewed as solitary pursuits. Ubuntu, on the other hand, is about collectivism: when we care for one another, everyone benefits. This interconnectedness and mutual responsibility remind us of the power of compassion and the importance of investing in one another’s well-being.
In rural life, nyamezela, or resilience, is a way of life. Limited resources and rural challenges have taught us to adapt, endure, and find creative solutions. This resilience has made us skilled problem-solvers; we like to think of ourselves as the “doers.”
This resilience also builds self-reliance. People here are accustomed to growing their own food, repairing their own homes, fetching water, and making fires. Resourcefulness is a way of life, and it builds confidence and independence.
Another powerful lesson from rural life is the importance of slowing down. Life’s richest experiences aren’t always measured by speed or productivity. Rural life teaches us to appreciate small moments—a shared meal, a slow walk to catch up with someone, time spent together fetching firewood or herding livestock. In a world where busyness is often a badge of honour, the rural approach invites us to be present, savour, and find joy in daily life’s simplicity.
Rural life encourages a natural upbringing for our children. Here, they run, climb, and explore outdoors, learning about their world through touch, play, and discovery. This helps them develop strength, balance, and coordination early on. In fact, our data shows that our children consistently perform well above average in gross motor skills. In an era where screen time often dominates, our children instead find fun and adventure in the natural world around them.
In a time when narratives about rural South Africa are often focused on what’s missing, we also want to tell a different story. Challenges exist, but our story is also one of heritage, unity, joy, resilience, and harmony. This is what we’re rich in.
