“I grew up in a culture which calls to the ancestors. I know the names of those who came before me. aMamfene, oMadiba, amaNdungwane, oNyawuza, I know their praises, how to celebrate them… the forefathers and fore mothers that walked this journey and paved much of it for me. They have rippled off my tongue as many times as my own name. I’m never, ever alone. I have 4 grandparents. 8 Greats. 16 Great-Greats. 32, 64, 128, 256… In support, and in spirit. Alive through us. I am the total sum of my ancestors. I am them. So in light and in darkness, I call to them… They  call back. Do you call to yours?”

DID YOU KNOW?

I watch Nyaniso wake up each morning. The first thing he does is sit by the altar and call upon his ancestors. He was raised calling their names and praises. After a long day on set, (he’s a professional actor) he will arrive home and head straight to the altar to wind down in a place devoted to their presence. This way of engaging with the world is something I admire and respect deeply, and finding my own connection with my ancestors is a tender journey in light of the depth he shares with his.