Thursday, 24 September 2026

Clinical psychologist Dr Malebo Mashaba distinguished persistent, purposeless lying from ordinary dishonesty, urging observation of patterns, assessment of impact and firm boundaries rather than casual diagnosis.

Relationship coach Duduzile Maton Sela linked failing romances to hyper-individualised living, loneliness and lost interpersonal skills, recommending exposure to community, conflict and communication instead of expecting one partner to meet every need.

Bronwyn Simon described becoming a Sangoma after a 2009 calling and six-month initiation in Snake Park, while warning that self-taught practitioners undermine the tradition.

The closing Heritage Day reflection argued that South African identity is shaped by generations of hidden interracial relationships and shared histories, challenging simplified racial narratives of the country.