Letter to the editor: Salute to Temba Bavuma, people's champion

IN A POST match interview after the test match triumph, national cricket captain Temba Bavuma remarked that he is more than a black cricketer. To be recognized more than a black cricketer is special. Temba Bavuma you are enough. 

Temba Bavuma you are beyond people’s imaginations and inferiority complexes. Temba Bavuma you are a special human being. The national youth commission act of 1996 defines young people in South Africa between the ages of 14 and 35.

 The youth of 1976 had to struggle and sacrifice for their rights and privileges. We honour their legacy, tenacity and vision. The right and dignity to learn in any language should forever be a platform for destiny and not a platform of destruction. History portrays the 1976 youth protesting for equality and freedom.

As a young person Temba Bavuma had to similarly protest through his cricket ability for the God given right to shine. 

Despite the trappings and limitations bestowed upon him directly and indirectly by society and the racial legacy of apartheid, Bavuma stood tall with hope arising evermore. The truth however is that there are many Temba Bavumas still fighting, protesting quietly waiting, working, dreaming for their moment. 

Let us not be the barriers that limit the potential of young people who are more than ready to shine under the African sun. History cannot repeat itself. The youth of 1976 fought for better. The youth of 1976 died so that freedom can not only be imagined but lived.

Let us not be the gatekeepers of people's dreams and ideals, let us give young people especially an opportunity to rise up beyond our fears. The future and best of South Africa is here and lives amongst us.

Young people, we acknowledge you, we recognise you, we see you. Young people, you are our champions. 

Rise up and be counted. Hope is rising! 

Steven - John Bam | Southfield