Their aim of building unity between cultures and countries was successfully achieved with one of their main objectives bringing home bursaries for …
Two New Woodlands men have successfully completed a trip aimed at building and growing ties with various groups in New Zealand.
One to build partnerships between indigenous groups, the other to strengthen cultural expression.
Chief Basil Coetzee and Mogamat Meiniers visited various cities in New Zealand while on a three-month trip.
“By their own admission, the South Africans living in New Zealand were always excluded when it came to culture and heritage. Now they are included and recognised,” says Coetzee.
Ruthewaan Waggie and Prof Hirini Matunga were role players in seeing the trip become a reality.
Their aim of building unity between cultures and countries was successfully achieved with one of their main objectives bringing home bursaries for youth from New Woodlands.
“Bursaries are available for study in klopskunde in New Zealand. Terms and conditions do apply and further details will be available,” says Meiniers.
Overall the pair agree the trip was a resounding success.
A formal documentary of the trip is currently in production.V The following are accounts of their personal objectives and experiences.