How Love and Language Strengthen Our Communities

February is well known for being the month of love. However, as South Africans, this month isn’t just about love, its a reminder of one of our strongest values: uBuntu. In a world often overshadowed by challenges, the power of kindness is our beacon of hope, lighting the path toward stronger, more connected communities. In South Africa, a nation rich in diversity and resilience, everyday acts of kindness play a pivotal role in weaving the social fabric that binds us together.

Acts of kindness, no matter how small, have the power to transform societies. They bridge divides, foster understanding, and build trust among community members. In a country as diverse as South Africa, kindness serves as a unifying force, reminding us of our shared humanity and the strength we possess when we come together.

Simple acts, such as sharing a meal, offering a helping hand, or even a warm smile, can have profound impacts. These gestures not only uplift the recipients but also inspire others to emulate similar behaviors, creating a ripple effect of goodwill. For instance, initiatives like Ladles of Love have mobilised communities to support soup kitchens, providing meals to over 300 families. Such acts serve as a reminder of the collective power we hold to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

This month, we also celebrate international Mother Tongue Day. Since we have several official languages, it seems as if this day was created just for us. Although English is the preferred medium of communication in South Africa, there are 10 additional official languages that need love too. What better way to express that love than speaking your mother tongue?

When you speak your mother tongue, you form a direct link between your heart, brain and tongue. Your personality, character, skills, and other hidden characteristics become truly revealed. The sound of the mother tongue in the ear and its meaning in the heart give you self-assurance. Your mother tongue resonates in your soul and it gives you a sense of belonging among people who share similar life experiences. To lose your mother tongue is to lose a piece of yourself. Your mother tongue helps to shape your thoughts and emotions, it also connects you to your culture and to those around you.

Your mother tongue also influences how you say things – how you speak to others and treat them. It was Nelson Mandela who said: “if you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, it goes to his heart”.

Celebrate your language:

On 21 February, we celebrated International Mother Tongue Day. In Mzansi where we have 12 official languages, it’s important to understand the power of these languages. Language holds our identity, history and carries our stories from one generation to another.

Why is this important?

-       Preserves identity – our languages carry our heritage.

-       Strengthens community – connects generations through storytelling.

-       Boosts learning – children excel when taught in their first language.

-       Encourages inclusivity – every language adds to our shared cultural wealth.

Celebrate your language—speak it, teach it and share it!