On 22 September 2025, ahead of Heritage Day, Cannons Creek Independent High School learners were encouraged to do traditional attire – showcasing the rich diversity of culture at the school. These celebrations centered around an inaugural Fashion Show, held at lunch break and in the Cultural Centre for all the school to enjoy. Grade 10 History society members and History Teacher, Mr Olivier were the judging panel as the entrants paraded onto the stage and exhibited together. Prizes were awarded for the top three efforts, and this had to be about the effort put into their dress, authenticity, and originality.

Proudly South African – Grade 11 learners Belle Laithwaite and Clarice Wolfaardt.

Grade 11 learners celebrating their rich heritage – Oscar Davies, Mohamed Ameer, Juan Coetzee, and Amarachi Zondi

Grade 12 learners Juliana Eliakin, Amaal Cassiem, and Zoë Van Der Hoven celebrating one nation, many cultures.

Some comments from learners:

• “Indian culture has some of the best food in the world. It is important to embrace different cultures because it helps us understand and respect one another, celebrate our differences, and learn new things.” – Shazana Camroodien, Grade 8.
• “I dressed up in the clothing and colours of my Irish heritage (on my mother’s side). The Irish are very well known for their Irish dancing and the shamrock being a symbol of luck. It’s important to embrace different cultures to be able to understand others’ viewpoints and respect how they have been brought up. It also gives us a background to how a person lives, and by knowing a few things about their culture, you can engage in more appropriate conversations and avoid misunderstandings. It expands our knowledge by exposing us to new concepts and ideas, as well as shows that every culture is important.” – Leah Kooyman, Grade 8.
• “I presented myself in the traditional attire of a Xhosa woman. Xhosa is classified as a tonal language, which indicates that variations in pitch can alter the meaning of a word. As a Zulu-speaking individual from KwaZulu-Natal, growing up in Cape Town provided me with a significant perspective during my childhood. The Xhosa community that nurtured me instilled in me the understanding that diverse cultures should be embraced and respected, irrespective of one’s background. While I take great pride in my Zulu heritage, I also wholeheartedly embrace my Xhosa identity with enthusiasm. Culture brings joy and a sense of community to all.” – Amarachi Zondi, Grade 11.

Dressed up and ready to celebrate the unique traditions and history – Grade 8 learners Fatima Brey, Nuah Ramlal, Shazana Camroodien, Leah Kooyman, Rofhiwa Tshikhudo, and Iman Harris.

Siblings Nu’maan (Grade 12) and Qaylah Omar (Grade 9) – proud of their Islam heritage.

Grade 10 learners Lara Hawyn, Hannah van Wyk, Naledi Siswana, Salma Gierdien, and Sarah Khan shining bright in their traditional threads for Heritage Day.

Sazi Masango (Grade 7), Oratile Tlale (Grade 8) and Yashfah Shade (Grade 9) honouring their roots and celebrating their cultures.

• “I dressed up as a Bokke supporter. My family is mainly Afrikaans, and one of the best dishes that you will ever eat is melkos (especially when it’s homemade). I think it’s really important to embrace other cultures because it can be an amazing learning experience and a great way to connect with the people around you.” – Khloe Potgieter, Grade 9.
• “A big part of Italian culture is the extensive and expressive use of hand gestures, with over 250 gestures documented in Italy used in communication. It promotes respect and tolerance and respect for different cultures and traditions around the world. Understanding a person’s culture can play a big role in fostering a sense of unity and community.” – Kiara Puccini, Grade 9.

Grade 9 learners Ludovic Nkomba, Kiara Puccini, and Okuhle Mdingi celebrate the beautiful diversity that makes our country the rainbow nation.

Grade 12 learners Molly de Witt, Emma Atkins, and Talya Davids celebrating the spirit of ubuntu.

Congolese culture suggests that if someone is sitting on the floor with their legs extended, you shouldn’t just walk over them, due to its negative connotation. It is important to embrace other cultures as it gives us the opportunity to embrace each other’s differences, while also realizing that even though we come from different backgrounds – we are all human in the end.” – Plamedi Mpiana, Grade 12

Heritage Day outfits on point – Grade 12 learners Mbali Mbuluwa, Zawadi Zondi, and Plamedi Mpiana.

Grade 7 pupils embracing their heritages – Kaylee Hendricks, Antonois Stamatiadis, and Caden Craik.