After more than four decades renowned photographer Sam Nzima remembers the 1976 Soweto uprising as if it was yesterday.
Sam took the iconic picture of a wounded Hector Pieterson being carried in the arms of Mbuyisa Makhubo, while Hector’s sister, Antoinette ran beside them with a look of terror on her face.
Speaking to TshisaLIVE a day before the 41st anniversary of the historical event, Sam said the day reminded him of the sacrifices that were made for freedom. “Hector Pieterson and other peoples’ blood nourished the freedom in South Africa,” he said.
Sam said the youth of 1976 made an incredible difference to the future of the country.
The former photojournalist who now spends his days motivating school children in impoverished areas has some strong words for the youth. “When the youth of 1976 protested no cars were damaged, there was no looting and they respected other peoples’ rights. The youth today look down on their teachers, abuse their freedom and are involved in alcohol, and drugs,” Sam said.
Sam who fled to Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga after his life was threatened also revealed that he will be launching the Sam Nzima Foundation on June 18.
The foundation aims to raise funds to build a photojournalism school for disadvantaged children from Bushbuckridge.
READ MORE:
Just R20 for the first month. Support independent journalism by subscribing to our digital news package. 