For instance, we're always fighting amongst each other. Who gives us the arms? And then we become indebted to wherever we are buying them from - with what? The very resources we need to keep there.
Miriam MakebaRead
It is very much the theme of our President, President Thabo Mbeki, whose passion is for Africa to work together, and for Africans to get up and do things for us. We are trying as women to do things for ourselves.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes the importance of self-empowerment and collective action among Africans, especially women.
Miriam Makeba highlights the vision of President Thabo Mbeki, which advocates for unity and proactive efforts among African nations and individuals. She stresses that women are taking initiative to empower themselves, reflecting a broader call for social engagement and responsibility in uplifting the continent through self-action.
In practice
This quote can be used in a speech at an international women's conference to inspire collective action.
For instance, we're always fighting amongst each other. Who gives us the arms? And then we become indebted to wherever we are buying them from - with what? The very resources we need to keep there.
Be careful, think about the effect of what you say. Your words should be constructive, bring people together, not pull them apart.
I kept my culture. I kept the music of my roots. Through my music I became this voice and image of Africa and the people without even realising.
In the mind, in the heart, I was always home. I always imagined, really, going back home.
I see other black women imitate my style, which is no style at all, but just letting our hair be itself. They call it the Afro Look.
Age is getting to know all the ways the world turns, so that if you cannot turn the world the way you want, you can at least get out of the way so you won't get run over.
The dream was always running ahead of me. To catch up, to live for a moment in unison with it, that was the miracle.
For me, personally, I feel like that's my duty while I'm on this earth is to serve others and use my blessing to bless others. If I'm not doing that, I feel like I'm not serving my purpose. That's my goal, that's my passion, and that's what I intend to do for the rest of my life.
The amount of people - and kids especially - that come up to me saying I inspire them is honestly better than any match I could win, just to know that I inspire another kid maybe to pick up a racquet or go through something they're facing at school.
Each day is a new opportunity. Yesterday is over and done. Today is the first day of my future.
If our young people could but glimpse it, it would be the most powerful spiritual motivation of their lives!
My story is the story of thousands of children from around the world. I hope it inspires others to stand up for their rights.
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