GLOBE POST is steadfastly dedicated to promoting indigenous languages, heritage, and culture, recognizing the rich tapestry of diversity that contributes to our global society. Through our commitment to inclusive storytelling and fostering a deep appreciation for indigenous traditions, we strive to ensure that the voices, languages, and legacies of these communities are celebrated and preserved for generations to come.
Our core operating principle is to incorporate news in a manner that reflects the diversity of the footprints we cover. This also makes for value journalism
Publishing Editor, Shirley Govender
As such, we are thrilled to announce the addition of Lelani Lagretstia Jacobs to our esteemed team as an online columnist. With a remarkable background and an unwavering commitment to preserving the Nama language and heritage, Lelani is set to provide our readers with unique insights and perspectives on cultural diversity and linguistic richness.
Born in Namibia, in the town of Luderitzbuch, Lelani’s journey has taken her to Gauteng Johannesburg, where she currently resides in the vibrant community of Reigerpark. She is not just an ordinary columnist; she’s an educator by profession, a devoted wife, and a proud mother of five children, with two cherished grandchildren.
Lelani’s connection to her roots runs deep, and her commitment to her cultural heritage is truly inspiring. She hails from the Bondelswarts Nama tribe, an integral part of the Nama people, recognized as one of the earliest formed distinct human genetic groups. The Nama people have an extraordinary history, tragically marred by being the victims of the first genocide of the 20th century.
Driven by a passion to preserve and promote the Nama language, Lelani took up a pivotal role as the CEO of Sandeva, the South African Nama Development Association in Gauteng province. Sandeva’s primary mission is to ensure the introduction of Nama as a language in schools, educating both the youth and adults. They work diligently to promote and safeguard the Nama language as part of the broader effort to encourage multilingualism in South Africa.
Lelani’s dedication to the cause doesn’t stop there. She also serves as a Nama language facilitator for Pansalb and imparts her linguistic expertise as an extramural activity at Reigerpark Primary School. Her tireless efforts are geared towards ensuring that the Nama language continues to thrive and be passed down to future generations.
In her own words, Lelani believes in working towards the noble goal of social cohesion. She draws attention to the critical need to preserve the Nama heritage, likening it to the plight of the dinosaur and the dodo, which faced extinction without proactive intervention.
As she embarks on her journey as a columnist for GLOBE POST, Lelani Jacob’s unique perspective, cultural insights, and commitment to preserving linguistic diversity promise to captivate and enlighten our readers. We are honored to have her as part of our team and look forward to the valuable contributions she will make to our publication.
In closing, Lelani expresses her gratitude with the words, “Thanks / Gangans.” We, too, extend our warmest thanks to her for sharing her passion and expertise with our readers, and we eagerly anticipate the enlightening journey ahead.
May the Lord bless you in all your endeavors, Lelani.
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