The phrase “dynamite comes in small packages” should not be taken lightly or be undermined as it really suggests that small things can have a significant impact or value in our lives.
The true meaning of this phrase came to light at the Dr. Yusuf Dadoo Hospital, in Krugersdorp, Mogale City, when the little-known and 8-year-old Amogelang Tau, won the hearts and minds of the audiences when she rendered a heart wrenching poem titled What Mandela Day means.
While Mogale City Executive Mayor, Lucky Sele and the Chief Executive of the hospital, Dr. Rodney Pheto, navigated the history books outlining why we need to honour the legacy of the late former Statemen Nelson Mandela by living out his values of kindness, fairness, courage, and community, Amogelang had it all in a simple six-line poem.
What Mandela Day means story
Today, I would like to talk to you about a very special day called Mandela Day
We remember a wonderful man named Nelson Mandela.
He was a leader who believed in fairness and kindness.
He wants everyone no matter their skin colour to be treated equally with respect
Mandela Day is time for us to do good things for other people.
Thank you for your time. Let’s have a wonderful Mandela day.
Amogelang, a Grade 3 learner at the Patrick Mashego Primary School in Reitvallei Extensions 2 and 3, near Azaadville, mentioned that she crafted the poem to make it easy and understandable for everyone.
“I am much honoured to be part of Mandela Day celebration and share the platform with the Executive Mayor [Lucky Sele]. I crafted this poem because I want people to understand the meaning of Mandela day and that we must respect each other no matter the race,” said Amogelang, flanked by her mother, Lucia.
When asked about her career choice after matriculating, the pocket-size Amogelang who also couple as Miss Earth finalist, said “I want to be a Dentist so that I can help individuals to have a beautiful smile, which I believes a smile boast one’s confidence”.
Miss Earth is an annual international major beauty pageant based in the Philippines that advocates for environmental awareness, conservation and social responsibility. In Gauteng, the finals of the pageant will be held at the Azaadville Hall on 27 September 2025.
Mama Lucia mentioned: “I’m very proud of her because at school, she is very much confident, positive and she has good morals. Most importantly, she promotes self-love when she is with her peers. My message to parents is that let us support your kids no matter the circumstances.
“This kind of beauty pageant will teach them how to conduct themselves in all aspects of life and they will know how to treat and care for other people. I foresee and hope she gets crowned Miss Teen Gauteng and becoming a motivational speaker in future.”
Sipho None Soweto Sunrise News
