Popular Thohoyandou bead-fashion designer Thanzi Munyai has, over time, observed with concern the erosion of her Tshivenda culture. She noticed young people roaming the streets with nothing to do — some falling pregnant, others experimenting with drugs.
The 34-year-old from Maniini Block K resolved to do something one day to help reverse the trend.
In 2024, driven by her passion for culture and community upliftment, she took a bold step and founded "Bvisa Thoho Cultural Group".
Based in Maniini, the group started with just a handful of youths but today boasts more than 70 members aged between six and 30. They participate in cultural activities such as malende dancing, tshifasi, and poetry recitation.
"I am so excited that I am finally realising my dream. It pained me a lot seeing my culture, which I value so much, being eroded and dying a slow death. The young ones are no longer following our norms and values. There are so many pregnant young girls as a result of their not being taught what is expected of them. Young boys and girls are into drugs and alcohol abuse and in some instances we cannot blame them — it is because of boredom," she said.
Munyai said the group aimed to fill this gap and serve as both a guide and a teacher. "To show their commitment, many young people registered after the launch, and we are happy that the number keeps increasing. This is testament enough that, despite the odds, we are fast moving towards our goal of taking youth off the streets and ensuring that Vhavenda culture is passed from generation to generation," she said.
Despite challenges such as a lack of transport, uniforms and other resources, Munyai said the group remained determined. "On Saturday, 11 April, we caused a stir when we walked bare-breasted for kilometres, wearing traditional mashedo. We stopped at Phalaphala FM's studios, where we gave an electrifying performance before continuing to Sibasa. I have never experienced this level of commitment," she said.
The group practises after school. "On 23 April, we will be performing at Tshaulu, and we urge all culture-loving people to come and support us," Munyai said.