Forgiving is not forgetting; it's actually remembering—remembering and not using your right to hit back. It's a second chance for a new beginning." These words from Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu anchored Habits of the Heart V, a series that called South Africans to engage critically with our past and acknowledge the intergenerational suffering that continues to shape our present. Under the theme 'Reframing the Legacy: Reclaiming our Future'.
The Tutu Memorial Walk, in honour of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, took place on Sunday 12 October as the Johannian community took a 7km pilgrimage through the streets of Johannesburg. Students, parents and members of our wider community walked through Houghton, Hillbrow, Berea, and Yeoville, reflecting on Archbishop Tutu's teachings on justice, compassion, and community.
St John's College partnered with Asteri Primary, Highlands North and Barnato Park schools, as well as Dlala Nje and Malaika Children's Home. The walk reminded us that transformation begins through relationships: listening, sharing, and walking alongside others.
Participants were confronted with the realities of hardship and resilience, a stark contrast to nearby Houghton. Yet the experience also revealed what we share as South Africans.
At Asteri Primary it started to rain, but the group continued. The sun soon emerged. Along the way, two students from Barnato Park High School proudly shared that they are also part of St John's Academy, showing how education builds bridges.
While the adults ascended to the 51st floor of Ponte Tower to meet Cynthia from Dlala Nje and learn about the transformative work being done in Hillbrow, the students moved to the core of Ponte Tower. There, they danced with students from the Dlala Nje after-school programme.
The walk concluded in the Tutu Quad at St John's College. Mickey Mashego reminded everyone of the vital importance of community, echoing Archbishop Tutu's hope for the nation. Tracy-Lee Edwards said, "I want to express heartfelt gratitude to all participants and organisers. The spirit of Tutu guided us today and helped us overcome every challenge."
For the adults who participated, the walk reminded them of the courage, grit, and humility of the youth and communities they encountered. Witnessing students' energy, kindness, and camaraderie provided both inspiration and hope. The Tutu Memorial Walk stands as a reminder of what we can achieve when we walk together.
