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Name and surname : Sthabile Mthuli

Student Number : 20066686

Group Number : AFL1501-23-S2-65T

Name of department and University : (Department of African Languages, Unisa)

Course code and name : (AFL1501) Language through an African

Lens

Name of instructor : JACOBETH BOSHOMANE

Name of TA : Dr Zinhle P Nkosi

Due date : 14 November 2023

myLife email address : [email protected]

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Table of Contents

Introduction. : 1

First Portfolio Activity. : 2

Second Portfolio Activity. : 5

Third Portfolio Activity : 7

Fourth Portfolio Activity : 9

Plagiarism Declaration. : 11
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Introduction
I’m Sthabile Mthuli UNISA student number 20066686. I’m in group number AFL1501-23-S2-
65T. In assignment number 6 I will writer about my childhood and my family background or
history. I will also discuss about different cultures, and people who have different beliefs and
how do we see each other as we are in different culture. I will also discuss more about the
important of Ubuntu.

First Portfolio Activity

Task 1:
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Task 2:
I’m Sthabile Mthuli, I was born and raised in the KwaZulu-Natal in the Zululand region. I speak
IsiZulu, IsiXhosa, and English. I am proud to be speaking isiZulu and it is a language of my
heart and since I grew up in the Zululand region of the KwaZulu-Natal where isiZulu is the main
language learnt it there. It is usual and common that people use different languages in different
times and circumstances. We speak isiZulu at home as a home language and with people in my
home village. This is because isiZulu is a primary language in the KwaZulu-Natal region.
I speak other languages in an environment where there is a majority of people who use that
language as a primary language, for Example, I use isiZulu to speak with KwaZulu Natal people
and isiXhosa when I am in Eastern Cape. I use English as a main language in the professional
environment and as a common language when I speak to people who do not understand my
language.
The language that we speak reflect where we come from and the circumstances we grew up
under. It also reveals our cultural background. I speak isiZulu at home and this is seen as
culturally accepted in my community and the way I speak the language demonstrate
understanding of my culture and environment. the way we use the language also reveal our
traditions and beliefs and this shows in dialects and idiolects for example Christian people have
a way of speaking and use of words that is distinct to that person. An example of this is that a
Christian will use the word “Brethren” to refer to the fellow Christian while a politician will use the
word “comrade”.
Language also shows our affiliations to the specific groups and in most cases, the way we greet
each other shows our affiliations. For example, someone belonging to the gang will say use the
slang to great people other than a formal language. The language let us understand other
peoples background as well, by understanding other people’s languages we are able to resolve
conflict that happens because of differences in language and language use. For example, the
word “Ukugeza ” means to wash in IsiZulu and means crazy in isiXhosa so understanding other
languages allow us to avoid conflicts as a result. So our languages and use. So I agree that all
languages that we know and speak, how we use them, reflects who we are as a people.
I am studying for a communication science at UNISA in my first year and the reason I came to
UNISA is that I am a young professional and I have to work during the day so I can only study
part-time. I want people to perceive me as a reliable and helpful citizen who understands other
people and their environment. And my expectations of AFL1501 is that I will learn and explore.
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2 Second Portfolio Activity

• Task 1: Family Tree

• Task 2: Clan names and Totems

a) I selected the Zulu culture to gather information on because it is one of the largest and
most well-known cultures in South Africa. The Zulu people have a rich history and their clan
system is fascinating to explore.
b) I choose the Zulu clan name “Cebekhulu” their totems is a bird an owl. An owl is a bird
that comes out at night. If Cebekhulu people seen an owl they believe it’s signifies
something Positive and they believe it bring good luck.
c) One interesting fact about clan names and totems is that they often reflect the cultural
and historical significance of a particular group or community. For example, the Ojibwe
people have clans named after animals such as Bear, Turtle, and Crane, which are
considered sacred and hold special meanings within their culture. Another fascinating
aspect is that clan names and totems can vary across different Indigenous cultures. For
instance, among the Haida people of the Pacific Northwest, clan names are derived from
natural elements like Raven, Eagle, and Killer Whale. These names are associated with
specific rights, responsibilities, and privileges within the community. It is important to note
that clan names and totems hold deep spiritual and cultural significance for Indigenous
communities. They often represent a connection to the natural world, ancestors, and
traditional knowledge. These names and totems are passed down through generations,
reinforcing a sense of identity and belonging.
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To learn more about specific clan names and totems, I recommend referring to academic
sources and ethnographic studies on Indigenous cultures. Some references that provide
valuable insights include:

"Native American Tribes: The History and Culture of the Ojibwe (Chippewa)" by Charles
River Editors.
"Haida: A Story of the Hard Fighting Tribal Class Destroyers of the Royal Canadian Navy on
the Murmansk Convoy, the English Channel & Home Waters" by Leonard C. Reynolds.
"Totem Poles: An Illustrated Guide" by Marjorie M. Halpin.
These resources offer in-depth information about clan names, totems, and their cultural
significance within specific Indigenous communities.
(d) Cebekhulu Mzimba, the first Inkosi (King) of the Cebekhulu, came from Lesotho to
Zululand. Inkosi Mzimba requested to be shifted to an area known as Emangethe. After
some time he requested King Shaka to allow his clan to settle in a very fertile area which he
had noticed. The area was known as Nsezi. When the white man came, they were moved
from Sandlwana across the Khula River and Mzimba built his kraal at Makobho, where he is
buried. Mzimba’s grave is at Sandlana farm next to the N2 National Road.
(e) In Zulu culture, it is important to show respect when addressing an elder. The respectful
way to address an elder in Zulu culture is by using the term "gogo” or "Mkhulu" followed by
their name. "Gogo" is a term that means "grandmother” and "Mkhulu" means "grandfather"
or "elder". Using these terms before the person's name shows honour and respect. For
example, if the elder's name is Mavis, you would address them as "gogo Mavis" or "Mkhulu
John". It is important to note that using the appropriate term of respect may vary depending
on the specific context and relationship with the elder.
(f) Western beliefs have had a significant impact on cultural identities around the world.
The spread of Western ideas, values, and practices through colonization, globalization, and
media has shaped the cultural identities of many societies. Here are some ways in which
Western beliefs have influenced cultural identity
(g) "Haida: A Story of the Hard Fighting Tribal Class Destroyers of the Royal Canadian Navy
on the Murmansk Convoy, the English Channel & Home Waters" by Leonard C. Reynolds.
"Totem Poles: An Illustrated Guide" by Marjorie M. Halpin.
These resources offer in-depth information about clan names, totems, and their cultural
significance within specific Indigenous communities.
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Third Portfolio Activity

Task 1: Cultural Ceremonies and Occasions
a. Summary of a Wedding Ceremony wedding ceremony is a significant cultural occasion that
celebrates the union of two individuals in marriage. It typically involves a series of rituals
and traditions that vary across different cultures and religions. Here is a summary of what
happens during a wedding ceremony Preparation and Arrival: The wedding preparations
begin with the bride and groom getting ready separately. They may wear traditional attire
and adorn themselves with jewellery. The groom usually arrives at the venue first,
accompanied by his family and friends. The bride arrives later, often accompanied by her
family and bridesmaids.
Procession and Entrance: The ceremony begins with a procession, where the wedding
party walks down the aisle to the altar or ceremonial space. The bride, accompanied by her
father or a close family member, walks down the aisle last, symbolizing her transition from
her family to her new life with the groom.
Exchange of Vows and Rings: The couple stands before an officiant who leads them
through the exchange of vows. They express their commitment and love for each other,
promising to support and cherish one another. The couple may also exchange rings as a
symbol of their eternal bond.
Unity Rituals: Many wedding ceremonies include unity rituals that symbolize the merging of
two individuals into one. Examples include lighting a unity candle, pouring colored sand into
a shared container, or tying a knot with a ceremonial cord.
Readings and Blessings: Depending on the cultural or religious traditions, there may be
readings from religious texts or poems that reflect the couple’s values and beliefs. Blessings
from religious leaders or elders may also be given to the couple.
Pronouncement and Kiss: The officiant pronounces the couple as married, and they seal
their vows with a kiss. This moment signifies the official union of the couple.
Recessional: The ceremony concludes with a recessional, where the wedding party walks
back down the aisle, followed by the newly married couple. They are often showered with
confetti, rice, or flower petals as a symbol of good luck and fertility.
Reception: After the ceremony, a wedding reception usually follows, where guests celebrate
the newlyweds with food, drinks, music, and dancing. Speeches, toasts, and cutting the
wedding cake are common traditions during the reception.
Overall, a wedding ceremony is a joyous occasion that brings together families and friends
to witness and celebrate the union of two individuals in love. It is a time-honoured cultural
event that marks the beginning of a new chapter in the couple’s lives.

b. One part of a ceremony that has special significance to me is the exchange of vows during a
wedding ceremony. This aspect of the wedding ceremony holds great importance in many
cultures around the world.
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The exchange of vows is a symbolic act where the couple makes promises to each other,
expressing their love, commitment, and dedication to their relationship. It is a moment where
they publicly declare their intentions to support and cherish each other for the rest of their
lives.

The significance of this ritual varies across cultures, but it generally represents the
foundation of the marriage and the couple’s shared values and aspirations. It is a solemn
and heartfelt moment that symbolizes the couple’s willingness to embark on a lifelong
journey together.

In Western cultures, the exchange of vows often includes traditional phrases such as “for
better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health.” These vows
emphasize the couple’s commitment to stand by each other through all the ups and downs
of life.
In some Eastern cultures, the exchange of vows may involve the couple making promises to
each other, their families, and even their ancestors. This reflects the importance of family
and community in their culture and signifies the couple’s integration into a larger social
network.

References:

“The Meaning of Wedding Vows” – The Knot: https://www.theknot.com/content/meaning-of-

wedding-vows
“Wedding Vows: What to Know About Writing Your Own” – Brides:
https://www.brides.com/story/wedding-vows-what-to-know

c. “The Significance of Wedding Vows in Different Cultures” – Wedding Wire: b

Cultural ceremonies and occasions are important to remember because they play a
significant role in shaping our identity and connecting us to our roots. Here are a few
reasons why they are important:
Preserving cultural heritage: Cultural ceremonies and occasions are often rooted in
traditions that have been passed down through generations. By participating in these
events, we honor and preserve our cultural heritage, ensuring that it is not forgotten or lost
over time.
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d. Exchange of Wedding Vows

Reference : Nora Shepard:vows and reading.. page 22. January 4, 2021 pure photography.

Fourth Portfolio Activity [30]

Task 1: Ubuntu and Helping Others
(a) Ubuntu means “I am, because you are”. In fact, the word ubuntu is just part of the Zulu
phrase “Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu”, which literally means that a person is a person
through other people. Ubuntu has its roots in humanist African philosophy, where the
idea of community is one of the building blocks of society

(b) Donating and volunteering can be seen as manifestations of the African philosophy of
Ubuntu. Ubuntu emphasizes the interconnectedness and interdependence of individuals
within a community. It promotes the idea that one’s humanity is enhanced through their
relationships with others.

(c) Whether or not to donate to a stranger on the street is a personal decision. Some people
may choose to donate because they believe in the principle of helping others
unconditionally, regardless of their relationship or familiarity. Others may be more
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cautious due to concerns about the effective use of their donation or potential scams. It
is important to consider individual circumstances and make informed choices.

(d) Donating and volunteering are important for several reasons. Firstly, they address social
issues and contribute to the well-being of maReflecting on personal experiences,
individuals may have donated items or offered their services voluntarily to support a
good cause. This could include donating to charities, participating in community service
projects, or assisting individuals in need. Sharing specific examples and elaborating on
the motivations behind these actions can provide a deeper understanding of the impact
and significance of such acts.rginalized individuals or communities. Secondly, they
promote a sense of social responsibility and active citizenship, fostering a more inclusive
and compassionate society. Lastly, they provide opportunities for personal growth,
learning, and building meaningful connections with others.

(e) Reflecting on personal experiences, individuals may have donated items or offered their
services voluntarily to support a good cause. This could include donating to charities,
participating in community service projects, or assisting individuals in need. Sharing
specific examples and elaborating on the motivations behind these actions can provide a
deeper understanding of the impact and significance of such acts.

(f) The impact of helping others can vary, but it often brings positive change to the person
receiving assistance. It may provide them with essential resources, emotional support, or
a sense of belonging. As for the helper, it can evoke feelings of fulfillment, empathy, and
a strengthened sense of purpose. Knowing that one has made a difference in someone’s
life can be deeply rewarding and reinforce the value of helping others.Overall, Ubuntu
encourages us to recognize our shared humanity and actively contribute to the well-
being of others. Donating and volunteering are ways to embody this philosophy and
create a more compassionate and inclusive society.
Task 2: Final reflection
One key concept that I have learned is the idea of language as a tool for constructing and
expressing our identity. Our choice of words, accents, and dialects can convey important
information about our cultural background, social status, and personal values. For example, the
use of slang or specific vocabulary can signal membership in a particular social group or
subculture. This module has made me more aware of the power of language in shaping our self-
image and how we are perceived by others. Furthermore, I have come to appreciate the role of
language in shaping interpersonal relationships. Language is not just a neutral medium for
conveying information; it carries emotional and social meaning. The way we speak to others, the
tone we use, and the words we choose can either foster connection and understanding or
create distance and conflict. For instance, using inclusive language and avoiding offensive
terms can contribute to a more inclusive and respectful communication environment. This
module has taught me the importance of being mindful of my language choices and their impact
on others. Another significant concept explored in this module is Ubuntu, an African philosophy
that emphasizes the interconnectedness of humanity. Ubuntu recognizes the power of language
in fostering empathy, compassion, and community. By using language that acknowledges and
values the experiences and perspectives of others, we can build stronger relationships and
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promote social harmony. This module has deepened my understanding of Ubuntu and its
relevance in promoting inclusive and respectful communication.
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Academic Honesty Declaration:

1. I know that plagiarism means taking and using the ideas, writings, works or inventions of
another as if they were ones own. I know that plagiarism not only includes verbatim copying,
but also the extensive use of another person’s ideas without proper acknowledgement
(which includes the proper use of quotation marks). I know that plagiarism covers the use of
material found in textual sources and from the Internet.
2. I acknowledge and understand that plagiarism is wrong.
3. I understand that my research proposal must be accurately referenced.
4. This research proposal is my own work. I acknowledge that copying someone else’s
research, or part of it, is wrong and that submitting identical work to others constitutes a form
of plagiarism.
5. I have not allowed, nor will I in the future allow anyone to copy my work with the intention
of passing it off as their own work.
6. I confirm that I have read and understood UNISA’s Policy for Copyright and Plagiarism -
https://www.unisa.ac.za/sites/corporate/default/Apply-for-admission/Master%27s-&-doctoral-
degrees/Policies,-procedures-&-forms
Full Name: STHABILE MTHULI Student No: 20066686