In the Footsteps of Giants - June 16 Commemorative Walk

Fifty years ago, a brave group of students marched from Naledi and Morris Isaacson High Schools towards Orlando Stadium to protest the apartheid policy of forced Afrikaans-medium education. The peaceful march was tragically interrupted at Confrontation Corner, near Vilakazi Street, when police opened fire and killed several students, including Hastings Ndlovu and Hector Pietersen. This sparked the Soweto Uprising of 1976, which spread across the country and became a major turning point in our liberation history.

To commemorate this historic march, now observed as Youth Day, the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation is hosting a special walking tour. Participants will retrace the original route alongside struggle hero Seth Mazibuko, one of the original student organisers who was subsequently imprisoned for ten months at Number 4 for his actions.

Do not miss this rare opportunity to walk with Seth as he shares the story of the march from his unique insider perspective. The walk concludes at the Hector Pietersen Museum for a guided tour led by Seth, with admission included in the ticket price. JHF Chair David Fleminger and founder Flo Bird will also be on hand to assist.

This is a rare opportunity to relive a crucial moment in history with someone who was there! Numbers are limited so book soon to avoid disappointment.

The walk from Morris Isaacson to the museum is approximately 4km and takes between 90 to 120 minutes. Please wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring sun protection and drinking water.

A bus will transport participants from the Sunnyside Park Hotel to Morris Isaacson, and return from the museum back to the hotel. Those unable to walk the full distance are welcome to remain on the bus so they can still experience the start and end of the tour.

Please arrive at the Sunnyside by 09:20 at the latest to ensure a punctual departure.

Please note: this tour will take place on Saturday the 13th of June as there are other events planned for the public holiday on Tuesday, June 16 (including a ‘completion march’ from Confrontation Corner to Orlando Stadium, which you are welcome to join).