Ubuntu: A Way of Living That Brings People Together
Ubuntu is a way of life in African culture. Originating from the Nguni cultures, it reflects a belief in a
universal bond of sharing that connects all humanity. Ubuntu is built on the values of life, respect,
kindness, and communal support. Although the world today is changing and becoming more
individualistic, the spirit of Ubuntu still holds deep in our origins. In fact, my own life has been
touched by Ubuntu in small yet powerful ways, such as giving up my bus seat for an elderly woman
and growing up in a community that places high value on respecting others, especially elders.
Through these personal experiences and cultural practices, I believe Ubuntu remains not only
relevant today but in the near future ubuntu will be practiced the coming generation in the our
society.
The concept of Ubuntu has long been a cornerstone of African communities. It teaches that people
need each other and should work together. In traditional African societies, Ubuntu shaped the way
people related to one another. It meant that the well-being of the community was more important
than individual gain, and people helped each other not because they were expected to, but because
it was the right thing to do. Ubuntu also teaches that one’s identity is not just personal, but social;
we become who we are through our relationships with others. This belief helps people care about
others, be kind, and feel responsible for each other.
One morning, while I was on my way to school, I witnessed how a simple act could reflect the spirit
of Ubuntu. The bus was full, and I had found a seat for the long journey. A few stops later, an elderly
woman stepped onto the bus. I could see she was tired, and there were no seats left. Without
thinking twice, I stood up and offered her my seat. She smiled warmly and thanked me. Though it
seemed like a small action, it was a reflection of the values I had been taught—to respect others,
especially elders, and to always show kindness when possible. That moment reminded me that
Ubuntu doesn't always require big actions. Sometimes, it’s the everyday choices we make that carry
the deepest meaning.
Growing up in Mphola area in Hlabisa, Ubuntu was not just a word we heard in school or church—it
was something we lived. From a young age, we were taught to greet our elders with respect, to help
carry groceries for our neighbours, and to always show good manners. If someone was in trouble,
the whole community would come together to assist, whether it meant preparing food for a grieving
family or helping rebuild a damaged home. Respect for elders was especially important. Even now, I
can hear the voices of the older generation reminding us that how we treat others reflects who we
truly are. This communal way of living, where people support and uplift each other, is Ubuntu in
action.
Some may say that in today’s fast-paced, modern world, Ubuntu has lost its place. With rising of
individuals, digital space, and economic pressures, people often focus on their own needs and forget
about those around them. However, I believe Ubuntu is more important now than ever before. In a
world facing social injustice, inequality, and division, Ubuntu reminds us that healing begins with
Caring about others and working together. Even in urban areas or in online spaces, we can still
practice Ubuntu—by checking in on a friend, supporting a struggling coworker, or standing up for
those who cannot stand up for themselves. Ubuntu does not belong to the past. It is a timeless
principle that can help guide us toward a more unified future.
That said, practicing Ubuntu in modern society is not without its challenges. Because of people
moving to cities and the world becoming more connected, some traditional ways of living together as
a community have become weaker. Younger generations, growing up with more exposure to
technology than to communal life, may not always understand the full depth of Ubuntu. But this
doesn’t mean Ubuntu is disappearing. We just need to make it fit into today’s world. Schools can
teach it in life orientation classes, families can keep teaching children to be kind and respectful, and
leaders can show Ubuntu through their actions. If we choose to live by Ubuntu every day, we can
keep its meaning and values strong.
Ubuntu is not just an idea—it’s a way of living that still affects how we treat each other. From my
own life, like giving up my seat on the bus and showing respect in my community of Mphola, I’ve
seen how Ubuntu brings people together. Even though the world can feel divided, Ubuntu teaches us
that we are all connected and that how we treat others matters. Whether it’s through small kind
actions or helping as a group, Ubuntu is still a strong and positive force. It’s clearly still important
today, and by living with Ubuntu, we help build a society that cares about respect, kindness, and
treating everyone with humanity.
