Soweto is often shown on the news and cable shows, but they seem to focus on the poverty. Yes, there is poverty in Soweto. Did you know there is much more to Soweto than what you’ve probably been shown? Here are 5 things you probably didn’t know existed in Soweto.
5 things you didn’t know were in Soweto
1. University of Johannesburg, Soweto campus
If you believe all of the negativity from most news sources, you’d think there were only starving children in Africa. However, you won’t find starving kids on this campus. You will find hundreds of African students doing what students do all over the world…learning and thriving in comfort and security.
The university was established in 2005, and their mission can be described as follows: “inspiring its community to transform and serve humanity through innovation and the collaborative pursuit of knowledge”.
The six strategic objectives of the University are:
- Excellence in Research and Innovation.
- Excellence in Teaching and Learning.
- An International Profile for Global Excellence and Stature.
- Enriching Student-Friendly Learning and Living Experience.
- Active National and Global Reputation Management, and
- Fitness for Global Excellence and Stature (GES).
Are you surprised that this excellent institution is in Soweto?
2. Beautiful Houses
On my first trip to South Africa in 2003 I was completely blown away when I saw all of the beautiful houses. And there wasn’t just one street, there were several neighborhoods filled with immaculate houses with manicured lawns.
When I went back in 2016, I took another tour and was equally amazed at all of the lovely homes. It seemed that the area had gotten bigger and the homes were even more beautiful than they were when I first visited.
Why it is, do you think, that we never get to see these type of pictures from Soweto? Why is the narrative always one of poverty and despair?
3. World Class Theatre
Whaaaat? A theater in Soweto? Yep, and it’s beautiful inside and out. This theatre has a plethora of choices for thespians of all ages, and you can have enchanting experiences if you choose to spend some time in this lovely establishment. You can find out more information about this theater here.
Did you know I make stickers, greeting cards, and coloring pages? Discover them here!
4. Wine Bar
I ate calamari and drank champagne at this lovely wine bar in Soweto. If you visit Soweto you must stop here, sit on the patio, and enjoy your meal and/or your drink. Plus, this is on the same street as Mandela’s home so you will probably pass it anyway, why not stop?
5. A 4 Star Hotel
Did you know you can have a 4 star hotel experience in Soweto? The picture below is from the lobby which is pretty swanky, right?
And there you have it, 5 things you probably didn’t know about Soweto. One of the things I love most about traveling is sharing my experiences with others. It is my hope that after seeing this post, you are starting to have a different image of what Africa has to offer.
Are you surprised these things exist there? Have you been to Africa?
