Johannesburg – A Soweto teacher, who grew up in an environment in which men saw nothing wrong with disrespecting and abusing women, has finally shaken off his helplessness by using his talent to raise awareness against gender-based violence.
Vusumuzi Cele has released a song on gender-based violence titled Indodenjani.
The 57-year-old father of three, who hails from Ikhwezi in Harding in KwaZulu-Natal but now lives in Soweto, said the song is inspired by his experiences growing up, what’s happening right now, what’s been happening and the change that people need to see.
Cele, who teaches English and Creative Arts at Khandubuhle Primary School, said creating the song was incredibly rewarding.
“ It was an outlet for me to express my disgust against gender-based violence. I, myself, am a product of a broken home, growing without a father was very painful for me. One of my missions is to fight the disgusting culture of violence in our homes in our schools and everywhere,” he said.
“I am sick of living in a society in which women are abused and killed because they are women. As an artist, I feel it is my duty to use my platform to produce healing. Whether you are a politician or activist right now, it’s everybody’s job to speak up because this crime is getting out of hand,” said Cele.
Cele started singing at the age of six in church. He then graduated to school concerts, music festivals and other social gatherings. He has also judged music competitions, conducted and facilitated workshops for upcoming artists.
“The artists are the mouthpiece of society they have influence they can change the narrative and change the minds of people,” he said.
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