A21 Talk About Human Trafficking: Student Responses
On Friday 12th July, it was a privilege for Blouberg International School to receive guests, The A21 Campaign. They shared valuable information about the dangers of human trafficking.
They taught us how to better equip ourselves in harmful situations so as to enlighten us to be as safe as possible when using social media platforms. This can be done by not being easily lured by prospects such as international sporting and job opportunities as well as modeling and scouting — no matter how determined one may be.
The A21 Campaign offers insightful information at various branches worldwide. How can one get involved? This can be done by donating money, creating awareness, inviting people to talks given by victims and survivors and participating in annual charity walks. Word can be spread by reposting informative videos and hosting charitable competitions within your communities and schools.
The motto of A21 is “Slavery Ends Here”. The message that can be learned from this is that whilst modern slavery is the fault of those abused, the rest of society has a role to play in fulfilling our duty as fellow citizens. Make a change today!
– Lwazi Mpofu-Mketwa (Year 12)
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Last week Friday we had A21, an organization which assists victims of human trafficking, visit our school. To say that a lot of us were moved is an understatement. We all gained so much information about what human trafficking actually is and how even when victims are rescued, they are never really emotionally free. It was shocking to learn that only 1% of victims are rescued and that traffickers maintain control by manipulating our vulnerabilities, our desire for food, shelter etc. The experience was stark and eye-opening. However, not everything is doom and gloom. A21 have 14 different locations in 12 countries across the globe. The organization rescues victims of human trafficking and helps them get back on their feet after their traumatic experience.
On the 19th of October, the organization is holding an event called ‘Walk for Freedom’ to raise awareness about human trafficking. Participants walk a designated route, wearing A21 t-shirts and carry placards in an effort to get people’s attention and make the public aware of the reality of human trafficking. The message is that slavery still exists and as a community we need to identify the victims and abolish this heinous trade.
– Etseoghena Oyoto (Year 12)
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High School – Term 1 Review 2019
2019 started with a bang and I can only wonder where the time went as we approach the end of the first term. It’s been a busy and productive term both culturally and academically.
On Saturday the 26th of January, we had our Interhouse Athletics Day which was closely followed by the annual ISA Athletics Day on the 15th of February. Our students did us proud, with Samuel Hermabessiere in year 12 winning the award for the ‘Best U19 Male Athlete’. We narrowly missed winning the Spirit Cup this year but were proud to come second against tough competition. Next year, however, the Spirit Cup will be back at BIS where it belongs.
Valentine’s Day saw our year 11 students deliver roses and goodies to students throughout the school and our annual Valentine’s Dance, held on the evening of the 22nd of February, saw students dancing late into the night.
Term 2 begins on Tuesday the 9th of April and is an important examinations term. We will be holding parent-teacher meetings next term and more information will be sent out in a letter on Engage. We encourage parents to attend these meetings to discuss their child’s progress in preparation for the June examinations.
From all of us in the High School we would like to thank the parents and students for their hard work and support this term. We wish you all an enjoyable and restful holiday and if you are travelling, we wish you a safe journey.
Mr Julian Harrison
Head of Academics High School