Field Report | Ubuntu

“Ubuntu” is an old African philosophical term of undetermined origin.

In recent years however, it has become a kind of open source document to which many influential African change-agents have contributed. It’s the idea that we're all deeply connected through our humanity. “Ubuntu” says that the things I do have an effect on you and your well being, and vice versa. This open source term has come to exemplify values like: communality, respect, dignity, value, sharing, co-responsibility, social justice, morality, group solidarity, compassion, joy, love, fulfilment and reconciliation.

Our family lives a few miles from the point where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet. Kelp forests proliferate the aquatic landscape just offshore. For me, “Ubuntu” has to do with stewardship, legacy, mentoring, honor, integrity, telling the truth and living with faith.

I am confident that by sharing my love of these two oceans with my 15 year old daughter, it will ensure that she will become someone who exemplifies the values of “Ubuntu”.