Today is a significant day in South Africa because it is Human Rights Day. Human Rights Day in South Africa is historically linked with 21 March 1960, and the events of Sharpeville. On that day 69 people died and 180 were wounded when police fired on a peaceful crowd that had gathered in protest against the Pass laws. This day marked an affirmation by ordinary people, rising in unison to proclaim their rights. It became an iconic date in our country’s history that today we commemorate as Human Rights Day as a reminder of our rights and the cost paid for our treasured human rights. One of those rights is the right to education.
This Sharpville Massacre took place four years after women marched to Pretoria against the same issue.
Women were the most oppressed by these pass laws, a country like South Africa with such a historical background of oppressing women and limiting them to just childbearing domestics whose future was dependent on men, is today producing firepower of young women such as our head of content Ms. Retshepile Matsose.
Retshepile recently graduated with a marketing degree, a milestone we are celebrating at Tag My School! She is more than just a graduate or head of content to us, she is heaven’s best gift and we are excited to have her lead the Magazine. And so here she is in her own words:
First and foremost, this is a big shoutout to the Most High—everything I do is because of God.
I’ve never been the biggest fan of school, but I’ve always understood its importance. As a Black-educated woman, this achievement means everything because once you have your education, no one can take it away from you.
Some may say education isn’t everything, and while that might be true in some ways, it opens doors—especially with God by your side. For me, this milestone is a reminder of what I’m capable of. And truthfully, it’s only the beginning. There’s so much more I’m destined to do.
Graduating has also shown me the strength of my support system. I’m incredibly grateful for my family and everyone who stood by me through the ups and downs. Yes, I complained a lot along the way—but at the end of the day, getting that degree matters. Whether it’s a certificate or a full qualification, investing in your education matters, because learning never stops.
Where did it all begin, and what were those years like if you can recall?
It all began when I was young when I initially started school. I haven’t stopped since I was in grade R/0. Truly speaking those years were fun until I got to high school but even then there were good times. I went to school for friends. High school was the beginning of me not being a fan of school. The community I have from just school (all the schools I’ve gone to) alone is amazing.
Looking back what convinced you of this important moment today?
Honestly nothing. I just went to school to go to school. It was something I had to do. Although there was a point where I started having dreams and goals and such. It was in high school and I shared those with my mom and she’s been pushing and encouraging me ever since.
A lot of learners do not complete school for various reasons, what would be your word to them?
Start having a relationship with God and he will guide you to where you need to be because we genuinely don’t know best in our humanness. He will give you everything you’ll ever need.
”As a black educated woman” is a pregnant statement on Human Rights Day: Tell us the importance of women’s education in a society like South Africa with the background of violating human rights and what are you experiencing as you navigate through the academic milestones and employment situation.
“As a Black educated woman”—that’s not just a statement, it’s a powerful declaration. In a society like South Africa, where the effects of historical inequality and human rights violations are still deeply felt, the education of women—especially Black women holds transformative power. It challenges generational cycles, opens doors that were once closed, and creates room for representation in spaces we were once excluded from. Education equips women with the tools to lead, to innovate, and to shape the narrative of our communities. It’s not just about personal success—it’s about impact.
When a woman is educated, families are empowered, and communities rise with her (fire emojis). Navigating through academic milestones hasn’t been easy. There’s pressure, self-doubt, and moments of wanting to give up—but there’s also resilience. As a young woman striving for more, I’ve seen how education forces you to rise above limitations placed on you, both by society and yourself. Now, stepping into the working world, I see how important it is to continue breaking barriers. The job market is tough, and being young, Black, and female sometimes means having to prove yourself twice as hard. But it also fuels my purpose—because every space I enter is a chance to shift perspectives, to inspire the next girl coming after me, and to build something bigger than myself.
For learners who may not enjoy the same support system what would be your word to them?
Pray about it. Pray that God places the right people in your life to be able to support you and love you the way he knows you need to be loved and supported. Pray for healthy relationships with people, be it friendship; or work-wise, or even family. God is the only one that can change our circumstances.
What was your biggest complaint on this journey?
Between the school I attended, the workload, and group work. I think group work would take the cup.
Who was the biggest influencer for you to achieve this academic milestone?
Has to be my mother. She is the first example that I get of what women can achieve. She goes for what she wants and doesn’t let anything stop her.
What is the one dream that rules your heart at the moment and what inspired it?
There are so many. Once you have a relationship with God the Father; God the Son and the Holy Spirit, you will start to realize where your dreams and desires come from. And who will be the one to help and guide you through all these things you’d like to achieve. One of my dreams is to own several businesses to create employment opportunities.