The Muslim Youth Movement of South Africa recently celebrated 40 years since it formation in the early 1970’s. These celebrations concluded with a conference held in Durban in October 2012, where the MYM not only celebrated its anniversary, but also celebrated those who were part of the movement in its formative years and helped shape it to what it was and what it has become, an integral and influential part of the wider Muslim society of South Africa and the world.
It is in that spirit that the current MYM leadership decided to honour Don Omarruddin Mattera, a world renowned writer and poet, for his contribution towards the advancement of the values of social justice and peace, values for which the MYM also stands. Although he has never been an active member of the MYM, Don Mattera inspired, through his literary work, personal struggles and life, generations of young people, Muslim and non-Muslim to overcome great odds. His books, chronicling the lives of ordinary people, provided a voice of protest against oppression during the dark days of apartheid. His was a voice of conscience for both the oppressor and the oppressed.
His extensive work includes the following:
- An autobiography and numerous volumes of poetry
- As a journalist in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s, he was also part of the Nation Building Initiative of the Sowetan newspaper, under the then editor, the late Dr Aggrey Klaaste
- Led initiatives aimed at ending gang violence in the Cape Flats in the Western Cape.
- Continues to mentor young writers and poets
- Continues to deliver motivational talks to youth around the world
A glance at Don Mattera’s life and work displays his commitment to the egalitarian ideals of Islam and even now, in his old and frail age, he insists on making a contribution to society. His contribution was also recognised by former President Thabo Mbeki by honouring him with the Order of Ikhamanga.
The MYM’s objectives for honouring Don Mattera are informed by the above mentioned issues and are aimed at achieving the following:
- Profiling Don Mattera as a contemporary role model for the young people
- Celebrating the life and work of Don Mattera whilst he is still with us
- Show the Muslim community’s gratitude for Don Mattera’s contribution to the advancement of the values that the community holds dear
As the MYM, we are well aware that the ultimate reward for good deeds on earth is with Allah. But we have taken upon ourselves to ensure that those who, through their lives, inspire the rest of us to strive in the path of justice and peace are celebrated and honoured in their lifetime. This is the MYM’s small contribution to nation building.
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Supported by Awqaf SA as part of its Leaders and Legacies project.
