In the song “Shosholoza”, people sing about overcoming difficulties and working together for a better future. It uses the image of a train coming over mountains to symbolize strength, movement, and progress, and encourages people to remain hopeful and determined. Shosholoza means “Go forward”.

The song is a symbol of national unity and resilience, and is deeply rooted in South African culture. It symbolizes strength, resilience, and togetherness. It recalls the history of cooperation and perseverance, especially of miners and ordinary people who faced difficult times. The song also represents national pride and unity, inspiring people to remain hopeful and determined despite the challenges they encounter. It is often sung at sports events, celebrations, and gatherings.

If the team seems tired during a soccer match in a stadium, the spectators cheer them on with this song. It is also sometimes sung at home, for example when I have a lot of homework to do or when we have to do a chore around the house.

My name is Amina Van Hoeck. I was born in South Africa. We moved to Enschede in 2024. My older brother is studying at the University of Twente. I attend an international school here in the city because I currently only speak English and still need to learn Dutch. The photo shows the Drakensberg Mountains in South Africa.