June 16 marks Youth Day in South Africa, commemorating the 1976 Soweto Uprising. Fifty years ago, thousands of primary and high school pupils marched against the apartheid government’s imposition of Afrikaans as the medium of instruction. What began as a peaceful protest, which was meant to end at Orlando Stadium with a rally, was cut short on the way when police opened fire, killing hundreds of students.
On June 16, 2026, hundreds of people, including university students and members of civil society, gathered in Soweto to retrace the original route and “finish what was started”. The march honoured the courage of the 1976 generation and stands as a reminder that their fight for freedom and justice continues to inspire South Africa’s youth today.
Opening speeches before the march. Photo: Hannah Brown 
Youth walking through Soweto. Photo: Hannah Brown 
March to “finish what was started”. Photo: Hannah Brown 
Youth Day March. Photo: Hannah Brown 
Youth Day – commemorating the 1976 Soweto Uprising. Photo: Hannah Brown 
‘We are what was dreamed’ poster. Photo: Hannah Brown 
In 1976, black students bravely marched against the apartheid government. Photo: Hannah Brown 
Marching toward Orlando Stadium. Photo: Hannah Brown
FEATURED IMAGE: Opening speeches before the march on June 16, 2026. Photo: Hannah Brown
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