The annual Tutu Memorial Walk forms part of St John’s College’s Habits of the Heart series, a programme dedicated to celebrating the life, teachings, and moral legacy of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu
Johannesburg, South Africa (10 October 2025)- St John’s College is once again bringing the community together to celebrate the life and legacy of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu through the annual Tutu Memorial Walk, taking place this Sunday, 12 October 2025.
This marks the conclusion of Habits of the Heart V, a series of events dedicated to celebrating the late Archbishop’s life and influence. This year’s theme, “Reframing the Legacy. Reclaiming our Future,” invites South Africans to consider how his teachings continue to shape the nation’s moral compass and collective conscience.
As Mickey Mashego, Head of Community Engagement at St John’s College, reminded attendees at last year’s event, the walk represents more than just a physical journey.
“It’s about preserving the legacy of ethical leaders such as Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu to students” and deepening their consciousness and seeking innovative solutions to our country’s stark socio-economic disparities.”
The 7km route goes through Houghton, Hillbrow, Berea, and Yeoville. These are areas deeply connected to the city’s spirit and history. Each step serves as a gesture of remembrance, embodying Tutu’s lifelong devotion to justice, reconciliation, and the power of shared humanity.
Participants will stop at seven reflection stations, including Roedean School, Asteri Primary School, Barnato Park High School, Ponte Tower, St Aidan’s Anglican Church, and the Tutu Quad at St John’s College. At every station, students and community figures will recite excerpts from Tutu’s writings and speeches.
Walkers will also cross the Desmond and Leah Tutu Bridge, opened by the Archbishop in 2006 to represent unity between St John’s College and Roedean School SA. The path extends to Ponte City, where the College works alongside Dlala Nje, a youth empowerment organisation dedicated to transforming lives in the inner city.
Previous editions of the walk have explored themes close to Tutu’s heart. From Ubuntu and human interconnectedness to community engagement and reconciliation as tools for healing.
This year’s event carries that spirit forward, bringing together students, educators, parents, and local residents for a morning of reflection, gratitude, and hope for the future.
Sources: Supplied
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