A Peace and Human Rights Pilgrimage took place on Robben Island, Cape Town on Mar 28, 2026. The guided walk is a collaboration between the Robben Island Museum and St George’s Cathedral. It occurred during Human Rights month in South Africa, but also amidst war and human rights abuses globally.
The CTII and our Youth Interfaith Intercultural Program were well represented. Here are some of the reflections:
Ray-yanna Lewis
(graduate of YIIP now serving as an Assistant Facilitator)
First of all, it was a great honour to be part of the pilgrimage walk. My peers and I experienced what life was like for those incarcerated on Robben Island, through its history and the stories that were shared. I learnt that the island is more than a prison, it became a place of learning where people educated one another, reminding us of the importance of education. Strong bonds were formed during these tough times, proving that unity is powerful and it helped many people get by despite the harsh reality. Overall, I learnt that we should not take our freedom for granted, as we wouldn’t be here today without these strong people.
John Esau
(member of the Cape Town Unitarian Church)
My experience on Robin island had a very emotional impact and opened my eyes in many ways.
I was taught that it was it was a prison where Nelson Mandela and other political figures were sent in the struggle for freedom and equality during apartheid. Although that is true, it does not equate to what the island truly was… a place of banishment and a place to inflict cruel acts equivalent to torture on a daily basis on those who were incarcerated. Standing in the limestone quarry, being able to see and feel the pain and time that was spent in such a harsh environment.
I cherish being able to have had this experience as it is a part of our country’s heritage and is truly a beacon of hope and peace today.
Anushqah Bailey
(YIIP graduate and a founding member of the Junior Peace Council)
The boat ride to Robben Island had to have been the best part of the day. The rough seas and hypothetical survival stories had us laughing and this took away a little of the stress we were feeling. However, it was the deep conversations that really stuck with me. Every conversation gave me new perspectives on peace and human rights. These were two aspects of our day together which I hold dearly.
I was also humbled to share an Islamic teaching with the group about peace and it was a true honour to be able to contribute to the meaningful dialogue. The trip in its entirety sparked a reaffirmation of my dream to become a human rights lawyer. I am truly thankful to have been able to meet so many inspiring people that share the same values that I hold close.
Aidon Allies
(YIIP graduate and now Assistant Facilitator, first year student at UCT)
This was not just any trip, it was a journey back into history and time. An opportunity that allowed me and many others to become vulnerable enough to be able to understand and feel what those who suffered on the island endured. I was able to realize that truly i am because of those who came before me.
Nomthandazo Madida
(YIIP Graduate and Assistant Facilitator)
As a group, we arrived with curiosity, but we left with a deeper understanding of South Africa’s history and a sense of appreciation for the sacrifices that shaped our country.
Walking through the island, history felt alive in every corner, from the quiet pathways to the buildings that once held so much pain and resilience. Our tour guide was held there; it was fascinating having someone who had experienced the hardships, walk us around the prison cells.
One of the most moving moments for us was visiting the cell where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. It was a humbling experience to see how such a small, simple space could hold so much significance. It made us reflect on the power of perseverance and the importance of fighting for justice, even in the face of unimaginable challenges.
Beyond the history, the island itself – the ocean and the surrounding landscape – was unexpectedly beautiful.
We also visited the church on the island, which stood as a symbol of hope and faith. It reminded us that even in the darkest times, people held on to belief and community. That sense of unity carried through our entire trip, especially as we shared the experience together as a group.
Perhaps one of the most meaningful parts of the journey was the connections we made with each other. Through conversations, shared emotions, and moments of reflection, we grew closer. This trip was more than just a visit, it was a lesson, a reflection, and an inspiration. It reminded us of where we come from and encouraged us to think about the role we play in shaping the future.
SABC news report
