GSB: June16 Charity

The Greater Soweto Bikers (GSB) is a collective of biking clubs from Soweto, united by a primary mission of engaging in charity work across all Soweto townships. This Bikers Forum not only shares a passion for biking but also a commitment to making a positive impact in their community.
For GSB, June 16 holds profound significance. This date marks the anniversary of the Soweto Uprising in 1976, a pivotal event in South Africa’s history where students protested against the imposition of Afrikaans as the medium of instruction in schools. The day symbolizes the struggle for educational rights and the resilience of the youth. In recent years, however, June 16 has increasingly been viewed as a day for celebration and partying by the younger generation, which has overshadowed its historical importance.
In response to this shift, GSB has taken it upon themselves to remind the youth about the true essence of June 16. Their aim is to educate the younger generation about the sacrifices made to secure their right to education and to honour those who fought for this cause.
To commemorate the day and its significance, GSB organized visits to several schools around Soweto. During these visits, they distributed school shoes to learners who couldn’t afford them, especially critical during the cold winter months. Additionally, they provided food parcels, with contributions proudly sponsored by McDonald's in Diepkloof. The generosity extended further with M109R Boulevard Southern Africa donating 1000 pairs of shoes to support the initiative.
The event was graced by the legendary Enos Ngutshane, a prominent June 16 activist, who shared his personal experiences from 1976 with both the bikers and learners. His narrative was filled with vivid recollections and insights, many of which had never been aired on television, offering a deeply informative session that enriched the understanding of all present.
Through their charitable activities, GSB not only provides immediate relief and support to those in need but also fosters a sense of community and historical awareness. By reclaiming June 16 as a day of reflection and education, they inspire the youth to appreciate the value of their education and the struggles endured to attain it. Greater Soweto Bikers efforts ensure that the legacy of June 16 lives on, not as a mere day of celebration, but as a reminder of the importance of education and the enduring spirit of resilience and activism in Soweto.