PHOTO ESSAY: A Visual Celebration of a Century’s Legacy

On August 30, 2024, the streets came alive with waves of blue, white, and gold as students and staff converged for the vibrant annual Wits Parade.

At noon, the excitement erupted with a burst of energy as participants showcased their Wits pride through lively dances and spirited singing. The scene was a kaleidoscope of colorful costumes and eye-catching banners, each representing the unique spirit and belonging of the Wits community.

A group of hundreds of Witsies at the Amic Deck celebrating the #WitsDay. Photo by: Salim Nkosi

The parade kicked off at 13:00, beginning at the Origins Centre on Yale Road, and snaked through the streets of Braamfontein.

People stood with the phones as the countdown happened, awaiting a robust performance from the Wits Drum band. Photo by: Salim Nkosi

The challenge was to design your streetwear with flair, incorporating academic gowns, doctor's coats, engineers' hats, and other distinctive attire.

Participants came to the parade prepared as the sun was right above their heads. Photo by: Salim Nkosi

The excitement began with participants’ faces adorned in Wits emblems, adding a bold splash of school pride to the festivities.

Musical bands and cheerleaders set on show, allowing all Witsies to take part in the signing ad dancing challenges. Photo by: Salim Nkosi.

The anticipated music band on stage putting a show to all Witsies, signaling that the parade has officially began. Photo by: Salim Nkosi

The Dean of Student Affairs Jerome September took to the stage to address the participants of what does this day mean to the Wits University. Photo: Salim Nkosi

Jerome September emphasized that #Witsday is the only day that gathers all Witsies to show everyone that Braamfontein is made out of the Wits community hence the parade take places across the city.

Participants had the great opportunity of dancing and taking pictures with the Wits Mascot, Kudus Kudu. Photo by: Salim Nkosi

Wits cheerleaders led the parade throughout the city of Braamfontein with the whole Wits community singing and marching along the music. Photo by: Salim Nkosi

Participants had their phones and cameras out, documenting every moment as it happened. Photo by: Salim Nkosi

While concerns about the safety of personal belongings might arise, the parade was well-guarded by a robust team of Wits protection services, South African Police Services, and the Johannesburg Metro Police Department. Together, they ensured that all routes were securely blocked off, safeguarding the safety of participants and their possessions throughout the event.

As the Wits SRC elections are underway, political organizations took this as a proper campaigning opportunity. Photo by: Salim Nkosi

This moment nearly overshadowed the event's true spirit, as political groups attempted to seize the spotlight and assert control over the parade. However, Wits security swiftly and discreetly managed the situation, quelling any disruptions and ensuring the focus remained on the celebration.

More ordinary people from the streets joined the parade as it got exciting. Photo by: Salim Nkosi

Various Wits societies made their mark by celebrating their unique residences and organizations, each adding their own flavor to the festivities. Photo by: Salim Nkosi

The dying spirit of participants as the parade was heading towards the end. Photo by: Salim Nkosi

The parade ended in a unique fashion with students witnessing every aspect of it as it happened across windows and balconies. Photo by: Salim Nkosi

As fatigue set in towards the end of the parade, participants seized the chance to recharge by stopping at local spaza shops across the city for some refreshing snacks and drinks.