Television presenter and former model Claire Mawisa celebrated her son's return from initiation school over the weekend. The traditional rite of passage, known as "ulwaluko" in the Xhosa culture, is an ancient practice that marks the transition from boyhood to manhood. Claire took to social media to express her joy and relief at her son's, Neo (24), return. She also emphasised the importance of respecting and preserving cultural traditions.

my girls are strong #squadgoals! ????? #umgidikaneo pic.twitter.com/OUs9nmaiKH

— claire mawisa (@clairemawisa) December 18, 2023

PART OF CULTURE 

Initiation schools have been a part of South African culture for centuries and are seen as a way of instilling discipline, responsibility, and respect for cultural values. However, the practice has been under scrutiny in recent years due to the high number of fatalities that occur during the initiation process.

GREAT MOTHER 

A source close to the situation said Claire respects and preserves the tradition and that she wanted to see her son go through it as well. Claire also took her social to express her joy. "My people have showed up and showed out, my heart is full," she wrote. In another post, she wrote: " When they say, "it takes a village", this is what they mean," The source has saluted Claire for being a great mother and role model to her son. "She has done an amazing job as a mother - Neo is a respectful young man with morals and principles. It was a beautiful day full of happiness and most of her friends from Joburg came to support her. I have never seen her looking happy- she was on cloud nine," adds the source. Claire could not be reached for comment.