Dr Imtiaz Sooliman delivered this year’s Neil Aggett Memorial Lecture at Kingswood College, urging us to prioritise compassion and humanity in a world that too often forgets both.

Each year, the Kingswood College community comes together to honour the memory of Dr Neil Aggett (OK 1970), a former pupil who died in detention for his involvement in the anti-apartheid struggle. The Neil Aggett Memorial Lecture serves not only as a tribute to his unwavering commitment to justice but also as a broader reflection on the countless men and women who gave their lives in the fight for human rights in South Africa.

This year’s lecture, held in our College Chapel, was especially moving. We had the privilege of welcoming Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of the renowned humanitarian organisation Gift of the Givers, as our guest speaker. With a legacy of aid delivered in 47 countries, and relief efforts totalling over R5 billion, Dr Sooliman is the epitome of service, compassion, and global citizenship.

In his address to the Kingswood community, Dr Sooliman reminded us of the importance of humanity, compassion, and unity in a world often divided by race, religion, and inequality. He emphasised the urgent need for service, sacrifice, and spirituality to guide us forward—and prevent the atrocities of the past from recurring. Drawing parallels between the work of Neil Aggett and the mission of Gift of the Givers, he inspired pupils and staff alike to lead with empathy and act with purpose.

A special highlight of the event is the Neil Aggett Award, presented annually to a pupil who embodies the values of “service above self”. In a rare and moving moment, this year’s award was shared between three exceptional pupils—Nick Godwin-Pritchard, Joanna Du Toit, and Caca Hobongwana—each recognised for their outstanding commitment to social justice and community service.

For those who were unable to attend this meaningful event, the 2025 Neil Aggett Memorial Lecture is available to watch on our official YouTube channel. We encourage you to take the time to listen, reflect, and be inspired.

Dr Neil Aggett’s legacy lives on—not only in memory but in action. And through this annual lecture, we continue to honour his life by striving to live up to the ideals he so bravely defended.