Sowetan has been an integral part of my family, for generations.

I have vivid memories of my grandfather, an astute, well-read man, sitting on a chair, reading Sowetan only pausing momentarily to start a discussion about what he had read.

My parents too followed the tradition of relying on this newspaper for the latest information. This baton was passed to me and I have been privileged to have started my career as a columnist at Sowetan.

This newspaper has challenged our minds and addressed pertinent issues facing the black nation.

It has been there to record our highs and lows and continues to reflect society in a way that puts the ordinary citizen first.

I have been particularly impressed with how Sowetan has resisted the trend of "dumbing down" and continues to attract the best minds to write and stimulate debate.

Whereas others choose to prioritise entertainment, Sowetan has been a champion for vulnerable people, especially children who have suffered some form of abuse and neglect.

This newspaper continues to tell those stories with urgency, compassion and dignity. Long may it live.