What does June 16 Mean to Anthony Olyn

In this episode of **Speak Your Truth**, we sit down with **Anthony Olyn**, a retired teacher and principal whose journey in education spans decades. He shares how he started teaching in *Dingleton (**Sishen  Primary School**)**, where he served for **23 years**, before being promoted to principal in **Deben**, where he led for another **7 years**. After retirement, he returned to **Sishen  Primary School to help out for what was supposed to be only three months — but seven years later, he is still there, still serving, still contributing, and still playing a role in shaping young minds.* This conversation reflects deeply on education, the challenges faced by learners, and the struggles that teachers are dealing with in today’s system. Anthony speaks about how teaching has changed over the years, how the system has placed more pressure on educators, and why he feels today’s teachers face a much harder reality than teachers from earlier generations. We also speak about how communities have changed. Back then, there was a stronger sense of safety and togetherness — a time when neighbours looked out for one another, and a child could be trusted in the care of the family next door. Today, life has changed, and people are forced to be more protective of themselves and their families. Anthony also reflects on **June 16**, the role it played in shaping South Africa’s journey to freedom, and how the spirit of 1976 contributed to the freedom that came in 1994. He reminds young people of the importance of knowing their history, understanding where they come from, and never forgetting the sacrifices that helped shape the country they live in today. This is a conversation about education, community, history, responsibility, and the importance of remembering. *Watch the full conversation and subscribe to LIAM Group for more real stories.* #SpeakYourTruth #AnthonyOlyn #LIAMGroup #June16 #YouthDay #Education #Teachers #SouthAfrica #History #Community #RealStories #VoicesStoriesReflections