From an early age, she devoted herself to the sacred art of women’s healing — gathering roots and plants from the wild to restore spiritual and physical wellbeing in her community.

Together with fellow elder Anna Bojane (née Kruiper), Lydia has carried forward the deep lineage of San women’s healing, guiding young mothers in childbirth and nurturing the health of families through nature’s remedies.

Their work preserves traditions passed down through countless generations, ensuring that the knowledge of the San people continues to live and breathe in Witdraai and beyond.

As a San elder, Lydia represents one of humanity’s oldest living lineages — the original custodians of the land we now call the Cradle of Humankind. It is a profound honour to have her present with us, carrying the wisdom of her ancestors and embodying the spirit of the San people whom we seek to honour through this gathering.

Her deep obedience to spirit and ancestral guidance has earned her great respect, especially for leading the |Nu’ais Korana in reclaiming ancestral lands.