By Samantha Rockson

Mother’s Day is a cherished annual celebration dedicated to recognising mothers and the extraordinary role they play in shaping families, communities, and societies. In Western culture, the modern observance began in 1908 when social activist Anna Jarvis held a memorial for her mother at St. Andrew’s Methodist Church in Grafton, West Virginia. Her advocacy led to the official proclamation of Mother’s Day as a national holiday in 1914, designated by President Woodrow Wilson to be celebrated every second Sunday in May.

Yet the roots of honouring motherhood stretch far deeper.

Ancient Traditions of Celebrating Motherhood

Long before the modern holiday, ancient civilisations revered mothers as symbols of life, creation, and divine strength. In Pharaonic Egypt, one of the earliest celebrations of motherhood centred around Isis, the goddess who embodied the ideal mother and wife. Annual festivals were held in her honour, recognising her as a protector, nurturer, and giver of life.

Monotheistic traditions also elevate the role of mothers. Mary, the mother of Jesus, is revered across the world, honoured for her purity, devotion, and the miracle of the virgin birth. Many historians draw parallels between these narratives and earlier Egyptian representations of motherhood, showing how deeply rooted the reverence for mothers truly is.

Across cultures and centuries, one truth remains constant:
Mothers are seen as the epitome of divine representation — carriers of life, love, and legacy.

A Personal Reflection on Motherhood

As a mother myself, I have always valued the role my own mother played in shaping who I am. But it wasn’t until I stepped into motherhood that I truly understood the depth of the emotions, sacrifices, and silent battles mothers face every day. The challenges can be immense, yet the rewards — the joy, the connection, the purpose — far outweigh them.

Motherhood is not defined by biology alone. Many women nurture children who are not biologically theirs — nieces, nephews, stepchildren, godchildren, or young people in their care. Their love is no less powerful. And in today’s world, many men also embrace nurturing roles traditionally associated with women. They, too, deserve recognition for the love and stability they provide.

A Tribute to My Mother

My mother has been one of my greatest inspirations. She taught me kindness, respect, hard work, patience, and perseverance. I remember her once saying, “I wish I had the opportunity of education that you have.” My response was simple:
She and the generations before her paid the price for the opportunities we enjoy today.
Their sacrifices built the foundation on which we now stand.

The featured image is of my beloved Mother Dearest — a woman I honour, respect, and appreciate deeply. But today is not just about her. It is dedicated to all mothers, and to everyone who carries the nurturing spirit of motherhood in their hearts.

A Dedication to Mother Africa

Finally, I extend this tribute to Mother Africa — the cradle of civilisation, the beginning and the final frontier of humanity, and the heartbeat of our AfroGlobal initiatives.