Article by Nelisiwe Mkhize, Images by Sibongile Dlangalala
OLIVER TAMBO HOUSE: The Change Management and Service Delivery Sub-Directorate of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Public Works leads by example when it comes to promotion of Cultural Diversity on the shop floor.
This came to light during the recent Heritage Day Celebration, the annual event hosted around recognition of cultural diversity in the workplace.
Organising the occassion of such a stature has also become one of the progressive proficiencies demonstrated by this business unit, on a-yearly-basis around September, the Heritage Month.
Front row, fourth from left, Guest Speaker Dr Ngogi Mahaye joined colleagues in their traditional attire during a live performance in celebration of Heritage Day
Once again, this year, the writing was on the wall when various celebrants who formed part of the event held on Thursday, 21 September 2023 at the Head Office Auditorium were characterised by abnormal excitement and euphoria which lasted throughout the day.
Director: Construction Safety and Systems, Ms Dudu Fihlela unpacked an array of fundamental objectives which command such a celebration. She touched on a need to promote Cultural Diversity, Social Cohesion, Reconciliation, Peace and Economic Development as vital pillars of unity in society. Her remarks were accompanied by special emphasis on the importance of educating one another about other cultures and brief synopsis on the promotion of the spirit of Ubuntu in the work place.
From left, Deputy Director-General: Corporate Services Mr Phiweyo Duma, Director- Construction Safety and Systems, Ms Dudu Fihlela and invited Guest Speaker, Dr Ngogi Mahaye
Deputy Director-General, Corporate Services Mr Phiweyo Duma graced the occasion in his full traditional gear, a great gesture which confirms preservation of culture. Mr Duma offered some snippets around cultural values, self-discipline and urged all colleagues to continue celebrating this day. He further emphasised on respect for one another which is key in human life.
The Department reached out to a well-respected Education Ace and a prominent Guest Speaker, Dr Ngogi Mahaye who was invited to do a presentation on the day’s topic, Embracing Cultural Diversity in the Workplace.
Speaking with authority on scholastic research in cultural diversity, Dr Mahaye discharged a well-packaged testament on the essence of cultural diversity and how open communication should be demonstrated to accommodate diverse ethnic groups in the workplace.
“Given the increasing number of employees from different countries, Managers should familiarise themselves with different cultures and heritage since it takes a progressive workforce to learn about the background of other cultures and religions,” he concluded.
SNAPSHOTS: Gumboots and Minnie traditional dance moves formed part of the day’s celebration. Far right, Programme Directors, Ms Nicole O’ Connor and Dr Mbuso Xulu
It was a wonderful day indeed with Minnie Dance, Gumboots dance and a variety of live traditional performances on stage which wowed the crowds.
Special invitees and various performers at the event received tokens of appreciation towards the last item where numerous delicious traditional food menus were served.