Employees Celebrate National Heritage Day at Work

To create unity from diversity after the dismantling of apartheid, Heritage Day highlights the histories of all racial groups and recognises all the men and women who have contributed to the heritage and culture of the nation.

Across race, language, region and religion, South Africans all share one common heritage. It is called many things: Chisa Nyama, Braai and Ukosa to name few. Although the ingredients may differ, the one thing that never changes is that when they have something to celebrate they light fires and prepare great feasts.

In celebration of National Heritage Day, employees of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints were encouraged to wear their native African clothing to work on Tuesday, 23 September 2014. Employees showed up in colourful clothing and a variety of accessories, including: beaded and natural fur headbands, jewellery, belts, headdresses, etc.

At lunchtime, employees gathered to enjoy an authentic African braai. Those dressed in their native attire were asked to share their feelings regarding their personal heritage. Some joined together in performing an African dance, to the delight of those in attendance.

The braai menu included boerewors, green salad, fruit, and pap (traditional porridge/polenta made from ground maize).

Over the past few years South Africans have been re-branding Heritage Day as “National Braai Day”. Jan Braai has started a revolution to unite South Africa over a braai. There even is a National Braai Day Anthem.

National Heritage Day will be celebrated Wednesday, 24 September 2014. South Africans are encouraged to unite around fires, share their heritage and wave the South African flag. Church employees will enjoy the day off. Everyone admitted that National Heritage Day is a great idea!