Our Loud & Proud Heritage Day Photos
Check out who dressed up and showed up!
Left – Nandi Sibanyoni – Executive Head of SHE – Kumba Iron Ore
Middle – Mpumi Zikalala – CEO – Kumba Iron Ore
Right – Tumi Mbatha – Chief Transformation Officer – Kumba Iron Ore
Linda Sambu ndinguMaduna, uNokhala, uGubevu, uMsuthu, uTiba (my clan name)
Culture: Xhosa
“I am a Xhosa woman from Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape. I’m wearing Umbhaco, a traditional Xhosa attire made from cotton with unique styles and patterns with white with black accents. Modern versions now come in various colours. The AmaXhosa are one of the four Nguni nations in South Africa, alongside AmaNdebele, AmaSwazi, and AmaZulu. Xhosa clans share common clan names despite having different surnames. The Xhosa language is known for its clicks, and storytelling through music and dance like umtyityimbo, which is central to my culture.”
Nadia Maguire
Culture: Italian/South African
“I’m a blend of both Italian and South African, and what I love most about these two cultures is how they both celebrate good food and rich traditions. It’s a beautiful fusion of flavours and heritage.””
Tshepiso Serobe
Culture: Sotho
“Sotho people are known for their Seanamarena blankets and Mokorotlo hats, but what I love about my outfit is how it uniquely blends tradition with a contemporary twist. Instead of wearing the blanket in the usual way, I’ve transformed it into a top made from blanket fabric, making my attire both distinctive and innovative.”
Tondani Mugwabana
Culture: Venda
“As a proud Venda woman, I enjoy my culture’s traditional dress, the delicious food and the value system that prides itself on cleverness and wisdom. One of my favourite meals is Tshidzimba, made with different nuts.”
Katleho Romosana
Culture: Sotho
“I am a proud Mosotho woman, and I love my culture, and I represent the Hlalele’s. Sotho culture is big on family values and bonds, we love our traditional wear and traditional foods!”
Andani Gangashe
Culture: Venda
“I am Venda, and while I am representing the Batswana by wearing a Sishweshwe patterned dress, the things I love most about my Venda culture are the great food, colourful traditional wear, and lots of other aspects that make me a truly proud Venda!”
Ankush Gambhir
Culture: Indian
“My Indian cultural wardrobe consists of a traditional silk Kanjivaram kurta (Indian shirt) and pyjama (pants) with Jutti (Indian traditional shoes), which, culturally-speaking, is traditional for North India. I follow Santana/Hinduism, which is not a ‘religion’ per se, but rather a way of life. One of my personal favourite Santana quotes is ‘Non-malice to all creatures by deeds, thoughts and words, and showing kindness and doing charity, this is eternal duty of wise ones.”
Kwenza Sibiya
Culture: Zulu
“This uMqhele I wear symbolises my role as the head of my family, a tradition that is deeply rooted in our heritage. It is a mark of respect and leadership, worn proudly by men in our culture to honour our roles and responsibilities.”
Thembi Mkansi
Culture: Xitsonga
“This bright coloured headband reflects the vibrant expressiveness of our culture. Each colour tells a story and represents the richness of our culture, showcasing our individuality and pride in a uniquely beautiful way.”
Makha Zungu
Culture: Ndebele
“This outfit is a beautiful representation of our traditions. The beadwork on my head is mainly worn by married women, while the’ amadhavati’ on my ankle and the ‘isdhwaba’ skirt complete the ensemble. Each piece tells a story of our culture and heritage, and I wear them with pride and respect.”
Mangaliso Zembe
Culture: Xhosa
“My headband is adorned with beads that proudly display my clan name, uDikela, honouring my heritage. Xhosas, distinguished by our language and traditions, holds a special place in our culture. My favourite phrase, ‘iCamagu Livumile,’ meaning ‘the Gods have been appeased,’ resonates deeply with me, reflecting my spiritual connection and reverence this Heritage Month.”