South Africa is called the ‘‘Rainbow Nation’’ because of its beautiful different colours and diversity. On the 24th of September the country honours Heritage Day which is celebrated to remember the different cultures that makes the South African population. People embrace and celebrate this day in different ways which includes sharing different traditional meals, wearing their cultural clothes, dance, sing traditional songs and many more.
The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Office of Campus Director: Midlands Campuses, Dr Joe Molete recently hosted a two-day traditional attire photoshoot for the staff and students. The photoshoot took place at Indumiso Campus Main Hall and at D201 Riverside Campus.
On the first day the photoshoot focused on all students that honored the theme and invitation. Then the second day was mainly for staff members who went all out and wore their beautiful attires, danced and sang different traditional songs.
Pictured: Students showcase their traditional outfits at Indumiso campus.
Dr Molete who participated in the photoshoot, showed up at the venue with an exciting entrance where he danced and the staff ululated for him. He went on and expressed his words of gratitude to all who had honoured the invitation.
“I am very happy, that there are people who managed to make time from their busy schedule for the photoshoot. These two days of celebration has shown how diverse our institution is. As we celebrate this day, I would also like to highlight that it is very important for one to know their culture, roots and embrace it with so much pride,” he said.
DUT Midlands Sport Administrator: Mr Qhawe Mncwabe who was wearing his Xhosa attire stated that being an African is something that he is proud of.
“Our country is very unique with the different languages, traditions and many more. It makes me very happy to be showing off my culture through the outfit I am wearing. I would like to extend my gratitude to all the organisers who have made this day a success,” he said.
Staff and students showcase their traditional attire at Indumiso campus.
Bachelor of Education student: Ms Buhle Ndovela, who was representing a Zulu tribe in her beautiful brightly coloured beads attire expressed her excitement.
“The photo shoot is a beautiful gesture from the institution, I am very excited to be one of the students who participated and got to show off my culture. I love my culture so much because it teaches us to embrace and love our bodies,” elaborated Ndovela.
Most staff members expressed that such events are needed as they get an opportunity to socialise and know each other more.
Photographer: Vusi Dlamini
Zanele Mashaba and Nondumiso Maphumulo
