VEREENIGING – Kopanong Hospital’s Heritage Day celebration was nothing short of diverse, giving a true glimpse of what it means to be part of the rainbow nation.

On the day, various departments stepped up to the occasion after they were tasked by the Health and Wellness Team to dress up and show up. Occupational Health nurse practitioner Palesa Sefatsa, who is also part of the Health and Wellness team, says the idea was to ensure that everyone gets involved and embraces diversity.

“The team conducted a random draw to assign each department a specific culture to represent. They were also requested to render a cultural item or dance; each department was requested to prepare its own cultural food.”

Sefatsa says the departments embraced the spirit of the event, sticking to the theme and even practicing cultural items to perform during the event.

“South Africa is diverse with a vast number of cultures. Celebrating Heritage Day in the workplace creates a sense of belonging and pride. We interact with people from all walks of life in our institution, so understanding and connecting with people from different cultures helps us connect with patients. Through learning about patients, we can offer care that aligns with the beliefs and values of the patients.”

According to Sefatsa, both the patients and visitors responded positively to the celebration.

“They engaged well with us, and the compliments we received added to the joyful spirit of the day. Although we embraced the event, on the day we ensured that we adhered to our responsibilities, ensuring that service delivery is not compromised. It turned into a beautiful day of celebration and care.”

The event allowed colleagues to share and learn from one another, to be seen, heard, and valued. “The celebration reminded us that when we celebrate each other we build bridges, unity does not mean sameness, it means standing together in our differences.”

The day was filled with music, song, dance, and tasty traditional dishes prepared by the staff. Sefatsa called the event a resounding success, saying that she is optimistic that next year’s heritage celebration will be even bigger and better.