Celebrating Cultural Diversity Through Meaningful Transformation

For many years companies and organisations have shown their appreciation for cultural diversity by encouraging staff members to arrive to their places of work adorned in their traditional attire on Heritage Day. For many companies a fun-filled day of preparing different cultural dishes and a program of performances showcasing the richness of South Africa’s cultural landscape is usually the extension of this celebration of diversity and the culmination of what heritage means to them.

Nonku Ntshona & Associates Quantity Surveyors (NNAQS) has a deeper appreciation of cultural diversity and the significance of Heritage Day extends beyond just one day. “Cultural diversity plays an integral role towards transformation”, says Nonku Ntshona, CEO of the NNAQS. The NNAQS is an organization that is very pro-transformation and has a transformation policy that embraces cultural diversity. “We have a very culturally diversified team and we believe that this promotes staff engagement. Culturally diverse employees provide multicultural perspectives. Promotes employee loyalty when employees see that they are respected and valued for their unique contribution.” Ntshona includes.

The NNAQS boasts a 50% black, 25% Indian and 25% white staff and top management component and all are encouraged to explore and embrace their diverse cultures. This doesn’t only apply to a South African context but applies to the work that they do in other regions too. Having embarked on projects in Kenya, Botswana, Zambia, Dar-es-Salaam, Ghana and Nigeria, the NNAQS has had the privilege of interacting with and experiencing the cultures of these regions.  

Some of the key projects that NNAQS is responsible for include the Levy Junction Mixed Use Development which is a landmark and one of the largest shopping malls in Zambia and the Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton which has now become a landmark worldwide as this building is in recognition of Nelson Mandela’s early foray into the city.

Another major component to the transformation of the built environments industry is the importance of introducing Quantity Surveying as a viable career option to young South Africans of different backgrounds. “This needs to be addressed at grass roots level. From grade 8 at the beginning of secondary school, the youth must be educated and exposed to the other professions besides the norm of doctors, lawyers, and teachers”, says Ntshona

Besides the NNAQS’ focus being on the importance of transformation, diversity and inclusion, they still do celebrate Heritage Day the normal way at the office. Staff members wear their traditional attire and are treated to a traditionally themed lunch every year.