Our cultures - the backbone of a thriving workforce

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Culture makes us who we are. It provides us with a sense of belonging through commonalities shared by a group of people.

South Africa has a diverse range of cultures: Both native and migrant groups of people have coexisted for centuries. Since Europeans landed here in 1652 and our Indian ancestors arrived on the SS Truro in 1860, our country is a melting pot of cultures.

Even before those who arrived, the San and Khoi people had come together to birth the many cultures we know today.

This multicultural coexistence led to the concept of Ubuntu. It can be defined as a sense of togetherness through a connection on a human level. It's the foundation we have built in our pursuit towards building compassion, tolerance of each other's identities, and respect for our surroundings.

Bringing the concept of Ubuntu within a work environment results in more inclusivity and great teamwork.

Indian indentured labourers toiled in the sugar cane fields of Natal through adverse weather conditions for a minimum wage building and teaching the art of resilience to the generation that followed. A much-needed skill among the workforce within an unstable economy.

And we are all familiar with the well knowing saying 'n Boer maak 'n plan', which translates to a farmer 'makes a plan' which amazingly can also be interpreted to mean excellent problem-solving skills or resourceful in a crisis.

So, if our ancestors have passed on the necessary skill set to build a splendid work ethic, why are we still facing high staff turnover, poor work-life balance and elevated levels of depression and anxiety within our workforce?

Well, people have become more emotional about how they live their lives. Because of the aftereffects of the pandemic and climate change, we have been reminded that life is precious.

Employees want more meaning out of their work, more social talks, more listening and the fulfilment of knowing that they are making a positive contribution to society and not just ticking off a to-do list.

Skilled employees are more confident in their abilities and are comfortable resigning and testing the labour market to find a role that meets their needs.

Increasing pay is only a short-term solution. There is no point in having a bigger bank balance if there is no time to spend on the joys of life.

Employees want leaders that bring meaning, humanity, and social impact to the workforce. There is no place for fat cat slave diver executives purely motivated by profits and massive bonuses.

Employees require elevated levels of empathy. This trait is innate in women, so it will be hugely beneficial for organisations to elect more female leaders to address the current needs of our workforce.

It is believed that employees are still great team players, resilient and enthusiastic about problem-solving. However, our leaders need to value culture and create a balance between a decent quality of life for its people and profits.

It isn't easy, but it's possible.