South Africa, its people and its politicians need to learn from Zambia. In 1964 the newly-elected President – Kenneth Kaunda, began a countrywide ethic – with his oft-repeated statement, “One Zambia, One nation.” In a country with 60+ dialects this was to prove to be the concrete that united Zambia. And it still does.

It is a concept that still eludes South Africa. For all the wonderful talk of a rainbow nation and an excellent constitution – we are still a divided nation. This has been amply demonstrated by the recent statements by our President and the resultant response, from marginalized South Africans.

Racism is only one form of prejudice. Prejudice has many forms and must be dealt with in a holistic manner. It is a fact too that the practice of stereotyping and judgement, is not a one-way street. A Zulu proverb (#1) – “Izimfene ziyahlekana izipongo”– “Baboons laugh at each others’ foreheads,” points to the nature of people-kind to apportion blame, when in fact they need to first look within themselves for the answers.

Who is responsible?

Removing prejudice from our country is as much an individual effort, as it is a corporate and government responsibility. Each one of us, including business and political leaders, must examine the legacy that we are creating for the future.  And each one of us, must take ownership and responsibility for firstly, personal change and secondly, national transformation.

Recognising the programme

It is also important to understand that we have all been programmed, in some way or the other. In fact much of the programming, of the past and present, continues through our day-to-day behaviours. This will only stop when we all examine our behaviours and beliefs, and take action to make a few adjustments.

We add to each other.

Through the marvelous diversities in our country, we do not diminish each other – we add to each other. In valuing, understanding and experiencing life differently we bring great value to diverse organisations and to our country. Yet, as we grow diversity, we must ensure that we do not diminish any perceived “groups” – as is too often the case in our country.

 Transforming Diverse teams

As a top Training Provider, in the National Training Awards, specialising in transformational teambuilding (some call it diversity training) we have very successfully transformed many very angry, diverse and prejudiced teams.

The main keys to workplace transformation lies in creating a safe, respectful, equitable, Caring and Communicating environment, by:-

• •                 Developing respect and understanding of self, others and our many amazing uniquenesses.
• •                 Developing Communication and Interpersonal skills.
• •                     Development of Emotional intelligence, in all team members.
• •                     A team-developed and agreed Code of Conduct.
• •                     Clearing of past "issues."
• •                     The transfer of "control" of, and accountability for individual behaviour from management, to all team members.

The transformation processes must be fun and non-judgemental. Far too many "diversity interventions" are aimed at history, blame and judgment and often serve to separate people, rather than unite.

If we see ourselves as separate species of the human race, we will always be in conflict. If we see ourselves as members of the human race - there will be no racism. In this way we will become one South Africa, One Nation, and we will learn to respect all people, as human beings.

For more information on Teambuilding for Diverse teams and the selection of your teambuilding/ diversity provider please go here.
And a recent article on the growing prejudice in our nation, can be found here.

 #1 (Tshwene ga e i pone makopo – Setswana.)

Brian V Moore