Heritage Month at Universal Paper

September saw the celebration of Heritage Month in South Africa. Heritage day, which is celebrated on the 24^th of September, is also known as Braai Day.

Universal Paper joined in the celebrations by hosting a series of braais held on the premises. Universal Paper’s staff members were split into 4 groups who each enjoyed various activities that were planned by their respective managers. The purpose of the braais was to boost the morale amongst staff members and managers alike.

Interaction at a social level was encouraged and staff took part in lending a hand to pack Back-to-School hampers that will be donated to a local Ga-Rankuwa primary school later this year. Teams also participated in activities, namely quizzes based on famous South African figures and one team celebrated in true South African style by hosting a soccer tournament – goal-scoring competition.

A Codesa Dance was performed on the last braai day which included some of the school children who will benefit from these hampers as well as joined sponsors from Transpaco Flexibles & Office National. A special relationship has been formed as Universal Paper continues to lead for a purpose, instituting an internal charitable committee called the Universal Angels whose sole purpose is to get involved in local community programs and give back to society in a positive manner. Keep an eye on our blog for more information about our partnerships with these valuable sponsors and to see photographs from our Universal Angels outings where we give back to the community.

Food was enjoyed and fun was had by all involved.

A bit of background. What is Heritage Day? Why Braai day?

This holiday got its start 21 years ago, thanks to the late president Nelson Mandela. Heritage Day highlights the melting pot of diverse cultures, races, traditions and beliefs in South Africa and gives each unique group its pride of place on the national stage. As such, traditional dresses, rituals and food are brought into focus. As well as food that South Africans love, particularly braais.

Braaing is a well-established national pastime, given its nation-building potential and our desire to braai whenever a public holiday occurs. The simple idea of togetherness is brought forward by the communal nature of preparing a meal for family or friends. Ideally, this would spill over into connecting with others who may not share your heritage. Despite our mixed heritage and different traditions, all rainbow nation citizens enjoy the fellowship and sense of community that a braai brings. The nickname “National Braai Day” came about in 2005.

Celebrate your personal heritage.

While Heritage Day is about coming together and celebrating a shared past and culture, it is also about ensuring that each culture and belief is recognised. With this in mind, many people want to celebrate their personal beliefs and traditions. Some choose to wear traditional dress, practice traditional rituals or simply learn more about their ancestors. It is a good time to get together as a family or as friends and look to the past to see how your personal heritage has shaped how you live today.

Get Involved!

If you would like to become a sponsor or take part in our Universal Angels initiative, please contact us here.