Strength Through Diversity

Celebrating Heritage Day at KRISP

text: Paul Harris

At KRISP, Heritage Day is a celebration of the diversity that defines both our team and our science.

South Africa is often described as a “rainbow nation,” and our team is a living reflection of that vibrant tapestry. From multiple cultures, languages, and histories, we bring together voices that are distinct yet complementary. It is this very diversity that fuels creativity, strengthens collaboration, and sparks innovation in our laboratories. By combining different worldviews, we unlock fresh ideas and solutions that move genomics and public health research forward.

This year, the celebrations were as educational as they were festive. On Friday we shared a spread of traditional foods and hosted a series of short presentations showcasing the wide range of our heritages. These included the history of biltong and the many types of pap enjoyed across Southern Africa, insights into Venda and Zulu customs, traditional Zambian garments, traditional deep-fried delicacies from Cape Town, Henna tattoo art, and the meaning behind the Hindu bindi. Our Grant’s Manager, Zuzana Naidoo, also offered a glimpse into Slovakian history and traditions from her upbringing, reminding us that our community is global as well as local.

The celebration not only highlighted our differences but also reinforced our shared purpose: advancing science that benefits communities in South Africa and beyond.

Reflecting on the day, Dr Jennifer Giandhari remarked, “We are proud to be part of such a vibrant community where every story adds to the collective strength of our team.”

As we marked Heritage Day, KRISP reaffirmed its commitment to diversity and inclusion as essential drivers of discovery.