Celebrating Heritage: How Culture Fuels the Entrepreneurial Spirit

As we celebrate Heritage Day, we reflect on the rich tapestry of backgrounds, traditions, and values that shape us. This special post highlights the incredible founders in WomHub programmes, exploring how their diverse heritages have influenced their entrepreneurial journeys. Read on as these inspiring women share how their cultural roots have supported them in STEM and business.

1. Queen Ndlovu: Embracing a Mixed Cultural Identity

Heritage:
"I am a product of a mixed culture, having been influenced by Zulu, Tswana, Sepedi, and English traditions. Growing up in Soweto with a strong Zulu influence, I was later exposed to Tswana and English cultures through my family, which shaped my upbringing. My cultural journey is one of blending identities, and as an adult, I celebrate a mixture of these traditions."

Impact on Entrepreneurial Journey:
"My Zulu heritage has instilled in me a sense of assertiveness and authenticity, traits that I carry into my business life. From the English side of my upbringing, I learned the importance of professionalism, education, and making a mark in business without being defined by my gender."

Cultural Wisdom:
"Embrace diversity and use local knowledge to create solutions. Build businesses that create wealth and opportunities with the wisdom of our cultural heritage."

Message for the Next Generation:
"Remain authentic and be proud of your unique heritage. Lift others as you rise, and don't fear failure—it's your greatest teacher."

2. Nivashnee Ramparsad: A Legacy of Hard Work and Learning

Heritage:
"Growing up in a large Indian family, my upbringing was shaped by the hard work of my father in his own business and the nurturing wisdom of my mother and grandparents. They taught me unconditional love and the importance of education, which inspired me to pursue continuous learning and entrepreneurship."

Impact on Entrepreneurial Journey:
"My family values pushed me toward a career in electrical engineering, with a mission to inspire more women to enter male-dominated fields. I now run businesses in robotics and IoT technology, contributing to a sustainable future by nurturing the next generation of engineers."

Cultural Wisdom:
"The lesson my family instilled in me is that we all have a responsibility to take care of others. This value drives me to make a meaningful impact on the world and to lift others as I grow."

Message for the Next Generation:
"Use the challenges you face to make a difference in the world. It’s crucial to find your true purpose, not just the expectations of your family or traditions."

3. Fanelesibonge Mbuyazi: The Power of Ubuntu and Perseverance

Heritage:
"As a proud Zulu, my heritage is rooted in community, respect, and resilience. For me, it’s about carrying forward the strength and wisdom of my ancestors while embracing modernity, ensuring our rich traditions continue to shape the future."

Impact on Entrepreneurial Journey:
"The Zulu concept of 'ubuntu'—that we are who we are because of others—has shaped my approach to entrepreneurship. I focus on creating solutions that uplift communities and prioritize collaboration. This collective spirit drives my leadership style."

Cultural Wisdom:
"Perseverance, or 'ukuqina,' is a core value in Zulu culture, and it has helped me navigate the many challenges of entrepreneurship. I also value the tradition of storytelling, which guides how I communicate my brand’s mission and inspire others."

Message for the Next Generation:
"Embrace your heritage as a source of strength. Blend tradition with innovation and carry the spirit of resilience and compassion into everything you do."

As we reflect, it’s clear that heritage is more than just a celebration of the past—it’s a driving force in shaping the future. These incredible founders are proof that our cultural roots provide the foundation for innovation, leadership, and impact in today’s world.

To all the women aspiring to follow in these footsteps, remember: your heritage is your strength, your guide, and your inspiration to create a lasting legacy. Happy Heritage Day!

Founders:
Nivashnee Rampad, founder of Iconix Engineering Solutions (Pty) Ltd trading as Smartee- LinkedIn
Fanelesibonge Mbuyazi, founder of Seen- LinkedIn
Queen Ndlovu, founder of QP Drone Tech- LinkedIn