Wilderness Botswana hosted a vibrant Heritage Day celebration last week that brought together its staff, key stakeholders and local authorities at its offices in Maun. The event was a colourful display of the rich cultural diversity that defines the company.
Dawson Ramsden, the Chief Staff at OWS, highlighted the significance of the occasion. “This day is celebrated across all Wilderness branches globally to honor the company’s rich tapestry of cultures. Despite our differences, we have come together to embrace our multicultural backgrounds, which have shaped and propelled the company to greater heights,” Ramsden stated.
The day was filled with captivating performances, starting with the Wilderness choir, dressed in traditional Tswana attire, delivered a series of soulful songs that left the audience in awe. Later, Ramsden and his colleague Wesley Hartma took to the stage with a guitar and song performance that energised, the crowd, leaving them dancing and yearning for more.
The attendees, adorned in a variety of cultural outfits, showcased the diversity of the event. The traditional Herero Ohorokova, the Tswana Shweshwe dress, and even some renditions of Ghanaian attire were among the clothing on display, reflecting the broad spectrum of cultural pride present at the gathering.
In addition to the visual feast, attendees were treated to a palate of traditional dishes, including local favorites like Seswaa and Bogobe jwa Lerotse, further emphasising the theme of cultural celebration.
“Heritage Day brought us together and allowed everyone in attendance to express the pride they have in their own cultures. It also served as a unique bonding experience for the staff, who could showcase their native dressings and build a different dynamic of chemistry,” Ramsden explained.
North West District Council Chairman Itumeleng Kelebetseng expressed appreciation for the cultural diversity on display. “I appreciate every culture here and have thoroughly enjoyed the dance and song that have brought us together on this day,” Kelebetseng remarked.
Wilderness Safaris, a leading ecotourism company operating across Africa, has always been committed to sustainability. Founded in 1983 in Botswana, the company has grown to operate luxury safari camps and lodges in several African countries, including Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, and Zambia.
“We at Wilderness embrace our differences and multicultural backgrounds. I believe this year’s event was a resounding success, drawing in more people than before and deepening our understanding of the company’s ethos. As we move forward, I hope this event continues to grow, shining a light on the people who are the true currency of our company,” Ramsden concluded.
