Othulamsindo Durban University of Technology (DUT) Zulu Society has been nominated for the Best Traditional Group of an Institution of Higher Learning at the 2024 South African Traditional Music Achievements (SATMA) Awards.

This nomination marks a significant milestone in the cultural group’s journey, recognising their expertise and excellence in Ingoma dance and their impact in promoting the Zulu culture. The group has made history becoming the first traditional group from an institution of higher learning in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) to be nominated for SATMA Awards.

Othulamsindo DUT Zulu Society was founded in 2022 by DUT students, Mfundo Mlaba and Melwayinkosi Mkhize. Their aim was to make Zulu cultural activities easily accessible to all students who share an interest in their heritage, ensuring that both current and prospective students can effortlessly connect with and join the Zulu dance group at the university. Othulamsindo DUT Zulu Society has grown to become a vital part of the university’s cultural landscape. The group’s mission is to preserve and promote Zulu culture, tradition, and continually grow and gain recognition from various departments, university management, and South Africa as a whole.

The group is led by Chairperson Siphelele Ngcobo, Melwayinkosi Mkhize (Igoso), and Nokusa Mkize (Igoso lokazi) also known as “Cruise My Heart”. Sharing her excitement on the nomination Mkize said that their dedication and passion have not only impressed the university community but also gained national attention, culminating in this prestigious nomination.

“Our vision is to increase our visibility, become a leading cultural ambassador for DUT and the Zulu nation, also to be officially an recognised student organisation, and establish a legacy that benefits future generations. We strive to become a beacon of Zulu cultural excellence and to become a premier representative of Zulu cultural for all institutions, showcasing our heritage with pride and dedication” said Mkize.

She indicated further that the SATMA Awards nomination is a testament to the group’s hard work and commitment to showcasing Zulu cultural excellence. “As the first traditional group from an institution of higher learning in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) to be nominated, Othulamsindo DUT Zulu Society is proud to make history and represent DUT on a larger stage,” she shared.

To achieve their goal, they plan to host annual cultural events, collaborate with other cultural societies, and establish partnerships with local schools. “Othulamsindo DUT Zulu Society is poised to continue its growth and make a lasting impact on the cultural landscape. The group envisions expanding its reach and impact beyond DUT and South Africa, collaborating with other cultural groups to promote diversity and exchange, and becoming a leading cultural society amongst all cultural societies,” she said.

Othulamsindo DUT Zulu Society group is pleading for the DUT community to support and vote for them to win this prestigious award.

Picture: Othulamsindo DUT Zulu Society group members.

Sinamile Sithole