In such a global economic environment with countries that are increasingly multi-cultural, it is important to learn more about the different cultures that create such dynamic cities and communities. For entrepreneur Zoe Dlamini-Sas, her inspiration for starting her business, Zoe Zulu Productions, came from her passion for African culture and teaching others in Europe about the traditions that make Africa so unique.
LoA found out more about this exciting specialist company this month from founder Zoe Dlamini-Sas.
What does your company do?
My company offers authentic African cultural activities and complimentary spin-off themes such as Zulu Dialect coaching, regalia and dress demonstrations, cultural music and dancing workshops, ethnic African arts & crafts presentations, all of which augment our existing range of tutorials and lectures. By using such methods we are able to teach languages and cultural activities, especially to children. It is also a textbook method of acting as an ‘icebreaker’ in our modern and diverse society.
“I was inspired to start my company in order to spread knowledge or a better understanding about The Kingdom of eSwatini, as well as increasing knowledge of the African cultures in the Netherlands.”
What inspired you to start your company?
I was inspired to start my company in order to spread knowledge or a better understanding about The Kingdom of eSwatini, as well as increasing knowledge of the African cultures in the Netherlands. My aim is to enhance multicultural understanding, particularly in an age of cosmopolitan diversity.
Why should anyone use your service or product?
Our services makes you travel without the need to travel to Southern Africa, as it is established in the Netherlands. After attending our workshops, people’s minds are broadened - children in particular - and even adults can understand and open up to people of different cultures. Anyone can benefit from our workshops as we help children grow up and function in a culture which has not one clear identity ready for them. Organizations and corporations can enjoy an African themed dinner event with authentic music, and a choice of more activities with an African theme for various events. We also offer services that enable clients to recruit actors of the required language abilities and create the opportunity for actors throughout the Netherlands and outside. We coach actors to sing with confidence and feel less self-conscious, which allows full concentration on delivering a dynamic and memorable presentation.
Tell us a little about your team
I am the founder and sole proprietor.
“Anyone can benefit from our workshops as we help children grow up and function in a culture which has not one clear identity ready for them.”
Share a little about your entrepreneurial journey. And, do you come from an entrepreneurial background?
I can say that I come from an entrepreneurial background as my mother was and is still influential. She used to run a small business and still does to supplement our family income, both when we were growing up right up till this date, even though my siblings and I are grown ups now. Most Swazis will know what I am talking about here!
What are your future plans and aspirations for your company?
I would like to see my company upscale and go beyond the borders of the Netherlands.
What gives you the most satisfaction being an entrepreneur?
The liberty to do what I like and discovering my talents at the same time as enjoying being authentic me!
What's the biggest piece of advice you can give to other women looking to start-up?
My advice would be to stay being yourself, don't let anything get in your way - anything that tries to disrupt your plans is FUEL. Keep well away from energy vampires, start your business without worrying too much about the how.
Contact or follow Zoe Zulu Productions
WEBSITE | EMAIL zoezuluproductions@gmail.com
Why LoA loves it….
Zoe Dlamini-Sas is an entrepreneur driven by passion for her African cultural heritage and a desire to share that culture with those who live thousands of miles away in Europe. Her company Zoe Zulu Productions is providing an experiential glimpse into the unique world of African cultural tradition, and her audiences are loving it. Zoe is a great example of an entrepreneur who is making a difference by increasing the world’s knowledge and appreciation of Africa and its vast cultural heritage. --- Melanie Hawken, founder and ceo of Lionesses of Africa