This TEDx talk opens with a personal, stereotype-busting moment: the speaker—from South Africa—addresses the common question “Do you have water?” to challenge narrow internet portrayals of Africa, sharing that their home is a beautiful place with a comfortable life. It then shifts to cultural differences noticed after moving to China, focusing on greetings: Chinese friends have asked them to stop greeting strangers (e.g., in the subway), but the speaker explains that African greetings hold deep meaning—Zulu’s “Sawubona” means “I see you,” and Tswana’s “Dumela” is a celebratory nod to someone’s presence. The core of the talk dives into Zulu wedding culture, highlighting two key traditions: Amalobolo (the bride’s price), which is not a transaction but a ritual of respect and commitment that honors family unity; and Ukwembhesa, the “uniting of clans” where families exchange gifts, strengthening bonds beyond just the bride and groom to include entire communities. Overall, the speech weaves personal anecdotes with cultural insights to celebrate diversity and deepen understanding of South African—specifically Zulu—heritage. I'm Mlondi Ngubani, an inspiring teacher and facilitator from South Africa. I completed my primary education at Enhlokweni Primary School, followed by Masihambisane Secondary School and Panorama Combined School in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal. I then pursued higher education at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), where I earned an undergraduate degree in Psychology and Drama & Performance Studies, as well as a postgraduate honors degree in Performance Studies. Additionally, I completed AP Psychology training with Augsburg University in the United States and a teaching degree at Two Oceans Graduate Institute (TOGI) in Cape Town. My professional journey includes working as a Tutor, Jr. lecturer and an Academic Development Officer (ADO) amongst other things at UKZN, teaching English in an American English training center in China for two years, and most recently, serving as a psychology teacher at Kang Chiao International School East China Campus for the past four years. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx