Kwanzaa is a week-long pan-African celebration of family, community, and culture.  African-Americans and others honoring African traditions have gatherings and ceremonies for Kwanzaa December 26 through January 1 each year.

Each day of Kwanzaa respects one of the seven basic values of African culture.  These seven principles are good for people of all cultures to value because they reinforce each of our commitments and contributions to our families and communities.  Living each of these principles can also help you to find career success.

The seven principles of Kwanzaa, known as Nguzo Saba, are:

1. Umoja ~ Unity
2. Kujichagulia ~ Self-Determination
3. Ujima ~ Collective work and responsibility
4. Ujamaa ~ Collective economics
5. Nia ~ Purpose
6. Kuumba ~ Creativity
7. Imani ~ Faith

Using the 7 Principles to Boost Your Career

1. Umoja (oo-MOH-jah): Unity
Success starts with Unity.  Unity of family, community, nation, and race.

You are not meant to job search or manage your career by yourself.  Your family has a stake in your employment status.  You and your networking contacts and coworkers can help each other succeed.  And there are multiple ways you can connect with free or low cost career coaching or employment services.

Instead of thinking of yourself as a single job seeker or employee, consider yourself part of a tribe.  Your career success is tied with other people in your field, your community, and your family.  Find ways to network and connect with people that will help everyone meet their career goals.

Your Move: Find the contact information and schedule for at least two networking groups near you or related to your career field.  Attend these groups at least once within the next month.

More about Kwanzaa:

• The Official Kwanzaa Web Site
• History.com: Kwanzaa
• BFA Kwanzaa site