Ebandla was based on the ancient Zulu custom of the elders sitting together and discussing issues of community interest. Traditionally, men gathered under a tree to discuss matters pertaining to that area. The elders got together like they still do in Italy in the middle of the town square. They debate issues of community interest. Ebandla is a place of gathering. The province of KwaZulu-Natal has taken this male-dominated custom and opened it up into an exchange of ideas, an opportunity to share information and plan for the future. The idea is to reach out to people working abroad who have achieved in academia, the professions, business, the arts, sport or any other field, to remind them of their origins and invite them to contribute in whatever way they can. The province welcomes their ideas, investment or simply their presence over holidays – so that they can become part of the dynamic development that is happening in the province.