My name is Leana Snyders. I am one of two Lead Community Researchers on the South African Team of ‘Leaving no-one behind in Research’. In my main role, I serve as the Director of the South African San Council, where I dedicate my life to representing and empowering Indigenous communities across South Africa. I live in Upington, but my roots lie in Steinkopf, Namakwaland. I am a proud mother of one daughter and a grandmother. From working as a diamond sorter to becoming a Coordinator of Indigenous Documentation and Director of the Kalahari Desert Festival, I have applied my skills in many ways – all guided by one purpose: to serve my community and be a voice for Indigenous people.
People inspire me: family, friends, colleagues. As Director of the San Council of South Africa, I have the privilege of getting to know San from all different language groups and collaborating with them. When I can stand up for people’s rights, I will. I also enjoy overseas travel, getting to know other countries and speaking on the rights of the San in the process. I have a passion for self-care and I am also the creator of the first-ever Buchu Hair Growth Oil, a proudly Indigenous product originally developed to help my goddaughter’s scalp. What began as a simple act of care , from mixing ingredients in my mother’s kitchen, has grown into a celebrated product used by women across the country. Through this hair oil, I aim to create something that not only inspires but also tells a story. Like many Indigenous concepts, it all starts with the roots. I have learned through many lessons in my life and career that when you understand where you come from, when you understand your roots, you gain the strength to help others grow along with yourself.
Empowerment, especially of Indigenous women, remains at the center of everything I do. I strive not only to inspire others but to set an example for my daughter and grandson, showing them that strength, purpose, and pride in one’s heritage can change lives and uplift entire communities. I live my life with purpose and passion, especially in the area of women’s empowerment. I founded the first-ever Indigenous Women’s Conference in South Africa, an initiative very close to my heart and inspired by my personal journey. The conference is rooted in the concept of my book, Behind My Red Lips, which tells a story of empowerment through the symbolism of red lipstick: a bold reminder of confidence, resilience, and identity.
Together with the Namaqua daisy, these symbols represent my personal strength and that of my community. The Namaqua daisy may look delicate, but it flourishes in the harshest conditions and always turning its face toward the sun. This is how I see the spirit of Indigenous women: strong, enduring, and full of light.