#doDifferent

It’s the coldest time of year in South Africa and at this time one must spare a thought for all those people living in poverty in this country. So many people do not have access to shelter, warmth, or nourishment and each year the harsh winters claim several lives of those fending for themselves on the street. read more »

According to the latest available statistics, South Africa generates roughly 122 million tonnes of waste per year. Of this, at least 90% ends up in landfills or is dumped illegally. Even though there are great strides taking place towards a “greener” South Africa, there is still so much that regular people, like me and you, can do to help reduce the amount of plastic that is wasted and goes into our landfills. That’s why this week, we are looking at an initiative that was born from a desire to #doDifferent for their community as well as our environment. read more »

Over the past two years, it has seemed that all our focus has been on Covid-19 as the most threatening disease we face. And while this pandemic has been devastating for loss of life the world over there is another disease which has continued to take lives at a massive rate – particularly in Africa. read more »

When we think about how we can help protect and nurture our environment, there are too many options to choose from - it can sometimes be overwhelming. Doing a little bit to help can make all the difference if we all contribute. That’s why this week, we are highlighting a company that not only wants to protect our environment for future generations but to care for their skin at the same time. read more »

Finger-worn rings have been the traditional symbol of marriage and commitment for hundreds of years, and likely will be for hundreds more. The way we view jewellery, and the way it fits our lifestyles, has however dramatically changed. read more »

We have discussed many times how so many children in South Africa – with already limited access to education – face additional hurdles to learning. Young women face a particularly high hurdle imposed not only because of economic circumstances, but also outdated taboo and problematic social dynamics. read more »

Eyesight, like health in general, is often taken for granted until it begins to deteriorate. Fortunately, with modern medicine, this can be fixed or managed through relatively minor procedures or corrective glasses. read more »

Currently, in South Africa, only 2% of children’s books published commercially are in local African languages, meaning that most kids only have access to books that are not in their home languages. In a country where approximately eight out of ten people speak a home language other than English, this makes creating relatable stories and tales in local languages critical if we hope to improve childhood literacy and ignite a love of reading. read more »

Entrepreneurs are prized for their ability to develop a vision and make it a reality. Some of the greatest business success stories stem from seemingly simple and modest ideas which turn into empires. An equally important characteristic of entrepreneurs is drive. For some, the drive comes from a need to succeed and for some, it is a desire to build something of their own. For a small few there is a greater good which leads them to start a business. read more »

If you were to make a list of things South Africa needs to do to improve our current circumstances, I am sure you would list employment creation and solutions for sustainability close to the top. read more »