Katlego Sekhu
It’s easy to identify the things about South Africa that hurt or discourage us. We vent about them often and who can blame us?
As a nation, we’ve endured immense pain, disappointment, and the burden of having to fend for ourselves when we’ve felt let down by our leaders.
However, in the midst of the frustration, there are still moments that allow us to pause and smile. Moments that remind us of the beauty, resilience, and spirit of our country and its people.
Recently, the Drive 959 team had a heartwarming conversation reflecting on the small yet meaningful things they love about South Africa.
For Glen Lewis, it’s the strength of South Africa’s democratic process that stands out.
Having travelled extensively across the continent, he’s seen first-hand how fragile democracy can be elsewhere.
“I’ve seen, across our continent, when people vote they only get results days later, and I’ve seen presidents who don’t want to vacate office,” he shared.
“What I like about us is that after voting, results start to trickle in fairly quickly. That doesn’t happen in many countries.”
For Skhumba, it’s the power of social media and how it has created new pathways to success for many South Africans.
“I think social media has made so many careers. Back in the day, it took a while for someone to become famous. If you weren’t making music or acting, it would take you much longer,” he said.
“I saw Limpopo Boy is fully booked internationally for the entire year. That shows the power of social media.”
For Kgomotso Meso, it’s the warmth and openness of South African social culture that brings her joy.
“In other countries, it might seem taboo. But in South Africa, it’s completely normal to strike up a conversation with a stranger,” she said.
“We’re the kind of people who can sit down next to someone and just start talking.”
Listen to the podcast for the full discussion.
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