Los Angeles’ Angel City Chorale is set to sing their hearts out for the Amy Foundation, set to benefit scores of young, underprivileged South Africans.

Los Angeles, USA (22 October 2024) — The City of Los Angeles is preparing for a special concert to benefit South Africa’s own The Amy Foundation thanks to a team-up with the Angel City Chorale—a premier choral group!

The Amy Foundation is well-respected by many people both in South Africa and America. Founded in honour of Amy Biehl—an activist who lived decades ago and was dedicated to supporting the advancement of democracy and equality in South Africa ahead of the 1994 elections.

Amy lost her life in 1993 in Gugulethu due to political mob violence—a loss felt the world over. Her parents extended the epitome of the new South Africa’s ethos—an incredible act of forgiveness—and set up the Amy Biehl Trust (now the Amy Foundation) in honour of their daughter’s belief in a better South Africa.

Today, the Amy Foundation supports youth empowerment through education, afterschool support, as well as arts and sports programmes, breaking the cycles of poverty and violence through opportunity and hope. Over 1,400 young people benefit from their work every day.

The benefit concert will be raising funds for the Amy Foundation’s programmes underway in 7 centres in underserved communities.

The people and voices of Los Angeles coming together for South Africans is a reminder of Amy’s legacy: that no matter how different our backgrounds may be, we can’t have a better world unless it’s a better world for everyone.

For our readers in the US, the concert is on 27 October 2024, and you can grab tickets here.

Back home, you can support the Amy Foundation in a myriad of ways, like supporting their products, bistro or volunteering your time. 

Sources: The Amy Foundation 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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The fans have spoken once again, only this time in James Blunt’s favour – He aimed to reach number one on the charts, and he failed! But boy, did he celebrate the moment!

Global (22 October 2024) – James Blunt had his very own jump-on-the-sofa moment this week in celebration of his album not hitting number one on the charts. You might be thinking, that doesn’t sound right, and you would be right! James was celebrating the failure because now he doesn’t need to legally change his name.

He has started a challenge to get his album ‘Back to Bedlam’ back on top of the charts, and if it hit #1, he would legally change his name to whatever the most popular suggestion is. The suggestion was to change his name to Blunty McBluntface.

The album, which includes fan favourites like ‘You’re Beautiful’, ‘Goodbye My Lover’, and ‘High’, was reproduced in honour of the anniversary. The goal is to get it to number one by the end of October.

Every artist hopes to have their album reach number one but in James’ case, he was absolutely relieved when the news broke that his album had failed to hit the mark.

Take a look at his hilarious reaction below:

Sources: James Blunt 

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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The Little Optimist Trust has set a new challenge, encouraging people from across the globe to join in keeping hope afloat!

Cape Town, South Africa (22 October 2024) – A Cape Town charity’s annual fund-raising campaign is going global and attracting international attention, with an invitation to South Africa and the rest of the world to take up its new challenge.

For the past six years, The Little Optimist Trust has held a yearly boat sailing competition to raise funds for its various development projects. These include regular sailing therapy days and renovation projects at under-resourced children’s homes, schools and hospitals.

However, in a change to the traditional format, the charity is now expanding its fund-raising mission with the launch of The Great Optimist Challenge. The charity is inviting anyone living anywhere to take on a charity challenge of their choice between 15 October and 31 December 2024. Not only can participants raise money for The Little Optimist Trust, but they can also include any other charity of their choice – with prizes worth R50,000 on offer.

As part of the challenge, the annual Great Optimist Race will be held at the Boatica exhibition at the V&A Waterfront from 25 to 27 October. All child and adult visitors to the event can participate for free in boat racing (no sailing experience necessary) or SUP time trials at The Little Optimist stand. A small donation and a 15-minute time trial challenge will ensure entry for lucky draw prizes.

“We are inviting people to come to Boatica and take on a challenge by sitting in a boat, sailing, learning to sail, paddling a SUP, or just doing something funny and making a donation. All will be entered into The Great Optimist Challenge, standing a chance to win one of many prizes in our lucky draw worth R50 000,” says The Little Optimist founder Greg Bertish. 

For those unable to attend Boatica, there are endless ways to join the campaign.

A variety of groups and individuals from across the country have already signed up for The Great Optimist Challenge, including ten students from Pretoria University, an international team that will be riding the Wine to Whales bike ride, an in-store challenge at leading retailer Italtile, as well as children and families hosting mini-challenges and Optimist pool parties.

“We challenge you! Do any challenge, anytime, anywhere, any how. Help us do great things for charity. Sign up on our site now and you could also win free tickets to Boatica,” adds Bertish.

For more information, visit thegreatoptimistchallenge.org

Sources: Cart Horse Protection Association 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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Charity Begins With Me’s children’s Christmas book drive is off to the most cheerful start, thanks to a kind author!

Johannesburg, South Africa (22 October 2024) — Just last week, we told our readers that Charity Begins With Me was on the hunt for 1,500 books as part of its children’s Christmas Book Drive. Today, we’re happy to report that support has already come their way jingling, largely thanks to the kindness of an author!

Stephan Ferreira shared the good news that shortly after posting about the book collection, he received a message from Reinette Lombard; an author of the Tippie Books!

Tippie is a character, elephant, and educator who helps children learn to read, supported by visual aids (cute illustrations) loved by teachers and students alike. For Charity Begins With Me, receiving boxes of Tippie books was not only perfect for one mission (making sure children in underprivileged communities have gifts to open) but also for helping their literacy journeys.

Considerately, the donated books are in the children’s home language.

The gesture facilitated by Reinette has certainly made this Christmas one for Charity Begins With Me to look forward to. But the call for more book donations is still loud!

Books will be collected until 30 November. Drop-offs can be made at Fairlands in Johannesburg, or books can be couriered via PostNet.

Everyone looking to gift a book for Christmas can contact Stephan here!

Sources: Charity Begins With Me

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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The Angel Network invites South Africans to unite and support Alison Botha as she faces challenges following her critical brain aneurysm, ensuring she receives the essential care and assistance she needs.

Johannesburg, South Africa (22 October 2024) – Alison Botha’s story is one of unwavering courage and resilience. In 1994, she defied death’s grasp, surviving a traumatic ordeal with a spirit that continues to inspire millions.

Now, Alison faces another formidable challenge: a life-threatening brain aneurysm that has left her with ongoing medical challenges.

Good Things Guy recently shared the news about Alison’s latest health battle, shocking many South Africans who have already rallied to support her.

The Angel Network, a nonprofit organisation that works to alleviate poverty and social injustice, has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to support Alison Botha, a woman whose life epitomises survival and resilience.

The campaign aims to raise R200,000 to cover her medical expenses as she faces significant health challenges following a life-threatening brain aneurysm.

To add to her difficulties, it is reported that the parole release of her attackers in July 2023 has reignited emotional trauma. Without medical aid and unable to work, Alison faces a heavy emotional and financial burden.

The Angel Network invites everyone to stand with Alison during this challenging time and to reach deep into their pockets to support a woman whose bravery has defied great and undeserved odds.

Alison’s attorney, Tania Koen, describes her condition as extremely serious. Following her discharge, she will need round-the-clock care, dramatically changing her life.

Alison has spent years empowering others with her story of survival. Now, it is SA’s turn to stand by her.

By donating to Alison’s cause, you are not just contributing financially; you are sending a powerful message of solidarity and hope.

Visit the Alison Botha BackaBuddy page to make a donation.

Sources: The Angel Network

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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A sister’s selfless stem cell donation has given Amanda Busch, an oncology pharmacist and mother of two, a second chance at life, proving that love and hope can truly save lives.

Johannesburg, South Africa (22 October 2024) – In a heartwarming display of love, Amanda Busch, an oncology pharmacist and mother of two, found herself on the receiving end of a life-changing gift — a stem cell donation from her sister, which helped her beat leukaemia and enter remission.

Amanda’s story is not just one of survival but of community, hope, and the power of family bonds.

“On the day before Father’s Day in 2010, I was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia when my general practitioner ran some tests after I sought treatment for referred shoulder pain,” Amanda shares.

As the oncology manager at Medipost Pharmacy, Amanda was no stranger to the medical world, but this time, she became the patient, relying on the very medications she once dispensed to others.

Amanda’s journey took a complicated turn when she fell pregnant unexpectedly, requiring her to pause her cancer treatment and switch to a pregnancy-safe medication. After her baby was born, the doctors advised that her best option for beating the cancer would be a bone marrow transplant. This marked the beginning of a long search for a donor match — a process that can take years.

“So many kind friends and members of the community came forward offering to be tested as bone marrow donors,” Amanda recalls.

But with the odds of finding a match outside of biological relatives standing at only one in 100,000, Amanda was beyond grateful when her sister emerged as an almost perfect candidate.

“I thank my lucky stars that I have an amazing sister who was so generous in her support and willingness to make this lifesaving stem cell donation to me.”

The process of stem cell donation is often simpler than many imagine, similar to donating blood, with donors taking medication to boost their stem cell production. This, combined with the growing need to diversify South Africa’s stem cell registry, highlights the importance of raising awareness. Amanda’s story is a shining example of what is possible when people come together in support of one another.

“Although the chance of being a match for a stranger in need of a lifesaving transfusion is small, there are children, mothers, and fathers praying to find a genetically similar tissue match from a donor who can give them the same chance at life I had,” Amanda says.

Her hope is that more South Africans will step forward to register as donors, knowing that they hold the power to give someone the gift of life.

Following the transplant, Amanda spent 16 days in isolation at the haematology unit of Netcare Pretoria East Hospital to protect against infection.

But despite the challenges, she reflects on her journey with gratitude: “Thankfully, in my case, the side effects were not too severe, and I began the path to recovery that has led me to still be in remission seven years later. I have so much to be grateful for.”

Rentia Myburgh, group sales and marketing director at Medipost Holdings, adds that awareness is crucial in saving lives: “We salute the haematologists and healthcare professionals, as well as all registered donors, for your contribution to saving the lives of people like our valued colleague Amanda.”

For those inspired by Amanda’s story, registering as a bone marrow donor is free and non-invasive. Visit https://sabmr.co.za/become-a-donor/ and https://www.dkms-africa.org/get-involved/become-a-donor to learn more about how you can become a potential lifesaver.

Amanda’s story ends on a note of pure positivity. After years of uncertainty, she is now living in remission, watching her children grow up, and feeling overwhelmingly thankful for the love, support, and medical expertise that brought her to this point.

Her message is simple yet profound: “The gift of life is yours to give.”

Sources: Netcare 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

The post Sister’s Lifesaving Gift: Stem Cell Donation Brings Hope and Healing appeared first on Good Things Guy.

South Africa isn’t just a country – it’s a living, breathing reminder of resilience, joy, and undeniable spirit. Despite our challenges, we are a nation that thrives on laughter, community, and an unwavering love for life.

Johannesburg, South Africa (22 October 2024) – Let’s be real: South Africa isn’t perfect. We’ve got our challenges – and plenty of them. But somehow, despite the ups and downs, we are an incredible nation filled with a unique kind of magic. Whether it’s the humour we use to laugh through tough times, our ability to “maak a plan,” or the warmth of our people, South Africans have something special that’s hard to match.

A tweet by ShellsPemBroke has been giving people all the feels. It’s a thread about why South Africa is so f**king great, and it’s still spreading like wildfire on X (Twitter). It’s the kind of feel-good content that makes you want to shout from the rooftops: “YES! THIS is why I love this place.”

Recently, Good Things Guy had the pleasure of sitting down with ShellsPemBroke, and if you think she’s proudly South African online, she’s even more so in person. She believes wholeheartedly that we are the greatest nation in the world… and we couldn’t agree more! Her tweet, which has become a movement of its own, started with just seven reasons why South Africa is so f**king great. But since then, people have jumped in, adding their own reasons, and the list has grown far beyond 100!

Here’s the original post that started it all:

“I am a South African. And I think we’re kinda f**king great. Sorry, but this is factual. I live in an underrated country. Here’s a thread of why I feel this way. Spoiler: you’re gonna hate some of these.”

Reason No 1: Us.

South Africans. That’s it. No sarcasm. No joke. We are THE BEST PEOPLE IN THE WORLD. You can make friends with literally ANYONE you meet on a daily basis. We really like liking people. Accidentally compliment someone’s nails, and you’re basically in their will.

Reason No 2: Potholes.

Say what you want. We are some of the most cautious and observant drivers in the world. At no point do we feel comfortable feeling comfortable driving. The lack of infrastructure means we could and should be on the set of Mission Impossible.

Reason No 3: Comedy.

OMFG THE COMEDY!!! Who in the world laughs at themselves as much as we do? Honestly? The world may be burning, but we are toasting marshmallows. How are SA comedians not more popular???

Reason No 4: The scenery.

F**k ALL THE WAY OFF. I mean. Come on. My sister does the hiking stuff and every vid she posts makes me damp in my pants. It’s not just Cape Town. It’s f**king EVERYWHERE. Urban chic. Mountains for days. Animals the rest of the world drools over. F**king hell.

Reason No 5: Zombie-apocalypse-readiness.

Listen, you know we’re prepped to deal without electricity and basic public services. When the world goes to shit, the Saffas will be claiming the planet. I can filter my own water, thank you.

Reason No 6: Sportsball!

Never EVER f**k with a South African and a placement or a gold medal. We take this sh*t SERIOUSLY. And we’re GOOD at it! Respect our prowess!

Reason No 7: It’s us again.

We’re really the best. Seriously, your mate, your family, your car guard, your waiter: they are all the absolute best. Take some time and find out. South Africans make South Africa. And we’re so f**king cool.

The replies started rolling in immediately, with people jumping on the feel-good train and adding their own reasons. Here are just a few:

“It’s the people. We are so f**king cool.”

“Because… us.”

“Chesa Nyama.”

“Don’t forget the wine!”

“We are a family. South Africans are siblings in the true sense. We fight every other day amongst ourselves. But try one of us and find out real quick.”

“Despite our politicians, we are blessed.”

“If I bump my own toe, a stranger will say sorry.”

“Hulle weet nie wat ons weet nie.”

“We are the best in everything.”

“Lalela!!! South Africans are the only country that starts a sentence in English and completes it in any of the other official languages. Kumnandi ukuba lana.”

“We have the ability to ‘maak a plan.'”

“South Africa is WAY underrated.”

“The food! All the food.”

“The Bokke.”

“We are free.”

“We know how to laugh.”

It’s clear that this list could go on forever. There’s just so much that makes South Africa truly unique. From our ability to laugh through the hard times to our deep sense of community, we’re not just surviving – we’re thriving. And despite everything, we remain a nation full of life, love, and spirit. The optimism in ShellsPemBroke’s tweet has sparked a movement of appreciation for this wonderfully complex, frustrating, beautiful place we call home.

So if you ever need a reminder of why South Africa is so f**king great, just take a scroll through this thread. You’ll find reason after reason to fall in love with the place all over again. And the best part? It’s growing every day – because there are just that many reasons to love South Africa.

Sources: ShellsPemBroke 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

The post 100 Reasons Why South Africa Is So F**king Great appeared first on Good Things Guy.

The dedicated inspectorate team of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA took on the 5km Sanlam Peace Run this past Saturday to raise critical funds in their relentless fight to protect those who cannot speak for themselves.

Cape Town, South Africa (21 October 2024) – On the crisp Saturday morning of 19 October, the Cape of Good Hope SPCA team of dedicated inspectors laced up their running shoes and took on the 5km Sanlam Peace Run.

With every stride, they carried the weight of countless animals who have suffered, those still waiting for rescue, and those who have found comfort in their care.

Led by Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse, the team’s efforts were a powerful statement against animal cruelty.

Thanks to the incredible support of those who generously ploughed into the fundraising initiative, Cape of Good Hope SPCA was able to raise 50% of their R100,000 goal!

“This race was more than just a run. It was a statement—we will never stop fighting against animal cruelty.

“Your donations keep our inspectors on the road, rescuing animals from abuse and neglect. They provide medical care, food, shelter, and love to animals who have known nothing but pain,” the organisation said.

To all those who contributed, cheered and stood in solidarity with the runners in the fight against cruelty, the Cape of Good Hope SPCA thanks you!

“Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we are unstoppable. Together, we are their voice.”

But their mission is far from over. There’s still time to donate and help them reach their ultimate goal!

Every rand you give makes a difference in an animal’s life. Visit the Cape of Good Hope SPCA’s GivenGain page to make a donation.

Sources: Cape of Good Hope SPCA

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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Three South African gems in the world of hospitality have been awarded places on the World’s Best 100 Hotels ranking: Simon’s Town’s Tintswalo Boulders Boutique Villa, The Belmond Mount Nelson and Cheetah Plains!

Global (21 October 2024) — Three South African gems in the world of hospitality have proved their cut after being voted onto the World’s Best 100 Hotels 2025 list by Fodor’s Travel!

The prestigious list was the work of 750 globetrotting writers and hotel professionals across the world who had the mighty task of narrowing down 700,000 hotels to just 100, representing the best 0.014% of hotels in the world.

Representing South Africa is Tinstwalo Boulders Boutique Villa, which got to share the Africa’s 10 Best Hotels ranking with the Belmond Mount Nelson (the Nellie also earned another acclaimed title this year as the Best Hotel in Africa per the World’s 50 Best Hotels List) and Cheetah Plains in the Sabi Sand!

Tinstwalo Boulders

For the quaint coastal region known for its famous penguin colony at Boulders Beach, the big news for Tintswalo Boulders was a big win for Simon’s Town as a whole.

The hotel was praised for its elegance and breathtaking views across Boulders Beach, as well as its proximity to the African penguins who call the beach home. Hopefully, with the hotel’s fresh spotlight, the light will also expand to hone in on the penguins that make an experience there as special as it is, given their species’ plight for survival.

The Nellie

As for the other victors’, The Mount Nelson was praised for its ever-pink and fabulous style, epic mountain views, lush grounds and its sustainable focus (including its ‘worm farm’ for kitchen waste).

Cheetah Plains

Cheetah Plains similarly scored points for its sustainable ethos, African art, the way it embraces raw and natural materials in design as well as its prime location in the Sabi Sand (especially for those who’d love to get a glimpse of hippos).

Sources: Supplied; Fodor’s Travel 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

The post Local Hospitality Gems Check Out: 3 Hotels Among World’s Best! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

The arts are an integral part of South African culture, meshing our past, present and future into a single medium. At the recent Canvas and Community celebration, we got to imagine a South Africa that does better for the art economy.

Cape Town, South Africa (21 October 2024) — Art is an integral part of South African culture. For our country, it’s a story-telling medium that often merges commentary on our socio-political, history, heritage and questions of who we could be as a nation. It’s also how we honour our unique relationship with wildlife and our natural surroundings while visualising the problems these cherished parts of our environment face. And, of course, it’s a means to inject pride into our communities through murals and public art of different mediums. It’s our past, present and future meshed into a single field.

So, if art has such an important role to play across different borders of the South African experience, the question persists: how is South Africa supporting our artists? And, are we doing enough?

Canvas and Community: An Example of an Artistically Inclusive South Africa

Recently, I attended an evening dubbed Canvas and Community as hosted by the Century City Conference Centre, writes GTG’s Ashleigh. It was an evening any art lover would’ve adored; spoiled with excellent music (from a staff member who got to perform opera to the brilliant classical trio The Muses and Cape Town’s ever-talented Jimmy Nevis), secret ‘fashion shows’ and, of course, a lot of local art.

Fadiel Herman’s street-art-infused paintings, Jaret Loggenberg’s powerful portrayals of the female form and Logan Marlon’s designs were all on full display amongst other talents. The spirit of Soweto was ever present thanks to Moeketsi Moahloli’s mixed media works, while Sarah Danes Jarrett’s portraits left mouths agape (and not just on the paintings).

It was thrilling to see so many different art forms sharing a single space outside of a designated gallery, exhibition or traditional arts festival.

I couldn’t ignore the thought that this is how more South African spaces can and should honour the arts to whom we all owe such a big thank you for preserving and pushing our culture forward.

Local Businesses, it’s Time to Step Up.

Because local art is the tangible mix that’s produced once the South African melting pot is poured out, it only makes sense that it should be shared and appreciated in more spaces beyond those traditionally designated for the arts. There are, after all, only so many galleries and so many residencies available. But how do we grow the space?

One way to do this is for more businesses, especially those up the tourism and hospitality alleys, to invest in our local artists. This isn’t just a means for aesthetic value and measure; it’s a gateway for the world to see who we are.

When businesses become platforms for creative development, wonderful things can happen. Just look at the likes of Karabo Poppy, who is a master at merging her art with branding alignments.

Plug the Art Drain

Just as it is with many students part of South Africa’s ‘brain drain’ dilemma, many of our artists are forced to travel outside of our country in hopes that they’ll get better opportunities. The Free State Art Collective rightly shared that there is a big gap in support for local artists in communities like theirs, while showcases like Alchemy aptly indicated that local artists should be given the chance to claim the spotlight before they go overseas.

The bottom line is that if South Africa wants to boost our art economy, there needs to be a push to carve out spaces for it in other avenues of business. Whether that means from a showcasing and collection curating perspective, creative connection events perspective, brand and partnership efforts, or initiatives that beautify our spaces whilst giving artists a boost.

It matters, as so fashionably highlighted at Canvas and Community, because our culture does. Because we cannot be proudly South African without the arts. And we cannot have a thriving arts economy without South African businesses proudly making room for the patrons of our culture.

Sources: GTG

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