I have always been touched by the simplicity, yet profound significance of the African concept of Ubuntu – a world-view, social value or philosophy which relates to one’s humanity, humane-ness, and the interdependence of people in general.  I personally believe that “a person can only be a person through others”.  The value of solidarity in addressing pressing local and global challenges relating to issues that impact significantly on our environment and our planet, our quality of life, social and economic security and the future prospects of the youth come to mind, especially as this year rapidly draws to a close.

Proudly South African takes pride in its relationship with its members and strategic partners who all share a commitment to empower and uplift; to grow others, our economy and our country, while they sustainably grow their businesses and interests, based on a set of solid values and principles of good citizenship that can weather recessions and setbacks.  

Latching onto the Ubuntu concept – it should come as no surprise that the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), a strategic partner of Proudly SA, features a logo which is symbolic of a hand, in our national colours, which reflect the youth’s pride in our nation. Indeed, working together, we can achieve great heights as a nation!   I was privileged to be party to the launch of the NYDA’s “Buy Youth Campaign”, which reflect Proudly SA’s own focus on getting the nation to support local enterprises – to Buy Local, and to procure locally – because it is an investment in our nation’s future. 

This rewarding programme, which was launched as a pilot project in Gauteng with the view to extend it to all provinces, is aimed at developing an enabling platform to assist SMEs and emerging businesses to hone their skills and gain access to much-needed market opportunities. It included sponsored supplier development training involving, amongst others, the South African Revenue Service, Small Enterprise Development Agency, Regenesys, Bull’s Eye and others.  Members and captains of industry are encouraged to support this rewarding initiative. Consider “adopting” a youth-owned business with the possibility of gaining an added benefit in the form of points towards B-BBEE scoring under Enterprise Development, or, simply Buy Youth, Buy Local!  The analogy in terms of sustainable development and growth is clear!

At this time of the year it would also be appropriate to urge consumers and members to Buy Local.   This is an ideal opportunity for members and other corporates to source locally-made corporate gifts or utilise homegrown service companies if you intend rewarding staff with a special year-end treat.  The Proudly South African Members portal on the website features numerous special offerings or interesting products and services of our members.  I am also proud to say that if you have visited the Campaign’s website during the past few weeks, you will certainly agree with me that the revamped site looks truly stunning.  Its progressive features include a technologically-advanced web platform, and links to various interesting sources of information, as well as a direct link to the Campaign’s new blog – http://proudlysouthafricanbuylocal.blogspot.com/  Why not visit the blog and share your thoughts and ideas on Buy Local through this versatile social medium?

As December approaches, let’s take time to ponder on the scourge of HIV/Aids and take a firm resolve to intensify our efforts to be part of the solution.  This also applies to pressing global issues, such as the critical need to reduce our carbon footprint on Mother Earth to ensure a sustainable future for the next generation.  Let’s intensify our efforts to use scarce natural resources such as water and electricity sparingly. Many of our members, such as Nedbank and Eveready are already leading in terms of energy efficient systems and approaches. 

We can all go green – in a totally different context.  Join me and the staff of Nedlac and Proudly South African in following the example of our country’s President and millions of proud South Africans and celebrate Football Friday, as we move ever-closer to one of the greatest sporting events ever on the continent of Africa in 2010.

Proud blessings.

Herbert