It has almost been three weeks since our return to South Africa from the life changing experience in Washington DC. Not only did I learn a lot about myself, but I have also grown tremendously as a person. I have built lifelong relationships with different people across South Africa and made memories that I will cherish forever.
Being back in South Africa, I realised that my Washington DC experience made me appreciate my country even more. So much so that I would consider the following as my personal seven wonders of South Africa :
1) Our Democracy
Our democracy is only 22 years young now, and already we can see how it is constantly evolving. With the current elections we saw how the nation held the majority party accountable at the ballot boxes. We saw how important every single vote is, and that no one can say that his or her vote would not make a difference.
We saw how different opinions, ideologies and philosophies on issues can truly be heard with our political platform. If you examine the different parties you could vote for, you will find that there are parties across the spectrum from far right to far left. You as a voter have the prerogative to choose a party that you can most associate with, in terms of policies and ideals. As a citizen you can then vote for the party of your choice, in hope that those policies and ideals can bring us forward. I love the way our democracy has developed over the past 22 years and how it is continuously being developed – something I am proud of.
2) People
South Africa is most probably one of the most diverse countries - in terms of different races, cultures, religions and backgrounds.
What is most interesting for me about our diversity is how two people that are from a different race, culture and background can have more common ground than someone who has the same demographics. Each individual has his or her own unique narrative, making us even more diverse. I love the fact that our country enables us to live in a beautiful interwoven mesh of diversity. People can be who they want to be and believe in what they want to believe in.
3) Nature
It is impossible to elaborate enough on how stellar the fauna and flora of South Africa is. Simply put - South Africa is absolutely beautiful! In just a day’s drive in one of our game reserves you have the opportunity to lay eyes on animals such as the big five and hundreds of other species,monuments, bush plains and appreciate the breathtaking landscapes. Not only are we extremely fortunate with our wildlife, but also part of our Nature is Table Mountain and our incredible beaches. On top of the absolute beauty of our nature we also have the best weather. The long sunny days of South Africa is definitely something I appreciated when I was in Washington.
4) Entrepreneurship
Wire cars, statues made from steel, wood crafted flowers and toys, jewellery and various instruments from drums to shakers are just few of the unique products coming from the entrepreneurial spirit of South Africans. Whether you are driving through the streets in the Jacaranda City, driving to your holiday destination or visiting a flea market over the weekends, South Africa is blooming with young and successful entrepreneurs. We have people who wants to make a difference and use creative ways to solve problems in their communities. Our entrepreneurs, no matter how big or how small, all contribute to their communities and ultimately to the economy of South Africa.
5) Food
Chakalaka, ‘Pap en vleis’, Bunnychows, Koeksisters, Bobotie, Biltong, Potjiekos, Melktert, Malva Pudding. Do I need to say more about our unique South African cuisine? The special thing about our food, besides from it being unique and wonderful, is that it brings people together. Our food is not just there to eat but to enjoy with your friends and family.
6) Art and Culture
I think we have the best musicians and artists. It is with raw art that people have the opportunity to truly express themselves. We share stories, we explore, we love, we express.
7) Leadership
South Africa breeds incredible leaders. Unfortunately not everyone can use this leadership in positions of authority, but they still use it to inspire others. We see these leaders rise in tough times and they are constantly fighting to make South Africa better. They are stepping up to the plate to leave their mark which in the end contributes to the bigger picture of making South Africa great.