Author: admin

I was moved and challenged by this article by sports journalist, @MichaelVlismas, @rdm_za, following completion of his first Two Oceans Ultra Marathon.  That race is a tag we may always use in South Africa is probably highly likely.  Whether we continue to use it to separate is a question – it depends if we can start to look beyond what divides.  See how Michael depicts our society in his article – is it possible for us to create this environment more often? http://www.rdm.co.za/lifestyle/2016/03/29/what-i-learned-about-race-on-the-two-oceans-marathon

@alechogg published a comment on #biznews from @Africa_Conf this week, following the SONA.  The article reveals the level of influence the Guptas exert over President Zuma, to their own financial advantage.  A battle between the Guptas and the Motsepes, both substantial ANC benefactors, has ensued, as they seek to increase their power within the ruling party.  But, easily missed, is the gem hidden in the final two paragraphs of the article (http://bit.ly/244x0YZ). "The formidable potential of civil society has been re-activated in recent weeks and moves are now afoot to launch a major national organisation in March to hold government to account and monitor its progress. The five-year project will be headed by church leaders by the Anglican Archbishop of Cape Town, the Right Reverend Thabo Makgoba and will include business leaders, academics, professional and community organisations…

I have been giving some thought, in the wake of the #feesmustfall campaign, to how our differences so often seem to divide us. I have seen the varied responses to the student protests, and recognise my own stance is dictated by my life experience ... and that context contrasts so strongly with that of so many South Africans. I am so encouraged by Josefa Iloilo, former Fijian President's vision "when differences and diversity are not seen as sources of division, but of strength and inspiration."