I read the newspaper yesterday. Can you believe it? I consumed dead tree media, nonetheless I was pleasantly surprised to read a story about ±300 expats who are rallying together to create an organisation that will begin to promote and assist South Africa in growing and developing effectively.
I love the idea. The organisation is pegged as “Global South Africans” and features the most successful and influential South African expats gathering together to pool their resources and networks to help their homeland.
According to the article these people were often branded as “sellouts” when they left SA. But now they are on a warpath to make things better.
One of the most interesting things about this initiative is that these people have undertaken to discover the truth about the country so they can begin to educate the people within their networks about the situation in SA. For example: “Eskom chairman Bobby Godsell addressed the London-based members on the “real facts” of South Africa’s electricity future, so they could relay the message to their investor friends.”
Apparently some government representatives have come out stating that they dislike the elitist nature of the organisation. Apparently the organisation claims they will have over 800 members within two years. I don’t think there is anything wrong with those who have money and influence pulling together to make a difference. Isn’t this what we keep asking the rich and famous to do? To get involved?
source: The Times
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December 15th, 2008 at 4:09 pm
You make a very good and valid point in your concluding remarks! Would it be that expats are considered “elitist” by our government because of their ability and capability to work elsewhere? Shortsighted and silly, for an organisation like this might just contribute to direct necessary skills back to SA!
December 18th, 2008 at 5:49 pm
Sounds fantastic to me. A shame that there is already criticism instead of encouragement.