South Africa is often spoken of in terms of its vast mineral deposits, breathtaking landscapes, or complex history. Yet, our most invaluable and enduring currency is, without a doubt, our people.
Our vibrant, diverse and resilient people form the bedrock of the nation’s strength and future potential. It is in the spirit of ‘Ubuntu’—that interconnected humanity—that makes South Africa truly shine.
The world witnessed a historic milestone last week as South Africa proudly hosted the G20 Summit for the first time on African soil.
The nation’s greatest asset was on full display during the G20 Summit, where the professionalism, warmth, and expertise of South Africans left an indelible mark on global attendees. The logistical mastery and cultural richness experienced by delegates prompted significant praise, reinforcing the country’s capability on the world stage.
As one delegate was quoted saying, “The efficiency and warm welcome we received from everyone, from the airport staff to the summit organizers, was world-class. It was clear that the people here truly took pride in hosting us.”
Another international observer reflected on the atmosphere: “Beyond the politics and economic discussions, the lasting impression is the palpable optimism and energy of the South African people. They are the engine driving progress here.”
In a world increasingly focused on digital transformation and AI, South Africa just reminded the globe where the real competitive edge lies: authentic human connection.
The G20 Summit was not just a diplomatic success—it was a profound showcase of the South African spirit. Delegates from around the world were moved by the world-class professionalism, warmth, and hospitality of everyone they encountered.
This is Ubuntu in action. Our hospitality isn’t a trained transaction; it’s an inherited tradition of treating visitors with dignity and making them feel like family. As a trade representative noted: “In other countries, hospitality is a transaction. Here, it feels like a tradition.”
I wholeheartedly agree with the comments from Dr Nik Eberhl, Chief Executive of the SA Champions Network who said that “We’re hosting world leaders during economic uncertainty and political complexity. Yet our people are radiating warmth that money can’t buy.”
Dr Eberhl shared the most inspiring comments from G20 Summit Delegates:
A French delegate shared something truly profound: “We came to discuss economic frameworks. But what we’ll remember is how your people made us feel. That’s not soft power—that’s real power.”
In this country, our greatest strength is our people. Whatever we do, wherever we go in the world, we are praised for our people.
It’s that South African magic where one person can get an entire stadium in Ireland to sing “Rassie is in your head”.
History has shown us and we see this everyday, that when people work towards a common goal, we move mountains and make change happen.
Too often our common goals are derailed by political shenanigans and corruption. This interference disturbs and disrupts the good work people are doing, creating fractures in the many efforts to bring greater levels of progress in our country.
We have seen some successes coming out of the multi-party Government of National Unity and our President is the most huggable president in the world. I truly believe he is the perfect custodian to lead us.
People can argue that sometimes he does not show enough teeth on issues but he has left people with room to breathe. When people have enough breathing space, most people will make decisions that are not only better for themselves but for their neighbours and peers.
That is ubuntu, that is what we stand for and who we are.
We know what it means to be human. We have been humanised by the many shortfalls and struggles in this country.
In our sector dealing with immigration and visa matters, nothing makes you feel like an equal citizen more than going to Home Affairs. No matter who you are, you are still going to stand in that queue.
The Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber is on a mission to change Home Affairs and bring about massive reforms. To truly bring change that benefits everyone, he needs to have his staff and officials believe in his leadership and vision and ensure that the changes do not leave anyone behind.
There is no progress and no sense in having a Minister who does not have his staff and officials believing in him and backing him. The collective goal must be to understand the important work that Home Affairs does and how the department’s work, policies and systems impact people.
It is the people of South Africa who make this country great and my mission as a leader is not to drag people along for my success but to take people with me.
As the saying goes “We rise by lifting others”.
This G20 revealed South Africa’s true superpower: the ability to make the world feel at home in Africa.
It is time to properly invest in and celebrate our invaluable human currency. It is the engine driving our progress and South Africa’s ultimate differentiator in the global arena.
