100 reasons why we love south africa

Home » 100 Reasons Why We Love South Africa #ReasonsWeLoveSA

100 Reasons Why We Love South Africa #ReasonsWeLoveSA

When the headlines around you are getting you down, escape to this page where proudly South African citizen Jennifer Conry has listed the reasons daily – from 30 Aug 2019 until December 2019 – on why she is so passionate about her beautiful homeland – South Africa (SA). Siya Kolisi: “Through hard work and dedication, […]

When the headlines around you are getting you down, escape to this page where proudly South African citizen Jennifer Conry has listed the reasons daily – from 30 Aug 2019 until December 2019 – on why she is so passionate about her beautiful homeland – South Africa (SA).

100 Reasons Why We Love South Africa #ReasonsWeLoveSA
Source: Springboks.rugby (Photo by Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images/Getty Images)
  1. Siya Kolisi: “Through hard work and dedication, the leader of our boys in green and gold reached for his dreams and became an inspiration to South Africans from all walks of life. We are behind him 100% as he heads for Japan today.” (30 Aug)
  2. The Cango Caves: “This beautiful, 20 million year-old system of caves is Africa’s largest cave system and has some of the world’s biggest stalagmite formations…”

100 Reasons Why We Love South Africa #ReasonsWeLoveSA

3. The cry of the Fish Eagle: “This haunting cry captures the heart and soul of Africa. There are few calls more beautiful…”

https://www.facebook.com/birdfun.1/videos/1097723933657060/

4. The National Flag: “Our beautiful, multicoloured flag, designed by Mr Frederick Brownell, is a symbol of the diversity and vibrancy of our nation…”

100 Reasons Why We Love South Africa #ReasonsWeLoveSA

5. Wayde Van Niekerk: “Although injury will prevent Wayde from competing in the World Athletics Championships in Doha, he has remained positive and focussed. He is an inspiration on and off the track.”

100 Reasons Why We Love South Africa #ReasonsWeLoveSA

6. The Ndlovu Youth Choir: “Amidst all the chaos of the past few days is this choir – a beacon of shining light that makes me burst with pride for being South African. The children in this choir are so talented, so inspirational and so genuinely invested in their art. Their energy is contagious and represents the true vibration of the heart of South Africa. This is the South Africa that I love.”

100 Reasons Why We Love South Africa #ReasonsWeLoveSA

7.South African Women: “Whether it be Lilian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph, Rahima Moosa and Sophia Williams-De Bruyn -who led the iconic 1956 march against pass laws – or the grandmothers, mothers, sisters and daughters – who so profoundly impact on our daily lives – South African women are strong. They are resilient, they are passionate and they are brave.They are deserving of our deepest respect.”

100 Reasons Why We Love South Africa #ReasonsWeLoveSA

8. Chester Williams: “Today (6 Sep 2019) we mourn the passing of an iconic sportsman who played a pivotal role in the 1995 Rugby World Cup final, ending an era of oppression and exclusion and opening the door to new possibilities for South Africa. May he rest peacefully. ” More about Chester Williams. 100 Reasons Why We Love South Africa #ReasonsWeLoveSA

9. Free Press: “The last week in SA has been difficult. Stories of senseless violence against women, children and foreigners have flooded the news in South Africa. Our reporters have kept us abreast of what is happening every step of the way. Their stories are not censored and they express their opinions openly and without fear of consequence. This is a luxury we have in South Africa that is not shared by many other nations.”

100 Reasons Why We Love South Africa #ReasonsWeLoveSA

10. Nandos: “With its delicious chicken and controversial, witty marketing campaigns, Nando’s is one of my absolute favourite South African brands.”

100 Reasons Why We Love South Africa #ReasonsWeLoveSA

11.God’s Window: “This magnificent area offers breathtaking views of some of SA’s most beautiful landscapes. It truly lives up to it’s name.”

12. African Wild Dogs: “These beautiful, intelligent and endangered animals have strong social bonds and deeply caring family relationships.” (TY also Ross Couper for this photo of a very rare and special sighting with puppies at Singita Sabi Sand.)

14. Dr Adriana Marais: “Dr Marais, an award-winning theoretical physicist and technologist, is set to take a giant leap for humankind as she becomes one of the first people to pioneer and inhabit Mars. She is an inspiring and brave South African woman.”

15. Franschhoek: “This breathtaking town, crowned the ‘Food and Wine Capital’ of South Africa, offers beautiful vineyards, spectacular mountains and delicious cuisine. It is one of our country’s gems.”

16. Potjiekos: “This delicious dish, cooked over coals in a cast-iron pot, is a South African treat best enjoyed in the company of friends.”

17. South African Airways: “This one is controversial because of past mistakes BUT quality on-board service and helpful, friendly staff have helped earn our resilient airline a four-star rating. SAA has maintained its position as Skytrax’s second best airline in Africa and remains a first choice for many who are looking for a safe and satisfying flight experience.” Thank you Stan Sanetra for the awesome pic!

18. Southern Right Whales: “These beautiful, majestic creatures frequent the South African waters every year between July and December. Seeing them breaching is a humbling experience never to be forgotten.” Photo by Jean Tresfon.

19. Nkosi Johnson: “This remarkable young boy, born HIV positive, touched the hearts of so many and made a significant impact on perceptions of HIV and AIDS in South Africa and the rest of the world. Nkosi managed to do more in his 12 years than most of us do in our lifetimes.” (Photo: KidsRights.org)

20. Fever trees: “These unique trees with their distinctive yellow bark and long white thorns, are not only ecologically valuable, but beautiful to behold.” (Their scientific name is Vachellia xanthophloea.)

21. Shosholoza: “This moving Nguni song, originally sang to express hardship, now is a show of strength and support. It united South Africans in Rugby stadiums at the World Cup in 1995 and has continued to unite us since.” South African expats have taught the song to foreigners from Vietnam to Ireland (as per this video). Turn it up!

https://www.facebook.com/SAPeople/videos/428957104404752/

22. The Red-Chested Cuckoo (Piet-My-Vrou): “The captivating, unique song of this beautiful bird is a highlight of South African summers.”

https://www.facebook.com/nyalainn/videos/1075702045794961/

23.The Cradle of Humankind: “Some of the world’s oldest humanoid fossils have been found at this remarkable historical site. These have allowed us to piece together the lives of our distant ancestors and appreciate how valuable South Africa is in answering significant archaeological questions.”

24. Archbishop Desmond Tutu: “Anti-apartheid activist, Human rights advocate and Nobel Peace Prize recipient, Archbishop Desmond Tutu is one of South Africa’s national treasures. He is a man of impeccable character, unwavering integrity and genuine concern for his fellow human beings. He is a true South African hero.”

25.Radio 702: “For 39 years this independent talk radio station has kept South Africans abreast of what is happening in our country and the rest of the world. In a young democracy like ours, it is so important to have independent media like this to ensure that the public is always informed.”

26. Boerewors and braaivleis: “Nothing matches the smell of hot boerewors sizzling over hot coals. Saturday afternoon get togethers would not be the same without these two delicious South African treats.”

27. The African Elephant: “These magnificent, highly intelligent animals have been known to display complex emotions like grief and compassion. They are powerful, yet gentle, wise and beautiful – and they call South Africa home.”

28. Wine: “South Africa is globally renowned for producing excellent quality wines. Whether it be white or red, sweet or dry, there’s something special for everyone to enjoy.”

29. Pieter-Dirk Uys: “Social activist, satirist and performer, Pieter-Dirk Uys is a South African who has used his talents and wit to help us to look honestly, and laugh, at ourselves. Tannie Evita is a true South African gem.”

30. Boulders Beach: “This scenic, family-friendly beach in False Bay is home to over two thousand African Penguins. It is the perfect spot for weekend picnics.”

31. Mrs Ball’s Chutney: “This delicious condiment, first introduced early in the twentieth century, is a South African favourite that can be enjoyed with almost any meal. I love it best when served with curry.”


32. Howzit Ja-Nee, Eish, Next-of-next-week, Now now “Our South African lingo is as bright and colourful as our culture…” (TY also SA Meme Girl!!)

33. Baobabs: “South Africa is home to many of these magnificent trees. Sagole Baobab and Glencoe Baobab are two of Africa’s largest trees; while the spectacular Sunland Baobab is estimated to be 6000 years old and is one of the oldest trees on Earth.” (Pic taken before one of the branches broke.)

34. Young Entrepreneurs: “Chill Bru is a delicious chilli garlic sauce bottled by 19 year old, Daniel Herbst, who opened his business when he was just 17. In the last two years his business has grown substantially and he now supplies to 224 stores around South Africa. Entrepreneurs like Daniel, who create their own opportunities, are the future of our country. They make us all proud.”

35. Biltong: “This dried, spiced and cured meat is definitely one of my absolute favourite South African treats. It’s the perfect World Cup snack.” (If you’re living abroad, here’s a biltong recipe: http://bit.ly/biltongsa )

36. The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: “With its diversity of animals and magnificent rolling red dunes, this national park in the Kalahari reflects the beauty and diversity of the African terrain.”

37. The Boerboel: “These beautiful South African Mastiffs are bred for their protective, yet calm and stable natures. They are not only excellent working dogs, but also fiercely loyal companions.” (Photo posed by Tex; breeder Elmarie Albertyn from Delma Boerboels.)

38. The Drakensberg Boys Choir: “These extremely talented boys, from the world’s highest ranking boys’ choir (according to the Interkultur World Ranking List), are not only brilliant performers but caring students devoted to educational upliftment in their community.”

39. Professor Thuli Madonsela: “Ethics, integrity and courage embody everything that Professor Madonsela stands for. She is fierce and formidable and an example to all young South African girls. She is truly deserving of having a rose named in her honour.”

40.  The Roar of a Lion. “At up to 114 decibels, the roar of a male lion is the loudest of any big cat species and can be heard from up to 5 miles away. It is both magnificent and terrifying to hear and reminds us that this beautiful animal truly is the King of the beasts.”

41. The Springboks: “Nelson Mandela famously said that sport ‘has the power to inspire’. Our boys in green and gold do just that. They dream, they persevere, they prevail and they inspire. We are all behind them as they move into the quarterfinal stages of the World Cup.”

42.  Phillip Britz: “Phillip Britz is one of my favourite South African artists. His beautiful impressionistic paintings perfectly capture the mood and ambience of South African landscapes and seascapes.” (Photos from Art Hub Africa.)

43.Highveld thunderstorms: “The deep drone of thunder, the spectacular electric displays, the clean smell of the wet earth and the pounding of the raindrops on our rooftops are part of what we love so much about Highveld summer evenings. Little rivals the power of a Highveld thunderstorm.”

44. Clarens: “This picturesque town set in the Rooiberg Mountain Range in the Free State is the site of many paleontological and geological finds. It is the perfect place for a weekend getaway.”

45. Bunny chow: “This delicious half-loaf of bread, hollowed out and filled with a tasty curry, originates from the Durban community. It is a much loved South African treat.” (Try our recipe here: http://bit.ly/bunny-chow)

46. Rhino beetles: “These delightful and unique beetles are proportionately the strongest creatures in the world. The adults are known to be able to lift up to 850 times their own body weight. Despite their impressive strength and beautiful ‘horns,’ these beetles are harmless to humans.”

47. Thato Kgatlhanye: “CEO and co-founder of the company, Rethaka, Thato provides solutions for some of South Africa’s lower income communities with the Repurpose Schoolbag made from recycled plastic bags. These bags are not only environmentally friendly, but come with a built-in solar light which charges during the day and provides light for studying at night.”

48. Jungle Oats: “Since 1920, Jungle Oats has been a favourite South African breakfast. It is nutritious and wholesome, healthy and delicious. I like mine best with honey, cinnamon and berries. How about you?”

49.Mandoza: “This iconic Kwaito star consistently produced music that resonated with most South Africans. His multiaward winning album Nkalakatha achieved multi-platinum status. He tragically passed away from cancer in 2016 but remains a South African music legend.”


50. The Otter Trail: “This scenic, 44km hiking trail along the Garden Route is named after the Cape Clawless Otter which is native to the region. With breathtaking views, pristine beaches, cliffs and forests, this is definitely one for the bucket list.”

51. Fynbos: “This beautiful belt of shrubland in the Cape is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity. It is one of only 6 global floristic kingdoms and is the most abundant per unit of area. It deserves our protection and preservation.” (Photo by Stan Sanetra.)

52. Weather: “South Africa is well known for its fabulous weather. Our winters are short and mild while our summers are highlighted by long, sunshiny days allowing for plenty of outdoor activities.”

53. Rooibos Tea: “Usually grown in the Cederberg area of the Western Cape, Rooibos tea is South Africa’s favourite herbal tea. It is caffeine-free, high in antioxidants and has numerous health benefits.”

54. 11 Official languages. “In South Africa, we can say ‘hello’ in 11 different languages. ‘Lotjhani’; ‘Molo’; ‘Sawubona’; ‘Dumela’; ‘Avuxeni’; ‘Goeie Dag’; ‘Ndaa’.”

55. Platinum: “South Africa is the largest platinum producer in the world – mining more than double that of all other global producers combined. This valuable and rare metal is both resistant and beautiful.” (The featured ring is from Browns, inspired by a bouquet of flowers and called The Protea Cluster.)

56.  Elon Musk: “Born and raised in Pretoria, South Africa, Elon Musk is an entrepreneur who knows no boundaries. His achievements – including Paypal, Tesla and SpaceX – are too numerous to mention. This is a South African who is having, and will continue to have, a profound impact on the entire human race.”

57.  The Kruger National Park: “At 350 km long and 60 km wide, the Kruger National Park is just smaller than Belgium and one of the largest nature reserves in Africa. It is home to the big 5 and numerous other plant, animal and bird species. It is also the perfect place to escape from the busyness of life and revitalize your soul. The Kruger National Park is one of South Africa’s greatest treasures.”

58. The Makaraba / Makarapa: “These unique, beautifully-decorated mining hats were first created by Alfred ‘Lux’ Baloyi, an ardent football supporter. Initially intended to protect one’s head from flying objects, they have now become an essential fashion accessory for any South African soccer supporter.”

59.  Table Mountain: “Not only is it profoundly beautiful, but table mountain is also believed to be one of the oldest mountains in the world. It has over 1500 plant species – more than are found in the whole of the United Kingdom. Cape Town’s skyline would not be the same without it.”

60. Milk Tart: “This iconic South African dessert is a delicious combination of pastry, custard and cinnamon. It is the perfect accompaniment for an afternoon cup of tea.” (Try our milk tart / melktert recipe here.)


61. Prime Circle: “This award-winning, world-renowned rock band is famous for hit songs like ‘She always gets what she wants’ (watch below) and ‘Breathing’. Having achieved platinum status in South Africa, Prime Circle will, no doubt, remain popular for many years to come.”

https://www.facebook.com/Prime.Circle/videos/10154813479913958/

62. The Computed Axial Tomography (CAT) Scan: This amazing machine, which has revolutionised the capabilities of diagnostic medical imaging, was developed by Nobel Prize winning, Cape Town physicist Allan Cormack and his associate.”

63. Impala Lilies: These beautiful, ornamental shrubs are found throughout the grasslands of South Africa. They flower in July and brighten up our Winter savannahs with shows of crimson, pink and white. While Impala Lillies are well known as a source of arrow and fish poison, they may still be used in medicinal applications.” (Photo taken by Carol Allais at Camp George, Klaserie Game Reserve.)

64. Xolani Gwala: “I was first introduced to Xolani on Talk Radio 702. His distinctive, smooth voice, professional integrity and ability to hold people to account made him stand out as a journalist. It was his personal courage and honesty in his fight against colon cancer, however, that demonstrated his true character. He inspired us and touched us with his courage and humility. Rest in peace, Xolani. South Africa has lost a legend.” (Link below to article with more details on Xolani’s sad passing, and the beautiful letter his wife wrote to South Africans.)

65. Rugby World Champions: “South Africa, along with New Zealand, holds the record for the most Rugby World Cup wins. Yesterday, as our boys proudly held up the World Cup for the third time, they reminded us all of what we are capable of achieving. In the words of captain, Siya Kolisi, it ‘just shows we can pull together if we want to achieve something.'”

66. Amarula Cream: “This delicious cream liqueur is made from the fruit of the African Marula Tree. It is particularly tasty with crushed ice or as an addition to hot coffee.”

67. Dr Chris Barnard: “In 1967, Dr Barnard and his team made medical history when they conducted the first heart transplant operation at Groote Schuur hospital in Cape Town. Today thousands of lives have been saved because of this ground-breaking surgical advancement.”

68. Jeffreys Bay: “This gorgeous coastal town in the Eastern Cape, hosts the annual World Surf League event and is listed as one of the five most well-known surfing detinations in the world. With it’s relaxed atmosphere and sunny beaches, it is a favourite holiday destination for many.”

69. Breaching Great White Sharks: “False Bay is one of the few places in the world where Great White Sharks breach when hunting. It is an awesome sight to witness the ferocity of their ascent and the magnificence of these giant creatures hurtling themselves out of the water. This is one of the many remarkable natural phenomena that South Africa has to offer.” UPDATE: Worryingly, the City of Cape Town has reported that no great white shark has been spotted for 18 months in False Bay.

70. Ouma Rusks: “These delicious snacks were first produced in 1939 by Elizabeth Ann Greyvenstyn in Molteno, Eastern Cape. Made from a traditional buttermilk recipe, they are the perfect accompaniment for a hot cup of coffee.” (Read more about Ouma Rusks’ history).

71.Rhinoceroses: “South Africa is home to both black and white rhinoceroses and has the largest remaining rhino population in the world. The animals play a vital role in our natural ecosystem. South Africa also leads in conservation efforts and attempts to curb the ruthless poaching of these magnificent creatures. We can only hope that they will still be here for our future generations to enjoy.”

72. Chad Le Clos: “World champion sportsman, Chad Le Clos, started swimming competitively when he was just 8 years old. This week Chad won his 145th World Cup gold medal. We are exceptionally proud of you, Chad!”

73. Ndebele beadwork: “The Ndebele tribe, although one of the smallest in Southern Africa, is renowned for its colourful attire, distinctive artwork and beautiful beadwork. The beadwork indicates the wearers status within the community.” (Pic features world renowned Ndebele artist, Esther Mahlangu.)

74. Anrune Weyers (Liebenberg): “This remarkable, talented para-athlete won South Africa’s first gold medal at the 2019 World Para Athletics Championships this week. She was also the winner of ‘Sportswoman of the Year with a Disability’ at the 2019 SA Sport’s Awards. Anrune is a source of inspiration for all South Africans.”

75. The Square Kilometre Array: “This intergovernmental radio telescope project is set to begin construction in 2020. If all goes as planned, its sensitivity will be 50 times higher than any other radio equipment and it will be able to survey the sky more than 10 thousand times faster.”

76. Pilgrim’s Rest: “This quaint, historical town in Mpumulanga is protected as a provincial heritage site. The original architecture of the buildings remains largely in tact and provides a glimpse into South Africa’s mining history. A stroll through Pilgrim’s Rest is like a stroll through the past.”

77. Vetkoek/Amagwinya: “These delicious, fried dough balls are a favourite South African snack. Stuffed with mince, cheese, honey or jam, they are a delectable treat.” (Try our vetkoek recipe here)

78.  Alison: “Most of us are aware of the remarkable story of Alison who miraculously survived being brutally raped, disembowelled and having her throat slit in Port Elizabeth in 1994. Alison chose to allow her harrowing experience to make her stronger and has gone on to motivate countless women in South Africa who have experienced similar traumas. Many South Africans, like Alison, are not victims, but survivors. They reflect our strength and resilience.”

79. Kholo Montsi: “16-year-old South African tennis player, Kholo Montsi, has been ranked 18th in the world having won 5 ITF titles in 5 weeks. Hard-working and dedicated, he shows us what can be achieved when we work towards our goals. We can definitely expect great things from him in the future!”

80.  Cathedral Peak: “Magnificent and picturesque, Cathedral Peak is a haven for nature-lovers and hikers. It is the perfect place to rejuvenate your soul.”

81. David Kramer: “Singer, songwriter and playwright, David Kramer, made his name portraying the everyday South African. Through comedy and satire he brought South Africans together and became an early opposer to Apartheid. With his red vellies and guitar in hand, he made the ‘Volksiebus’ even cooler.”

https://www.facebook.com/blikmusic/videos/112252682153851/

82. Strelitzias: “South Africa is the only country in the world where these plants, with their unique, striking flowers, occur naturally. Perfect as cut flowers, or for attracting sunbirds to the garden, Stelitzias brighten up any South African home.”

83.  Gift of the Givers Foundation: “This disaster response NGO, founded by South African doctor Imtiaz Sooliman, has made a difference in thousands of people’s lives, worldwide. Since its establishment in 1992, it has delivered aid to victims of disasters from many different backgrounds, in numerous different countries. It provides hope and compassion in times that feel hopeless.”

84. Nkosi Sikelel’iAfrika: “Our beautiful and unique anthem consists of 5 of our 11 official languages. It is a message of hope and unity for our nation and was ranked the best national anthem by The Economist in 2017 as a result of its ‘rousing tune.’ God has truly blessed Africa.”

85. Hadedas: “The raucous cries of these ibis birds provide a uniquely South African morning alarm. These fascinating, carnivorous birds not only assist in eliminating common garden pests but are monogamous and mate for life.”

https://www.facebook.com/SAPeople/videos/830009714086395/

86. Cape Town: “Our beautiful Mother City has been voted the ‘best city in the world’ for the seventh time by readers of the UK telegraph. It’s breathtaking mountains, gorgeous beaches, abundant flora and vineyards are just some of the things that it has to offer. It truly reflects South Africa’s natural beauty.”

87. Pierneef: “Born and raised in Pretoria, Pierneef captured the beauty of our South African landscapes in his unique, distinctive style. He is widely regarded as one of our most influential and important art pioneers.” (The painting featured here sold for over R11-million.)

88. Malva Pudding and Ultra Mel: “Few desserts are more delicious than sweet, sticky Malva pudding. Made with apricot jam and a little brown vinegar, it is the perfect way to round off a meal. Malva pudding is particularly delicious when served with another South African favourite – creamy Ultra Mel custard.” (Try our malva pudding recipe here)

89. The Ann van Dyk / De Wildt Cheetah Centre: “This amazing conservation and breeding centre is largely responsible for bringing cheetahs back from the brink of extinction. At the time of its opening, in 1971, there was an estimated total cheetah population of 700 in South Africa. The centre has successfully bred around 800 cubs since then. It is also credited with being the first ever breeder of the rare king cheetah. If it was not for dedicated South African conservationists – like Ann and her brother, Godfrey – we may not be blessed with these magnificent animals today.”

90. The Constitution: “South Africa has one of the most progressive constitutions in the world. It protects our rights to be who we are, be treated with dignity, live and work where we choose to and love who we want to. Opening with the phrase, “We, the people of South Africa”, it seeks unity in ensuring that the sins of our past are never repeated.”

91. Zapiro (Jonathan Shapiro): “This award-winning, controversial and fearless cartoonist, boldly addresses social and political ills in our country with biting humour and sharp wit. He challenges us to honestly reflect on ourselves and, in doing so, inspires us to change.”

92. Spur: “This steakhouse chain, founded by Allen Ambor in Cape Town in 1967, offers delicious dining in an environment that caters for everyone in the family. A trip to Spur is always a treat.”

93. Charlize Theron: “Born and raised in Benoni, this Oscar-winning actress is not only beautiful and talented, but is also a philanthropist and UN Messenger of Peace. Through the Charlize Theron Africa Outreach Project, she assists, educates and empowers African youth in concerns associated with HIV and AIDS.”

 

94. JRR Tolkien: “The author of The Lord of the Rings – one of the greatest novels ever written – was born in Bloemfontein and lived there for the first three years of his life. His time in South Africa is believed to have inspired many of his literary landscapes. As a child, he was bitten by a baboon spider – an incident which is said to have reflected in his later works.”

95. Bourke’s Luck Potholes: “Centuries of water erosion have sculptured this remarkable landmark. Visiting the potholes is a highlight of any trip to Mpumalanga.”

 

96. Simba Chips: “Simba (the Swahili word for ‘lion’) chips were first introduced by the Greyvensteyn family in 1957. These delicious potato crisps come in a variety of tasty and interesting flavours that can be enjoyed at any occasion. My favourite is still salt and vinegar!”

 

97. The Kreepy Krauly: “Our favourite pool vacuum cleaner was developed by Ferdinand Chauvier from Springs in the mid seventies. It takes much of the hassle out of keeping the pool clean, allowing us much more time to enjoy a refreshing swim.”

98.  Biodiversity: “Our beautiful country is rich in biodiversity. It occupies only 2% of the earth’s surface, but houses 7% of its birds, mammals and reptiles and 10% of its plants. It has more species of wild animals than Asia and Europe combined.”

 

99. Nelson Mandela: “Madiba, the father of our nation and our first democratic president, was, perhaps, one of the greatest leaders of all time. It is impossible to sum up his character and contributions in a few short sentences. He was a fierce advocate for human rights, a humble, wise and sincere man, a selfless leader, an inspiration and a hero. He makes me proud to be a South African.”

 

100. South African People: “Our country faces many challenges. It is far from perfect. Despite these, however, most South Africans are warm, friendly, generous and resilient people. They embrace the concept of Ubuntu and dream of a united, peaceful future – a future where we can all enjoy the many, many things that our country has to offer, together.” (PS – these are 2 photos from the Boks Victory Tour that we’ve meshed together.)

BONUS EXTRA

The day after Jennifer Conry completed this 100 Reasons We Love South Africa list, South Africa was crowned Miss Universe! And so, thanks to public demand, here’s a bonus extra:

Zozibini Tunzi. “Beautiful in every way, our Miss South Africa is the reigning Miss Universe. She was born in the Eastern Cape and has a degree in Public Relations from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology. She is a fierce advocate for change and speaks out about gender based violence and acceptance of beauty in all its forms. Zozibini is a true South African role model.”

THANK YOU JENNIFER CONRY!!!

#ThankYouSouthAfricansEverywhere #ForHelpingMakeSAGreat!