As we approach the end of a remarkable year, we are excited to bring you the latest updates and highlights from our vibrant Proudly South African community.

In late October, during the Local Fashion Police adjudication, our judges selected the top ten finalists. Proudly South African’s annual competition showcases South Africa’s fashion, textiles, footwear, and leather industry on the global stage, emphasising its potential and its role in creating jobs within a sector employing 60,000 to 80,000 people, constituting 14% of the nation’s manufacturing jobs. This competition, supported by fashion industry luminaries, encourages South Africans to invest in their communities and celebrate local talent. The winners will be announced on 7 November 2023 but will walk the ramp on 16 November 2023 during a captivating fashion show that underscores the synergy between style and sustainability, promising a brighter future for South Africa’s fashion and textile industry, driven by localisation efforts.

Additionally, the “Importance of the Events Industry in South Africa for the Local Economy” webinar, co-hosted by Proudly South African and CEPA, highlighted the vital role of the events industry in South Africa’s economy and emphasised the importance of localisation in nurturing and growing businesses.

We recently joined the Business Breakfast Club in Cape Town to emphasise the importance of entrepreneurs within the nation’s economic ecosystem and the significance of localisation as our saving grace.

And last but not least, the 15th Feather Awards have revealed the “fabulous and fierce” nominees for 2023, promising an unforgettable night of celebration, and reinforcing the importance of celebrating and supporting local talent. As aptly expressed by our Chief Marketing Officer, Happy MaKhumalo Ngidi, our collaboration with the Feather Awards conveys a compelling message: we unite in solidarity with local talent, celebrating the strength found in diversity. Collectively, we will magnify the voices of those who inspire and uplift our communities, illuminating the remarkable contributions of our homegrown artists, activists, and innovators. This highlights the significant potential that exists within our own nation, and every industry we support primarily revolves around job creation. The call to action is and will always be to buy locally. The buying power of the LGBTQ+ community is a significant force in today’s market, contributing substantially to local economies. Their purchasing power, along with their diverse and influential consumer preferences, plays a crucial role in the marketplace. It is imperative that their voices are not only heard but also seen and acknowledged, as their contributions to local businesses through their purchasing choices deserve recognition and respect.

Proudly SA made a spirited appearance at the airport to show the Bokke some love and will continue to follow the team as they embark on a triumphant tour throughout Pretoria, Johannesburg, and Soweto. Our presence at this exciting event was motivated by our strong commitment to promoting local businesses and products. Beyond the spirit of camaraderie and patriotism that unites us with the Bokke, it also presented a perfect platform for brand awareness. By supporting our national team, we not only demonstrate our passion for South Africa but also raise awareness about Proudly SA’s mission to champion locally made goods and encourage economic growth within our communities. The Springbok rugby team’s victory in the 2023 Rugby World Cup serves as a symbol of South Africa’s resilience. This momentous win is a reminder of what our nation can achieve when we stand together.

As we move forward, let us use this monumental achievement as an opportunity to refocus our efforts and reignite our passion for the Buy Local movement. Let us work together to create a South Africa that thrives, where businesses flourish, and where every citizen has the opportunity to prosper. Let us also emphasise the importance of job creation and localisation in our mission.

We are looking forward to November as it holds the promise of increased sales through Black Friday and Cyber Monday, along with opportunities for networking and strategic planning, all of which can have a significant impact on a business’s bottom line and future success.

We eagerly anticipate the Local Fashion Police competition finale and an enlightening “Unlocking Your Business Potential” webinar in partnership with Proudly South African and the South African Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

At the beginning of November, we’ve already started the access to market opportunity by taking some of our member companies to the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA)Forum. The AGOA Forum focuses on strengthening trade and investment ties between the US and sub-Saharan Africa, fostering sustainable economic growth.  

Festive Season is fast approaching, and I would like to encourage you, your loved ones, and your communities to make purchasing decisions that are in favour of locally manufactured goods and services.

I want to thank all our members who have stood by our cause with unwavering commitment and support. Your dedication is the driving force behind the positive change we aim to achieve, and we are incredibly grateful for your ongoing involvement.

We extend a warm welcome to our new members! Your decision to join our cause adds strength to our collective voice and brings fresh perspectives and ideas that will help us progress towards our shared goals.

Remember to check out Proudly SA’s latest CI document to see the various ways in which you as a member of Proudly SA can use our logo on all your qualifying products, websites, and other marketing material.

Should you have any questions, suggestions, or would like to collaborate on future initiatives, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Should you wish to share with the newsletter team any milestones, events, awards, or sales, please send your email to [email protected]. We value your feedback and involvement in shaping the course of our movement.

We are also pleased to share with you our CODE OF CONDUCT for your kind perusal and understanding.

Our commitment to promoting local industries and fostering economic growth, driven by the principles of unity, diversity, and localisation, continues to thrive, thanks to your unwavering support.

Sincerely,

Eustace Mashimbye

Chief Executive Officer