Christmas acts as a punctuation mark in our lives: It gives us a sense of structure. Traditionally, it is a time for sharing and enjoying time spent with loved ones. But beneath the overtly festive overtone, this season tends to expose the missing pieces in our lives. Inevitably, we give more thought to how we and society have changed and where we fit into all of this. By Dr Sulette Ferreira
The SA Chamber of Commerce in the USA (SACCUSA) supported a few events held across the USA during Women’s month in August. Women’s Day is celebrated on August 9 and this year’s theme was centred around women’s socio-economic rights and empowerment. The concept of generation equality is a global campaign and links South Africa to global efforts to achieve gender equality.
The South African Ambassador Xolisa Mabhongo, who is part of the permanent mission of South Africa to the United Nations in New York, met with SACCUSA in August to discuss the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
SACCUSA President Neil Diamond attended both the Springbok vs New Zealand games at Mbombela and Ellis Park Stadiums. He played an instrumental role during his tenure as Municipal Manager of Mbombela Local Municipality in the negotiation phase to secure the Mbombela game and he is seen here with Mbombela Stadium Manager Roelf Kotze.
In September, the South African Chamber of Commerce in the USA (SACCUSA) is celebrating its second birthday. In humans this is the age when a child will start to kick a ball and slowly run. SACCUSA has exceeded expectations and is running at a fast pace while playing ball in the big league.
For those who left South Africa after 2015, the tragic story of the ‘Life Esidimeni’ scam is still etched in everyone’s memory. For those who already lived in the USA, the news of the brutal and inhumane deaths of 144 patients at psychiatric facilities in Gauteng, shocked the world.
In the April edition of Saffamag, I related how Lady Luck has played a huge role in my life. Because of her, far more good things have happened in my life than I would have predicted when I graduated from Wits in 1971. And it seems that she still has an eye on me! By Stanley Trollip
Veteran racing driver, Arnout Kok, is on an audacious mission to become only the second South African to race in the NASCAR Cup Series and, in the process, use the platform as a vehicle to promote the country. Saffa Mag’s Ockert de Villiers checked in with him.
The official opening of Rand Merchant Bank (RMB) office in New York on May 18, 2023, marked a significant milestone in strengthening financial ties between South Africa and the United States. The keynote speaker, South African Deputy Finance Minister Dr David Masondo, highlighted the crucial role of South African financial services in facilitating capital flows for Africa’s development.
A diverse gathering of South African business professionals, diplomats, government officials, and community leaders attended the 29th Freedom Day celebration held at the South African Embassy in Washington DC on April 27, 2023.
A recent international culinary event, bringing together food, wine and the vibrant cultures of South Africa and Switzerland was an unforgettable event.