'The biggest benefactor of the 2010 FIFA World Cup will be [South Africa's] national psyche, and the quest for a common national identity to transcend a deeply divided past' (Brand South Africa)
Let’s take a little trip on our StarShip, down memory lane. On Friday, 11 June 2010 (two years ago today) we opened our country to the world by hosting the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Our country became the focus of the world’s sports’ fans as we held the globe’s most watched sporting event.
Our hotels were packed to the brim, our restaurants came alive, our stadiums grew and our people united in a way that we’ve never experienced before. During that time there was magic in the air. It was completely tangible and real – supported by our catch phrase ‘feel it, it is here.’ We really did feel it. We were profoundly touched by a sense of unity, togetherness and pride. Pride for a nation that has come a long way in a relatively short time. Pride around pulling off one of the world’s most intricate events. Pride for all the wonderful things that make us truly South African.
Did you know?
In a December 2010 Quality Progress, FIFA President Blatter rated South Africa's organisational efforts a nine out of 10 scale, declaring that South Africa could be considered a plan B for all future competitions. The South African Quality Institute (SAQI) assisted in facility construction, event promotion, and organisations. And so, we became a new global benchmark.
Today as we venture towards becoming the benchmark in performance, let’s remember the wonderful experience that we’ve lived through that united us as South Africans. Let’s venture towards being united as TeamStars, dreamers and performers in our country. Let’s reach our dreams and go beyond.
Have a wonderful week.
Cheers,
Joanne Sharpe
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