#ImStaying - Local is Faf(fing) Lekker

Spreading gratitude, love, respect and understanding - the #Imstaying movement is a "nation-sized" love-letter to the country and many South Africans will agree that it is one of the biggest and most heart-warming highlights of 2019.

It all started when Cape Town resident Jarette Petzer, posted a patriotic video on his personal Facebook page. When interviewed by media outlets, he said the reason behind the video was because he was tired of the skewed and negative news promoted on various platforms. Jarette simply wanted to place a spotlight on what is good in the country, which is most importantly its beautiful, caring, and positive people. But, at the time, little did he know, his sentiments would create a rainbow-coloured wave throughout South Africa as his message began to resonate with thousands of people from all over the country and beyond.

Not long after the video, a Facebook group was created named #ImStaying which provided a platform for people to share their uplifting stories, celebrate their diversity and action meaningful change in the country. In less than three weeks, the group had over half a million members and today it has grown to over 900 000 members and counting.

#ImStaying started off with a simple message, however, in the true spirit of the movement, it transformed into something so much more. Putting words into action, it is now an NGO that is working on a number of initiatives aimed at helping small, medium and micro-sized enterprises (SMMEs) and creating jobs in this sector. And in true South African style, residents have already donated over R104 000 towards the NGO through the crowdfunding website known as BackaBuddy.

Speaking to Erna Sciocatti, owner and principal agent of RED Properties, she says that #ImStaying has found a place in the hearts' of South Africans and it couldn't have come at a better time.

"I believe that many residents from all over the country were looking for a platform like this where good deeds are shared, celebrated and encouraged. And in this way, more people are inspired to make a positive contribution in society and help wherever and however they can."

"South Africans are talented, hard-working, creative and with a wonderful and unique sense of humour that pulls us through in tough times and makes us stronger together. With our positive energy and vibe South Africans were rewarded this year winning The Rugby World Cup, the Blitzboks were crowned Dubai Sevens champions after beating New Zealand 15-0 in the final, Phumelela 'Purrah' Mapukata was named Mr Deaf World at the international pageant held earlier this year and now Zozibini Tunzi was crowned Miss Universe! We have much to be thankful for. I'm positive, I'm proudly South African and #ImStaying."

Erna, who lives in the northern suburbs of Cape Town, shares a feel-good story about this community who she holds close to her heart.

This story was featured on the feel-good website Good Things Guy.

"A lady named Jean-Marie Lindeque was travelling on the N1 from Cape Town to Durbanville - she was 35 weeks pregnant and experiencing the summer heat in a car without an air-con. On her journey, her car started experiencing troubles and began making terrible noises, so in a panic, she pulled up on the side of the highway and noticed a silver bakkie pulling up behind her. To her relief, it was a good Samaritan who came to her aid and temporality fixed the problem so she could get home safely. After this, they went their separate ways, however, Jean-Marie wanted to find out who the man was and thank him. After weeks of searching for the man's identity on social media, Paul Louw came forward as the good Samaritan."

Jean-Marie had the following to say when interviewed by Good Things Guy:

"It is amazing how social media can find a needle in a haystack..", "My post was about finding a man who I wanted to thank and it worked. I hope Paul gets all the good out of this episode that he can as I was terrified that day."

South Africa truly has many amazing people and this is undoubtedly the country's greatest resource. If a life in Cape Town's Northern Suburbs is your next "proudly South African" place to call home, speak to RED Properties today!