“ The unemployment rate in South Africa soars to 30% as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic”

“Unemployment figures in South Africa have recently risen sharply as the country feels the economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.”

 These are just some of the headlines that meet us every morning.

Just think about this one for a moment…. The unemployment rate in South Africa has officially hit 30%.  THIRTY present!  And let’s be honest, this is just the beginning of the COVID fallout.

I get confronted daily with businesses closing where Covid was the last straw that broke the camel’s back. My heart bleeds for these business owners who once stood before an empty office or factory and had great plans. They were inspired and saw themselves as part of the solution in our beautiful country.   Now those same ambitious entrepreneurs stand in front of staff and tell them they won't get paid, will be retrenched and has now become part of the 30% statistic.

The heartache and disappointment showing on their faces and some just can't stop a tear or two sliding down their cheeks.

In most cases the cause is not a single thing but the conjunction of many factors.  The slow-down in the economy, Covid, lack of savings and unfortunately not enough support. 

Whether you are and employer or employee, these are tough times, and we are all in for the toughest stretch our generation has ever faced.

These headlines make me grateful and every morning I stop at our office I feel so blessed.  Look after yourself and your business and support each other.   

The solution will come from those same entrepreneurs.  Finding new solutions, new business opportunities and finding new stamina for the next level.  Hang in there!  Stay strong and look for those golden opportunities around you.