Reputation Does Not Clock Out After Hours

 

The Coldplay concert may have dazzled fans, but the real headline came from the audience. A now-viral kiss-cam clip captured a couple in an affectionate embrace. It soon emerged that the pair were both senior executives from the same company. One is the CEO. The other, the Chief People Officer. Both are married, just not to each other. The moment raised eyebrows and has since sparked widespread conversation about leadership, integrity and public perception. The spotlight shifting from entertainment to ethics.

At Reputation Matters, we work with organisations and leaders to build and protect their reputations. One of the core truths we emphasise is this: a leader cannot separate personal choices from professional consequences. You are your values, on and off the stage.

Reputation is built through consistent, authentic behaviour. The best leaders embody their values daily. What you do in private speaks just as loudly as what you say in public. When those do not align, trust breaks. Culture weakens. Confidence erodes.

Leadership is not about what you say in strategy sessions. It is about what people observe in everyday actions. It is about being someone your team can respect and rely on. If your private decisions contradict your company’s purpose or values, then they are not values. They are marketing lines.

To quote Warren Buffett: never do anything in life that you would be ashamed to see on the front page of your hometown newspaper.

Two families are affected. A team and a brand are caught in the aftermath. This is more than viral content. It is a sobering reminder that values must be lived, not laminated.

Authentic leadership is the foundation of any meaningful reputation. Your team is always watching. So is the world.

"What values are you living offstage?"

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Repurposing with Purpose: Celebrating Upcycling, One Stitch at a Time

Caption: Joana Mnisi, one of the talented hands behind Re.Bag.Re.Use, carefully crochets a new creation using upcycled Blue Ribbon bread bags. For Joana, every stitch is a lesson, a legacy, and a promise: to keep learning, to lead by example, and to leave behind a cleaner world for her grandchildren.

As International Upcycling Day approaches on 24 June, Re.Bag.Re.Use is proud to spotlight the power of turning waste into worth. This creative community initiative, based in Hout Bay, brings together 21 women: 15 crocheters and six cutters who repurpose discarded bread bags into beautiful, multifunctional items.

Through their hands and hooks, plastic waste is given new life as stylish, sustainable products that not only reduce environmental harm but also generate income, spark creativity and foster community pride.

One of the first women to join the Re.Bag.Re.Use team, Joana Mnisi, shares her journey.

A grandmother with a gentle smile and a determined spirit, Joana has become a quiet yet powerful presence in the group. Armed with patience and purpose, she transforms empty plastic bags into beautiful multi-functional crocheted creations that carry more than groceries. They carry a message.

“Each stitch is a small step towards a cleaner environment,” she says. “When my grandchildren visit, I show them what I’m working on and remind them that waste doesn’t have to be wasted. It’s something we can reuse. It’s something we can learn from.”

Joana’s craftsmanship is second to none. Her attention to detail and commitment to excellence set a high standard for the team. For her, the journey is both environmental and personal. She continues to learn new patterns and techniques, proving that growth has no age limit. “I never imagined I would be learning like this at my age,” she says. “Every project teaches me something new.”

Thanks to the generous support of Blue Ribbon, the Re.Bag.Re.Use team has repurposed an astonishing 14,843 Blue Ribbon bread bags from June 2024 to May 2025. This weighs in at just under 104 kg, roughly the weight of a baby elephant. Since the project began in April 2020, they have collectively diverted more than 144,000 bags from landfill, over 1,009 kg of plastic saved. For a touch of perspective: that’s the equivalent of more than eight baby elephants.

“At Blue Ribbon, we believe in creating a better tomorrow through the choices we make today,” says Jenelle Bosman, senior brand manager at Blue Ribbon. “Supporting Re.Bag.Re.Use allows us to contribute to cleaner communities, while empowering women like Joana to teach the next generation the value of upcycling and environmental care.”

Together, these 21 women are crocheting change, one bread bag, one loop, one stitch at a time. Their work is proof that upcycling is not only about reducing waste, but about creating value, dignity and opportunity in every thread.

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Media Contact

Regine le Roux

0833021528

regine@rebagreuse.com

 

 

About Blue Ribbon Bread

 

Flour. Water. Yeast. The three simple things that make a loaf of bread, but it’s the ability to share, care and connect over Blue Ribbon bread, which has been bringing South Africans together since 1882. Continuous improvements to our product recipe means that our loaves are packed full of flavour and freshness – always delivering on that mmmm Yum Taste.

 

About Re.Bag.Re.Us

Re.Bag.Re.Use is an award-winning community-driven initiative that repurposes discarded bread bags into handcrafted, multifunctional items. Launched in Hout Bay, Cape Town, the project empowers local women by providing them with skills and income opportunities, while promoting environmental sustainability. Each product tells a story of social upliftment, with a portion of the proceeds supporting local charities, including the Neighbourhood Old Age Home (NOAH) and the SPCA. Re.Bag.Re.Use is transforming waste into opportunity, one stitch at a time.

New Report Reveals What’s Driving Public Relations in Africa Today

New Report Highlights Ethics and Digital Transformation as Key Drivers of Africa’s Evolving Public Relations (PR) Industry

Last week, the African Public Relations Association (APRA), which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, together with the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA), unveiled the latest findings of their annual research into ethics and the public relations (PR) landscape across the continent. The results were presented at the APRA conference, which took place in Mombasa, Kenya. The research was conducted by leading African reputation research consultancy, Reputation Matters.

Now in its sixth consecutive year of tracking ethics and the fourth of mapping the broader PR landscape, the study continues to provide valuable insights into the trends shaping communication across Africa. For the second year running, the research also explored attitudes towards artificial intelligence (AI) and the evolving digital landscape.

This year’s study drew responses from 313 professionals across 24 African countries, representing the broadest regional participation to date. South Africa contributed 30% of responses, followed by Kenya (17%), Nigeria (16%), and Cameroon and Mauritius (7% each). Every response offers rich, contextual insight, reinforcing the diverse and dynamic nature of Africa’s communications landscape.

The results highlight a profession adapting to rapid technological change while reaffirming its ethical foundations. Long-standing challenges, such as underrepresentation at board level and the undervaluing of evaluation and measurement, remain prominent. At the same time, new ethical concerns are emerging as technology accelerates communication at an unprecedented pace.

Key insights from the 2025 research include:

Ethics under scrutiny: Corruption remains the most frequently cited ethical challenge across the countries represented in the study. Respondents noted that broader societal issues such as cultural norms, social injustice, and weak enforcement mechanisms continue to impact public trust and institutional credibility.

AI and ethics in tandem: 69% of participants see AI as a tool to enhance, not replace, PR practice. However, concerns about misinformation, manipulation, and the responsible use of emerging technology are widespread.

Boardroom influence slowly improving: While 40% of respondents believe PR is still undervalued at board level, 38% report that business leaders now rely more heavily on PR counsel, a notable rise from 31% in 2024.

Training gaps persist: There is ongoing demand for professional development, particularly in strategic communication, crisis management, and reputation management. 

PR’s resilience and reach: Although overall response numbers dipped slightly from 2024, the increased regional diversity points to growing sector maturity and a shared belief in PR’s ability to build trust during times of reputational and governance challenge.

Arik Karani, President of APRA, said, “In an era where trust is fragile, the value of ethical public relations has never been clearer. This report shows both the urgency and the opportunity for PR professionals to lead with integrity.”

Sarah Waddington CBE, Interim CEO of PRCA, added, “While optimism is encouraging, it must be matched with a firm commitment to ethics, accuracy, and responsible AI deployment. This year’s research confirms that our industry is increasingly aware of its responsibilities, but much work remains to embed trust at every level. At the PRCA, we remain steadfast in our commitment to guiding the profession through clear standards and support to ensure that ethical principles underpin every use of emerging technologies.”

The report outlines three pillars on which Africa’s PR future is being built: ethical clarity, strategic credibility, and a commitment to continual growth.

Regine le Roux, Managing Director of Reputation Matters, added, “This year’s findings remind us that PR is not just about managing perception. It is about building trust, standing for what is right, and growing together. In an era where digital communication travels faster than ever before, our responsibility as communicators has never been greater. We are the stewards of truth in a time of miscommunication, and the custodians of clarity in a world clouded by confusion.”

“Let us keep moving forward, with integrity in our purpose, with compassion in our storytelling, and with courage in our leadership. When PR is done with heart, it does more than shape brands. It becomes a voice for change. It shapes futures and serves as a force for transformation across Africa.”

“We are deeply grateful to APRA and PRCA for their continued commitment to advancing the profession through research. Their investment in this annual research is setting the standard for ethical leadership and knowledge-sharing across the continent. It is this kind of collaboration that elevates our industry and strengthens our collective impact.”

To further explore the 2025 findings, PRCA Africa and APRA will host a live panel discussion through the Ethics and Practices Network. The session will delve into key insights from the report and reflect on the role of ethics in a digitally transforming world.

Date: Tuesday, 22 July 2025

Time: 12:00 to 13:00 SAST

Attendance is free, and all industry professionals are welcome.

Register here: Zoom

https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Nn2V-1mWQbqnCWVf-y0QBg.

For more information about the PRCA Africa Ethics and Practices Network, visit:

https://www.prca.global/about-us/global/prca-africa/prca-africa-networks/prca-africa-ethics-and-practices

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For more information on APRA: http://www.afpra.org/

More information on PRCA: www.prca.global

More information on Reputation Matters: www.reputationmatters.co.za 

Media contact:

Regine le Roux

regine@reputationmatters.co.za

083 302 1528

Award-Winning Style: Bread Bags Take the Stage

 200 bread bags, one showstopping skirt, and a powerful message.

Caption: Regine le Roux, founder of the Re.Bag.Re.Use initiative, wearing a full-length skirt made from approximately 200 repurposed bread bags, receives the SABRE Award Africa for fashion and beauty, from Diana Marszalek, Global Head of News at PRovoke Media, during a gala event in Mombasa, Kenya.
Upcycled fashion takes the spotlight as bread bags are transformed into award-winning impact.
Last night Re.Bag.Re.Use the South African upcycling initiative that repurposes plastic waste into handcrafted products, received their SABRE Awards Africa in Mombasa, Kenya.
Founder of the initiative, Regine le Roux took to the stage quite literally wearing the brand, a vibrant, full-length skirt crocheted from over approximately 200 repurposed bread bags. Created by the Re.Bag.Re.Use team in Hout Bay, the skirt symbolised the project’s core message: giving waste a second life through community empowerment and creative purpose.

“This recognition is not only for our team, but for every person who chooses to support sustainability and social impact,” said le Roux. “We are incredibly proud to represent a story woven from discarded plastic, transformed by skilled hands into something meaningful, functional and beautiful.”

The Re.Bag.Re.Use team cleans, cuts, and crochets plastic bags into a growing range of reusable products, including shopping bags, accessories and home décor. The initiative has already diverted the equivalent of thousands kilograms of bread bags from landfill, while creating income opportunities and skills development within the local community.

The SABRE (Superior Achievement in Branding, Reputation, and Engagement) Awards are globally recognised for celebrating excellence in public relations and communications. Re.Bag.Re.Use’s win underscores the power of purposeful storytelling and innovation in brand reputation.

Le Roux concluded: “This award is stitched with purpose, pride and the belief of everyone who has walked this journey with us. We are beyond grateful.”
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World Environment Day: Crocheting Change🧶

 

Caption: Cousins Sakile Ndlovu (left) and Mejury Kazingizi (right) crochet side by side at a Saturday morning Re.Bag.Re.Use meetup. Sakile introduced Mejury to the initiative as a cutter. Today, both women transform plastic waste into beautiful, handcrafted, multifunctional pieces of purpose, inspiring others, stitch by stitch.

From Cutting Plastic to Crocheting Change

As World Environment Day approaches on 5 June, Re.Bag.Re.Use is proud to spotlight the power of turning waste into worth. This creative community initiative, based in Hout Bay, brings together 21 women: 15 crocheters and six cutters who repurpose discarded plastic bags into beautiful, multifunctional items.

Since launching just over four years ago, the team has repurposed the equivalent of 144,000 empty bread bags. That adds up to approximately 1,009 kilograms of plastic saved from ending up in landfills or the environment. For perspective, that is more than eight baby elephants in weight.

Mejury Kazingizi was introduced to the Re.Bag.Re.Use team as a cutter by her cousin, Sakile Ndlovu. She began by meticulously cutting plastic strips for the crocheters. Learning and growing is key to the initiative, and all cutters are encouraged to learn how to crochet. At first, Mejury was hesitant. She steered away from the crochet needle, unsure of her ability. But slowly, she began to experiment, tried new projects, and built up her confidence. Today, her hands skilfully crochet recycled bread bags into beautiful, purposeful creations. In fact, when you watch the Re.Bag.Re.Use ‘How to crochet’ tutorials on social media, proudly sponsored by Blue Ribbon, it is Mejury’s hands you see. She is now teaching and inspiring the next generation of upcyclers.

Caption: Through the lens: Mejury Kazingizi demonstrates how to prepare and crochet plastic yarn (plarn) from Blue Ribbon bread bags for Re.Bag.Re.Use’s tutorial series on how to crochet. Her hands, once used only for cutting plastic, now teach others how to craft change, one recycled strand at a time.

Her transformation is best told in her own words shared with the team: “Those hands couldn’t hold a crochet needle. They only knew how to cut plastic. Thank you team. Today, those same hands are making beautiful crocheting.”

Turning Waste into Wonder

Plastic pollution is a mounting crisis, but initiatives like Re.Bag.Re.Use show how a bit of creativity can go a long way. The Hout Bay-based initiative collects empty bread bags and shopping bags that would otherwise clog landfills or pollute the environment.

Every bread bag saved through upcycling does more than just avoid landfill. It supports someone’s growth. It offers dignity, income, and a sense of purpose.

True sustainability is not only about recycling. It is about reducing, reusing and repurposing to create lasting environmental and social impact. Re.Bag.Re.Use embodies this ethos, proving that a cleaner planet and stronger communities can be crocheted together, one bag at a time.

Crafting Calm and Confidence

Beyond the environmental impact, Mejury and her fellow Re.Bag.Re.Use artisans have discovered a deeply personal benefit to their craft. For many of them, crochet is therapy. The rhythmic looping of plarn, has become a calming part of their daily lives.

Studies support what these women experience firsthand. Repetitive needlework can boost serotonin, the feel-good hormone, and help reduce cortisol, the hormone linked to stress. Many of the Re.Bag.Re.Use team say that focusing on creating a bag or a hat from plastic waste helps them tune out life’s anxieties. The concentration and care required in crocheting provide a meditative escape.

Just as importantly, learning this craft has fuelled the women’s self-confidence. Every completed item, whether a vibrant beach bag or a durable doormat, is a visible reminder of creativity, growth and pride.

If you would like to learn how to crochet, visit www.rebagreuse.com to get your plarn starter kit. You can follow the tutorials on Re.Bag.Re.Use’s social media pages: Instagram, Facebook or TikTok.

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Every Re.Bag.Re.Use product sold not only supports a cutter and a crocheter,  but also gives back; a percentage of each sale is donated to the Neighbourhood Old Age Home (NOAH) and the SPCA.

Support purposeful fashion and community upliftment by purchasing your unique Re.Bag.Re.Use creation at: www.rebagreuse.com

Kalk Bay Creatives Unite for Ocean Action

 

Local Artists Unite in Kalk Bay for World Ocean Day to Combat Plastic Pollution

Inspired by the sea and driven by purpose, 15 local artists are showcasing their work in a special World Ocean Day exhibition to help protect False Bay’s shoreline.

The World Ocean Day Exhibition takes place on Saturday, 31 May 2025, at the Kalk Bay Community Centre from 10:00 to 17:00. The event aims to raise funds for custom-designed beach-cleaning equipment to speed up the removal of plastic pollution from False Bay’s sensitive shoreline.

The event is spearheaded by local environmental champion and artist Margot King, a member of the Kalk Bay Anti Litter Group. It will support the development and testing of a specialised beach-cleaning sieve designed to tackle the type of plastic waste that traditional methods cannot keep up with.

“False Bay is a jewel of biodiversity, but plastic pollution is choking our shores and poisoning our sea life,” says King. “Through this exhibition, we want to inspire people to see the beauty of what we are protecting and to be part of the solution.”

The Kalk Bay Anti Litter Group brings together residents, businesses, and marine conservation partners with one mission: to restore pride in our coastline, protect marine life, and keep plastic pollution out of the food chain. Funds raised will go toward the beach-cleaning sieve prototype, maintenance, and the continued support of local volunteers and cleaners who carry out regular cleanups.

The exhibition features artworks by Mandy Colman, Jacqui Geng, Vennie Juliase, Margot King, Anke Kühn, Gavin Larkin, Heather Maltby, Aubrey Marius, Freddie Sotwa, Kirsten Slater, Gavin Thomson, Marlé van Baalen, Savannah van den Berg, and Elfriede Webb. Award-winning upcycling initiative Re.Bag.Re.Use will also be exhibiting their range of handcrafted items made from repurposed plastic and VHS tape. More than an exhibition, this is a collective call to action, with all artists donating a portion of their sales to support beach-cleaning efforts in False Bay.

The artwork celebrates the ocean and the unique spirit of Kalk Bay, reminding us all of what stands to be lost if we do not act now.

While entry is free, visitors are encouraged to make donations at the event. Every contribution supports cleaner beaches, thriving marine ecosystems, and a coastal community united by purpose.

The initiative is supported by the Kalk Bay and St James Ratepayers Association.

For more information, please contact: Margot King on 0847001070 or email: margotking3001@gmail.com

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Authenticity

“Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are. Choosing authenticity means cultivating the courage to be imperfect, to set boundaries, and to allow ourselves to be vulnerable; exercising the compassion that comes from knowing that we are all made of strength and struggle; and nurturing the connection and sense of belonging that can only happen when we believe that we are enough. Authenticity demands Wholehearted living and loving, even when it’s hard, even when we’re wrestling with the shame and fear of not being good enough, and especially when the joy is so intense that we’re afraid to let ourselves feel it. Mindfully practicing authenticity during our most soul-searching struggles is how we invite grace, joy, and gratitude into our lives.”

~ Brené Brown, The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are

🧶 Gratitude and good news from Re.Bag.Re.Use🏆

We’re proud to share that we’ve won the SABRE Awards Africa: Fashion & Beauty Category!

We recently shared the exciting news that Re.Bag.Re.Use was a finalist in the 2025 SABRE Awards Africa. We are now proud to announce that we have been named the winner in the Fashion & Beauty category!

This recognition celebrates not only our beautiful products, but also the purpose, people and planet-friendly values stitched into each one.

We are so proud and deeply grateful. It is a clear sign that we are onto something meaningful and that we are heading in the right direction, one stitch at a time.

A heartfelt thank you to every collector, cutter, crocheter, customer and cheerleader who is part of this journey. 💚

We will be collecting our trophy at the awards ceremony in Mombasa, Kenya and look forward to sharing that moment with you.

https://www.provokemedia.com/events-awards/sabre-awards/sabre-awards-africa/2025-sabre-awards-africa-winners

The Re.Bag.Re.Use Team

🤗💫🧶

083 302 1528

regine@rebagreuse.com

www.rebagreuse.com

Every Re.Bag.Re.Use product sold not only supports a cutter and a crocheter, but also gives back; a percentage of each sale is donated to the Neighbourhood Old Age Home (NOAH) and the SPCA.

Support purposeful fashion and community upliftment by purchasing your unique Re.Bag.Re.Use creation at: www.rebagreuse.com

Crisis Comms 101: Don’t Just Run to the Lawyers

 

Caption: Criticism calls for communication, not courtrooms. Crisis Communication 101: What the Two Oceans Marathon saga teaches us about public relations, dialogue, and defending reputation the right way.

When a crisis hits, the first response should not always be legal. More often than not, a situation can be diffused — or even turned into an opportunity — through timely, transparent, and empathetic communication.

A quick summary of the Two Oceans Marathon and blogger saga: Two Oceans Marathon organisers have taken legal action against running blogger Stuart Mann (The Running Mann) following a series of critical posts highlighting various organisational concerns. These included issues such as medal shortages, insufficient water points, changes to Blue Number Club seeding, and a general lack of timely communication with participants. Rather than responding publicly to the questions raised, the organisers opted for a legal route; a decision that has sparked widespread concern and debate within the South African running community.

For many runners, myself included, the Two Oceans Half Marathon is a big, hairy, audacious goal. Completing 21 km is a monumental achievement; the catalyst that often sparks a lifelong love for running, and for some, may eventually lead to a marathon or even the Ultra. That is why the race holds such a special place in so many hearts; it is more than just a run; it is a rite of passage.

This year, I ran the Two Oceans Half for the first time in years and was struck by how much more negative sentiment there was around the race compared to when I first participated.

In the lead-up to race day, I came across The Running Mann’s blog. The first post that caught my eye was about the Blue Number Club. I was drawn to it because a friend of mine was celebrating her tenth Two Oceans. It’s a remarkable milestone that earns a Blue Number and truly deserves recognition and, was disappointed with her, about the seemingly small things that were decided no longer to be included, e.g. preferential seeding. His post raised valid, constructive questions; and that’s what prompted me to start following his writing more closely.

But it quickly became clear —not just from that blog, but from comments by other runners — that something felt amiss with this year’s organisation. Many pointed to a lack of communication as a key concern. Of course, there will always be the usual handful of grumbles in any big event, but this felt different. The volume and tone of the complaints suggested something deeper, perhaps a long-standing frustration bubbling up and spilling into even the smaller details.

I’ve always compared building running stamina to building reputation stamina. You need a goal, a training plan, and consistent effort. You need to track your progress, surround yourself with the right people, fuel wisely, and use the right tools. When you’re fit and healthy, you recover faster from setbacks. The same applies to your reputation. When your organisation has built reputation stamina, through consistent behaviour, clear values, ongoing tracking, and the right people, it’s far better equipped to handle difficult moments. A solid reputation gives you that all-important fuel in the tank when you need it most.

Your brand is what you say about yourself. Your reputation is what others say about you. Your reputation is shaped by your behaviour and rooted in your values.

Two Oceans is an institution with an enviable legacy. Its reputation was not built overnight, and it certainly will not disappear overnight either. Despite the criticism, I know many runners will still line up next year. But if the quality continues to slip, and its reputation stamina isn’t maintained, it risks losing its iconic status.

People associate with brands they believe in, and they want to feel seen, heard, and valued. They pay their hard-earned money not just to run, but to belong. And the race starts long before the gun goes off: from registration, to number collection, to the final medal. Every touchpoint counts.

Something to keep in mind: it is not just leadership that shapes a reputation. Everyone in the team contributes to it.

What Two Oceans Could Have Done Differently (Before Going Legal):

1. Call a Communicator Before a Lawyer.
   Involving a reputation or communication advisor early on could have helped diffuse tension. You can build reputation during a crisis. A legal letter often shuts the door to meaningful dialogue.
2. Be Empathetic.
   “We hear you. We’re sorry. We can do better.” These are not admissions of guilt, they are acknowledgements of community. People want to feel seen and heard, not stonewalled.
3. Respond to the Questions.
   Many of The Running Mann’s questions were fair. Ignoring them creates more frustration. Even if you do not have all the answers — say so. Silence speaks volumes, and not in a good way.
4. Be Proactive.
   If things did not go according to plan, admit to it. Thank participants, acknowledge what went wrong, and commit to doing better. Celebrate the wins too, but, be honest about the hiccups.
5. Deal with Issues Early.
   Do not let a trickle of complaints become a tidal wave. Communicate early and often.
6. Keep It Simple.
   Responses do not need to be lengthy or complicated. Short, clear, and timeous answers build trust.
7. Take the Criticism on the Chin.
   People care — that is why they are vocal. They want the race to be the best it can be.

Next Steps for TOM (and Others Watching)

1. Review what worked — and what didn’t.

Be honest. Then take the time to strategise and plan how to do things differently next time. Improvement starts with reflection, followed by action.

2. Reconsider the legal route.

Consider whether pursuing legal action is the wisest use of the NGO’s funds, or whether open, honest dialogue might better serve the organisation’s long-term reputation.

3. Invest in communication and governance training.

Equip the board with the tools and insight needed to respond effectively, transparently, and with accountability.

4. Keep your stakeholders in the loop.

Proactive, clear communication builds trust. Let people know what’s happening, even if the answer is “we’re still working on it.”

Let’s not outrun communication.

Reputation, like running, is built through consistency, resilience, and listening to the rhythm of those around you.

The race belongs to the runners. The responsibility belongs to the organisers. Let’s honour both with empathy, clarity, and care.

In moments of criticism, strength lies not in defence, but in dialogue.

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Article: South Africa: The Friendliest Country in the World? A Reputation Worth Embracing

 

South Africa has been crowned the friendliest country in the world in a recent global study by international money transfer service Remitly. Now isn’t that some incredibly positive news that we can all do with! While this news has been met with both celebration and scepticism, it raises a powerful question: What does this kind of international recognition mean for South Africa’s reputation?

A Reputation Built on Heart

Personally, I think it’s incredible news! I know not everyone may agree — and that’s fair. But I prefer to err on the side of positivity. After reviewing the methodology, I saw it was based on feedback from around 3,000 participants. I would be curious to know more about the sample — where were the participants from, and were the country options open-ended or predefined?

What did surprise me was that more African countries didn’t feature on the list. Having had the privilege of travelling across our beautiful continent, I’ve experienced first-hand the warmth and friendliness Africa has to offer. That said, I’m proud that South Africa has received this recognition — it’s a reflection of the heart that underpins our identity.

Why This Matters for Our National Brand

Recognition like this gives our national brand a valuable boost. At Reputation Matters, we often remind clients that a brand is what you say about yourself, whereas a reputation is what others say about you.

Despite the very real issues we face — from crime and unemployment to inequality — this moment serves as a reminder that South Africa’s character is defined by more than its challenges. As South Africans, we are often our own harshest critics. That’s why it’s important to pause and celebrate moments like these. They highlight the resilience and friendliness that quietly but consistently shape who we are.

Friendliness, Ubuntu and Global Reputation

A strong reputation isn’t built on a single study or feel-good headline — it’s built through consistent, authentic behaviour over time. Still, being recognised for something like friendliness is a powerful affirmation.

Ubuntu — the spirit of “I am because we are” — runs deep in our national DNA. Even when faced with adversity, the way we interact, the way we show care, and the small kindnesses exchanged daily all shine through.

Friendliness isn’t just a feeling. It’s a behaviour — a reflection of the values that guide us — and that matters when it comes to building a global reputation that’s not only strong, but human.

The Power of Balanced Storytelling

So how do we ensure that we keep building a credible reputation — one that celebrates the good while acknowledging the work that still lies ahead?

The key lies in balance. We must continue sharing stories of hope, kindness, and innovation alongside the real stories of the challenges we face. Platforms like Good Things Guy are wonderful examples of how we can shift the narrative without ignoring the truth.

It’s also a reminder that building a better South Africa is not only government’s responsibility — it’s up to all of us. Every small act of kindness, every effort to uplift, every story we choose to share contributes to the bigger picture.

A Reputation We Can All Be Proud Of

I’m thrilled that South Africa has been recognised as the friendliest country in the world. It’s a refreshing reminder of the heart, humour, and humanity that continue to define us. While we must acknowledge our challenges, we also need to hold space for the good — and celebrate it loudly.

Because in the end, reputation isn’t built in boardrooms. It’s built in everyday behaviour. And that’s where South Africa truly shines.

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"Borrow-a-Badge" – The Re.Bag.Re.Use Lanyard Loop

Borrow-a-Badge" – The Re.Bag.Re.Use Lanyard Loop

An eco-friendly, community-powered alternative to traditional lanyards.

Overview

As sustainability continues to rise on the agenda for both businesses and event organisers, Re.Bag.Re.Use offers an environmentally responsible, socially uplifting alternative to traditional conference lanyards.

We’d love to partner with you by providing reusable, returnable lanyards – thoughtfully handcrafted by local artisans using repurposed bread bags. Together, we can reduce waste, create jobs, and spark conversations that matter.

Our lanyards

Each of our lanyards is crocheted using approximately three clean, repurposed bread bags. What was once destined for landfill is transformed into a durable, functional item — complete with a sturdy clasp for securely holding name badges, access cards, or keys.

Behind every lanyard is a talented team of six dedicated cutters and 15 skilled crocheters, all part of the Re.Bag.Re.Use community. More than just a lanyard, each piece represents sustainability, creativity, and a commitment to community upliftment.

How It Works: The Lanyard Loop Model

• Cost per lanyard: R30

• Includes labour, materials, and admin
• R10 of this acts as a sustainability deposit

• Return incentive:

• For each undamaged lanyard returned to Re.Bag.Re.Use, you will receive R10 back – or, you may choose to donate the deposit to one of our community partners: The Neighbourhood Old Age Home (NOAH) or the SPCA.

• Returned lanyards are sanitised and reused for the next conference.

Why Choose Re.Bag.Re.Use?

• ♻️ Zero-waste mindset – Reduce conference waste and landfill impact

• 🧵 Locally handmade – Every lanyard creates income for a cutter and crocheter

• 🫶 Social upliftment – Directly supports our community-focused work

• 💚 Conversation starter – Each lanyard tells a story of repurposing and purpose

• 📸 Great for your brand – Shareable, eco-conscious conference content

Add-ons & Options

🌳Custom wooden name / logo tags – Laser-etched and reusable (R20 extra)

📖 Story tags – Mini message on each lanyard:

“This lanyard was made by [Name], repurposing [material]. Return me, and I’ll return the favour.”

        ✅No charge for orders over 50 lanyards

🧼 Sanitising station signage –

 “Drop it like it’s hot (then we’ll clean it)”

        ✅ Included at no charge

Post-Event Impact Report (Optional)

We can provide a short visual summary post-event, highlighting:

• Number of lanyards reused

• Waste avoided

• Community impact

• Funds raised via deposit donations

Sample of the lanyard

Please note: the clip shown in the image is for illustrative purposes only. The final clip may vary slightly depending on availability at the time of production. Rest assured, all clips used are durable and functional, selected with quality and sustainability in mind. 

More about Re.Bag.Re.Use

Re.Bag.Re.Use is a proudly South African initiative started in 2021, born from a desire to turn everyday plastic waste into purposeful products. Instead of ending up as pollution on our streets, in landfills or oceans, clean, soft plastic is repurposed into beautiful, functional bags and accessories.

At the heart of Re.Bag.Re.Use is the opportunity to make a difference — reducing plastic waste while also creating income-generating opportunities for women in under-resourced communities. By crafting each item by hand, our makers not only earn extra pocket money, but also help put bread on the table — one stitch, one bag, one lanyard at a time. 

Re.Bag.Re.Use has received four international awards and one local recognition for its work in sustainability, communication, and social impact — including being a finalist in the 2025 SABRE Awards Africa (Fashion & Beauty category) and a winner in the 2024 Global Alliance Awards for ESG impact.

Let’s Make it Official

We’d love to help make your events more sustainable and more meaningful. If you’d like to chat or book your lanyards, please contact:

Contact us to discuss further:

Regine le Roux

📞 083 302 1528

✉️ regine@rebagreuse.com

🌍 www.rebagreuse.com

Payment terms: A 50% deposit is required to confirm your booking, with the balance payable upon delivery of the lanyards. If you choose to join our Lanyard Loop, we’ll refund R10 for every lanyard returned in good condition. It’s a small step that helps us keep waste low and community impact high.

A portion of proceeds from each lanyard booking will be donated to the Neighbourhood Old Age Home (NOAH) and the SPCA.

Re.Bag.Re.Use – From plastic to purpose, one lanyard at a time

Re.Bag.Re.Use Stitches Up a Spot in SABRE Awards Africa Finals

We’re proud to share that Re.Bag.Re.Use has been named a finalist in the 2025 SABRE Awards Africa, under the Fashion & Beauty category. The SABRE Awards (Superior Achievement in Branding, Reputation & Engagement) celebrate excellence in strategic communication and highlight campaigns that make a meaningful impact.

This recognition reflects the power of purpose-led storytelling. Re.Bag.Re.Use is a Hout Bay-based social enterprise initiative that transforms discarded plastic into handcrafted bags and accessories — each one made with care, creativity, and a commitment to sustainability. Beyond reducing waste, the initiative creates income opportunities for women in under-resourced communities, using creativity to fuel both economic upliftment and environmental impact.

Being recognised on a continental stage reaffirms the value of our mission: to stitch together a more sustainable and socially conscious future, one bag at a time.

Every Re.Bag.Re.Use product sold not only supports a cutter and a crocheter, but also gives back — a percentage of each sale is donated to the Neighbourhood Old Age Home (NOAH) and the SPCA.

Support purposeful fashion and community upliftment by purchasing your unique Re.Bag.Re.Use creation at: www.rebagreuse.com

 

Global Recycling Day (18 March 2025): Waste Isn’t Waste

Caption: On Global Recycling Day (18 March 2025), we celebrate the power of rethinking waste. These dedicated hands belong to Maggie Milanzi, a proud team member of the Re.Bag.Re.Use team in Koedoespoort, Pretoria. Maggie is skilfully transforming empty Blue Ribbon bread bags into a beautifully handcrafted, multifunctional bag. By upcycling, we extend the life of plastic before it enters the recycling stream, proving that waste can hold real value. True sustainability goes beyond recycling—it’s about reducing, reusing, and repurposing to create lasting environmental and social impact. (www.rebagreuse.com)

We’ve all heard about the importance of recycling – it’s a message that is constantly in front of us, whether it’s the triangular recycling symbol on packaging or an advertisement for an eco-friendly product. But, if we truly want to reduce our waste footprint, we need to think beyond recycling and also consider waste reduction, reuse and repurposing (upcycling). Our waste holds significant value, and by embracing recycling and upcycling, we can unlock this value and create an entire secondary resource value chain – one that drives sustainability, economic opportunities, and environmental impact. With Global Recycling Day on 18 March 2025, now is the perfect time to explore what the waste economy is really about and how we can all play a role in it.

As a Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO), Polyco helps ensure more plastic is collected, processed, and kept in the recycling value chain. “Almost everything we throw away could have a second life. With new regulations like the Extended-Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations, products and packaging are being designed with recyclability in mind.  This means that majority of products can and should be recycled,” says Patricia Pillay, Polyco CEO.

But it doesn’t stop with recycling. With a bit of creativity products and packaging, in many instances, can be upcycled. We have seen so many exciting innovations in the upcycling space.

Global Recycling Day highlights the power of rethinking waste. Understanding the difference between recycling and upcycling allows us to see opportunities where we can close the loop on waste. Let’s explore this more.

Recycling breaks materials down into their core elements to create something entirely new. For example:

• Glass bottles → New glass jars and windows
• Aluminium cans → Bicycle frames and airplane parts
• Plastic bread bags → Pipes, rubbish-bin liners and even furniture

Upcycling keeps materials as they are, simply transforming them into something useful. For example:

• Glass bottles → Decorative vases or drinking glasses
• Aluminium cans → DIY stationery holders
• Plastic bread bags → Beautifully crocheted shopping bags have become a popular functional item that are replacing plastic shopping bags. Have a look at the work that Re.Bag.Re.Use  is doing; a prime example of upcycling.

Both processes reduce waste and contribute to a secondary resource economy, but they do so in different ways. Recycling breaks materials down and reshapes them into entirely new products, whereas upcycling preserves the original material, giving it a fresh purpose.

Although recycling remains the top priority due to its scalability and long-term impact, upcycling plays an important role in extending the lifespan of plastic before it eventually enters the recycling value chain

"For us at Blue Ribbon, it’s about making the most of every material," adds Stephanie Hoy, Marketing Executive for Bakeries at Premier FMCG. "Our bread bags are 100% recyclable, and we actively support responsible recycling. But at the same time, we love seeing upcycling projects like Re.Bag.Re.Use giving plastic a second life before it reaches a recycling facility. It’s about sustainability with impact!"

Not every piece of plastic makes it into the recycling system right away. That’s why Blue Ribbon proudly supports upcycling initiatives like Re.Bag.Re.Use, which collects used bread bags and transforms them into crocheted, functional products – all while creating jobs and empowering women in the community.

"We take something that would usually be thrown away and turn it into something beautiful and practical," says Regine le Roux, Founder of the Re.Bag.Re.Use initiative. "Upcycling isn’t just about reusing plastic – it’s about creating opportunities, promoting material sustainability, and finding value in our waste."

This Global Recycling Day, let’s rethink waste together – because every bag, bottle, and can has more to give.

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Above: Fashion with a purpose! This moonbag and sun hat, crafted by the Re.Bag.Re.Use team, were once empty Blue Ribbon bread bags. By repurposing plastic into functional, stylish accessories, we extend the life of waste, reduce environmental impact, and empower local communities. This Global Recycling Day (18 March 2025), let’s embrace recycling, upcycling, and rethinking waste to create a more sustainable future!

Media Contact

Regine le Roux

0833021528

regine@rebagreuse.com

 

 

About Blue Ribbon Bread

 

Flour. Water. Yeast. The three simple things that make a loaf of bread, but it’s the ability to share, care and connect over Blue Ribbon bread, which has been bringing South Africans together since 1882. Continuous improvements to our product recipe means that our loaves are packed full of flavour and freshness – always delivering on that mmmm Yum Taste.

 

About Re.Bag.Re.Us

Re.Bag.Re.Use is a community-driven initiative that repurposes discarded bread bags into handcrafted, multifunctional items. Launched in Hout Bay, Cape Town, the project empowers local women by providing them with skills and income opportunities, while promoting environmental sustainability. Each product tells a story of social upliftment, with a portion of the proceeds supporting local charities, including the Neighbourhood Old Age Home (NOAH) and the SPCA. Re.Bag.Re.Use is transforming waste into opportunity, one stitch at a time.