Rotary heads the portfolio as Entrepreneurship and Innovation. WRC is mentoring a number of entrepreneurs but suggests that ideas be generated under the innovation heading: Why, because Rotary and many NGO’s are tinkering on the sides of a major social disaster. With innovative ideas, promoted through the right channels for implementation, WRC can extend its influence and can perhaps make a bigger impact on some of the social problems facing this country.
Herewith a few examples of the power of ideas: Michael Jordaan, ex Firstrand, suggested that title deeds be given to the owners of shacks around the cities and also to those in the countryside. Over time these shacks have developed value, which can now be unlocked. A company called E-Deeds, uses blockchain and AI to provide accurate valuations. The owners can borrow against their property to improve the shacks further or to start a business. It is estimated that R3 trillion in capital can thus be unlocked!
Jordaan also said that school buildings are standing empty for two thirds of the day. Hold two sessions a day and there is a smaller need for new school buildings. Langebaan Rotary Club is apparently running with this idea, that a new high school can make use of the primary school buildings. Also, with so many school leavers that will never be formally employed, self-employability subjects need to be part of the school syllabus.
Road deaths of pedestrians have been cut by ordering that all workman’s overalls have reflective strips. Further, a new avenue of transport has opened up, in far flung places, with hikers offering a R20 or R50 note for a ride. Another idea is to promote the “one man, one acre” concept, that is used by 2.8m farmers in Rwanda and other mid-African states, to Agri SA, to see if it can be implemented here.
I believe WRC members have much life and business experience and possess creativity and intelligence, despite the many actuaries and lawyers in the club, to come up with great ideas that can make a difference. The proposal is that WRC functions on two levels: Firstly, to continue with what we have been doing and secondly, to come up with ideas that can make a difference.” 👏👏
