The SAB Foundation – A Crutch for Social Change?
As the world becomes increasingly dependent on technology, the SAB Foundation has once again dipped its beak into the quicksand of social innovation, metaphorically speaking. But is this really the solution to the pressing issues plaguing our society?
In a bold move, the SAB Foundation has awarded millions to 23 South African tech start-ups, dubbing it the “Social Innovation and Disability Empowerment Awards”. But let’s dissect this “innovation” further. What does it truly mean? Was it a deliberate attempt to gloss over the systemic problems plaguing our society?
The winners of this prestigious award include the likes of Vusmzi Initiative, which is “empowering people with disabilities to establish beekeeping enterprises”. Enabled: Affordable Hearing Solutions, which “assists individuals with hearing and visual impairments”. And Chief Ralekhudu Enterprises, which provides “scarce skills training for persons with disabilities”.
Is this what we call “social innovation”? Are we really tackling the real issues or just papering over the cracks? We have a right to be skeptical when valuable resources are being poured into unproven, half-baked ideas. What has been the impact? What real change has it brought about?
The SAB Foundation, in their infinite wisdom, touts this as a “holistic approach”, a “comprehensive support package for entrepreneurs” which includes funding, mentorship, business development, and access to mental health resources.
But at what cost? Are we simply rewarding mediocrity? Are we enabling the perpetuation of existing systems of oppression? Or are we truly creating lasting change? The SAB Foundation, it seems, is trying to have it both ways. On the one hand, they claim to be tackling social issues, while on the other, they’re using these supposed “innovations” to justify their own existence.
The truth is, social change requires real, tangible impact. It requires a willingness to challenge the status quo, to confront the harsh realities of our society, and to work towards building a better future. The SAB Foundation, however, seems content to sit on its laurels, congratulating itself on its own self-importance while the real problems remain unsolved.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying the winners of the SAB Foundation’s awards aren’t deserving of praise. But let’s not get carried away with the novelty of it all. Let’s not gloss over the cracks. Let’s hold the SAB Foundation, and its ilk, accountable for their actions. Let’s demand real change, genuine progress, and lasting impact.
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