Here’s a look at some of Mzansi’s highlights for 2019.
Successful election
It’s almost impossible to believe that we actually went through another general election earlier this year (8 May to be exact), because it feels like a lifetime ago.
But, whatever your political affiliations, we can at least celebrate the fact that it was another (generally) peaceful election which saw democracy emerge on top once again.
Black Coffee takes top award
Durban-born DJ legend, Nkosinathi Maphumulo, aka Black Coffee, was awarded the ‘Best Deep House DJ’ award at the international DJ Awards held in Ibiza, Spain.
Black Coffee was one of many bystanders injured by a politically-motivated taxi crash in 1991, losing the use of his left arm as a result.
Despite this, he has gone on to become one the most respected DJs of all time.
Caitlin Rooskrantz wins gold
In September, this 17-year-old gymnast made history by becoming the first South African to win a gold medal at the World Challenge Cup.
Despite suffering several injuries over the years, and having to train for hours a day in-between her school work, she continues to succeed and will be making her way to the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo.
Trevor Noah makes it big
The South African-born host of America’s late-night talk show, The Daily Show, constantly gives the country opportunities to celebrate – and this year is no different.
Earlier this month he was the first African comedian to sell out the prestigious event venue, Madison Square Garden in New York, and just this week he was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Comedy Album (the recording of a live stand-up set).
KFC proposal
#KFCPropsal What a story and what a outcome. Journalist Tries To Shame A Guy For His Proposal At KFC Internet Shuts Her Down And Unites To Help Fund The Wedding https://t.co/UeGaNz08yr
— Asanbai Suranov (@AsanbaiS) November 17, 2019
When a journalist shared a video of a man proposing to his girlfriend in a KFC restaurant, the intended ‘shaming’ backfired spectacularly with Mzansi coming out in full force in support of this couple.
KFC started the ball rolling by asking for help in finding the couple (Hector and Nonhlanhla) and donating food for their wedding, which was met by an uptake from all sectors of community offering to assist and sponsor everything from clothing to homeware.
John Cena surprises Sho Madjozi
WATCH: John Cena surprises Sho Madjozi on 'The Kelly Clarkson Show' https://t.co/UBVPlaunoo
— Mpho A.k.a Da UG MALINGA (@13daug) November 13, 2019
South African musician, Sho Madjozi, not only got a great international platform when American talk show host, Kelly Clarkson, interviewed her, but she also received a surprise visit from the subject of her song, ‘John Cena’. The video has gone viral, bringing more happiness to Mzansi.
Springboks win the Rugby World Cup
And, of course, the nation united as the indomitable Springboks, captained by Siya Kolisi, lifted the William Webb Ellis trophy at the end of the Rugby World Cup in Japan. This was the third World Cup victory for South Africa, made particularly momentous by the resilience of our ‘underdog’ team and shining example set by Kolisi.
2019 has been a fantastic year for South Africa, but more good things are on the way in 2020!
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