A President, a Captain, a Nation

I will most certainly be going to watch this movie featuring Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon. I well remember the Rugby World Cup 1995. I was fortunate enough to be able to attend the opening game at Newlands in Cape Town and even today I am moved by the memory of that emotional outpouring of patriotism amongst the throngs of people present in the stadium.

I can still hear the crowd shouting "Nelson, Nelson" as President Mandela walked out to greet the crowds during the opening ceremony. As the national anthem was sung, I remember turning to my right and seeing a white middle-age man crying as the emotion of the moment overwhelmed him.

I do not know if it is possible for those who are not South African to understand that the story portrayed in this movie is not just about a "good story" - it is a much deeper and emotional tale that speaks to the very heart of what it means to be South African in this era of change, uncertainty, challenge and opportunity.

Go and watch this movie and be reminded that sport unites and that we can stand proudly together as brothers and sisters in a beautiful country that more than ever needs unity and Umoja - a spirit of togetherness.

Toto's Africa - A Fantastic Rendition

Thanks to Brian Ibbott of Coverville for this video of an acappella choir from Slovenia giving a rendition of Toto's Africa which is absolutely awesome. The simulation of a rainstorm using their bodies is truly amazing. I suggest listening to the track with your eyes closed before watching it again to see the visual impact.

Their YouTube video of this item has, at the time of writing this post, reached over 1,1 million views! They have several other videos on YouTube for your enjoyment.

Ladies and gentlemen, I give you Perpetuum Jazzile :

Mean Mr Mustard's Fred Hayward dies

South Africa's music industry has been dealt a blow with the death of Fred Hayward, bassist for Mean Mr Mustard. He apparently died of a heart attack. He was in his thirties.

Hayward was an integral part of a band that has become synonymous with the growth and international acceptance of the South African music industry. He will be sorely missed.

You can leave your tribute to Freddy here.

Another Social Network - Can it work?

It seems that the internet has really come into its own over the past year - almost everyone now has a Facebook profile, a MySpace page or a Twitter stream. People are using the web more and more to connect with one another and are harnessing its power both in business and in their personal lives.

Breaking into the social networking arena with a view to make a significant impact is a tough assignment! A new kid on the block however aims to make its mark!

Welcome Vyoom - a social networking site with a difference!

What makes this different is their promise to reward users with prizes for activity. I do hope that their financial modelling allows for substantial growth - if not, I am not sure they will be able to sustain their giving of prizes to their users.

Let's see what happens!