In Johannesburg, a sense of optimism is emerging as various green shoots of growth and development are sprouting across the city. The residential market in Glenhazel, for instance, has seen a significant shift, with family homes becoming increasingly difficult to find and rentals even harder to secure. This change indicates that people are choosing to live in the area, contributing to a renewed sense of community and vibrancy.
Within the Jewish community in Johannesburg, several significant investments and developments have taken place. The Chassidic community has built a new campus, while Pine Street Shul in Orchards has undergone a remarkable rebirth. Additionally, the Kollel and Chabad of Norwood have undergone major upgrades, and Torah Academy has invested in a new Girls High School campus. These developments signify a strong sense of commitment and confidence in the community's future.
The establishment of new institutions and initiatives also reflects a sense of hope and renewal. Ma'ayan Chai, a Chabad seminary, has opened its doors to its first group of young women, while the Academy of Jewish Thought and Learning in Houghton is creating a new generation of Jewish Studies teachers. Furthermore, the Chevrah Kadisha has expanded its services to cater to around 10,000 people across various needs, recently introducing Rimon Health, a primary healthcare program for uninsured community members.
The response of the South African Jewish community to recent challenges has also been noteworthy. Following a difficult period, the community came together to create a campaign called "Pride Without Apology," which aimed to promote Jewish identity and confidence. This initiative, led by the South African Jewish Board of Deputies and the South African Union of Jewish Students, marked a significant shift from fear to confidence and from hiding to engaging.
Outside of the Jewish community, similar initiatives are underway. CAP Green, for example, has transformed Galliot Park in Glenhazel into a beautiful and safe family park, while businessman Rob Katzen has helped rebuild Jeppe High School for Boys into a five-star campus. These efforts demonstrate that individuals and organizations are taking proactive steps to improve their surroundings and create positive change.
Collaborative efforts between business and government are also yielding promising results. The Government-Business Partnership, led by Discovery founder Adrian Gore, has made significant strides in areas such as electricity, logistics, and crime. Additionally, Jozi My Jozi, co-founded by Robbie Brozin and Adam Craker, has brought together various stakeholders to drive urban renewal and community engagement in Johannesburg.
As these top-down and bottom-up movements converge, there is growing optimism that Johannesburg could become a model for urban renewal. With various stakeholders working together to address the city's challenges, there is a sense that the city can begin rebuilding itself and becoming a vibrant and thriving metropolis once again.
Key points
- The emergence of green shoots in Johannesburg is driven by a combination of community investments, urban renewal initiatives, and partnerships between business and government.
