By Alex De Jongh
In Japanese, Misogi is an ancient purification practice. It involves immersing oneself in cold water or standing under a waterfall to purify the mind, body, and soul. However, in modern times, Misogi has taken on a new meaning. Misogi is now seen as a one-year defining event that pushes and challenges you. It is about setting and achieving a goal so big that it becomes a milestone you will never forget. Misogi, at its core, is still about transformation. It is all about peeling off layers of old habits and beliefs and embracing a newfound sense of confidence and a better way of handling challenges. Early in March, I did my Misogi.
From 11 to 13 March, I was privileged enough to go to Hermanus and attend the seventh annual BizNews conference. This conference brings together the brightest minds South Africa has to offer. All under one marquee to listen to an astonishing 28 keynote speakers from all walks of life. Politicians, businesspeople, investors, Olympians, and historians all share the stage and address us on what truly matters to them. I have heard some inspiring stories and hopeful speeches about where this country is headed. It was a step away from the mainstream media’s narrative of doom and gloom to a more unifying message that all the speakers shared that the GNU is the best of the worst situations to be in.
Day 1
After registering and receiving your goodie bag with your delegates booklet, I made sure to get a seat in the front. Helen Zille gave the opening address, setting the stage for subsequent speakers to emulate. She addressed the American problem. While many South Africans are worried about immigration to America and the issues that might pose, Helen Zille takes a different view. She is hopeful that if we make South Africa attractive enough, we will entice more people to move to South Africa rather than stay in the USA. Day 1 also saw the noteworthy speaker, Prince Mashele, and his opinions and predictions for South Africa’s future. He goes against the general narrative amongst speakers by saying that the GNU will fall apart as early as 2028, leaving a political void that major players will be hoping to fill.
Day 2
The second day had us choosing different speakers to listen to at various venues. These are the tough choices one must make at such a prestigious conference as this one. This time, global entrepreneur Rob Hersov delivered the opening address. He centred his speech around South Africa’s fight against Marxism and firmly stood his ground as a capitalist. Before refreshments were handed out on day 2, RW Johnson, a political scientist, addressed us. He came with all the facts. Most interestingly, more people agree with the GNU formation than disagree with it. We found out that the electorate wants the ANC to work more with the broader community and to go into a coalition with the DA. Not only politics but also business was discussed. The CEO and co-founder of WeBuyCars, Faan Van Der Walt, was in attendance, giving us the story of how he just started the business and then learnt daily how to start a business. He also encouraged us to achieve BHAGs – Big Hairy Audacious Goals.
Day 3
The third and final day started with a tense atmosphere. The deputy president, Paul Mashatile, was to give an address, and security was tight. To get in, you had to go through a metal detector and a police clearance before entering the building. Before the deputy president, we heard from the minister of sport, Gayton Mckenzie. The charismatic minister did not mince his words when he said our biggest problem is illegal foreigners. However, he was much more hopeful about the GNU and aims to host the Olympics next year, 2026. After his address, they rolled out the red carpet and positioned the presidential podium for the deputy president’s address. Paul Mashatile gave the government’s view on some crucial matters. We need to maintain strong relations with the USA, we need a rural safety plan, and we need to change how we present the budget to the cabinet. His speech read as a laundry list of how the government should improve, and it was a long list. In it, he gave the financial situation of the ANC. He explained that the ANC is struggling financially and requires donations to keep afloat. After that, he was whisked away in his caravan of black Mercedes vans and blue light brigade.
It was a phenomenal event. I need more words to describe all the speakers who spoke at the event but know that to be invited to speak; you must have something bright to say. This event has given me a new perspective on life. Getting there and finding a place to stay was challenging but, in the end, worth it because of the experience. This has been my Misogi, my year-defining event. I usually would not know the highlight of my year until I reflect on the year. I can categorically state that this is the highlight of my year. What is your Misogi?
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