Jozi My Jozi: A community dedicated to restoring Joburg to its former glory

Bongani Bingwa interviews Stephen du Preez, Founder of LocalAbode and Partner of Jozi My Jozi.

Listen below.

Imagine strolling through vibrant, clean streets, where public spaces pulse with life, creativity and opportunity...

Jozi My Jozi is committed to transforming this vision into reality, one project at a time, with the active involvement of the community.

This movement seeks to revive Johannesburg’s former glory, restoring the charm, vibrancy, and energy that once defined the city.

It aims to connect and empower those passionate about the inner city.

"We had one of two choices: We can either continue to scream and shout and hope someone listens, or we can roll up our sleeves and make the difference ourselves."

- Stephen du Preez, Jozi My Jozi

To achieve this, they focus on key areas:

• Safety and security: Implement robust physical security measures to protect assets, while enhancing the perception of safety through visible initiatives such as adequate lighting, cleanliness, and well-maintained roads and walkways.
• Education: Strengthen and redefine education in the city through strategic projects and partnerships, optimising resources for greater impact.
• Social engagement: Promote community well-being and address homelessness by providing essential services, day centres, and shelters that ensure nighttime safety.
• Commerce: Revitalise the heart of the city by establishing Central Improvement Districts to enhance urban spaces, supporting SMMEs, and embracing digitalisation for more efficient business operations.
• Arts, culture, and tourism: Transform the urban landscape by creating inviting spaces that encourage exploration and engagement. Revitalise parks and promote sporting events to foster health, well-being, and inclusivity, uniting people through shared experiences and utilising sport as a catalyst for social change.

"We need to fix the problems. We can't just put makeup on a pig and hope it's going to fly."

- Stephen du Preez, Jozi My Jozi

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.