Pretoria - With the World Cup behind us, South Africans are being urged not to shelf their patriotic spirits but to instead direct it into a new initiative.
The Lead SA initiative, which was launched on Wednesday, challenges ordinary South Africans to do the right thing on a daily basis and to counter the negative perceptions about the country.
The initiative by Primedia Broadcasting and Independent Newspapers encourages the public to celebrate the achievements of the country and also challenges citizens to take responsibility for the challenges.
Lead SA will kick off with the various media involved focusing on the country's successes and celebrating its people from legendary leaders such as former President Nelson Mandela to ordinary South Africans.
The initiative will then challenge issues and behaviour that undermine the country, which includes holding those in positions of power accountable for their actions.
From there on, Lead SA will be guided by the many South Africans it hopes to get involved in the initiative.
Lead SA has identified five areas of focus - personal challenge, leadership, education, Square Kilometre Array (SKA) and sport.
Personal challenge will encourage South Africans to keep their moral compass pointed in the right direction, by respecting the laws of the country and caring for their communities.
Lead SA also intends saluting the unsung heroes of the country, sharing leadership skills and developing new talent.
The initiative also aims to improve the matric pass rate and celebrate the success of deserving teachers and pupils.
Lead SA will focus on South Africa being shortlisted for the bid to host the building of the SKA, the most powerful radio telescope ever built. It will be involved in the mobilisation of the SKA project and educate South Africans about the importance of the project.
On the sports front, Lead SA aims to encourage the country to get behind Bafana Bafana once more, to ensure they qualify for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, and mobilise support to bring the 2020 Olympics Games to SA.
If you're wondering how you can get involved in the initiative or what you can do to make a difference, here are some ways listed:
* Stand up for what's right. If you've had a glass too many, let a designated driver take you home.
* Stand up to corruption. Don't bribe.
* Stand up for morality. Report crime.
* Stand up for your community. Get to know your neighbours.
* Stand up against indifference. Take an interest in those around you.
* Stand up for free speech. Listen to the other side.
* Stand up for your future. Respect the environment.
* Stand up for education. Read to your children.
* Help instead of Hinder. Say yes when asked to do a favour, don't look for excuses.
* Acknowledge goodness. When you have something good to say, say it.
More information on Lead SA can be obtained from the website www.leadsa.co.za or follow the initiative on facebook and Twitter. Lead SA can be contacted by email at info@leadsa.co.za on facebook: Lead SA or on Twitter: @Lead SA.
