CAs(SA) AS DIFFERENCE MAKERS
When you think of a difference maker, it would be someone that has an impact on others’ lives. Some would say that we were all created to make a difference, so we all see ourselves as difference makers.
SAICA recently launched its ‘difference maker’ concept in alignment with Chartered Accountants Worldwide’s global brand and position strategy to showcase real-life stories of members making a sustainable difference that yields positive business, social and economic returns for all – a difference that will elevate our noble profession as well as our country to new heights.
And as our CEO, Freeman Nomvalo, said during the launch: ‘It is often said that action speaks louder than words: the true measure of leadership lies in the actions we take when inspired by noble causes, dreams and plans to make a difference. Leadership is not just the business designation we occupy or the title and influence we have. True leadership lies in the doing, in the actions we take to make a difference. It is the difference between making the easy decision to ensure short-term gain for a few and the tough decisions that will deliver long-term prosperity for many.’
And that is why we as SAICA believe that CAs(SA) are difference makers, not just because you are trained to uphold ethical standards and make a lasting impact on society, but because you act in the public interest and play a vital role in making a difference in the organisations and community you operate in.
Like our cover profile of this month, Tshwarelo Legae, who lives a life with purpose and endeavour to be inspirational by constantly moving and improving. And if you read the story of Zanele Maduna on page 26, you can’t help being inspired by her story and how Thuthuka changed not only her life but the lives of other members of her community as well. She says: ‘If you educate a child, you have an impact on the whole community! Through the support I received through Thuthuka, I have changed my family’s lives and I have improved my mom’s living conditions.’
Through the ‘difference maker’ concept, we will not only connect the role of CAs(SA) to the contribution they make but will also support SAICA’s global effort to restore trust in the CA(SA) designation.
You can be a part of the stories we tell by submitting a story about yourself or another CA(SA) to differencemakers@saica.co.za, or visit the Difference Makers microsite for more information.