How the CA(SA) designation and the Springboks are united as winners
On 17 October 2023, CA(SA) was announced as the world’s most trusted CA designation. Eleven days later the Springboks were crowned Rugby World Cup winners. While the two are polar opposite professions, it is apparent that both achievements will have a positive impact on South Africa’s national identity − unifying the nation, creating international recognition and bringing hope to South Africans.
National identity
Rugby is deeply ingrained in South Africa’s national identity. When the Springboks win, South Africans, both at home and abroad, are overcome with a sense of pride in their identities as South Africans.
Chartered accountants have been a source of pride in the South African business world for a long time. Recognition as the number one in the world has reinforced this pride. Businesses around the world look specifically for South Africans. CA(SA) is an international brand that brings pride to all South Africans.
Unifying effect
As is clear from the World Cup, rugby has the power to bring people from different backgrounds and communities together. The Springboks impart a sense of unity and common purpose − when they win, the country wins.
With the number one designation of chartered accountants, CAs bring all businesses within South Africa together through confidence and belief in our business leaders. The success and recognition of the CA(SA) have a unifying effect across all businesses.
Symbol of hope and progress
South Africa’s success in international sports has become a symbol of our nation’s progress and a source of hope for the future. The diverse backgrounds in the Springbok team are an inspiration for South Africans, encouraging us to work towards positive change and overcome challenges.
The CA(SA) designation has done the same for businesses in South Africa. With faith restored in the CA designation and the recognition of the value of South African chartered accountants, business confidence increases, and with it, the belief in a better future for South Africa.
International recognition
Winning the Rugby World Cup on the global stage brought international recognition and respect to South Africa. It has boosted the country’s image and tourism and is a source of pride for South Africans living abroad.
Becoming the most trusted chartered accountants in the world brings international acknowledgement to South African businesses as well as the country as a whole. This naturally leads to increased international confidence and investment.
Overcoming adversity
The Springboks’ victories are often seen as a symbol of resilience and overcoming adversity. South Africa has faced many challenges, and the Springboks’ successes can serve as a reminder that the nation can overcome obstacles to achieve greatness.
Being known as a resilient nation is not a title we as South African businesses, want but it is a title we have earned. We have contended with having to operate through load-shedding schedules, riots and floods. The fact that we have achieved recognition as the number one CA group, shows that no matter what is put in front of South Africans, we will make a plan.
The Springboks’ success in the Rugby World Cup inspires South Africa by fostering unity, instilling national pride, and serving as a symbol of hope and progress. The recognition of CA(SA) on the international stage will provide business confidence as well as investment into South Africa. These awards and acknowledgements of South African achievements reflect the country’s journey and its ability to overcome challenges and come together as a nation − defying adversity and growing through diversity. This has become and will continue to be the world’s view of South Africans.
