by Liziwe Chumani Ntshweza
As someone who spends a lot of time thinking about how economies are designed and the impact that this design has on people and the planet, like many other disasters this pandemic has revealed just how problematic the current structures are.
What I hope is becoming clear to all is that we are all connected, beyond the physical walls and the safety that class often provides, all our experiences are connected and should be treated as such. The distinction between society and the economy is a fallacy that should no longer be maintained or defended.
However, when I think about the idea of a collective awakening, I find myself overwhelmed by the work that would be required to dismantle the systems that exist. So, what I have chosen to do is to focus on what I can change and my circle of influence. I am sharing that with you today, in the hopes that you too will think about what your circle of influence is and what you can do within it. My proposition is simple:
Now more than ever, I am hoping that we can redefine how we understand the concept of more “bang for your buck” to include spending consciously and targeting businesses that may have more of a positive impact on society.
I am committed to taking seriously the impact of every rand that leaves my bank account. Where is it going and who will it serve beyond satisfying my immediate need? This led me down the path of shifting more of my wallet towards actively, regularly and deliberately buying black, woman-owned and locally made products.
None of these concepts is new or revolutionary, what is new to me at this time is just how easy it has become with new online and physical businesses being introduced to me regularly through social media. I can now incorporate this agenda into all my regular spending from groceries and home maintenance to clothing, beauty and skincare.
Is shopping at a large retailer online or otherwise easier? Definitely. Does this decision require more of a conscious effort? Sure. But I would propose now is the time to be more conscious about our behaviour and consumption.
My commitment is to support businesses and brands that represent me in more ways than one. Those that care about the planet and the reality of black women beyond the lip service we receive in August. I hope that even with its challenges we can support each other as we stretch ourselves and our Rands in that direction.
