Community members are being called to stand together behind a simple but powerful message: Speak Up. You Matter.

The message forms part of a 67-day campaign leading up to the annual golf days on September 17 and 18 at Glenvista Country Club.

Alberton resident Dean Fegen, the organiser, says the campaign aims to encourage people to talk, connect and check in on one another during a time when many people are facing mental, emotional and financial pressure.

The campaign will culminate on the morning of September 18, when Dean hopes to bring 670 people together for a symbolic moment of unity.

“We want everyone standing together behind the Speak Up message and using our Speak Up hand sign, creating a moment that can be photographed and filmed and hopefully carried far beyond the golf course,” said Fegen.

He said the vision is for the 670 people to stand together in silence before collectively sharing the message: Speak Up. You Matter. You’re being heard.

The campaign draws inspiration from the 67 Minutes for Mandela Day concept, with Dean wanting to take the idea further.

Instead of focusing on 67 minutes, the campaign uses 67 days to spread awareness and encourage people to check in on one another.

The goal of bringing 670 people together is also symbolic, representing how individual actions can grow into something bigger when a community works together.

Fegen said the campaign was created because people can be surrounded by others while still feeling disconnected.

“We greet someone with Howzit Boet? But how often do we stop and genuinely ask, Are you good?” he said.

This thinking also led to the development of Howzit Boet, a platform focused on brotherhood, business, and purpose, and on creating spaces where men can connect and feel comfortable speaking about challenges.

A similar platform, Howzit Boet, is being developed for women, focusing on support, mentorship, networking and business opportunities.

100 businesses, one challenge

This year also marks the 13th year of the golf days, which have traditionally focused on bringing local businesses, entrepreneurs and communities together.

The Dean is now introducing the 100 Business Challenge, calling on 100 businesses to contribute R1 000 each.

The challenge will create a R100 000 pool, with one participating business set to win R50 000, sponsored by Vusa Truss.

Fegen said the initiative is designed to support businesses while also contributing towards the broader Speak Up movement.

“Rather than simply asking businesses to sponsor something, we wanted to create something where one of those businesses gets something significant back,” he said.

The remaining funds will be used to continue building and promoting Speak Up and related initiatives.

More than just golf

The September 17 and 18 events are intended to be about more than golf, with Dean encouraging business owners, entrepreneurs, golfers, families and community members to get involved.

People can support the initiative by sponsoring a hole, entering a four-ball, joining the 100 Business Challenge, bringing their brand to the event or taking part in the various community initiatives.

With September approaching, Dean is calling on the community to help turn the campaign into a movement that extends beyond the golf course.

For more information or to get involved, community members can contact Dean Fegen on 071 482 0051 or email info@sapolyhammers.co.za