Community-led action in spotlight at Better Bedfordview Business Breakfast

The recent Better Bedfordview Business Breakfast brought together passionate community members, activists, and local officials for a morning filled with inspiration, a call to active citizenship, and strategies for holding the government accountable.

With a series of speeches and a lively Q&A session, attendees explored practical ways to become active citizens, protect green spaces, and shed light on local governance – all critical steps to make Bedfordview a safer, greener, and more inclusive community.

The morning kicked off with an informative session from Better Bedfordview chairperson Marina Constas, who shared the non-profit organisation’s achievements and strategic goals.

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“In today’s rapidly shifting economic landscape, the sustainability and long-term value of our assets, both physical and reputational, are influenced not only by what happens inside our businesses but also by the environment that surrounds them,” said Constas.

“As business owners, we all understand return on investment. But what if we could also see community upliftment, safety, and public space improvement as strategic investments that safeguard our brand equity and enhance employee and client experience?”

“Better Bedfordview is not just a feel-good project; it is a smart, proactive business decision.

“Our vision is to harness the collective power of engaged citizens to improve our neighbourhoods and ultimately South Africa, one suburb at a time.

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“We have created a successful model and a playbook for other suburbs to join this movement,” she added.

Over the past three years, Better Bedfordview has repaired over 900 potholes, employed 25 full-time, previously unemployed young people, maintained gardens, repaired pavements, cleaned main roads, and painted curbs and speed humps.

“We cannot survive on hope alone; financial sustainability is vital. Municipalities today face severe challenges – from understaffing to maladministration and shrinking budgets.

“The responsibility for well-run, liveable towns and cities cannot rest solely on the state.

“Agile, solution-focused private bodies like Better Bedfordview are stepping up, and rightly so. These partnerships are not only desirable; they are essential,” Constas explained.

Guest speakers included Wayne Duvenage, CEO of the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA), and James Delaney, the artist and activist who revived The Wilds, a once-feared Johannesburg park.

Duvenage stressed that active citizenship is about participation, regardless of size.

“Supporting an organisation like Better Bedfordview with a monthly contribution, the cost of a hamburger, empowers those committed to making a difference,” Duvenage explained.

“You don’t have to give hours a day. Even a couple of hours or a small donation each month makes a difference.
“Edmund Burke said people make the biggest mistake when they think they would give nothing because they thought their little would not count. It does.”

“If we leave it all to the police or justice system, overwhelmed as they are, nothing will change.

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“Civil society must relentlessly ask questions, expose issues, and demand solutions. Sometimes that means protest action. It’s about shining a light until change happens.”

He also spoke about OUTA’s national reach and new Joburg-focused initiatives: “Civil society must be present in decision-making spaces. Legally, we have the right. We want to track decisions in real time, expose problems, and put pressure on those in power.”

“Public exposure creates personal accountability. People in positions of power are human, and social pressure often makes life ‘hell’ for corrupt officials. That’s part of how accountability works.”

James shared his story of transforming The Wilds into a safe and thriving urban park through art, gardening, and grassroots efforts.

“When I bought my apartment overlooking The Wilds, people considered it one of the most feared places in Johannesburg. People thought it was unsafe and stayed away.

“But I started walking there, clearing paths, planting indigenous species, and installing colourful steel owl sculptures.”

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His creative interventions drew crowds, sparked social media attention, and ultimately restored the space.

“There are beautiful natural spaces around Bedfordview, Morninghill Koppie and the Bill Stewart Nature Reserve that are underutilised and neglected.

“Start with small things, get involved, and it grows organically. It is rewarding, not a hassle. Working with nature and seeing people reconnect with public space brings immense joy.”

Ward 20 Clr Jill Humphreys echoed the call to reclaim neglected public spaces.

“The city is willing to hand over management of natural spaces to community groups; they don’t want the responsibility anymore. It is time for us to step up, submit proposals, and reclaim our mountains.”

She encouraged residents to push for conservation area status and take ownership of Bedfordview’s natural heritage: “We need to take back Morninghill and Bill Stewart. These are biodiversity hotspots, but fear and neglect have driven people away. Community stewardship can change that.”

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Humphreys also acknowledged the hard work behind Better Bedfordview, “It is a privilege to work with such a dedicated group. Your green scarves are symbols of hope and commitment, and we need many more like you.”

Better Bedfordview also thanked WTW Willis, its key business sponsor, for supporting its efforts through the Yes4Youth Programme.

The breakfast, held at Tee Bar and Grill, Glendower Golf Club, served as a reminder that community transformation begins with everyday acts of civic engagement, sustained support, and a bold vision for change.

“If we want our suburbs to survive and thrive, we need to get involved and become united. It is not just about cleaning; it is about creating space for beauty, play, safety, and pride,” said Constas.