SOJO Business and Tourism, an organisation dedicated to creating a safe and clean South of Johannesburg, recently held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) at Thaba Eco Hotel to celebrate its 2025 achievements and outline plans for the year ahead.

The event reflected a strong sense of community and gratitude. Chairman Reuben Louw welcomed attendees, acknowledging City of Johannesburg officials, ward councillors, the SOJO executive board, members, and staff before highlighting key successes from 2025.

These included impactful community projects, innovative campaigns, and strengthened partnerships.

Notably, the Stay Another Day tourism campaign reached over half a million people on social media, showcasing attractions such as Gold Reef City, Thaba Eco Hotel and Spa, 4Racing Turffontein Racecourse, Mall of the South, FNB Stadium, The Glen Shopping Centre, and the Apartheid Museum.

The campaign encouraged visitors and locals to explore the city’s diverse offerings, from game drives and picnics to theatre, shopping, and dining.

SOJO’s daily cleanup efforts have collected more than 500 000 bags of litter since the organisation’s inception. It responded to business area concerns by reporting 331 faults and ensuring repairs, demonstrating that a clean environment is vital for investment and a thriving community.

Security improvements were also a key focus, thanks to partnerships with VumaCam, Centr, private security companies, and sponsors. The installation of cameras around Klipriver contributed to successful arrests and helped prevent crime.

SOJO extended a special thank you to sponsors, including Mall of the South, Thaba Eco Hotel, Panorama Shopping Centre, Balwin Lifestyle, Aspen Development Company, Adendorff Machinery Mart, Continental Biscuits, Roll Up Seranda, GrowthPoint, Scania SA, Carmi Haters, Epiroc New Concept Mining, ExpoGuys, and others whose support has been essential.

CEO Nicky Vakaloudis expressed appreciation for everyone’s dedication. “The progress we see today is a testament to the hard work over 27 years from our executive board, area representatives, staff, and stakeholder partners. Our goal remains to make the south of Johannesburg safer, cleaner, and more inviting for residents, visitors, and businesses.”

During the AGM, SOJO re-elected its leadership, including chairman Reuben Louw, financial director Peter Soester, marketing and tourism director Sheldon Stuurman, and seven area representatives.

The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the City of Johannesburg, Johannesburg Business Forum, Joburg Tourism, Gauteng Tourism Authority, South African Tourism, Johannesburg City Improvement District, Jozi-My-Jozi, ward councillors, and other partners to build unity and strength.

Progress on the SOJO Helping Hands Foundation was also celebrated, including the opening of the SOJO Threads Up Charity Store at Mall of the South in May 2025 and ongoing work at the SOJO Community Farm.

The farm promotes sustainable food security and skills development, offering educational tours and empowering individuals through training in basic farming skills.

SOJO staff, as well as learners involved in the farm and charity store programs, were acknowledged and awarded for their commitment during 2025.

Looking ahead, SOJO plans to expand its security camera network, intensify street cleaning, and deepen community engagement. Residents, businesses, and stakeholders are encouraged to participate in making the South of Johannesburg a better place.

“From all at SOJO, we extend our heartfelt thanks for everyone’s ongoing support,” said Vakaloudis.

For more information or to get involved, visit www.sojo.co.za