Despite concerns over service delivery, infrastructure and urban development, there are still reasons to feel hopeful about Johannesburg.

That was the message that emerged from a talk by JoburgCAN executive director Julia Fish at the Rotary Club of Johannesburg New Dawn on October 7.

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Fish spoke about the work already being done by residents, businesses and community organisations to improve the city and hold authorities accountable. Rather than waiting for government to solve every problem, she encouraged residents to become active participants in their communities.

She highlighted the work of residents’ associations that fund street cleaning, maintain public spaces and report problems such as water leaks and broken traffic lights. Fish said organised and informed community groups were particularly important in ensuring government remained accountable.

She encouraged residents to join or establish residents’ associations, strengthen existing networks and make use of platforms such as JoburgCAN and the city’s partnership structures. For Fish, however, community action is not simply about filling gaps left by government.

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She spoke about the need for stronger relationships between residents and municipal officials, particularly when dealing with planning, infrastructure and development issues.

Fish raised concerns about illegal development, the demolition of heritage properties and the additional pressure that increasing development can place on water and electricity infrastructure.

She also discussed a special rating area policy currently being reviewed by the city and its partners, which could introduce a community levy through municipal bills to provide more sustainable funding for local projects.

Her message appeared to strike a chord with the Rotarians.

Rotarian Linda Vink said the presentation was inspirational because it demonstrated the difference ordinary people could make in the city they love. Vink said she was filled with hope and optimism after hearing about the initiatives taking place across Johannesburg.

She also reflected on the difference between residents who simply complain about problems and those who actively contribute towards improving their communities.

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Rotarian Helene Bramwell shared the sentiment, saying the general consensus among members was that they were delighted to hear there was hope for Johannesburg.

She said it was heartening to hear about the various committees working towards improving the city. Club president Jankees Sligcher also highlighted the spirit he believed was evident among Johannesburg’s residents.

For Sligcher, the presentation revealed an underlying pioneering and entrepreneurial spirit among people who are willing to take on tasks that are sometimes overlooked.

He said Johannesburg remained a city of entrepreneurs and people prepared to step up and try again, despite challenges including water and electricity shortages, rubbish collection problems and potholes.

Sligcher also praised the city’s diversity and resilience, saying its people were a major part of what made Johannesburg vibrant and worth calling home.

The discussion ultimately focused on more than the problems facing the city. It was about the people who continue to invest their time, energy and resources into their neighbourhoods and believe Johannesburg is worth fighting for.

Fish said the challenge now was ensuring that this spirit of civic participation translated into meaningful and sustainable action.

For members of the Rotary Club of Johannesburg New Dawn, the discussion offered a reminder that while Johannesburg’s challenges are far from over, neither is its potential.

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