Hi, I’m Ruby Chikwiri
So, it’s a random Friday in June, and you receive an Instagram Direct Message from an old high school friend requesting your phone number. Curious, you hop on a call, and she tells you about an impactful campaign for Brand South Africa celebrating the ‘30 Voices of the Future’. Without hesitation, I said say, “Yes, yes, yes I’m on board!”
And that brings us here. So, let’s get acquainted.
I’m Ruby Chikwiri, 27 years old. I’m a youth advocate and media professional, and I strongly believe that you can make a difference at any level. I’ve had the honour of residing in the beautiful and dynamic South Africa since I was four years old. This is home, and I’m so grateful to call it that. I am a Joburger, so best believe that I have been playing Tyla’s song “Jump” on repeat just to hear the famous line, “ They never had a pretty girl from Jo’burg. See me now, and that’s what they prefer.”
If this were a speed date, I’d tell you that:
My happiest South African moment? Well, there aretwo. First, we have to start with the 2010 FIFA World Cup, hosted in South Africa. I remember going to school (I was in high school at that time) and seeing everyone blowing their vuvuzelas during break; discussing which game they were going to watch. Everywhere in South Africa was buzzing with excitement. I remember traveling with my family to watch a game at the newly built FNB stadium and pretending like I understood how soccer worked. What a time! We all felt so proud!
The second moment was in 2019 when Zozibini Tunzi was crowned Miss South Africa. Dark skin, natural hair, and natural beauty – what a dream this moment was to witness as a young African woman. I think about this moment often and feel so inspired by the legacy she has created and the Eurocentric beauty standards she helped dismantle. May we continue to have moments like these in our future!
My best memories in South Africa?
Honestly, it’s something very simple. It is the everyday smiles and greetings from fellow South Africans. When I went to study for my master’s in London, I truly learned to appreciate how kind, friendly, and generous South Africans are. We take for granted the greeting “Sawubona”. Being welcomed with a genuine smile from a bank teller, grocery till lady, gardener, or doorman and greeted in return. It is truly special to feel at home and experience the camaraderie that is entrenched in the fabric of South Africans.
How has democracy impacted my life?
Well, truthfully, how has it not! Due to the sacrifices made for young black children to have equal access to education, I was blessed with the opportunity to attend one of the top private schools in South Africa, where I had access to high-level education, multicultural experiences, and diverse people. This forged the path for my career in the media field. I have rich memories with a diverse group of friends and peers through the years that have changed my perspective on life and taught me about different cultures and practices. I have been taught the importance of perseverance and advocating for what is right by learning about the history of those before us and the efforts that allowed us the privileges we have today as young, black African youth.
Okay, now that we’re acquainted, let’s get serious.
Thirty years ago, in 1994, South Africans gathered in their masses to vote for a new democratic republic. Today, as the youth of South Africa, we have to play our part in creating a more sustainable and equal future for all.
How do I play my part?
I have always been inspired by young people, ensuring our ambitions, and our dignity are at the forefront. When I was 15, I joined the Johannesburg Junior Council, which opened my eyes to community-led work and building towards a more equal society. When I was 16, I was awarded the Lead SA Youth Hero Award for my work in donating menstruation products to young women in Cosmo City High Schools. I continued with the project and donated a total of 53,000 pads. When I was 22, I spearheaded an initiative called #DressAGraduate, which assisted over 40 graduates across South Africa with graduation attire and gowns. Today, I am part of a team leading an online challenge that supports young Southern Africans in creating ideas and initiatives that combat climate change. And my job is nowhere near done; this is a lifelong journey.