An initiative to identify the good men of Africa who play a role in business and their community was launched in Johannesburg. These men will use this platform to share ideas and brainstorm how they can combat challenges.
Kojo Baffoe, an entrepreneur, said at the event that society lacks example. He also said he believes in duty and responsibility “and being conscious of it.” (Image: Facebook)
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Melissa Javan
Skills trading is very important for enhancing the growth of entrepreneurship was the message at The Good Sir, a conference on igniting the idea of the modern day African gentleman.
The event, sponsored by South African brandy-makers Oude Meester, was held at The Protea Fire & Ice Hotel, Melrose Arch in Johannesburg on Thursday, 30 July. It is the first in a series of events for men to interact and share ideas with each other.
The event’s guest speaker was entrepreneur and former Destiny Man editor Kojo Baffoe. He said society lacks individuals who can be good examples for others. “One of the characteristics of a gentleman is integrity. Respect is a big thing. If you don’t acknowledge that I exist, you disrespect me. That’s why when you walk into a place, you greet.”
He also said he believes in duty and responsibility “and being conscious of it.”
Baffoe said because social media plays a big role in society, gentlemen should be thoughtful of what they say before posting their thoughts online. “The words we utter still have an impact.”
Theo Ngobeni, a South African fashion stylist and designer, was one of the brains behind this initiative. He encouraged guests to share skills with each other, especially since it is hard for entrepreneurs to make a success of their businesses.
“There are challenges we are facing in this generation. This is a platform to brainstorm and talk about that issues we have. There is a lot we can learn from each other. So use this platform to mingle, network and get contacts.
“Being a gentleman is cool again. You see the influence in men’s fashion runways, grooming and leisure activities. We are hoping the ‘Good Sir’ will inspire young men not just to look the part, but to act the part as well – to try and be better professionals, brothers, friends and partners, as well as citizens.” said Ngobeni.
The Good Sir co-founder Zano Sithetho added: “The Good Sir is our modern interpretation of an old adage: Being a male is a matter of birth, being a man is a matter of age, but being a gentleman is a matter of choice.”
