Africa. A land filled with endless possibilities as well as unwavering and ever-increasing challenges. It is a continent that is striving to discover original solutions, whilst grappling with issues of power and leadership. We are living in uncertain times; uncertain about our future, uncertain about tomorrow. Yet there is one thing that we can be certain about and that is the ability of our people. I heard someone say recently that “I am not African because I was born in Africa; I am African because Africa is born in me!” For me, that is the key to the answer we are trying to find. As Professor Botman describes the HOPE Project, he speaks of African solutions for African problems. But how do we create a platform for these creative and innovation solutions to be shared and heard, a platform where the first requirement is open-mindedness and passion for positive change? How do we create a platform where a seed of change will not only be planted, but where it will find a fertile community to take root in? A community that will nurture and harvest it and share both the idea itself as well as the fruits it bears.

Fortunately for Africa we do not have to look too far. TED^xStellenbosch provides such a platform, ideal for idea sharing, creating an innovative space and bringing together a diverse group of individuals from all walks of life with one common vision; Africa. This year TED^xStellenbosch partners with the Frederik van Zyl Slabbert Institute for Student Leadership Development to ensure that one of Africa’s most vital resources are factored into the discussions and decisions, the resource of our youth. The youth are not only the freshest perspectives with untainted creativity and possibilities, but are also the recipients of the future that we construct.

With a theme of ‘What if Africa?’ this year’s TED^xStellenbosch promises to raise the bar on ingenuity and innovation, this is an event not to be missed in 2012. The event will take place on 10 August 2012 at Spier Wine Estate. More information can be found at http://www.tedxstellenbosch.org/ .