As we come to the end of another year, it is natural to reflect on the past 12 months and all that has transpired. For many South Africans, 2019 has been a year of ups and downs, a year of challenges and triumphs. It has been a year of growth and change, and in some respects, a turbulent one.

One of the biggest events that shook the nation this year was the national elections. After months of campaigning and political debates, South Africans headed to the polls in May to cast their votes. It was a crucial moment for our democracy, and the outcome would determine the future of our country. Despite some concerns and challenges, the elections were largely peaceful and successful, with a record number of voters turning out to make their voices heard. This was a clear indication of the resilience and determination of the South African people to shape their own destiny.

However, the aftermath of the elections also brought about some turbulence. The country was faced with the task of forming a new government, and this process was not without its challenges. But in the end, a new cabinet was sworn in, and a new era of leadership began. This was a significant moment for South Africa, as it marked a peaceful transition of power and a renewed sense of hope for the future.

Another major event that rocked the nation this year was the ongoing issue of gender-based violence. The brutal murders of several women sparked widespread outrage and protests across the country. It was a wake-up call for all of us to address this pressing issue and take action to protect the most vulnerable members of our society. The #AmINext movement gained momentum, and the government was forced to take action, with the President declaring gender-based violence a national crisis. While there is still much work to be done, this year has seen a significant shift in the way we as a nation address this issue, and it is a step in the right direction.

On the economic front, South Africa faced many challenges this year. The country slipped into a technical recession, and the unemployment rate continued to rise. However, amidst these difficulties, there were also some positive developments. The government launched the Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative, which aims to create one million job opportunities for young people over the next three years. This is a significant step towards addressing the high youth unemployment rate in our country and providing opportunities for our future leaders.

In the world of sports, South Africa had much to celebrate this year. The Springboks brought home the Rugby World Cup, uniting the nation in a moment of pride and joy. It was a historic win, and the team’s determination and hard work were an inspiration to us all. The Proteas also had a successful year, with the men’s team reaching the semi-finals of the Cricket World Cup and the women’s team making it to the final of the T20 World Cup. These achievements not only brought glory to our country but also served as a reminder of the power of teamwork and perseverance.

In the arts and entertainment industry, South Africa continued to make its mark on the global stage. Our musicians, actors, and artists received international recognition and accolades, showcasing the incredible talent and creativity that our country has to offer. This year also saw the release of several critically acclaimed South African films, further cementing our place in the world of cinema.

Despite the challenges and turbulence that we faced this year, there were also many moments of unity and solidarity. The devastating floods in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape brought out the best in our communities, with people coming together to support and assist those affected. The spirit of Ubuntu was alive and well, and it was heartwarming to see South Africans standing together in times of need.

As we look towards the future, it is important to remember that every challenge presents an opportunity for growth and change. This year has shown us that as a nation, we are resilient, determined, and capable of overcoming even the toughest of obstacles. Let us carry this spirit into the new year and continue to work towards building a better South Africa for all.

In conclusion, while 2019 may have been a turbulent year for many South Africans, it was also a year of progress, resilience, and hope. As we bid farewell to this year and welcome the new one, let us remember the lessons we have learned and use them to create a brighter future for ourselves and our country.