South Africa’s progress in advancing human rights and expanding access to essential services is increasingly being driven by collaboration across sectors, according to insights shared at the sixth Hope Is a Verb convening held in Rosebank on 24 March.
The gathering, organised by F/NE for Good, brought together leaders from healthcare, research, business, civil society and government to examine how partnerships are helping address some of the country’s most complex social challenges.
Participants highlighted that meaningful impact is often achieved when organisations combine expertise, resources and innovation rather than working in isolation.
Opening the discussion, Lael Bethlehem of Genesis Analytics emphasised the importance of economic stability and supportive policy environments in enabling organisations to expand their reach and improve social outcomes. She noted that investment and policy decisions directly influence the ability of institutions to scale initiatives that support dignity, inclusion and opportunity.
Healthcare innovation emerged as a key theme during the convening.
Dr David Jankelow, past president of the South African Heart Association, outlined the Check My Beat initiative, developed in partnership with Jozi My Jozi, which focuses on improving heart health awareness among minibus taxi drivers — a workforce responsible for transporting millions of South Africans daily.
The programme uses AI-powered facial scanning technology to screen cardiovascular indicators using a smartphone or tablet. Results are then translated into personalised Maskandi songs inspired by each driver’s heartbeat, encouraging culturally relevant conversations around preventative healthcare.
Louise Turner of the Breast Health Foundation highlighted the importance of partnerships in improving early detection of breast cancer, particularly in rural communities where access to screening services may be limited. Collaboration between healthcare professionals, community organisations and corporate partners has helped expand awareness and access to information that can support earlier diagnosis and treatment.
From a healthcare systems perspective, Dr Sue Tager, CEO of Wits Donald Gordon Medical Centre, stressed the importance of strengthening specialist training capacity through public-private partnerships. Expanding clinical expertise, she noted, plays a vital role in supporting long-term healthcare resilience in South Africa.
Rutendo Bothma and Naomi Hill of Wits RHI addressed the need for inclusive healthcare services that respond to the needs of marginalised populations, including transgender communities. Their programmes demonstrate how targeted interventions can improve access to appropriate and responsive care.
Kaamil Alli, ministerial spokesperson for the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, provided a government perspective, highlighting the role of economic participation in strengthening social inclusion. Expanding access to employment and economic opportunities, he noted, contributes to improving living standards and supporting human dignity.
Across sectors, a common message emerged from the discussions: collaboration is a critical driver of progress.
The Hope Is a Verb convening continues to provide a platform for stakeholders to share insights and strengthen partnerships aimed at improving healthcare access, advancing human rights and supporting more inclusive development pathways.
As organisations increasingly work together to address interconnected social challenges, collaboration is expected to remain central to building sustainable solutions that improve lives across South Africa.
