Richard Maponya
Embedded Files
Dr. Richard Maponya, an iconic figure in South African business and entrepreneurship, rose to prominence as a resilient force against apartheid's oppressive regime. His journey epitomizes the spirit of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
Maponya's entrepreneurial endeavors began with his successful navigation through apartheid-era restrictions to build a thriving business empire. He became renowned as a modern-day David fighting against Goliath, defying the odds stacked against him to create economic opportunities in Soweto, a sprawling township on the outskirts of Johannesburg.
One of Maponya's notable achievements was the establishment of a dealership, strategically located just 1.5 kilometers from the residences of two other influential figures of the time, Nelson Mandela and Anglican Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu. This proximity not only showcased his business acumen but also underscored his commitment to uplifting his community.
An emblematic moment in Maponya's legacy was his personal involvement in welcoming Nelson Mandela back to Soweto following his release from prison. Driving Mandela in his own BMW, Maponya demonstrated his support for the anti-apartheid icon and his vision for a united South Africa. As a gesture of appreciation and solidarity, Maponya famously gifted Mandela a maroon 7-Series BMW, symbolizing their shared journey towards freedom and progress.
This gesture of goodwill bore fruit beyond mere symbolism, as it catalyzed further investment in South Africa. In response to Maponya's generosity and the growing potential of the South African market, BMW committed to establishing a manufacturing plant in Rosslyn, located in Tshwane. This move not only bolstered the country's economy but also signaled international confidence in its post-apartheid future.
Maponya's legacy extends far beyond his business achievements; he remains an inspirational figure for generations to come. His unwavering determination, resilience, and commitment to community development serve as a beacon of hope and empowerment, particularly for those facing systemic barriers to success.
In honoring Dr. Richard Maponya's legacy, we celebrate not only his entrepreneurial prowess but also his profound impact on shaping a more inclusive and prosperous South Africa. His story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, vision, and the unwavering belief in a brighter
BMW DONATES NELSON MANDELA CAR
BMW DONATES NELSON MANDELA CAR
BMW South Africa has donated former president Nelson Mandela’s BMW 7 Series Security Vehicle to the 46664 Mandela Day School Library project. The customised BMW 7 series, fitted with a blue light grill, which was given to the former President by the Bavarian car maker, will be auctioned in the coming months. The proceeds will go towards supplying fully-stocked container libraries to disadvantaged schools in Johannesburg.
The office of the former president returned the car to BMW at the end of its service life. It has since been restored to an immaculate condition and is currently on display at the Franschoek Motor Museum.
The private auction will determine the next home for the car, which was used as the official transport for arguably the most famous and revered statesman of our generation. Vying to take ownership of the former president’s BMW at the silent auction will be avid car collectors as well as museums of the world. “It is important that we balance the preservation of history surrounding the car with the commercial reality of funding the next phase of the 46664 Mandela Day School Library project,” says Robert Coutts, CEO of 46664 BANGLE Initiative.
“We hope that the car will find a home in a museum in South Africa so the history is preserved appropriately in our own country. Once the car has been sold for the price we anticipate, it means we would be in a position to deliver one library every 6 weeks for a year,” states Coutts.
“With 90% of South African schools without libraries, there is a glaringly huge gap in the resources necessary to educate young children. As BMW we are happy to make a contribution to this excellent initiative as the country seeks sustainable solutions to its education challenges,” says Bodo Donauer, BMW South Africa’s Managing Director.
As part of the agreement, the first two libraries acquired will be placed at schools in the communities surrounding BMW’s Plant Rosslyn, north of Pretoria, where the majority of BMW workers hail from.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse