According to Park Advertising, the riots and looting that took place in South Africa affected many businesses and livelihoods, but it also showed South Africa's true colours of empathy, unity and resilience.

Among the victims of the destruction were four community radio stations brought to their knees. These comprised:
  • Alex FM in Alexandra
  • MAMS Radio in Mamelodi
  • West Side FM in Kagiso, and
  • Intokozo FM in Durban.
Park Advertising's Group MD Chris Botha says that community radio stations are one of the most essential media cogs in South Africa.

"Communities have been torn apart and community radio has the opportunity and ability to bring people together and develop positive narratives. Without community radio, we start to lose the fabric of community," adds Botha.

"While we're pleased to be in a position to assist, we would like to challenge every business and individual in South Africa to support affected communities as a priority because we need to rebuild our faith in each other as much as we need to rebuild our country," Botha says.

Dashni Vilakazi, managing director at The MediaShop Johannesburg and Kagiso Musi, managing director at Meta Media have agreed.

"South Africans have proved time and time again just how incredible we are in coming together when tragedy strikes," says Musi. "But we'd like to see more businesses and private citizens get involved. The smallest gestures can make the biggest difference in someone’s life. Be kinder, donate your time where you can or even just clearing out unwanted clothing can change someone’s life for the better."

"South Africa has been through so much in the last 18 months, but the last few weeks have also shown how incredibly quickly we can bounce back if we work together," says Vilakazi. 

"Assisting these community radio stations to get back on air has been crucial for our democratic and editorial freedom, but there is still so much more to be done. Let's show the world our collective mettle by coming together to rebuild South Africa stronger than before," concludes Vilakazi. 

For more information, visit www.parkadvertising.co.za.