June 14, 2006
By Lucille Davie
JOBURGERS are passionate about a lot of things – their cars, their jobs, their gadgets. Now a new book, Joburg! The passion behind a city captures some of that passion and the many new developments that are happening in the city.
Published by Affinity Publishing in association with the City, the book recognises the people behind the city's rejuvenation. At 408 pages, with some 700 pictures and 100 articles, this coffee table book reflects the renewal – from infrastructure to social investment – that is happening to this city of 3,2 million people.
"There is a passion in Joburg that gets under your skin and in your blood, and once you've experienced it, it's something that you can't easily live without," says publisher Ken Preston in the book's introduction.
Launched in one of the dazzling new apartments featured in the book – 155 Smit Street in Braamfontein, a converted office building with a spectacular view of the city's skyline – the venue epitomises the spirit of that renewal.
"We are delighted that the book is complete – how proud to see how many international brands are locally based," said Elsabe Booyens, marketing manager for the City, at the launch.
The book showcases the positive changes that people, either through their individual initiative or through the organisations in which they work, have brought about in this vibrant city. The pages are filled with stories of optimism, vibrancy and energetic people.
The book covers a diverse range of topics: Joburg's visionaries, heritage sites, renewal and development, the sounds of Joburg, sporting Joburg, arts and culture in the city, Joburg the powerhouse, and community and Soweto, among others.
Some 20 corporates have been approached to sponsor sections of the book, offering their contributions on how they have fulfilled their social responsibility mandates.
The aim of the book is to show people – tourists and investors particularly – that the city is growing and evolving in a dynamic fashion.
"A book like this is a great tool to promote growth of the economy because it truly reflects the business environment of Joburg," adds Booyens.
Executive mayor Amos Masondo concluded his introduction in the book with: "In Johannesburg we have a dream. We seek to build a better quality of life for all our people. A better tomorrow is beckoning. We urge all of you, as optimists, to join us."
This is volume 1; volume 2 will be published in 2008 and volume 3 in 2010.
The book is available for R375 from leading bookstores, or from the publisher at R330 plus R45 for delivery, on 011 442 2366 or through the website.
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