Cadbury has announced that it is on a mission to unite South Africa, and show that chocolate brings joy in more ways than one, through its new 'Real Mzansi Names' campaign.
The campaign aims to encourage South Africans to connect with their fellow countryman by learning how to properly pronounce each other's first names, says Cadbury.
The simple gesture of getting to know someone's name and learning how to pronounce it properly is an act of generosity that deepens relationships and bonds, adds the brand.
According to Cadbury, this campaign is in collaboration with Dr Yanga Majola, a world-renowned Linguistics Professor at the University of Tshwane, who possesses expertise in African Languages and Culture.
"People learn better when they are relaxed and having fun. By celebrating 'Real Mzansi Names' with Cadbury, we embrace the diverse cultures across our nation and forge new and unshakeable bonds while encouraging everyone to acknowledge African languages and ethnicities," says Majola.
"We believe in the power of chocolate to bring people together," says Ashita Daya, Mondelez International Senior Brand Manager of Tablets and Seasonal.
"Through this campaign, we hope to foster a sense of unity and appreciation for the beautiful tapestry of cultures that make up South Africa. Through the generous act of learning someone's name, and a shared love for chocolate, this campaign will bring us closer together — in a culturally charged way that exemplifies the South African spirit," adds Daya.
Nelson Mandela once said, "If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart."
"This statement captures a profound truth. When you make the effort to speak someone else's language, even if it is simply correctly pronouncing their name, it deeply honours their identity and heritage, showing respect and valuing their background," says Majola.
Through this campaign, Cadbury Dairy Milk concludes that it intends to create a chain reaction that proves there is a "glass and a half in everyone".
For more information, visit www.cadbury.co.za. You can also follow Cadbury South Africa on Facebook or on X.
*Image courtesy of contributor