Remember the thrill of your first concert? The joy that comes with your first birthday cake? What about the awe of seeing the ocean for the first time or your favourite sporting team out on the field? Cadbury says these "firsts" are more than short-lived moments; they shape our memories and well-being. Yet, a new Cadbury Dairy Milk online survey of 52 000 participants reveals that 52% of the audience surveyed cannot remember the last time they experienced something for the first time. This finding, along with 94% of respondents yearning to experience something new again, highlights a national "experience slump".

Nomawethu Ngadlela, Chocolate Category Lead at Mondelez South Africa, says, "Cadbury has always believed in the power of generosity to bring people closer. The 'Generous First' campaign is our commitment to embodying the spirit of Ubuntu ('I am because we are'), facilitating moments of connection. Through this, we want South Africans to create 'ripples of happiness’ by sharing novel experiences that many might not otherwise have access to. It's about reminding ourselves of the richness of shared moments and collective upliftment."

The Psychological Power of "Firsts"

The importance of these "first" experiences extends beyond simple enjoyment. Sanaam Naran, counselling psychologist and Founder of Conscious Psychologist, highlights the profound psychological impact. "From a biological perspective, positive first-time experiences trigger the release of serotonin and dopamine — our 'feel-good' hormones. This not only boosts our mood but can help reduce stress and anxiety."

Naran adds, "These novel moments are also crucial for memory formation. They stand out and become anchors we recall vividly, often linked to strong positive emotions. The finding that over half of those surveyed can't recall their last first is concerning. It reflects the significant stressors many people face daily — from economic pressures to societal challenges — leaving little room to focus on personal growth and joy."

Breaking the Routine and Building Connections

Despite these challenges, the Cadbury survey reveals an overwhelming spirit of generosity inherent in South Africans. A remarkable 83% of participants expressed a desire to gift a first-time experience to someone they love, and a significant 65% would extend this generosity to a stranger.

Naran sees this as a testament to the nation's deep-rooted desire for connection. "This willingness to give speaks volumes about our inherent desire for connection and the enduring spirit of Ubuntu. Gifting an experience provides a sense of purpose and the feeling of contributing to something bigger. For the receiver, it's a powerful affirmation of being seen, cared for and valued," says Naran. 

Naran adds that sharing new experiences, whether facilitating one for a loved one or a stranger, strengthens social bonds. It also fosters empathy and combats the isolation that can negatively impact mental well-being, something incredibly vital in South Africa.

Reigniting the Joy of that First Experience

Naran encourages South Africans feeling stuck in a routine or those who can't recall their last "first" to start small. "It's easy to feel overwhelmed, but the key is to start somewhere and be conscious about cultivating these moments. It doesn't have to be grand — it could be taking an hour for yourself, trying a new walking route, or consciously deciding to gift a first-time experience to someone else. These small, deliberate acts remind us that we can feel fulfilled and experience joy throughout our lives, not just when we are young," says Naran. 

Cadbury says it is making it easier for people to create these memorable "first" moments for others through the 'Generous First' campaign. South Africans looking to spark the joy of a first-time experience can begin by purchasing any two participating Cadbury Dairy Milk chocolate slabs. Visit the Cadbury website to explore the gallery of first-time experiences, and nominate someone they know who deserves a special first. The participant and the nominee then stand a chance to win a first-time experience, creating a memory that will last a lifetime.

"We want to create a national ripple effect of positivity to help build our nation's hope and excitement. We encourage South Africans to nominate someone for a memorable first experience, whether it's seeing the ocean, attending a major sporting event, or enjoying a simple treat for the first time. Our goal is to foster countless moments of joy and create cherished memories," concludes Ngadlela.

For more information, visit www.cadbury.co.za. You can also follow Cadbury South Africa on Facebook or on X.

*Image courtesy of contributor