[imagesource:tiktok/@djphotobooths/screenshot]

Amidst warnings of Stage 7 load shedding for South Africa, a beam of light shines from community members taking 2023 Rugby World Cup viewing into their own hands.

With DSTV and Supersport continuing to line their own pockets with streaming money and SABC fumbling to get the rights to show rugby games, fed-up locals are now setting up DIY ‘fanparks’ so that no matter your income or status, Springbok fans can view the games together.

Local TikTok-er Luciano Augustus recently shared wholesome footage of the screening set-up he organised for his Kensington ‘hood.

The vibe he managed to create with just a projector and a couple of camping chairs truly encapsulates the energy of Ubuntu.

Kids enjoyed running around safely on the sidewalks while a motley group of dedicated locals hung out together with beers, some even sitting directly on the road to catch the recent Springboks VS. Scotland game.

@djphotobooths I shared the Springboks first RWC game with the Kensington Community #fanpark #rwc2023 #rwcfanpark #foryou #foryoupage #forcommunitybycommunityallcommunity ♬ original sound – Luciano Augustus

Augustus is not the only South African choosing to bring communities together for the games; many other locals are creating these make-shift ‘fanparks’, including one social media user from Port Elizabeth:

“My neighbour asked to use my front boundary wall for this event. Community turnout was around 80-100+ people… Awesome atmosphere.”

Many people are using the hashtag #strongertogether in an ironic twist that takes the catchy slogan out of the hands of  Supersport and into the homes of regular citizens.

Many social media users have since commented that “this version of South Africa” is the one we are striving for. Amen.

If you’re also frustrated with the gatekeeping of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, why not knock on some neighbourhood doors, grab a couple cold ones and organise a viewing party in your own ‘hood?

If this doesn’t show the true spirit of South Africans, I don’t know what does. Let’s go Bokke!

[source:tiktok/@djphotobooths]