[SSN] We’ve started something new

Some of you may remember I wrote a post I want to start something new, a while back. My inspiration was to apply creative skill to brainstorm ideas for solutions to the challenges we face today.Since deadlines inspire action, I mentioned that by 7 July 2009 something would be in progress. I also put it out there that should any other creatives have ideas worth pursuing, they should join ‘the cause'.

I was pleasantly surprised at the number of Bizcom readers who responded, and on a wintry evening in Parhurst on Tuesday 7 July, about 20 of us gathered at Nice to brainstorm. Start Something New now has its own acronym, SSN; it is not a charity; and its purpose is to initiate projects that will create economic value for less fortunate people.

The group agreed on a few principals for SSN, namely:

• Whatever we start needs to be simple, achievable and sustainable
• Need to do things that are for the greater good and will make a difference in the world
• No false starts - we're committed to finish whatever it is we start

As with any group, there were plenty of different ideas, with people all leaning towards a particular passion. An initiative filter was introduced and ideas that didn't meet the criteria fell away. Criteria included ideas that would empower people, add economic value for less fortunate individuals, and have a rural focus.

The ideas had to point towards making a meaningful contribution by leveraging our collective and individual skills. These sustainable initiatives should ideally operate in the space of crime, environment, education, HIV/AIDS, drugs, women and children abuse.

The next step for SSN is to register a Section 21 company; open a bank account, develop a logo; draw up a marketing plan; source sponsorship in the form of time, from audit and legal companies to assist with the secretarial functions. SSN also wants to develop a website where random people can post inspired ideas for SSN to consider.

We covered a lot of ground in our first meeting but there is much to do. I feel strongly that as creative people we can collectively do something to give back and contribute to the greater good. Our next meeting is on Friday 7 August and, if you're keen to check it out, mail me for details on .