“South Africans are South Africa’s best export!”

This statement, first articulated by Nic Letouf, has become the foundation of a movement that recognises the unique value that South Africans bring to the global stage.

From the busy streets of Sandton to the skyscrapers of New York, from the beaches of Sydney to the innovation hubs of London, you’ll find incredible South Africans, each carrying a piece of our nation’s spirit with them.

The Lekker Network was born from the idea that we could connect the dots between South Africans globally and South Africans locally to create a network of opportunities.

Because when South Africans come together, something extraordinary happens – ideas flow, opportunities multiply, and impossible dreams become possible realities.

The name itself tells you a lot about its essence. “Lekker” – that quintessentially South African word that somehow manages to convey goodness, excellence, and satisfaction all at once – perfectly captures the spirit of this community. It’s not just good; it’s lekker, chief!

Unlike traditional networking platforms that often feel transactional and cold, The Lekker Network taps into something more profound – our shared identity. It’s about that instant connection you feel when you hear someone pronounce “Johannesburg” correctly in a room full of strangers or the knowing smile when someone references a “now-now” timeframe in a business meeting.

What makes The Lekker Network truly special is its commitment to the spirit of Ubuntu – the understanding that “I am because we are.” This philosophy underpins everything the network does, from facilitating business connections to providing opportunities. Success isn’t measured individually but collectively – when one South African wins, we all win.

The Lekker Network Pledge, a cornerstone of our membership, outlines commitments that members make to each other: connecting without borders, uplifting fellow South Africans, innovating with purpose, preserving our heritage, building bridges, sharing knowledge, embracing diversity, acting with integrity, investing in our collective future, and perhaps most importantly, greeting with purpose through the question, “How can I help you, bru?”

We’re on a mission to create a South Africa that exists wherever South Africans gather, bringing with them our resilience, resourcefulness, and relentless optimism.

Members gain access to a community where connections happen organically, business opportunities flow naturally, and our shared understanding creates shortcuts to trust and collaboration.

From Cape Town to the Cayman Islands, South Africans are finding that one lekker connection can indeed change their lives.

The Lekker Network doesn’t just recognise that South Africans are doing remarkable things worldwide – it amplifies these stories, celebrates these achievements, and creates pathways for even greater success through collective action.

In a world obsessed with individual achievement, The Lekker Network stands as a powerful reminder that we come from a culture that understands the true power of togetherness. It’s not just about what you know or even who you know – it’s about who we are together and what we can achieve when we combine our uniquely South African perspective with global opportunity.

So what is The Lekker Network? It’s home, anywhere in the world.