There is a particular kind of excitement that comes with renewal. When former student activists, progressive intellectuals and transformation champions gathered to revive SPoT, the energy in the room was palpable.

SPoT was born from the progressive student movement of the 1980s — from organisations like NUSAS, AZASO, SANSCO and SASCO that played a crucial role in South Africa’s liberation struggle. The founders of SPoT carried that activist tradition into the post-apartheid era, establishing a platform for continued engagement on transformation.

After a period of dormancy, we are rebuilding. Not simply restoring what was, but creating something suited to the challenges of today.

**Why now?**

The challenges facing South Africa are immense. Unemployment, inequality, corruption and governance failures demand urgent, organised activist response. The progressive forces in South African society need a unified, capable platform for advocacy and action.

SPoT aims to be that platform — drawing on the intellectual capital, sectoral expertise and social consciousness of activists who have worked across government, business, civil society and academia.

**What will the relaunched SPoT look like?**

The SPoT that emerges from the Relaunch Conference will be:

– Structurally sound, with a legitimate governance framework – Intellectually rigorous, producing quality research and advocacy – Broadly networked, with provincial chapters and international connections – Campaign-oriented, translating ideas into action

We invite all progressive activists to be part of this relaunch. Join us in rebuilding a credible platform for transformation.