South Africa, Dec. 5 -- Its data is clear: joy is not a soft metric, it's a strategic advantage. It shows that authentic human connection is the most potent driver of happiness and business success, in 2026 and beyond.

Brands that win in 2026 will be those who bring people together, celebrate local culture, understand emotional context, create shared, human moments, and build belonging, not just impressions.

The local edition Time Out South Africa builds on fresh research, real voices from South African communities, and Time Out's connection to city culture and is sponsored by Jacaranda FM.

Key findings

South Africans are making the shift from surviving to thriving

Key insights for South Africa reveal a nation moving decisively from ...