On Friday, October 29, Carel Nolte, Etana’s head of people and brand, arrived at 7 Douglas Street to give Flowstars red socks. This was his way of thanking staff for supporting the daREDevil Speedo Run, organised to raise awareness and funding for prostate and testicular cancer.
Flow took part in and reported on the run, held on October 15 of this year, but what warranted the strange scarlet socks, one might ask?
It’s all part of an initiative, redsockfriday, which Etana is supporting in the name of charity and a little bit of crimson cheer. Etana’s never one to say no to any poweRED initiative, anyway.
Carel explained that exchanging (and wearing) red socks was all part of remembering those close to you. According to www.redsockfriday.com, the tradition started between two friends who were looking for a way to express their friendship, and happened on a particularly touching World War I story, which involved a war veteran who always wore red socks.
The veteran wore these socks every day as a way to remember two of his best friends who had died in battle. These three friends had made a pact on being sent to fight in World War I, that whoever made it out alive should always wear a sign to remember his friends. They chose red socks.
Explaining Etana’s involvement in the redsockfriday movement further, Carel spoke of how all proceeds from sock sales go to charity, one of which supports prostate and testicular cancer awareness and research. What better way to continue the daREDevil Run tradition every Friday, argued Carel, while also remembering the friendships, relationships and partnerships that drive your passion.
Delighted Flowstars wore their red socks as soon as possible. “These are too cool, I am so wearing them this Friday,” said Neo Male, one of Flow’s graphic designers.
Sporting his red socks, Flow’s Tumelo Mphafe said, “These are nice socks! They are warm too. I think it’s a great initiative and I support it.”
So don’t be surprised if you start to get red socks in the mail. Consider it a compliment of the highest degree, and your (and your secret sender’s) contribution to a good cause.
If you want to be part of the movement, go to www.redsockfriday.com.