It’s not every day you see the leader of a nation crouched down in the middle of a shopping mall, tying a child’s shoelaces. But that’s exactly what President Cyril Ramaphosa did at Canal Walk in Cape Town, and the internet hasn’t stopped talking about it since.
A President Among the People
The president, reportedly on a casual shopping trip (possibly on the hunt for a new couch, as Mzansi joked), found himself surrounded by fans and families. No press conference. No big announcement. Just Ramaphosa, smiling, greeting locals, and cheerfully inviting “the young ones and the old ones” to take photos with him.
The Shoelace Heard Around the Country
Then came the now-viral moment. While posing for a photo with a young girl, he noticed her shoelace was undone. Without a second thought, he placed his phone and bag aside, knelt down, and tied her shoe. A small gesture, but one that sparked a wave of warmth from onlookers. Phones came out. “Awwws” echoed through the mall. The footage hit social media—and exploded.
A Human Moment in a Political World
It wasn’t just the act. It was the context. How often do we see presidents—anywhere—tie a child’s shoelaces in public? It wasn’t performative. It wasn’t polished. It was human. And that’s exactly why it hit so hard.
In an era where political leaders are often seen as out of touch or emotionally distant, this simple act of care landed like a breath of fresh air. Critics will argue it was a photo op or a distraction. And sure, tying a shoelace won’t fix load shedding or corruption. But this moment wasn’t about fixing policy—it was about presence.
The Power of Small Things
Sometimes, leadership looks like strategy and big decisions. Other times, it looks like stopping in the middle of a shopping mall to tie a kid’s shoe.
It’s not about idolizing the act. It’s about recognizing that small moments like this are what build trust, connection, and relatability. That’s what made this moment go viral. Not because it was dramatic, but because it was real.
Final Thought
Whether you see him as President Ramaphosa or affectionately call him “Cupcake,” one thing’s clear. That single shoelace did more than complete a bow. It tied him just a little closer to the people.
Source: 2oceansvibe
