These days, it may feel easier to view the festive season through the lens of Scrooge McDuck than the joyful eyes of Tiny Tim. The sky-high cost of living, coupled with uncertainties about the year ahead and exhaustion from the year gone by, is enough to make anyone wince when the first festive lights are hung in malls across Mzansi.
But the essence of the festive season is alive and thriving, fuelled by people’s generosity and the strength of family bonds. From delivery drivers guiding an elderly man home safely to NGOs ensuring holiday food supplies for those in need, South Africans embody the true spirit of the season well before 25 December.
If lighting up your loved ones’ faces with thoughtful gestures is your tradition, Shyft is here to make it all the more magical.
Gift giving
Even if you’re not big on presents, there’s something uniquely heartwarming about receiving one thoughtfully chosen just for you. Many would argue the real joy comes from seeing someone’s eyes light up with excitement over a gift that truly resonates with them.
The hunt for the perfect present, though, can be daunting, especially when aisles of generic mugs and 2025 diaries don’t cut it. Often the most unique items aren’t a hop, skip and jump away from your home.
Enter online shopping – a global marketplace at your fingertips. Whether it’s that hard-to-find collectable or a special keepsake, almost anything is just a few clicks away nowadays. And with Shyft, location is no barrier.
Shyft lets you load the cheapest forex in the market onto up to five virtual cards per currency to shop safely and conveniently in the US, UK, Europe, and Australia. Whether it’s that limited-edition LEGO Hogwarts set or a bespoke leather Coach tote (or couch!), you can find and send truly special gifts, dazzling your loved ones in ways they never expected.
Experiences
For those extra discerning friends or family members who would rather enjoy an unforgettable adventure, Shyft has you covered too. Skip the queues and book a “taste the movie” dining experience for the niece who’s obsessed with Ratatouille, finally tick off that bucket-list bungee jump with your best friend or spoil your partner with a romantic trip to Toulouse – the options are endless.
What’s more, with your Shyft card linked to Apple Pay, you can pay with a tap of your smartphone or watch.
Giving back
It’s what the festive season is all about, right?
Perhaps there’s a PTA feeding drive at your children’s school you’d like to be more involved in. Or a special charity that serves a cause dear to your heart. How about the outreach sector of your local place of worship? Many of these organisations receive their biggest handout over the festive season but often face significant challenges once the holidays are over.
Here’s an idea: order a physical Shyft rand card (free delivery until 31 December 2024!), load it monthly with a fixed amount, and gift it to an organisation of your choice. It’s a simple, secure way to ensure your generosity continues long after the tinsel comes down.
Jingle all the way!
Even in tough economic times, the spirit of joy, compassion, and connection endures. Shyft wishes you and your loved ones a blessed festive season and a prosperous new year.
