Dr Reza Mia is best known as the founder of the Anti-Aging Art Medical Aesthetic and Holistic Wellness Centre, although those who move in aeronautical circles may be aware of his innovations and entrepreneurial activities in that space.
But in January 2024, he unleashed yet another of his seemingly unending superpowers – that of singer-songwriter. And his latest project is a song which he hopes will encourage South African youth to stand up and vote.
Titled “Each of us (Raise your vote)”, he released the song on popular music and social media platforms in support of South Africa’s registration drive.
The final voter registration weekend for the 2024 National and Provincial Elections took place nationally on Saturday 03 February and Sunday 04 February 2024.
Dr Reza is an agent of change
Having done some research into South Africa’s low voter registration, and even lower voter turnout (as low as 10%, in some places), Dr Reza decided that he would do something about it, in the hope of dispelling apathy and reigniting the spirit of nationalism. All of which brings to mind that aphorism, “Be the change that you want to see.”
“We all live in this country and experience the effects of either good or bad governance, so it’s important for us to seriously consider our options as citizens. We all need to critically assess policies, without being swayed by political advertising, and vote where our consciences lie,” he says. “Giving up is not an option. You have no right to complain about reigning conditions if you have not exercised your right to be counted.”
Noting that voter apathy seems to be especially prevalent amongst younger South Africans, he hit upon writing a song as a medium that is closely aligned with youth culture.
Bringing in the team
Upon realising what needed to be done, Dr Reza assembled a trusty team to assist him with realising his goal and producing the best possible result, especially as this represents his first venture into the world of music. “I didn’t even that know I could sing, apart from shower-singing and the odd foray into karaoke,” he laughs.
First to step up to the plate was Dr Reza’s friend Lex Leo, who helped him with the lyrics and tunes, as did RJ Benjamin, his voice coach; Goofy, his producer; and his lawyer, Natalia. Staff members at the Wellness Centre, Roxanne, Jaydene, and Zandalee, provided backing vocals, making the song a truly collaborative effort.
“I’d like to express my gratitude to each person who shared this vision and brought their talent to the table,” Dr Reza continues. “It was a very exciting and positive experience.”
Spread the word
The song has been shared across a multitude of music platforms, in a quest to make it as unmissable as possible. Now, it’s up to the song to do its ambassadorial work, and for fellow music enthusiasts and activists to share it with as many of their friends as possible.
It’s Dr Reza’s conviction that an open election with freedom of speech, with the maximum participation of its citizens, is what a healthy democracy is all about.
“I love my country and I want to see it prosper. My dream is to see a South Africa where every individual possesses a home, financial resources, opportunity and employment.” says Dr. Reza “Ultimately, it’s our privilege and duty as citizens to appoint leaders who will help us reach this dream, and to hold these leaders accountable for their progress. We are all responsible for South Africa’s future, which is why each of us must raise our vote.”
Check out the video for the track below:
When asked about his motivation to shift his focus from medicine and business to music with a political message, Dr. Reza shares: “I am still very much focused on my day jobs, but I felt like I needed to do something to get people interested in voting and critically assessing their options for their future government. I love my job and the opportunity it gives me to change lives by combining art and science.”
Despite his medical and business background, Dr. Reza has always had a passion for music, albeit mostly in private settings like karaoke nights. However, he recognized the potential of music as a medium to reach a broad audience with his message of civic engagement.
The collaborative process behind “Raise Your Vote” was a labor of love and dedication to the cause. Dr. Reza made the decision to create a song with the hopes that it will encourage people to vote.
“Raise Your Vote” carries a clear message to South Africans – that each individual’s vote matters and can make a significant difference in shaping the future of the nation,” Dr. Reza emphasizes the importance of studying political parties, examining their track records, ethics, and promises to make informed decisions at the polls.
The song is available on Spotify, YouTube Music and all other major music streaming platforms.
Watch this space for updates in the Music Videos category on SA Music Zone.
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