SA reflects on unity

South Africa has made a lot of progress since 1994, with many citizens agreeing that the country is a much better place.

South Africans from different walks of life shared their views on how the country has fared when it comes to nation building.

Shane Westlake, Durban 

We have come a long way since 1994, but a lot still needs to be done. The 2010 FIFA World Cup and sport does unite us but racism, gender inequality, violence and crime are prevalent in our society.

Tina Fela, Hillbrow 

The current government has made great strides and many people's lives (including mine) have changed. However, many citizens still don't acknowledge the legacy of apartheid, which did not end in 1994. People are still dealing with those generational issues that can hinder a person's development.

Priscilla Ndula, Tembisa 

In the past my mother would tell me stories about how badly she was treated and poorly paid by her employers just because she was a black woman. Today, I am treated as just an employee at work and not judged for being a woman or black.

Seugnet van Zyl, Pretoria

We are closer as a nation, just look at the legacy left by the 2010 FIFA World Cup. People from all walks of life are now able to interact and live in harmony. That was unheard of in the past and it's the reason why we are called the rainbow nation.

Cheryl Reddy, Randburg

As the country celebrates 20 years of democracy, we are far from being a united nation. Racism is rife in our country and I have experienced it personally. It saddens me that while we have come so far, society still passes judgment based on skin colour.

Sandra Matsheke, Rustenburg

I travel a lot because of my job and I have never come across a country so proud of its culture. South Africa is my home, a place where I am treated like I belong. Yes, there are issues related to inequalities but we have overcome a lot and we will continue to do so.