Based on the current trends, it’s hard to disagree with Elon Musk here. The Pretoria-born tech whizz appeared on the Full Send Podcast this weekend, in a long-ranging interview that drew in more than 7.5 million viewers. However, he was not complimentary about his home nation.
Elon Musk details ‘violent past’ in South Africa
Musk is currently the richest man in the world, but he had something of a tumultuous upbringing: He was bullied Bryanston High School and Pretoria High during his formative years. He told the podcast hosts that he ended up in a number of street-fights, largely against his will.
While discussing the topic, Elon Musk revealed that he had been ‘punched in the face’ and ‘picked on’ for most of his childhood in South Africa. However, the multi-billionaire maintains that this onslaught helped to toughen him up as an adult.
Richest man in the world recounts ‘bullying experiences’ in Mzansi
The SpaceX and Tesla founder has enjoyed a meteoric rise since his teenage years, and it’s estimated he is worth more than $250 billion as of Tuesday 9 August. Alas, his time in South Africa was ultimately unpleasant – and he has branded the country as ‘a very violent place’.
Mr. Musk’s comments come at an extremely sensitive time for Mzansi: A spate of high-profile crimes in deprived communities have forced gatvol residents to protest on the streets. This, in turn, has led to SANDF being put on standby to restore law and order if needed.
Elon Musk may have little to do with South Africa these days, but his succinct assessment rings true…
“When I grew up, things were very violent. I was in a lot of fights I didn’t want to be in, I got beat up a lot of times. In real, hardcore street-fights. This happened from being aged six to 16. I grew up in South Africa, which is a very violent place. It played a role in toughening me up.”
“People who get upset by words have never been punched in the face like I have. If that happens to you, you’ll take my words. I was always a bit of a nerd. I was a late bloomer from a size point. Being small and getting bullied is a bad situation. I got to 16 and I eventually knocked a guy out.”
Elon Musk
- You can watch Elon Musk discuss South Africa and his ‘violent’ experiences here:
