Frontline Edition #1 Dec 2020

T LOADaking the off load shedding Contd...Solar savings in South Africa compared to the rest of the world? Solterra Off Grid systems Cost of a solar system Off grid systems are most suitable for remote or rural areas To run the average SA family home a 5KW – 7KW where the power grid is situated far away or non-existing or system is required with multiple batteries for where you have the real need to go completely green and backup. These systems can cost between R100k never receive a power utility bill again. Lodges or farms that and R200k. Going partially off grid can cost from run on diesel generators can save buckets full of money by R300k and up. A full solar system will take 4-9 opting for an off grid solar system. years to pay for itself. The system will also add value to a home, but more importantly, the Solar in KZN South Coast burning of fossil fuels to create electricity, will be reduced. If you have the opportunity to introduce Solterra has been operational on the KZN South Coast for even a small efficiency such as a solar water many years and we are proud to announce that we are heater or using more energy efficient appliances, successfully running just over 100 solar systems on our it is the right choice. Fortunately, advances in beautiful coast. This range from solar thermal to residential technology have made it possible for everyone to and commercial PV systems. We pride ourselves in reduce their power consumption. transforming the South Coast into a cleaner place while Even if a full system’s initial investment is out of saving our customers money. Solterra can also assist with reach, there are more ways to take advantage of financing options on our solar systems, so there is no solar energy. reason for you not to go green with these perfect weather conditions. We choose the best products for the coastal - Jan Landsberg (owner of Solterra) regions to collect the most energy from the sun, even in cloudy weather. ... there is no reason for you not to go green with these perfect weather conditions. Contact Us: South Coast 074 146 6177 073 093 9958 [email protected] North Coast 032 946 0125 082 739 4555 [email protected] [email protected] 51

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In the Mind of a Serial Entrepreneur NHBRC & MBA Registered Terrance Chetty is a serial entrepreneur. He has blazed through the past 3 decades owning various businesses. He now has established The Soap Factory Shop in Marburg. But he is more than just the owner of a shop.... He has dreams to go beyond the limits of trading through his of the Soap Factory Shop own version of vertical integration. And he plans to take others with him on this journey. In this interview, Ivan Naidoo of Frontline talks to Terrance about his idea of I actually got this idea from my uncle who initiated entrepreneurship. that many, many years ago. And over the school holidays, I worked for him. And that's where this idea came about. As someone with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, you have I had several uncles in business at that time and over the school holidays, I worked with them. That's how I Established many businesses over the years. By our picked up this idea of business. definition, that makes you a serial entrepreneur. Can I ask how this all started and about what drives you? Within a short while my business had grown to the Obviously, you would know that the South African stage where it needed 100% of my attention. industry is very unique compared to other countries I served my notice with my employer and he refused whereby, you know, entrepreneurship is of utmost to let me go. He wanted me to continue doing my importance if you really want to survive, if you're not business on the side. Then the offer of a company car happy working or coming home with your monthly salary. and other benefits came about and I turned it down. You have to do a lot of thinking and strategizing; that is My business to me was as gold, and I had to run my doing your homework before getting involved. This is, of own business if I wanted it to succeed. course, very, very important. I made this decision somewhat when I was about 17 years So that is where the passion and zeal started. old - when I had just finished school. I worked for six months - only six months in my life for a company in From there, the business just grew. I picked up Durban. business from some big companies in Pietermaritzburg and all over Durban. And whilst I was working there, I started to do my own I did have some setbacks. I was involved in two major business with consent from my boss. And he said to me car accidents which set me back but I always got back that as long as it doesn't interfere with my tasks, it’s not a up on my feet again. Along the way, I closed some problem. This took place about four or five months into businesses and started something else. And this is the six months that I had worked. where I'm at now. I started this little business actually selling cleaning rags to “I started this little business selling companies, to industries that used them. These were mostly companies like engineering companies, panel cleaning rags to companies” beaters, etc. 53

In the Mind of a Serial Entrepreneur ... It seems to me that you have some very credible people who are behind you in terms of manufacturing. Tell us a Contd. little bit about the people who are manufacturing for you. I am aware that your business interests have not been I believe I have a God given talent of looking into confined to one sector or area. Tell us about the diversity of something; and having basically no knowledge of it, I am your businesses. capable of very quickly educating myself using the internet. Likewise, with the detergents, I investigated it, I have this ability to see gaps in the market. I also I found leaders in the market. I looked at how they understand the demand for products and services. I stNaHrtBeRdCo&ffManBdAwRehgeirsetetrheedy are now. I was fortunate to grab at those opportunities. That's basically how I find a few good people, leaders in the industry, that approach starting up a business. helped me along. I then tweaked the product to make it even better and label it as my own. So, yeah, I started off selling cleaning rags. I then saw the gap in the IT space and started providing IT services So, yes, I do have people in the industry who are very and later studied and became an IT technician – I good at what they do. They're been doing it for the past approached the process backwards, but that’s me. 30 years, but I innovated most of the products to make it my own. Then I saw that there was a gap in the market for computer training. I opened that business about 12 So do you have plans to get patents or copyrights on some years ago, and it was very successful. It's still running, of your own brands? but unfortunately due to the lockdown, we had to close temporarily. I’m hoping to kick it off next year. Yes, definitely. Right now I'm working with this cleaning product. It's a multipurpose cleaner called WONDER Whilst at that business, I decided to follow my passion KLEEN, I'm busy trademarking and patenting it right for food. I then got involved in the catering business. I now together with a few other products. It developed, started off by buying a takeaway called Rush Hour in as I said to some, through another company and I Marburg and from there I started moving on to doing tweaked it according to how I wanted it. Firstly, I did a event catering. lot of research into it, investigated a few companies that do manufacturing, and I have found the one that I am I saw a need for good Indian food in the Port Shepstone working with now. area and I started Curry Café which was a very successful venture. I sold that business last year ...top brands ... at less than half the price sometime and I started to look into other things. Your presence in the media and in society at large has And that's when I started the detergent business. I grown tremendously. What do you attribute that to? actually started this business from my home. When I heard about the Covid pandemic starting up in China, I There's a lot of cheap or low quality detergents in the foresaw we were going to have the same problem here market. Some people have no choice but to buy them. in South Africa and had already planned in January to My idea was to go with high end premium quality start getting hand sanitizers made up. detergents while keeping the prices affordable. Fortunately for me, I have a friend of mine who has been The Soap Factory Shop is the leader in the South Coast in the detergent business for 30 years and we started that sells top branded detergents and toiletries that are making sanitisers and preparing for the Covid-19 factory rejects or overruns sold at bargain prices pandemic to hit South Africa. There’s many clothing or food stores that sell factory From January till now I started to formalize the business rejects or overruns but almost no one selling detergent and open up the shop, developing my own products. and toiletries on the South Coast. “My idea was to go with high end So that is why most of the products that you find in my premium quality detergents while shop are top brands that are either factory rejects with keeping the prices affordable.” minor faults like incorrect labels or a small flaw in the product itself; but selling for far less than half the price. I have found that people like shopping that way. They like looking for bargains. So yeah, I saw that gap in the market and grabbed it. 54

In the Mind of a Serial Entrepreneur ...contd Many people to start new businesses, eight out of ten In terms your strategy, you seem to be selling product fail within the first three to five years. What knowledge through the resellers in the retail space. Many are doing can you impart to people who want to emulate what direct sales. How is that part working? you are doing – not necessarily in detergents but in any industry? It's part of my strategy. And if I should say I’m passionate about empowering people, not just young people - Just one word - perseverance. anybody. This business supports a lot of resellers mainly housewives, unemployed, students etc. When people start up a new business, there's a lot of disappointment. They may have a good product, but I structure my price so that resellers can buy wholesale they become discouraged when they cannot put their from me and sell it at the same price as my shop. product on the market. So perseverance is very important. BRC & MBA Registered Before they started that business, they were highly After listening to the success in your approach, many motivated and confident. But when they start selling entrepreneurs may want to go out there and start their own the product or provide the service, they may find very businesses. Besides the perseverance and the commitment few people showing interest in it. This can drop their that you’ve already mentioned, what about the financial confidence level and leave them feeling discouraged cost involved? and wanting to quit. Stay away from negative people and surround yourself with confident people that will Yes. You need capital to start up a business. But when it constantly encourage you. comes to the people that this business is supporting right now – people who are buying and selling – half of these Advertising is a key factor in any business, use tools people actually came to me without any capital. like social media and try to put your product or service out there. It’s the backbone for any business. And I initially started them off with consignment stock whereby they are given the stock to sell and they repay Make your product look professional, especially when me after it is sold. And some of those people that it comes to your logos. Your labelling is very started off doing that, right now have a running capital of important. Spend money and get it done properly R30 000 to R40 000 in liquid cash that they rotate with. before you put it out there, because once your product is out there, that first impression lasts. And they started up just three months ago with zero – nothing. One lady from Margate had only R230 then. “...first impressions last.” Lady Margaret called me and said, “You know what? I want to sell these products. My shop is closed duty in the Let's talk about the South Coast, which is your primary middle of lockdown.” domain in your market. Do you have plans to expand outside the South Coast or do you find that the market is I gave her about R2000 worth of stock. She then sold it strong enough to just be your main place of trade? and has repaid me. She eventually now has her own capital to buy other products. The South Coast, or the slow coast as some people call it, is not enough. If you want to achieve what you are looking for in your business, you will need to think beyond the South Coast. My customer support base from outside the South Coast is mainly Durban, North Coast, Umtata in the Eastern Cape and from various other surrounding areas. I have a lot of businesses and people supporting me from the rural areas – both buying and reselling. Yes, a business has to branch out. I’m busy developing an e-commerce website taking my product sales nationally and eventually internationally. I’m passionate about empowering people. Not just young people – anybody... 55

How many people would you think that You've made a few references to your faith that Rev. Lulamile Bodla your initiative has impacted God has given you this talent. Where does that fit economically, either through the way in? In the Mind of a Serial they trade or whether they are Entrepreneur ... Contd. employees, say, over the last six I come from a very strong Christian background. months? I grew up with my parents being very strict when it comes to the things of God. Altogether there's about 30 – 35 people who are re selling my Along the way I’ve made lots of mistakes by not products – within and outside of the practicing proper principles and ethics in South Coast. business. But I’veNlHeaBrRnCe&d fMroBmA tRheogsisetemreisdtakes. My day starts off with prayer - getting direction And I take it that you are still open to from my Heavenly Father. I have been receive more people who want to trade fortunate enough to learn these principles from with you? my spiritual fathers Pastor Jacob Isaac (Durban) and the late, humblest, Pastor Vasin Gounden Definitely. to whom I’m ever so grateful for in my life. Do you have then the capacity to I'm totally committed to God. I draw my supply the demand? strength from Him; my wisdom from him. If you trust in Him, He'll make a way for you. Capacity to supply is always there. Finally, if I could say all of this would never ever I carry a lot of stock. I'm catering for be possible if it wasn’t for the most important these 30 to 35 people together with human being in my life…. My beautiful wife, my other retail customers. Stock is no Jesse Chetty. problem. 56





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The tradition that people have come to love will continue..... Farm Stall Coffee Shop & Restaurant Bar Well-stocked licenced bar Store Hours: Restaurant: Monday to Friday 8am – 6pm Monday to Sunday 8am – 8pm Saturday – 8am – 4pm Except Friday: 8am – 12 midnight Sunday – 8am – 3pm Cell: 083 210 1013 / 076 7555 994 Casuarina Rd, Sea Park, Port Shepstone 61

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PROS AND CONS OF BUYING AND RENTING A HOME As with anything in life, there are pros and cons to renting a Marc Lee property, just as there is to owning a home. Both options have their Manager: St Michael’s Manor Letting own advantages and disadvantages. For example, renting provides you with the flexibility to move from one area to another, or to a Disadvantages of buying a home larger or smaller property, at rather short notice should the need arise. In contrast, owning a house gives one the sense of security, as  Being a Homeowner comes with major it is considered a long-term investment. financial responsibility including bond repayments and regular house Marc Lee of St Michael’s Manor Letting talks about the pros and maintenance. cons surrounding both options, which will enable you to make a well informed decision.  There are additional costs to homeownership including municipal The advantages of buying a home rates, taxes, insurance, and household maintenance.  Owning your own home offers the long-term benefits of security, and potential growth in personal wealth.  There is a risk that the Homeowner may not make any profit through the  The value of a home will appreciate over time, and if you resale of the property. This is often decide to sell, you can earn a profit off the sale. caused by economic factors such as an economic recession or high interest  When you buy a house it becomes your legal property, rates, or simply through a particular giving you greater freedom in its use without restrictions area becoming less desirable. often enforced by a Landlord.  A Homeowner is less flexible when it  Being a Homeowner allows you creative control of your comes to being able to move home property. You can alter the property, including décor than a Tenant who rents on a short- changes, landscaping and renovations to suit your needs term basis. A Tenant can leave a and your style. property after fulfilling the duration of the lease period. However, a  You have the option of buying to rent, which enables a Homeowner is likely to be dependent Homeowner to generate income from renting out the on selling their home before being able property. This income can be put towards the home loan, to buy another home, and therefore it as well as scheduled maintenance. might take longer to be able to move homes once the decision has been  Being a Homeowner who ensures bond repayments are made to do so. made on time can improve your credit profile. Not only will you have a large investment to your name, but paying your monthly bond repayments on time increases your credit score.  You have the option to refinance your bond amount should you wish to withdraw a large amount of money to pay for major purchases in the future. It’s not a one-size-fits-all... 66

PROS AND CONS OF BUYING Small enough to care, big enough to deliver! NHBRC & MBA AND RENTING Registered Advantages of renting a home Tel: 039 315 1912  Renting a property allows more flexibility than Email: [email protected] owning a home. This is ideal for those who could be Website: www.deonkappconstruction.co.za faced with sudden changes such as job relocation. Renting requires no long-term commitment from a PO Box 10546, Oslo Beach, 4240 Tenant, and is the best option if you don’t intend on staying in one place for a long period of time.  As a Tenant, there is the possibility of living in an area in which you could not afford to buy a home.  Moving out is easier for a Tenant than a Homeowner, as there is no stress of finding someone to take over the lease agreement, or finding a Buyer to purchase the property as this is the responsibility of the Homeowner or Landlord.  The only insurance required by a Tenant is to cover the contents of the home. All maintenance work to be done on the property is for the Homeowner’s account, as is homeowners insurance.  After paying rent, a Tenant may have additional money which they can use to invest elsewhere, whether it is saving towards buying a house or placing money into investments, and need not worry about putting additional funds into a home loan. Disadvantages of renting a home  A Tenant is bound by the rules of the lease agreement, which can impact on the freedom to use or renovate the property in ways which they may feel beneficial to them.  You cannot make changes to a rented property without the Homeowner giving their consent to do so.  When renting, you will often have to deal with a Rental Agent who will then be the liaison between you and the Homeowner. This can result in issues taking longer to resolve since there is a 3rd party involved.  Renting offers no wealth creation or return on investment since the property will never legally belong to the Tenant.  When renting a property, the Tenant will have no control over annual rental fluctuations which are directly affected by inflation.  There is no guarantee that a lease agreement will be renewed when it expires after the termination date. 67





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Rev. Lulamile Bodla NHBRC & MBA Registered Ignite Revolution is a Revolution to Ignite Each organisation has their unique the world with the love and hope of strengths and we all complement each GOD. We are a group of ordinary people other perfectly. with an extraordinary love to share; we were knitted together by our common We worked with various organisations for passion to serve our community. Our Food Relief during Covid Lockdown, the primary focus is to provide free need was tremendous. Ignite initiated a counselling services to students at platform for the organisations to function schools. as a collective unit to ensure effective service delivery, this platform was used to We also provide counselling and support share information and resources to ensure to abused women and children, people that every request was met, it was amazing battling addiction as well as people to see people of different religions, races battling with grief. Aside from and cultures rally together to serve the counselling wherever a need is identified community. in the community we find a way to meet it. The Ignite Team personally delivered hampers to each family that sent through a Well we are declaring war, war against request, no area was too far, we even hopelessness and hate, war against assisted families in Umzinto, Amanzimtoti poverty and abuse, war against and Durban. Families were in dire need addiction, war against hunger, war and we pledged that no one would go against prejudice, racism and intolerance, without on our watch. Covid 19 lockdown we terrorising people with love. LOVE IS has had a severe impact on many families, OUR ONLY AGENDA. many were left without work, food and shelter, the team stepped in and worked Many NPOS work tirelessly and some long hours to arrange accommodation, hot are making a tremendous impact on our meals and also assisted many to find community, we have had the great employment. The need is still dire and pleasure of working with some of them Ignites Food Relief is still ongoing. in the past few months. We operate from Port Edward up until Hibberdene; At the moment in addition to the we also work in the rural areas that fall counselling our Food relief extends to a under the UGU District Municipality. We soup kitchen every Friday for the are of the mindset that together we can Homeless from Port Shepstone where 200 reach so many more; we have no qualms meals are served. This programme will about working with other NPOs to soon extend to Margate, Shelly Beach and achieve their goals vice versa. Nyandezulu. 81

Ignite has a Hot Meal programme, we prepare and In Focus serve Hot Meals to various homeless shelters and children shelters as well as various feeding The origins of the Port Shepstone Business Forum programmes on the South Coast. Grocery hamper can be traced back to a group of business and distribution is ongoing. property owners concerned about the rapid decline in the CBD and the deteriorating service  ROOTED for young men and BLOOM for young delivery from the municipality, which was ladies has launched in September these are hampering the growth and operations of local workshops we host for teenagers centred around businesses. having conversations about pertinent life issues. Rather than approach the issue in a radical or Some of the topics are: sex, addiction, teen confrontational manner, the Founder’s decided on pregnancy, rape, abuse, bullying, anger, aggression a collaborative approach to find sustainable etc. the aim is to promote Godly principals and also solutions in partnership with relevant and like- promotion a self-awareness of each child’s individual minded stakeholders worth. A safe person is identified in each area so The focus on a joint, solutions driven approach has should the children need a safe place in an been very effective in addressing short term emergency they would contact that safe person. issues amongst the membership, while allowing greater participation in the medium- and longer-  For new emerging and struggling entrepreneurs we term planning for the Municipality. design their business logos, pricelists, posters and An acknowledgement that real change can only be business cards and print the first 100 business cards affected if there is a sharing of resources and free, just to give them a extra boost. expertise between stakeholders has positioned the PSBF as an honest and reliable partner of both  For those addicted to drugs and want help we have a the District and Local Municipalities. sponsor/mentor programme, we assist to get them Despite the absolute number of members being into rehabilitation and detox programmes, they have relatively low, the breadth of economic activity access to sponsors, mentors and counselling free to and property ownership commanded by members, support and encourage them and to help keep them within the Municipality, the CBD in particular is from relapsing. very significant, giving the Forum great bargaining power to influence real and sustainable change for These are just a few of the many programmes we the betterment of all. working on currently. Dr. Ayoob Bux We have grown tremendously over the past 2 years and the support has been phenomenal, this growth is The current Exco (above) is ably led by Dr. Ayoob only possible because of the support of those who Bux, regarded as one of pioneers and innovators in believe in what we do and so willingly give. the private health sector in the region. The current challenges we have are funding as well as office space, the need within our communities are vast and we need more funding to be able to reach more and accomplish all we need to do. Having office space would offer a more structured platform for us to operate from. We have great plans for expansion that depends on these 2 factors. Our plans going forward include a community centre, focused on but not limited to equipping, empowering, training and mentoring youth and being facilitators of change in the lives of those who need it most. We cannot do all we need to do without the support of local business. Together we can achieve so much more. Any business wanting to partner with us on these social responsibility initiatives are welcome to contact us via email or cell, Contact Jessica on 0786514574 or Jena on 0731238069, email [email protected], we look forward to building together. 82

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By Deborah Conlon Life Innovator & Vision Activation coach How important is it for us as individuals to stay up-skilled to Starting a business may be easy but staying in business takes commitment, determination, move at the same pace as our businesses? hard work, perseverance and most of all constantly learning how to grow not only I wonder how many of us have asked ourselves this very yourself personally but upskilling your business question? I believe sometimes we become comfortable in our and staff so that you and your business stay in positions or career spaces that we don’t realize the great the game. Be game changers with a vision, value in upskilling ourselves. Personal development is a vital future-focused mind-set. key for not only personal enrichment but also for business and career growth. Staff wellness and developing management skills increase your chance of survival for long The more we learn the more we grow. The greater our term sustainability. Be sure at regular intervals understanding the more effective and productive we become. to do Personal and Business assessments and There are many who are studying or taking courses to evaluations. WHY? If you want to compete with improve their knowledge and this is a positive step, however the best and take your business to greater many learn, understand but don’t apply. Knowledge gained levels you need to keep doing company without application remains just knowledge. assessment. ASK? What is working? What isn’t? What do we keep or leave out? What do we Action is the true key to activate success. Creating consistent introduce? Know your market and what your motion in whatever we doing will produce results. A competitors are doing? Look for the gaps in the stationery vehicle will just be that if not in motion but a market. Be innovative and creative in your moving vehicle even if travelling at a slow pace, gaining business approach and value your clients. momentum increases opportunity. Opportunity becomes a Personal enrichment, Staff wellness and plan for income creating sustainability. Business evaluations keep your business balanced and healthy. Don’t let pride be a As an entrepreneur from my early 20’s, when I started my downfall and where professional assistance is first business as an Interior Decorator I realized that the years required in the areas of marketing or Financial I had engaged in work experience during my school years and planning be sure to get the advice or assistance holidays were what opened greater doors for me and created you need. a stepping stone above learners who had not engaged in work experience. Gaining knowledge prior gave me the tools “Motivated management I needed to start my own business. produce productive staff.” 86 The reality is that your business is only as good as your management. For even if you have fantastic dynamic sales teams driven to succeed, a non- supportive or demotivated management structure would indirectly cause staff to become demotivated. Ultimately they become less productive.

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Poverty in South Africa cultureis linked to Dieter Oehme This may seem to be a highly inflammatory Obviously poor education and lack of training, as well as the concept, but before we jump to economic climate and our horrific unemployment rate, do play a conclusions, let us take a dispassionate look huge role. But let us for a moment examine the topic objectively, at the matter. put aside our pet theories and view it from the perspective of culture. We may just discover that under all the rubble of old Anyone familiar with South Africa will arguments, there lies a truth that we all can agree on. appreciate the richness of the different cultures that it boasts amongst those ethnic When it comes to spending and investing our money, each of us groups privileged enough to call it home. has an ingrained attitude regarding our responsibilities, and our Ironically, however, when you cross the obligations with regard to providing for ourselves and our social boundaries and become intimately families. These attitudes are handed down to us from our familiar with these cultures, it becomes parents and continue from generation to generation. These obvious that these same cultural attitudes are thus an inherent part of our culture. differences may actually add to our problems. Although you will find exceptions, the general rule is that your personal fiscal attitudes will fall into one of three categories: We can all agree that poverty is a very great problem in South Africa.  Parent-focused Now, the default, knee-jerk response is that  Child-focused poverty in South Africa is the result of the legacy of the social imbalances and  Independence-focused injustices of apartheid. Certainly no one can deny that apartheid contributed greatly to Parent-focused the problem. But can it truly receive the full People who grow up in this environment are taught that their blame when poverty seems to be endemic primary responsibility is the well-being of their parents. The to most third world countries, even in those moment they are old enough, they are put to work washing that never lived under apartheid nor are dishes and performing household tasks. When they are of even on the African continent? working age they will work a full- time job and have to come home and cook for the family, assuming they are still living in the And then why does poverty persist, and parental home. Whenever there are large family gatherings, the even increase in South Africa, after well older generation will sit around relaxing while the younger over two and a half decades of freedom? generations do all the work. Someone from this culture may desperately wish to marry his fiancé but be unable to do so Many different (and some highly because he first has to build his parents a house. Deep bonds of inflammatory) views have sprung up as to loyalty are ingrained within them and extreme pressure is why this is. One group will blame exerted (both direct and indirect) for them to provide their elders government corruption, nepotism and with a higher standard of living. mismanagement. Another will attribute it to monopoly capital and systemic racism. Most Child-focused tend to avoid the topic due to very deep, Children who grow up in this environment are raised where the pain-filled feelings which can spark heated parents invest everything into their children’s lives. They place debates that can even cause rifts between tremendous importance on their education and push them to do friends and in social circles. well academically. They will sacrifice much to ensure their children can receive the best possible schooling. If they can afford it, they take out massive life insurance policies on themselves so that if they die, their children are secure for life or, at least, start off with a rock-solid footing. Someone from this culture might buy a house or even a business for his son-in-law, so that the son-in-law can provide for his newly wedded wife. 89

“…Can you begin to see the problem here?” inPoverty South Africa is linked to culture Independence-focused In summary: Rev. Lulamile Bodla  Child-focused – have to provide for their People who grow up in this environment are taught to be independent. The parents do children not want to be a burden to the children, and  Independence-focused – have to provide for likewise, the children must not be a burden to the parents. They are educated as quickly themselves and their children as possible for the best chance of success, NHBRPpCaarr&eennMtts-Bf, oAfocRurestgehidestme–rsheedalvveestaonpdrothveidirecfhoirldtrheenir and then are expected to go out and make their own way in this world. Great value is Can you begin to see the problem here? put on being a self-made man in this culture. If we had three neighbours living next door to each After reading through these descriptions, I other, each from a different fiscal culture, they am certain you will automatically identify practice the same profession, receive the same which one you were raised in. This cultural salary, and each has a wife and two kids… Where fiscal attitude is most likely the one that is would each one be in thirty years? predominant in the cultural or ethnic group you belong to. You are also most likely to It is logical that the future of one’s children and have a strong proclivity to it, believing it to grandchildren is highly dependent on where they be the correct way. start in life. If one is given a home, one has to purchase their own, and another has to buy one for But the question begs: Which is indeed the themselves and their parents, it is clear who is at an right way? Is there even a right way? For advantage and who is not. Those with less financial each one has their own pros and cons. burden placed upon them will have more available to Children from parent-focused families, for invest in their children’s education and business example, tend to have a deeper engendered ventures. Those with greater obligations will have respect for their parents compared to the much further to go before they can start others, whereas those from child-focused accumulating wealth. The bitter irony is that those families tend to be more entitled than the with this cultural attitude are even further hampered others. by the lack of financial means to educate and invest in order to break this cycle. But is that the most important question we should be asking ourselves? Should we not But is it acceptable to throw out two attitudes in rather be asking ourselves: Which is the most favour of the one which is so obviously effective? Especially considering the socio- advantageous? As mentioned before, each attitude economic climate we find ourselves in. has both pros and cons. What if the answer to all our Would that not be infinitely more problems lies deeply embedded in separate truths productive? contained within each of the cultures in our country? So, what are the practical outcomes of the Do we not get steel when we mix iron and carbon? three different cultural fiscal attitudes? There are two concepts when different cultures Child-focused families can stand on the come together within a nation: A salad bowl and a shoulders of the generation that paved the melting pot. way before them and with each successive generation reach new heights in social and Contd. economic status. Independence-focused families are frustrated because they hit the reset button every time and have to start from scratch, over and over again. Parent-focused families are at an even greater disadvantage. Their progress is severely hampered when they are expected to provide the life for their parents that their parents were unable to provide for themselves. 90

... Poverty in South Africa is linked to culture “ǃke e꞉ ǀxarra ǁke” The salad bowl is where the different cultures are all The world stood amazed when in 1994 we collectively thrown together without blending with transitioned peacefully into the new, free South one another. And just like a salad, it isn’t good for Africa. Perhaps if the colours of the rainbow anything except being devoured. The iron rusts and nation envisioned by Nelson Mandela finally the carbon is blown away by the wind. And this is united to form a new unbreakable alloy, never exactly what happens in real life as greedy and power- seen before, we could become the star of Africa hungry people exploit these differences to enrich we were meant to be and the envy and a shining themselves and stay in power through fearmongering. example to the entire world. The melting pot is where we are placed together and Are we going to have the open minds necessary forced to interact with one another. It gets hot and to explore the values within our diverse cultures uncomfortable and, just as when you melt ore, the and the courage to critically examine our own? dross comes floating to the surface. The process is not Will we be willing to learn from one another and pleasant, but in the end the iron and carbon bond to put our love of country above love of tradition? form a new alloy - steel. The newly forged material is stronger than either of them were before. If you add Or are we going to, as Einstein defined insanity, chromium into the melting pot, the steel will become “Do the same thing over and over again stainless, and will never rust. This happens during war, expecting different results”? where different people are forced to unite to face a common foe and are forever changed as a result. In Most do see the disadvantages of their cultural South Africa we experienced a small taste of this obligations, and the advantages of adapting to during the Rugby World Cup. change, however the threat of family disapproval and ostracism is very real. The ways The most powerful country in the world today, of our forefathers are strongly ingrained in those unquestionably, is the United States of America. Their around us and the prospect of going against the motto: Ex Pluribus Unum. (Out of many – One). It is flow can seem both daunting and similar to our old motto: Ex Unitate Vires. (Out of insurmountable. unity – Strength) Yet we all instinctively realise that there are Our new motto: “ǃke e꞉ ǀxarra ǁke” - \"Diverse People certain traditions and customs that we cling to Unite\" - was conceived when we were full of hope at that serve no purpose other than to the dawn of the New South Africa. Is this not why we unnecessarily complicate our lives. We observe are failing? Because we still, after all these years, them for no other reason than because previous have not fused together to form a new strong generations have done so. Most of us just follow indomitable South African culture? blindly along, not giving them a second thought. And those of us brave enough to dare to But do we require a war to unite? Do we not already question are silenced with the sternest looks of have a common enemy in the corruption and poverty disapproval from our elders. so prevalent in our country, that we as a nation should declare war upon? A house divided against itself But if we conclude that poverty is indeed cannot stand. culturally propagated, is it not our duty, for the future of our own children and ultimately the Can you for a moment imagine a South Africa with a entire nation, to implement change? Even if it new South African culture. One where we place the flies in the face of those who stubbornly cling to love of our beautiful country and nation above loyalty outdated ways? For those of us who dare, to our ethnic cultural group. Where we are passionate perhaps we can draw encouragement from an and loyal to our family, our entire South African family. interesting and yet profound statement I heard Were we not born under the same South African sky, the other day: under the sweltering heat of our South African sun? Do we not all feel our blood sing when we see our “Tradition - is peer pressure from dead people!” grassy plains and fields, our mountains, our bushveld, forests and rivers? Our waterfalls and beaches, our sunrises and sunsets? Our winds and thunderstorms? Do we not all bleed the same red blood that flows through our veins, the legacy of pioneers and warriors, of those who came from all over the world through the centuries to create a better life for themselves and us, their progeny? 91

... says Anton van Reit, local the Engineer and fixer-upper. Ivan Naidoo talks to local engineer, Anton van Reit. Never one to mince his words, Anton shares his ideas on fixing the ills of the South Coast. Anton, you seem to have a strong I’ve heard Barry Smit (Margate Ratepayers opinion about why the South Coast Association) and many others talk of the broken economy is not operating optimally. window theory. Can we apply that principle to What is exactly going on from your the South Coast? perspective? The apt “Broken Windows” depiction relating to crime and Well, it is certainly not surprising, as we have anti-social behaviour damaging the harmony and development had to face tremendous challenges – not only of regions is real, but can, without doubt, be fixed. In fact, such this year, but for a number of years now. issues are possibly blessings in disguise for having provided clear indications for the need to experience positive social The major problem lies in the nature of interaction, as well the caring about the safety and welfare of individuals to sit back and criticize the efforts fellow citizens, thereby ensure bonding. of those who show initiative and drive. However, this can easily be turned around for So, if we made you king of the South Coast for a the benefit of all month, what would you fix first. Go down your list of priorities and name them one by one. Is it fixable?  First to be fixed would be the convincing of all citizens to all The answer is a resounding YES. We all just join hands in a positive effort to make our wonderful region the need to dream, show enthusiasm, pull together Garden of Eden that it can be. Everyone can- and should make and – most of all – keep focussing on the an effort. The cleaning-up of the beaches after the recent April fantastic opportunities out there. flooding incident serves as proof of the wonderful effect such interaction had on a wide spectrum of unselfish, positive Who do you think should lead this people, from a very wide spectrum. charge?  Crime is very real, but the local private security companies are This charge should be led by those who have doing amazingly well. Again, individuals could assist. already shown the perspective, enthusiasm and perseverance through often difficult times.  We need to put our future dreams out there. A short-, medium The individuals may belong to different bodies, and long term plan should not only be formulated, but should but all are united in the common goal of be promoted through all the media available. Upon my moving putting our wonderful area where it belongs – to Hibberdene in 1991, I immediately presented proposals to at the top. develop a marina, a proper ski-boat launch and to model Hibberdene on the Baywatch principle. We need to make all Have you studied how other countries our wonderful beaches spectacular to improve the tourism with similar problems have turned it potential. around? Do you think we can do the same?  The relative authorities must be forced to present their remedial- and maintenance short-, medium and long term plans The one thing all such countries have in to ensure proper, decent roads and water supply. common, is that they shared a co-ordinated plan, a rational methodology and positive, enthusiastic individuals working tirelessly for the greater good. 92

.... The South Coast is fixable!  The annual motorcycle event has to be part of our NHBRC & MBA Registered prime priority.  The annual Margate Air Show put us on the world map – it is of utmost importance that the Air Show returns to its former glory.  More annual events are required, such as a music festival, cycling events (on- as well as off-road), a road running marathon and a swimming event.  The Banana express needs to be reinstated.  The relative authorities must be forced to present their remedial- and maintenance short-, medium and long term plans to ensure proper, decent roads and water supply.  We further have the potential to provide spectacular walkways and trails  A number of marinas could be developed.  Run-down areas such as the park east of Douglas Mitchell grounds (and others-) can be turned into a wonderful social gathering area.  The highway down to the Eastern Cape must be constructed.  The airport must be improved and flights provided to both OR Tambo and Cape Town.  A monorail train system along the coastline must be constructed – first to link Durban and thereafter all the way down to Cape Town. On the flip side, I am sure that you love the South Coast for many reasons. After all, you live here! Tell us about what you think are the major factors that we have in our favour?  Our prime attraction is the wonderful beaches, of course.  We are blessed with an amazing climate.  Other major factors are the wonderful potential for spectacular walkways, train rides, restaurants perched on the rocks, sea cruises, cable cars, a proud history of having been a prime holiday destination and having hosted major annual events. Structural Engineering for Residential, Commercial & Industrial Applications. Anton van Riet pr eng Multi storey residential developments, Luxury housing developments, Tel: 039 682 6460 Cell: 083 251 8577 Light-industrial construction, Port Shepstone, KwaZulu-Natal Warehousing, commercial, and civil infrastructure, etc. 93

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Malcolm Dale is a professional HR Rev. Lulamile Bodla (Where are you going?) management consultant with decades of industry experience. He analyses the NHMBRaClc&olMmBDA aRleegistered impact and opportunities that comes with Covid-19. I believe that now is not the time to despair and throw in the towel when there are still so many doors that can be It goes without saying that the world has taken a opened and new direction embarked on. This means a new plan which requires a full market research to identify beating of note with the Covid 19 pandemic, and needs and wants of business at large in the individual its source has been the subject of debate and often fields of operation. This is essential if one is to survive in times conjecture. The latter is purely human nature the lively situation that we find ourselves in. In my case it to find blame somewhere to assuage the soul. The is incumbent on me then, to look at what I have missed in point now is considering that most countries are the past and design services that I have not tapped into through the “worst of it” … Quo Vadis? Yes, indeed and add them to my portfolio. where to now? By the same token others in the same predicament must The impact of the pandemic has most certainly do the same. Identify opportunities that have not been taken all businesses along an extremely thorny and explored and made available to clients. Broadening one’s in many instances, destructive path. The impact on horizon is the objective without adding cost to one’s the human and financial resources of our country operations and enhancing the profile of the organisation. has been devastating to the extent that there have Redesigning one’s original business plans is not a task for been many businesses that have shut their doors the feint hearted, but to have any chance of success I permanently, and according to some sources, believe that one has to look at Taubie Tattenbaum’s continue to close. Others have clawed their way to Chaos theory in which she postulates that where things the surface after the initial impact and are now in haven’t been a total success it would in all probability be the throes of asking whether there is merit in best to “break the mould” and create a situation of chaos continuing with the functions that they were and rebuild from that position. engaged in. This does not mean throwing the baby away with the bath From a personal perspective, the news of the Covid water, but rather changing the water and the bath only 19 virus just simply took my breath away totally and creating a new zone where one feels adequately and left me with little hope of any positive qualified to meet the new challenges ahead. The most developments. I believe that there are a large important matter in this exercise is not to miss number of businesses that have the same opportunities that are there. To coin an old phrase, “don’t predicament, which means a complete overhaul of be out the back door looking for the four-leaf clover when plans and a complete rethink of direction. As a opportunity is knocking at the front door.” consultant in Human Resources management functions, with the lock downs and businesses shutting their doors, there has been little need for businesses to call for specialists like myself. In a number of instances, they have chosen a route of action which has resulted in challenges in litigation, conciliation, mediation and arbitration in which we consultants are, for the most part, precluded from representing employers. 96

To begin with, one needs to revisit the operation Rev. Lulamile Bodla This, in my view, is purely attempts at trying to critically and complete a SWOT analysis. That is to intimidate business and employees alike, and create say Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and reactions which will play into the hands of those trying Threats. Look at each with a view to identifying the to change the status quo through haphazard positives whilst being mindful of negative matters behaviours. that should not prevent forward movement. Rather include the negatives in the operation thereby Businesses remodelling themselves would be best turning them into business activities that will advised to engage with the full range of management enhance the business and protect it from such fuNncHtBioRnCs&inMfoBrAmRuelgaitsintegrepdolicies and plans to threats as may be observed. circumvent attempts at collapsing the business. I was once asked what would be the best weapon to use in One has to take into account one’s own human the event of confrontation, or a fight if you like. I frailties and work on strengthening one’s own recalled the words of a learned academic colleague profile. Here it might be an idea to carry out a who said, to quote a Chinese philosopher, that it personal DISC analysis which will help identify “simply was the nearest one”, which in this case would where one can focus and build up one’s personal, be the legislation covering the operations as well as hitherto latent, business attributes. The DISC agreed upon strong policies and procedures. analysis simply means looking at one’s Dominant (D) factors, Influential abilities, Stability factors and Legislation is an invaluable asset in many instances in finally Compliance facets. I believe that once one so far as the opposing side will in all probability make has carried out an in-depth analysis of this kind, one an error thus opening the door where their stand can will be able to take more positive steps forward be weakened and their attitude changed. I believe that knowing where one may be a bit thin on the ground the old “them and us” theme has to be dropped and a and ready to face with what might be termed stance taken to promote co-operation. Holding fast unpleasant factors. I believe this could be renamed with the legalities in the business is not an option, it is building confidence in one’s self and remodelling essential for one’s protection, because if you’re in line behaviour that will enable one to take on what may with it you cannot be faulted. previously have been a “demon” or impediment. Whichever direction one choses the real issue is……don’t give up, be bold and stand up and put one Personally, I will be looking at avenues that I have foot in front of the other, be positive and don’t lose not gone down before and will have to investigate faith in yourself or your abilities. the possibilities there and grow further extensions without overloading the systems within myself. Malcolm Dale F.I.P.M Giving up is not an option. What if one asks, “Well .... Contd from Page 94 this is all very well, but what is new in the Human Resources field?” I have to say it is the definitive the economical threats and social friction alive. chTahnegeecionnhoummicantebrreohraisvtisouhravaes tdheeveploolpiteicdalthmeamtuoristty odf ipsegoupstleinmg faonrimfesotfs riatsceislfmasasthbeasneatfioornuanddaispttusrtboed If South Africa wants to survive, really wants to sigtuanatgioranpsianngdtheeveennttsiraencdotuhnutsryd. iWspiltahyoinugt danifyfesrcinrugples, rebuild the economy and the ability to develop atthietuydaerse. uWsinegstihllehpaavret tohfethdeiephoarpduslawtihoon bthealitevreeailnly businesses for the benefits of the whole population, pshuyfsfiecralacsobnafsreonfotartgioaninainsgomf oolrde. publicity, power, or then listen to the politicians and then look at what they do for one last time. On the base of the money (VBS bank). At the same time when they conclusion, you definitely know what to do on voting blame the businesses for wrongdoings, they do not day. Everybody holds their future in their own hands. hesitate to destroy jobs for the employees who did not call them in, want or needed their actions. The active and intentional rejection of race as a way to categorize and treat people is called non-racialism In case somebody wants to get rid of a competitor or and should be the only base for the evaluation of a increase their own market shares, the effects of the person from now on. It will make the honest and destructive power of racism allegations and uncomplicated acceptance of each other easy and xenophobia becomes very beneficial. It is already working together very successful. enough to direct the attention towards the competitor through a tip to the right person or Nobody can change or alter what happened seconds constructing a racist meaning. ago but our actions from now on, decides about the future of tomorrow. The double and triple standards of political parties and the failure of the judicial system are keeping 97

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