Weekly Highlights 11 August 2023

Weekly Dear Colleagues Highlights The Road Accident Fund (RAF) launched a 11 August 2023 - Issue No. 197 Comprehensive Road Safety Programme from 01 August 2023, targeting school learners and out-of-school youth to RAF Language Unit Celebrates the cultivate a road safety mindset and principles. Decade of Indigenous Languages Through this programme, the RAF aims to educate and Xitsonga create awareness about road safety in an informative, Proverb of the Week entertaining, and engaging way for learners in primary, special and high schools. This is while encouraging social ‘U nga dungi xihlovo loko u heta ku nwa entrepreneurship among out-of-school youth with the aim mati.’ of increasing activism in their communities. Translation: Don’t empty the water jar until The Comprehensive Road Safety Programme targets the rain falls. 20 schools and will consist of school talks, activations, and competitions about road safety. The 20 qualifying Meaning: Don’t quit something be- schools were selected from four provinces with the fore securing its replacement. highest numbers of accidents, namely Gauteng, Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape. The schools are In this issue also located close to busy provincial and national roads. Meanwhile, youth in communities surrounding the RAF Women in Leadership identified schools will participate in road safety dialogues and present social entrepreneurship ideas relating to road NOW THAT I AM A WOMAN! safety. A winning idea from each community dialogue session will win a prize. WOMEN LEADERSHIP IN THE ELEPHANT KINGDOM From 01 – 08 August 2023, the activations commenced NEWS UPDATE: E-recruitmenT with schools around KwaZulu-Natal. The schools visited include Igagasi High School, Ningizimu Special School, LANGUAGE TIPS – LESS IS MORE: WRITING IN PLAIN Vusukukhanya Primary School, S Dass Special School, LANGUAGE Ensingweni Primary school and Nonhlevu Secondary School. road safety activations Please see the highlights in the RAF Activations section of Fun Page the Weekly Highlights. Letters to the Editor Enjoy this week’s Highlights! We invite our readers to share their Kind regards comments, feedback, and suggestions with us. Readers are encouraged to submit Internal Communication their letters, of no more than 200 words, to [email protected], [email protected] and [email protected]. We are looking forward to hearing from you. Editor: Thabang Mahlatsi ([email protected]) Sub-editor: Tholakele Radebe ([email protected]) Senior Reporter: Naziphi Mpokela ([email protected]) Editor-In-Chief: Anton Janse van Rensburg ([email protected])

RAF Women in Leadership by Naziphi Mpokela In celebration of Women’s Month, we continue with I must be honest; I never saw myself working in the our second instalment of the Women in Leadership public sector when I was doing articles – I thought Question and Answer series, shining the spotlight I would end up in a bank or a financial institution. on the remarkable trailblazers within the Road But today, I don’t regret my choice one bit. I still Accident Fund (RAF) Leadership. Join us as we truly feel like every single task we complete in our gain invaluable insights and take lessons from the day-to-day responsibilities will have an impact experiences of our esteemed female leaders, who on the lives of the citizens of South Africa. I also have shattered glass ceilings, overcome challeng- always try to remind myself of that every day – we es, and climbed the corporate ladder through sheer are so privileged to be working in an organisation determination and hard work. that really makes a difference. 2. How do you stay motivated and resilient in your leadership role, especially during chal- lenging times? So, I’m generally a “glass-half-full” type of person. I always try to see the bigger picture and focus on the overall outcome as opposed to the smaller tasks that may seem to be frustrating. I also enjoy building per- sonal relationships with the people I work with, and I feel that it has really helped me put things into perspec- tive where things may have got to the point where it may seem overwhelming. I also make sure that I do take breaks and put my work aside where it allows. And when I do, I then completely shut off and do something that I enjoy. I believe that doing something that you enjoy gives you more energy to be able to take on the tasks and challenges that lie ahead at work. I also believe that the reward of achiev- ing something that has been challenging is so much more worth it. Bernice Potgieter The concept of delayed gratification is also something Chief Financial Officer, Eco Glades that I have realised at leadership level to be very rel- evant – the act of resisting an impulse to take an im- 1. Why did you choose to work for the Road Ac- mediately available reward in the hope of obtaining a cident Fund? more valued reward in the future. That’s essentially what is required during the transformation of an entity I don’t think I chose the RAF, but rather, the RAF chose and basically what we need to focus on during the chal- me! After completing my articles and qualifying as a lenging times that the RAF has been going through in Chartered Accountant, I was in the job market and the last couple of years. That which we are doing today, through a recruitment agency secured an interview with we might not even see the result of while we are still the RAF as a Senior Accountant in Financial Account- around, and it may seem like the effects are minor now ing. Within a day or two, I received an offer. And now, and we are receiving backlash from every angle. But 13 years later, I’m still here – although I have been in a the results will speak for themselves in the end, and I number of other roles since. truly believe what we are doing will have a major posi- tive impact on the RAF. Continues to the next page 2 CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE

RAF Women in Leadership (cont.) “Empathy is the starting point for creating a community and taking action. It’s the impetus for creating change”. – Max Carver 3. Which ICARE2 Value/s resonate with you the I did make the decision about a year or so ago to give most, particularly as a woman in a leadership myself a bit of grace. Not everything will always be role? perfect, and sometimes, unfortunately, I would need to give more of myself to work, but then at other times I Studies have shown that around the world, no matter also allow myself to fully switch off and spend quality where they live or their cultural or family influences, time with my loved ones. I am a lot better at it now, and women are more empathetic than men. I believe that I purposefully do not allow any guilt to pull me down. I’m it is something we need to use to our advantage in the so privileged to be in the position that I am, and I also workplace. Especially with this being “The Year of the try to set that example to my kids that shows that hard Claimant.” Let this ability to understand and share the work pays off. feelings of others always be in the back of your mind when you are going through your day-to-day tasks. 5. In your experience, what are the essential Even if you are not dealing with claims or claimants skills or qualities that women leaders bring to directly, we are all here to serve and to ensure that our the table, and how do they contribute to the claimants get the compensation they deserve. So, I try RAF’s success? to always ensure that my focus is there. Women definitely bring the soft skills that our male 4. What challenges have you faced as a woman counterparts may not always have. We definitely have in a leadership role, and how have you over- more empathy, emotional self-awareness, influence, come them? adaptability and conflict management. These are gen- erally the competencies that we as women are more Being a woman in a leadership role certainly has its naturally inclined to have. challenges. Being a wife and a mom to three young kids at home and having a full-time job is a juggling act. Historically, women have always been seen as less At this level though, it’s even more amplified. I often feel competent than men. But there is definitely a place for like I’m being pulled in many different directions, with the social and emotional skills that women possess. So, work pressure, being able to be present at home, mak- the very same skills we use in raising our kids and run- ing sure my kids’ needs are being met and just ensuring ning a household can be used in the workplace. They I’m on top of everything. give us a deeper understanding of the emotional and CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE Continues to the next page 3

RAF Women in Leadership (cont.) rational behaviours of our colleagues. Especially now in this transformational journey that the RAF has under- taken, we play a very important role. 6. What do you think about diversity and inclu- sion within the RAF, and why do you think it’s important? We have definitely come a long way since I started back in 2010. It’s certainly been a focus area and I think we have done extremely well. The importance is that a diverse and inclusive environment establishes a sense of belonging. When employees feel more connected at work, they work harder and produce a higher qual- ity of work. If you are able to see that you as a person, whether in terms of race, culture, gender or religious belief is represented at all levels within the organisa- tion, it empowers you to also identify the strengths that you may have and to use that to the advantage of the organisation. We all have our unique perspectives and backgrounds as a result of how we were raised or who we are as people. This mix of talents is what makes organisations go from good to great as we are able to reap the ben- efits as a result of a diverse workforce. 7. What advice do you have for other women aspiring to leadership positions in their ca- reers? Don’t ever give up. The sky is really the limit. Very 8. On a lighter note, please tell us of any hidden cliché, I know, but I truly believe that one should talents that you possess. never give up on one’s dreams. I certainly did not think that it was possible for me to be appointed I enjoy singing and dancing – not that I’m the very best as CFO of a public entity at the age of 37. But at it though! I used to sing in the choir at school, so I with hard work and dedication the possibilities are can hold a note, but I’m certainly no Alicia Keys. It’s endless. I really believe that this is the path I was also something that I have passed on to my kids. We meant to follow as opportunities have been given love blasting music at home on a Saturday morning and to me at different forks in my road that have al- just sing and dance. It’s a constant battle in the car as lowed me to excel to where I am now. well when we drive anywhere, ‘cause we’re constantly fighting over who gets to choose the next song. But Risks would need to be taken, but as long as you don’t ever ask me to sing in front of people, I will deny keep at it, the doors will open, and the opportuni- ever saying this! ties will come. We really have so much to give as women, and we should never stand back and think of ourselves as ‘lesser than.’ Even if you don’t have the ‘connections’ or think you are capable enough, you just keep doing you. Continues to the next page 4 CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE

RAF Women in Leadership (cont.) most, particularly as a woman in a leadership role? Empathy, a vital leadership attribute, is often abun- dant among women. This trait is critical for successful leadership because it allows leaders to comprehend their team members’ emotions, needs, and drivers. Empathetic leaders establish an atmosphere of trust, compassion, and genuine relationships, which in turn enable increased networking and more efficient deci- sion-making. As women, our elevated levels of empathy help us bet- ter understand and connect with our team members’ emotions, needs, and motivations. This compassionate leadership style engenders a trusting atmosphere in which team members feel appreciated and understood. As a consequence, meaningful connections are made, cooperation improves, and decision-making becomes more efficient. Mampe Kumalo Chief Governance Officer, Eco Glades 1. Why did you choose to work for the Road 4. What challenges have you faced as a woman Accident Fund? in a leadership role, and how have you over- come them? The opportunity came at the right time, when I felt I was ready to be part of the initiative to transform the Number one is the realisation that the notion of a work- apex leadership of our country’s corporate landscape life balance is a myth for a woman. You have to make by adding to the number of women, especially black a choice at different stages of your life which aspect of women occupying C-suite positions. I knew the posi- your life you will concentrate on. With the blessing of tion was going to be challenging, but I felt ready as my my husband and children, I had to make a choice that CEO is all for women empowerment. I wanted to build my career, which included studying. This meant that I spent less time with family to build my 2. How do you stay motivated and resilient in career. It is not easy, especially when faced with fam- your leadership role, especially during chal- ily duties which include taking care of everyone. Plan- lenging times? I am primarily goal-oriented and very competitive. So, these attributes help me continuously stay focused on achieving set objectives when things get tough. One of our cardinal aims is to make the RAF an organ- isation that is committed to providing an effective and efficient service to our claimants. To this end, I am al- ways cognisant of the fact that change is hard and will therefore not be welcomed by all, especially those that were involved and benefitted from unscrupulous activi- ties at the RAF, so I do all I can to make things better. 3. Which ICARE2 Value/s resonate with you the CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE Continues to the next page 5

RAF Women in Leadership (cont.) ning, communication and more planning assisted me amplify this Value, our slogan for this financial year to get to where I am. I had to plan for things like meals, is “The Year of the Claimant”. bonding time, attendance of school events, etc. I also accepted that I would miss out on other things to get 6. What do you think about diversity and inclu- where I wanted to go. sion within the RAF, and why do you think it’s important? The second challenge is unconscious gender bias: women are often overlooked for strategic leadership po- The RAF has made great strides in ensuring that sitions in favour of our less capable male counterparts. the staff complement is representative of the coun- So, gaining respect for one’s abilities and buy-in from try’s demographics. Female representation is at both men and women has usually required double the 58%, with 51% of women at management level. effort on my part. People with Disabilities’ (PWD’s) representation stands at 2.25%, which is still below the target of 2.8% for the 2022/23 financial year. Diversity and inclusion are critical as organisations thrive and out-perform their competitors when they have a strong pipeline of diverse talent to tap from. 7. What advice do you have for other women aspiring to leadership positions in their ca- reers? 5. In your experience, what are the essential As women we tend to value ourselves much less skills or qualities that women leaders bring to than our male counterparts do. Prepare yourself the table, and how do they contribute to the and be ready to grab that opportunity when it RAF’s success? comes. This requires you to have self-confidence so that you are unafraid to take risks, even if you Diversity: Women are able to consider a wider don’t always succeed. Be prepared to fail forward range of options than men before taking decisions. by learning from your mistakes and using them as They also have the natural ability to connect, build opportunities for growth. relationships, empathise with others and support those around them. Therefore, Basadi (Women), let us have the cour- age to step in, stand up and lead! Clarity: Having the power to perceive and under- stand things as they really are. Being clear about 8. On a lighter note, please tell us of any hidden your goals and expectations so that those you lead talents that you possess know their role and how to help you achieve these objectives. My name, ‘Mampe’ in Sepedi means ‘the caregiv- er’. When I got married, my mother in love (moth- These qualities are relevant in implementing the er-in-law) named me ‘Nobantu’ which has a similar ICARE² Values of the RAF and are especially meaning to Mampe. Both names describe my love essential during this year as we have included of having people around and drawing positive en- another Value of putting ourselves in the shoes of ergy from them. True to the meaning of my names, the claimants by treating them with Empathy. To my house is always full of people, and I am a great host, entertainer and cook. I cook mean soul food! Once you are chez nous (at our place), it’s hard to leave. CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE Continues to the next page 6

RAF Women in LeadershiP (Cont.) I think all our Values are great. But the ones that reso- nate with me the most are Compassion and Respect. 4. What challenges have you faced as a woman in a leadership role, and how have you over- come them? There have been instances in the past when I felt that some doubted my abilities. But for me the answer is to work hard and let the results speak for themselves. 5. In your experience, what are the essential skills or qualities that women leaders bring to the table, and how do they contribute to the RAF’s success? Viwe Bunn Compassion and resilience are key. We deal with Acting Regional General Manager: people who have been affected by motor vehicle accidents. Females have a more nurturing touch Durban and withstand all types of pressure. 1. Why did you choose to work for the Road Ac- 6. What do you think about diversity and inclu- cident Fund? sion within the RAF, and why do you think it’s important? I joined the RAF because I could use my quali- fications and it’s a place where I could see my- I think that we all have something to contribute to self growing. That was realised as I have moved the organisation. from the Claims Assistant to the Senior Manager: Claims position. I am currently Acting Regional 7. What advice do you have for other women General Manager in the Durban Regional Office. aspiring to leadership positions in their ca- reers? 2. How do you stay motivated and resilient in your leadership role, especially during chal- Work hard, stay positive and trust in your abilities. lenging times? 8. On a lighter note, please tell us of any hidden I always remember that I am privileged to be in my talents that you possess. position. I also talk to my colleagues who are always willing to listen and assist where they can. Unfortunately, I don’t have any. 3. Which ICARE2 Value/s resonate with you the most, particularly as a woman in a leadership role? CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE NCaozmipmhiuMnipcoaktieolna, ibsaaseSdpeinciEaclisot:GInlatdeernsasl 7

NOW THAT I AM A WOMAN! by Vanessa Mathope One of the things that I look forward to during Au- out ceasing. She said something like, “Women always gust is the thought that Madikeledi Matsila could be complain that men don’t understand them. Of course, hosting the Women’s Day event in the Pretoria Re- men don’t understand women because when a woman gional Office. Madikeledi is one woman that makes was created a man was put to sleep.” She then asked me proud to be a woman. She’s an organic Chris- all of us, “How can you expect men to understand peo- tian woman and one of those women in the RAF ple that were created while they were sleeping?” I was that I look up to. She speaks softly but with author- like, “Preach, sister!” But as Madikeledi was preaching ity. I always look at her and think I wish I were this I kept thinking I am also a woman but like men, I don’t calm. I know, right? Saying it, makes me realise just understand women. how ambitious I have been to even think that I can even be half the woman that Madikeledi is. Although there have been many other Women’s Day celebrations after this one at fancy venues, this one A few years ago, at the Pretoria Regional Office we had event has stayed with me ever since. I guess it is our Women’s Day celebration downstairs in “our multi- because I have been trying to figure women out ever purpose centre” which is big English for the basement. since I was a little girl. This year is no different, I am The venue tells you that RAFzin women were not too looking forward to our Women’s Day celebration and I pleased with the organisers. However, I was happier am crossing my fingers that Madikeledi will be hosting than most simply because Madikeledi was the host. I it. can listen to this woman’s wisdom the whole day with- CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE 8

NOW THAT I AM A WOMAN! (Cont.) Before Madikeledi hopefully takes to the podium, let house someone will want to marry me and make me a me tell you a story that inspired this article. On Mon- woman.” At this point, I was completely out of words. I day, 07 August 2023, I received a call from Busi Chaki. thought to myself, “Do women still think like this in the She was inviting me to come and exhibit my book year 2023?” Orphaned with Living Parents at the Union Buildings on Wednesday, 09 August 2023 in commemoration When Busi called me about the exhibition, my mind of Women’s Day. After she had told me the reason for went back to that “I bought a house, but I am not mar- her call, I took a deep sigh as I thought to myself, “I ried” talk. My book is very popular among women don’t think I have the right emotional intelligence for because they believe that I am some sort of an activist this event.” The truth is, being in a space full of women or advocate for feminism, which I am not. I am just a terrifies me. Women always find something wrong with Christian woman who is incapable of being neutral. I another woman. Our Women’s Day events scare the live a simple life that is guided by the words of the late life out of me. I have noticed how when we are at these Archbishop Desmond Tutu: “If you are neutral in situ- functions instead of building each other or celebrating ations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the each other we notice how the other woman is wearing oppressor.” clothes as they are displayed at the Mr Price window. We are very quick to notice that Vanessa wears dress- I am currently reading a book entitled Why Has Nobody es with hiking boots, which makes her look like a farm Told Me This Before? It was written by Dr Julie Smith. girl from Brits. These kinds of women’s spaces terrify In the introduction she writes, “When you start to share me. things on social media or write a self-help book, lots of people get the impression that you have it all sorted. I The Weekly Highlights has made me very popular. have seen a lot of authors in the self-help industry per- Everywhere I go people greet me by my first name. petuate this idea. They feel they have to look as if the It’s weird. I’d be getting out of the car at Menlyn Mall, things life throws at them leave no dents or scars. They and someone shouts, “Vanessa, wait for me.” I’d turn suggest that their book contains all the answers you will around and not even recognise the person, but they’ll ever need in life.” I want to be the first author to confess be telling me about last Friday’s article on Weekly that my articles or books do not have all the answers Highlights. So, now when someone calls me by my that you will ever need in life. Hence, I don’t like exhibi- first name or just ‘V’ I smile and walk with them. On tions because women at the Union Buildings might get days when people want to talk about my articles on the impression that the author of Orphaned with Living Weekly Highlights, it is bearable. However, when you Parents has it all figured out. write articles and books people think that you have answers for everything. As an example, one morn- I need you RAFzin women to help me deal with my fear ing, this woman from the office jumps out of her car of book exhibitions in preparation for the 2023 Women’s at the parking area and shouts, “Vanessa, please wait Day and Women’s Month. Please help all of us women for me.” I then waited for her. Then she said, “I just figure out what makes a woman in 2023. Dr Smith also bought a house.” Without hesitation, I said, “Congratu- says, “You cannot build a house with just one tool. Each lations. That’s beautiful!” She looked at me and then task requires something slightly different. And however said, “What’s the point of buying a house if I only live skilled you get at using those tools, some challenges with my daughter in it?” I thought that I was express- are just much harder than others.” ing my shock with my inner voice but said out loud, “Huh?” Then she added to her earlier statement, “I Vanessa Mathope is a Registration Officer am not married like you. But maybe now that I have a based in Menlyn CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE 9

WOMEN LEADERSHIP IN THE ELEPHANT KINGDOM by Maurice Hlangwani This month we take the time to salute and vener- pastures. There are no pig tendencies displayed by ate the struggles and contributions of all women members of the herd to devour one of your own. All we before, on and after 09 August 1956. These women see is love and support. displayed their bravery by standing up to the then apartheid government that discriminated against The personal trait of empathy that RAF employees are people on the basis of race and sex. Today we encouraged to show is a common quality inherent in el- move freely without having to carry a pass with ephants. When one of their own is injured or sick, they us in part due to the success of the historic 1956 crowd around it and use their trunks to help it to its feet. march to the Union Buildings by women. They also mourn death just as people do. This is one of the qualities one has over the years observed among Whilst enjoying the fruit brought about by the pains the matriarchs within the RAF Corporate Communica- borne by the 1956 women’s march, we also celebrate tions Department. all the contributions of the RAF women to building the organisation into what it is today. One would also like to It is our prayer from our small corners that the RAF Cor- dedicate these celebrations to all the matriarchal lead- porate Communications matriarchs are not euthanised ership of the RAF Corporate Communications Depart- for their beautiful ivories. We hope that the merciless ment. The entire department is under women leader- poachers and trophy hunters will not disturb the hierar- ship which compares well to that of an elephant herd. chical structure of the herd. We salute the RAF Cor- Many African stories recounted from one generation to porate Communications matriarchs for their ability to the next hold that each elephant herd comprises sev- juggle between their private and professional lives for eral matriarchs for each family in the form of concentric the benefit of the Fund. The continued ascendancy of rings or a pyramid. The wisest matriarch is the ultimate women into leadership roles makes South Africa a shin- leader of the combined several family units. ing example in terms of how to create a more inclusive society (Fofack: 2014). It is also hoped that this devel- The matriarchs in an elephant herd possess different opment will exude into the rest of the African continent. sets of knowledge, experience, abilities and skills. All these qualities are collectively observable in the chief Happy Women’s Day in the Elephant Kingdom and to matriarch. It is during times of dearth that the chief all RAF women employees! matriarch provides leadership by guiding the herd to waterholes and fresh vegetation that are kilometres Sources away. When there is a threat of predators in their cur- hhettrpds/://elephantguide.com/en/facts-about-elephant- rent stretch of land, the chief matriarch assesses the GDhtoetpncusd:me//rwe_nIwntswe/q.Eauvfadalbliut.yoa_rtaigon/nfdi_l_eMYaaodtumte_ir-n_s/au_rMptliaocrlacedh_s__/22o_0p.1ep4vd_/f-_ situation and issues out a directive to migrate to safer MauricSepHeclaianlgiswt abnaisiesdainXiEtscoonGgalaLdaensguage 10 CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE

E-Recruitment E-Recruitment, also known as online recruitment, refers to the use of web-based technology for the various processes of talent sourcing from attracting, assessing, selecting, recruiting and appointing potential job candidates for the Road Accident Fund (RAF). The e-Recruitment Portal for the RAF is in the development stages and it will be used by both internal and external candidates to apply for job vacancies within the RAF. Project Implementation details are as follows: Date--- User Group Status Update In progress 07 August 2023 – 22 September 2023 Knowledge Transfer (KT) In planning In planning 04 September 2023 – 06 September 2023 User Acceptance Testing (UAT) In planning In planning 07 September 2023 – 07 September 2023 Train-the-Trainer Training (TTT) In planning 19 September 2023 – 19 September 2023 End-User Training 11 September 2023 – 22 September 2023 Go-Live Competition 18 September 2023 – 26 September 2023 Go-Live Countdown Benefits of E-Recruitment 1. Allows for flexibility – Web-based recruitment will allow the RAF’s Talent Sourcing team more flexibility to control the posting of advertisements and receiving applications, thus ensuring easier recruitment process management. The online platform will provide quick editing, updating and removal options for the team. 2. A quicker recruitment process – The platform will allow posted advertisements and replies to appear in real time on the website. Consequently, it will allow candidates to access the advertisements any time. Also, real -time advertisements can be sent to those who have created profiles any time and anywhere via the internet. 3. Allows a bigger pool of potential candidates – The online job advertisements can be quickly shared on multiple platforms, which will extend their reach wider to potential candidates. by CthLeICeK-RHeEcRruEitmFOenRtNPEroXjeTcPtATGeaEm 1111 August 2023

LANGUAGE TIPS – LESS IS MORE: WRITING IN PLAIN LANGUAGE Researched by Tholakele Radebe What is plain language? ing content accessible to as many people as possible. People with low literacy levels or intellectual or learning What words come to mind when you hear someone talk disabilities may not be able to find or understand your about ‘plain language’? ‘Clear,’ ‘easily understood, or content if you don’t apply plain language principles. ‘simple’? If you thought of these or something like them, The same goes for people whose first language is not you’d be on the right track with what makes plain lan- English. Plain language isn’t about ‘dumbing down’ your guage, well, ‘plain’. But writing in plain language means message, it’s about writing in a clear, concise, and well- much more than just using familiar words or keeping organised way to reach a much broader audience with sentences short. It’s also about your writing style, how information they can understand. content is organised, and knowing your audience.  “A communication is in plain language if its word- ing, structure, and design are so clear that the intended audience can easily find what they need, understand what they find, and use that informa- tion.” (Source: International Plain Language Federation) Who benefits from plain language? The use of plain language is so important that many countries, including the United States of America and Canada, require it in all public communications. And if you ask who benefits from the use of plain language, the short answer is everyone. When writing for the web, using plain language is a critical aspect of mak- CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE Continues to the next page 12

LANGUAGE TIPS – LESS IS MORE: WRITING IN PLAIN LANGUAGE Researched by Tholakele Radebe Plain language tips and examples Here are a few to keep in mind: Brevity is at the core of plain language, so you might • commence (start) find it amusing (though perhaps not surprising) that in • consequently (so) 2011 the United States federal government published • in accordance with (under, keeping to) a 118-page document called Federal Plain Language • prior to (before) Guidelines. It’s a good point of reference for some of • should you wish (if you want) the “Dos and Don’ts” for writing in plain language. Two simple but important tips are (1) address the reader Keep it short directly (for example, use pronouns like ‘you’) and (2) use active (not passive) voice. For example, instead of Long paragraphs (more than 150 words) discourage “Applicants must submit their birth certificates,” write, readers from trying to understand your material. The “You must submit your birth certificate.” Writing for your same goes for long sentences. Most experts recom- reader in a more conversational tone by addressing mend that sentences in a document should not be them directly is much more effective. more than 30 to 40 words. Drawn out sentences with many dependent clauses run the risk of putting your Which would you use? reader to sleep—or making them stop reading your content! An exaggerated example is below to make the • ‘In order to’ or ‘to’ point: • ‘Preclude’ or ‘prevent’ • ‘Solicit’ or ‘ask for’ Don’t write like this: Write like this: • ‘With the exception of’ or ‘except for’ It was extraordinarily Everyone at the party In the list above, the second option is the plain lan- obvious to the multiple knew he didn’t have a guage option. Unnecessary and complex words easily guests who had been in good time. distract from your message. Don’t let words get in the attendance at the party way—their job is to inform. In the worst-case scenario, that in no way could it be wordy or complex language may drive people away concluded that he found from your content. So, keep it simple, familiar, and the gathering in the least straightforward. The United Kingdom’s Plain English diverting or entertaining. Campaign has a list of specific words/phrases to avoid when writing in plain language. CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE Tholakele Radebe is a Copyeditor based in Eco 13 Glades

road safety activations by The Johannesburg Region Marketing Unit Open Day and Stakeholder Engagement Session Venue: Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Hospital, Kimberley, Date: 03 August 2023 CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE 14

Road Safety Activation Highlights by The Road Safety Unit Comprehensive Road Safety School Programme — KwaZulu Natal Venue: Ensingweni Primary School and Nonhlevu Secondary School Date: 07 — 08 August 2023 CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE 15

THE FUN PAGE Today we are taking a humorous look at the funny side of ‘plain language’! Enjoy! NOTE TO READERS: What kind of content would you like to see on this page in future editions? We would love to hear from you! Kindly send your suggestions to: [email protected]