Weekly Highlights 18 March 2022

Weekly Highlights 18 March 2022 - Issue No. 127 In this issue Dear Colleagues WELL DONE RABELANI NETSHIDZIVHANI FOR PRO- On Monday, 21 March 2022, South Africa will VIDING FANTASTIC CLAIMANT SERVICE be commemorating Human Rights Day. The commemoration aims to remind South Africans about Johannesburg Region Hosts Road Safety the sacrifices that accompanied the struggle for the Activations in Various Free State Schools attainment of democracy in South Africa. This year’s Human Rights Day will be commemorated under the RAF Johannesburg Activations in Harrismith theme: “The Year of Unity and Renewal: Protecting and Preserving our Human Rights Gains”. Values Entrenchment Drive: Profiling Ethics Ambassadors The history of Human Rights Day is historically linked with the Sharpeville Massacre that took place on 21 GETTING TO KNOW THE REGISTRY − ARTICLE 5 March 1960, where the apartheid police shot and killed 69 people in a peaceful protest march. RAF’s Very Own Mrs South Africa Pageant Semi-finalist Our Government calls on all of us to use this day to foster greater social cohesion,nation-building South African Library Week, 14−20 March 2022 and a shared national identity. It is our duty as a nation to strive for inclusive socio-economic Coping with organisational change development, while ensuring that we combat social ills such as gender-based violence, femicide, Men, It’s Okay to Talk racism, discrimination, xenophobia and all related intolerances which undermine our human rights RAF ACTIVATIONS - ROAD SAFETY AWARENESS culture. Let us all remember that human rights also come with responsibilities. NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS As employees of the Road Accident Fund, our Covid-19 Statistics claimants and victims of motor vehicle accidents should at all times be assisted in a caring and the fun page dignified manner. In order to effectively serve our claimants, we should then, at all times, use our Letters to the Editor ICARE Values as a guiding light. When one thinks about it further, these values are strongly linked We invite our readers to share their to human rights. When we talk about serving with comments, feedback, and suggestions integrity and being accountable, we commit to being with us. Readers are encouraged to submit ethical and transparent in how we discharge our their letters, of no more than 200 words, to duties. When we talk about being compassionate and [email protected] and TholakeleR@raf. respectful, we acknowledge that all our stakeholders co.za. We are looking forward to hearing from deserve to be treated in a just and dignified manner. you. Our pursuit of excellence speaks to our commitment to efficiency and this means that the public funds Editor: Thabang Mahlatsi ([email protected]) entrusted to us are used in a responsible manner to Sub-editor: Tholakele Radebe ([email protected]) create value for all citizens. Editor-In-Chief: Anton Janse van Rensburg ([email protected]) Enjoy this week’s Highlights! Kind regards Internal Communication

Well Done Rabelani Netshidzivhani for Providing Fantastic Claimant Service by Thabang Mahlatsi We would like to send congratulations for a job well done to Rabelani Netshidzivhani, RAF Mobile Officer, based in the Menlyn Office, for the excel- lent service provided to claimants! On Tuesday, 08 March 2022, Rabelani received a heart-warming letter from Tsakisile Baloyi, a happy claimant whose claim was finally settled. The claimant is appreciative of the swiftness with which Rabelani worked to ensure that her claim was settled. This is of course a clear indication that we are heading in the right direction with our new customer-centric ap- proach as we are striving to transform the Fund into a more efficient and stable organisation. The interesting thing is that on Monday, 21 February basReadbeinlatnhieMNMaeeltesnhFlyidinrzsOitvRhffiaucnneinr(eeLrce-Ueftip)v,eiRninAMgFeaMnnloyabnwi.laerdOfffoicr eBr,est 2022, Rabelani was the recipient of an RAF Employee Award, having been selected as the first Male Runner- up in the Menlyn Region. He attributed this recognition to the fact that he always puts others first. “I practise the RAF Values of Respect, Compassion, Integrity, and work with Excellence when dealing with our claimants in order to assist them with all that is needed legally,” Rabelani said. The letter of appreciation from a happy claimant is indeed testament to Rabelani’s outstanding work. Mr Tsakisile Baloyi writes: Good day Sir asTgrvwWeuloehwhmfeirafniayicnacgwyhfkirseaokohynsaubnaottble.ddufilnoWef,librolysaeleeyvouneeedducdna.ohrtroangwsap’oetobpsixkrnurektnegettotscnyiownpiodangeutwoeafbowudhkerrs.aecaaTtrvaepwhowupaaleshurnbeeimclkleceooe,iyufatsoeolwt.diuvoYhaehnsaosraostufsvoiymiseanrotrcutuduehecosedhanyiamgdeofnoruafewdrozahbiristtenheueslgoidstne,tu.lgrietttMvhoytieachaofvneiyusnekurygGryyochsotohuehsdulihtopnabsef.grfloleeWtpeirsnm.dehsOaduamycutmuoohrysuva,ociwtWulantaenigidtomrhdirsdodommhfsfuaoaaorcdryoamcutbynlhasoeonliynmeuiostnrathtncb.ruudelpy Kind regards Tsakisile Baloyi & Family Well done, Rabelani and the Menlyn Team! Keep up the good work!! Thabang Mahlatsi is a Specialist: Internal 2 Communication, based in Eco Glades CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE

Johannesburg Region Hosts Road Safety Activations in Various Free State Schools by Sibusisiwe Mzila To test if they were listening attentively, the learners were asked questions at the end of the presentation and whoever got the answer right was given a small gift such as a pen or a juice bottle. This encouraged all the learners and teachers to participate in the question- and-answer session. The Johannesburg Regional Marketing Team along with the Bloemfontein CSC Team held a series of road safety activations in Phuthaditjhaba and Harri- smith to educate and caution road users on the dos and don’ts when travelling on the road. Our first stop was at the Justice Lefuma and Selebalo Primary Schools based in Phuthaditjhaba on 10 March 2022. Our second stop was on 11 March 2022 where four other schools were visited in Harrismith. Two of those were Lerato Secondary School and Vulindlela Primary School The message to the learners was simple and clear: Overall, the activations were a huge success, and we “Be safe on the roads and obey the rules of the road to achieved our goal of promoting road safety. arrive alive”. A presentation was made to the learners which included pedestrian safety tips such as paying Sibusisiwe Mzila is a Marketing and Communications 3 attention to the robots, where to cross the road and the Officer, based in Johannesburg types of clothes to wear when walking at night to im- prove visibility and avoid being hit by cars. CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE

RAF Johannesburg Activations in Harrismith by Sibusisiwe Mzila It was a busy weekend for employees of the Johannesburg Regional Office and Bloemfontein CSC where they held awareness sessions with motorists and truck drivers in Harrismith about issues of road safety. The aim behind these road safety activations which took place on 12 and 13 March at the Harrismith truck stop and Engen garage was to educate motorists about the importance of adhering to the rules of the road in order to avoid road accidents. Truck drivers were also encouraged to stick to the designated speed limit and to take regular breaks in between their trips to avoid fatigue which could lead to fatal accidents on the road. The local taxi rank was also visited where taxi drivers were advised about adhering to the speed limit and avoiding overloading their taxis, which could be disastrous should they be involved in road accidents. Those who had existing claims were given an opportunity to check their claim statuses. Here are some pictures from the event below: CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE Sibusisiwe Mzila is a Marketing and Communications 4 Officer, based in Johannesburg

Values Entrenchment Drive: Profiling Ethics Ambassadors by Letticia Pinkoane We continue with profiling our ethics ambassadors lent activities. Constructive awareness, workshops, for you to get to know them. This week we bring competitions, and the use of consequence manage- you two more ambassadors. ment may improve how a message is encoded and decoded properly by involved parties. Let’s get to know them better below. 3. Generally, how do you see the RAF Values being received and adopted within the organisation and your peers? I think they are gradually being adopted but more awareness activities and workshops can speed up the process. To assess this, I think the introduction of the 360-degree assessment as planned for inclusion in Performance Management will determine the desirable outcome. 4. Which behaviours are important and required in your role to support others to live up to the RAF Values? Adhering to policies, directives, listening and clearly hearing the message delivered, proper communication, encouraging colleagues, reminding them and myself to live the Values and striving to improve consistently regardless of circumstances. Name: Kgoloko Maripane 5. Do you see your colleagues’ behaviour changing Designation: Senior IT Auditor, Eco Glades towards adopting and living the RAF Values? 1. How do the RAF Values motivate you when con- Yes, most definitely, it is expected of us due to the ducting your day-to-day activities and engaging nature of the work we do. We ethics ambassadors must with claimants and/or colleagues? be a living example before we can remind other col- leagues in other business units to change their behav- They serve as guidelines to follow on how to serve bet- iour. Through interactions and reminding each other of ter, relate better, make a difference in my contribution what is expected of us, most definitely the behaviour towards the bigger picture which is the RAF mandate will change for the better. Another point on this is for our and its adopted strategic objectives. The Values drive leaders in the organisation to be better examples of liv- me to always strive to be better than yesterday and ing these Values as this will rub onto the rest of the staff remain relevant when serving claimants and interacting members. with colleagues towards a common goal. 2. The RAF Values have been communicated on a regular and frequent basis; do you think that em- ployees do get the message, and if not, what do you think can be done better? The reality is as employees we are individuals who are channelled to function as a unit regarding how we live the Values. I believe there is progress, although we are not there yet as attested by some of the negative news received where some employees and external stake- holders are still alleged to have been involved in fraudu- CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE Continues to the next page... 5

Values Entrenchment Drive: Profiling Ethics Ambassadors (Cont.) Name: Sello Modise 2. The RAF Values have been communicated on a Designation: Senior Officer - Forensics In- regular and frequent basis; do you think that em- ployees do get the message, and if not, what do vestigator, Johannesburg Region you think can be done better? 1. How do the RAF Values motivate you when con- The RAF has done so much to entrench the Values and ducting your day-to-day activities and engaging it depends on the RAF staff to be always ethical and with claimants and/or colleagues? conduct themselves professionally. They motivate me to be a caring person and to always 3. Generally, how do you see the RAF Values being put the claimant/injured first. received and adopted within the organisation and your peers? On face value, one can say so much has been achieved and only the positive mindset of RAF staff will lead to a positive attitude and adoption of the Values. 4. Which behaviours are important and required in your role to support others to live up to the RAF Values? RAF staff are expected to rise and take ownership of their actions particularly on RAF Values, on a daily basis. 5. Do you see your colleagues’ behaviour changing towards adopting and living the RAF Values? Yes, slowly the behaviour has improved, and more face-to-face training on RAF Values is needed to change things for the better. CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE Letticia PinkoanebiassaedMiannEacgoerG: lCahdaens.ge Management, 6

GETTING TO KNOW THE REGISTRY − ARTICLE 5 by Vannesa Mathope The RAF’s Records Management Policy on page 3 defines disposal as the action of either the appropri- ate destruction of a record, or the transfer of the record into archival custody and/or off-site storage. Section 7.6 of this Act speaks to the retention and disposal of the RAF’s records. Section 7.6.6 of the Act states “all records of archival value must be kept for a period of 20 years from the date they were created before they are transferred to the National Archives Repository, un- less agreement on a shorter retention period has been reached with the National Archivist. Ideally, the life cycle of records is like that of humans who are born, live, and die (NARSSA 2007:51-52). According to this theory, records are created, used, and disposed of when no longer needed by organisations (NARSSA 2007:51). Vanessa Mathope: Registration Officer Menlyn The National Archives and Records Service of There are three phases that records go through in their South Africa (NARSSA) (2007:21) communicates life: records creation (active), records use and mainte- that “the implementation of an effective disposal nance (semi-active), and records destruction (inactive). programme enables a body to dispose of its re- During the active phase, records are recalled regularly cords regularly either by transferring the archival and used to conduct the current business activities of records to an archives repository or by disposing an organisation. In the second phase, they are re- of the non-archival records when they are no longer quired infrequently and may be transferred to an off-site required for administrative, legal or other functional storage facility, and in the third phase, records are no purposes.” It then continues to communicate that longer required for the conduct of current business and “in accordance with section 13(2)(a) of the National may be disposed of. The life cycle concept applies to Archives and Records Service of South Africa Act, managing the RAF’s records as it provides a practical no public records under the control of any govern- approach to monitoring how records are created and mental body may be transferred to an archives re- used in an organisation. The adoption of the life cycle pository, destroyed, erased or otherwise disposed concept in the management of the RAF’s records would of without a written disposal authority issued by the serve as a foundation for the organisation to develop National Archivist.” This means that records of the and implement a records management programme. It Road Accident Fund (RAF) should only be kept for provides room for devising appropriate record-keeping as long as they are needed or used. Then as soon tools that will enable the institution to manage its re- as they are inactive they should be transferred to an archives repository, destroyed (paper-based cords appropriately in line with best practice. records), erased (electronic records) or otherwise disposed of. Retention and disposal are respon- Continues to the next page... sibilities of the registry known to us (RAFzins) as Correspondence and Documents Management 7 Services. CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE

GETTING TO KNOW THE REGISTRY − ARTICLE 5 (Cont.) I know, I know…the legal fratenity (lawyers of the or- No. 43 of 1996), no public records under the control of ganisation known to us (RAFzins) as claims handlers) the RAF may be transferred to an archives repository, are rolling their eyes now and shaking their heads, destroyed, erased, or otherwise disposed of without a thinking if I know that this institution is the biggest law written disposal authority issued by the National Ar- firm in the country. We (RAFzins) cannot destroy any of chivist. Subsequently, the RAF needs to implement a our records. You can stop rolling your eyes now be- disposal programme that will enable the organisation cause I know and understand that the RAF operates in to adequately dispose of its records regularly either by a very litigious and dispute-ridden environment (RAF transferring them to an archival repository or dispos- 2019:13). Hence I have been stressing throughout this ing of records without enduring value by destruction feature that records need to remain authoritative to (NARSSA 2007:21). NARSSA issues three disposal stand in court and provided the ISO 15489-1 (2016:4) authorities: standing, limited, and general disposal description (an international standard for the manage- authority (NARSSA 2007:21). According to NARSSA ment of business records) of authoritative records, and (2007:23), standing disposal authority is issued for cur- communicated that records must remain authentic, rent records. In contrast, limited disposal authority is reliable, usable, and have integrity. May I please ask issued for all terminated records, and general disposal you to look at the file cover of the claims record on authority is issued for specific types of records com- your desk at the bottom “6 DESTROY: Date on which mon in all governmental bodies, such as financial and file can be destroyed”…for ease of reference? I have personnel records. This demonstrates that NARSSA is attached a file cover. It looks like the RAF has always flexible, we (RAFzins) just need to get our story right known that records are managed or at least should be and communicate our retention and disposal needs. managed according to the life cycle concept. …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………... ..................................... CLAIM NO. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. ATTORNEY PRESCRIPTION: (a) Date of prescription …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Prescription extended to (i) ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………......................................... (ii) ……………………………… (iii) ……………………………… (iv)……………………………… (v) ……………………………………………………………………….. 1. CLAIMANT: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 2. CLAIM: ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. (a) Date of accident ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. (b) Date of service ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 3. SUMMONS: According to a directive entitled “Disposal of Records Date of service …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. in Line with the National Archives Directive” that was issued on numerous occassions, the RAF has stand- 4. COMPENSATION: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. ing disposal authority. The organisation has disposal (a) Amount claimed R ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. authority that permits the shredding of duplicate copies. (b) Amount estimated (i) R ………………………………………………….. (ii) R …………………………………………………………………………………….. Shredding of duplicate copies is done quarterly using an external service provider. This process entails that (iii) R …………………………………… (iv) R ………………………………………… (v) R …………………………………………………………………………………. the business unit requesting disposal writes a Memo- (c) Payments randum requesting permission from the unit’s Senior Manager. If permission is granted, the business unit AMOUNT DATE ITEM FOLIO NO works together with employees from the mailroom to create disposal lists of the duplicate copies that will be (i) R ............................... .......................... ................................. R ........... .................................. shredded and pack the documents due for disposal in boxes for the service provider to collect. On the day of (ii) R ............................... .......................... ................................. R ........... ................................. shredding, an official from the mailroom is assigned to oversee the process to ensure that only prepared docu- (iii) R ............................... .......................... ................................. R ........... ................................. ments are shredded. On completion, the RAF is issued (iv) R ............................... .......................... ................................. R ........... ................................. with the destruction certificate. (v) R ............................... .......................... ................................. R ........... ................................. (vi) R ............................... .......................... ................................. R ........... ................................. Total: R ............................... .......................... ................................. R ........... ................................. 5. FINALISED: Date Finalised ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6. DESTROY: Date on which file can be destroyed ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… I would like us to relook at section 7.6.6 of the RAF’s Continues to the next page... Records Management Policy, in particular this line: “UNLESS AGREEMENT ON A SHORTER RETEN- TION PERIOD HAS BEEN REACHED WITH THE NA- TIONAL ARCHIVIST”. This simply means we (RAFz- ins) do not have to keep all our records for 20 years. According to section 13(2)(a) of the NARSSA Act (Act CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE 8

GETTING TO KNOW THE REGISTRY − ARTICLE 5 (Cont.) mentary evidence used to support legal, regulatory, and accountability requirements is crucial. Remember, records management is a profession, this To achieve compliance, the RAF needs to improve ef- means that employees need to be made aware of the forts relating to the retention and disposal of records legal and operational impacts of making disposal deci- significantly. This can be done by establishing a dis- sions. Therefore, only employees who understand the posal programme to enable the consistent and system- business’s internal and external records management atic application of retention and disposal of records per requirements should make disposal decisions that can the requirements identified in the retention and disposal be recorded in the organisation’s retention schedule. authority, to document and improve disposal actions be- Disposal decisions need to be informed, within the law, fore implementation. Various registers such as destruc- systematic and approved, to meet compliance and tion, transfer, and archives accession registers must be accountability requirements. However, this does not used. Creating awareness (this is what the feature is happen as it should. Based on the internal communique doing) among the relevant business units’ employees of entitled “Disposal or Destruction of Duplicate or Multiple their responsibilities in applying retention and disposal Copies of Records”, first issued in 2016 and every other requirements and applying them daily is important. year since then, the organisation does not adequately Finally, training should also be provided. dispose of records. Hence this article. The RAF con- tinues to achieve a low level of compliance with the On a lighter note, I would like to dedicate this feature criteria relating to how the retention and disposal of to Marcus Maloka my “fellow records management records should be managed, as outlined in section champion” and junior officer in Correspondence and 13(2)(a) of the NARSSA Act (Act No. 43 of 1996), due Document Management Services. For Marcus and I, to a lack of records management awareness amongst our records management fire was ignited by the same employees, records are destroyed without disposal person (former records manager) when we were re- authorities being issued. On 3 May 2016, an internal cords champions. However, he claims to have lost his communique entitled “Disposal or Destruction of Dupli- fire, but I am not convinced. I believe that he is still a cate or Multiple Copies of Records’’ requested employ- records management person at heart, as much as he is ees to refrain from inappropriately disposing of records saying that fire is off, I know for sure that is not entirely in bins. This issue is still not resolved at the time of this true because he is still very familiar with the ‘lingo’ and article because the same directive was sent out again whenever I bump into him we speak records manage- on 16 February 2017, 30 June 2021, 7 July 2021 and ment. So, Marcus, my fellow records management 16 September 2021. champion, I believe it with all my mind that your records management fire is still burning somewhere within you, The successful management of the retention and dis- as much as you have been refusing to embrace it of posal of records will result in records only being kept for late. I hope that by the end of this feature your records as long as they are in use or for compliance reasons. management fire would have been reignited. Mine is In such a case, records are appropriately destroyed, to create awareness about our records management transferred, preserved, or migrated to new systems. obligations in terms of the NARSSA Act. After a few However, this does not happen at the RAF, where ac- articles, I would be done with my awareness sessions. tive records are sent to an off-site storage facility as However, once I have done my bit, I would really like to there is no space on site. Even though the RAF has see my fellow records management champions such a standing disposal authority to only dispose of dupli- as Marcus take the ‘baton’ and ensure that this race cate copies, records are inappropriately disposed of continues. Marcus, my friend, please take pride in our by employees without the necessary authorisation. records management profession. In the words of the The destruction or transfer of records to other parties former President and my Chancellor, Thabo Mbeki, impacts the corporate memory of the RAF as docu- “Those who complete the course will do so only be- cause they do not, as fatigue sets in, convince them- CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE selves that the road ahead is still too long, the inclines too steep, the loneliness impossible to bear and the prize itself of doubtful value.” Sources: references used in this article is available on request The list of Vanessa Mathope is a Registration Officer, based in Menlyn. 9

RAF’s Very Own Mrs South Africa Pageant Semi-finalist by Zama Ledwaba The Mrs South Africa pageant has grown to become ing dire situations in any way possible. The Mission more than just a pageant since its inception in and Vision for the Mrs South Africa pageant attracted 2010. It’s become an acclaimed women empower- me to participate since it relates to my zeal and pas- ment programme, synonymous with strong, ca- sion, particularly for vulnerable women and children. pable, and assertive women making a difference in As there’s always room for improvement, I needed their communities. something to help me grow to sharpen my skills so that I can continue to make a meaningful contribution to the community. 3. How did you feel the moment your name was called out as one of the semi-finalists of the pag- eant? I felt so blessed and realised that one’s potential is not limited to pursue their dreams regardless of age and any other obstacles. I feel good, excited, and proud of myself that I left my comfort zone. Our very own Portia Dingaan from the Forensic Investi- gation Department decided to take part in the pageant and has been selected as a semi-finalist. Below she tells us about her journey thus far and her reasons for entering the renowned pageant. 1. Please give us a brief background about yourself I am Bonolo Portia Thandiwe Dingaan, a 39-year-old 4. What has been your biggest learning moment in phenomenal woman who was raised in Mamelodi. I at- taking part in this pageant? tended my primary education at Gamelodi and moved to Clapham High where I matriculated in the year 2000. Communication skills and self-confidence are of para- I have been working for the Road Accident Fund from mount importance for one to achieve their goals and 2006 and served in various positions. I’m currently in that everything is possible in life when you put your the Forensic Investigation Department. I am married mind to it. As women, we need to take care of each to Reverend Paul Maake Dingaan and we have been other, love each other and fix each other’s crowns. A blessed with two children. recent weekend away for a Mrs South Africa workshop highlighted the importance of sisterhood among the 2. What motivated you to take part in the Mrs South entrants, although it’s a competition. We should there- Africa pageant? fore not look down on each other but fix each other’s crowns. I have a great zeal and passion for the vulnerable in our society. As a result, I have been participating in remedy- Continues to the next page... 10 CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE

RAF’s Very Own Mrs South Africa Pageant Semi-finalist (CONT...) 5. How did you prepare for the pageant? 10. What do you think is the biggest challenge fac- ing women right now? I had to research and learn more about the Mrs South African pageant from their website, reliable sources, Gender-based violence; discrimination, lack of women and word of mouth, which led to me improving my life- in positions of power, authority and influence are by far style. some of the greatest challenges women face right now. As it is, we are underrated and not treated as equals in 6. If you could have one superhuman power, what the workplace and our homes. would it be and why? Zama Ledwaba is a Marketing Officer, based in That would be to eradicate poverty because it makes Menlyn. you feel less of a human being. It takes away your dig- nity, makes you feel insignificant, and you end up being 11 perceived or feeling less than human. 7. What advice would you give to other women who would like to enter the pageant? Pursue your dreams no matter what and if they scare you, just know that you are in the right direction. 8. Who or what motivates you and why? I come from a religious family and the word of God gives me the strength to carry on in all circumstances and strive to become a better person while embracing others. In addition, being a reverend’s wife helps me to stay positive and motivated as much as possible. 9. What is success according to you? Success is a stepping stone from one level to the next as an individual or a team with common goals. CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE

South African Library Week, 14−20 March 2022 by Kgomotso Mmekwa ststItiomrey ReImagine! RePurpose! KpericbksiudepII ReDiscover... Libraries! BVCoilruotbkual South African Library Week 14-20 March 2022 I story The RAF Library has joined thousands of other period. All types of libraries across the country use this libraries to celebrate South African Library Week period as an opportunity to market their services and (SALW) taking place from 14 – 20 March 2022. This create awareness of the important role that they play in year’s theme is: “ReImagine! RePurpose! ReDis- a democracy, advancing literacy, making the basic hu- cover ... Libraries! man right of freedom of access to information a reality, and to promote tolerance and respect in society. The RAF Library continues to be affected by the CO- VID-19 pandemic. Like many other libraries, we are still SALW was officially celebrated for the first time in 2002. grappling with providing appropriate services or some- The week is a flagship LIASA project and is celebrated times even unable to provide these in any meaningful by all types of libraries across the country through pro- way.With this in mind, the theme for SALW 2022 ex- grammes and activities. plores and interrogates the ways in which libraries are having to: The RAF Library offers a range of services such as: • Reimagine their services and their ability to ren- • Case law searches − Through LexisNexis; Juta der those services. databases; Quantum of Damages; collaboration with the Department of Justice and Constitutional • Repurpose both their spaces and their services to Development; and collaboration with libraries continue being effective in the communities that around South Africa. they serve. • Book loans – A wide variety of books (physi- • Allowing users to Rediscover the library and the cal and electronic) for RAF-related business and ways in which it benefits them. study-related purposes. The Library and Information Association of South Africa • Provision of electronic journals and books on (LIASA) initiated SALW in 2001 as a commemorative topics related to RAF business through Sabinet Online and LexisNexis databases. CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE Kgomotso Mmekwa is a Senior Librarian based 12 in Eco Glades

Coping with organisational change Although the transition from the known to the unknown is usually stressful, it gives you the opportunity to grow. Applying these skills will help you face challenging situations and minimise the negative effects thereof. Don’t resist change, embrace it! With the right attitude and skills, it could be a very stimulating and rewarding experience. The adjustment period is usually uncomfortable, take time every day to get some exercise. but there are things you can do to make it easier Are you handling change well? for yourself: • Expect change. The only constant in life is If you are beginning to feel overwhelmed it may be change. Expect it and prepare for it during time to turn to a professional counsellor for help. stable periods. This can help you develop your Some signs that may indicate you need to see an own personal tool kit of coping strategies when expert include: change ensues. • Your emotions are getting out of control: You • Anticipate disruption. It’s unrealistic to expect may start crying for no clear reason, fly into a yourself to go on as if nothing’s changed. Allow fit of rage, or you may feel depressed, lonely or yourself to feel a little off-centre or angry, sad, despair. anxious or confused about the change. • Your everyday routine may be affected: You may be eating more or less than usual, perhaps • Focus on the known. We tend to over-focus on you have difficulty concentrating during the the unknown because that’s where our anxiety day or you may even experience memory loss. lies. To avoid unnecessary worry, focus on the • Your relationships may be suffering or falling known elements in the new situation. apart: You may have withdrawn from life or don’t feel like being with anyone else, or • Look for meaning. Change disrupts the perhaps you are taking your frustrations out on continuity of life, but even the most difficult those around you. and traumatic changes can be useful. You can • Your sleeping patterns have changed: You may increase your sense of personal control and find it hard to sleep, or you might sleep more power by finding the meaning or valuable than usual, or even try to stay in bed to avoid outcome behind it. the rigors of everyday life. It’s unlikely that you’ll go through your entire career • Build a support network. It’s better to have a without facing change of some sort, so there’s no support system in place before change occurs running away from it. Don’t resist change, embrace than to try to establish one when it does. it. With the right attitude and skills, it could be a People who have strong support systems very stimulating and rewarding experience. normally come through stressful situations far better than those who don’t. • Take care of yourself. Change produces stress, which can have very real and serious health consequences. Get enough rest, eat well, and Copyright HealthInSite - www.healthinsite.net Office life CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE 13

Men, It’s Okay to Talk by Portia Dingaan We are living in a society where there is no love; There’s no denying that mental health problems affect where people don’t care about each other anymore men and women of all ages. Research tells us that and where social media has taken over the world. women suffer higher rates of anxiety and depression. Instead, everybody is concerned about themselves However, mental health outcomes are weighted against and what they want. As the Bible says in the book men because most of them don’t handle mental health of 2 Timothy 3:2: “People will be lovers of them- illness well. Women are more likely to talk about what’s selves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, going on and seek help for mental health problems, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy.” whereas men are great at bottling things up and tough- ing it out – even if they are in a bad place. I am deeply concerned about the rate of men who are committing suicide. So, I’m writing this article to advise Across the world, the facts speak clearly: men are not men that it’s okay to talk and tell us how you feel. Glob- going to the doctor soon enough. They’re not comfort- ally, 510,000 men die from suicide each year – that’s able talking about their health and their feelings. They one every minute. And yet, it’s hidden in the shadows struggle in silence or act too late. Talking about the big and shrouded in stigma. stuff – health, relationships, or tough times – is not easy for anyone, but traditional ideas of masculinity are put- ting an extra burden on men. We encourage men to talk more with their friends and find healthy ways to cope with difficult feelings and circumstances. It is not easy to talk, and we are aware that as boys, you were raised not to show emotions; not show vulnerability; to bottle things up and to get on with it. Don’t cry. Toughen up. Don’t act like a girl. Don’t talk about your feelings. We need to challenge these attitudes and behaviours and make it okay for men to talk and get help when they need it. The uncomfortable truth is that traditional notions of what it is to be a man today are killing men. Conversations really help men to deal with mental health and we know there is a close association be- tween suicide and poor mental health. It’s time for men everywhere to break their silence and recognise the key to overcoming some of the biggest problems is to start talking. As soon as men start talking, then the young boys will also learn that it is okay to talk. CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE Portia Dingaan is a Forensic Assistant based in Eco Glades 14

RAF Activations - Road safety awaresness by the RAF Durban Region Road Safety Awareness at The Saturday Market Venue: Engadini Lifestyle, Eskhawini Date: 12 March 2022 CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE 15

NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS by Tintswalo Nkuna Do you still remember your resolutions for this out of pocket you become so determined and inspired year? to make life-altering decisions to improve your life? You swear that when that salary comes in, you will imme- There is always lots of excitement and optimism at the diately transfer money into your savings account, put beginning of a new year. When people are happy and money into your business or pay off your debts. But optimistic, they feel that they can do anything. Church- then when the January salary comes in, you realise that es preach great sermons that assure us that regard- perhaps your life wasn’t that bad. Money has that effect less of how bad the previous year may have been, the to make one feel like all is well for as long as you have new year will bring all the best we have been hoping it, until it runs out again. for. Social media posts hype us up and we honestly believe that if we write down our resolutions just one Now that you have received two salaries already, do more time for the new year, things will finally happen. you still remember those life-altering resolutions you We shout, “This is my year,” at the top of our voices made in the beginning of the year? How many times and sincerely believe so. We have the right energy, have you been to the gym or to church? How many the faith to move mountains and the perfectly written hours have you spent on your studies? Remember you resolutions in the beginning of the year. Amongst other promised yourself that this year you will no longer wait things, we make resolutions to work out more, pray for the due date to submit your assignments? more, study harder, give our best at work, start saving money, and finally implement that business idea we Continues to the next page... have had for a long time. It is now March, and some people do not even remem- ber what they resolved to do in the new year. They saved a few rands in the first and second weeks but stopped. Someone signed up for a gym membership and only went until payday in January. The other thing that makes people so dedicated to transforming their lives around January is that many people are strapped for cash around that time. The scarcity of money at the beginning of the year gives them a wake-up call to do something to improve their lives. Although I must admit that many people have wised up and are responsible with how they spend their money during the festive season, things may happen unexpectedly. One may find oneself having to spend more than they planned to and end up unable to make ends meet in January. Whatever your reason may be for not having enough money in January, have you noticed that when you are CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE 16

Our lives are not changed or improved by how well key. Giving yourself grace is even more important if you we draft our resolutions and how beautiful our vision have neglected your resolutions. Part of discipline is boards are at the beginning of the year. Consistent and doing what you made a resolution to do even long after deliberate action is what brings the change. It is never the excitement you said it with has left you. I hope this too late to go back to your plan or resolutions to evalu- month and the year ahead bring you innovative ideas, ate how far you have come or if you are still on track new energy, and a new perspective to your life, which and then refocus your daily efforts to bring your resolu- will help you to press on and put into action the plans tions into existence. You don’t have to wait for another that will bring you closer to your ideal life. year to end or another new year to draft your resolu- tions or to make plans on how you want to change your life. You can start now in the month of March and break down your annual goals into smaller daily or weekly tar- gets. By the time the year ends, you would have done quite a lot towards your bigger resolutions. Discipline is CLICK HERE FOR NEXT PAGE Tintswalo Nkuna is a Call Centre Agent 17 based in Eco Glades



6. Answer: AlgeriaTHE FUN PAGE 12. Answer: Slovenia Answer: India 4. Canada Answer: 9. Answer: New York CitytqhWuisee’swvteeioednkesctoiodnteedysottouyrodouowrsGnoemfioregsttrhatihpnehgnydfsiifknfiedllrseth.nePt lfceooarrsryeeocautntasonwseewnrjeothryse5. ArabiaSaudiofThe KingdomAnswer:10. at the bottom of the page. Enjoy! El Salvador Answer: 11. 3. Answer: Nevada What is Earth’s largest continent? 8. Answer: Cuba What’s the smallest country in the world? Area 51 is located in which U S state? What country touches the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea, and the Bay of Bengal? What’s the city with the most diversity in terms of language? The ancient Phoenician city of Constantine is located in what modern-day Arab country? Which country borders 14 nations and crosses 8 time zones? Havana is the capital of what country? What country has the most natural lakes? Riyadh is the capital of this Middle Eastern country. Which Central American country has a name that translates to English as “The Saviour”? In what country would you find Lake Bled? 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] tAAennnstshwwseerr:o:fAVaasitsiaqcauanreCitmyil(eF!)un fact. It’s less than two- 1. 7. Answer: Russia 2.