Beads Diversely Connected MAGAZINE
DIVERSITY
AU NC GU H ST ISS ‘16 UE
the art of thinking independently together
LAU
R15,00 South Africa
Diversity:
African Revitalization Day Spa
Your journey begins when you are collected in our Mangwanani Bus (River Valley – Montecasino) and/or arrive to the sound of Traditional African Singing and Drumming. Enjoy a delightful breakfast while sipping a cocktail of fresh fruit juice or sparkling wine before you are treated to a day of utter decadence and true pampering. Included in your day are seven luxurious treatments, sumptuous lunch, complimentary bar and Amarula and chocolate to end off a perfect day. Your six treatments include:
Baobab & Figg Room Mist
Baobab & Figg Body Butter
Baobab & Figg Hand & Body Wash
UBUSO – Revitalizing Facial Spa with Pressure Point Massage (NOT A BEAUTY FACIAL) TLHAPISO – Spa Body Treatment – Choice of Body Wash, Exfoliation or Body Brushing IZIMANGA – Traditional Full Body Massage with Hot Stones MOLALA – African Head, Neck & Shoulders Massage NEO MAOTO – Traditional African Royal Foot Massage (from toes to knees) NEO MATSOGO – Traditional African Royal Hand Massage (from ngers to elbows)
Baobab & Figg Hand & Body Lotion
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General Enquiries Email: info@mangwanani.co.za Tel: 0860 55 00 55 Web: www.mangwanani.co.za
2 August 2016 www.beadsmag.co.za
Editor’s Note I
read somewhere a long time ago that you cannot y into ying; you rst need to sit, crawl, walk, run and then y. This has been the journey to this moment. It gives me great pleasure to present to you Beads Magazine, a baby born and bred to aunt and showcase the amazing, hardworking men and women of KwaZulu Natal - the valley of the heavens. I have had the pleasure to meet a number of inspiring men and women of our region, people worthy of bracing covers of magazines and they do what they do not for fame but for the passion and love, that's the spirit I would like your magazine to promote. I say your magazine because it really isn't for the people who contribute, but it's for the people who read and get inspired. My greatest pleasure is that I am presenting Beads at a month dedicated to women. Yes I am bias like that, lol. Our cover issue “the beauty of the country lies in the diversity of its women” is exactly how I feel. A house with an empowered woman will forever ourish. This issue is for the mothers, the sisters, the aunties turned CEO's, entrepreneurs, managers and home makers. You are all worthy of being celebrated and put on pedestals sometimes for the mere fact that every time someone is having a not so great a day including yourself, you have to women up and brush their backs and say all will be ne. I am encouraging you my sisters to invest in yourselves, because no matter what they tell you, the transformation of our country lies in our hands, which is too much a responsibility to take lightly. I would like to thank my All Might God, because every time a vision appeared I promised He would get the honor. Thank you to our issue sponsors none of this would have been possible without your condence and faith in us. Allow me to leave with the words of Wilma Rudolph “Never underestimate the power of dreams and the inuence of the human spirit. We are all the same in this notion: The potential for greatness lives within each of us”.
Nqobile
Nqobile Nene Founding Editor & Director of GX Marketing Associate Editor: Features Editor/ Content Producer: Research: Fashion & Beauty: Designers:
Nonto Zulu Khanyi Mdluli
Sthabile Mchunu Thubelihle Hlela Thabani Hlela Photography: Nix Photography Advertising Marketing Ntokozo Mbambo Events Sabelo Zikalala Production / Bongani Nene Distribution
Beads is owned and published by Gxabhashe Trading Enterprise cc t/a MAGAZINE
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#BeadedConnection
Khanyi Mdluli ( Content Producer)
Nonto Zulu (Associate Editor),
Ntokozo Mbambo (Advertising & Marketing Intern)
Thubelihle Hlela (Graphic Designer)
Thabani Hlela (Graphic Designer)
Sthabile Mzimela (Fashion and Beauty Co-ordinator)
Contributors
Nomvula Gumede (Administration),
Sabelo Zikalala (Events & Promotions Co-ordinator)
Beads MAGAZINE
PUBLICATION TEAM
Nixography is a Richards Bay based studio. All Nixo photographs are created with an artistic eye. The studio has been responsible for capturing some of KZN most memorable people and events including Miss Zululand. It’s their cutting edge technics that transforms ideas to dream and visions. https://www.facebook.com/nixographyphotography
Our key to success is in creating a relationship with you, our readers. We would like to be a part of your life. Meet our vibrant, dynamic, creative and dedicated team of young people working tirelessly to bring you the highestquality content publication. Our mission is to tap into all the corners of KwaZulu Natal. They are ready to receive your suggestions, comments and phone calls. We love working with different contributors, if you feel you have something to contribute, feel free to talk to us through many communication platforms available to you.
A modern African shopping experience for the discerning buyer. Afrokulcha products are made in Africa by Africans. Afrokulcha provides an online shopping experience and has a range of original African inspired fashion and accessories. They stock products from West Africa across East Africa to Southern Africa giving African fashion lovers an opportunity to enjoy a wide range of stock in a secure environment. Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ
https://www.facebook.com/AfroKulcha www.afrokulcha.co.za/ www.instagram.com/AFROKULCHA
We would love to here your suggestions, positive criticism, and some love. www.facebook.com/beadsmagazine Can't wait to see the rst issue of Beads Magazine.. Halala to one of the ladies I respect so much in Zululand Nqobile Xulu Nene #BeadsMagazine #BecauseKZNGirlsRock #EhhenaNje Pamela Mkhize, via Facebook
August 2016 www.beadsconnect.co.za
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Logo Design 100 Business cards Electronic Letterhead Electronic Invoice Electronic Quotation 10 Business Profiles Domain Registration 2 page website 1 Pull-Up Banner @R2500
Richards Bay Tel: +27 (0) 35 797 3081, sales@gxmarketing.co.za Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ
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The beauty of the country lies in the
DIVERSITY of its
women
"The day will come when men will recognize woman as his peer, not only at the ď€ reside, but in councils of the nation. Then, and not until then, will there be the perfect comradeship, the ideal union between the sexes that shall result in the highest development of the race." —Susan B. Anthony
August 2016 www.beadsconnect.co.za
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Focus
Our
is to promote opportunities to support, connect and grow women in business through lobbying, mentoring, networking, strategic alliances
Makhosi Mthiyane
BWA - Zululand Chairperson, Entrepreneur
Photography by Nixo Graphy Productions Make-Up by: Kgotso #MakeUpByKgotso
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August 2016 www.beadsconnect.co.za
A
business woman in her own right, Makhosi has been a member of Ingqapheli Security since inception and a CEO for the last 8 years. Ingqapheli is a security services company based in Richards Bay - North Coast, KZN. It has been a beautiful journey for me, it has been awesome and it has been worse. Nevertheless it has created the woman I am today. I am fearless and as the years go by I have learnt to relax, I now know that it is not a sprint but a marathon. I have learnt that my journey requires endurance and not speed and it is Ok to walk or run on my lane, my speed. I feel very much honoured to be leading the phenomenal businesswoman of Zululand, to be part of growth and development of women. BWA (Business Women’s Association) was established to promote opportunities to support, connect and grow women in business through lobbying, mentoring, networking, strategic alliances, developing and recognising excellence in women. It is about giving back to the community that has supported me in different ways in my journey. I would have succeeded if my term ends and I have together with my team - created chapters of BWA in all corners of Zululand including the rural areas and make the Zululand region the biggest branch in history. Zululand is poverty stricken with high rate of unemployment and it saddens me to see our youth sitting at home and frustrated. Women are known of nurturing their own, and as the majority of the population, the more women in business the more jobs will be created and our youth would also be inspired to follow suite. My mother Khanyisile Mkhwanazi inspired me to go into business. Uneducated and unemployed since I can remember, she was a very independent and enterprising woman. She taught herself to make children's clothing and we would sell or barter them for maze meal and beans with the farm workers. She was also a vegetable hawker and as her children we were much involved in the selling. That is where I learnt that you have to be able to do something and get paid without being employed by any one.
It is by the grace of God that I am still standing and in business. If I had not believed in the power higher and bigger than I, the every day and night stress of the business would have killed me long time ago. Understanding that I am a steward and not the master helped alleviate the worries I used to have. There were times where I was convinced that it was over but God came through for me and my business. I do my best, I make the best decisions I can and leave the rest up to Him. I have learnt to fail forward as John Maxwell will say, I do not personalise my failures and I learn from them and that helps me not to repeat the previous mistake as I move forward. I am a mother to girls, I hope they learn to take care of themselves, that nobody owes them anything and they are responsible for their upkeep, who ever come into their lives is there to support and share life with them. I have taught them to live life, fear God, love people and have compassion for others. Even though the South African Rand is struggling and some women still want to get into business, my advice to them would be, everybody has her own journey and blessings. I advise them to go for it, give it their best. In every season, good or bad some business are folding and some are ourishing, so one would ever know until they try. The Rand is not the only challenge we are facing, racism is another one. It is not something to be taken lightly; it is a cancer that is eating our beautiful societies and country. My opinion is that there should be dialogues on this issue and women as teachers and the thread that holds families and societies together, should teach and lead those dialogues for the sake of the next generation. We need to ght against stereotyping and aspire to learn more about each other, where have we been and what has happened and where do we want to go in the future. Lastly understanding that we cannot live without each other is key. Family is very important to me. Spending time with them helps me unwind. We are a crazy bunch who likes doing things together whether it is picnic, shopping or sitting around at home and ghting over TV remote control. We laugh and tease each other a lot. I also enjoy reading, travelling and spending time by the beach. Support is very important in business. My family is my support, but my biggest support is my God whom I take as my rst business partner. My other support structure is my business partners who support and trust me. I read a lot of business books and attend seminars of our industry and others that might benet us and also belonging to structures like BWA helps a lot.
August 2016 www.beadsconnect.co.za
Memorable Quotes From African Women In Power
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is globally-recognized for her role in stabilizing Liberia as the country's president shortly after civil war. In an excerpt from her book, This Child Will Be Great: Memoir of a Remarkable Life by Africa's First Woman President, Nobel Peace Prize winning author offers inspiring words to rising leaders. “The size of your dreams must always exceed your current capacity to achieve them. If your dreams do not scare you, they are not big enough.”
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My rural
up-bringing
doesn’t define me Slindile Mpanza Producer, Researcher & Presenter of “I Worship” on 1KZNTV
Famously known by her fans and friends as Slie, she has been a Producer, Presenter and Researcher of a Gospel Show on 1KZNTV for more than 6 years. She has become one of the recognised faces in the region and has had the platform and opportunity to rub shoulders with some of South Africa's biggest Gospel talent. Growing up from the rural area didn't faze her, her “go-getter” personality is the reason behind her growing career and bright future.
Designer: Zinathi Photography by Nixo Graphy Productions Make-Up by: Sthabile Mzimela
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August 2016 www.beadsconnect.co.za
I
enjoy my job with all the perks that come with it. It gives me the opportune moment to connect with great phenomenal people from Media and the Entertainment Industry. I'm a perfectionist, I don't start doing something if I know I'm not going to put my entire focus and attention to, I believe the professionalism I have, has enabled me to master the art of putting aside my feelings and do my work, I have grown and developed greatly my listening and communication skills. Growing up from the rural village in Hlabisa I've always been a different child, the one who was never content and satised by the "Ordinary, Usual way of doing things" I guess I've always been a Queen of breaking the norm without even realizing it. My mind always refused to be accustomed to "normality". I grew up in the rural place, went to public schools and was never exposed to anything except for what was already in front of me, never been to big cities or bump into any celebrities. The celebrities I'd ever known were those in front of me every day, my school teachers and my mom who was working as a senior staff nurse in the nearby public hospital, but I've always had this edge, this hunger to stand out, to be different so much so that I hardly had friends when growing up because I feared that I'd be conned and forced to be someone and something I'm not, just to t in the circle, so I'd hang out with anyone who was willing to hang out with me that time and I didn't nd that strange. I never felt lonely or bored of being by myself, so when my school or community was hosting beauty pageants, there would be items in between so I decided to do something unusual and I'm proud that I initiated something called "OLINGISA". I remember I registered my name among those who would be performing and I spoke to the Dj, I sang along to a Babyface song and the crowd went crazy I became a little superstar at school and I became popular even with teachers. I remember again at Ukhozi FM there used to be a Saturday evening one hour show called "Ngidlalele" (song request) I loved the show and wouldn't miss it, one day I wrote a postcard and posted it requesting a song by Randy Crawford called - Why, my postcard was read live on air and I had visited my aunt that time, it was during school holidays I didn't listen to the show that Saturday, so when I came back kids in the neighborhood came to me screaming we heard your name on air I was very excited,
These may seem like little events to some, but for a girl in the middle of the bundus it was huge. I loved pushing myself to do things that nobody had ever thought of. I believed in being a Pioneer, Trendsetter, more on starting something that nishing off from where others left off, it was difcult to aspire to be something different from what other think you should do and be, because you grow up being exposed to a few professional careers so everyone around you would encourage you to follow suit because they are scared of the possibility of failure and waste of time and money because it doesn't seem guaranteed. What electries me as a presenter is the fact that I reach out and connect to thousands even millions of people, I get to share my spiritual gifts with the world, meeting different personalities with their characters, that also grows me and improves me as an individual. Personally I think KwaZulu Natal presents enough opportunity for growth. Though not much but sometimes opportunities reach people that are either not ready or people who will take them for granted. I have lot of business interests, a lot that I'm working on currently, I love exploring and tread on the grounds that many people are afraid of treading on. I get bored and frustrated if I'm not challenged, I'm a very ambitious and creative person, I get ooded with a lot of business ideas but I believe in rstly doing a thorough research around it and communicate with other business minded individuals and learn more about it before I launch into it. I have a soft spot for young people especially girls. I usually get invited to address and motivate in Schools, Churches and in Youth Conferences. There is a project I did (and still hope it to continues) with "Sis Ribs" Rebecca Malope in schools uniform giveaway in KZN, I also did it in Bloemfontein with other Gospel singers. I also used to work with Mroza Buthelezi from uKhozi FM, she'd invite me to Women Conferences at her church to motivate and encourage each other as women on issues pertaining to us also on how to conduct ourselves as respectable women in the society. Back in my neighbourhood there are few teenage girls I'm sponsoring with toiletries, cosmetics and sometimes clothing, but I'm that person who doesn't let the left hand knows what the right hand did/does, so every month end I cut out a certain amount from my salary and do that project.
August 2016 www.beadsconnect.co.za
“What electrifies me as a presenter is the fact that I reach out and connect to thousands even millions of people”
I've been religiously doing that since the beginning of this year. I don’t count when, how, where and why I give, I spot a need, I act - whether I know you or not that's beside the point. I just spoke to some good Samaritans (business people) to extend their hands in assisting me further my sponsorships because I'm targeting schools in my neighbourhood especially the ones I went to, I'm passionate about this, even if nobody comes forth to assist and partner with me in this, I'd continue doing it on my own, after all God placed it in my heart. Career wise, I See myself growing on television. When I compare myself now and when I rst started, I'm more condent, strong willed and know my way around things now. I recognise my growth through the response I get from people across the country and beyond. I once hosted a gentleman from Ghana, when his show aired he had already left the country, I thought there was no point in trying to inform him because I knew it wasn't possible for him to watch from his country, to my surprise he called me and told me that he received a number of messages from his people from Ghana saying they've watched the show. I hosted a Jo'burg based Zimbabwean Native Gospel Artist he also had a friend in the UK who was watching online. I receive countless complimentary messages and lot of invites from Gospel stars all across the country requesting to come to the show I'm hosting "I Worship". 1KZN TV has grown its reach so much that I sometimes receive requests from Swaziland, Botswana, Lesotho, Zimbabwe etc. From people that are loyal viewers and tune in every Sunday to watch. I give honor to God for all that is happening in my life because He gave me and trusting me with the opportunity, the ability and the gift.
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Choosing
full-time motherhood was my empowerment Pam Govender
Full-Time Mother, Part-Time Entrepreneur
Photography by Nixo Graphy Productions
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August 2016 www.beadsconnect.co.za
Pam Govender has been the advocate for women's rights for as long as she can remember. The first time I met Pam was through her organisation Reaching Out, and I believe a lot of other women in Zululand know her from this because she has touch the lives of that many women. It's her warmth that draws you to her. A combination of warm and strong is a rare combination that only a few possess. Her positive outlook to life makes one want to be around her. As she laughs, she describes herself as a little crazy and little weird because that's what you have to be to walk in her shoes. Modestly she thinks there is really nothing much to her and describes herself as an everyday person. Pam is a loving mother to her son and daughter. Her daughter Rhyah was born with special needs. Like her mother she is stubborn and refuse to let life get better of her but to live everyday like its golden.
M
y family is my world. I am in no competition with any one. I like pushing myself, I don't believe in limits. I love keeping busy and my children ensure that area is covered. I love challenges. I am not one that waits for things to change or am afraid to venture in the path unknown; I am quite comfortable digging a path for others to follow or trying to effect change where I can. I have made choices in the best interest of both my children, I have an 8 year old son as well. I was the founder and managing Director of a NPO, I was very passionate about my job and loved every bit of it but I stepped down two years ago because my daughter was not progressing well. We spent weeks at a time in hospital both in Richards and Durban. My son who was in grade one at the time almost had a nervous breakdown. His world as he knew it changed the moment his sister was born. I did not make any sacrices in leaving what I was doing because my daughter came rst but I would say my son makes sacrices daily. I realised that I had given enough service to the community and my family needed me now, so when I announced my resignation at the organizations Gala evening I was totally at peace with it. Over time my social circle grew very small, it is at times like these you see who your real friends are. My priorities have changed. I am in love with being a full time mum. I love being able to attend Cricket practice, sit with my son after school, chatting about his day and being able to help him with his homework. My daughter amazes me every day at how hard she works at trying to walk and eat orally. It is such a privilege for me to be able to be there to support her, help her and comfort her on those days when she is having seizures or not able to handle the pain of stomach spasms. So in essence I have not made any sacrices I have made choices that allow me to be a hands on mom which has benetted both my children tremendously and gives me great satisfaction. I don't think I would be able to manage my daughter's situation if I did not have an amazing husband like mine. Suren and I have been married for 14 years. Having a special needs child tests individuals on every level and it does the same to marriages. I am so blessed to have such an understanding, supportive, loving, hardworking husband that is hands on with taking care of my daughter as well.
There are nights that I have to stay awake because she is so ill and my husband will stay awake to help me and still go to work the next day. There are times when we are so exhausted, it would be the early hours of the morning and we would just look at each other and burst out laughing because laughing is just so much better than getting angry with each other because we are tired. I do have a live in helper; she helps me with Rhyah Sai during the day. Our families live in Durban and we don't get to see them often however they support us emotionally and help with nancial needs from time to time. . Our friends in Richards Bay are a great source of support. If Rhyah is not well they will come over to fetch my son so that he is not just stuck at home while hubby and I do hospital runs. Our support system consists of our helper, handful of amazing friends and my daughters paediatrician who makes himself available anytime should my daughter become ill. I am thankful and greatly appreciate everyone that supports us including her Facebook family, for the prayers, words of encouragement, motivation and help with fundraisers. To me the best thing about being a mother is having to experience those priceless moments. To be able to just put your arms around your child and feeling them feel safe, comforted and loved. To have a bond with your child that no other can duplicate. To develop oneself you need to do what makes you happy, follow your passion. That has been one of my mantras. I am happy with myself when I can make a difference in the life of someone else. I believe making a difference in the world around you is what denes you and your purpose. I am not one to wait for things to change I will go out and try even if I have to stand alone to effect change. In each of these experiences I grow and learn. In life we must be open to constant learning which leads to continuous personal development and growth. As a full time mum you need time to relax and recharge and I recharge by spending the day out with my family at the beach - yes ,on days that my daughter is well we do things regular families do. I also enjoy updating my daughters page, creating material for her fundraising and awareness campaigns .Since having my daughter, my perspective in life has changed , I have learnt to look at the positive side of everything , I look for the blessing in challenges and truly believe our mind set inuences our environment . I have come to realise that my mind set has an impact on my children, especially my daughter. We have a very strong bond so I try to stay positive. It is difcult to always stay positive so I allow myself on difcult days to vent, have a good cry and then pick myself up and move on. I do go out occasionally for coffee or lunch, with friends. My son and I have dates which are such great fun and always put me in a great mood because he is just the happiest little chap. My husband and I still “date “. We don't really get date nights but we do little things for each other that let the other know that they are loved and appreciated. To women who chose to be home makers instead of being pressed into the corporate and business world, my advise would be follow your heart. Be at peace with your decision. Being a home maker does not mean you don't work. Being a home maker is a 24 /7 job. You can be a home maker and still make an impact on society, so don't look at being a homemaker as being someone less, it is in fact a very powerful position. “You may not control all of the events that happens to you but you can decide not to be reduced by them “ Maya Angelou, these are words I live by.
August 2016 www.beadsconnect.co.za
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Beauty August Special Offer
Summer
MAKEUP MUST-HAVES
Summer is upon us, if the cold we’ve had this past winter has anything on us, we need to expect to feel we are closer to the sun. But it's easy to keep your cool and look beautiful with the right beauty products to beat summer's heat. Here are some of our tried-and-true favorites. Whether you're looking for the perfect new lipstick, foundation or blush, we've got your best options. Make-up Artist: Kgotso Kgotso is a Richards Bay based Make-Up Artist. He is respected and sort after by celebrities and individuals through out KwaZulu Natal for his creative eyes and professional air. He is also works at 1KZN TV showcasing his talent www.facebook.com/kgotso.jay
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Fashion
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OFFICE Designer: Afrokulcha Photography: NixoGraphy Productions Make-Up by: Sthabile Mzimela Model: Zama Shandu 1KZN TV News Reader
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Fashion
Designer: Zinathi Fashion Photography: NixoGraphy Productions Make-Up by: Sthabile Mzimela
Fashion
Designer: Zinathi Fashion Photography: NixoGraphy Productions Make-Up by: Sthabile Mzimela
Fashion
Designer: Zinathi Fashions Photography by NixoGraphy Productions Make-Up by: Sthabile Mzimela
It a
Feature
men’s (WO)
world W
omen are showing super strength. Gone are the days of a big belly, no shoes in the kitchen women. If women of the 1900 were to have a glimpse of women today they would be confused. Today's women's instincts are kicking overdrive. There is no industry without women presence. The sentence “women can never……” has no end anymore. Hey, women can even chose to marry other women these days, yes I went there. Roman Payne, a novelist known for his poetic language described a woman as free in her wildness, "she is a wanderess, a drop of free water. She knows nothing of borders and cares nothing for rules or customs. 'Time' for her isn't something to ght against. Her life ows clean, with passion, like fresh water.” he said.
If you don't think this is a fact, look at Thuli Madonsela. She has ercely held the position of Public Protector like a queen that she is. She has held her own and made some, men in particular, uneasy. Look at Nkosazana Dlamini - Zuma, she chose to leave her marriage to now President Jacob Zuma, and still took one of the most powerful seats in Africa as the Chairperson of the African Union, proving that much as women love and need their men, they can take world stages on their own. There are countless women in South Africa and KwaZulu Natal taking charge. At an early age girls were given dolls because that's about the main thing they needed to do... have children. There are jobs that were meant to be for men, there were seats only men could take, that was long time ago. Here are some extraordinary women in elds commonly known as men's.
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August 2016 www.beadsconnect.co.za
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Feature Qaphile Putsoane is the chairperson of ICORA FM board, a provincial board member of National community radio forum, and now a NEC member of NCRF. Qaphi is also a director at Mabongo investments and a mother. She acknowledges that her journey as ICORA FM chairperson has taught her a lot and has also strengthened her leadership skills.
Zonke Cebekhulu UNTU NEC Member Zonke is currently serving as the National Executive Councillor for UNTU (largest trade union at Transnet), and also been recently appointed as the National Fulltime Trade Union Representative for UNTU. Her role as the EXCO member is to manage and take decisions of the union, with her other fellow EXCO members. Her role as the NFTUR is to represent the union Nationally in the Transnet Bargaining Council. The following are other committees she is serving on: Social Justice committee at FEDUSA; Rail Chamber committee at TETA; KZN Provincial AIDS Councilrepresenting FEDUSA as the Civil Society committee member.
She studied project management and then registered her business (Mabongo investments) which deals with marketing strategies and business consultant, event coordinating and communications. She also studied hair dressing and worked as a professional hairdresser, she later opened her own saloon. She says working in the industry dominated by men you just need to be on top of your game and understand your strength, master your work. “I don't want to lie it does intimidate to get inside a boardroom full of men, but I just say to myself they are equally made just like me. I mean one cannot quit school or feel challenged just because there's more boys in your class than girls”.
Better known to her colleagues as “Sweetheart” at the Richards Bay taxi rank, Nyembe is a driver by passion, she has been driving since the year 2000. Her driving calling started in Pietermaritzburg as a cab driver where she got red because reversing was apparently not her mastered skill. The “practice makes perfect” saying worked for Nyembe as she used a friend's car to brush up on her skill, and this bared fruits when she got another job as a taxi driver in Richards Bay, KZN North Coast. She has been driving local taxis for 2 years, from eNseleni to Richards Bay and eNseleni to eMpangeni. Moving around the rank with her, you get to see her in action, and the nickname “Sweethearts” is always on colleague's lips as in passengers. She says she got the 'sweetheart' nickname at the rank because of her good heart and her never anding jokes. “Working with taxi drivers and managers was not difcult for me as I have been selling food at the rank for a long time. Even though you get to be challenged at times by colleagues who get smart with you just because you are a woman and they will want to take over. I also get passengers who undermine me just because I am a woman to an extent that some have a mentality that they would not be safe in a taxi driven by a woman” said Nyembe “Sweetheart” loves her daily job, beside the passion she has for driving, it's also the fact that it is very easy to get a job as a taxi driver, you get paid weekly and although it's not a glamorous job, one is able to cover living expenses to an extent.
Qaphile Putsoane ICORA FM Board Chairperson
Jabu Nyembe Taxi Driver
August 2016 www.beadsconnect.co.za
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T
ransformation is evident in the way South Africans are approaching business. By Nqobile Nene
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August 2016 www.beadsconnect.co.za
Business
Small, medium and micro-sized enterprises (SMMEs) in the grocery retail sector are reaping the rewards of big investments by dominant players in the industry, such as Massmart and Pick n Pay. Pick n Pay spent more than R40bn on South African suppliers, with 94% of its freshfood products procured from local suppliers. The company's spend on SMMEs quadrupled in 2015 and expenditure on broad-based black economic empowerment businesses rose more than 39.2% to R33bn, with a particular focus on women-owned businesses. It used to be impossible for small businesses to penetrate the big retail shops but it seems systems are now favouring the transformation of procument processes. Businesses interested in supplying Spar can now liaise directly with one of the supermarket chain's nationwide franchised stores instead of having to go through the company's the head ofce. As part of its My Spar initiative, the company allows franchisees to sell products that meet the demands of the communities they operate in. Even though there are still some challenges facing small businesses, such as the fact that small businesses and co-operatives nd it difcult to ourish in underdeveloped areas such as townships and rural communities due to lack of adequate investments in infrastructure and lack of appropriate policies to protect informal businesses.
Said Minister Lindiwe Zulu at the Small Business Development Dept Budget Vote 2015/16 in May. It seems most of the systems and the roles played by different stakeholders in developing small businesses has positive results as the failure rate for established businesses has dropped in the last year, the Global Entrepreneur Monitor's (GEM) 2014 global report reveals. There are signs that things are improving, with South Africa's discontinuance rate having fallen from 4.9% in 2013 to 3.89% last year. This is only slightly above its 2009 level, but still higher than its 2005 level of 2.9%. But it's still below the discontinuance rates of other efciency driven economies (which averaged at 4.5%, up from 4.2%). Financier Business Partners' managing director Nazeem Martin says the decline in the bad debt levels conrm the ndings in the GEM report.
“It used to be impossible for small businesses to penetrate the big retail shops but it seems systems are now favouring the transformation of procument processes”
“The department will expedite the implementation of the National Informal Business Upliftment Strategy (NIBUS), which seeks to create an enabling legal and regulatory environment; provide nance and non-nancial support; promote intergovernmental relations to deliver to the sector; encourage the role of private sector and support of informal trader organizations. In partnership with the Wholesale and Retail SETA, we shall upscale the Informal Traders Upliftment Project (ITUP) where currently we are piloting the support of 1000 informal traders with skills and infrastructure nationally.”
August 2016 www.beadsconnect.co.za
Save water, Save a life
The scary recent nding is that according to the latest Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) report, South Africans have lost interest in starting their own businesses. Since 2013 there has been a 30% drop in the number of people starting small businesses. In a country that continuously promotes entrepreneurship, this is not a good sign. However for those choosing to embrace the challenge that comes with great rewards, the transformation can be realized.
Beauty
Finance Ponzi schemes are not new in South Africa, in fact there is one starting right now as you read this, and after reading all the clues and warning about them, you are probably going to be smoothed talked into joining, not for free, you are going to be lured into investing your hard earned money with a promise for quick cash or “great rewards”… Sounds familiar? There have been many famous Ponzi schemes throughout history, and especially in recent years. These fraudulent investments have affected everyone, from the poor elderly to rich and famous alike. The most disturbing thing about the Ponzi schemes in recent years is that they are carried out by some incredibly brilliant person, who knows that their plans aren't sustainable. Like most things, it all started in America. He wasn’t the rst but his name is still in association, Charles Ponzi was the man who started it all. In the 1920's, Ponzi promised investors a whopping 50% return in 45 days, or 100% in 90 days on of all things, international postal coupons, which he never actually purchased. He earned $15 million and became a millionaire in only six months. When Ponzi was caught one year later, investors received a mere $5 million back. He was charged with 86 counts of mail fraud and sentenced to 5 years. During his time in federal prison, he was prosecuted again in Massachusetts, but Ponzi claimed double jeopardy and his case went to the Supreme Court. He was then sentenced to seven to nine years in state prison. After Ponzi was released, he launched another scheme, where he sold real estate that was literally underwater. Not surprisingly, the namesake schemer was jailed yet again, and ultimately died penniless in Brazil, working as a translator. In South Africa we have had our non-ending fair share of these home wrecking schemes leaving families penniless and children without food and people swimming in debt.
How are South Africans still falling for
Ponzi Schemes?
There is a difference between a Ponzi scheme and a Pyramid scheme, but in both Ponzi schemes and pyramid schemes, existing investors are compensated by the contributions of new investors. Ponzi scheme participants believe they are earning returns from their investment, while pyramid scheme participants are aware that they are earning money by recruiting new participants.
By Nqobile Nene
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August 2016 www.beadsconnect.co.za
Finance In light of the confusing MMM debacle, here Now with these schemes so regular, you are some of the famous Ponzi Schemes in would think people would learn, but they South Africa. don't, so why are Ponzi schemes so effective? 1.The 'Vliegtuigie' game (Little airplane game) Here are some reasons: – see how far your money can y (away from you). Ÿ Most people are unsophisticated investors - They don't have the ability to The “Vliegtuigie” game engulfed the Western understand nances and investing. And Cape of South Africa. In monetary value many simply don't want to know how to. nobody knows how much money changed Ÿ High rates of return are always attractive hands or who actually controlled it and Most Ponzi schemes (at least in the initial benetted most from it, but it certainly had a phases) offer substantially higher rates of large impact on social events for many return than another investment available. months. It entailed inviting people to house These rates are always going to attract parties to “build” an airplane. To become a people; even the wary. airline captain and win money you had to Ÿ Most Ponzi schemers are personable convince people to buy parts of the airplane people - A great deal of investing is selling and become passengers. Passengers had to yourself as well as selling your investment. convince friend to do the same. Once you If you have "sold" yourself to people, have convinced enough friends to join in, you almost without exception you have sold received a large sum of money taken from the your investment scheme, whatever it is. passenger fees. Large airplanes was drawn on Ÿ The investing public has a short memory sketch pads or even overhead projectors to Although every year at least 4-5 major keep tabs on progress and payouts. Ponzi schemes are uncovered and reported in the media, people seem to 2.The Sushi King – from prison to eating sushi forget about them by the end of that year, off semi-naked woman if not by the end of that month. People simply do not remember how others From humble beginnings in the Kutlwanong were defrauded in similar manners, thus township of Odendaalsrus in the Free State, allowing themselves to be similarly Kenny Kunene, studied at Vista University to victimized become a teacher. While teaching he started Ÿ Many people involved in early stages of a running a Ponzi scheme with over 2000 Ponzi scheme know what is occurring, but investors, which led to his arrest, trial, won't tell later investors - One of the least conviction and six year imprisonment at the spoken about and least pleasant aspects of Grootvlei Prison in Bloemfontein. It is during many Ponzi frauds is that early investors this time that he met his future business often know ( or strongly suspect) that they partner, bank robber Gayton McKenzie. are involved in a scam, but they don't bother to inform later investors. Why? A) 3.Travel Ventures International (TVI) They are making solid returns for a while B) They want to get their money out Investors were 'taken for R86m ride' by before it collapses. If they warned later Musgrave businesswoman Nonhlanhla investors ( whose money comprises the Hadebe. In essence, it is alleged, that she had majority of their "returns") about their three schemes. One was TVI through which suspicions, they also would lose money. “worthless” electronic travel vouchers were Ÿ Most people are trusting, even when it marketed for R2 700 each. Then there was comes to money and investing - Most Legend Venture which, for between R5 000 people simply don't (or won't) believe that and R35 000, offered membership in they will be defrauded. They trust that “worthless companies to be listed on the either the person who they have met and stock exchange”. The third was Club Wealth who has involved them in the scheme will Wheels “marketed under the guise of an "take care of them". Or that "government" Indian-based discount club for motor vehicle will bail them out if their investment turns enthusiasts” which, for an annual fee of R2 out be a fraud. Similar to # 1; but not the 500, offered discounts of US$150 (R1 500) to same. $225 on new cars “none of which appear to be available in South Africa”. Essentially all required the recruitment of new members to get money back.
You might be one of those who are too trusting and are - maybe - even really desparate for cash that you will take or join anything. It helps to be alert, here are some of the signs it's a Ponzi scheme: 1. Promises of high returns in a short time period. High and fast returns may suggest that commissions are being paid out of money from new recruits. 2. Easy money or passive income. Be wary if you are offered compensation in exchange for little work, such as recruiting others and placing advertisements. 3. Buy-in required. Be careful if you are required to pay a buy-in to participate in the programme. 4. Complex commission structure. Be concerned unless commissions are based on products or services that you or your recruits sell to people outside the programme. 5. Emphasis on recruiting. If a programme focuses on recruiting others to join the programme for a fee, it is likely a pyramid scheme. 6. Don't be fooled by the claims it's not a pyramid scheme because you don't have to spend a lot of money up front. 7. Be careful if you have to qualify for certain levels of bonuses, which require various levels of product purchases and other associated costs. 8. Vague business models. Steer clear of investment schemes that are based on vague investment models, or models which do not make sense. 9. More participants. Avoid investment schemes that rely on you bringing in more participants in order to generate a return. This is a classic trait of both Pyramid and Ponzi schemes. 10. Too good to be true. If it is too good to be true, it usually is. There is no need for everyone to make the same mistake, lets learn more, read more, be alert and maybe even be stingy with our money, we work hard for it, its not just for us but its for our generations as well.
August 2016 www.beadsconnect.co.za
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Inspiration
GREATNESS, HUMILITY & COMPASSION INSPIRES EVERYTHING SHE IS AND WILL BE By: Pamela Mkhize
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2015 proved to be an amazing year for the young Christian poet. Nokwethemba Mchunu who grew up in uMlazi Township in Durban. From launching a Youth Network; to being part of Joyous Celebration 20 and scooping the Most Inuential Woman award, Nokwe - as her friends and fans call her - has the ultimate goal to make a positive difference in the lives of young people in South Africa and ultimately the world. Nokwethemba describes herself as focused, compassionate, creative and a funny person “People close to me say I'm funny” she chuckles.
August 2016 www.beadsconnect.co.za
This year I believe there's so much more that I can do as an artist in the industry and I have some great people that are assisting me in exploring those avenues I was introduced to gospel poetry at University in 2009. I've always admired the gift of writing that other poets possessed. Poetry was never something I knew I could do until the year 2009. Prior to that I just enjoyed listening to other poets render their poetry pieces, I never really wanted to do it myself because I never knew the gift of writing was there within me. The poetry piece I was able to write by God's Grace is titled “Who is the greatest”. One of my favorite pieces as its aim was to celebrate men and women who excelled in their respective elds, people we classify as legends, it also highlights that there is always and will always be a debate as to who is the greatest man that has ever walked on earth. However in the end the poem crowns Jesus as being the ultimate legend. There truly is nobody and will never be anybody like Jesus and the world needs to know that, Jesus is the greatest. The poem is Evangelical cross Praise cross motivational. Being part of Joyous Celebration 20 was absolutely amazing, sharing the same stage with South Africa's and Africa's Gospel legends whom I grew up listening to and admiring is an experience I will cherish for the rest of my life. I am inspired by greatness, humility and compassion. Wherever I see these 3 qualities demonstrated I am inspired to be a better person and to step up in my eld of calling. Greatness is what we all aspire to be but one can never be great in life if they lack humility and compassion. I was inspired to start the Youth Network because I've always been a great believer that our gifts are not for us but for the Glory of God and for the betterment of the lives of others. We are not on this earth to get rich and store up riches for ourselves, to be popular, liked, well esteemed, admired, only to die and leave all of that behind. Greatness may come with all of that but I truly believe that the essence of life is “we are blessed to be a blessing.” Success to me and who we really are as people is tied up in how we treat those that can do nothing for us. We are here on this earth to make a difference primarily in Gods Kingdom (build churches, win souls to Gods kingdom) and to be a blessing to those less fortunate than ourselves. We have to use our skills, resources, time, money, platforms given, or the proceeds that come from that to make a difference in society. I wanted to make a difference in the lives of young people and those less fortunate and I knew I couldn't do it on my own but needed the assistance of other young people that were hungry for their own development.
It's by God's Grace that I am able to juggle my 9-5 job, clothing line, youth network and Joyous. I won't lie, it gets extremely overwhelming and busy times but a girls gotta do what a girls gotta do. My ultimate aim is to end up doing what I love full time. For now life's demands that I do all simultaneously. This year I believe there's so much more that I can do as an artist in the industry and I have some great people that are assisting me in exploring those avenues. I'm Believing God for the success of all that I am working on. Everybody will just have to wait and see. As cliché as it may sound Jesus is in all honesty my ultimate role model, we all ought to strive to be more and more like him…. However out there in the world I do not have one individual person that is my ultimate role model. I admire different traits in different people. But in a nutshell any individual that was able to stay true to their passion , make their mark one earth , change the lives of others positively while on earth and left a lasting legacy is a role model to me. The likes of Nelson Mandela, Mother Theresa, Dr Myles Munroe and many more. Also young people in our generation that are making a positive difference in their respective elds are an inspiration. The Most Inuential Woman Award in 2015 was a true testimony of God's Grace. I was so humbled that somebody or individuals out there think that I am inuential enough to even win an award for being inuential. I always used to say of all the awards that I could ever possibly win as an artist I would love to be awarded for things that are a reection of the inner me as opposed to anything that has to do with my physical. I want to be known for changing lives, having compassion, showing love, bringing hope to the lives of others. So that award was conrmation that I'm moving in the right direction. My advice to young ladies is to rst and foremost always know that they are fearfully and wonderfully made in the image of God. They are beautiful the way they are- light skinned, dark skinned, short, tall, skinny, voluptuous, they are simply beautiful just the way God made them. There is a God that loves them UNCONDITIONALLY and that a genuine, real relationship with him is more important than other relationship they can ever have with anybody else on this earth. So God rst and all else secondary. They should focus, not be afraid to dream big and know that no matter how shameful their background or mistakes, they have a purpose to fulll and are destined for greatness.
Stay connected with Nokwethemba Mchunu on social media Facebook: Nokwethemba Mchunu_Poet Instagram: nokwethembamchunu
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#WhatsHappeningKZN FNB ECR Women`s Breakfast Venue: I C C Durban, Fri 12 Aug16 - 7:30 As one of the most anticipated dates on the KZN business calendar, this year`s FNB Business Womens Breakfast with East Coast Radio will feature four of South Africa`s foremost thought-leaders and trendsetters. Join Google Boss Stafford Masie, Vusi Thembakwyo of Dragons` Den SA fame,Ndalo Media CEO - Khanyi Dhlomo and Yolande Steyn from FNB on a morning of key strategic insights and learnings. Presented by FNB Business, the breakfast brings together KZN`s business elite.
Ub40 South African Tour Durban Botanic Gardens, Thu 10 Nov 16 9:00 Pmselect Britain`s biggest reggae band of all time, UB40, will be performing classic hits and gems from their seminal albums` Labour Of Love Parts I and II. Two of the band`s most successful and deď€ ning albums, "Labour Of Love Parts I + II" between them include eight UK Top 20 Singles, including "Red, Red Wine", "Kingston Town" and "The Way You Do The Things You Do. Durban Botanic Gardens, Juventus Field - Durban Botanic Gardensselect
Shall We Dance - Durban 09 Sep 16 - 17 Sep 16 Playhouse Opera Theatre The annual showcase started in 1991 - Shall We Dance is probably the longest annual production in Durban. It is presented by The Playhouse Company in association with the South African Dance Teachers Association. Produced and directed by Neville Letard and Caryl Cusens.
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Feature Zululand
Top Model 2016 Sené Kirton
Whoever thought modelling was just about long legs and fake smiles had not met Sené Kirton. Well long legs she denitely has, but the smile is so real. This striking 20 year old beauty started modelling at the age of 9 in 2005 and in the same year she won Little Miss Zululand 2005. After admiring her outside looks you have to admire her inner beauty. Sené is also a Grade RR teacher and is in her second year studying towards her Degree in Foundation Phase Education. Being a hard worker that she is, she is also a branch manager for Trelique Modelling and Promotions Agency. Like all beautiful models, she has a life outside of the pose striking industry. Sené enjoys shing, reading, exercising and spending time with my friends and family. My passion is children. I am part of the Amangwe Village charity organisations where I donate food, toys and my time and I will gladly work with them in future fundraisings events and initiatives. Children are our future and giving them the love and care they deserve, whether it is for my kids in my class or the less fortunate, makes me happy and they inspire me daily to be a better person. Being crowned Zululand Top Model was one of my greatest accomplishments because it's a prestigious title. I am excited to use this title in any future work that I do in the modelling industry. My family is my greatest support. They've stood behind me through the best and the worst times and they always have my back. I'm lucky to have such a supportive family. My advice to young girls wanting to get into the industry would be always stay true to who you are because beauty shines brighter from the inside. Stay humble and you will be blessed abundantly. A beautiful heart can take you a long way.
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August 2016 www.beadsconnect.co.za
W Happy
Women’s Month 2016