Ignited Woman - April/May 2021

WWW.IGNITEDWOMANMAG.COM

EDITION 14 | MAR/APR 2021

Girl Boss

Meet the founders of some black owned skin-care products

Five Money

The Do's & Don'ts

Introducing Dr Relebohile Ncha: New CEO at Helen Joseph Hospital

principles to live by

+ Top 10

Tips on how to fit in fitness into a tight schedule

When negotiating a salary increase during the pandemic

Working towards a thriving Free State economy with

MEC GADIJA BROWN

CONTENTS YOUR MONEY + BUSINESS & HEALTH

04 EDITOR'S NOTE In this edition the focus shifts to becoming.

Working on yourself daily to become the person you want to be, not what society says.

08 MONEY PRINCEPLES TO LIVE BY Our financial realities have changed since the Covid-19 pandemic hit the world., here we share five money principles to observe at all times.

10 THE WRATH OF TENDER SCAMS Small businesses have a new enemy, tender fraud. Many an email are inundated with fake invitations to bid. We look why this is now rife.

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HOSPITAL CEO CHARTING HER PATH

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ON THE COVER

LEGACY DRIVEN LEADERSHIP WITH MEC GADIJA BROWN

HEALTH CARE IS A 12 MENTAL HUMAN RIGHT As advocacy work around mental health care increases the right to access care by patients is also punted.

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COMMUNICATION EXTRORDINAIRE

AWARD WINNING

Busy as can be but Phumeza Langa continues to work on herself to become all that she can be.

She shares her most intimate thoughts with us in this article.

Founder and editor of NOWinSA Tankiso Komane is proud to have scooped the Best Branded News Platform by an international body.

14 SALARY NEGOTIATION DURING PANDEMIC

Nosipho Fakude is not one to be limited by the drastic changes of the world, instead she dived into them to make an impact in people's lives.

34 TOP HACKS FIT IN FITNESS IN YOUR HECTIC SCHEDULE

When our schedules become busy, fitness often is the first to suffer. In this article get some helpful hacks to keep fit even when busy.

WWW.IGNITEDWOMANMAG.COM

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Issue 14

APRIL 2021 | ISSUE 14

BECOMING THE WOMAN OF MY DREAMS The word becoming has taken on a different meaning.

I am glad I am becoming, with each rising day, the woman that I have always wanted to be.

Becoming is a journey not a destination and the more I get to her the more I seek to be more of her.

Each day I define myself for myself as I have come to realise that we on this earth to understand ourselves not to explain ourselves to others.

In this issue the trailblazers dominating their spheres of work and play speak of becoming, enjoying the process and taking stock as they go along.

Once again join me in celebrating some of the most fierce women in the country starting with our cover feature, Free State Treasury MEC Gadija Brown. I hope you enjoy this issue.

Love, Kamo

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THIS MONTH'S EDITOR'S FAVES Gadija Brown Phumeza Langa Dr Relebohile Ncha

Advertise or sponsor an edition Contact us : 061 434 4631

We are an emerging leading voice for women in business and a resource for our readers with strategic business content and insightful profiles on industry leaders!

Founder & editor Kamogelo Seekoei

Content Lead Basetsana Makhalemele writer tshego ramoupi graphic designer Basetsana makhalemele tumelo mosue

Contributors Dr Relebohile Ncha Dr Nkomile Setlaba Dikonelo mile edith mjuluki mpho mabote

Advertising Thabang Mabale LIJ media

digital solutions kamogelo seekoei

Subscriptions Visit www.ignitedwoman.co.za or send email To: info@kannamedia.co.za

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Published by Kanna Media productions All Rights Reserved. all opinions by our independent writer does not necessarily reflect the opinions of ignited woman magazine or its staff members.

Money Coach

FIVE MONEY PRINCIPLES TO LIVE BY

BY ANEESA RAZACK AND MATLHODI LETEANE

Money and finances are subjects that dominate our daily conversations.

The Covid-19 pandemic has not only been burdensome and taxing on everyone’s lives, but it has also created undue financial pressure on households globally.

Two FNB senior managers Aneesa Razack and Matlhodi Leteane highlight five money principles to get you through this year.

1. Open a savings or investment account

With the financial uncertainty, look at opening a savings or tax-free savings account; or even an investment account for yourself or your loved ones.

Not only does the interest returns increase on the same capital invested but if those returns are reinvested along with the capital, the compound interest increases significantly.

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"YOUR RETIREMENT SHOULD BE AN EXCITING AND HAPPY TIME"

2. Retirement savings

Your retirement should be an exciting and happy time, but for many people, approaching retirement day can be an intimidating and stressful period mainly because of the many decisions that need to be made. One of the most important decisions that you need to make is what to do with your retirement savings. This is important as you need to ensure that you receive the income after you’ve stopped working.

3. Have a Valid Will in place?

This is a crucial step in your legacy creation journey. Many people simply neglect or ignore the importance of having a valid Will in place. A Will is a simple document that contains all your wishes for your loved ones. Sit down and take time to review the assets and investments that you have accumulated and decide who you would like to leave these to.

4. Consider opening a Trust for your children?

A consideration is to open a Trust if you have a large portfolio or asset base. It may sound complicated or expensive, but with the proper guidelines and advise – you can establish your own Trust. A Will combined with a Trust should be the main components of every estate plan.

5. Invest in shares There are many myths around the ownership of shares.

However, truth be told that anyone can invest in an instrument which provides exposure to local and global companies. The new global shares offering from FNB Wealth and Investments forms part of the bank’s ongoing commitment to engineer highly innovative solutions that is easy, affordable and go beyond banking to enable all South Africans to achieve their financial and lifestyle goals.

ANEESA RAZACK IS CEO FNB SHARE INVESTING FOR FNB WEALTH AND MATLHODI LETEANE IS HEAD OF OPERATIONS, FNB FIDUCIARY.

Life Talk

Self care breeds self preservation

By Maleshoane Tlhabang

L

ead yourself and others with love in these chaotic times

It is the engagement with purpose rather than achieving goals, that renders our time in this COVID-19 pandemic as meaningful and significant.

This time calls for us to journey into our souls and to discover ourselves and our contribution in the world.

I firmly believe that the greatest contribution to the world is to serve. To serve the organization you work in, the community you live in and to serve your family and encourage everyone to lead and be responsible.

This calls for a culture of coaching others because coaching is transformational leadership in action. This should be done in love, understanding and kindness. Human beings are going through the most.

Although not everyone wants to be a leader, let us convince them and give them the confidence to believe in themselves.

Inspire our circles to get involved and to want to make a difference be it at work, home or other environment they find themselves in. This will require us to listen to different voices and ideas. The world is moving into a new order that will require change of mindset, heart and action.

Individualise, give attention and embrace differences and allow people to get involved in their own way. Intentionally include everyone.

Intellectualise - Involve people meaningfully and intentionally by challenging their thinking and building their confidence by sharing of information, asking for inputs and giving feedback where their inputs were implemented or were to be implemented.

Change is upon us and we should be creating change leaders all around us.

We do this is by investing in doing the work of the heart so that we can be change agents in the world. The world needs love and laborers of hope.

Maleshoane Tlhabang is an Organisational relationship Systems Coach. She assists clients with self-worth and empowerment assist clients to release fear, selfsabotage, childhood traumas and thoughts that hold them back from achieving their true potential. She can be reached on 074 694 9326 for assistance or questions on dealing with anxiety.

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Business Coach

Beware the tender scams

By EdithMjuluki

A NEW BATTLE FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

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small business owner's set goals are to operate and grow a successful business, despite the products or services offered.

Business owners must set both short-term and long-term goals that include everything from funding and income to expand the business and reaching customers.

Business owners always look for opportunities to grow their businesses and bidding for tenders is one of them.

Since the introduction of tenders to black owned small businesses in South Africa for the supply of goods and services, startups have used this opportunity for growth and development.

This includes Request for quotation (RFQ's).

The difference between the formal tender bid and a formal quotation; an RFQ will be for goods or services with a value of between R30,000-00 and R200,000-00 and a competitive tender bid will be for goods or services with a value exceeding R200,000-00.

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The requirement to participate in tendering and RFQ is that you are registered with the CSD (Central Supplier Database).

With the intention to participate in this line of business, small business fight a losing battle against high tender and RFQ scams, losing the little they have or losing it all.

The increased lawlessness and scams in respect of tenders and quotations is not receiving much attention in our country.

The state’s property is being used to create false documents such as RFQ's and purchase orders that are fake. This applies to email addresses that looks similar to state email addresses, contact telephone numbers and websites that are fake.

This is a group of syndicates working together to pose as government officials and suppliers. These are professionals and they have studied how the tendering system works. For some reason they are able to access your records from the same

CSD and send you email for a quotation.

The email will come as though it is from the CSD. This can never be stopped until the relevant authorities put some controls in this.

I paid a visit to three banks. I communicated with the one other bank where three incidents of fraud occurred.

These are some of my discoveries: Banks constantly open bank accounts for fake and fraudulent business owners.

Fraudulent registrations documents of nonexistent business are being used to open a legal bank account.

Banks have no verification system for such fake businesses, therefore accept a CIPC document as proof of ownership. Even a fake one will do because it is not vetted.

A bank allows five different accounts for one individual including the main account, all these accounts can independently receive payments from 3rd parties.

Banks are not linked to CIPC, I’m not sure why but if it can be done, fraud can be controlled or reduced.

•Green and false barcoded ID's are still being used and accepted to verify by these fraudsters.

•At the end of the day the banks and the state are not taking any responsibility or able to investigate the crime with success.

•Legal (looking) landline numbers are being RICA'd, operated from a normal cell phone or cordless phone are used to carry out crime in this country.

•Fictitious websites are being created by professionals, with links to fraudulent bank account to defraud unsuspecting business owners.

What then?

•As a business owner, you have a responsibility to check, verify and ask before you transact.

•Contact the numbers provided by the supplier, ensure that you are not transacting with a one man show.

•The supplier's identity is important. Most of these fraudsters don't have telephone etiquette, let that be another sign.

•Department of treasury or supply chain should also answer the call using the department's name as identity. If not, it’s not.

• I cannot emphasize this enough, verify, verify and verify some more. Losing hard earned money is painful.

On the issue of RICA These fraudsters create fake landline numbers.

The new online Rica service provided by telecommunications companies is not 100% safe in this way.

•The same fraudulent bank account statement opened by the bank is used to verify proof of address for business and or individual.

Edith Mjuluki, is a business development consultant for Edico Business Solutions.For small business services or advice contact her on 0679089055 or edicobs@gmail com

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By Dr Sizwe Mazibuko and Peta-Lyn Foot

M

ental health care patients continue to face stigmatization despite the human rights strides made in the country.

Two doctors from the Akeso group take a look at some of the challenges that keep the status quo in place.

According to Dr Sizwe Mazibuko, a psychiatrist practising at Akeso Arcadia, mental healthcare users continue to face stigmatisation, not only in South Africa but globally. These individuals are medically ill in the same way those with physical conditions are, yet receive less support and fewer treatment options.

“Unfortunately, there is a shortage of resources and this is particularly problematic for those with mental health conditions. The length of in-hospital stay for those who do receive care is therefore often insufficient, added to which there are limitations in terms of healthcare cover,” he says.

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Cultural and economic challenges “A lack of education around mental conditions is an enormously debilitating factor. Added to which, cultural dynamics in South Africa can lead to serious mistreatment of those with cognitive disability; sometimes even in cases of elderly people with dementia, for example, who in the later years of their lives need help and care, and instead are met with fear and superstition and are therefore persecuted in the community.

“With such a large portion of our population living below the poverty line there are competing struggles at play, and for those living in underprivileged areas where basic needs are not even met, mental health issues are, understandably, often not understood. This is deeply saddening, as these individuals deserve to be treated with dignity, just like anyone else,” emphasizes Dr Mazibuko.

The Mental Health Care Act The centre reports that there have been many positive changes in mental healthcare in South Africa since the introduction of the Mental Health Care Act of 2002.

“This Act was put in place with the purpose of creating a shift in the system, from a custodial approach to encouraging more community care,” explains Peta-Lyn Foot, program manager at Akeso Randburg – Crescent Clinic.

“This meant ensuring more appropriate care across all levels of society and easier access to treatment, highlighting discrimination and stigma, and eliminating unfair treatment and committals of those with mental illness. The Act is also about protecting individuals’ rights and dignity by giving patients more say in their treatment,” Foot says.

Dr Mazibuko comments that he has noticed a marked improvement in the country since the Act was put in place.

Know your rights and seek treatment “Despite these improvements however, the reality is that there is a long road ahead before the rights of those with mental health conditions are recognised at a community level. As a healthcare professional my advice is that these individuals should receive treatment at primary care level as soon as any signs of possible mental illness begin to show.

“If left untreated, certain mental conditions can lead to individuals committing crimes, in which case that person needs to be assessed at a forensic assessment facility. However, very few such facilities exist. In the meantime they have to wait in jail, which naturally can have a devastating effect on their mental health.

When you consider this vicious cycle, it is ironic and tragic that we as a society have the power to assist the very people who we so often turn our backs on, leading to further issues in our communities and the abuse of human rights, something we as a nation have sworn to protect,” notes Dr Mazibuko.

Rights afforded to mental health patients in the Mental Health Care Act include: You have the right to not be discriminated against because of mental illness or disability.

You have the right to safe and effective treatment.

According to the Patients’ Rights Charter of South Africa you have the right to: Be treated with respect Obtain your medical records Privacy of your medical records Make a treatment choice Informed consent Refuse treatment Make decisions about end-oflife care Please visit: www.akeso.co.za, or email info@akeso.co.za for further information.

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Sourced from Indeed Career Guide www.indeed.com

Salary negotiation during pandemic It can feel challenging to decide whether you should negotiate your salary increase while COVID-19 is still impacting the economy. Many businesses are retrenching employees which may lead you to believe that offer negotiation isn’t an option in the current market. While COVID-19 has significantly affected companies some did pay salary increases in 2020.

Prior to your interview, conduct research to get an idea of how COVID-19 has affected your potential employer. You might find indicators on news sites, social media or the company’s website. If you know someone who currently works for the company, then you could also ask if they have any public insights to share.

During the interview, consider asking questions such as: How has COVID-19 affected the company?

What challenges has the company

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faced since the onset of COVID-19?

How is the company recovering from the impacts of COVID-19?

Getting answers to questions like these may help you better contextualize your negotiation conversation if you move onto the offer phase. For example, if you understand the company to be under a significant amount of financial and operational pressure, you might say something such as, “While I certainly understand these to be challenging times, I am requesting a 10% increase in pay

based on your initial offer. I believe this better represents the value I’d bring to the team based on my skill set, background and experience.”

How to identify the right pay Before initiating a negotiation conversation, conduct research to gain a strong understanding of your personal professional value which will be unique to your work experience and location.

Factors that can impact your professional value include: Years of industry experience Years of leadership experience Level of education Level of seniority Skills Licenses and certifications

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ou o t fer f o l ia Spec eaders r

Get a 30% discount on all online purchases from www.beaucience.co.za - simply use this discount code MAXI30

Game Changer

Towards a thriving Free State economy

By Kamogelo Seekoei

Legacy driven leadership

F

or someone who had no aspirations to be in politics and actually began her career in the private sector, Free State Treasury MEC, Gadija Brown has done

very well in the political sphere.

One could say her rise in politics has been meteoric. But it is her work that has done all the talking for her.

Gadija meets Ignited Woman team at The Houghton Hotel in Johannesburg. She is relaxed and insists on being called by her name and not addressed as MEC. This immediately speaks to her legend as an approachable leader.

From the banking sector, where she was involved in the formulation of transformative policies that accommodated people of colour to impactful work she started as head of two government departments – Department of Economic, Small Business Development (Destea) and public works and infrastructure - in the province; her influence can be felt.

Her first role in government was as CFO then Deputy Director General at Destea.

Through her roles Gadija’s aim is to influence the kind of transformation that will propel the Free State forward. She believes that the investments that the province has made in education alone can assist in taking the Free State to a space where citizens truly benefit the fruits of democracy.

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The journey into politics

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a young girl growing up in Port Elizabeth, now known as Gqeberha, her family was actively involved in the struggle for freedom – but politics were the furthest thing in her mind when she left home for Johannesburg at just 19-years to start a career in banking.

After three years in Gauteng she moved to Bloemfontein at the age of 22 and studied at the University of the Free State and subsequently worked in commercial banks.

She joined the private sector at the encouragement of her family, who felt they wanted something different for her.

“The sacrifices my father made during apartheid coupled with my families progressive politics; they always wanted something different for me and encouraged me to move into the private sector. My father past away in 2012 and I then joined government in August 2014,” states the MEC. Working in the banks she was fortunate to have been appointed to various managerial positions at a young age and wanted to make a difference.

“So as I sought opportunities to make a difference I was involved in diversity programmes that reached out to black business people and government,” she says. Her work in the banking sector enabled her to work with top ranking government officials who observed her at work and she was finally pouched for her skills.

“It just became a natural calling. I had to sacrifice and move out of my own space in my quest of joining the call made to the biggest liberation movement by the South African electorate. One of my aspirations has always been to see the achievement of a National Democratic Society as well as the economic emancipation of Africans in general and blacks in particular and I have decided to be one of the selfless leaders,” she says.

Being in the public sector and in particular in her role as MEC, Gadija now has a broader and more insightful view of society, she concedes.

“I have a high level understanding of the micro and macro environment in which the government operates. This is a privilege not a lot of people have and a space where I truly feel I can make a meaningful impact,” she affirms.

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"

It just became a natural calling. I had to sacrifice and move out of my own space in my quest of joining the call made to the biggest liberation movement by the South African electorate.

Investing in skills development

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here are days where I wish that I could just wave a magic wand and quickly see the results that are envisioned by the leadership of the province,” she muses adding that the Free State has invested years of financial resources and programmes into education, consistent matric results and higher education support and funding.

She says during the time that she has been in government; the province has invested in more than 4000 bursaries of which 1020 international and the rest in local universities.

“Our bursary policy specifically outlines that bursaries are aligned to the Free State Growth and Development Strategy, skills set to support the future economy. Maths and Science has been high on the agenda, engineers, Agricultural scientists, doctors and technical skills have been priority.

Having a strong foundation in this regard provides a great level of readiness for skilled workers so that the mix between skilled and unskilled workers are relevant to the market,” she says.

Getting support to thrive

O

ne the imperative resources to have in order to succeed is a mentor, Gadija asserts. She says a mentor is a precious commodity that she has ensured to possess throughout her career and it has worked out.

“Find yourself a mentor, be it formal or informal. Yes you do need support, people around you who will motivate you, support you and guide you. I could have never achieved this on my own,” she says.

She recommends that other women adopt an attitude of yes I can and remain hopeful because then you will inspire hope to all those around you.

“Be solution based and find answers not problems,” she says, emphasizing that the notion that a woman may only get to her position or a position of influence by superfluous favours should be dismissed.

“My greatest dream is to instil in woman that they have a voice. My career started with a monthly pay check of R800.00. With that as a starting salary, I found financial freedom, saved, purchased appreciating assets and understood that in life we do not have to keep up with a lifestyle and live,” she says.

Legacy building and being a beacon for women

The leader of the people – on leadership philosophy

The mom of two believes in being the change she wants to see in the world and seeing more collaboration between women.

Seeing women especially young women participating fully in the mainstream economy and owning the means of production is one of her missions.

Her advocacy for the young woman includes assisting them in developing a skill, learning self-confidence, giving them a platform to have a voice, the socio economic challenges in various parts of the province is vastly different so to tailor make solutions is very different.

“Our government has so many various support programmes, platforms and initiatives to address socio economic challenges, we just need to assist young woman in leveraging on them.”

“I want to be part of the women who multiplies the ideals and aspirations of our departed heroes like Mama Charlotte Maxeke, Mama Albertina Sisulu, Mama Winnie Mandela and many other female leaders,” she says.

Nothing in the workplace is above or beneath me. If I have to tackle difficult, conflicting and disruptive tasks, I take them on, make mistakes, learn by it and if it was successful, it is a bonus. No, task it too tedious or mundane to me. My philosophy is to adjust strategy and execution amid complex social, political, legal and economic forces without compromising the values and principles of the African National Congress.

Sound advice

Forget everything and run. Face everything and rise. I choose to rise.

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"Empowered women empower women".

“My greatest dream is to instil in woman that they have a voice. My career started with a monthly pay check of R800.00. With that as a starting salary, I found financial freedom, saved, purchased appreciating assets and understood that in life we do not have to keep up with a lifestyle and live,” she says.

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#One2Watch

PHUMEZA LANGA

Becoming all the woman she can be

By Basetsana Makhalemele

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T

he past year has seen,

Ignited Woman (IW): Please tell us

communications extraordinaire

a bit about yourself and where

Phumeza Langa’s wings

you are from?

opening up and allowing her the

Phumeza Langa (PL): I am an only

flight that she has been putting in

child, Johannesburg born and

the work for in recent years.

raised woman, mother to a

Despite the lockdown brought on

wonderful little girl who teaches

by the Covid-19 pandemic, she has

and stretches me every single day. I

been flourishing in inspiring ways.

am married, living in the East Rand

Our content creator, Basetsana

with my family. I am discovering on

Makhalemele has a chat with her

a daily basis my passions and

about her work and how she has

purpose, and being intentional in

managed to structure all that she

moving towards creating, living

does.

and working in a way that allows me to be everything I can be. It is tough but I must do it, I owe it to myself to explore each and every single part of who I am and my capabilities as they unfold throughout my life journey.

IW: Can you tell us about the business ventures you are involved in?

PL: I am a Communications Consultant, specialising in digital and copywriting. I am a freelance writer and have done that for a number of years, a speaker, facilitator and now moving into the MC space. I do offer those services as an independent contractor.

IW: You are known to be in the communication and you are doing extremely well. Why did you choose that field and what exactly is your role as a communication consultant?

PL: I stumbled into communications in the best way possible, my high school guidance teacher recommended Public Relations to me based on what she knew about me. She tasked me with researching it for myself and I truly am happy about moving in this direction. It’s fascinating to me that I am still somehow doing certain elements of journalism in my work, and although it is not on the level of my childhood hero Christiana Amanpour, I am finding ways to share stories in order to try encourage, teach and open up people’s minds to new ways of learnings - whilst I learn and be inspired too!

IW: SistaHoodHour, can you tell us about it and how the business journey began?

PL: I am the founder of #SistaHoodHour - it started as a conversation between myself and the former Creative Chat SA duo, they encouraged me to use my social media platforms, especially Twitter to have those conversations and engage with other women. I just got into it and never looked back! #SistaHoodHour is a space where women can connect, learn, encourage, challenge each other and society about the things that impact us on a daily basis and in different ways, without being fearful or faced with any prejudices or preconceived ideas - we’re all in a place that allows us to be ourselves, and we hope that we each leave with something new to have learnt, experienced or shared with one another.

IW: What inspired you as a young woman to take the leap into connecting women and making an impact?

PL: I have been fortunate to have incredible women who have been amazing sources of kindness, wisdom, strength through various chapters of my life. There was a time I started to intentionally connect with more like-minded women, and some were women who were in different spaces in terms of careers, life stages, continents even. However they always welcomed the questions, conversations, insights I could share - it became about more than my own learning.

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This brought me such excitement and joy to connect women to one another and watch their connection grow and move forward.

IW: How do you juggle everything that you do? And what keeps you motivated to be the woman you are today?

PL: I have been fortunate that a lot of the things that I do feed into

IW: What would you say makes SistaHoodHour Conversations unique from other talk shows in South Africa?

PL: I want to further the conversations we have on Twitter via the SistaHoodHour Twitter Chat - the manner in which they are real and frank, and cover diverse topics. However be able to move within different communities and have face to face town hall type of conversations - my mom pointed out that the conversations are so diverse and there are so many. She has even shared some ideas that I cannot wait to get going with!

each other, and so it never feels like work in the traditional sense, but being able to pursue my passions in ways that help me grow through learning and exploring what I do and can do. I am also choosing what my energy and time goes to, be it work, conversation I engage in, spaces that I am in there are days that feel like a lot is happening but that’s when I know I need to take a pause and rest a bit before starting up again. It is so easy to burn out and so much harder to get into a good space again. I am motivated by the fact that I can continuously grow, and I am deliberate in doing the things

IW: How do you see SistaHoodHour evolving in the future?

PL: I would love to see SistaHoodHour become an environment that brings women, companies and communities together to make a tangible change in people’s lives. If there is a community you want to work with, let us help you find them, collaborate and grow in that connection and service. I truly want for women to connect with each other to collaborate, share knowledge and grow as individuals.

Create and nurture their own SistaHoodHour communities.

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IW: What has been the most challenging part of your journey thus far as a communication consultant? How did you overcome those challenges?

PL: I count moving into the entrepreneurial space as one of my most challenging experiences.

However also being one of my best learning experiences because you discover so much of yourself, what you want to do, how you want to do it, what works for you, what spaces you want to be in as a consultant. The collaborations and having your name spoken in places you never could have imagined finding yourself in - incredible. Also learning that sometimes the meeting can go so well, but the timing isn’t right to start the work, invoicing and waiting for payments (never spend money that is not in your account yet), learning to let

that help me grow.

some opportunities go because

IW: What has been the highlight of your journey in this communication and media industry?

PL: Discovering a deeper love and appreciation for writing, learning more about it. The opportunity to learn about social media and using it for brands but then also learning about how one can use social media for the positive, within our communities, both online and real. #SistaHoodHour has helped me learn so much about where I want to go in terms of the next chapter of my life and career.

but being able to recommend

they are not the right one for you – someone else for the job - that was always the best.

IW: Message to other women who are looking up to you?

PL: Follow your own unique path, it may take time to discover it but do not lose hope - it is possible. It is crucial to find a way to develop and grow your passions / skills, and channel them into areas that fulfill you, and in turn helps other women along their path.

Black Owned

Five Black owned South African skin care products

S

kin care product manufacturing for brown skin in Africa has become a fast growing industry. With more entrepreneurs realising the vastly available natural resources rich with nourishing properties, the more products we see on social media feeds and on store shelves.

Naturally the skin care industry is also booming in South Africa.

Here are a five of the fast growing brands in South Africa.

AfriBerry Founder: Relebohile Moeng After an accident left her with over a 150 stitches on her face, Relebohile Moeng, a GIBS graduate looked for more affordable solutions to cure her scars and it was cold pressed argan oil that yielded results. In 2011, her brand, AfriBerry was officially launched.

Contact details: 012 345 4684 www.afri-berry.co.za

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Suki Suki Naturals

Native Child:

Founder: Linda Gieskes-Mwamba The brand’s founder, Linda Gieskes-Mwamba, was born in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), but grew up in Brussels and Johannesburg. Her passion for beauty and skincare started when she was a curious five year old, clambering into her mother’s beauty cabinet and playing with her French cosmetics. The trigger for Suki Suki Naturals was in 2010 but was launched in 2014.

Contact details: +27 87 898 8800 hello@sukisukinaturals.co.za www.sukisukinaturals.co.za

Founder: Sonto Pooe Nativechild is a natural hair & bodycare brand, created for the underserved needs of women of color. The brand was founded by South African, entrepreneur Sonto Pooe, who is building a world class natural hair care and body care brand for people of colour that is kind to skin and the environment.

Contact details: 011 475 0551 enquiries@nativechild.co www.nativechild.co

Portia M Founder: Portia Mngomezulu Portia M™ Skin Solutions is a privately black owned and managed, Centurion based company which was established in 2011. According to their website they exist to harness the effectiveness of our African indigenous oils for cosmetics use and to give our customers the best quality experience in skin care products.

Contact details: +27 (0)12 646 1177 info@portiamss.com www.portiamss.com

Anim Naturals Founder: Akosua Koranteng ANiM Naturals is a Cape Town based cosmetics company that manufactures natural hair and skincare products made from sustainably sourced ingredients from across the African continent. Ghanaian born South African, Akosua Koranteng, founded the company originally under the trading name AKAN Organics. The brand underwent rebranding, image and product renewal and was reintroduced to the market as what it is now known as – ANiM Naturals.

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A GEM IN THE CITY OF ROSES

The new Premier Splendid Inn Bloemfontein is a gem right in the heart of the city.

The newly renovated hotel with its modern architecture and refreshing interior décor offers a tranquil energy smack in the middle of the buzzing Zastron Street.

The hotel is conveniently located in close proximity to Free State Government Departments; the SARS office is directly opposite the hotel, sports stadiums, renowned schools, as well as historical and cultural landmarks such as the National Museum, the University of Free State and the Supreme Court of Appeal.

Also a short 10 km drive from Bloemfontein Airport and the Waterfront Mimosa Mall is approximately 1km from the hotel.

CONFERENCE FACILITIES Premier Splendid Inn Bloemfontein offers a magnificent boutique conference experience for organisers looking for something new. The sound proofed conference room is equipped with the latest audio visual equipment incorporating screens, roving and lapel microphones, flexible lighting solutions for any set up and poster holders.

Delegates can also enjoy dining in an enclosed rooftop area, whilst there are convenient pause and pre-assembly areas available.

RESTAURANT The Fountains restaurant has a tempting menu with a variety of dishes available including Durban-style lamb curry, vegetarian, chicken or beef gourmet burgers, Macufe-mix grill and pasta dishes. Halaal meals are also offered. The open plan kitchen behind the buffet area creates a vibrant atmosphere for customers. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner (a la carte & buffet style dining).

ROOMS The hotel has 88 rooms that include 20 double rooms, 50 twin, 13 king, 3 executive and 2 disabled bedrooms in a comfortable, contemporary and spacious setting.

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Trailblazer

A CEO in medicine

CHARTING HER OWN PATH

By Kamogelo Seekoei

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efore finally taking the plunge and applying to medical school following her matric, Dr Relebohile Ncha doubted her abilities and delayed going to university to study for what she really wanted to become.

Not knowing that one day she would be a leader in the medical sphere in the country.

The newly appointed CEO of one of the most revered public hospitals in the country, Helen Joseph Hospital, is now a confident woman who has the huge task of managing the facility ahead of her.

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“The first thought was ‘can I really do this?’” she says.

Explaining the initial thought following her appointment Dr Ncha says there are different feelings at different stages of the process. When she applied for the job, it was a feeling of being sure that she could meet the task while during the interview process there was excitement because as she prepared for the interview.

“I started seeing myself in the job and thinking about all the things that I can do.

During the competency examination period I also felt confident about my capa-

Setting doubt aside.

Becoming the woman of her dreams has been a rewarding journey for Dr Ncha.

“Always let your authenticity shine through.”

bilities and I felt like I can really do this. All Managing public perceptions these steps were still in a dreaming phase where I pictured myself in the job,” says the he health department is one of the Soweto born, pastor’s wife and co-visionary branches of government that are in the at the Todah Ministries in the south of coal face of service delivery, often receiving Johannesburg. criticism from the public. It is therefore imperative for those in leadership positions It was when she received the call that she to strive to make the department function got the job that reality hit home and she better. started to wonder about her readiness.

For Dr Ncha this is the very reason why she specialised in public health medicine – to “Challenges facing the hospital and anxiety try and bring change to the health system crept in, but then the sound of victory took so that it can deliver the best service to our over. My husband counselled me, and I people. found peace in that moment. I have always believed that everything that happens in my “Hospitals have faced tremendous amount life is ordained by God and this moment of criticism, some warranted but some not was no different. but that is a discussion for another day.

What I want to do is to allow the hospital "Then I started thinking of all the and its workers to do that which they are difficulties I went through in 2020 and the called to do, which is to provide health care word of God telling me that all of that was services. I have two main focus areas, and in preparation for this moment. I then these are employee wellness and delivery of accepted the position and I surrender it all best health care services. to God,” says the mom of two.

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Journey to becoming hospital CEO

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fter qualifying as a medical doctor from the University of Cape Town in 2006 she served in public and private hospital and these included Witbank Hospital as a medical intern, Leratong Hospital as a medical officer as well as Sir Albert Private hospital as a medical officer.

On wellness she will focus on being of employees so that in turn they can provide the best service to our patients, while on best health care services she wants to see the hospital being a centre of excellence for medical innovation and for bringing new methodologies and new treatments.

“I want to create an environment for our staff members that will allow them to recognise the need to take care of their own health through programs that will provide them with counselling, clinical support to make sure that they are taken care off,” she shares her plans.

She then moved over to work at the National Institute for Communicable diseases as a project coordinator for a National surveillance program and then Recognition as a woman in went on to manage one of the biggest surveys in South Africa, the South African medicine TB Drug Resistant survey. After completing her speciality, she served in the executive think women in all professions are committee one of the hospitals as a clinical making their mark and are receiving manager which has then led her to this the recognition they deserve. We are seeing position as the CEO. more and more women being acknowledged in their field of work and Following her degree Dr Ncha also obtained medicine is no different,” she says a masters’ degree in Public Health from But personally she wants to be remembered Sefako Makgato Health Sciences University as a hard worker and a passionate person (formerly MEDUNSA) followed by a masters who did all she could to see the public in Medicine in Public Health Medicine from health system improve and deliver the best Wits University. health service to our people who need it the She also holds a Diploma in Analytical most.

Chemistry, the first tertiary qualification “I want to be known as a woman who belieshe obtained after matric.

"I

ved in herself and reigned over a hospital with peace and humility. I want to be that leader that always treats everyone equally and with respect,” she says.

With her supportive family behind her Dr Ncha is confident that she can achieve everything.

“I have a very supportive husband and it’s with him being by my side that I am able to achieve all that I have achieved.

He is truly my best support together with my family,” says whose authenticity shines through.

On a light note

"I

also do enjoy looking good and fashion in general. I have a clothing line (I call it a clothing line) called Anointed Designs by Dr L, where I design clothes for myself. I am a plus size woman, and I believe that with whatever body shape, we all deserve to look good.

I have mastered my body shape and nothing brings me pleasure more than making sure that I cover the right places and come out of house looking good.

Don’t be afraid to "challenge yourself.

Women let us believe in ourselves and in our dreams.

The bible says, “With God, nothing shall be impossible.”

We are the ones who carry this nation, and we have great potential to become all that we can ever imagine.

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r u o y n i Fit

FITNESS

When schedules get more packed and time becomes more scarce it seems the first thing that falls off the to-do list is physical workout. Yet we need fitness to be able to juggle all that we do. With so much having changed over the past year, and Covid-19 dictating most aspects of our lives – whether you work from home or are office based – keeping up with a regular exercise program has been difficult.

It is now more so that many of us are working from home.

Calibrating that workout has just been one tough nut to crack.

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Your Top 10

Park far away from entrance

hacks to keep

If you drive to work, you can trick yourself into taking more steps by simply parking farther away from your building than usual.

in shape on a tight schedule Work out on Sunday to jumpstart your week

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tart your workout routine on Sunday by tackling your least favorite compound lift. Gone are the Sunday night blues and the Monday morning scramble of trying to work out and make it to work on time. Don’t give Mondays a reason to suck more than they already do. Tackle your toughest lift on Sunday—the rest of your week will thank you for it.

Work out in the morning Ohh yes here’s another life hack that will change your life.… Do thank us later for this one!

Our lives are filled with unexpected traffic jams, last-minute drinks with friends, child’s homework, family members coming into town, and hundreds of other forces conspiring to keep us from exercising.

Working out in the morning lets you enjoy the day without fitness hanging over your head.

Take the stairs Throughout your day you should try to find as many chances to walk or move as you can, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator. If you work in a building with stairs, you can even take a few 10-minute breaks throughout the day to do runs up and down several flights to get your heart rate going, burn calories, and tone your lower half.

Make face to face visits It’s the little movements throughout the day that really add up over time. When you can and when it’s appropriate, avoid sending an email or message to a colleague in your building and simply walk over to their office and have a face-to-face conversation. If you make an effort to do this with most of your daily office you’ll find you’re able to add more steps to each day.

Stretch at your desk Finally, it’s very likely that you’re still going to be sitting at your desk, in a lab, or in front of a computer for several hours a day. It’s just unavoidable for most people. Aside from making sure that you’re sitting in a good chair or on an exercise ball, don’t forget that you can still “move” even when you’re seated.

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Go for a walk outside Whether you’re going out for lunch or taking a 15-minute walk around the building, make a little time every day, weather permitting of course, to get outside, breathe some fresh air, and move your body. Not only will you feel refocused and re-energized for the rest of your workday, but your body will thank you for the physical exercise.

Sit on an exercise ball

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If you’re tied to your desk for several hours and cannot break away to go for a short walk, do the next best thing, just stand up! Some research suggests that standing up for a few minutes even once every hour has a positive impact on your health. Again, find ways, however small, to move your body and avoid sitting for long periods of time.

Don't eat lunch at your desk This is also true if you are working in the office. Avoid the temptation to eat while you work. Better yet, get outside to eat and incorporate a nice walk into your lunch break.

If you find yourself frequently relying on meal delivery services to bring food straight to your work space, change gears here and force yourself to walk to get your food.

Sourced from www.biospace.com and www.classycareergirl.com

Maintaining good posture while you work is a form of exercise! Sitting on an exercise ball, for example, or other highly supportive chair can encourage good posture, increased blood flow, better balance, and even help to improve your core strength. Being uncomfortable while you work and poorly positioned for several hours each day can have a serious impact on your health, your mood, your energy level, and even the quality of your work or your productivity levels.

Stand up often

Black Girl Magic

NOWINSA

AWARD bags international

Founder and editor Tankiso Komane reaches for the skies

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rand news platform, NOWinSA has officially become an award winning platform after it was named Best Branded News Platform by an international body.

experts after a rigorous internal vetting procedure and extensive research process driven by merit and centred around an indepth evaluation of skills and services on offer.

Awardees must demonstrate expertise within their field, dedication to customer service and a commitment to promoting excellence. As such no public votes are permissible “as this enforces MEA Markets’ stance that victors are not determined by popularity of votes, but by their contributions to their industry,” the organisation shared on its website.

NOWin SA is an independent brands-meetsconsumers news channel providing visitors with branded South African content proudly accepts the prestigious honour as the regional winner of 2020 MEA Business Awards for Best Branded News Platform – South Africa.

Presented by MEA Markets, on March 10 (2021) the 2020 MEABusiness Awards were handed over for the 5th successive year in an NOWinSA founder and editor Tankiso online presentation to deserving companies Komane says: “Being a relatively new entrant in the Middle East and African regions. in the publishing industry with just over two years of existence and getting acknowledged The MEA Business Awards are held annually by a panel of experts from around the globe to recognise the extraordinary talent behind is testament to the fact that we are aren’t one of the largest and most influential only on a right path, but to our commitment business regions in the world. to providing a reliable news platform to consumers and brands.”

The winners are selected by a commission of She adds: “As many people would know, this

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past year the publishing industry has faced disruptions that tested their continuity, and South Africa was no exception as throngs of publications were forced to cease their operation.

Therefore this recognition is of uttermost importance to us as it demonstrates not only our resilience, but comes at a critical time when we are dealing with both a devastating global pandemic, and the scourge of fake news.

“It is a constant reminder that despite having caused real damage to journalism and the very fabric of our society at large, fake news or misinformation has also presented opportunities for new communication technologies. And for us as a 21 century news media, it’s an opportunity to place more emphasis on accuracy, evidence proof reporting and thorough research.”

MEA Markets is a quarterly publication dedicated to researching and publicising the major moves and events as they happen across the entire Middle East & Africa region.

Press release by NOWinSA

My five beauty faves LUMISPA DEVICE My number one beauty product that I refuse to live without is the ageLOC LumiSpa Device.

This cleanser is formulated with a blend of algae and plant extract that will leave your complexion clear and refreshed, it targets the visible signs of skin aging and the source.

POWERLIPS FLUID MATTE I love the fact that when I’m wearing powerlips I don’t have to worry about smudges or having to apply it now and then, one application lasts for ten hours.

ABOUT THATO KRAAL Thato was born and raised in Bloemfontein, Free State and currently lives in Pretoria She is an entrepreneur and passionate performer specializing in theatre productions. She has shot one short film. She is a boss babe with an online business.

She has been married for 13 years and husband for 13 years now and we are blessed with three beautiful children.

WHITENING FLUORIDE TOOTHPASTE There’s no better feeling than the confidence that comes with a beautiful smile, and that’s precisely what I get with this toothpaste. . It gently lightens teeth, help prevent cavities and fights for the formation of plague while its gentle vanilla mint formula freshens breath for that long lasting clean, just-brushed feeling.

WATERPROOF MAKEUP REMOVER This make up remover is everything for me, I love the fact that its so gentle especially

around the sensitive areas like the eyes and lips, it won’t leave those areas burning like normal wipes would, it leaves no greasy residue, its fragrance free, it’s so good for sensitive skin.

CURLING MASCARA This mascara is boss, it really brings my eyes to life, it’s an all in one really, it curls the lashes, volumize them, lengthens them and there’s absolutely no clumps.

Even without makeup applied it really stands out and it’s so easy to remove. It is really that perfect mascara for every collection that can be used together with other beauty products.

Dijo

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