De oted Issue 27
Wellness magazine – toward a healthy and fulfilling life
Changing the
lives
of the hearing impaired Oxygenate your body with
Ozone therapy
and Renew
position yourself and your business
Herman Mashaba on a road to saving
SA
We look after abandoned, abused, neglected and sick babies and toddlers. Wouter and Mientjie Prozesky answered God’s call to look after broken and abandoned babies, ranging in ages from new-born to two years old. With God as our Rock we started Rock of Hope in April 2011. God knew better and blessed us now with more little ones than we could have envisaged. To take in a little baby that has never known what it means to be loved and giving such love to see the transformation to a normal child is very satisfying. Watching them getting accepted in a new permanent family completed the circle, although to say goodbye is always a bittersweet moment. We will continue doing what we are doing as long as God expect us to. Making a difference in a small baby’s life and giving them hope is what we were called to do and the blessings we receive can only be straight from Above.
CONTACT US:
079 423 4799 • wouter@rockofhope.co.za Registered nursery under management of The Rock Place of Safety
CONTENTS Wellness magazine – toward a healthy and fulfilling life
Changing the
lives
of the hearing impaired Oxygenate your
body with
Ozone
therapy
and Renew
Renew and Reposition Yourself Photo by Sarel van Staden, Photowise Visit: www.photowise.co.za
position yourself and your business
Herman Mashaba on a road to saving
SA
Renew and position yourself and your business
Herman Mashaba is on a road to saving SA
Making a difference in deaf education
Oxygenate your body with ozone therapy
Are you supporting a movement blindly?
Mauritius is more than a holiday destination
In this Edition
De oted Issue 27
CREDITS MANAGING EDITOR Gerda Potgieter EDITOR Jeannie Millington WEBSITE DEVELOPER Tony Hendricks, Stormtank PUBLISHER De Vine Publishers CONTRIBUTORS Christine Kuun (Dubai) www.jrevolution.net Dr Dawid J Pieterse (Texas) www.inactinforchrist.org Chris Porter (South Africa) www.salvagente.com
CONTENT DISCLAIMER: All rights reserved. While every precaution has been taken to ensure accuracy, the management and the publisher cannot accept liability of whatever nature arising out or in connection with the contents of this magazine. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of any of the Devoted team and remains the sole responsibility of the writers. Plagiarism disclaimer: It was confirmed by our writers and contributors that no part of the written submissions has been copied from either a book or any other source, including the internet, except where such sections are clearly shown as quotations and the sources have been identified within the text or in the list of references.
LAYOUT AND DESIGN Channette Raath channettew@gmail.com CONTACTS editor@devotedmag.co.za sales@devotedmag.co.za Follow us on Facebook
FLAMINGOS
instantly recognizable…
DEVOTED
SO IS
It takes Flamingos a few years to get their pink and red feathers, but once they are ready, they capture the hearts of birders and non-birders alike by their beautiful appearance and positiveness. The flamingos have inspired us to be astute at planning and implementing a business model that will work best in a post-pandemic world. We are now ready to reposition and re-launch Devoted.
are
a magazine with a positive message
About Devoted, our flagship online magazine: • We have moved from a magazine-centric to a reader-centric publication and we have built a business model around our readers and their needs. • The unique value proposition of our magazine is that it encourages positivity and basic human values. • We focus on wellness, and are targeting audiences who make choices toward a fulfilled lifestyle. • We collaborate with like-minded people who want to see a positive difference in the world. • Our content includes a range of topics that empower our readers to make a difference. • We focus on matters of health and wellness; inspirational people, organizations and initiatives; discussion topics; religion; lifestyles; outreach initiatives, etc. • We believe in speaking out against social ills, especially against vulnerable women and children. • We plan to become a social media influencer of note.
We aim to impact the world around us and we will continue to spearhead a number of related events and initiatives to maximize our impact: • Lifestyle events (including health and wellness). • Food security and agricultural initiatives. • Mentorships; child and youth development initiatives. If you want to get involved in spreading hope and inspiration; or you want to advertise in our magazine or on our website: www.devotedmag.co.za Please contact us for a tailor-made proposal. Visit our website or our Facebook Page. You can email us on: editor@devotedmag.co.za sales@devotedmag.co.za
De oted
Editor’s Note a meaningful lifestyle, highlighting profiles of devoted and inspirational people, wellness and health, organic farming, travel with a purpose, business with a conscience and In Conversation – a platform where readers can share opinions on issues that matters most to them. We have reflected on the role of Devoted in a postpandemic world, and reposition ourselves to make a positive impact. We share inspirational stories on various platforms in support of others and, to empower and encourage them to tell their stories. We therefore welcome inspirational messages and stories. Devoted aims to provide informative articles that bring Gerda Potgieter, managing editor and writer. hope to its readers and make a difference in a world without morality - a world which no longer knows the difference between right and wrong. We strive to be the ray of hope in a world of chaos whereby we can motivate people and organisations to effect change and make a positive impact in the lives of others; especially the less fortunate women and vulnerable children. We write about success stories on initiatives that are aimed at bettering the lives of others and becoming a society that cares about its fellow man. We have to change this culture of negativity and fear. We have to t is a sad reality that the vast majority of news coverage nowadays actively promote positivity and find meaning in life. If you are looking far outweighs the positive ones. It brings me to the question: Are we for an authentic publication with good and uplifting content, then becoming overexposed to negativity? In life there are always the this online magazine is for you! Please share this information with your good testimonials that unfortunately, do not get the same amount of friends and family members who would like to be uplifted with hope and media attention that it deserves. It rather seems to get swept away by appreciate a good news publication. All our issues can be found on www. the negative publicity of the day. There are numerous stories to be told devotedmag.co.za. about the positive and caring responses of people and communities. In this issue we profile Nico van der Merwe, an inspirational man who I hear about selfless people making an effort to sustain soup kitchens has achieved true successes in making a difference in deaf education. for the hungry and the destitute. I hear many stories about people Nico is the founder of the Eduplex schools, the Eduplex Training Institute turning back to God for help and I notice incidents whereby people are (ETI), the Foundation for Children with Hearing Loss and the Ear Institutes helping each other by sharing the little resources that they have left. across Africa. He continues to inspire us and reminds us of never giving Unfortunately, we don’t read much about it in the media. up on our God-given visions and our dreams. There is a reason why mainstream media focuses on bad news. We are in conversation with Herman Mashaba, a stalwart in South Bad news sell and good news do not. News outlets sometimes tend to African society and a well-known business personality and politician. He exaggerate minor negative stories in a fast news cycle, just to increase readership - especially when there are no big headline stories to publish. is known to have said that he is on a mission to save South Africa from the ANC’s disastrous leadership. Given his reputation and clean trackStudies shows that people pay more attention to sensational record, I have a feeling that he could be just the man for it. negative news than to positive news. If you are a regular consumer We look at Salvagente, a business with a conscience concept that of negative news, you cannot blame mainstream media for always does not harm the environment and that has the wellness of people reporting on the bad news if that is the only thing that would pique at heart. Ozone treatments have recently come to the forefront since your interest and that you would like to read. Take stock, reinvent the world-wide pandemic. Doctors have used ozone in their holistic yourself and get rid of the negativity approach of the treatment of COVID-19, and are reported to be positive I strongly believe there is still a market for positive news. Devoted with the results. fills the gap. It is a “good news”, quarterly magazine that targets all people who have a passion for people and other living creatures. Stay focused on the good and remain inspired… COVID-19 has inspired us to reposition our business and we have introduced regular blogs and newsletters to our product line to stay in touch with our readers in-between issues. Our topics includes living
Renew
nd position yourself and your business
I
Gerda
Nico van der Merwe is making a difference in deaf education. Between the preschool and primary school are two huge wooden doors that cannot close. This is a reminder of Nico’s visionary confirmation found in Revelation, 3:8: “I know you well; you aren’t strong, but you have tried to obey and have not denied my Name. Therefore, I have opened a door to you that no one can shut.”
Making a difference in
S
deaf education
ince Nico van der Merwe started their family-owned company in 1979, the H.A.S.S. Group has pioneered many ‘firsts’. This includes the Eduplex campus of schools, Eduplex Training Institute (ETI), the Foundation for Children with Hearing Loss, the manufacture of custom-made hearing protection for the mines as well as the Ear Institute concept. In the pipeline are more exciting projects such as the completion of the ETI paediatric audiology online programme, and the development of “How to be a better teacher” online training program. Nico van der Merwe is a life changer and a world-influencer. He demonstrates the traits of a visionary leader and creates the environments where faith, hope and love can thrive. His optimism has its roots in his faith and, it is this faith and passion that’s drove him to realise his God-given vision to make a difference in deaf education. There is no real way to measure the enormous impact Nico has on the lives of deaf children and adults with hearing loss as well as on their families. Making a difference has a ripple effect which, over time, impacts thousands over generations. Nico acknowledges that it is a team effort and that his family plays a major role in all his endeavours and shares the same family vision – to make a difference in the world. The vision given to him in 1992 has led to ground-breaking initiatives. Many success stories have been associated with Nico. As a pharmacist, he become the exclusive distributor of Phonak, a leading Swiss hearing aid manufacturer in 1985. He later (in 1998) pioneered the Ear Institute concept and today there are 24 Ear Institutes across South Africa and Namibia as well as a network of agents across Africa. But the success story does not end here. Making a difference in the world of the hearing impaired has led to the establishment of the Foundation for Children with a Hearing Loss in SA; and consequently, the Eduplex schools (see Devoted, Issue 26 online). Both are registered non-profit organizations focusing on changing the lives of those impacted by hearing loss from an early age. To impact deaf education internationally, the Eduplex Training Institute (ETI) was formed and today this online e-learning institute has trained professionals and students from more than 30 countries around the globe.
Recognition for hard work Nico is a sought-after motivational speaker and the author of two best-seller books: “What does God know about business?” and “Vision, dare to dream BIG – the amazing Eduplex story”. I heard in the grapevine that a third book from the pen of this successful writer is in the pipeline… For one to make a difference in life, you must distinguish yourself from the thousands of other players and, this is the personal motto by which Nico lives by. Over the years Nico has received several accolades and awards. In 1996 he was awarded the Ernst-Young Business Mover of the Year award; and in 2009 he was awarded the prestigious Chancellor’s Medal by the Council and Senate of the University of Pretoria. In recognition of his achievements in the medical sector of the CEO Global Titans: Building Nations Award in 2018, he was awarded not only the regional winner but, also the overall country winner. It is not the milestones and awards that made a difference in Nico’s life, but the journey that he had to embark upon to get him to where he is today and what is still to be achieved. It is always about finding new ways to help and share experiences and lessons learnt. Says Nico: “Our biggest motivation for making a difference in deaf education is honoring God and the life changing results it offers. I am passionate about improving the quality of life of every baby, child and adult with hearing loss. For instance, one of our learners, Mitchell Black, has a cochlear implant which helped him to complete his studies at Eduplex. He was the first deaf person in the history of South Africa to be allowed to study medicine… This is why we do what we are doing.” This life changer took up the challenge, developed the ideas and realised the vision to make a difference in deaf education, and what a difference he has made thus far. We are looking forward to seeing new projects with Nico inspiring us to follow suit. (Note from the editor: This is an edited article. You can read the full article by the same writer in the CEO Magazine of August 2020 on www.ceomag.co.za. You can also subscribe to Nico’s blog on www.nicovandermerwe.com)
EDUPLEX Wêreldklas onderrig vir u kind World-class education for your child
www.eduplex.co.za
Are you supporting emotional maelstrom of anger fuelled by reporting of some media outlets misconstruing facts with the aim of creating more sensational headline news instead of responsible reporting.
Make the effort to research a movement thoroughly before you decide to support it Following the recent incidents of violence and after researching the BLM movement, we are of the opinion, and doubt that the movement is fundamentally a call for peace like they claim to be. What is of the utmost importance is that one should make the effort to research a movement thoroughly before you decide to support it, and not blindly advocate support based on face value. Devoted was in conversation with Dr Dawid J. Pieterse, an ex-South African who immigrated to Houston, Texas, USA in 2012 with his family. We asked him to shed some light on the facts of this movement which has not been reported and covered by the media. What follows is Dr Pieterse’ response.
A
n African-American, George Perry Floyd, died earlier this year after he was arrested by a white police officer. He was accused of purchasing cigarettes with a counterfeit note. This incident took place in Minneapolis, a city in the Upper Midwest in the state of Minnesota in America that has triggered and rekindled demonstrations against police brutality, police racism, and the lack of police accountability concerning the use of excessive force. Protests followed in wake of the tragic death and the situation quickly escalated into riots, plundering, killings, lootings and civil unrest which was supported by the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement. The death of Floyd will be known as a pivotal point in American history that ignited a racial reckoning that show no signs of abating. He has become an icon to be exploited by militant groups, mobs and also by peaceful demonstrators to further their cause. This has assisted the cause of the BLM movement where it has been elevated from the national confines of the borders of the United States to a global BLM-struggle where the reaction of Black Americans all over the world is one of anger, pain and a sense of the never-ending injustice of their fellowmen back home. Nonetheless, do we really know who George Floyd was and what the BLM movement ideology represents? We took the time to research George Floyd like we usually do BEFORE we blindly support a cause and/or movement and found that he was an ex- convict with an extensive criminal record, which probably played a role in the attempt to arrest him in the first place. The fatal death of Floyd as a result, however, remains a tragedy. When tensions run high in an incidence like Floyd, we see the public been caught up in an
Dawid, it seems that police misconduct, brutality, police racism and the lack of police accountability regarding the use of excessive force especially against African Americans is responsible for the widespread civil rights movement. Is police brutality a widespread problem in America? There are more than 900,000 sworn law enforcement officers now serving in the United States of America (USA) which is the highest figure ever. About 12% of those are female. At least 85,000 officers across the USA have been investigated or disciplined for misconduct since 2010, an investigation by USA TODAY Network found. Many have faced the consequences of their behavior. A total of 1,627 law enforcement officers died in the line of duty during the past 10 years, an average of one death every 54 hours or 163 per year. Here is another perspective: There are approximately 2.1 police officers per thousand people. Officers come into contact with 17% of the population annually which gives you a total of 55,800,880 contacts where 26,000 excessive force complaints were made against officers. Only 8% of those complaints were sustained, that’s 2,080 out of 53,380,000 contacts. Of course, no form of misconduct or brutality can be excused, but damage done, lives lost, properties destroyed, suffering caused and grief experienced can never justify the so-called ‘peaceful protests. Here is another statistical comparison that you may want to review: White people killed by Police in the USA by number/year: 457 (2017); 399 (2018); 370 (2019) and 172 (2020*) thus far = 1,398. Black people killed by Police in the USA by number/year: 223 (2017); 209 (2018); 235 (2019) and 88 (2020*) thus far = 755. The peaceful civil rights movement, a decades-long struggle by African Americans and their like-minded allies started in 1954 in the USA which the late Dr. Martin Luther King eventually led with the following objectives: End institutionalized racial discrimination, disenfranchisement and racial segregation in the US. Nonviolent mass protests and civil disobedience produced crisis situations and productive dialogues between activists and government authorities. Please note that the members and activists of this movement never advocated, approved and/or instigated violence. The damage to
a movement blindly? … do your homework first property alone by so-called ‘peaceful’ BLM supporters and protestors’ could be a few billion dollars, not to mention the loss of income, business and lives. But the liberal media will never reveal the real true numbers because it does not fit their narrative. The Marxist Socialists BLM, who addresses each other as comrades, can never be compared to the Civil Rights movement lead by multiple religious leaders. Why was the BLM movement supportive of the civil unrests, and why did their involvement turn peaceful protests into violent acts? The deaths of black men who died at the hands of white police officers is just an excuse, an opportunity to advance an evil, destructive and chaotic agenda that hates the institute of the family and biblical values. In their own words from their website: “We disrupt the westernprescribed nuclear family structure. When we gather, we do so with the intention of freeing ourselves from the tight grip of heteronormative thinking, or rather, the belief that all in the world are heterosexual (unless s/he or they disclose otherwise).” Many criminals and members of Antifa have infiltrated the movement and, the marches/protests organized, and use the ‘peaceful demonstrations’ as an opportunity to steal, murder, kill, loot, burn and destroy… any form of capitalism. They attacked and killed many black policemen. So, when does a black life matter? Only when a black man is killed by a white man? Here are the hard statistics: Data shows that 93% of black homicide victims are killed by other blacks. Blacks commit violent crimes at 7 to 10 times the rate that whites do. Blacks committed 52% of homicides between 1980 and 2008, despite composing just 13% of the population. But let me be clear, I do not want to make this a racial issue. This is much more than that. There are many challenging dynamics in different societies that is at the root of the problem. I believe it is not a racial issue, but rather an immorality issue. What is the BLM movement and what exactly do they stand for? When you read the opening statement on their website it sounds and is, in many instances, honourable and readers can read it for themselves. I, however, had a few questions for one of the BLM representatives but I have not been answered yet. I asked: When does a black life matter? What are you doing about the hundreds of thousands of black babies that are aborted each year? What are you doing about innocent children and adults that are killed by other black people in dozens of cities all over the USA? What are you doing about honorable black police officers killed in the line of duty? If black lives matter to you, please share with me how many black students have been sponsored and/or were awarded bursaries and scholarships to study at a university or college? How many food hampers have you distributed in poor black and economically disadvantaged communities? There have been accusations of involvement of various extremist groups such as Antifa or anarchists in the incidents following Floyd’s death. Who are these extremists and how active are they? ANTIFA is a USA-based domestic radical left-wing terror organization and has taken over many of the current peaceful protests. However, it does not seem that BLM is concerned. Our nation has been gripped by
professional anarchists, violent mobs, arsonists, looters, criminals, rioters, antifa and others. The focus has quickly shifted from attacks on federal property and federal law enforcement to the business community, the core of capitalism, the free market system and employment opportunities. ANTIFA is nothing but a puppet of Marxist, Socialists and Communists who are anti-Capitalism, antifreedom, anti -freedom of speech, anti the values the founding fathers of the USA stood for. They are a far-left militant movement that calls itself “antifascist”. They have no defined organizational hierarchy or membership process. The collection of autonomous ANTIFA groups in mostly left-wing Democrat-run and managed cities, sees itself as a descendant of the European anti-Nazi movements and who generally agrees that the best way to combat ideas they find odious or are opposed to, is not through speech or debate but, by direct action, physical confrontation and violence in its extreme form. Many of their members/supporters have threatened and violently assaulted journalists by openly declaring that all police officers should be killed. (Also read the “Taking the knee” comments on our Devoted Blog online by the same writer).
Can you be in solidarity with the BLM movement? Devoted allows others to speak out against social ills and recent actions by BLM movement supporters worldwide represents a social ill. The opinions expressed in our publication, however, are those of the writer(s) and do not reflect the opinions of Devoted or its Editors. To be in solidarity with the BLM movement, one has to do homework first. Dr Martin Luther King Jr once said that “there comes a time when one must take position that is neither safe nor politic nor popular, but he must take it because his conscience tells him it is right”. It is the same wise man who also said: “Black supremacy is as dangerous as white supremacy. And God is not interested merely in the freedom of black men, God is interested in the freedom of the whole human race, and in the creation of a society where all men can live together as brothers.” Another great leader, Dr Kenneth Meshoe (leader of the African Christian Democratic Party), said the following during the debate on solidarity with the movement during the South African National Assembly Sitting: “The ACDP will never support a racist, divisive violent movement such as BLM that promotes anarchy and lawlessness in society. Our values as believers (we believe in the Prince of Peace, the Lord Jesus Christ) are at odds with BLM’s liberal values that reportedly include appeasing the dead through rituals such as pouring libations in some of the meetings.”
Herman Mashaba is on a road to saving South Africa
“Along with you, we stand for ethical leadership and a professional public service.” - (Herman Mashaba, leader of the new political party, ActionSA)
H
erman Mashaba is a stalwart in South African society, a successful businessman and an accomplished politician who really takes serving people seriously. He has come a long way since he first became a distinguished businessman as the owner of Black Like Me (pioneering ethnic hair care needs) many years ago. He believes that the high level of on-going looting and corruption in the South African political landscape have made the launch of a new party timely. Devoted has been in conversations with Herman prior to the launch of his new political party in August 2020. What stood out from the many comments on social media platforms is that he brings hope to citizens that have become progressively hopeless as a result of bad government and full-scale looting. Some believe he could just be the one to unseat the ANC and put South Africa on a path of prosperity and that his new political party, ActionSA, could be the alternative to the ANC that many were looking for. What follows is the essence of the conversation.
Do you think that South Africa is in need of yet another political party; and can a political party be more important than the country? Cyril Ramaphosa is known to have said that he would rather be seen as a weak president than as one who divide the ANC. “I believe that a political party should not be based on one’s own ambitions, but on the ambitions of the citizens it serves. I therefore have launched in December 2019 an initiative called The People’s Dialogue (which is, by the way, NOT the name of our political party). The aim was to find out what South Africans want as I was requested by numerous people to start my own political party. I made a promise to my family that I would consider it only (starting a new political party) if I receive a mandate from half a million residents, as I would then know that I definitely have a role to play. Great was my surprise that after only two months we have received more than 2,4 million submissions. This gave me the confidence that I have now a mandate from a huge portion of our population to be active in finding solutions for the many problems which the ANC governance has created. I plan to give it my best to keep on engaging with our citizens and taxpayers on how they want our beloved country to be governed. We will find real solutions together for our real problems and I have invited experts and people to come on board. The Peoples Dialogue has come to an end now but we will continue with the good work it has done. The hard work of building a new political party (which can rebuild the country) can now begin. This is what ActionSA will do.’ ‘Our democracy is only 26 years old, but the ANC has created problems that will stay with us for many more years to come, unfortunately. I need the support and help of all citizens who are just as passionate about our country as I am. It is not the time to run away now; it is the time to fight and to win our country back.’ ‘With regard the remark of our president and the devastating governance of the ANC in general for self-gain, I want to reiterate: As a God-fearing man I believe that you cannot run away from God. If you do not honor your own country, you can not expect to be honored by God. Herman, the general feeling is that South Africa is now the world’s most unequal country in the world – 26 years into an ANC-led government. Do you agree? “Yes, sadly a recent World Bank report has confirmed that our country is now more unequal than ever before, ranking amongst the top unequal countries. The ANC has given us more inequality, more racism, more unemployment, more corruption and crime, and many, many more devastating problems than ever before their ruling. The struggle (as we know it) was not ended with democracy, it just took on a different form - one of ANC self-enrichment, corruption, crime and looting’.
‘One of the steps that I would take is to get rid of the ANC patronage that is still very much alive in governments. We want to see professional public servants serving our people and doing their jobs. COSATU’s influence in politics is also an issue that should be dealt with immediately and, of course, freeing-up our justice system from politics. Early childhood development and education are matters that should receive prioritized attention. Our new party will also not be a party of celebrities, it will be a party of honest, hard-working and dedicated people who want to change the country so that all its citizens can prosper. These are just a few issues that we have to tackle, but one must remember that the longer we keep the ANC in the seats, the more damage they will create.” South Africans, it seems, still continue to vote for the ANC if given the chance. What do you think is wrong with South Africans to keep on voting for a corrupt government? “I do not necessarily agree that South Africans keep on voting for the ANC. The ANC is a dying organization and rightfully so. Statistics have shown that there is a huge number of South Africans who cannot be bought through food parcels just before elections or by handing out T-shirts to them. The educated South African think for himself and has realized that this country has been given to looters and thieves; and they are now making their voices heard against it. The more than 2,4 million submissions that we have received since the launch of the initiative The People’s Dialogue, as well as the daily comments and requests on our social media pages, have demonstrated to us that South Africans are now fed-up with the situation and ready for change.’ ‘Many citizens have given up on our political systems, and have given up on voting. The challenge that we have is the huge number of non-voters, those people who think that they – through withholding their vote – can change things for the better. Unfortunately, it is not so easy and people who do not vote actually contribute to the problem of keeping the ANC in government. If the ANC is left to govern this beautiful country until 2024, there will not be even a teaspoon left as it would also be stolen’. ‘It is my opinion that if you do not vote, you are most definitely part of the problem. I would like to see all South Africans register to vote; and all registered South African voters to vote once they have registered. Voting is an important civic duty and I encourage all citizens to participate. Our right to vote empowers us to make a change. It is your duty to become part of the democratic process to decide on your own future. In a large voter turn-out one vote can make a difference. Therefore, if you want to see change in your country, you have to be that change yourself.”
I think we can agree that the ANC will lose to another political party, if not soon, then eventually so – we all pray for that day to come sooner rather than later. What then? “Then the hard work of fixing the country will have to start immediately. ActionSA has systems and processes in place. We already have on board dedicated, experienced and ethical people. We stand for ethical leadership and those who chose to do business with governments, should know that they will do that outside of the boundaries of our new political party. Our values are non-negotiable, not only because it represents our own values, but because those are the values we have identified from the millions of submissions through our engagements with the people of South Africa. We will continue with our engagements and we will collectively find real solutions for real problems.” Editor’s Note: The opinions expressed in our publication are those of the writer(s) and do not reflect the opinions of Devoted or its editors. In Conversation is a platform that encourages people from all walks of life to explore a range of subjects, in various ways. It takes special people to change a country for the better, and Herman Mashaba deserves our gratitude for wanting to do just that.
These are some of the matters that Herman Mashaba’s new party in essence stands for:
• Engaging with citizens and making sure that their voices are heard on issues that matter. • Changing a broken system and reclaiming the country. • A new kind of politics in South Africa, an age of action over words. • Changing a broken system where only a few politicallyconnected citizens benefit from. • Free market economy with less government interference. • Restoring rule of law. • Electoral reform. • Non-racialism • Social justice and addressing painful past of the country for all • Education • Investment
“It is my opinion that if you do not vote, you are most definitely part of the problem. I would like to see all South Africans register to vote; and all registered South African voters to vote once they have registered. Voting is an important civic duty and I encourage all citizens to participate”. - Herman Mashaba -
Oxygenate your body with
O
Ozone therapy
xygen is the single most important nutrient for the body and your wellness. The body can survive weeks without food, days without water … but only minutes without oxygen. Every cell of the body requires a continuous supply to generate energy, detoxify the body and maintain healthy cells. Any reduction in the availability of oxygen to the body reduces the optimal performance of these essential cellular functions. Low oxygen levels are caused by poor posture and breathing, deoxygenated water and refined foods, smoking, lack of exercise, environmental pollution or exposure to carbon monoxide. A lack of sufficient oxygen is a major cause of poor health. It leads to conditions such as arthritis, low immunity, constant tiredness, cancer, regular colds and flu’s, hay fever, migraine, low vitality, and a number of other illnesses. When the body is flooded with an activated form of oxygen (ozone), people consistently report that these conditions (and their general health, wellbeing and energy levels) dramatically improve. Ozone (O3) is activated oxygen (O2), and in a short period of time the O3 molecule will revert back to oxygen. During this short half life cycle, the O3-molecule can therefore be utilized for sanitation and sterilization purposes. Ozone inactivates viruses, bacteria, yeast, fungus and protozoa. Is ozone therapy dangerous? Our company, Salvagente, takes great care to ensure all our customers receive proper training and have all the information about the Do’s and Don’ts of ozone therapy. Ozone therapy in the steam saunas are not dangerous at all, especially when correctly administered and when following the correct protocols. There are, however, a few important things to consider: • When inhaled in large quantities, ozone can irritate the lungs and airways. That is why your head is outside of the sauna and the opening sealed around your neck. • Some individuals should consult with their general practitioners before going for ozone therapy. These include, but are not limited to, pregnant women, individuals with heart disease or high/ low blood pressure. Is ozone therapy ligit? Ozone has risen in prominence over the last decade as a viable alternative health modality. As the therapy assist the body in natural healing, results should not be expected overnight, but should rather be viewed as a lifestyle. Multiple sessions are required to affect a positive change and get the desired results. What are the benefits of ozone? Ozone therapy increases the oxygen in your body, which improves the body’s ability to combat a range of ailments. Ozone therapy has over 100 health benefits. Ozone helps reduce toxins and impurities in your body as well as help fight viruses and bacteria.
Reported benefits include: fighting infections such as allergies, colds & flu, alleviating headaches, insomnia, anxiety and stress. It is also known to help fight diseases like hypertension, heart disease, neurological disorders and cancer.
How many sessions are required? Almost 14 years in the ozone industry revealed that this varies from person to person. For most, a total of 10 sessions will yield good results. These 10 sessions should be completed within 3 weeks to a month. It’s recommended to continue with less frequent sessions even when improvements are achieved. Can my body overdose on oxygen? No. Ozone therapy should be part of your daily health & wellness routine. Your body can, however, react to the detox process. This reaction is called a healing/detox crisis. Symptoms can range from headaches, nausea and body aches to the most common symptom - a rash. If your body reacts to ozone in this way, you are on the right track and should persist - you are detoxing your body of years and years of toxins and impurities.
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Should I buy a sauna or rather go for sessions? The main consideration to make is whether you are purchasing a sauna for private or professional use. What’s great about owing your own sauna is not only that you and your family will benefit from ozone therapy daily, but you’ll also be able to earn an additional income. We have a network of affiliated outlets around the world which you can visit for sessions, also in South Africa. Happy customer “I had indescribable amount of pain (sic). I suffered facial paralysis from shingle symptomatic with Ramsay Hunts Syndrome. Most of the pain medication the doctors administered had unfavorable side effects. Being diabetic, effected my recovery negatively. After my first session I had no pain. Significantly I am experiencing additional changes in my wellbeing. I had to reduce my diabetic medications because I don’t need it as much, my skin feels amazing; my vitality is back; my metabolism increased dramatically; my hair is stronger and I am no longer on pain medication.” Alicia, New Zealand. (Letter was shortened, Ed.)
Follow the link: https://salvagente.co.za/tag/ testimonials-2/, to see more testimonials. Visit www.salvagente.co.za to see how ozone is created and a video of how it works. For enquiries or more information, write an email to: info@salvagente.co.za. or mauritius@salvagente.co.za. and use Devoted as reference. Call Gerda +27 (0)828960955
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The business of
wellness
Ozone therapy assists to - Detox, lose weight & cellulite - Relieve pain and muscle aches - Relieves stress and inflammation - Improves your skin - Boosts your immune system - Kills viruses and bacteria
To experience the exhilaration of ozone therapy, book a session at your nearest outlet here: https://salvagente.co.za/outlets
Boost your
business
Does your spa or salon cater for health & wellness modalities like the COVID-19 disease? - Create an additional recurring income stream - High profit margins and low maintenance - Low to zero additional staff requirements - No medical experience required - Full training and business support benefits See the products and more benefits here: https://salvagente.co.za/products
Ozone sauna sales and business enquiries: +27 (0)72 422 1967 info@salvagente.co.za
auritius
is more than a holiday destination by Gerda Potgieter
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auritius is known as an idyllic paradise and visiting this island in the Indian Ocean revealed to me, an experienced traveller, that it could be one of the outstanding exotic destinations of the world. Its turquoise blue waters and tropical greenery appealed to all my senses and I was fortunate enough to be visiting this beautiful island more than once. Holidaying in an attractive location is different from staying and living there. I wondered what made Mauritius so attractive to thousands of expats who have chosen it as their destination of choice to relocate, reside and work there. I also now plan to retire there. Mauritius has limited natural resources and has had its fair share of challenges over the years with the recent oil spill from a foreign stranded ship, and also COVD-19. Unlike most other countries, Mauritius has quickly and successfully dealt with the COVID-19 pandemic and is now gearing up for their economic recovery. The country has put strategies in place to attract foreign talent and investors, among others, to boost the economy. For many South Africans who are faced with the level of high crimes been committed as well as government corruption which seems to be never-ending, the safety and security of the island would appeal favourably on the list of reasons to relocate. Mauritius is relatively safe with a low crime rate where violent crimes is almost unheard of. Like in all countries, petty crimes do occur and one has to be vigilant of pickpockets and dishonest traders. The climate is another reason why people like Mauritius so much. It is almost perfect, although many visitors complain about the humidity (not me!!). The island lifestyle is also a big plus. It is relaxed and children are exposed to a wide variety of cultures and languages. The cost of living in Mauritius, especially in the rental department space is quite high and even more so in areas within the heart of Port Louis, the capital city. Local products are reasonably priced, but imported products tend to be more expensive especially at international supermarkets that stock imported goods. Eating on the street is not only fun, but allows you to
experience a taste of local Creole, Mauritian and Indian foods. Street food is by far the most economical option as opposed to eating out. However, if you have a sensitive stomach, it is probably not an option. I enjoy the spicy food, my ultimate favourite! Whilst some countries are experiencing high unemployment numbers, poverty and food shortages, Mauritius with its fast-growing economy still offers attractive possibilities. Jobs that are in high demand are web developers, digital specialists, financial analysts, food and beverage managers, project managers, SEM specialists and community managers. Foreign employees can benefit from an occupation permit where they have different categories within the system that allows you to work and to live in Mauritius. The republic of Mauritius has become appealing to many foreign direct investments and, it has also become a platform for investors to engage in for business and commerce. The attractive tax system is another reason why people and companies relocate to this idyllic island. Economic growth, good education and political stability are other added advantages of moving to Mauritius. The island is keeping abreast of global trends such as the digitalization of their economy and the introduction of sophisticated financial services going into the 4th industrial revolution. As part of its post-pandemic strategies, the government introduced several favourable changes to its schemes of attracting foreign talent and investors. Mauritius is regarded as a safe haven for many senior citizens and has become a preferred retirement place as a result. Pleasant living conditions, a potentially strong economy, cultural diversity, a good health system on offer are others reasons why people choose to retire in Mauritius. As is the case with many other countries, there are pros and cons for living and working in Mauritius and this will differ from person to person. However, people are increasingly looking for political stability, security and safety where Mauritius seems to be the preferred destination of choice for their quality of life.
CHANGE THE LIFE OF A DEAF CHILD TODAY “Nowhere can you do so much, for so many, with so little as in Africa.” Nico van der Merwe - Foundation Founder & Director
www.hearingloss.org.za
