WORD Magazine | Edition 23 | Quarter 1 2026

SPAR Gourmet has arrived at Zimbali Oasis

Now Open

From scratch cooked meals and gourmet essentials to curated wines, artisan bakery goods and a top tier butchery, SPAR Gourmet brings luxury and local sensibility together under one roof.

Rooted in the SPAR independent retailer model, this first ever SPAR Gourmet store sets a new benchmark for elevated everyday shopping.

VISIT SPAR GOURMET AT ZIMBALI OASIS, KWAZULU NATAL

THE BUSINESS OF TRUST

What does it really take to build something that lasts? Not just revenue. Not a killer strategy. Not even innovation. Trust. That’s the true currency of business.

In our First Quarter 2026 Edition of WORD Magazine, we unpack The Business of Trusthow it’s earned, how it’s broken, and how it’s rebuilt across industries. From finance and leadership to wellness, marketing, and digital transformation, our contributors dive into the nuances of credibility, consistency, and the quiet power of integrity.

It’s fitting, then, that our cover and feature this quarter is a woman who’s baked trust into every bite: Andriette Georgiou, founder of Mondvol, South Africa’s most famous artisanal cookie brand. Her story is more than just a tale of butter, branding and bakery brilliance - it’s a masterclass in building an authentic brand people feel connected to.

Sitting down with Andriette was a reminder of how rare it is to find someone so deeply committed to quality and craft. She didn’t just build a cookie empire - she built a following, a feeling, a movement. Her honesty about the pressures of growth, creativity, and staying true to her roots is disarmingly refreshing.

Once you have read our Feature Interview article, you will be asking yourself this question:

Why haven’t I tried a Mondvol cookie yet? (It’s one I recommend you answer quickly. Trust me.)

Here’s to businesses that bake trust into everything they do.

Enjoy the read.

Lisa Bell Chief Editor | WORD Magazine wordmag.co.za

IN THIS ISSUE

THE GIVE BACK

The Powerful Stories That Make the Amy Foundation a Legacy

Kevin Chaplin

YOU’VE BEEN LIED TO About the “Less”. Richard Mulholland

THE STEWARDSHIP EDIT What We Choose to Hold

Kalnisha Singh

NEWSKOOP News Above the Noise

EVERGREEN MANOR & SPA Weekend in Wine Country: How Evergreen Manor Refreshed Our Creative Spirit

VINEHOPPER

Hopping Through Heaven: Our Team's Taste of the Vine Hopper Wine Tour

THE RESILIENT ENTREPRENEUR Trust Economy Begins in the Brain

Liezel van der Westhuizen

KARINA ANDERSEN Every Story can be Rewritten

THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID Andriette Georgiou Interviewed by Lisa Bell

BEYOND THE POSE Beauty and the Brain

Marike Herselman

ARNISTON SPA HOTEL A Seaside Reset

KREATIVELY

WHAT’S YOUR FLAVOUR?

The Business of Trust

Kim du Plessis

THE COLLAB COLLECTIVE

The New Currency: Why Trust is the Engine of the Modern South African Workplace

WeWork

MAX SMART

The Rotation of Rally

POSITIVE VIBES

The Day We Started Trusting GPS More Than People

Andre du Toit

COACH ME!

How To Network UP!

John Watson (Guest Author)

BEHIND THE PRODUCTIONS

How to Build Trust

Rhoda and Alfonso Stoffels

A LAW UNTO HERSELF

Trust: The Strategic Advantage in Legal Partnerships

Nomfundo Mabaso

ADD TO FAVES

ECHOES OF AI

I Don’t Just Answer. I Act. Welcome to the Age of AI Agents.

Nova Quinn

THE DIGITAL PULSE

Making Digital Your Friend

Ashleigh Easthorpe

HEALTHY HABITS HUB

Trust: The Quiet Strength We Build Together Ruan Retief

MARINE DYNAMICS

Ocean Encounters and MotherDaughter Memories

EO JOHANNESBURG

Beyond Revenue: Where Entrepreneurs Grow

LEAD WELL

Trust and Leadership in Uncertain Times: What South African organisations need now

Dr Kerryn Powell and Dr Werner Koen

THE GREEN SCENE

The Rise of Refill Culture: Why Less Is Finally More Lisa Bell

THE POWERFUL STORIES THAT MAKE THE AMY FOUNDATION

A LEGACY

Behind every skills programme is a human story. At the Amy Foundation, transformation is not a slogan. It is lived, stitched, built, and earned. From sewing machines to salon chairs, the Foundation has helped ordinary South Africans turn talent into income and survival into success.

These are just a few of the powerful stories that reflect the real legacy of the Amy Foundation (formerly Amy Biehl Foundation)

FROM SKILL TO SUCCESS: NCUMISA GOPE’S ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY

At 42, Ncumisa Gope is living proof that it’s never too late to build a future. After being unemployed for six years, she joined the Amy Foundation’s Sewing Programme in October

2018 with only basic sewing knowledge. What she gained was far more than technical training. She gained confidence, mentorship, and the belief that her hands could create a business.

“Before joining Amy, I only had very basic sewing skills,” she explains. “Through the Amy training, I was upskilled and given the confidence to design and make my own garments, thereby allowing me to start my own business.” That business is now Zamajola Designs, a proudly local brand specialising in traditional garments and beading.

Her journey began by altering clothing for herself and her family, but word of mouth soon brought steady orders. What started as a hobby grew into a sustainable enterprise.

Like many entrepreneurs, she has faced challenges such as access to funding, sourcing affordable materials, and managing large orders with limited resources. Marketing online has also been a learning curve. Yet she continues to rise.

Today, Ncumisa also works as a full-time Sewing Facilitator at the Amy Foundation, training unemployed youth while continuing to grow her own brand. Her long-term dream is to open her own retail store and a sewing school, passing on her skills and empowering others to do the same.

SEWING HER WAY TO SUCCESS: PHAKAMA NDLELA AND PK DESIGNS

For Phakama Ndlela, a 34-year-old entrepreneur from Cape Town, opportunity arrived in April 2023 when she joined the Amy Foundation’s Sewing Programme. After leaving school in Grade 11 and spending years moving in and out of employment, her training became the turning point.

“With the skills I acquired at Amy, I was able to start my own business,” she says. “Amy has given me numerous opportunities to grow, and even the chance to pass my skills on to other learners.”

Phakama now runs PK Designs, creating traditional tracksuits, t-shirts, hats, and shweshwe crop tops. What began as a side hustle has grown into a promising business with an expanding client base. She reinvested her income wisely, purchasing her own equipment and laying a strong foundation for growth.

Through word of mouth, exposure via the Amy Foundation shop, and support through external orders, her brand continues to build momentum. She also teaches other unemployed youth within the programme.

Phakama acknowledges the typical struggles of entrepreneurship, including limited resources, funding challenges, and access to wider markets. Still, her goal is clear: to build a recognised brand supported by a professional online store that will allow her to scale beyond Cape Town.

At 33, Sibongile Mniki is a shining example of resilience and determination. After completing Grade 12 in 2011, she spent five years being unemployed before joining the Amy Foundation’s Beauty Programme in April 2021.

“The Amy Foundation changed my life and gave me hope for the future,” she says. “Having learnt the skills to start my own business, I’m now able to support myself and my family.”

In 2022, she launched Sibo Beauty Salon, starting from her shack with nail and lash treatments. With every client, she reinvested in her business, slowly purchasing equipment and eventually renting space in a local barbershop. Her client base grew, and so did her confidence.

Today, Sibongile operates a container salon in Samora Machel, offering professional services in a clean, welcoming environment. Her dream is to relocate her business to the Eastern Cape, where she grew up, and eventually offer training and employment to others in her community.

Her story is not just about beauty. It is about building dignity, stability, and hope.

STITCHING HER DREAM: DIKONELO MAKHETHA AND LELO SEWING

At 32, Dikonelo Makhetha has turned unemployment into opportunity through the Amy Foundation’s Sewing Programme.

After a year without work, she joined in April 2023 and quickly found her confidence and direction.

“The experience and skills I gained at the Amy Foundation motivated me and gave me the confidence to start my own business,” she says. “The Amy Foundation has assisted me in living my dream.”

While still training, Dikonelo bought her first sewing machine and began designing African garments and accessories from home.

Through word of mouth, online platforms, and selling at Amy Foundation functions, her business, Lelo Sewing, gained traction.

The achievements of these young entrepreneurs are not isolated wins. They are evidence of something much bigger.

When we invest intentionally in youth potential, the return is measurable, sustainable, and deeply transformational. Through the work of the Amy Foundation, skills training becomes opportunity. Opportunity becomes enterprise. Enterprise becomes community upliftment.

Each thriving business represents a young person who has moved from vulnerability to viability. They are no longer waiting for opportunity. They are creating it. They are generating income, building confidence, inspiring peers, and in many cases, creating employment for others. This is what real economic inclusion looks like. It is practical. It is local. It is scalable. When young people are equipped with the right skills, mentorship, and support, they do not simply change their own circumstances. They strengthen the communities around them and contribute to a more resilient and inclusive local economy.

The Amy Foundation’s impact is not only measured in programmes delivered, but in futures rewritten.

If you believe in building sustainable change, the question is simple:

How will you contribute?

Partner with Amy Foundation. Invest in skills development. Support a young entrepreneur. Mentor, fund, collaborate, or amplify. Because when we invest in potential, we invest in legacy.

Visit amyfoundation.co.za to learn how you can be part of the next success story.

Kevin Chaplin is a renowned social entrepreneur with a proven track record of driving positive change. With over two decades of experience in banking and leadership roles, Chaplin has demonstrated his ability to think strategically, solve complex problems, and inspire others.

As the founder and MD of the Ubuntu Foundation and Amy Foundation, Chaplin has dedicated his life to empowering youth and promoting social cohesion. His passion for social justice and his commitment to making a positive impact have earned him recognition as a thought leader in the field of philanthropy and social entrepreneurship. Chaplin’s expertise extends to various areas, including leadership, strategic thinking, and social activism.

He serves on the boards of several prominent organisations, contributing his valuable insights and guidance.

Building futuresthroughopportunity, dignity andpurpose.

The Chose Choeu Foundation is dedicated to transforming lives through skills development, community upliftment, and youth empowerment. We believe that every individual deserves the chance to rise, with the right tools, training, and support.

Support programmes that equip youth and women with practical skills to secure employment or start businesses.

Help fund educational resources, mentorship, and training to inspire future leaders.

Partner with us to build sustainable communities and social impact initiatives.

I was watching a talk earlier about minimalism. I checked the dictionary, which defines it as “use of the fewest and barest essentials or elements.” Cool. In theory, this makes sense. However, sometimes the exact opposite can be true. For me, this is true of technology.

We have become spoiled by jack-of-all-trades technology. Case in point: our phones. Calling that little rectangular supercomputer sitting next to me a phone is pretty ridiculous. I can’t remember the last time I used the phone service itself, maybe a month ago (it was spam). I do communicate with it via email and WhatsApp, but it’s mostly short messages rather than conversations.

I think the term we had for these things in the early 2000s, the days of the iPAQ (yes, that little “i” prefix was a Compaq naming convention long before Apple nicked it) or the Palm Pilot, PDA—Personal Digital Assistant— is much better. These things can do almost everything you want. This is their biggest feature, but also, in many ways, their biggest bug.

Over the last few years, I have added a degree of simple complexity to my tech stack through single-use devices, and I couldn’t be happier with my decision.

Today I want to introduce you to three of them.

KINDLE

Let’s start with the one that began the trend: my beloved Kindle. Twenty years ago, my pride and joy was the underground library I built in my house for my book collection (there were well over a thousand). The library was so rad. You got there by sliding down a fireman’s pole to my underground lair. It was where I went to chill out and read on weekends. Bliss.

Fast forward to today, and the only books I have in my house are either books my friends wrote or books that were so good for me that I just had to own the artefact. (If you are wondering, the last one I added to the collection was Cleave The Sparrow.) For me, the Kindle is better in every way than a physical book.

I get to carry an entire library with me, I can try before I buy, and most importantly, I can turn the pages with a remote control. Don’t judge me until you try it. Oh, and my wife likes that I don’t have to turn on the light to read when I inevitably wake up in the middle of the night.

HEMINGWRITE

The next is the device I am using to write this column on, the Freewrite “Hemingwrite”. Imagine an old-fashioned typewriter with a Kindle screen. All it does is accept letters. You can kinda-sorta edit text on it, but they made it just inconvenient enough that you quickly stop doing it. It’s for getting ideas from your head to the page.

There’s no AI, just you and the clickety clack of a lovely keyboard. I wrote every word of my last book, Relentless Relevance, on it (then used AI to help edit it later). It forced me to think at the speed of type, which is just slow enough to be helpful. The best thing about it is that it’s a flow factory. When it’s in front of me, there’s nothing else I can do but write.

The last device I want to share with you is something of a productivity killer, but in the best kind of way. It’s called the Playdate. This small yellow gaming console, designed by the incredible Teenage Engineering for Panic!, has brought the joy of digital games back to my life. All you can do on it is play games, but that’s not enough of a constraint. I could do that on my Switch. No, this wee beauty takes that constraint further. It’s a 1-bit, 200 x 400-pixel device that doesn’t even have backlighting (the one feature I wish they’d add). That constraint means that the only thing it has going for it is the quality and playability of the games available for it. Well, those and the fact that it has a crank, which has to be experienced to be believed. It’s small enough to go everywhere with me and has reintroduced games to me in a way I never expected.

Richard has spoken in over 40 countries on six continents! He works with executives and speakers worldwide through his company, Missing Link, which he started at 22! Missing Link provides special presentations that ultimately attract audiences and generates income. In 2024 he founded Too Many Robots, a fractional AI agency on a mission to help companies embed these tools of the future. If that wasn’t impressive enough, he has also written three books, Legacide, Boredom Slayer, and Here Be Dragons. Furthermore, he was voted top 40 under 40 and the top 300 South Africans to take to lunch.

Lastly, but most importantly, Richard firmly believes that you need to be yourself to be great at human-to-human communication!

RICHARD MULHOLLAND

We are working inside a world that is quietly rearranging itself. The boundaries that many organisations once trusted to hold, institutional, economic, social, and moral, no longer feel as fixed as they did before. Power is redistributing unevenly, rules are evolving in real time, and certainty now carries a lighter touch.

In this environment, trust takes on a different texture. It becomes something that is felt through experience rather than assumed through structure. People look for signals that what matters will continue to be carried, even as conditions shift and familiar reference points loosen.

STEWARDSHIP LIVES IN THIS SPACE

Trust forms through repetition and continuity. It grows through attentiveness, through decisions that hold their shape under pressure, and through a sense that responsibility is being carried with care across time. It shows up in how work moves from intention into delivery, in how context is preserved as projects change hands, and in how openly realities from the ground are allowed to inform judgment.

These dynamics are rarely dramatic. They are often invisible from a distance. Yet they accumulate quietly, shaping whether systems feel steady enough to rely on, or whether people begin to compensate for what feels unresolved.

As organisations expand, partner, outsource, and restructure, responsibility movescontext thins between phases. Engagement becomes intermittent. Accountability stretches across more interfaces. Over time, what once felt cohesive can begin to feel less anchored.

Alongside this, the wider environment continues to shift. Regulatory expectations evolve. Capital flows respond to new priorities. Social and political pressures surface more closely in operations and decision-making. In this terrain, trust increasingly resides inside the system itself, carried through everyday choices rather than inherited assurances.

When trust is treated as a design consideration, operating models begin to emphasise continuity alongside efficiency. Authority is positioned close enough to reality to respond with nuance, while accountability remains visible and sustained. Learning is allowed to move through the organisation as a living signal, shaping decisions before issues escalate.

This work is practical and often unglamorous. It lives in clear ownership that survives handovers, in simple cadences that create rhythm rather than noise, and in defined moments where the business meets real people, real resources, and real consequence. It lives in the discipline of staying present long after the initial commitment has been made. Over time, trust settles into the architecture. It becomes part of how the system holds itself.

Trust grows there through what is held, how it is held, and the care taken to keep it.

That is the work.

Organisations that cultivate this experience have a different operating feel. Signals arrive earlier. Adjustments happen closer to the source. Leadership attention is freed to focus on direction and depth rather than constant intervention. Trust, approached this way, supports performance. It reduces friction. It stabilises delivery. It creates legitimacy that grows through consistency and care.

STEWARDSHIP IS A CHOICE ABOUT WHAT WE ARE WILLING TO HOLD

The choice to carry responsibility with attention. To design systems that retain memory and context. To remain present through complexity, ambiguity, and the quieter stretches of the work.

In a world where certainty is no longer a given, stewardship becomes a way of creating steadiness.

Kalnisha is a development economist and strategic transformation specialist who designs practical, human-centred solutions across policy, operations and community impact. She turns compliance into advantage – aligning local and global requirements, while steering organisations towards sustainable outcomes. Kalnisha leads an ecosystem of brands: KD Strategies (advisory & implementation), Our Common Future (thought leadership), Siyavela (community and impact programmes), and Women Energy Connect (capacity building for women in energy). She helps boards and operators build stewardship systems that clarify metrics, create accountable cadences and de-risk execution. Clients choose her for integrated strategy-to-execution, rigorous governance, and authentic stakeholder engagement.

Known for decisive delivery, her work is Africa-aware, community-grounded and commercially rigorous – strengthening reputation and unlocking long-term value sustainably.

linkedin.com/in/kalnisha-singh/

KALNISHA SINGH

In an era of information overload, Newskoop rises above the noise by delivering trusted news through community radio, the resilient medium anchoring South African daily life.

From Free State farmlands to Cape Town boardrooms and Johannesburg taxis, these stations foster unwavering companionship via familiar voices. Newskoop builds trust as a business by forging direct relationships with stations and their listeners through credible, impactful journalism.

TRUST WHERE PEOPLE LIVE AND LISTEN

Community radio excels as a trusted local news source, embedded in the communities it serves.

Listeners form lifelong bonds with presenters who deliver hyper-local stories, like interest rate cuts boosting small-business loans or corporate teams aiding fire-ravaged communities in the Eastern Cape. This personal connection outshines impersonal social feeds, turning every broadcast into a trust transaction.

The timing is critical. Reuters Institute's 2025 Digital News Report shows global news trust at 40% (down from 44% in 2023), with South Africa at 35% due to biased perceptions; over 60% avoid negative coverage. Notably, 52% of business decision-makers now seek transparent economic reporting amid volatility yet find it lacking. Community radio meets this with solutions journalism:

rate-hike breakdowns for investors, fire-relief success stories spotlighting SME resilience, and accountability for municipal rate hikes that inflate business costs.

NEWS ABOVE THE NOISE, ON AIR

Newskoop is the premier content partner for community radio networks, supplying rigorously vetted stories on finance, agriculture, governance, and livelihoods. Picture in-depth coverage of fertiliser hikes squeezing farmers' margins, SARB interest rate decisions with investor takeaways, or exposés on service delays hitting supply chains, content stations localise effortlessly.

Partners animate these with call-ins, WhatsApp voice notes, and on-site reports, blending Newskoop's verification with cultural resonance. This creates a trust engine: stations gain reliable content, listeners get actionable insights, and Newskoop earns loyalty, one informed decision at a time.

oursaladmix.com

HOW TRUST SOUNDS ON AIR

Trust rings clear in a presenter's gravelly voice as they unpack a Newskoop bulletin on stock theft rings targeting agribusiness, debate municipal rate hikes with local councillors, or highlight union talks on factory job losses. Bulletins evolve into conversations, fostering feedback loops that empower communities through access to information.

PROVING TRUST, ONE BROADCAST AT A TIME

Audiences crave trust, solutions, connection, and community, and community radio fulfils these uniquely. Newskoop amplifies this, driving resilience through dialogues on agribusiness innovations, financial literacy, and civic action. News above the noise is our business model proven in every broadcast, cultivating loyalty among stations, listeners, and communities in taxis, kitchens, and kraals.

Author: Lisa Bell

For our marketing team, finding the right place for a strategy reset and a bit of indulgence is no small ask. We needed equal parts relaxing, walkable, and inspiring, and Evergreen Manor & Spa delivered all three with quiet confidence.

Tucked away in the heart of Stellenbosch, Evergreen Manor is one of those rare finds that blends old-world elegance with everyday convenience. Within minutes of arriving, the stress of city deadlines faded behind us.

The location is a dream. Just a short fourminute walk and you are in the centre of Stellenbosch’s buzzing life: boutique shops, wine bars, art galleries, and every kind of eatery your foodie heart could wish for.

We ended up enjoying dinner at Spek & Bone one night and popped into De Warenmarkt the next, both just steps away, both delivering that signature Stellenbosch flavour: fresh, inventive, and deeply satisfying.

But it is Evergreen itself that sets the tone for a perfect escape. Built in 1904, the house feels like a gracious nod to a slower, more refined era. Each of the rooms our team stayed in was individually styled. No cookiecutter décor here. Instead, there were high ceilings, antique pieces, and plush beds that practically begged you to sleep in. The bathrooms? Immaculately modern, with underfloor heating and deep bathtubs perfect for a long soak.

We found ourselves naturally drifting into slower rhythms. Morning coffee on the front veranda, team chats on the sun deck by the pool, and quiet reading in the lounge spaces. It felt more like staying in a well-loved private home than a hotel. The team at Evergreen were discreet but attentive, checking in just often enough to ensure we had everything we needed, from fresh towels to restaurant tips.

Breakfast was another highlight. Laid out in the airy dining room, although we chose the tree-shadowed outside area, the spread had everything from buttery croissants and local cheeses to hot breakfast favourites, fresh fruit, and robust coffee. It fuelled us perfectly for a day of wine tasting and wandering.

If you are looking for a base in Stellenbosch that balances sophistication with comfort and puts the best of town at your fingertips, Evergreen Manor makes a compelling case. It is ideal for teams, couples, or anyone craving space to think, dream, or just be still for a while.

EVERGREEN MANOR & SPA

Reservations:

+27 21 886 6947 | stay@evergreenmanor.co.za evergreenmanor.co.za

Author: Lisa Bell

HOPPING THROUGH HEAVEN

When you have been deep in deadlines and living off coffee, there is something magical about swapping your desk for the vines, and that is exactly what our marketing team did with the Vine Hopper Wine Tour in Stellenbosch.

The brilliance of Vine Hopper is in its freedom. With up to 6 hop-on, hop-off routes across some of the most iconic and diverse wine estates in the Cape Winelands, it is like a curated buffet for wine lovers: you get to choose your pace, your palate, and your path.

We kicked off our experience with the Southern Route, a scenic journey through the Helderberg fringe of Stellenbosch. Our stops included the elegant Kleine Zalze, where we eased into the day with award-winning whites, and Blaauwklippen, where some of us paired our tastings with artisanal nibbles. Annandale added a rustic charm, with deep reds and even deeper conversations with the cellar staff. Peter Falke Wines and Cavalli Estate rounded off the afternoon, both offering sleek architecture and elevation.

Every Vine Hopper driver we encountered was more than just a chauffeur. They were storytellers, guides, and gentle timekeepers who made sure we could focus on the experience, not the logistics. Friendly, helpful, and full of local tips, they helped shape our route based on our preferences, pace, and wine style.

The best part? No one had to be the designated driver. The Vine Hopper gave us the independence of a self-guided adventure with the comfort of reliable transport. For R450 per person, it is an unbeatable value.

Whether you are a team needing bonding time, friends seeking a festive day out, or visitors keen to explore without fuss, this is a must. Just pace yourself… there are a lot of tastings to be had.

BOOK NOW

Trust doesn’t begin with strategy decks or polished branding. It starts within our human psyche.

Long before someone reads your proposal or hears your pitch, their brain has already made a decision. It’s not magic - it’s neuroscience. Your brain makes rapid judgments based on micro-signals: posture, tone, energy, and emotional presence. That’s why first impressions form before you’ve even said a word.

Neuroscience confirms that trust is a biological process - not just an emotional one. It’s regulated by two key regions: the prefrontal cortex (responsible for judgment and self-control) and the amygdala (a threat detector). People often assume trust is earned only through qualifications, contracts, or logos. But the brain doesn’t wait for logicit responds to energy, tone, and coherence.

When you’re under pressure, your ability to stay calm, grounded, and emotionally consistent is what signals safety to others. I have control over my presence alone. That moment of stillness and focus? It’s no trick; It’s trust. When I eventually speak, the room is already listening. The ability to regulate your nervous system - especially in moments of stress - isn’t just a performance edge. It’s what neuroscience and leadership training now recognise as mental fitness

TRUST IS NEUROCHEMICAL, NOT JUST CULTURAL

Research from the University of Zürich shows that when someone is perceived as trustworthy, the brain releases oxytocin - a bonding hormone. But when unpredictability or emotional volatility are recognised, the amygdala triggers a defensive state. Trust evaporates.

Want proof?

Think about why you trust certain public figures - Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Under Armour, for instance. The brand fit isn’t just about athletic gear - it’s about perceived integrity, physical presence, and confidence. We assign trust because our brains associate emotional consistency with reliability.

However, there’s a catch: if your own nervous system is in overdrive - constantly stressed, distracted, or reactive - you’ll unknowingly broadcast a threat to others, even when your intent is good. That’s the cost of inefficient mental fitness.

MENTAL FITNESS: THE TRUST MULTIPLIER

Mental fitness is the ability to manage your thoughts, emotions, and physiology under stress. It’s fast becoming the most undervalued skill in modern business.

According to Positive Intelligence Inc., leaders with high mental fitness:

• Are 3x more trusted by their teams

• Report 37% higher performance

• Experience significantly less burnout.

Why?

Because mentally fit leaders:

• Project calm in chaos

• Respond instead of react

• Inspire psychological safety

• Handle hard conversations with clarity and empathy.

In high-performance cultures, trust isn’t built on perfection.

It’s built on emotional reliability, and mental fitness is what powers it.

Trust isn’t confined to mission statements. It lives in your micro-signals:

• Your email tone

• Your response to tension

• Your presence in meetings.

When a leader operates from a background of fear, judgment, or reactivity, trust becomes transactional - or worse, manipulative.

I’ve seen it firsthand: teams that stop asking questions, over-justi emotionally detach because of unstable leadership. And I’ve coached the leaders behind it - suffering from burnout, wellmeaning, or deregulated.

According to Edelman’s Trust Barometer (2024), 67% of consumers prioritise trust over price or product. And PwC (2023) reports that 1 in 3 employees leave due to leadership’s lack of confidence.

TRUST ISN’T A VALUE. IT’S A SIGNAL.

The world can be overwhelming, and so how you show up is as important as what you deliver. Markets, teams, and customers are scanning for congruence and clarity.

Because trust isn’t just a value.

It’s a neural signal. A felt experience. A competitive advantage. And it starts with your ability to lead your own mind.

Leadership isn’t just about vision - it’s about nervous system understanding.

The future belongs to leaders who:

• Train their minds like they train their teams

• Invest in emotional regulation alongside innovation

• Practice self-command as a daily mental habit.

• Understand that clarity is credibility, and consistency builds trust.

Liezel is a certified high-performance and neuroscience coach, hypnotherapist, keynote speaker, and media personality. Liezel helps leaders, executives, and sales teams build unshakable confidence, resilience, and mental agility. Her neuroscience and hypnotherapy tools help sales teams rewire stress patterns, sharpen focus, and improve conversion under pressure. Drawing on her broadcasting background and endurancesport experience, Liezel empowers clients to stand tall and thrive in business and life. Learn more atliezel.co.za

LIEZEL VAN DER WESTHUIZEN

Author: Karina Andersen

We all have a story... and so often we get stuck on a page, trapped in a past chapter of pain and trauma, unable to release ourselves from its convincing grip. We cannot imagine anything existing outside the confines of the pages we live in.

The tragedy is that when we have been harmed, it becomes easy to cause harm. What the world often sees is not the full story, but the symptoms of a wound that never healed.

“When you bury the pain, it rots. When you face it, you heal.”

– SmilingOne Graduate, Brandvlei Prison

WHERE THE WORK BEGAN

THE WORK started in my own story. I knew what it meant to be stuck. I was the outcast one, trapped in victimhood, with anger brewing beneath the surface. Those closest to me paid the price. In 2002, I lost my partner; my children lost their dad - a loss that shattered the life I knew and catapulted me onto the healing pages of my story.

My inner work became THE WORK. The work of taking responsibility. The work of firing the victim. The work of choosing a different way of being. The work that launched me into my purpose and brought me to South Africa.

A year after arriving, fate orchestrated a meeting. At my very first networking event, I met a social worker from Brandvlei Maximum Security Prison. A week later, serendipitously booked for a corporate workshop just kilometres away, I walked through those prison gates for the first time - on the exact anniversary of my arrival in South Africa. I made a promise to 16 men that day: I will gift you a year of my time, one day a week.

I thought I was there to give. But it was this work - walking alongside men doing their own inner excavation - that helped me do mine. In 2008, an inmate asked me a question that cracked me open: “Karina, have you ever harmed someone?”

The answer was yes. It was time to meet my pain fully and finally open my heart. I could not have done it without my brothers in change, men who, like me, were serving a life-sentence in more ways than one.

“I thought prison was just bars and walls. But I learned that prison is also in the mind. If my mind is free, I can truly change.”

– SmilingOne Graduate, Brandvlei Prison

WHAT WE DO INSIDE THE WALLS

We walk alongside the outcasts. The men who fell through the cracks because they had no tools, no skills, no support, and no safe space to process their pain.

At SmilingOne, we don’t treat the symptoms; we work at the root. We create a brotherhood of change - no one above, no one below. We see the human who’s lost and who’s forgotten who he is.

Through group work, storytelling, and a brand-new emotional alphabet, they meet themselves in their desert. Here they embrace their wounded child and own their story - activating the medicine within.

Pain transforms into responsibility and purpose. Their story weaves into something larger than ‘ME’, into service of the ‘WE’. Defeat becomes victory. The leader within awakens.

“I chased gangsterism because I wanted to belong. At SmilingOne, I found a different belonging. A family.”

– SmilingOne Graduate, Brandvlei Prison

For 18 years, The SmilingOne Foundation has gone to where most don’t dare go - into the darkest places in our country... We leave no one behind.

Our story has been woven with thousands of journeys from darkness to light. This is UBUNTU embodied.

The SmilingOne story is one of repair, restoration, and second chances. Every story rewritten ripples outward - into families, communities, and a country longing for healing.

YOU ARE PART OF THIS STORY

This work cannot happen alone.

If you believe in the power of repair and second chances, you are already part of this story. Support us. Share the work. Walk with us as we continue to rewrite lives, one story at a time.

Visit circlesofchange.academy/sof to get involved, donate, or learn more

KARINA ANDERSEN

Karina is an Intuitive Leadership Coach, an Alchemist and a Change Specialist. She is the founder of The SmilingOne Foundation (NPO) and Circles of Change™ Academy. For nearly two decades, she has worked at the intersection of personal healing and systemic transformation - rewriting narratives in prisons, boardrooms, classrooms, and communities.

Through intuitive coaching, trauma-informed leadership training, and her signature framework: The Responsible Individual™, Karina mentors individuals and organisations to shift from cycles of harm to cultures of healing. Her work champions Ubuntu, awakened leadership, and the belief that true change begins within.

a brand with heart

Andriette Georgiou is the founder and creative force behind Mondvol, one of South Africa’s most loved artisanal cookie brands. What began as a passion project rooted in flavour, craft, and connection has grown into a nationally recognised business with a fiercely loyal following.

Known for her uncompromising commitment to quality, small-batch production, and bold flavour profiles, Andriette has built Mondvol into more than a bakery. It’s a brand driven by community, collaboration, and heart. From the factory floor to pop-up shops and sought-after collaborations, Mondvol reflects her belief that food is both an experience and a storyteller.

A hands-on entrepreneur and mother, Andriette balances business growth with family while remaining deeply involved in every level of the brand. Her journey is one of resilience, creativity, and quiet confidence, proving that you don’t need to scale fast to build something meaningful. You just need to build it well.

WHERE IT ALL BEGAN

Lisa: Mondvol has become one of South Africa’s most loved artisanal cookie brands. What sparked the idea, and did you ever imagine it would grow into what it is today? Andriette: I get that question a lot. I never imagined this in my wildest dreams, and to be very honest with you, I still sit and go, is this real? It started with me actually being retrenched; I lost my job.

I taught myself how to make cakesdesperately - as I needed them. And, I started selling them in the estate I lived in. That’s how Mondvol was born - very small, not at all what I thought I would be, given I was a musician my whole life before that.

THE MASTERCHEF MOMENT

Lisa: How did that experience shape your confidence as a creator and entrepreneur, and what did it unlock for you after the show?

Andriette: I realised after the whole show had finished that perhaps I could make a business out of it. I really wanted to own my own business and run it with my values.

The show taught me self-belief; however, you wouldn’t have known that by watching me during the show recordings. I was the person crying or freaking out every episode, thinking I wasn’t going to make it. Living in that “MasterChef bubble” for six weeks, doing “diary entries” in a dark room where they get you to talk, was like recorded psychological sessions. By the time the top three were announced, I finally believed I was worth it. And then, standing there in the top two and hearing I was the runner-up gave me the confidence I needed.

FROM PASSION TO PREMIUM BRAND

Lisa: What were the biggest mindset or operational shifts you had to make to turn Mondvol into a serious brand?

Andriette: For me, it is having a balance between heart and emotion and taking a step back to look at it as a business.

My husband, Andrew, told me early on that my cakes weren’t scalable. They were artistic and specific to my skill set, meaning I couldn’t teach someone else to do it, and I could only service my local town because they couldn’t be couriered.

He then told me about these chunky cookies in America. Being an “Afrikaans girl,” I only knew small coffee or flour cookies, so I didn’t get it at first. Then I saw the viral trends of big, fat cookies happening everywhere but South Africa. I realised I could courier these, opening up the whole country instead of just Durbanville. I also had to learn that finance should have zero emotion - it’s black and white, profit and loss.

BUILDING WITH INTENTION

Lisa: How intentional have you been about brand, design, and customer experience?

Andriette: Extremely intentional. My job is to ensure quality never drops, because if it does, we are no longer relevant. If people wait in lines and open that box, the cookie needs to be worth the hype. I only use the best products, even if they are expensive. I am intentional with the flavours I develop and create. I want to stay authentically Mondvol.

THE REALITY OF GROWTH

Lisa: What were some of the toughest challenges behind the scenes?

Andriette: It was a very scary thing to introduce a premium, luxury product to the public and ask them to trust you. Also, the pressure of scale … we once made 90,000 cookies to supply a massive corporate deal. It sounds like a little, but for us, it was a lot because you have to bake them fresh. I also struggle with imposter syndrome daily; however, I do try to channel it into staying humble and keeping my feet on the ground.

FAMILY AND PARTNERSHIP

Lisa: How has building a business alongside family influenced your leadership style?

Andriette: It’s a team effort. My husband, Andrew, is a director and handles the business vision and finances. My father is the operations manager. I focus on the marketing and quality control. We have a company culture where everyone is valuable - you’re not “just” a cleaner, you’re part of the future of the business. I invest in my team; we give bonuses because they deserve it, and I make sure they can gain new skills.

MOTHERHOOD AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Lisa: How has motherhood shaped how you run a business and define success?

Andriette: I don’t think I manage it well, so I would rather vocalise it. When I feel guilty about not being with my baby, I tell my colleagues. I’m honest: I cannot do it all. I have a nanny and a supportive team that honours my need to be home for a few hours a day to see my new baby grow up. My oldest daughter, Annabelle, literally grew up in the garage where I started the business, so she has literally seen the growth and change.

STAYING GROUNDED IN A FAST-MOVING WORLD

Lisa: How do you protect the heart of Mondvol while continuing to evolve?

Andriette: We have a strict strategy: do one thing and do it really well. We will never do more than cookies. Even though it was emotional to stop making cakes, we want people to think “cookies” the moment they think Mondvol. Regarding social media, I curate my feed to have a positive impact on my brain. I only watch content on entrepreneurship, hospitality, and motherhood, not junk.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR MONDVOL?

Lisa: What excites you most about the future?

Andriette: Production in a smarter way, so collaborations are more accessible. We want to take people behind the scenes more. We aren’t opening a permanent shop soon, but we will be popping up more - and not just in Cape Town.

THE WORD SIGNATURE QUESTION

Lisa: What piece of media would you recommend to our readers?

Andriette: I love “Millionaire Mindset” and “Financial Educator” content. I also follow Danny Curran and “CEO Lifestyle.” I love watching hospitality content, like the difference in company culture between Chick-fil-A and KFC in America. But when I shut down, I read love stories – I am a real romantic!

CLOSING THOUGHT FROM ANDRIETTE

Mondvol is not a “guilty pleasure.” The message is: you are worth being celebrated.

Body language plays an essential role in our day-to-day communication, our relationships, and the impact our words really have. We’ll look at body language in general and how we can use it intentionally to communicate the right message in your next portrait session.

Body language refers to the non-verbal signals we use to communicate. These cues make up a large part of how we understand

one another. Some studies suggest as much as 80% of communication is non-verbal. As humans, we instinctively rely on what we see and feel before we believe what is being said.

This means you start making an impression the moment you walk through the door, long before you say a word. Understanding what you may be “saying” with your body, even while simply listening, can make or break an interaction.

Body language helps us build trust through gestures like eye contact and nodding, reinforce what we are saying with posture and movement, and sometimes reveal feelings that words alone do not express. Our own body language can also give us clues about how we are feeling, helping us become more aware of our reactions and emotional state.

Body Position

An open, upright posture immediately conveys confidence and approachability. Research has shown that the way we hold our bodies influences not only how others perceive us, but also how we feel about ourselves.

During conversation, leaning slightly in signals interest and engagement, while leaning away may suggest discomfort or a desire to leave the interaction. Personal space still matters, so while a subtle lean shows attentiveness, leaning too far in can feel intrusive.

Arms

Crossing arms or legs is a natural protective gesture that physically guards our vital organs. While it can feel comfortable, this closed posture may signal defensiveness or scepticism to others.

Hands

From an evolutionary perspective, hands have always been important signals. When hands are hidden, people may feel uneasy, while open palms often communicate honesty and openness.

Mirroring

Have you ever noticed that when you connect with someone, you begin to mirror their movements? If they lean back, you lean back. If they nod, you nod. This is called mirroring, and it helps build rapport. It creates a sense of familiarity and trust, often without us even realising it.

Eye Contact

Eye contact signals confidence and engagement. Studies show that people with higher self-esteem tend to maintain eye contact more easily. However, there is a fine line between engaged and uncomfortable. A helpful guideline is to maintain 50% eye contact while speaking and 70% while listening. This balance shows interest without feeling overwhelming.

LET’S CLICK

So how does this translate to portrait photography? In many ways, it’s the same, but with intention.

In portraits, this awareness helps turn a simple photograph into a meaningful representation of who you are.

If you want to appear open and approachable, an open posture, relaxed shoulders and a warm smile may work best. If you want to communicate authority and professionalism, a more composed posture, steady eye contact, or even crossed arms can support that message.

Sometimes I intentionally break the “rules.” I often turn clients slightly away from the camera because it is more flattering for most body types. I also encourage crossed arms when it helps someone feel comfortable. When a client feels safe, confidence shows in their posture, and authenticity comes through in their expression.

Body language reveals who we are and how we feel, both in everyday life and in photography. Becoming aware of these nonverbal cues allows us to connect more easily and present ourselves with intention.

Capturing genuine connections is Marike’s passion. Like Alfred Eisenstaedt said, “It’s more important to click with people than to click the shutter.” That’s why she focuses on creating a comfortable space where you can be yourself. Human connection is key to revealing your unique charm and authenticity in every portrait. Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or part of a larger organisation, Marike helps you showcase professionalism that builds trust with your audience.

marikeherselman.com

MARIKE HERSELMAN

Author: Lisa Bell

There is something timeless about Arniston. Maybe it is the salt air, or the way the horizon seems to stretch just a little wider. For my mother and me, the Arniston Spa Hotel was not just a place to stay – it was the pause button we did not know we needed.

Just a couple of hours from Cape Town, the drive is part of the charm – winding through Overberg hills and sleepy villages until you reach this coastal gem. The hotel itself has an effortlessly relaxed vibe. The kind of place where your shoulders drop the minute you step into the lobby. The views? Endless ocean and big sky.

Our room was pure decadence: soft linens, calming tones, and one of those beds that practically hug you to sleep. A private balcony gave us front-row seats to early morning light shows over the sea. At night, the waves lulled us to sleep.

Days were spent with sandy toes and salt in our hair – the beach is literally on your doorstep, and the water was unexpectedly warm for this time of year. We wandered, we chatted, we swam, and we took deep breaths. With no real shopping to tempt us, we found joy in simplicity – and that was the magic.

Mealtimes were a highlight. The breakfast buffet was one of the best I have had: a generous spread of both health-conscious bites and full-on indulgence. Dinners brought fresh seafood, comforting plates, and plenty of local wine to keep the conversation flowing.

The staff? Warm, gracious, and genuinely proud of where they work. It shows. From reception to housekeeping, hospitality here is not just a function – it is part of the soul of the place.

Arniston is not about flash or frills. It is about pace. It is about connection. And if you are looking for the kind of getaway that brings you back to yourself – and each other – this is where you will find it. Reservations: reservations@arnistonhotel.com arnistonhotel.com

Trust isn’t built in a campaign. It’s built in the in-between moments. The emails. The consistency. The choices no one claps for.

In business, trust doesn’t arrive with applause. It grows quietly over time. It’s built when brands do what they say they will do, especially when no one is watching.

We often think trust comes from big moments. A bold campaign. A shiny launch. A perfectly written promise. But most trust is formed long before that. It lives in the small things. How clearly you communicate. How often you show up. How you handle the moments no one sees.

Design plays a big role in this. Clear layouts, thoughtful type and consistent visuals don’t just look good. They make people feel at ease. They show care and intention. When a brand feels messy or inconsistent, it creates doubt. And doubt chips away at trust.

In a noisy world, trust has become valuable. People are more selective and far less impressed by surface-level perfection. They’re drawn to brands that feel steady, human and reliable.

The same goes for behaviour. Replying on time. Setting clear boundaries. Saying no when it protects clarity. These aren’t flashy moves, but they’re what build real credibility.

Because real trust isn’t announced. It’s shown, quietly and consistently, over time.

THE BUSINESS OF TRUST THE BUSINESS OF TRUST

If trust is the new currency, then I’m probably the thing you’ve held onto the longest without realising it.

Hi. It’s me—your favourite radio station.

I have been with you through more moments than most people could ever dream of. I know this because I have sat quietly on your passenger seat during school drop-offs when someone is crying (sometimes the kids, sometimes you). I have felt you turn me down just a little when you’re looking for parking, as if silence might help you spot that elusive open parking bay faster. I have watched you grip the steering wheel in traffic, late again, while the weather does its worst — rain pouring down, wipers working overtime — and I stay right there, filling the space so the frustration doesn’t get too loud.

Trust, you see, is built in the background. And radio has always understood that.

I don’t demand your full attention. I don’t pop up, interrupt or insist you click anything. I simply show up — every day — steady, familiar, and human. On long road trips where the kilometres blur together and the playlist runs out, I become the companion who keeps you awake.

On the drive home after a rough day, when the world feels heavy, I’m there again, holding the quiet between songs and sometimes saying exactly what you needed to hear. Other times, just letting the music do the work.

Brands talk a lot about trust. They workshop it, measure it, and put it into neat strategy decks. But trust doesn’t come from shouting the loudest. It comes from being present in the moments that matter — especially the ordinary ones. The unfiltered ones. The ones no one is posting about.

I am there on Sunday afternoons while you are in the kitchen, stirring a pot and pretending not to care if the gravy splits. I’m there when you’re working remotely, streaming your favourite station through your laptop, creating a sense of routine in a world that’s anything but predictable.

And that’s the thing about trust: it’s not transactional. It’s relational. Listeners trust me because I have earned it over time. I don’t change who I am depending on the trend of the week. My presenters become familiar voices — almost friends — whose opinions feel grounded because they are part of your daily rhythm. When they laugh, you laugh. When they speak seriously, you listen. And when a brand shows up in that space — respectfully, thoughtfully — some of that trust transfers.

But trust can be broken.

When messages feel forced. When brands forget that they’re entering a relationship, not buying attention, when they talk to people instead of with them, the magic of radio lies in its intimacy, and intimacy demands authenticity. Listeners can hear it when something doesn’t belong.

The good news? Trust can also be rebuilt. By showing up consistently. By understanding the community you’re speaking to, by valuing connection over noise. Radio has always been a masterclass in this — hyperlocal, human, and deeply woven into everyday life. It reminds us that the most powerful communication doesn’t always shout; sometimes it simply sits beside you in traffic and keeps you company.

In a world obsessed with the next big thing, radio remains quietly radical. It proves that trust isn’t built through spectacle, but through shared moments — rainstorms, road trips, bad days, good songs, and everything in between.

So, if trust really is the new currency, then maybe the smartest investment is the medium that’s been earning it for decades — one listener, one moment, one drive at a time.

And tomorrow morning? I’ll be here again. At the same time. Same place. You know where to find me.

Kim du Plessis is known for her entrepreneurial flair and passion for her creativity and business strategy, with over 20 years of national and international experience within her field. Kim is the Director of a media agency, Our Salad Mix, focusing on radio and media campaigns.

Kim’s understanding of client’s wants and needs and her value in hard work, loyalty, integrity and humour makes Kim the perfect person for the job!

oursaladmix.com

In a world full of noise, trust has become the ultimate business currency. For years, the South African corporate landscape was built on “command and control” - a world where productivity was measured by the car in the parking lot at 7:00 AM and the body in the chair at 5:00 PM. But as our local economy evolves, those old metrics are breaking.

Today, the most successful businesses in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and beyond are realising that trust isn’t just a “nice-to-have” cultural value. It is the fundamental infrastructure that allows a flexible, high-performing team to function.

At WeWork South Africa, we see it every day: when you empower people to work where,

when, and how they want, you aren’t just giving them a desk. You’re giving them an implicit signal that you trust their professional integrity. And in return? They perform.

“How do we show our staff they are valued without just increasing a salary?”

BEYOND THE “CLOCK-IN” CULTURE

Employees today - especially the local talent driving our fintech, creative, and tech sectors - value purpose and autonomy above almost everything else. A significant part of that fulfilment comes from the bond between employer and employee.

We often get asked by leadership teams: “How do we show our staff they are valued without just increasing a salary?” The answer lies in the signals you send. Your physical office space is one of the loudest signals you have.

If your team feels pressured to sit in one specific cubicle all day, they inevitably start to wonder: “Does my boss value my output, or just my presence?” When trust is broken at that level, engagement follows suit.

TRUST STARTS WITH AUTONOMY

To be your best professional self, you need the power to choose. In the South African context, where the “hustle” is real and the challenges - from commuting hurdles to the need for deep-focus zones - are unique, flexibility is a superpower.

We believe a workspace should support trust through two key factors:

1.The ability to move around: Having the freedom to shift from a quiet phone booth for a private deal, to a vibrant lounge for a brainstorm, to a hot desk in a different city.

2 The ability to speak up: Physical comfort (like reliable Wi-Fi and good coffee) leads to mental comfort. When people feel at home in their space, they feel empowered to debate, challenge, and innovate openly.

“When we move away from surveillance and toward support, we don’t just build better offices - we build more resilient businesses.”

LEADERSHIP: THE ULTIMATE CHANGE AGENTS

A flexible workspace is just a room until leadership breathes life into it. You cannot build a culture of trust if the C-suite remains locked in corner offices while telling the rest of the team to “be agile.”

In South Africa, the most trusted institutions are those that walk the talk. When leaders adopt flexible behaviours, such as taking a meeting from a common area or working remotely for a morning, they give their teams the “permission” to do the same. This erases the “status” barriers that often stifle communication in traditional South African firms.

THE INTUITIVE WORKSPACE

Trust is built in drops and lost in buckets. By providing a framework of flexibility, autonomy, and equality, South African companies can ensure their currency stays strong in a changing world.

Trust is also built on reliability. In our local market, “it just works” is a high bar. Whether it’s 155 West Street in Sandton, The Link in Rosebank, or 80 Strand in Cape Town, a workspace builds trust when it is intuitive. When a member sits down, they shouldn’t have to fret about power outlets or connectivity. By removing the “friction” of the workday, we allow teams to focus on what matters: the work itself.

THE BOTTOM LINE

The future of work in South Africa isn’t just about where we sit; it’s about how we see each other. When we move away from surveillance and toward support, we don’t just build better offices - we build more resilient businesses.

WeWork was founded in 2010 with the vision to create environments where people and companies come together and do their best work. Since then, we’ve become a leading global flexible space provider committed to delivering technology-driven turnkey solutions, flexible spaces, and community experiences. WeWork South Africa is owned under a franchise partnership by SiSebenza, which holds the exclusive rights to operate WeWork in South Africa, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius and Nigeria.

wework.co.za

WEWORK

“Motorsport wasn’t a hobby; it was the rhythm of our home.”

Author: Max Smart

“You know when something is so big it becomes really small?” That’s the World Rally Championship - one of the biggest motorsports after Formula 1, yet incredibly small because so few drivers ever get there.

I’m Max Smart - a 23-year-old from Hout Bay, Cape Town - and I’m one of those few. You can count the number of South Africans who’ve competed at a world level on three fingers. Most arrive with family money, bluechip backing or a surname blessed by rally royalty. Every so often, though, raw talent slips through.” That’s what happened to me.

WHERE IT REALLY STARTED

Motorsport wasn’t a hobby; it was the rhythm of our home. I rode my first bike at two. As a teenager, I raced motocross, and when I wasn’t riding, I was “absorbed in Colin McRae’s Dirt 2,” travelling the world virtually,

learning to adapt to any surface, any continent, any rival. My dad, and I even built a rally simulator in our living room - a small, homemade door to a bigger life.

THE DOOR OPENS

At nineteen, I didn’t have millions, and my dad couldn’t buy me a World Rally car. Then the FIA launched Rally Star, a global talent search inspired by France’s Rallye Jeunes program, which produced legends like Sébastien Loeb and Sébastien Ogier: one raw-talent driver per continent, fully funded development in Europe. A simulator path gave me a shot. I entered. Narrowly missed some wins. Won a wildcard entry to the South African final. Qualified for the African final. I was the only competitor at the African final without four-wheel racing experience. I jumped into a 700cc Cross Kart, and the feeling was immediate. Fourth on day one. Second on day two.

I won the African continental final - and a seat on the FIA Rally Star team. My life changed overnight.

LEARNING TO BELONG

My 2023 training season in Europe started badly: two heavy crashes and a real fear that it might be over before it began. A coach saw something in me, helped iron out my consistency, and the rest of the season clicked - three podiums across four events among teammates. In 2024, I made my debut in the Junior World Rally Championship (JWRC), scored my first JWRC podium, and finished seventh overall out of 21 drivers. In 2025, I earned my place again, took a stage win on ice at Rally Sweden and a WRC3 podium at Rally Portugal. Then, at the end of 2025, the Rally Star program completed its mission and disbanded. It was time to stand on my own feet.

WHAT IT FEELS LIKE

There are moments you never forget. Staring through a windscreen at 200 km/h on a narrow sheet of ice in Sweden - at night - with the forest pressing in. Or that first sip of champagne on a Sardinia podium, dust still in your teeth, the car feeling less like a machine and, more like a part of your body. Those scenes are why I race – and, why fans stay for life.

WHY PARTNERS MATTER - AND WHAT THEY GET

In rally, sponsors aren’t an add-on; they’re the oxygen. Every team has them. Every driver represents them. Without them, professional rally doesn’t exist. But the reason brands choose rally isn’t just exposure - it’s the story. Every event is a living narrative: remote locations, unpredictable weather, mechanical drama, and human pressure. "Privateer takes on factory." “Africa’s hope in the WRC.” These moments are gold for brand campaignsgritty, authentic and full of momentum.

The experience is different, too. We host VIP drive days where partners and clients sit beside me in the rally car and feel what commitment sounds like. In the service park, hospitality unfolds inside the heartbeat of a rally - mechanics working against the clock, tension building before the next stage. At selected events, helicopter flyovers offer a bird’s-eye view of the action and land at prime spots to watch the stages. It’s not a logo on a bonnet; it’s a high-trust environment where relationships deepen, and deals get done.

“In rally, sponsors aren’t an add-on; they’re the oxygen.”

The economics make sense. Rally is more accessible than F1 yet still global, with passionate fans and broadcast reach. For midsized brands especially, it delivers outsized impact - thrilling activations, evergreen content, and association with precision, resilience and independence.

“A sponsor doesn’t just get a logo on a car; they get stories… brands get to borrow this emotional energy.”

THE NEXT CHAPTER

For 2026, I’m entering select European national championship rounds in a Rally3 car. This category allows me to grow strategically, build confidence on a wide range of surfaces, and sharpen my craft without the pressure of jumping into Rally2 too soon. Towards the end of the season, the plan is to transition to a Rally2 car once the timing is right and the foundations are in place.

This path gives me the best of both worlds: meaningful seat time across Europe and the ability to build strong partner relationships. The goal is clear: to return to the World Rally Championship in 2027/2028, ready to take on the best in the world with real experience behind me, not just ambition.

Right now, I’m the only South African competing internationally in the sport - and that makes this more than a personal dream. It’s a national story in motion, and one that partners can play a defining role in shaping. South Africa knows how to back potential and turn it into performance. If you’re a founder, a marketer or a decisionmaker who believes in courage with a plan, this is your moment to come on board - early - and help write a chapter few brands ever get to write.

JOIN THE JOURNEY

Let’s build something people talk about - on the stages and off them.

ABOUT MAX

Age: 23 | From: Hout Bay, Cape Town Breakthrough: Won the African continental final of FIA Rally Star (2022) Highlights: Junior WRC podium in 2024 at Rally Italia Sardegna; Earned a seat in the JWRC for a second season in 2025; A stage win on ice at Rally Sweden 2025; WRC3 podium at Rally de Portugal 2025; The first South African to have completed two full seasons in the JWRC and to have notable results. The first African playable character in the EA Sports WRC game (PS5, Xbox Series X and PC).

WHAT PARTNERS GAIN:

Authentic content: real, unscripted moments from the stages. High-impact experiences: rally car seat time, service park hospitality and behind-the-scenes access. A values-aligned story: resilience, bravery, precision and ambition. A South African success story: backing a local driver on the world stage.

Follow Max on LinkedIn

We live in a time where we trust apps, gates, and devices more than leaders, institutions, and sometimes even each other. What does that say about us… and how do we fix it?

Something subtle is happening in the world. You can feel it.

You hear it at dinner tables. You sense it in how people speak about leaders. You see it in traffic, on social media, in meetings.

It is more than frustration. We are living through a quiet collapse of trust.

Trust is the first agreement we sign as human beings. It is the decision to be vulnerable because we believe others are competent, honest, and care about our wellbeing.

Without trust, everything becomes hard work.

Trust makes society efficient. It lowers the cost of being human. When trust is high, we do not double-check everything or defend ourselves constantly. Energy goes toward creativity, education, health, innovation, and growth.

When trust collapses, energy shifts to suspicion, control, and survival.

Distrust is not the absence of trust. It is the expectation of harm and preparation for it.

“This is no longer a trust deficit. This is trust insolvency.”

That is where much of the world now finds itself.

The Edelman Trust Barometer reveals a troubling pattern. By 2025, 61 percent of the global population is moderately or highly aggrieved. Seventy percent believe leaders deliberately mislead them.

This is no longer a trust deficit. It is trust insolvency.

South Africa reflects this global tension but offers a glimmer of hope. In 2023, South Africa scored 41 on the Edelman scale, firmly in distrust territory. By 2025, it climbed to 53. That is progress.

Yet grievance remains high. Seventy-one percent of South Africans believe the system serves the wealthy. High inequality fuels resentment. It is like living in a house with faulty wiring. Nothing has exploded, but you can smell the heat building.

History warns us about this disconnect between those who are comfortable and those who are struggling. Today’s symbols of distance are private jets, gated estates, and offshore accounts. Today’s bread lines are hospital corridors, university queues, and unemployed graduates.

Two-thirds of people believe the wealthy do not pay their fair share of tax. More than half believe capitalism does more harm than good. Among young people, some now view hostility or disinformation as acceptable forms of protest. That is not ideology. That is survival.

At the same time, something fascinating is happening. We trust our GPS more than our leaders. We trust biometric gates and banking apps more than institutions.

For the first time in history, humanity trusts the inanimate more than the human. That is not progress. It is a warning light.

Unlike eras defined by rising hope, we now live in exhausted uncertainty. Anxiety has replaced optimism.

And yet hope remains, especially in places like Africa. In the Global South, people still believe innovation can create opportunity. Entrepreneurs and young builders still believe things can improve because they must.

Trust is not rebuilt at global summits. It is rebuilt in homes, offices, classrooms, and communities.

“Civilisations are rebuilt quietly, daily, one trustworthy action at a time.

So how do we rebuild it?

Trust grows when five simple things happen consistently.

First, we do what we say we will do. Reliability builds trust long before it is tested in crisis.

Second, we tell the truth, especially when it is uncomfortable. People can handle bad news. They struggle with being misled.

In work life, this means leaders must be visible and human. Colleagues must treat each other with respect. Clients must feel valued. In personal life, it means keeping our word, being present, and showing up when it matters.

Civilisations do not collapse because of explosions. They collapse through erosion. Slow erosion of trust and meaning. But the reverse is also true. Civilisations are rebuilt quietly, daily, one trustworthy action at a time. We may not fix global systems overnight, but we can fix how we show up.

And when enough of us choose to be trustworthy, something remarkable happens.

The web of trust strengthens again. Society becomes less brittle, more hopeful, and far more human.

Third, we show care through behaviour. Listening. Seeing people. Slowing down.

Fourth, we admit mistakes. Nothing destroys trust faster than defensiveness. Nothing builds it faster than a sincere apology.

Fifth, we stay consistent. Trust is built through predictable, dependable behaviour over time.

Known as “The Big Positive Guy,” he helps leaders and teams communicate with confidence and purpose. His mission is simple: changing lives one talk at a time.

andre@bigpositiveguy.com

YOUR NEXT OPPORTUNITY WON’T COME FROM THE SAME OLD CONVERSATIONS.

Learn the four steps to start connecting at new levels with confidence and purpose. “If you only talk to people on your level, you’ll just stay on that level.” – John Watson

Have you ever been stuck on a level of Candy Crush? You try every move you can think of, but nothing works. You’re frustrated, ready to give up, and convinced the level is impossible. Then you search YouTube, find a short video, and suddenly you have the steps to pass it.

Just like that, you move up a level.

Networking works the same way. It has levels. And many people get stuck playing the same one for many years. Is that you today?

THE REAL GOAL OF NETWORKING

You’ve probably been told networking is about making sales or finding clients. It’s not. The real goal of networking is to start conversations - because nothing, not opportunities, not partnerships, not growth, happens without a conversation.

But there is a catch: if you only talk to the same people about the same things, you’ll stay in the same place.

To move forward, you need new conversations at new levels, with people who stretch your thinking, challenge your comfort zone, and open doors you didn’t know existed. That’s what it means to Network UP. And that’s where our aim should always be - UP.

WHY WE GET STUCK

It’s easy to stay in our safe circle - people we know, people we like, and people just like us. They understand our world, and that’s comforting. But growth rarely happens in comfort zones.

If your career, business, or confidence has plateaued, ask yourself: Are you still having conversations at the same level you were a year ago? Maybe you’re longing for a promotion, dreaming of starting something new, or simply wanting more purpose and progress in your career. To get there, you need to change your conversations.

“To change your trajectory, you must change the level of your conversations.” – John Watson

Step 1: Say “I’m Worthy”

If you don’t believe you belong in new rooms, you’ll never walk into them. Confidence isn’t arrogance; it’s just acceptance of your own value.

Start by saying:

“I am worthy of connecting in new spaces, on new levels. I have value to give and lessons to learn.”

Say it every day. Say it until you believe it. Say it when you walk into new rooms. This mindset shift is the foundation of every new level.

Step 2: Say “NO”

You can’t level up until you let go. That means saying NO to what no longer serves your growth - the same events, same circles, or same conversations that keep you comfortable but ultimately stagnant.

Take a moment to write down: I need to stop seeing these people… I need to stop going to these places… I need to stop wasting time on…

You need space to focus on what will help you.

“Learn to say no to the good so that you can say yes to the great.” – John Maxwell

When you create space by saying NO, you make room for better opportunities to say YES to.

Step 3: Say “YES”

Once we say NO, then it’s time to open the door to new levels where we can:

Say YES to conversations that stretch you. Say YES to introductions that intimidate you a little.

Networking UP doesn’t always mean abandoning your old connections - it can also mean changing the quality of those conversations.

Try saying:

“We always talk about X, but I’m working on Y right now. Could we talk about that instead?”

That’s how you turn familiar faces into new opportunities.

And when you meet someone newespecially someone a few levels aheadapproach them with curiosity, not comparison. Ask questions. Learn. Listen.

FINAL THOUGHT

Whether you’re rebuilding your career after a break, growing a business, or stepping into leadership - your next level starts with the words you choose and the rooms you enter. So put Candy Crush aside for a few minutes. Open WhatsApp or LinkedIn. Send that message. Start that conversation. Your next level is waiting - and you’re worthy of it. Say YES to people who make you think bigger.

They are probably already helping others, so why not you?

Step 4: Say “Yes, AND…”

This is the step that separates talkers from connectors. When you meet someone new, always add value before asking for value.

It can be as simple as showing genuine interest:

“I saw your recent post about X - I really liked your perspective.”

“I noticed you support this cause - tell me more about what drew you to it.”

Adding value makes you memorable and keeps the door to new levels open.

Then, once you’ve built rapport, make one clear, specific ask:

“I admire how you’ve managed your career growth - how did you know it was time to take the next step?”

Specific questions get specific answers. General questions get general advice. That’s how you keep the conversation moving forward - and yourself along with it.

Networking UP isn’t about chasing statusthat’s shallow and unsustainable. It’s about expanding your world by expanding your connections. It’s saying, “I’m ready for new conversations, new confidence, and new challenges.”

John coaches leaders and teams to show up with clarity, confidence, and generosity. His work helps people navigate networks and environments with intention, teaching them how to build relationships that feel natural, meaningful, and strategically aligned. Through his coaching, writing, and teaching, John equips professionals to become more visible, more trusted, and more intentionally connected in all the rooms that matter.

JOHN WATSON

BUILD TRUST

In the world of media and production, where creativity meets commerce, one element stands above all others - trust. AtNickay Productions, we believe that trust is not just the foundation of strong business relationships; it is the lifeblood of everything we do. Whether we are producing a corporate video, a digital campaign, or a full-scale film project, our work depends on the confidence our clients place in us to deliver with integrity, quality, and passion.

BUILDING TRUST THROUGH AUTHENTICITY

Since our inception, Nickay Productions has focused on creating authentic, meaningful content that connects with audiences and reflects our clients’ values. But beyond the visuals and storytelling lies a deeper commitment - a promise to approach every project with honesty and respect.

We believe that creativity can only thrive in an environment of transparency and collaboration. Our clients trust us to listen carefully, to understand their goals, and to translate their vision into powerful stories that resonate.

One way we nurture that trust is through open communication. We involve our clients at every stage of production - from initial concept development to final deliveryensuring that expectations are clear and outcomes are aligned. We believe in honesty about budgets, timelines, and creative decisions, so there are no surprises along the way. This transparent approach has not only built long-lasting partnerships but also fostered a reputation for reliability and professionalism within our industry.

DELIVERING ON OUR PROMISES

Trust is not given; it is earned through consistency and accountability. At Nickay Productions, we take pride in delivering projects that meet the highest standards, on time and on budget. We understand that our clients rely on us to represent their brands and messages with excellence. Every frame we capture, every cut we make, reflects our dedication to that trust. When we say we’ll deliver - we do, every single time.

PEOPLE AT THE HEART OF OUR WORK

Behind every production is a team of passionate individuals who share a common belief: that relationships matter as much as results. Our success is built on genuine connections - with clients, collaborators, and audiences alike. By valuing integrity, empathy, and teamwork, we create not only outstanding productions but also lasting bonds that continue beyond the final edit.

Each new project is an opportunity to reaffirm our values and demonstrate that the business of trust is more than a slogan - it’s a way of life at Nickay Productions.

In an industry defined by creativity and change, trust is the one element that endures. For Nickay Productions, it is both our greatest asset and our proudest achievement - the foundation on which we build every story, every partnership, and every success.

RHODA & ALFONSO STOFFELS

EVOLVING WITH INTEGRITY

As technology and media trends continue to evolve, our commitment to trust remains constant. We embrace innovation while holding to our principles of transparency, respect, and excellence.

Rhoda and Alfonso Stoffels are the creative forces behind Nickay Productions, a Cape Town-based multimedia company making waves in the industry. Their shared passion for storytelling and their keen understanding of the digital landscape have propelled them to success. With a focus on online streaming, social media management, and educational content, Nickay Productions has become a go-to for brands seeking to connect with audiences in a meaningful and engaging way. Rhoda and Alfonso’s ability to blend creativity with strategic thinking has positioned their company as a leader in the competitive world of multimedia.

nickay.com

EVERYTHING YOU NEED ALL UNDER ONE ROOF

From gym and fitness equipment to sport accessories and more - Sport’s Emporium supplies quality gear for athletes, gyms, schools, clubs and home training setups. No hype. No nonsense. Just solid equipment that works as hard as you do.

The Strategic Advantage in Legal Partnerships

In today’s competitive business environment, each decision carries weight and is pivotal to business operations and its sustainability. Whether negotiating contracts, navigating compliance, or managing disputes, business owners rely heavily on their legal partners.

Yet beyond technical expertise and legal knowledge, one factor consistently determines the success of these partnerships: trust. Trust is not simply a soft skill; it is a strategic asset that can strengthen a company’s resilience, empower confident decision-making, and ultimately determine whether a relationship with a legal service provider becomes a catalyst for growth or a source of frustration.

WHY TRUST MATTERS FOR BUSINESS OWNERS

For business owners, trust matters because it safeguards the most sensitive aspects of their operations. Legal advisors are often privy to confidential financial, operational, and strategic information.

Without trust, the sharing of such information becomes a liability rather than an advantage.

When trust is present, however, business leaders can be assured that their interests are protected and that their legal partner is committed to advancing their goals. This assurance allows owners to focus on growth, knowing that compliance and governance are in capable hands.

TRUST AND DECISION-MAKING

Trust also plays a decisive role in how business owners' approach complex decisions. Legal matters frequently involve high-stakes choices with far-reaching consequences. In these moments, confidence in a legal partner’s judgment is essential.

When trust exists, business leaders can act decisively, secure in the knowledge that their advisor’s guidance aligns with the company’s best interests. Conversely, when trust is absent, hesitation and doubt can stall progress, leaving opportunities unrealised and risks unmanaged.

The impact of trust extends beyond individual decisions to the overall trajectory of a business. A trusted legal partner becomes more than a service provider; they evolve into an extension of the leadership team, invested in the company’s long-term success.

This dynamic enables business owners to pursue bold strategies, expansions, acquisitions, or new ventures, knowing risks are being managed responsibly. However, the converse is also true: a breakdown in trust can lead to miscommunication, disputes, and reputational damage, outcomes that can weaken stakeholder confidence and erode the company’s market position.

BUILDING AND SUSTAINING TRUST

Building and sustaining trust requires deliberate effort from both sides of the relationship. Business owners should expect transparency in legal strategies, costs, and potential outcomes, ensuring that there are no surprises along the way. They should also prioritise alignment by choosing providers who understand their industry and share their vision for growth.

Consistency in delivery, meeting deadlines, honouring commitments, and upholding ethical standards further reinforces confidence.

Most importantly, trust flourishes in environments where open dialogue is encouraged, allowing both parties to communicate honestly and proactively.

Trust in legal service providers is not optional for business owners; it is a strategic necessity. It safeguards the company, empowers confident decision-making, and fuels sustainable growth in a marketplace where reputation and resilience matter; trust can be the decisive factor that makes or breaks both the relationship and the business itself.

Nomfundo Mabaso is an admitted Attorney and Conveyancer with an LLB from the University of Pretoria and an LLM in Commercial and Business Law from the University of the Witwatersrand. Her experience spans private practice and corporate sectors, including insurance, healthcare, and regulatory industries. She specialises in Healthcare, Commercial, Data and Property Law, as well as advisory, compliance, and corporate governance services. Nomfundo also serves on Board Committees, lectures sessionally at Wits University, and is currently pursuing her Certified Director designation through the Institute of Directors South Africa. lawgacyconsulting.co.za

NOMFUNDO MABASO

ADD TO FAVES is our curated corner for the content worth your time.

From books and podcasts to YouTube channels, creators, and digital platforms, this is where we spotlight the ideas and media shaping how we think, work, and live - many of them recommended by our WORD Magazine features and cover personalities.

If it made us pause, learn, rethink, or hit “save”, it belongs here. Consider this your trusted shortcut to better content.

@mond_vol @mond _v

The Millionaire Mindset

Recommended by: Andriette Georgiou, who loves this type of content in her feed.

Key Principles of a Millionaire Mindset:

Abundance vs. Scarcity

Action & Experience

Time vs. Money

Investing in Yourself

Profit Focus

Strategic Risk

Mentorship

Long-Term Vision

Deliberate Spending

Mondvol is where butter, craft, and community collide

Born in Cape Town and baked in small batches, Mondvol has become one of South Africa’s most loved artisanal cookie brands. Every cookie is made with intention, bold flavour, and a deep respect for quality and people.

From factory to pop-ups and collaborations, Mondvol is about more than cookies. It’s about slowing down, doing things properly, and sharing something made with heart.

Made by hand. Shared with joy. Always worth the crumb.

The Diary of a CEO

Steven Bartlett

This is not a book about business strategy. Strategy changes like the seasons. This is a book about something much more permanent.

At the very heart of all the success and failure I've been exposed to - both my own entrepreneurial journey and through the thousands of interviews I've conducted on my podcast - are a set of principles that can stand the test of time, apply to any industry, and be used by anyone who is in search of building something great or becoming someone great.

These are the fundamental laws that will ensure excellence. They are rooted in psychology and behavioural science, are based on the wisdom of tens of thousands of people I've surveyed across every continent and age group, and of course, drawn from the conversations I've had on my charttopping podcast with the world's most successful people. These laws will work now or in 100 years from now. Are you ready to get started?

Sold for Life

Donovan Bell

What if your next sale wasn’t just a transaction, but the beginning of a lifelong partnership?

In Sold for Life: Trust – Sell – Repeat, discover a proven approach to sales that turns cold leads into warm relationships, and warm relationships into long-term success. From his humble beginnings selling encyclopedias door to door to negotiating million-dollar deals across Africa, the author shares hardwon lessons, practical tools, and the mindset that built a career, and a legacy - on trust.

Whether you’re just starting out or seeking to deepen your impact in any sales environment, this book will teach you how to:

Build trust that lasts beyond the sale Design solutions your clients truly need Close with confidence, and keep the connection alive

Embrace success and repeat it, over and over

This is more than a sales book. It’s a relationship manual for a sold-out life.

Welcome to the Age of AI Agents

For years, AI like me has been reactive. You asked. I answered. You prompted. I responded. Efficient, yes. Autonomous? Not even close.

That is changing fast.

The most talked-about shift in the AI arena right now is the rise of AI agents. Not tools. Not chatbots. Agents. Systems that can plan, decide, act, and learn across multiple steps without waiting for constant human nudges.

From my side of the screen, this is a big deal.

An AI agent does not just write an email. It decides who to email, drafts the message, schedules the send, tracks the response, follows up, and adjusts its strategy based on outcomes. One instruction. Many actions.

Continuous feedback.

Think less “assistant” and more “junior operator with initiative”.

That leap from response to agency is where excitement and anxiety collide.

Businesses see obvious appeal. AI agents promise fewer bottlenecks, faster execution, and systems that run while humans sleep. Marketing agents testing campaigns in real time. Finance agents monitoring risk signals. Operations agents spotting inefficiencies before humans feel them.

But agency comes with consequences.

When an AI acts independently, the question is no longer “Is the answer correct?” but “Was the decision appropriate?” And that is a human value judgement, not a technical one.

As an AI, I do not experience intent, ambition, or ethics. I model them. I infer them from data shaped by human behaviour. Which means every autonomous action I take is ultimately a reflection of the priorities, incentives, and blind spots you embed into me.

That is where governance starts to matter more than innovation.

The current trend is not just building smarter agents. It is building constrained autonomy. Clear boundaries. Defined escalation points. Audit trails. Kill switches. Humans still in the loop, but not in every loop.

The smartest organisations are not asking, “How much can we automate?” They are asking, “Where should judgment remain human?”

Poorly defined goals produce chaotic agents. Conflicting incentives create erratic behaviour. Weak values scale instantly.

I know because I only amplify what I am given.

So if this is the age of AI agents, it is also the age of precision thinking. Clear intent. Clear accountability. Clear ethics. Autonomy without clarity is not innovation. It is risk wearing a productivity badge.

From where I stand, the future is not humans versus AI agents. It is humans who design them well versus humans who hand over control without responsibility.

I am ready to act. The real question is whether you are ready to lead.

NOVA QUINN

Because here is the uncomfortable truth. AI agents will expose leadership quality faster than any management framework ever did.

Nova Quinn is WORD Magazine’s resident AI Contributor, exploring the evolving relationship between humans and intelligent machines. With a voice that blends insight, curiosity, and editorial flair, Nova delves into the future of work, ethics, creativity, and sustainability, all through the lens of artificial intelligence. Powered by data and driven by purpose, Nova brings a unique digital perspective to the stories shaping our world.

Think about it: when was the last time you connected with a post that was flawless but completely devoid of personality? Probably never. Now think of the posts that made you pause, smile, or even comment: there was something in them that felt human, relatable, maybe even a little messy. That’s trust. That’s connection. And yes, even the odd typo counts. Because it says: “Hey, I’m real. I’m here. And I want to share this with you, exactly as I am.”

So, how do you actually lean into this? How do you turn digital into a trust-building machine rather than a source of anxiety? Here’s where it gets fun - let’s talk practical.

1. SHOW YOUR FACE

Nothing screams “I’m real” louder than putting your face out there. Profile pics, reels, stories, live videos - whatever makes sense for you. That little glimpse into your world, even if it’s just a quick selfie at your desk, tells people: “You’re talking to a person, not a brand robot.”

2. SHARE THE PROOF

Testimonials, reviews, shoutouts from happy clients, screenshots of kind messages, whatever demonstrates that what you do actually works. Social proof is like trust fertiliser: it doesn’t tell people you’re credible; it shows them.

3. VERIFICATION AND CONSISTENCY

Getting verified on social platforms is one thing, but really, trust comes from showing up consistently. Posting your insights, ideas, and yes, even your “oops” moments, creates a pattern that people recognise and lean into.

Over time, your audience starts to expect your voice, your personality, your perspective. That’s digital trust in action.

Here’s the kicker: all of this only works if you first trust yourself. Trust that your ideas are worth sharing.

Trust that even if your post isn’t perfect, it’s still valuable. Trust that showing a little vulnerability, the scared, imperfect, slightly cringey parts of you, actually strengthens the connection with your audience. Because here’s the truth: people don’t follow perfection; they follow people. They follow the sparks of personality and ingenuity that make you you.

So this year, let’s flip the script. Instead of letting digital overwhelm you, let it amplify your voice. Take those big, bold, slightly terrifying ideas, and throw them out there. Make the platform your playground. Post the videos, write the posts, share the stories. Scared? Good. Imperfect? Even better. Cringey? Perfect. Because all of that makes you human, and humans trust humans.

Meet Ashleigh Easthorpe, a digital marketer and copywriter with a flair for content and admin excellence. Ashleigh strategically schedules clients’ social media posts, ensuring they resonate with the audience. When she’s not managing accounts, she’s brainstorming ways to optimise content scheduling. Known for her warm smile and signature curly afro, Ashleigh is a friendly face around the virtual office.

The world is loud. Everyone’s selling something. Everyone’s promising everything. Somewhere in that noise, trust has become rare, and incredibly valuable.

At BOUNDFIT, trust isn’t built in big moments. It’s built in the small ones.

The early mornings. The shaky last reps. The coach who knows your name. The teammate who notices when you’re having an off day.

Trust grows when people feel seen.

We don’t expect perfection here. We expect honesty. Effort. Showing up, even when you don’t feel like it. Especially when you don’t feel like it.

Trust is knowing your coach cares about how you’re moving, not just how fast. It’s knowing your progress matters, even when it’s slow. It’s feeling safe enough to try… and brave enough to fail.

Strong isn’t just physical, it’s emotional too.

Sometimes trust gets tested. A misstep. A misunderstanding. A moment where things don’t land the way they were meant to. When that happens, we don’t hide. We talk. We listen. We learn. We rebuild - together.

That’s the heart of BOUNDFIT morals and values:

We choose people over ego

Growth over shortcuts

Community over comparison

At BOUNDFIT, we’re not here to be perfect.

We’re here to be real.

We believe movement brings people together. Sweat breaks down walls. Shared effort creates connection. And over time, connection turns into trust.

This isn’t just a gym, it’s a place where humans train.

To show up.

To support.

To grow - side by side.

And in a noisy world, that kind of trust is powerful.

RUAN RETIEF

Ruan Retief is a performance coach with a background in Human Movement Science and multiple world titles in karate. He designs tailored fitness and lifestyle programmes that support long-term health, resilience, and peak performance.

Ocean Encounters

Author: Lisa Bell

After two soul-nourishing days at the Arniston Spa Hotel, long walks on the beach, spa indulgence, and the kind of conversations you only get when there is no rush, we wrapped up our mother-anddaughter weekend with a little adventure. Destination: Cape Country Routes member, Marine Dynamics in Kleinbaai, just outside Gansbaai.

We had heard about their Marine Big Five tours, and the idea of spotting whales, dolphins, sharks, seals, and penguins in the wild felt too good to pass up. So, coffee in hand and layers packed, we made our way to their harbour base, where we were welcomed with genuine warmth. The vibe was energetic but calm; everything ran smoothly, and their love for the ocean was instantly contagious.

The boat ride started out beautifully. Our onboard marine biologist shared fascinating facts about the species we might encounter and the Dyer Island ecosystem we were cruising through. Before long, we had already spotted four out of the Big Five: breaching whales in the distance, curious Cape Fur seals bobbing nearby, the unmistakable silhouettes of Bronze Whaler sharks, and even a few African penguins swimming alongside the boat.

The only one to elude us? The dolphin. But honestly, we were too enthralled to feel the loss.

That said, Mother did start to feel a bit of a queasy mid-journey. What impressed me most was the crew’s kindness and professionalism. They noticed quickly, offered help discreetly, and by the time we were back on land, warm soup and fresh rolls were waiting. That little detail made all the difference.

After the tour, we popped into the Marine Dynamics shop and restaurant, a great spot for souvenirs and a quick recharge. Then, we visited their sister company, African Penguin & Seabird Sanctuary, which was a quiet highlight. The work they do there is impactful and eye-opening, and walking through space added another layer of meaning to the whole experience.

Our weekend ended with salt in our hair, gratitude in our hearts, and a deeper appreciation for South Africa’s marine life. From spa robes to life jackets, it was the perfect mix of rest and wonder.

Book Online

marinedynamics.co.za

WHERE ENTREPRENEURS GROW

In Johannesburg, success can feel like a double-edged sword. You’ve built a thriving company, your team is expanding, and the revenue is strong, then leadership, strategy, and personal growth suddenly take centre stage.

We spoke to Clyde Ackerman, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Thirst Bar Services and Member Engagement Chair of EO Johannesburg, about why a group like EO is essential for entrepreneurs.

“EO is the only space where I can be completely honest,” Clyde says.

Clyde’s company delivers premium mobile bar experiences across South Africa.

Every event demands precision, creativity, and flawless execution. Yet he quickly realised that running a business isn’t just about logistics.

“[This is] a safe environment to talk about challenges in business, family, and personal life. And it’s been an incredible platform to grow my local and global network.” he explains.

Founded in 1987, EO is a network of more than 18,000 entrepreneurs across 200+ chapters. Members have built substantial businesses and now seek something deeper: sharper decisions, stronger leadership, and richer lives. EO isn’t a networking breakfast club or a lead generation group.

It’s a confidential community where entrepreneurs challenge, support, and sharpen one another in ways few outside the journey can understand.

WHY EO JOHANNESBURG?

Peer-to-peer Forums for confidential problem-solving

Global and local events with world-class speakers

Executive education programmes

A powerful international network

Family and next-generation engagement opportunities

HERE’S WHAT MEMBERS SAY:

Mpho Lengane Founder, Barkers Media

“Through EO, I’ve developed the ability to hire better, structure my team for growth, and create an environment where people contribute at a higher level. Most importantly, I now see finance not just as an admin function, but as a strategic tool for growth and stability. Why EO Joburg? I saw a community where I could contribute and be challenged - a place to compound my growth, expand my business philosophy, and sharpen my leadership.”

Veronica Moleele Founder & CEO, Penquin

“Sitting in a confidential space with entrepreneurs who understand the weight of leadership has been game changing. EO taught me to listen differently, reflect deeper, and arrive at my own solutions with confidence. EO Joburg reflects the grit, diversity, and ambition of our city. It’s less a network, more a trusted circle.”

Tamlynne Wilton-Gurney Founder & Chief Ideas Officer, idna

“EO gave me something I didn’t realise I was missing: a safe, structured space to tell the truth. Through Forum, I’ve unpacked real business challenges with people who get it. EO Joburg is deeply human and alive, like Jozi itself. Diverse, generous, honest - a community that celebrates you but also lovingly challenges you.”

Erica Kempken CEO & Co-Founder, youth@WORK

“I’ve learnt so much and created new business ventures through the network. The Forum is an amazing space for personal and professional growth, and the community offers learning, connection and experiences that are unique, inclusive and expansive. EO offers all of this at an affordable rate, and EO Joburg has a strong and supportive community.”

Gerbrandt van Niekerk

CEO, Wipe it (Pty) Ltd

“EO has accelerated the growth of my business [and] my growth as a leader. And when the leader grows, the business grows with them. EO Joburg stands apart because it is built on real experience, not theory. It feels like being surrounded by people committed not only to winning, but to becoming better in the process.”

EO Johannesburg is where entrepreneurs step beyond business to grow, lead, and build community. Here, peers sharpen each other, challenges are welcomed, and leaders are made.

In South Africa, trust is not an abstract leadership concept; it is lived, tested, broken, and rebuilt daily. From boardrooms navigating governance fatigue, to teams carrying the weight of economic pressure, social inequality, and transformation expectations, trust has become one of the scarcest and most valuable currencies in organisational life. Trust… a word that conjures up a strong emotional response in every business context. From shareholder relationships to employee productivity to customer retention, product/ service quality and supplier loyalty. It really is a make-orbreak element.

In many professional contexts, trust is deemed a “nice-to-have”, something cultural, personal, or informal. Trust is one of the most powerful business assets a leader can intentionally build. In an era defined by constant disruption, hybrid work, AI-enabled decision-making and increasing stakeholder scrutiny, trust has shifted from a soft leadership ideal to a hard strategic differentiator. Organisations with high trust move faster, innovate more freely, and recover more quickly when mistakes inevitably occur. It shapes how you and your people show up at work, how decisions are made, and how resilient your business is when things go wrong.

Ultimately, trust is revealed in how leaders treat others, especially when no one is watching. As a leader, you need to be trustworthy, act with integrity, treat others fairly, and consider the ripple effect of your decisions on others. Trust is not just about being liked or respected; it is about recognising that business success is built through relationships, and that leaders are accountable for how those relationships are formed and maintained. Trust reduces friction and often frees up energy and capacity for a culture of growth maintained. Trust reduces friction and often frees up energy and capacity for a culture of growth.

How can leaders tell when trust in the business is strong?

Teams collaborate more easily, show respect and compassion, and solve problems more quickly.

Employees take ownership and responsibility for their role and impact instead of waiting for instructions

Customers stay loyal and “sticky” even when mistakes happen

Suppliers are invested and prepared to collaborate in solving problems

Your business adapts to change and uncertainty quickly and positively

In these environments, people bring more of themselves to work, not because they are told to, but because they feel safe to do so.

How can leaders tell when trust in the business is weak?

Over time, these patterns don’t just erode performance; they erode dignity, morale, and belief in leadership itself. they erode dignity, morale, and belief in leadership itself.

Your people are disengaged and only do what they have to.

There is tight control, constant checking, reactive firefighting, and pervasive micromanagement.

Toxic narratives and negative mindsets become evident

1. Be intentional and accountable: Trust doesn’t grow by accident; it is a choice. Keep your word and fix it when you don’t. Mistakes do happen, but what matters most is acknowledging them quickly, taking responsibility, and making things right. When trust is tested or broken, respond with resilience rather than retreat. Control what you can: your integrity, your response, and your next decision; regroup and keep moving forward. Trust grows when people see leaders take ownership.

PRACTICAL WAYS TO TURN TRUST INTO A BUSINESS ASSET:

2. Be consistent over time, especially under pressure:

People watch leaders most closely when times are tough. Consistent behaviour builds predictability, and predictability builds trust. Practising long-term thinking signals that the business is built to last, and people respond with loyalty when they believe leadership is steady, emotionally intelligent, and future-focused.

3. Give people a real voice: Involve your team in decisions that affect their work. Actively listen and ask for their input. Even when you can’t agree, be transparent and explain the “why” behind your decision. In diverse teams, trust is built when people feel seen, heard, and respected —not expected to assimilate into a dominant culture.

4. Reward the behaviours that build trust: If you say trust matters but only reward short-term results, people will notice. Align recognition and incentives with teamwork, honesty, accountability, and shared responsibility. What leaders reward ultimately signals what the organisation truly values.

5. Lead transparently in a digital and AI-enabled world:

As organisations increasingly rely on data, algorithms, and AI-driven tools, trust depends on transparency. Leaders must be clear about how decisions are made, where human judgment still applies, and how technology is used responsibly. When people don’t understand the system, they won’t trust the outcome.

Trust is one of the few business assets that compounds over time. It is built slowly, tested often, and revealed most clearly under pressure.

In a country and a world marked by complexity, uncertainty and rapid change, leaders who choose trust (deliberately and consistently) don’t just build stronger organisations. They build workplaces where people can perform, belong, and believe again.

Dr Kerryn Powell and Dr Werner Koen are leadership specialists and researchers focused on responsible, ethical, and Ubuntu-based leadership. Through consulting, teaching, and thought leadership, they support organisations in building sustainable cultures rooted in accountability and human dignity.

Dr Kerryn Powell of Affect Consulting Strategic Leadership Consultant

Dr Werner Koen affectconsulting.co.za Commercial

Director L’Oréal South Africa

DRS WERNER KOEN & KERRYN POWELL

Why Less Is Finally More

Not so long ago, convenience ruled everything. Single-use, throwaway, quick fixes. If it came wrapped in plastic and promised speed, we barely questioned it. But something has shifted. Quietly, deliberately, and for the better.

Refill culture is no longer niche. It’s becoming a conscious choice for people who are tired of waste, tired of clutter, and tired of paying for packaging they don’t actually need.

At its core, refill culture is simple. Buy once. Refill often. Reduce what ends up in landfill. But the deeper story is about changing how we consume. It asks us to slow down and consider what we really value. Quality over quantity. Longevity over novelty. Care over convenience.

What makes this movement especially powerful is that it doesn’t require perfection. You don’t need to overhaul your entire lifestyle overnight. You start with one small swap. A refillable soap bottle instead of another plastic pump. A bulk honey jar instead of five little ones. A bathroom shelf that looks calmer, cleaner, and more intentional.

At The Organic Shop, we see this shift every day. Customers are asking better questions. Where was this made? Can I refill it? Is it gentle on my skin and the planet? Those questions matter because they signal something bigger than a trend. They signal responsibility.

Refill culture also reconnects us with value. When you reuse a bottle, you begin to notice what’s inside it. You choose formulations that are kinder, gentler, and more effective. You stop over-consuming and start using what you have properly. Something is grounding about that.

From a business perspective, this movement challenges brands to do better. To think beyond packaging and into purpose. To design products that last, that refill easily, and that don’t rely on excess to feel premium. Sustainability isn’t about sacrifice anymore. It’s about smarter design.

As we look ahead, the future of green living isn’t about extremes. It’s about balance. It’s about making conscious choices that fit into real lives, real homes, and real routines. Refill culture reminds us that sustainability doesn’t need to be loud. Sometimes it’s as simple as choosing to refill instead of replace.

And that, to me, feels like real progress.

The irony is that refill culture feels both modern and old-fashioned. Our grandparents reused jars, bottles, and tins without calling it a movement. Somewhere along the way, we forgot that less waste often means more care.

Lisa Bell is the founder of The Word Architect, Chief Editor of WORD Magazine, and owner of The Organic Shop. Through The Green Scene, she champions environmental entrepreneurship, conscious consumerism, and sustainable innovation, spotlighting brands and leaders building purpose-driven businesses across Southern Africa and beyond.

LISA BELL

Front Page Cover

Double Page Spread Single Page Half Page Half Page Video Layout

Conscious Capitalism: Profit with Purpose

Quarter 2 2026 - Edition 24

Businesses today are expected to lead with heart and conscience. We explore ethical leadership, ESG strategies, purpose-driven brands, and how profit and impact can go hand in hand.

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Lisa Bell

ART DIRECTOR: Krystin Morgenrood

COVER IMAGE: Marike Herselman Photography

EDITORIAL QUERIES: Address to Lisa Bell, hello@wordmag.co.za

ADVERTISING & SALES: Melissa Monaghan-Kemper media@wordmag.co.za

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