BRASS BELL BULLETIN
RING THE BELL
NEW TEAM MEMBERS
UPCOMING BIRTHDAYS
VACANCIES
AWARD WINNERS
A WORD FROM OUR A-TEAM PLAYER OF Q3
DEPARTEMENT SPOTLIGHT
NELSON MANDELA DAY
MC EMPLOYEE EQUITY COMMITTEE
WELLNESS CORNER
TECH CORNER
COMING UP
OUT OF OFFICE
FUN CORNER
p. 5 p. 6 p. 12 p. 13
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p. 22 p. 14
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RING THE BELL IT’S COMPETITION TIME
How to Play
We have scattered letters of a secret word throughout this newsletter, and it’s up to you to piece the word together.
Submitting your Answer
Fastest fingers first!
The first person to send the correct word to me directly via email: tehya.buys@merchantcapital.co.za will win a prize! Get Ready, Go!
INTRODUCTION TO OUR NEW TEAM MEMBERS
A warm welcome to our newest “A” team members!
Get to know our new starts on a deeper level – you may find you have something in common with them.
MPUMI MALINGA
SALES ASSISTANT MANAGER
JULES
DE PONT
SENIOR SOFTWARE ENGINEER (AUGEND)
As an engineer, a lover of motorsport, nature and rock climbing, sitting and coding might seem like an odd choice. However, one of the things I enjoy the most is solving problems, irrespective of the type (coding has a lot of those).
I take a keen interest in many areas, such as science, history, theology and psychology. I’m a proud husband to a beautiful wife and we’ve just moved into our new home, with a little cat.
On the weekends, you’ll find me climbing, watching F1, sim racing, playing chess, doing DIY, having a braai… like I said… many interests.
I’m an ambivert who loves a good mix of people time and solo time. When I’m not working, I’m usually hanging out with my kids, at the gym, gaming, reading, or singing my heart out at karaoke (badly, but with passion!).
I’m a total Harry Potter nerd and always up for a random trivia challenge. I like to keep things light, stay curious, and bring positive energy into whatever I do.
Super excited to be here and looking forward to getting to know everyone!
CASSIDY CAMPBELL SALES DEVELOPMENT REPRESENTATIVE
Hey team! I’m Cassidy Campbell, originally from Bedfordview and now living with my dad and older brother.
I’m really into cars — especially drifting at the track — and love spending time outdoors fishing or playing paddle. Film photography is a big passion of mine, and I’ve always had a soft spot for animals.
Excited to be here and looking forward to getting to know everyone!
SIHLE MKUNGO
SALES DEVELOPMENT REPRESENTATIVE
Hey team! I’m Sihle Mkungo — recent Economics and International Trade grad, part-time pool shark, full-time go-getter. From coaching soccer and basketball to promoting brands at Varsity Cup, I’ve learned how to lead, hustle, and still make time for gym and good music.
I’ve served in student councils, hunted down sponsors like a budget ninja, and survived group projects (barely).
I’m passionate about growth, teamwork, and finding the best snacks at meetings. Can’t wait to bring the energy and maybe a playlist to the team!
CHRISTOPHER DAVIS ACCOUNT MANAGER
I’m Christopher Davis, with a background in insurance, and a passion for creative problem-solving and collaboration. I love diving into new projects, and bringing good vibes to every team I join.
Outside of work, you’ll find me at the gym, hanging out with friends or eating far too much food. I’m always up for a good movie/show or spontaneous adventure.
I’m very excited to be part of this amazing team and looking forward to what we’ll build together!
TINASHE MABENGE JUNIOR ENGINEER
A gamer, basketball lover, and now officially writing code that does more than just crash.
I’m ready to learn, grow, and build cool things with an awesome team!
NONZWAKAZI MGXAII
TECH INTERN
My name is Nonzwakazi Mgxaji, but you can call me Nzwakie. With a background in Salesforce Administration, Software Engineering, and Customer Support, I’m excited to join the team at Merchant Capital and grow alongside talented individuals who share my passion for tech.
When I’m not working, I’m probably chasing sunsets at the beach, getting lost in a good book , enjoying live music shows, or turning my art supplies into a hot mess. I’m all about continuous learning, collaboration, innovation, and having fun while working.
Let’s create some magic together!
Coming together is the beginning. Staying together is progress. Working together is success.”
– Henry Ford
GABRIELLA BARKER PRODUCT MANAGER
I’m Gabi! I’m a Product Manager with 10 years’ experience building engaging, user-focused digital products—most recently in health and wellness tech at LiveWell and Discovery Vitality.
I’m big on collaboration, a sucker for a well-mapped user journey, and always up for a brainstorm (or a cappuccino).
Outside of work, I run (slowly), parent (loudly), and my carpool playlist is an unhinged blend of T Swift, Kendrick and Wheels on the Bus.
Always keen for a chat—come say hi!
SIPHO NCUBE TECH INTERN
I am an aspiring IT professional with experience in software support, agile project management, and business analysis. Skilled in stakeholder engagement and system development.
What I enjoy doing outside of work I enjoy sports including soccer and basketball. I also enjoy mountain biking and hiking or exploring new places with friends and family-it helps me recharge and stay inspired.
One personal highlight is that I recently completed my studies on a business analysis course. On the social side, I’m also working on growing my clothing brand.
LINDOKUHLE SHABANGU JUNIOR ENGINEER
I hold a BSc in Information Technology with a background in cybersecurity. My passion for tech was sparked by countless hours spent playing arcade games as a kid. Outside of work, I’m a big fan of crime documentaries and love attending music festivals with my sisters - there’s nothing like good food, good music and great vibes!
My biggest pet peeve is people who lack basic human decency and public etiquette. My ultimate guilty pleasure? Enjoying an Oreo McFlurry on a cold night. I’d love to learn how to paint. I also have 2 dogs.
Favourite movie: My Girl
JAYDEN COLLET SALES DEVELOPMENT REPRESENTATIVE
I’m Jayden, a passionate sales professional with 6 years of experience, primarily in the property industry where I specialised in selling residential property on auction.
I thrive on building strong client relationships, hitting targets, and delivering real results. I’m a sport fanatic - I love watching and playing all kinds of sport and try to work out as much as I can during the week.
Weekends are for unwinding with family and friends. I’m also deeply interested in business development and funding. Super excited to be part of the team and looking forward to what’s ahead!
UPCOMING BIRTHDAYS
Best wishes for everyone celebrating their birthday in the upcoming months
AUGUST
Kiara Rakee - 03 Aug
Bongeka Sosibo - 11 Aug
Yolanda Mabala - 13 Aug
Jacomine Kielblock - 16 Aug
Cassidy Campbell - 23 Aug
Dov Girnun - 28 Aug
Valentine Nyamakupe - 28 Aug
SEPTEMBER
Mohammed Hassim - 05 Sept
Saajid Carrim - 07 Sept
Kayode Oyetade - 16 Sept
Shernay Seale - 18 Sept
Nicole Swart - 19 Sept
Tevin Hlebela - 29 Sept
Nolwandle Fodo - 29 Sept
OCTOBER
Sylvester Mashaba -5 Oct
Somelelo Diya - 14 Oct
Jared Houston-Mc Milan - 29 Oct
Vacancies
If you know of any highly talented people who would like to be a part of the A-Team, please forward their CV’s to HR for future potential vacancies!
CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE: OUR AWARD WINNERS
Please join us in congratulating our Quarterly and Annual Award Winners, whose outstanding contributions have set the bar for excellence across Merchant Capital.
These individuals exemplify what it means to live our company values every day. Through their dedication, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to excellence, they have gone above and beyond—not just meeting expectations but redefining them. True A-team players!
Congratulations once again – you set a great example.
AWARD WINNERS Q4
ROBERT MCLEAN
A-TEAM PLAYER OF THE QUARTER
CLARIES WOLMARANS
SALES EXECUTIVE OF THE QUARTER
SAAJID CARRIM
ACCOUNT MANAGER OF THE QUARTER
LETHOKUHLE MATHEBBULA
UNDERWRITER OF THE QUARTER
AWARD WINNERS FY 25
MANELISI MTHIYANE
SALES EXECUTIVE OF THE QUARTER
SAAJID CARRIM
ACCOUNT MANAGER OF THE QUARTER
LETHOKUHLE MATHEBBULA
UNDERWRITER OF THE QUARTER
The harder you work towards a goal the greater you will feel when you achieve it.
Robert McLean Head of Tech SME & Bizflex
A heartfelt thank you for this award. I was genuinely surprised when my name was announced—so much so that I had to double-check! My first reaction was, ‘Who on earth is Rob?’
1. What inspires and motivates you each day?
Providing for my family is a big driver for me. I’m also genuinely passionate about problem-solving and finding ways to improve processes—there’s always an opportunity to do better, and that keeps me going.
2. What advice will you give someone who wants to succeed in their career?
I’ve always believed in empowering and developing your team to eventually take over your role. When you invest in their growth, you create space for your own growth and development too. It’s a win-win approach that fosters a strong and capable team.
3. What characteristics do you believe help you succeed?
In my interview with Dave before I joined MC, he asked what I was looking for. My answer was simple: “I want to work in an environment where I can be myself.” That honesty and authenticity are key to how I work—I value open, real conversations and staying true to who I am.
4. How do you foster a positive and productive mindset within yourself and your team?
Building positive, open relationships with my team is essential. We’ve created a fun and supportive environment where we laugh, joke, and still get things done. At the same time, we’re able to have honest discussions that allow us to reflect, learn, and grow together.
5. Are there any books, podcasts, or other resources that have had a significant impact on your personal and professional growth?
I’m not an avid reader, but my experience over the years has been a key teacher. Along the way, there have been a few standout relationships—mentors and colleagues— who’ve had a meaningful impact on my growth and shaped the way I lead and work.
6. Do you have any habits or routines that you follow daily that you believe contribute to your high performance?
A few times a week—although it’s definitely tougher in winter—I start my day with a 5km walk around 6am. It’s a time for me to be present, take in my surroundings, and clear my head before the day begins.
7. Which of the MC values do you resonate with the most, and why?
Entrepreneurial. I really enjoy identifying challenges, finding practical solutions, and constantly looking for ways to improve. That mindset is something I carry with me in everything I do.
HELP US CHOOSE THE NEXT A-TEAM AWARD WINNER!
It’s time to celebrate the incredible work happening across our organization—and we need your voice to help us do it!
We’re now accepting votes for the next A-Team Award winner (for Q1: June 2025 – August 2025), and your input is essential.
This award is all about recognizing someone who has truly gone above and beyond this quarter—whether it’s through exceptional teamwork, innovation, leadership, or dedication.
Take a moment to think about who has made a positive impact on you or the team recently. Who inspires you? Who consistently brings their best?
VOTE NOW
Voting will be open until 15 September so don’t miss your chance to recognize a teammate who deserves the spotlight.
Let’s celebrate the best of what we do—together!
DEPARTMENT SPOTLIGHT MARKETING TEAM
PAM RIVKIND - Head of Marketing
How long have you been working at Merchant Capital?
I joined Merchant Capital in June 2023, so it’s been just over 2 years now. Time really does fly when you’re building something meaningful (and running on good coffee – Thanks Monds!)
What does your role involve, and what does a typical day at Merchant Capital look like for you?
As Head of Marketing, I lead a team focused on amplifying our brand, building strong partnerships, and delivering campaigns and content that truly resonate with our audience. My days are a fast-paced mix of strategy, creative & content reviews, aligning with internal teams, connecting with agency partners, and (of course) diving into data. I’m often getting my hands dirty - writing content, building campaigns, or refining reports - usually between back-to-back meetings! No two days are ever the same, and that’s exactly how I like it!
What excites you most about your role?
The pace, the purpose, and my people!
I’m driven by the opportunity to create work that actually makes a difference. Whether it’s empowering an SME through better funding education or launching a new product with our partners, there’s always a chance to shape something impactful. Plus, I get to collaborate with a smart, curious team that brings real heart and hustle to the table
Which company value resonates most with you, and why?
Entrepreneurial really resonates with me. I love that it encourages curiosity, ownership, and challenging the status quo. I’m all about pushing for better—whether it’s in the way we communicate, the tools we use, or the stories we tell. Being entrepreneurial means seeing opportunities others might miss and having the guts to go after them… with sleeves rolled up and the best team in town in tow.
MAROLE MATHABATHA - Brand and Campaign Manager
How long have you been working at Merchant Capital? One year and seven months.
What does your role involve, and what does a typical day at Merchant Capital look like for you? My role involves managing our brand and lead generation machine. A typical day involves either setting up the engine or ensuring that we are firing on all cylinders in digital marketing.
What excites you most about your role? No two days are ever the same.
Which company value resonates most with you, and why?
Entrepreneurial because innovation makes my blood boil.
NICOLE AMBROSE - Solutions and Partner Marketing Manager
How long have you been working at Merchant Capital?Just over six months.
What does your role involve, and what does a typical day at Merchant Capital look like for you?
I focus on marketing for our strategic partnerships and products, finding the best ways to take them to market in a way that resonates with the audience and drives maximum reach, impact, and conversion. It’s about using best practices, staying on trend, and making sure the message lands where and how it matters most. My days are a mix of campaign planning, content development, internal enablement, and working closely with teams across the business.
What excites you most about your role?
I really enjoy connecting the dots between people, ideas, and opportunities. It’s incredibly rewarding to see something come together that creates real impact and momentum throughout the company.
Which company value resonates most with you, and why?
Excellence is the value that truly resonates with me. I care about doing things properly, not just to tick a box, but because I believe thoughtful, creative, and purposeful work makes a difference. It’s about showing respect for the craft, the people involved, and the impact it can have.
THE POWERHOUSE BEHIND OUR BRAND!
NELSON MANDELA DAY
A special thanks to the Isiphosethu Foundation and everyone at Merchant Capital who donated towards the Blanket Drive for Nelson Mandela Day on 18 July 2025.
The blanket drive was a success, and we met our target of 55 blankets donated to the Othandweni Family Care Centre. Your contribution makes a phenomenal difference to the lives of the many underprivileged people in our community.
MERCHANT CAPITAL EMPLOYEE EQUITY COMMITTEE
We’re thrilled to announce the formation of the Merchant Capital Employment Equity Team! Your passion, insights, and innovative spirit are exactly what we need to drive real progress on our EE journey.
CLARIES WOLMARANS
JACOMINE KIELBLOCK
SAAJID CARRIM
MOHAMED OMAR
ALFRED RUWANDA
SIHLE MOYA
WELLNESS CORNER
Mindfulness Minutes
Mindfulness is a practice that involves paying attention to the present moment with openness and without judgment. It encourages awareness of your thoughts, body, and surroundings – that’s how to practice mindfulness in daily life. For many, mindfulness can feel like just another thing to tick off in a never-ending list of to-dos.
However, adding mindfulness practices into your daily routine doesn’t require significant time or complex techniques. Simple practices like the one we have mentioned below can make a massive difference.
Quick, Simple and Easy
Mindfulness Exercise
The 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Exercise
Why it works:
This quick mindfulness exercise helps to bring you back to the present moment and refocus on the world around you. It’s great for redirecting your attention when you’re lost in thought, overwhelmed by emotions, or simply want to stay more connected to the world around you.
How to do it:
Wherever you are, calmly take a look around you. Then name the following: five things that you can see, four things that you can feel, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste.
Notice how it feels to bring your attention back to the here and now.
Try the 5-4-3-2-1 exercise for yourself by clicking the link below.
TECH CORNER
The Real Danger of AI: What You Need to Know
AI has become an indispensable tool in recent years, and it is widely understood that if you’re not embracing AI, you risk being left behind.
With China investing billions to establish itself as an AI superpower, and tech and energy giants in the USA rolling out a $70 billion plan as part of their technological advancement, it is clear that AI is our future and is here to stay.
While AI offers numerous benefits, including increased efficiency and productivity, enhanced decision-making, improved customer experiences, and the ability to automate tasks and processes, it also poses risks that most of us don’t know about.
One of the biggest concerns is that AI systems can be biased, unfair, and difficult to understand. Many work like “black boxes,” meaning we don’t really know how they make decisions. This can lead to discrimination, mistakes, and a lack of accountability. AI also collects and uses huge amounts of personal data, which raises big privacy concerns.
AI is also changing the job mar k et. While it helps companies work faster and more efficiently, it’s replacing many routine jobs—especially in industries like transportation and data entry. At the same time, it’s creating new types of jobs that require tech skills. So, people will need to keep learning and adapting to stay ahead.
There are also bigger dangers. AI can be used to spread misinformation, manipulate opinions, and increase government surveillance. In some countries, facial recognition and predictive policing are already being used in ways that threaten civil rights. Even more alarming is the development of autonomous weapons—machines that can make deadly decisions without human input—which could lead to global security risks.
To reduce these dangers, experts say we need clear laws and safety rules, more transparency in how AI works, and better teamwork between tech experts, lawmakers, and ethicists. AI should be designed to benefit people—not harm them. With the right approach, we can use AI in safe, fair, and responsible ways.
COMING UP – COMING UP
WOMEN’S DAY AT MERCHANT CAPITAL
Date: 7th August 2025
Join us for a keynote and brunch with Dr. Vumi Msweli, Founder and CEO of Hesed Consulting and the Hesed Africa Foundation.
Dr. Vumi is a highly accomplished and dedicated executive, speaker, columnist, and career coach with nearly a decade of experience in financial services.
She has been recognised as one of the United Nations 50 under 50 Female Founders in the Middle East and Africa, Mail & Guardian’s Top 200 Young South Africans, CEO Magazine’s Pan-African Business Woman of the Year, and Africa’s Forty under 40.
Don’t forget to RSVP by accepting the meeting invite you received.
Celebrate women’s empowerment and learn how to build your personal brand and achieve your goals!
VENTURE VAULT LAUNCH
Date: 8th August 2025
Merchant Capital is dedicating its skills, t ime, and experience to fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among youth through our entrepreneurship incubator initiative for the second year in a row!
The Venture Vault program, in partnership with King David Linksfield School in Johannesburg, aims to help participating students develop entrepreneurship skills and gain hands-on experience with the guidance of seasoned mentors from Merchant Capital.
OUT OF OFFICE
Green Number #16833 into perpetuity
In June, I got my Comrades green (permanent) number. Ten Comrad es runs later, and I’m pinching (and questioning) myself.
5-year-old Jenna would be asking questions… We love running, bu t why are we running so far and repeatedly? I feel privileged to be able to chase this kind of (chosen) suffering and to have passions that keep the fire burning.
My wish for anyone reading this is that you have/find something you love enough to stick with for a lifetime – and that you choose to do hard things every now and then, because there’s real magic on the other side.
- Jenna Bennett (Channel Operations Manager)
FUN CORNER
Guess the movies based on these emojis
Did you know?
Most maps of the world are wrong. On most maps, the Mercator projection – first developed in 1569 – is still used. This method is wildly inaccurate and makes Alaska appear as large as Brazil and Greenland 14 times larger than it actually is.
For a map to be completely accurate, it would need to be life-size and round, not flat.
“
YOUR CORNER FILLED WITH HUMOUR, BRAINTEASERS & MORE LIGHTHEARTED FUN!
Dad joke...
Dad: What is the difference between a piano, a tuna, and a pot of glue?
Me: I don’t know.
Dad: You can tuna piano but you can’t piano a tuna.
Me: What about the pot of glue?
Dad: I knew you’d get stuck on that.
Inspirational Quote
I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.
- Thomas A Edison
