African PA Magazine - Issue 4

TITLE FOR PERSONAL AND EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS

THE AFRICAN PA April 2016 Edition

taking the

DIGITAL JUMP

&

Tips Tricks From Anel

Surrounding yourself with

POWER The Rise Of The

Virtual Assistant

BACK

THOLO MOTAUNG Man about purpose

the international executive personal assistant & secretaries summit Hosted by ABMC International in East Africa For The 4th Year Running Successfully, 2016 focus on Mentorship and Leadership

"Achieving Breakthroughs and Elevating your Success"

25 – 27th May 2016, Nairobi- Kenya

5TH - 27TH MAY 2016, INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL, NAIROBI, KENYA

2016 Summit Keynote Speakers Suezette Smit, Managing Director , Performance Development Interactive ,South Africa. http://www.performancedevelopment.co.za/ An International Professional Excellence Coach, Motivaional Speaker, Training Consultant , Team Building Facilitator and Fire Walk Master

Lucy Brazier, CEO of Marcham Publishing, http://executivesecretary.com/ "They refer her to the Oprah Winfrey of Executive personal Assistants" - Global

Anel Martin, C.E.O , Anel Martins Training http://www.anelmartin.co.za/ Finalist in the National Office Professional of the Year competition in 2009, PA of the Year 2011 and Pitman’s Super Achiever PA of the Year finalist in 2013.

She is a past president of PAFSA

Sarah Richson, http://www.sarahrichson.com/ HR Global Leader - Techno Brain Group, Mentor & Coach, Motivational Speaker" “The next Big Thing in HR & Leadership in Africa" International HR & Leadership Trainer

Enid Busolo Motivational Speaker & Former PA to Group, CEO AAR HOLDINGS

Florence Katono Senior Administration Assistant, Bank of Uganda Super Achiever, Pitman P.A of The Year 2015

About The Summit This is a three day Summit, where Administrative Professionals and Executive Assistants from around East Africa come together to learn, network, get motivated, and pick up skills to excel in their jobs. Our attendees will gain the training necessary to stay on top of the latest trends in their profession and strategies while finding a renewed motivation for their career.

This summit will form part of the AFRICANPA Magazine awards for EAST AFRICA PA Awards!You cannot afford to MISS this event visit www.AFRICANPA.com for nominations now!

Supporting & Host Organizations for the :

Who should attend?

Executive Assistants

Executive Officers

Faculty Support and Administration

Personal Assistants

Business Support

Executive Coordinator

Executive Support

Administrative Assistants

"THE PA AWARDS 2016 EAST AFRICA" in association with THE AFRICAN PA MAGAZINE

Administrative Managers

Why They Should Attend

About the PA Awards 2016 East Africa

You are the “go-to” person within your organization and your executive’s first line of offence and last line of defense.

The PA Awards 2016 East Africa will recognise and reward outstanding talent, diligence and commitment of the administrative that leads their companies to optimal performance.

The development of your role is in your hands and requires a proactive approach if you are to position yourself as an effective and respected business partner. In attending this summit, one will be able to:

This award is exclusively for Personal Assistants and Executive Assistants in East Africa i.e. Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi.

» Strengthen communication, decision making and emotional resilience skills. » Acquire effective strategies for coping with change in a diverse environment. » Develop proactive approaches for cultivating career advancement. » Optimize performance by positively influencing others

CATEGORIES The PA of the Year 2016 The PA Employer of the Year 2016 The PA Boss of the Year 2016

Access Business Management Conferencing (ABMC) International Head Office: Nairobi, Kenya Westlands, Mpaka Road, Mpaka Plaza, Suite No. 205 Tel No.: +254 20 4031000 Office Cell Line: +254 772 22 2004/5/7 Email: info@intl-abmc.com Web: www.intl-abmc.com

It will be held on 27th May 2016 in Nairobi, Kenya.

A.B.M.C INTERNATIONAL LTD ACCESS BUSINESS MANAGEMENT CONFERENCING INTERNATIONAL LTD LEADERS IN BUSINESS TRAINING

CONTENTS

6

MOVIE REVIEW

7

BOOK REVIEW

8

10

12

COVER PERSONALITY Tholo Motaung

CAREERS Easy ways to have more fun at work while staying productive

CAREERS

Rise of the virual assistant

18

CAREERS Tips and tricks from Anel Martin

THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

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CONTENTS

20 24 26 28 30 32 34

2

PA SENSEI Breaking down barriers

40

TECH Taking the digital jump

TECH 12 throwback tech that defined the 90s

SPORTS An open letter to all those who would accuse Kenyan runnersof doping

FASHION

Suit it up Corporate fashion

BEAUTY

Multi tasking skin care products while saving town

FOOD

Baking bread at home

THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

LAST WORD

Surround yourself with Power

editors

NOTE

EDITOR : Esther O. Ochieng

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER : Joseph Mathenge

DIRECTOR : Victoria Karanja

GRAPHICS : Paul Musee

TBT - Throwback Tech

S

o now that we are steady and settling into this new adventure, the publication is growing at a steady pace internally and externally. A social media executive, Ivy, joined the team a few weeks back bringing the total internal staff to 5. We have also expanded our print distribution from just Kenya into Uganda and South Africa with the March issue. Exhilarating!

Now, technology in the new age has brought forth a change in the way of things. A change in lifestyle, the way we interact, learn, live and mostly work. Digital innovations have made such a huge impact on the norm of life and still has an unforeseen horizon into the future.

From the issue no 3 we promised tointroduce a ‘sports and tech’ column to engage our male readers while expanding our content offering. Well, Alex came guns blazing and his two articles are leaving a scorch. You will find yourself reflecting on the two issues he has decided to tackle ad kindle over them.

In this issue, while jumping on the tech theme, Throwback Tech, the movie and book reviews have been of not so recent publications but still media that has left a mark and definitely demand a throwback. We are still south and this time spoke with Tholo, a gentleman from the Vaal area. We get excited when we get to feature male PAs and EAs especially because they are the minority group in this profession especially in Africa. Tholo takes us through his unique experience of being a male PA in South Africa.

There is a variety of articles that are blue and tech promising to keep you engaged.

As Sarah Richson chronicles in her PA Sensei column, “this month let us all deliberately position ourselves to breaking barriers”.

Don’t forget to write to us, comment or suggest at comments@africanpa.com

Mercy Watetu mercy@africanpa.com Hezbon Michira hmichira@africanpa.com

MARKETING : marketing@africanpa.com

CIRCULATION: circ@africanpa.com

CONTRIBUTORS Alex Roberts Anel Martin Esther O. Ochieng Mercy Watetu Matshego Rawula Michele Thwaits Michira Kombo Muthoni Njue

Available Online! You can also read the stories of The African PA magazine online at www.africanpa.com. Subscribe to get updates on www.africanpa.com/subscribe.

Views expressed by contributors in this publication are not necessarily those held by THE AFRICAN PA or its members of staff. All facts printed in THE AFRICAN PA were confirmed to be correct by the time the magazine went to print.

ADVERTISING & SALES :

Ngenia Kuria Sandy Omollo Sarah Richson Susan Engelbrecht Yvonne Achieng’

TITLE FOR PERSONAL AND EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS

THE AFRICAN PA

The African PA Magazine Mpaka Plaza, 2nd Floor, Suite 205 Westlands, Nairobi, Kenya.

G-Line: +254 20 4031000 Office Cell Line: +254 772 22 2004/5/7 Email: africanpa@africanpa.com Web: www.africanpa.com

LEARN NEW SKILLS AT THE CHARTERED PERSONAL EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS ™ ( CPEA ) Continuous education is key to career progression, hence the design of the Chartered Personal Executive Assistants – CPEA™ to further enhance the skills of management assistants in Africa. This course offers from international top presenters topics that are of essential interest to PAs, EAs and Management Assistants.

4th - 8th April 2016 | Best Western Hotel, Accra, Ghana 13th - 17th June 2016 | Intercontinental Hotel, Nairobi - Kenya 20th - 24th June 2016 | Intercontinental Hotel, Dubai - U.A.E 25th - 29th July 2016 | Johannesburg - South Africa

THE ADDED BENEFITS YOU WILL RECEIVE INCLUDE: The ability to use the designation CPEA® on your business card and resume Membership verification to the AAPM® Access to the AAPM® network and body of information online

Access to the AAPM international journal Published online The CPEA® shows that you have completed highest professional level in Executive Administration and Management education and you have substantial experience in managing projects on a regional and global level

Email us: info@intl-abmc.com info@africanpa.com Don’t miss this event.

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THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

TM

CHARTERED PERSONAL EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT - CPEA This five day course will arm the delegates with the necessary skills and techniques to meet and exceed the organizations expectations on them.

It aims at differentiating the attendees from the rest of the mainstream practicing personal assistants by equipping them with the most innovative techniques of performing their duties.

It will additionally open their eyes to numerous opportunities for growth and professional advancement.

Who Should Attend Personal Assistants

Executive Assistants

Group Secretaries

Senior and Junior Secretaries

Office Administrators

Project Officers

Departmental Secretaries

Office Managers

Office Executives

The added benefits you will receive include: The ability to use the designation CPEA速 on your business card and resume Membership verification to the AAPM速 Access to the AAPM速 network and body of information online Access to the AAPM international journal Published online

Event Provider & Host Access Business Management Conferencing (ABMC) International Head Office: Nairobi, Kenya Westlands, Mpaka Road, Mpaka Plaza, Suite No. 205 Tel No: +254 20 4031000 Office Cell: +254 20 3742004/5 Email: info@intl-abmc.com Web: www.intl-abmc.com

The CPEA速 shows that you have completed highest professional level in Executive Administration and Management education and you have substantial experience in managing projects on a regional and global level Membership to the American Society of Administrative Professionals (ASAP)

A.B.M.C INTERNATIONAL LTD ACCESS BUSINESS MANAGEMENT CONFERENCING INTERNATIONAL LTD LEADERS IN BUSINESS TRAINING

THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

5

BOOKREVIEW SUNDAYS BY SANDY

By Sandy Omollo - Kenya

I

t’s Friday night and I have no book to read so I decide to indulge in a movie and the only thing I can get my hand on Gone Girl. I check out the ratings over the internet and we have a winner even though Ben Affleck is never my first choice. It’s a thriller.

Interesting. And is based on a book, more interesting. I watch the movie and I thoroughly enjoy it. Obviously I have to look for the book and after reading the book, as usual, I feel shortchanged but I feel like I should recommend both and leave the vote to you.

Gone Girl is based on a married couple, Nick and Amy Dunne, who, are the co-narrators of Gillian Flynn's dazzlingly dark, intelligent thriller. The novel opens as Nick finds that Amy has gone missing on the day of their fifth wedding anniversary. Their front door is open, the coffee table shattered, books scattered, and Amy, who has been miserable since Nick dragged her to his Missouri home town to care for his dying mother, is gone.

The writing switches between Nick's narrative and Amy's diary as the hunt for the beautiful, blond consumes the attention of America's media. What really happened to Amy? And why?

The revelations of their financial trouble, domestic disputes don’t plead with Nicks case. He seems obviously guilty or isn’t he? The book theme is based on the theory of hell has no fury like a woman scorned. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and movie as well, hope you do too.

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THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

MOVIEREVIEW Throwback Tech ( TBT )

By Mercy Watetu, Kenya

AVATAR Cast: Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Sigourney Weaver Rating: 8.0/10 [IMDB Rating] Genre: Adventure/Fantasy/Sci Fi Runtime: 2h 42m Director: James Cameron Jake (Sam Worthington) is a paraplegic war veteran who “jumps” at the opportunity to travel to an alien world called Pandora. Here he is meant to gather Intel on the “Na’vi” a species that appears primitive but is quite evolved in exchange for a spinal surgery that will fix his legs. Once on this planet, Jake discovers there’s more to the “Na’vi” people as he falls in love with a beautiful Na'vi female, Neytiri. As Jake's relationship with Neytiri deepens, along with his respect for the Na'vi, he faces the ultimate test as he leads an epic conflict that will decide nothing less than the fate of an entire world. Starting off this movie, I did not know what to expect but at the end of it, this was one movie worth watching again, maybe not on big screen but hey, you could always stream it at the comfort of your home.

IRON MAN 2 Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Mickey Rourke, Gwyneth Paltrow Rating: 7.0/10 [IMDB Rating] Genre: Action/ Adventure/Sci Fi Runtime: 2h 4m Director: Jon Favreau If you saw the first Iron Man, then you know that the world already knows the identity of Iron Man. Billionaire inventor, Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) is now at a world’s loss as the military wants him to divulge secrets of his armoured suit and share his technology know how. He is afraid that this information will fall into the wrong hands and his fears are soon confirmed. Watch as Tony forms alliances with Lt. Rhodes (Don Cheadle) and Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow) and confronts the new powerful forces as he struggles to keep his father’s legacy. The reason I chose this particular one of the Iron Man series is simply because it had the best action and visuals of the entire sequence. If you haven’t seen the first, do not start with this sequel, go back, start and finish on the third; you won’t be disappointed.

I, ROBOT Cast: Will Smith, Bridget Moynahan, Bruce Greenwood Rating: 7.1 /10 [IMDB Rating] Genre: Action/ Mystery /Sci Fi Runtime: 1h 55m Director: Alex Proyas IRobot is one of Will Smith’s better movies. He has a way of getting into his character and emerging as one person engaging you throughout the entire movie length. In IRobot, it is the year 2035, and more than the self -driving cars, the major attraction has to be the robots that have been integrated seamlessly into the world of humans. The robots have but only three rules to adhere to; robots cannot hurt a human or allow humans to come to harm, a robot must obey a human’s orders, a robot must protect its own existence. Needless to say, detective Del Spooner (Smith) isn’t exactly trusting of these so-called goody-goody robots that haven’t ever hurt anyone and when lead scientist behind the robots, Dr. Alfred Lanning (Cromwell) apparently commits suicide, he smells foul play. This is a definite TBT movie for everyone and if you didn’t get a chance, get it for the weekend in!

THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

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CAREERS

Easy ways to have more fun at work while staying productive

By Susan Engelbrecht, South Africa

W

ork is not supposed to be fun! That’s why it is called work. The result of this opinion states that if you see someone having fun at work, they’re slowing down. But, research shows that this dull view of work is complete wrong. But what benefits can humor bring to the workplace?

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THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

It helps build camaraderie.

It increases productivity.

It enhances employee satisfaction and loyalty.

It encourages creativity and innovation for a better workplace and bigger profits.

A fun work environment is one in which formal and informal activities occur regularly that are designed to uplift people’s spirits and remind people of their value to their managers, their organisation, and to each other.

Activities can comprise the use of humor, games, celebrations, opportunity for self-development

for the office can include hula hoops, wooden blocks, origami paper, and so on.

Most people will spend one-third of their working lives at work. If you’re not having fun at work, you should definitely start looking for ways to change that. Live your best life by having fun at work!

1. Decorate your workplace.

Personalise your workspace with things such as family and pet photos, fresh flowers and bright colours that you appreciate and will ensure you are uplifted throughout the day.

2. Build a wall of fame. Decorate it with awards, thank you notes from managers, clients, news clippings of your company’s successes etc.

Photo Credit: www.smarterpayroll.net

and recognition of achievements and milestones.

Imagine waking up in the morning looking forward to the fun that you’re going to have at work that day! This can become a reality easily by coming up with ways to have more fun at work!

3. Create a humor bulletin board.

Get your departmental PAs to look for cartoons and jokes which poke fun at the circumstances that cause negativity or conflict in the office. Start with a blank board every Monday. Make it a team effort.

4. Mary Owen from Oracle Corp. says: “We are under a lot of pressure and toys are our comfort. We need them like Linus needs his blanket.” Toys

5. Have a pizza and ice cream social each time an important goal is reached.

6. Take candid photos of employees at work and hang the pictures up on the bulletin board.

7. A “fun PA committee” should be formed to find effective ways to add fun to work. The committee should consist of PAs from a wide range of departments.

8. Celebrate birthdays once a month. Have cake and give those who are celebrating their birthday that month the opportunity to “Spin the Wheel” and win a prize.

Right now you might be thinking, “I’d love to do these things at work, but I’m not the boss”. If that’s the situation, arm yourself with all the evidence that’s out there that proves that having fun at work makes employees more productive and more creative.

Then, convince “the powers to be” to introduce some of the activities described above into the workplace.

I’m sure that you now realise the benefits of having fun at work. To summarise: - Play encourages us to approach opportunities instead of retreating.

- Play promotes exploration.

- Play encourages the feeling of being totally absorbed in what you’re doing.

Most people will spend one-third of their working lives at work. If you’re not having fun at work, you should definitely start looking for ways to change that.

The ideas mentioned above are a good place to start. Live your best life by having fun at work! I dare you.

THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

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CAREERS

RISE OF THE Virtual Assistant

By Michele Thwaits, South Africa

V

irtual assistance has become more popular in the past decade and especially due to the sophistication of technology. We now have our variety of needs being met by processes or applications but not all needs will be met hence still the need of an assistant. A virtual assistant no less.

Having being a PA for over 30 years now and my dream was to one-day work for myself, be in control of my own time, spend less time travelling to and from work – time which could definitely be used more productively and yet earn a living doing what I love to do.

After being retrenched at the end of 2015, I felt that this was the gentle push I needed to go into doing what I enjoy doing and what brings a smile to my face every day. One of the areas I on as my own business is virtual

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THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

Photo Credit: www.holtonadmin.com assistance. Once I started researching how to go about getting started as a Virtual Assistant (VA) and how it worked, the more I like the idea of doing it.

So what is a VA? Simply put, a VA is a highly skilled, independent professional who provides administrative, technical and/or creative business support services.

They are your off-site administrative professional. If you need an administrative assistant but don’t have the office space or don’t want to pay the fringe benefits for a full time employee or you don’t have office software /equipment needed to run your business or for whatever reason – a VA is your answer.

There are many websites one can join to be a part of the VA network worldwide and where a range of services is offered. On many of these websites you need

to put in your bid where you are bidding against 100s of other people all over the world for work.

You register on these sites and your key words on the type of work you are wanting to do.

When you search it brings up only those jobs that match your key words. And then you bid. The bids are usually priced and you can either adjust or accept the bidding price inserted for you.

The websites to look at are Upwork, Freelancer, VA Networking and People Per Hour to name a few.

There are many websites one can join to be a part of the VA network worldwide and where a range of services is offered. On many of these websites you need to put in your bid where you are bidding against 100s of other people all over the world for work. You register on these sites and your key words on the type of work you are wanting to do. When

you search it brings up only those jobs that match your key words. And then you bid. The bids are usually priced and you can either adjust or accept the bidding price inserted for you.

The websites to look at are Upwork, Freelancer, VA Networking and People Per Hour to name a few.

Another way is to promote yourself as a VA. Even if you are still working and want to get started, just do it. Create a website for yourself – there are so many online do-it-yourself websites where you can get one set up.

Make use of your social media and your support network to help get you started. I was fortunate to have built a good support network over the years that I worked as a PA. I got involved in PA forums, training,facilitating and speaking engagements. I did a coaching course to help me enhance my speaking and interaction with people and of course to help others empower themselves. Do whatever you can to help yourself get on track. I have created my website Empowered 4 Success and it definitely helps – business is booming.

According to TAB Virtual Business Support, here are 5 advantages to hiring a VA: 1. No overhead Virtual employees require no additional overhead including office space, computers, hardware, etc. Research shows that a traditional employee’s overhead can cost up to 30% of their actual salary.

2. Increased efficiency and productivity Outsourcing to virtual employees allows you to concentrate on the most important aspects of your business – thus increasing efficiency and productivity. Because your virtual employee is already trained in their skillset, you do not have to invest money or time in their training.

3. Additional help for your existing workforce A VA can be an extra set of hands for a busy workforce. When your current employee is overloaded, simply delegate to your virtual employee and only pay them for the time used.

4. Cost effective Instead of having a fixed schedule, a VA is only paid for the hours you use. In addition, these are also “productive” hours meaning you aren’t paying for procrastination!

The average traditional employee has 2 – 3 “unproductive” hours per day.

5. No traditional responsibilities When you have VAs, you free yourself of certain employer responsibilities such as paying for taxes, vacations, sick leave, holidays, insurance benefits, training, etc.

So what services can a VA offer you? According to Tawnya Sutherland, founder of VA Networking, here are 10 things a VA can offer: 1. A VA can assist with marketing support, increasing clientele and freeing up valuable time to service customers. They also can handle all marketing and publicity helping to spread the word about product or services.

2. Many virtual assistants specialise in web design and search engine optimisation.

3. A VA can make presentations shine by giving it that polished professional presentation which is sure to capture audiences and promote all products and services.

4. A VA can be instrumental in proofing, editing, and typing all correspondence, pleadings,

manuscripts, etc., thus allowing a more professional edge to all business communications.

5. A VA can take over all bookkeeping, bills and accounts payable.

6. A VA can plan company events or outings providing for an enjoyable and memorable time for all.

7. Because VAs work on an “as needed basis” and only when have work, hiring a VA can save money. Clients only pay for the work done, and don’t have to pay for benefits, equipment, or supplies. What a cost savings that can be.

8. A VA can save space because s/he works from his/her office as an independent contractor.

9. Hiring a VA can save time as will not have to spend time hiring an employee or temporary help, as well as training the new staff.

10. A VA can schedule appointments, manage calendars, organise desks, and make running a business so much smoother.

Tawnya Sutherland is the founder of The Virtual Assistant Networking Forum, the largest member based virtual assistant global networking community for aspiring and successful virtual assistants online.

I waited until I was retrenched to get my wakeup call and to get on with doing what I have always wanted to do. You don’t have to wait that long – start now so that if and when you do get to the point where you are either retrenched, retired or simply can’t find work – VA is the answer. It takes a lot of work and marketing yourself up front but in the end it is worth it.

THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

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COVER PERSONALITY

Man about a purpose Once again we venture to the bustling South African city of Johannesburg where THOLO MOTAUNG works at the Vaal University of Technology. He tells us more…

By Yvonne Achieng’

T

holo’s career has quite an interesting beginning… he was open not afraid to try it all. His story is fascinating because he has basically done it all. From volunteering to being a Control Room Attendant, a Sales Assistant to a receptionist, then a Basic Life Support Paramedic; nothing was totally off limits for the ambitious young man who was unable to pursue his studies due to financial constraints.

Soon he was also juggling short courses in office management. His brief stints at office work soon made him realise he was passionate about this type of work. Subsequently, he worked for ER24 after-hours and on weekends while he was still working as a receptionist. Around that time he realised that he was more passionate about office support, particularly management support

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THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

even more than being on the road. He started working hard and began to climb the professional ladder ever so patiently. Tholo is passionate about his job.

“This career chose me”, he says.

“My love for it grew over the years.

Our profession has evolved over the years and it is now playing a critical role in supporting all levels of management to reach the set strategic goals of an organisation.

We are at the heart of all operations and are expected to know and understand organisational issues at every level.” I have no choice but to agree as I internalise all the nitty-gritty that makes up the job description of these guys.

He carries on, “This career does not only have exciting opportunities but it is also challenging and demanding, so only high performing individuals are able to stand out.

I believe these are the fundamental reasons that made me choose to pursue this career.”

We can all agree that in the current business climate, owning the title of PA or EA is an important one and can greatly impact an organisation in a great way. Yes, so it is critical for a PA/EA to know and understand the strategic goals, mission and vision of the organisation to be able to provide the necessary support, coordination and more often than you would imagine, crucial leadership. According to research findings that were recently shared at the Executive Secretary Live conference held in Johannesburg, 62% of executives see their assistant’s contribution as equivalent to that of their management team or higher.

So it makes sense that more and more executives are investing highly in having a well-educated and trained pool of EAs and PAs to choose from. “Look at all the things we do under the umbrella of being an EA / PA; business

Tholo is currently the PA to the Director for PR and Marketing in the corporate Affairs Department at the Vaal University of Technology. administration, project management, events management, written and verbal communication skills, computer skills, emotional intelligence even leadership skills!

That is a whole lot. I know of organisations that are investing in the academic development of their PA’s/EA’s because they understand the return on investment that the organisation will get.” This is a great step in the right direction with the entire mind-set of their worth. It’s about time too.

It has certainly been a rewarding career for Tholo. I can tell as he describes his best experiences at work: “I worked with managers at different levels and being able to support them to achieve their pre-determined objectives as directed by the organisational strategy. I am currently working for an inspirational and supportive Director: Public Relations and Marketing. She challenges me to be the best I can be every day. I have been named “The Star Administrator” in our institution’s internal newsletter published on the 4th of March this year. This was an indication that my contribution and hard work is being recognised within the University.” He is quick to point out that it has not been all pink, scented roses, as it is with most every occupations out there no

matter how much we love it. “In the pursuit of developing my career, I have in the past, applied for senior positions in the fraternity but was not appointed due to my gender.

Through follow ups when I tried to get feedback, I discovered on several occasions that the only reason it was not possible for me to be appointed to fill those positions was because of reservations that as a man it would not be possible to be competent.

I have since found a way around that though. I started to work hard in ways that made me more recognised for my work so that I can be judged based on my expertise. The passion that I have for my career and to support and empower other PA’s/EA’s has helped me overcome such challenges. The understanding of abilities and expertise that I possess has also made me to be more resilient and focused.”

Plus, his day reads like a book, if the book was titled Rush Hour.

Listen to this…he prefers to be in the office between 7:30 and 7:45 am, giving him enough time to settle in well before his manager arrives. A typical day starts with reading newspapers, updating his manager’s diary and attending to emails. He then attends to urgent tasks that have been delegated to him. However, each day is different – which is what makes his job exciting, the unpredictability of it all. It drives him. Corporate Affairs is a fast paced environment and requires one to be able to prioritise effectively and pay great attention to detail.

He is generally responsible for managing the administrative affairs and functions of all the departments that report to the Director. Departments like Marketing and Public Relations, be that pertaining to internal or external issues, Marketing and Branding, Corporate Communications, Student

THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

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COVER PERSONALITY Recruitment, Alumni Relations and Printing Services. This includes providing guidance and assistance to all these departments, to adhere to policies that govern the day to day operations of his section in pursuit of the strategic direction of the institution. With all the duties that he performs, he ensures that his deadlines are met and set targets are achieved. And as mundane as this may sound to the outside world, Tholo cannot imagine it any other way. His days usually end between 4:30 and 5:00 pm although he sometimes cannot avoid the odd late nights in the office. What can he say, it comes with the territory.

On the home front, Tholo has been happily married for six years to the beautiful and supportive Thembi Motaung who works as a lecturer at the Vaal University of Technology. He doesn’t have any children yet but is already getting good practise because of his wife’s twin sister’s children who often visit on weekends.

THOLO’S MINUTIAE A good PA’s traits?

Effective communication, great planning skills, attention to detail and professionalism. These are key.

Award and achievements under your belt?

• I established and led the Vaal University of Technology Administrators Forum (VUTAF) since 2011. (VUTAF is an internal PA network at our institution which was established with an objective of creating a platform for empowerment and networking opportunities of all PAs.) • Was runner-up for the Office Professional of the year Award in the leadership category in 2014.

• Became a member of EUMA and was also appointed to be a board member of Association for Office Professionals of South Africa in 2015.

• Was profiled in a Canadian online publication called Exceptional EA in 2015.

Can you fit your whole fist in your mouth?

It depends on how wide open my mouth is.

Who would you let punch you directly in the face?

My niece, she does it all the time when we play.

What song best describes you?

I Smile by Kirk Franklin.

What was the last gift you gave someone?

I bought my wife a pair of earrings from the exhibitors at the conference that I attended.

What’s your favourite jam?

One in a million by Ne-Yo

How many times a week do you hurt yourself trying to dance in the shower?

I am actually a good dancer from my high school years so I never hurt myself because it comes naturally to me. It’s one of my hidden talents!

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THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

HOTELS

RESORTS

SAFARI LODGES CAMPS

Credit: www.githubusercontent.com

CAREERS

TIPS& TRICKS from

Anel Martin

By Anel Martin, South Africa 18

THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

Credit: www.hbjzds.com

I

am often asked what my top tips would be to other assistants based on my career experiences. The five tips below have stood me in good stead and I am sure that they can add value to yours.

1. Network It is essential to network with others not only in your direct team or even your service organisation but company and industry wide. It is critical to know who does what, what you can learn from them and also what you can share with them.

Networking with various individuals will assist you to identify and solve problems in your job. The saying goes “It is not what you know, but who you know” nowhere is this more true than in the daily life of an office professional.

Best ways to network are face to face at events and via social media. It is essential to see each interaction as a networking opportunity but remember that

Information is well and truly at our finger tips. Make sure that you utilise this amazing resource.

3. Pool resources Engage with your colleagues and peers to create a portal for shared information, templates and company information, be it a website, SharePoint portal, a CD or even a booklet. You have already spent the time developing content and templates as part of your daily work, share it and encourage others to do the same. We can all work smarter, not harder. Learn to leverage on others skills and talents while sharing your own!

I would encourage you to start or join an internal PA forum at your company or in your area. There is

5. Communicate Office professionals are hesitant to speak up, be it about their achievements, their challenges or about poor work situations.

We need to learn to speak up in an assertive but respectful way.

We need to claim recognition if none is given, once all the hard work is done ensure that you tell others about it! Your manager or team is often too busy with what they need to achieve to take notice, there is nothing wrong with highlighting your achievements if the opportunity presents itself.

Always keep an open mind when people give you feedback, not all of it is going to be good, take onboard what you can use from it

Always keep an open mind when people give you feedback, not all of it is going to be good, take onboard what you can use from it and discard the rest. you should never network with the intent of getting something from the other person but rather try to add value to those you meet. If you are generous and helpful you will build an exceptional network which will add tremendous value to your life and career. Build your networks and relationships before you need them.

2. When in doubt “Google” The internet is a fantastic resource, when you are starting up a new project and you need help you can surf the web for tips, tricks and training manuals.

It may be information about a destination the boss is travelling to or a venue for a team building!

Find it all and much more on the web.

YouTube has a great many “how to” and tutorial videos that can guide you step by step on anything from Excel to setting up your new smartphone. There are also a great many resources, blogs and free e-books available online.

strength in numbers. You can live forever and you still won’t know everything, so why not create power with sharing and collaboration.

4. Get creative and produce high quality work When creating a product, document or any other output, make sure you make it as unique as you are. Doing something that no one else can do makes you a valued commodity. Embrace your special talents and be creative and innovative. Also build this product as if you are doing it for a client and you will be paid for the job, this will help you focus on quality and speed while developing it.

Strive to make it as professional and error free as possible.

In the new economy people will pay more for something that is unique. Most companies are trying to do everything cheaper and faster but on the other side of the spectrum are people creating interesting and custom things and being paid premium rates to do so.

and discard the rest. Get ongoing feedback on what can be improved or added. Make regular debriefs with your boss a habit.

You will be able to track improvement, identify areas that need work and also have the opportunity to find out what is working well.

Talking to other people also stimulates new and exciting ideas.

Make time to collaborate and network in a meaningful way.

Listening is by far the most important aspect of communication for office professionals. Without the ability to listen and understand we cannot do our jobs effectively. I encourage each of you to start focusing on your own listening skills. Listen to understand, not to respond. Test your understanding by asking questions and keep asking questions till you are clear on what needs to be done. This will ensure your long term success as a PA and help you improve your understanding and relationships with others.

THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

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PA SENSEI

Photo Credit: www.learntelehealth.org

THE AFRICAN PA SENSEI:

BREAKING DOWN

BARRIERS

By Sarah Richson, Kenya

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THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

O

n 24th March, I had the privilege of being invited to speak on the subject of Breaking Barriers. Barriers can be seen or unseen but we all know how powerful such barriers can be in limiting our growth potential both professionally and personally. We began by just defining the word barrier as ‘a circumstance or

2. Lie – You should be a certain way

obstacle that keeps people or things apart or prevents communication or progress’.

We then followed this definition closely with a visualisation moment where we each shared a clear description of a physical or metaphorical barrier and some were asked to describe what they saw. The following words emerged in the descriptions; a big steel gate; a prison door; a person standing in the way; a heavy burden slowing the carrier down; a wave of emotion.

It was a very interactive session and the room was extremely charged up by the time we finished. I enjoy teaching this series because it is about raising awareness as much as it expounds on practical conceptual thinking.

We finished off with commitment statements that the group will apply all the lessons learnt. As I walked away from the session and reflected on the deep need for this discussion to permeate the lives of many I decided to share this wonderful session with you, my African Sensei audience immediately.

Most barriers in our lives are messaged and ingrained in our mind through perpetuating lies handed down through family generations, friends, books and even superstition.

1. Lie – Career steps are supposed to be a certain way

same industry or experience in a similar role. Careers are diversifying quite quickly and this traditional approach does not serve today’s audience or the millennial generation. Right now companies are rightsizing and jobs are short-term. Companies don’t need perfection, but they want people who are the ‘fastest with the mostest!’ The employees who have garnered multiple experiences albeit across industries or roles are rapidly becoming attractive to companies that want to manage manpower costs while enjoying added value from a leaner multi-talented team.

We are often told when growing up by trusted advisors that career steps move upwards or up a ladder, right? In fact, I always provoke HR practitioners who send away candidates ‘purely’ on the basis of experience in the

Multi-talented individuals have broad experiences and most of all varied exposures. This therefore forms the basis for the fantastic ability to appreciate and bring on board multiple perspectives and accommodate dynamic roles.

We agreed there are many barriers we face in life and work and navigating these successfully is about choice and growth. Most barriers in our lives are messaged and ingrained in our mind through perpetuating lies handed down through family generations, friends, books and even superstition. I mention two of the key lies and barriers below.

I don’t know about you but I can for sure testify that I have often encountered the dilemma of “who” I need to be for different people. The world can be very confusing with everyone trying to drive their own agenda through your life. If you allow it you could be that single vessel expected to carry oils, hot water, ice, milk and perfume simultaneously! Is that even possible? Then what would we call this concoction?

If we all fall foul of this lie we will never get to understand who we really are at our best and even more importantly, at our worst.

We are so busy playing the lead acting role in the movie called life – that we forget to question what is real and what is imagined to be ideal. Ideal is relative. It changes from person to person, institution to institution and from culture to culture. To lock down people into a square or a circle and say to them ‘you must be a certain way in order to fit’ is prison outside prison itself.

Another way this lie exhibits itself is where others set standards based on themselves for everyone else. This has led to the wrong connotation of what success and failure look like. I often say to people there are 3 truths, your truth, my truth and the truth!

You are an original, stop limiting yourself to other people’s versions of who you are or should be. This month let us all deliberately position ourselves to breaking barriers.

Please respond back and share your thoughts and experiences with breaking barriers on comments@africanpa.com

THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

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ADVERTORIAL Executive Assistants and Secretaries Summit is filling up fast

T

aking place on 25-27 May 2016 at the deluxe Intercontinental Hotel Nairobi, the next EA and Secretaries Summit promises to be a must-attend event.

Spaces are filling up fast, so register now to secure your place today.

Plus, you’ll have the chance to celebrate exceptional PAs and EAs at our first time ever PA Awards East Africa gala dinner, featuring entertainment and a fun photo booth. Some of the firms attending include EABL, Seven Seas Technologies, Amnesty International, Bible Society of Uganda and many more.

As a delegate, you’ll have the opportunity to network with other PAs and EAs from across Africa from a different range of industries, learn new tools and strategies for work and life.

To register for one of the remaining complimentary delegate spaces, please contact Hannah at hannah@intl-abmc.com.

The summit also offers a series of high impact sessions on the latest strategies in the PA field hosted by industry leaders. Previous attendees have called the sessions “invaluable”. The full line-up is already confirmed, call us for a complete brochure.

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For more information on the summit, visit www.intl-abmc.com.

If you’re a supplier who’s interested in meeting with senior-level PAs at PA Life Summit, please contact Mercy at mercy@africanpa.com.

Delegates follow proceedings at the Chartered Personal Executive Assistant (CPEA) Event held on 14th - 16th March 2016 at the Hotel Intercontinental, Nairobi - Kenya

Chartered Personal Executive Assistants (CPEA) Event, 26th -30th October 2015 in Accra, Ghana

Delegates follow proceedings at the Chartered Personal Executive Assistant (CPEA) Event held on 14th - 16th March 2016 at the Hotel Intercontinental, Nairobi - Kenya

Anel Martin, a well known PA trainer from South Africa, at the Chartered Personal Executive Assistant (CPEA) Event held on14th - 16th March 2016 at the Hotel Intercontinental, Nairobi - Kenya

THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

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TECH

Credit: www.hbjzds.com

taking the

DIGITAL JUMP 24

THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

By Alex Roberts, Kenya

never been uttered from the lips of someone who dares to call themselves intelligent.

Basically it doesn’t make sense for a 45-year-old who is living in his mother’s basement to tell you absolutely anything about how you have to hustle until you ‘earn’ your opportunity. No one knows the hustle that you’ve been through except for you, the length of the hustle doesn’t negate how hard things were or how much you pushed for your digital dream to become a reality. This ‘earning it’ is not only ridiculous, it’s a serious detriment to the young and brilliant who might actually find themselves holding the spark of something incredible in their hands. Here’s a free hint: everyone else is trying to spark that same fire, they often have more experience, more funding, more marketing reach and better contacts padding their brand new iPhone’s memory banks.

E

veryone gets that Nairobi is the new frontier of investment. Businesses are popping up hand over fist at a rate that was simply unfathomable even as recent as five years ago. Yet, there are many who sit back on the sidelines, deathly afraid of risking it all and getting in the game. Not long ago there have been many voices calling out their dissent, their innate dissatisfaction with all of the young up and comers, the millennials so to speak, who are trying to take their turn falling elbows deep into what is rapidly becoming a trough full of money.

“Sit back and wait,” They’ll cry, “I struggled for decades before eventually cracking through that ceiling and making it with my own creative vision.” A bigger crock has

This is the Silicon Savannah, a label that Kenya should not only wear proudly but carry forth as the nation’s business banner with a battle cry into the 21st century. We know that you, underappreciated office worker, sitting idly by at your desk while the next great idea for digital integration bangs itself against the inside of your head, have your own doubts for your own reasons. Can you really make it? Will the big tech players be interested? Is there a market for your innovation? Will you lose everything and be forced to retreat to ‘shags’ where you’ll live out the rest of your life in anonymity?

Everything is a risk in this life, but tech is one area that you don’t have certain ‘necessary’ costs that can weigh down and destroy other businesses. Are you making gigantic plates of specialised glass that require Ksh 12 million ovens just to make? Not so much, it’s just

Everything is a risk in this life, but tech is one area that you don’t have certain ‘necessary’ costs that can weigh down and destroy other businesses. Are you making gigantic plates of specialised glass that require Ksh 12 million ovens just to make? Not so much, it’s just you and your laptop, wherever you can �ind connection others can connect to you.

Why wait? Everyone in the world, not just Kenya is clamoring for the latest and greatest.

The message to all stuck treading water in this digital explosion rings fairly simple: ignore them, you’re much better off on your own. Too harsh? Definitely not, too many times has a simply once in a lifetime chance passed someone by, only to be wasted down in regret for the rest of their life. All those older critics, pushing heavily down on the dreams that you are in charge of may have already been through their age of golden opportunity and squandered it to the same fears that they’re now projecting onto your start up idea for creating an app.

you and your laptop, wherever you can find connection others can connect to you. Why wait?

Everyone in the world, not just Kenya is clamoring for the latest and greatest. Ever hear that term ‘golden-age’? Well, you’re living in one, right now, the golden age of digital. It’s a time in history that is incredibly exciting, especially for the tech-minded, the gifted, those with an idea and a laptop. This is the Silicon Savannah, you might as well jump into the deep end right now and embrace it, if not you could find your world changing idea facing down the hyenas.

THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

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TECH

12 Throwback Tech

that defined the 90s

L

ooking back at ‘cutting edge technology’ from about 20 years ago make them seem like ancient artefacts in comparison to the technology we have today.

Tech still has an infinite future ahead and even what we use today as ‘smart’ will not seem so smart in less than a decade from now.

Do you remember using some of the gadgets below? Recording music on a cassette tape or a video VHS tape? How you would wind a cassette tape using a plastic pen? Remember the ever dependable Nokia 3310? Or even spending hours playing on a Gameboy? Let’s have a look at some of the technology that dominated the 90s.

Nokia 3310 Microsoft Windows 95

Nintendo Game Boy

The Apple Macintosh Computer

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THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

VHS Cassette Tape

Floppy Disk

Sony Walkman

TV Set

Canon Camera

Cassette Tape

Microsoft Intellimouse

Stereo Player THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

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SPORTS

An open letter to all those who would accuse Kenyan runners of doping

By Alex Roberts, Kenya

O

bviously. Of course you’re right and deserve all of the credit and a pat in the back that you’ve dreamed about for years. There are cheaters in the midst of Kenya’s proud and storied athletics program.

They’ve blasted their way to gold medals, leaving the honest and true winded and defeated in their dust.

You’re right, now what about it?

What about your nation’s proud history of fielding steroid laden enthusiasts out into the gladiatorial athletic track. All the big nations in the world and several of the small ones have fielded no-good rotten cheaters to the pitch, to the starting line, on the bike. Many of them have taken their cruel-hearted advantage and won by mere centimeters, finishing the race and looking inward at themselves,

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THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

Photo Source: www.barefootwebstudio.com

relief washing over them as all of their gutless cheating was nearly proven to be for nothing.

That’s probably what getting your proverbial ‘goat’ means, isn’t it?

That Kenyan runners don’t win close races, they obliterate you.

They obliterate and dominate to such an extent that Kenyans being talented runners has become a part of the international vernacular, a stereotype that’s reinforced with golden hardware, year-in, year-out.

most ‘admired’ athletes would happily punch their own grandmother for a shot at breaking the tape. It simply isn’t fair for us to hold athletes to an impossible standard when it compares to other members of society. Are businessmen who cheat thrown into the societal fire as soon as we find out their dire transgressions? No, but we digress. The point is this, if we’re cheating, then we’re cheating better than you are. You still can’t beat Kenya’s long distance runners despite some of them testing positive for performance enhancers.

Some Kenyan athletes used steroids in a global sport where clearly performance enhancers are being castoff by hundreds of athletes from around the world. Yet we still won, by a lot. Kenyan runners can beat you honestly or dishonestly, but the track they’re running on is always equal to the competition.

Maybe some of the country’s athletes started doping up because they saw how desperate the rest of you had become, chasing down the leaders of the pack through the hole of a needle.

Surely wouldn’t that encourage Kenyans, who had seen everyone else getting away with it and grow closer to eventually getting on the bandwagon of performance enhancement?

Sports are above all a competition.

These are the most competitive and gifted athletes in the world attempting to destroy their opponents by any means necessary to cross that coveted finish line first. A lot of society’s

So what if 40 Kenyan athletes have tested positive since 2012?

How many of your athletes have doped up but had their shameful secrets hidden by multi-billion dollar national sports associations (many of whom have employed the doctors behind steroid programs). Kenya simply doesn’t have the same access to track facilities that cost 2.1 billion Euros and are plated in gold, the turf flown in from the top slopes of the Andes mountains, with enough sensors to measure the analytics of a bicep muscle while drinking a protein shake. No we don’t have all that and yet we still beat you, handily, all the time.

There was a very interesting story in recent sporting memory, that of Lance Armstrong, biking hero turned shame-filled pariah after testing positive during his attempt at a triumphant return to the Tour de France. His triumph rapidly turned Greek tragedy, cast out by society and torn down from his ivory tower of fighting cancer because he lied. All of this is fine and good except for one key thing: everyone was doing it and everyone knew that everyone was doing it. Armstrong was just better than the rest of them while he did it.

This brings us back to the starting point of argument for this happy little open letter to the global critics of Kenyan athletics: cancerbeating Armstrong used steroids and beat everyone else that was using steroids at the same time.

Some Kenyan athletes used steroids in a global sport where clearly performance enhancers are being castoff by hundreds of athletes from around the world.

Yet we still won, by a lot. Kenyan runners can beat you honestly or dishonestly, but the track they’re running on is always equal to the competition.

So until the entire sport gets a moral facelift to fight against the scourge of drugs, stop forming a witch hunt against Kenyan runners.

We’re just better at it than the rest of the world. Deal with it.

THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

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FASHION

SUIT UP Corporate Fashion !

By Muthoni Njue, Kenya

S

uits make people perceive the world differently. From New York to Nairobi, wherever you are, there is always variety of how people choose to suit up their attire and there are a few basics twists to which all stylish individuals apply. Once you incorporate these you will find that when you walk into a room your presence is felt.

SWEATER Some days are colder than others and on those days what better way to notch it up than with a sweater. As mentioned while talking about vests, be sure that the sweater is of a different colour as compared to your suit will give it that extra.

Credit: www.pinterest.com

WEAR SOME PRINT

The best way to break the monotony from that monochrome look is to throw in some print that is easy on the eyes and most definitely, appropriate for work.

This could either be print on your tie, your scarf or even the shirt you choose to wear.

Credit: www.pinterest.com

JEANS You know that day of the week you really look forward to because it signifies the start of the weekend?

Here’s how you to spice up your suit blazer for casual Friday.

Credit: www.pinterest.com Credit: www.youqueen.com

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THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

VEST If the hot weather is anything to go by, then a vest would be a great alternative to the heavy padded suit jackets.

It’s easy on the eyes when paired in the right way.

In the event that you would want to pair the vest with your suit for that extra suave. Who does effortless yet powerful more than Harvey Specter?

Credit: www.scene7.com

It’s all in the details. You see that brown elbow-patched jacket, get yourself one!

A bow-tie? Don’t hesitate! Even the pocket handkerchief, go big or go home!

LITTLE SUIT DETAILS

Credit: www.pinterest.com Credit: www.pinterest.com

THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

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BEAUTY

MULTITASKING

skin care products while saving time 32

THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

By Ngenia Kuria, Kenya

Photo Credit: www.blackgirlhealth.com

C

oming up with a daily skin care regimen can seem challenging and time consuming, especially in the morning when we tend to be in such a hurry and have so many important things to get done. One may be tempted to, for example, skip exfoliating after cleansing or just skip the sunscreen. This is a big mistake.

There are various tips and tricks that can be used to help speed up your skin care routine and even have time left over to experiment with other skin care products. So if you are normally in a rush in the morning, that should not stop you from taking care of your skin’s every need or missing a skin care step, because knowing exactly what you should do and why you should do it will help you to speed things up.

of dirt that may have accumulated overnight while you were sleeping.

Applying a well-formulated toner after cleansing that is loaded with antioxidants, skin identical and skin-repairing ingredients can be all the serum that you need.

Therefore, allowing you to skip your serum in the morning and apply it at night instead.

It is strongly recommended that you exfoliate your skin at least once everyday using a well formulated AHA or BHA exfoliant.

However, some people have very sensitive skin that cannot handle daily exfoliation. If this is the case for you then you can choose to exfoliate your skin every other day instead of daily, thereby saving time. If this is not the case for you

Multi-tasking skin care products can save you time.

During the day, use a moisturiser that contains sunscreen (at least SPF 25) so that you do not have to use a separate moisturiser.

You can start by storing all your skin care products within reach, in a neat tray and safely stored away from direct sunlight to avoid degradation of your products’ ingredients due to exposure to sunlight.

Multi-tasking skin care products can save you time. During the day, use a moisturiser that contains sunscreen (at least SPF 25) so that you do not have to use a separate moisturiser. A well-formulated toner can remove the last traces of makeup on your face after cleansing, while giving your skin much-needed antioxidants and skin repairing ingredients.

However, if you want to save time in the morning (assuming that you applied a toner on your skin after cleansing the night before) skip this step in the morning and instead pair your well formulated cleanser with a wash cloth that will help to get rid of any traces

then stick to daily exfoliation, or twice daily (morning and evening), your skin will love you for it.

If you own a brilliantly formulated face moisturiser, save time in the morning by using the same moisturiser around your eye area as well as on your neck and chest, instead of applying a separate eye cream and neck cream.

In the evening, save time by skipping the makeup cleansing wipes and using a water soluble cleanser all over your face paired with a gentle wash cloth in order to get rid of all the makeup. Don’t forget to follow up with a wellformulated toner to remove the last traces of makeup and restore the skin’s moisture balance.

Keep your lip balm on your bedside table so you can apply it before you fall asleep. You must apply lip balm before going to bed otherwise you will wake up with chapped lips!

THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

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FOOD

BREAD

Baking at home

B Every day at Amor Bakers we craft from scratch fresh breads and tasty baked treats to ensure we deliver just-out-of-the-oven delights. Our wide range of products offer you a large selection of choices to suit your needs and occasions.

We are based at Akala Shopping Centre, Siaya County, Kenya and distribute widely in the county.

Tips and Tricks

Storing bread Breads should be stored at room temperature in a plastic bag, bread bag, or well ventilated bread bin, to prevent the bread from drying out. During hot or humid weather, you can store bread in the fridge.

Reviving bread To revive the crust on bread, place in the oven on a rack. On a second rack, place a dish of water.

This will gently warm the bread and make the crust lovely and crunchy again.

Amor Bakers Holdings Limited P.O. Box 66 - 40139 Akala, Kenya Cell: 0722589397 / 0727635640 / 0722320153

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THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

read is one of the oldest human foods that people started baking. It is also quite easy task and delicious when done correctly. Home baked bread in this current economic times can turn into a pocket saver not to say easier than going out to the market every two days to buy some basic non-exciting bread available on the shelves. Bread on the shelves are mass produced and laden with preservatives making the taste more boring than the next manufactured one. The goal of manufacturers is to make it as cheap as possible forgoing flavour, nutrition and texture.

With home baked bread you can avoid this. Armed with the ever so scary yeast, we can have our homes smelling heavenly in just a few hours.

You will need: (Makes 1 loaf and 12 scones) 2 teaspoons active-dry yeast 2 cups (450ml) warm water 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (may use vegetable fat, kimbo, as alternative) 5 tablespoons brown sugar 1 tablespoon salt 5 cups (1100g) all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon egg yellow colouring ½ cup raisins (optional)

Method: In a jug pour in 450ml of warm water and mix in the dry yeast.

Stir lightly and let it stand for about 5 minutes to ensure it blends properly.

In a large bowl mix the dry ingredients, 2 cups of flour, egg yellow and salt. In another bowl mix in melted butter, milk and sugar. Stir in the dry ingredients into the barter till it comes together into a lumpy barter while adding the warm yeast liquid mix is small doses.

Add in another 2 cups of flour bit by bit, reserving the remaining cup if the dough is sticky during kneading. Stir until a floury, shaggy dough is formed.

Using the dough hook attachment on an electric mixer, knead the dough for 8-10 minutes.

Alternatively, you may knead by hand against the surface. At this point should you want fruit bread, may add in the raisins. If the dough is bubblegum sticky against the sides of the bowl or the counter, add extra flour a tablespoon at a time until it is no longer sticky. The dough is ready when it is smooth, forms a ball without sagging, and springs back when poked.

Clean out the mixing bowl and coat it with a little oil. Form the dough into a ball and turn it in the bowl to coat it with oil. Divide the dough in two and shape one half into a greased loaf pan. For the scones, take the other half and pinch small handfuls, roll in-between your palms into a ball and set an inch apart on a greased baking tray.

Should roll about 8-10 balls. Take the loaf pan and baking tray and let the dough rise in a warm spot until risen to about double in size, takes about one hour. The scones should have risen to touch each ball.

Heat the oven to 220°C about halfway through the rise.

Take the loaf pan and baking tray put them in the oven. Immediately turn down the heat to 180°C and bake for 30-35 minutes. Finished loaf and scones will be a light golden-brown on the bottom. Remove the loaf from the pan and the scones from the baking tray and let them cool completely on a cooling rack before slicing.

Loaves will keep at room temperature for a few days. Loaves can also be wrapped in foil and plastic, and frozen for up to three months.

THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

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Credit www.githubusercontent.com

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www.executivesecretary.com

DATE: 23RD - 25TH MAY, 2016 VENUE: BEST WESTERN HOTEL ACCRA, GHANA TO REGISTER Contact us at: ABMC INTERNATIONAL Current Offices: Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254 4031000 Office Cell: +254 772 22 2004/ 5 Email: info@intl-abmc.com Web: www.intl-abmc.com

A.B.M.C INTERNATIONAL LTD ACCESS BUSINESS MANAGEMENT CONFERENCING INTERNATIONAL LTD LEADERS IN BUSINESS TRAINING

Raise your PA Game into Management Masterclass 2016 23rd - 27th May 2016 Four Points by Sheraton Hotel Dubai “5 day program for the Modern PA’S ,Executive Assistants & Senior Public Officers”

What is it about ….?

About Global Focus

For Personal and Team Assistants and Office Managers who wish to take stock, to develop skills and confidence and identify practical outcomes for their future performance and enhance their personal development

Global Focus Training is a rapidly expanding consulting and development firm specialized in the Training and Human Development field -Under the Global Focus International Group Limited.

PA ’s & Executive Assistants are indispensible to the running and managing a successful business and have a valuable role supporting, Governors, CS, Ministers, CEOs, business owners and managers, to take care of business tasks and run personal errands as well as organising events and taking part in meetings.

We are a key regional player in business consulting and advisory services field within East Africa & Africa at large; bridging the gap between the region management approaches and its western counterpart.

We have quite a number of carefully selected Qualified Trainers on the all our programs, We are confident we have the perfect match.

To be our Guest?

You need to be working as a senior Personal Assistant, Executive Assistant, Executive PA ,Office Manager, Team assistant, or alternatively you need to be expecting an imminent appointment. This program is also highly recommended for public officers The Training methodology is based on interactive and experiential learning learning by doing. This means that there are short lectures followed by practicing either in groups or individually. It also means that You are the creator of your own experience! This training is about learning new skills, and you can set your own limits regarding how far you want to go. Furthermore learners will use examples from their own organisations, thus ensuring that the learning is anchored at their workplace. Role plays and interactive experiential sessions will ensure that the learning stays anchored back at the workplace. Global Focus strives to effect actual change back at the workplace through effective and practical outcomes based training.

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Contact us; info@globalfocus.co.ke, registration@globalfocus.co.ke Tel: +254 20 2143164, +254 20 5255202 Mobile: +254 737183876, +254 722 781702 Fax: +254 020651960 www.globalfocus.co.ke

LAST WORD

Surround

yourself with power

By Matshego Rawula, South Africa

T

he company you keep can either make you or break you. As a woman the latter is not an option. We live in a day where woman empowerment is at the tip of every one’s tongue.

Opportunities are readily available and just await the right person to make the right destiny connection to get to them. As much as every person is chanting woman empowerment it is not every woman who understands the gravity and the importance of pursuing these opportunities.

There will come a time when all playing fields are level and this era has passed. What will you show for it?

I say this with a lot of conviction today but not so long ago I had no realisation of the power I held as a woman. Or rather I wasn't around people that sparked that train of thought. This is why I saw it fit for me to re - emphasise that woman you've got power.

I didn't go to a multi-racial school, what we call Model C schools today here in South Africa. I only had black teachers in primary and high school and English was my second language. IsiXhosa was my first. I was what you could call the real deal at school. I won all the beauty pageants I entered, won most of my debate competitions, anything I entered I would win. I was the pride of the community, the golden child. I could conquer the world. So it was a complete

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THE AFRICAN PA Magazine | April 2016

Credit: www.teengazette.com

shock to me when I got to tertiary and became ordinary. It was a serious knock on my self-esteem.

The fact that English was the medium of instruction did not help the situation either. I was drowning. I don't remember ever raising my hand to ask or to answer a question my entire first year. It was rough. I had never before been in the presence of so many white, very opinionated young people. It was very intimidating.

This all changed when I became friends with a group of beautiful ladies in my class. The fact that they even considered me to be their peer moved my confidence levels up at least three notches. I didn't realise that people around me saw a glimpse of what my community back home revered.

My broadcasting lecturer saw the same thing I guess because he recommended me for an internship in one of the biggest radio stations in Pretoria. I got the job! I was slowly realising my potential. Here I met celebrities, people from different fields, who were celebrated differently. I quickly came to realise that the people we saw on TV and listened to on radio were quite normal. The difference between them and I was that they seized opportunities that came their way, not only that, they also created their opportunities and even chased after them. This was all foreign to me. There was a lot that I needed to take in.

When I started my career in conferencing this gave me an opportunity to be amongst the best in all industries, and the mandate for my new found career was to find leaders in each industry I was researching. I started rubbing shoulders with women and men of substance. Go getters and game changers. Not to take anything from the men I met but it was the women that left a permanent mark in me, I realised that I was destined for greatness. The lovely thing about reaching this realisation is that the socio economic and political climate supports it.

Women have been given the opportunity to catch up with their male counter parts. Not to create competition but to ensure fairness in the game. This means whatever it is that you are good at you can actually can get the necessary support to perfect it and even make a living out of it. This of course is dependent on the company you keep. Your acquaintances, your friends and even family. Do they want the best for you? Do they see the inner goddess in you? Have they walked this path before? Surround yourself with the kind of people you want to be some day. Go to seminars, sign up for a course, travel and invest in yourself! Find greatness and emulate it! It’s a lesson life is teaching me every day.

THE PA AWARDS 2016

TITLE FOR PERSONAL AND EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS

THE AFRICAN PA

EAST AFRICA

Bosses nominate your PA for the PA Awards 2016 The PA Awards is a continent wide administrative award in Africa. The PA Awards 2016 East Africa will recognise and reward outstanding talent, diligence and commitment of the administrative that leads their companies to optimal performance. This award is exclusively for Personal Assistants and Executive Assistants in East Africa i.e. Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi. It will be held at the Intercontinental Hotel in Nairobi on 27th May 2016, starting from 1830hrs.

To nominate a person or yourself, please visit: http://africanpa.com/african-pa-2016-nominations.php or Email us: on awards@africanpa.com

Award Categories The PA of the Year 2016 East Africa The PA Employer of the Year 2016 East Africa The PA Boss of the Year 2016 East Africa