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Kickstart your business with expert advice from serial entrepreneur, Fetola founder and author of the new book Sheep Will Never Rule The World, Catherine Wijnberg

by admin September 18, 2020

written by admin

Kickstart your business with expert advice from serial entrepreneur, Fetola founder and author of the new book Sheep Will Never Rule The World, Catherine Wijnberg

Many businesses are reverting to pre-lockdown levels of activity, while others still are seeking new entrepreneurial avenues to supplement existing incomes or replace those lost due to the Coronavirus crisis. A must-read for entrepreneurs and new business owners to aid this return and stimulate new economic activity is the debut book by Catherine Wijnberg, entitled Sheep Will Never Rule The World.

Launched officially on 13 August 2020, the book is a collection of wisdoms from the pen of this successful entrepreneur, who is the founder and CEO of SME growth specialists, Fetola. Wijnberg brings a wealth of experience from having charted her extensive business journey as well as through her ongoing role at Fetola, a company that is geared towards supporting small businesses and helping them become more profitable.

Here are just a few of the insights Wijnberg offers to assist entrepreneurs:

Follow your passion

According to Wijnberg: “As entrepreneurs, we have the choice to make the world what we want it to be. So be grateful for that choice – and find a way for your passion and your work to align.”

Understand the market

Identify if there’s not only a gap in the market but “a market in the gap you’ve chosen!” In other words, customers who are willing to pay for the service and product you wish to provide.

Start Small

Wijnberg advocates starting small. “Don’t be hobbled by the misperception that you need a large loan to get a business going. Starting a business with a huge debt to pay back can be the proverbial albatross about your neck,” she says. “A new venture is stressful enough on its own. Rather build from a small base with less risk.”

Reconsidering Capital

Start thinking about your capital, and capital is not just money. Wijnberg explains how capital comes in three forms:

Networks: “Think about who you know that you can connect to for markets, expertise, support.”
Expertise: “What information and skills do you have that are of value”, and lastly,
Money: “What money do you have and how much do you need? Can you leverage the other two forms of ‘capital’ to get money?”

The pages of Sheep Will Never Rule The World are peppered with advice designed to support, stimulate and inspire. Although there is a decidedly business bent to the book, its content does not preclude the everyday reader as Wijnberg’s prompts – which are often highly practical – are intended to help anyone achieve their highest potential in life and business.

To access this powerful resource, purchase the book at leading local bookstores or via their online stores. Sheep Will Never Rule The World is published by Quivertree Publications and is currently in distribution.

To stand a chance of winning a copy, send your details to ashley@avengmedia.co.za. Closing date is 30 September 2020. Winners will be notified by email.

For more information on Catherine Wijnberg visit www.catherinewijnberg.com. Follow her on social media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-wijnberg-5142049/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wijnberg.catherine or @wijnberg.catherine

For more information on Fetola, visit www.fetola.co.za. Contact 0861 111 690 or email info@fetola.co.za.

September 18, 2020 0 comment

Education Entrepreneurship

Learnerships are the key to optimising employability

by admin September 16, 2020

written by admin

Learnerships are the key to optimising employability

Unemployment is a massive challenge that has been exacerbated by the Covid-19 crisis. Predictions are that 35% of South Africans won’t have jobs by December. This only accounts for people who are actively looking for jobs. The number of unemployed who’ve given up looking for work is much higher.

Rajan Naidoo, the Director of EduPower Skills Academy, says the reasons for this are varied. The majority of school leavers and youth in general are unemployed or unemployable. Many youth lack the relevant skills to be effective in the workplace and employers are often reluctant to take on inexperienced and poorly skilled youth.

Good for Business

For many years, the government has been attempting to redress unemployment through the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) codes. “To encourage companies to participate in much needed B-BBEE aligned Skills Development, there are a variety of tax incentives, allowances and rebates available,” says Rajan. “Skills Development can however deliver more than just the 25 points available for B-BBEE ratings. Companies that plan their skills programmes strategically can also build an effective talent pipeline.”

Providing the right skills is fundamental to young people’s ability to compete for quality jobs and Rajan believes that learnership programmes are the ideal vehicle for this. “Learnerships are a holistic solution that provide a blend of theory and practical experience over a 12 month period, resulting in an accredited qualification and marketable skills that actively increase the opportunities for our youth and the unemployed to succeed in transitioning into employment.”

An effective tool to develop work competence, learnerships equip participants with life and work readiness skills relevant to a specific occupation. Coupled with the fact that candidates entering the progammes earn while they learn, learnerships have become a popular choice for those people who do not have the option to enter tertiary education.

“An example of an occupation focused learnership is EduPower’s flagship Contact Centre model, a fully hosted SETA accredited learnership that combines classroom training and a deliberate focus on practical experience. Our learners work an eight-hour day, five days a week in a custom-built contact centre where they receive ongoing mentoring and support as they work on live campaigns, not simulations,” says Rajan.

Work readiness

While theoretical training and on-the-job experience are critical components of learnerships, the development of soft skills are also a key focus. Rajan explains “Most learners have either just completed school or have been unemployed and they haven’t had the opportunity to learn practical, interpersonal skills such as communication, teamwork or problem solving. Learnerships work on developing these skills so that upon completion, candidates are prepared for the world of work.”

Encouraging Entrepreneurship

Private sector job creation cannot keep pace with the demand for jobs. Rajan believes that the only answer for our youth is to create strong entrepreneurs. Unique in its approach, EduPower offers an entrepreneurship programme that helps its learners identify business opportunities and grow their business skills.

“Our incubator eliminates many of the traditional costs related to running a company and greatly increases the entrepreneur’s chances of survival and sustainability beyond the programme,” Rajan explains.

The point of learnerships is to improve employability and each programme begins with the end in mind – building skills that lead to sustainable career opportunities. While some companies use their learnerships as a 12-month screening process to recruit for their talent pipeline, the majority of learnership graduates re-enter the job market. “We do our best to help our learners secure employment either through our incubator or our network of partner companies. We place as many people as possible as it not only unlocks five bonus points for absorption for our clients, it’s also important to us to close the loop for our learners,” he says.

Rajan concludes by saying that through increased access to the training of portable skills, learnerships are part of the solution to rectifying socio-economic inequalities by bolstering employment opportunities and in so doing, increase employability and economic growth. Skills development is the critical first step ensuring that South Africa is built on a solid and sustainable foundation.

September 16, 2020 0 comment

Entrepreneurship Labour

Trollope Mining Services

by admin September 15, 2020

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Trollope Mining Services (2000) (Pty) Ltd is a Level 2 BBBEE rated company which is 26% Black owned and provides the services of opencast mining, crushing & screening, civil infrastructure and rehabilitation while operating in the Mining and Civil Industries. Established in 1975 the company boasts a substantial fleet of equipment and although traditionally operations were predominantly based in the coal sector, current operations have extended into platinum, andalusite, gold, phosphate, copper, manganese, limestone and diamonds with strategic intent being to diversify into other mineral sectors and grow our geographical footprint into Africa. We are currently operating in Botswana and have experience of projects in Guineau and DRC.

Being a privately owned entity the company operates on good sound corporate practices and is recognised for delivering a superior service in the mining sector and services industry as a medium to large contractor, always at the highest levels of production and safety. With our focus being customer orientated and performance driven, we pride ourselves on the quality of workmanship on our operations. Industry best standard of maintenance of the company’s substantial fleet of equipment is paramount to ensure the highest levels of availability. It is the intent that TMS remains very much self-sufficient with little or no reliance placed on external suppliers.

Currently employing just over 2000 people Trollope Mining Services has enjoyed a sound working relationship with several well-known companies over the last three decades and is currently involved in projects including Glencore, Mbuyelo Coal, Kangra Coal, HCI Kusela, Rhino Minerals, Northam Platinum, A Re Shomeng, Pilanesberg Platinum, Kropz and Lucara.

BBBEE

Trollope Mining Services (2000) (Pty) Ltd has a level 2 BBBEE empowerment rating (Score 87,20) and is 26% BEE owned.

The company has adopted a BBBEE policy that corresponds with its group policy. The accreditation process confirms the status of Trollope Mining Services’ participation in government’s aim for the business to contribute towards transformation.

The company’s corporate practices are based on the principle of equality irrespective of race, gender, religion, language, origin or physical circumstance. Trollope Mining Services is committed to eliminating discrimination in any form and has implemented an employment equity plan with set targets, including affirmative action in all activities and acceptance of all cultures represented in the workforce.

TMS endeavours to work with the communities around our operations and generally enjoys healthy Industrial Relations with them.

The business’s strategy includes a focus on employment equity and the promotion of business equity through procurement practices. The company is committed to empowerment at all levels of its operations and is proud of its empowerment credentials. We are currently mentoring two SME entities in the opencast mining field. Furthermore Trollope Mining Services is increasingly concentrating on affirmative procurement to further advance business equity and increase the percentage of goods and services procured from black empowered companies.

There is a management development plan in place for black managers and the transference of skills to black staff. Black participation in the governance structures of Trollope Mining Services underway. The business has made numerous advances in respect of these issues.

The BBBEE policy further promotes the company’s commitment to Socio-Economic Development as well as Enterprise Development.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

As stated earlier, TMS is a privately owned entity that operates on good sound corporate practices and is recognised for delivering a superior service in the mining sector and services industry at the highest levels of production and safety. The Company supports the responsible management of health and safety, which forms an integral part of our business ethic.

Through strategic management of health and safety, and by creating a culture of health and safety awareness and responsibility we strive to:

• Apply sound health and safety management principles and operating practices

• Comply with the client specifications, rules and requirements

• Project health and promote safety of personnel, customers and the community

• Be alert to customer needs, technological advancement and socio-economic priority

• Reduce the hazards and potential hazards in our working environment

OUR SAFETY POLICY

• Provide a safe, hygienic and healthy working environment for the well-being of our employees;

• Manage our risks rather than trying to eliminate them totally;

• Ensure that the health and safety of the community is not compromised by our operation;

• Comply with the requirements of the health and safety rules and regulations;

• Motivate, educate and train employees to assume personal ownership of health and safety issues;

• Focus on the application of health and safety standards, including fire protection, good work practices and sound management principles, to ensure that all possible measures are taken to minimize losses and avoid accidents;

• Enlist the commitment of all staff to comply with the Act and Regulations and to manage and counter the hazards of our business through a well-practiced health and safety programme;

• Co-operate with professional bodies in formulating health and safety standards, with the intent of making these realistic while achieving a fair balance between health and safety priorities and economic values;

• Entrench safety as a value for our people which is not compromised;

• Strive to achieve the industry best practice;

• Prevent accidents and ensure healthy working relations.

TMS is accredited with the following ISO standards

ISO 9001: 2015

ISO 14001: 2015

ISO 45001: 2018

Visit our website at www.tmsgroup.co.za

September 15, 2020 0 comment

Entrepreneurship Health

Fusion Labs: A world of nutritional innovation

by admin September 9, 2020

written by admin

A world of nutritional innovation

Fusion Laboratories, under the leadership of Rasheed Patel, is a nutraceutical lifestyle company that promotes peak health

Fusion Laboratories’ two ranges have become the leading products for clinics, salons and aesthetic centres around South Africa.

Fusion Laboratories is a premier nutritional, lifestyle and wellness research & development (R&D) company that is constantly expanding the frontiers of nutraceutical technology—delivering superior-quality, high-performance, multi-nutrient nutraceutical products that focus on promoting peak health. As a member of the Health Products Association of Southern Africa, it recognises that health is our most vital asset and it is committed to quality control and ethical standards of production.
Fusion Laboratories was started through identifying a need to develop high-quality nutraceutical products in hitherto largely untapped segments of the complementary medicines market. Highly lucrative premium profit margins, growing demand and increasing popularity for such products among the health-conscious public were added incentives.

The person bringing this vision together is CEO Rasheed Ahmed Patel. He is responsible for product innovation including development, marketing, design and aesthetics as well as keeping the company abreast of developments in the nutraceuticals market. He is also responsible for product formulations, research and training. He launched Fusion Laboratories in such manner as to ensure the company’s vision, being that of a research and product development firm in the nutraceuticals field, is prioritised—while the essential business competencies of finance, strategy and business development are taken care of as well.

Patel began his tertiary education in law, but his passion for supplements led him to accept an offer from Universal Nutrition as a nutritional consultant in 2000. Following this, he moved to head up the nutrition section of the Sandton Daelite Pharmacy in 2001.

In 2005, an investment consortium that had landed the territorial rights for USN in the Middle East appointed Patel to launch and develop the USN brand in that territory, being highly impressed by his knowledge and experience in the sports supplement industry.

However, personal loss in the family forced Patel back to South Africa in early 2007. Fusion Laboratories, his conceptual brainchild, was founded in the same year. His insightful recognition of the gaps in the complementary medicines field led Patel to steer Fusion Laboratories’ focus on the hair and skin industry, through which the development and launch of its first range of products, Trichotin and Dermagen, occurred.

After having spent substantial amounts of capital and time to finalise its formulation, product aesthetics and marketing initiatives, the Trichotin range was launched in 2009. Along with its anti-ageing properties, Trichotin Hair Regenesis—being an oral supplement—was specifically formulated to supply the essential nutrients required for healthier hair. The formulation was finally completed after consultation with numerous industry experts, and after having investigated all possible causes of hair loss. Thirty-four separate ingredients (including key amino acids, vitamins and herbal extracts) are combined for maintaining and strengthening hair while minimising hair loss, combating greyness and stimulating new growth. Comprising a completely natural formula without any side effects, Trichotin Hair Regenesis has met with astounding market acceptability. Its application across the hair loss and hair care industry is vast and hugely promising.

Continuing along the Trichotin series, Fusion Laboratories’ second product, the Trichotin DHT Inhibitor, was launched and designed to inhibit the hormone that is responsible for hair loss (dihydrotestosterone). The natural formula contains saw palmetto extract, beta sitosterol, nettle root extract, co-enzyme Q10 and ginseng.

Dermagen Formulated Skin Care is a daily caplet containing 21 ingredients that support healthy skin metabolism by delivering a carefully balanced and perfectly formulated mix of essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidant nutrients. Dermagen stimulates the body’s circulatory system to feed and repair the skin from within.

These two ranges have become the leading products for clinics, salons and aesthetic centres around South Africa. Fusion Laboratories has also developed a lucrative pipeline of new products focusing on skin, slimming agents and sports nutrition products—including its latest offering called Duo Calm: a smart calming and sleep aid with valerian and chamomile, which regulates your circadian (day/night) rhythm so that you awake refreshed each morning.

Through its independent Integrated Services (FIS) division, Fusion Laboratories also provides assistance in intellectual capital, research, formulation, manufacturing and marketing of nutraceutical products for outside companies wishing to further develop or launch their own nutraceutical projects. The ideas incubated are unique, and products are formulated and manufactured in a way that is distinctly different; product excellence appeals to all five senses.

FIS sources the most suitable ingredients and manufactures outstanding formulations that stringently adhere to best manufacturing practices. The result is a product that excels in quality and presentation in the final rollout, ensuring customers’ satisfaction and brand loyalty are optimised.

Patel is an early-stage investor and adviser in FIS as well as Group 4 Health and Human Limitless.

Fusion Laboratories is looking to expand its R&D capabilities in the nutraceuticals field and plans to grow its existing pipeline of products. Realising that its core strength lies within R&D and product development, the company hopes to strengthen its ability to manufacture, distribute and bring to market its unique nutraceutical product offerings.

For further information, visit www.fusionlabsonline.com.

Testimonials

“Trichotin and Dermagen gave me confidence in my hair and skin condition, knowing that I am taking care of it from the inside out. With styling and makeup being done regularly, I know that I have a secret that protects against damage, so that I can look and feel my best.”

—Lezinka de Meyer, ICE Agency model

“As for Dermagen, I was super impressed with how smooth my skin started looking. It also helped me fight the terrible breakouts that I had become subject to. Thankfully I am back to having days where I just put on some mascara and lip gloss, as my skin looks healthy and doesn’t need the coverup.”

—Chantal Riley, online editor, Models & Pageantry SA magazine

“We were proud to be one of the first salons to offer Trichotin to our customers experiencing hair loss. All our customers find the product effective. Both ladies and gentlemen are very happy with the results.”

—Johan Nortje, celebrity stylist & IsJon founder

“Since I have started using DuoCalm, I have been getting deeper sleep—giving me the ability to wake up fresh and ready to train to my maximum potential.”

—Cris Cyborg, UFC Women’s Featherweight Champion

September 9, 2020 0 comment

Entrepreneurship

How to stand out in South Africa’s competitive job market

by admin September 7, 2020

written by admin

5 ways to improve your work readiness and employability

Three million people lost their jobs in South Africa between February and April as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic¹ and recent forecasting predicts that by December, 35%² of South African’s will be unemployed and more than 70% of our youth will be unable to find jobs.

Entering this highly competitive job market is daunting. So, what can South African’s do – especially our youth – to make themselves more attractive to perspective employers?

According to Rajan Naidoo, Director of EduPower Skills Academy, job seekers need to ensure they have all the skills companies are looking for to stand out: “Employers want the total package; education, experience and skills – including soft skills,” he says. “Soft skills are practical, interpersonal skills such as time management and communication. Unfortunately, these are not part of the school curriculum, but it is possible for job seekers to develop these skills and enhance their employability.”

He offers his top five tips for improving your work readiness and employability:

1. Manage your time

Time management is a basic and valued skill that you can work on by simply establishing a routine and sticking to it. When you don’t have school or work, make sure you are up by 7am. Before you start your day, sit, think and plan a list of activities. Challenge yourself by setting deadlines and track your progress in a diary. Though it may be difficult at first, you are establishing a pattern and it will help you to use your time more effectively.

2. Communication Skills

Communication skills are fundamental to most jobs. Text messaging is great for connecting with friends but you need to practice your phone and video conferencing skills, as both are important for business communications. Speaking and listening on the phone are skills that you can practice but think about what you want to say and communicate clearly. Do the same with video conferencing practicing your conference and interviewing skills using platforms such as Microsoft Teams, Skype and Zoom.

3. Body Language

Body language is as important as the words you speak. In fact, studies show that 65% of all communication is non-verbal. Again, practice this whenever you can and whether you are speaking to a group or one-on-one, maintain eye contact and watch for visual cues that your listener understands. Be aware that your body is sending signals too. At EduPower, we encourage our learners to sit up straight and widen their shoulders, even when they are on the phone. These simple actions improve your ability to communicate and boosts your confidence.

4. Problem Solving

Everyone can solve problems. You just need practice. Focus on solutions as this will shift your brain into a positive space. To build this skill with our learners, we ask them to define a problem – such as I am always late – and ask them “why” five times. By giving a different answer each time, they eventually get to the root cause. Or you can list as many solutions as possible. While some answers may be ridiculous, crazy ideas trigger viable solutions. Keep practicing and you will start moving into solutions mode more quickly.

5. Gain Experience

Work experience is generally a prerequisite for most jobs. If you are not currently working, consider part-time work, work experience placements, learnerships or internships. For instance, EduPower’s 12-month learnerships provide accredited skills training combined with work experience – invaluable for securing future employment. Another suggestion is to volunteer for community service. This will strengthen your skills and make you more marketable as it shows your character and integrity.

“By developing soft skills and gaining experience you are adding to your employability and work readiness. How you use these assets and present them to perspective employers could make all the difference to landing your dream job,” Rajan concludes.

September 7, 2020 0 comment

Education Entrepreneurship

Punching above your weight: 4 tips for playing in the big league

by admin September 7, 2020

written by admin

My single biggest epiphany this week has been that we NEVER see ourselves as we are, we see ourselves as we were.

Think about that for a minute.

The now that we exist in from a professional perspective is a culmination of all the experiences and learnings we have amassed to date. From this perspective, it’s hard to view ourselves from the outside-in and through the lens of a neutral, unbiased view.

Here’s the context to my aha moment; Recently I was invited by CNBC Africa to participate in their live-streamed (global), virtual conference, discussing the role of technology in the new ‘post’ COVID world and specifically, its impact on the way of work in Africa.

Now, just to be clear… I’m in the start-up phase of my consulting career and have only ever consulted to national organisations around digital, sales and marketing strategies. The panel I was a part of were so far above my professional ‘weight class’ that I almost pulled out when I read their bios. To say that I was intimidated would be the understatement of the year!

But, I persevered, participated, and it was amazing! Since then, I’ve been invited to participate in more webinars, partner with international agencies and to go on air with a radio station to further explore some of the insights mined during the conference.

None of this would have happened if I had backed out because of my fear of not equaling up. If I had allowed my view of where I believed I ranked to dictate my willingness to participate, I’d be exactly where I was before I stepped into the ring and punched above my weight class.

So, how do you play in the big leagues? Here are my 4 tips:

1. Just GO FOR IT: Seriously, check your insecurities and your inner voice at the door and swing for the fences. If you’re invited to sit at the table, don’t remove yourself from the conversation just because you don’t see yourself the way others do. You will miss out on some spectacular opportunities if you do.

2. Let the haters hate: They will come, and they will be convincing. DO NOT LISTEN! It’s human nature to focus on the negative feedback even if it’s part of the minority. You’ve just got to rise above it. Know your truth, know your craft, and then drown the rest out.

3. Work like a freight train: If you have no idea what’s going on when your peers are talking about the latest trends, technology, or business opportunities in your field – then get online and get learning. Entrepreneurship is more about your ability to learn, grow and being plugged in than it’s about your ability to manage a profit and loss sheet. Never stop learning and do NOT beat yourself up when you realise you have more growing to do.

4. If you don’t know – you don’t know: NEVER pretend to have the answers if you don’t.

Players that have been in the game a few decades more than you have will smell inauthenticity and insincerity the second you try to fake it. The essence of maturity in leadership is vulnerability and knowing when to surround yourself with people who can grow and stretch you. You will get far more credibility in the admission that you don’t know and through your restlessness in finding the right answer and solution.

If you never take the risks that place you above your weight class or force yourself into massively uncomfortable situations, you’re never going to find out what you’re actually made of. So, say “yes!” more often, EVEN to the things that scare you and then, never take your foot off the gas. That’s how you start to play in the big leagues!

September 7, 2020 0 comment

Renewable Energy Technology

Sunsynk Hybrid Inverter: Keep the lights on during load shedding

by admin August 28, 2020

written by admin

While the recent move to level 2 of the national lockdown has been widely welcomed, many businesses have encouraged their employees to continue working from home as the country comes to grips with COVID-19.

However, the reintroduction of load shedding due to the strain on the national power grid has often made working from home a frustrating experience – not to mention the significant challenges that it creates for small businesses. For people working from home being unable to communicate with their employers for long periods during the day is simply not an option and for families, being unable to provide warmth and security during these periods can feel like an uphill battle against the dark.

“We know that Load shedding is here to stay. With regular power outages expected to be part of our daily routine for the foreseeable future, more South Africans are looking for ways to mitigate the impact of load shedding on their electricity supply,” says Ellies GM: Commercial, Gary Gillingham.

Understanding what product or service is needed to secure your home electricity supply is a complex task. To tackle this complexity, Ellies Electronics has added the Sunsynk Hybrid Inverter to their existing range of products. This allows Ellies to offer the perfect solution to customers who are looking for the best option to keeping the lights on when its most needed.

The Sunsynk Hybrid Inverter is available in three variants from Ellies: the 3.6KW, the 5KW and the 8KW. Each of these inverters can be stacked to run in parallel or in three phase configurations depending on a customer’s needs. This means that if a customer starts off with the 3.6KW model, they are able to add up to four of the same model inverters to increase their capacity accordingly. This is a fully scalable system, enabling customers to expand according to their growing needs.

“The Sunsynk smart inverter coupled with the correct batteries can provide even the most electricity hungry homes with the backup power they need to keep running during load shedding,” says Gillingham. He adds that in many areas around the country, the aged electricity infrastructure means that homes are often left with power outages long after load shedding has been lifted, because of a trip at a substation that requires a technician to resolve the power outage. The Sunsynk solutions being offered by Ellies can run your basic appliances like a fridge, lights, television and decoder, computer and Internet along with other smaller appliances for up to 2 days, based on the average household consumption of electricity of 1.6KWh. This runtime depends on the size of the battery bank installed in the home.

To simplify the decision process for customers, Ellies has created seven prebuilt packages which includes the Sunsynk Hybrid Inverters to ensure that the range of customers’ needs are addressed when selecting the perfect backup power options available. Ranging from just over R40 000 for a stored energy solution for basic home appliances through to a premium package that will effectively take a client off the grid.

These pre-packaged offers all include full installation and maintenance plans and are backed by experienced technicians and a certificate of compliance based on the intensive training by Sunsynk. The inverters also have a 5-year warranty and Ellies technicians are always available to assist, bringing peace of mind to customers.

“A key feature of this range of inverters is that they are a hybrid solution. That means that they are able to switch between grid generated power, solar power, or any other electricity generation method that homes, or small businesses have available to them,” says Gillingham.

A hybrid solution brings many benefits to homes, especially those that have noticed the recent increase in electricity tariffs and are looking to reduce their long-term costs. Many consumers assume that installing an inverter and batteries means they are “off-grid”, but this is simply not true. “They are still reliant on Eskom to provide the supply that charges their batteries, unless they can generate power through solar power, wind power or whatever other means of generation they have available to them,” adds Gillingham.

Other additional features which make the Sunsynk system and the Ellies solutions appealing are first, that they are easy to install and second, they have “smart features”. These features include remote monitoring and customers can get settings changed as and when they need – no matter where they are. Most of the products available to the market with smart features like this are incredibly expensive. The Sunsynk systems are the most affordable inverters available in the market, which include these smart home features.

For more information on Ellies SunSync offerings visit www.ellies.co.za

August 28, 2020 0 comment

Entrepreneurship

Book Giveaway: Sheep will never rule the world, Inspiration for people in life and business

by admin August 21, 2020

written by admin

African Business Quarterly is giving away two copies of entrepreneur Catherine Wijnberg’s recently launched book, Sheep will never rule the world: Inspiration for people in life and business.

The founder and CEO of Fetola (a company that tailor-makes enterprise and supplier development programmes) has condensed her 30 years of business experience into bite-size chunks of inspiration in this definite must-read. Collated from her blog, Catherine’s Weekly Greeting, it is jam-packed with practical compelling advice to aid people in overcoming the stumbling blocks on their road to success in both business and life.

Cape Town-based Wijnberg is a successful entrepreneur with experience in starting, growing and operating businesses in five different sectors across three countries. Born in Ndola, Zambia, her first entrepreneurial venture was a leap of faith into the new forex auction system in Zambia and an import business serving the local farming network.

Her move to South Africa sparked a range of business ventures including starting Fetola in 2006. She founded Fetola with a vision to contribute to the transformation of the South African economy by growing the small business sector. For it is here that jobs are created, success is cultivated, and women, youth, and rural communities can create self-empowered futures. She was also determined that one woman could make a difference and empower other women to do so, too.

To stand a chance of winning a copy, send your details to ashley@avengmedia.co.za. Closing date is 30 September 2020. Winners will be notified by email.

“Sheep will never rule the world” retails for R270 and is available at major book stores and online.

Read the sample

August 21, 2020 0 comment

Entrepreneurship

Kumba Iron Ore approves Kapstevel South project at Kolomela

by admin July 29, 2020

written by admin

Kumba is pleased to announce the approval of its Kapstevel South project at its Kolomela mine by both the Company’s and Anglo American’s boards.
The total capital cost of the project will be approximately R7 billion, including pre-stripping. It is anticipated that the addition of the Kapstevel South pit will deliver an after-tax internal rate of return of ~25% and allow Kolomela to maintain an estimated EBITDA margin of >35% in the long-term.

The project entails the development of a new pit, Kapstevel South and associated infrastructure at Kolomela. The pit is a conventional truck and shovel operation producing high quality direct shipping ore (DSO). Whilst the pit is included in the current life of mine, it contributes significantly to sustaining production of ~13Mt for the remaining life of mine. Pit establishment and waste stripping will commence this year with first ore expected in 2024.

Themba Mkhwanazi, CEO of Kumba, said: “The approval of this project, at a time when the global and South African economies face the challenges of Covid-19, underscores Kumba’s positive longer-term outlook for demand for its high-quality product. It also demonstrates our commitment to extend the lives of our mines and continue providing much-needed jobs and livelihoods in the Northern Cape region.”

The operational and financial forecasts provided in this announcement are estimates and the financial information has not been reviewed and reported on by the Company’s external auditors.
Centurion
28 July 2020
Sponsor
RAND MERCHANT BANK (A division of FirstRand Bank Limited)
For further information, please contact:
Company Secretary
Fazila Patel
fazila.patel@angloamerican.com

July 29, 2020 0 comment

Agriculture Health

Enjoy Heritage Day with these recipes, celebrating our country and the planet!

by admin July 28, 2020

written by admin

Pea protein power

Pea protein is one of the trendiest protein powders around this year. As the name says, it is the protein extracted from peas. An explosion of plant-based food has seen predictions for huge growth in the next ten years and the target is not the traditional vegetarians but everyone.

AGT Foods began developing and producing pea protein and introduced it to the South African market as far back as 2013. “Pea protein is one of the best plant-based forms of protein that you can eat. It is versatile, functional and 100% natural,” explains George Tomazos, AGT Foods Retail and Food Ingredients, South Africa.

AGT Foods produces pea protein for inclusion in a variety of foods, such as cereals, breads, protein powders and bars. It is non-genetically modified (GMO free) and a hormone free alternative to soya in the baking and food manufacturing industries.

“Because it is not derived from any of the eight most common allergenic foods often used to create protein supplements (milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, fish, shellfish and wheat), pea protein is a safe option for people with various dietary restrictions,” says Tomazos.

“Pea protein is a complete protein, which means it contains all nine of the essential amino acids—including branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) that you need to effectively build muscle. It digests slowly and there is evidence that slower-digesting proteins are better for muscle growth over the long term due to how your body’s muscle-building machinery processes amino acids into muscle tissue,” he adds.

Pea protein can be included in daily diets by mixing it into smoothies, muffins, oatmeal and even pancakes and is gaining popularity with consumers as it is easy on the stomach, unlike many other protein powders. While the traditional market was the nutritional sector for sports, ingredient manufacturers are producing a variety of pea protein products to meet consumer demand for healthier food options.

Here is a delicious strawberry pea protein smoothie:

Ingredients

1 cup strawberries

1 cup milk of your choice

2 tablespoons pea protein powder

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Combine all ingredients and blend until the smoothie is nice and thick.

Serve immediately.

July 28, 2020 0 comment

Entrepreneurship Finance

Micro-Grid Solutions in Africa

by admin July 28, 2020

written by admin

Microgrid and off grid home solar systems are being rapidly deployed in Africa where power utilities have failed to keep up with demand. Many Africans are still without electricity or still struggling to access electricity especially in rural communities. The only solution to this is by introducing micro grid energy.

While South Africa has the highest electricity consumption in the sub-Sahara region, the demand continues to outpace the installation of generation capacity. Africa is rich in renewable energy sources which remain the most economical approach for powering micro-grids. However, the development of micro-grids faces several barriers that must be unpacked.

“Energy poverty is a global issue and affects rural areas that are too far from the main grid and are too costly to electrify by extending the main grid. Microgrids are emerging as an effective off grid solution that can close the energy poverty gap and can supplement the existing electrification program. Further research and development is required to ensure that these systems can be applied for rural electrification and can operate autonomously within specified limits whilst maintaining supply and demand,” says Chief Executive Officer, Jay Naidoo.

When these micro grids are combined with batteries/generators or other grid systems, they can produce or provide affordable source of power.

“Unfortunately, the continent is trailing behind most others with regards to energy security, bringing about an increase in awareness to provide energy to the millions of African people without it. The most common challenge the African energy sector continues to face is funding for energy projects,” Naidoo continues.

Many African countries have seen rapid and meaningful economic growth in the last decade, and to ensure the sustainability of this growth, these economies rely heavily on accessible, affordable and efficient energy. Urgent investment and research are required into the scalability of micro grids in rural and highly people dense areas to help prevent mass power outages such as the ongoing load shedding that has become a permanent occurrence in the South African power landscape.

July 28, 2020 0 comment

Trade and Investments

Marriott International opens doors to travellers across South Africa

by admin July 10, 2020

written by admin

Over 50% of Marriott International properties across South Africa have opened their doors to welcome travelers under the latest national lockdown regulations.

The properties have opened in line with government regulations and will cater to travel permitted under the current and country-specific regulations.

Volker Heiden, Area Vice President Sub-Saharan Africa, Marriott International comments: “We are excited to welcome back our guests and look forward to providing them great experiences across our diverse portfolio in the country. The government and authorities continue to do an amazing job to safeguard public health and we thank them for their ongoing guidance and collaboration to provide a safe and comfortable environment as we reopen the doors to many of our properties.”

Half of the company’s portfolio of hotels, featuring brands such as Protea Hotels by Marriott, Autograph Collection and Sheraton Hotels, have recommenced operations across markets in South Africa. These locations include Cape Town, Johannesburg, Roodepoort, Pretoria, Durban, Bloemfontein, Garden Route (Mossel Bay and George), Mahikeng, Nelspruit, Kimberley, Upington and Rustenburg.

Offerings at these properties will include non-sharing accommodation and food and beverage offerings in line with current regulations.

As Marriott International carefully reopens its hotels, the health and safety of guests and associates remains of paramount importance. The company continues to roll out a multi-pronged platform to elevate its cleanliness standards and hospitality norms and behaviours to meet the new health and safety challenges presented by the current pandemic environment in each market around the world.

Each property has implemented extensive health and safety protocols to ensure the safety of guests and hotel associates. These protocols include, among others, implemented guidelines on chemicals and equipment to be used that are effective against viruses and increase the frequency of cleaning and disinfection at high-volume areas and regularly touched surfaces. Cleaning and disinfecting protocols are in place to sanitize rooms after guests depart and before the next guest arrives, and there is also an increased frequency of cleaning in the ‘Back of House’, where hotel associates work behind the scenes. In addition, measures have been introduced to minimize contact and reinforce social distancing and ongoing staff education is taking place.

Marriott International also created the Global Cleanliness Council to tackle the realities of the COVID-19 pandemic at the hotel level and develop the next level of global hospitality cleanliness standards, norms and behaviours that are designed to minimize risk and enhance safety for guests and hotel employees.

“We understand that health and hygiene will be at the forefront of our guests’ minds as they consider traveling and staying at hotels. With our increased measures, we want them to see and understand what we are doing and why we are doing it – so that when they walk through the doors of one of our hotels, they know our commitment to their health and safety is our priority, whichever one of our brands they are staying with,” adds Heiden.

Marriott International is opening its doors to travellers with a ‘Welcome Back’ offer. Marriott International’s ‘Welcome Back’ promotion is valid for hotel stays until 30^th September 2020 in participating hotels across South Africa. This offers Marriott Bonvoy members 25% off standard room rates, including complimentary breakfast and 15% off standard room rates for non-members. For more information on participating hotels or to make a booking, visit: https://www.emea.marriott.com/en/offers/welcome-back-za.

July 10, 2020 0 comment

Technology

Better instant prints now a reality with new FUJIFILM instax mini 11

by admin July 1, 2020

written by admin

Improved exposure and better selfies make the mini 11 an important upgrade for budding instant photographers.

24 June 2020
FUJIFILM South Africa is proud to announce the launch of the instax mini 11, the highly anticipated follow-up to 2017’s best-selling mini 9. The mini 11 instant camera provides on-the-spot photo printing and comes with a number of features never seen before on instax mini cameras.
New features for better photos
The new instax mini 11 is the first entry-level model to feature the ‘Automatic Exposure’ function, providing better-looking photos in darker lighting conditions. Here the camera automatically senses the level of ambient light when the shutter button is pressed, optimising the shutter speed and flash output according to the surrounding brightness. The result is less flash ‘blowout’ indoors, with both the subject and background now correctly exposed.

Another feature that makes taking instax photos easier than ever before is the Selfie Mode, which is ideal for both selfies and close-ups photos. On the previous instax mini 9 camera, an adapter needed to be placed on the lens for selfies. On the new mini 11, the Selfie Mode can be activated by simply pulling out the front-end edge of the lens after powering the camera on.

Users will see the “Selfie On” mark on the edge of the lens, with the mini 11 now able to take photos at a closer focussing distance, around 30-50cm away. They can also conveniently frame their selfie by checking the little mirror panel on the side of the lens for composition.
Even more fun than before
The instax mini 11’s rounder, softer and compact style builds on the popular design of its mini 9 predecessor. The mini 11 is actually smaller in size than its older sister, making it easier to carry around, also weighing a bit less at 293g (without batteries, strap, and film). All said, it’s a fun looking camera, with contrasting design elements on the mini 11 achieved by using a different material around the lens from the rest of the camera body.
Those looking to customise their mini 11 can do so via two included accessories – a glow in the dark button and a jewel button which can be placed on top of the shutter button. There’s also a colour coded strap included in the box which fits around the wrist.
Powering the mini 11 are two AA-size alkaline batteries (included), able to provide enough battery life for 100 exposures. Talking of which, the mini 11 is just as quick to print out your photos, with an instax mini print ready in about 90 seconds after the shutter button is pressed.

Price and Availability
To capture a photo and see it develop instantly remains a satisfying experience. But being able to give that print to a friend or a loved one is what instax instant photography is all about – don’t just take, give!
The FUJIFILM instax mini 11 is coming to South Africa in five pale tone colours, namely Blush Pink, Sky Blue, Charcoal Gray, Ice White and Lilac Purple. The camera will be available locally in select retail stores and online starting mid-July 2020, retailing for R1 199 (incl. VAT), or as a kit with one pack of instax film (10 prints) for R1 349 (incl. VAT).
Fans of the instax will be happy to know that it will come with a range of accessories, including new camera cases and photo albums.
-ENDS
For a range of images of the instax mini 11, click here.
A video of the product can be found here and here.
Find INSTAX South Africa on:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/instaxsa/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/instaxsa/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/InstaxS

About FUJIFILM South Africa

Find FUJIFILM South Africa at www.fujifilm.co.za or www.myfujifilm.co.za
Facebook: www.facebook.com/FujifilmSA
Instagram: www.instagram.com/fujifilm_sa

July 1, 2020 0 comment

Human Capital Trade and Investments

Reassuring and serving customers during the covid-19 crisis

by admin May 25, 2020

written by admin

With the current COVID-19 pandemic, financial services providers worldwide have come under unprecedented pressure. Analytics software firm FICO launched a global virtual event aimed at helping leaders manage operations, customers, and new fraud scams in the current crisis.

The FICO® Virtual Event – Building Resiliency is a month-long event that started from the 20^th of April 2020 until …May 2020. It includes more than 30 free live sessions, sharing ideas, and emerging best practices in topics related to collections, credit management, fraud protection, and other issues.

Peter Wannemacher, Principal analyst at Forrester looked at ‘How companies are reassuring and serving customers in this crisis and its aftermath’.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LbenHXM2eis&feature=youtu.be

He identified five lessons that are not shocking, but whose implications are profound, moving forward, and beyond the pandemic. He highlighted that companies needed to not only focus on surviving the pandemic but growing beyond it.
5 lessons:

Reassuring and supporting customers in the wake of COVID-19 is companies #1 job. Firms should provide clear, prominent content and guidance
Dynamism and decentralization will drive sustained growth as companies and their customers emerge from this crisis
Firms that support customers in the teeth of this pandemic- and thrive after- will have changed how they approach their relationship with customers and how they design and deliver new initiatives
Nothing is more important than data, and the actions companies take now may well decide how willing people are to share and store data with them
You do not need to see the future to win it: Your resilience today (and your growth tomorrow) will require systems of exploration and iteration.

The above lessons were concluded based on research that zoomed in on three main elements:

Resilience: How firms are responding to the COVID-19 pandemic
Dynamism: Why some companies will surge, and some will sputter – the most important attribute in achieving long term sustainable growth, surviving, and thriving beyond
Aftermath: Where everything is heading and what it means for you – NB how this will change the world, how you do things, customers, companies

Resilience

Research conducted by Forrester indicated that in the first-week branch visits were still being prioritized over digital self-service. Banks missed the mark early when it came to communication but were correcting this. With the numbers standing in week one standing at 84% and 16% respectively. The numbers shifted in the second week with communication prioritizing branch visits dropping to 32% from 84%.
A similar shift was identified in bank communication encompassing empathy. Bank communication that started by acknowledging customer anxiety increased from 45% in the first week to 59% in the second.
In South Africa several actions were taken by different organizations to ease the burden of the pandemic:

Wavering of Saswitch penalty fees e.g Absa
Payment freezes due services being unavailable e.g Virgin Active
Encouraging online and ATM transactions vs branch visits by reducing staff and services available in branches e.g Capitec
Developing specialized digital content: eg FNB
Offering crisis-based loans and credit line increases e.g Wesbank

Peter highlighted that if customers cannot consume information, even the best efforts will fall short. He emphasized that communication styles are crucial during this time as consumers are being bombarded with loads of information. Clear is crucial.
He identified that too few banks are using video or multimedia to guide and help customers during the pandemic. Which is unfortunate because at any given 30-40% customers in markets tend to prefer video to other media.

Dynamism

Dynamism is branded as the reason why some companies will surge, and some will sputter.
“Dynamism is a combination of speed + degree of change that a company can achieve”.
Having said this, it is not about changing strategies frequently but rather having systems in place to accommodate change or a shift. This may be a new competitor rolling out a new product or a pandemic. Are you able to adjust accordingly? Research from Forrester dating back decades indicates that firms who are most dynamic are the ones who are ultimately successful.
How does one achieve dynamism?
Design thinking has been found to help you explore and iterate.

Design thinking has been found to help you explore and iterate.

Aftermath

Banks need to understand that their role is not one of only managing customers’ money rather enabling their financial well-being.
As it stands South Africans have financial challenges. And because of this, they’re constantly trying to find the best use for their money, such as looking at retirement, but people struggle with this. According to the Association for Savings and Investment SA (ASISA), the average drawdown rate of retirees in living annuities is about 6.6%. This implies that more than half of living annuitants in South Africa are drawing more than 6.6% a year, thereby jeopardizing their future pension. Although these are pre-Covid-19 stats it is evident that South Africans are struggling. The current pandemic will only worsen this. Therefore there will be a greater need for additional tools, services, and content that helps people achieve and move towards financial well-being. This is a great time for innovation in financial services:
A simple model for counterintuitive to push innovation

Note: The larger the bubble, the larger the risk

Ten initiatives that should see increased priority coming out of the crisis:

Machine learning algorithms and other AI technologies
Alerts and notifications
Secure messaging
Card and data management tool
Search functionality
Content
Navigation design
Contactless payments and mobile wallet integrations
Digital onboarding experiences
Digital product innovation

In closing, you do not need to see the future perfectly to win. Leading companies will use innovation-by-iteration, not innovation-by-prognostication to achieve sustained growth.

May 25, 2020 0 comment

Entrepreneurship Finance

What does the future hold? Solutions to define your future

by admin May 25, 2020

written by admin

In the uncertain world we are currently living in, we all want to look into the ‘crystal ball’ to find out, what now, where to next and how will this impact my business, right? Unfortunately, no one can rightly predict the future, but we can think like futurists to create strategies to ensure our businesses have more robust plans to ensure we are “anti fragile.”

This is the time to listen to experts who can help unpack future scenario’s and mitigate the risk on our businesses that the COVID-19 pandemic has placed on our economic situation.

The Manufacturing Indaba recognises the need that our manufacturing community has, and together with expert insights identify the steps that can be taken to help your business. These steps can be explored and implemented to support your sustainability.

The 3-part series will soon go live and Part 1 specifically speaks to supporting a change of thinking and to look at the future. Remember the Future is a matter of choice, not chance so please do join us:
Image: Part 1 – How to think like a futurist
REGISTER FOR THE 3 WEBINARS AT A COST OF R1,800.00 EXCL VAT
Button: Register
For more information and to register, email: info@manufacturingindaba.co.za

Learn more: manufacturingindaba.co.za/webinar/
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May 25, 2020 0 comment