20 Walk the talk 8 EL business
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Dec 2016/Jan 2017
8 EL business
sector on a
massive drive
9 A Gift of Life
- SANBS 20
Walk the talk
29 Eco-friendly
power and
performance
to clean BCM
Business
BU S I N E S S M AGA Z I N E O F T H E B O R D E R - K E I R E G I O N
December/January
CONTENTS
2016/17
REGULARS
4 Editor’s column
5 Director’s Report
33 Diarise this
34 Puzzles
08
HI-LITES
6 22 Years of Tomato Trot & Cycle
6 East London museum comes to life
6 Tourists will have fun at Mthombo’s Palace in Mdantsane
7 Hope schools going strong
7 2016 SARA Reward awards
NEWS
8 EL business sector on a massive drive to clean BCM
9 A Gift of Life
10 Business mogul donates funds to Mdantsane schools
10 Buffalo City Maritime Cluster to lobby for investment
11 Eastern Cape polyfibre project receives R22-million funding
12 Harry’s Printers hosts international conference
13 EL accountant leads the way
14 Local business in R9 million investment boost
FEATURE
16 Domestic workers increase
20 Options after matric
28
BUSINESS 09
15 Chamber’s Breakfast of Champions
22 Final Chamber Networking for 2016
24 BKCOB Golf Challenge 2016
LEISURE
29 Review Of Mercedes-Benz C350e
31 Wine and Food
32 Slow Lane
SPORT
30 Sports Highlights
04
BusinessHi-Lite
Contact the BKCOB ON
Tel: 043 743 8438 | Fax: 043 748 1507
Website: www.bkcob.co.za
Email: info@bkcob.co.za
EDITORSnote
Executive Director
Les Holbrook
les@bkcob.co.za
Events
Jenny Inglis
jenny@bkcob.co.za
Bookkeeper
Janet Shuttleworth
A festive greeting
janet@bkcob.co.za In the blink of an eye, the end of the year is upon us. I must say, this
Communications time of the year is always my favourite—say what you will, there is
Drayton Brown nothing quite like a Christmas in sunny South Africa. In my childhood,
communications@bkcob.co.za
Christmas time was always associated with family visits, lazy beach
Committee Coordinator
Alana Velida trips, heaps of presents and an endless supply of yummy food!
commadmin@bkcob.co.za
As I’ve grown older I have wanted to recreate that feeling of
Komani Administrator
Méchell Stander abundance for my daughter, and I’ve come to realise that this can
admin@bkcob.co.za only happen by sharing with others. So now, I am trying to share that
Komani Municipal Liaison knowledge with her by encouraging her to give to those who are less
Jack Nhlapo
led@bkcob.co.za fortunate than her. If we share what we have, it makes what we have
Yanga Ziweli
that much more enjoyable.
intern@bkcob.co.za I learnt this from the East London community, who routinely astounds
me with their generosity towards those who are less fortunate, and it is
a source of endless pride for me as an East Londoner.
CONSTANT The Business Hi-Lite team is excited to present our December/January
communications
edition to you. This month we look at education and what options are
Editor available to youngsters who are facing the end of their school careers
Keshina Thaver
hilite@constantcommunications.co.za (see page 20). It is so important that young people understand that
Sales & Marketing they have choices in terms of how they pursue further education and
Sandra Sholayan training.
sandras@constantcommunications.co.za
Frances Smith On behalf of the Hi-Lite team we wish you all a safe and joyful
advertising@constantcommunications.co.za
Christmas with your loved ones and we wish you a prosperous 2017
Journalist
Mandlenkosi Mxengi
which takes you closer towards achieving your goals.
mandla@constantcommunications.co.za
Director
Karuna Harry
karuna@harrysprinters.com
Proofreading
Priya Harry Best wishes,
priya@constantcommunications.co.za
Keshina
Design
Napo Mokoena
design@constantcommunications.co.za
Tel: 043 722 8404 | Fax: 043 742 2138
Website: www.harrrysprinters.com
Email: info@harrysprinters.com
Printed by Harry’s Printers
Business Hi-Lite welcomes editorial contributions and
encourage our readers to use the magazine as a platform for
sharing their views and ideas.
Keshina Thaver
Please email us at hilite@constantcommunications.co.za
Our opinions expressed in the Business Hi-Lite do not
necessarily represent the official viewpoint of the BKCOB or the
publisher. Copyright of material in this publication is reserved.
Scan the code to view a digital
version of the Business Hi-Lite!
BKCOB DIRECTOR’S REPORT 05
letter
from
Macro Economics
Les the wages – but we will also increase
The Reserve Bank’s decision recently the incentives and wage subsidies,
NOT to increase the interest rate to qualifying enterprises”. The real
comes as good news. Certainly many issue is that only a small section of
retailers were dreading an upward the private sector gets preferential
adjustment – no matter how small, benefits while most struggle against
whether .25 or not. an increasingly complicated and over-
As we move into a seasonal slowing regulated business environment. CORPORATE
and for some a well-deserved break,
it would have been a bitter pill to
Flagship Projects
Whilst the Chamber hunkers down members
swallow. So good news on this front. for the slowing and in some cases
I cannot believe it will never happen, shutdown of business in December,
perhaps mid-way through 2017 in reflection we have again raised the PLATINUM MEMBERS
– much depending on the R/$ bar and led from the front. Our three
exchange and to some extent the oil key projects have gained relevance
price AND if we control inflation. and stature and are worth reflection.
Minimum Wages Invest Buffalo City now has a signed
Why is it that no matter how much MOU with its four key partners
business laments the high cost of and looks forward to 2017 with
doing business, our government confidence that it will be a significant
persists in legislating more and more role player on the investment scene.
DIAMOND MEMBERS
measures that push the cost of doing Call-2-Action (reported elsewhere
business UP? Is it not enough that in this magazine) has commenced
we have to deal with complicated the promised intervention and in a
labour laws (although there is an meaningful way begins to partner
easing) and the endless regulations with the Municipality to turn our Metro
and requirements to be in business? into a place we proudly invest, live,
Small wonder that more and more work and play. Lastly congratulations
formerly successful small businesses to ourselves for three awards in
are moving to the informal sector. recognition of our Greening Initiative.
Whilst the so-called negotiations Winning the SACCI-affiliated Chamber GOLD MEMBERS
go on – with and almost inevitable of the Year, and two achievements
outcome – there are three issues for in the highly competitive Institute
us to keep in mind. One, does small of Waste Management (IWMSA)
business have a voice in this recent Annual Awards bears noteworthy
situation? Oh we know business is compliments, and for which Chris
represented, but who represents us? Ettmayr, Chairman of the Energy
I certainly have no idea! Two, can Forum, was elected Chamber
we honestly feel right about another Champion 2016. Well done, Chris.
kick in the butt for small business We sadly bid farewell to Tish, Saskia
when October/November revealed and Sakhane – all of whom will be
the highest loss of jobs in 2016? sorely missed. Thank you for your
Three, has any dialogue been held invaluable contribution. Finally, when
with the unemployed? A very real you do spend time with family,
sense pertains that they don’t like the friends and colleagues over the
minimum wage either – because once holiday season, please be aware of
set, there will be further job losses. the importance of returning in the
So who actually gains from the setting New Year – refreshed, motivated
of a new minimum wage – and are the and rested. The Chamber wishes all
gains worthwhile? The government readers a blessed and safe season.
says, ”don’t worry, we will increase Regards, Les Holbrook
06 HI-LITES
YE
22 of Tomato Trot & Cycle
AR
S
Mthombo’s Palace owner, the Restro Lounge outside East London
By Viwe Mdlungu Tourist will have fun at
O n February 4 next year the annual Red Baron Tomato Trot &
Cycle will be in its 22nd year, attracting over 2200 runners,
walkers and cyclists.
Mthombo’s Palace in Mdantsane
By Thabang Maseko
The trot was started by three Brakfontein runners who wanted to Eating out in Mdantsane, South Africa’s second largest township,
share their passion for running. The inaugural trot had 36 runners offers an authentic dining experience and a taste of township
and was a 15km run. life where you will find a wonderful mix of roadside eateries and
It has since grown and includes six different events: a 15km run butcheries.
and a 5km fun run under the supports of Border Athletics, a 55km “First-timers might wish to ease themselves into the social scene
and 35km MTB cycle on the Cycling SA calendar and a 15km and with a visit to Mthombo Palace the Restro Lounge in Mdantsane.
8km cycle meeting the requirements of the fitness community. “This tavern-style eatery is the first township restaurant to attract
“Next year we will be joining the run clean campaign and will be visitors like National Speaker of Parliament Baleka Mbethe, ANC
offering all refreshments in washable, re-usable plastic cups. This MP Jackson Mthembu and it is now not so much a local hot spot
eradicates the use of plastic sachets which tend to blow around as a tour bus destination,” says the owner Mothombo Nkula.
and cause refuse and a hazard for animals on the farmlands,” said He said, “Service is super-friendly and there is a good selection of
co-ordinator, Caroline Kruger. township cuisine featuring the likes of ting and umleqwa chicken
According to Frances Smith, a mother of three, the Tomato Trot stew. Also we employed about 25 workers who have undergone
provides an opportunity for the whole family to get out and enjoy training to acquire skills for good service to our customers.”
the wonderful scenery and garden-fresh country air. On Sundays at Mthombo’s Palace there is an eat-as-much-as-
The Tomato Trot has been hosted and managed by Lilyfontein you-like barbeque on the front balcony accompanied by live jazz.
School for the past 22 years and now there will be a fundraiser to A visitor from Gauteng, Lindiwe Mzotho, said she enjoyed the
help the school. place and will come back to spend the summer season holidays
Kruger added, “Our school is growing by a class every year so in this beautiful place.
we always need funds to build additional classrooms and sport “Our diary is fully booked for summer season with numerous
facilities.” There are cash prizes for the winners and Red Baron functions of the companies will hold their year end parties. The
Tomatoes, the main sponsors of the event, provide a bag of Capitec Bank and Mercedes-Benz are amongst the companies
tomatoes for every finisher. that held their functions in this venue,” added Nkula
People can now enter online at www.roag.co.za and for late This establishment has been nominated for the South African
entries from February 3, at Lilyfontein School between 12:00 to Tourism Welcome Award and the AA Award which stands
15:00 and Oxford Striders from 16:30-19:00 or on February 4, testament to good service and a quality product.
between 12h00-30 mins before race at Lilyfontein School.
East London Museum comes to life
By Viwe Mdlungu traditional Xhosa dances and a talk on shipwrecks, amongst other
East London Museum treated guests to a guided tour with topics. “Growing on previous experience, the Museum is always
a difference in an experience where themes and topics were changing the Night at the Museum. We believe it gets better
brought to life. The first event was held back in 2010 and since with experience,” said East London Museum Exhibition Designer
then has gained popularity. At the Night at the Museum there Louanne Kirton. The evening was a success and proceeds go to
were two tours with one at 17h30 catering for children and then the museum towards museum requirements, such as technical
later at 19h30 for adults. The tour went through eight stations, equipment, tools to aid the conservation of collections, display
each at a different section of the museum, where the entertainers materials or scientific research, added Kirton.All those involved in
and experts shared information about a specific topic. creating the magic at the museum volunteered their time.
These included the story of the discovery of the coelacanth,
BusinessHi-Lite DEC/JAN 2016/7
Hi-LITES 07
Hope Schools
going strong
O
By Viwe Mdlungu
n November 1 Hope Schools held an unveiling Raw added they encounter usual challenges like any other
ceremony of a new block of classes named after the late school, but as per strict school criteria they often have tests and
granddaughter of Hope Schools SGB member. occupational therapy or counselling—often parents can’t afford to
The schools were established in 2005 when Sophumelela Centre pay for those services which is why they always look for people to
anti-retroviral clinics started an edu-care centre as a school that do some pro bono work.
will strictly assist children affected and or infected by HIV/AIDS. Over its lifespan the school has evolved and now Hope Schools
The unveiling included an emotional speech about how a tragedy is busy developing its existing school buildings into modern
helped to bring hope of high quality education to children from classrooms with over 20 pupils per class.
disadvantaged backgrounds. They currently have a total of over 200 pupils from grade 00 to 7
“Funding is very essential to run the school. We appeal to and the school is always looking to expand.
everyone who has a generous heart and is passionate about In 2017 Hope Schools will start with their first grade 8 intakes
education, we rely on them to partner with us,” said Headmaster and hopefully see the pupils through to Matric and turn Hope
Nigel Raw. School into Hope College.
Standard Bank, ACSA, UNISA and
Woolworths take top honours at
2016 SARA Reward Awards
T he South African Reward Association (SARA), the
registered professional body for the reward industry, held
its annual Reward Awards ceremony in November. The event
The Standard Bank Reward team successfully implemented
an Employee Benefits and Tax project. An optimum Group
Employee Benefits and Tax Framework was developed which
honours Reward Professionals and teams who have designed is aligned to the Group’s policies, practices, local market norms
and implemented reward and remuneration programmes and legislative requirements.
and practices that made an outstanding contribution to 2nd place: ACSA’s Project Foundation
their organisation’s strategic objectives and promoted their The ACSA Reward team successfully implemented ACSA’s
respective organisations as “employers of choice”. Project Foundation (also known as the REMparity Project)
“We live in a society that seeks equity and an economy that across the entire organisation. The remuneration strategy
demands cost savings while driving performance outputs supports the human capital strategy and enables the
and productivity. To satisfy these demands, various ethical, organisation to have justifiable remuneration principles and
compliance and strategic imperatives have evolved, making practices which attract, retain, motivate and engage employees.
modern reward and remuneration practices a complex matter 3rd place: UNISA’s Reward Communication Plan
that many organisations struggle to master,” said Peet Kruger, The UNISA Reward Communication Plan created awareness of
Chairperson of SARA’s Reward Awards and Conference its total reward model and led to increased employee morale,
Committee. engagement and motivation, particularly of employees in the
The Remuneration Report award is presented to a company academic division.
for exemplary implementation of the King III governance Remuneration Report Award
requirements for executive remuneration. Woolworths won for their clear layout and narrative, and the
The winners were: powerful disclosure regarding these targets. They managed to
Project of the Year Award craft a balance of concise and simple reporting, without loss
Implementation of Leading Reward Principles of detail and within the context of turbulent business change
and Practices during the merging of the three businesses.
1st place: Standard Bank’s Employee Benefits and Tax project
BusinessHi-Lite DEC/JAN 2016/7
EL business
sector on a
massive drive
to clean BCM
Scan this code to see
the latest updates
on the Call-2-Action
Campaign
TEAMWORK: Workers from communities along Settlers Way all set to clean up
T
By Mandlenkosi Mxengi and Yanga Ziwele campaign of cleaning and greening the City commencing.
he Border-Kei Chamber of Business’ (BKCOB) Call-2- “As the business community in the region we need to unite to
Action campaign, aimed at keeping Buffalo City clean is ensure that the Call-2-Action initiative becomes a success,” said
in full swing at the first reception area of Settlers Way. The Holbrook.
BKCOB initiated and is driving the Call-2-Action campaign that Seven workers have been sourced from the communities along
has three main pillars of the Metro Growth and Development Settlers Way with the assistance of their ward councillors. With
Strategy (MGDS), including a green and clean city, a productive the four pilot areas, it will provide employment to at least 28
and innovative city and a well-governed city. individuals.
After a series of over 25 weekly meetings held by Call-2-Action “Bekumdaka kakhulu apha (the place was really dirty). We’re
stakeholders in preparation for the roll out of this project, work going to make a huge difference to the area. So far we’ve already
commenced early on Monday, 17 November, much to the delight picked up rubbish, papers, bottles and other stuff that was
of project manager, Saskia Haardt. blocking water on the side of the road,” said Luvo Klaas, one of
“Certainly, it’s exciting. It’s good to see, and I want to see more of the workers. Klaas also said they are happy that such a project
it. I want to see that it is working has been initiated and he hopes
well, but I think we now have to it will not end any time soon
take lessons and know what we because finding work has been
may have left out of the concept,” challenging.
said Haardt. The clean-up initiative includes
Speaking at 2016’s last Chamber Networking function in the collection of litter, placement of waste collection items such
November BKCOB Executive Director Les Holbrook, told as litter bins and recycling containers, the cleaning of roads and
chamber members that the pilot project was scheduled for roadside gutters and clearing of vegetation bushes and grass
Settlers Way before being rolled out to other three pilot areas in cutting.
Buffalo City. Saskia Haardt, who has been heading the project from its
The project is expected to expand to the East London Central inception, said she hopes more businesses will heed the call and
Business District (CBD), Esplanade and Quigney. Holbrook said a pledge any form of support they can for the initiative to succeed.
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the BKCOB and For more information and to keep track of the progress on the
Buffalo City Municipality has been signed, resulting in the massive Call-2-Action, visit the blog at call2actionweb.wordpress.com
BusinessHi-Lite DEC/JAN 2016/7
NEWS 09
A
GIF
of life
By Viwe Mdlungu
From left: Valdez van Rooyen, Elize Scheepers
and Rene Vice
S
ANBS East London in partnership with Abbott hosted its from the 01-09 December and lastly Big Bleed Week from 19-23
annual breakfast to encourage young people to become December at Berea and Beacon Bay donor centres.
life-long blood and plasma donors and help save lives last As a commitment gift you get a SANBS laptop bag. Blood donors
month. can donate every 8 weeks.
Abbott, a global healthcare company, conceptualized the
movement in partnership with Cristiano Ronaldo in an effort to
address the global decline in the number of young donors.
In the Eastern Cape alone, by October a total of 63 242
collections was made. Currently, tertiary students and learners
contribute about 40 percent of the national blood reserves.
SANBS Rene Vice said, “If it weren’t for regular blood donors
they wouldn’t be able to sustain the blood stocks, it’s because of
the one percent that keeps coming back and enduring the long
screening process.”
The breakfast included a gut-wrenching story. In October 2013
Valdez van Rooyen, a mother of four, realized the importance of
blood donors after her child lived for 82 days depending solely on
blood transfusions.
“You don’t see the importance until it affects you directly. After
12 surgeries within 82 days of endless pain, I was able to say
goodbye to my child and I owed it to generous strangers,” said an
emotional van Rooyen.
Van Rooyen encouraged people to become regular donors and
added you don’t have to be a doctor or surgeon to save lives, you
can save by bleeding. As donors we have the power to save lives.
Vice added the importance of being a regular donor is that when
you come back the third time, they can use your red blood cells,
plasma and platelets with one unit which means you can help
save three lives.
The SANBS has a Big Bleed Campaign over the Festive season
all around the Border region at the Queenstown Golf Club,
Mthatha Plaza, KWT’s Metlife Mall, and Vincent Park Centre
BusinessHi-Lite DEC/JAN 2016/7
10 NEWS
Buffalo City Maritime Cluster
to lobby for investment
East London Port Jacqueline Brown (left), V&A Waterfront’s Chantelle Buffalo City Metro councillor and Acting Mayor Ncedo Kumbaca
Cole and Industrial Development Corporation’s (IDC) Lourie Nel. (left) and businessman Patrice Motsepe during the hand-over of
cheques to Mdantsane schools.
By Mandlenkosi Mxengi | PHOTO: Mandlenkosi Mxengi
The soon-to-be launched Buffalo City Maritime Cluster is Business mogul donates
funds to Mdantsane schools
expected to lobby for investment in Buffalo City while also
ensuring that the region’s maritime interests are profiled at a
national and international level. Nelson Mandela Bay Maritime By Mandlenkosi Mxengi
Cluster chairperson Peter Myles is working with the Border- Billionaire businessman and Motsepe Foundation Chairman,
Kei Chamber of Business (BKCOB) in establishing the Buffalo Patrice Motsepe, announced that his foundation will donate a
City Maritime cluster. One of the resolutions taken during the total of R300-000 to two Mdantsane schools. The funds will
October Eastern Cape Maritime summit, organised by the be used to upgrade the school’s infrastructure including new
Border-Kei Chamber of Business, was the establishment of equipment for the schools’ science laboratories.
the Buffalo City Maritime Cluster. The cluster’s interim steering The Motsepe Foundation also announced that three churches
committee, under the guidance of Peter Myles will include the from Mdantsane will receive funding from the foundation.
Border-Kei Chamber of Business and around 20 business The announcement was made by Motsepe during his visit to
delegates, who indicated willingness to be part of the region’s Mdantsane on the eve of the annual Celebrate Christmas with
maritime cluster formation. Our People, sponsored by the Motsepe Foundation, held at the
Inkanyezi Events Communications Director, Deon Engelke, East London beachfront last month.
said all key stakeholders will be represented and the cluster is During the visit to Buffalo City, Motsepe’s charitable foundation
the voice of maritime-related business in Buffalo City region. distributed Christmas gifts to children coming from poor
“All businesses in the Buffalo City region whose revenues are backgrounds. Over 30 000 Christmas gifts to children from
linked to the sea including exporters, transport and logistics, poor backgrounds in Buffalo City.
tourism, ship repairs/services, water safety, aquaculture and Nyameko High School and Fanti Gaqa Primary School, both
fishing have been invited to join the cluster and serve on the from Mdantsane, each received R150 000 from the foundation.
cluster’s executive committee,” said Engelke. Nyameko High School is expected to spend the funds to buy
Border-Kei Chamber of Business Executive Director Les equipment for its science laboratory and the renovation of its
Holbrook said the best outcome of the summit was the library. At Fanti Gaqa Primary, the Motsepe Foundation pledged
agreement to establish a Buffalo City Maritime Cluster. to help renovate and build new toilets.
“We trust that the Provincial Department of Transport Three Mdantsane churches also received donations from the
supports this new cluster,” said Holbrook. In South Africa foundation. At the Assemblies of God, the foundation will
maritime clusters have been established including the donate an overhead projector and sponsor the refurbishment of
Nelson Mandela Bay Maritime Cluster in Port Elizabeth and the church’s entrance facility.
Durban based eThekwini Maritime Cluster. Maritime clusters Nondlwana Methodist Church will receive a new public
signal and give voice to a region’s economic aspirations and address sound system while at St Francis Anglican Church, the
attractiveness. East London has the opportunity to become foundation, pledged to donate a state-of-the-art security gate
more organised to tap into these fora, including national and fencing around the premises.
and international cluster networks. The Buffalo City Maritime Motsepe Foundation Vice Chairperson Dr Precious Moloi-
Cluster is expected to lobby for investments and continuous Motsepe said the foundation has embarked on community
improvements pertaining to policy and process inefficiencies. development strategy aimed at initiating and funding
The Eastern Cape Maritime Summit held in East London community development and upliftment projects, adding
was seen as a resounding success, with over 220 delegates that they will continue funding local schools and churches
from across the country, including national and international throughout the country.
speakers engaging with local business and policy makers.
BusinessHi-Lite DEC/JAN 2016/7NEWS 11
Eastern Cape polyfibre project
receives R22-million funding
Harrison Hope is one of the projects which received funding from the Eastern Cape Development Corporation.
By Mandlenkosi Mxengi material, which moved it closer to the commercialisation phase.
A n Eastern Cape polyfibre project has been bolstered with an
extra R22-million funding by the Department of Trade and
Industry’s Employment Creation Fund for the establishment of
The fibre, which is a combination of pineapple and plastic waste,
is being used in the manufacture of window and door frames and
furniture.
a polyfibre factory in Port Alfred and three buy-back centres in ECDC became involved in the project after the provincial
Stutterheim, Grahamstown and Port Alfred. Department of Economic Development and Environmental Affairs
The Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC) funded (DEDEAT) approached the corporation to fund the establishment
PolyFibre Pty Ltd factory is expected to create more job of the buy-back centres located near solid waste disposal sites.
opportunities in the region. “This project will be a combination of the two waste products
The ECDC continues to provide financial assistance to emerging already in existence, the restructuring of the pineapple industry
entrepreneurs in the Eastern Cape while also helping grow the by exploring opportunities of its factory and farm waste which is
province’s economy. co-founded by ECDC and waste buy-back centres established at
ECDC Chief Executive Office Ndzondelelo Dlulane recently three land fill sites,” said Dlulane.
released the corporation’s 2015/16 annual results during a media ECDC allocated R736 000 funds for establishment and
briefing held at the East London Golf Club. expansion of 200 hectare quarry aggregate mine in Indwe outside
ECDC initially injected R2,2-million to the project which received Queenstown.
South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) certification for the
BusinessHi-Lite DEC/JAN 2016/712 NEWS
Vrij Harry, MD of Harry’s Printers
Members share their experiences, discuss trends in the
industry and look at innovative solutions and advances in
technology that can be used to maximise the potential of an
Harry’s Printers hosts
industry in decline.
The conference was last hosted in Cape Town in 2004. Harry’s
Printers has been a member since 2005 and is the only African
international printers’ member of group. “Being part of the IPN is what has allowed
us to be where we are today. We never could have dreamed
conference of growing to the size we are without the encouragement and
information sharing that we as a company have been exposed
to as members of the IPN,” said Vrij Harry, Managing Director
H
of the Harry’s Group.
arry’s Printers played host to the International Printers Network The conference was also a chance to show off all that South
(IPN), a group made up of printing companies from around the Africa has to offer. Visitors were blown away by the sights,
world. The conference was hosted at the Premier Hotel Cape cuisine, exceptional wines and exciting activities Cape Town
Manor in Seapoint, Cape Town and was held from 22-25 October. had to offer.
Initially it was conceived as a way for printers easily to print their
materials globally without incurring extra costs including shipping,
customs, delays in delivery and many more. It boasts members from
all corners of the globe, from South America to Asia, Australia to
Europe and North America. The IPN has grown since its inception
in 1993 to offer more to its members than just the chance to receive
extra work.
As the print industry has changed, so the focus of the group has
changed as well. Conferences are held twice a year in different
countries around the world, one usually focusing on the technological
aspects of print and the other with a more general print focus.
iti on
compet
n e r s
win
BusinessHi-Lite DEC/JAN 2016/7NEWS 13
EL
A c c o u ntant
leads the way
“I was the only female in
internal audit at the time.
Since then the number has
gone up to six”
V
uyo Gwayi is smart; as a qualified chartered accountant
[CA(SA)], she needs to be. But to get ahead in any
profession you need a plan; you must work hard and set
yourself apart.
“I believe the worst that can happen if I ask for something is that
the person will say no,” says Gwayi of her promotion from junior
consultant to senior associate in the space of three years at PwC,
one of the Big Four accounting firms.
She is also not scared of hard work. While still a learner at
Clarendon Girls’ High School in East London, Gwayi heard about
the prestigious President’s Award for Youth Empowerment in
South Africa and decided to go for it. She figured, ‘What do I have Four essential career tips Vuyo learnt
to lose?’
She took up debating and public speaking to improve her 1. Step up to opportunities
communication skills and helped out in the school library and Indicate your availability for a transfer and/or another level of
computer laboratory. Gwayi is community minded – a trait which responsibility and other areas of the business when completing a
she shares with her policeman father. She also volunteered at a development plan to show the extent to which you are committed
NGO for hearing impaired children who could not afford hearing to your career.
aids. “You serve your community for a year and take up an activity 2. Find a mentor
to develop yourself as a future leader in order to be considered for Have several mentors to enable you to develop different
the award,” says Gwayi. Her efforts paid off in 2007, when Vuyo attributes and skills. In Vuyo’s case, her mentors collectively
(who was in grade 11 at the time) received The President’s Award taught her the importance of managing expectations through
for Youth Empowerment in the bronze category. effective delegation; the importance of managing time without
In 2014, just five months into her first job as a CA(SA) in the compromising on family time; active community involvement
internal audit department at PwC East London, Gwayi was offered and being a responsible leader and taking accountability for her
a transfer to the Risk Assurance division in Cape Town. While the actions.
offer came with a small increase in remuneration, more important 3. Create a development plan
was that it represented a rare opportunity for a CA(SA) starting out Write up a detailed development plan every year in consultation
their career. As senior associate in risk assurance at PwC Cape with a coach and/or mentor. This should focus on both strengths
Town, Vuyo Gwayi volunteered to sit on the transformation forum. (and how to build on and leverage these) as well as areas of
“I was the only female in internal audit at the time. Since then improvement in order to ensure you work on becoming a more
the number has gone up to six,” she notes. Vuyo volunteered rounded individual, both personally and professionally.
so she could be used as yardstick and to manage any negative 4. Commitment and hard work leads to opportunities
perceptions about being an African woman. Determination and the willingness to put in extra effort are
It has been a fast rise up the ladder for Vuyo; one that she says qualities which all employers look for in their employees. Let your
others can emulate by remembering these four tips. work speak for you.
BusinessHi-Lite DEC/JAN 2016/714 NEWS
MBSA hosts
annual
pensioners’
lunch
O
n November 10 Mercedes-Benz South Africa (MBSA) Human Resources Manager , Goodman Lucwaba.
pensioners and their partners were honoured at a lunch Over a thousand MBSA retirees were in attendance at the lunch,
aimed at celebrating their contribution to the company which was to be a much anticipated reunion among retirees.
over the years. MBSA pensioner Jonny Fulani said, “I remember how we used to
The annual pensioners’ lunch gives an update of the company’s work under challenging conditions but today we are here having
developments to the retirees, especially to those who have had a a great time with the same family we have spent so many years
hand in its success over the years. working for.”
“At Mercedes-Benz South Africa, we always appreciate and value Fulani added it has been an honour to have been among the
this opportunity to remind you that you are an important part of people who built the car for Mandela and to have contributed to
our family. This is a tradition we started a long time ago, and one the economy of this province and country.
which we are committed to keeping, as it is an opportunity for The event concluded with festive cheers as all the retirees were
us to show you how much your contribution during your working entertained with good music and great company.
years here with the company has meant to us,” said MBSA
Local business
in R9-million
investment boost
By Mandlenkosi Mxengi
Smart Office Connexion (SOX), which also has a regional office in Smart Office Connexion has invested R9-million in its brand new
East London, has invested a whopping R9-million in expanding its fleet of service vehicles.
fleet of 49 vehicles in reaction to the growth and expansion of the “The marked change in our business has come from clients
business and its client base. looking for a complete solutions provider. This has been the
Established as Canon EC in Port Elizabeth in 1998, the business bigger driver in our success. Demand has expanded from
expanded its offices by opening an East London regional office traditional multi-functional devices to a basket of Telecoms,
in 2000, three years later opened its South-Western District CCTV and office automation,” said Kelly.
branches in George and Knysna. The company’s Alan Wilson said the business has reported 20%
The company has employed 160 staff in the Eastern and growth in sales and 15% increase in service revenue this year
Southern Cape and a nationwide staff complement of 1 560, and alone. “Despite a fairly tumultuous year for the country’s Rand,
has exceeded its previous growth figures in its 18-year history our business is better than ever. The very nature of our offering
as a business-to-business supplier of office machines including is to provide turnkey office solutions, and the fact that it is doing
printers, copiers as well as software and technical support well is certainly indicative that other businesses are starting up or
services. Smart Office Connexion Sale Manager for the Border expanding. It is also a trend which our sales team have picked up
region, Sean Kelly, said there has been a decided upswing in new on,” added Wilson.
customers as well as customer demand over the past 24 to 36 The business forms part of a national network of 45 SOX service
months, and these customers expressed confidence in doing centres, offering a full service that includes the sale and rental of
business in the region. office machines, consumables, data and CCTV security.
BusinessHi-Lite DEC/JAN 2016/7BKCOB 15
Chamber’s Breakfast of Champions
Rory Hashick Gordon Thompson Mike Francis Adre Bartis Charmaine Weyers Bob Norris
A
s a voluntary members association, the Border-Kei • Johan Burger – Infrastructure Committee (ICOMM)
Chamber of Business meets its mandate of being The • Charmaine Weyers – Tourism Committee
Voice of Business through the numerous task teams • Bob Norris – Sports Tourism Sub-Committee
and sub-committees that meet every month. Topics range from • Chris Ettmayr – Energy Forum
tourism and sport to infrastructure, manufacturing and imports • Rory Haschick – Manufacturing Economic Affairs and Trade
and exports of the East London Port. (MEAT)
These committees are filled with 120 volunteers who give freely • Penny Whitfield – Education Committee
of their time and expertise and are the true heartbeat of the • Gordon Thompson – Operations Committee
Chamber. To appreciate the work they all do in a small way, the • Michael Francis – Hi-Lite Committee
Chamber takes everyone out for a small breakfast at the end • Adré Bartis – Queenstown Committee
of the year where different committees have an opportunity At the breakfast, the Chamber Champion is also selected and
to engage and share what each task team is up to. The given a trophy as the most outstanding contributor and volunteer.
chairpersons of the various committees also share the successes This year the winner is Chris Ettmayr for his role in driving the
and challenges of the past year, as well as the exciting new Chamber’s renewable energy project and having the first “green”
initiatives that will continue into 2017. Chamber in Africa. Second and third runners up were Sandy
The Chairman of the various committees are: Loppnow and Gary McLean for the numerous late nights and
• Gavin Le Roux – BKCOB Executive many hours put into Chamber’s 52 Week Calendar and Call-2-
• Melanie Van Vreden - The Employee Relations Forum (ERF) Action respectively.
• Michelle Cloete – CSI Sub-Committee
Melanie Van Vreden Johan Burger Gavin Le Roux; Chris Ettmayr Gavin Le Roux addresses all present
BusinessHi-Lite DEC/JAN 2016/716 FEATURE DOMESTIC WORKERS – AN INCREASE IN THE RATE! ARE YOU COMPLIANT? The latest increase in the sectoral determination for Domestic Do you have to register these employees for UIF? Workers has been published. The new increases are effective You must contribute 1% and your domestic worker 1% to UIF. from 1 December 2016. Let’s examine compliance as a whole You will need to provide the Inspector with proof of registration under the following headings: in the form of your UIF reference number and proof of your last What do I need to pay my domestic worker? payment. The Department of Labour has released updated minimum wage Do I have to register them for Compensation for rates for domestic workers with effect from 1 December 2016 Occupational, Injuries and Diseases Act? until 30 November 2017 and these are non-negotiable. You have No, you do not as a domestic worker is excluded from this Act. to comply. If I provide them with accommodation what do I need to Area A includes major metropolitan areas (for example, the Buffalo know? City Local Municipal area) and Area B would represent all areas You may by agreement with them make a deduction of not not covered in Area A – this is mostly deemed to be rural areas): more than 10% of the wage for a room or other accommodation The amended minimum wages in these two areas are as follows: supplied to the domestic worker by the employer if the Area A accommodation meets certain minimum requirements • An employee that works more than 27 hours per week, an Can I deduct monies from them for their overalls and other hourly rate of R12.42 or a monthly rate of R2422.54; expenses? • An employee that works 27 hours per week or less, an hourly An employer may not receive any payment directly or indirectly, rate of R14.54 or monthly rate of R1701.06. or withhold any payment from a domestic worker in respect of – • It has increased by 8.6% • the employment or training of that domestic worker; Area B • the supply of any work equipment or tools; • An employee that works more than 27 hours per week, an • the supply of any work clothing; or hourly rate of R11.31 or a monthly rate of R2205.16; • any food supplied to the domestic worker while the domestic • An employee that works 27 hours per week or less, an hourly worker is working or is at the workplace. rate of R13.53 or monthly rate of R1562.21 Further an employer may not require a domestic worker to • It has increased by 10.6% purchase any goods from the employer or from any person, shop Who is regarded a domestic worker? or other business nominated by the employer. The definition of a domestic worker is anyone (an employee or an independent contractor) performing domestic work and includes An employer may not levy a fine against a domestic worker. part time and full time domestics who work inside your house, gardeners who work in your garden, anyone that a household An employer may not require or permit a domestic worker to – employs as a driver, any person who takes care of children, the (a) repay any pay except for overpayments previously made by aged, the frail, sick or disabled and those domestic workers the employer resulting from an error in calculating the domestic employed by employment services companies. It specifically worker’s pay; or excludes domestic workers on a farm and those domestic (b) acknowledge receipt of an amount greater than the pay workers covered by another sectoral determination in terms of actually received. the Basic Conditions of Employment Act or bargaining council in So the message is you have to look after your domestic workers terms of the Labour Relations Act. and be prepared when the Labour Inspector visits your home. What information must I keep? These are the basics that need to be complied with and are the You must keep a copy of or an official summary of the Sectoral minimum standards of the law. Determination 7: Domestic worker Sector where he/she would Best to download the Sectoral Determination: 7 Domestic worker have access to it. sector and the new minimum wage tables from the Department What records do I need to keep for my domestic worker? of Labour’s website or from our website at globalbusiness.co.za, You need to keep a record of attendance registers, actual hours specifically http://www.globalbusiness.co.za/download/11804/ worked, wages paid, deductions made, leave taken, disciplinary and http://www.globalbusiness.co.za/download/11801/ action taken and any other training provided. More importantly, you need to have a copy of their signed contract of employment. Trish Ryan and Jonathan Goldberg You need to retain these records for three years in case of any Global Business Solutions dispute. BusinessHi-Lite DEC/JAN 2016/7
BKCOBNEWS 17 BusinessHi-Lite NOVEMBER 2016
18 BKCOB BusinessHi-Lite NOVEMBER 2016
BKCOB 19 BusinessHi-Lite NOVEMBER 2016
20 FEATURE
OPTIONS AFTER MATRIC
Walk
why this is the hardest part of my work as an educator – I have
to turn them away from one of the few things that will help them
talk
improve their lives: an education.
However, there are a few very viable options available to young
people who have not been accepted into a course of their
the
choosing. The first is to not waste time. The worst possible thing
you can do is sit at home and take a “gap year”. A gap year used
to mean a year off to travel or work before resuming studies. In
this challenging economy, that is becoming increasingly difficult to
By Keshina Thaver do and the gap ends up growing longer and longer.
One of the most disheartening tasks I have as a lecturer happens It is possible to pursue your goals along different paths. There are
annually during this time of the year. Admissions season sees accredited colleges such as Boston and MSC who are featured
nearly 1000 applicants seeking one of 37 places in the first year here, and there are literally hundreds of apprenticeship options
Journalism department intake at Walter Sisulu University. available. A quick Google search will reveal various options for
As a lecturer and former programme co-ordinator it is my task you to follow. Having a trade or a skill is always a valuable tool in
to invite those students who meet admission requirements for a your arsenal. If you are unable to study, then having a skill that
departmental assessment, and reject those who fail to meet those can earn you an income until you are able to study is better than
requirements. And every year the list of rejected students grows sitting at home and being frustrated.
longer and longer. Remember, over and above qualifications, a prospective employer
There are a number of reasons for this, however, what concerns wants to see that you have the drive and the willingness to pursue
me most is that the WSU Journalism department is merely one that which you are passionate about. Are you prepared to do the
small offering in one tertiary institution, out of hundreds in South work that is necessary to succeed? Don’t answer, show it.
Africa, so where are all these “rejected” matriculants going? Best of luck to all matriculants and prospective students from the
What are their options? And what does a young person do when Hi-Lite team.
after 12, or sometimes more, years of study towards the hope
of a university education, they are suddenly faced with nowhere Keshina Thaver is the Editor of the Business Hi-Lite
to go? It happens more often than most parents are willing to Magazine, a Journalism lecturer at Walter Sisulu
accept. Rejecting so many applicants brings a seemingly endless University, a Master’s degree student at Stellenbosch
line of parents pleading, begging or demanding a place for their University and a mom.
child. Sometimes it is the child that pleads with you, and that’s
YOUTH EMPLOYMENT TAX INCENTIVE
By Menet Hamel Assembly.
The Youth Unemployment Rate as reported by Statistics South An employer can claim the incentive by decreasing the amount of
Africa, is at an all-time high of 55 percent in the third quarter PAYE that is payable to the SARS for every qualifying employee
of 2016, a 5 percent increase from last year. In this same that is hired by the employer. This is done by completing the
reporting period, 30,6% of youth aged 15-24 years were not in Employment Tax Incentive (ETI) field on the employer’s monthly
employment, education or training (NEET). EMP201 submission to SARS.
It is clear from the above-mentioned statistics that millions of There are certain criteria which need to be met by the employer
young people are excluded from participating in the economy to be eligible to claim the ETI; for example, the employer must
actively and two of the biggest problems facing youth be registered or eligible to register for PAYE and cannot be in
employment is their lack of skills and experience. the national, provincial or local sphere of government. Similarly,
Government, in their Draft National Youth Policy 2020, sets there are criteria which also need to be met by individuals to
out a number of goals and commitments to advance youth be deemed a qualifying employee; for example, the employee
development including learnerships and internships focussed must hold a valid South African ID, Asylum Seeker permit or an
on raising the skills capacity of young people through Sector ID issued in terms of the Refugee Act and employees must be
Education and Training Authorities. between 18 to 29 years old.
Another mechanism which seeks to encourage employers to hire
young work seekers is the Employment Tax Incentive (ETI). It was The ETI not only incentivises employment and boosts job creation,
implemented with effect from 1 January 2014 and the Taxation it facilitates work experience which in turn improves long term
Laws Amendment Bill seeks to extend this incentive to 28 employment prospects of our youth.
February 2019. The Bill is currently before Parliament at National
BusinessHi-Lite DEC/JAN 2016/7NMMU 21 BusinessHi-Lite NOVEMBER 2016
Lauren Brady; Evie Branfield ; Cecile Steyn
22 BKCOB
Final EL
Chamber Networking
Aubrey Bahula; Brenden Fourie; Cheryl Steenekamp; Tracey Gravett Lauren Brady; Evie Branfield; Matt Alexandre
Lindie Krug Cecile Steyn
Member; Suzette Venter Marylee-Ann Els; Maggie Louw Gavin Le Roux; Gordon Thompson; New BKCOB Members
Johan Burger
If you would like to
sponsor a Chamber
Networking, please
contact Jenny Inglis on
0437438438 or
jenny@bkcob.co.za
Nopasika Mxunyelwa; Team Boston Zintle Ruiters
Jacqueline Tunyiswa
T
wenty-sixteen has been nothing short of fruitful for the assessments,” said Penny Whitfield, Branch Manager.
Border-Kei Chamber of Business (BKCOB), as the success “Through our experience in education, dealing with learners and a
of its 6th and last East London business networking event proven success record of our methodology, we were able to offer
for the year proved on Thursday, 11 November. valuable skills to learners who wish to gain work readiness skills,”
Each of these networking evenings was themed and centred said Whitfield.
around a specific chamber member and sponsor. Throughout the year, BKCOB has welcomed a host of new
This time Boston City Campus was the centre of attention. They members. The same can be said for this networking evening,
gave a witty and unique air-flight themed presentation of their as they welcomed and awarded membership certificates
history, achievements, and the programmes they offer, which to AppyTown, Clariter, SmartTracker and Boysen Exhaust
have multiplied to over a hundred career paths since the college’s Technology.
inception. To show their commitment to educating the business Regular networking attendee and Chamber member, Zintle
people of East London, Boston City Campus donated three Ruiters, said that she was looking forward to next year and more
bursaries to the value of R10 000 each. chamber networkings.
“Boston has a mission to provide quality and relevant education “It was a great evening. Sometimes coming may be a drag
and training to all our learners by assisting them in shaping their because of weather and such issues, but we walk out happy that
futures, improving staff development morale, reaching company we came because we saw what Boston College has to offer,” she
objectives, working in national, sectoral and local context, said.
aligning all programmes to NQF qualifications, responsiveness Be sure not to miss the great Chamber Networking opportunities
to changing environments, and delivering quality tuition and in 2017.
BusinessHi-Lite DEC/JAN 2016/7BKCOB 23 BusinessHi-Lite NOVEMBER 2016
24 BKCOB
BKCOB
Golf
2016
F
riday 4th November was an uncharacteristically beautiful 17th, Baby Cam visited the Chamber offices to collect his
day out as the Chamber held its annual Golf Challenge. donation in person. During his visit, he walked around the
Forty-one four balls took the course to win the first prize chamber offices energetically, chaperoned by his mother and
of a R4000 meat voucher to the team. grandmother who took turns pacing behind him with his
In high spirits, everyone navigated smoothly through the ventilator machine. His face was lit and to everyone
course; golf lovers showcasing their ball game. If there were at the Chamber’s surprise, he dealt quite well with
any greenhorns, they blended in through mutual conversation the attention he got from the multiple strangers who
and shared laughter throughout the day. watched him as he moved around. He is indeed a
Alas, there were few birdies along the course, but this did not strong little man, and one can’t help but hope he gets
distract our golfers of achieving the aim of the day – to have a all the medical help he needs to deal with his condition.
good time with clients and fellow Chamber members. Elandre
Schonken, Peter Barnes, Warrickvd? Bosch and Wenzel
Moodley of the Dimension Data team won first prize, retaining
their title as 2015 winners and being named Chamber Golf
Champions for a 2nd year running.
The raffle at this year’s Golf Challenge was a generous hamper
from Abantu Staffing Solutions, with all proceeds going to
Cameron Coetzee, fondly known as Baby Cam. On November
NOVEMBER
BusinessHi-Lite DEC/JAN 2016
2016/7BKCOB 25
NOVEMBER
BusinessHi-Lite DEC/JAN
BusinessHi-Lite 2016
2016/726 BKCOB
You’ve just bought a holiday home. It’s a coastal property in a highly
desirable, low-density, gated estate of only 77 stands on 56 hectares.
Idyllically situated at the gateway to the Wild Coast, 30km north-east
of East London in the Eastern Cape, this property not only affords you a
return on investment but a lifestyle to match.
By the time you retire you will have a fully paid for secure home, with
exceptional facilities, to enjoy with an already established local network
and friends.
You know that life doesn’t give you what you want - it gives you what
you deserve…
Start living now!
CYPRAEA SANDS
For More Information: BEV MULLER 082 853 5673 | bev@cypraeasands.co.za
32 51’ 44.11”S - 28 05’ 11.67”E www.cypraeasands.co.za
BusinessHi-Lite NOVEMBER 2016ADVERTORIAL 27
advertising feature
Healthier outlook leading to healthier
investment choices
S
outh Africans are embracing healthier lifestyles, with fitness art classes, yoga and pilates, as well as a clubhouse with a fully
and diet regimes and participation in organised activities functional kitchen and bar facilities.
such as park runs and MTB races reaching unprecedented In addition to its superior on-site facilities, Cypraea Sands
levels. Increasingly, this focus on overall health and wellness is homeowners have private beach access, offering a range of
also filtering through to property and infrastructure investment beach and water sport options, while slightly further afield, a
choices. number of championship-standard, 18-hole golf courses beckon.
As a result, there is a definite preference among lifestyle estate Cypraea Sands Estate, in recognising that health issues become
investors for those estates that prioritise outdoor activities and increasingly more important as people move through life, offers
sporting facilities that make it easier to adopt a more active a planned medical centre that will service the entire estate and
lifestyle. Cypraea Sands Estate, situated just 25 minutes from frail care unit as an element of the life-rights Seniors Village. In
East London on the east coast, offers a wide variety of activities addition, a modern hospital is located in Beacon Bay, a suburb
and sporting facilities that will allow estate residents to live their of East London, which is a 20 minute road trip from the gates of
best, healthiest lives, in the comfort of their own secure estate, Cypraea Sands Estate.
with the added benefit of favourable weather all-year round, with
balmy summers and mild, outdoor-friendly winters. To capitalise Start Living Now… at Cypraea Sands Estate
on its protected coastal layout, the complex features a tennis FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
court, bowling green, swimming pool, bike trails and a multi- Bev Muller on 082 853 5673 or bev@cypraeasands.co.za
purpose activity centre ideally suited for indoor activities such as www.cypraeasands.co.za
Aloe Travel
celebrates 35 years
in business
By Reporter areas of business, namely corporate and leisure travel.
Almost two decades have passed under the leadership of former Corporate clients are a key component of the business. They
Business Partners’ Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year and understand the challenges facing their travellers in this competitive
Business Women’s Association Regional Business Achiever Award marketplace and cater for the special demands of the public and
in the Entrepreneur Category winner, Laurette Haynes. Under her the private sector.
expert leadership since 1997, XL Aloe Travel has developed into Efficient processes and leading consultants mean that they are
one of the leading travel management companies in the region. the corporate travel management company of choice in the
The company, located on the corner of Frere and Donald Roads Border region. Their preferred travel partners are recognised as
in Vincent, has steadily grown. They have a reputation for quality the leading suppliers in the travel industry, both domestically and
service and guaranteed excellent fares. Testament to this is the internationally, allowing XL Aloe Travel to successfully negotiate
fact that the company’s sum total of staff years in travel amounts competitive corporate deals to ensure greater value for their
to an astounding 638 years. Aloe Travel is part of the XL Travel clients. Through an affiliation to Egencia, they connect those
Group, the leading travel consortium with a membership base of things that corporate travellers need in one place. They have
150 prominent travel agencies spread across Southern Africa. access to almost 200 000 hotels and over 400 airline carriers
Being part of the fastest-growing travel network in South Africa worldwide. In addition, the 9 000 properties they have access to
ensures that Aloe Travel can offer unbeatable airfares and rates. offer special pricing or promotional offering to travellers. They have
An agency of such magnitude is not built overnight, as Laurette exclusive deals and offers with over 14 000 hotel partners through
will agree. It has taken a dedication and focus on its two core their preferred program.
BusinessHi-Lite DEC/JAN 2016/7You can also read
