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This Week@Work I challenge the idea that retiring from your business is somehow an accomplishment. I met with 2 older business owners, both feeling pressure to hand the reigns to the next generation. But their desire to stay on is not greedy, it’s fuelled by passion for the business they created, and the meaning they draw from seeing it grow and succeed. As a business owner, the reward is often in the journey not the destination. Your prosperity is largely in your hands. It's also in the wellbeing of your suppliers, customers, friends and family who run their own businesses. You're welcome to share This Week@Work with them. Pavlo Phitidis www.aurik.com

The exciting 2023 Suzuki Joburg Ultra triathlon takes place on the 8th of October at Cradle Moon. There is a Sprint Triathlon and an Ultra Triathlon to enter, so get your individual or Team entry in and join us for a fun and exciting day or racing in the Cradle. Entries close in early September, so don't delay. Enter soon. ENTER HERE VUM Durban Sunrise Run presented by JEEP Hillcrest Join us for this exciting 10km and 21km running race on the 27th of August. Starting at the Suncoast Sundeck, this event gives runners a beautiful race route to Durban North and back. Join us for this exciting proudly Durban event. LIMITED ENTRIES LEFT! ENTER HERE TINMAN DURBAN The next Durban TINMAN kicks off on the 17th of September. Grab the kids and enter yourself for SA's most loved and oldest Triathlon Series in Durban. ENTER HERE TINMAN CAPE The NEW Val De Vie TINMAN is one not to be missed. This exciting Series which has gone from Benguela Cove to Langabaan, now takes place at the beautiful Val De Vie Estate on the 5th of November. Enter yourself and your friends for an exciting multisport race. ENTER HERE TINMAN JOBURG The TINMAN Joburg Series kicks off again on the 29th of October back at Prime View. So get your entry in and get the family training for this exciting multisport race in the highveld. ENTER HERE PARK SQUARE FUN RUN Come RUN Umhlanga at this exciting new event on the 15th of October 2023. Choose to do the 5km or the 8km route, walking or running and the whole family is invited! Sign up and get training for this fun, family event on your doorstep. ENTER HERE

In a world where financial constraints can hinder the pursuit of higher education, bursaries play a vital role in empowering deserving students to fulfil their academic aspirations. Ms Charys-Mari Botha, a final year law student within UKZN’s College of Law and Management Studies , is a shining example of how bursaries can make a significant difference in the lives of students. Through the generous support of the Willowton Bursary and Hatch Black Women’s Bursary, Botha has been able to pursue her studies and work towards her dream of becoming an attorney. Aspirant attorney Ms Charys-Mari Botha Coming from a single-parent household, Botha’s journey has been shaped by the unwavering support and determination of her breadwinner mother. As an educator, her mother has instilled in her the values of dreaming big and working hard to achieve her goals. Witnessing her mother's resilience and perseverance has motivated her to overcome challenges and strive for excellence in her own life. Hailing from the Bluff, a vibrant suburb south of Durban, Botha’s career aspirations as a high school student were centred on making a positive impact in the world. Becoming a lawyer became the perfect avenue to fulfil this ambition, leading her to pursue a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) at UKZN. Her university experience was marked by unexpected challenges. Shortly after beginning her studies on campus, the COVID-19 pandemic forced a transition to remote learning, lasting for three long years. Returning to campus and facing in-person exams for the first time after such a prolonged period was a significant adjustment. However, Botha remains confident that with resilience and determination, any obstacle can be overcome. In her final year of study, her current research focuses on medical law, particularly the fate of cryopreserved embryos in divorce cases. As she prepares for her upcoming moot, she is diving into the complexities and legal implications surrounding this issue. During her spare time, Botha enjoys being a socialite and engaging in part-time work as a model, hostess, and promoter. She believes in striking a balance between her academic pursuits and extracurricular activities, nurturing her holistic development. She wants to explore the world as a flight attendant after completing her degree, eventually becoming a full-time attorney, utilising her legal expertise to make a difference in society. She advised fellow students to never give up. ‘While life may present its fair share of challenges, it is crucial to remain confident in one's abilities, trust in a higher power, and persevere. Remember that nothing worthwhile comes easily. You possess the strength and resilience to overcome any obstacle that comes your way.’ In her journey, Botha learned the significance of prioritising mental health alongside physical well-being. She understands that the mind is a powerful asset, capable of either propelling one forward or becoming a liability. Therefore, she encourages students to take care of their minds, seek support when needed, and ensure a healthy balance in all aspects of life.

KZN Top Business Women 2023: powered by DRG, BusinessFit and Mangwanani African Spa Celebrate the Extraordinary KZN Top Business Women 2023: powered by DRG and BusinessFit take great pleasure in announcing that nominations for this year’s initiative are officially open. Now in its fourth year, KZN Top Business Women recognises the achievements of women, who in their roles as leaders, executives and business owners, make an impact on business and on society. By sharing women’s stories, the initiative aims to: Inspire and uplift future generations of leaders – both men and women Bring awareness of the importance of the role of women in society and the workplace Promote gender equity By nominating a woman, you are telling her that she is an extraordinary woman who has a good story to share. Participating women will be photographed, profiled through video, and included in a KZN Top Business Women Portfolio. The women’s profiles will be available online and across a range of social media platforms, which provide great marketing opportunities. They will also share aspects of their stories in three panel-based webinars, which will be streamed remotely. In addition, the participants will be made to feel special at a gala dinner to be held on the 2nd November. Six women will receive further recognition in the following categories: • The courage to realise a dream. Honours a woman who has worked tirelessly to bring their vision to fruition. • Exceeding expectations and delivering brilliant experiences. Honours a woman who has made a significant impact on their business through new ideas and pushes the boundaries of what is possible to deliver great results. • Operating effectively and productively. For a female leader who provides the strategic direction for a private company or a publicly traded company • Fostering a culture of empowerment and diversity Acknowledges an individual for their strong efforts and dedication to support women and maintain a diverse and inclusive culture or work environment • Making a difference in the community For a woman who is dedicated to serving others while making an impact on social, economic, cultural or environmental issues.  • Being a woman extraordinaire An exemplary women leader who makes a significant impact in her chosen field If you have someone in your organisation to nominate, it will be our honour to ensure they receive the recognition they deserve, and that they are able to share their story. We accept nominations from women from all stages of business and life representing all industries. Previous nominees have included women from diverse educational and cultural backgrounds. Among others, these have included entrepreneurs, professionals, executives, artists, journalists, not-for-profits, lawyers, doctors, and public officers. Kindly note that you may also nominate yourself for inclusion should you wish to participate. To nominate someone and for more information visit: https://www.kzntopbusiness.com/top-business-women-nominations Contact gayle@mweb.co.za or 0836530465

Mitigating the risk of procurement fraud and other irregularities is possible by equipping organisations with the tools necessary to improve transparency, decision-making, and cost-effectiveness in procurement, says Sameer Kumandan, Managing Director at SearchWorks – South Africa’s largest online data aggregation platform. The procurement department serves as a pivotal entity within an organisation, entrusted with the monumental task of procuring goods, services, and works from external suppliers. Its significance lies in ensuring that the company gets the best possible value for money by making informed decisions that positively influence operations and profitability, while navigating a world of commercial complexities and avoiding the pitfalls of fraud and other irregularities with the potential to damage the bottom line and the reputation of the business. In 2021, the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) found that 70% of South African companies had experienced procurement fraud or irregularities in the past year, while the Association for Savings and Investments South Africa (ASISA) reported that R10 billion was lost to procurement fraud and irregularities in the private sector in 2020. Urgently seeking: a guardian for procurement integrity With these eye-opening statistics in mind, and in response to increasingly tough economic conditions, procurement integrity is more important than ever. “Here, the strategic use of credible, dependable tools becomes paramount,” explains Kumandan. “By streamlining procurement processes, reducing risk and boosting efficiency, procurement can make confident decisions based on solid data.” Procurement: what’s the big deal? The procurement department is typically tasked with sourcing, identifying and qualifying suppliers. This includes market research, supplier capability evaluation, and contract negotiation. Once concluded, procurement is also responsible for placing orders with suppliers, tracking orders, and ensuring that deliveries are made on time and in full. Thereafter, procurement is tasked with processing payments to suppliers and managing accounts payable. In addition, procurement also carries the unenviable burden of risk management and compliance. It is their task to mitigate and manage the risks associated with procurement, such as the potential for fraud, supply chain disruptions, quality issues, and price volatility. Compliance is equally important, and all procurement activities must comply with the company’s policies and procedures, as well as applicable industry laws and regulations. Instilling transparency and accountability “To assist in their role as gatekeepers in ensuring that their businesses only engage with legitimate partners and safeguard against fraudulent practices, procurement departments need the ability to thoroughly vet vendors, perform company background checks, and assist in crucial decision-making that ensures that organisations can grow with complete confidence,” says Kumandan. Measurable Advantages of Risk Management in Procurement With the right platform, procurement teams can greatly enhance their influence over products, steering organisational competitiveness, efficiency, and profitability. Benefits include: Greater transparency: Establishing systems that stymie fraudulent actions, bolstering accountability and compliance. Elevated due diligence: Protecting against interactions with unsavoury entities, all while refining the sourcing, negotiation, and record-keeping processes. Better decision-making: Offering businesses the critical data needed to evaluate suppliers effectively and reduce potential risks. Cost reduction: Proactively identifying and curtailing procurement risks, thereby averting significant losses. The power of search Modern procurement strategies rely on myriad verification methods, from credit checks to ID verifications. A single platform that brings together diverse data sources is instrumental in empowering procurement teams to validate vendors efficiently. “Consolidating data is vital for fostering efficiency and precision in procurement practices. As businesses evolve in an ever-complex world, embracing innovative solutions ensures that procurement departments navigate their myriad responsibilities with greater confidence – and ensure businesses operate more ethically and efficiently,” says Kumandan.

Once your business has achieved a ceiling of performance, your time and attention determine your future success. Habits formed whilst building your company will fail its future growth and value. Your prosperity is largely in your hands. It's also in the wellbeing of your suppliers, customers, friends and family who run their own businesses. You're welcome to share This Week@Work with them. Pavlo Phitidis www.aurik.com

Essential skills training for blind and partially sighted students and those with disabilities at UKZN has received a significant boost thanks to a generous contribution from the UKZN Foundation . The invaluable support comes in the form of a brand new Mitsubushi Xpander vehicle, which will be utilised by Independence Trainers to deliver crucial training sessions to these students. The new vehicle will enhance the consultations and services provided on all UKZN campuses. With a dedicated vehicle, the Independence Trainers can plan future services more effectively, knowing that transportation will not be a limitation. UKZN Disability Support Unit (DSU) Manager, Mr Amith Ramballie said, ‘The previous vehicle was stolen, and there was a shortfall with respect to funding for a replacement. We approached the UKZN Foundation that liaised with donors to cover­­­­ the purchase balance.’ Ramballie expressed gratitude to the donors, adding, ‘The resource that you have enabled us to procure will positively impact the lives of students and staff with disabilities for years to come. Mobility is a concept that is often taken for granted, and the team was sometimes unable to deliver quality service due to theft of our vehicle. This will enable students to better navigate the built environment at UKZN and participate in an equitable manner with other students.’ The training provided by the Independence Trainers plays a crucial role in enhancing the living and learning experience of students in a Higher Education setting, through independent skills acquisition aimed at developing successful graduates ready to enter the mainstream workforce with greater confidence. ‘Many students entering university are ill-equipped to cope with the transition to a Higher Education environment [at UKZN], especially those who come from rural or special schools,’ said Ms Margie Naidoo, the Independence Trainer based in Durban. Her services address students’ unique training and development needs and empower them with essential independence skills. An important aspect of the training is assessment and tracking of students' eye conditions. The UKZN Independence Trainers assist students to obtain referrals and coordinate with hospitals and eye clinics for regular check-ups, enabling them to monitor their eye health over time. In some cases, they accompany students to discussions with eyecare practitioners. This ensures that students benefit from a holistic approach involving a multidisciplinary team of professionals for any deteriorating eye conditions. The training also focuses on skills related to daily living, including room and home management, shopping skills (including online shopping), the use of laundromats, and adaptive kitchen skills such as cooking and meal preparation. Personal management skills, including grooming and medication management, are also shared. Communication skills such as budgeting and safe banking practices are taught to ensure students can navigate financial responsibilities effectively. For partially sighted students, visual efficiency training is provided to help them make the most of their functional vision. A vital part of the training is teaching Orientation and Mobility (O&M) skills. Students learn different techniques to navigate their environments safely. Throughout the semester, they benefit from a structured programme to learn routes from their residences to various lecture venues and other spaces. The training also extends to students with physical disabilities, such as those using wheelchairs, scooters, or other devices. Donations and funding of this nature are invaluable for the DSU, as the financial resources required to support inclusion, access and participation for students with disabilities at Higher Education Institutions often exceed available resources. ‘Generous contributions like this have a significant impact in meeting students’ training needs. The new vehicle ensures that the services can be provided more consistently across all campuses,’ said Naidoo. Bachelor of Science student Ms Celiwe Gumede said, ‘The vehicle donation will impact us positively and make our lives easier. Thank you to the donors for recognising the value that the vehicle will bring us. The independence training from DSU has boosted my confidence. Ms Naidoo’s advice and training has ensured that I live independently as a person with a disability.’ Audiology student Ms Mandisa Ntshangase added, ‘Ms Naidoo’s support has really assisted me emotionally, mentally and academically.’ To contribute to the Disability Support Programme or any other fundraising projects, donate at least R50 via https://ukzn.devman.co.za/devman/online/genomics/

The iBCI is a hybrid index derived from, firstly, a biannual business survey conducted in the iLembe District and secondly, a weighted index of financial and economic activity variables. The iBCI 2023 Mid-Year was shaped by several macro and local factors - Eskom’s power generating woes with more Gigawatt hours being load shed in the first 5 month of 2023 than in the whole of 2022, damaged electronic equipment, reduced production capacity and increased operational costs as businesses invest in load shedding mitigation measures. The cost-of-living crisis manifested itself in fuel, fertiliser, and stubbornly high food prices, setting the trend for headline inflation. Locally, the ongoing delay in repairs to infrastructure, specifically critical roads, following the KZN floods of 2022, the continued beach closures in the neighbouring eThekwini Metro, and business rescue interventions at Tongaat Hulett and Gledhow Sugar, formed the background to a challenging 1st half of 2023. Download to read statement.

O ut of stock is an age-old problem and enemy number one of a retailer. If your answer is ‘yes’ to the questions above, then it’s time to implement Arch eReplenish in your business. Using eReplenish for placing orders offers several benefits to the retailer: Efficient and accurate data transfer: eReplenish enables businesses to exchange order information electronically, eliminating the need for manual data entry. This automated process reduces the likelihood of errors that can occur during manual transcription, leading to more accurate and reliable order processing. Time and cost savings: By automating the order placement process, eReplenish reduces the time and effort required to complete transactions. It eliminates the need for paper-based documentation, such as purchase orders and invoices, as well as manual handling, printing and mailing costs. This streamlines the order fulfilment cycle, resulting in faster processing times and improved operational efficiency. Improved order processing speed: eReplenish facilitates real-time or near real-time communication. Orders can be transmitted and processed quickly, reducing lead times and enabling faster order fulfilment. Standardised data format: eReplenish relies on standardised formats and protocols for data exchange, ensuring compatibility between different systems and reducing the need for manual intervention. This standardisation streamlines communication and collaboration between business partners, regardless of their individual technology platforms. Improved supply chain visibility: Businesses gain better visibility into their supply chains. Real-time order status updates, shipment tracking and electronic notifications provide comprehensive and timely information, allowing businesses to make informed decisions and respond quickly to changes or delays. This increased visibility enhances supply chain management and fosters stronger relationships with suppliers and customers. Satisfied business partners using eReplenish include OK Foods, President Hyper, Ultra Liquors and Food Lovers Market. Arch Retail Solutions is a leading player in the southern African retail market, where Arch eReplenish is one solution in the suite of integrated management solutions offered. For more information on eReplenish, see: https://www.archsoftware.co.za/solutions/arch-ereplenish/ .

Introduction : In today's fast-paced world, both individuals and businesses seek to achieve success and sustainable growth. Making informed decisions is paramount to achieving these goals, and that's where strategic insights play a crucial role. By combining thoughtful analysis and strategic planning, individuals and businesses can navigate the road to success more effectively and capitalize on opportunities while mitigating risks. 1. Understanding the Power of Insights: Insights provide a deeper understanding of the factors influencing outcomes. For individuals, this means recognizing personal strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for growth. In the business realm, insights involve deciphering market trends, customer preferences, and competitive landscapes. Armed with these insights, individuals and businesses can chart a course that aligns with their objectives and enhances their chances of success. 2. Setting Clear Goals and Objectives: Effective strategy planning requires setting clear, measurable goals and objectives. For individuals, this may involve defining personal milestones or career aspirations. For businesses, it entails outlining specific growth targets, market share goals, or revenue projections. Strategic insights help in formulating achievable and realistic goals that serve as guiding beacons throughout the journey. 3. Leveraging Data for Informed Decision-Making: Insights are derived from data, and data analysis plays a key role in strategy planning. Individuals can leverage personal data like career achievements, skills, and interests to make informed decisions about career paths or educational pursuits. In the business realm, data analysis informs decisions related to product development, marketing campaigns, and resource allocation. Both individuals and businesses can make better choices by relying on data-driven insights. 4. Adapting to Change and Uncertainty: In today's ever-changing landscape, adaptability is crucial. Strategic insights help individuals and businesses anticipate and respond to shifts in their environment. By understanding emerging trends and customer needs, businesses can pivot their offerings to meet demands effectively. Individuals can also recognize the need to acquire new skills or explore alternative career paths to remain relevant in a dynamic job market. 5. Fostering Innovation and Creativity: Strategic insights encourage individuals and businesses to foster innovation and creativity. By identifying gaps or unmet needs, both can explore unique solutions to problems or develop novel products and services. Encouraging a culture of innovation enhances competitiveness and keeps individuals and businesses ahead of the curve. 6. Collaborating for Success: Collaboration can amplify the impact of strategic insights. Individuals can seek mentors or professional networks for guidance and support in their personal journeys. Businesses can forge strategic partnerships to access new markets or technologies. By combining insights and resources, collaborative efforts open doors to mutual growth and success. Conclusion : Strategic insights provide a powerful compass for individuals and businesses as they navigate the path to success. By understanding their strengths, leveraging data, and fostering adaptability and innovation, individuals can set meaningful goals and make informed decisions to propel their personal growth. In the business world, insights enable effective strategy planning, allowing companies to identify opportunities, outmanoeuvre competitors, and chart a sustainable course for growth and prosperity. Embracing the power of strategic insights is the key to unlocking potential and achieving lasting success in today's dynamic world. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/strategic-insights-paving-path-success-individuals-ahrens-teixeira

A three-day national Climate Change Indaba held at St Ives in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands celebrated the successful implementation of one of South Africa’s climate change adaptation flagship projects, the uMngeni Resilience Project (URP). Beginning with visits to three wards - Vulindlela, Swayimane, and Nhlazuka - within the uMgungundlovu District Municipality (uMDM), the Indaba gave participants from government, civil society, academia, business, policymaking and research institutes more insight into interventions undertaken by a partnership of researchers, local government entities, and organisations to reduce the vulnerability of communities and smallholder farmers to the impacts of climate change. Funded by the Adaptation Fund with the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) as the National Implementing Entity, and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment (DFFE) as the National Designated Authority providing strategic oversight, the URP began in 2015 and was implemented at the local government scale by the uMDM in partnership with UKZN’s Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems . The Indaba focused on policy recommendations for mainstreaming climate change adaptation into disaster risk reduction, as informed by early warning systems; built and ecological infrastructure to strengthen rural human settlements, and climate-resilient agriculture. The three-day hybrid event was presented in-person and virtually, with the first day comprising field visits to four demonstration sites active throughout the operation of the URP, setting the scene for discussions. Forming an important milestone for the URP in its final stages to disseminate lessons learnt and provide policy recommendations to facilitate scaling solutions, the Indaba explored strengthening water, ecological and food security in the face of a changing climate, while protecting natural ecosystems and ecological infrastructure in support of South Africa’s national developmental agenda and green economy objectives. It promoted linkages and allowed for focused engagements with other ongoing national and regional climate change adaptation projects and processes. Participants were part of far-reaching efforts to inform, facilitate and mainstream adaptation to a changing climate. A celebratory gala dinner that reflected on the achievements of the project, its implementing organisations, and individuals within it, was attended by mayors and councillors from the uMgungundlovu, Richmond, uMshwathi, uMngeni, Mpofana, and Mkhambathini local municipalities. ‘When we work together, we achieve impact on the ground; we have a common agenda to improve the lives of people,’ said Project Director at UKZN, Honorary Associate Professor Tafadzwa Mabhaudhi, who highlighted the importance of diversity and inclusion enriching the process of innovation when partners worked toward a shared vision using their strengths in a complementary manner. Mabhaudhi spoke about the science-policy-practice interface at the Indaba, where compromise was necessary to reach a common destination. Head of SANBI’s Biodiversity Science and Policy Advice Branch Ms Carmel Mbizvo welcomed delegates to the event. ‘The URP is really the first flagship project when it comes to climate change adaptation and has set a great basis for us to move forward with new initiatives and to build on what we’ve learnt through the challenges of working from community all the way up to the national level to strengthen institutional arrangements to ensure sustainability and impact,’ said Mbizvo. ‘The project serves as a classic example of how formidable partnerships based on people and nature can be, and demonstrated the importance of partnerships delivering results that benefit communities,’ said Mr Barney Kgope of the DFFE on behalf of Chief Director: Climate Change Adaptation Mr Tlou Ramaru, who expressed appreciation to UKZN and SANBI for supporting the URP. An opening keynote address by eminent climate change and hydrological expert Emeritus Professor Roland Schulze of UKZN focused on asking the right questions and avoiding falling into a climate change trap. Presentations and panel discussions at the Indaba centred on the themes that informed the URP’s actions. Parallel sessions provided the opportunity to explore the role of climate services in disaster risk management, climate-proofing built and ecological infrastructure, sustainable and resilient food systems, and transformational development to build capacity. The final session provided insight into how the URP emerged and its place in the context of climate finance in South Africa, what was learnt during the project’s implementation, national approaches to adaptation planning, and how to scale up and replicate interventions trialled through the URP.

With the continuous ever-changing times with employment law in South Africa, staying up to date with the latest amendments is crucial for both employers and employees. One such recent amendment that holds significant importance is the revised Employment Equity Act. President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed into law the Employment Equity Amendment Act 4 of 2022. The Act amends the Employment Equity Act of 1998 (Act 55 of 1998) with new measures to promote diversity and equality in the workplace. Having now been gazetted, hence coming into effect on the 01st of September 2023 at the start of the reporting period, the amended Employment Equity Act introduces several noteworthy changes that demand attention, and that which will reshape employment practices in South Africa. It has been designed to foster inclusivity and equality in the workplace, with aim to further address historic disparities and promote fair representation across various sectors. The amendments restrict the application of certain sections of the Employment Equity Act to a reduced group of employers, relieving the administrative burden on smaller employers. The amendments introduce sectoral numerical targets to ensure equitable representation of historically disadvantaged groups based on race, gender, and disability at all occupational levels in the workforce. Let us explore these key aspects of the amended Employment Equity Act, so as to shed light on its implications and also provide valuable insights to employers. Here's how the amendments will affect employers: Designated Employer Status: The amendment to the EEA brings about a change to the definition of “designated employer” to restrict the application of these sections to a reduced group of employers and relieve some of the administrative burden on smaller employers. With the revised definition, employers will be considered designated employers for affirmative action purposes only if they employ 50 or more employees. This change means that smaller businesses with fewer than 50 employees will no longer have the same obligations and reporting requirements as larger organizations. However, it's important for employers of all sizes to review their current status and ensure compliance with the revised criteria. Sector-Specific Targets: One of main objectives of the amendments introduced is to empower the Minister of Labour and Employment to, among other things, identify and set employment equity numerical targets for each national economic sector. This means that businesses operating in these sectors will be subject to specific equity goals and transformation objectives. Employers should stay updated on the targets relevant to their sector and take proactive steps to meet them. The purpose of the numerical targets is to ensure equitable representation of suitably qualified people from historically disadvantaged groups based on race, gender, and disability at all occupational levels in the workplace. Employment Equity Plans: The regulations provide for the setting of proposed five-year sector targets (EE Plan) for the various economic sectors in terms of population groups and gender for the four upper-occupational levels. These are top management, senior management, professionally qualified and skilled levels and for employees with disabilities. Certificate of Compliance: The introduction of the certificate of compliance requirement has significant implications for employers seeking agreements with the State. To enter into contracts with government entities, designated and non-designated employers must obtain a certificate of compliance issued by the Department of Employment and Labour. This certificate signifies adherence to employment equity obligations, including compliance with sectoral numerical targets, submission of annual employment equity reports. Employers must ensure they meet these criteria to access opportunities for state. People with Disabilities: The definition of “people with disabilities” is substituted to align with the definition in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, 2007. The amended definition includes within the meaning of “people with disabilities”, “people who have a long-term or recurring physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairment which, in interaction with various barriers, may substantially limit their prospects of entry into, or advancement in, employment”. This enhanced definition accords with a more expansive international understanding of what constitutes disabilities. Trade Union Involvement: An amendment to section 16 of the EEA clarifies the consultation process between a designated employer and its employees. Where there is a representative trade union the designated employer must only consult with that trade union, and not with its employees. The consultations relate to the implementation of an employment equity plan, the analysis conducted by a designated employer to identify employment barriers which adversely affect people from the designated groups, and the content and submission of the employment equity report. It is essential to understand that the amended Employment Equity Act carries significant implications for designated employers, particularly those with larger workforces, as well as employers seeking to engage in business with the State. These implications necessitate a thorough review of employment equity plans by designated employers to ensure alignment with any sectoral targets published by the Minister. Should there be a misalignment, it is advisable for designated employers to provide reasonable justification and corrective measures within their employment equity plans. To monitor the implementation of sector targets, the Department of Employment and Labour (DoEL) will introduce a new online assessment system. This system will assess employers' progress towards meeting their targets and flag any shortcomings. Non-compliance to the EE Act and Amendment can result in legal repercussions, fines and reputational damage. We recognize the importance of keeping abreast of these amendments and their potential ramifications. We at DRG are therefore dedicated to helping businesses navigate the complexities of the new legislation. To chat further, if you require more guidance on your submission, you can contact. Stephanie Munsamy DRG - HR Specialist with expertise in Employment Equity Reporting Email: stephaniem@drg.co.za Tel: 031-7670625 Nikita Pillay DRG – HR & Compliance Best-Practice Specialist Email: nikita@drg.co.za Tel: 031-7670625