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- From Mansion House to South Africa: Strengthening Ties for Sustainable Development
Article by: Cara Goschen - Do More Foundation UK The recent South African Chamber of Commerce (SACC) United Kingdom Gala Dinner at Mansion House epitomised the spirit of collaboration and mutual prosperity. The event, centered around the Lord Mayor’s theme for 2023-24, “Connect to Prosper,” emphasized the significance of working together for mutual success. Among the distinguished guests was Cara Goschen, DO MORE UK Lead, who attended as a guest of David White, the CEO of DRG and SACC South Africa Chapter Leader. This occasion marked a significant step in fostering a robust partnership between DO MORE UK and the SACC, united by the shared goal of helping South Africa thrive. The DO MORE FOUNDATION was founded by RCL FOODS in 2017 to address the urgent needs of young children in underserved South African communities. Recognising the importance of global partnerships in driving meaningful change, DO MORE UK is currently being established to expand the Foundation’s reach and engage with international partners. At the heart of the DO MORE FOUNDATION’s efforts is the “Everyone Gets to Play” (EGTP) model, a comprehensive approach to early childhood development (ECD) that has garnered endorsements from President Cyril Ramaphosa, UNICEF, and leading businesses such as Remgro. The EGTP model is implemented in eight communities across six provinces in South Africa, offering a basket of services that include early learning through play, enterprise development, parent and caregiver support, maternal and child health, food security, child safety and protection, and capacity building for ECD centres (operating as SMME’s). The African proverb “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,” mentioned by Sharon Constancon, SACC UK Chairperson, in her speech at the Gala in relation to SACC UK and the City of London, aptly summarises the philosophy behind the EGTP model. This sentiment underscores the Foundation’s commitment to collaborative partnerships that pool resources, expertise, and efforts to achieve systemic change. The DO MORE FOUNDATION’s experience in implementing the EGTP model has highlighted several key lessons in fostering effective partnerships. These insights align seamlessly with the themes of “Connect to Prosper” and “Stronger Together,” demonstrating the power of coordinated collaboration in driving social impact. Purposeful networking: Building a network of partners who share information for mutual benefit is crucial. DO MORE FOUNDATION’s open-source approach to its materials and programme documents exemplifies this principle, encouraging a collaborative development mindset. Clear coordination: Allocating responsibilities and aligning activities toward a common purpose enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of collaborative efforts. Clear leadership roles facilitate coordinated actions and maximize impact. Willing cooperation: Sharing resources and altering activities to achieve common goals foster a sense of shared purpose and mutual benefit. This willingness to cooperate is essential for successful partnerships. Impactful collaboration: Beyond networking and cooperation, improving each partner’s capacity for mutual benefit is vital. This holistic approach to collaboration ensures that all parties are better equipped to achieve their common objectives. Structured agreements: Formal agreements provide a framework for accountability and quality assurance. By clearly outlining expectations and responsibilities, these agreements help maintain the integrity and effectiveness of the collaborative efforts. The DO MORE FOUNDATION’s success in driving community development lies in its role as a backbone organisation within a Collective Impact framework. By acting as a central coordinating entity, the Foundation brings together government agencies, non-profit organisations, academic institutions, businesses, and local advocates. This strategic coordination enables the Foundation to mobilise resources, implement policies, advocate for change, and monitor progress, ultimately creating environments where young children can thrive. The Gala Dinner highlighted the enduring relationship between South Africa and the United Kingdom, underscoring the potential for collaborative efforts to drive social impact. Special thanks are due to DRG for sponsoring DO MORE UK’s participation in the event, providing a platform to showcase the Foundation’s work and forge new connections. As we look to the future, DO MORE UK extends an open invitation to businesses and individuals to connect with us. Join us in our mission to foster collaboration, maximise CSI investments, and drive systemic change for a thriving South Africa. For more information on how you can get involved, please visit our website or contact us directly. Together, we can DO MORE for the young children of South Africa.
- Innovative energy solution ENRG blanket gets inaugural fitting in SA at Standard Bank
RACA Journal - By Kristin Long |May 1, 2024 By Eamonn Ryan with technical input from Mpumzi Swana, director of product development company SAMAC In a bid to improve its energy consumption and bolster sustainability efforts, Standard Bank recently introduced an innovative energy solution, leveraging SAMAC Engineering Solutions’ cutting-edge technology – the ENRG blanket. The ENRG blanket, powered by US-based Phase Change Solutions (PCS), represents a paradigm shift in energy storage technology in South Africa – though it has been around for about a decade in the US. Unlike conventional methods that rely on water-based systems, the ENRG blanket is a technology that absorbs and releases thermal energy at a specific design temperature, offering greater efficiency and versatility. It does this by achieving increasing levels of energy performance to lower heating and cooling energy by 25–35%. “Buildings usually have a set temperature which is maintained by the HVAC system. When there is a heat load that is generated from inside the building, the HVAC will work to counter the heat load and cool the room. The ENRG blanket operates as a thermal mass that absorbs the heat generated from inside the building. The heat is stored in a Bio Phase Change Material (BioPCM) gel that is within the blanket, minimising the need for the HVAC to work to cool the room. In the evening, when the room temperature goes below the building set point the heat that was stored in the blanket is released back into the building. The blanket is commonly installed behind the drop ceiling of a building,” explains Mpumzi Swana, chief operations officer of company SAMAC. The ability of the ENRG blanket to absorb and release heat at any chosen temperature between –50°C and 125°C makes it ideal for office parks, and other commercial buildings in reducing their HVAC run time, resulting in energy savings of 25–35% and reducing peak load demand. Warehouses that do not have an HVAC system can also use the blanket to maintain a constant temperature in the building. When the go-ahead was given, installation lasted just a day. The blankets can also be used in server rooms and cold rooms as a back-up, he explains. ADVANTAGES Plant based, non-toxic, non-corrosive When the go-ahead was given, installation lasted just a day. Reduces HVAC power consumption by 25–35% Minimises HVAC run time by 15–20% Maintenance free and requires no servicing Moisture and humidity resistant, mould growth resistant Sustains building comfort for hours after conditioning Lowers demand on fossil fuel energy and carbon footprint Life expectancy of more than 100 years, can be used for peak tariff charge targeting Customers until now have been Chase Bank, Google, Microsoft, AT&T, universities, high schools and hospitals, with the Standard Bank project having been the first in South Africa. This pioneering approach not only enhances energy resilience but also minimises environmental impact, aligning with clients’ – such as Standard Bank’s – sustainability objectives. Swana describes the first project the company has completed which now represents a prototype that can be rolled out more broadly: “At its core, the ENRG blanket harnesses the power of BioPCMs to optimise energy utilisation within HVAC systems. Unlike traditional approaches to energy efficiency, which often focus on auxiliary systems like lighting, the ENRG blanket targets the most significant contributor to energy consumption – HVAC systems. By introducing a technology that directly impacts HVAC efficiency, the blanket offers tangible and substantial energy savings.” Located in Standard Bank’s office complex in Constantia, the project site encompasses a sprawling complex, housing multiple blocks, including call centre facilities. SAMAC Engineering Solutions collaborated closely with Standard Bank to implement the ENRG blanket technology within specific blocks of the complex, optimising energy utilisation for enhanced occupant comfort. The genesis of the project can be traced back to SAMAC Engineering’s strategic partnership with PCS, a leading innovator in BioPCM technology based in the US. Recognising the potential of BioPCMs in energy storage applications, SAMAC embarked on a journey to introduce the technology to the South African and African market as part of its product offerings. The company signed a distribution agreement with PCS and is currently poised to commence local manufacturing. The ENRG blanket, alongside its cold chain derivative – the Apollo Panel – is set to benefit energy storage solutions across diverse industries, from commercial buildings to food preservation facilities. Looking ahead, SAMAC Engineering envisions a future where BioPCM technology becomes ubiquitous, enabling businesses to embrace low-cost energy-efficient practices. The journey towards implementing the ENRG blanket technology within Standard Bank’s premises was not without challenges. Swana says the project was initiated in 2017 but encountered various delays, including the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. In the event, when the go-ahead was received, installation was swift – taking only a day to complete – followed by the more important aspect of meticulous monitoring of performance data. “The project’s efficacy was evident during the hottest months of the year, where the ENRG blanket demonstrated a remarkable two-degree reduction in temperature, translating to significant energy savings. Following the pilot phase’s success, Standard Bank is poised to expand the project’s scope, with plans to implement it across additional facilities, including the Kingsmead regional office in Durban,” says Swana. “The uniqueness of this project lies in its pioneering nature within the African context. While the technology has been established in the US for over a decade, its application in South Africa, particularly within corporate buildings, represents a groundbreaking potential.” Moreover, the ENRG blanket addresses emerging regulatory requirements, such as the need for non-electrical cooling sources and energy performance certifications. With its off-grid capabilities, the blanket enables building developers to meet stringent regulatory standards while enhancing their energy performance scores. “When comparing BioPCM technology to traditional insulation methods, it’s essential to understand their distinct functionalities and applications. While insulation primarily focuses on preventing external heat from infiltrating a building, BioPCM technology takes a more comprehensive approach by managing internal heat generation. “Insulation effectively serves as a barrier against external heat sources, such as sunlight and ambient air temperature. However, it does not address the heat generated within the building itself, whether from occupants, equipment or other internal factors. This is where BioPCM technology comes into play – it actively manages the internal heat load to maintain optimal indoor temperatures,” explains Swana. One of the significant advantages of phase change technology is its ability to specify and regulate precise temperature levels within a building. Unlike insulation, which merely provides passive heat resistance, BioPCM can be tailored to maintain specific temperature setpoints. “Whether it’s a data centre requiring precise temperature control or a cold storage facility maintaining sub-zero temperatures, BioPCM technology offers considerable customisation,” he adds. Moreover, the technology operates autonomously, requiring no additional controls or sensors once installed. By leveraging building management system (BMS) data and user input regarding temperature preferences and occupancy levels, the technology is engineered to adapt and regulate temperature conditions accordingly. This self-regulating capability eliminates the need for complex wiring or communication with HVAC systems, making it a hassle-free solution for energy-efficient building management. “In the manufacturing process, BioPCM is precisely formulated and configured to meet the unique requirements of each building or space. By manufacturing the materials according to specific temperature specifications and heat loads, users can be assured of consistent and reliable performance upon the job complete.” says Swana.
- Mpumzi Swana- KZN Top Business Leaders
Mpumzi Swana, a Chief Operating Officer at SAMAC Engineering Solutions, shares his journey from studying chemical engineering to working in the manufacturing industry and eventually founding a company focused on product development in the HVAC sector. His vision is to create efficient energy solutions using innovative technologies like thermal storage. Through overcoming challenges like COVID-19 disruptions and warehouse looting, he emphasizes the importance of motivation within his team and the personal motto of taking individual agency for positive change. Mpumzi Swana's career journey began with studying chemical engineering and working in manufacturing at Toyota before founding SAMAC Engineering Solutions, focusing on product development in the HVAC sector. His company's core focus is on developing technologies to reduce energy bills through efficient energy usage, particularly in the HVAC and refrigeration industry. Swana's vision includes creating platforms for young innovators to develop products using their technology, aiming to transform industries like cold chain and HVAC. Overcoming challenges like disruptions due to COVID-19 and warehouse looting, Swana emphasizes the importance of team motivation and resilience. His personal motto revolves around taking individual responsibility and agency for effecting positive change rather than waiting for external solutions. Swana's inspiration comes from his grandfather's ability to thrive and lead in various fields, driving his pursuit of excellence in any endeavor. Looking ahead, Swana envisions rapid growth for his business in KZN, aiming to not just build a business, but an industry by leveraging technology for greener and more efficient operations.
- Goscor Lift Trucks and Crown Equipment celebrate 40 years of unparalleled partnership
Goscor Lift Trucks (GLT), a prominent name in materials handling solutions, proudly commemorates four decades of a robust partnership with Crown Equipment Corporation , one of the world’s leading manufacturers of materials handling equipment. In 1984, Goscor Lift Trucks marked its inception with Crown’s electric warehousing equipment, setting a precedent for excellence and reliability in the Southern African market. Since then, as the sole distributor of Crown forklifts in the region, GLT has cemented its position as one of the largest Crown dealers worldwide, amongst top-tier company-owned branches and independent dealers across the EMEA region. In April, GLT received an award from Crown at their Dealer Conference held in Munich for being the longest-standing Crown dealer worldwide. 2024 marks forty years of partnership with this leading manufacturer. “Over the years, Goscor Lift Trucks has demonstrated unwavering commitment, having supplied in excess of 12,000 Crown machines to the Southern African market,” states Patrick Barber, GLT’s Director for Business Development. “Notably, original sites continue to operate equipment surpassing the two-decade mark, a testament to the enduring quality and product longevity facilitated by the robust partnership between Crown and GLT,” he adds. Product Longevity and Quality Crown is renowned for the durability and reliability of its products, a reputation built on meticulous engineering, rigorous testing, and continuous improvement. Crown forklifts and warehousing equipment are designed to withstand the most demanding environments, ensuring minimal downtime and maximum productivity for users. This product longevity is a key factor behind the success and widespread adoption of Crown equipment in the Southern African market. Superior Aftermarket Support by GLT The exceptional longevity of Crown’s products is significantly bolstered by GLT’s superior aftermarket support, which ensures that these machines remain operational and efficient throughout their lifecycle. “GLT ensures optimal equipment performance and minimal downtime by maintaining a vast inventory of genuine OEM parts and employing certified technicians specialising in OEM equipment,” asserts Barber. “Technicians provide timely maintenance and repairs using the latest tools and training. Additionally, GLT’s tailored preventative maintenance programs address potential issues early, extending equipment lifespan and ensuring consistent performance. With around-the-clock support, GLT promptly addresses urgent issues to keep operations running smoothly.” Global Accolades for Crown’s SP High-Level Order Picker The Crown SP 1500 Series high-level order picker secured Crown’s fifth International Intralogistics and Forklift Truck of the Year (IFOY) Award in 2023. “As winners in the “Warehouse Truck Highlifter” category, his accolade highlights the product’s outstanding performance and innovative design. Key features include exceptional all-round visibility, customisable operating elements, industry-leading travel speeds up to 12 km/h, and a high-speed lift function. The SP 1500 Series is praised for its efficiency, ergonomics, and energy-saving regenerative lowering feature. The award recognises Crown’s commitment to productivity, ergonomics, and safety in their high-performance lift trucks,” adds Barber. The 2024 IFOY Awards once again see Crown in the spotlight, with the recently developed ESR 1200 being nominated. The ESR 1200, boasting a load capacity of two tons and a lifting height of 14.2 meters, stands out for its comprehensive commitment to sustainability and productivity. This reach truck features several enhancements, including a new mast design that provides improved stability and visibility, alongside a modernised production process that reduces its ecological footprint. Evolution of Crown’s ESR Reach Trucks Crown’s commitment to innovation is evident in their continuous introduction to new products and advancements in technology. With state-of-the-art factories worldwide, Crown continuously updates its equipment to incorporate the latest advancements, ensuring that their products remain at the pinnacle of efficiency and performance. One of Crown’s standout innovations is the evolution of their flagship Reach Trucks, specifically the ESR model. “The ESR series has consistently set the standard for reach truck performance, safety, and operator comfort. Over the years, Crown has introduced significant enhancements to the ESR models, reflecting their commitment to technological innovation and excellence,” maintains Barber. “The original ESR models were celebrated for their robust construction and reliable performance. Subsequent models have built on this strong foundation, incorporating advanced features such as regenerative braking for improved energy efficiency, intuitive controls for enhanced operator comfort, and advanced safety systems to protect both operators and goods,” he adds. Crown’s dedication to continuous improvement is evident in the latest ESR models, which feature state-of-the-art technology like integrated telematics for real-time fleet management, enhanced ergonomic designs to reduce operator fatigue, and advanced load handling capabilities for increased productivity, and the highest capacity performance at lift height. Barber believes these advancements ensure that Crown’s ESR Reach Trucks remain at the cutting edge of materials handling technology, providing users with the most efficient, reliable, and safe equipment available. As GLT celebrates its 40th anniversary in providing trusted equipment solutions to the Southern African market, it reaffirms its commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. As part of the Goscor Group, GLT stands as a beacon of reliability, offering comprehensive support and services to ensure optimal performance and longevity of Crown Equipment’s esteemed products. About Goscor Lift Trucks (GLT) Goscor Lift Trucks (GLT), part of the Goscor Group, has been a leading provider of forklifts and materials handling solutions since 1984. World-class, industry-leading forklift brands are available at competitive prices with quality guaranteed. We are the proud sole distributors for Bendi, Crown, Doosan, DEC, Movexx and Sunlight Batteries and Energy Storage Solutions. Offering a diverse range of electric and diesel-powered forklifts and exceptional after-sales service, GLT is committed to delivering complete warehousing solutions with the lowest total cost of ownership. GLT stands as a dynamic forklift company and a prominent supplier in the South African materials handling industry.
- Manufacturing industrialists, meet TWIMS
Academic learnings are an essential part of any industry, and at Toyota Wessels Institute for Manufacturing Studies , we take pride in ensuring that they are devolved to the manufacturing industry through our suite of open programmes. Our manufacturing open programmes take the form of short courses and masterclasses offered on the TWIMS campus. These programmes have been designed to equip managers with specific skills in response to the emerging trends and disruptions impacting the manufacturing ecosystem. At TWIMS, we also offer customised programmes to corporate partners and institutions relating to their specialist manufacturing focus areas. We believe that by tailoring our programmes to the specific needs of our partners, we can help them achieve their goals and stay ahead of the competition. Join us at TWIMS and be a part of our mission to equip individuals and businesses with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the manufacturing industry. For further details, please contact us at 031 767 5202 or via email at info@twimsafrica.com . Executive Short Courses | TWIMS (twimsafrica.com)
- Boost Your Business in KZN with Our Marketing Expertise
If your business operates in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), you can count on us to be your trusted partner. We are dedicated specialists in marketing strategies tailored to the unique landscape of KZN. Our expertise lies in effectively disseminating information about various business products and services to your target audience. By leveraging our in-depth knowledge of the local market, we ensure that your message reaches the right people at the right time. Through our innovative marketing techniques, we aim to not only promote your products but also to establish a strong brand presence for your business in KZN. Our approach is rooted in a deep understanding of the region's business dynamics, enabling us to craft campaigns that resonate with the local community. By subscribing to our services, you open the door to a wealth of opportunities to enhance your business visibility and reach a wider audience. Let us guide you through the intricacies of marketing in KZN and help you unlock the full potential of your business. Subscribe now to stay informed, engaged, and empowered with the knowledge you need to thrive in the competitive business landscape of KwaZulu-Natal. Angela Alderton . 0662065654 Ange@kznleaders.co.za
- Business Success Series: Mastering Your Business Journey with ActionCOACH Marlene Powell
Welcome to the Business Success Series, where we embark on the transformative journey of mastering your business with insights and guidance from ActionCOACH Marlene Powell. This series is designed to equip you with the essential tools and strategies to elevate your business to new heights. As a dedicated business owner, you pour your heart and soul into your enterprise, often facing endless challenges and investing significant resources. Yet, achieving those dream returns can feel perpetually out of reach. This series aims to change that by providing a clear, actionable roadmap to success. Step One: Establishing a Solid Foundation Every successful business begins with a strong foundation. In our first episode, we'll explore how to take control of your business operations by implementing effective daily, weekly, and monthly plans. Learn how to steer your business with confidence, ensuring stability and direction from the outset. Step Two: Ensuring Cash Flow and Profitability Financial health is the lifeblood of any business. We'll delve into the importance of maintaining positive cash flow and securing profitability. Discover the critical role of a comprehensive cash flow document and how to forecast your business's financial future accurately. Step Three: Building Robust Systems Systems are the backbone of a self-sustaining business. In this session, Marlene Powell will guide you through establishing efficient processes that streamline operations and foster growth. Learn how to create systems that allow you to focus on strategic initiatives rather than daily tasks. Step Four: Developing a High-Performing Team A strong team is crucial for business success. We'll discuss strategies for effective delegation and team building, helping you identify tasks that can be handed over to trusted team members. Free up your time to concentrate on scaling and strategic growth. Step Five: Scaling Your Business With a solid foundation, healthy finances, and a capable team in place, scaling your business becomes achievable. Explore ways to leverage your resources to enter new markets, introduce new products, and expand your services. Learn how to propel your business forward sustainably. Step Six: Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labour The ultimate goal is to create a business that thrives independently. Once scaled, discover the options available to you—whether selling your business, passing it on, or enjoying the rewards of your hard work. Achieve the freedom and satisfaction that come from a self-sustaining, successful enterprise. Join Us on the Journey This Business Success Series is more than just a guide; it's a partnership. Marlene Powell, an experienced ActionCOACH, will be with you every step of the way, providing expert advice and actionable insights. Your journey to business mastery is unique, and your success is our ultimate goal. Stay tuned for upcoming episodes, where we will dive deeper into each step, helping you pinpoint exactly where you stand and what your next move should be. Together, we will transform your business into a powerhouse, ensuring it becomes your most valuable investment, your future retirement, and your lasting legacy. Embark on this journey with us and take the first step toward mastering your business with ActionCOACH Marlene Powell. Your success story starts here. For more info, click here
- Thrilling Kick-off of the KZN 2024 Brand Battle!
The battle of the brands and KZN 2024 has officially kicked off! Get ready for the thrill! We will be revealing the standings every Monday and sending out the results to our subscribers, keeping you in the loop of this exhilarating race to determine KZN's brand of the year 2024 - the battle of the brands is on fire! The prestigious Standard Bank KZN Top Business Awards are here to recognize and honour the finest businesses across various categories in the vibrant province of KwaZulu-Natal. And guess what? The top brand category is judged by none other than the ultimate expert - YOU! If you know of a business that's truly outstanding, show your appreciation by casting your vote for them! To vote, simply SMS the letter KZN followed by the name of the top brand to 45633. Hurry, voting closes on the 28th of June. For more details, head over to www.kzntopbusiness.com Be part of the excitement! The 2024 finalists and the winner will be unveiled during a spectacular awards ceremony at the Radisson Blu Hotel Durban Umhlanga on the 17th of July, with the premiere airing on the KZN YouTube channel on Friday the 20th of July at 6:30 pm. By voting for your favourite KZN Top Business you will go into the draw to win accommodation for one night for two people at the Radisson Blu Hotel Durban Umhlanga. Current Standings 1 Woodford Group 2 Hollywoodbets 3 Beekman Group 4 Bata 5 Bluff Meat Supply 6 East Coast Radio 7 Hirsch's 8 Icebolethu Group 9 Thirsti 10 MI7 Group 11 Pedros Flame Grilled Chicken 12 Aquelle 13 SA Home Loans 14 Gift of the Givers 15 Hulamin 16 KZN Oils 17 Durban ICC 18 The Sharks 19 Royal Tyres 20 Tafta Bubbling under Afros BB Bread Bell Equipment DRG Mr Price Spar Toyota Tyson's Properties Here is a brief tutorial demonstrating the simplicity of voting for your preferred brand in KZN. Watch this video for a clear and user-friendly guide on how to cast your vote for your favourite brand in KZN this year.
- Who is OD MEDIA
OD Media (PTY}LTD is a photography, videography and content creation company based in Durban. Our aim is to deliver exceptional service and create content that adds value to our customers and aim for excellence. In doing this the aim is to inspire people with what we create. We place major emphasis on building long term client relationships where we learn to understand you and you us. OD Media photographers and videographers are ideal ambassadors for your brand/company as we are always professional, on time and have long term relationships in mind. Our services include: Corporate Promotional Videography Event/Conference Photography and Videography Corporate Photography and Videography Same Day Event Video Highlights Live to Screen Multi Camera Filming Documentaries Induction and Safety Videos Live Streaming Podcasts We have been the Official Photographers/Videographers for prestigious events and companies such as: Routes World 2015/17 /18/19/21 /22/23 South Africa/Spain/China/ Australia/Italy/USA/Turkey Standard Bank; Checkers; Bidvest Life; Bidvest Bank; The Unlimited; UPL; Momentum ABSA Cape Epic 2015/16/17/18/19/20/21/22/23/24 Tourism KZN Dube Trade Port Turkish Television Airports Company South Africa ITU World Telecom 2018/19 South Africa/Hungary Routes Silk Road 2019 Nursultan, Kazakhstan Routes Europe 2019/22/23/24 Germany; Norway; Poland; Denmark Sani2C SuperSport The Beverly Hills Hotel Top Gear Routes Asia 2019/22/23/24 Philippines; Vietnam; Thailand; Malaysia Routes Americas 2019/20/22/23/24 Canada; USA; Columbia Capitec Live Better Festival 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup Durban for eThekwini Municipality Comrades Marathon for numerous years Dusi Canoe Marathon for 3 years for the Title sponsor Moses Mabhida Stadium Nissan Winter Classic 2010-2019 and many more ... If you need any further information, please feel free to visit our website where you can view biogs on recent work as well as client testimonials and the clients we have previously worked with. We look forward to working with you this year and building a strong relationship that benefits everyone! www.odmedia.co.za 083 3316796 info@odmedia.co.za
- Over 100 youth to benefit from Dunlop’s Business in a Box in KZN Premier-backed partnership
Dunlop Tyres’ entrepreneurship booster programme – Business in a Box (BIBs) – has been selected as a strategic employment initiative by the KwaZulu-Natal Premier’s Office under the Youth Development Fund. 17 young entrepreneurs, after a rigorous selection process, have benefited from the partnership to own a Dunlop Business in a Box tyre fitment facility. The partnership aims to provide entrepreneurship opportunities to the youth, equip them with the tools and guidance to sustain a business, and contribute to job creation. With official unemployment rates pegged at 32,1% in the fourth quarter of 2023, the Memorandum of Understanding between Dunlop Tyres SA, manufactured by Sumitomo Rubber South Africa (SRSA), and the KwaZulu-Natal Premier’s Office, led by Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube, boosts employment opportunities and skills and development training in communities with little to no access to professional tyre fitment outlets. The first Dunlop Business in a Box was handed over in Mbumbulu, in a celebratory event with KZN Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube on 25 April 2024. SRSA CEO Lubin Ozoux said: “Our Dunlop Container project was established in 2012 to drive sustainable township entrepreneurship and promote safety on the road. Today, we have a national footprint of over 80 branded Dunlop Container stores with 80 business owners employing around 400 people. In 2024 Dunlop has reached a new milestone in our BIB programme through a partnership with the KZN Premier’s Office, celebrating the 17 young men and women who applied to be part of this initiative. We have full confidence that as young entrepreneurs, they will take the baton forward and grow as businesspeople, and at the same time, enable access to safety-tested, high quality, and locally produced tyres in the market. They are part of the Dunlop network now and have our full commitment and support.” The containers are stocked with tyre fitment equipment to undertake repairs, wheel balancing and rotation, as well as tyre stock to kickstart operations. Each entrepreneur will employ tyre fitment technicians, and more than 100 new and permanent jobs are expected to be created in this process. The recipients had been chosen after a lengthy application and reviewing process by both the KZN Premier’s Office, as well as Dunlop. Hennel Nkonjela, Key Accounts Manager Enterprise Development at SRSA, said: “After a public call for applications by the KZN Premier’s Office, all submissions were carefully reviewed. Shortlisted applicants had to ensure business plans, and other relevant documentation were in order. Importantly, our teams were looking for candidates who had a willingness to learn and grow in the tyre fitment industry. We look forward to seeing them grow and are committed to supporting them in this journey.” The BIB partnership comes at a time when KZN youth are eager for business opportunities to shine. KZN Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube said: “The KZN government is committed to improving the lives of people, especially our youth. This sponsorship of tyre fitment containers by our KZN province is an investment in our youth by creating business opportunities for them. As a province, we are committed to the automotive industry as a whole and the role it plays in increasing job opportunities. This is just the start; we want the young entrepreneurs to grow their sites to add car washing and other services to the site.” 28-year-old Yolanda Mkhize was the first beneficiary of the Dunlop BIB at her site, Nomakhrestu Trading, in Mbumbulu. With a family background in the taxi industry, she is familiar with the role tyres play in the transportation industry. "I am so excited at this opportunity to run a tyre fitment centre. I am thankful to Dunlop and the KZN Premier’s Office for making this possible for me. It’s going to take hard work, but this is just the start for me, I plan on growing this site so that people can come here and get tyres fitted and enjoy other services. I am employing three people at my site as tyre technicians and hope to grow this number as I grow. I named my container after my late grandmother, and I know she is very proud of what I am achieving as a young woman in the tyre industry,” she said. The balance of the BIB containers are in the process of being rolled out at their beneficiary sites across KZN. Credit: SUMITOMO RUBBER SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD
- Suzuki Durban Ultra Triathlon - Entries close in 32 days
Durban's friendliest Triathlon is waiting for you in only 58 days' time, right on the beautiful Durban promenade. With full road closure and fun, fast and friendly routes, this event is a MUST DO! 8 REASONS TO DO THE 2024 SUZUKI DURBAN ULTRA TRIATHLON: 1) SA's friendliest Triathlon 2) Full Road closure 3) Best ULTRA Water Tables and Staff 5) Long Weekend - Womens day - 9th August 6) Fastest & Flattest ULTRA Bike & Run course in South Africa 7) Biggest Accommodation variety in South Africa 8) Unique and ONLY 153 Race to challenge yourself on! Enter the Sprint, Ultra, AquaBike or 153 Races and join us for an epic experience on Durban's Beachfront. Get more details / Enter here
- 2024 Standard Bank KZN Top Business Awards: Final Entry Reminder
Last Call for Entries for the Standard Bank KZN Top Business Awards 2024 The Standard Bank KZN Top Business Awards is calling on businesses in KwaZulu-Natal to enter the 2024 edition of the competition before the 14 June 2024 deadline. The Standard Bank KZN Top Business Awards were established to honour and promote successful businesses, large and small, in KwaZulu-Natal. Kuben Chetty, Standard Bank Provincial Head of Commercial Banking for KZN, said, Standard Bank is committed to partnering with businesses as they start, manage and grow. Our approach is built on a foundation of expert Relationship Managers who provide deeply personal service, based on an in-depth understanding of clients. It’s not just about transactions; it’s about relationships that deliver value and partnering with clients for growth. We believe that these awards are key in celebrating the businesses that align with our purpose of driving Africa’s growth. Previous winners include: Standard Bank Client of the Year – SME Category: Sky Tents Standard Bank Client of the Year – Larger Enterprise: P&A Fabricators Manufacturing Sector: Tropic Plastics and Packaging Industry Transport/Logistics Sector: Fastway Couriers Durban Franchising Sector: CMM Group of Companies Family-Owned/Managed Businesses: Phoenix Group Agricultural and Agri-processing Sector: Underberg Dairy Community Upliftment and Improvement: DRG Renewable Efficiency – Green initiatives: Beekman Group Employee Wellness: Star Retailers Business Leader of the Year: Owen Heffer: Founder and owner of Hollywoodbets KZN Top Brand: Mi7 National Group This year two additional categories are on offer – • Business, Financial Services and Education • Partnership award, which reflects interagency cooperation “The awards showcase business excellence in the province as well as celebrate the dedicated businesses that are setting benchmarks for others to follow. Entering the awards is also about acknowledging your team's hard work and contribution to the company’s or organisation’s success,” says Grant Adlam CEO of KZN Top Business. There is no cost to submit an entry. For more information on the criteria and requirements to enter a category visit www.kzntopbusiness.com Each year, the title of Standard Bank KZN Top Business Brand, which is only awarded by public vote, is much coveted and the competition strong. This year is no exception, voting is gaining momentum with a growing number of new contenders participating. Currently in the top twenty (and in alphabetical order) are: • Afros • Aquelle • Bata • Beekman Group • Bell Equipment • Bluff Meat Supply • Durban ICC • East Coast Radio • Gagasi FM • Gift of the Givers • Hirsch's • Hollywoodbets • Pedros Flame Grilled Chicken • Royal Tyres • SA Home Loans • Tafta • The Sharks • Toyota • uShaka Marine World • Woodford Car Hire In order to vote for a favourite brand, SMS the letters KZN and the chosen top brand’s name to 45633. There is no limit to the number of votes cast. A cost of R1.50 per SMS will be incurred (Ts and Cs apply). KZN businesses are encouraged to use their social media networks to get their employees, clients, families, friends, and other stakeholders to vote for their brand. Furthermore, one lucky voter could win one a one-night stay for two people at the Radisson Blu Hotel Durban Umhlanga. Voting for the Standard Bank KZN Top Brand award closes on 28 June at 10 pm. Once the Standard Bank KZN Top Business entries have been judged, the finalists and winners will be announced and profiled through various platforms and media partners. The winners will be announced at the gala dinner on the 17 July. #PartneringForGrowth For more information Contact Gayle Adlam 0836530465 or 0312671977 gayle@mweb.co.za www.kz n topbusiness.com Media enquiries Nkosinathi Msiza 083 577 7585 Nkosinathi.Msiza@standardbank.co.za












