South Africa’s security landscape is characterized by its diverse challenges, ranging from urban crime to border security and anti-poaching efforts. In this context, drone surveillance emerges as a versatile and effective tool.   Drones, with their ability to cover vast areas quickly and provide real-time data, offer a strategic advantage in monitoring and responding to incidents. The application of thermal imaging is a case in point. Traditional night patrols are limited by human visibility and response time. In contrast, drones equipped with thermal imaging can detect heat signatures from humans or animals, regardless of the time of day or weather conditions, thus enhancing the capabilities of security forces to pre-empt and respond to potential threats or illegal activities.   Furthermore, the tracking capabilities of drones provide a significant leap in managing and mitigating security incidents. In urban settings, drones can be deployed swiftly to follow suspects or vehicles, feeding live data back to command centers and coordinating with ground units more efficiently than ever before. This capability is not just about enhancing response times but also about increasing the safety of security personnel by reducing the need for direct confrontations.   Night vision technology in drones also opens up new frontiers for security operations. In areas where lighting is poor or non-existent, such as rural borders or wildlife reserves, night vision-equipped drones can operate effectively, providing clear imagery that supports surveillance and law enforcement activities. This is particularly relevant in South Africa’s fight against poaching, where poachers often operate under the cover of darkness. Drones can patrol large sections of parks and reserves, identifying suspicious activities without alerting the perpetrators, thus increasing the chances of apprehension.   One company pioneering drone technology in South Africa’s security industry is Mi7 National Group.   The company’s Aerial Surveillance Unit facilitates a broad spectrum of operations, emphasizing crime prevention, emergency response, search and rescue operations, traffic management, event security, infrastructure protection, environmental monitoring, and community patrols. Through real-time surveillance in high-risk areas, Mi7 National Group’s drones play a pivotal role in deterring criminal activities, providing rapid deployment during emergencies for critical information gathering and coordination, and conducting efficient search efforts in challenging terrains.   The versatility of these drones extends to overseeing traffic flow and public gatherings, safeguarding vital infrastructure against potential threats, and fostering a secure atmosphere within communities through regular aerial patrols. These drones are equipped with a mechanical shutter, a formidable 56× zoom capability, and an RTK module for unparalleled accuracy in mapping and operational efficiency. The thermal variant of the fleet is specifically designed for enhanced performance across various missions, including firefighting, search and rescue, inspections, and nocturnal operations. Features such as a 4/3 CMOS wide camera, 640 × 512 px thermal camera, high-volume loudspeaker, 45-minute flight time, and 2 square kilometre coverage area exemplify the fleet’s capability to streamline operations, ensuring meticulous observation and quick decision-making in diverse security applications.   However, the deployment of drone surveillance raises critical considerations. Privacy concerns are at the forefront, with questions about how to balance the need for security with the rights of individuals. There is a fine line between surveillance for security purposes and intrusive monitoring that violates privacy rights. The development of regulatory frameworks that govern the use of drones in surveillance is essential to address these concerns, ensuring that drone technology is used responsibly and ethically.   Another challenge is the technological and logistical infrastructure required to support widespread drone operations. This includes the need for skilled operators, maintenance of the drones, and the processing and analysis of the vast amounts of data collected. Building this infrastructure requires significant investment and coordination across various stakeholders, including government agencies, private security firms, and technology providers.   By addressing these issues head-on and fostering collaboration across sectors, South Africa can harness the full potential of drone technology to create a safer, more secure society.   T: +27 (0)33 814 2250 E: info@mi7nationalgroup.co.za   W: www.mi7national.co.za

In an era where the business landscape is continuously evolving, the concept of leadership has undergone a profound transformation.   The emergence of conscious leadership marks a pivotal shift from traditional paradigms, focusing on a holistic approach that integrates self-awareness, ethical practices, and a commitment to the greater good. As a master trainer in NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) Executive Coaching, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of conscious leadership. This article aims to demystify what it means to be a conscious leader and why it’s crucial for business owners, executives, and managers today.   Defining Conscious Leadership Conscious leadership is an approach that transcends mere profit maximisation to embrace a broader spectrum of values, including sustainability, inclusivity, and ethical governance. It’s characterised by leaders who are not only aware of their own beliefs, emotions, and motivations but also deeply attuned to the needs of their employees, customers, and the planet. These leaders prioritise long-term well-being over short-term gains, fostering environments where trust, transparency, and collaboration flourish.   The Core Attributes of a Conscious Leader Self-awareness: Conscious leaders possess a profound understanding of their strengths, weaknesses, and the impact of their actions on others and the environment. This self-awareness is the foundation for personal growth and effective leadership. Empathy and Compassion: They exhibit a genuine concern for the well-being of their team members, customers, and the community. This empathy drives them to create inclusive and supportive workplace cultures. Ethical Decision-Making: Guided by strong moral principles, conscious leaders make decisions that are not only beneficial for the business but also ethical and just, considering the broader implications of their choices. Sustainability Focus: They are committed to sustainable practices, recognising the importance of environmental stewardship and long-term ecological health in their business strategies. Holistic Perspective: Conscious leaders look beyond the immediate business context to understand the interconnectedness of their actions with the global ecosystem. They strive for solutions that balance profitability with social and environmental responsibility.   The Impact of Conscious Leadership The influence of conscious leadership extends far beyond the confines of individual organisations. It has the potential to reshape industries, influence societal norms, and contribute to the global movement towards sustainability and ethical business practices. Here are several ways conscious leadership makes a difference: Enhanced Employee Engagement: By fostering a culture of respect, inclusivity, and personal development, conscious leaders enhance employee satisfaction and loyalty, which in turn boosts productivity and innovation. Long-term Organisational Success: Businesses led by conscious leaders often enjoy long-term success and resilience, as these leaders prioritise sustainable growth and adaptability over short-term profitability. Positive Social and Environmental Impact: Conscious leadership drives businesses to adopt practices that reduce their environmental footprint and contribute positively to society, aligning with the growing consumer demand for responsible brands. Stakeholder Trust: Transparency, integrity, and ethical practices build trust among stakeholders, including investors, customers, and the community, which is invaluable in today’s market.   The journey to becoming a conscious leader involves continuous learning and self-improvement. It requires a commitment to personal development, ethical leadership, and a deep understanding of the broader impact of business decisions.   Conscious leadership represents the future of business, where success is measured not just by financial performance but by the positive impact on the world. As business owners, executives, and managers, embracing the principles of conscious leadership can lead to more sustainable, ethical, and successful organisations. In doing so, we not only contribute to the prosperity of our businesses but also to the well-being of our communities and the planet. The path to conscious leadership is both a personal and professional quest, one that promises to redefine the essence of success in the business world.   T: +27 (0)82 887 1600 E: anneme@trueawakenings.co.za   W: www.trueawakenings.co.za

Icebolethu Group, one of the leading funeral service providers in South Africa, is proud to announce and celebrate its 15th anniversary in the industry. Since its inception in 2009, Icebolethu Group has transformed the funeral service landscape with its compassionate approach, steady commitment to customer satisfaction, and innovative solutions.   Over the past 15 years, Icebolethu Group has emerged as a trusted name in the industry, earning the respect and loyalty of thousands of families across South Africa and beyond. The group’s success can be attributed to its dedication to providing dignified and personalised funeral services, taking care of every aspect with attention to detail.   Icebolethu Group’s CEO, Nomfundo Mcoyi-Zondo, expressed her gratitude on reaching this significant milestone, saying, “We are immensely proud to celebrate 15 years of serving our community during their most challenging times. Icebolethu Group was built on the foundation of empathy, respect, and professionalism. We have always strived to redefine funeral services by delivering an exceptional level of care and support to grieving families.”   Throughout its journey, Icebolethu Group has continuously expanded and enhanced its services to better cater to the diverse needs of its clients. The organisation offers a comprehensive range of funeral services, including repatriation, burial plans, cremation options, tombstone installations, and bereavement counseling. The group’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its state-of-the-art facilities, well-trained staff, and a dedicated team of experts who work tirelessly to ensure families receive the highest level of service and care.   As part of the 15-year celebration, Icebolethu Group is planning a series of events and initiatives to give back to the community it serves. These activities will include community outreach programmes, educational initiatives, community prayers, and partnerships with charitable organisations. The group aims to provide support and assistance to those in need, extending their services beyond the realm of funeral arrangements.   Icebolethu has transcended its traditional role as a funeral services provider, evolving into a comprehensive lifestyle brand that recognises the diverse needs of its community. Beyond its unwavering commitment to compassionate funeral care, Icebolethu has embraced innovation by introducing the iSave Rewards Program.   This groundbreaking initiative reflects the company’s dedication to enhancing the lives of its members beyond the scope of traditional funeral services. iSave Rewards not only provides financial security through funeral cover but also offers a unique opportunity for individuals to accumulate savings and enjoy exclusive benefits, transforming Icebolethu into a holistic lifestyle partner. This evolution showcases Icebolethu’s forward-thinking approach, redefining its role in the lives of its community members and reinforcing its commitment to being a trusted companion throughout life’s journey.   Icebolethu Group has been recognised on multiple occasions for its outstanding contributions to the industry. The company has received various awards, including the Standard Bank KZN Top Business Women Award, Global Impact Award for Business Services and Community Awards, Commonwealth Business Award and Standard Bank KZN Top Brand Award, just to mention a few, which underline the organisation’s commitment to excellence and professionalism.   Looking towards the future, Icebolethu Group remains committed to its mission of providing compassionate funeral services while continuously evolving to meet the changing needs of their clients. The group aims to expand its reach further while maintaining the unparalleled standard of service that has become their hallmark.   W: www.icebolethugroup.co.za

Mobile cooling solutions are an invaluable part of many outdoor functions, especially for businesses consistently operating out of doors. And with the hot summer days we are now experiencing, having a flexible mobile cooling solution near to hand is a must-have for a wide variety of projects, parties, industries and enterprises. Sky Tents makes all their mobile cold rooms and freezers from the highest-quality panelled insulation, girded by a rigid chassis of pure galvanised steel, in single or double axle options. So when you choose Sky Tents for all your mobile cooling solutions, you can chill out, relaxed in the knowledge that your products will make it from A to B 100% unspoiled and uncompromised.   Sky Tents uses only the highest quality condensers, blowers and motors to fabricate their mobile cold rooms and freezers, and they take care to fully insulate the floors as well as the walls and ceiling, in order to maximise cooling efficiency. Cooling and freezing are essential aspects of a range of different industries.   From catering and craft services, to florists and funerals, to meat and medical supplies, the possibilities and opportunities are endless when you have a mobile cold room or freezer!   W: www.skytentsa.co.za

Growing up in the holiday town of Scottburgh, situated on the south coast of KwaZulu- Natal, had many advantages, which I only discovered much later in life. The south coast in those days was laid-back in comparison to the fast-paced world we live in today. Influences such as surfing, interacting with nature, and having time for simple things were normal, which is where I draw my strength, innovation, purpose, and resilience. In reflecting on these precious memories, it becomes obvious that we were learning great life lessons that I have used in my career and in the business environment. My mind immediately recalls ‘ensuring a ‘go get it attitude’ as an essential initiator of any action. In surfing every single wave is different, which is not dissimilar to opportunities in life and business. We must be ready for each unique opportunity... and we must make the most of them. If we do not catch a wave… it is gone forever. More waves will come along… as will more life and business opportunities, but the more we let go by, the more we must paddle around and keep searching. A Respectful Dance My first lesson learned from surfing is respect for the ocean and care for fellow watermen. In all circumstances the sea is dominant, which is precisely the same as the economy. We need to maintain the balance of perception required for our own success and sustainability. We can find opportunity within the economy; however, we will never be able to demand that the economy produce our desired outcome. There are great rewards to be found in the economy and in the ocean. However, we need to respect and care for our customers, employees, suppliers, regulators, stakeholders, and the environment. The Essence of Mastery My second lesson is recognising that there is endless learning to be gained in the ocean. Business is just the same with every day bringing new challenges and experiences; to cope and thrive we need a positive mindset and outcome expectation. As a young person, we always looked to the elders for guidance when big outside sets were approaching. This is similar to business, when suddenly things go wrong, often at the same time, we have to draw on our networks and advisors to re-evaluate the direction we wish to drive our actions, or to find ways to re-establish our position, poise and connection. Leaving No One Behind My third lesson is that of Sustainable Development Goal 17 which says do not leave anyone behind. Whilst I was surfing at Airport Lefts in Bali, which has amazing waves, the offshore wind blew me off course. I realised that there was a set of big and powerful waves coming for me like a tsunami. I pushed my board to the side, and dived as deep as I could. Suddenly there was a snap, my leash had broken, and now I was more than a kilometre out to sea, with no board for flotation, and more chunky barrelling waves about to pound my now fragile body. When the set passed and the calm returned, there was nobody in sight, except my mate Wade Howard, who had paddled to fetch and bring my board to me.   In business we also get caught by the lip of the wave or by the sets, have an unpleasant hold down, or get washed onto the rocks. Trouble just happens, and we need to be there to help others when they need it, or to be prepared to receive help from others when we need it. The Art of the Possible My fourth lesson is centred around managing risk. The sea is an ever-changing environment, where wave size can be measured in increments of fear. There are winds, tides, rips, currents, sandbanks, and reefs that have to be understood to ensure our safety and ability to enjoy our sport. Leading a sustainable business is also about managing risk, which includes every activity from producing your company’s high-quality product or service, ensuring it adds value to customers and stakeholders, ensuring consumers are agreeable to purchase and pay for your product or service timeously, and that staff meet their obligations to ensure legitimacy and productivity. Once risk is researched, considered and managed, to a large degree, it disappears. We overcome it through being correctly prepared and positioned. The Key to Success My fifth lesson is about timing. Perfect surf requires specific conditions to be present, and we have to be ready all the time. Being ready means that we keep fit, keep preparing, and keep the ‘stoke’ for when we can enjoy the moments of pleasure. Sometimes we surf on the days where the waves are not perfect, and they help us to be confident and ready for when the good surf arrives. So too are productive and profitable days and opportunities in our business. We just must be poised and ready for when these opportunities flow in our direction. Loving What You Do My sixth lesson is about ensuring our minds are focused. We can only keep our ongoing focus if we enjoy what we are doing. Business is the same, we must do what we love doing. Doing something we are good at, enjoy doing, supports others, and rewards ourselves is discovering our purpose. Surfing teaches us to never compromise doing what we feel is right for ourselves and the time, as long as it does not interfere or compromise any other person, or nature herself. So many choices come our way, and we need to align our thoughts, words and actions with those which resonate within our hearts and souls. Enjoying and immersing ourselves in our sport and work is the magic that lifts our minds and gives us that sense of purpose and accomplishment – which is essential for our wellbeing, and our growth as humans and contributors to the world. Guiding the Next Wave My seventh lesson is about recognising that as we gain more experience and ability in our sport and work, we become influential to junior travellers on similar paths. We need to recognise this responsibility and ensure that as role models we are providing guidance and support in a caring and honourable way. We thus become ambassadors in our sport and profession. We can enhance opportunity or destroy confidence in those people who look towards us to show them the way. Living in the Moment My eighth lesson is that surfing forces us to draw on our intuition for decision making in the moment. The ocean is constantly moving and changing; mentally, immediately we lunge into the sea we become absorbed in its flow. Business is also about timing, and we must recognise that our best decisions will be made through assessing the environment, and using our experience, resources, networks, and intuition to guide us. Like surfing, business decision making is best when we are fully focused, confident that our experience, passion and intuition will deliver an outcome that richly rewards us. The advice Dave Rastovich, a surfing great from a line of Polynesian watermen, received from his dad was to… “Think it, feel it, do it”. I am not sure if any advice could be simpler and more valuable to us in surfing, life, and business. We do take the wrong wave at times, and we do get trashed. However, we quickly recover and resume our posture and position, as not doing so will hold us in the danger zone of other waves advancing. In business we call this resilience and recovery, and each experience needs to be analysed and corrected, so that the organisation can redirect and advance more competently and more confidently in its purpose and intention. The Shared Success My ninth lesson is about creating opportunities for others. When we are surfing and sharing waves with friends, there is a sense of oneness, we can enjoy each other’s exhilarating moments, and everyone is richer for it. In business we have a natural ‘tall poppy syndrome’, where there are many who choose to not support others’ successes. Being joyful for others in both surfing and business raises our own vibrations and attracts similar opportunities to ourselves. Being supportive and encouraging towards others when they are learning or excelling helps us to enjoy each passing moment more, enriching our lives, and setting the platform for our own similar joyful and fulfilling experiences. Embracing Nature’s Flow My tenth lesson is simply allowing nature’s flow to guide our existence. We have no ability to influence the intuitive decisions we make. However, these decisions tend to be right for us, even if we only recognise them for their value at a later point. We miss waves, only to find out there is a better wave right behind the one we missed. In business things do not go our way continuously, in fact there are many opportunities we miss. However, not all seemingly great opportunities are right for us and for our business. We need to realise that we cannot ride every wave, and similarly we cannot service every opportunity in business. If we surf regularly with our heart in the right place, we will get many great waves to ride. In business, the harder we try in maintaining ethics, quality assurance, and respect for stakeholders and regulators, the more we gain the right for new opportunities to flow towards our organisations. There is no doubt that my love for nature, the ocean and surfing shaped my life as a business executive. I am endlessly thankful for the experiences gained in the sea, learning to surf, and enjoying the magic of riding precious waves. Shaun Thomson who at the height of his career was regarded as the best tube rider in the world, shared that time changes when in the tube, and in an uncanny way Shaun believes that in this zone we can change the shape of the wave with our minds. What an amazing perception, highlighting that we are more creative and powerful than we might have considered. DRG, DRG Siyaya, BusinessFit SA and SA Chamber UK Contact David White, T: +27 (0)31 767 0625 E: david@drg.co.za     W: www.drg.co.za

In a warm and authentic celebration of cross-border collaboration and business excellence, the South African Chamber of Commerce UK, Business Awards Dinner was held in the heart of the City of London.   Hosted at Saddlers’ Hall on Wednesday 31 January, the South African Business Awards Dinner was an evening of recognition, networking, and celebration. This premier event provided a unique platform for prominent business leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals from the UK and South African business communities to connect, share insights, and explore potential collaborations.   The awards ceremony honoured businesses and individuals who have demonstrated outstanding achievements, innovation, and resilience in their respective fields, symbolising the dynamic business landscape of both the UK and South Africa.   The night was one of ‘Ubuntu’ – the feelings of compassion, humanity and togetherness – where the audience were truly touched by the winners. This sentiment was totally relevant to the African proverb quoted by Chamber Chairman Sharon Constançon – “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”   The rainbow nation was represented, as was the phrase’s creator – the country’s great leader, Mandela, who was referenced by three of the speakers. The most appropriate being that quoted by Chris Green, Office Partner of Hogan Lovells, the headline sponsor for the evening – “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others,” matching the ultimate purpose of the Chamber.   The Chamber would like to congratulate all the finalists and the winners. Making it through the layers of judging is an amazing accomplishment and is well-deserved recognition. The Awards ensured that this achievement for 22 people and their businesses was celebrated. There were nine people that tipped the post to be winners, half of these happened to be in SA and the other half in the UK. An online live broadcast brought all the finalists together globally, so all participants could rejoice in their recognition.   Learning the success stories, witnessing the evolution of gender and ethnic diversity successes and feeling the pride expressed by the winners was fascinating. Their exuberance, humbleness, instant sharing their wins with their teams and their gratitude for the value their business and their personal brand would gain was noteworthy.   The winners and finalists were as follows: BUSINESS LEADER AWARD Winner: ■ Sira Dheshan Naidu, Co-Founder/Owner, Disruptor London   Finalists: ■ Mteto Nyati, Executive Chairman, BSG ■ Martin Sweet, Managing Director, Primestars   BUSINESS WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD Joint Winners: ■ Koni Maliehe, CEO, Koni Wines ■ Caroll Masevhe, Managing Director, Kapcor Construction   Finalists: ■ Naledi McCarthy-Ocansey, Founder, Utour ■ Penny Streeter OBE, CEO, A24 Group   CHAIRMAN’S AWARD Joint Winners: ■ Refilwe Buthelezi, President, Engineering Council of South Africa ■ Natalie Pollock, Managing Director, Sporting Chance   Finalist: ■ Adrian Gardiner, Executive Chairman, The Mantis Collection   DE&I LEADER AWARD Winner: ■ Arlene Wilson-Max, Managing Director, Pan Africa Exchange   Finalists ■ Ruth Leas, CEO, Investec Bank plc (IBP) ■ Dr Arthie Moore-Robberts, Founder, Celebrating Humanity   ESG LEADER AWARD Winner: ■ Jeremy Ford, Director & Trustee, Qhubeka   Finalists: ■ Songo Didiza, Founder and Director, Green Building Design Group ■ Ilana Friedman, Founding Director & CEO, Magical Moments   INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR AWARD Winner: ■ Dr Jaishree Naidoo, CEO, Envisionit Deep AI   Finalists: ■ Dr Dean Allen, Historian, Author and Keynote Speaker ■ Marang Setshwaelo, Publicity Director Netflix, Sub-Saharan Africa   YOUNG BUSINESS LEADER AWARD Winner: ■ Farai Ian Muvuti, CEO, The Southern African Times   Finalists: ■ Nicolette Nadia Mashile, Founder and Social Entrepreneur, Financial Fitness Bunnies ■ Mr TAP (Tebogo Aubrey) Poopedi, Founder and Station Manager, Skills Village Radio   Juliet Rushent, events manager for the Chamber enthused, “The Clerk, their team, the sound and catering crews worked together it was a relaxed and enjoyable experience for all.”   Constançon concluded, “I would like to convey my heartfelt thanks to Hogan Lovells, our headline sponsor, and to all our other sponsors as well as to the various people who made this event a success. You are all much appreciated as without your support and participation this Business Awards Dinner would not be possible."   For more information visit www.southafricanchamber.co.uk

Invest Durban is thrilled to announce their participation as one of the 14 signatories at the World Economic Forum FDI Coalition, representing a collective of over 300 million citizens. Together, they’re championing the establishment of a Climate FDI Coalition, a crucial initiative endorsed by leaders from 14 investment agencies and organisations.   ‘Climate FDI’ refers to foreign direct investment (FDI) that contributes to countries’ climate-aligned growth objectives. The world needs to grow climate smart FDI. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s (IPCC) Synthesis Report on climate change from March 2023 shows that humanity is still not on track to limit temperature increase to 1.5˚C above pre-industrial levels.   This groundbreaking proposal, unveiled at the #WEF24 Annual Meeting, seeks to address the climate finance gap by fostering collaboration among investment promotion agencies. Capital availability is paramount in tackling current environmental challenges, and investment authorities are poised to play a pivotal role in bridging this gap.   Through the Coalition, Invest Durban aims to share best practices, offer mutual support, and foster collaboration at a regional level. Together with investors, they can explore and facilitate green investment opportunities, contributing to climate-aligned growth and development.   Further to this goal, public-private collaboration will be an integral part of this process. Drawing on the expertise of the private sector will enable Invest Durban to improve regulatory and policy frameworks and deliver more attractive, viable and inclusive climate FDI projects. Beyond that, buy-in from key public and private actors, and adopting a joined up approach to FDI facilitation, will enhance the effectiveness of these efforts.   According to the World Economic Forum’s recently published Guidebook on Facilitating Climate FDI the investment projects required are those that are: ■ Zero or low carbon in nature ■ Aim to reduce the carbon footprint of a firm ■ Support the reduction of greenhouse gases (ghg) through more efficient energy technologies ■ Are designed to improve the resilience of infrastructure to adapt to the effects of climate change.   Signatories are also encouraged to exchange notes with each other on how best to track and monitor climate FDI, since doing so can help countries align their incentives and flanking strategies to make the most of new investments.   Russell Curtis, CE of Invest Durban concludes, “Durban has a number of multibillion-rand, carbon reducing, carbon smart FDI projects in hand already. We look forward to this expanded partnership with the WEF, plus local business leadership, to get these projects over the line.”   W: www.invest.durban

The Institute of Natural Resources (INR) recently appointed Professor Tafadzwa Mabhaudhi as its new director to herald a more ambitious role for the Pietermaritzburg-based research and development organisation.   Mabhaudhi brings an impressive track record and deep knowledge of the fluid interplay between water, energy, food and the environment globally and particularly in southern Africa – dynamics at the centre of his vision for the INR to play a leading role in the region.   With a passion for transdisciplinary research and capacity development, Mabhaudhi is looking forward to building on the INR’s legacy of bottom-up development. “We’ve identified the need to scale the INR’s reach to more regional level and make it a partner of choice for organisations wanting to work in the region,” he says.   Mabhaudhi plays a leading role in global forums and networks, in particular, the Global WEF Nexus Community of Practice. His involvement in strategic regional and global initiatives on water resources management for sustainable and resilient food systems has honed some valuable insights, not least how to best align scientific principles with local knowledge and institutional perspectives.   Mabhaudhi’s diverse research credentials will stand the INR in good stead. He holds a BSc Honours Crop Science from the University of Zimbabwe, and an MSc and PhD in Crop Science from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), with a particular focus on agricultural water management.   As a natural integrator, Mabhaudhi is excited to position the INR for growth, internationalisation, collaboration and partnerships in the research and development community at large. His first priority is to create a facilitative platform for the INR researchers to do their jobs. “We’re building an enabling environment to support our scientists and partnerships which enhance the INR’s capacity to deliver on its vision. “It’s an exciting future beckoning.” he said.

On 1 February 2024, the Minister of Employment and Labour published the new Draft Regulations on Proposed Sectoral Numerical Targets for the Employment Equity Act in the Government Gazette for public comment. The Employment Equity Amendment Act 4 of 2022 was signed into law in April 2023 by President Ramaphosa. This legislation empowered the Minister of Labour to set sector-specific targets for designated groups across all levels for any national economic sector.   Consequently, the Department of Employment and Labour has revised its targets, with the aim of increasing diversity and representation, across the full range of management positions, from junior to top management, professionally qualified people and skilled technical employees.   The revised targets prioritise achieving diverse leadership teams. For example: In manufacturing, 40% of top management should be from designated groups with at least 15% being female In administration and support activities 50% of top management should be from designated groups (30% male and 20% female) while 85% of professionally qualified and middle management should be from designated groups In the agricultural sector the skilled technical employees should be 78% from designated groups (50, 4% male and 27,6% female)   The new system replaces individual quotas for African, Coloured, and Indian employees with a broader “designated groups” category.   Provincial and national targets are merged, creating a single national target for each sector.   The department aims to accelerate progress towards fairer representation in workplaces, acknowledging the slow pace of previous efforts.   Of significance is that the prescribed targets are five-year targets, and designated employers will maintain the power and responsibility to determine their own annual goals towards achieving the relevant five-year targets. It is important to note that these are draft targets and the final version might be adjusted based on public feedback. The draft targets for the various sectors are open for comment until 2 May 2024.   All public comments must be in writing and forwarded to: 1. Christina Lehlokoa E: christina.lehlokoa@labour.gov.za   2. Julian Mohale E: julian.mohale@labour.gov.za      3. Innocent Makwarela E: innocent.makwarela@labour.gov.za

Launching a new initiative that aims to combat ageism and advocate for the rights of older persons In a world where ageism remains a pervasive issue hindering the enjoyment of human rights for many, The Association for the Aged (Tafta) will be using their new Sawubona Campaign to address age discrimination and promote the rights, protection, and dignity of older persons.   At the launch event, Femada Shamam (Tafta CEO) shared the following, “Age discrimination often leads to elder abuse, as older individuals are sometimes denied their fundamental rights to protection and a life lived with dignity. The Sawubona Campaign seeks to challenge this deeply rooted problem by encouraging society to truly ‘see’ and appreciate the value and contributions of older people.”   ‘Sawubona’ – a Zulu greeting that translates to ‘I see you’ – encapsulates the essence of Tafta’s initiative to recognise and acknowledge the presence, wisdom, and experiences of the older generation. The campaign will unfold throughout the year via the organisation’s digital platforms, introducing various resources and opportunities aimed at fostering intergenerational connections and creating spaces that honour elders.   Shamam encouraged supporters of the organisation to join in the crucial movement by engaging on social media and to participate in the campaign’s calls to action. “Your first opportunity to support the initiative is by signing the petition issued by GAROP (Global Alliance for the Rights of Older People) advocating for a UN Convention on the Rights of Older Persons. This global effort aims to address ageism at an international level through a binding legal instrument and foster a world that values and protects the rights of older individuals. It is time to lift the veil of ageism and truly ‘see our elders’. By actively participating in the Sawubona Campaign, individuals can contribute to a more inclusive and respectful society for people of all ages,” said Shamam.   To sign the petition, visit the Sawubona Campaign tab on Tafta’s website ( www.tafta.org.za ). You can also stay updated and engage with calls to action by following, liking and sharing Tafta’s social media pages. Use the hashtag #Sawubona2024 to share your personal Sawubona initiative – whether it’s a story, a commitment, or an action that promotes inclusivity and appreciation for older individuals.

Much debate, as well as uncertainty, is currently taking place in the run up to the South African general election with the announcement of the polling date imminent. Many business owners are hoping that following the election, domestic economic conditions will stabilise and improve to counter the negative impacts of the past few years.   However, we still have had many success stories to reflect on. In this edition of Business Sense, we feature Shaaz Moosa who describes himself as a serial businessman. His career, he says, has been guided by the support of others and through doing the right things. Page 3   Invest Durban is thrilled to announce their participation as one of the 14 signatories at the World Economic Forum in a climate change coalition. Page 6   A total of 15 Cox Yeats lawyers were recognised in their areas of speciality in the legal profession’s most respected peer-review title, Best Lawyers® in South Africa for 2024. Page 7   In a celebration of cross-border collaboration and business excellence, the South African Chamber of Commerce UK, Business Awards Dinner was held on the 31 January. Page 8   Nokubonga Sabela has defied the odds to excel in her medical studies with the help of an assistive device, which was donated by the UKZN Foundation. Page 9   Also on page 9 , KZN Top Business celebrates its silver jubilee and announces a range of initiatives for 2024.   Defy Appliances proudly took part in the launch ceremony for the start of preferential trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) for SA companies. Page 12   Our editorial partners offer a range of insights (as well as opportunities) relating to business and personal issues.   Johan van Deventer, LabourNet provides a discussion of the topic of cannabis in the workplace. Page 4   Marlene Powell invites you to master the craft of sales over 12 weeks of training. Page 5 . As a tuition centre of the University of Pretoria’s Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), TWIMS offers the GIBS MBA (manufacturing specialisation). Page 5   Jacquie Bhana says that coaching can be a valuable way of getting leaders to reflect on the dynamics impacting on their business and how to move forward successfully. Page 10   One company pioneering drone technology in South Africa’s security industry is Mi7 National Group. Page 11 .   Searchworks’ managing director writes that following the FIC Act guidelines will help businesses protect their reputation, while reducing their risk. Page 12 .   Anneme Coetzee comments on “The paradigm of conscious leadership in the modern business world.” Page 13 . To conclude David White offers surfing’s wisdom in business and life. Page 16 .

The importance of good oral hygiene – not only for dental health, but for your overall wellbeing cannot be overemphasized.   Brushing your teeth daily is essential in keeping your teeth and gums in good condition so that you can eat, drink and speak without any discomfort. Poor oral health can impact on other health issues such as diabetes and heart disease.   To ensure a healthy smile, an extensive range of toothbrushes is currently available, including manual and electric varieties. While the jury is out on whether or not electric toothbrushes are worth the cost, they do have some advantages in enabling more effective brushing. In particular electric toothbrushes may assist children and people with limited mobility to brush their teeth well. The rotating or oscillating heads of electric toothbrushes can remove plaque and food particles more efficiently. However, a more advanced version, the sonic electric toothbrush, is able to enhance these advantages further. The major difference is that an oscillating-rotating toothbrush moves while a sonic toothbrush vibrates. The high frequency of vibrations allows sonic toothbrushes to rapidly clean your teeth, gums, and tongue.   Using toothbrushes such as these can result in better oral hygiene, reducing the risk of teeth cavities and gum disease, fresher breath, and a brighter smile. However, do not forget to floss your teeth!   As part of the trend to connectivity via the Internet of Things (IoT), ‘smart’ toothbrushes are gaining popularity. A smart toothbrush is an electric toothbrush that connects via Bluetooth to an app on your smartphone or tablet to collect data and provide feedback on how effectively you are brushing your teeth. Generally, smart toothbrushes come with built-in sensors that monitor your brushing habits such as brush head pressure on the teeth, coverage, brushing duration and other inputs in real-time. Some even include cameras that allows you to livestream the inside of your mouth while brushing – ensuring you are reaching all corners of your mouth.   Consequently, users learn from their smart toothbrush data to improve their teeth brushing habits and over time can improve their oral health. Feedback can include reminders to brush for the full two minutes or alerts if you are applying too much pressure to your teeth and gums. Brushing too vigorously can have lasting negative repercussions for your teeth. The information received can be also shared with you dentist, especially if you have any concerns about the health of your teeth and gums.   However, while electric and smart toothbrushes are a useful innovation in dental technology, they aren’t able to replace twice-yearly visits to your dentist, which is the only way to get the most out of these benefits.   Crown Dental Studio is one of the few truly 24-hour dental practises in Durban as this is not limited to emergency dentistry treatment.   Address: 26 Mackeurtan Avenue, Durban North. T: +27 (0)81 207 8621 E: info@dramod.co.za   W: www.dramod.co.za