Press Release As KZN Women in Business celebrates its 31st anniversary this year, the organisation is proud to announce a new chapter in its journey with the move to a new monthly meeting venue at ONOMO Hotel Durban. Pictured (L-R): Robyn Keulder (KZNWIB Vice-chair), Sue Venter (Onomo Hotel Sales Manager) and Benni Thompson (KZNWIB Chairperson) Having grown steadily over the past three decades into one of the longest-standing businesswomen’s organisations in KwaZulu-Natal, KZN Women in Business (KZNWIB) says the move comes at the right time as the organisation continues to expand its reach and support even more women across the province. KZNWIB serves as a support structure for women and a forum for fostering relationships, building networks, exchanging business knowledge and helping members grow their businesses. Over the years, the organisation has supported women across a variety of business sectors, from small business owners and entrepreneurs to corporate executives and CEOs. The decision to relocate was driven by a number of factors, including the organisation having outgrown its previous venue, as well as the need for a more central and accessible location for members travelling from areas including the North Coast, South Coast and Upper Highway. The centrally located ONOMO Hotel Durban offers safe and secure off-road parking, modern conferencing facilities, full technical support and an extensive breakfast offering with tea, coffee, water and juices available throughout the morning. The venue also provides inviting communal spaces where members can continue connecting and networking after each monthly meeting. According to Benni Thompson, Chairperson of KZN Women in Business, the move marks an exciting milestone for the organisation. “We are incredibly excited to welcome our members to our beautiful new professional home at ONOMO Hotel Durban. As our organisation continues to grow, it became important for us to find a venue that not only accommodates our expanding membership, but also reflects the professionalism, warmth and forward-thinking nature of KZNWIB,” says Thompson. “This move creates an even better environment for women to connect, collaborate, learn and support one another. We are looking forward to continuing our legacy of encouraging and developing women in business throughout KwaZulu-Natal from a space that truly supports the future growth of our organisation.” Sue Venter, Sales Manager at ONOMO Hotel Durban, says the hotel is proud to partner with KZNWIB as its new home venue. “We are thrilled to welcome KZN Women in Business to ONOMO Hotel Durban and are honoured to be part of such a respected and longstanding organisation. Supporting spaces where meaningful business connections and collaboration can flourish is something we value deeply,” says Venter. “We look forward to building a prosperous relationship with KZNWIB and welcoming its members each month to enjoy our facilities, hospitality and vibrant networking environment.” As a non-profit voluntary organisation managed by a committee of volunteers and a part-time administrator, KZNWIB remains committed to connecting with, supporting, encouraging and developing women in business throughout the province. All profits made during the financial year are donated to the organisation’s nominated charity, with members selecting The YES Trust as the 2026 beneficiary. KZNWIB monthly networking meetings are held on the first Thursday of every month from 8:30am to 10:30am. For more information or to book to attend an upcoming meeting, please visit www.kznwib.co.za or contact Nicci Hosking, KZNWIB Administrator, at info@kznwib.co.za

PRESS RELEASE You Cannot Spray Everything. But You Can Do This More than a year after Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) first triggered widespread concern across South Africa and neighbouring countries, the outbreak continues to affect livestock operations unabated. Confirmed new cases have climbed from 932 in March 2026 to 2,034 by 22nd May, now affecting all nine provinces, with KwaZulu-Natal, Free State, and North West among the hardest hit, and cross-border risks with Botswana remaining high. For many livestock farmers in South Africa, FMD is no longer a distant threat. It is part of everyday farm life. It affects auctions, sales and supply chains. It creates anxiety every time a new case is reported nearby. And while vaccination programmes have been expanded in response to ongoing outbreaks, rollout pressure and inconsistent access in some regions mean farmers are still operating in a partial-control environment. Amidst all the uncertainty, one thing is clear: good farm biosecurity matters. Recently, though, in conversation with a KZN farmer, he raised a fair point: "But we can't spray everything." “And he’s right,” says Timothy Isabirye, Marketing Manager at Husqvarna South Africa. "You cannot disinfect every fence line, every patch of soil, every grazing area or every movement across a working farm.” Nevertheless, he believes there are some things farmers can still do: 1. Cut unnecessary movement FMD spreads through infected animals, but also via people, vehicles, equipment and contaminated materials. Every movement onto or across a farm creates another possible pathway for disease. So, before moving anything, ask: “Does this really need to happen today?” because reducing unnecessary movement is often more effective than relying on reactive disinfection later. 2. Treat farm gates as a control point Gates are the first line of defence in an outbreak and have shifted from an entry point to a control zone. Keep gates closed and track who enters, where they’re from, and monitor their movements on the property. Every vehicle should be sprayed before entering, and visitors, buyers, service providers and contractors should only access livestock areas when absolutely necessary. 3. Manage boots, clothing, and tools Boots, overalls, hand tools and machinery can all become part of the transmission chain if moved between farms or livestock areas without proper precautions. Clean and disinfect workwear, boots and equipment daily, especially after being in higher-risk areas. Where possible, insist that suppliers and contractors follow the same standards before entering the farm. Keep tools and clothing farm-specific and avoid sharing equipment. 4. Monitor herd health When something looks wrong, speed matters. Farmers know their animals well and can quickly spot when something is wrong, whether it’s a drop in milk production, animals being off their feed, or behaving out of character. Watch for warning signs, and if you suspect something, trust your instincts and report your suspicions straight away. Don’t wait and hope that it passes. 5. Make biosecurity a daily routine The hard part about biosecurity doesn’t lie in awareness, but in consistency… day after day. When an outbreak drags on and becomes the norm, fatigue sets in. A gate is left open. A visitor walks into a livestock area because "it will only take a minute". That is exactly when farms become vulnerable. Of course, access to vaccinations is essential. Clear communication from authorities remains essential. But as farmers wait for the wider picture to stabilise, one thing is certain, as Isabirye observes: “FMD is no longer just an interruption; it has become part of farming. It calls for daily, consistent vigilance using practical, repeatable routines that everyone can realistically follow.” “Spraying, cleaning and disinfecting cost time and money,” he acknowledges. “But right now, every one of those actions matters. Because the harder it is for FMD to move through a farm, the better the chance of protecting the herd, the farmer’s livelihood and ultimately, national food security. “Yes, you can’t spray every inch of a working farm, but you can be relentless about the places where the risk is highest,” he concludes. “So spray the gate. Spray the tyres. Spray the boots. Spray the equipment. Disinfect clothing. Today. Tomorrow. The day after that.” Learn how our spraying solutions can assist your biosecurity efforts at Husqvarna South Africa | Products for Forest & Garden Source: 1. https://www.polity.org.za/article/agriculture-portfolio-committee-concerned-by-slow-foot-and-mouth-disease-response-and-lack-of-detail-in-departments-reports-2026-05-27? A Press Release Disseminated on Behalf of: Timothy Isabirye, Marketing Manager – Husqvarna South Africa About Husqvarna Husqvarna, a brand within Husqvarna Group, is a market leader in innovative and high-quality products and services for shaping green spaces in parks, forests and gardens. Since 1689, Swedish-born Husqvarna has a strong focus on research and development and is a pioneer in robotic lawn mowers and chainsaws. Today, the product portfolio consists of the next generation of robotic mowers, riders, chainsaws and trimmers for professional as well as private use. Sustainable value creation, product innovation and digitalisation remain important for the journey ahead. Husqvarna products are sold in more than 100 countries. Husqvarna Group, which also includes Gardena and Husqvarna Construction, has 13,300 employees in 40 countries around the world and net sales in 2024 amounted to SEK 48,4 billion. Husqvarna Group is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm.

Chantelle Frier, National Sales Manager at SW360 As regulatory pressure intensifies, real estate agencies face a critical compliance deadline, and a growing need for smarter, tech-enabled solutions. South Africa’s real estate sector is entering a new phase of regulatory scrutiny following the introduction of Directive 11 of 2026 by the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC). For estate agencies, classified as accountable institutions under the Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA), the directive is more than an administrative requirement, it represents a fundamental shift in how compliance must be approached, measured, and evidenced. Effective from 1 April 2026, Directive 11 requires estate agencies to submit a detailed Risk and Compliance Return (RCR) to the FIC, covering their anti-money laundering (AML), counter-terrorist financing (CTF), and broader risk management controls. A Deeper Level Of Accountability Unlike previous compliance obligations, the RCR is not a simple tick-box exercise. It is a comprehensive self-assessment that evaluates how well an organisation understands and mitigates financial crime risks across its operations. The return spans a three-year reporting period (1 April 2023 to 31 March 2026) and must be submitted electronically via the FIC’s platform. It covers key areas such as: Risk management frameworks Customer due diligence (CDD) processes Reporting controls Governance and oversight structures Failure to comply, whether through late submission, incomplete data, or inadequate controls, may result in administrative sanctions and increased regulatory scrutiny. Why This Matters Real estate agencies have long been recognised as vulnerable to financial crime risks, particularly due to the high-value nature of property transactions. With Directive 11, the FIC is sharpening its focus on ensuring that agencies can demonstrate not just compliance, but effectiveness. “Directive 11 signals a clear shift from reactive compliance to proactive accountability,” says Chantelle Frier, National Sales Manager at SW360. “Real estate agencies are now expected to prove that their risk management processes are not only in place, but actively working.” This shift comes amid increased inspections and enforcement activity across accountable institutions, as South Africa continues efforts to strengthen its AML framework and address international scrutiny. The Operational Challenge For many agencies, particularly small to mid-sized firms, the practical burden of compiling an RCR is significant. The directive requires: Consolidated reporting across branches Accurate, multi-period data collection Alignment between internal policies and actual practices Registration and readiness on the FIC’s goAML system “Many agencies underestimate the complexity of what’s required,” Frier notes. “It’s not just about gathering documents, it’s about having structured, auditable systems in place that can stand up to regulatory review.” Technology As An Enabler This is where integrated compliance and data solutions are becoming essential. Platforms like Searchworks and VOCA are increasingly being used to streamline identity verification, risk assessment, and ongoing monitoring processes. By digitising compliance workflows, agencies can: Automate customer due diligence checks Maintain accurate audit trails Centralise compliance data Reduce manual errors and administrative burden “Technology allows agencies to move from fragmented compliance processes to a single, reliable source of truth,” says Frier. “That’s critical when you’re required to evidence your compliance in such detail.” Preparing For The Deadline With submissions opened as of 4 May 2026 and deadlines set for 30 June or 31 July 2026 (depending on classification), real estate agencies have limited time to prepare. The most effective approach: Conducting an internal compliance gap analysis Reviewing and updating Risk Management and Compliance Programmes (RMCPs) Ensuring staff are trained and aware of obligations Leveraging technology to streamline reporting A Turning Point Directive 11 is more than a regulatory milestone. It marks a turning point for the real estate industry in South Africa. Agencies that embrace this shift and invest in robust compliance frameworks will not only meet regulatory requirements but also build greater trust with clients and stakeholders. “As the industry evolves, compliance will become a competitive differentiator,” concludes Frier. “Those who get it right now will be far better positioned for the future.” www.searchworks.co.za | www.voca.co.za

Leadership, resilience, innovation and accountability are the threads that connect this edition of Business Sense, reflecting both the opportunities and challenges shaping KwaZulu-Natal’s business landscape. From the revitalisation of eThekwini to the growing influence of artificial intelligence, from succession planning in manufacturing to the realities of compliance and governance, this issue captures a province actively redefining its future. Our cover story and feature profile on page 3 focuses on Logie Naidoo, a leader whose journey has been deeply intertwined with the development of eThekwini and the broader business community. His story is rooted in service, collaboration and a long-standing belief that leadership is measured not by position, but by the impact made on people and communities. That same spirit of rebuilding and collaboration echoes throughout this edition. On page 7, we explore the launch of the eThekwini Beach Safety Project, one of the first visible outcomes of the Presidential eThekwini Working Group. The initiative demonstrates how public and private sector partnerships are beginning to restore confidence in Durban as a tourism and investment destination. Safety, infrastructure and service delivery remain central to the city’s recovery, and the project signals a move from planning to implementation. Several contributors examine the growing pressures surrounding governance, compliance and accountability. Chantelle Frier unpacks the implications of Directive 11 for estate agencies, while Heather Flack warns taxpayers against blindly accepting SARS auto-assessments without review. Johan van Deventer provides clarity on overtime obligations for employers, and Peter Barnard and Chantal Mitchell examine the legal complexities surrounding interdicts and unlawful conduct. Trevor Clark reflects on why good employees leave businesses and the importance of consistent management structures, while Wade Howard comments on the value of strong client service and lasting relationships. We also feature inspiring entrepreneurial stories, including Midlands property specialist Lise van Zuydam’s journey from uncertainty to success, and the long-term investment value of event infrastructure explored by Sky Tents. Artificial intelligence and digital transformation continue to reshape the business environment, and on page 10 we report on the recent AI Unlocked breakfast hosted by KZN Top Business in partnership with Vodacom. Opening remarks from Vodacom’s Imran Khan and Videsha Proothveerajh highlighted the importance of embracing technology as a business enabler. Terry Flack, Warren Sachs and Daren Denholm explored how AI is moving beyond experimentation into practical implementation, while Kgabo Seopa and Johan Schoeman of Nexio unpacked the importance of cybersecurity in an increasingly automated world. On page 6, Imran Bassa explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of audit and assurance. Continuing the theme of digital transformation, Terry Flack examines the use of AI agents to manage marketing metrics on page 12, while Mike Myers writes on page 13 about the role of AI in fraud and the need for vigilance, especially when answering cell phone calls. On page 11, we look at paediatric dentistry, which, as Dr Fareed Amod explains is about helping children feel safe, comfortable, supported and excited to care for their smiles. This edition closes with a continental perspective in David White’s feature on page 16, ‘Africa Leads the Way’. Drawing on insights shared during the international Toastmasters symposium led by Aletta Rochat, the article highlights Africa’s growing role in global leadership, trade and innovation. Finally, as highlighted on this page, entries for the KZN Top Business Awards 2026 are drawing to a close. These awards continue to celebrate organisations and entrepreneurs driving innovation, sustainability and economic impact across the province. Thank you to all our contributors, partners and readers who continue to make Business Sense a platform for meaningful conversation, insight and progress across KwaZulu-Natal. Find the digital issue here: https://online.flipbuilder.com/uczf/iqrp/#p=1 SHAPING KWAZULU-NATAL’S FUTURE

Press Release A community-driven pothole repair initiative by Super Tyres is making a meaningful difference for residents and motorists in Hillcrest, with the company recently undertaking voluntary repairs along Acutts Drive near Le Domaine Estate. The repairs, currently underway from the Inanda Road intersection, were initiated by the Super Tyres team after witnessing the poor condition of the road and the safety risks posed to motorists and residents using the route daily. According to Frances Mans, Estate Manager of The Body Corporate of Le Domaine, the initiative has been warmly welcomed by the community. “We would like to sincerely acknowledge and thank Super Tyres for their proactive contribution to improving road safety for all residents and road users,” says Mans. “The Body Corporate of Le Domaine and neighbouring estates have agreed that it has been incredibly encouraging to see a local business step in voluntarily to assist.” Mans says the initiative has brought relief to many residents who regularly travel the route. “From the 1200 ratepayers at Le Domaine, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the Super Tyres team for taking practical steps to make this road safer for everyone,” she adds. Residents from surrounding estates have also expressed their appreciation for the initiative. Lyn Murgatroyd, a resident of Clifton Hills Estate, says the repairs have already made a noticeable difference for motorists using the route. “The work being done on Acutts Drive is greatly appreciated by residents in the area,” says Murgatroyd. “Some of the potholes had become extremely dangerous, so it has been wonderful to see a local company taking action to help improve safety for everyone using the road.” The road repairs form part of Super Tyres’ Pothole Repair initiative, a community-focused project aimed at improving road safety in residential areas where smaller pothole repairs can have an immediate positive impact. Super Tyres General Manager, Nytanya Loretz, says the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to supporting the communities it serves. “As a business that works closely with motorists every day, we understand the frustration, expense and safety concerns caused by potholes,” says Loretz. “While repairing roads is not part of our core business operations, we believe in doing what we can to help make a difference where possible.” The initiative focuses primarily on smaller potholes in lower traffic residential areas where repairs can be carried out safely and effectively. “This initiative is about people,” she says. “Safer roads help protect families, reduce vehicle damage and improve everyday travel for entire communities. We cannot repair every pothole, but where we are able to assist, we will continue to do so.” Community members are encouraged to report potholes in their area by sending a location pin and photograph via WhatsApp to 064 859 9180. Each submission is assessed by the Super Tyres team to determine whether it qualifies for repair. “As Super Tyres celebrates 55 years in business this year, initiatives like this remain an important reminder that businesses can play a valuable role in supporting the communities around them,” adds Loretz. “If we can help make roads safer, protect families and reduce unnecessary vehicle damage, then we know we are making a meaningful difference.” Pictured (L-R): Welcome Mathenjwa, Nytanya Loretz (Super Tyres General Manager), Steve Botes (Clifton Hill Estate), Michelle Handley (101 Acutts Estate), Frances Mans (Estate Manager of The Body Corporate of Le Domaine) and Chris Nxumalo Proactive Pothole Repair Initiative welcomed by Hillcrest community

PRESS RELEASE: Husqvarna In the forestry, landscaping and garden sector, diesel does not just power machines. It moves teams, transports equipment, delivers stock, keeps contractors on site and service networks running. In South Africa, as in much of the world, fuel prices have reached unprecedented levels following disruptions to global oil supply. Diesel is no longer just a secondary cost. It is now actively shaping decisions across the sector. According to Pieter Smuts, Managing Director of Husqvarna South Africa and Regional Manager for Africa, the impact is being felt across the full value chain. "Fuel is one of those costs that touches almost every part of the industry," he says. "It affects contractors, fleet operators, dealers, service teams, landscapers, municipalities and end users. When diesel prices rise so sharply, especially to this all-time high, it not only increases the cost of getting from A to B, but also changes how people think about equipment, maintenance, productivity and long-term value." Smuts notes that the greatest pressure is being felt in diesel-intensive parts of the market, particularly forestry and commercial landscaping, although residential garden consumers are also feeling the effect due to tighter household budgets. Forestry operations rely heavily on diesel across harvesting equipment, skidders, forwarders, transport fleets and support vehicles, making fuel one of the biggest variable operating costs after labour. "Another key challenge is that fuel costs can rise abruptly, but contract rates do not always move at the same speed," Smuts points out. "This creates pressure on margins and cash flow, especially for operators working on fixed-rate agreements or delayed adjustment cycles." The consequence is a pattern where businesses shift into asset-preservation mode, delaying equipment replacement, and relying more heavily on repairs and servicing to extend the life of existing machines. This makes uptime, servicing and parts availability critical to sustaining operations. At the same time, a broader trend is emerging, away from simple upfront-price thinking. “For years, many equipment decisions were mainly driven by purchase price,” explains Smuts. “That is changing, with buyers now asking tougher questions about fuel burn, maintenance costs, downtime and reliability, and taking a closer look at total cost of ownership. He adds that when operating costs rise, the cheapest machine on day one is not always the cheapest over its working life. Customers are becoming more focused on what a machine costs to run, not just what it costs to buy. This shift in thinking is also accelerating interest in battery-powered handheld equipment in landscaping and garden applications, where the business case for alternative power options is becoming increasingly compelling. Urban landscaping businesses, estates and municipalities are particularly exposed because many run multiple teams, vehicles and trailers, with fuel underpinning routes, equipment, service calls and logistics. And when prices rise, route planning, fleet use and equipment choice all come under review. Dealers are also affected. Higher fuel prices increase the cost of inbound freight, technician travel, branch deliveries, spare parts logistics and service operations, placing strain on pricing and margins across the channel. "It becomes a balancing act," says Smuts, “with dealers needing to protect service quality and availability while customers manage rising costs. This makes strong after-sales support, efficient service turnaround and reliable parts supply not just important, but essential.” He believes the latest fuel pressure is not creating a new trend as much as accelerating one already underway. Across the forest and garden sector, there is an increasing emphasis on equipment and support systems that deliver better efficiency, stronger uptime, lower lifecycle costs and more predictable operating performance, with battery-powered solutions increasingly part of that mix. Smuts expects these prevailing market factors to continue to influence buying behaviour over the next 6 to 12 months. “We are seeing a sector that is thinking harder about every rand spent, with a clearer focus on long-term value and operating smarter.” He concludes: “The market is becoming more value-driven, not in the sense of the lowest price, but in terms of overall operational performance. And, in tougher conditions, that is what defines sustainable performance.” Press Release on Behalf of: Pieter Smuts Managing Director: Husqvarna South Africa and Regional Manager: Africa Pieter Smuts, Managing Director of Husqvarna South Africa and Regional Manager for Africa About Husqvarna Husqvarna, a brand within Husqvarna Group, is a market leader in innovative and high-quality products and services for shaping green spaces in parks, forests and gardens. Since 1689, Swedish-born Husqvarna has a strong focus on research and development and is a pioneer in robotic lawn mowers and chainsaws. Today, the product portfolio consists of the next generation of robotic mowers, riders, chainsaws and trimmers for professional as well as private use. Sustainable value creation, product innovation and digitalisation remain important for the journey ahead. Husqvarna products are sold in more than 100 countries. Husqvarna Group, which also includes Gardena and Husqvarna Construction, has 13,300 employees in 40 countries around the world and net sales in 2024 amounted to SEK 48,4 billion. Husqvarna Group is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm.

By: Dylan Naidoo Changan is a brand that has existed for a long time and has a long history making cars. The brand has existed since the 1860s but pivoted their focus as an automotive brand in the 1950s. Since then, Changan has grown into a juggernaut of a car manufacturer, representing China’s big four car brands, and now operate sub brands such as Deepal and Avatr. Along with this, Changan has major partnerships with Mazda and Ford, operating those brands under “Changan Mazda” and "Changan Ford” and building exclusive models for the Chinese market. With this much backing, it should come to no surprise that Changan has existed long enough in establishing themselves as a reputable brand, and this is further emphasised by the new Changan UNI-S in our review. First Impressions and Design The Changan UNI-S gives a bold first impression with its strikingly gorgeous appearance reminiscent of American car designs, giving the car a tough and “I’m quite capable” look, and it certainly is. The pattern on the grill is another great design choice, and, as always, I really appreciate a subdued and flowing design language, which is present in the UNI-S. The car is also quite big, a tad larger than many other crossovers at its price range and has quite a tall ground clearance offering the driver a great view of the road. Inside the interior is truly the star of the show. If you are into the whole minimalist lifestyle, this car definitely has you covered. Also reminiscent of modern American car designs, the interior features a restrained cabin with a beautiful, burgundy colour scheme, with a large infotainment screen acting as the central hub for all of the car’s settings. It truly looks stunning and certainly gave me that “wow” factor when I first saw it. Overall, in terms of first impressions and design, the Changan UNI-S did not disappoint. It really made me understand how Changan is truly taking on the larger players in the market. Technology and Engineering The car features Changan’s tried and tested “BlueWhale” engine, a turbocharged 1.5l 4-cylinder petrol engine producing a very impressive 138kW of power and 300Nm of torque. The car also includes multiple driving modes, with the sport mode delivering quick power delivery that sometimes took us by surprise in many instances. As reported by Cars.co.za, the engine is paired with a 7-speed automatic dual-clutch transmission offering smooth shifting that you won’t even feel. The engine is also nice and quiet, surprising considering the power it outputs. The ride was excellent, with most instances having me forgetting I was even in the car. Also reported by Cars.co.za, the fuel economy is rated at 7.0L/100km, a very good result for its segment. In terms of technology, the car is jam-packed with cool features. With its large infotainment system supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, delivering impactful sound through the finely tuned speaker system, to the many cool driver assist features such as lane assist, blind spot indicators and not only a reverse camera, but side cameras that activate as you turn the car. Our model also had quite a large sunroof. Interior and Spacing The interior, as previously mentioned, looked gorgeous, and the car felt very premium on the inside. With no rattling or cheap feeling plastics to speak of, the car felt solid and capable. The seating was nice and soft, and paired with the excellent ride quality, gave a very memorable experience. Changan mentions that the seat is made from a microfibre that gives the car that comfortable feel, and I couldn’t agree more! Space is also a huge plus. Both front and rear passengers are given a good amount of legroom, and the roof height can comfortably seat taller passengers. The boot is rated at a 475L capacity, and in both the figures and our experience, we found the boot to be quite large and spacious. As a whole, the interior and spacing is very solid! Pricing and Overall Thoughts Pricing of the Changan UNI-S starts at R389 900, with our trim at a price of R469 900. With everything that you are getting, the Changan UNI-S is a strong option in its segment, offering a great balance of speed, efficiency and technology bundled together in a great looking, cost-effective package. The Changan UNI-S

A MIDLANDS SUCCESS STORY Property practitioner and Tyson Properties Howick franchise owner, Lise van Zuydam, built her thriving real estate career by doing things differently – starting with mastering the admin side of the business and culminating in taking multi-million-rand hospitality properties and 450-hectare farms to market. Lise van Zuydam Van Zuydam believes in an authentic approach – from putting on her gumboots to explore beautiful farms in the Midlands to enjoying the luxuries of some of the country’s most upmarket hospitality venues and country homes. Her journey from uncertainty to consistent top-tier performance is a compelling testament to moving from uncertainty via resilience, adaptability, and hands-on learning. Looking back, she admits that her early career was fragmented as she sought to find a niche that best suited her unique combination of attention to detail and positive energy. Her CV includes a stint as a centre manager and a finance portfolio manager, time spent co-ordinating events and even ownership of a lodge – all of which unwittingly prepared her for her current role. In 2018, as a single mother, she could never have imagined that losing her job after her boss emigrated would prove the big break that she needed. Catapulted into the world of real estate, she had fortuitously accepted an administrative role within the Tyson Properties Howick office. This ended at 1pm each day, paving the way for an informal apprenticeship. In the afternoons, she was free to develop a passion for property as she worked alongside and learnt from real estate agents on-the-ground. She admits that her approach to property has always been practical and immersive. Before formally entering the industry, she staged hard-to-sell homes by living in them. “I paid discounted rentals but made sure that the houses looked beautiful by the time I handed them back before transfer. I realised that if I could do that, I could do far more by selling them.” Her instinct for value creation quickly carried over into her own property ventures. In 2021, she purchased a home for R1 million, renovated it, and sold it nine months later for R1.6 million. She later undertook a more ambitious project – building her current home and bed-and-breakfast from the ground up while living in a converted stable during construction. Van Zuydam also spotted an opportunity to introduce and run a rentals division at Tyson Properties Howick and helped develop this into a thriving part of the business. The extra revenue this provided allowed her to move on from her administrative duties and transition into full-time sales, starting with the successful sale of a small home owned by one of her sons’ school friends. Since then, she has refused to be pigeonholed, selling properties as diverse as a R800 000 flat and large country homes. “We sell many lifestyle properties – 20-hectare properties with a house or maybe an income-generating cottage where you can have a couple of crops and three cows,” she explains. These properties have proven particularly attractive to buyers seeking weekend retreats and those with children at leading Midlands schools. Her enthusiasm for venturing into unfamiliar territory marked the next turning point in her career. When an opportunity arose to handle farm sales, Van Zuydam embraced the challenge head-on, starting with the sale of an 440-hectare farm for R21 million. Word spread and soon she was managing much larger farm sales as far afield as Newcastle, Estcourt and Dundee where good agents are thin on the ground. Van Zuydam’s success is also closely tied to her deep love for the Midlands. She believes Howick, in particular, has undergone a remarkable transformation, having grown from a sleepy village many years ago to a busy town thanks to a thriving retirement community and an efficient and engaged municipality. Demand continues to outstrip supply. “If a property is priced right, it doesn’t remain on the market for more than a week,” she notes, adding that improved infrastructure and governance have played a significant role in attracting new residents to the point where local schools now have waiting lists. At the core of her philosophy is a commitment to discipline and relationship-building. She maintains a consistent work routine and prioritises accessibility for her clients. I’m quite a social person, and I have a good network from growing up in the area. I made platinum agent in my first year, and then I made diamond agent from then on. I’m always talking to people, making them aware of who I am and what I do. I’m in my very happy place,” she says. www.tysonprop.co.za/results/all/all/howick

Ballito Store On 1 May 2025, Bluff Meat Supply expanded into Ballito to better serve the North Coast community with affordable, quality meat products and exceptional customer service. Mandeni Store Later that year, the Mandeni branch opened to improve accessibility for surrounding communities while also creating local employment opportunities. Nongoma Store On 28 May 2026, Bluff Meat Supply proudly opened its newest store in Nongoma, forming part of the company's commitment to expanding into underserved regions and bringing affordable quality products closer to local communities.

Bluff Meat Supply's Stokvel Programme helps communities and families save together for bulk meat purchases, especially during festive seasons and special occasions. To ensure the programme continues meeting customer needs, Bluff Meat Supply hosts dedicated Stokvel Days to engage directly with members, show appreciation, gather feedback, and continuously improve the customer shopping experience. Key Benefits - Registration completed in-store with the chairperson and treasurer's ID documents - Each stokvel club receives a 2% rebate when purchasing vouchers to save - Members can purchase from 15 November to 15 February annually - Deposit limits of up to R5 000 per day or R25 000 per month Bluff Meat Supply's Stokvel Programme

The establishment of the Presidential eThekwini Working Group (PeWG) in 2024 marked a decisive step towards addressing service delivery challenges and declining business confidence that had impacted Durban’s economic and tourism performance. Formed following engagement between President Cyril Ramaphosa, business leaders and key stakeholders, the PeWG was created to drive co-ordinated interventions across all three spheres of government, the private sector and civil society. Tasked with advancing eThekwini’s turnaround strategy, the working group has focused on positioning the city as a leading investment and tourism hub while monitoring measurable improvements that can restore confidence in Durban’s future. Among its priorities, Tourism Revitalisation was identified as a key economic driver and contributor to investor sentiment. Co-chaired by Department of Tourism Director General Victor Vele and eThekwini Municipality Executive Director Lihle Phewa, the Tourism Revitalisation workstream has concentrated on restoring Durban’s appeal as a safe, vibrant and globally competitive destination, with stronger collaboration, targeted marketing, improved infrastructure and enhanced visitor safety at its core. The newly launched eThekwini Beach Safety Project is among the clearest examples of these objectives translating into action. Unveiled during Africa’s Travel Indaba, the initiative was developed through collaboration between government, tourism authorities, law enforcement agencies and private sector partners, and aims to strengthen visible policing and rapid response capabilities along Durban’s beachfront and key tourism hotspots. Supported through the Tourism Marketing South Africa (TOMSA) Collaborative Fund and administered by the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA), the project introduces a dedicated Tourism Safety Response Unit in partnership with Durban Metro Police and the South African Police Service. Key zones, including the Durban beachfront, the uShaka Marine World precinct and Florida Road, will benefit from enhanced patrols, specialised policing and upgraded safety infrastructure. Through the TOMSA Collaborative Fund, several operational assets have been provided to support the Tourism and Coastal Unit: a 14-seater Toyota Quantum, two Isuzu D-Max double cab vehicles, four quad bikes, two automatic quad bikes, two trailers and official uniforms. The vehicles are equipped with advanced technology linked to the Department of Home Affairs and other departments frequently utilised by tourists, with teams strategically deployed across key coastal tourism zones. At the launch of the unit, Deputy Minister of Tourism Makhotso Sotyu emphasised the link between safety and economic growth, stating: “Safe destinations are able to attract investment, create jobs and grow visitor confidence.” eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba welcomed the initiative, emphasising that “safety and security remain central to Durban’s recovery and growth plans.” He added that the handover “demonstrates the value and impact of meaningful partnerships between government and the private sector in driving sustainable tourism growth and ensuring positive visitor experiences.” Mayor Xaba noted that improved visitor experiences and visible policing would help reposition Durban as a city capable of hosting major events and attracting international visitors. Stakeholders involved in the initiative include Durban Tourism, Invest Durban, Durban Metro Police, the KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission, the Federated Hospitality Association of South Africa and the TBCSA. “TBCSA is committed to playing its part in the revitalisation of Durban as a leading tourism destination for both domestic and international travellers. A key focus of our discussions has been around safety and security, particularly along the beachfront, because visitor confidence is critical to growing tourism and supporting businesses that rely on the sector,” said TBCSA CEO Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa. The Beach Safety Project signals a broader shift from planning to implementation and stands as one of the first highly visible results of the Tourism Revitalisation workstream’s efforts to deliver measurable change and strengthen Durban’s reputation as a world-class destination. W: www.invest.durban Beach Safety Initiative Signals Progress in eThekwini's Revitalisation Drive

Our Loyalty Programme rewards customers for supporting Bluff Meat Supply by offering exclusive savings, rewards, personalised promotions, and added value on selected products. The programme continues to grow successfully, with more customers signing up weekly both in-store and online to take advantage of exclusive deals and rewards. Key Benefits - Instant cash discounts at the till on selected products - Exclusive offers sent directly to members - Earn up to 2% back when purchasing vouchers to save - Automatic entry into competitions - No monthly fees Our Loyalty Programme - Bluff Meat Supply