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  • 48-Hour Film Project -Appeal for Sponsors

    Nerusha Sadapal, the Durban producer of the 48-Hour Film Project is appealing for sponsors to partner in this year’s event. The 48-Hour Film Project is an international filmmaking event that is celebrating its 20th Anniversary in 2022. The event will be held in Durban on 7 - 9 October 2022. All filmmaking teams must write, shoot, edit and add a musical soundtrack in a 48 hour window beginning Friday evening at 7:00pm and ending Sunday at 7:00pm. A character, a prop and a line of dialogue, which must be included in the film, are provided just minutes before the official start time commences. The films must be a minimum of four minutes and a maximum of seven minutes long. After the event, the films will be screened at a local movie theatre. The winning film will go up against films from around the world at Filmapalooza 2023 (in Los Angeles) for a chance at the grand prize and an opportunity to screen at the Cannes Film Festival 2023 Short Film Corner. The top three teams will be eligible for the 48HFP “Yes We Cannes” challenge in December. The competition is aimed at both amateur and professional film makers. In the past the event has been used as a team building exercise by corporates as well as friends and families. The use of mobile phones for filming is also encouraged and these films are judged in a separate category. Nerusha is appealing for corporates, individuals and other organisations to come on board to partner or get involved in the 48-hour Film Project. “This project is about changing lives and adding value to film making. We would value the sponsorship of prizes or entry fees for teams. It’s a great opportunity for brand placement – you can have your brand on the big screen,” she explained. One of the goals of the project is to teach some of the skills required to produce a film. Previously youth from informal settlements have participated. The youth attended workshops hosted by the KZN Film Commission and were then paired with experienced directors for the filmmaking event. Get Ready for An Amazing Challenge! The weekend? 7 - 9 October 2022 The challenge? To make a film in only 48 hours! Filmmakers from all over the Durban, ZA area will compete to see who can make the best short film in only 48 hours. Write, shoot, and edit a short film over the weekend and see it PREMIERE on the BIG SCREEN! All Welcome! First-timer to Hobbyists to Amateurs to Professionals! Take your filmmaking to the NEXT LEVEL ! For more information contact Nerusha Sadapal nerushamaharaj@yahoo.com Cell: 0839916497

  • Johan van Deventer – Equity? Let’s get to the bottom of it

    Equality means that each individual or group of people is given the same resources or opportunities. Equity recognises that each person has different circumstances and allocates the exact resources and opportunities needed to reach an equal outcome. Employment equity in South Africa is regulated through the Employment Equity Act and was introduced to ensure that employers promote equity in the workplace by ensuring there is equitable representation of employees from designated groups by means of affirmative action measures, eliminating unfair discrimination and ensuring that employees are treated fairly in the workplace. Given the diversity of the people in South Africa, it is imperative that businesses seek to uphold the purpose of employment equity. Understanding the definition of a designated employer is vital when speaking about employment equity. If you meet one or more of the following criteria, you are deemed a designated employer if you: · Employ 50 or more employees · Employ fewer than 50 employees but have an annual turnover equal to or above the turnover threshold as stipulated in Schedule 4 of the Act · Are an organ of state, and · Are bound by a collective agreement Designated employees however refers to Black people (Africans, Indians, Coloureds), all women, and people with disabilities who are citizens of South Africa by birth or decent or through naturalisation. To achieve the elimination of unfair discrimination in the workplace, all employers must ensure that they comply with Chapter 2 of the Employment Equity Act. This states that no employer may unfairly discriminate against employees directly or indirectly in employment practices based on race, gender, religion, marital status, disability, language, age, or any other arbitrary ground. Furthermore, designated employers must also comply with Chapter 3 of the Employment Equity Act which ensures that they put in place affirmative action measures to safeguard that there is equal representation of designated groups on all occupational levels in the workforce and to identify and eliminate any barriers which may adversely affect people from designated groups. All designated employers have a duty to: · Consult on employment equity matters with their employees, trade union representatives or employee representative · Conduct a qualitative and quantitative analysis in accordance with Section 19 of the Act, by analysing company policies, practices, procedures and work environment to identify barriers that may adversely affect people from designated groups and analysing the workforce to identify underrepresentation of designated groups on all occupational levels. Designated employers also need to implement and monitor their Employment Equity (EE) Plan and submit a report to the Department of Labour every year on the progress of the implementation of their EE Plan. All manual reports must be submitted on 1 October and should you choose to submit online employment equity reports the deadline is 15 January every year and is done via the Employment Equity Online System. It Is important to note if designated employers fail to uphold their duties, they can face substantial fines ranging from a minimum of R1.5million or 2% of their annual turnover (whichever is greater) to a maximum of R2.7million or 10% of their annual turnover (whichever is greater). It’s imperative to understand that employers who comply with employment equity, by ensuring all employees are treated fairly and given equal opportunities tend to attract top talent, increases retention of employees, creates a more diverse workforce, and improves overall employee performance. In addition to avoiding employment equity fines, compliant employers can operate in highly regulated industries where proof is needed of employment equity compliance and will also benefit from B-BBEE points on the management control element. LabourNet harnesses its client-centric culture and equity expertise to deliver simple, cost-effective solutions to our clients. We partner with our clients to design and deliver employment equity solutions that meet their specific compliance obligations while implementing equity best practice. T: +27 (0)31 266 6570 C: +27 (0)82 786 7480 E: johanvd@labournet.com W: www.labournet.com

  • Monique Labat – Leveraging linkages at trade shows

    If you manufacture automotive accessories, fast moving consumer goods, furniture, or steel tanks then trade shows could be an excellent opportunity to grow your customer base. Business to Business (B2B) specialist firm Monique Labat Consulting has worked with these industry sectors and many others including agro-processing, clothing/textiles, creative industries, renewable energy and training/education sectors. Trade shows reach a large number of industry contacts, potential suppliers and most importantly buyers in a few short days. Trade shows provide a venue for companies to showcase their products and services, and they also offer opportunities for networking and B2B linkages. Benefits of Trade Shows and Exhibitions At the right trade show you can: · Land a big customer · Launch a new product · Develop a mailing list of hot leads · Find a key strategic partner to reach a larger market · Enhance relationships with your existing customers Work with the organisers to ensure that the trade show has a history of inviting buyers interested in your products or services. To find the right trade show for your business, you need to know: · The different types of trade shows · What your company goals are · Who your target market is · Foot traffic numbers and reports from previous trade shows Trade shows allow companies to learn about the latest products and services that are available in their industry. Secondly companies participating in trade shows meet new suppliers and partners, which can help them expand their business reach. Additionally, trade shows offer opportunities to build relationships with potential customers. Finally, attending trade shows can help businesses stay up to date on the latest trends in their industry. Sales Process at Trade Shows Having a well-defined sales process in place requires sales representatives to be knowledgeable about what your company offers and how it can benefit potential customers. Sales reps should also be prepared for questions about pricing and delivery timelines. Additionally, it’s important to have a strong branding presence at trade shows so that potential customers will remember your company after the event is over. Attracting Buyers to your Trade Show Stand Another way to leverage B2B linkages is by offering unique products or services that are not available from other companies attending the show. This can help you stand out from the competition and potentially win new business contracts. Checklist for Trade Show Participation Optimising your company’s participation at a trade show or exhibition takes preparation and proper planning and ensures you leverage your time and financial investment fully. Here is a quick checklist to have a successful trade show: 1. Exhibition materials: ensure you submit all necessary exhibition stand requirement to the organisers before the deadline 2. Exhibition requirements: banners, signage, product display holders, lighting, illustrations and graphic images, security for your laptop 3. Marketing material: electronic catalogues, digital order forms, e-brochures, sales sheets, e-business cards and giveaways 4. Product samples and products: plan how you can best display your products and/or services to gain maximum visitors to your exhibition stand 5. Share your exhibition stand number and location pin widely with your clients, potential buyers and on social media platforms 6. Exhibition stand supplies: e-lead forms on tablet, a customer relationship management system to capture all visitors/potential buyers’ details 7. Exhibition stand supplies: stationery, including adhesive tape, packing tape, shipping labels, packaging 8. Personal items: refillable water bottle, dry snacks, mints 9. Pre-Trade Show to boost attendance: send invitations to your current clients and customers and ask them to share your pre-trade show promotion 10. Make appointments ahead of time: invite potential clients or customers for coffee at your exhibition stand or at the trade show coffee shop Finally, always follow up with potential customers after a trade show has ended in order to solidify any relationships that were formed during the event. Keen to know more about participating in trade shows locally and internationally to secure new markets, new suppliers or new clients contact Monique Labat Consulting (Pty) Ltd E: monique@moniquelabat.com or M: 0027 (0) 82 924 6349

  • Marlene Powell – Learning to excel in business!

    A large group of aspiring entrepreneurs came together recently under the guidance of business coach, Marlene Powell to play a game! Not any old game, but Leverage: The Game of Business that was devised to teach business owners to help them to become more successful in business. Leverage: The Game of Business was the first of its kind to be introduced by the Sekela (SA Homeloans Enterprise and Supplier Development) Programme. The game was facilitated by Marlene at the Premier Hotel in Umhlanga for a group of entrepreneurs, some of whom she has been coaching over the past two years on behalf of Sekela. Commented Pam Nene, Sekela’s Senior Manager, Transformation, “The Leverage game was extremely well received by our beneficiaries on the programme. It managed to cement some of the learnings we had taught formally through various workshops and coaching sessions all whilst having fun! It challenged the way business decisions were made. Learning in this informal atmosphere was the order of the day and made the teaching even more memorable. We certainly hope that the gains our beneficiaries took from this session will help them to explore more in terms of the kind of decisions they make and how they have an overall impact on the rest of their business growth.” Marlene Powell, who has run a successful business franchise for more than 14 years in KwaZulu-Natal explained that the Leverage game teaches participants more in three hours than some business courses do in three days. “Right now, there is a big focus on education on the coaching front. A more educated entrepreneur who understands business when they are given the opportunity to get investors/funders on board, or if they have to simply use their own money, will have a better knowledge on how to get a solid return on their financial investment. In a nutshell – the more entrepreneurs learn the more they will earn.” “Leverage” can teach invaluable business lessons, including how to: · Assess the difference between a business that is set to succeed and one that is destined to fail. · Supercharge a company’s growth through sound business strategies. · Apply vital business principles to build and grow your company. · Uncover new opportunities for growth when they appear. · And much more! To find out more contact Marlene Powell on www.linkshare.co.za/marlenepowell or 083 479 4471.

  • Andy Gwynn – Using LinkedIN to generate more business

    Most people have heard of the on-line networking platform, used by businesses and professionals, called LinkedIn. I know this because there are now over 9.5 million personal profiles in South Africa alone and over 800 million globally! There has also been a massive explosion of usage since Covid. It is recognised that, with LinkedIn, your ability to find and connect with whoever you want in the world is now greater than it has ever been. You know that people source contacts through word-of-mouth referral. How many times have you recommended your lawyer or web designer? How many times have you had business referred to you through people you know? So, following on from my first two articles about why you should be using LinkedIn and the two key sides to LinkedIn – your profile and your strategy – let’s continue to ‘power up’ your profile. So that you can: · Get found · Give value to your reader · Prove your credibility We have already covered the six key starting points: · Your banner · Your photo · Your name · Your headline · Your ‘About’ section · Your ‘Experience’ sections Some of the other sections are self-explanatory such as: education, volunteering, publications, organisations and interests. Although, remember my rule – if they are there then use them to serve you. We all have a publication in us – a blog, post, article, tips, document etc. that you can adapt. Think of the organisations that you belong to, even if they are more personal than business related. You never know who you might share common interests with and this is all about building relationships with others. One section I often hear people say they don’t value is the ‘skills’ section. You may have had people you don’t even know endorse you! So why not think creatively and list the skills that you want to be found for when we people are searching on LinkedIn? When a client changed some of his skills from the usual leadership, management etc. to industrial workwear, sanitation equipment (the things they we selling) he got more views and endorsements! The easiest (and most congruent) way to gain endorsements and to build credibility, is to endorse the people you know you genuinely can. The ‘Law of Reciprocity’ says they will tend to endorse you back. Where I will invest more time is in the ‘recommendations’ section. Recommendations /testimonials are one of the most underutilised marketing strategies out there. We know that third party testimony sells but there is a way to capture meaningful and powerful recommendations. Most people will give you ‘fluffy’ testimonials. Try asking these questions, to help them focus on tangible results that will resonate with your readers. · What specifically made you decide to do business with us? · What is the main value you have got from dealing with us? · Why specifically would you recommend us? THINK WIDER! Where else can you be using these testimonials? In your quotes, your other marketing, before a sales call? What about video testimonials? Have a look at this eight-minute interview with Marlene Powell– my South African business coach client. www.youtube.com/watch?v=DQ7jpiULY4U I have, in the files section of my free Facebook group, a heap of resources to help you even more with this, which we will also delve into in future articles. You can join the group here: www.facebook.com/groups/linkedinmasterywithandy Start utilising LinkedIn more effectively and set yourself apart from your competition! JOIN POST PARTY CLUB TODAY

  • Dr Fareed Amod – Managing teeth-grinding and jaw clenching

    People who are at high risk for dental problems include those who have a tendency to clench their jaw or grind their teeth. If you find yourself clenching your jaw throughout the day, or you wake up with sensitive teeth, a sore jaw, or a headache, you might suffer from bruxism – grinding, clenching or gnashing of the teeth. This teeth-grinding and jaw-clenching habit is a common condition that affects up to one-third of adults in the daytime and more than one in ten in their sleep. Occasionally grinding your teeth most likely won’t cause any harm. However, according to the Bruxism Association, the most common symptoms of teeth grinding are headaches and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) discomfort – jaw soreness or tight muscles around your jaw. These symptoms are often accompanied by various oral signs, such as: · Fractured, chipped or loose teeth · Inflammation, recession of gums · Increased tooth sensitivity due to diminished tooth enamel Types of bruxism Bruxism can happen when you’re awake or asleep. The grinding action is the same, but awake and asleep bruxism are considered two separate conditions. Awake bruxism: You clench your jaw and grind your teeth during the day with this condition. Daytime clenching is usually triggered by stress, anxiety, tension, or even concentration. Feeling anxious, stressed or angry can lead to teeth grinding. Awake bruxism often doesn’t need treatment, you’re more likely to notice and stop. Stress management can help and learning ways to become aware of the problem can also help reduce the frequency. Sleep bruxism: Night time grinding is sometimes related to hyperactivity, sleep apnea, or acid reflux, and can appear as a side effect of certain medications intended to treat depression. Also, tobacco, caffeine, alcohol, and illicit drugs can increase teeth-grinding risk. You may not get the help you need since you’re unaware it is happening. Another challenge with sleep bruxism is that people don’t realize how strongly they’re clenching their jaw and teeth. Can children have teeth grinding? Like adults, children can have bruxism. Parents may hear their children grinding their teeth in their sleep. But bruxism in children may not lead to long-term damage. Children’s teeth and jaws change quickly, and they may outgrow bruxism by the time they lose their baby teeth. Regardless of age, teeth grinding in children can lead to: · Headaches · Jaw pain · TMJ disorders (jaw clicking and other problems) · Wear and tear on the teeth While stress is a main cause of bruxism in adults, that’s not usually the case with children. Teeth grinding in children may come from: · Allergies · Misaligned teeth · Mouth irritation · Obstructive sleep apnea · Heredity Talk to your dentist if your child’s teeth look worn or you hear grinding. Also get any complaints of jaw or teeth pain checked out. If you are suffering from bruxism, visit your dentist as soon as possible, so that you can avoid long-term damage. If the bruxism turns out to be stress related, health providers can also recommend stress relief options. Crown Dental Studio is one of the few truly 24-hour dental practices in Durban as this is not limited to emergency dentistry treatment. T: +27 81 207 8621 E: info@dramod.co.za W: www.dramod.co.za

  • Everest Strategic Communications – Supporting a hybrid workforce

    For many organisations, the pandemic proved that employees can be just as productive working remotely as they would working from the office. So, we believe that hybrid work is here to stay. You will notice that vacancies are being advertised as on-site, hybrid or remote. But it is important to note that supporting a hybrid workforce looks very different to that of supporting an all-remote or on-site workforce. One key challenge is ensuring that the employee experience is equitable between all workers, and that no one feels left out or unappreciated. How can you make sure remote, hybrid, and on-site employees get the same opportunities during meetings and events? Let’s look at some of the tips that Aoife Kearns, senior director of International Communication at LinkedIn, spoke about. Make sure that the entire workforce recognises that people are joining from anywhere, and there shouldn’t be any bias toward on-site workers. Get the right message to the right people Fully remote workers don’t need to know when the parking lot is being painted or the fire alarms are being tested – and overwhelming them with communication will create digital fatigue. Find the right balance When you host internal events, make sure you balance on-site and online speakers to give everyone an equal opportunity to participate. Cut friction Make sure the audience can easily participate from anywhere. Ensure all parties understand the importance of having the right return-to-office communications in place to support hybrid workers. Your office looks different than it did before the pandemic, and you probably have several new guidelines and policies. All workers need access to these updates, both before returning to the office and while in the office. The omnichannel communications platform for today’s hybrid world Today’s workforce has different needs than the workforce of 2019. Consequently, organisations have had to learn how to connect with a changing workforce and continue to drive company initiatives. For many companies, internal communication teams were at the centre of this effort and forced to solve challenges related to employee engagement, health and safety, hybrid work, and more. As leaders in omnichannel employee communication and workplace technology, we know what’s required for a successful internal communications strategy. Everest Strategic Communications is well positioned to strategically support organisations that seek to outsource aspects of their public relations, stakeholder management, corporate marketing, corporate social investment, and overall corporate affairs functions. We understand that the financial sustainability of your business is top of mind. Our solutions and the advisory we provide consider the operating environment, the stakeholders within which you operate, and financial sustainability. By working with us you are supporting a 100% black woman-owned business that is in tune with contributing meaningfully to society. In our team, we prioritise working with youth thus contributing to job creation. Our experience of over 25 years in corporate environments and more so at executive levels, assures you of our depth of expertise and strategic focus. We don’t just offer PR services, but we consider how our solutions have an impact within the different departments or units internally and amongst your targeted audience. (Source: Engage 2022 report) For more information, please contact us at www.everestcommunications.co.za

  • Everest Strategic Communications - The future of employee communications

    In this Top Business masterclass Everest Strategic Communications providing insights into employee communication trends that can reshape the workplace today and beyond. About the Event We live in a world where adapting to fast-changing markets is no longer an option for companies and business owners. Rethinking employee communication and embracing digital technologies is here to stay and we all need to make the necessary changes to stay current and competitive. Having an effective communication strategy in place helps you improve collaboration in the workplace, employee productivity, and employee engagement. It’s also a great way to motivate your employees and enhance innovation in the workplace. About the Panelists Experienced communications expert, Zama Luthuli, is the founder and CEO of Everest Strategic Communications and she is supported by the equally experienced Natalie Keegan, who is the regional director of the KZN branch. Watch the Masterclass Zama is a solid expert in the strategic communications and public relations space with a total of 20 years’ experience under her belt. Her experience may be categorised into two decades of ten years working in various public sector organisations and ten years in various private sector companies. This experience entailed leading teams, developing business strategies, managing issues and reputational risk projects, and contributing to organisations’ strategies through various strategic projects. Natalie is an extremely creative and articulate businesswoman and is an experienced communication specialist offering a purposeful approach towards diverse challenges within the corporate, industry and private environment. She has well over 25 years’ relevant experience within South Africa and the United Kingdom. Her extensive experience includes the development and execution of strategies, campaigns, reports, and projects for the benefit of her clients and the larger community. Contact: Natalie Keegan 0822185205 Email: natalie@everestcommunications.co.za

  • Everest Strategic Communications – more than just PR

    Everest Strategic Communications is a full-service PR, Communications, Sustainability, and Marketing Agency delivering a comprehensive range of integrated public relations, communications, and marketing solutions to our clients. Established in 2020, we assure you of our commitment to your business’ image and reputation. We offer innovative, fresh thinking for an integrated approach, focusing on both traditional and latest innovative trends in communications incorporating technology and digital public relations solutions. · Strategic Communications and Public Relations · Stakeholder and Reputation Management · Crisis Communications · Corporate Marketing · Media Relations and Publicity · Sponsorship and Corporate Social Investment · Overall Corporate Affairs · Sustainability We are well position to partner with you to: 1. Make your brand resonate with all your stakeholders and showcase impact of your projects. 2. Shape your brand narrative amongst your key stakeholders. 3. Enhance your brand reputation and mitigate reputational risks. 4. Tell your story and increase positive perception of your brand amongst your stakeholders. 5. Ensure a positive image amongst your stakeholders. Our approach 1. We listen. We are flexible. We are agile. 2. Customer centricity. 3. Attention to detail for each and every project. 4. We get the work done on time and within budget. 5. We ensure ethical conduct in the execution of our projects. Why Everest Strategic Communications · 100% black woman-owned public relations company · Level 1 BBBEE contributor · Offices in Sandton and Richards Bay · Well experienced teams Contact: Natalie Keegan 0822185205 Email: natalie@everestcommunications.co.za May 13, 2022 - The Zululand Observer

  • Dr Fareed Amod – Can gum disease be cured?

    With more than two-thirds of all adults showing some form of gum infection, gum disease is one of the most common infections affecting people around the world today. Gum disease commonly refers to a wide spectrum of infections that affect the soft and hard tissue of the mouth. The South African Dental Association states that severe gum disease is found in 5-20% of middle-aged adults. Research shows it may heighten the risk of stroke, heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s and even cause pregnancy complications. We can separate the disease into gingivitis or periodontitis. Gingivitis is seen as the early stages of gum infection where no long-term damage to the gums or deeper supporting structures has taken place. Gum disease is usually painless and silent until the advanced stages. Some of the first signs include: · Bad breath that will not go away · Red, swollen and tender gums · Bad taste in your mouth · Gums that bleed when you brush · Gums that pull away from the teeth · Loose or separating teeth · Painful chewing · Sensitive teeth Gingivitis affects the vast majority of people in some form or another and is considered reversible. However, if gingivitis is allowed to continue, periodontal disease can develop. In periodontal disease, the destruction of the supporting tissues, including the gums, bone and periodontal ligaments (the fibres that hold the teeth in the jaw) can occur. Eventually, the destruction could cause the teeth to become loose and even be lost. However, aggressive periodontitis only affects 10 - 15% of the population. This percentage indicates that there are certain risk factors for the progression of the disease. The first of these factors is the type of bacteria present in the mouth. We know that of the 300 species of bacteria in the mouth, only a few are capable of causing advanced disease. Secondly, there are a several risk factors that could make someone to be more susceptible to developing periodontal disease. The contributing factors comprise some types of medications, smoking, diabetes, HIV, hormones, stress, and depression. Of these, smoking is the most important, increasing your risk of developing advanced gum disease up to seven times. Gum disease is diagnosed by your dentist, who will look for a number of different signs to see how far your condition has developed. While red, bleeding gums often indicate gum disease, your dentist will also look for things it can be hard for you to see on your own. These include excessive plaque and tartar build-up, and tooth pocket depth. If there’s significant depth in the tooth pockets, your dentist might have x-rays taken to look further into the severity of your periodontitis. Over the years various forms of gum treatments have been promoted. If you are in the early-to-moderate stages of gum disease, your dentist could suggest procedures and treatments such as: · Scaling: this will remove plaque and tartar (hardened plaque), and bacteria from your teeth and below the gumline · Root planing: this will smooth the root surfaces, which discourages further build-up or bacteria and removes buildup that is contributing to the inflammation · Antibiotics: topical or oral antibiotics will help control an infection. Sometimes surgical treatments are the best course of action for advanced cases. Surgical procedures could include pocket reduction surgery, soft tissue graft, bone graft, and guided tissue regeneration. However, these treatments all have limited success in people who are unable to show effective plaque control. This emphasizes the importance of adequate cleaning techniques and the importance of gum health. Brushing removes the plaque from the surface of your teeth. Flossing removes the plaque and food particles stuck between your teeth and on your gumline. In addition, using an anti-bacterial mouth rinse reduces the bacteria responsible for plaque and gum disease. Your dentist can help catch early signs of gingivitis at your regular check-ups. Professional dental cleanings, at least two times a year, will assist in cleaning some of the areas in your mouth that you might find more difficult to access. A dental hygienist will also show you how to clean your teeth effectively. However, as the disease progresses and reaches periodontitis, it cannot be cured, only treated. If you suspect that you have gum disease or have other dental problems, seek help from your dentist as soon as possible. The right treatment plan will work to get your mouth healthy again, get you out of pain and improve your smile. Crown Dental Studio is one of the few truly 24-hour dental practises in Durban as this is not limited to emergency dentistry treatment. T: +27 81 207 8621 E: info@dramod.co.za W: www.dramod.co.za

  • Dynamic and innovative law firm welcomes new professionals, Cox Yeats

    The year 2020 was difficult and challenging for all industries, yet despite that, we all need to ensure that our clients still receive the best possible service. Cox Yeats firmly believes that growth in people and expertise is paramount to excellent client service. In addition, the law firm has a clear and compelling purpose, “To make a positive difference in this world through consistently being the most dynamic and innovative law firm that offers highly personalised expertise.” Consequently, Cox Yeats is proud to welcome some new associates and candidate legal practitioners to its teams in 2021. MEGAN BAKER Megan Baker has joined Cox Yeats as an Associate, in the Insolvency and Business Rescue Team. Megan initially graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English and Communication Science in 2007 from UNISA. She then went on to obtain her Bachelor of Laws in 2016. Megan was admitted as an Attorney in 2019 having completed her articles of clerkship at a Durban-based firm. She then practiced as an Associate at another Durban law firm before joining Cox Yeats. SAVANNAH BUYS Savannah Buys has joined Cox Yeats as part of the Corporate & Natural Resources Team, where she will be serving her articles. Savannah obtained her B.A. Law from the University of Stellenbosch in 2017. She then completed her LL.B, graduating in 2020. As part of a semester exchange programme organised by the universities, Savannah completed the final semester of her studies at the University of Antwerp, Belgium. During her time of study at university, Savannah was a member of the Golden Key Honours Society in 2015. TARYN GOVENDER Taryn Govender has joined Cox Yeats as a Candidate Legal Practitioner, and will serve her articles in the Construction 2 Team. Taryn has an LLB degree from UCT. During her time at UCT, she served as a member of the SLSJ (Students for Law and Social Justice). In 2017 she co-created an SLSJ funded mentorship programme aimed at empowering female high school students in Khayeltisha. Taryn also interned at the UCT Legal Aid Clinic in 2018. BRANDON VAN ZYL Brandon van Zyl has joined Cox Yeats as a Candidate Legal Practitioner, where he is serving his articles as a member of the Construction, Engineering and Infrastructure Team. Brandon graduated from University of Pretoria (TUKS) with a Bachelor of Science (majoring in Genetics) (2014), and then from the University of Cape Town with both a Bachelor of Commerce (majoring in Financial Accounting with Law) (2018) and his LL.B degree (2020). During his time at UCT, Brandon was welcomed into the Golden Key International society, was elected to the leadership of the Chamber of Legal Students (UCT Branch) which specialises in pro bono student representation at disciplinary tribunals, and participated in the law school’s mentorship programme. KIYURA NAIDOO Kiyura Naidoo has joined Cox Yeats as a Candidate Legal Practitioner, and will serve her articles in the Maritime Team. Kiyura was born and raised in Durban by a family who placed an immense amount of value on education. She matriculated in 2013 from Durban Girl’s High School with 7 distinctions and went on to earn her LL.B degree cum laude from the University of KwaZulu Natal in 2018. Kiyura is currently pursuing her LL.M in Business Law. RHULANI MAHANGE Rhulani Mahange has joined Cox Yeats as a Candidate Legal Practitioner, in the Johannesburg office as part the Insolvency and Business Rescue Team. Rhulani was born and raised in a village called Elim in Limpopo. She completed a Bachelor of Arts (law and philosophy) degree and a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of the Witwatersrand. AMANDA KHUZWAYO Amanda Khuzwayo has joined Cox Yeats as a Candidate Legal Practitioner, and will serve her articles as part of the Insolvency and Business Rescue Team. Amanda graduated with an LL.B. from the University of the Free State, through Varsity College, Durban. She initially started studying medicine at the University of Cape Town in 2013, however then changed plans after two years to pursue a career in law, as this is what she is truly passionate about. During the course of her law studies, she was awarded multiple academic bursaries, including a bursary from the Attorneys Fidelity Fund in 2017. Amanda also participated in and won the Varsity College Moot Court competition for KZN and was awarded Best Speaker in 2016. For the duration of her law studies, Amanda was an academic tutor, student representative and a member of Students for Law and Social Justice (SLSJ). In addition to being amongst the top students in her class, Amanda was invited to join the Golden Key Honour Society. MEGAN HINDE Megan Hinde has joined Cox Yeats as a Candidate Legal Practitioner, and is serving her articles as part of the Insurance & Construction Team in the Johannesburg office. Megan was born and raised in Zimbabwe, then moved to South Africa to study. She obtained her LL.B from the University of Cape Town in 2018. Megan then went on to do her Master of Science in International Development, where she graduated in 2020 with distinction. During her time at university, Megan was Head Student of her Residence House Committee (2015-2016), a member of Student Parliament and the Residence Committee. She received a Dean’s Merit List Award in her final year of law. Contact us on: T: +27 (0)31 536 8500 W: www.coxyeats.co.za Amanda Khuzwayo Brandon van Zyl Kiyura Naidoo Megan Hinde Rhulani Mahanje Taryn Govender Savannah Buys ASSOCIATE Megan Baker #coxyeats

  • Marlene Powell – Decisions! Decisions!

    As business owners we are problem solvers. In order to solve problems, decisions need to be made. But, how do we know if the decisions we make are the right ones? When working with my clients we ensure that whatever decision we make will have either a positive or negative impact. As such it is important to ensure that the decisions we need to make are informed. This means that we take a proactive approach rather than a re-active approach to the decision-making process. Yes, easier said than done, especially when we sometimes have to think on our feet and make decisions without having time to think of the outcomes. So, when my clients are in a position to make a decision that is within their control but not sure if it is the right decision, I give them this practical exercise to work through and guide them. Take the situation that you are in that needs to be addressed and a decision that needs to be made. Make three columns: 1.) What is your current reality? · What are the pros · What are the cons 2.) What is the ideal outcome? that you want/need? · What are the pros · What are the cons 3.) What is your worst-case scenario? · What are the pros · What are the cons Once my clients have done this exercise, they are given the time to process at a far deeper level of understanding whether the decision they wanted to make is in fact the right one for them. They have ascertained what the three scenarios are and then they are able to make an informed decision on what makes the best sense for what they are wanting to achieve. What makes your decision making process easier is when you are clear of what your goals are and that you have a detailed ActionPLAN. This will help you make informed decisions as you will not be distracted by the noise that could disturb you. An ActionPLAN enables you to keep a clear mind and know that the decisions you need to make are in line with your goals and are keeping you on track towards your desired outcomes. If you feel overwhelmed and just don’t have clear enough direction on where you are going – which will ultimately impact your decision making – then make contact with me. We can work together on what is firstly important for you right now and what steps need to be made to put you back on track. This will then make your decision-making process far simpler and give you clearer direction of where you are heading. Contact Marlene Powell on https://linkshare.co.za/marlenepowell or 083 479 4471.

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