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The Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC warmly welcomes the reappointment of Provincial Commissioner Lt Gen Nhlanhla Mkwanazi for a second term. As organised business, we believe this decision will further bolster confidence in our City and the Province of KwaZulu-Natal.Commissioner Mkwanazi has consistently demonstrated true leadership during the past 5 years, showing that the Constitution and the rule of law apply equally to all, regardless of title or position. We are optimistic that he will continue to deliver strong results in the fight against crime, and we remain committed to working closely with him and his team to prevent crime and strengthen safety in our province. As organised business, we believe it is through these strong partnerships between government and the private sector that KwaZulu-Natal’s most pressing challenges can be addressed. This reappointment sends a clear signal to partners and investors that KwaZulu-Natal is serious about continuity, business, and impact. This continuation offers a valuable opportunity to build upon the progress already achieved and to deepen trust among the business community. As we head into the Easter Season, where we are expecting an influx of tourists coming into our city, we are confident that will add extra assurance to our potential visitors, nationally and internationally.Once again, the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC would like to congratulate General Mkhwanazi on his second term. As organised business, we fully support him in his role and wish him every success during this term. We will continue to back him because when crime is reduced and dealt with firmly, business confidence and investment are strengthened.     About the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC Founded in 1856, the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC is the largest member-based metropolitan chamber in Southern Africa. We represent approximately 3,000 businesses in eThekwini and beyond, ranging from multinationals to corporates and SMMEs. Since 2019, we also represent 54,000 informal sector businesses through their business associations. Policy and advocacy are at the heart of our work and we assist members with securing trade and investment opportunities locally and internationally, providing business advisory services (CIPC, Certificate of Origin, ITC checks, HR consultancy and more) across a broad spectrum of sectors, engaging thought leadership through forum webinars and other networking events, sharing business information through digital platforms, and also sourcing business insights through occasional questionnaires. The Durban Chamber advocates and influences policy decisions that affect the interests of business (tax legislation, import and export regulations and more), offering member benefits and providing information relevant to business decision-making. As a business-based and member-focused organisation, our strategic purpose is to help create a conducive economic and business environment to facilitate and promote economic growth in the region in partnership with key stakeholders.  For more info, contact the Durban Chamber on 031 335 1000 or info@durbanchamber.co.za  Our website is www.durbanchamber.co.za THE REAPPOINTMENT OF KWAZULU-NATAL PROVINCIAL POLICE COMMISSIONER LT GEN NHLANHLA MKHWANAZI

These KwaZulu‑Natal schools will have their pit toilets demolished and replaced with proper, clean, safe facilities.   The Big Favour teamed up with LottoStar  and Breadline Africa  to help schools affected by South Africa’s ongoing pit latrine crisis. Because of generous donations from LottoStar and East Coast Radio listeners — a total of R1 847 500  — three schools in KwaZulu‑Natal will now see their unsafe pit toilets replaced with proper sanitation facilities. Schools that will benefit Maliphume Primary School Linwood Combined Primary School Songozini Primary School For many South Africans, the phrase “pit toilet crisis”  has been a long‑running issue — especially in disadvantaged and rural communities. Many schools still use outdated and unsafe pit latrines, posing serious health and safety risks for children. A bit of context from the article: Pit toilets are essentially holes in the ground with a simple structure over them. Poorly built ones can be dangerous, with weak structures, large openings, no ventilation, and no handwashing facilities. A national audit previously showed that more than 3 300 schools  in South Africa were still using unsafe pit toilets. The initiative with LottoStar and Breadline Africa, supported by East Coast Radio’s Big Favour , aims to change this by providing safe, dignified sanitation facilities that help protect learners and improve school environments. ECR, LottoStar, & Breadline Africa tackle South Africa’s pit toilet crisis

LA MERCY, KWAZULU-NATAL – 20 March 2026 – Talbot has officially opened its new Industrial Water Security Hub at Dube TradePort in La Mercy, KwaZulu-Natal, marking a major milestone in the company’s growth and its mission to strengthen water security solutions for industry across Africa. The opening brought together over 150 partners, clients, industry leaders and stakeholders to mark the launch and discuss the growing importance of water security for businesses operating in a changing climate and increasingly constrained water environment. The 3 500 m² facility houses Talbot’s expanded laboratory, research and development capabilities and Smart Water Control Centre, which form part of an integrated Industrial Water Security Hub. The hub combines water analytics, engineering expertise, operational support and advanced laboratory testing to help organisations understand and manage water risk. Chief executive officer Carl Haycock said the development reflects the company’s long-term commitment to supporting sustainable water use in industry. “Water security is becoming a critical issue around the world,” Haycock said. “For many industrial operations, water availability and quality are directly linked to business continuity. Talbot is often recognized for its laboratory services or turnkey wastewater treatment solutions, but we provide world-class services across the full industrial water cycle. This new hub strengthens our ability to partner with our clients to understand their water risks and implement practical solutions that ensure a reliable, sustainable water supply.” The new facility enables Talbot to further integrate its engineering, analytics and operational expertise. “It allows us to bring together the full spectrum of Talbot’s capabilities, from laboratory testing and analytics to engineering design and operational support, so that we can deliver truly integrated water security solutions for our clients.” Talbot operates one of South Africa’s most advanced water laboratories and conducts thousands of tests daily to support regulatory compliance, operational decision-making and risk management for clients across multiple sectors. The laboratory is ISO/IEC 17025 SANAS-accredited, meaning test results are accurate, traceable and internationally recognised. According to director, Micole Martens, the new facility significantly expands testing capacity. The new laboratory now houses an LC-MS, enabling Talbot to offer testing for Emerging Contaminants of Concern (CECs) like PFAS, dioxins, furans, and pharmaceuticals - testing capabilities that are not yet offered commercially in South Africa.  “It allows us to expand both the scale and scope of testing available and positions us to become one of the largest water testing facilities in Africa while ensuring the reliable data that industries need to manage environmental compliance and operational performance.” The location at Dube TradePort was strategically selected to support Talbot’s growing regional and international operations. Close proximity to King Shaka International Airport enables efficient transport of samples, allowing for fast turnaround times and strict chain-of-custody requirements for accredited testing. Founded in 1989, Talbot has completed thousands of water security projects and testing initiatives across more than 25 African countries, enabling industrial and mining operations to improve water efficiency, reduce environmental impact and strengthen long-term water security. The launch coincided with South Africa’s National Water Month, serving as a timely reminder of the growing need for sustainable water management and secure water supply for communities and industry alike. TALBOT LAUNCHES NEW INDUSTRIAL WATER SECURITY HUB AT DUBE TRADEPORT

The Umhlanga Hills Tech Connect Launch, held today in Umhlanga, Durban, marks the unveiling of a landmark multi-billion rand technology and infrastructure investment set to transform KwaZulu-Natal into a leading African digital innovation hub.   Developed in partnership with South African investors and global technology leader Huawei, the project introduces the Umhlanga Hills Tech Hub Campus — a large-scale smart development expected to generate approximately 100,000 new jobs while attracting billions of rands in new investment into the regional economy and strengthening Durban’s position within South Africa’s growing digital economy.   Designed as an integrated smart campus, the Umhlanga Hills development combines advanced technology infrastructure with commercial, residential and lifestyle elements to create a digitally enabled live-work-play environment. Key components of the project include an AI-driven hyperscale data center, a large contact-center and business process outsourcing hub, technology development and innovation facilities, smart logistics infrastructure featuring one of Africa’s first intelligent warehouse systems, and integrated residential, retail and commercial precincts. Situated in Umhlanga; one of South Africa’s fastest-growing commercial nodes north of Durban; the development reinforces the region’s emergence as a major investment destination and future technology hub.   The Durban launch forms part of a dual national rollout aligned with announcements of this project linked to the South African Investment Conference taking place in Sandton, where Cyril Ramaphosa continues government’s drive to mobilize large-scale capital investment into South Africa’s digital economy, infrastructure expansion and job creation initiatives. The conference seeks to convert reform momentum into bankable projects and global partnerships, positioning South Africa as an increasingly competitive destination for both domestic and international investors.   Invest Durban forms an integral part of the project and launch and maintains the longest working relationship with the South African project lead, Mr. Frank Mni, together with Huawei and the current land developers, Tongaat Hulett Developments. Invest Durban is proud to support local partners in the dual launch taking place in Durban, as well as the President’s national launch of the same project at the South African Investment Conference in Sandton today. Invest Durban will work closely with eThekwini Municipal, Provincial and National stakeholders to facilitate investment coordination and support delivery of the Umhlanga Hills Tech Hub Campus.   The Umhlanga Hills Tech Connect initiative reflects a broader wave of strategic investment flowing into Durban’s northern economic corridor, where mixed-use and technology-focused developments continue to attract global attention and accelerate economic transformation. By combining advanced digital infrastructure, smart logistics systems and integrated urban development, the project positions Durban as a future African hub for artificial intelligence, data services and technology innovation. Developments of this scale signal growing confidence in South Africa’s technology sector while reinforcing Durban’s role as a strategic gateway for investment into the African continent. Umhlanga Hills Tech Connect Launch Signals Multi-Billion Rand Digital Investment for Durban

An Analysis of Immediate Impact and Long-Term Business Growth Entering the KZN Top Business Awards (currently brought to you by Standard Bank and the Women of Africa Group) is far more than a quest for a trophy; it is a strategic marketing, public relations, and operational exercise. With zero cost to enter, the barrier to entry is eliminated, leaving only the potential for high-yield returns. Why Enter? It forces a company to audit its successes against rigorous standards (including King V principles) and articulate its value proposition clearly. Immediate Benefits: Entering generates immediate brand awareness, boosts internal employee morale, and places your leadership team in a curated network of the province's top decision-makers. Future Benefits: Going forward, recognition builds immense brand equity, creates powerful digital authority for SEO and AI search engines, attracts top-tier talent, and signals stability to future investors and B2B partners. Part 1: The Strategic Imperative – Why Enter? 1. Zero Financial Risk, High Reward Unlike many industry awards that require exorbitant entry or table fees just to be considered, the KZN Top Business Awards are explicitly free to enter. This democratizes the playing field, allowing businesses of all sizes—from agile SMEs to large corporate enterprises—to compete purely on merit, innovation, and impact. 2. Internal Auditing and Benchmarking The application process itself is highly valuable. Entrants are required to submit a written motivation explaining their achievements against set criteria (economic growth, environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and governance). This process forces executive teams to reflect on their milestones, audit their ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) compliance, and clearly define what makes their business stand out. 3. Broad Category Alignment The awards are not one-size-fits-all. They cater to the specific strengths of a business. Whether a company excels in Renewable Efficiency (Green Initiatives), Community Upliftment, Employee Wellness, or is a Stand-out Family Business, there is a platform designed to highlight that specific operational excellence. Part 2: Immediate Benefits (The "Now") 1. Elevated Brand Awareness and PR From the moment a company is announced as a nominee or finalist, they benefit from the extensive marketing machinery of the KZN Top Business Portfolio. This includes: Coverage in the KZN Business Sense digital and print publications. Exposure across extensive business chamber databases (exceeding 30,000 regional business people). High-visibility social media and email marketing campaigns. 2. Immediate Morale Boost and Culture Validation Recognition at a prestigious provincial level is a massive psychological boost for employees. Winning or being nominated in categories like "Employee Wellness" or "Partnership" validates the hard work of the staff, gives them a renewed sense of purpose, and builds a culture of pride. As seen with past winners, it transforms the narrative from "working for a company" to "contributing to an award-winning team." 3. High-Value B2B Networking "Successful businesses like to work with other successful businesses." The awards process, culminating in the gala dinner (set for July 16, 2026), acts as a premier networking hub. It places your executives in the same room as provincial leaders, major bank heads (like Standard Bank's commercial banking executives), and potential strategic partners. Part 3: Long-Term Benefits (The "Going Forward") 1. SEO and AI Search Dominance (Digital Authority) As search engines and AI models (like Google's Gemini or SGE) evolve, they increasingly rely on high-authority, trusted digital directories to ground their facts. The Backlink Power: Being featured as a winner or finalist on the KZN Top Business website and associated platforms provides a high-domain-authority backlink to your company’s website. AI Entity Verification: When AI searches for "Top Manufacturing companies in KZN," it scans trusted lists. Inclusion in the KZN Top Business Awards cements your company as a verified, leading entity in the region, ensuring you appear in AI-generated overviews for years to come. 2. Sustained Brand Credibility and Trust An award win is an evergreen marketing asset. Displaying a "KZN Top Business Winner" badge on your website, email signatures, and product packaging builds immediate, subconscious trust with consumers and B2B clients. It serves as third-party validation that your business is financially stable, ethically run, and recognized by peers. 3. Talent Acquisition and Retention In a competitive job market, top talent looks for secure, forward-thinking, and socially responsible employers. Awards for "Employee Wellness" or "Innovation" signal to prospective hires that your company is a premium workplace. It helps transition a company into an "Employer of Choice," reducing recruitment costs and retaining institutional knowledge. 4. Competitive Positioning and Market Share Going forward, the recognition strengthens your position against competitors. When a procurement officer or consumer is choosing between two seemingly equal suppliers, third-party accolades often serve as the tie-breaker. It builds brand loyalty, as clients take pride in supporting homegrown businesses that are demonstrably "doing well and doing good." Conclusion Entering the KZN Top Business Awards is a strategic growth catalyst. It provides immediate visibility and networking opportunities while laying down a permanent foundation for digital authority, brand trust, and market leadership in KwaZulu-Natal and beyond. For any business looking to transition from "participating in the economy" to "leading the economy," submitting an entry is an essential step.

By: Onwaba Gonyora | Director: Brahman Hills 5 Ways to Turn Your Kitchen into a Zero-Waste Zone In most homes, the kitchen is where good intentions quietly go to waste. A bag of spinach forgotten at the back of the fridge. Leftovers that never get eaten. Vegetable peels and scraps that go straight into the bin without a second thought. It adds up quickly. With food prices rising and increased pressure on resources like water and energy, reducing what we throw away is becoming as much of a practical priority as an environmental one. At Brahman Hills in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, sustainability has always been part of the bigger vision. As a destination shaped by nature and rooted in environmental stewardship, the team began rethinking its own kitchens several years ago as part of a broader commitment to reducing waste and taking care of the earth. “When you operate at scale, waste becomes highly visible. And once you start seeing how much is being thrown away, it’s impossible to ignore, especially when you’re building a business with the next 100 years in mind,” says Brahman Hills Director, Onwaba Gonyora. Over time, the award-winning destination has introduced several simple practices in its kitchens to reduce what is discarded and make better use of what it already has. “Our approach isn’t complicated, but it is intentional. Most people don’t think twice about what goes into the bin, but when you start paying attention, you realise how much could’ve been used differently. The change doesn’t come from doing everything perfectly. It comes from making a few better decisions every day,” she says. For households looking to move towards a zero-waste kitchen, Gonyora offers the following practical advice: 1. Use more of what you already have: A lot of kitchen waste happens simply because we lose track of what we already have. At home, it can be as simple as planning meals around ingredients that need to be used first, choosing versatile ingredients like butternut that can be roasted, blended into soup or used in fillings, and giving leftovers a second life in a new meal instead of letting them go to waste. 2. Be mindful about what you allow in your kitchen: A lot of kitchen waste starts before cooking even begins. Buying too much without a plan, choosing heavily packaged products, or overestimating what you’ll use in a week can all lead to waste. 3. Start a vegetable garden: Even a small vegetable garden can make a difference. It allows you to pick only what you need for a meal, which naturally cuts down on waste and encourages a more thoughtful way of cooking. And you can even regrow vegetables like potatoes, onions and celery from scraps! 4. Store food in a way that helps you use it: Food often goes to waste because it’s “out of sight, so out of mind”. Keep perishable items where you can see them, store food properly, and use your freezer for anything you're not going to use straight away. 5. Look for small ways to reuse instead of throwing away: Reducing waste often comes down to making better use of what you already have. Vegetable peels and scraps can be used for stock, leftovers can be frozen for another day, and if space allows, composting is another practical way to reduce waste while feeding your garden. The same principle applies to meat and chicken too. Rather than using only prime cuts, use the whole animal where possible. Nose-to-tail cooking helps ensure that more of each ingredient is used with intention, from bones for broths and stocks to other cuts for hearty meals or pie fillings. Reducing kitchen waste does not require a complete lifestyle overhaul. It starts with paying attention, making small adjustments and building better habits over time. “How we live today shapes the world we leave behind. If we want this earth to still provide for our children’s children, then we need to safeguard it now. That doesn’t always require big gestures. Often, it starts with something as simple as being more mindful in our own kitchens and choosing to support businesses that are doing the same,” Gonyora concludes. To visit Brahman Hills and enjoy farm-to-fork food from its zero-waste kitchen, while seeing first-hand how The Serenity Garden is coming to life, go to: https://www.brahmanhills.co.za/

This summary provides an explanation regarding the jurisdiction of South African employees working for foreign entities. What is an Employer of Record (EOR) T he EOR is a legal compliance service provider to foreign entities with no established juristic presence in South Africa. T he EOR provides the legal platform in which to administer the legal compliances on behalf of the employer where the employer requires that their employees processed through the EOR are compliant in line with the prevailing legislation. The foreign entity is responsible for employing and engaging their own employees and remunerating their employees. The employer pays the salary of the employee through the EOR. A temporary employment service (TES) differs vastly from an EOR. Labour broking (TES) is a practise made legal in line with Section 198 of the Labour Relations Act, which regulates the use of labour brokers. A TES is a third-party service provider who typically recruits and suppliers labour to an enterprise, charges a fee and pays wages to the employees. A TES outsources their exiting employees to an operation requiring general resources for examples cleaners, general workers, general administrative services. Section 198 of the LRA provides that where this occurs, the TES who has provided the employee to the client, the employee working for the client is the employee of the TES. The Employment Relationship The employment relationship commences at the point of offer and acceptance of the job; this brings the contract of employment into existence. Whether explicit or tacit, this is evidence of a contractual employment relationship. When determining whether and employment relationship exists, the law states that the arbitrators or courts must examine the relationship and determine whether any of the following factors are present, where any of the factors are present, then the courts will view the relationship as an employment relationship. These factors are: 1. The person is subject to control 2. The person’s hours have been regulated 3. The person is subject to a reporting relationship 4. The person has averaged forty hours a month over the past three months 5. The person is remunerated for the job performed 6. The person used tools, methodology or technology of the employer 7. The person does not work for anyone else When understanding who the employer is, we understand this from who the employee performs services for. An employee is appointed in an organisation and undertakes to perform tasks and duties for and on behalf of the employer, this therefore defines the employer. Moreover, an employee is defined by who he or she receives or is entitled to receive remuneration from thus who remunerates the employee is the employer. T he question of who pays the remuneration indicates who the employer is and is an important determinate of the existence of an employment relationship. If one were to explore these two definitions of the employee, the employee neither serves or performs duties for and on behalf of the EOR, nor is the employee remunerated by the EOR. The duty of the employer is to provide supervision and authority over the employee providing instruction, and direction regarding the rendering of the employee’s services. The employer orchestrates employee tasks and duties at a determined or determinable remuneration. The employer recognises that they manage and control their employees, and that the activities of the EOR are solely to facilitate the administration, compliance and related reporting responsibilities in line with the provisions of the relevant South African legislations and regulations. The duty of the employee is to make their resources available to the employer; the employee must place his or her capacity to work at the disposal of the employer, in accordance with requirements of the employer as agreed between the parties. The employee is required to undertake on behalf of the employer and perform their duties faithfully, diligently and competently and to subordinate himself or herself to the employer. T he employee is required to obey lawful instruction given in the normal course of employment and to act in good faith and protect the interest of the employer by all reasonable means in his or her power. The employee is required to conduct himself or herself on accordance with the acceptable practise and policy of the employer. Jurisdiction - South African Case Law In South Africa, territorial jurisdiction over labour disputes is not a new question. Turning to an earlier authority on this matter, in Astral Operations Ltd v Parry[1] ( “Astral case”) the Labour Appeal Court (‘LAC’) found that the test of whether there is jurisdiction in a particular case is whether the employer’s undertaking, in which the employee was employed, is carried on inside or outside South Africa. A single employer may have more than one undertaking that forms part of its operations, so the question is whether the undertaking in which the employee works is within South Africa. If so, South Africa’s labour forums would have jurisdiction. As such, jurisdiction is not determined by whether the employer has an undertaking that operates in South Africa as well as one abroad, but whether its undertaking (in respect of where an employee works at) is separate as an undertaking and within the jurisdiction of South Africa. If the undertaking falls within the locality of South Africa, our labour forums will naturally have jurisdiction. If, on the other hand, it does not, South African labour forums typically do not have jurisdiction. Following this decision, the LAC developed a flexible and substance-over-form approach when applying the test as set out in the Astral case. To this end, the next significant decision was in Monare v SA Tourism & others [2] (“Monare”), in which the LAC expanded on the Astral case and unpacked the meaning of “an employer’s locality of undertaking”. In this case, the Court held that in order for the employer to have two separate undertakings (one extraterritorially and one locally), the undertakings must be divorced from each other. As such, in accordance with the Court’s reasoning, although the employee at all relevant times worked outside of South Africa and the South African employer (the SA Tourism Board) had a separate office in London, the LAC held that if the undertaking is interrelated or inextricably linked to the South African entity (in that, it cannot be divorced from the South African undertaking), South African labour law, and thus jurisdiction, would still apply. The Court in Monare found that the SA Tourism Board’s office in London was an ’extension’ of the employer in South Africa (it was part and parcel of it),and therefore held that South Africa had jurisdiction to determine the employment dispute. T he LAC confirmed these previous authorities in Robineau v Schenker SA (Pty) Ltd & Others (“Schenker”).[3] In this matter, the contract of employment was concluded between an employee and a South African company that formed part of a German multinational corporation. However, the contract of employment stated that it was governed by the laws of Mozambique given that the workplace was in Mozambique. The LAC found that the location of the workplace is not the same as carrying on ‘of the undertaking’ and instead one needs to examine the substance of the working relationship (rather than the form or what is stipulated in the contract). In this case (of Schenker), the LAC held that there was jurisdiction as the Mozambican operation was part and parcel of the South African undertaking for the following reasons: there was no Mozambican entity with separate legal personality; there was no independence between the South African entity and the Mozambican branch. The resources were linked directly to the South African entity’s resources and owned by the South African entity. Accordingly, the ‘entities’ were considered to be interrelated and not divorced from each other as separate undertakings; and the LAC also considered that the employment contract incorporated South African statutory provisions albeit that a provision in the addendum provided that Mozambique law would be the governing law of the contract. In the Labour Court decision of MECS Africa (Pty) Ltd v Commission for Conciliation, Mediation & Arbitration & others [4] (“MECS Africa”), the Court interpreted and applied the Astral case in the context of a South African temporary employment service (‘TES’) that had an employee that worked for its clients outside of South Africa’s borders. In these facts, the Court found that the employer conducted its labour broking business in the place where it recruited and procured labour, and not in the place where its clients have operations. As such, since the South African employer recruited and found labour in South Africa, the Court found that the place of the employer’s undertaking was in South Africa and, that the CCMA, in turn, had jurisdiction. In contrast, and in the relatively more recent case of Sorrell v Petroplan Sub-Sahara Africa (Pty) Ltd (“PSA case”),[5] the Labour Court took a different approach. In this matter, an individual employee agreed to provide superintendent services to the clients of Petroplan Sub-Sahara Africa (‘PSA’), a South African entity. The Court accordingly found the facts of MECS Africa to be similar or analogous in the matter that it had to determine. T he Court, however, disagreed with the findings of MECS Africa and held that it is not the place where the employer conducts its business that determines the place of employment, but rather the location of the actual workplace. The Labour Court considered that although the employer (the PSA) conducted its labour brokering business in South Africa, the place where it recruits and procures labour was not the place where the employee was required to render their services. Additionally, the Court found that the employee’s work did not involve the recruitment and procurement of labour by PSA but related to the business of PSA’s client at its operation in Mozambique. Consequently, the Labour Court held that the workplace was separate and divorced from the PSA’s business of engaging clients to work on the sites of clients and was indeed located in Mozambique. Based on this reasoning, the Court found that the locality of undertaking that the employee was engaged in was in Mozambique. Thus, the Labour Court (in the PSA case) did not have jurisdiction. In essence, this means that it is not the place at which the employee performs their duties from which determines the place of employment for purposes of jurisdiction in terms of the LRA, but the location of the undertaking for whom the employee renders services that is, the location of the business of the employer. Given the latest authority, it must be emphasised that a South African labour forum’s jurisdiction is not simply determined by an individual’s employment contract with any one entity. The question of extra-territorial jurisdiction is ultimately a matter of substance over form, where various factors will be considered, and in which the location of where those services are rendered being one of those factors. For more information please contact Colette Tanner, T: +27 (0)31 767 0625 E: colette@drg.co.za W: www.drg.co.za www.kzntopbusiness.com Click on the images to "Read the Full Article".

In a world where many follow the expected path, Dr Mohamed Fareed Amod chose to build his own. Tucked within Durban is Crown Dental Studio – a modern dental practice shaped not only by clinical expertise, but by a strong entrepreneurial spirit. Fareed’s journey reflects equal parts ambition and vision. His story begins much like many others in the medical f ield, with years of intensive study and training. But it was during his internship in rural KwaZulu-Natal that something shifted. While gaining hands-on experience, Fareed realised that a traditional career route within established institutions was not where he saw his future. Instead, he set his sights on creating something independent. Opening Crown Dental Studio in 2017 was a bold move. Armed with clinical knowledge but limited formal business training, Fareed invested R1 million into building the practice from the ground up. Within a month, the doors were open – and with them, the start of something far bigger than a dental clinic. Today, the studio reflects that early determination. Clean, modern, and equipped with advanced technology, the space has been designed with both quality care and patient comfort in mind. But beyond the equipment and aesthetics, it is the experience that stands out. For many patients, visiting the dentist can be daunting. At Crown Dental Studio, the focus is on changing that perception. Whether it’s a routine check-up or a more complex procedure, patients are met with an approach that prioritises both professionalism and reassurance. The practice offers emergency care and pain relief to general and cosmetic dentistry. For Fareed, the most rewarding part of the job is simple: seeing the impact of his work firsthand. “It’s about putting a smile on someone’s face,” he says – a statement that speaks to both the literal and emotional aspects of dentistry. The business has also grown beyond a one-man operation. With a team in place and plans for further expansion, Crown Dental Studio has become a space not only for patient care, but for opportunity and development. Staff are trained, supported, and encouraged to grow alongside the business. What sets the practice apart, however, is its forward-thinking approach. In an increasingly digital world, Fareed has embraced technology and online platforms to connect with patients and build a strong brand presence. Combined with the studio’s 24-hour availability, this creates a model that feels both modern and accessible. Outside of the practice, Fareed continues to expand his horizons. He holds the importance of remaining holistically capable of serving his practice and patients in high regard, and has therefore furthered his education with a Diploma in Psychology; Postgraduate Diploma in Dentistry, specialising in prosthodontic, implantology, and maxillofacial and oral surgery; and is currently in his final semester of a Bachelor of Laws (LLB). This reflects a broader vision –one that extends beyond dentistry alone. Looking ahead, that vision includes the development of a larger medical facility, as well as the growth of his medical supply business. It’s a clear indication that Crown Dental Studio is just one part of a much bigger picture. Fareed’s mission is to provide high-quality, patient-centred dental care through advanced technology, continuous learning, and a commitment to excellence, while creating a welcoming and accessible environment for every individual he serves. With the ultimate vision to grow Crown Dental Studio into a leading, integrated healthcare brand that redefines modern dentistry, expands access to quality medical services, and empowers both patients and professionals within the industry – Fareed’s journey is a reminder that sometimes the best path forward is the one you create yourself. Hours: Open 24 hours A: 26 Mackeurtan Ave, Durban North, Durban, 4051 T: +27 (0)81 207 8621 www.kzntopbusiness.com Click on the images to "Read the Full Article".

Events today demand more than simply a venue. Whether it is a wedding, exhibition, corporate gathering or festival, organisers increasingly seek spaces that are flexible, visually appealing and capable of accommodating large numbers of guests. Frame tents have emerged as one of the most practical and stylish solutions for these needs, offering a combination of durability, adaptability and aesthetic appeal. One of the greatest advantages of frame tents is their ability to create shelter in places where no permanent structure exists. Outdoor venues often offer breathtaking scenery, but they also present practical challenges when it comes to protection from the elements. Frame tents solve this problem by providing a stable and weatherproof structure that can be erected almost anywhere. From open fields to beachfront settings and urban spaces, these tents allow organisers to transform an empty area into a fully functional venue. Depending on their size, frame tents can comfortably accommodate hundreds of people. This makes them ideal for large-scale gatherings such as festivals, concerts and exhibitions, while still being equally suited to more intimate celebrations such as weddings or private parties. Structurally, frame tents are engineered for both strength and efficiency. They are manufactured using galvanised steel poles that support the frame, ensuring a durable and stable structure. Unlike many traditional tents, they do not require internal or central support poles. Instead, the entire support system is designed along the sides, ground and roof of the tent. This engineering approach provides exceptional stability while leaving the interior completely open. T he absence of internal poles offers a significant benefit for event planners. Without central supports interrupting the layout, the interior space becomes entirely flexible. Organisers are free to design seating plans, staging areas or exhibition layouts without restriction. This ‘clear span’ design maximises usable f loor space and allows the tent to function much like a conventional hall or venue. Another practical advantage is the method of installation. Frame tents do not rely on pegs to secure the structure, which means they can be erected on a variety of surfaces including concrete, wooden decks and other hard ground. This f lexibility allows them to be installed in locations that might otherwise be unsuitable for temporary structures. Beyond their practicality, frame tents also create an impressive visual impact. They are particularly well suited to glamorous weddings, elegant evening balls and high-end corporate events. The structure easily accommodates decorative features such as draping, chandelier lighting and clear or opaque wall panels. Clear PVC walls can bring the surrounding landscape into the décor, while clear ceilings allow guests to enjoy a panoramic view of the night sky during evening events. These tents are lightweight yet durable, and they are both waterproof and fire resistant. They can be used for short-term functions or for longer periods at festivals and trade shows, and they can even be positioned next to existing buildings to create a seamless extension of space. In this sense, frame tents represent the infrastructure behind experiences that bring people together, celebrate milestones and support thriving industries. As the African events sector continues to evolve, companies that combine craftsmanship, innovation and regional reach will remain central to shaping the spaces where these moments unfold. Sky Tents manufacture high quality frame tents that meet these diverse needs, supplying durable and stylish structures for events across South Africa and the African continent. Ultimately, Sky Tents sells tents designed to transform almost any location into an exceptional venue. www.kzntopbusiness.com Click on the images to "Read the Full Article".

For decades, South Africans have moved to smaller towns for lifestyle and big cities for career opportunities. With the evolution of remote working and semigration, however, this divide is becoming less clear-cut. Where industry, infrastructure and lifestyle intersect, smaller towns are carving out new roles in the country’s property landscape. The ‘twin-towns’ of Empangeni and Richards Bay, are one such enclave, according to Regis Usaiwevhu, principal at Tyson Properties Richards Bay. “This is not a retirement town. This is where people come to work, build careers and grow businesses – and still enjoy a great lifestyle,” he says. Small Towns Step Into The Spotlight As economic recovery reshapes property demand, living in a smaller town can be a smart career and investment move. T he trick, however, is finding the right small town. Usaiwevhu recommends that buyers and investors do their research, identifying not only where they have the best short term quality of life but where there are strong future growth prospects. T he most promising towns tend to share certain characteristics: diversified local economies, access to transport infrastructure, ongoing private or public investment and strong regional roles in tourism, agriculture or industry. Whilst some former industrial hubs where older companies are closing and major sectors such as the steel and sugar industries are faltering, others are buying into growing sectors such as logistics. Given that Richard’s Bay is home to Africa’s largest deep-water port and one of the continent’s largest coal terminals, this applies. It is also populated by major employers including aluminium smelters, forestry groups and mining operations. These large multinational companies attract skilled professionals and support a growing network of service industries. “In Richards Bay and Empangeni, you’re investing in an area with a solid economic base. That gives buyers confidence that they will see equity growth over time,” he says. Usaiwevhu says it comes as no surprise that, in Richards Bay and Empangeni, buyer activity has picked up noticeably over the past year: “We’ve definitely seen an increase in enquiries compared with last year. There are more calls coming through and more activity on property portals. Interest-rate cuts have helped.” Here, affordability is a key driver. As many professionals prepared to relocate to smaller towns for career opportunities are just starting out, many are first time buyers. “You’ll find that the area is quite attractive for young professionals because of the mines and the industries around Richards Bay. T here’s employment potential, not just in the large companies themselves but also in the supply chain and downstream industries. In many smaller towns, buyers can secure larger homes, more land and proximity to lifestyle attractions for the same price - or less - than a modest property in a major city. Richards Bay and Empangeni therefore tend to go counterflow – whilst estate living is booming in nearby enclaves like Ballito and Salt Rock, here freehold properties sell quickly whilst more expensive estate properties remain on the market for longer, he says. This influx of young professionals is also driving strong demand for rentals, particularly among professionals who work locally during the week but maintain family homes elsewhere. “The rental market here is extremely busy. If a property is priced correctly, you’re unlikely to wait more than a month for a tenant. Many people are buying properties specifically to rent,” he says. He adds that another niche that has expanded rapidly is student accommodation, following the growth of the nearby University of Zululand. “There’s high demand at the moment. A lot of investors are buying houses or converting properties to cater for students. Empangeni On The Rise Just 15 minutes inland, Empangeni is benefiting from spill-over demand and new development. A major catalyst is the upcoming Prince Buthelezi Mall – a 36,000 m² retail development with over 140 stores which is scheduled to open later this year. It is expected to reinforce Empangeni’s role as a regional service hub, especially in light of large numbers of cross border travelling shoppers from Swaziland and Mozambique. “There’s definitely been an increase in demand for property in Empangeni,” says Usaiwevhu. “Historically, property prices have been lower than in Richards Bay, but they’re starting to pick up. Buyers are seeing the potential for better resale value.” Planned infrastructure could further boost the town’s prospects. Proposals to relocate the Richards Bay airport closer to the N2 corridor near Empangeni aim to support long-term industrial and tourism expansion and improve regional connectivity. The Best Of Both Words “Richards Bay is an industrial hub that still offers a strong family lifestyle. It’s a place where business, family and leisure can coexist. In many ways, it’s the gateway to Zululand,” Usaiwevhu continues. The region offers easy access to beaches, big five game reserves and the UNESCO listed iSimangaliso Wetland Park, while still providing the services expected of a modern town – from private hospitals to schools and retail centres. With the imminent opening of the Club Med resort in Tinley Manor, the broader KZN north coast is also set to benefit. “You get a quality of life here that can be difficult to find in bigger cities. There’s a strong culture, rich heritage and you’re close to some of the best natural attractions in the country,” he points out. W: www.tysonprop.co.za www.kzntopbusiness.com Click on the images to "Read the Full Article".

A few days ago, while covering a conference in Rio de Janeiro, the penny finally dropped on why we do what we do. At these events, we typically share a large office space with the client, and it just so happened that one of the sales team was working a desk nearby. I couldn’t help but overhear her conversation. She was pitching sponsorship packages for an upcoming conference and repeatedly referred to example images she had sent – showing what the advertising would look like and where it would be positioned. Those images, I soon realised, were the very photographs we have captured at these events. I confirmed this with her after the call. All those hours spent photographing delegates walking past banners, logging into sponsored Wi-Fi portals, engaging with social media walls, and moving through branded registration areas suddenly took on new meaning. Typically, I’m given a checklist of required sponsorship images on the final day, and I make sure I capture anything I may have missed during the first two days. I’ll admit, I’ve sometimes questioned the value of these seemingly ‘routine’ shots but now I understand their importance. For event organisers, sponsorship revenue is a critical component of covering costs and generating profit. Selling these packages depends heavily on being able to show potential sponsors exactly what their brand exposure will look like. If a prospective client is anything like me, they may struggle to visualise a floor plan or imagine a registration area from a diagram alone. But when they can see a photograph of their branding in a real-world setting, surrounded by delegates, the value becomes tangible, making the decision to invest far easier. Beyond supporting the sales and marketing teams, our work also plays a vital role in real-time communications. At the start of an event, organisers want to demonstrate momentum – that the conference is active, well attended, and worth being part of. Within minutes, images of delegates arriving on sponsored transport, registering, networking, or simply enjoying the venue (often spectacular in its own right) are shared across social media platforms. These visuals create immediacy and encourage engagement from those following remotely or considering attending. The same applies to press activity. At this particular conference – focused on the airline and airport industry – delegates are often senior decision-makers. It’s not uncommon for major announcements to take place, such as the launch of a new route. For instance, a direct Johannesburg to Paris route with Air France might be unveiled, and all parties involved – the airlines, airports, and organisers – will want to communicate this news instantly. High-quality images are essential to accompany these announcements. Awards evenings are another example. Winners want to share their success without delay, and press releases are often pre written in anticipation. Once the awards are announced, images are quickly added and distributed, ensuring timely and impactful communication. There is also a longer-term value to this work. Photographs of event setups, while not always urgent, become invaluable during the planning of future conferences. Organisers can review layouts, identify bottlenecks in delegate flow, and assess whether branding was positioned effectively. T hese visual records support continuous improvement and more strategic planning. Equally important is the ability to demonstrate value back to sponsors. Showing not just where branding was placed, but how it was experienced, ideally within a busy, engaged environment, strengthens the case for repeat investment. For the organiser, this is key to sustaining and growing the event year after year. Sometimes, it takes a chance moment or an overheard conversation to fully appreciate the purpose behind the work we do. What can feel repetitive or lacking in meaning at times is, in fact, central to the commercial success of an event. I’ve always loved what I do. Each assignment is an opportunity to capture the best photograph I’ve ever taken, something that rarely happens, as there’s always room to improve. But understanding the broader impact of the work brings a renewed sense of purpose. It’s a reminder that every image captured contributes to a much bigger picture. M: +27 (0)83 331 6796 E: wade@odmedia.co.za W: www.odmedia.co.za www.kzntopbusiness.com Click on the images to "Read the Full Article".

Six organisations in KwaZulu Natal – Zero2Five Trust, LETCEE, Lulamaphiko, Midlands Community College (MCC), Singakwenza and T handa – are joining hands to create the country’s very f irst Early Learning Outcomes Measure (ELOM) Community of Practice (COP) to openly share learning, expertise and data across multiple urban and rural districts including uMzinyathi, Zululand, uMkhanyakude, uMgungundlovu, uThukela and Ugu.  “What makes this collaboration unique is the spirit of openness and trust. Organisations are sharing both their successes and their challenges, creating a safe learning space where ideas, resources and innovations can move freely between programmes,” said Julika Falconer, CEO of Durban-based Zero2Five Trust. Falconer welcomed President Cyril Ramaposa’s State of the National Address (SONA) commitment to elevate ECD to a core foundational education priority with plans to get all children aged zero to five into ECD structures by 2030. However, a great deal of on-the ground work is still needed. NPO’s deliver much of this. The decision to collaborate was inspired by the findings of the Thrive by Five Index, the largest survey of preschool child outcomes ever attempted in South Africa. It measured the proportion of children aged between 50-59 months across nine provinces to determine whether they were developmentally ‘on track’ for their ages.  The findings were that 55% of South African children cannot do the learning tasks expected of children their age, with 28% of them falling far behind the expected standard and needing intensive intervention to catch up with their peers. One in 18 children (5.65%) in this study showed signs of long term malnutrition. Children between four and five regarded as ‘moderately stunted’ are five to six months behind children with normal height-for age. ‘Mildly stunted’ children are approximately 2.4 months behind.    These delays may be further compounded by social and emotional issues. Under the Social Relations with Peers and Adults category, 27.5% of children did not meet the standard. This increased to 33.4% when it comes to emotional readiness for school.  “This highlights the urgent need to strengthen early learning outcomes for many children. who struggle with foundational skills such as numeracy, visual motor integration and cognitive and executive development. By using the ELOM tool, the organisations are working together to better understand how children in their programmes are developing, and to test small, practical improvements that can strengthen teaching practices and learning experiences for children,” Falconer explained.   She said the next step would be a cross-training workshop for the programme leads and trainers of all six organisations. “The collaboration will produce a resource pack of ten low-cost learning resources made from recycled materials. Each learning resource will have suggestions for activities, covering 20 weeks. T he pack will provide practical guidance on using each activity to strengthen numeracy, visual motor integration (VMI), and executive functioning.” For more information www.zero2five.org.za www.kzntopbusiness.com Click on the images to "Read the Full Article".