I’m throwing down a friendly challenge—come join the race and see if you can cross the finish line before me! The TinMan Durban isn’t just about winning; it’s for everyone, with activities for all ages, all fitness levels, and an upbeat, welcoming vibe. It’s all about having fun, spending time with friends and family, and enjoying the day, whether you’re racing or simply soaking up the atmosphere. Think of it as a lighthearted invitation to take on the “challenge” and try to beat “this old man” in good spirits. Simply put: it’s your open invite to be part of a community race at SunCoast, with something for everyone, and the excitement of seeing if you can outpace me.   See you at the briefing, Grant Grant Adlam 🎯 Enter now: https://entry.bactive.com/ Durban TINMAN takes place next weekend - 9th November

The KZN Top Business Women 2025 series concludes this Thursday at 18:00 with an inspiring final session hosted by Jennifer Reddy. Over the past few weeks, the webinar series has celebrated the stories of exceptional women who are leading, innovating, and inspiring across KwaZulu-Natal. This final event promises to be an empowering conversation as we spotlight another group of remarkable leaders who continue to shape their industries and communities. Featuring Trailblazing Women: Shelley Ainsworth Rachael Gillespie Anuka Brown Cerisha Naicker Heather Mc Dade Linda Sewnarain Ashika Sewduth Firdose Moola Philisiwe Gumede Stacey Norman Teresa Davie-Rossouw Revona Govender Lea Wimble Busi Dlamini Masha Padayachi Samantha Swanepoel Hosted by Jennifer Reddy, this session will highlight each woman’s unique journey, offering valuable insights into leadership, resilience, and purpose-driven success. Date:  Thursday Time:  18:00 Host:  Jennifer Reddy Join us as we celebrate the women driving progress and transformation across KwaZulu-Natal. Don’t miss this opportunity to be inspired by their passion, vision, and achievements.

On Friday, we proudly handed over Ferndale Primary School’s very first Write to Rise book — a beautiful celebration of imagination, creativity, and the written word. In proud partnership with Ferndale Primary, Write to Rise shines a spotlight on the bright young voices of learners from Grades 4 to 7, who have transformed their dreams into stories and poems that inspire us all. Our Young Authors • Grade 4: Itumeleng Msimango, Nonala Ngwane, Zaria Aliphon * Grade 5: Aliyana Crawford, Ariana Wilson, Sitabonga Mbele • Grade 6: Kahira Rhoda, Quina Kayiser, Sisindisiwe Nkos • Grade 7: Kiane King, Naazneen Abdool Each of these remarkable learners has proven that when we nurture creativity, words can lift us higher and turn dreams into reality. Their achievements remind us that every child has a story worth telling and a voice powerful enough to change the world. Contact us on 081 892 7257 to learn more about how your school can be part of the Write to Rise journey!

Change doesn’t happen overnight — it’s built, layer by layer, by people with a vision and the determination to turn it into reality. At Construction for Africa , that’s exactly what drives us. Every project we take on is more than a construction site; it’s a statement of progress, a sign of growth, and a symbol of hope for communities across the continent. More Than Construction — It’s Transformation From modern infrastructure that connects regions to housing developments that create homes and belonging, Construction for Africa’s work is rooted in purpose. We don’t just build — we transform spaces into opportunities. Each foundation represents stability, each wall represents resilience, and each completed project represents our ongoing commitment to build a stronger, more connected Africa. Our team understands that the landscape of Africa is dynamic. Economic shifts, technological advancements, and community needs are constantly evolving. That’s why we embrace change rather than resist it. Adaptability and innovation are the cornerstones of our approach — ensuring that what we build today will serve and strengthen generations to come. Building Change, One Project at a Time Every construction project tells a story. Whether it’s the development of new roads, community centers, or industrial spaces, we see each as an opportunity to make a tangible difference. Our work impacts lives — creating jobs, improving access to essential services, and setting new standards in quality and safety. As Africa continues to grow, Construction for Africa remains dedicated to building change — not just in structures, but in mindset. We challenge outdated ways of doing things and embrace progress through modern techniques, sustainable practices, and people-centered design. Evolving with Purpose Building change also means learning as we go. Each project teaches us something new — about the environment, our clients, our teams, and the communities we serve. This continuous improvement ensures that our work doesn’t just meet expectations but sets benchmarks for what’s possible in African construction. We take pride in being part of a movement that’s not only changing skylines but changing lives. Construction for Africa stands as a partner in progress — ready to build the infrastructure, opportunity, and innovation that define our continent’s future. The Road Ahead Africa’s growth story is still being written — and Construction for Africa is proud to be one of its authors. We’re committed to building with purpose, integrity, and vision, ensuring that every brick we lay contributes to lasting positive change. Because for us, construction isn’t just about creating buildings.It ’s about building change, as we go.

There’s no better time to plan your next dream getaway — and Your Pass To Travel  is here to make it effortless, affordable, and unforgettable. Whether you’re craving the turquoise waters of Zanzibar or the vibrant streets of Thailand, our 2026 travel deals bring you luxury, adventure, and unbeatable value. At Your Pass To Travel , we believe that exploring the world shouldn’t be complicated or overpriced. Our carefully curated packages include everything you need for a smooth, stress-free journey — from flights and transfers to luxury accommodation and travel insurance. All you have to do is pack your bags and get ready for the trip of a lifetime. Discover Thailand – From Only R24,900pp Experience the perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and coastal charm. Spend 5 nights in Phuket  soaking up the sun and 3 nights in Bangkok  exploring vibrant markets and temples. Inclusions: Return flights from Johannesburg 5-star hotels Daily breakfast All private transfers Internal flight Travel insurance Travel between 20 January – 20 March 2026 Luxury Zanzibar Escape – From R41,650pp Relax in paradise with a 7-night all-inclusive stay in Nungwi , Zanzibar’s most beautiful beach destination. Inclusions: Return direct flights from Johannesburg 5-star hotel All meals and drinks included Private transfers Zanzibar and travel insurance Travel between 01 – 28 February 2026 Thailand Luxe Experience – From R30,650pp Enjoy Thailand’s best in one seamless itinerary — from the beaches of Phuket to the buzz of Bangkok. Plus, indulge in a R3000 food & beverage credit  and a visit to Yona Beach Sunset Terrace . Inclusions: Return flights from Johannesburg/Durban 5-star accommodation Private transfers & internal flight Breakfast daily Travel insurance Travel between 15 April – 10 June 2026 Why Choose Your Pass To Travel Curated travel experiences with unbeatable value 5-star hotels and trusted local partners Personalised service from booking to return Peace of mind with included travel insurance At Your Pass To Travel , our mission is simple — to help you access the world  with confidence, comfort, and convenience. Every journey is more than a destination — it’s a memory waiting to be made. Contact us:  +27 67 194 0584 Visit:   www.yourpasstotravel.co.za Email:   info@yourpasstotravel.co.za Your Pass To Travel  — Because your next adventure begins with us.

Empowering Conversations • Inspiring Journeys • Celebrating Women in Leadership The KZN Top Business Women 2025 Webinar Series continued on 23 October 2025 with an inspiring and thought-provoking session hosted by Lesedi Metsoamere. This engaging online event celebrated the strength, resilience, and brilliance of women shaping the future of business and leadership in KwaZulu-Natal. Inspiration and Authenticity The session brought together a dynamic group of women leaders who shared their professional experiences, personal growth stories, and lessons learned along the way. The conversation highlighted the importance of authenticity, perseverance, and collaboration in today’s ever-changing business landscape. Through open dialogue and meaningful reflection, participants explored the challenges and triumphs of women in leadership — reminding audiences that success is built on courage, consistency, and connection. Themes of Empowerment Key themes that emerged from the discussion included: Breaking barriers:  Women leading with confidence and purpose in every industry. Balance and leadership:  Navigating personal and professional roles with intention. Collaboration over competition:  Empowering others through mentorship and shared success. Purpose-driven business:  Building enterprises that create lasting community impact. Lesedi Metsoamere’s warm and engaging hosting style created an uplifting environment where authentic stories inspired real connection and reflection. Let Them See You Shine The KZN Top Business Women initiative, presented by KZN Top Business, continues to celebrate women who lead with passion, innovation, and integrity. Each session in the series highlights women who are not only excelling in their careers but also making a positive difference in their communities. If you missed this empowering session, you can watch the full webinar here : Watch on YouTube Stay Connected Stay tuned for upcoming webinars and features as we continue to honour and showcase the women shaping KwaZulu-Natal’s business landscape.

The October Business Masterclass is back — and it’s shaping up to be one of the most impactful sessions yet. Join us at BMW Supertech Pinetown  on 23 October at 08:30  for a morning of learning, connection, and inspiration. These monthly Masterclass Mornings , hosted in partnership with BMW Supertech Pinetown  and ActionCOACH Mastery , have become a highlight for KZN’s business leaders. Each session brings together a dynamic mix of entrepreneurs and professionals who are passionate about growth, innovation, and success. What to Expect Expect powerful insights, practical tools, and real-world strategies that you can apply immediately in your business. Whether you’re a returning guest or attending for the first time, you’ll walk away energized, motivated, and ready for action. Meet the Speakers Annelize Oellerman – The Game Changer Topic: Human Performance Reset – The Science of Sustained Energy and Focus Discover science-backed tools to help you reclaim your energy, sharpen your focus, and lead with purpose. Annelize will guide you through practical steps to elevate your performance and sustain momentum — in business and beyond. Terry Flack – Cannect Digital Topic: Simplify and Systemise Your Digital Ecosystem, and Automate Your Sales Funnel Explore how automation, AI, and smarter digital systems can help you scale with ease. Terry will show you how to streamline your digital ecosystem, simplify your sales funnel, and free up valuable time to build deeper relationships with your clients. Why Attend The Masterclass isn’t just about learning — it’s about connecting. You’ll join a community of forward-thinking business owners and leaders who learn, share, and grow together. Book Your Seat Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insights that can reshape the way you lead and grow your business. Date:  23 October 2025 Venue:  BMW Supertech Pinetown Time:  08:30 To book or find out more, contact Silindile  at silindilemajozi@actioncoach.com . Special Offer:  Mention in your email — “Use code KZN Top Business”  — and your ticket is FREE .

The KZN Top Business Women 2025 Webinar, led by Lesedi Metsoamere, Executive Head of Private Wealth Banking for KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga, features twelve dynamic and influential businesswomen from KwaZulu-Natal. These outstanding leaders, included in the 40 KZN Top Business Women for 2025, discuss their journeys, challenges, and success strategies—providing both inspiration and practical advice on entrepreneurship, leadership, and community empowerment. Meet the Exceptional Women Sonali Menon Govender, Samantha Swanepoel, Shaleen Govender, Noeline Rajbally, Nontetho Smith, Masha Padayachi, Karen Hammond, Aneshree Naicker, Seshni Moodley, Thusie Pather, Mandisa Mazibuko, Seshme Holloway, Tracey Mclennan Key Takeaways Varied expertise: The panel covers a diverse array of industries such as law, ICT, hospitality, manufacturing, media, and logistics, showcasing a wide range of entrepreneurial experiences. Empowering programs: Many panelists have created mentorship, internship, and training initiatives aimed at supporting young professionals and empowering women. Personal resilience: These women openly share their experiences of overcoming personal loss, battling addiction, and breaking through gender barriers in male-dominated sectors. Community impact: Some are engaged in projects that assist vulnerable youth, support local artists, and create opportunities for women from disadvantaged backgrounds. Innovation emphasis: Leaders in law, technology, and business promote digital transformation, AI adoption, and global business expansion. Work-life alignment: Panelists emphasise the significance of balancing family, personal interests, and career objectives as the basis for enduring success. Call to action: Viewers are encouraged to find inspiration in these stories and to chase their goals with determination and intent. KZN Top Business Women 2025 Webinar

Durban is on the rise! The City has caught the attention of global retailer and e-commerce leader Alibaba Group, which is preparing to launch its African operations - with Durban chosen as the hub. This marks a major milestone for the City’s digital and economic development strategy. The announcement follows a high-level engagement between eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba and Alibaba’s international trade representatives at the company’s headquarters in Hangzhou, China. The discussions focused on positioning Durban as a key gateway for Africa’s participation in global e-commerce and digital trade. Durban’s strategic location — anchored by a world-class port, growing logistics infrastructure, and the King Shaka International Airport, played a central role in the City’s selection as Alibaba’s African launch hub. Mayor Xaba said the partnership puts Durban on the global map as Africa’s smart port city — connecting people, products, and innovation to the world. The collaboration is expected to create significant opportunities for local entrepreneurs, SMMEs, and start-ups, enabling them to access international markets through Alibaba’s online platform. In addition to trade access, the partnership will bring training, digital skills development, and entrepreneurship programmes, which all seek to support job creation and economic inclusion. The initiative is part of Durban’s broader internationalisation strategy, which includes strengthening ties with key Chinese cities. Durban recently signed a Letter of Intent with Xi’an, and maintains established relationships with Xiamen, Guangzhou, and Ningde. Mayor Xaba added that the engagement aligns with Durban’s vision of becoming a resilient, inclusive, and globally connected port city, capable of driving long-term economic growth and innovation. Durban has been chosen as the African hub for global retailer and e-commerce leader, Alibaba.

Durban, 16 October 2025 – Transnet CEO Michelle Phillips secured a major legal victory this week after the Durban High Court ruled in favour of the state-owned company’s plan to modernise a key section of South Africa’s busiest port. The ruling clears the path for International Container Terminal Services (ICTSI), a Filipino-based company, to proceed as the preferred bidder for the harbour upgrade and port management project. The project had faced significant delays after APM Terminals, a rival bidder owned by Danish shipping giant Maersk, filed an interdict challenging Transnet’s decision to award the contract to ICTSI. The legal dispute temporarily halted implementation, leaving a crucial infrastructure project in limbo. The court’s decision now allows Transnet to move forward with its plans, providing clarity and certainty for stakeholders involved. Phillips described the ruling as a “critical step forward” for the port and the broader South African economy. “This decision allows us to begin essential upgrades that will increase Durban’s capacity and efficiency, strengthening its role as a key gateway for trade in the region,” she said. The harbour upgrade project is expected to have far-reaching economic and operational benefits. Transnet has outlined plans to improve cargo handling systems, expand berthing facilities, and implement advanced terminal management technologies. These improvements aim to reduce congestion, streamline operations, and improve turnaround times for shipping companies, making Durban more competitive as a regional and international trading hub. The legal challenge by APM Terminals highlighted the highly competitive nature of port contracts and the importance of transparency and due process in awarding infrastructure projects. ICTSI, the awarded bidder, has extensive experience in terminal management across Asia, Europe, and the Americas, and its appointment is expected to bring international best practices to Durban’s operations. Economic analysts have noted that the port upgrades could stimulate job creation, attract additional investment, and support South Africa’s broader trade objectives. With Durban handling the bulk of the country’s container traffic, efficient port operations are crucial for supply chain reliability and for maintaining South Africa’s position in global trade networks. With the high court’s ruling, Transnet and ICTSI can now proceed with implementing the upgrades, signalling renewed momentum for one of the nation’s most strategically important infrastructure projects. Stakeholders, from shipping companies to local businesses, are watching closely as the improvements promise to unlock new trade opportunities and enhance South Africa’s competitive edge in global logistics.

AFRISAM CONCRETE SUPPORTS COMPLEX WATER TOWER PROJECT IN GAUTENG AfriSam is playing a pivotal role in the construction of one of Gauteng’s largest and most technically complex water towers, supplying specially designed readymix concrete to meet both structural and seismic performance requirements. Located near Main Reef Road south of Johannesburg, the 43 metre high water tower will store 3,2 mega litres of water to support the new Goudrand mega city development.   With construction led by M&D Construction and engineering design by SCIP Engineering Group, the project has demanded highly customised concrete solutions from AfriSam. The structure is located in a seismically active zone and required additional reinforcement in the lower section of the shaft to withstand ground acceleration above 0,1g. This called for increased steel density and a concrete mix that could deliver strength, flowability and controlled heat of hydration.   AfriSam’s Product Technical Team Leader, Mduduzi Ndlovu, explains that the concrete mix was developed with a high proportion of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) to reduce the heat generated during curing. “The base mix comprised 70% ground granulated blastfurnace slag (GGBS) and 30% AfriSam High Strength Cement, reducing the ordinary Portland cement (OPC) content to just 20%,” says Ndlovu. “Despite the low OPC content, the mix exceeded expectations - achieving the target strength of 51 MPa was achieved in only 28 days in relation to the designed 56 day requirement. ”   The construction process placed high demands on the readymix in terms of both slump control and delivery precision. With over 210 kg of rebar per cubic metre in some sections, AfriSam developed a high slump pump mix for vertical pours, while limiting slump to 130 mm for slanted sections to avoid concrete sliding off shuttering.   Sheldon Temlett, Contracts Manager at M&D Construction, highlights the importance of this mix performance. “With such dense steel and complex geometry, AfriSam’s mix gave us the workability we needed without compromising quality. Their team worked closely with us to adjust slump levels and plan deliveries around our 12 m³/hour pour rate.”   AfriSam Territory Manager Toni Williams adds that logistics were carefully aligned with construction progress to avoid delays or idle time on site. “Coordination was key to supporting M&D’s controlled rise rate of 1 metre per hour, especially as the concrete had to partially set before each formwork lift could proceed.”   Construction of the Main Reef water tower began in September 2024 and is scheduled for completion in April 2026. Once commissioned, it will provide essential water infrastructure to approximately 20,000 homes in the Goudrand housing development - a major project spearheaded by the Gauteng Department of Housing, the City of Johannesburg and Blue Print Housing.    Contact information On behalf of AfriSam www.afrisam.com Facebook : @AfriSamSA Twitter : @AfriSam LinkedIn : AfriSam   From Coralynne & Associates communicate@coralynne.co.za Twitter : @Coralynne_Assoc LinkedIn : Coral-Lynn Fraser-Campbell

Johannesburg, 16 October 2025 - Sappi has once again earned a place on the prestigious Forbes magazine and Statista World’s Best Employers list for 2025 (#289 globally and #5 in South Africa) as well as the World’s Top Companies for Women list for 2025 (#144 globally and #2 in South Africa). These recognitions reaffirm Sappi’s continued commitment to creating an inclusive, engaging and purpose-driven workplace - one where people feel valued, empowered and inspired to grow. The dual recognition highlights the company’s strong international standing, as well as its leadership within the local business landscape and across its sector. The World’s Best Employers list, compiled annually by Forbes magazine in partnership with Statista, draws on independent surveys from more than 300,000 employees across over 50 countries. Participants evaluate their employers on factors such as trust, leadership, career growth, diversity, and work-life balance, as well as willingness to recommend their employer to others. For the Top Companies for Women list, Forbes magazine and Statista independently survey over 120,000 women working for multinational corporations in more than 36 countries. Participants evaluated their employers on both general workplace practices as well as on gender-specific issues. In addition other companies were scored on public perceptions of their actions and attitude towards gender issues. Finally a leadership score was calculated based on women in executive and board positions. Commenting on the recognition for the global group, Steve Binnie, CEO Sappi Limited said: ”Such recognition is a testimony to our employees across the globe. Their actions, their attitude and their positive culture reflect our efforts to nurture a workplace that attracts exceptional talent, fosters innovation and strengthens its contribution to a thriving, sustainable world. Graeme Wild, CEO of Sappi Southern Africa, said: “This achievement is a celebration of our people - their dedication, their pride and their belief in what Sappi stands for. To be recognised among the world’s best and ranked second and fifth in South Africa is a tremendous honour. It validates our ongoing investment in leadership, inclusion, wellbeing and skills development, ensuring that Sappi remains a place where people thrive and contribute to something greater than themselves.” As Sappi approaches its 90th anniversary in 2026, this recognition reaffirms that the company’s journey - from a traditional forestry and paper organisation to a purpose-driven, diversified woodfibre business, is deeply rooted in the strength and passion of its people and their diversity. Sappi remains committed to unlocking the power of renewable resources and building a workplace that continues to inspire pride for generations to come. To read more about the lists, click here: https://www.forbes.com/lists/worlds-best-employers/ https://www.forbes.com/lists/top-companies-women/