In boardrooms and business circles, being asked to act as a trustee can feel like a mark of respect – a role offered out of trust and prestige. But make no mistake: trusteeship is no honorary title. It is a legal obligation with serious responsibilities and, increasingly, real risks. For decades, trusts have been used to hold family assets, protect wealth, and manage intergenerational planning. Often informal in practice, these vehicles were treated as little more than passive asset holders. Trustees – typically family friends, business associates, or advisors – were appointed with little thought and even less guidance. That era is ending. The law is catching up with casual trusteeship. Tax authorities are taking a closer look. Compliance obligations are tightening. And those who have accepted the role without understanding it are facing exposure. Trusteeship Is a Legal Role – Not a Favor At its core, a trust is a contract. T he trust deed sets out the rules, the powers, and the obligations that trustees must follow. Yet many trustees, particularly those appointed out of goodwill, never read the document. Fewer still understand that if the deed is drafted poorly or inflexibly, they could be stuck – unable to act without costly amendments or court approval. The fiduciary duty of a trustee is among the highest in law. Trustees must act in the best interest of all beneficiaries, impartially and diligently. They must maintain records, oversee f inancial statements, manage bank accounts, and ensure the trust is tax compliant. In most cases, the trustee serves as the trust’s public officer – meaning if tax filings are missed or errors are made, they are on the hook. And no, ignorance is not a defence. The Enforcement Tide Is Turning Until recently, the system was lenient. Many trusts went years – even decades – without proper administration, and nothing happened. But regulators are increasingly enforcing compliance, and when the knock comes, it is the trustee who answers the door. One of the most misunderstood requirements is the need for formal trustee meetings. At least once a year, trustees must gather to review the trust’s affairs, approve financial statements, and decide on distributions – all before year-end. Backdating distributions or acting months after the fact is not just bad practice; it’s unlawful. Tax Optimisation? Not Without Risk There’s a common perception that trusts offer easy tax benefits. Distribute income to low-income beneficiaries, lower the overall tax bill – simple. Not quite. Tax law, particularly Section 7, enables authorities to “look through” the trust and attribute income back to the person who originally contributed the assets – especially if distributions are made to minor children. While some tax efficiencies are still possible, each case must be assessed carefully. A misstep can cost far more than the tax saved. The Business Takeaway If someone asks you to become a trustee, think twice. Better yet, say no – unless you fully understand the commitment and are adequately compensated. This is not volunteer work. It’s a serious legal role with rising compliance burdens, personal liability, and reputational risk. And if you are setting up a trust, take professional advice from the outset. A poorly constructed trust deed is not just a nuisance – it can render the entire structure ineffective, or worse, non-compliant. Trusts remain useful tools in wealth planning and corporate structuring. But the casual approach to trusteeship belongs in the past. It’s time business leaders treated the role with the seriousness – and caution – it demands. And If your trust no longer serves its purpose and you are concerned about your obligations as a trustee it may be time to consider closing it. For more information contact: Alan Hockey: +27 (0)71 673 9937 or Brian Payne: +27 (0)83 309 1982 W: www.lemsystems.co.za

In the encouraging words of Ben Leyka, CEO, African Agri Council, “Market Access Africa 2025 is where Africa’s agri-food industry meets with global opportunity through its vision to unlock international and regional markets, empower agro-processing and smallholder farmers, and to accelerate Africa’s journey towards self-sufficiency in trade.” There is every truth in this statement of intent, as ministers from across the African continent, leading South African political influencers, large and small-scale farmers, youth, and industry service specialists converged at the ICC in Durban on 2-3 June 2025. Their collective goal was to hear about, speak about, and to forge collaborations to ensure the realisation of the conference’s purpose to: ■ Diversify Africa’s export landscape ■ Promote unique agricultural products ■ Enhance collaboration and coordination ■ Increase Africa’s global market share ■ Empower agro-processors and farmers Breadbasket of the World Africa, as echoed through dialogue throughout the conference, has the potential to be the breadbasket of the world, with some 60% of the world’s arable land. We ask, why then, do we have such extreme poverty and unemployment within the African continent? We have the ability to feed the whole world with nutritious fresh food, and through the expansion of the agriculture industry, to create large-scale employment opportunities. T he answer is not straight forward, but vast improvement on current conditions can be gained through our ability to unlock potential by harnessing technology, data, and innovative solutions that improve farming practices, foster collaboration among farmers, and meet international market standards for value chain expectations and food safety. By leveraging these tools and approaches, Africa can capitalise on its agricultural strengths, create employment opportunities, and drive economic growth.  Food safety and traceability are of course critical in creating the confidence consumers need to have to purchase agricultural products from South Africa and Africa. We in many circumstances do meet these exceptional international standards through our large scale farmers, whose operations are aligned with Global GAP Certification requirements. However, there is considerable opportunity to grow our agricultural production and exports through involving SMEs and micro business in agriculture value chains. Strong Demand for SA’s Exports South Africa’s agricultural exports are substantial, and reached a record high of USD 13,7 billion in 2024, driven by strong demand for citrus, wine, and nuts. South Africa’s largest trading partners are on the African continent, where 44% of its export produce is distributed. Other significant trading partners for South Africa are Middle East countries at 21% and the European Union at 19%. Top exports by value include citrus, maize, apples, pears, wine, nuts, soyabeans, sugar, grapes, berries, fruit juices, and avocados. To ensure healthy and productive farming and distribution practices within South Africa and on the continent, basic sustainability and ethical norms must be maintained. In particular, adherence to health and safety regulations, protection of the environment, complying with labour laws, maintaining business ethics, upholding animal welfare standards, ensuring traceability of products, and meeting food and safety standards, is required. Africa’s Trade Future The two-day Market Access Africa Conference consisted of plenary sessions and workshops, where insights, experience, innovation and guidance were shared. John Steenhuisen, minister of agriculture and land reform, while contributing to a panel discussion on harmonising agricultural standards, reiterated the importance of a united, integrated, and self-sufficient agricultural sector in South Africa and Africa. Minister Steenhuisen further highlighted Africa’s trade future in a compelling keynote address, outlining South Africa’s strategic vision as chair of the G20 Agriculture Working Group. He noted four key priorities driving South Africa’s agriculture agenda: ■ Inclusion of smallholder farmers, women, and youth ■ Accelerated innovation and technology transfer ■ Resilient and sustainable food systems ■ Fair global financing for African producers The minister said, “It is not about aid, it’s about equity. It’s about unlocking Africa’s full agricultural potential.” The minister called for a reimagined African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) that empowers African SMEs and firmly challenges non-tariff barriers that hinder growth and market access. The minister said that South Africa will continue to lead efforts focused on blended finance and de-risking of agricultural investments, by supporting export ready infrastructure, facilitating regional integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and ensuring a united African voice in global food system reform. Accessing Global Markets Moore Global, a specialist accounting and advisory firm, facilitated two panel discussions as a knowledge partner. Stan Whiting, a business development specialist, explored global value chains, focusing on retail and food manufacturing. Meanwhile, Jeff Blackbeard, director of markets, moderated a discussion on farmers’ challenges and successes in accessing global markets. Jeff highlighted the importance of understanding tariffs, incentives, investment, AI, and market access for farmers. He noted, “African agriculture is transforming through digitisation, sustainability, and market innovation.” With a network of member firms across Africa, Moore Global offers deep insights into local agricultural markets and supply chains. Their expertise can support farmers and businesses in navigating complex global value chains. SME compliance, governance and sustainability service providers, DRG and BusinessFit ran a workshop for emerging farmers speaking about the importance of ensuring compliance and governance in the creation of sustainable business and markets. Nothando Khanyile spoke about Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) certification, describing each of the steps needing to be followed to gain such accreditation. Emerging farmers found these contributions on adherence to rules, regulations, and standards essential in helping them to better understand their enterprise’s compliance and risk mitigation requirements, and their responsibility to meet stakeholders’ expectations. “Compliance and governance are not just about ticking boxes,” said Andrew Kruger, CFO at DRG, “but about doing what is right to protect people, the planet, and the reputation of the agri industry.” A strong theme emerging from the contributions of each panel and workshop was the enormous importance of food security, especially in an Africa context, where the population is expected to grow from its current estimate in 2025 of 1.5 billion people to 2.5 billion people in 2050. Knowledge was shared at the conference, building confidence that it is quite possible for Africa to meet its fast-growing demand for food, by analysing successes of small scale farmers in countries like Kenya, using drones, agronomists, soil specialists, and through the sharing of relevant data. Aggregation hubs were considered essential in helping to manage legitimacy requirements across supply chains, where for example large-scale farmers, through their localisation and industry controls, could give small, medium, and micro business the opportunity to contribute their produce into value chains that are able to help them meet compliance expectations, and to benefit financially through their contributions. The conference was a huge success, and left participants and delegates feeling inspired by the level of commitment, purpose and ability at every level of the agriculture value chain. From farmers to service suppliers, to government officials and policy makers, there was a sense that not only our own African food security needs will be met through cooperation, technology and effective use of our arable land, but we as Africans have the ability, through our farmers and value chains, to feed the world. Big ‘Thank-You’s’ were shared with the African Agri Council and the Market Access Africa conference team, in particular with Programme Chair Dr Gostina Gabby Malope and Programme Director Zimkhitha Mquteni-Mabanga. The African Agri Council, African Agri Investment Indaba, will take place on the 23-26 November 2025 in Cape Town. DRG, BusinessFit, and SA Chamber UK Contact David White T: +27 (0)31 767 0625 E: david@drg.co.za W: www.drg.co.za

SKY TENTS’ PEG AND POLE TENT COMBO DEALS There’s something magical about hosting an event outdoors in winter – crisp air, clear skies, and the chance to create a warm, inviting space your guests will never forget. This June, Sky Tents is making it easier than ever to bring your winter event dreams to life with their exclusive combo deals on Peg and Pole Tents and chairs – available for a limited time only! Whether you’re planning a winter wedding, birthday celebration, church gathering, or community event, these Peg and Pole Tents provide the perfect blend of classic elegance, practical comfort, and unbeatable value. As one of Durban’s leading tent manufacturers, Sky Tents delivers top-quality, locally made tents that stand strong through all weather conditions – rain, wind, or shine. WHY CHOOSE PEG AND POLE TENTS FOR YOUR WINTER EVENT? ■ Budget-friendly elegance: Peg and Pole Tents are among the most affordable event tent options, making them a popular choice for all kinds of functions. ■ Weather-ready comfort: With strong anchoring from ground pegs and poles, plus optional window panels and sidewalls, your tent stays warm and cozy, even during chilly evenings. ■ Spacious and versatile: The wide-open interiors allow you to customise your layout and décor freely – ideal for creating stunning photo moments and unforgettable guest experiences. ■ Simple setup and transport: These tents are easy to assemble, dismantle, and store – perfect for quick turnarounds and remote locations. Crafted from durable canvas or high-grade PVC, the tents are available in a variety of sizes and colours, with options for custom branding and add-on accessories like rain gutters, pole skirts, draping, portable flooring, and even mobile gas stoves. Sky Tents understands that every event is unique. That’s why they offer tailor-made tent solutions to suit your vision – whether it’s a romantic garden wedding, an upbeat festival, or a corporate celebration under the stars. Don’t miss your chance to save this June with their limited-time combo offers on Peg and Pole Tents and chairs. Create a warm, stylish atmosphere for your guests to gather and celebrate – contact the Sky Tents sales team today to secure your winter event setup while stocks last! Kindly note that all tents are for sale only. For more information contact: A: 47 Westmead Road, Pinetown T: +27 (0)31 700 2863 C: +27 (0)76 929 2609 W: www.skytentsa.co.za

It takes years to build a brand, but without proper training of staff, it can take a second to destroy it all! Heartbeat Training Academy, established in 2013, offers Health and Safety Compliance accredited training and consulting to companies and organisations. Workplace health and safety is very important in South Africa for legal reasons, impacting worker well-being, preventing workplace injuries, enhancing business productivity, and how this impacts the environment and the economy. The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) 1993 mandates a safe working environment, and failure to comply can lead to significant penalties for all companies and all sectors. The OHSA aims to prevent injuries, illnesses, and fatalities in the workplace, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for all employees. Businesses have an obligation to prioritise the well-being of their employees, creating a culture of safety and respect. The OHSA is a legal requirement, and non-compliance can result in fines, legal action, and reputational risk damage. retaining both employees and customers. Societal Impact: Protecting workers’ rights and ensuring their safety contributes to social stability and reduces inequality. CEOs are often busy with their day-to-day business activities and leadership of their organisations or companies. They need to be aware that health and safety forms a pivotal role to enhance the business benefits. It is also important to understand that employees need to know what to do in case of an emergency. What are the Business Benefits of OHS training? Increased Productivity: A safe and healthy workplace fosters a positive environment, leading to increased productivity and reduced absenteeism of skilled or operational staff. Reduced Costs: Fewer accidents and injuries mean lower workers’ compensation claims, reduced downtime, retraining new staff in the work area and fewer legal liabilities. Better Work Performance: When employees feel safe and valued, their morale and job satisfaction increase. Attraction and Retention: Businesses with a strong commitment to health and safety are seen as responsible and trustworthy, attracting and In essence, workplace health and safety in South Africa is not just a legal requirement, but an important aspect of responsible business practice, contributing to both individual well-being and broader societal benefits. Contact us today for: ■ First Aid ■ Fire Training ■ Consulting ■ Medicals ■ Workshops, we have over 100 trainings offered to companies and organisations in groups. ■ Onsite training T: +27 (0)84 723 2771 / +27 (0)67 132 2940 WhatsApp: +27 (0)74 461 3719 / +27 (0)84 011 6596 E: heartbeattraining@live.com W: www.heartbeattraining.net

ENTRIES ARE OPEN FOR THE ENTREPRENEUR 2025 The Entrepreneur 2025 has taken off! The iLembe Chamber launched the 15th edition of its flagship business accelerator programme, celebrating the empowerment of local entrepreneurs and the building of resilient businesses. This year’s launch included the release of a programme impact study, and inspiring success stories from past winners. This impactful annual competition is designed to elevate local entrepreneurs, build lasting impact, and unlock real growth. Selected business owners are required to participate in a ten week entrepreneurial development programme endorsed by the University of KwaZulu-Natal presented in partnership with Enterprise iLembe, Airports Company South Africa, The (UKZN), which include tuition and mentorship. The programme will commence on 26 July 2025 and will run until October 2025. Competition winners will be judged on the perceived potential of their businesses, programme participation and attendance, as well as the quality of the business plan submitted. T he programme is proudly North Coast Courier, Siza Water, AVON Peaking Power, and ENGIE Peakers Operations. Aspiring entrepreneurs can enter the competition by completing an application form available from The Entrepreneur website at www.theentrepreneur.net.za . Entry forms are also available from the iLembe Chamber offices or various entry box locations across the district. For more information, contact Sakhile Khumalo on +27 (0)87 354 6343 or sakhile@ilembechamber.co.za . Ashaylan Naidoo, Natasha James, Kay Govender (ENGIE Peakers Operations), Nkosinathi Myataza (Airports Company South Africa/@King Shaka International Airport), Thabani Mdlalose (Mandeni Local Municipality Mayor), Ntokozo Ntuli (Siza Water), Fanele Mazibuko (Enterprise iLembe), Pieter Naude (The North Coast Courier). Here’s to another year of growth, innovation, and opportunity!

A new player has entered the local tech scene with ambitions to bridge the gap between business needs and technology. Fusion Data was founded in 2024 by information technology (IT) professional Sbusiso Maphumulo. Sbu brings a pragmatic and experienced approach to information technology services, drawing on his eight years of work across various sectors in the industry. The company aims to provide organisations with accessible, well-integrated IT solutions that support operational efficiency and digital growth. Fusion Data’s services span a wide range, from software development and cybersecurity to data analysis and IT consulting, reflecting the growing demand for versatile technology partners in an increasingly digital economy. “Technology is evolving quickly, and many businesses are trying to keep up while managing day-to day operations,” says Sbu. “Our goal at Fusion Data is to provide support that’s practical, scalable, and aligned with each client’s unique objectives.” Fusion Data operates with a collaborative model, working closely with clients to better understand their workflows, goals, and pain points. The company emphasizes customisation and client input rather than one-size fits-all solutions. A Broad Range of Services Fusion Data’s offerings include: ■ Network Management – Installation and management of LANs and WANs ■ Cybersecurity Services – Security assessments, penetration testing, and threat protection ■ IT Consulting – Strategic advice on IT planning, systems, and process optimization ■ Data Analysis & Business Intelligence – Insights through data visualization and reporting tools ■ Database Management – Design and maintenance of secure database systems ■ Technical Support & Help Desk – Troubleshooting and user support services ■ IT Project Management – Managing IT-related projects from start to finish ■ IT Training & Education – Skills development programs for individuals and teams ■ Disaster Recovery & Continuity Planning – Business resilience strategies ■ Hardware Sales & Support – Provision and maintenance of IT equipment and infrastructure The company positions itself as a technology partner rather than a conventional vendor, highlighting its interest in long term client relationships and sustainable growth. Sbu is currently focused on building Fusion Data’s client base in South Africa and exploring regional partnerships. As businesses of all sizes navigate digital transformation, the company believes its mix of expertise, flexibility, and hands on support will resonate in the local market. For more information, visit www.fusiondata.co.za

We used to spot fraudsters easily, bad spelling, dodgy email addresses, and a tone that blatantly shouted out “scam”. Unfortunately, that’s all changed. Today’s criminals are polished, patient, and increasingly professional, like any other professional, that is their job and they do it well and they are targeting South African businesses and they’re getting it right. This isn’t just about a few phishing emails landing in a junk folder. It’s a coordinated digital assault, and if you or your employees are handling company payments, procurement, or approvals, then, take this as your early warning siren. T he New Face of Fraud The scams we’re seeing now are smart. Criminals are building fake digital identities that mimic legitimate suppliers, partners, and even internal staff. They hijack email threads mid-conversation, they spoof phone numbers, they research company hierarchies and patiently wait for the right moment to strike. Just last month, I spoke to a medium-sized logistics firm that lost over R1.2 million to a “CEO scam”. The finance administrator received an urgent, well-worded email, appearing to come from the company director, authorising payment to a new supplier. Everything looked legit, but it wasn’t. Why Your Business Is a Target Whether you’re a small business with a bookkeeper or a large firm with a full finance department, the vulnerabilities are the same. Cybercriminals aren’t just targeting banks; they primarily go after businesses and people that use banks. And in most cases, they are relying on one thing, human error. Key Red Flags to Watch Out For Here are some practical signs and behaviours to watch out for, these should trigger immediate caution: 1. Changes to banking details via email Always treat changes to bank account numbers or payment instructions as highly suspicious. Verify with a phone call to a familiar person in the company on the formal company telephone number and request a bank verification letter directly from this person, not the address in the email. 2. Unusual urgency or secrecy If you’re being pressured to make a quick payment or “keep this confidential”, step back. Fraudsters prey on rushed decision making. 3. Slight changes in email addresses Example: info@company.com vs. info@c0mpany.com – that’s a zero, not an “o”. These subtle changes can be hard to spot at a glance. 4. Unfamiliar or inconsistent writing tone Even if the name is familiar, is the tone of the message off? Does your “boss” or “supplier” suddenly sound like someone else or strange? 5. Inbound calls claiming to be from your bank or supplie r Never share account numbers, OTPs, or authorise transactions on a call you didn’t initiate. If you have even the slightest doubt, don’t be influenced to do it, hang up. Simple, Actionable Safeguards ■ Train your staff, especially those in finance, procurement, and HR. They need to know the latest tactics. ■ Use multi-factor authentication on all sensitive accounts. ■ Set up dual approval for high- value transactions. ■ Regularly review email and cybersecurity protocols. Consider professional penetration testing or simulated phishing campaigns. ■ Report suspicious emails and fraud attempts to your bank and to the Southern African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS). This Isn’t Just IT’s Problem Cyber fraud isn’t just a technology issue; it’s a huge business risk issue. Whether you’re running a small manufacturing business in KZN or a national retail chain, one small error can lead to devastating financial loss and reputational damage. Take the time to review and reassess your processes. Make fraud awareness part of your workplace culture. And always trust your gut instincts, if something doesn’t seem right, it probably isn’t. T: +27 (0)31 109 1888 E: care@mobiventures.co.za W: www.mobiventures.co.za

Picture a familiar scenario: a business owner walks into our offices, ready to sell. We ask: “What’s your ideal sale price, and when would you like to exit?” A typical answer might be: “I’d like to get (for instance) R20 million and exit in six months.” Then reality hits. We arrange a valuation and do a business assessment. Often, the business is worth only a fraction of the owner’s expectation – especially if it can’t operate without him/her. If the owner can’t or won’t stay on, the value drops even further. But this isn’t just a problem for those looking to sell. It’s just as relevant for business owners who want to scale, franchise, or one day hand the business over to their kids. At the heart of it all lies a powerful truth: truly successful business is “A Commercial, Profitable Enterprise that Works Without You.” And building that takes time – typically two to three years of focused effort. Not just improving profitability but putting in the systems that let your team run the business independently – and prove to a buyer that he/she can do it too. Even if you have no plans to sell now, why not make your business sellable anyway? Let it start delivering on the freedom and lifestyle you dreamed of when you started it. What Does It Mean to Build a Business That Works Without You? It’s all about Systems, because without them, consistency suffers – and without consistency, growth is chaotic or unsustainable. A great example? McDonald’s. Love or hate their burgers, find those golden arches anywhere in the world and you can expect the same core experience: fast service, clean bathrooms, an affordable menu you recognise, and kid friendly spaces. You don’t need to be consistently the best. You just need to be the best at being consistent. Reality Check: You’re Already Flying the Plane Most of our clients don’t start with a clean slate and bottomless launch funding. They’re already trading, already busy – doing “running repairs” while flying the plane. And that’s okay. You may already have parts of your systems in place – some on paper, some in a laptop, some in someone’s head. Now’s the time to centralise, document, digitise, and refine. The 9-step roadmap we use to help owners systematise their business. THE 9 STEPS TO SYSTEMISING YOUR BUSINESS 1. Vision Statement Your “big picture” – the dent (as Steve Jobs put it) that you want to make in the universe. A great vision enrols your team and customers, and inspires them on tough days. 2. Mission Statement The roadmap to your vision: what you sell, who you serve, what kind of people you hire, and what makes you different, special or better. 3. Values Statement The behaviours you expect. This is your culture blueprint. Remember: “Culture eats strategy for breakfast.” 4. SMART Goals Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Results-driven and Time-bound. Start with your five-year objectives and work back to this quarter. 5. Organisation Chart A visual of your current and future team structure. Update and circulate/publish regularly – especially when people join, leave, or change roles. 6. Position Contracts More than a job description – include duties, personal attributes, key skills, and what success in that role looks like. 7. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Three to four metrics per role that bring objectivity and accountability. No more guesswork on performance. 8. How-To Systems Your operational backbone – checklists, forms, policies, videos, training and induction guides, signage and manuals. 9. Management Systems Where do all these systems live? Use cloud tools (Dropbox, SharePoint, OneDrive and YouTube) and chat to your IT provider for help on your preferred platform and keeping things secure and organised. Final Thought: Start Now Systemising takes time – but the Return of Investment (ROI) is exponential. In our world, we call this Leverage: Do the work once, get paid forever And it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right guidance, systemising can be energising and empowering for the team. Need a Second Pair of Eyes? If this article got you thinking, I’d be happy to help. We offer a complimentary consult to business owners serious about building “legacy businesses” – operations that can outlive the owner. LET’S EXPLORE WHAT’S POSSIBLE. To your success: T: +27 (0)31 266 2258 E: mastery@actioncoach.com W: www.mastery.co.za

Mental health continues to be a very important topic to me, and I have written several articles, done webinars and have counselled a number of people, both in the workplace and outside of the workplace.The reality of the impact of mental health in the workplace is staggering, and businesses must take action to avoid its major impact on their profitability. I run a programme for managers, including HR managers, which I believe will make a huge difference in dealing with the challenge of mental health in the workplace. These are a few points from an article, by Dave Ulrich, a well known Rensis Likert Professor at the Ross School of Business, University of Michigan, and a partner at The RBL Group, a consulting firm focused on helping organisations and leaders deliver value. According to Ulrich, “The world is increasingly chaotic with a host of unpredictable disruptions in technology (AI), political actions, social trends, environmental sustainability, and economic uncertainty. With this continuing chaos, we aren’t surprised that mental health has become a primary concern for society, organisations, leadership and individuals along many dimensions. These mental health concerns impact how people and organizations operate.” Ulrich further suggests the need to make progress on this problem, and to develop definite actions to deal with this. These suggestions apply to business managers and HR leaders as well as individuals struggling with mental health concerns. One of my concerns is the ability or even the capacity of managers to manage the mental health of their employees, given the number of other business objectives they need to meet. My favourite headline, from a programme run by Heathrow in the United Kingdom, is for managers to “Catch employees before they fall” – a module in their training programme for their managers. The illustration (Figure 1) Ulrich outlines ‘Mental Health Concerns’ that are vital for businesses to take note of. Mental Health at Work Previous articles written by me in Business Sense publications have also outlined information contained in Ulrich’s article on the impact of mental health at work. These articles emphasised the cost of depression and anxiety to the business. According to Ulrich: ■ Poor well-being lowers productivity and increases turnover, absenteeism, and medical costs, as well as costing organisations 15-20 percent of total payroll.  ■ The cost of mental illness and related consequences is projected to rise to $6 trillion globally by 2030 (up from $2.5 trillion in 2010). ■ Loneliness affects 58 percent of the U.S. population. Adults are two to five times more likely to miss work, costing R154 billion annually. Because mental health is an important topic to me, I have done some work on this area – in webinars, in face-to-face counselling and in telephonic counselling, and I am now doing niche training for managers and HR managers in business. According to Ulrich, stress affects employees at all levels. Ninety-eight percent of leaders and senior managers find their jobs stressful in some way; 38 percent of frontline employees say they are stressed at work at least half of the time; and 41 percent feel emotionally drained from their work. He further explains that Gallup reports a ten year low in employee engagement, especially due to unmet expectations and inadequate caring and development. Men’s Mental Health Another challenge that is emerging is specifically that of men’s mental health and asking them to “man up” is not the answer. Research from around the world has found that males everywhere are reluctant to talk about their mental health and are more likely to die by suicide than females due to mental health issues. Situational stressors have been identified as playing a major role in suicide deaths among males, many of whom do not have a documented history. In 2022, the American Journal of Public Health Trusted Source, published a review of studies dealing with the societal stigma surrounding mental illness. The journal reported that men who internalised this stigma were less likely to get help for their psychological issues. Further research suggests that men who experience depression may self-medicate with alcohol and other substances. However, this can exacerbate their issues and put them at risk of other health conditions. This article and others have all just touched the tip of the iceberg of this problem for business, which impacts their employee wellbeing and their business profitability, and further stresses the importance of training our leaders in this topic. Conclusion and Implications According to Ulrich, mental health improvement requires both a set of actions and a focused state of mind. They have to embark on actions for affected employees in their care, but perhaps even more so for managers and HR professionals who are often the mental health caregivers or the “first responders” for others. All should invest in mental health by engaging in actions that enable us to overcome being overwhelmed.” The training programme presented by me will assist both HR practitioners and managers to improve their ability to manage mental health in the workplace. Contact Jacquie to book: C: +27 (0)83 386 8343 E: Jacquie.bhana@mbhana.co.za W: www.jacquiebhana.co.za

In major centres like Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pretoria and the KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast, there’s a big move towards rentals with more and more people choosing to be more flexible with their location by renting. That opens the door for investors to build up property portfolios offering consistent income and long-term returns, according to Tyson Properties CEO, Chris Tyson. Not only does this open the way for property investors but presents an opportunity for real estate agents to pivot and fill the gap. To keep pace with the emerging rental class, Tyson Properties is making a concerted effort to establish vibrant rental portfolios within their group. Although Statistics SA indicated that, after a strong resurgence in the growth of rental income during 2023 and 2024, increases are plateauing in 2025, the PayProp Annual Rental Index for 2024 suggests that increases in rentals will remain above inflation in 2025. However, lucrative rentals tend to be location specific and Stephen Adamo, rental manager for Cape Town’s Southern Suburbs, estimates that the city’s market continues to grow year on year, with rental escalations hovering between 8 and 10% due to stock shortages and high demand. “In this region, you know that you will be purchasing in a very robust housing market. With the sheer demand in Cape Town, you will always have access to the best tenants. In most cases, landlords have multiple offers for each property,” he says. Head of rentals nationally and Gauteng and KZN director, Murray Haywood, says the volatility of the South African economy means that both experienced and newcomer landlords should guard against risk by working closely with credible entities such as Tyson Properties that have substantial experience when it comes to up-to-date lease agreements, conducting thorough background credit checks on renters and agents consistently focusing on selecting both good potential rental properties for investors and matching them with reliable tenants. One of the biggest concerns for landlords is the risk of tenants defaulting and the need for eviction. However, Tyson Properties’ works with Eviction Secure to help protect landlords, explains Dee Thomas, rentals training manager and property practitioner at Tyson Properties Johannesburg. Developed by Matt Smit of Van Deventer & Van Deventer Incorporated, Eviction Secure protects landlords from the costly legal fees that typically can exceed R30,000.* 10 DO AND DON’T S FOR LANDLORDS 1. Get the numbers right: Work closely with an experienced real estate agency to select a suitable property and then do your sums. The overall objective is to price your rental competitively after researching the market and area trends. Take into account bond repayments and running costs and even add a contingency to cover any potential maintenance. Factor in potential savings, including the new transfer threshold which enables investors to purchase a property under R1.21-million without paying transfer duties. 2. Focus on cash flow: Prioritise properties that generate consistent rental income, providing a potential financial cushion during downturns. Avoid over borrowing. Aim for lower loan-to-value ratios that reduce the risk of interest rate hikes. 3 . Use an agency: Good vetting is vital and an agency is the perfect way to do this says Adamo: “Get them to do thorough credit and background checks and a move in inspection report, manage the property and even deal with maintenance and issue letters of demand if a tenant is a late or non- payer. That outsources the emotional connection to the tenant.” An agency will also provide a lease agreement that clearly outlines payment terms, maintenance duties, and rules. 4. Aim low: “In the current market, the numbers must make sense. A buyer needs to do a full due diligence before purchasing a property. When it comes to price points, you get an immediate return on lower end properties in good locations,” says Adamo. 5. Focus on location: Good quality tenants want to live in the right neighbourhoods, especially when it comes to amenities. Adamo says the rentals with proximity to top schools, shopping, restaurants, gyms and strong security are in high demand. 6. Be open to opportunities: Economic uncertainty can deliver foreclosures and motivated buyers who have the liquidity to snap up a bargain. Don’t discount renovating homes in good locations – often homes on the market need no more than a cosmetic upgrade. 7. Match tenants and lifestyle: According to Adamo, renting is the perfect way to adapt to changing lifestyle needs. Make sure your investment property meets general trends in a specific area - you don’t want to try rent out a one or two bedroom property in a family neighbourhood. Luxury properties are also rentable. Those looking to live in a R15 million plus property might wish to save on bond repayments of around R150 000 and instead pay a rental of around R50 000 to R100 000 to invest in other avenues. 8. Maintenance makes sense: A landlord who is invested in his property and has a good track record of looking after it and doing repairs within a reasonable timeframe always benefits. Adamo says tenants are happy to settle for a well maintained older property. Regular upkeep attracts and retains quality and long term tenants. So, conduct regular inspections and proactively ensure that all is well ahead of tenant alerts. 9. Consider Rental Insurance: Protect yourself from damages and loss of income. 10. Weigh up short term versus long term lets: Each have pros and cons says Adamo. Short term rentals might attract higher incomes over shorter periods but are extremely seasonal. In addition, larger numbers using a property during shorter times could mean more expensive wear and tear. Instead, investors can benefit from longer term rentals as they are stable and predictable. For more information visit www.tysonprop.co.za *More About Eviction Secure One of the biggest concerns for landlords is the risk of tenants defaulting and the subsequent need for eviction. However, Dee Thomas, rentals training manager and property practitioner at Tyson Properties Johannesburg, explains that even this scenario is covered. Eviction Secure, developed by Matt Smit of Van Deventer &Van Deventer Incorporated, which has handled numerous evictions, protects landlords from the legal costs associated with evicting a defaulting tenant. Eviction Secure is a membership based solution for property owners, providing peace of mind to landlords and ensuring the terms of the lease agreement are upheld,” explains Dee. Tyson Properties includes Eviction Secure as an added service, at no cost to the landlord, as part of all managed lease agreements. This service covers the legal fees to obtain an eviction order which can typically exceed R30,000. Landlords who choose a Procurement Lease Agreement with Tyson, can also subscribe to Eviction Secure at a cost of only R150 per month

Russell Curtis, representing Invest Durban, recently shared insights into the city’s bold steps toward inner city rejuvenation. Speaking passionately about the transformation underway, Curtis outlined both the vision and the tangible progress being made in downtown Durban. “It’s no secret that every city goes through its heyday, and then certain parts of bigger cities go into various forms of decline,” he explained. “But those then become platforms of opportunity for people with vision and determination to grab hold of that latent value, that embedded opportunity, to reinvest, double down on the efforts, and then ride the upside of capital appreciation. The same is happening right now with the broader CBD of Durban.” Curtis provided context about the size and scope of the city. “For those who don’t know, our city, the eThekwini metropolitan region, it’s about two and a half thousand square kilometres, with four and a half million people and 100 kilometres of golden beaches on the Indian Ocean.” A central focus of the inner-city efforts has been the revitalisation of the beachfront. “Many would know of the Golden Mile. It’s actually not a mile. It’s nearly ten kilometres now that we’ve built a world-class, well-lit and safe promenade from the Umgeni River all the way through to the Durban harbour mouth,” he said. The city and business leadership are determined to harness the potential of this prime area. “The current administration has reconfirmed this is the golden goose. In fact, it’s the golden heart of the golden goose. So, we have to double down on our efforts to clean the feathers, to feed the goose, and to have her laying golden eggs every single day.” To this end, the city has established Inner City Regeneration (ICR) work streams. “We as the executives are sitting every single Tuesday afternoon, sometimes past dinner time, much to the chagrin of our families. But it’s for a good cause, working on all of the key issues in that inner city regeneration,” said Curtis. “Whether it be the beachfront, crime issues, homelessness, derelict buildings, public sanitation facilities, pavement maintenance, or parks and greening. We have over a dozen work streams focusing on that inner city regeneration.” Some of our ardent critics have now been posting positively and regularly on social media, endorsing the visible and sustained improvements. “One of the terms some Durbanites may have heard in this process is the ‘Woza Basket’ of investments – ‘woza’ meaning come, come and see what we’ve got in our inner-city basket of investment opportunities. Currently, one of the standout projects is the proposed massive redevelopment along the CBD Port edge, the various small craft harbours – these to become a truly world-class Durban Bay Marina experience,” Curtis said. He described the marina as the interface between Durban’s skyline and the working harbour. “It is where we have the yacht mall, the yachting clubs, the motorised yachts, and the Port Harbour Master’s area where the tugs boats are. We’ve been through a planning exercise with visionary architects and are engaging with current inner-city investors and property redevelopers.” The new Durban Bay Marina is part of a broader vision that links to the MSC-Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal, and around to the elevated promenade on the Indian Ocean. “It’s a complete link from the Umgeni mouth, which will ultimately come around the Durban harbour, past the cruise line terminal, and then link up all the way along what some might know as Victoria Embankment, now renamed Margaret Mncadi Avenue.” Curtis highlighted recent international recognition. “We just returned from the Global Superyacht Congress in Tuscany, Italy. The International Marinas Association was also present. We invited them to Durban last year just to come and have a look, and when they came, they were blown away. So much so, they invited Durban to be the sole city profiled at the Superyacht Congress, stating they really want to partner with us in transforming the new Durban Bay Marina.” A 3D flyover of the project has already been created by international and local partners. “It allows one to start dreaming – like the Dubai Marina times five, actually,” Curtis remarked. He emphasised that this is not merely a dream. “We have very real interest from those who want to use it from a tourism, leisure, and hospitality perspective, as well as from those who want to invest in the commerce and industry aspects of marina development.” Curtis also pointed out a growing trend among CBD investors. “There is now Courtesy of eThekwini Municipality Courtesy of eThekwini Municipality significant competition amongst those investors trying to find the worst buildings they can, to acquire them, turn them around, and reinvest in downtown Durban. Investment actions are like “herd mentality”. Once one or two come, then the herd takes notice and starts moving in the same, good direction.” Curtis closed with a call to action and a vision for the future. “It’s around partnerships. We need to continue to remain servant-hearted, humble, thinking of others more highly than ourselves. We need to push the boundaries of being efficient, impactful, and getting traction in those spaces – for our children’s benefit and our grandchildren’s benefit.” As the city of Durban continues its journey of rejuvenation, Curtis left one final thought: “Watch this CBD space.” Russell Curtis E: Russell.Curtis@durban.gov.za W: www.invest.durban | www.durban.gov.za

The KwaZulu-Natal Industrial Technology Exhibition (KITE) 2025 isn’t just an exhibition – it’s a powerhouse of industry collaboration. By aligning with reputed and recognised industry bodies such as the South African Institution of Mechanical Engineering (SAIMechE), the Lifting Equipment Engineering Association of SA (LEEASA), the South African Capital Equipment Export Council (SACEEC), the Society for Automation, Instrumentation, Mechatronics and Computer Engineering (SAIMC), and the Production Technologies Association of South Africa (PtSA), KITE ensures that visitors and exhibitors gain access to authoritative insights, technical expertise, and high-impact networking opportunities. “These partnerships elevate the exhibition from a standard trade show to a dynamic knowledge sharing platform, where the latest industry trends, regulatory updates, and technological advancements take centre stage,” says Charlene Hefer, portfolio director at specialised exhibitions – a division of Montgomery Group. For exhibitors, this alignment enhances credibility and exposure, offering direct engagement with decision makers, industry influencers, and regulatory leaders. Visitors benefit from exclusive access to seminars, conferences, and live competitions that provide practical solutions, expert guidance, and hands on experience with the latest innovations. “By fostering these strategic relationships, KITE 2025 solidifies its position as a must attend event where industries don’t just showcase progress – they shape the future together,” adds Hefer. KITE has been serving the KwaZulu-Natal region for 48 years, consistently bringing current industrial technology to the local market. Visitors will not only be able to find solutions that will improve productivity; increase worker satisfaction, wellbeing and safety; and increase sustainability efforts in an ever changing economy, but various visitor attractions make a visit to the expo a priority. ■ Free-to-attend SAIMechE Seminar Theatre – A well- rounded three-day seminar programme provides a wealth of information on current industry trends and regulations. ■ LEEASA Lifting Conference – This one-day conference is a valuable source of information for people working in the lifting industry. ■ LEEASA Forklift Operator Competition – Launching this year, this event focuses on the skills of leading forklift operators. ■ New Products and Innovations Awards – co-hosted by SACEEC (South African Capital Equipment Export Council) and judged by Eric Bruggeman, CEO of SACEEC – the awards recognise excellence and innovation in both local and international industrial technology product design. “There is so much to see at KITE, and with exhibitors running ongoing live demonstrations, visitors can see solutions in action before making a purchasing decision. We encourage visitors to pre-register on the KITE website – www.kznindustrial.co.za – to avoid queues at the expo. The website is also a valuable source of updated information on the seminar sessions,” says Hefer. To book a stand or a sponsorship package at KITE 2025, speak to Steven Burmeister – steven.burmeister@montgomerygroup.com