The purpose behind contempt proceedings is to secure compliance with court orders.   Contempt of court occurs when an individual or entity wilfully disobeys or shows disrespect to a court’s order, disrupting the administration of justice. This played out quite famously in Secretary, Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture v Zuma and Others 2021 (5) SA 327 (CC) which made history in finding a former President of the Republic of South Africa in contempt of court and sentencing him to a period of incarceration. In labour law, contempt of labour court refers to an employer’s failure to comply with court orders related to employment disputes, labour violations, and even settlements. This contempt can lead to severe legal consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and the inevitable damage to the employer’s reputation.   Johan van Deventer - Directors May Face Possible Jail Time In the recent case of Raubenheimer v Commission For Conciliation Mediation and Arbitration and Others (J424/24) [2024] ZALCJHB 340 handed down on 21 August 2024, the Labour Court found the company (and its directors) guilty of contempt of court for their non-adherence to a CCMA award and ordered them to effect the payment and actions of the contested arbitration award, or failing to do so, that the directors of the company be sentenced to a period of 30 days imprisonment each.   So, what leads to such an occurrence? Where an employer has failed to comply with an award issued by the CCMA or a Bargaining Council, the employee may either approach the CCMA or the Bargaining Council (whichever has jurisdiction) and apply for the certification of the award. When the award is certified by the Director of the CCMA, the Sheriff is tasked to execute in terms thereof. Section 143(1) of the Labour Relations Act states that if a party then fails to comply with an arbitration award or the order of the performance of an act, other than the payment of an amount of money, any other party to the award may enforce it by way of contempt proceedings instituted in the Labour Court.   The Court in Raubenheimer referenced Snyman AJ’s direction in South African Municipal Workers Union and Others v Thaba Chweu Local Municipality and Another [2015] JOL 32840 (LC) outlying what proof is required (beyond reasonable doubt) to prove contempt:(1) there was a refusal to comply with the Order;(2) this refusal was wilful (deliberate); and(3) the deliberate refusal to comply must be mala fide, in other words, there must be a complete absence of any kind of bona fide justification for the refusal to comply.   Simply put, a respondent is in contempt where the respondent knows and understands the terms of the order and what is required to be done to comply with the order, but then without any cause or justification deliberately does not comply.   The Court went on to reaffirm in Raubenheimer that a review application alone does not suspend the enforcement of an arbitration award and without compliance to sections 145(7) and (8) an award remains enforceable.  It was in these circumstances that the employers were found to be in contempt of court.   By seeking timely labour law advice, employers can: Ensure Compliance: Labour law professionals will help employers understand and fulfil their obligations under court orders, reducing the risk of unintentional non-compliance. Navigate Complex Laws: Labour laws and court orders can be intricate. Your Labour Law consultant can provide clarity on specific requirements and ensure that employers follow all procedures correctly. Mitigate Risks: Early advice can help employers address potential issues before they escalate into contempt charges, safe guarding both the company’s reputation and its financial standing. Avoid Severe Penalties: Understanding the legal implications of labour court rulings and responding appropriately can prevent costly fines or even possible jail time for business leaders.   For more information or assistance with the above-mentioned topic, please feel free to contact us.   T: +27 (0)31 266 6570 C: +27 (0)82 786 7480 E: johanvd@labournet.com   W: www.labournet.com

Amanda Swana is the managing director at Powerpoint Lifestyles, a human resource consulting agency, based in Umhlanga Ridge, Durban.   Amanda completed high school at Durban Academy High School, then moved onto the University of KwaZulu-Natal to study for a psychology degree. After completing a master’s degree in industrial psychology, Amanda branched off into the world of work commencing her internship and human resources role at the South African Sugarcane Research Institute (SASRI). There, Amanda said, she was mentored by her manager who made a huge impact on who she has become and how she handles herself in the world of work. Amanda Swana - A Modern-Day Leader Following a two-year stint at SASRI as an human resources officer, Amanda moved into the consulting field. As she had studied industrial psychology, Amanda initially had no intention of being in business in a human resources capacity. She explained, “The speciality found root and I realised that I enjoyed organisational development and strategic human resources as opposed to the operational requirements of a business. I eventually took that leap of faith, registered the business and committed myself to a new path.”   Willpower and Self-Motivation As establishing a business requires a lot of structure and adherence to legislation, her first year of business was characterised by unlearning some habits and overcoming uncertainties.   “I had to be more independent. I had to rely on my own internal voices because when you branch into business, willpower and self-motivation is critical,” Amanda explained.   In addition, Amanda had to work on the purpose of her business and discovered that she genuinely wanted to change the lives of her employees, while meeting the demands of her business.   “Empowering and mentoring employees so that they become better people and better leaders has been the business strategy that I have adopted. Although, the employees have skills and qualifications, in the consulting environment they are the ones that are engaging with clients. What becomes paramount is their confidence to service these clients.”   In order to motivate her employees Amanda advocates for them to find their own voices. “If we’re sitting in a business or a brainstorming meeting, I‘d like to know what the officer thinks, what is their voice in this situation? What is their perspective?”   While Amanda considered that there might be a risk to empowering her staff in that they might open up their own consulting firms, she has found that the opposite is true. “I’ve found that the employees’ sense of loyalty is not because you pay them well or that they could make more money out of the business. The sense of loyalty develops when your employees are empowered and they feel emotionally and psychologically safe.”   Amanda is very family orientated, and her mother and siblings, mean ‘the world to her’. Consequently, she looks to find a team that thrives on family support and that are also looking to empower their own family. “I like to think I’m committed to my work because of how much weight it bears on other people,” she added.   Effective Services Further to ensuring that her employees are empowered, Amanda strives to partner with their clients to provide effective services. “Although our clients are looking for human resource solutions, we genuinely want to understand their business strategy and objectives. If you ask us to appoint a civil engineer, for example, we can go into the market and get you the most qualified and experienced civil engineer who is good on paper. But we are human beings, so we’ve always advocated for strategic human relations. The screening process goes beyond the administrative process, in addition we look at the applicant’s personality and emotional intelligence, explore and understand the candidate’s value systems beyond the qualification and work experience.”   In reviewing her achievements, Amanda would say that from a professional point of view, the accomplishment that makes her the proudest was paying the first batch of salaries to her employees. “I was so grateful because there were people who believed in my vision even though I had nothing to back it up. The 25th is still the most beautiful day for me, it validates why I started the business. I’ve always said my responsibility is to make sure that my employees are paid on time and to try to make this business sustainable, which is personal for me.”   Remain Authentic The best advice Amanda has received has been from her mother, who when she started the business, said: “Try to not lose yourself. Try to allow yourself to remain authentic. In any room that you find yourself in, don’t let money or people change who you are.”   Amanda says her biggest challenge has been to remind herself that although she is ambitious, she sometimes needs to slow down and remind herself that she is doing the best that she can in this moment. In order to stay inspired and on track, Amanda reads a range of different books on business, leadership and motivation, including Christian books as these provide ‘a well to draw from’ when mentors or colleagues are not around.   Amanda also finds her siblings, and especially her mother, a huge source of inspiration. “My mother is a calm person who raised four children on her own and I admire her strength and resilience,” she explained.   In the next five years, Amanda would like to extend her service offering to include more training and development. While the company’s biggest target market is small and medium enterprises she would like to expand her market position. Another area of interest is in the provision of career development counselling for government schools in KwaZulu-Natal.   In closing Amanda said, “It doesn’t matter what business or profession you find yourself in, or whatever you do in life because purpose goes beyond your business or profession. Whatever you do, you must do with intention. Because when you are intentional, you get much more joy, and you are able to handle any pressures or adversaries because you know why you’re doing something”.   W: www.powerpointlifestyles.co.za

Shakila Maharaj, founder and managing director of ShazaCin Accessible Media, has made significant strides in creating accessibility for visually impaired individuals.   Shakila Maharaj and ShazaCin Accessible Media have garnered local and global recognition Shakila is a visually impaired social entrepreneur, innovator, a recognised global disability strategist and a member of the Presidential Working Group on Disability. She has a master’s degree and is a graduate of Columbia University New York, USA and is a registered organisational psychologist with the Health Professional’s Council of South Africa.   Shakila’s remarkable accomplishments over the years can be described as contributing towards creating an inclusive society and she has received recognition globally and locally for her disability rights enforcement. She says, “Whenever I come across something that liberates me as a blind person, I want to share it.”   Through her innovative startup ShazaCin Accessible Media, launched in 2020, which is South Africa based and a first in Africa, the company is recognised as a pioneer in the accessibility sector. ShazaCin has developed a groundbreaking mobile app called describeAT, which harnesses audio description to bridge the gap between visual media and visually impaired audiences.   Audio Description, the core of ShazaCin’s work, is an oral and literary art form, that creates access for visually impaired persons to the visual world through language, providing the same degree of immersion as sighted people. “The visual made verbal” is facilitated through language to communicate visual events, either in real time or pre-recorded and is designed to enhance accessibility across various media formats.   Working with local talent on local content, ShazaCin provides audio description in English and local languages to diverse industries.   The describeAT app is undergoing continuous improvements to align with advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). One of its most remarkable features is its ability to synchronise audio descriptions with video content that uses carefully scripted and narrated descriptions of visual content, integrated seamlessly into video soundtracks. For instance, in cinemas, on a cell phone or other device, the app “listens” to the film being screened and syncs the audio description track to the precise moment in the film. Users listen on headphones and follow independently. This ensures uninterrupted narration, even if the user steps out momentarily and returns later.   ShazaCin’s dedication to quality and compliance with international standards is evident in their meticulous approach to creating audio description soundtracks. These involve studying visual content, scripting descriptions for dialogue-free segments, selecting suitable narrators, and integrating narration into the original soundtrack without disrupting the film’s audio balance.   This synchronisation feature extends beyond cinemas to television, computers, and other visual media, making describeAT a versatile tool. The app offers visually impaired users immersive virtual tours and on-site guidance for exploring real-world locations independently. ShazaCin audio describes tours for art galleries, museums and heritage sites, and describes live events in real time such as theatre, concerts and sports. Additionally, the app is enhancing accessibility to traditionally visual mediums, such as illustrated books, by providing audio-based narratives.   The describeAT app is free to download on both Android and iOS platforms as well as is downloadable from https://app.shazacin.com . While the app’s focus is on accessibility, future funding will likely come from content providers who upload their material onto the app, especially as legal frameworks worldwide increasingly mandate accessibility in media.   ShazaCin Accessible Media’s achievements have garnered local and global recognition including best “social disability innovation”, TIA-CSIR Science Forum2024, Best Producer of Inclusion in Film Power 24 International Film Festival, Winner of the AFD (French Development Agency) Digital Challenge 2023, Durban Tourism Mayor’s Exceptional Achiever award 2023, Winner of the Irish Tech Challenge South Africa 2022, recipient of the Barlow World Award 2022, Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) Tourism Innovation Award (TTGIIP) 2022, finalist and recipient of the South African Brewery Foundation (SABF) Disability Innovation Empowerment Award 2021, and is a proud partner of the Durban SmartXchange incubation programme 2020.    Additionally, Shakila’s advocacy has significantly raised awareness about audio description in Africa, a region that previously lagged in this field. Through collaborations with broadcasters and film commissions, ShazaCin has not only delivered accessible media but also has provided employment and trained individuals to create these services, thereby fostering industry growth and inclusion.   Shakila’s innovative approach is redefining how visually impaired audiences engage with the visual world, proving that technology can truly level the playing field.   For more information visit: www.shazacin.com/

Thabisile (Tabby) Madondo, owner of Tabby M. Wellness Boutique in Port Shepstone, is driven by a purpose to uplift others. With family at the core of her journey, her business focuses on skincare, massages, and weight management, integrating her skills as a somatologist and life coach. Her holistic approach addresses clients' physical, mental, and emotional needs, promoting self-care, self-love, and self-awareness. Her path to entrepreneurship involved challenges, from being a stay-at-home mom to pursuing somatology and opening her spa. Despite setbacks, including relocating and the pandemic, she rediscovered her passion for wellness, reopening her business with a vision for change. Thabisile's dedication extends beyond her business, engaging in charity and empowering youth with self-care and public speaking skills. Thabisile acknowledges the challenges of running a business, like staff turnover, but draws inspiration from her parents' hard work. Her father’s entrepreneurial spirit and her mother’s pursuit of education motivated her own journey. She advises aspiring entrepreneurs to start with what they have and to rewrite their stories if needed. Looking ahead, Thabisile plans to expand her wellness boutique globally, balancing her ambitions with family activities. Relaxation remains essential, as she enjoys music, meditation, and outdoor activities.

Azande Ndebele, the founder of Shlobo Designs, speaks with enthusiasm about her brand. “Shlobo is a Zulu word,” she explains. “It means a relative, a family, a friend, basically everyone around you. The idea is to marry cultures together and create products that reflect that connection.” Her business includes handcrafted beaded accessories and genuine leather bags. “These bags and beads speak for you. When you walk into an international market or anywhere, people notice those bright, colourful beads. They’re associated with South Africa and particularly Durban. It makes you stand out, and it’s a conversation starter.” Reflecting on her education, Azande describes it as unconventional. “I repeated standard three, three times,” she recalls as her English wasn’t good enough at the various schools she attended. Her time at Queensburgh Girls’ High marked a turning point. “I became a prefect, and there I discovered Toastmasters,” she says. “That’s where I learned to stand out and speak confidently.”

Dr Nokuthula Buthelezi, based in Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal, has built a life rich with experience and deep roots in her culture. At 47, she is a mother to two boys, aged 24 and 17, and a dedicated educator. Her passion for education is evident in Lacee’s Special School, the school she runs, which caters for learners from Grade R through to Grade 10. “It’s a place where children who are often overlooked by the mainstream system can find a space where they are understood and supported,” she explains. Nokuthula’s journey in education was influenced by her parents who were both teachers. She recalls, “I grew up with teaching in my blood. When I was in Grade 12 back in 1992, my father gave me his teaching collar as a gift. I didn’t understand its significance at first and even questioned where I would wear it.” At that time, Nokuthula had dreams of becoming a nurse, but she came to realise that her father’s gesture was a sign of encouragement and belief in her potential as a teacher.

Article by: Liana Ahrens Teixeira As we near the end of 2024, it’s the perfect time to pause and reflect on everything we've experienced and accomplished this year. 2024 has been a year of change, challenge, and growth for many of us—whether in business, personal development, or navigating an ever-evolving landscape. Throughout this year, we've likely encountered moments that tested our resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities. Yet, in those very challenges, we’ve found opportunities to grow, innovate, and refine our approach. Each step, whether big or small, has played a role in shaping the journey we've taken this year. And while the road may not have always been smooth, it’s important to acknowledge the strength it took to keep moving forward.   This year has been a reminder that growth is not always linear. There are highs, lows, and unexpected turns, but with each experience comes a lesson learned. Whether it’s discovering a new skill, building stronger connections, or navigating difficult decisions, every experience has added value to our personal and professional lives.   Now, as we approach the final months of the year, it’s a natural time to reflect on the path we’ve travelled. But reflection isn’t just about looking back—it’s also about looking forward. 2025 is just around the corner, offering fresh opportunities and challenges. As we turn the page to a new year, let’s take the time to evaluate where we are and where we want to go.   What lessons from 2024 will shape your approach in the coming year? Are there goals—both personal and professional—that you’ve set your sights on? The end of the year is an ideal time to realign with your purpose, assess your progress, and focus on the changes you want to make. It's about setting intentions for the future, while also acknowledging the growth that has already occurred.   So, let’s celebrate what we’ve achieved, the hurdles we've overcome, and the growth we've experienced, all while looking ahead with purpose and anticipation. Here's to embracing new challenges, seizing opportunities, and making 2025 a year of continued growth and achievement.   Wishing everyone a reflective close to 2024 and a purposeful start to 2025.

Nonhlanhla Makhubalo, known as Nonie in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry, is the founder of Diverse Intellectual SA (DISA). Her company is more than just a contact centre; it is a platform for empowering women and unemployed youth. “At Diverse Intellectual SA, we focus on providing call centre services to both the domestic and international markets,” explains Nonhlanhla. “We have worked with well-known brands like Pineapple Insurance and MTN to name a few. We handle customer service, outbound sales calls, and various non-voice services such as email and chat support.” With 13 years of experience in the call centre industry, Nonhlanhla’s story is one of growth and finding purpose in an unlikely place. “I used to be an introvert, someone who never liked speaking to people,” she recalls. “But the call centre industry took me out of my comfort zone. It was therapeutic in a way; helping others with their problems became a form of counselling for me.”

Welcome to the December issue of the  UKZN Philanthropy  magazine.   This issue features inspiring stories of philanthropy from across the University community. Meet the students who are inspiring greatness, the alumni and staff who are giving back to their alma mater, and the donors that are supporting our mission to advance education and research.   Limited hard copies of the magazine are available upon request.   For a copy, email  foundation@ukzn.ac.za

Sasha Talia Pather, founder of Sasha Talia Counselling in Durban, offers accessible mental health support both online and in-person. With a background in psychology, social work, and theology, Sasha’s holistic approach is influenced by her ministry work, addressing mind, body, and spirit. Her passion for community work began at nineteen, leading her to establish a community-based organization providing essential services. Sasha aims to change perceptions of mental health, viewing it as crucial as physical health and believes addressing mental health can impact broader social issues. Despite facing challenges such as rejection and discrimination, Sasha’s resilience is inspired by the strong women who raised her. She emphasizes self-definition and resilience, encouraging young women to know their worth. Sasha dreams of opening a mental health center in Durban focusing on wellness and empowerment. Outside work, she finds solace in nature and stresses the importance of balance. Her mission to normalize mental health continues, as she believes it’s an ongoing process of awareness and support, with the ultimate goal of helping individuals save their lives.

Nontokozo Londiwe Dludla, founder and director of Mcebowethu Projects alongside Percy Phakathi, has been instrumental in building the company since its inception in 2015 in Richards Bay. Focused on skills development in the construction industry, the company is accredited by the Construction Seta and offers various short courses, including health and safety, first aid, and contracting skills. Nontokozo’s educational background in Information Science and additional courses in health and safety, financial management, and business management have been pivotal to her success. Inspired by a mentor, she ventured into entrepreneurship, driven by a passion for business and education. Her company’s mission is to provide accessible learning opportunities, having trained over 100 people in short courses and expanded to online classes. Despite challenges, such as securing financial support, Nontokozo’s perseverance has led to significant achievements, including receiving the Outstanding Women Leadership Award in India and nominations for the Women in Africa initiative and the Sebenza Women Awards. Looking forward, she aims to establish a skills academy under the Mcebowethu name. Nontokozo emphasizes the importance of personal balance through meditation, helping her maintain clarity and focus. Her journey is a testament to empowerment, education, and the pursuit of a better future, serving as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly young women. She remains steadfast in her commitment to uplifting others through skills development and creating a lasting impact in the construction industry.

Hlengiwe Koza, the chief operations officer at Total Serve Facilities Management, navigated an unexpected path into the built environment sector. Initially uninterested in property management, she became captivated by the sector's potential. Her diverse educational background, including a BBA from IMM Graduate School and various certifications, has been pivotal in her career. Total Serve's services extend beyond standard maintenance, focusing on creating safe, healthy environments, especially post-Covid. Despite challenges in the male-dominated field, Hlengiwe emphasizes proving capability through high-quality work and continuous learning. She aims to expand into construction and project management, questioning traditional approaches to space utilization. Hlengiwe co-leads Total Serve with CEO Thandeka Mngomezulu, highlighting their complementary skills and mutual support. The company’s growth over 11 years reflects its impact, with a focus on community initiatives through the Ink Foundation. Hlengiwe advises young women to prioritize self-affirmation over external validation and underscores the importance of rest. Looking ahead, she envisions competing with industry giants, continuously evolving alongside her ambitions.