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South African Cemeteries Association Conference 2023

The South African Cemeteries Association (SACA) is delighted to announce its upcoming biennial conference, in collaboration with SALGA (South African Local Government Association), AVBOB, and Memorial Parks by Calgro. This highly anticipated event will take place from the 13th to the 15th of September 2023 in the captivating city of Cape Town under the theme “Post Life… What Remains”.

Conference Details

With an expected attendance of 100 to 130 participants, including distinguished academic researchers, esteemed professionals, and government and industry representatives, this conference promises to be a hub of stimulating discussions, knowledge sharing, and fruitful collaborations. Together, we will delve into the intricate dimensions of the afterlife and its profound influence on the environment and society.

Key Themes:
  • Keynote Address: Prepare to be inspired as our distinguished keynote speaker delivers unique insights into the conference theme, shedding light on the enigmatic realm of post-life.
  • Presentations: Participants will have the opportunity to showcase their research findings, innovative ideas, and practical experiences related to the afterlife. Share your expertise and contribute to a deeper understanding of this fascinating subject.
  • Panel Discussions: Engage in constructive dialogues and exchange diverse perspectives with our panel of experts and fellow attendees. Together, we will explore the philosophical aspects surrounding post-life and existence, fostering enlightening conversations.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded professionals during dedicated networking breaks and social events. Forge new alliances, share knowledge, and learn best practices from individuals who are passionate about improving our communities.

See Speaker Profiles here

Purpose and Objectives:

The purpose of this conference is to unravel the far-reaching impact our departed loved ones have on both the environment and society. Furthermore, we seek to delve into the philosophical dimensions of post-life and existence, contemplating profound questions and examining their implications.

By assembling a diverse audience of academic researchers, professionals, and government and industry representatives, our conference aims to foster stimulating discussions, facilitate knowledge sharing, and promote collaborations that contribute to the betterment of our communities.

We invite you to be a part of this extraordinary event. Register now to secure your place at “Post Life… What Remains” and contribute to the collective understanding of post-life’s impact and philosophy.

For more information and to register, Email: admin@sa-cca.org.za, Website: https://sa-cca.org.za/. We eagerly await your participation in this intellectually invigorating conference.

Turning the wheel towards leadership succession in Government and SOE’s

Minister Namafrench Mbombo – Western Cape Provincial Ministery of Health & Wellness at the 2022 event.

Over the two days the conference seeks to address pertinent topics geared towards women occupying more leadership roles within government and state-owned enterprises. On why this platform is important, Sudhira Sewsunker, Co-owner, Pinpoint Stewards, says: “There are many women across all spheres of government and SOEs doing a stellar job. The problem is that there seems to be a gap in grooming the next generation of women leaders. At the heart of this conference we aim to bring women together from junior to senior level to engage and open channels for communication thereby turning the wheel towards leadership succession.”

Women who will take the stage to develop, unite and empower others include: Bridget Masango, Shadow Minister, Dept Of Social Development RSA; Honorable Bernice Swarts, Deputy Minister, Dept Of Public Works & Infrastructure RSA; Lt Gen Khosi Senthumule, Divisional Commissioner Detective and Forensic Services (DDG) SAPS; Helen Coetzee, Deputy Executive Mayor Overberg District Municipality Provincial SWC Chair Matshidiso Jansen-Mwase, Chief Director: Corporate Services North West Provincial Treasury; Wendy Kaizer-Philander, Chief Whip, Western Cape Provincial Parliament; Christelle Faul Marais, Group Chief Risk Officer & Exco Member, SA Forestry Company Soc Ltd (SAFCOL); Zuziwe Mjongile-Dumile, Technical Manager, Transnet Port Terminal – Cape Town; and UN recognized and GBV activist, Grizelda Grootboom.

Key talking points to be addressed:
  • Becoming an effective government leader
  • Making relationship-building your key competency
  • What is mentorship and what it’s not?
  • Uplifting more women into top leadership roles
  • Finding your feet in chaos and disruption
  • Succeeding in male-dominated environments
  • Acknowledging the massive contribution of women in all sectors
  • Taking charge of your career development – from colleague to leader
  • Economic transformation and inclusion for women
  • Understanding sexual exploitation to protect women

The conference will also afford delegates and speakers time to network and engage during the conference with much needed networking activities at the end of each day in a relaxed environment.

Early bird registration close on 2 October. To register, email info@pinpointstewards.co.za

Women Leadership in Government and SOE’s

Every year women across Government and SOE’s come together at this non-political platform with one goal in mind: Leadership for women. The it’s DUE conference is vested in Developing, Uniting and Empowering leadership across National, Provincial and Local Government, equipping women to lead and engage with other decision makers.

Pinpoint Stewards together with their media partners will be profiling these elected women while ensuring equal reporting of women making a positive impact within Government and SOE’s. 

    • Name of event: Women Leadership in Government and SOE’s 
    • Location: Lord Charles Hotel, Somerset West, Cape Town
    • Dates and opening time: 1 & 2 November from 7:30am till 5pm
    • Venue: Lord Charles Hotel, Somerset West, Cape Town 
    • Website: www.pinpointstewards.co.za
    • Email: info@pinpointstewards.co.za
Organisations speaking at the conference include leaders within:

Department of Public Works and Infrastructure RSA, Department of Social Development RSA, North West Provincial Treasury, Western Cape Provincial Parliament, South African Forestry Company SOC Ltd (SAFCOL), Transnet Port Terminal – Cape Town, Overberg District Municipality Provincial SWC Chair, SAPS, Survivor Exit Foundation NPC. 

To participate as speaker/empowerment partner or sponsor, contact organisers Pinpoint Stewards: info@pinpointstewards.co.za  

For more information, visit: https://pinpointstewards.co.za/

Who are we?  

Pinpoint Stewards was born out of impossibilities (during Covid) to lead as entrepreneurs rather than follow. We started our own 100% women owned, Level 2 B-BBEE training and conferencing company. With over 20 years’ experience in research, management and arranging onsite and online training and networking platforms.

Statistics South Africa Western Cape’s environmental crusade: Clean-up of Sea Point’s beaches

Written by Evashnie Govender

In a heart-warming display of unity and shared commitment to environmental stewardship, Statistics South Africa Western Cape teamed up with local businesses and non-profit organizations to conduct a beach clean-up campaign along parts of the picturesque Atlantic seaboard. On Saturday 2nd of September 2023, despite the challenges posed by rainy weather, this collaboration brought together a diverse group of volunteers all driven by a common purpose – making a tangible difference in their community.

Initiated by the dedicated team from the Cape Metro 1 district office this campaign was more than just a clean-up operation. While the primary goal was to contribute to a cleaner and more welcoming beach environment for all it was also an opportunity to express gratitude to the respondents from across the Atlantic Seaboard who participate in Statistics South Africa’s data collection efforts.

Cape Metro 1 faces unique challenges in gathering data mainly due to the prevalence of high-walled and gated communities in their sample. Campaigns like these not only bridge the gap between communities but also foster positive engagement while raising awareness about the importance of data collection in these areas.

CPUT students collecting data whilst on a mission to save the environment through their plastic recycling project, which aims at showing that plastic bags can have a second life beyond just packing our belongings.

District Manager Evashnie Govender believes that by intensifying marketing and publicity efforts within high-walled and gated communities, Metro 1 can significantly improve response rates. In this endeavour, social media will be a key tool to engage with a wider audience and emphasize the significance of data collection for evidence based decision-making.

Staff sharing information on StatsSA and the current surveys on field. A fact sheet on the Atlantic Seaboard and City of Cape Town where provided to the community.

The Sea Point beach clean-up campaign witnessed the convergence of various stakeholders, each contributing their unique strengths to the cause. Blok, a prominent Cape Town-based property developer has a vested interest in preserving the natural beauty of the iconic coastal beaches. Pristine Earth Collective, a NPO dedicated to addressing ocean plastic pollution played a pivotal role in ensuring that the collected litter was managed responsibly. Sealand, a lifestyle brand known for its eco-conscious approach provided essential collection bins, making the clean-up operation efficient and environmentally responsible and as a token of appreciation for the volunteer’s dedication, Bootlegger Coffee Company generously gifted a free coffee voucher to each participant.

One of the standout aspects of the clean-up campaign was the enthusiastic participation of Statistics South Africa employees. Their dedication was evident as they braved the icy cold and rainy weather conditions to make a meaningful impact. Cape Metro 2 district office employees exhibited their support by joining hands in unity with the combined Metro effort for a greater cause. They also donned their IES field gear, underlining the crucial significance of this survey as it approaches its conclusion.

This remarkable collaboration between Statistics South Africa, local businesses, and non-profit organizations exemplifies the power of unity in the pursuit of a cleaner, more sustainable future.

The staff’s dedication was remarkable; even in the face of ongoing budget cuts, they willingly sacrificed their weekend to work for a greater cause, showing their unwavering commitment.

Together, these organizations and volunteers collected a total of 58 bags of litter, grouping them as Uncategorised (32 bags), Plastic (24 bags), Glass (1 bag), and Metal (1 bag). This impressive commitment to responsible waste management and beach cleanliness serves as an inspiration to us all.

Stats SA and Blok staff who braved the cold and wet weather to participate in the clean-up campaign.
Pristine Earth station litter was sorted and managed responsibly, minimising the impact on the environment.
Staff and other stakeholders in solidarity, laughing in the rain while doing their bit for the environment and sorting the collected litter.

This remarkable collaboration between Statistics South Africa, local businesses, and non-profit organizations exemplifies the power of unity in the pursuit of a cleaner, more sustainable future. It serves as a heartening reminder that when communities and organizations come together, they can create a positive impact on their environment and inspire change.

This beach clean-up campaign was not just about cleaning up the shores; it was a testament to the collective spirit of Cape Town and its commitment to safeguarding its natural treasures, one beach clean-up at a time.

Air Products focused on providing industry with skilled welders

Back L – R: Silence Mashaba, Sean Young (Air Products), Zodwa Tomile (Air Products), Pierre van Nieuwenhuizen, Rozanne Heroin and Rossouw van der Merwe (Cosmo Group). Front L – R: Kingsley Nyatlo, Lesego Mahlanya, Tshiamo Mmutle, Gertrude Khubeka and Lerato Malepe.

As an industrial gas manufacturer, Air Products is reliant on the skills and knowledge of engineers and technicians, but most importantly that of artisans throughout their operations. Within the business, there is a strong focus on skills development, especially with regards to the growth of technical skills such as welding.

In an effort to contribute to the upliftment of welding skills in the country, Air Products committed to provide funding for internationally accredited welding courses. The Cosmo Training Academy was selected as the training facility. The initial group consisted of 20 students, and after various assessments and practical tests, six apprentices were selected.

According to Sean Young, Welding Specialist at Air Products, and the facilitator of this project, all six of the students recently completed the course and have all shown tremendous potential. He further mentions that the second group of students are scheduled to start their assessments.

“We have selected the Cosmo Training Academy as our training partner. The Cosmo Group forms an important part of our distributor network and more importantly, we have confidence in their course and the academy. To top it all, the Welding Facilitator/Trainer, Rozanne Heroin, was recently named the winner of the #JouYster competition by Solidarity. This award is given to the top artisan in the Solidarity network.”

Pierre van Nieuwenhuizen from the Cosmo Group mentions that they appreciate Air Products’ drive to improve welding skills in the industry.

“The Cosmo Training Academy aims to provide world-class accredited welding training as we are aware of the need for skilled welders in the industry, and in South Africa. As an accredited Air Products distributor, we have received support from them from the onset and we are excited about the future of these apprentices.”

For more information on Air Products, visit www.airproducts.co.za

Overcoming manufacturing downtime with the use of rooftop solar

Credit: VoltaroEnergy from Pixabay

In response to South Africa’s national power utility Eskom’s challenge to meet the nation’s energy demand, alternative energy sources are being thoroughly explored and it appears that an answer to South Africa’s short, medium and long-term energy supplies lies in renewables. South Africa is recognised for having abundant natural energy sources, including a sunny climate with the capacity to produce an ample supply of solar energy.

The ongoing load shedding presents unrivalled opportunities for rooftop solar entities. It is crucial that manufacturers are educated on the extensive benefits that solar holds in store for their businesses and the annual Manufacturing Indaba serves as the perfect platform for solar solution companies to enlighten them and ultimately expand their customer base.

First and foremost, large manufacturing facilities represent the ideal space for solar system installations as their sizeable, flat roofs enable a substantial surface area for installing not only more solar panels, but lengthier strings that catch more sunlight, thereby generating even more electricity. Furthermore, manufacturing plants are typically located in industrial parks and other outlying areas, isolated from overshadowing skyscrapers in city centres that conceal solar panels from the sunlight. Therefore, manufacturing factories can reap greater benefits from solar PV installation for extended periods of uninterrupted sunlight translating into greater energy generation, and thereby increasing the return on investment.

Manufacturers can also take advantage of installing solar panels on the vast expanse of rooftops of their parking lots and carports, which undoubtedly service a multitude of vehicles belonging to its workers. This presents versatile utilisation of space that would have otherwise been wasted.

The ongoing load shedding presents unrivalled opportunities for rooftop solar entities.

Rooftop solar systems generate electricity during the daylight, coinciding with the peak hours of most factory operations. Hence, while the sun is out, manufacturing facilities have the option to either limit their dependence on the national grid or abandon it completely. This reliable power backup ensures manufacturing productivity during peak hours, thereby translating into greater profits.

Further, going solar reduces, and may eventually eliminate, a manufacturer’s reliance on diesel backup for generators to ensure uninterrupted power. Solar requires minimal maintenance, having no moving parts and is silent thus doesn’t contribute to an already loud factory environment. Additionally, rooftop solar PV systems can be tailored specifically to meet a factory’s unique space, energy and budget requirements.

Energy Security Rooftop Solar PV plants have capacity to support designated loads or all connected loads if load shedding occurs during the day. What’s more, solar PV plants can provide battery storage solutions, thereby supporting factories at night.

It consequently remains evident that the manufacturing sector can profit considerably from solar power solutions. Industrial factories utilise a significant amount of electricity during the production process and this energy constitutes a major expense for the utility, as well as contributing to a significant amount of pollution to power the plant. Increased energy consumption coupled with the expected increase in retail electricity prices in the commercial sector purports that manufacturers will inevitably be confronted with higher expenses, ultimately eating into a significant portion of their bottom-line. Large-scale commercial solar panel installations provide tremendous cost-cutting benefits for manufacturers and there is no better time than now for industrialists to capitalise on solar technologies.

The upcoming Manufacturing Indaba, taking place 24-26 October 2023 at the Sandton Convention Centre, is set to provide current and prospective solar solution companies from across Sub-Saharan Africa with an exciting and collaborative stage from which they can develop indispensable networks with key manufacturing industry players.

The exhibition invites all ambitious solar companies to seize this unique opportunity in the manufacturing market and showcase your capabilities to potential manufacturing clients.

Having proven invaluable in fostering significant business relationships, forging gateways for attendees into new markets and exploring challenges and opportunities to promote innovation in manufacturing operations, this event serves as the ideal environment to exhibit the benefits of your solar solutions to attending manufacturers, who have the potential to take your solar business to the next level.

Find out more, visit https://manufacturingindaba.co.za/

The Eastern Cape gets ready to share its unique value proposition

The Eastern Cape represents a compelling value proposition for potential investors. Its dynamic manufacturing sector positions the Eastern Cape as an attractive location and international asset.

The Eastern Cape Annual Investment Conference, scheduled to take place on the 29th of September 2023 at the East London International Convention Centre, is an event aimed at positioning the Eastern Cape as a preferred African Investment Destination, by attracting and facilitating quality foreign and domestic investment into the province

Find out more / RSVP here

To find out more about opportunities in the region, visit the Eastern Cape Development Corporation.

The Eastern Cape represents a compelling value proposition for potential investors. Its dynamic manufacturing sector positions the Eastern Cape as an attractive location and international asset. The province has two Industrial Development Zones (IDZs), confirming the potential offered by the region.

New mosaic project celebrates Bellville’s cultural diversity

The Greater Tygerberg Partnership (GTP) and mosaic artist Kerry Atherstone from Bit-by-Bit Mosaic have embarked on a vibrant mission to transform Bellville into a cleaner, safer, and more attractive haven for residents to live, work, and play.

With great excitement, the GTP announces the completion of the first phase of their groundbreaking mosaic installation project, which took place on Sunday, 28 May 2023. A total of 13 mesmerising mosaic tiles now adorns the streets of Bellville, setting the stage for the eagerly anticipated second phase, scheduled to commence in September 2023. 

At the heart of these captivating artworks lies a celebration of journeys and the incredible diversity that defines Bellville. Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of nationalities that call Bellville home, each mosaic tile showcases a national flower representing the heritage of different communities.

Monique Muller, the project manager at GTP, says, “This mosaic installation is more than adding a splash of colour and vibrancy to our beautiful city. It is a celebration of the rich cultural fabric that makes Bellville so special. Through these intricate designs, we aim to convey the shared experiences, histories, and journeys of individuals from diverse backgrounds who have chosen to make Bellville their home.”

Other than the choice of the King Protea, which embodies the essence of South Africa. The Yellow Trumpet, Calla Lily, Lotus Flowers and Gerbera Daisy all pay homage to the various other countries and cultures.

The phased approach to the unveiling of the mosaic installation is intentional, to help ignite a sense of anticipation and allow the community to fully appreciate each mosaic tile as it is revealed. With every new phase, excitement builds, creating an immersive experience that brings the entire district together.

“Bellville is a place where people from all walks of life can come together to live, work, and play, and this installation stands as a testament to the contributions and presence of various nationalities in the area. It fosters a sense of belonging and pride among residents while sparking conversations, curiosity, and understanding about diverse cultures, customs, and backgrounds,” adds Muller.

The GTP’s mosaic installation project stems from an extensive public participation process which was held in November 2022. During this time, the GTP actively engaged with a wide range of Bellville residents, including foreign nationals, to determine the most impactful theme for the mosaic in various locations. While many locals expressed their admiration for the South African flag and their sense of pride associated with it, they felt it had become commonplace and overused. However, when the indigenous nature of the flowers was shown and explained, it quickly emerged as the top choice, receiving the highest number of votes.

The GTP is committed to the ongoing transformation of Bellville, creating a dynamic and inclusive environment that celebrates the community’s diversity and fosters unity. As the mosaic installation project continues to unfold, Bellville will shine brighter than ever, captivating hearts and minds with its artistry and representing the colourful heritage of its residents.

For more information on this and other Bellville art projects visit: www.gtp.org.za or email info@gtp.org.za

More about The Greater Tygerberg Partnership

Global Africa Network Media promotes South Africa at the 15th BRICS Summit

The 2023 BRICS Summit is the fifteenth instalment of this annual international relations conference, attended by representatives of the five member states: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

This year the event is hosted by South Africa under the theme: “BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development and Inclusive Multilateralism”.

The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) and the South African BRICS Business Council also hosted the BRICS Trade Fair, from 19 – 23 August 2023. The fair was officially opened by the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ebrahim Patel, together with his BRICS counterparts.

Various publications produced by Global Africa Network Media was made available to visitors and delegates at the BRICS Trade Fair, which took place at Gallagher Convention Centre. Gabriel Venter, Manager: Investment Promotion at Global Africa Network, attended the Summit and spoke to representatives of Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC), North West Development Corporation (NWDC) and Mpumalanga Economic Growth Agency (MEGA), who exhibited at the BRICS Trade Fair and showcased business and investment opportunities available in their respective regions.

These agencies and other government bodies tasked with economic development and promoting investment opportunities in South Africa, such as the Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism, Invest Durban and the Free State Development Corporation (FDC), as well as Special Economic Zones such as the East London IDZ, use the well-established publications of Global Africa Network Media on an annual basis to promote their regions to a local and international audience.

Copies of these provincial business and investment guides, namely the 2023/24 editions of Eastern Cape Business, North West Business and Mpumalanga Business as well as the Mpumalanga Investment Prospectus, were well received by visitors to the 2023 BRICS Summit and BRICS Trade Fair this year.

Other publications, such as the 2203/24 edition of Northern Cape Business, the Northern Cape Investment Prospectus, the 2023 editions of South African Business, Western Cape Business and KwaZulu-Natal Business, as well as the quarterly Opportunity magazine and the Journal of African Business, were welcome take-aways for this year’s attendees.

About Global Africa Network Media

Founded in 2004, Global Africa Network Media (Pty) Ltd (GAN) is a business-to-business print and digital media company based in Cape Town, South Africa.

Global Africa Network Media produces annual and quarterly print journals. These include:

  • an annual title for each of South Africa’s nine provinces
  • an annual national title
  • four quarterly titles

Explore these publications and find insights and opportunities relevant to your interests, visit https://www.globalafricanetwork.com/e-books/

To enquire about advertising opportunities, contact us today.

     

Paving the way to a brighter business future 

Rochelle Roos

This Women’s Month, we introduce you to Rochelle Roos, a pioneering woman in the South African business space. 

As a dedicated Agile coach and organisational transformation specialist, Rochelle has been disrupting the status quo and creating a more inclusive and collaborative work environment for all. Her journey from a startup team member to a successful business owner is nothing short of inspirational, and her commitment to empowering women in the tech sector shines through in her advocacy for gender equality and diversity. 

“One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is enabling my clients to have a clear direction and focus on their endeavours. As a woman business owner in tech, I take pride in guiding organisations to achieve quantifiable success across all areas of their business. Being able to contribute to their growth and success brings immense satisfaction,” she says.

Rochelle’s path into the business space began when she joined a startup, where she wore multiple hats and discovered her passion for Agile and Scrum methodologies. She was immediately drawn to the potential of these methodologies in improving software development processes and creating a more inclusive and collaborative work environment. 

“I was inspired by the Agile approach’s emphasis on open communication and the value placed on ideas, regardless of hierarchy. I saw first-hand how Agile empowered teams and fostered a culture of continuous improvement.”

After honing her craft, Rochelle now finds great joy and purpose in helping individuals and organisations take ownership of their own roles, experience job satisfaction and happiness, and prosper while growing, learning, and developing into the best version of themselves. 

“It’s incredibly fulfilling to witness my clients flourish in their professional journeys, especially female clients, who often face greater challenges. As a business owner, I actively support and advocate for policy changes that promote gender equality and diversity in the tech and business sector. By engaging with policymakers, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and diverse landscape.”

Ten important tips for women in business 

Rochelle’s advice for other women looking to find their niche in the tech and business world can be summarised in these ten simple points: 

      1. Believe in Yourself: Trust your abilities and believe that you belong in the field. Be confident in your skills and knowledge, and don’t let self-doubt hold you back.
      2. Seek Supportive Networks: Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you. Seek mentors, allies, and peers who encourage your growth and help you navigate challenges.
      3. Embrace Your Uniqueness: Embrace your unique perspectives and experiences. The business industry thrives on diverse ideas, and your authentic voice can contribute to innovation.
      4. Continuous Learning: Stay curious and committed to learning, personal growth, and development. Technology and business are ever evolving, and being open to new knowledge will enhance your skills and adaptability.
      5. Network and Collaborate: Engage with industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities. Build relationships with professionals in the sector and collaborate on projects that interest you.
      6. Take Initiative: Don’t be afraid to take on new challenges and opportunities. Show initiative and seek out projects or roles that align with your passions and career goals.
      7. Be Resilient: The business world can be demanding, but resilience is key to overcoming obstacles and setbacks. Learn from failures and keep pushing forward.
      8. Advocate for Yourself: Be your own advocate and communicate your aspirations and contributions effectively. Ensure that your ideas and achievements are recognised and valued.
      9. Create a Supportive Space: Create a supportive work environment where your authentic self can flourish. Foster a culture that values diversity and empowers all employees to thrive.
      10. Explore Different Opportunities: In business, there are numerous opportunities and roles to explore so don’t limit yourself. Be open to trying different paths until you find the one that resonates best with you, your skills and personality and your goals. 

For more about WE DO CHANGE or to engage with Rochelle Roos or one of their experts visit: www.wedochange.io or email: info@wedochange.io

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