Internal Newsletter
@ C i t y o f J o b u r g ZA
In the Loop
CityofJohannesburg www.joburg.org.za/endofterm
Issue No.
30
August 2016
“Joburg is among the top 25 CITIES in the world where women entrepreneurs thrive” - WOMEN ENTREPRENEUR CITIES INDEX. Host of the INTERNATIONAL SOCIOECONOMIC CONFERENCE for women in Business What’s inside:
Women leading the way in Joburg
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15
23
Contents
3
Message from the Executive Mayor
13
Imagining a better city through planning
4
Elections have come and gone, now what?
14
Getting ready for retirement
5
Take 5 in Joburg
15
Fighting for their rightful place
6
Fak’ugesi to light up Joburg
16
Women at the leading edge of science
7
Demo Africa 2016 puts spotlight on continental innovators
17
Taking theatre to the people
18
The woman mapping Joburg’s future
8
‘#Welcome to Jozi’ domestic tourism campaign shows results
19
The woman who leaves a clean audit trail at the JDA
20
Training is balancing the scales at JPC
21
Role of women in city economy in the spotlight
22
Joburg In Pics
23
Special tribute to the “Supreme Divas” of Song
9
Programme to increase awareness about women’s health
10
Campaign to prevent cervical cancer gets underway
11
City moves to improve customer experience
12
Four well-known vocalists – and a sensational rising teenage star – will entertain the audiences with their renditions of well-known songs such as Somewhere, I’m every woman, Stop in the Name of Love, Vulindlela and Unqombothi. •
Tia Herman recorded her debut album in New York while still a teenager. She has already garnered two SAMA Award nominations and was appointed vocal coach for the new TV show, The Voice. Her next album, “9” will be released later this year.
•
Before turning 21 Lelo Ramasimong has accumulated a string of awards including Top Young South African Artist, best newcomer at the Durban Theatre Award and as a finalist in Cosmopolitan’s Most Awesome Women of the Year competition.
She was recently on stage at the Joburg Theatre opposite Timothy Moloi in the Tribute to Luther Vandross and is currently the lead vocalist for the international dance show, Burn the Floor that is touring the country. •
Tracy-Lee Oliver is a singer, actress and comedian that has shared the stage with legends of the industry such as Yvonne Chaka Chaka, P J Powers, Marc Lottering and Sharleen Surtie-Richards.
•
At the 2007 Naledi Awards, Elizca Coetzer, was voted Best Newcomer and her career has since blossomed including appearances on the Joburg stages in productions such as Sister Act and Chess: the Musical.
•
Marianthe Panas is a teen sensation that will make her professional stage debut in Supreme Divas. She previously represented South Africa at the World Championship of the Performing Arts in Hollywood where she won numerous awards.
Jozi@Work is changing lives for the better
Acknowledgements
Cover Credits
Editor: Thomas Thale - thomasth@joburg.org.za
This edition of In the Loop celebrates the leadership role of women in the City of Johannesburg. Nomsa Mazwai who recently took over the reins at the Soweto Theatre is one of a growing number of women who are today heading up departments and city entities and contributing to Johannesburg’s ability to be at the leading edge of service delivery and innovation, see story on p.17. August is Woman’s Month and we tell you more about these remarkable women and some of the services offered to women in the City.
Contributor: Luyanda Lunika - luyandal@joburg.org.za Lesego Ngobeni - lesegong@joburg.org.za Mongadi Mafata - OupaMa@joburg.org.za Photography: Enoch Lehung - enochl@joburg.org.za Lesego Montsho - LesegoMon@joburg.org.za
Special tribute to the “Supreme Divas” of Song T
he supreme divas of song will be celebrated in a special production that will light up the Mandela Stage at the Joburg Theatre in mid-August. The show will coincide with national Women’s Month celebrations and pay homage to the talents of “old school divas” such as Aretha Franklin, Barbra Streisand, Bette Midler and Donna Summer as well as the superstar performers of the current era, including Mariah Carey, Beyoncé and Adele. Musical tributes will also be paid to some of South Africa’s own legendary divas – most notably Brenda Fassie, Miriam Makeba, Claire Johnston and Yvonne Chaka Chaka. The Joburg Theatre is bringing together a great programme to honour women and selected some of the country’s best contemporary female artists to perform in the production that will run from 8 to 11 August.
“This is an ideal time to celebrate legendary women in song,” says Claire Pacariz, the executive producer for Joburg City Theatres. Supreme Divas is described as the “ultimate concert experience” to honour women who have made an indelible mark on the international and local music industry.
August 2016
theatre
Arts, Sports & Culture
Life and times of uShaka
2016 marks the 200th anniversary of the ascension to the throne of the Zulu Kingdom by Shaka kaSenzangakhona. A powerful play written by Smal Ndaba and Phyllis Klotz presents an in-depth look at the life and times of this iconic historical figure who dominated the South African scene for close on two decades.
ILembe will be performed by the Sibikwa Arts Centre
at the Soweto Theatre for ten days from 5 to 12 August. The play, choreographed by Oscar Buthelezi, use oral sources and historical narratives to give a fresh interpretation of the rise, reign and death of uShaka and the impact this had on events in southern Africa.
In the Loop – 23
Message from the Executive Mayor
Joburg In Pics
Contents
Message from the Executive Mayor For me and my fellow Members of the Mayoral Committee and senior management, the past five years have presented tremendous opportunities to serve our city and all its residents. Five years after our election in 2011, we can look back on the road we have travelled with a significant sense of gratitude and satisfaction.
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One of our primary aims was to build an integrated and sustainable Johannesburg - realising from the start that this will be a process, not a once-off event. Many of the interventions that include the Corridors of Freedom and the expansion of Bus Rapid Transit Rea Vaya are intended to build a united and prosperous city where all its citizens can live in a shared space, with common values and build a cohesive society.
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With an eye firmly fixed on the future, the city has prioritised youth development to elevate the young people from the cycle of unemployment and lack of skills that contribute to many of our social ills.
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Time to renew our commitment to the future of Joburg Colleagues, The outcome of the local government elections presents the new administration of the City of Johannesburg with an opportunity to double-up efforts to improve the lives of the people in the metropolitan municipality. 4
1.
Former President Thabo Mbeki recently hosted Johannesburg’s Executive Mayor, Cllr Mpho Parks Tau during a visit to the offices of the Thabo Mbeki Foundation in Killarney.
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Johannesburg has signed a partnership agreement with global beverage company, AB InBev to improve health literacy and accelerate enterprise development in the City. Dr Kgosi Letlape, one of South Africa’s most prominent health care leaders were among the guests welcomed by Mayor Tau.
3. The annual Mayoral Golf Day raised funds for charities including an amount of R1.3-million to support the SANDF Education Trust which assists families and children of soldiers who died in defence of the country. The Director of Events Management, Bongi Mokaba and Lungelwa Sonqishe, the Group Head of the Revenue Shared Services Centre were among the guests at the function.
5
The citizens of Johannesburg joined millions of South Africans to make their voices heard when they took time to exercise their voting rights on the 3rd of August to elect their local ward councillors and the political party they entrusted to lead them through the next five years.
Measured against any scale, the Johannesburg of 2016 is a much better place to live, work and play than it was five years ago. Our success over the past term can, in no small measure, be attributed to the efforts and commitment of the city’s employees across all departments and entities. May I take this time to express my sincere gratitude for your contribution in making Johannesburg the success that it is today. I hope that the new city administration will be able to count on your support in the implementation of the ongoing mandate to change the lives of Johannesburg residents for the better in the next five years.
Cllr. Mpho Parks Tau Executive Mayor
Initiatives such as Vulindlel’eJozi have made an impact – and the results are demonstrated by the increasing number of beneficiaries being matched to empowerment opportunities. These include entry-level job skills training and placement, smart online education, as well as entrepreneurial skills development. Our investment in smart city infrastructure, high-speed broadband and e-services are also future-driven initiatives. We have established the backbone from which this network can grow and expand into each area of the city to benefit all Johannesburg communities. Our multibillion rand investments in infrastructure – such as roads, bridges, water pipes replacement, power grids and alternative energy hubs – is a clear demonstration that we are building a sustainable city that is able and ready to meet the challenges of a future economic upturn.
Use the QR code reader on your smartphone to scan these barcodes.
4. The Metrobus fleet is going green and some 150 dual fuel buses will be operating in the City before the end of the month. The MMC for Transport, Cllr Christine Walters, hosted Mr Ismail Vadi, the Gauteng MEC for Transport during a visit to bus manufacturer, Busmark, in Randfontein. 5. Global IT giant, Microsoft, is partnering with Joburg to train a million residents on digital literacy skills. The announcement of the partnership and sponsorship from Microsoft was made at a function attended by Deputy President, Cyril Ramaphosa and Mayor Parks Tau. www.facebook.com/ CityofJohannesburg
22 – August 2016
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In the Loop – 3
Economic Development
Good Governance
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cores of City of Johannesburg employees at the Metro Centre and in the seven regions have been working behind the scenes to ensure newly elected municipal councillors hit the ground running now that local government elections are over. To ensure that all councillors are geared up for the new five-year term of office that ends in 2021, 135 proportional representation councillors and 135 ward councillors have been invited to a mock council meeting. This meeting, which is compulsory for all the winning candidates, is facilitated by the Secretary to Council to prepare them for the inauguration of the new Council. In the past five years, the City of Johannesburg boasted 260 proportional representation and ward councillors. Five new wards were added by the Municipal Demarcation Board and an additional five were added on the proportional lists, bringing the total to 270 elected representatives. During the mock council meeting, councillors will be gently eased into their new positions. Intricate legislative procedures will be broken down as City officials walk the new councillors through how laws are made. Legislative etiquette and decorum will also be explained to the new members of the house. The new candidates will be issued with security access cards, tools of the trade such as laptops and cellphones and will be allocated parking. “Declaration of interest” forms will also be handed out and conflict of interest explained.
Elections have come and gone,
now what? Election of office bearers
Fourteen days after the Independent Electoral Commission ratifies municipal poll results, the new Council will hold its inaugural meeting during which a judge will swear in the new councillors. The City Manager or Secretary to Council will oversee the election of the Speaker, who will then supervise the election of the Executive Mayor and Chief Whip before an official photo of the new Council is taken.
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The new councillors will then attend a four-day orientation during which all the CoJ departments will make presentations. The Human Resource Department will also discuss medical aids, pension funds and support for councillors. After orientation, councillors will be taken to their respective regions for official introductions to administration officials before work begins for councillors for the next 60 months to ensure the quality of life for residents improves.
Speaking at the event Cllr Ruby Mathang, the Member of the Mayoral Committee for Economic Development, said the country’s potential is not fully realised because many women are still being excluded from opportunities to participate.
The second council meeting will involve the announcement of Members of the Mayoral Committee and Leader of the Executive Business. This will be followed by the election of the Chairperson of Committees, election of Chairpersons of Section 79 committees and approval of portfolio committee members. It is hoped that by then all the newbies would have acclimatised and be ready to serve the electorate. 4 – August 2016
Role of women in city economy in the spotlight omen entrepreneurs had the opportunity to showcase their services and products at a two-day conference at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand.
The immense human capital that women present need to be unearthed and harnessed, he said. In Johannesburg the entrepreneurial spirit is being nurtured through the City’s inclusive programme which has supported and incubated more than 25 000 small, medium and micro enterprises over the past five years. The conference was hosted by the City in partnership with the Department of Small Business Development and the Small Business Development Agency. The Minister responsible for the department, Ms Lindiwe Zulu, was present at the opening.
MMC Mathang said budding women business owners are empowered with training programmes on issues such as export development and technical readiness. They also receive access to market opportunities through trade exhibitions and shows. The City’s service offering to the entrepreneur and SMME owner includes the regional rollout of hubs that are one-stop shops designed to provide business support and enhance collaborations, he said.
In the Loop – 21
Jozi@Work
Employee News
Training
is balancing the scales at JPC
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nly two of the City’s 10 municipal-owned entities are led by women and the picture becomes more blurry when heads of departments are added into the mix. Only four of Joburg’s 15 departments have women at the helm. One of the two women who leads a City entity, Joburg Property Company CEO Helen Botes, says sometimes it feels like one is swimming against the tide as the property industry is still predominantly white and male. Unlike most people who will throw up their hands in the air and complain, Botes and the JPC have been doing something to balance the scales. “I believe charity begins at home. That’s why the JPC has invested heavily in training and reskilling our employees in partnership with the University of the Witwatersrand. As a result, the JPC boasts upwardly mobile young women who are contributing to the industry and disrupting the status quo,” says Botes, who has been managing the entity for the past seven years. To ensure that more women get into the property industry, the JPC will hold a two-day conference in the second week of August, Women’s Month. “The JPC is also in talks to partner with industry players in rolling out mentorship programmes so that young people are introduced to property,” says Botes, who has been appointed as one of the judges for the Standard Bank Top Women of the Year Award in the property category. Asked how she broke into a male-dominated industry, Botes says: “All industries are male-dominated, not just the property industry. I was given the opportunity by the City of Johannesburg. Since inception, the JPC has always been led by a women. I hope that it will always be led by women, so I need to coach and mentor the women that will come after me.” Botes believes women are born to lead, manage, direct and share. She says women do it in their homes all the time, so they should find it easier in the workplace. “We must remember that all great men were born from great women. Only women have the ability to give birth to and turn a man into a king or a killer. As women we need to believe in ourselves, in our own abilities. If as women we can empower men, which we do from the day they are born, then surely we can empower ourselves, our daughters and all other women.” The mother of two says her tenure in the City has been fulfilling and “I will like to pass on the opportunity which the City has exposed me to, to other women. My journey in the City, starting at CoJ Treasury, Economic Development and JPC, has been exciting and fulfilling. I hope that I repaid the honour, blessings and opportunity given to me by the CoJ by serving and leading with humility, passion, love and by adding value.” Botes uses weekends as silent retreats to meditate and reflect. “I am a really good cook. I do yoga, I am not really good at it but I love it. I love walking, walking and walking. I love travelling and family holidays and I love hiking. In fact I love life.”
20 – August 2016
Take 5 in Joburg T
he local government election on August 3 brings to a conclusion the term of office of the current elected Council, Executive Mayor Parks Tau and the Mayoral Committee. Over the past five years the City has been transformed with the introduction of initiatives such as Corridors of Freedom, Jozi@Work and Vulindlel’ eJozi. The size of the City’s budget almost doubled in this period and the roll-out of ‘smart city’ infrastructure has prepared Joburg to meet the challenges of the next five years. Take five minutes to reflect on some of the achievements of the past five years, revisit some of the accolades it received and read the opinions of international and local thought-leaders who have spoken about the qualities of Joburg.
Five things to know for residents of Joburg • • • • •
This is Africa’s fastest rising economic democracy; This is the City which invests more than R100-billion over ten years in new and upgraded infrastructure; This is the City that stands out among its peers for its quality of financial management and corporate governance; This is the City which is harnessing the potential of its youth and channelling this energy into training and skills development programmes; This is the City which has raised the delivery of services to unprecedented levels – giving residents access to quality water, reliable power and dignified sanitation.
5 Accolades received in the past 5 years Mostinspiring City in the southern hemisphere – Good City Index
The “most-visited City” in Africa for business and leisure – MasterCard Global Destination Cities Index;
“Capital of cool cities” – GQ Magazine
C40 Cities Award for leadership on climate change and green initiatives
United Nations Scroll of Honour for housing achievements.
5 things that others said about Johannesburg
Five Facts about growth and opportunity
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More than R15-billion in investment attracted to the Johannesburg Inner City; More than 50 000 passengers travelling on the Rea Vaya Bus Rapid Transit network every day; More than 6 500 co-operatives and emerging enterprises registered on the Jozi@Work database; More than 75 000 solar water heaters installed in new housing developments;
More than R52.5-billion – the size of Johannesburg’s 2015/16 Budget
“… it is fitting that we have gathered here, in Joburg, in Soweto, because here we learned that history is in our hands. Not far from here, in Orlando West, two young men came of age who would transform this nation and inspire the world -- Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu.” US President Barack Obama, at the Young African Leaders Initiative, July 2013 “I have seen Johannesburg change from an apartheid city to the big, bustling multi-cultural metropolis that it is today.” Ahmed Kathrada, struggle icon and Freeman of the City “We associate Johannesburg with Nelson Mandela, with hope, freedom and dignity. And we look forward to more steps being taken to enhance this relationship further.” Mousa Hadid, Mayor of Ramallah in Palestine, April 2016 “Our forefathers fought for South Africa’s political freedom. Today, you in Johannesburg can be crucial contributors in South Africa’s march towards economic prosperity.” Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, Constitution Hill, July 2016 “Long live this town of vibrancy and activity… We know that it is the centre of prosperity in our country, providing the opportunity to create that better life for all our people…” Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, Freeman of the City of Johannesburg
In the Loop – 5
Employee News
Economic Development
Fak’ugesi to light up Joburg B
raamfontein – Joburg’s hottest spot – will be transformed into a techno-sphere as gamers, techno-gurus and digital creatives assemble for the 2016 Fak’ugesi African Digital Innovation Festival.
The festival will be open for the public and will cater for participants at all levels, from ‘just interested’ to professional developers.
From 19 August to 3 September the Tshimologong Precinct along Juta and Station Streets will host talks, exhibitions, performances and parties to celebrate digital innovation in the City.
The City of Johannesburg is the main sponsor of the annual festival in partnership with the Johannesburg Centre for Software Engineering (JCSE), Wits University, the British Council’s ConnectZA and InnovationZA and the Goethe-Institut, including new partners Pro Helvetia Johannesburg and the Innovation Hub.
Founded by Wits University’s Professor Christo Doherty, “Fak’ugesi,” – a street slang term meaning “turn on the power,” – offers a platform for diverse digital and technology sectors to collaborate and share skills in digital media and technology innovation.
Festival director Tegan Bristow says the Tshimologong Precinct will host an event that promises to be an outstanding lineup geared towards bringing tech innovation to people in a fun, accessible and playful way.
Under the theme “Afro Tech Riot”, this year’s festival celebrates African technology and innovation through creativity and will showcase Johannesburg’s ICT capacity and opportunities.
Ravi Naidoo, Executive Director: Economic Development with the Vice-Chancellor of the University of the Witwatersrand, Prof Adan Habib.
The festivities include: •
Fak’ugesi Digital Africa Residency – where artists and technologists work together to explore contemporary technology from a creative perspective;
•
Agile Africa Conference, the software developer’s event organized by the JCSE. Developers, testers, project managers and line managers focus on the challenges of software development in Africa;
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Members of the South African Maker Collective together with the ConnectZA lead Market Hack, to present playful activities around electronics and digital making at the Neighbourgoods Market in Braamfontein;
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A MAZE Johannesburg, focusing on both local and international indie gaming and playful media;
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Soweto Pop Up, a day-long festival pop–up that aims to bring digital making and playful media to locations outside of Braamfontein;
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Smart City Day, focusing specifically on Johannesburg and the city’s drive towards better ICT. It will feature the 2016 Hack Jozi finalists; the School Project in collaboration with Wits Digital Arts and much more;
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ALIGHT, is a street event that includes spectacular showings of light art, light sculpture, architectural light installation and light-based interactive games;
•
Future Sounds, a collaboration between artists and technologists from Berlin in Germany and local hip-hop and electronic music artists and filmmakers. The outcome of the collaboration will be performed live at the festival’s ALIGHT party.
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andile Mafata, who is the Chief Financial Officer of the Johannesburg Development Agency, attributes her love for numbers to her father’s 30 years employment at the City of Johannesburg’s Treasury Department as well as his role as the church’s treasurer.
She put the chalk down and joined PWC as an audit clerk, where she gained extensive experience in auditing and financial management. Mafata had a two-year stint as a corporate accountant at Denel before joining the JDA as a finance manager in 2005.
Inspired by a mind-blowing encounter with an exchange teacher from the USA, Mafata set her sights on becoming an economist. But she was forced into a detour as Rhodes University proved prohibitively expensive. She settled for a teacher’s diploma, walking away with the rector’s award for being the top-performing student at the Soweto College of Education in the early 90s.
Mafata credits former JDA CEO Lael Bethlehem for her elevation to the Chief Finance Officer’s position in 2009. “I was competing against more experienced candidates but Lael said the JDA needed to grow its timber and develop from within and that’s how I got the position. And when people have faith in you, you work harder to not fail them.”
Mafata taught accounting for five years at a Meadowlandsbased high school while she completed her undergrad and honours degrees in accounting part time through Unisa. “I don’t like doing things in half measures. Although my hopes of becoming an economist were dashed, I worked just as hard to qualify to be a teacher. I then juggled marking about 40 scripts, preparing lesson plans and schedules, and studying part time. I tried to impress on my learners that they were the masters of their fate. No one owes you a favour,” says Mafata.
In between teaching, studying and auditing, Mafata found time to get married to Oupa and they have three children: Masego, 18, Mangaliso, 16, and Tshiamo, 8. Although she’s reluctant to claim all the credit, Mafata says one her highlights at the JDA, which has an annual R1.6-billion budget, is achieving a clean audit. “Fortunately at the JDA, we’re all committed to help make the City of Johannesburg even more beautiful and stretching the rand further.” When she’s not following an audit trail or trying to balance the books, Mafata spends most of her day on Saturdays playing mom’s taxi and being glued to DStv’s Catch-Up programmes, lapping up MasterChef and The Voice.
The woman who leaves a clean audit trail at the JDA
For a full festival programme, go to www.fakugesi.co.za 6 – August 2016
In the Loop – 19
Economic Development
Employee News
No ‘glass ceiling’ in City Her gender has not been a barrier to her growth, she says. “I haven’t experienced any resistance from male colleagues in the city.” The City has also proved to be welcoming to female executives.”
DEMO AFRICA 2016
Perhaps because of her tomboyish tendencies in her formative years or because of her personal strength, Silimela’s gender has not held her back. “There are many women in planning. The glass ceiling is not unbreakable,” she says, adding though that “there’s more resistance driven by racial prejudice in the profession.” Silimela has built a career of more than 15 years in the local government and development policy environment having previously worked with the National Urban Renewal Programme, the CSIR and the Department of Provincial and Local Government. Since her return to the City of Johannesburg in 2012 she has played a leading role in the design and development of programmes such as the Corridors of Freedom and the revitalisation of the inner city.
The woman mapping Joburg’s future
Because of the influence of her 12 year old son, Silimela relaxes by listening to Justin Bieber. “I’m a Belieber,” she exclaims as she bursts out into her favourite song. Despite her high profile job, Silimela says she enjoys the responsibilities of domestic life: “When I’m home, I’m not an executive. I enjoy cooking. There’s no confusion.” Her message to young ladies is simple. “Don’t be afraid to speak your mind – read widely, but formulate your own opinions.”
Demo Africa 2016 puts spotlight on continental innovators S
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or Yondela Silimela, the journey from small town girl to big city planner came by chance. Silimela says she registered for the new discipline of Town and Regional Planning at M L Sultan Tech in Durban back in 1992 when she couldn’t gain admission to her first love: Physiotherapy. She has since climbed up the ladder of the male-dominated industry to be at the top of the building chain. The award-winning Executive Director of Planning is responsible for shaping Joburg and determining what it will look like in future. Her portfolio incorporates: City Transformation and Spatial Planning, Land Use and Development Management, Building Development Management, Corporate Geo Informatics (GIS), Management and Regulatory Support and Strategic Planning. Under Silimela’s watch the Department - boasting a staff complement of some 400 and a budget of R410-million just this financial year – won the 2014 Excellence in Planning Award at the Planning Africa Conference for the Corridors of Freedom and the 2016 South African Planning Institute Award in July 2016 for the Spatial Development Framework. Last November, Silimela herself scooped the Public Sector Category of the Women in Property Network Award. Not one for personal glory, Silimela attributes these achievements to the collective efforts of her team.
18 – August 2016
ome of Africa’s top emerging technology entrepreneurs will showcase their products at Demo Africa 2016, which will be held at the Sandton Convention Centre this month.
groom Africa’s next generation of tech entrepreneurs. Last year, investors pledged well over R200-million to fund the exciting products.
Sponsored by the City of Johannesburg, Demo Africa is a flagship launch pad for emerging technology and trends and attracts over 2 000 participants every year from around the globe to experience Africa’s finest innovations.
Every year, Demo Africa invites technology start-ups from all over Africa to submit their applications for a chance to launch their innovations at the event which has been hosted in Lagos and Nairobi before.
The City is positioning itself as Africa’s leading City of Entrepreneurship and the hosting of Demo Africa 2016 will demonstrate the assets, capabilities and potential of Joburg as a global tech hub.
A total of 30 companies were chosen out of a record 723 technology start-ups from 27 African countries for Demo Africa 2016. Out of the 30, South Africa is represented by 11 start-ups, Nigeria six, Kenya five and Ghana three. For the first time Morocco will have a representative at the continental faire. Other countries include Egypt, Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda.
Johannesburg also seeks to leverage the City’s desire to build international networks and partnerships with other key global entrepreneurship hubs such as Silicon Valley in California. Demo Africa 2016 will enhance collaboration in the South African tech entrepreneurship ecosystem, with Joburg and its various entrepreneurship programmes as key hubs for this collaboration. Grooming next generation of talent Several new technology products will be introduced to the global media, prolific bloggers, investors, strategic partners and buyers. Demo Africa is supported by the European Angel Investor Network and the African Angel Investor Network. Angel investors comprise the largest block of Demo Africa delegates, with several hundred investors typically attending the event to identify prospective investments and to help
The finalists made it to the shortlist after judges remarked that they had kept up with Demo Africa’s spirit to produce innovative and creative ideas that are bound to transform the technology landscape. They have products in logistics, retail, ecommerce, education, banking and finance, media, renewable energy, health and agriculture. Representatives of the 30 start-ups will be given six minutes to make a pitch for their products to woo investors. This year’s event will be preceded by a Startup Bootcamp on 23-24 August and an investor summit on 24 August, supported by the LIONS@frica Partners and the Department of Science and Technology. Other partners include Google, The World Bank, and African Technology Foundation.
In the Loop – 7
Employee News
Economic Development
‘#Welcome to Jozi’ domestic tourism campaign shows results
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ver since she could speak, Nomsa Mazwai, who is the General Manager of the Soweto Theatre, has never been afraid to say what’s on her mind. She has used her outspokenness to constantly break barriers and change people’s mindsets. Not only did she go against the grain by contesting for elections as an independent candidate, she won and became the first woman SRC president at Fort Hare University in the Eastern Cape. Despite the constant harassment and threats of impeachment, Mazwai didn’t sink into depression in her little corner. She used the experience to write a book, “Sai Sai Little Girl”. “I think that was my dad’s advice on coping with the situation and the distance. I guess he could not handle my daily calls telling him about my harassment on campus. He suggested I start writing about my experiences and eventually this turned into a book. It worked so well that at some stage I used to egg my detractors on to get more content for the book,” says Mazwai. She neglects to mention that her father is veteran journalist, former Robben Island inmate, entrepreneur, academic and ministerial adviser Dr Thami Mazwai. And no, she’s not planning a collaborative album with her multi-talented sisters Thandiswa and Ntsiki. “I’ve been asked the question so many times. No, we seldom discuss business when we’re together. But I always get help from them when I’m working on something. There is a long-term legacy project that involves music, poetry, literature and theatre performance that my sisters and I are working on,” says Mazwai.
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ohannesburg’s reputation for hosting major events, exhibitions, and conferences continues to grow as both local and global organisers recognise the value of bringing their events to the City. Joburg Tourism’s domestic tourism awareness campaign currently focuses on the City’s reputation as a host of sports and leisure events. “Sports enthusiasts – both participants and spectators – are amazed by the warm welcome they receive from Joburgers, the
7 Reasons Why Joburg is Tops for Travel Tourists 1. Joburg is ranked number 1 in Africa in terms of international visitor expenditure. According to the MasterCard Global Destination Cities Index these visitors spend more than $3.2-billion in the City every year. 2. The overwhelming numbers of foreign business visitors who arrive in Gauteng come to Joburg. Of these 82% are business professionals and 74% attend conferences and conventions. 3. Joburg attracts more than 60% of all domestic trips to Gauteng – 67% for entertainment; 72% for education; 78% for medical purposes and 83% of trips by sports spectators. 4. More than 58% of African travellers to Gauteng come here to visit friends and relatives; 18% come to shop; 5% for business reasons and 3% to attend conferences; 5. In 2015 Johannesburg hosted some 28 300 lifestyle events in the City. Among these were 134 lifestyle expos. 6. Travellers attending business events in Johannesburg mostly stay in paid-for accommodation and undertake tours or day trips to explore the City and its surrounding areas. 7. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, business travellers spend up to three times more than leisure travellers when visiting a country. 8 – August 2016
quality of its facilities and the variety of the places to visit during their stay,” says Nabintu Petsana, the Head of Joburg Tourism. Sports tourists are generally regarded as high spenders who visit places of leisure and entertainment to celebrate success – or commiserate – after an event. This creates immense opportunities for restaurants, clubs, pubs and the local hospitality industry to attract their business
Changes are coming to Theatre She says she has big plans to transform the Soweto Theatre into a family-centred entertainment place and involve the community more. “There are plans to stage more vernacular plays, more gospel shows and screen more films. And we’re also planning a kids’ entertainment zone so that mom, dad and baby can come to the theatre and have fun. In that way, Soweto Theatre is empowering the family unit.” When she was Fort Hare University’s SRC president, Mazwai was called “little girl” by her detractors. She says sometimes people disrespect her because of her youthfulness and the fact that she is a creative person. She has learnt to turn the negative into positive energy. “I was a Fulbright scholar and got my master’s cum laude but I still struggled to get a job in the private sector on my return from the USA. I think women empowerment must continue to exist as a mechanism to allow women to excel. There’s an invisible glass ceiling that forces women to stay in ‘their place’ and not being allowed to access opportunities. Changing the narrative is not easy but we must undo the wrongs of the past and allow women to flourish,” says Mazwai. It’s been an adrenalin rush for the past two and a half months at the helm of the Soweto Theatre for Mazwai but she says she has surrounded herself with winners. “The management of the Soweto Theatre is brimming with positive African minds who are empowering others to succeed and everyone here and at head office at Joburg Theatre is solutions-orientated,” says Mazwai.
Taking theatre to the people
Joburg Tourism offers visitors a wide range of information, travel tips and suggestions on what to do and see in the City. Visit the website at www.joburgtourism.com or follow on Twitter #Welcome2Jozi.
Show to attract best in design Decorex Joburg, Africa’s largest décor, design and lifestyle exhibition returns to the City in early August with a new theme: “Take it Home, Make it Home.” More than 700 exhibitors in fields such as décor, design, furniture, kitchens and paints will occupy spaces in the seven halls at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand to display their latest products and services. Running alongside the five day show is 100% Design South Africa which offers a unique platform for local designers to showcase and discuss new trends in interior décor and design. The exhibition will be open to the public during the Women’s Day long weekend and the venue is easily accessible through the Gautrain and its feeder bus system.
In the Loop – 17
Health
Employee News
Women at the leading edge of science What does your job entails?
Programme to increase awareness about women’s health
We are responsible for quality assurance of the drinking water that is available to the entire population of Johannesburg. We also monitor the underground water in boreholes at the waste water treatment plants to ensure it is not contaminated or seeping through and affecting the quality.
Top 4 issues for women’s health in Johannesburg • Cancer: Two of the most common cancers affecting women are cervical and breast cancers. Global figures show that about 500 000 women die from breast cancer and a further half a million from cervical cancer each year. Early detection and treatment will often lead to cure. Health care workers do demonstrations on how to conduct selfexaminations for breast cancer and take Pap smears to screen for cervical cancer. The results of the tests are forwarded to the clinic closest to the patient’s home.
How did you end up in this profession? My interest in science started in high school where I was encouraged and inspired by my physics teacher. When it came to choosing an area of tertiary study, Chemistry was a logical choice.
• Maternal and Child health: Johannesburg has made major strides over the five past years to improve the health status of pregnant women and young children through the provision of antenatal care services and childhood vaccination to prevent common vaccine-preventable illnesses.
Science is often perceived to be a field dominated by males… is it hard to make a success of the career? It just requires hard work and perseverance, as is the case with everything in life. It is important to nurture a culture of curiosity. You will be surprised to know that most of the important experiences you gain are not to be found in academic books but from what you learn from people on the ground.
• HIV/AIDS: Comprehensive treatment and care programmes are now offered at all clinics in Johannesburg and figures show major reductions in infection rates among HIV exposed infants – to the point where less than 1% of HIV exposed babies born in City clinics are born HIV positive. • Lifestyle diseases: The City’s GoJozi campaign has increased awareness about how lifestyle choices can improve the quality of life of residents and counter many conditions such as hypertension and obesity. Lebethe says the Women’s Month outreach will strongly emphasise the importance of regular exercise while dieticians will demonstrate methods to prepare food that can lead to healthier living.
How do you balance your demanding career with being a wife and mother? It is actually very easy for me. When I step out of the office I resume my other roles… I cook, I clean and I take care of my family. I receive tremendous support from my husband and my extended family especially when I have to work overtime.
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omen are making huge strides at Johannesburg Water where a growing number of female professionals and scientists are now occupying key positions. Under the leadership of the Board of Directors chaired by Ms Getty Simelane, Johannesburg Water can now point to 686 women in its ranks – including 62 at management level and 11 qualified engineers. One of the pioneering women in this field is Mmane Tsheko who joined Johannesburg Water in 2009 as the Scientific Services Manager and is responsible for the operation of accredited laboratories and the industrial effluent section. Tsheko has a BSc in Chemistry and Chemical Technology from the University of Natal and received an MSc in Engineering Business Management from Warwick University in the United Kingdom.
16 – August 2016
What is your advice to a young girl who aspires to follow in your footsteps? You can achieve success through hard work and perseverance. You also need a plan of how you want to reach your goals. It is important to show an interest in specific fields from an early age, attend career days and visit industries or work places that are of relevance. Most of all, you have to be passionate about the career path you are choosing. What do you love about your job? Being part of a team that is able to consistently provide clean drinking water to the residents of Johannesburg gives me joy.
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ealth outreach programmes during August will focus predominantly on issues that are of major concern for women in Johannesburg.
The City’s Health Department works in close collaboration with ward councillors and community structures to inform women about the events, dates and venues. Non-profit organisations such as the Cancer Association of South Africa – CANSA – and Pink Drive are also lending their support and are available to provide expert advice and support for women.
Special campaigns will be conducted in each of the seven regions during which women will be informed about the range of free services available at the City’s health care facilities and on healthy lifestyle choices to mitigate and control certain conditions. Elionora Lebethe, the Deputy Director: Public Health says the outreach programmes during Women’s Month have always been successful in the previous years and attracts up to 200 women to the awareness programme. Most women prefer to access the health talks and screening services that are available during outreaches rather than visiting clinics or other formal health facilities in the City.
In the Loop – 9
Health
Employee News
Campaign to prevent cervical cancer gets underway
Fighting for their rightful place A
ugust is Women’s Month and the spotlight shifts to the efforts to advance gender equality in the workplace and all spheres of society. It is for this reason the City of Johannesburg, in partnership with medical aid LA Health, will host a breakfast for women at the Braamfontein Recreational Centre to reflect on the issues confronting them in the workplace. The City’s Employment Equity and Diversity Manager, Aurie Kwatsha, says the event, which is in its second year, will be attended by about 500 women from 20 of the city’s departments. Kwatsha says the event will allow women to discuss ways to reaffirm the role of women in the workplace. “There is this stigma that women belong in the kitchen and are only supposed to bear children. We are saying the workplace is also ours. This is no longer a man’s world.” Detailing the city’s interventions aimed at promoting gender equality, Kwatsha says although more women have been appointed to senior positions, “the city is still lagging behind, with only 36% women in such positions”.
“It is like two glasses, where one is half full and another is empty. The empty glass should get water first and when both glasses become equal, then fill both. If someone tries to fill both glasses without noticing the level of water, it won’t work.” She says all heads of departments are obliged to follow up and evaluate gender equality efforts in their departments or spheres of responsibility. She further urges women to continue to fight for their positions and stand up for their rights.
i Although Women’s Day is celebrated on 8 March throughout the world, South Africa observes it on 9 August. It is on this day 60 years ago that more than 20 000 South African women of all races marched on the Union Buildings in protest against the pass laws. The march was led by Lilian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph, Rahima Moosa and Sophia Williams-de Bruyn
Creating more opportunities for women Although gender and development is inclusive for both women and men in the City, Kwatsha says the “focus should be on women.” The imbalance and unequal status of women in most societies results in women not having the same opportunities and personal freedom as men do.
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city-wide campaign to protect young children against the long-term dangers of cervical cancer is being rolled out this month. This is a partnership between the Johannesburg Health and Social Development Department and the Gauteng Health Department with the intention to reach young girls in public schools in the City. The vaccination campaign is intended to prevent the spread of the human papilloma virus – HPV – among school-going girls. It is a programme that started two years ago, under the theme: “Protecting South African Girls against Cancer of the Cervix.” The vaccine is administered in a schedule of two doses at six-month intervals, targeting all young girls from the age of nine upwards, to those in higher grades in all public and special education schools.
The leaders of the March have subsequently been awarded the Freedom of the City of Johannesburg and important streets in the inner city were renamed in their honour.
The Member of the Mayoral Committee for Health and Social Development, Councillor Nonceba Molwele, calls on all parents to ensure their daughters get their second dose of the HPV vaccine during the current campaign in August and September. “We want to work together with parents to ensure our girls are taken care of health-wise and protected from this virus,” says MMC Molwele. The main purpose of the intervention is to prevent cervical cancer and protect learners against worm infestations. Almost 80% of cervical cancers are caused by HPV, which can infect the genital area and cause a wart or cervical and other cancers later in life. The vaccination prevents the virus from developing on the cervix. “Parents are urged to sign and return the consent forms that they receive from the schools their children attend. No learner will be vaccinated without parental consent,” says MMC Molwele.
cervical cancer awareness This year the first dose of the HPV1 vaccine was administered in February and March. The campaign also includes the deworming of learners from grades R to 7 in selected schools.
10 – August 2016
In the Loop – 15
Employee News
Service Delivery
The foundation towards achieving a fulfilling retirement needs to be created a couple of years before your office farewell party and the gold watch for your 40 years of loyal service. We take it that your annual meetings with your financial advisor is a given. If you are living in an empty nest, it could mean downscaling to a townhouse and retirement village for better security. But you need to take the financial implications into consideration. If you are passionate about youth development, start volunteering at the local youth organisation and share your wealth of experience. You could also volunteer at faith-based or charity organisations.
Getting ready for retirement
City moves to
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ost people prepare for school, studies and work but neglect to get emotionally and financially ready for retirement.
improve customer
experience
As a result of technological and medical advances, people are living longer and have to ensure that they enjoy their twilight years to the full. For those who live for their work only, retirement can be painful as they do not have anything to fill the vacuum during retirement.
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Really rewarding retirement requires proper planning and this is not restricted to your finances only. You also need to tune your mind and start building outside interests that are not linked to your professional life.
he Development Planning Department has modified its archives and records unit in a bid to boost staff morale and improve workplace efficiency.
Here are some of the things to consider as the clock starts ticking towards retirement:
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You don’t have to be anywhere
Enjoy ageing gracefully
Gone are the days of waking up early, sitting in traffic and drinking bad office coffee. Create a schedule sooner than later and try to get out of the house as much as possible.
With age comes wisdom, selfrealisation and satisfaction. Enjoy the journey.
14 – August 2016
3 Exercise and stay active You have the flexibility to join classes and activities in the middle of the day when most people are at work. If you prefer walking, hiking or biking, get a friend to join you. A workout partner will help you stick to a schedule.
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Keep learning
Be social and spend more time with family and friends
Learn something new, it will keep your mind sharp and add some structure to your day.
See your children and grandchildren more. If you want to be even more involved, you can volunteer to causes that are close to your heart.
6 Follow your passion Do what you love and love what you do.
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Plan for the future
Leave a legacy
Just because you’ve stopped working doesn’t mean you have to stop planning. People are now living well into their 90s. It’s important to continue planning and adjusting your finances.
Give the gift of your time, knowledge, wisdom or money to local schools, community centres or charities that are close to your heart and make this world a much better place.
The improvements on the sixth floor of Metro Centre include the installation of funky and modern art décor; light fittings made out of brass water taps, fresh new paint, large workstations designed out of recycled wood and a new queuing arrangement. The facelift is expected to improve working conditions, customer experience and overall service delivery within the department, while contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. “We’re trying to move away from the old council buildings that are grey and colourless,” says Greg Daniels, the Director of Management Regulatory Support.
Renovations on the 6th floor started in the latter part of April and were concluded in early July. Daniels says the new office space confirms that the City is willing to assist the public and is professional in its approach.
New Thuso House ready to serve Down the hill in Jorissen Street, Thuso House has also undergone a major revamp to improve customer service and accommodate the bulging demand from daily customers who visit the Revenue Customer Service Centre. The Finance department, custodians of the project, says the plan for Thuso House was to redesign and rebrand the space, apply new paint and add new office furniture, all in a bid to improve efficiency and service delivery. “The revamp was necessitated by the significant growth in the region in the last few years and an increase in the number of customers that visit the centre,” says Finance spokesman Kgamanyane Maphologela. The new Thuso House includes a walk-in facility – the “Centre of Excellence” – that will provide a more integrated, efficient one-stop service to customers, a new queuing system and a customer welcoming area.
“I love the new office a lot. It’s colourful, clean and spacious and it has enough tables for people to work on,” says Sylvia Steenkamp, a customer who visited the office on its opening day. “There is now a sense of professionalism; the theme of the décor has incorporated recycled material and it’s great to see the city going green.”
In the Loop – 11
Employee News
Jozi@Work
Imagining a better
city through
planning F
Jozi@Work is changing lives for the better O
ne year after the City has pioneered the ambitious R3-billion rand Jozi@Work initiative it is clearly succeeding in its aims to reduce unemployment, poverty and inequality across the municipality. Since its inception in 2015 the project has created hundreds of work opportunities for co-operatives and small enterprises in poorer communities of Johannesburg. Through Jozi@Work, co-operatives partner with the City in the delivery of a range of municipal services in their particular neighbourhoods. At the launch in March last year, the Executive Mayor, Cllr Mpho Parks Tau said the Jozi@Work model would help the City to fast-track socio-economic transformation. Since then, about 6 500 new co-operatives have been registered and the details of more than 4 000 existing enterprises were captured. “Jozi@Work allows individuals to form legally recognised community-based enterprises which can take part in the bidding process for various work packages from the City,” Tau explains.
To ensure compliance to supply chain regulations and to mitigate possible corruption, the City has set up systems for whistle-blowing. Capability Support Agents were appointed to audit the skills of beneficiaries, provide training and monitoring as well as advice to ensure co-operatives grow beyond Jozi@Work and do business with customers other than the City. The CSAs also assist micro-enterprises with mentorships, funding and other business resources. The Executive Mayor believes more money in the hands of locals will provide opportunities for the establishment of local retail and service providers. Departments such as Group Corporate and Shared Services use the Jozi@Work model in the management of the City’s fleet, with car wash facilities, vehicle maintenance and tyre servicing. “Jozi@Work creates opportunities for employment and the ability to create livelihoods,” says Mayor Tau. Future work packages will come from entities such as the Johannesburg Development Agency, Joburg Roads Agency, Johannesburg Housing Company, Joburg Water, the Joburg Property Company and the Housing department.
rom municipal systems to outdoor adventure, animal welfare and the care for vulnerable children, Liana Strydom embodies the passion of a dedicated town planner whose occupation has turned into a vocation.
The SAPI Planning Awards were established in 2008 to recognise contributions from individual planners and organisations across the profession and to inspire professionals to continue innovating.
The South African Planning Institute recently recognised Strydom with a prestigious accolade for her outstanding work in planning, which has transformed state and private sector developments and contributed immensely to the profession.
The City was also recognised in the SAPI Awards for its exemplary formulation and implementation of Integrated Development Plans, Spatial Development Plans, District Growth and Development Plans, Human Settlement Plans, Transport Plans that ensure sustainable spatial outcomes.
“It was a nice surprise to get the award but the better part was the acknowledgement that someone thought it was important enough to give me recognition. I really appreciate it,” says Strydom, an Assistant Director of Regional Planning. At the Development Planning Department she is responsible for strategic spatial planning, which entails guiding the City’s development decisions on investment in infrastructure: how to improve living conditions and how to spot economic development related to other city investments. Strydom is project leader and coordinator for the Corridors of Freedom. “I’m an idealist, she says. “Working for the City gives me the opportunity to imagine what a better world could be like.”
Enjoying the rhythm of Joburg Strydom believes the Corridors of Freedom opens up a city divided by racial segregation and will, effectively, reverse the legacy of the apartheid spatial planning. She loves Joburg’s vibrancy, the city’s slightly gritty energy and the beautiful, often scant moments of serenity. “The people are warm and they engage with you on the street. The Joburg vibe is unmatchable, so is the rhythm of the place,” she says.
One of the beneficiaries of the programme is David Buthelezi, a multi-skilled bloke with a background in the construction industry. Buthelezi runs the Khetholwethu Construction and General Trading enterprise from Alexandra.
Born in 1974 she grew up in Klerksdorp in the North West before studying for a degree in Town and Regional Planning at the University of Pretoria. She readily admits that it was her love for geography that drew her to the planning profession.
Through Jozi@Work he has been able to create jobs for 13 local residents who were previously unemployed.
Over the past 20 years she gained vast experience in various planning disciplines, from land use planning and development control through to strategic and policy planning. She is keen on skills transfer and mentors various upcoming young planners in the city. Strydom is also a part-time lecturer and her favourite pastime is reading at least three to five novels a week and undertaking adventurous escapades.
Khetholwethu specialises in maintenance work including tiling, carpentry, painting, cleaning and recycling services. Buthelezi received a Jozi@Work contract from the Johannesburg Property Company in January to provide cleaning, recycling and painting services at Botlhabelo Village in Alexandra’s Far East Bank. “Jozi@Work has made a tremendous difference in the lives of my employees. They are now able to rent decent accommodation and take their children to school,” notes Buthelezi, a multifarious businessman with an interest in rental property. 12 – August 2016
She says the unpredictability of the city, her profession and colleagues energise and inspire her. “I find it ironic that civil servants are branded as bureaucrats with no passion, but in my experience they are the exact opposite,” she says.
In the Loop – 13