The Afropolitan Edition 24 by Contact Media

ALTERNATE MONTHLY Issue 24, 2011 www.afropolitan.co.za

PABI

MOLOI GIVING TOWNSHIP TALENT A CHANCE

Somalia Africa's Shame

Alex Okosi An African doing right by Africa

The Fallacy of the Rainbow Nation A ticking time bomb!

PLUS

• Sport rot under an African Sky • Telecommunications - A dream outsourced • Undercover Geek • The Magic of Madikwe • Outdoor Living • Giveaways

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in this issue

C O N T E N T S

6 8

editor’s note Celebrating Africa

AFRO BITS Main feature Somalia

Corporate Responsibility Bean There Roastery

FEATURE 26

Our Greatest Export A Lie

32 tsotsi in the boardroom 35 UNDERCOVER GEEK FINANCE 38 43

A Dream Outsourced Lere's Shoe Shine Experience

travel

The Magic Of Madikwe

Fashion FEATURE

CULINARY CULTURE

AFRO decor

beauty & Grooming

FULL ON LIFE

60 63

Stepping Up To The Plate Taking Center Stage A Shot Of Delicious

64 Summertime

48 66

Spring Is In The Air & Fresh On The Shelves Conversation with... Kopano Matlwa

SPORT 72

African talent withers under a corrupt sun

reviews

75 CD Reviews 77 DVD Reviews 79 Book Reviews 81 Movie Reviews 83 Gadgets 86 Afro Wheels 88 Restaurant Review 90 SOCIALS 91 AfroPROFILES

kaburu

Sudsy Malone’s and the washing of the soul

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the team editor Brendah Nyakudya

contributors

EDITOR'S NOTE

Angus McEwan Charles Ash Damian Murphy Eli Nyakudya Elka Schaimberg Jahn Beukes Jeff Delaney Jaime Lee van Sittert Sentletse Diakanyo Stacey Vee Tendai Maidza Vincent Verrydt

ne only has to cast an eye at the news or switch on the radio to lose all hope in the continent. Famine, civil war, corruption and lack of service-based leadership are only some of the issues Africa’s embattled nations face on a daily basis. All this has served to produce a dejected people angry about their past, unsure of their future and embarrassed by their present. As a magazine, we acknowledge all that, but we chose to look beyond – and celebrate Africa! Our editorial content is a celebration of intellectual minds, rich and diverse culture and luxury lifestyle. Embracing freedom, we aim to ensure that every page turned and every story read will leave readers with a renewed passion for Africa and its people. Each and every issue of The Afropolitan will start a process of re-imagining the continent and seeing it not as the deathriddled Dark Continent but as a latent giant, often misunderstood, most times abused, but brimming with potential. So, in keeping with celebrating the wealth and potential of Africa, we bring to you the amazing Pabi Moloi (page 50). Her drive, ambition and commitment to her work and her community are the very qualities we treasure. We also speak to managing director of MTV Africa Alex Okosi (page 30), a man who has pioneered a music revolution in Africa and brought the world closer in terms of

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EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Donna Verrydt

finance and operations DIRECTOR Lesley Fox

sales manager Bokang Seritsane

sales Chioma Didi Okoro Damian Murphy Justin Green Lerato Matlakala Shane Williams

art director Quinten Tolken

subbing & proofing Joey Kok

recognising local talent and exposing it to an international audience. We have also taken steps to tweak a few things to make the Afropolitan experience a more interactive one. To this end we have lined up a host of events that brought us in closer contact with those who have made the magazine what it is today. In August we held the Afropolitan Invitational Golf Day for clients and readers – and it was a huge success. We also enjoyed another of our signature Afropolitan Nights – brought to you by Oude Molen in association with Volvo, Native Rhythms and Grolsch. We didn’t stop there. In September we also hosted our inaugural Afropolitan Fashion Show, brought to you by Absolut, where we showcased the amazing Tiger of Sweden range. There are plenty more of these events to come – watch this space for details. The Afropolitan brand is filled with such history and amazing potential that it is an absolute honour to be entrusted with taking it forward.

head of production & PICTURE EDITOR Venesia Fourie

PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Gwen Sebogodi

it and web manager Charles Ash

repro and printing Creda Communications

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Enjoy the read.

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Copyright © 2010 Contact Media & Communications. The Afropolitan is published by Contact Media & Communications. All material is strictly copyright with all rights reserved. No material may be reproduced in part or whole without the express written permission of the publisher. No responsibility will be accepted for unsolicited material. The publisher accepts no liability of whatsoever nature arising out of or in connection with the contents of this publication. Whilst every care has been taken in compiling this publication, the publisher does not give any warranty as to the completeness or accuracy of its contents. The views and opinions expressed in The Afropolitan are not necessarily those of the Publisher, Kaya FM or contributors.

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A F R O

B I T S

HIGHLIGHT Volvo SA FASHION CAMPAIGN On 18 August 2011, Volvo brought the who’s who of the South African fashion world together under one roof for the finale of the Volvo SA Fashion Campaign. For this campaign, three of South Africa’s leading fashion designers Gert-Johan Coetzee, David Tlale and Nkhensani Nkosi – were commissioned to design an outfit that best suits the

personality of three Volvo models: the C30, the S60 and the XC60. The designers did not disappoint as their designs wowed the crowds. There was an outfit made out of water, a couture dress with drapes and motifs and a spectacular number made entirely of safety belts. It was a fitting end to what has been an amazing campaign.

FREE GIVEAWAY Afropolitan readers can win tickets to the biggest, liveliest and most exciting whisky festival in the world – the FNB Whisky Live Festival, taking place in Cape Town from 2 to 4 November and in Johannesburg from 9 to 11 November (from 6 to 10pm daily). We are giving away two sets of double tickets to attend the Cape Town festival on 3 November and two sets of double tickets to attend the Joburg festival on 10 November. Each ticket includes entry into the Tasting Hall, 12 whisky-tasting vouchers, a whisky-tasting glass, a copy of the SA Whisky Handbook 2012, a bottle of Valpré mineral water, a R15 discount voucher redeemable at the Picardi Rebel on-site retail shop for any purchase of malt whisky to the value of R350 or more and a R10 food voucher (redeemable at the food delis). The FNB Whisky Live Festival encourages responsible drinking. No persons under the age of 18 will be allowed into the Tasting Hall. To enter log onto www.afropolitan.co.za

Whisky Facts:

image courtesy of VOLVO SA

• The names “whisky” comes from the Gaelic words uisge beatha or usquebaugh. Translated into English, it means “the water of life”. • A bottle of 18-year-old whisky that has been in your cupboard for five years is still considered to be 18 years old (it only ages in the barrel, not in the bottle like wine).

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MAILBOX

POETRY

EDITORS PICK

THE HOME COMING

Dear Editor

Thamsanqa Ncube From his upcoming book Mureza: In the Shadow of the Flag.*

An example of this was seen in July this year, when all the Southern African Development Community universities sent delegations to the University of Pretoria to take part in the South African Universities National Debating Championships. The name is more historic than anything else because although the tournament was originally meant for South African universities only, Zimbabwean, Zambian, Botswana, Namibian, Swazi and Lesotho institutions all attended. So I know it gets depressing to see the likes of Julius Malema on television making irrational and emotional arguments and refusing to debate with opponents. I know it’s depressing to think that the culture of debate is dead. Just remember every time you think like that that there is a new generation rising in the schools of our continent, in the lecturer rooms of our varsities; this generating loves debating, knows debating and will defend the integrity of the continent’s democracies. We should all find ways to help support and grow their actions further and further!

REGARDS Owethu Mbambo

University of Johannesburg

What is happening in your world? This is the platform to share your views and experiences. We cherish your feedback and contributions – and look forward to your comments. Write to us at editor@afropolitan.co.za Follow us on Twitter @AfropolitanMag

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When this era of madness comes to an end When the dark clouds of Uncertainty clear; And the drums of fear stop Rumbling in my land, I shall go back home; I shall go back home, And see my mother; To lay my bruised pride and ego On her shoulders of love, I shall go back home And see my father To listen carefully to his words of Wisdom, As he takes me through the Pathways and bye ways of my youth; And tries to explain How it all went wrong; I shall go back home and see my lover; To feel the sensuous touch of her lips, As we discuss the brief but sad history of our Motherland, The tabernacles of pain, Upon which our youth, our dreams and aspirations have been sacrificed; I shall see my friends, We shall sit down at the table of regret, anger and disappointment, Engaging ourselves in the futile discussions of the what-might-havebeens, Seeking to find solace in the still pulsating dreams and hopes For a better tomorrow, I shall go back home; And in the shadow of our beautiful flag We shall attempt to rebuild our land; And as the waters of the mighty Zambezi cascade over Mosi-o-a tunya, We shall stand together and begin to walk, Towards a better day; Full of hope, promises and neverending tomorrow…

image courtesy of Thamsanqa Ncube

When one observes the circus that is the African political arena, one is likely to wonder what has happened. Where did we go wrong? We have leaders on this continent such as the Angolan president, José Eduardo Dos Santos, who has been holding onto power for 30 years and leaders such as Robert Mugabe who will do any- and everything to stay in power. We have presidential elections won on the basis of nice songs and chanting, we have demagogues masquerading as leaders who are causing chaos and mayhem all over the continent. Do our future generations have a chance? Does democracy? Every democracy must be founded on the right to freely express your thoughts and ideas, but that right is only important to enable the citizenry to ask critical questions and to take part in debates over the state of the nation. Debate is the heart of a robust democracy – whether it be presidential debates or parliamentary debates or even debates among citizens. The ability to debate and to be able to follow a rational argument is critical to the robustness of a state. In the absence of real debate, rhetoric is thrown around, and emotional arguments are made… “Don’t vote for that party – they will bring back the white man...’’ See what I mean? Since independence was achieved, the debating atmosphere has died down. Society has been void of ideas and critical analysis, which is why our democracies are not faring well in this day and age. Yet it’s not all gloom and doom; the youth have decided to do something about it. University debating has been on the rise in the past eight years, not only in South Africa but in Africa as a whole. University students are teaching each other debating and also teaching high school kids debating. They are taking part in international tournaments and are very competitive.

www.dialogue9.co.za 11108/Afripolitan

LONDON

S I N C E 1784

Heritage Collection www.viyella.co.za

A F R O

B I T S

WE SALUTE Young Leaders

Who Runs Rwanda...Girls!

Africa Rural Connect Africa is brimming full of ideas and inventions that could not only change individual lives but communities at large. Unfortunately due to the lack of technology and communication these ideas usually die a silent death in the dusty corners of rural Africa. The National Peace Corps Association came up with an amazing program namely, Africa Rural Connect, an online global collaboration network where knowledgeable people work together to communicate and respond to the needs of African farmers. With many ways in which one can play a part including submit ideas, comment on ideas, improve, endorse and pledge support for ideas, African Rural Connect allows you take an active role in building development initiatives that can directly affect the lives of rural farmers. Some ideas that have benefited from this project include enabling ICT related businesses (such as cyber cafes) to thrive across southern Kaduna Nigeria, solar powered eco-friendly ovens and a ecological sanitation system using human urine as a fertilizer to replenish nutrient depleted agricultural soil. Its all about Africans working to make Africa better.

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Black Education Stokvel One of the most pressing issues in most African countries is the lack of quality education in disadvantaged areas. In South Africa the racial divides of the past have resulted in the majority of the young generation in poor areas going without a quality education. Artist and activist Simphiwe Dana has taken the lead and initiated the Black Education Stokvel project which seeks to increase awareness in the hapless state of public education in South Africa. From school infrastructure, literacy, libraries, teachers, individuals, communities and resources the intention of Black Education Stokvel is to inspire and mobilize active involvement from the grass-roots level up; across individual, community, business and government lines. With objectives that include raising awareness of the conditions in rural township schools to see how society can contribute to both quality and equality in the South African education system and project managing book drive campaigns in six cities to raise books towards libraries in disadvantaged schools, we can only see success for this venture and support it fully.

Nigeria chose Chinese yuan as reserve currency In a controversial move that will probably set the stage for further Chinese influence, Nigeria’s central banks are in plans to diversify a 10th of their foreign exchange reserves from the US dollar to the Chinese yuan as their reserve currency. According to Mallum Sanusi the downgrade of the United States debt rating by Standard & Poor’s in August 2011 and the fact that the yaun was the biggest gainer in August among Asia’s 10 most-used currencies played a major part in this decision. There have been many opinions on the growing of Chinese footprint in Africa as they implement their strategy to source new markets and source raw material from Africa’s rich natural elements.

imageS courtesy of Shutterstock

Rwanda is the first country in the world where women outnumber men in parliament, with women occupying 45 out of 80 seats. According to government statistics, 52 percent of Rwanda’s population are female, and a large portion of them are widows and/or single women, mostly engaged in incomegenerating activities on a full-time basis. Women’s representation in the South African national assembly has jumped to 45% since the country’s recent elections, giving South Africa a third place spot in the global women in parliament rankings. Women in national parliament total seats are the highest with 56.3 percent in Rwanda and the lowest with 1.8 percent in Sao Tome and Principe.

The DA has appointed the youngest MP since 1994. Geordin Hill-Lewis at 24 years old will set a record when he is sworn into Parliament in October 2011. Internationally this record is held by Canadian Pierre-Luc Dusseault, who at 19 years and 11 months, is the youngest person ever elected to serve in Parliament. Transference of power and empowering the younger generation is one of a few things that should be done in order to ensure a future that is safe in the hands of capable future leaders. Politics is becoming less and less of an “older generation” affair as seen by the introduction of social media into the political game and also more importantly the appointment of young leaders. To those empowering the youth, we salute you!

BY ELI Nyakudya

M A I N

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Somalia To repair or not to repair?

If Somalia were a European nation that experienced the same difficulties, would it be in the same position, struggling without aid or assistance from its peers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; or would the European Union have bailed the country out? 12

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The story of a failed state in an oblivious continent.

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famine in Somalia, yet it was only in July 2011 that people took notice. This lack of planning can be laid squarely at the feet of one of Africa’s deadliest diseases – its leaders. Leaders who have time and again placed their own interests ahead of that of their subjects. Leaders who are not beyond declaring war on their own people in order to retain power. In the case of Somalia, the dictator Siad Barre was driven out in 1991, resulting in control of certain parts of Somalia falling into the hands of warlords. These warlords are part of the Al-Shabaab, an Al-Qaedaaffiliated group, and have control over most of south and central Somalia. AlShabaab has until recently placed a ban on foreign aid agencies. Access granted since July 2011 has been very limited, and any aid that did come through was at times alleged to have been stolen by corrupt leaders. Should other African leaders continuously inject resources into a nation that has been called a failed nation? What contributions have governing bodies such as the African Union (AU) made, and what prevents us as an African nation from being proactive and avoiding these crises before they actually happen?

Caring for each other Should we care about Somalis’ strife when our own countries are dealing with their own quandaries? An easy and empathetic answer to that question would be yes, but in a continent that is itself on the verge of collapse as many of its nations experience similar crises but on a different scale, the answer to that is an emphatic and possibly controversial no. The primary reason for this is that half of Africa’s nations are surviving on nothing but prayer and duct tape with barely enough resources for their own populace, and the other half are embroiled in never-ending revolts and civil war. Ranging from Libya, where Qaddafi defiantly refuses to relinquish power and opts to die a martyr, down to Swaziland, where people have resorted

image courtesy of SHUTTERSTOCK

very time something happens in Somalia it shows in a much broader light how incapable Africa and Africans are to not only govern themselves but also to take care of each other. Most people can relate to having that family member who is unemployed, uneducated and basically relies on the support of others because they cannot take care of themselves. Noone wants to actively claim responsibility for them, but at the same time no-one wants to be labelled as being oblivious towards them. So is the story of Somalia, a resolutely failed state whose terminal situation is acknowledged by fellow African nations – but no-one wants to take responsibility for it. To begin, a brief background on the country. Somalia has been plagued by conflict and poverty for many years. It has the misfortune of topping the Failed State Index (FSI), ranking first out of 177. Failed states are generally unsuccessful at the basic duties, policies and structures required of a sovereign government. In its 2011 FSI report, the Fund for Peace ranks Somalia as the number one failed state for the fourth consecutive year. Reasons include ineffective central government, inability to provide public services, economic decline and an inability to control territory and the infamous pirate attacks on foreign vessels. In July this year, the United Nations declared famine in six regions of southern Somalia, starting in Lower Shabelle and Southern Bakool and spilling over to other areas including Mogadishu and the Afgoye. An estimated 3.7 million people are facing starvation in the country, and more than 20 000 children have died thus far. It is incomprehensible that people are dying from hunger on the richest continent in the world when it comes to natural resources. Famine is not war that occurs suddenly; it slowly builds as a result of, in most cases, a lack of rain but also a lack of forward planning. This crisis has been building up over the last few decades and could have been resolved whilst in its infant stages. In November 2010, the United Nations (UN) predicted that there was going be a

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to mixing cow dung with water so as to not have to take their ARVs on an empty stomach, Africa’s stories constantly tell of embattled nations. This pathetic state of affairs means most African nations are in no condition to assist financially, and neither do they have the leadership capacity to spearhead such operations. The calls for Africa to help their own have fallen on deaf ears in some parts, and those that have assisted have seemingly done so begrudgingly. In any situation in the history of humankind, most of donor aid to such crises has been from international shores. It would seem that whilst the sympathy is there, African leaders believe that a country that perishes because of hunger and poverty is no different than a country that dies because of war. They would rather focus their energies on their own nations.

The AU: a cause for concern Whilst individual countries have a right to decide what causes to get involved

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with, a serious cause for concern is the recurrent lack of reaction by our African governing body. The involvement of the AU in the 1994 Rwandan genocide and the more recent Libyan crisis are cases in point. If Somalia were a European nation that experienced the same difficulties, would it be in the same position, struggling without aid or assistance from its peers – or would the European Union have bailed the country out? That is a question to ask the AU and its leaders. This body appears to be practising a policy of selective engagement; it cherry picks a number of situations and is only prepared to get its hands dirty on these select few. It took an estimated 800 000 deaths and a movie to turn attention towards the Rwandan crisis. As it has been during other incidents, the AU has been embarrassingly slow in its response towards the plight of Somalis. According to Robyn-Lee Kriel, an eNews reporter who was stationed in Mogadishu for two weeks to report on the famine, the AU did provide security for foreigners – but not much else. As

Many would agree the AU needs to step up and find that commitment to change. After all, it is this very commitment that resulted in its individual nations’ independence and sovereignty. an organisation it made a decision to postpone its meeting about the crisis in Somalia, and on that day two babies died from malnutrition at the clinic where the organisation was stationed. It was only two months after the UN declared famine that AU member states held a donor conference to raise money for Somalia. African heads of state were to congregate for the event, but it was a pathetic showing. Only 20 representatives of the 54 member states showed up to the function, and of the US$1.1 billion that is reportedly needed, only US$50 million was raised. This is in stark contrast to the US$150 million that has been raised by Turkey as part of the US$350 million committed to by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. Many would agree the AU needs to step up and find that commitment to change. After all, it is this very

image courtesy of NATHAN ADAMS - EYE WITNESS NEWS

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commitment that resulted in its individual nations’ independence and sovereignty. The organisation’s noncommittal attitude, which has been on show in recent incidents across the continent, renders vulnerable nations at a loss when it comes to seeking assistance and perpetuates the “begging bowl” mentality, that of the African constantly at the doorstep of the West seeking aid. The story of Somalia is one that has been told for many years now. The country faces a never-ending struggle with no happy end in sight. That happy ending will only come once African leaders start perceiving their continent as a machine moving forward as a single entity. What might come as a revelation to the world is that the Somalis themselves are trying to rebuild their country. In Mogadishu, there are 10 competing communication companies, and land-line services are available all around. Cockburn A. (2002) in National Geographic Magazine and Wanderer K.A (2006) reports that the country now boasts a plastic manufacturing plant, streetlights, bakeries and TV companies. Somalis working all around the world send money back to their relatives to rebuild their lives. All that is required is a hand from the country’s African equivalents. This help will go a long way as the onus is on Somalia to resolve its domestic conflict in order to gain foreign aid; it is arguably difficult to invest in a nation that is selfdestructing. It would seem Somalis are the Jews of our generation. Everyone shares in the sympathy of their plight, but only allies who have an aspect to gain from assisting are the ones who react. On that note, it is difficult to understand how the concept of mutual gain is faring on a continent that has been shaped by a history of repression. Considering the history of the continent, one would imagine African countries would pick up Somalia to consolidate and be able to move forward. Surely a stronger continent would result in equally strong and more self-sustaining nations? But whilst it is justified to point fingers at governments and leadership, the onus ultimately falls on all humankind to assist. Fortunately for Somalia, there are many individuals that have realised and bought into this ethos

But whilst it is justified to point fingers at governments and leadership, the onus ultimately falls on all humankind to assist.

and have dedicated themselves to lending a helping hand to those in need. Individuals that believe in the Gift of the Givers’ motto, “Encouraging African aid for Africa”. The work done by a number of reputable non-governmental organisations (NGOs) has upheld this motto. Since the famine hit, Gift of the Givers has mobilised individuals and corporates and accumulated and transported in excess of 1 852 tonnes of emergency supplies and rations to Mogadishu, where the NGO set up feeding and medical camps that serve to provide food rations and nutritional supplements to more than 5 000 families. Of the aid taken to Somalia

there is nutritious maize-based porridge called Likuni Phala from Mary’s Meals. This product was sourced from Malawi and will be utilised to feed the starving thousands. Gift of the Givers also organised a 30-member medical team equipped with more than 60 tonnes of medical supplies to treat the countless malnourished children in the camp. According to Gift of the Givers reports, at the time of going to print more stock was waiting to be shipped out to Somalia and another medical team was on its way. As a result of these donations, lives have been saved and a difference made to the lives of more than 5 000 families in Somalia. Has it been enough? Not by a long shot, but it has been something. And for as long as someone is doing something, hope is not lost.

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image courtesy of SHUTTERSTOCK

M A I N

OUDEMEESTER GATEFOLD

OUDEMEESTER GATEFOLD 140 BBDO_805365_AFROPOLITAN_GF

Res p ons i b i l i t y

Bean There

More than just Mocha

tepping into the trendy yet non-assuming surrounds of Bean There Coffee Company at the ever-popular 44 Stanley centre in Milpark, an eclectic retail and dining space in Johannesburg, you are immediately enveloped by the unmistakable smell of coffee brewing and beans roasting in a matter-of-factly placed coffee roaster in the middle of the shop. As you partake in one of the many indulgent offerings on the menu, including the usual cappuccinos and lattés as well as the lesser-known piccolos, harios, and aeropresses,

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many thoughts and scenarios come to mind. For many lovers of Java, these thoughts include side-walk cafés and after-dinner conversation. Only for the coffee enthusiasts would the origin and journey of the bean, the environment from whence it came and the hands that planted it, be of interest. The owners of Bean There are coffee enthusiasts who have thrown themselves into the tradition of coffee with passion that supersedes the norm. When Jonathan Robinson decided to trade in coffee in 2005, it was with an aim to supply coffee of the utmost quality to the South African consumer. With Africa

being the birthplace of coffee, it was on our continent that he and his sister Sarah decided to base their operation. After establishing their wholesale business, they opened up the roastery and shop in Milpark in 2008. They were well aware that this was a continent where poverty is rife and all measures including international aid, structural adjustment and democracy have seemingly failed the masses, so for them it was imperative to implement business practices and principles that would be mutually beneficial to the buyer and the farmer – principles that would be sustainable in the long term. 21

imageS courtesy of BEAN THERE FAIR TRADE COFFEE

BY BRENDAH NYAKUDYA

C o r p o r ate

"For Bean There it was imperative to implement sustainable business practices and principles that would be mutually beneficial to the buyer and the farmer"

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Res p ons i b i l i t y

These principles they found in the practice of Fairtrade. Fairtrade is an association whose main objective is to assist producers in developing countries in their efforts to export their wares to developed markets and countries. Fairtrade assists in negotiating better trading terms and conditions and establishes relationships between buyers and sellers that encourage and advance efforts at economic sustainability. The organisation “advocates the payment of a higher price to producers as well as higher social and environmental standards”. Fairtrade is a trading partnership that is based on dialogue, transparency and respect. It seeks greater equity in international trade and contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to producers and workers. Having learnt of the success of Fairtrade on South America’s coffee farms, Bean There based their business and dealings with the various coffee growers in Africa on Fairtrade principles and practices; from the beginning, the price of the coffees was guided by quality, not what the global market suggested. Under Fairtrade guidelines

all the coffee growers that supplied Bean There would be guaranteed the best price for their produce, with Bean There at times paying higher than the stipulated price, an act that encouraged farmers to grow a premium product in the knowledge they would get a premium price for it. But Fairtrade isn’t just about trade guidelines. It’s an organisation that promotes relationships. In keeping with this, Bean There have made a concerted effort to enhance their trade relationships by travelling to the various countries across Africa and getting involved in community projects in a bid to support the farmers, their families and communities. This was an opportunity to actively support development, growth, and social empowerment. The “Hope Project” is one of the most inspirational stories that have come about as a result of fair business. The project, which is based in the Mbeya region of south-west Tanzania, is a clear example of the fairness and ethics required by Fairtrade. Farmers who are part of the cooperative benefit from selling their coffee cherry when it is at

imageS courtesy of BEAN THERE FAIR TRADE COFFEE

C o r p o r ate

Res p ons i b i l i t y

its ripest. They receive a second payment at the end of the harvest season that equals any market fluctuations and ensures farmers get what their coffee is worth. The community as a whole also gets a quality-based premium payment. For the Fero Cooperative in Sidamo, Ethiopia, this second payment has ensured progress in the community. Every household in the community now has electricity, and they’ve been able to add classrooms to their local schools. The community is currently working towards infrastructure that will supply drinking water to the residents. In Rwanda, Bean There has partnered with Coopac, a cooperative of 2 200 Rwandan coffee farmers who, among other initiatives, are investing in women (who own 10 percent of the country’s coffee plantations) in the coffee growing business. To date Bean There's direct Fairtrade practice has seen the growth of many co-ops and projects that have made life-changing differences to people and their communities, and while it is by no means the perfect solution to the woes of Africa, with high registration fees being one of the challenges for emerging farmers, there are many success stories and proof to indicate that it is a definite step in the right direction. A step towards an Africa that produces excellent-quality product, is paid what it’s worth and encourages sustainability.

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imageS courtesy of BEAN THERE FAIR TRADE COFFEE

"Bean There's direct Fairtrade practice has seen the growth of many co-ops and projects that have made life-changing differences to people and their communities"

BY SENTLETSE DIAKANYO

F E A T U R E

www.afropolitan.co.za

export has been

written by Sentletse Diakanyo

Our greatest a lie of a miracle

reconciliation T

he road to freedom was not smooth. A long, hard, troubled journey was travelled, with black people having to contend with the negativity towards them as a collective and towards the struggle for liberation, which was portrayed as an illegitimate cause in support of communism. Those who were at the forefront of the fight for freedom, like Nelson Mandela, were seen as dangerous criminals and terrorists. The same Afro-pessimism that existed during the fight of the oppressed people against apartheid existed during the era of colonial thuggery, when blacks were seen as savages and barbarians. The pursuit of national unity and reconciliation was at the core of the African National Congress agenda throughout the struggle, but the apartheid nationalist regime brainwashed the majority of whites into believing that black people were not concerned with the welfare of the nation and its property. It took the leadership of Nelson Mandela in the aftermath of the assassination of Chris Hani to placate primal fears of whites and calm the

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seething anger of Africans. The world took notice of the capacity of blacks to practise restraint in the midst of great provocation. The country had retreated from the brink of anarchy. The interim constitution agreed to in 1993 demanded of all South Africans, black and white, to commit to working towards national unity and reconciliation. Nelson Mandela was entrusted with the immense burden and responsibility of uniting a glaringly divided nation and promoting reconciliation amongst South Africans. Unfortunately, it would seem that some understood the reconciliatory agenda of the Mandela presidency to mean that the entire nation needed to suffer from collective amnesia, that the process of reconciliation meant “forgiving and forgetting” all the historical injustices. But, as one of the most multi-racial and multi-cultural nations in the world, the task of bridging the historical divide was always going to be a difficult and emotionally challenging one. The description by Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu of us as a “rainbow nation” punctuated

this multi-culturalism that is the fibre of society and posed the challenge of uniting in our diversity. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) sought to heal the wounds of the past and close a sad chapter in our history. Emanating from the TRC process was the granting of amnesty to perpetrators of apartheid crimes against humanity and to those in the fight against that unjust system. The TRC should have provided an opportunity for all South Africans to carry out the task of nation-building and reconciliation with less angst about the past, but some did not take the process seriously and did not make full

"The question of race is that which divides us and it is that which should unite us." disclosures about crimes committed in the past. People such as Eugene de Kock were refused amnesty primarily because of this lack of transparency. Outside the TRC process, the rest of South Africa had to embrace each other and work together to redress the historical wrongs. Since the TRC, there has been in existence a disturbing level of arrogance and resistance amongst some whites, who perhaps viewed the transformation

image courtesy of SHUTTERSTOCK

Confronting our past makes for emotive dialogue, which often ends up in tears, but national unity and reconciliation demands of all of us a higher level of maturity and mutual trust.

F E A T U R E

agenda as challenging to their own historical privileges. While we proudly proclaim ourselves to be a rainbow nation and pretend to the outside world to be united in the name of Nelson Mandela, the reality is that we remain deeply divided along racial lines. The “us and them” mentality still exists in our society. When the subject of transformation arises, whites who are inspired by ignorance and the need to maintain the status quo will accuse well-meaning South Africans of “reverse discrimination”. The question of race is that which divides us and it is that which should unite us. South Africans generally steer clear of having uncomfortable conversations about the past, about things that divide us and about lasting solutions to all these problems that are deeply rooted in race.

image courtesy of SHUTTERSTOCK

"It would seem that some understood the reconciliatory agenda of the Mandela presidency to mean that the entire nation needed to suffer from collective amnesia" Keeping up the pretence and continuing the lie of “national unity” appears to be premised on the notion that a problem ignored long enough will fade with time. Sadly this head-in-the-sand syndrome only serves to delay progress towards full realisation of national unity and reconciliation. White people are legendary in dismissing dialogue that seeks to confront the problem of race and the divisions that exist within society, primarily because of a fear of being accused of racism. This situation is exacerbated by frustrated black people who readily abuse the race card when challenged on key national questions. In his treatise Striving of the Negro People (1897), WEB du Bois posed the following question: “How does it feel to be a problem?” His was an important question in the context of addressing the problem of racism in the 20th century; and it is an important question to

address the problem of the 21st century, the problem of economic emancipation of the black collective. The question of transformation and empowerment highlights the difficult task of addressing apparent irrreconciled ideals between black and white people. The challenge for both groups is the open acknowledgement and recognition of the impact of our past in the present and equal recognition that national unity and reconciliation is key to resolving such contentious historical issues. Confronting our past makes for emotive dialogue, which often ends up in tears, but national unity and reconciliation demands of all of us, black and white, a higher level of maturity and mutual trust, a change of attitude and transformation of the mind and the urgency to discard all racial stereotypes we have long become accustomed to. Embracing transformation of the mind as transformation of society is the prime requisite for national unity and reconciliation. It is, therefore, useful for all of us to know something in the manner of different cultures, that we may be enabled to form a correct judgement regarding what constitutes this rainbow nation and what is required of us to preserve it.

A nation united in diversity demands of its citizens a reasonable understanding and knowledge of all that gives rise to such diversity. The promotion of multi-racialism and multi-culturalism cannot exist in a vacuum and be rooted in ignorance and prejudice. It is important that we find our common interests and use them as the basis to have uncomfortable conversations. It is the duty of all South Africans, regardless of race, while living under the pretences of unity, to commit to restoring the dignity of the majority who continue to exist on the margins of the economy. To transition a nation from a divided and volatile coexistence to a harmonious normality requires confidence in our ability to define a common purpose; to truly live to the ideals of a united and prosperous nation; and to fulfil the promise we make when we sing the national anthem, that “united we shall stand”. Our insistence on living a lie of a rainbow nation is a betrayal of the sacrifices made for this freedom, a betrayal of our own social harmony. South Africans should not be afraid to have the difficult conversations openly. It is those difficult conversations that help to bridge the great divide.

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FASHION YOUR KITCHEN italian style

www.smeg.co.za

Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18.

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Time is what you make it.

Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18.

BY BRENDAH NYAKUDYA

tsots i

the

boa r d r oom

ALEX OKOSI SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & MANAGING DIRECTOR, MTV NETWORKS AFRICA

he name MTV Networks Africa is synonymous with African success. The legend of MTV Base as a music channel has shed the spotlight firmly on a calibre of African performers that have the confidence to pit themselves against the best musical talent on the international stage. This pan-African entertainment network launched in early 2005, and since its launch, the channel has experienced an intense period of growth. It went from a pay-TV channel to a pan-African TV network that is accessible to more than 90 million viewers across Africa. All this began with a dream and the unwavering dedication of the senior vicepresident and managing director of MTV Networks Africa, Alex Okosi, the man at the helm of business operations of MTV Networks International’s emerging markets group.

A passion for success Alex was only 12 years old when he moved to the United States from Nigeria. A young boy inspired by his parents from an early age, he grew up focused on becoming a successful and positive role model who could inspire others in his community. His passion for success, whether it was on the soccer field or basketball court, was something that was inherent in his character. And so when he was given an opportunity to attend prep school at Phillips Exeter Academy in the United States, he took full advantage of it. He subsequently received a full basketball scholarship to attend Saint Michael’s College University in Vermont. This experience was a defining time for him as he excelled in both sporting and academic disciplines; he graduated magna cum laude with a double major in business administration and economics. After completing his studies, Alex was afforded an opportunity to start his career as part of the MTV marketing team in New York with subsequent moves to the MTV Networks’ affiliate team in Los Angeles and the international strategy and business

development team in London, where he was able to develop the business plan for the MTV Base Africa channel. But it was in 2005 that he finally came into his own as he was instrumental in realising MTV’s long-held ambitions on the African continent with the conception and launch of MTV’s 100th channel and first localised television service targeted exclusively at subSaharan Africa, MTV Base. On the strategy to launch MTV Base, Alex says, “This was never an initiative just to say we created an African MTV service; the plan was always to launch and run a successful business.” And launch a successful business they did! The manner in which the channel and brand has been so readily received and entrenched in African music culture

“You should go out every day thinking you are a winner and strive to win at everything you do. However, you must also have a team of people who are passionate and skilled and who also pursue excellence. comes as no surprise to Alex. He always believed in and worked towards MTV Base being successful both as a creative and financial proposition that would inspire positive change within the African youth space. Three years after launching MTV base, Alex went on to launch Nickelodeon

Africa, a 24-hour Nickelodeon service for African kids. Under his stewardship, MTV Networks Africa has grown into a fully fledged network reaching in excess of 90 million viewers across Africa via a combination of satellite pay-TV distribution and terrestrial programming partnerships in key African markets including Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.

In praise of the team effort It would be naïve to assume the success of MTV Base was a stroke of luck as Alex is a firm believer in sheer hard work mixed with a dash of inspiration and a twist of creativity. A tough boss who expects perfection with every task, he inspires his team to believe that there is nothing they cannot achieve if they put their minds to it. “You should go out every day thinking you are a winner and strive to win at everything you do. However, you must also have a team of people who are passionate and skilled and who also pursue excellence,” he says. While he has been at the forefront of all the MTV Networks Africa efforts, he acknowledges the success of the brands is a testament to the efforts of the team of people that work incredibly hard with him every day.

The power of mentorship Alex was fortunate enough to have benefited from extraordinary mentors who have been there throughout his life. These individuals have been instrumental in getting him to this point in his career. For many young people these relationships are hard to come by as opportunities to mentor are few and far in-between. Reasons for the scarcity of mentorship could include, according to Alex, the perception that the development and operation of mentorship programmes are resource intensive processes.

Time is what you make it. Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18.

“Mentorship is not easy as you are asking people to take time out of their busy schedules to help develop someone else,” he acknowledges. “However, I would argue that any such investment is money and time well spent.” In his personal experience, however, the relationships between himself and his mentors generally developed naturally as he interacted with them to get guidance. There were also times when he consciously sought out individuals who inspired him with their character and accomplishments. “I have been very lucky in that when I am faced with challenges or opportunities, I have a wealth of people who know me and care about me whom I can call on for guidance,” he says. “The most important lesson I have learnt from my mentors is that there are good people out there who are genuinely interested in helping other people grow.”

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Anyone who has encountered MTV will know that it is about more than the music. Over the past number of years the channel has initiated many projects that serve to empower youths including the "Choose or Lose" campaign, which encouraged youth to vote smart. There was also "MTV Base Meets ...with MTV", an eight-part youth empowerment initiative to inspire African youth by connecting them with some of the world’s most influential personalities. One of the most important initiatives for Africa has been the "MTV Staying Alive Campaign", which has become the world’s largest HIV mass-mediaawareness and prevention campaign encouraging HIV prevention, safer lifestyle choices and fighting the stigma and discrimination that fuels the HIV pandemic. In a continent where HIV is rife, this campaign has been groundbreaking. “I have a real passion to serve the continent in which I was born,” Alex comments about the need for such campaigns. “After all the many opportunities I have had and the wonderful individuals who have given me a helping hand along the way, I definitely believe in giving back.” A lot of what they do at MTV is about giving back. Whether it is teaching new skills or giving young people access to new ideas and people, the brand is grounded in a culture that looks to face challenges and find solutions for them.

image COURTESY OF NETWORKS Victor Dlamini imageS courtesy of MTV AFRICA

More than just music

Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18.

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tsots i

Time is what you make it.

The African continent faces many challenges, and Alex is not oblivious to this fact. “Like every nation or continent, Africa has its share of individuals that do not show it in its best light,” he says. “However, I believe that there are far more people doing great things with tremendous integrity that are not having their stories told. Ever since we started our Africa business, we have been focused on highlighting a reimagined Africa, with its amazing and vibrant youth culture, so that we can help to showcase the far more positive stories that the continent has to offer and which are not currently being captured by other media.”

Re-imagining Africa

Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18.

As one who chose to come back to use what he had learnt in order to better the continent, Alex is one who has given the state of Africa some thought. He laments that Africa keeps failing to understand that it needs to invest in the basic needs and infrastructure to help eradicate poverty. In most countries these include adequate education, water supply and electricity. Without these basic needs being satisfied, the gap between the rich and poor will continue to widen. His opinion is based in the belief that most of the crises the continent has seen – be they greed, corruption or indiscipline – come from the struggle for the basics. “You have to invest in education – that’s for sure – but you can’t just blame government spending or lack of it!” he says. “In my opinion, there are three key components to solving this challenge. The first is that government needs to make sure that it provides children – no matter what their socio-economic background – access to high-quality primary education, free of charge. This means that government should make sure that teachers are well trained and classrooms are resourced with the right number of books and so forth. The second and third go hand in hand – government needs to find ways to address the basic needs of families, so that the parents can put greater value on education, and the children themselves need to be willing to learn.” But the onus is not only on government, he states. As individuals, Africans need to make sure they do the absolute best they 34

the

boa r d r oom

can in every corner of their lives – be it careers, families or our communities. Africans need to make an effort to participate in being part of the solution to most of their challenges and take an active role in helping to build their communities. “If we want to help fight some of the stereotypes of the continent – corruption, for example – then, as individuals, we must make sure that we don’t compromise ourselves in any way and pursue our daily dealings with great integrity.” Alex believes if everyone makes just a little effort, change will come. “I believe that we can make a real difference that will propel our continent to a better place,” he says. “You can only do Africa right if you do right by it by working as hard as you can. We need to make ourselves and Africa successful and to invest back in the individuals and institutions that can make us great.” With what he has achieved in such a short period of time, Alex is a true inspiration to Africans. A Nigerian who, like most Nigerians, has learnt to never take no for an answer. A leader who knows that nothing is going to be given to him by anyone, so his success

“After all the many opportunities I have had and the wonderful individuals who have given me a helping hand along the way, I definitely believe in giving back.” is completely self-determined. And he is nowhere near resting on his laurels. “We have been successful in getting many of our pro-social messages across but, as a TV channel, our penetration drops off significantly outside key territories like South Africa, Nigeria, Tanzania and Uganda where we have a strong pay-TV or terrestrial-TV presence,” he says. “We are constantly working to increase our distribution by leveraging other platforms such as radio, online and mobile, so that more young people can have access to the positive initiatives and messages that we advocate. While we are happy with what we have accomplished to date, we still have ambitious goals for the future.” www.afropolitan.co.za

G E E K

UNDERCOVER GEEK APPLE vs. PC

n Western culture and history, the apple seems to have earned itself a significantly elevated status above other fruit, with many English idioms replete with this particular fruit’s dominance. Just take the Christian story of creation, where a fruit was used as the plot device in what happened between Adam and Eve. Even while no mention is made of the actual type of fruit used, most people have come to substitute that incipient fruit as being the ultimate “bad apple”, as it were. In the English language, apples have unrivalled antidotal properties. As the saying goes, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away”, and when it comes to looks and favour, it is the ultimate compliment to be considered “the apple of somebody’s eye”. And just to reinforce the iconic association this fruit has with epochal human endeavour, it was not a banana, pear or orange that fell on a young Isaac Newton while he was slacking off in the orchard, but an apple that landed on his noggin and ushered humanity into an era of gravitational constants and scientific enlightenment. So it is perhaps unsurprising that Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak chose the name Apple for their visionary computer company. The brand name brings together all the complex associations this fruit can conjure up in our collective imaginations. To some, Apple is the epitome of technological brilliance, unwavering innovation and exquisite styling... To others it is an evil empire whose rise to prominence after a turbulent 1990s has Tolkien-esque overtones of it perhaps being the one technological company “to rule them all”. Since Apple’s birth in the late 70s, the company has unwittingly driven a wedge through humanity and created two distinct camps, Apple Mac users

and PC users... To upset the apple cart, I’ll have you know that although I am neither, I think I dislike Apple more. Mac users are characterised by their small numbers, deluded sense of selfimportance, towering egos, self-confessed liberalism, alleged open-mindedness, penchant for vegetarianism and a desire to be considered as compelling, cool, unique individuals. PC users on the other hand, despite being lumped into a category whose abbreviation denotes “politically correct”, are stereotyped by the Apple hype-machine to be plain, unadventurous, herd-like creatures of habit who for the most part do not “know any better”. The irony of the Apple user’s desire to be different, unique, exceptional and cool is lost on the Apple Mac crowd as, unlike PCs, every Apple computer, iPhone, iPad and iPod is exactly the same as all the others. Yep, they’re unique individuals alright... just like everybody else. Perhaps in the early years there was substance to the technological cold war between Mac and PC users. Back then there were significant differences in technologies and software run on Mac and PC. Today, however, everything that the Apple Mac uses, from hardware to software, is all created by the same companies that create PC equipment, so the once-sharp, shiny esoteric glint in the Apple armour is reduced to a blur. These days an Apple computer is very much a PC in designer clothing. Apples now have Intel processors (not Power PC

chips like they used to), and there’s even a version of Microsoft Office available for Mac. So, save for the infernal and utterly annoying one-button mouse that Apple insists on, Macs have very much in common with their PC counterparts. The ultimate betrayal to the more puritanical and separatist Apple fans must surely be the availability of software that will actually let you run Windows 7/Linux on a virtual machine on your Apple Mac. I can’t help but feel sorry for people who try to live a “cool” life through their indulgent choice of computer equipment. Renowned technologist Jaron Lanier was right when he said, “We are not our devices and we shouldn’t let them define us. We should define them.” Still, living on the African continent, where we require cheap, effective solutions to rapidly alleviate the abysmal techno-literacy levels of our population, I find that Apple’s overly stylised, overly priced business model to be the wrong fit for Africa’s immediate needs. When deciding what to buy – Mac or PC? – your decision should ultimately not be based on the hardware, the software or the warm fuzzy feeling you get when you use your choice of equipment. It should be based on how your equipment enhances the quality of your output and improves your performance. If that is not clear, you might perhaps benefit from a switch... no matter what side of the great techno divide you’re on.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of The Afropolitan

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image courtesy of SHUTTERSTOCK

BY CHARLES ASH

U N D E R C O V E R

BY Tshepo Matseba

F I N A N C E

B Y

M O M E N T U M

Saving for your goals in five simple steps 1. Come up with a plan

It is never too late to start investing, writes Tshepo Matseba. Here is how you can ensure that your money works for you.

y now most of our goals for 2011 have either taken hold or bitten the dust. Have you managed to stop smoking or made it to the gym every morning? Without beating yourself up too much, it is important to realise that this type of goal can fall by the wayside. However, do not wait ’till the year ends before you realise your goal. If one of your more important goals was to get your finances in order, there is still time to get started. After getting your debt under control, growing your money through investing is your next best move. The most important lesson is realising that investing is more about developing a well-thought-out strategy suited to your individual needs than guessing and trying to predict where the quickest money is to be made. Here are five simple steps to achieving your investment goals.

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First things first – ask yourself what you would like to achieve. More money is obviously the plan, but ask what you need the money for and by when. Your starting point is drawing up what is known as a financial needs analysis (FNA). This is a formally constructed document that gives you a complete overview of your entire financial situation – what you owe and what you have to pay out each month versus what assets you have and how much money you earn. From here you can work out your route map to achieving your financial goals. In fact, FNAs are considered so important that in South Africa, it is legislated that any financial adviser must conduct one before presenting any strategy or product to you. Taking everything into account is not a simple process, and it is recommended that you seek professional advice. Your time horizon – short-, medium- or long-term – becomes important. This will depend on what you are saving for – a deposit on a car next year or your child’s varsity education in 18 years or even a comfortable retirement in 40 years. Make sure you have the money to stick to your plan over the long term.

2. Find an excellent financial adviser who is professional and competent

Something this important you need to get right the first time around, and you are entering into a complex industry with thousands of choices and options. It really helps to have a professionally qualified and competent financial planner to get you on track. You wouldn’t go to someone claiming to be a doctor who thinks he maybe has a good idea of how to make you better, so don’t chance giving your money to someone who is not qualified and authorised from a reputable financial services provider. It is best to contact the Financial Planning Institute of Southern Africa (www. fpi.co.za) to find a registered financial planner.

3. Do some research

Even if you have found a dependable adviser, it is a good idea for you to do

your homework and brush up on your own financial knowledge. The financial services industry can be complicated, and there seems to be a whole other language that applies to managing your money. The more you know, the more empowered you are to control your financial destiny. Go to www.fsb.co.za for a list of helpful websites.

4. Be realistic

It is important to match your investment to your goals. Be realistic. You are not going to be able to buy a Ferrari in five years by saving R100 per month. For that amount, you probably won’t ever be able to afford a car like that! The time you set aside for an investment to mature, and the amount of money you are able to contribute will be the two factors that most determine the outcome. Find out what your risk comfort level is. Sometimes a more volatile or risky investment can generate a quicker return, but there is a risk that an unstable investment can also turn the other way and you lose money. Your adviser will find out what level of risk you are comfortable with and apply that to your strategy. Beware of dubious investment schemes that promise above-average returns. If it is too good to be true, it most likely is. Check with the Financial Services Board if you are dealing with a registered financial institution and with regulated/recognised products.

5. Stick to the plan

South Africans are notorious for not being able to save and plan for a financially secure future. Don’t be swayed off your path by wasting money on instant spending gratification. Stick to your time line and hang in there. Don’t let emotions influence you away from your goals. Between you and your financial adviser re-evaluate where necessary, but constantly implement your required strategy. The best time to start securing your financial future is now. Tshepo Matseba is the head of marketing at Momentum’s financial planning division.

BY CHARLES ASH

B U S I N E S S

Charles Ash takes a long hard look at the recent failures of the national communications department.

ailure is not necessarily a bad thing. Almost in all cases, failure presents an opportunity to learn, grow, improve and to try again, being better and wiser. It’s really only the failure to learn from past failures that is the problem... and Houston, here in South Africa, we clearly have a problem. When it comes to matters of technology, there is a disturbing trend in government and media circles. Since the information technology industry in South Africa is still so disproportionately dominated by white males, commentators and columnists, most of them also white, who agitate for change in this industry by calling into question government’s numerous blunders in steering the telecommunications sector, they are often blatantly disregarded by government decision makers as being nothing more than white anti-government rabble-rousers. It’s

A Dream Deferred Outsourced to India almost as if government has developed a textual armoury of words to deflect all criticism aimed at it. Words such as anti-government, anti-ANC, anti-black, racist, unpatriotic, Afro-pessimistic and, my personal favourite, “bloody agent” are immediately aimed at anybody with the temerity to call government failures into question.

The main gripe with government’s, and particularly the national department of communications’, failure to steer the telecommunications sector is government’s seeming inability to appreciate the material consequences of its obstinacy and short-sightedness. I find it perplexing that while all government literature

and communications purport to be in favour of job creation and the reduction of unemployment, enigmatically and consistently, over the past 10 years, the department of communications has hopelessly squandered almost every opportunity to give any credence to these stated government policies. An article published in the Business Day of

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and our globally competitive labour costs. Besides the direct benefit of attracting and growing a call-centre industry, there are innumerable other benefits of providing citizens of this country with affordable, plentiful, speedy bandwidth. The reason this has not happened yet is the direct result of the actions (and inactions) of the department of communications. This department effectively sabotaged the South African economy and severely hampered our growth. To illustrate the severity and deep-rooted extent of these accusations levelled at the department of communications, we touch on four key areas where it has been an unmitigated failure: • Telkom monopoly protection (delay in licensing second network operator) • Failure to reduce telecommunications costs • Managed liberalisation policy failure • Local loop unbundling (LLU) failure

Telkom monopoly protection As if Telkom’s extortionist pricing was not repugnant enough, some of government’s own executives have been working as agent provocateurs within the system to sully any attempt

enormously from his insider knowledge of the sector. Shrewd opportunism? Entrepreneurship? Or self-serving avarice that hampered an entire industry, disempowered many hundreds of thousands of unemployed youth and turned South Africa into a technological laggard? Mr Ngcaba falls into the latter category. When Moeletsi Mbeki wrote his book Architects of Poverty: Why Africa’s Capitalism Needs Changing, he likely had the likes of Andile Ngcaba firmly in mind.

Failure to reduce telecommunications costs It’s one thing saying we have high telecommunication costs in South Africa and then leaving it at that. It’s another thing entirely when the extent of the exorbitant pricing is made apparent when compared to that of similar countries and international counterparts. Amongst countries surveyed during a 2007 Business Leadership South Africa study, South Africa’s business broadband (ADSL) came up third most expensive and 127,2 percent higher than the average price. The country’s retail broadband was the most expensive of the 15 countries surveyed at a price 130,5 percent higher than the average.

“Besides the direct benefit of attracting and growing a call-centre industry, there are innumerable other benefits of providing citizens of this country with affordable, plentiful, speedy bandwidth” at telecommunication liberalisation and cost reductions. Andile Ngcaba, director-general at the department of communications until late 2003, oversaw and implemented government policy that vigorously defended Telkom’s market exclusivity, monopoly status and resultant high prices. In addition, Mr Ngcaba was a major player in the buyout of Telkom shares. Under his auspices, the department delayed the licensing of the second national operator that would bring much-needed competition to the industry. At the same time, the department facilitated Telkom’s stockmarket listing and formulated policy that affected its subsequent value. Mr Ngcaba then glibly resigned from government and joined the private sector, where he benefited

These results represented a slight improvement from those in 2005, when the South African prices were 148 and 139 percent higher respectively than those in the comparison group. Considering that our broadband landscape is typified by low speed, low caps and high prices, there is enormous opportunity and space for Telkom to make positive overtures and put the economy on a more globally competitive footing. When you’re a monopolist, however, and the copper wires that snake into peoples’ home are your personal fiefdom and tools of ransom, you actually do not need to do anything you really do not want to. In June 2011 Telkom made known its annual tariff reductions. Customers can now look forward to an overall tariff decrease

imageS courtesy OF SHUTTERSTOCK

29 May, 2007, stated that a government scheme to lure international call-centre operators to SA had not elicited a single application, dashing hopes that up to 100 000 new jobs would be created and investment deals worth R175 million sealed if the initiative were successful. Economically speaking, these 100 000 jobs would have resulted in a projected R12.5 billion being pumped into the South African economy every year. There is evidence to suggest that the number of jobs created could even be higher. “Although South Africa’s offshore contact-centre industry has performed reasonably well over the years, it is not delivering the jobs and revenues that government and industry hoped for,” comments Switch Telecom MD Greg Massel. You see, the modern call-centre industry is premised on the availability of affordable, high-quality bandwidth. Failure to provide this singular and potentially infinite raw material makes investors reluctant to invest, and of course, as investors are wont to do, they are quick to move on to countries more serious about the facilitation of opportunities in the globally burgeoning call-centre sector, countries such as India. The African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) has rabidly focused its attention on the nationalisation of mines as the cure-all for rampant youth unemployment in the country, but this is a highly retrogressive step. For starters, it fuels the notion that African youth are nothing more than blue-collar fodder, capable only of menial, back-breaking manual labour. It ignores the towering body of evidence that government involvement in the private sector leads to costly and unnecessary failures. It also requires the gargantuan task of revising legislation to make the nationalisation of mines possible and patently ignores the resultant and significant investor fall-out that this course of action will invariably incur. In an ideal scenario, the ANCYL will pursue the department of communications and turn up the heat in their inimitable fashion to force the hand of this wayward department to implement some radical reforms to drastically cut the cost of telecommunications in South Africa. This will allow South Africa to immediately tap into the rapidly expanding call-centre-outsourcing industry by strategically leveraging our positive national attributes, that include our favourable geographical positioning, to serve disparate global markets, our stable democracy, our multi-culturalism,

B U S I N E S S of 1.7 percent on basic voice and data services. That’s right, folks, in light of the facts, this is the best our national fixed-line provider can provide.

Managed liberalisation policy failure In “The silliness of policy silos: broadband and broadcast in South Africa”, an academic paper by Rhodes University’s Guy Berger (find it at http://nml.ru.ac.za/blog/guy-berger/), the obvious failure of “managed liberalisation” is made irrefutably clear. “Managed liberalisation” is the department of communication’s official policy on managing change within the telecommunications industry and is characterised by its staggered

LLU refers to the practice of government forcing an incumbent telecommunications company to make its “last mile” connections into homes and businesses (usually in the form of copper lines) available for other operators to use. What this will effectively mean is that Telkom will be forced to share copper phone lines that come into homes and businesses with other operators. This will allow consumers to choose their landline or ADSL service provider. It can be argued that the copper wire that forms the basis of Telkom’s network and gives the company a massively unfair advantage over any telecommunications operator in the country is not actually theirs to begin with. The copper wires we make our calls over were installed many, many

When you’re a monopolist, however, and the copper wires that snake into peoples’ home are your personal fiefdom and tools of ransom, you actually do not need to do anything you really do not want to introduction of competition, protection of incumbents and the structured rollout of services, ostensibly designed to benefit the poor. Yet the dogged adherence to this policy has in reality achieved the opposite. Berger writes that, “The ‘managed liberalisation’ approach has been justified partly as a way to deal with market failure which wholesale liberalisation is deemed to entail ... Accordingly, Telkom was granted a monopoly on fixed-line services for five years after being part-privatised, on the basis that it should roll out landlines to underserved areas. Although wellintentioned, the initiative failed – with communities being connected, and then disconnected for non-payment of services on the then monthlysubscription post-service payment model.” The paper goes on to list a litany of “managed liberalisation” failures, from the SABC through Sentech and Blue IQ to Universal Service and Access Agency of South Africa funds for under-served areas. Alarmingly, despite the evidence and resultant economic impact on lowincome South Africans, government’s “managed liberalisation” approach has not been revised and is still policy.

Local loop unbundling failure 40

years before Telkom even existed. They were thus funded by South African tax payers, hence belong to us. Telkom, of course, sees this very differently and is bracing its considerable legal resources to go on the offensive to defend its “territory”. A 2007 report on LLU, commissioned by then communications minister Ivy Matsepe-Casaburri, recommended a project plan that would see LLU implementation complete by November 2011. This report was used to inform departmental policy. Considering the enormous costsaving benefits that this process could yield for the South African consumer through the introduction of qualitative competition in the fixed-line space, it’s regrettable that the notoriously slothful industry regulator, the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa, has only recently released a discussion paper containing its “initial views” on the process to be followed to unbundle the local loop. Interested persons have until mid-September 2011 to make written representations. It’s obviously highly doubtful that the LLU implementation process will be complete by November 2011 – it’s simply a case of way too little way too late. Business research and consulting group Frost & Sullivan report that high telecommunications costs in South Africa are a major barrier to the

call-centre industry’s growth. Garth Strachan, member of the Western Cape executive council for economic development, also recently singled out the cost of domestic and international communications as a major obstacle to growth for call-centre and businessprocess-outsourcing industries. This is the duplicitous dilemma that confronts and confounds the South African economy, highlighting the stark disconnect between espoused government policies and enacted realities. On the one hand the South African government sees the callcentre industry as a potential source of significant employment, yet on the other, the governmental custodians of the telecommunications sector have done nothing but mollycoddle monopolistic incumbents, keep prices unsustainably high, stifle competition and emasculate the industry regulator – all to the severe detriment of the broader economy – while paying lip service to job creation and digital emancipation. While the South African economy haemorrhages call-centre jobs to India and other more progressive developing economies, weak leadership in the telecommunications sector sees South Africa continually performing abysmally in the global broadband stakes. Perhaps it is naivety that causes one to yearn for an elusive future where young township kids can download the freely available Android software development kit and begin tinkering to their heart’s content as they develop the next generation of mobile applications. Of course, this eminently attainable idealised future will remain in the realm of science-fiction if the South African government does not learn from its present and past dismal policy failures and adopt a more aggressive approach to transforming our telecommunications environment. As a result of the measurable job losses that can be attributed to the lethargy in the communications department to bring down telecommunications costs, perhaps the guilty parties should be charged with treason for their treacherous betrayal of the unemployed and the youth in South Africa and for their role in this unforgivable, unnecessary economic and employment haemophilia. The South African economy is bleeding – unnecessarily so. The time for decisive action and leadership is right now. We owe it to our youth and unemployed. www.afropolitan.co.za

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LERE’S SHOE SHINE EXPERIENCE

hen Lere Mgayiya’s ambitions of being a pilot were destroyed, after an unfair dismissal, the future looked bleak, with no hope of securing permanent employment. But, as with most things in life, what started out as a misfortune turned out to be the start of the rest of his life, as it was then he found his “inner entrepreneur” and started Lere’s Shoe Shine Experience. Since then he has won the Sanlam Money Game, a programme that pits budding entrepreneurs against each other to see who can make the biggest profit in three days with R30 000 and in 2004 he was also national runner-up in the SAB Kick-start Competition, a youth focused programme aimed to stimulate sustainable enterprise development... And that’s just been the beginning.

Where did you grow up, and what have been your biggest influences?

I was born and raised in Cape Town. I actually grew up in a family of entrepreneurs, so one would assume that is how the bug bit. My father’s family owns a fleet of taxis, and my mother’s family runs a livestock distribution operation. But funny enough, when it came to choosing a career path, starting my own business wasn’t my first option. I had other aspirations.

What was the biggest obstacle you encountered when it came to employment? Unfortunately my colour was the biggest hindrance. While I had a great attitude, I’m black, and I feel had I been white it would have been easier to find gainful employment. But I didn’t let that get me down. I managed to still gain training and practical experience, which proved very useful in my entrepreneurial ventures.

So how did your own business come about? I wanted to be a pilot, but I was unfairly dismissed despite loyalty and dedication I had given to the job. This made me realise I would struggle to find employment again, so I pursued being my own boss. As they say, the rest is history

Why the shoe shine business? It wasn’t my first choice. Not at all. I tried a number of ventures that failed and cost me a lot of money. I was at a very low point in my life when by chance I noticed a shoe shiner plying his trade at Green Market Square – that piqued my interest. I went home, did the sums, and realised there was good potential for this venture to work and grow and that the airport would be the best place to have my shoe stands as it would guarantee foot- traffic every day.

How did you make shoe shining such a successful venture?

image courtesy of LERE'S SHOE SHINE

BY BRENDAH NYAKUDYA

People start companies for different reasons. For some, being an entrepreneur is a dream they have nurtured since the dawn of time, some stumble upon opportunities that lead them to business ownership, and for others it’s a choice that is born out of unfortunate circumstance.

Night is falling. Through the window of my suite, a window as wide as the world, I glimpse the first flicker of the evening star, casting its light upon the landscape. I see a bird wheeling in the open sky, among clouds still tinged with the afterglow of sunset. I see you. Reflected in my reflections, lost in this dream that we dream together. Where are we? How far have we traveled? You shrug and you smile. The heart does not need a map, you say. The soul doesn’t need to know its coordinates of longitude and latitude. All that matters… Is that we are somewhere between the moment of origin and the destiny that draws us on, towards the rising sun, on tracks of steel that whisper their way from the ocean to the desert to the City of Gold. These lines connect us. To people, to places. To each other. Hurry, you say.... ....There will be time, later, to gaze at the world outside, at the unfolding canvas of the African night, at the darkness giving way to the dawn. For now, it is laughter that lights the way, the clinking of glasses that leads us down the corridor towards the dining-car. For now, all that matters is that this is where we belong, and this memory, this moment, this experience... Will forever belong to us. Night has fallen. We drink a toast to new friends, new tastes, new sensations, and my eye is drawn for an instant to the world rushing by beyond the window. I think to myself... If I was out there now, I would look up to see a train passing through the landscape, with lights in its windows, like stars against the sky. Where are we? How far have we travelled? I shrug and I smile. We are on that train, travelling together, seduced by the promise of a fantasy in silent motion. The only difference…is that the fantasy is real. Come now. Follow your heart, follow your soul. Through the window of The Blue Train, anything in the world is possible. - Susan Wittengenstein 19/01/2004. Pretoria reservation office: Tel: +27 12 334-8459 or +27 12 334 8460 | Fax: +27 12 334 8464 or +27 12 334 8081 Cape Town reservation office: Tel: +27 21 449 2672 | Fax: +27 21 449 3338

For further information about The Blue Train, please send an e-mail to: info@bluetrain.co.za

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"in soMe instAnCes, people just hAVen’t CoMe to terMs with the FACt thAt they hAVe no ChoiCe But to Be selF-reliAnt And Are still looKinG to soMeone else For A solution." It has been a long road. The first thing we did was to conduct research in order to get more facts and a better understanding of our customers and their needs. From there we took the time and effort to build a sizeable customer base. Once the customer base was solidified we built a solid team. We created and built up a user-friendly selection structure and a succinct training model that we could use to recruit and educate the staff we would deploy to the various stations. Our first base was in Cape Town, and we used all the cash flow that came in from there to expand to Johannesburg, Durban, East London, Port Elizabeth and George.

how is the business doing now? The business is going well, thankfully. The nature of it means we get a constant flow of customers, and it has translated into strong cash flow. Our work ethic has fortunately given us dedicated staff members. There are very good growth prospects.

To what do you attribute your success? Most importantly you have to have a good learning ethic. Being eager to learn will stand you in good stead as people will give you good advice and tips that will prove golden. Finding mentors who can walk this road with you and instruct you without fear or favour (good listeners, in other words) is key. Creativity allows you to see the opportunities where everyone else sees the challenges, and determination will see you through the tough times when no money is coming in and you feel like giving up.

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What can government and the private sector do to help selfstarters? The first thing they should invest in is a mentorship programme. Having such an institution in place will equip young entrepreneurs with the much-needed skills and character traits that will turn them into successful business people. School entrepreneur projects are also sorely needed. These should aim to identify young talent and nurture it to fruition.

When it comes to unemployment, how much blame can be placed at the feet of government and the private sector? Can it not sometimes be attributed to individuals lacking a go-getting attitude? You know, the unemployment problem has a number of components, which makes it a very complex issue. Factors that come into play include apartheid education and the current economic structure, which is very unequal; government economic structures and policies that make it hard for start-ups to succeed; private sector efficiency structures; and advances in technology. All these components combined are to blame for unemployment – there is no one isolated factor. People out there are motivated. No-one wants to be unemployed without any hope for the future, but they have been rendered powerless. In some instances, people just haven’t come to terms with the fact that they have no choice but to be self-reliant and are still looking to someone else for a solution.

Any tips/lessons you have learnt that you would want to share with budding entrepreneurs? I think people need to realise that growth is both an advantage and a risk if it’s not properly managed. It’s important to have people around that can assist self-starters to deal with this. In retrospect, is there anything you would have done differently? Yes [laughs]... I would have taken time to think more, and I would have been a bit more cautious in my dealings.

What are you working on at the moment? A social venture that provides showers for those who work and live in and around taxi ranks. These showers will be for taxi operators, hawkers and commuters alike. It’s an opportunity to give back and provide a much-needed service to the community.

t r ave l BY ELKA SCHAIMBERG

The Magic of Madikwe While the city accelerates our desire for all things faster, better, bigger and more glamorous, it can also manipulate us into overlooking the simple pleasures in life.

he constant hum and bright lights of the big city have a funny way of creeping up under your skin. City slickers are so busy chasing time, meeting deadlines and fighting traffic that a weekend away is rare and challenging to schedule. But if ever the opportunity arises to pry yourself away from the clenched jaws of your daily routine, make certain that you escape to Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge. This luxury retreat is an inspiring reminder of just how necessary it is to take time out to smell the roses... or, in this case, the soul-soothing air of the African bush. Situated on the Botswana border, Madikwe is one of the largest private game reserves in South Africa. You would never imagine that this unspoilt world, just a four-hour drive away from the city, showcases Mother Nature’s sheer creative brilliance. A large bull elephant is the first to proudly welcome our arrival as he walks the lone dirt track that leads us further into a thriving hub of wildlife. The vast plains and rugged hills are adorned with strange-looking trees that resemble fine-art installations. The soundtrack from The Lion King plays in my mind as a Yellow-billed Hornbill seemingly guides us the rest of the way to the lodge. Thanks, Zazu! Interestingly, most South Africans who have been lucky enough to stay at

Madikwe Hills choose not to reveal too much about it, in the hope of keeping it a secret. I’m quite happy to divulge the details and tell the world what they’re missing out on. On arrival at reception, we’re encouraged to freshen up with warm facecloths and fresh fruit juice before being escorted to our private suite. This world-class African oasis is built amongst

“Interestingly, most South Africans who have been lucky enough to stay at Madikwe Hills choose not to reveal too much about it, in the hope of keeping it a secret” www.afropolitan.co.za

SPECIAL OFFER Quote “Afropolitan” when booking at Madikwe Hills and stay for R2500 per person sharing, including two game drives daily and meals. Valid until 31 December 2011. Terms and Conditions apply. Original rack rate: R5500 per person per night sharing (1 Sept – 31 Dec 2011)

natural boulders with wooden walkways that wind around the trees. Our suite is one of 10 ultra-luxurious glass-fronted suites that boast private decks, outdoor showers and personal plunge pools. Every last detail has been thought through, from the subtle Afro-chic décor to the romantic bathroom. There’s a fireplace and under-floor heating to keep cosy during winter months, and

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in summer, overhead fans and airconditioning offer relief from the heat. The large four-poster bed is clad in cotton picot linen and crowned with voluptuous mosquito netting. Here, absolute privacy is guaranteed, along with majestic views of the landscape. A watering hole not more than 100 metres away attracts a pair of giraffe and a pack of thirsty wild dog just in time

to join us for sundowners. Cheers! Two days of pure bush bliss to look forward to. Madikwe Hills is the perfect place for couples in love to experience an unforgettable safari wedding. We happen to be there for one. A German couple has flown in especially for their special day, and we join the bride and groom and other guests for an evening of festivity at

images COURTESY OF MADIKWE HILLS

"This world-class African oasis is built amongst natural boulders with wooden walkways that wind around the trees"

T r A V E l the boma. Fire, feast and traditional Tswana songs of celebration set the tone for a delicious buffet dinner. Everything tastes so good when you’re eating under a bright ceiling of stars. We retire after dinner with bellies and hearts full.

There may be no better way to wake up than with the sun, as the many sounds of dawn slowly filter through, finally synchronising into one grand opening song of joy. Ready for an earlymorning game drive, we set off with our own private tracker and ranger. Together, these guys form a full volume of encyclopaedic knowledge. They tell us about every bird, tree and track, answer any question thrown their way, and offer information on the behavioural

patterns and emotional intelligence of all the animals sharing their home. What a thrill to engage in a world where beauty and tranquillity envelop you, where your senses are heightened and your thoughts slow down and where the natural order of life remains untouched. In one morning we see a lazy lioness calling out to her pride, a herd of about a hundred buffalo splashing in the water to cool down, a rhino calf sharing a drink with his mother and four wild dogs tearing

savagely at the carcass of their kill. What a blessing to bear witness to this picture-perfect page-turning tale of life in the African wild. We sip on coffee and befriend a squirrel who shares a midmorning muffin snack with us, before we head back to relax on the main deck where breakfast is served. Izanne Nawn is the head chef at Madikwe Hills. She perfectly combines freshness with flavour, and passionately turns simple ingredients into hearty, unpretentious meals that are both wholesome and satisfying. Back in the comfort of our suite we have a choice of relaxing spa treatments. There’s also a gym for the more energetic folk. We choose to indulge in a quick dip in our private plunge pool before spreading ourselves out on the loungers. As we bathe and bask in the African sun, a herd of 22 elephant, including calves, gather at the watering hole. We watch them for hours as they move majestically, interacting and playing with one another. It’s as if a live broadcast of the National Geographic Channel is playing on a giant flat-screen television in front of us – it’s just too good to be true! Madikwe Hills is definitely a place best shared with a new love. Time spent there has a magical way of weaving itself into a tapestry of unforgettable moments, and the highlights are simply too many to mention. There really is only one way to appreciate the simple magic of Madikwe, and that’s to go there and experience it for yourself.

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images courtesy of madikWe hiLLs

"whAt A thrill to enGAGe in A world where BeAuty And trAnquillity enVelop you, where your senses Are heiGhtened And your thouGhts slow down And where the nAturAl order oF liFe reMAins untouChed"

Câ&#x20AC;&#x2122;MON DOWN TO MONTECASINO

24 OCTOBER - 04 DECEMBER 2011 WWW.MONTECASINO.CO.ZA

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Stepping up O to the plate

ne of the main issues facing young people in South Africa today is the lack of mentorship programmes and information transference opportunities. Of those who have been blessed with opportunities, not enough are lending a hand to those that are coming after. This has resulted in a forgotten generation of

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PHOTOGRAPHER: MIA ZIERVOGEL - MAKEUP: NATALIE SHELTON - STYLIST: RIAAN HULLEY AND LEXI MENZIES

Media maven Pabi Moloi is bringing hope to promising township youth through her Presenting Yourself in Life programme

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young people who feel disconnected from society and who have very little in terms of employment prospects. They also lack know-how to tackle the corporate world should an opportunity present itself. Over the past couple of years All Access Mzansi presenter Pabi Moloi started receiving countless requests

from young people requesting her to act as their mentor. She really had no idea what the term meant and what responsibilities were involved. After lengthy discussions with friends and colleagues it became clear to her that though there were many successful people, such as herself, who had grown up in disadvantaged areas such

as Soweto, Diepsloot and Alexandra, there was still a very desperate need amongst the township youth. Many of them longed for input that would not only expose them to academic and career prospects but also prepare them to eloquently and confidently present themselves to the world. It was then that Pabi got a flash

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choose. The PYIL programme will show the youth that they have innumerable choices in life and open their eyes to the prospects out there.

The best girl for the job Pabi is a South African media personality who has made a strong mark

in the broadcast industry. She was born in Hillbrow, Johannesburg, but she grew up in the townships of Diepkloof and Pimville in Soweto, hence her awareness of the challenges facing a young person growing up in that environment. She cut her teeth as a presenter for youth channel KTV, after which she hosted the second season of the SABC3 game

PHOTOGRAPHER: MIA ZIERVOGEL - MAKEUP: NATALIE SHELTON - STYLIST: RIAAN HULLEY AND LEXI MENZIES

of inspiration for her project called Presenting Yourself in Life (PYIL). It is a social programme targeting youngsters from the townships, and it aims to show them that regardless of your background, environment and circumstance, they still have options and can emerge from a challenging past to be successful in whatever field they

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show Out of the Box and the SABC1 game show The Amazing Date. Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also hosted the DSTV gospel channel One Gospel. Pabi is very much aware of how support from family, friends and influential people is invaluable to getting ahead and instilling a sense of self-assurance and security in an individual. In her journey to get to where she is today, she has been

fortunate enough to have people who imparted advice and wisdom that stood her in good stead. All this is clear to see in her latest role as presenter of the popular programme All Access Mzansi.

The PYIL programme

The PYIL programme will comprise a variety of workshops targeted at learners who have been highlighted by teachers and principals as achievers and who have risen above their circumstances. During these workshops various issues will be discussed; these will range from education to self-esteem. Furthermore, representatives from various

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and they can help by giving learners an opportunity to see and do more. As the PYIL project grows, Pabi aims to set up a bursary programme to give learners the opportunity for further study. “I would never have learnt what I have learnt and grown as I have grown if I didn’t have the opportunities and experiences I had in my childhood,” Pabi says. “I have met amazing

PHOTOGRAPHER: MIA ZIERVOGEL - MAKEUP: NATALIE SHELTON - STYLIST: RIAAN HULLEY AND LEXI MENZIES

corporate firms and organisations will be approached to be part of the workshops. These representatives will discuss options relating to further studies and business development, and they will shed some light on the future options available for the learners. Through these spokespeople, media and corporates can showcase what they are doing for the youth in South Africa,

individuals, travelled to various countries and along the way my eyes were opened to what is out there and what I can achieve.” At Afropolitan we fully support this venture and will be following Pabi on her journey to showcase the amazing headway that can be made when Africans invest in Africa.

BY VINCENT VERRYDT

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Taking Centre Stage F

or the past 50 years, rice has been perceived as the perfect accompaniment to any wholesome meal. Chicken casseroles and home-made curries have long been elevated to their super-star status on top of a bed of white and fluffy rice. But things have changed. Rice is no longer just an addition, it is a versatile meal that can be served in many different ways thus showcasing its use. Our friends at Tastic are passionate about their rice, which is why their brand is not only the No.1 rice brand in South Africa but the biggest branded rice in the world. Here they introduce us to two Tastic rice recipes worth writing home about!

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Lamb breyani

using Tastic Basmati Rice (Six generous servings)

A reduced-oil version of this classic favourite. To ensure that the meat will be tender and flavourful, cook the cubes partly in advance while boiling the rice, lentils and potatoes. Note: Cut the cubes from boned leg or shoulder of lamb and remove excess fat.

Ingredients for meat and sauce:

Ingredients for vegetables and rice:

• 50ml oil • 1 large onion, thinly sliced • 1 to 2 cloves garlic, crushed • 500g lamb, cut into 2cm cubes • salt to sprinkle • 3 whole cloves • 5ml ground cumin • 3ml ground coriander • 2ml tumeric • 3ml grated fresh ginger • 30ml garam masala • 100ml water • 1 small cinnamon stick • 250ml plain yoghurt or buttermilk • 250ml chopped fresh or canned tomatoes or • 250ml whole peeled tomatoes, liquidised

• 100ml brown lentils • 350ml water or • 200ml canned and drained brown lentils • 2 medium potatoes • water to cover • a little extra oil • 200g/250ml Tastic Basmati rice • 500ml water • 5ml salt • 1 small cinnamon stick • 2 cardamom pods

Ingredients for topping • 100ml water • reserved fried onion • sprinkle of turmeric or saffron • 30ml butter

Method:

imageS courtesy of TASTIC

1. Heat the oil in a saucepan saucepan, cover with water and fry the onion and garlic, and boil for 20 minutes or stirring until golden. Remove until just cooked but still firm. the onion with a slotted spoon Cool, peel and quarter the and reserve about 1/3 for the potatoes. Heat a little extra top of the dish. oil in a saucepan and fry the 2. Sprinkle the meat with salt; cooked potato until golden. add to the saucepan with 5. In the meantime, place the all the spices except the rice, water, salt, cinnamon cinnamon stick and cook, stick and cardamom pods in stirring until meat becomes a saucepan and bring to boil. lightly browned. Return Reduce to a simmer, cover and 2/3 of the fried onion to the cook until the water has been saucepan together with the absorbed. water and cinnamon stick. 6. Preheat the oven to 200°C. Cover and simmer for 20 Cover the base of a two litre minutes or until the meat oven-proof casserole pot with is almost tender and dry. half of the cooked rice. Spoon Remove from the heat, and stir the meat mixture onto the in the tomato and yoghurt or rice, and cover with the potato buttermilk and set aside. and lentils. 3. If you are using dried lentils, 7. Spoon the remaining rice place them in a saucepan and on top, pour over the water, add the 350ml water. Bring to scatter the onion rings onto the boil, then reduce heat and the rice, sprinkle very lightly simmer gently for 30 minutes. with turmeric or saffron, dot Drain and set aside. If canned with butter, cover and cook lentils are used, drain and use the dish for 30 minutes. Serve as is. piping hot with chutney and 4. Place the potatoes into a small coriander. 60

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Creamy Rice Pudding using Tastic Parboiled Rice (10 servings)

A rich and irresistible favourite rice pudding from the Indian cuisine that can be served warm, at room temperature or chilled. Young and old will enjoy this dessert, which is also known as Kheer. Although very good with the fruit and nuts added, this dessert may also be served quite plain with a sprinkling of nuts and cinnamon. Ingredients: • • • • • • • •

200g/250ml Tastic parboiled rice 750ml water 4 cardamom pods 2ml salt 1 x 380g can evaporated milk 1 x 397g can sweetened condensed milk 1ml ground nutmeg 125ml dried fruit such as diced dried apricots and/or sultanas (optional) • 250ml lightly toasted and coarsely chopped nuts such as blanched almonds and/or cashews and/or pistachios • dash of cinnamon

Method: 1. Place the rice, water, cardamom pods and salt into a saucepan and bring to the boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and dry. 2. Stir in the evaporated milk,

condensed milk and nutmeg, and simmer very gently for 10 minutes, stirring from time to time to prevent scorching. Add the fruit and simmer a short while longer until the fruit is moist and tender and the mixture

has thickened. 3. Reserve 50ml of the nuts, and stir the remaining nuts into the mixture. Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle with the reserved nuts and a dash of cinnamon.

Tastic Facts Tastic Parboiled benefits: • Tastic Parboiled benefits: • Cooks perfectly, every time • Separate, fluffy white grains • Swells three times when cooked Tastic is the perfect partner in creating truly great meals for your family and friends, and you will truly feel appreciated for the meals you have prepared.

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Tastic Basmati Rice Benefits: • Best-quality basmati rice • Sourced from the country of origin, India • Excellent texture, flavour and aroma Ideal as a meal accompaniment to curries and excellent for briyani and sweet desserts.

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A Shot of Delicious

ome people think that the benefit of drinking vodka is that it has no aroma. We feel a little sorry for those people because they’re missing the true essence of vodka, so to speak. Not only is it the key ingredient of James Bond’s favourite beverage, but it also boasts medicinal properties and enhances the flavour of culinary delights — such as the popular vodka penne chicken.

Vodka Penne Chicken (Serves four)

Ingredients: • • • • • • • • • • •

500g uncooked penne pasta ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 250g chicken breast, sliced 4 garlic cloves, peeled and chopped 1 tin Italian plum tomatoes ¼ cup vodka 1 teaspoon crushed hot red pepper ½ cup full cream 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 3 tablespoons chopped parsley ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Infusion In 1999, I managed a bar and eatery in London. Flavoured vodka was all the rage, and the bar staff enjoyed creating unique infusions. We added things like Mars Bars, chilli, marshmallow and peppermint to bottles of Vodka and then (to aid infusion) ran the bottles through a hot dishwasher cycle. The flavoured shots were a hit. Although my bar-tending days are long gone, the infusion of vodka remains with me. But now I look to pair infused vodkas with fine food — oh, and I now heat the vodka on a stove. Infusion direction: Simply place the ingredients into a cooking net, and place the net in the vodka. Heat. Cheers! 1. Assorted cheese platter, paired with honey and ginger vodka.

2. Crème brûlée dessert, paired with pear and lavender vodka.

3. Rare fillet steak, paired with a roasted pepper vodka.

Pasta:

Bring lightly salted water to a boil. Remove from heat and stir penne into the boiling water. Bring water back to a boil, and stir continuously. Cook pasta until al dente — about 10 minutes.

Sauce:

Heat olive oil in a large pan at a medium heat. Then add sliced chicken and brown for two minutes on each side. Put to one side. Add garlic to the pan and sauté. Gently add tinned tomatoes to the pan and allow to simmer. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Add vodka and maintain heat, so sauce can simmer for three minutes. Add cream and butter to sauce and mix well. Add the chicken and cooked pasta to the pan and stir. Remove from heat, sprinkle with cheese, parsley and black pepper. Mix and serve immediately.

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imageS courtesy of ABSOLUT VODKA AND SHUTTERSTOCK

BY VINCENT VERRYDT

C U LI N A RY

Absolut Facts Vodka can remedy fatigue and weakness. A shot of vodka is able to nourish the body faster than food. In past wars, vodka has acted as an antiseptic and sedative used in surgeries on soldiers. • Vodka is a diluted alcohol and is used often as a disinfectant. • Vodka can break a high fever when rubbed on to a patient’s body. • Drinking a shot of vodka every day could help improve blood circulation. • Instead of chamomile tea, drink a shot of vodka to help you sleep. • Vodka helps people from extremely cold regions keep warm.

BY ELKA SCHAIMBERG

D E C O R

AFRO DECOR

Summertime

... and the Living is Easy The South African sunshine encourages an outdoor lifestyle – and we have no choice but to embrace it! With fresh air and natural lighting already in place, all you need is a bit of imagination and some careful planning to add the finishing touches to your interior decor. It’s easy to transform a typical outdoor space into a residential paradise. Here are some inspiring ideas to turn your terrace, yard, patio, porch or pool deck into an inviting and functional living space.

covered patio is the perfect start, but should you not have one, building one is a great investment that extends your home, effectively adding a new room. It’s a fun and challenging task to dress it with furniture, fixtures and fabrics that will complement your surroundings. Whether you love entertaining or just relaxing with a book on a Sunday afternoon – your choice of picnic benches or lazy armchairs, sun loungers or sofas, hand-woven fabrics, shelving and umbrellas will contribute to bringing your outdoor space to life. An interesting and most popular trend is to create a crossover interior/exterior space by integrating the kitchen area or spilling out from the lounge to a versatile entertainment area. Here, wooden furniture and shelving should be considered. Mirrors are also a great addition for making a space appear larger than it actually is. Well-designed decks are becoming preferred places to relax after work, entertain friends and regroup with the family. So it’s not a bad idea, if you already have one, to refresh and re-equip it with new flooring, a fresh lick of paint or an attractive water feature. Give your existing outdoor area the attention it deserves, so you can take advantage of the great weather and natural views. Why stay cooped up inside when you can easily create, extend or refresh your outdoor living space? Make it an exciting space to cook and eat, laugh, relax, enjoy and live in.

Lazio Shelves: R12 500 Baila Chandelier: R5 950 Chester Arm Chair: R4 200 Root Side Table: R5 300

Sun Lounger: R2 400 Isola Side Table: R2 400 Wooden Lanterns: From R1 350 to R2 650 Floor Lamp: R 2 450.00 St Patrick Screen: R4 950 Umbrella: R5 900

Picnic Dining Chair: R999 Corner Unit Four Piece: R8 900 (excluding cushions) Square Weathered Teak Table: R10 900 Carbon Pots: R185

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Elisa Arm Chair: R1 150 Jute and Durry Carpets: From R1 500 to R3 500 Oak CRoss Leg Dining Table: R11 600 Selection of ceramics available at La Grange

Single Sun Lounger: R2 400 Umbrella: R3 999 Sicila Hocker: R759

Elephant Sofa Three Seater: R9 400 (excluding cushions) White Barcello Occasional Chair: R4 600 (excluding cushion) Round Elm Coffee Table: R12 900 Oya tray: R795

Chateaux d’Ax

South Africa Welcomes First Flagship Store Any well travelled contemporary Italian furniture enthusiast will tell you, Chateau d’Ax is a highly regarded furniture brand throughout the world. With over 300 Chateaux d’Ax outlets worldwide, the much anticipated first South African flagship store is now officially open! Joining the migration of other high-end decor and design brands to the Bryanston precinct, the glossy new William Nicol store will showcase exquisitely crafted Italian furniture.

Here the discerning buyer can expect to view an extensive range of handcrafted Italian-made bespoke furniture collections. The world class quality products ensure customer satisfaction, from mid-level customers to discerning top-end buyers, architects and designers. With a phenomenal worldwide footprint, the impact of this much anticipated brand on the South African designer furniture market should not be underestimated.

Images courtesy of La Grange Interiors

Picnic Dining Chair: R999 Square Weathered Teak Table: R10 900

BY STACEY VEE

B E A U T Y

G R O O M I N G

Spring is in the air Celebrate the essence of new things a-growing with a fresh scent Yves Rocher So Elixir R445 for 100ml

A luminous scent that’s both floral and woody, with notes of jasmine, Tonka Bean, bergamot, rose and patchouli.

Hilfiger Woman

R350 for 30ml, R525 for 50ml

Yardley Precious Metals

Fruity and floral, this is the famous Hilfiger spirit in a bottle!

R229.95 for 50ml

A floral explosion with pink pepper, violets and litchi as its top notes, Precious Metals is one romantic scent.

Evelyn Rose by Crabtree & Evelyn

R480 for 100ml (eau de toilette)

Elie Saab Le Perfum

R535 for 30ml, R950 for 50ml, R1 150 for 90ml

Created by English rose expert David Austin. Also with subtle notes of jasmine, violet and peach.

Nothing says springtime like a hint of orange blossom, with a splash of jasmine and patchouli that’s anchored with cedar wood. Soft and sexy!

Kim Kardashian Gold R595

Mrs Humphries’s signature style has been captured in citrus top notes, a floral heart and a sandalwood base note.

October is cancer-awareness month ghd Pink Orchid

Twirl your locks around this limited edition ghd Gold Series styler with vibrant pink plates, and each sale sees R100 donated to Cansa. R2 380

Great Lengths Pink Hair

Show your support for breast-cancer awareness in October by wearing Great Lengths 100% natural pink human hair – funds raised go to Cansa. From R80 per extension.

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Fresh on the shelves A new season means that the shelves are blooming with new products! Clarins Neo Pastels R395

Based on a water-colour palette, the eye colours in the Clarins Neo Pastels spring collection come in three subtle double shades (pink, brown and violet), and also include a dark cream liner.

Gillette Fusion HydraGel Sensitive Skin R69.99

Dark and Lovely Anti Breakage

R109.95

R31.99

Separates your lashes and coats each one evenly, for that bold look without the lumps.

This delicious-smelling hair butter enriched with ceramides can be massaged into the scalp to stimulate circulation and help reinforce fragile hair from the roots.

Schick Hydro

R44.95 (launch price), R109.95 refill The Schick Hydro 5 razor has a reservoir that releases a wateractivated gel that hydrates skin as you shave. It also has five easyglide blades and a flip trimmer for those hard-to-reach areas.

Beautyblender

R299 for a double pack Now available from www.beautique.co.za, the make-up sponge applicator invented by Hollywood make-up artist Rea Ann Silva!

AFRICOLOGY Africology introduces a world where ethics precede profit and safety is more than a buzz word. On average, women use 12 beauty products a day. Modern men aren’t far behind – the average man’s grooming routine consists of six products. Most of these contain at least half a dozen chemicals and the entire cosmetics industry makes use of over 500 chemicals. Few of these have been approved by safety bodies and several can lead to cancer and other ailments.

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Africology approaches beauty differently. This leading African brand uses bio-identical ingredients that deliver results while working with the body’s natural rhythm. Extensive research into cosmetics safety has created a wealth of expertise that now is available to you at Africology’s new flagship store in Rosebank, Johannesburg. There, you can also get a holistic assessment of your needs or experience the Shamans healing journey, a gentle rose quartz crystal massage that relieves muscular stress. Visit us at The Zone Phase 2, Rosebank Mall, Johannesburg or call 011 447 5877

Waiting for sidebar COMPETITION Three fabulous Africology hampers packed to the brim with amazing beauty products to be won. go to www.afropolitan.co.za to enter. 67

Prices may vary. Images are courtesy of shutterstock, manufacturers and distributors.

Maybelline One by One

This aloe-enriched formula is infused with hydrating emollients and lubricants that protect your skin, for a comfortable shave.

www.gia nnichia rini.co.za

AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY AT VIA LA MODA 0 1 1 4 7 7 8 0 0 8 | w w w.v i a l a mod a .com 3rd Floor, 19 Banfield Rd, Industria North, JHB

BY BRENDAH NYADUDYA

F U LL

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Conversation with... Kopano Matlwa K opano Matlwa is an inspirational figure who is already a critically acclaimed author and doctor – and she’s only in her 20s. Author of Coconut and Spilt Milk, she won the EU Literary Award and is a founding member and chairperson of Waiting Room Education by Medical Students (Wrems), a nonprofit organisation run by students. She’s among the Rhodes Scholar class of 2010 and won the Goldman Sachs Global Leaders Award in 2005.

When did you discover your passion for writing? I’d always read a lot from a very young age, and writing was almost a natural extension of that for me. I never knew it was anything special. I thought everyone wrote! It was so normal, so necessary, so it was quite a surprise when I got a little older and realised that there may be something there.

When was your “light-bulb” moment, when you realised you could make your dreams come true? [Laughs.] I don’t really know if it was a light-bulb moment, but I guess it was when I seriously started thinking about sending Coconut to publishers. But that wasn’t so much about my writing “skill” – as I didn’t really know I could write at the time – but rather about a story that was about to eat me up inside if it wasn’t told. The more I hung onto it, the harder it was to not do something with it.

How did this affect you? Did you change your work habits? Not really, no, ’cause as I said, I didn’t know I could write. In fact I was at a stage in my life when I was trying out a million different ventures all at the same time. So when Coconut got rejected by one publisher after another, I shelved the idea for a bit and tried my hand at a little business; I opened up a tuck shop at my university residence [laughs]. It was only after Coconut won the European Union Literary Award and people started calling me an author that I was like, ‘Whoa, I’m an author!’

Do you think life affords everyone that light-bulb moment, or is it something that you actively seek out?

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"Writing was less about skill and more about a story that was about to eat me up inside if it wasn’t told." I think we’re all blessed with immense talent and potential to do amazing things. I truly believe that God can do incredible things through each of us if we allow him to. Fear is a powerfully debilitating emotion, and if you can conquer that, you can conquer anything.

You managed to complete two books whilst studying for a degree in medicine. How did you manage? It wasn’t a matter of balance. I was doing the two things I love most in the world. Spending time with people and sharing in their stories – and then writing. In

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fact, when med school got tough, it was through writing that I made sense of the horror, pain and sadness I saw around me. Writing got me through my studies. It was never a matter of choosing between the two.

But you write about more than just horror, pain and sadness... I write about what moves me, scares me, excites me at that moment in time. And my books are extensions of where I found myself at certain times in my life.

The assumption is that Coconut is biographical. is it so? I try to write from a place of truth, so it’s impossible to keep elements of myself out of my work. But the characters were as new to me as they were to the readers, and I was just grateful that they allowed me to tell their story.

you describe Spilt Milk as an “allegory of love lost between black and white South Africa”. What are your thoughts on the current race relations in SA? I’d need a whole dissertation to answer that question!

Tell us more about Wrems. It’s an organisation I founded when I was a student to educate patients in the waiting rooms of mobile clinics on common health conditions, so that our communities could be empowered to take their health into their own hands. The organisation has now grown and is run by some amazing medical students at the University of Cape Town. I’m no longer a student so am no longer actively involved and take my hat off to them for Wrems’s success.

people describe you as many things – including an awardwinning author and a doctor. how would you like to be known? Only just as Kopano. I’m loathe to be described by my work.

What life lessons have you learnt from being a doctor? That life is hard but also beautiful. That suffering is real, but God is real too. That people are good and capable of so much kindness. And that if we work together we can overcome anything.

What would your advice be, not only for budding authors but also any young African out there What does the future hold for Kopano? Any more novels in looking to make their mark, the pipeline? personally and socially? I’d advise them to be true to themselves.

What do you do to improve or hone your skills as a writer?

images courtesy of Jacana pubLisher

I read books that challenge me.

I’m always writing and always seeking to improve myself and the space around me. But who knows what God has in store for me. I’m just excited for the journey.

www.afropolitan.co.za

African talent withers under a corrupt sun Corruption in sport is a universal problem, yet in Africa the scum appears to lie perilously close to the top.

ultiple Olympic gold winner runner Emil Zátopek is credited with saying: “A runner must run with dreams in his heart, not money in his pocket.” A noble sentiment, but how naïve it sounds today as the sporting world reels from one cash-fuelled crisis to another. Chicanery, it appears, has replaced chivalry in the code of modern competition as the cancer of corruption spreads inexorably across the globe showing scant respect for creed or colour. In Africa, news that the continent would host football’s 2010 FIFA World Cup was greeted with joy at home and not a little sour scepticism abroad. History will show the optimists had it

administrators tasked with developing the game focus on personal gain,” the organisation says. It’s a more than fair observation. In South Africa, a shortage of cash is certainly not a problem – the country’s premier league is one of the best-funded in the world. Despite this wealth, Bafana Bafana achieved the dubious distinction of being the first host team to be eliminated in the first round of the competition.

right. The tournament was a spectacular success, with one caveat – the dismal showing of African teams. While apologists point to the long established professionalism and/or wealth of “international” leagues and Fair reports that far from indulging bemoan the lack of commitment of in some much-needed introspection, foreign-based players, the evidence points elsewhere. Indeed, a damning report by the Forum of African Investigative Reporters (Fair) puts the blame squarely on the shoulders of corrupt and inefficient administrators. “…while players have sacrificed their personal fortunes to develop not just soccer but their own communities, and have in some cases bailed out their national teams, the

Cashing in

“Chicanery, it appears, has replaced chivalry in the code of modern competition.” www.afropolitan.co.za

imageS courtesy of SHUTTERSTOCK

BY JEFF DELANEY

S P O R T

“…the administrators tasked with developing the game focus on personal gain.” however, the local organising committee voted to allocate 10 percent of the 2010 FIFA World Cup profits (estimated at US$130 million) to its own members and five percent (US$65 million) to local football officials. South African officials are not alone in their greed, however. Fair claims that large amounts of sponsorship cash generated in Cameroon, Nigeria, Kenya, Ivory Coast and even Zimbabwe, rarely trickle down to aid development. Solutions to the problem will, however, remain elusive until world governing body FIFA (which scored a massive US$3,2 billion from the 2010 World Cup) gets proactive. That seems unlikely; FIFA has shown a red card virtually every time African countries have attempted to address corruption in their soccer associations. The governing body follows a strict policy of suspending countries where governments dare meddle. On the surface this sounds great, but in reality, according to Fair, it only serves to entrench maladministration. It must be stated that soccer skulduggery is not confined to Africa. The Italian Serie A has been wracked by regular scandals as have the Greek, Turkish, French and, well, just about any league you might think of. Indeed, even FIFA continues to battle allegations of corruption at the highest level and, until it gets its house in order, the future remains bleak.

Athletes crippled Maladministration is, sadly, not limited to football. The deplorable furore generated by the gender debate centred on South African athlete Caster Semenya had one positive outcome – it focused attention on widespread malfeasance and incompetence at Athletics South Africa (ASA). The resulting publicity led to a South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (Sascoc) investigation that found ASA supremo Leonard Chuene and two board members, Kakata Maponyane and Dr Simon Dlamini, guilty of dishonesty, fraud and misconduct.

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Sascoc found there was “rampant abuse of ASA resources, an abuse of power and authority, selfaggrandisement, greed and corruption”. Chuene was barred from holding any position in athletics or any other code of sport under the jurisdiction of Sascoc for a period of seven years, with the others receiving similar sanctions. Commenting at a press conference, Sascoc boss Tubby Reddy said: “It’s what we have promised. All along we have maintained that we are transparent and that we have nothing to hide. We have consistently been respectful of the investigation process, and we are happy that the correct process and procedures have been followed.” Quite, but the paltry number of medals garnered on the international stage by South African athletes in recent years gives some indication of the damage done. Today ASA has a reconstituted board and there appears, at least on the surface, to be a greater focus on the athletes – that’s a positive indeed.

Gentleman’s game Unlike football and athletics, administrators of the gentleman’s game of cricket have remained relatively untouched by the whiff of scandal, until recently that is. The game has, however, been forever scarred by a series of matchfixing allegations, none so shocking as those levelled at the self-professed pillar of Christian rectitude, former South African captain Hansie Cronje. Few will forget the initial indignant denials that followed the 2000 charges by Indian police that Cronje had accepted bribes from a black-listed bookmaker to fix matches. Sadly, St Hansie’s halo was tarnished as his tearful revelations at a subsequent court of enquiry soon proved. Cronje was banned from all cricket for life, and the fallout from the case soon claimed the careers of Pakistan’s Saleem Malik and India’s Mohammad Azharuddin and Ajay Jadeja.

Pot of deceit The scandal blew the lid off a pot of deceit that had been simmering for years. Cheating, we discovered, knew no boundaries, as the similar indiscretions of Australia’s Mark Waugh and Shane Warne became common knowledge. To its credit, the International Cricket Council (ICC) took action, setting up an anti-corruption and security unit, headed by former top bobbie Paul Condon, that

claims to have had considerable success in battling the problem. Unfortunately, allegations of crooked gambling that surfaced during last year’s tour of England by Pakistan seem to hint that much work remains to be done. Closer to home, Cricket South Africa (CSA), has been rocked by infighting between administrators, supposed missing monies and allegations that CEO Gerald Majola and a number of executives have benefited from unsanctioned bonuses. A KPMG forensic audit revealed grave corporate governance issues, yet it appears CSA, after administering a “stern reprimand”, is unwilling to take the matter further.

Transparency Majola remains unrepentant: “KPMG was called in to carry out a forensic audit of CSA after repeated allegations that some R68 million was missing from the organisation. The audit findings show that no money is missing from CSA he issued in a statement. “Unfortunately now that the forensic audit result has proven as untrue the allegations of missing millions that were published and printed in many newspapers, there is an attempt to deflect attention from these false claims that led to the audit. The audit was never about the amounts paid to the CEO as my remuneration is not secret and is published in CSA’s Annual Report,” he says. The latter may well be true, but few in the game believe the last over has been bowled in this test of wills. The huge sums of money associated with modern sport have certainly led to greater excellence on the field. Unfortunately, in many cases the same often doesn’t hold true in the boardrooms inhabited by the power brokers. There’s a fresh wind of transparency blowing through North African politics today. Let’s hope it filters through to sport. It’s high time.

“FIFA has shown a red card virtually every time African countries have attempted to address corruption.” 73

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BEAT BOx NKUlEE dUBE

MY WAY

[ SONY MUSIC ]

When one is born the daughter of the late great reggae artist Lucky Dube who was tragically killed in 2007, their music career is one that is viewed with great expectation and anticipation. Nonkululeko (Nkulee) Dube rises to those expectations with the finesse of a seasoned singer. Backed by most renowned musicians, Nkulee releases her debut album, My Way, which is set to firmly entrench her place on the local and international music scene. In her album she cleverly uses her late father’s influence and incorporates a reggae base into a number of tracks including the first single to

NKULEE'S ThOUGhTS FONdEST MEMOry: I was doing back-up for Lebo Mathosa one night, and she gave me the microphone without warning and told me that I’d be opening the show. The crowd loved it, and it was then I felt I could be a solo artist.

ON hEr FAThEr, lUCKy dUBE, ANd lOSiNG hiM: Though I only met him when I was 20, the time I had with him was hugely inspirational and gave me invaluable experience. My father worked so

4/5

be released, Who Dem, and A bit of Love. But she declares her authority and breaks out of the mould as she as she weaves through her lyrics in a style that has been described as ethno-ragga fused with ethno-soul and hints of jazz; the track vukani is perhaps the best example of this style. Her strong soulful voice is rich with emotion that confirms that Nkulee is no stranger to the stage and to music. After all, her experience includes touring with Lucky Dube. Her talent stretches beyond the microphone as she herself

hard so I wouldn’t have to. He left a legacy that would ensure that we wouldn’t have to work as hard – and it paid off. On tour people came to watch me simply because they “wanted to see his face again”. People followed me around in the United States, and they knew my music. It was an amazing experience! Losing him deprived me of valuable guidance. It also changed my music in that there is now more rough anger in my lyrics.

ON CriME iN SA: We gained our freedom and took 10 steps forward, but once the hype died down the real issues emerged. We have taken five steps back

VUSi KhUMAlO

Vusi Khumalo has been a force to be reckoned with on the jazz scene, not only as a drummer but also as a composer. His debut album was nominated for a Kora and a Sama, and

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has penned most of the tracks. A truly Afro-international offering, this album features collaborations with artists from South Africa, Zimbabwe, Germany and America. With such a convincing entrance to the scene as an artist no longer under her father’s wing, Nkulee Dube is set to soar. in our failure to address the country’s crime, unemployment and poverty issues.

ON lOCAl ANd iNTErNATiONAl AUdiENCES: South African audiences are sceptics. They are more into trends – people who are hot and popular. They do not believe until someone else believes, which causes them to miss out on good artists who go unnoticed. International audiences are more about the art than the artist. They are more open to going to a show, regardless of whether or not they have heard the music or have heard of the artist. Any music or show out of Africa ensures packed venues.

REASONS FOR SEASONS [ SOULCANDY RECORDS ]

his band walked away with a 2004 Sama in the contemporary jazz band category. In this double CD, reasons for seasons, he opens with the sultry spoken-word artist Lebo Mashile as she calls on Africa to unite. This contemporary opening leads to powerful melodies that are a perfect complement to the sound that has made Vusi famous. Working with some of the finest artists in the industry today – including legendary percussionist Tlale Makehene, vocalists Zwai Bala, Barney Rachabane and RJ Benjamin – Vusi uses reasons for seasons to show his love for Jozi and his appreciation of culture. He also uses it to point out the city’s problems, so it’s

3/5

in actual fact more than a jazz album. In his lyrics, which have a spiritual edge to them, Vusi puts forth controversial subjects in song and touches on multicultural issues that are plaguing our society today. Topics such as child abuse, genocide, xenophobia, violence and racial hatred are presented through soulful and traditional sounds. To note is the track yakhal’inkomo, which was composed by the late Winston Monwabisi Mankunku Ngozi, who passed away in October 2009 at the age of 66. It is a fitting tribute to a great man. This is a great album to take on a road trip or have playing in the background when entertaining friends. 75

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by brendah nyakudya

C d

MICHELANGELO TOWERS MALL

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W I T H

G R O O V E S

the

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COUCh pOTATO wAter For elephAnts This nostalgic tale pays homage to the bright lights and colourful characters of a travelling circus struggling to survive during the Great Depression. The spotlight falls on Jacob Jankowski (Robert Pattinson), a veterinary student who suddenly finds himself orphaned and jumps aboard the first passing train. As if by magic, he finds himself amongst the freaks, drifters and misfits of the Benzini Brothers’ travelling circus who lead him into the compelling world of the big top. Jacob is put in charge of caring for the circus animals, and it is here that

DIRECTOR: FRANCIS LAWRENCE STARRING: ROBERT PATTINSON, REESE WIThERSPOON, ChRISTOPh WALTZ

he meets Marlena (Reese Witherspoon), the beautiful blonde star of the equestrian act. Marlena is married to the charismatic but twisted animal trainer August (Christoph Waltz), and the seeds of an unexpected romance are sewn as Jacob and Marlena are drawn together by their love for a special elephant, Rosie. The magical moments of circus life are depicted charismatically by cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto, who manages to highlight every lovely detail. Water for elephants lacks a bit of punch but still gets a thumbs-up.

BoBBy FisCher AGAinst the world

DIRECTOR: LIZ GARBUS

This gripping documentary captures the life and times of a true mastermind. The late Bobby Fischer went from lonely child to chess prodigy, from global superstar to angry recluse and finally to fugitive of the law. The story sucks you in, highlighting his tumultuous rise and fall. Viewers will be captivated by rare archival footage and insightful interviews with those closest to him. Fischer was raised in Brooklyn by a Jewish single mother whose communist leanings put her on the FBI’s list as a suspected spy. Often alone, Fischer taught himself to play chess at age six. In 1958, at age 14, he became the United States champion! In 1972, he beat reigning Soviet champ Boris Spassky for

the linColn lAwyer This crime thriller is based on the best-selling novel of the same name by Michael Connelly. The story follows fast-talking criminal defence attorney Mick Haller (Matthew McConaughey), whose methods are hardly orthodox as he conducts business from the back of his chauffeured Lincoln. Mick’s specialty is getting people off, and he will turn every trick in the book for a “not guilty” verdict. His list of low-life clientele includes bikers, drug dealers, rapists and killers. www.afropolitan.co.za

the world title – a match that dominated world headlines. Liz Garbus’ documentary explores the intellectual beauty of the game whilst at the same time exposing the erratic and enigmatic world champion. It’s a fascinating and disturbing portrait of a troubled genius.

DIRECTOR: BRAD FURMAN STARRING: MATThEW MCCONAUGhEY, MARGARITA LEVIEVA, RYAN PhILLIPPE

The sleazy lawyer is then hired to defend rich Beverly Hills playboy Louis Roulet (Ryan Phillippe), who stands accused of rape and attempted murder of a prostitute (Margarita Levieva). Mick believes he’s landed the case of a lifetime, but his client’s aim is for a foolproof plan to beat the system, and Mick soon suffers a crisis of conscience. As the movie plays out, events from the present turn out to be connected to the past, and so follow the twists and turns of a typical courtroom drama.

images courtesy of ster-kinekor & numetro

by eLka schaimberg

d V d

There really are no big surprises in this one, but it’s worthy enough of a Sunday evening hire. 77

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WOrd ON WOrdS PATChWORK

q&A with Ellen Banda-Aaku The book explores the complexity of relationships and the impact the actions of those we love have on our lives. Banda-Aaku’s ability to maintain Pumpkin’s voice from childhood into adulthood makes the book a seamless observation of a life journey that draws you in and makes you feel connected to the characters.

your work has been described as an “African story”. do you agree, or do you perceive it to be a story that any woman, regardless of location, can relate to? It is an African story in that it is set in Africa. It is also told from an African perspective, and the characters are all African. However, it is a human story before it is African because it is about human beings – and that makes it universal.

llen Banda-Aaku’s book Patchwork, which won the 2010 Penguin African Writing prize, tells a uniquely African comingof-age story through memorable and universally relatable characters. The book is written in two parts – nineyear-old Pumpkin’s experiences in the first part and then 30-something-year-old Pumpkin’s life in the second. The two parts tie together cleverly because one feels as though the life described in part two is the logical fruition of the seeds sown in part one. In the first half of her offering BandaAaku uses the setting of Pumpkin’s early life to raise serious issues without allowing them to distract from the story. The events are often shocking, but, told in a young girl’s voice, they do not take on any additional significance – they merely become part of the complex journey of growing up. Despite all that Pumpkin observes and learns about her father and his imperfections, she continues to live in awe of this fatally flawed man while deeply distrusting the other male figure in her life, her husband.

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you never fully elaborate on Grandma ponga and Tata’s relationship… What really happened with them?

I think to have gone very deeply into the issues raised in Patchwork would be to tell another story. Pumpkin’s life (like most lives) raises more questions than answers, and many issues in her life remain unresolved. Such is the reality of life.

her father’s philandering ways and complicated relationships with women led to pumpkin becoming quite mistrustful of men in general. So why does she never stops idolising her father? I don’t think Pumpkin realises that she has issues and that the issues are a result of her father’s actions. I would imagine that it is very hard to stop idolising someone, particularly if that someone is a parent. To Pumpkin, her tata (father) is the best tata in the world, and nothing will change that because she can’t or doesn’t want to see any different.

have you thought about the subject of your next book? I have no idea what my next book will be about as at the moment my mind is blank. However, I do hope that when or if the next story starts growing in my head, the issues I address come naturally and that I don’t make a conscious effect to tackle one issue or another. I write best when I don’t think too much about subjects and how to tackle them, but rather just focus on telling a story.

From the onset, I had no intention of going into where and when Grandma Ponga and Tata’s paths first crossed, so I think for this reason I never sat down and thought about what transpired between them. Now I think of it, I believe that I was so focused on telling the story from Pumpkin’s perspective that I didn’t dwell on anything she did not or could not possibly know about. I know it sounds strange, but it’s like I was in the character of Pumpkin to the extent that what she didn’t know, I didn’t know.

images courtesy of penguin books

by tendai maidZa

B O O K

The book touches on a number of very serious issues but never really addresses them in too much depth. Why did you decide to approach the book in this way? I honestly believe that by mentioning certain issues, however briefly or superficially, I am addressing them. Sometimes one says more by saying less. 79

by eLka schaimberg

M O V i E

r E V i E W S

BiOSCOpE the tree oF liFe DIRECTOR: TERRENCE MALICK STARRING: BRAD PITT, SEAN PENN, hUNTER MCCRACKEN, jESSICA ChASTAIN

Played as a child by Hunter McCracken and as an adult by Sean Penn, Jack O’Brian is a lost soul in a modern world seeking the answers to life and questioning the existence of faith. We follow his journey through the innocence of childhood to his disillusioned adult years as he tries to reconcile a complicated relationship with his father (Brad Pitt). The film is an intimate observation of Jack’s typical 1950s Texan family – besides the stern, business-minded

father, there’s a loving, compassionate mother (Jessica Chastain) and Jack’s two brothers –and the star-studded cast is able to offer viewers a palpable portrayal of the complex relationships between them. Acclaimed director and master storyteller Terrence Malick says, “The family – our first school – is the only place that most of us learn the truth about the world and ourselves or discover life’s single most important lesson, of unselfish love.”

The Tree of Life ponders some of the hardest questions in life. It’s a film that needs to be seen, only because you’ve probably never seen anything like it before.

the perFeCt host DIRECTOR: NICK TOMNAY STARRING: DAVID hYDE PIERCE, CLAYNE CRAWFORD, NAThANIEL PARKER

images courtesy of ster-kinekor & numetro

The Perfect host is a psychological thriller that exposes a sadistic on-therun bank robber who cons his way into the wrong dinner party, overseen by what seems to be the perfect host. What he doesn’t realise is that his chosen hideaway is anything but ordinary. As it turns out, the perfect host is a certified sociopath who lavishes in his own demented dinner parties. He invites a few more guests – imaginary ones – to join them both for dinner! The unpredictable host, Warwick Wilson (David Hyde Pierce), is phenomenally entertaining, while John (Clayne Crawford) excels in his role as the

london BouleVArd William Monahan, Oscar-winning screenwriter for The Departed, makes his directorial debut with London boulevard – a mobster movie set in south London. The story follows reformed jailbird Mitchel (Colin Farrell), who after serving a three year jail sentence, takes on the unlikely job of handymancome-bodyguard for a movie star to try and keep on the straight and narrow. Charlotte (Keira Knightley), the nervy and reclusive starlet, is continuously plagued by paparazzi and chooses to hide from the world in her Holland Park mansion. www.afropolitan.co.za

calculating criminal mind. When this pair of twisted characters finds themselves in each other’s extraordinary company, things quickly get out of hand. The conman suddenly finds himself intoxicated by a cocktail of sedatives and alcohol. When he comes to, he is tied to a chair with his hands bound behind his back, forced to play witness to his dinner host’s mad schizophrenic visions and insidious dinner chatter. This dark comedy is offbeat, strange and slightly deranged but quite fun to watch nevertheless.

DIRECTOR: WILLIAM MONAhAN STARRING: COLIN FARRELL, KEIRA KNIGhTLEY, RAY WINSTONE

Falling for Charlotte, Mitchel tries to give up his bad-boy past, but when brutal mobster Gant (Ray Winstone) requires his services, Mitchel realises how difficult it is to let go of his old life. Farrell gives an awesome performance in his role as a hard ruthless man with a desire for redemption, and the performance by Keira Knightley trades cleverly on her stardom. There are no surprises as the story plays out, and although the plot is predictable, it is surprisingly an enjoyable one to watch. 81

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GADGETS Apple MacBook Air R8 999 to R15 499 www.apple.co.za

The new MacBook Air is the smallest Mac notebook that money can buy. It features an aluminium unibody that is shared with the bigger MacBook Pro machines, has a Thunderbolt port that is up to 20 times faster than standard USB 2.0, transferring data at up to 10 gigabytes per second, the usual USB 2.0 connector and magsafe charger, and the Airs that come in two ultra-portable sizes: an 11 inch, 1.08 kilogram model, and a slightly bigger 13 inch, 1.35 kilo model. Processors are 1.6 and 1.7 dual-core Intel Core i5 chips running with solid-state hard drives that add phenomenal speed to the brandnew OS X Lion operating system.

Sony Ericsson Xperia Neo

Motorola Atrix

R3 999

R5 799

www.sonyericsson.com

www.motorola.com

The Xperia Neo features a crystal-clear 3.7 inch, 854 x 480 pixel screen, a 126 gram weight, 1 gigabyte of internal storage and an 8 megapixel camera. It’s powered by the brand-new Gingerbread Android operating system and has up to seven hours of talk time and up to 400 hours of standby time. Throw in the standard SMS, MMS, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, and you’ve got a handy little phone.

The Atrix claims to put the power of a PC in your hand, and it very nearly does that. It’s got a 1 gigahertz dual core processor, Android’s Gingerbread OS, a bright and clear 4.0 inch, 960 x 540 pixel resolution and a 5 megapixel camera with front and rearfacing webcams. The real cherry on top is the WebTop app that makes mobile computing that much easier, as well as the 4G.

Roku 2XS R999 www.roku.com

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The Roku 2 XS is the easiest way to stream digital media straight to your television. It carries up to 1080p video resolution through HDMI, features 802.11n Wi-Fi and 10/100 Base-T Ethernet connectivity and 5.1 surround sound passthrough via HDMI. It connects wirelessly to your home network and will have you watching streamed media in minutes. That simple. Available from www.have2have.co.za.

Prices may vary. Images are courtesy of manufacturers and distributors.

BY STACEY VEE

G A D G E T S

Philips DC570 Docking Station Garmin Forerunner 610

R1 999 www.philips.co.za

R4 010 and R4 595 incl. HRM www.garmin.co.za

The DC570 docking station is a work of art that will play music from just about any iPod – the iPod Touch, Classic and most of the Nano models. Throw in a digital FM tuner, bass reflex speaker system, integrated subwoofer and active speakers, digital sound control and an LCD display – and you’ve got greatlooking sound.

The Forerunner 610 features a touch screen that makes using the training watch so much easier. You can flip through the screens that include Training, Memory, Settings and GPS, as well as track all the information about your sessions. It will handle splashes, scrapes and sweat and also has a virtual partner to train against. All on your wrist.

GorillaMobile Ori R599 www.joby.com

Toshiba Qosmio X500 Series R21 999 www.toshiba.co.za

Toshiba’s Qosmio X500 laptops are powerhouses. They feature an Intel Core i7-740 processor, 1.5 terabyte of storage, a Blu-Ray writer and Nvidia GeForce GTX 460M graphics card, all neatly packed into the Precious Black chassis with 46.7cm TruBrite Full-HD TFT High Brightness screen that runs at a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels.

Sony S Frame R1 599 www.sony.co.za

Logitech HD Webcam C270

Sony’s S Frame digital photo frame isn’t your normal frame. It’s covered in exclusive Crystallised Swarovski Elements that brings sparkle to your images. The frame features an auto-orientation that intuitively swaps between portrait and landscape, a 7 inch Clear Photo screen as well as 1 gigabyte of storage that holds up to 2 000 photos.

R1 150

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www.logitech.co.za

The C270 gives you high-definition video calling power in the palm of your hand. The unit is small enough to be mounted on your laptop lid, yet offers clear 1280 x 720 pixel video conferencing and still photography of up to 3.0 megapixels. It connects through USB and also has Logitech RightSound for crystal-clear audio.

Prices may vary. Images are courtesy of manufacturers and distributors.

The Ori is the only iPad stand that you need. It’s made of lightweight and super-strong aluminium and polypropylene and can be folded into numerous positions that can have your iPad propped up at a slight angle or standing up 355mm off the desk. It only weighs 452g and can be packed easily in any bag. Available at www.mobilegadgets.co.za.

BY DAMIAN MURPHY

A F R O

W H E E L S

The BMW 520d The WOW factor

The Range Rover Sport Big car, bigger delivery Dynamite comes in small packages, but the bigger the bomb, the bigger the explosion. That is what the Range Rover Sport was â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a big, banging success! It is one of those cars that just seems to get all the attention, no matter where you park it. It is a burly SUV with rugged dimensions and bold lines. Although it is not a pretty car, it is very handsome. The front grill has an aggressive look in the rear-view mirrors of fellow road users â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it is sure to make them move out of your way as you barrel up behind them on the freeway. The Range Rover Sport is not designed to blend in but to stick out and scream luxury and taste.

might need and then a little more. The seats are made from the finest leather and are supremely comfortable. They are electronically adjustable with a memory setting, and the leather steering wheel has multifunction switches and cruise control that have been redesigned to give you maximum control over your environment. There is also climate control with an automatic air filtration system that keeps you in a cocoon of comfort regardless of the conditions outside. With a Harman/Kardon audio system, a mini-fridge and Bluetooth mobile-phone connectivity, you may never want to step outside the Range Rover ever again, except maybe to use the loo.

The interior is nothing short of perfect, with the driver and all passengers given everything they

The Range Rover is designed for comfort inside and performance on the road. With a weight in

the region of two-and-a-half tons, the Range Rover Sport still manages to get from standstill to 100 kilometres per hour in under 10 seconds. And with a top speed nearing 200 kilometres per hour, this beast is no slow poke. The engine delivers a good 180 kilowatts of power with a whopping 600 nanometre of torque, meaning that, even in the top gears, you feel the thrust of the diesel engine. The Range Rover Sport costs R869 995. It is a small price to pay for all you get.

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The diesel version of the 520 has vicious amounts of torque and pull off the line. It delivered a paltry 135 kilowatts at 4 000 revolutions per minute, but with 380 nanometre of torque, the 520d was as fast as a bullet. Weaving the car in and out of traffic allows one to gain a fine appreciation for the engineering it took to bring this machine together. The balance of grip and power with a superb suspension means one always feels well in control of the car, and the heads-up display ensures that save for checking the rear-view mirrors every now and again, you never have to take your eyes of the road. Heads-up display is technology developed by BMW that projects the speed on the windscreen in front of the driver, just above the dashboard. Cleverly, the display also includes the speed limit of every road you are on as well as the satellite navigation directions. Safety is everything for BMW, and its lane-leaving-detection technology should go a far way in preventing five-series drivers from causing accidents. Aside from the great power, supreme comfort and class-beating styling, the single most impressive thing about the 520d is the fuel consumption. At around 5.2 litres per 100 kilometres, you can get more than 1 000 kilos on every tank driving in the city, and the 137grams of carbon-dioxide emissions mean that you and BMW’s efficient dynamics are doing your part to save the environment, one kilometre at a time. BMW says the five-series redefines the business sedan, and after a week behind the wheel of the 520d, we are convinced it redefines every sedan and sets a standard that the market will struggle to follow. Priced from about R495 000, this car is an investment in you, your business and your family.

The Volvo V 60 Practically perfect When you think of Volvo, you think safety and practicality. With its new range, Volvos is not looking to change the way you think of its cars, it is trying to change the way you see them and how they appeal to the broader, younger market. Previous generations of Volvo might have been a little on the unimpressive side in the looks department. They are ordinary-looking boxes that have four wheels attached. Volvo’s new ethos is to produce something that is naughty but nice. The fabulous new range of S60s and V60s gave us a chance to see, feel and embrace a car that has come a long way to tackle a demanding market head-on. The V60 is a very practical car that has been built

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with the family in mind. It has generous amounts of space, both for passengers and luggage. The model we had was the V60 T6 allwheel drive, with a six-cylinder 3.0 litre engine. While the space provides real comfort and practicality, the engine is what throws your inhibitions out the window. Delivering 224 kilowatts at 5600 revolutions per minute with a massive 440 nanometre of torque, this station wagon is no slouch. It is that exact balance of practical elements with precise specifications that make the V60 the nearly perfect family car – zero to 100 kilometres per hour in 6.2 seconds, but with top-of-the-range ABS brakes that could stop you without much warning.

Dynamic stability control, electronic brake assist, whiplash-protection systems, every kind of air bag and five three-point seatbelts make this a safety blanket for all situations. Since Volvo face lifted its fleet, it has garnered a massive following from a younger audience, who appreciate the fact that all the safety elements can be packaged in a sexy little number. The V60 is the perfect family car. Volvo’s V60 starts at about R320 800.

Prices may vary. Images are courtesy of manufacturers and distributors.

he BMW 520 diesel, one of two South African cars of the year 2010/2011, is a near masterpiece and incredible to drive. It overdelivered on expectations and set a new benchmark in that segment of the market. We were scheduled to get an X3 to test for the week, but due to diary constraints, BMW asked if we would mind taking the 520d instead. Without hesitation we accepted as we had yet to get behind the wheel of this German monster. The five series is a mediumsized large vehicle. That may sound like a contradiction, but it is the best way to describe it. It is too big to sling into a parking bay at the shops without worrying about scraping it, but it is not too big to get out of elegantly once you are in the bay. If you think the car’s exterior frame is large, you should see the interior. There is plenty of space for both front and rear passengers. It has all the comfort elements you would ever need including individual climate control for all four passengers, DVD entertainment in the back to amuse the kids on a long haul and automatically adjustable seats with a memory function, which means no matter who sits behind the wheel of your car, you can always slide back into your seat the way it was before. The finishes inside the car are elegant and seem to flow in complete synergy from the front through to the rear. It has the finest leather seats, elegant wood trimmings and a choice of colour options to suit all tastes. The complicated on-board system that BMW has become infamous for seems to be streamlined and easier to use – it was, for instance, possible to flip between satellite navigation and radio while driving without having to pull over and consult the owner’s manual. Pairing your cell phone with the car’s Bluetooth means that this part-time family car can also be a full-time mobile office.

F O O D

YAMATO 198 OXFORD ROAD, ILLOVO, JOHANNESBURG

nasmuch as Johannesburg is a cosmopolitan city, playing host to citizens from all nine of South Africa’s provinces, Africans from the length and breadth of our continent, and visitors from every other continent on the planet, we remain an evercurious collective. The opportunities to experience things culturally alternative have increased significantly over the past 20 years, resulting in some exciting and occasionally exquisite dining options. For your consideration, this time round, we have turned our attention to a Japanese pearl, named Yamato, which can be found on 198 Oxford Road in Illovo. Not unlike other cities of the world, Johannesburg has seen a plethora of sushi bars springing up over the past 10 years, some better than others of course. Some Joburgers might subsequently think that they know a bit about Japanese fare. (For the record, the writer does not fall into this category!) If you haven’t eaten at Yamato’s table, then do so, because whether you are a seasoned eater of Japanese food or a novice, I reckon Yamato’s food will form the benchmark against which all in Johannesburg will be measured. Our meal consisted of seven individual and distinct dishes. Some – like the incomparable tuna sashimi (raw fish) and the salmon rose with cucumber – were only a single tantalising slice whilst the others provided more substance and were designed to deliver a combination of colour, presentation, and exquisite flavour. The first dish was fish avocado tartar, comprising chopped raw fish served with avocado, a touch of garlic and sesame oil. One was salmon, the other tuna, which offered an interesting variation on the theme. The combination of flavours is subtle yet distinct; this dish proved a most satisfying appetiser. Whilst we were still delighting in this opening, chawan mushi was delivered to the table. Literally translated as “tea cup steam”, this dish is served in porcelain

handle-less tea cups. Its basis is a steamed egg custard, within which is a small piece of mushroom, prawn, and chicken. Other traditional ingredients include ginkgo seeds, soya sauce, dashi (stock), and mirin (rice vinegar). Yamato’s interpretation of this dish is excellent, and it provided a different texture and flavour from the first dish, and in fact, from the balance of the meal that was still to come. Sunomono is a traditional Japanese salad, and ours consisted of seaweed, sliced vegetables and a small selection of two different cuts of raw octopus, crab, and some sashimi dressed in rice vinegar. With our salad we were given four slices of tuna sashimi – and all other sashimi I have thus far tasted disappeared into forgetfulness by comparison. The salad with the rice vinegar took our taste buds in yet another direction and revealed yet more surprises. Gyoza, hand-made dumplings, originates in Chinese cuisine and have been adopted by the Japanese palate. Pork mince, cabbage, spring onion, garlic and ginger are combined and wrapped in a delicate dumpling pastry and steamed and served with soya, chilli, and vinegar dipping sauces – the effect is fantastic! The penultimate dish of the night was

sushi rice wrapped in salmon sashimi, topped with mayonnaise and cucumber; dipped in soy and wasabi, it was just a taste but what a taste! Lastly we were offered okonomi yaki, a Japanese-style savoury pancake sprinkled with fish flakes. By themselves these flakes are very fishy, yet when combined with the pancake, the result as a whole is greater than the parts. We finished our meal with the smoothest green tea I’ve ever had. The space is intimate and contemporary – I’m hooked! There’s plenty on the menu I have yet to try. I can’t wait!

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IMAGES COURTESY OF FLINT STUDIO

BY ANGUS McEWAN

A F R O

BY DAMIAN MURPHY

S O C I A L S

SOCIALS On the 24th August 2011 The Afropolitan Magazine held the inaugural Afropolitan Invitational Golf Day at Wanderers Golf Club for both clients and readers. The day was a huge success with lots of golfing action and fun and we are looking forward to our next one!

Walter Mech

Moss Gondwe and Russell Sourgen

Ryan Conybeare, Arthur Mzimela, Bongi Mokaba and Angus McEwan

Archie Masebe, Dichaba Nkandimeng

HANSA Pilsener launched their new bottle at Museum Africa in Newtown, Johannesburg on the 11th August 2011. Afropolitans' Shane Williams was the lucky winner of an iPad 2!

Lady golfers graced the course.

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A F R O PR O F IL E S Afropolitan Business Profiles. This is an opportunity for your company to “own” a double page showcase within our highly regarded pages. Should you be interested in securing your spot, please contact our sales team at profiles@contactmedia.co.za.

Inhaling success, celebrating business

TRINITAS

Frances Wright & Sonono Khoza

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image COURTESY OF SHUTTERSTOCK

he women of Trinitas Consulting Diversity represents the multitude of individual differences and similarities that exist amongst people. It emphasizes the awareness, recognition, understanding and appreciation of human differences and enables people to perform up to their maximum potential. Diversity in South Africa ensures legal compliance, creates a positive culture and economic value. A positive organisational culture is an environment where every member of a cohesive team is treated equally and is integrated into the operations of the company. Every person is respected and is operating in his or her own gifting. According to Bateman and Snell (1999:381), companies with a reputation for providing opportunities for diverse employees will have a competitive advantage in the labour market and will be sought out by the most qualified employees. When employees believe that their differences are valued, and not merely tolerated, they will become more loyal, productive, and committed. In addition, a diverse workforce and a positive organisational culture will stimulate creativity and innovation, while providing the organisation with greater knowledge and affinity with a broader range of clients as a multi-cultural workforce will help an organisation sell to a diverse market place. A diverse management team is able to have empathy with and understand employees from various cultures. It “teaches” management to be more flexible and have customised policies and procedures to accommodate employees and each other. There are various forms of diversity, such as; age, race, ethnicity, sex, status, education as well as personal differences, such as; marital status, personality type,

A F R O PR O F IL E S

operate in a manner that is comfortable to them and providing space for each person to reach his or her full potential. “Managers and employees alike are allowed to develop plans to fulfil on requirements in a way that will fulfil their own needs as well as the companies,” says Wright. This reinforces a sense of ownership and ensures that managing diversity has top level support and is a reality throughout the organisation. This is enhanced through the integration of employee development available to all in geographical location, parental status, the company to ensure skills development. income groups and managerial levels. “Trinitas is a happy, fun environment It is necessary for a company to assess conducive to providing good service diversity issues and coordinate diversity to customers due to the fact that the awareness amongst team members management team is one hundred on a continuous basis. In order to percent cohesive. Of course there are create and maintain cohesiveness in differences of opinion, but those are a management team, members of the sorted out face-to-face and no politicking is team have to respect differences at all allowed,” says Wright. “The achievement levels. Such respect includes openly of our diversity goals has been enhanced discussing differences, the effects through having partners like TES Projects thereof on each other and clients and management, Sonono Khoza and Celenhle finding compromises to allow for those Dlamini. Having partners of this calibre differences. Should this be achieved, shares the load and responsibility and diversity will become an asset for the brings a completely new dimension to the company. marketing of the company. Choosing the When a company lacks diversity there are textbook manners in which to address correct partners is key to business success and company growth.” and improve the situation. There are also The “women of Trinitas” have ensured very capable consultants in the market a hundred percent growth year-on-year that can assist companies to create and in the five years of Trinitas’ existence. manage diversity, but when a company Of course the unique combination of is started and grows with an already diverse management team, the advantages services was another factor contributing towards the growth. The Trinitas unique of diversity are emphasised. It is then differentiator, business component possible to cultivate an environment wherein cultural awareness, sensitivity, integration (BCI) ensures that all marketing and communications activities fairness and integrity are commonplace lead towards an increase in nett profit and wherein all team members feel and ensures that everything and everyone respected and motivated. work together towards achieving company Frances Wright, managing director goals and objectives. Trinitas echoes what of Trinitas Consulting, says that when one of their clients, Wanda van Vuuren starting Trinitas, diversity was enforced from Global Payment Technologies (a from the start through the development Bidvest company) says; “When you are of a formal process and equity document really there to have a positive impact on that is based on the law, rules and your clients’ business and not just trying procedures. Goals were set and achieved to sell them something, you become by always choosing the best person for integral to the client organisation, the job regardless of colour, sex or any increase your client retention and will other specification. Diversity therefore came naturally, but is maintained through build your own business. Business people giving each personality the space to intuitively know when you are sincere in

your compassion and intention to help them and have their best interests at heart.” These are exactly the principles upon which Trinitas Consulting built its ethos and growth. In order to improve nett profit, turnover has to be increased, or cost has to be decreased. There are various ways to increase nett profit: increase pricing, grow existing market, enter new markets or increase productivity to saturate demand. To enter new markets or grow existing markets, marketing and communications have to be executed according to a wellplanned succinct campaign designed in line with company strategy. To decrease cost or increase productivity, it is necessary to focus on operational expense and processes. It is also necessary to ensure that service providers can supply a top quality service at the most cost effective price. One way of achieving this is to use a turn-key solution provider. “This is how Trinitas grew its customer base at such a rapid rate” says Wright. “By using Trinitas, clients can outsource their entire marketing and communications functions and only deal with one service provider. The brand remains protected without any variation in look-and-feel or style, quality is controlled and projects are managed in a professional manner. At the same time, the operational knowledge in Trinitas can help the client cut enough cost or increase productivity sufficiently to fund the marketing and communications expense. It also helps clients deliver on marketing promises”, asserts Wright. Being a 100% women and 50% black owned company also helps to attract business for Trinitas. “Using Trinitas positively affects the BEE score for companies”, says Deon Oberholzer from Vericom, the BEE verification agency used by Trinitas. “Considering the BEE codes, it is beneficial for companies to use SMEs that have a good BEE rating”. “Although Trinitas is 100% female owned and managed, there is a male support team such as Vericom”, says Wright. “There are also two men on the board. You know what they say, “behind every successful team of woman is a supportive man”.

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A F r O p r O F i l E S

The mLounge the concept behind the mLounge is drawn from three simple things: • an obsession with quality through all its forms, • an intimate understanding of our market space and its dynamics, • a fascination with delivering quality entertainment to a very select segment

of the market that is seemingly tired of the mundane.

memorable and meets your expectations as a discerning consumer. Whether it’s the Jazz or the Horse Races or the Polo, The mLounge is not an entertainment we aim to ensure that our select guests brand, it’s a lifestyle. receive the distinctive quality service The brand was launched at the 2011 that they should get. Standard Bank Joy of Jazz where clients In addition to hosting mLounge events were hosted in beautiful surroundings in at select social and sporting events a full glass marquee. around the country, Our future plans Simply put, the mLounge is a mobile for the mLounge involve a series of entertainment platform that enhances entertainment sessions called “Intimate your hospitality experience at select Moments with…” which will feature top events across the country. We ensure artists from around the country and that your event hospitality experience is some international ones.

www.mlounge@maru.co.za

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DARKSTAR 4223/9/11

Sudsy Malone’s and the washing of the soul

ecause God hates me, I spent quite a few years in the United States in pursuit of a piece of paper that said I might know what I’m doing. These years were passed in the Midwest amidst a haze of bad beer, chewing tobacco, oily pizza and thousands of girls named, of all things, Becky. If a degree means learning how not to do something, then my degree is Ivy League, darlin’. Because what I learnt pronto was how to lie, and lie but good. I met folks who had never left their county, never mind their state, and I was terribly impressed by both their fundamental grasp of world events and historical acumen. Which is why I got away with describing myself as Dutch. “From Holland. You know, Europe? No, no, not Europe, Nebraska. Oh, never mind.” Besides the fact that all you had to add onto the word “Dutch” was “man”, and I’d be nailed, the good folks of Ohio bought it hook, line and sinker. Now, what Afrikaner, you may well ask, would deny the Springbok? Well, the way I went on you’d swear I’d never even heard about rugby, never mind the “Sprungbox” or whatever ya call ’em. You’d be amazed how quickly you learn to lie when you’re a Dutchman in foreign climes. And it was 1987. But to my utter astonishment, when the horrible truth concerning my origins was finally exposed, most Americans asked me which country in South Africa I was from. Now irrevocably cornered, I realised that if they knew about the “homelands”, I was totally screwed. There was no way I could say Bophuthatswana, because the syllabic challenge was far beyond the linguistic capability of my interrogators. So I said Boksburg. “Oh. Like Sprungbox?” they asked. I nodded, and they wrote it down. I started compiling a list of the accusations that followed after my true identity was revealed. “You can’t be. You’re

white!” was a good one. The end came with “Have you met Nelson Mandela?” Stunned, in a desperate attempt at absurdist counter-foil, I replied that he often did maintenance work for my pa. They nodded, wrote it down, and the shock was complete. But it was only when I saw a bumper sticker on the back of a ’78 Plymouth Volari station wagon that read “If we knew how much trouble it woulda caused, we’d have picked the damn cotton ourselves!” that I realised the full extent of the situation. The only way out was to do the laundry. But first a description of my local laundromat. Bordering the campus was Vine Street, which had the greatest bar the world had ever seen. Sudsy Malone’s had hosted the finest musicians on the planet, and its entry fee, because the proprietors know their market, was a bag of laundry weighing no less than 12 pounds. The back of the venue comprised row upon row of coin-fed washing machines and tumble driers. Upfront was the slickest bar and live venue this side of Soccer City. The money spent by students on laundry and beer was more than enough to pay for Nirvana-esque acts, but Sudsy’s impact on their souls was beyond their wildest imagination. Sudsy’s brought in international acts, and while I was in town, a South African act was set to feature. So it was to this establishment that I hurried my shell-shocked body, laden with two bags of laundry and a pocket full of coins. I only turned around twice: once for washing powder, and once to get the right washing. (There was no way I was going to wash my girlfriend’s knickers in public. Not without fabric softener.) I didn’t even bother doing my laundry after the bouncer had weighed it. I grabbed a beer, found a seat near the front and waited. This was not going to be your ordinary concert. Oh, no. I was about to see the show from heaven: Ladysmith Black Mambazo. As I sipped my bad beer, I looked around to see what

kind of people had come to share in the music. Predictably, to my left were two lentil librarian lesbians drinking glühwein and discussing feminist slam poetry. Fine fine. It was the rest of the crowd that made me fear for my life. The venue was packed with members of the radical Black Students’ Society. A bit like the Panthers, only more intense. They hadn’t brought any laundry. The bouncer had taken one look and gone home – and there they stood, about 800 of them, in absolute silence. It was then that I knew how my ancestors must have felt when they faced the impi (Zulu warriors). This fear haunted them for eternity. If these guys found out who I was, I’d be eating my laundry tonight. All 12 pounds of it. There is a God, because at that very moment the lights dimmed, and Zulu filled the air. It was beyond beautiful. So simple. So moving. So… big. I was spellbound. I know a bit about music, so I knew that what Joseph and his remarkable choir were singing was functional music. Its repetition was there not for lack of anything else to sing. I knew that isicathamiya (a Zulu singing style) was actually designed to help you walk hundreds of kilometers without getting tired. Sing on! But around me, the Yanks were getting restless. I could see that it all sounded the same to them. By the third song they looked like they wanted their money back, and by the fifth, muttered conversations about other things started to clash with Mambazo’s beauty. It couldn’t last, and it didn’t. When Mambazo finished the concert with Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika, it was just me and the two lesbians. Had I known the words I would not have been able to sing in any case, I was too busy bawling. When I walked home in the dark, it felt like my soul had been washed. That things would turn out okay, and that it didn’t matter. It didn’t matter at all that I’d left my laundry at Sudsy’s.

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image courtesy of SHUTTERSTOCK

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