KwaPEP

PEP Academy: Schools might close, but

learning is open PAGE 8

March 2021 Issue #95

Kwa

PAGE 4

Our Feelgood

celebration Dynamos got together in person for the first time in months

Retirement: We say goodbye to two legends

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GIVE A LITTLE. HELP A LOT.

Lay-by Buddy INITIATIVE

Launched in June of last year, at a time when many in our country were struggling to make ends meet, the Lay-by Buddy initiative has been making a difference by helping to pay off customers’ lay-by’s.

Nothing makes us happier than spreading kindness to our remarkable customers.

Data as of 1 February 2021

R2.3 MILLION IN VOUCHERS SENT

OVER 16 000 VOUCHERS SENT

FROM 3 500+ LAY-BY BUDDIES

We have sent out over R2.3 million in vouchers

To date we have sent over 16,000 customers vouchers to pay off their lay-by’s

We have received over 3 500 donations in support of this initiative

300+ remarkable customers have sent us thank you messages “Thank you so much, the voucher helped me to fetch my son’s school clothes & it’s his first year. Thank you very much, I really appreciate it.”

- Shana

“I would like to say thank you so much for the voucher, it came just in time for my little girl to get what she needs. It’s highly appreciated. Thank you.”

- Onalenna

“Oh! What a lovely surprise thank you so much, you’ve made my day. May God bless you Lay-by Buddy.”

- Nwabisa

Thank you to all Dynamos for your ongoing support.

TOP 3 STORES

1st - 327 Queenstown

2nd - 324 Hartswater

3rd - 142 Plumstead

PEP Dynamos from 327 Queenstown - The #1 performing store in contributions for Lay-by Buddy.

HOW IT WORKS

Pay any amount from Lay-by Buddy as little as R2 in store customers are selected or R20 online. at random.

Selected customers receive an SMS voucher to settle their PEP lay-by.

Make the most of life!

Welcome to the first edition of the printed KwaPEP for 2021. By now you have survived Back-to-School and Valentine’s Day, and Easter is around the corner. I hope you are still enjoying delighting our customers and making a difference to this world with your positive energy.

The year started off with the American elections where politics reared its ugly head again and people hurt each other with words and deeds. We were also in the second wave of COVID-19 and it really touched us all closely this time around. I think that if there is one thing that COVID-19 taught us, it is that we are mortal and that life is precious.

I hope you know that you are capable and brave and significant even when it feels like you’re not.

Life is short, make the most of it and tell us how you make a difference!

Enjoy this edition of KwaPEP and keep on sending your amazing photographs and stories.

I read something the other day that I thought I will share with you as a reminder on how to live 2021:

“As we grow up, we learn that people will let us down and hurt us sometimes. You'll disagree with your best friends and family and you'll cry because time is flying by.

So take too many pictures, laugh too much, forgive freely, and love like you've never been hurt. Life comes with no guarantees, no time outs, no second chances. You just have to live life to the fullest, tell someone what they mean to you and speak out, hold someone's hand, comfort a friend and smile until your face hurts. Don't be afraid to take chances and most of all, live in the moment because every second you spend angry or upset is a second of happiness you can never get back. Just think how cool it is that the same God who created mountains and oceans and galaxies, looked at you and thought, the world needed one of you too!”

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BERTIE’S LETTER

5 BOP 2021

Blow the whistle

Hi 5 Dynamos!

A huge thank you must go to our Dynamos in stores after a very busy festive period!

The last few months had many ups and downs! We started our financial year with a bang and a great October sales month.

Then Black Friday disappointed all the retailers in South Africa and November ended not so well. But our loyal customers came back, and 24 December 2020 turned out to be our second-biggest sales day in PEP's history!

Unfortunately, the second COVID-19 wave hit South Africa and caused even more pain and heartache. We went into a level 3 lockdown again, school openings were postponed and our January sales were severely impacted by having no Back-toSchool event. It is quite clear that the 2021 year will continue to deliver many ups and downs, but PEP is ready to deal with both!

Within all the turmoil, we also had some amazing successes: Within our clothing business, we have gained significant market share month after month as new customers are visiting us. Our sales performance in Babies, Home, and smartphones have been exceptional. FMCG is continuing to show double-digit growth and PAXI is doing almost 10,000 parcels per day! And to think that we achieved all of this while having to CLAYGO in stores and taking special

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precautions to keep ourselves and our customers safe. Once again, our Dynamos in stores are delivering in a very tough environment!

Our focus now will be on making sure our stock availability is improved in the areas where we have seen great sales whilst also continuing to open new stores and gain market share. At Central Office, we have been investing a lot in new systems and processes to enhance efficiencies for our Dynamos and suppliers. We have also commenced building our brand new DC in Durban. One thing is for sure, while the pandemic is severely impacting our economy and the lives of our customers, PEP is continuing to grow and expand to deliver on its cause to make it possible for everyone to look and feel good in these tough times.

Dynamos, our challenge continues to be on improving sales while managing our costs well. But I know that when you challenge the Sales team, they deliver!

All the best for the next few months and please stay safe and healthy.

Sikhula KunYe!

It’s your responsibility to report any dishonest behaviour of customers or fellow Dynamos (including management) regarding the misuse of company assets. Nobody will know that you reported the incident.

You do not have to give your name and nobody can trace your call.

Follow-up on your lead is guaranteed.

Toll Free Number: 0800 006 285 Email: information@ whistleblowing.co.za Toll Free Fax: 0800 212 689 Postal: FREEPOST KZN665, MUSGRAVE, 4062 SMS:33490

Chief Executive Finance

Online: www. whistleblowing.co.za

JAAP’S LETTER

PEP it starts with me Hi 5 Dynamos!

It’s wonderful to speak to you all again. I would like to thank everyone for being the difference in the past few months. You have delighted our customers over Christmas and made it possible for PEP to be the number one school shop and allow South Africa’s children to go to school with dignity and respect.

COVID-19 hit us all hard the second time around and I want to convey my sympathies to every Dynamo who has suffered a loss during the period. We hope and pray that the end of this pandemic is near and that life will return to normal again. I, for one, miss seeing your warm smiles and feeling your hi-5’s when I do store visits. Wouldn’t it be nice to hug our friends and loved ones again? Wouldn’t it be nice to have large family gatherings again where our elderly parents feel safe too? Yes, love makes the world go around, doesn’t it?

Our theme for this month is PEP – it starts with me. We want to become the employer of choice. We have one of the best cultures in the world, but it’s also one of the best kept secrets, and we need to change that. We are the difference in this business, for our fellow Dynamos and our remarkable customers. Sikhula KunYe is what makes us successful, and as part of growing together,

we would like you to share your stories of growth, of living our values, of fulfilling our purpose and of making a difference in the communities we serve, with others, so that they too can see why being a Dynamo is such an honour and a privilege.

You would have seen more and more of PEP in the media and on social media lately.

This is because we are ready to share our journey and our PEP story. PEP has made a huge difference in my life, and shaped who I am today. I would like you, Dynamos, to also share your PEP story – your story of growth and our company’s story of growth. Let’s tell the world about how we have one of the best culture’s in the world and how we truly make a difference to our customers’ lives.

Enjoy the ride!

Sikhula KunYe!

CEO

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Central Office Feelgood Celebration 2020 Our Central Office held a Feelgood Celebration on 20 November to celebrate the successes of 2020 and to honour the Dynamos that exceeded in their performances in the past year. There was great excitement as a number of permitted Dynamos got together in person for the first

time in months in the PEPsun whilst the rest attended the ceremony virtually via Zoom.

CEO Jaap Hamman made a heartwarming speech and motivational speaker Justin Cohen inspired Dynamos to be the best versions of themselves in the difficult times that we find ourselves in. The Masters of Ceremony, Cavelle Govender and Sipho Mathebula, did an excellent job of entertaining the crowd.

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FEELGOOD CELEBRATION 2020

“A celebration of the successes of 2020 and honouring the Dynamos that exceeded in their performances in the past year...”

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Alice van Rooyen Trophy winner: 1. Gabriel Pansegrouw CEO Awards: 2. Jakkie Coetzee 3. Keith Bettesworth 4. Nico Dippenaar 5. Sanele Phoswa 6. Tara Swanson-Pauw 7. Thando Mabusela

CFH Award: 8. The Babies Business unit.

Duduzile Tyira (Planning Manager), Keith Bettesworth (Planning Manager) and Shirley Wright (Head Buyer).

CEO Jaap Hamman

SK Winners: 9. Christopher Lamprecht 10. Corna du Raan 11. Elisca Volschenk 12. Fouzia Orrie 13. Gideon van den Berg 14. Guillaume du Toit 15. Hanli Theron 16. Husain Baba

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MC – Sipho Mathebula

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SK Winners continued: 17. Ilona Boyes 18. Keith Davids 19. Margaret van Neel 20. Marno Taljaard 21. Monica McLoughlin

22. Nogolide Sikupela 23. Rion Swart 24. Winslow Jonker 25. Zara Majiet 26. Zaundry Hill

MC – Cavelle Govender

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December sales 101.3%

Some interesting numbers:

PEP HAD A GREAT DECEMBER SALES PERIOD AND MADE 101.3% OF OUR BUDGET

31,5 million

Top stores in December: 1. Carlton Centre 8727 2. Gaborone 6456 3. Canal Walk 7527

ON 24 DECEMBER: SERVED 2,2 MILLION CUSTOMERS,

Stores with the smallest turnover in December: 1. Philippolis 6473 2. Krugersdorp 915 3. Hoedspruit 4509

NUMBER OF TRANSACTIONS IN DECEMBER 2020

OR 68 PER SECOND SECOND BIGGEST SALES DAY EVER IN PEP’S HISTORY

Top three stores on 24 December: 1. Mafeteng 521 2. Gaborone 6456 3. Hartswater 324

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PEP ACADEMY:

Schools might close, but learning is open At the time of writing, the 2021 opening of schools had been pushed out from 1 February to 15 February, suggesting that the disruptions to schooling brought about by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic are far from over.

Typically, PEP Academy opens its doors to learners on the first Monday of February. This year it is planned for 1 March due to the late opening of schools. Of course, this might change again.

There are some changes planned for this year. Typically, PEP Academy operates on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays with about 33 learners per class. This year, to meet social distancing protocols, classes will be split in two, with group A attending on Mondays and Wednesdays, and group B on Tuesdays and Thursdays. As each child will be attending only twice a week – at least for now – the programme has put its popular arts and drama curriculum on hold so that the Academy can focus on the core academic areas: literacy and numeracy.

This year it is only the Grade 4s that will enjoy PEP Academy at their schools. The Grade 5 programme has been closed for now due to budget cuts. The PEP Academy team is ready to keep learners engaged, regardless of disruptions to schooling.

Last year, PEP @ Home was developed. Workbooks and stationery packs were sent to more than 5,300 homes. Parents were encouraged to help their children work through fun and creative activities and support was provided through WhatsApp groups. This year, the Academy will build on the PEP @ Home approach, with one workbook going home per term. That way, at times when schools are closed, learning remains open. Read the next issue of KwaPEP to find out how PEP @ Home is developing!

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Learners were excited to received their PEP @ Home activity packs last year when schools reopened after many months of being closed.

PEP CARES

A magic moment feelgood story Dynamo Portia Motaung from 5727 PEPhome Kakamas in Ikageng PEPHome Region shared her feelgood story on #Imstaying. She is from a small town called Harrismith in the Free State.

When she was 23, she was blessed with her first job as a P27 at PEPhome in Kakamas. It is a small town in the Northern Cape and is about 1,000 kilometers away from her home. She decided to take the risk and took the job even though it was so far away.

She managed to get herself a little shack in town to be closer to the store. She was so thankful that God blessed her with the job. So, in December, she decided to in turn bless six children for Christmas with stationery for the new school year, despite her not having much money. She believes in giving; give and you shall be blessed a thousand times more. She truly made a difference and showed that she cares.

Dynamos

on the Move Thys Potgieter has been promoted from Northern Divisional Logistics Manager to Regional Manager for PEPcell Imbewu region.

Adana Louw has been promoted from Financial Manager to Risk Manager.

Lynette le Roux has been promoted from False Bay Area Manager to General Manager for the Namib region.

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The importance of private label brands Did you know that PEP has seven FMCG Private Label brands in store and that there are more to come? Why are these brands important, and what does it mean for PEP? Creating private label brands is one way to separate PEP from our competitors. PEP’s Private Label brands are registered to Pepkor and PEP has the exclusive right to sell these products. This holds a huge benefit for PEP: because customers can only source these exclusive products from PEP, it will bring more feet into our stores.

By having reputable, quality and affordable Private Label products, customers will keep on coming back to purchase more and, in the process, PEP builds a strong and loyal customer base.

National brands manufactured by leading manufacturers will always be in demand and available at all retailers. However, having Private Label Brands owned and managed by PEP, differentiates PEP from other retailers, as these brands are only available at PEP. Through building strong Private Label Brands which are well-priced and of good quality, we improve the image that our stores portray and make our customers more reliant on PEP itself to purchase their favourite products.

Creating brand awareness is important for Private Label branded products.

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Although the products are not branded with the PEP logo, we can help increase the brand awareness and growth of these products through effective marketing, by recommending the products and by giving the products prime exposure on store shelves.

“It is important to have our Private Label products the most visible and always on display.“ Let’s talk about price and profitability.

All of PEP’s Private Label products are much better value for money – they are at least 20% cheaper than their national brand counterparts and offer the same or similar quality as the equivalent branded products. Most, if not all the Private Label products, typically have significantly higher profit margins than their branded equivalents.

It is therefore important to have Private Label products the most visible and always on display in order to sell more units and to thereby make sure that PEP makes up the value relative to branded products.

Dynamos, please ensure to promote these brands to family and friends, and our remarkable customers.

Together we can grow our PEP Private Label brands successfully.

PEP’s Private Label Brands:

PEP PRIVATE LABELS

Two new brands were launched in the past year!

One of them is Essentials (Home & Care) in the cleaning and personal care categories. The Essentials Home brand has replaced the Mrs Sparkz brand and phase one products have already launched in stores.

Look out for phase two, which will launch in quarter two (Jan-Mar ’21), with additional range extensions to the cleaning department.

During phase one in the Essentials Care range, some Image and Pride products were replaced in personal care.

The Pride brand in the personal care category got a new look that is more appealing, and the products themselves have been redeveloped to be more in line with current trends.

The last two Private Label brands are the two confectionery brands.

Keep a look out for a few new Lekker products that will launch just in time for Easter ‘21.

The other new exciting brand that hit our shelves is L.A. Lab which was developed to replace the Image brand in the personal care category. The extensive range of over 120 products in 52 stores as a trial run is doing exceptionally well.

The range will be extended into other similar categories going forward.

A delicious gifting range of Delux Choc was sold in PEP over Christmas time last year and more of these products are going to be stocked throughout the year.

Based on the learnings from the Christmas period, the range will be refined going forward with emphasis on taste and price points.

PEP’s trusted baby brand, Cuddlesome has also been revamped to be more inspiring, and a few of the brand’s products have been redeveloped to be more in line with competitors and more appealing to our customer needs.

During phase one the products were relaunched and are performing very well in stores.

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Magic Moments

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4439 PEPcell Attlyn 6704 Mutale 8417 Thohoyandou 6734 Mutale 102 Aberdeen 594 Uitenhage

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Christmas

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7. 7173 PEPcell Waterfall Mall 8. 5776 PEPhome Grove Mall 9. 5742 Klerksdorp 10. 6661 Klapmuts

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MAGIC MOMENTS

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Share your Magic Competition: 7

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Congratulations to 5792 Alberton for sharing your store opening. R600 is yours for sharing your magic.

Back-to-School

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6584 Rehoboth teachers 8496 Port Elizabeth 8265 Port Elizabeth 6114 Port Elizabeth 8693 Port Elizabeth 6685 Port Elizabeth 6343 Port Elizabeth 6271 Port Elizabeth 8246 Port Elizabeth

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MAGIC MOMENTS

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6332 Maake 635 Maseru celebrating 2021.

6582 Windhoek celebrating Father’s Day. 6362 Butha double-protect themselves with bubble stickers from window units.

5. 5619 PEPhome President 6. 433 Lady Grey 7. 8229 Sterkspruit 8. 243 Zastron 9. 523 Lewisham 10. 5638 PEPhome Alberton City 11. 406 Willowmore 12. 6294 Zevenwacht 13. 8065 Uitenhage 14. 4773 PEPcell Umlazi 15. 385 Reddersburg

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Retirements We say goodbye to two true PEP legends

Davie Louw Davie Louw, our National People Support Manager, retired at the end of December 2020. Davie started his PEP journey in 1980 in Transkei in the textile industry as Personnel Manager for our factory there. He moved over to the blanket and clothing industry at the end of 1985, in Butterworth.

He later moved to Cape Town as Training Manager in Manufacturing in Pepclo. PEP and Manufacturing merged at the end of 1986. In the ’90s he became Personnel Manager for Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia and Swaziland (now known as Eswatini). He was involved in the project of expanding the brand into other parts of Africa. In the late ’90s he became part of the Sales Management Team, originally in Training and then he moved over to People Support in Sales where he stayed until his retirement.

Davie is more prominently known for the huge role he has played in nurturing the Culture of PEP – Sikhula KunYe. His leadership role in planning, organising and facilitating PEP Conventions has been fundamental to the survival of the culture and has contributed to the performance of Dynamos in the Sales Team.

In addition to this, he performed in his role as People Support Manager (Sales), exerting leadership and influence. He was a trusted advisor and developed hundreds of Dynamos through Assessment Centres.

Davie has received many accolades during his tenure with PEP, including the Alice van Rooyen Trophy. His legacy will never be forgotten as this PEP Legend continues his life journey into retirement.

Farewell messages from our Dynamos Wynand Möller

Davie is a king maker with a deep understanding of leadership and culture.

He has the interest of all the Dynamos and PEP at heart. He is very creative with a twisted sense of humor.

Cavelle Govender

The names Davie Louw and Sikhula KunYe are synonymous.

Carina du Toit He inspired many to achieve great things; true inspirational leadership.

Theo Wentzel He was the embodiment of our culture, and unbelievably creative especially with conventions.

Juan le Roux

Our culture ambassador, builder, gatekeeper and custodian. This man was, is and will always be a PEP legend and an all-round fantastic human being.

Ian Reynolds Davie Louw is the personification of our company values and culture.

Barry Kawal

A true PEP legend who's smart, creative and inspirational and has the rare talent to see through situations and people.

Louis Lourens The caretaker of our beloved culture and a passionate king maker who has played a positive contribution in many a Dynamo's career. His legacy will live on for decades to come.

Johann Dreyer Davie is very creative and always believed that simple is better.

Riaan Ferreira He always stressed simplifying the complex and keeping the interest of the store Dynamos at heart.

Paul Wolfaardt

He has the best understanding of our culture and what we need to do to nurture it for future success.

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Farewell messages from our Dynamos Wynand Möller

Marius Koch Marius Koch, our Dealz Operations Manager, started his PEP career on 16 February 1980 as Trainee Store Manager at Bellville 104. After occupying the roles of Store Manager and Area Manager for a year, he moved to the Central office where he became Sales Support Manager.

He was involved in creating the Sales Support department where the first store layout plan was drawn up for PEP on a sheet of A4 paper.

He worked as Sales Support and Marketing Manager for PEP and Ackermans respectively from 1984 to 1993. Marius then occupied roles as Director in companies Poundstretcher (Based in England) and Your More Store (Based in Scotland) between 1993 and 2005. In 2005 he was appointed as Project manager for PEP Africa. Marius moved on to become the Project Manager of PEPhome in 2006 and became the spearhead for this division’s success. He was appointed as PEPhome Divisional Manager in 2014 and helped solidify the PEPhome brand as one of the most profitable businesses in PEP. In 2017 he was appointed as the Operations Manager for Dealz, a position he held until his retirement at the end of January 2021.

Marius’ passion for retailing and business acumen has definitely set him apart as a PEP legend. His ability to initiate projects and drive teams are a few of the trademarks of his personal brand. He has become renowned in the Sales Field for his ability to appoint and train Dynamos in both junior and senior roles. All Sales Project Managers appointed in recent years have been trained by Marius, and have gone on to become Regional Managers and even an Executive in PEP. These Dynamos are now known to have been part of “McKoch’s School of Graduates”.

Most Sales Dynamos will also remember him for being the Ultimate Braai Master.

He has received both the MD award (2014) and the Alice Van Rooyen Trophy (2015) during his 40 year tenure. He has won the hearts of many Dynamos in PEP and beyond with his wit, passion and neverending humour that lights up a room. His name will live on for decades in the history book of PEP.

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Growing and developing Dynamos is his passion! He has a wealth of experience and is always willing to share it. The best resource investigator in the world: He has a contact or a plan for every situation.

Cavelle Govender

One of the best, if not the best trainer of Dynamos PEP has ever had.

Carina du Toit Worked smart and played hard – always had time for a joke.

Theo Wentzel Did everything with passion – work and play – and man, could he braai!

Juan le Roux

Marius has a very deep and thorough understanding of our business, our customers and our Dynamos. A wealth of knowledge, experience and ideas and always willing to share. Highly entertaining after 5pm as well!

Ian Reynolds Might be retiring because of time, but I am yet to meet someone else with the consistent energy, drive and passion of Marius... "Net liggies ;-)".

Barry Kawal

Strong minded, yet soft at heart and always willing to listen and give advice.

Louis Lourens A tenacious, resourceful, passionate and can-do Dynamo who will be remembered as a legend. A Dynamo who never stopped growing or re-inventing himself.

Johann Dreyer Marius never ran away from a problem. He always had advice/suggestions/solutions.

Riaan Ferreira Always had an opinion and advice – nevermind the situation or problem at hand.

Paul Wolfaardt

Always had a solution for a problem, and how can we ever forget those braais.

Long Service

Awards

20 YEARS Zelda Marah Langeberg region

25 YEARS

20 YEARS April to June 2021 Abel Poli, Centurion Mall Agnes Andrew, Southern Division Annah Masekwameng, Pretoria Anna Mokone, Pretoria Ben Jones, Risk Division Bonita Herrmann, Southern Division Elizabeth Sinvula, Katima Mulilo Elsie Olifant, Welkom Emily Mvingi, Sebokeng Thabong Goodness Ncube, Pretoria Mebbo Lukubwe, Katima Mulilo Natalia Handura, Okakarara Nkosnathi Jele, Manzini Nontle Raleni, Butterworth Ntokozo Ndwandwe, Eshowe Oumakie Moloantoa, Vereeniging Priscilla Dibakoane, Moruleng Rose Moeketsi, Vanderbijlpark Sanna Buys, Boshof Thandi Mapaila, Bushbuckridge Thembi Themba, Witbank Tshepi Lobatlamang, Tsabong Vanessa Groenewald, Richmond

35 YEARS Anne Mokoena, Hazyview Eunice Nxumalo, Thulamahashe Irene Ramaswiela, Thohoyandou Jannet Nqoko, Greytown Maria Mokhuane, Klerksdorp Priscilla Digasho, Hammanskraal Thato Phohleli, Maseru

Annelie Fourie, Central Division Ben Jones, Risk Division Emily Mvingi, Sebokeng Thabong Idah Mashaba, Bushbuckridge Jacoba Beukes, Vredendal Lily Hannie, Knysna Malehlohonolo Mosothoane, Maseru Nkosnathi Jele, Manzini Poppy Kopeledi, Kuruman Susan Mohlobuli, Bloemfontein Thandi Mapaila, Bushbuckridge

20 YEARS Portia Gcukumana Langeberg region

25 YEARS Yolanda Farao Langeberg region

30 YEARS Adelaide Twigg, George Alvina Malete, Louis Trichardt Bettie Nel, Keimoes Christina Mokwena, Siyabuswa Christine Nkosi, Marble Hall Florence Mafereka, Maseru Joyce Matsepe, Groblersdal Khathutshelo Nemaunzeni, Sibasa Koos Kruger, Eastern Division Lucia King, Risk Division Mama Madonsela, Ogies Margaret Absalom, Bredasdorp Martha van Schalkwyk, Stella Pinkie Lamle, Sterkspruit Sonto Jiyane, Bronkhorstspruit Susan Mkhatshwa, Piggs Peak Thandie Ndlangamandla, Manzini Thembie Mvubu, Mbabane

25 YEARS Grager Verhoog Langeberg region

25 YEARS Claudette Dampies Langeberg region

Retirement Mariam Schrich from the Langeberg region retired after working at PEP for 32 years.

30 YEARS Hazel Pullen Langeberg region

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Dynamos

who inspire Sydwell joined PEP in May 2014 as a Regional People Support Manager for the then newly formed Emfuleni Region under Regional Manager Barry Kawal whom he admires greatly. In 2016 he was transferred to the North West region in the same role. In April 2019 he moved to a Project Manager role wherein he spent six months. In October 2019 he was appointed as Divisional People Support Manager for the Northern Division, with Cavelle Govender leaving behind big shoes to fill .

“Sydwell is a humble leader who is gifted with wisdom beyond his years.

He is calm in the most pressured situations and is an inspiration to many.”

CAVELLE GOVENDER, NATIONAL PEOPLE SUPPORT MANAGER.

Where are you from?

I was born and raised in a rural village called Mahushu near Hazyview in Mpumalanga. At 20, a man told me he knew where my father stayed in Johannesburg. As scary as it was, I asked to travel with him to Johannesburg to meet my father, and ended up staying with them in Ivory Park, Tembisa for about two years.

Any interesting stories?

The Dynamos still remind me that I attended my first interview at PEP wearing a suit! At the time I got the job offer from PEP, I had already received another offer from another company with a higher salary. I signed the other company’s offer letter and just before I could send it back to them, Georgy (Central Division) phoned to check in with me. Something to note here – the channel of communication was through the recruitment agency – Georgy had no business to contact me directly. I thought, “Wow, this is different!” I changed my decision, signed the PEP offer letter and joined the PEP family.

How do you define happiness?

It is being content with who I am, appreciating what I have and the ability to share it.. It is when I know I have made a difference to someone else who is less privileged than I am.

Who would you invite to a meal?

Dr Thuli Madonsela. She is so humble and down to earth, yet full of wisdom.

What is your favourite animal?

A dog. I have a wonderful Pitbull called Danger.

What is your biggest accomplishment?

To have a wonderful, loving family. Two boys and a supportive wife. I am blessed!

Why is PEP special for you?

The family environment. We are a family that share the same values, and our culture, Sikhula KunYe, encourages growth and self development.

Something nobody knows about you?

Most people do not know that I started staying alone at the age of 13 till I left for Johannesburg as a 20-year-old. My mom used to come and bring me groceries and also check in, then leave.

Well, it really required a lot of self discipline. Also in my early twenties, I lost both my parents and my two siblings.

The best advice you ever got

From my late mom: “Mfana wami (my son), in this life you must have self discipline, work hard and choose your friends wisely.”

What is one of the most important decisions you have had to make?

At the age of 20, I accepted a job as a gardener, which I served for three years while pursuing my part-time studies with UNISA. During that time I lost friends, and some family members laughed at the fact that I was a gardener at such a young age. The family I worked for offered to pay for my first year study fees, and the same family later appointed me as Office Administrator in their family business. A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step!

Last word – teach us something!

Sydwell Mavimbela,

Divisional People Support Manager

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Take it easy, work hard and walk with humility.

Remember, the choices and the decisions we make today, affect our tomorrow and the next generation, therefore choose well!

SIKHULA KUNYE

HIV and Ageing Hi 5 Dynamos Most of you know by now that I tested HIV+ in 1990 at the age of 22. Last year I celebrated healthy living with HIV for 30 years and later turned 53. Because the Antiretroviral medications (ARVs) have made such an enormous positive impact in the lives and life expectancy of people living with HIV, a lot of research has started to go into not only long term survival of the virus but also into the effects of the long term use of the medications. I have now been on ARVs for just over 20 years with an undetectable viral load for almost as long and CD4 count of over 1,000 for about 10 years now.

Did you know that at this stage, Tuberculosis is the leading cause of death in people living with HIV, and not AIDS itself ? As I am quite actively networking in various HIV communities, I already know of several people in their 60s and even a few in their 70’s living with HIV. There are however a few things we need to be aware of as we are now ageing with this condition. The fact is most of my life I thought I was going to die young… The day my doctor told me that I had the potential to live to an old age, I was actually not only surprised, but totally unprepared. I had to process it mentally and make a huge mind-shift to adjust my lifestyle.

Having to take care of our mental health is definitely very well known amongst HIVers, especially with regards to depression and anxiety. We also need to be aware of the fact that some conditions that are known in the elderly may be experienced at an earlier stage for us. For example, I

experienced menopause much earlier than it would have happened normally – this also exacerbated my depression to major depressive disorder and needed attention.

BY TONI ZIMMERMAN 082 926 3368 antoinettezimm@ gmail.com

Other possible conditions that could happen earlier are: • ●cardiovascular disease • ●kidney failure • ●liver failure • ●cancer • ●type 2 diabetes • ●osteoporosis (weakened bones) • ●memory problems (including dementia and Alzheimers) There are three things I personally have to stick to: 1. One to two check-ups with my doctor every single year.

2. Always taking my ARV and other chronic medications on time, every single day.

3. Where possible I always try to take a multivitamin supplement and eat fairly healthy foods.

Being well informed, reading and networking with other HIV+ people have been part of my motto from the very beginning. Now that we are also experiencing a pandemic, we need to stay vigilant and informed and, whatever you do, do not stop taking your medications during this time.

Always living with HOPE! Sikhula KunYe MARCH 2021

19

Be honest and direct, and love what you do When did you start working at PEP, and in which position?

I joined PEP in September 2009 as a C24 at 495 Edenvale. During December 2009 I was appointed as a P27. In 2012 I became permanent and trained as a 21C. In December 2013 I became a store Manager.

How would you describe your life before PEP?

I was born on 20 January 1990 in Kwa-Mashu in Durban and later moved to Tembisa in Johannesburg. I matriculated in 2007, and pursued my studies by doing a Labour Relations Course at IQ Business College and a 6-month UNISA Course through PEP. I had never worked before joining PEP.

What makes you excited about PEP?

Our Sikhula KunYe culture and opportunities to grow and to grow others.

What would you say is your best quality and why?

My best quality is showing leadership and inspiring others: being able to influence and guide a group towards a common goal while motivating them to be the best that they can be.

How do you like spending your free time?

Travelling, connecting with nature and spending time with my family.

What are you addicted to?

I start my day everyday with a cup of coffee, so I consider that an addiction.

If you have one wish, what would that be?

I wish God could have kept my mom to see me being part of the PEP family, to see me making a difference and making people look and feel good, and to see the woman I’ve become.

What has been your greatest adventure?

Flying to Cape Town and meeting the best performing Dynamos.

Any tips or advice to the Dynamos?

Make the most of yourself, for that is all there is for you. Compliment yourself. Don’t make excuses. Be honest, direct and love what you do.

Remember, age is just a number – it is never too late or too early to grow at PEP.

Samukelisiwe Dube.

6241 Greenstone, Gauteng

20

MARCH 2021

The heart of everything we do Our customers are at the heart of everything we do. They are remarkable people who, on a very small budget, make it possible for their families to live with dignity and pride.

Even though 2020 was challenging, we saw an opportunity. An opportunity to start doing new things, innovate and focus our priorities. Our top priority for 2020 was our customers and our Dynamos, and this has resulted in these amazing results…

HOW OUR CUSTOMERS ARE SHOPPING 2.8 1.5 3.4 ITEMS PER BASKET 4.4%

ITEMS PER BASKET 2.5%

ITEMS PER BASKET 6.9%

R112

R100

R112

PER BASKET 13.6%

PER BASKET 48.7%

71%

75%

CASH 29% CARD

CASH 25% CARD

PER BASKET 28%

53%

CASH 47% CARD

MORE ITEMS = BIGGER BASKET SIZE MORE CARD CONTRIBUTIONS LESS TRANSACTIONS LESS CASH CONTRIBUTIONS

GOING DIGITAL MORE FANS & ENGAGEMENT FOR PEP & HOME

55 185 NEW FANS 8.2%

2019 37 600 BREAKDOWN NEW FANS

25 697

NEW FOLLOWERS 118%

52 775

NEW FOLLOWERS 348%

INCREASE IN MALE & YOUNGER WEBSITE USERS Figures for the period Jul - Dec 2019 vs 2020. PEP Home social media based on Aug - Dec 2020. Social media reflects year-on-year growth.

A BIG THANK YOU TO ALL OUR DYNAMOS

FOR THE DIFFERENCE YOU ARE MAKING EVERY DAY IN THE LIVES OF OUR CUSTOMERS

CELEBRATING MILESTONES AND OUR DYNAMOS!

CELEBRATING

OUR WINS!

We launched with Returns - AVON now available FOR RETURNS. Celebrating just OVER 1.7 MILLION parcels sent in the past year!

A record of 4.1 MILLION PARCELS SENT since PAXI was born and we couldn’t have done it without you!

NEW BAG! OUR FRESH NEW PAXI BAG WAS DESIGNED TO CREATE A SIMPLISTIC AND MODERN LOOK THAT ALSO IMPROVED THE FUNCTIONALITY OF THE BAG.

HERE’S TO A YEAR OF REACHING MANY MORE MILESTONES, SENDING MANY MORE PARCELS AND DELIVERING EVEN MORE SMILES!

THANK YOU

DYNAMOS! Multiple PAXI points: