SEPTEMBER 2017
www.endeavourmagazine.com
KISHUGU Taming The Flame CHELMSFORD STAR CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY A Cooperative Approach
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EDITOR’S NOTE Heads of Departments Managing Editor Alice Instone-Brewer editor@littlegatepublishing.com Sales Director Alex Hilling-Smith alexsmith@littlegatepublishing.com
A
s is often the case, August 2017
avoiding their copies of Dr Strangelove;
was predicted to be the end of
Hurricane Harvey left many in the Southern
the world. If you’re reading this,
American states without homes or shelter,
congratulations - we survived (yet again!).
whilst excessive monsoon floods have
This most recent of far-fetched end-of-
caused even greater devastation across
Editorial Research James Lapping james@littlegatepublishing.com
world claims lined up with August 21st’s
much of South Asia; divisions and violence
Black Moon total eclipse, with the theory
still exist throughout the Middle East,
Project Manager Steven Weller steveweller@littlegatepublishing.com
claiming that the End would be Nigh two
including the continued isolation of Qatar;
days later. The cause of our demise? The
and let us not forget Barcelona, as 13 lost
Project Director Jason Gilkes jason@littlegatepublishing.com
planet ‘Nibiru’, or Planet X, crashing into
their lives and over one hundred were
our own. Fortunately, according to NASA
injured in the most recent of the terrorist
Corporate Director Anthony Letchumaman anthonyl@littlegatepublishing.com
and other credible scientists, the planet is
attacks occurring across Europe.
completely fictitious, but that didn’t stop
It may be no Planet X, but last month
Lead Designer Alina Sandu studio@littlegatepublishing.com
some people getting nervous! The theory
certainly made it hard to feel optimistic.
hinged on numerology and various biblical
However, as our closely-connected world
Publisher Stephen Warman stevewarman@littlegatepublishing.com
verses, and had been ‘predicted’ several
keep reminding each other, wherever there
times in the past – all, obviously, with no
is conflict, fear or hatred, there is a stronger
Any enquiries or subscriptions can be sent to info@littlegatepublishing.com ENDEAVOUR MAGAZINE is published by Littlegate Publishing LTD which is a Registered Company in the United Kingdom. Company Registration: 07657236 VAT registration number: 116 776007 343 City Road Suite 10, Thorpe House London 79 Thorpe Road EC1 V1LR Norwich, NR1 1UA
results.
outcry of love. This month, we spoke
However, these thankfully empty claims
with author and photographer Anthony
weren’t the only hot air August subjected us
Osmond-Evans, whose new book looks to
to, nor the only cause for pessimism. The USA
promote pluralism and tolerance through
has been performing a full-scale historical
a compilation of stories from living global
re-enactment this month, taking the art to
heroes, aiming to show the good that exists
new levels by simultaneously recreating early
beyond barriers around the world.
1930s Germany, the 1980s Cold War and
As people of every persuasion seem to
their country’s long and troubling history of
be gathering into ‘sides’, it may help to
racial tensions. The increasingly concerning
remember all of the figures who have
atmosphere of intolerance gained a focal-
achieved change through peace, love and
of view expressed in articles by attributing
point in Charlottesville, in a display that left
communication with their ‘enemy’.
writers and/or in advertisements included in this
the world and America alike shocked and
we move into September, let us all stand
saddened. The only thing more unsettling
up against hate, with our arms and minds
living or dead is purely coincidental. Whilst
than the Confederate and Nazi flags proudly
open to speak with each other about how
every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of
displayed at the march is the knowledge
to move forwards, instead of striking each
that this is far from the only fear-fuelled
other back. We may hate certain ideas, but
publishers for loss arising from use of information
racist incident happening in the country,
we must strive not to hate those who think
published. All rights reserved. No part of this
purportedly the land of freedom and equal
them if we ever want to see true change.
publication may be reproduced or stored in a
opportunity.
Happy September, and in the words of Bill
Meanwhile, a shouting match between the
& Ted: Be excellent to each other (and party
the publisher.
USA and North Korea has some people
on, dude!)
Copyright © Littlegate Publishing Ltd 2017
eyeing do-it-yourself fallout bunkers and
Sales Manager Emlyn Freeman emlynfreeman@littlegatepublishing.com Head of Editorial Research Paul Bradley paulbradley@littlegatepublishing.com
Littlegate Publishing Ltd does not accept responsibility for omissions or errors. The points
magazine do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. Any resemblance to real persons,
the information contained within this magazine, no legal responsibility will be accepted by the
retrievable system or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written consent of
As
ALICE INSTONE-BREWER
Endeavour Magazine | 3
CONTENTS
KISHUGU FEATURES
GAMEWATCHERS 4 | Endeavour Magazine
16 Diageo Guinness Cameroun Raising A Glass 24 Chelmsford Star Co-operative Society A Cooperative Approach 30 Wellocks A Taste Of Perfection 40 Gamewatchers Safaris Kenya’s Game-Changers 48 Kishugu Taming The Flame 54 Natural Flora Natural Treasures 58 USE-IT Waste Not, Want Not 64 Sunbird Giving The Region Wings 74 Novopro From The Ground Up 80 Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname N.V. Refining The Future
CHELMSFORD STAR CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY ARTICLES 6 7 8 10 11
Business Headlines Middle East Africa Asia Americas Europe
12
Focus Anthony Osmond-Evans – Heroes
38 56 94
Amazing World Diamond City: The Pit of Wealth The Hungry Ghost Festival The Third Thumb Project
70
Automotives Citroen Spacetourer Flair XS BlueHDi 150
ADWEA Endeavour Magazine | 5
BUSINESS HEADLINES MIDDLE EAST THOUSANDS OF TOYS AND COSMETICS RECALLED IN ABU DHABI Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council (QCC) on Sunday announced the recall of 2,363 products in 21 categories, including
toys,
electrical
appliances,
cosmetics, cigarettes and tobacco products. The recall was an outcome of the inspection campaigns on controlled products carried out in the first half of 2017, during which QCC inspectors examined a total of 36,291 products from 852 establishments. Following the results of the inspection campaigns,
suppliers
of
the
products
voluntarily withdrew those that failed to meet relevant safety and quality requirements. As part of the inspection drive, 12,038 toys
from
319
establishments
The Innovation Challenge includes a
interests in sisterly Saudi Arabia to finalise
five-week program that allows start-ups to
their situations quickly before the border
compete in presenting their business ideas,
crossings are closed after the Haj,” he posted
as well as creating solutions to deal with
to his 306,000 followers on Twitter.
various challenges and tasks inspired by real-world scenarios.
The Salwa checkpoint is the only land crossing between the Saudi and Qatar
The finalists will showcase their solutions
borders. It closed on June 5 when Saudi
at the FinTech Demo Day in Abu Dhabi to a
Arabia, alongside Bahrain, the United Arab
panel of industry experts. Each finalist will
Emirates and Egypt, severed diplomatic and
benefit from mentoring sessions and other
trade relations with Qatar. Saudi Arabia also
forms of support, as well as having their
banned the entry of Qatari nationals into the
expenses covered by the competition.
kingdom unless they are going for Umrah or
Two
Innovation
Challenge
winners
Haj.
will be announced on 22 October 2017.
However, on August 17, the Salwa
These winners will have the opportunity to
crossing was opened for Qataris going to
demonstrate their solutions at the upcoming
Haj or with interests in Saudi Arabia.
Global FinTech Hackcelerator in Singapore.
However, the crossing will be shut down a few days following the end of the six-day
were
Haj season.
examined including cotton toys, water toys, puzzles, audio, video and motor games,
EGYPT TO PAY ISRAELI FIRMS $3 BILLION OVER NATURAL GAS HALT
colouring toys, handicrafts, disguises and masks. Inspectors examined the toys for the GSO conformity marking and other relevant
Two Israeli companies are due to receive
details and warning information.
$3 billion in reparations for losses they
The campaign also targeted electrical appliances
including
air
sustained when Egypt cut off supplies of
conditioners,
natural gas to Israel in 2012.
refrigerators, washing machines, televisions,
Last year, the two Egyptian companies
cooking equipment such as water boilers,
were
frying machines, grills and ovens as well as personal care products such as razors,
checked,
in
to Israel fell apart in 2012 due to attacks
QATARIS URGED TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF CROSSING OPPORTUNITY
on the country’s pipelines. The interrupted supply led the IEC to use more expensive fuel until local suppliers could fill the deficit.
Shaikh Abdullah Bin Ali Al Thani has urged
Egyptian Natural Gas and Egyptian General
fellow Qatari citizens who had interests and
Petroleum Corporation were ordered to pay compensation on these losses.
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) and
property in Saudi Arabia to take advantage
KPMG are working together to launch the
of the opening of the Salwa border crossing
first ever FinTech Abu Dhabi Innovation
between the two countries.
Challenge.The challenge aims to enable
billion
Egypt’s 20-year agreement to sell gas
included 10,844 tobacco products from 309
LAUNCHING FINTECH ABU DHABI INNOVATION CHALLENGE
$2
this year.
which
establishments.
pay
ruling, which was rejected by a French court
A total of 13,409 products from 224 were
to
Corporation. They appealed against the
among others. establishments
ordered
compensation to state-owned Israel Electric
Shaikh
Abdullah
the company that built and operated the
had
previously
pipeline, saying the company failed to pay it
start-up companies to access industry-
successfully
lighter
for gas they had supplied. EMG countersued,
leading technology and solutions, in order
restrictions on Qatari pilgrims and visitors to
asking $3.56 billion in damages, saying the
to aid these blooming companies in tackling
Saudi Arabia.
Egyptians had cancelled their contract with
the competition and challenges that face a new business. 6 | Endeavour Magazine
“Dear
negotiated
The two companies have sued EMG,
Qatari
brothers
for
and
sons…
I urge those who own property or special
EMG illegally.
AFRICA NIGERIA’S BUHARI DELIGHTED AT IMPROVING ECONOMY Nigeria is in its second year of recession and has been contending with a currency crisis and dollar shortages brought on by low oil prices. It is one of the most highly populated countries in Africa. However, oil prices have risen since 2014, aided by peace talks which brought a halt to the destruction on energy facilities in Niger Delta. Nigerian stocks have risen as a result. Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari. who last week returned to Nigeria after three
won by 1.4 million votes. At least 28 people
The
recent
tragedies
have
raised
were killed in violence following the result,
concerns over the dangers of mining in
many of them shot by police during protests.
South Africa. The country has several
The protests have raised fears that major
similarly deep mines, with workers operating
political violence could destabilise Kenya as
at depths of up to 4 kilometres beneath
it did following a disputed election in 2007.
the surface. However, the industry has
The Supreme Court said it would allow
marginally reduced the number of miners
Odinga’s National Super Alliance (NASA) and
killed, with a record low of 73 registered last
Kenyatta’s Jubilee Party limited access to
year compared to 77 in 2015. These figures
the Independent Electoral and Boundaries
are still concerningly high.
Commission’s electronic devices to verify
This tragedy is part of a troubled history
who had used the devices and accessed the
of occurances for the Kusasalethu mine,
servers, in the hopes to put a rest to the
which has a recent history of strikes and
continued conflict.
labour violence protesting the conditions for the country’s miners.
months in Britain on medical leave, declared that he was “pleased with the progress being
KENYA CRACKS DOWN ON PLASTIC BAGS
made on different fronts.” He told the officials that “reviving the economy was one of the major planks on
Kenya has passed the world’s strictest
which the campaign of his party, the All
law on plastic bag use; any Kenyans
Progressives Congress, was based” and
producing, selling or even using plastic bags
“expressed gladness that things were looking
can now face imprisonment of up to four
up after two years”.
years or fines of $40,000.
However, the country’s Labour Party
40 other countries have either banned,
have critisised the statement, saying that
limited or taxed the use of plastic bags,
little has changed recently except for Buhari’s
including China, France, the UK, Rwanda,
health, seeing the statement as premature
and Italy. However, Kenya’s stance carries
and claiming there was little to prompt it.
the strongest sanctions by a long way. Plastic bags cause many environmental
KENYAN ELECTION CONTROVERSY CONTINUES
problems. In particular, they end of in the sea, killing fish and seabirds. Being ingested by fish also means that the bags enter
Following accusations from opposition
human food.
leader Raila Odinga’s that President Uhuru Kenyatta’s
organisation
hacked
Kenya’s
recent election, the country’s Supreme Court has ordered the election commission to
The new law will allow the police to
THIRD TRAPPED MINER DIES AT SOUTH AFRICAN HARMONY GOLD MINE
allow the opposition access to its computer
A third miner has died at a South African
servers and electronic devices used in the
gold mine operated by Harmony Gold, and
counting of votes.
two more remain missing after they were
Investigations into the election have previously shown a failed attempt to hack
trapped underground following an earth tremor.
the polls, but no evidence that the result was
The Kusasalethu mine is one of the
indeed compromised. The agreement from
world’s deepest mines, reaching down to
many is that President Uhuru Kenyatta’s
depths of over 3 kilometres (1.8 miles).
victory is genuine. However, continued
“Search and rescue efforts will continue
accusations have resulted in street violence.
to recover the remaining two trapped
Official figures show Kenyatta to have
approach anyone carrying a plastic bag, but plans are to phase enforcement of the law in by first focusing on manufacturers and suppliers. It took Kenya three attempts over ten years to pass the ban. There are fears that whilst larger companies will be able to provide paper and cloth alternatives, poorer traders will be hit hard by the effects. There are also concerns over the loss of jobs and business, as Kenya is a major exporter of plastic bags to the region.
employees,” Harmony said in a statement. Endeavour Magazine | 7
ASIA NORTH KOREA THREATENS NUCLEAR TEST; USA THREATENS RETALIATION North Korea dismissed warnings by U.S. President Donald Trump that it would face “fire and fury” if it threatened the United States, outlining a detailed plan for a missile strike near the U.S. Pacific territory of Guam. The US has also stated that it will treat any missile aimed at its territory as a provocation, even if launched as a test. North Korea’s rapid development of nuclear missiles capable of reaching U.S.
pressure on North Korea. Meanwhile, four
Syngenta are expected to remain the same.
South Korean fighter jets bombed a military
It is also anticipated that the company will
firing range on in counter-demonstration of
face rapid growth for its products in China.
military force to North Korea. However, the
Mr Ren said on the acquisitions; “Our
state has announced that it will not respond
vision is not confined to our mutual interests,
to sanctions or threats.
but will also respond to and maximise the
Global markets have reacted to the escalation by buying ‘safe-haven’ assets such
interests of farmers and consumers around the world.”
as gold, the Swiss franc and the Japanese yen, expecting domestic investors to bring large amounts of currency home in these uncertain times.
60 CHILDREN DEAD IN ALLEGED INDIAN HOSPITAL OXYGEN CUT
soil has fuelled tensions that erupted into a
A hospital in India has been accused of
war of words between, causing wide-spread
failing to provide enough oxygen after 60
concern. World stocks fell as a result of the
children died on its wards in five days. Baba Raghav Das Medical College said
tensions. Guam is home to about 163,000 people
34 babies died at the hospital’s neo-natal
and a U.S. Navy installation that includes a
intensive care unit. 12 died because of
submarine squadron, a Coast Guard group
encephalitis, and the rest died of other
and an air base.
unspecified causes.
The planned path of the missiles would
Local media have claimed that some of
cross some of the world’s busiest sea and air
the deaths were due to a shortage of oxygen
traffic routes.
which occurred after a supplier withdrew equipment as a result of unpaid bills.
North Korea’s announcement came in reaction to the US’s annual drills on South
Parents of at least 35 of the young
Korean soil, and follows two successful tests
patients have agreed that the oxygen supply
of an intercontinental missile in July.
NORTH KOREA’S LAUNCH OVER JAPAN ESCALATES TENSIONS
CHEMCHINA OFFERS $43BN IN THE COUNTRY’S BIGGEST FOREIGN TAKEOVER
to the children’s ward ran out, claiming that patients’ families were given self-inflating bags to help the children breathe. However, officials have claimed that the
China National Chemical Corp, a state-
deaths were due to natural causes, including
Following threats to send missiles to
owned Chinese company, is set to buy Swiss
District Magistrate Rajiv Rautela and hospital
Guam earlier in the month, North Korea
pesticide and seed giant Syngenta for $43bn
doctor Kafeel Khan.
fired a ballistic missile over Japan’s northern
(£32.6bn). If the acquisition goes ahead, it
Prashant Trivedi, the state’s top health
Hokkaido island into the sea early on
will be the biggest foreign takeover yet from
official, admitted there has been a problem
Tuesday.
a Chinese firm.
in the pipeline which supplied oxygen.
North Korea has conducted dozens of
Monsanto, a US company, had a larger
However, it has been claimed that the
ballistic missile tests under young leader Kim
offer of $47bn turned down by Syngenta’s
deaths were routine for a hospital of its size,
Jong Un, but firing projectiles over mainland
board last year. However, it is not anticipated
with 10-20 deaths recorded a day. Officials
Japan is rare. The test was one of the most
that they will return with this as a counter-
also stated that 60-70 patients are put on
provocative from the state so far, hot on
offer, but will instead explore other takeover
oxygen every day, and claimed that if the
the heels of escalating threats between the
opportunities.
supply had faltered, more deaths would
country and the US.
Most of Syngenta’s management team
have occurred.
“North Korea’s reckless action is an
are set to keep their positions under the new
The government of Uttar Pradesh’s
unprecedented, serious and a grave threat
ownership, as well as four of the company’s
ordered an investigation to settle the
to our nation,” Japanese Prime Minister
current directors. Whilst the company board
dispute, and opposition parties are using the
Shinzo Abe told reporters.
will of course be chaired by Ren Jianxin,
tragedy as ammunition to accuse the ruling
chairman of ChemChina, operations for
party of negligence.
Japan and the US have agreed to increase 8 | Endeavour Magazine
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AMERICAS CHARLOTTESVILLE: UNITED NATIONS WARNS US OVER SUPREMACIST RALLY A United Nations committee issued a so-called ‘early warning’ over racial tensions and the contributing conditions in the USA, and has urged the Trump administration to “unequivocally and unconditionally” reject discrimination. The warning comes following the events in events in Charlottesville, where civil rights activist Heather Heyer was killed when a car rammed into a group of people protesting against a white nationalist rally. The rally’s participants carried burning torches and displayed Nazi and Confederate flags. Unlike many protests around America of late, most of which have involved people of colour, the white supremacist rally was not met with police resistance. In the past decade, the only other countries issued with an early warning of this nature from the UN were Burundi, Iraq, Ivory Coast, Kyrgyzstan and Nigeria. “We
are
alarmed
by
the
racist
demonstrations, with overtly racist slogans, chants and salutes by white nationalists, neo-Nazis, and the Ku Klux Klan, promoting white
supremacy
and
inciting
citizens and companies are no longer permitted to do business with these firms.
been extended eastward along the coast of
Security Council’s unanimous vote, including
Louisiana and a storm surge watch has been
Russia and China, in favour of further
issued, the impacts of winds and storm surge
sanctions against Pyongyang.
are expected to be secondary compared to
A move intended to increase pressure
President Trump and the First Lady are
whose relationship with America has grown
set to visit the region, beginning by visiting
tense over the President’s communications
Corpus Christi in Texas for a briefing on the
with North Korea. They have called on the
relief efforts, followed by a tour around the
US to “immediately correct its mistake”.v
region to the emergency operations centres.
US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson
The President will not visit the worst-hit
expressed confidence that North Korea
areas, as is customary, so that his visit does
would continue to show restrain, and talks
not interfere with busy relief efforts.
may be possible between the two countries in the near future, adding; “We have had no missile launches or provocative acts on the
TRUMP TO RE-MILITARISE POLICE GEAR
part of North Korea since the adoption of
President Trump plans to reverse the Obama administration’s limits on police
the UN Security Council resolution.” The situation between the US and North
equipment, which would once again give
Korea was created by a series of missile
the police forces access to high-calibre
tests carried out by North Korea, and their
weapons,
threat to launch nuclear missile at Guam
armoured vehicles and other surplus military
in retaliation to scheduled US-South Korea
equipment.
military drills. US President Donald Trump has made a counter-threat at North Korea.
that the president has allowed the “darkest forces in America” to undo years of progress on civil rights.
The US has imposed sanctions on a dozen Russian and Chinese companies and persons accused of assisting North Korea’s
The limits to such equipment were put in places after multiple incidents of violent
force used on black Americans, many have criticised the removal of these limits. The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) said the move
STORM HARVEY FLOODS TEXAS TO LOUISIANA
was part of the Trump administration’s “open effort to escalate racial tensions in
Thousands of Americans have evacuated or abandoned their homes after being hit by
our country”. The announcement of this decision comes soon after the white supremacist
Storm Harvey. to
march in Charlottesville, which unlike many
provide enough aid and shelter to those
recent protests, was not met with any
affected by the storm. Officials estimate that
police force. This discrepancy has provoked
30,000 people will need shelter. However,
concern and criticism from much of America.
Local
US SANCTIONS CHINESE AND RUSSIAN FIRMS OVER NORTH KOREA
heavily
In view of the rising cases of fatal police
criticism after he blamed “both sides” for the former Vice President Joe Biden has written
launchers,
particularly protests held by racial minorities.
widespread
events in Charlottesville. Amongst his critics,
grenade
police responses to peaceful protests –
racial
the warning. faced
that of the rains.
on North Korea has instead angered China,
Crickley, chair of the committee that issued Trump
While tropical storm warnings have
The sanctions come following the UN
discrimination and hatred,” said Anastasia
Donald
as well as affecting Mississippi and Alabama.
authorities
are
struggling
they have said none seeking refuge would be turned away.
The
announcement
also
follows
pressure on the Trump administration from
The National Hurricane Center has
national police organizations, who called
described the conditions as “catastrophic
the president to make good his promise
10 companies and six individuals have
and life-threatening flooding”. The disaster
to undo this executive order made by this
been included in the sanctions. American
has impacted homes from Texas to Louisiana,
predecessor.
nuclear weapons programme.
10 | Endeavour Magazine
EUROPE HYDROGEN FUEL TO BEGIN TESTING IN UK In an attempt to cut its carbon footprint, the UK is looking to run tests in 2020 to trial the use of hydrogen as a cleaner alterative gas fuel for the country. The UK currently has a high gas usage, and the fuel powers many of the country’s cookers and heating systems. The trials will be carried out by Cadent, who run the connections to half of the UK homes on gas. Initial trials will take place in the cities of Liverpool and Manchester.
Britain, but the NCA have now said that this
charged with membership of a terrorist
figure is only a small fraction.
organisation and murder.
“We’ve been shocked by the extent of
Salah
al-Karib
has
been
detained,
further
investigations,
it,” said Will Kerr, NCA officer in charge of
pending
such cases. “This is a growing problem. This
Mohammed Aallaa was released on bail.
is 2017, this is not acceptable in any way, shape or form.” Kerr said the crime gangs could make up to $700 a day from each woman exploited
while
According to Houli Chemlal, the group’s plans were scaled back when a house packed with bomb-making equipment blew up the day before.
for prostitution, and estimated that there
On the day of the attack on Las Ramblas,
were 46 million victims generating half a
Barcelona, a van was driven at speed down
trillion dollars a year for organised crime
the boulevard, killing 13 and injuring more
gangs.
than 100. Assailants killed a total of 15 people,
The tests are part of an ambitions £600m
including the stabbing of a driver whose car
project geared towards the country’s carbon
was commandeered shortly the event, and a
footprint reduction.
car attack in Cambrils hours later.
The company will focus on industrial
Two members of the cell were killed in
users in sectors such as chemicals and oil
the Alcanar explosion, and six were later shot
refining, because using 100% hydrogen
by police, including five after the Cambrils
requires new boilers to be installed.
attack.
However, hydrogen will also be blended with methane and piped to millions of
BRITISH BANKS SET TO CLOSE RECORD 762 BRANCHES THIS YEAR
homes, which Cadent believe can be done without harm to household utilities. The Liverpool-Manchester area was
Banks and building societies in Britain
chosen because it represents around 11% of
have been shutting branches at a rate of
Britain’s industrial sector, thus reducing the
around 300 per year since 1989, a trend
number of boilers that need to be converted.
which has accelerated in recent years as lenders respond to pressure on profits. The lenders are looking to cut costs
MODERN SLAVERY IN THE UK HIGHER THAN POLICE THOUGHT
by promoting online business rather than bearing the expenses of physical outlets.
Cases of human trafficking and modern
Royal Bank of Scotland is set to close
slavery are higher in the UK than they had
244 branches this year, Lloyds Banking
previously thought, the National Crime
Group will shut 195, HSBC 117and Barclays
Agency (NCA) has revealed. This includes cases of forced labour, sexual exploitation and domestic servitude. The main culprits behind this trafficking
BARCELONA VAN ATTACK HAD BEEN PART OF LARGER PLAN, CLAIMS SUSPECT
are international gangs, according to the
The cell behind the Barcelona van attack
NCA, and the problem is said to have
had planned to use explosives against
affected every large town and city across
monuments, including the city’s famous
the country.
Sagrada Familia church, a suspect has told a
The Agency said there were currently
Madrid court.
300 live police operations into forced labour,
Mohamed Houli Chemlal is one of four
sexual exploitation and domestic servitude.
surviving suspects of the recent Barcelona
Previous estimates suggested there were up
terror attack who gave evidence.
to 13,000 victims of these types of crimes in
He and Driss Oukabir have both been
90 - 100. Britain will only have 8,000 physical bank branches by the end of the year. Whilst this will have limited impact on some customers, it could have a heavy impact on older citizens or those in poor internet signal areas. Lawmakers and campaigners are also concerned that banks’ most financially vulnerable customers will suffer. On top of this concern, more branches appear to be being closed down in low-income areas, where their need is arguably greatest.
Endeavour Magazine | 11
FOCUS ANTHONY OSMOND-EVANS – HEROES
F
rom entertaining the heads of industry to documenting some of the most beautiful destinations in the world,
Anthony Osmond-Evans has built enviable careers for himself. A blend between good fortune and old fashioned hard work has seen
the
writer/photographer/publisher
travel the world and rub shoulders with legends along the way. Now, he is looking to turn his experiences towards something that will not only commemorate, but inspire, real change. Anthony Osmond-Evans is best known for his stunning coffee table books, including China the Beautiful, The Magic of Monaco and, most recently, The Spirit of London for the 2012 Olympics and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. His books, which have sold over 100,000 copies to date, document the history and aesthetic of locations around the world, featuring Osmond-Evans’ writing and mainly his own photography. He is currently working on three new ventures, the most ambitious of which is still in the planning stages and would be a marked departure from his previous work, but is already receiving enthusiastic backing and support. We spoke with the author about how his series had come about. Surprisingly, Osmond-Evans’ career didn’t begin in publishing, photography or writing; in his twenties, he cut his professional teeth by marketing whisky for The Distiller’s Group, a venture that saw him stationed for a time in Hong Kong. It was here that he contracted the travel bug, a fever that would grow for 12 | Endeavour Magazine
some years before it would take him back
Osmond-Evans on to other marketing and
to Chinese shores. “I got my first taste of
PR work, until he set up his own company
China, and I knew that one day I’d have to
called Good Connections. The company
go back there and photograph it,” Osmond-
served as a networking third-party, receiving
Evans recalls. “I didn’t know when or how or
advances from a pool of companies with
why, but it had been in my mind from those
which to wine and dine the heads of industry
early days.”
and promote these clients’ services. “What
“I’ve always been one to grab an
I’d achieved was to be working as an agent,
opportunity, and that very much comes from
as an ambassador, for some twelve different
my great hero, a photographer called Henri
disciplines within the service industries.
Cartier-Bresson. He had the eye: his images
They were large firms, and they all provided
were all about capturing the moment. His
services to companies like the electricity
famous quote was, ‘If it grabs me, I grab it.’
board - big firms working for big companies.”
Life’s a bit like that for me - if an opportunity
Through working in this way, Osmond-
comes up, I grab it.” One day, this attitude
Evans was mingling with an upper-echelon
would lead Osmond-Evans back to the
of business contacts. “I was just about old
country that had captured his heart, though
enough by then to have the clout to meet
it would take him via an unexpected route.
and talk to a head of industry, because no-
Working with The Distiller’s Group led
one wants some whippersnapper!” It was
Anthony Osmond-Evans & Sylvia Loch inspired Osmond-Evans; after seeing it could be done, he went after his own project – and travelled back to China. “I covered a lot of Labastide de Levis
China, including the Tibetan Plateau and Tibet, as I had done in the ‘80s. This sounds a bit arrogant, but they were pretty good pictures!” His first personal project, China the Beautiful, became a reality. Now,
Osmond-Evans’
line
includes
numerous titles, some commissioned and others his own ventures. To fund his personal
unexpected turn, and the skills he had learnt
projects, he approaches sponsors, again
would start to enable the dream that was
pitching the endeavours as purchasable
cooking away at the back of his mind.
corporate gifts. Sponsoring companies put a
FW de Klerk
through these contacts that his life took an
“The first person who gave me a book to do was Sir John Baker, or John Baker, as he was then.” Baker was the head of the Central Electricity Generating Board, which
certain amount of money towards the project and receive a certain bulk-order of books in return, which they present with their own messages and dust-covers to those of their
had recently been split into three companies
whether his friend could put a book together
choosing. It is an approach developed out
and opened onto the public market. Post-
for him, and just like that, a new career was
of Osmond-Evans’ earlier career days, and
split, Baker headed the company known
seeded. The commissioned project would be
as time passes and marketing changes, it
as National Power, and worked with
a coffee-table book of cityscapes and other
continues to work.
Osmond-Evans to navigate their new need
examples of lights at night across England,
For China the Beautiful, Osmond-Evans’
for publicity.
Wales and Ireland, where the company
success in finding Chinese and China-related
operated. “The company was called National
sponsorship was aided greatly by the book’s
Power, so we called it National Lights.”
foreword, written by former British Prime
“In that time, I had gotten to know John Baker very well - terribly nice man, charming wife. I used to show him pictures, such
National Power used the books as gifts
Minister Sir Edward Heath, who had built
as pictures of where I’d been travelling.’”
and marketing tools for their stakeholders,
good relations with China during his time at
Impressed by these images, Baker asked
suppliers and potential clients. This idea
Downing Street. “He was highly respected, Endeavour Magazine | 13
and the fact that he was associated with my book meant that I must be OK too.” Osmond-Evans was able to approach Heath via a mutual contact: this was typical of the way in which his history in networking would open doors, and once it began, it was a spiralling process. “I travelled a lot, I met people, I continued to meet people, and it has very much a snowball effect.” It was also a process aided by Osmond-Evans’ membership in several key clubs, including the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), the famed Explorers Club in New York and Glyndebourne. Today, Osmond-Evans lives in Suffolk with his girlfriend, Sylvia Loch, the world’s leading author on dressage, where they co-habit with their horses, dogs, barn owls, hedgehogs and a rather luscious vegetable garden. It’s an enviably idyllic setting, and whilst the two writers focus on different topic areas, the mixing of creative minds allows them to spark ideas off one another and keep each other motivated. For Osmond-Evans, this motivation is to create something that will live on after him. He is currently working on several publications, including one on the legends Mother Teresa
of Las Vegas and another on Hull, named the UK City of Culture 2017. As well as these, the photographer is planning a very different project: the book’s working title is Heroes, and the subject will be just that – 50 heroes, living around the globe today, photographed and interviewed to produce
opportunity to photograph two years before
where
an inspiring collection of true stories.
she passed away. Despite the controversies
explored. It is a concept Osmond-Evans
Whilst speaking with them, the author also
that exist around the saint, she inarguably
encountered in Lisbon, Portugal, whilst
plans to ask interviewees who their heroes
made a vast difference for the dying poor
speaking with the Ishmali Cultural Centre.
are, to further expand the narrative and
in India with the opening of her hospice
The Ishmali are an Islamic group of over 15
see who has inspired the actions of these
in Kolkata: whilst she is not one of the 50
million followers, led by H.H. Prince Shah
great figures.
living heroes to be included in the work,
Karim Al Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, with a focus
Some of the confirmed participants
Osmond-Evans will feature her portrait and
on helping others and cultivating an attitude
for Heroes are people Osmond-Evans has
write about the very special experience he
of acceptance.
already been fortunate enough to meet
had listening to her; “She spoke for nearly
Heroes will combine a range of figures,
during his work and travels, including FW
an hour, and all the time she was holding
from Pakistani activist Malala Yousafzai
de Klerk, the former South African President
onto my hand – clasping it between her two
for her bravery in the face of the Taliban,
who was jointly awarded the Nobel Peace
tiny hands. It was one of the most significant
to British entrepreneur James Dyson for
Prize alongside Nelson Mandela for their
moments of my life.”
his generosity and support towards the
differences
are
celebrated
and
combined efforts in ending apartheid. The
This new project has been inspired in
future of the British design engineering. A
book’s foreword will even feature the late
part by the idea of pluralism – the coming
spectrum of causes and walks of life will be
Mother Teresa, who Osmond-Evans had the
together of different cultures and faiths,
included – the only heroism excluded will be
14 | Endeavour Magazine
Rice Worker Bali military triumphs, not as a comment against
streak in me. I was a bit ‘Bertie Wooster’
the author; “And I’d like to do something
the military, but because this would distract
growing up - I’d turn up in these countries
eminently worthwhile with my time - to get
from the author’s specific definition of ‘hero’
in a panama hat and a nicely cut Savile Row
my message out there.”
within the book. “We will feature a photo of
suit and so on, but life isn’t like that. It’s
a pregnant mother - all mothers are heroes.”
rough. I’ve been lucky, but for a great deal of
gentleman, entrepreneur and a true artist,
the world, it’s tough.”
and Heroes is a labour of love for the author.
Collecting these diverse heroes from
Anthony
is
a
mixture
of
English
around the world is, for Osmond-Evans, an
In the wake of the world’s current
It is a work in progress and the gears are
attempt to show the common good that goes
turmoil and political drama, Osmond-Evans’
beginning to turn, with several sponsors and
beyond nationality or faith. He hopes that it
proposed book seems perfectly timed:
participants already on board. He estimates
will not only inspire readers with the stories
on the one hand, we are making leaps in
that the project will be complete by 2019;
it will contain, but also inspire conversation
acceptance, communication and equality
“The main thing now is to get a major
between groups and help people to see the
un-paralleled in human history, whilst on the
sponsor for the book. It will involve a lot of
good that exists across borders and barriers.
other hand we are seeing a pendulum swing
travelling and a lot of photography. Once
This raising of awareness has been a motive
back towards extremism in a move that is
we’ve got this major support, then we can
behind all of his global publications, but it
ripping across the globe, and bringing with it,
go out and fulfil the dream.”
coming to a head in Heroes:
an increasingly loud rhetoric of us-vs-them.
“I have quite a strong humanitarian
“I’m turning 74 this year,” reflection Endeavour Magazine | 15
DIAGEO GUINNESS CAMEROUN WWW.DIAGEO.COM // 237 6 72 84 69 09
RAISING A GLASS For a company that’s only 20 years old, Diageo has a long and rich history behind it. Representing brands whose founders date back to the 1700s-1800s, they understand the importance of legacy – both honouring the ones that have been left to them, and bearing in mind the one they will leave. WRITTEN BY ALICE INSTONE-BREWER
DIAGEO GUINNESS CAMEROUN
As a Group, they are building more than just profits and
sustainable business: for their clients, they are creating a culture and experience, and for their employees and the areas they impact, empowered futures. We spoke with Kimani Kirore Mwaura, Managing Director of Guinness Cameroun S.A, a subsidiary that goes above and beyond even the Group’s expectations to protect and give back to their country with every aspect of their business.
G
uinness Cameroun SA (GCSA) has its origins on Africa’s shores,
Integrity Commitment Team Spirit
when at the start of the last century, merchant ships from the UK and Ireland would bring Guinness with them as they
crossed the sea. “Cameroonian consumers immediately fell in love with the ‘black stuff’”, Kimani tells us with a grin. The dark beverage
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PO.B o Tel: ( x : 5238 D 2 Fax: 37) 679 5 ouala (237 ) 233 52243 Email 4314 omu : omultip 37 ltiprin rint@ y
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STIC PLsAcrerkws co
became an instant hit, and the demand for supply remained until 1967, when GCSA was finally founded. In this year, the first deposit opened in Limbe, and in 1969 a brewery was built in Bassa, Douala. One year later, the first bottle of Guinness® was brewed. With the demand already in place, the brewery had a solid foundation from the get-go, and Cameroon is now Guinness’ fifth largest market in the world, with 35 distributors and partners covering the
www .mult
iprints
a.com
national territory. Part of GCSA’s strength, on top of the strong demand, is the solid network they operate within as a part of the Diageo family: whilst GCSA operates locally, the Group has a global footprint, with a presence in 180 countries. Every year, Diageo produces more than 6.5 billion litres of their brands, from more than 100 manufacturing sites in 30 countries, and their products selling in 180. All of this is achieved by over 33,000 employees worldwide. When Diageo formed in 1997, Guinness were one of the first brands to join it as
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18 | Endeavour Magazine
a subsidiary. Today, the Group is a world leader in premier drinks, representing not only beers but also some of the top names in wines and spirits. Under their umbrella, they represent 29 of the top 100 most popular spirits in the world, including names like Smirnoff®, Johnnie Walker®, Baileys®, Gordon’s®, Tanqueray®...
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each brand was founded decades or centuries ago by an innovative
provide the best-quality products at affordable prices, and through
entrepreneur, and it is that history that informs and inspires
a strong ethical policy.
Diageo’s emphasis on integrity today. In their own words, they are a
“To support our ambition in Cameroon, Diageo has recently
“business built on the principles and foundations laid by the giants
granted us an important investment to carry out a capacity
of our industry.”
expansion,” explains Kimani, “Which will increase our beer
Looking at that line-up, many if not most of us will see at least
production in the coming year.” Part of this expansion is an
one name that evokes synesthetic memories of a good drinks
innovation known as the CUBE. “We just invested £3 million in the
on great nights; the music we hear and the faces we remember
first ever portable spirits packaging and bottling line in Cameroon
may vary, but the feelings are similar - they are deeply rooted in
and the sub-region.” The ultra-modern packaging line, which is
many of us, our relationship with certain beverages and the parts
christened the CUBE, blends and bottles GCSA’s mainstream spirits
they play in our social lives summed up in a brand. Like any truly
– “Brands with strong heritage, high quality liquid and distinctive
successful marketer of lifestyle products, Diageo knows that it is
packaging.” The CUBE’s efficiency will allow Guinness Cameroun
this emotive response they are selling as much as their beverages;
to produce their brands at a lower cost and a higher capacity,
it is an experience, and one that, because of their entrepreneurial
enabling them to satisfy a growing market. “The CUBE will provide
‘ancestors’, they are dedicated to promoting responsibly. Kimani
our consumers with a variety of mainstream spirits, meeting the
shares this sentiment, knowing that GCSA’s customers are part
needs of a growing middle class with first-class quality brands.”
of a much larger story; “People celebrate with our brands, and by
“In July 2009, we started the distribution of spirits brands and
doing so become a link in a chain that connects rivers and fields,
became a Total Beverage Alcohol company with the responsibility
distilleries and breweries, transport networks, the hospitality
of 22 markets in Central and Western Africa,” Kimani tells us with
industry, and the people who work and live around us.”
pride. Today, Guinness Cameroun go beyond the “dark stuff” to
This focus on community is key for Kimani and Guinness
produce and/or distribute many brands; as well as Guinness®,
Cameroun. GCSA is working tirelessly to be a significant part of
Guinness Smooth®, the non-alcoholic Malta Guinness® and
Diageo’s legacy and ongoing narrative, as well as creating their own;
Harp® Premium lager, they also cover ‘Ready to Drink’ mixers
“We strive to become the most trusted and respected consumer
Smirnoff Ice Red®, Smirnoff Ice Double Black®, Smirnoff Ice
products company in Cameroon.” They are pursuing this goal in
Electric Ginseng® and Orijin®, as well as multiple spirits such as
two ways – through expansion, to give them the ability to readily
Johnnie Walker®, Baileys®, Smirnoff® Red vodka, Smirnoff®,
DIAGEO GUINNESS CAMEROUN Gordon’s®, VAT 69®, Dimple®, White horse®, Cîroc®, Gilbey’s®
take is that any good business leader earns the followership of
and a lot more. “The depth and breadth of our portfolio is second to
his fellow employees by demonstrating clarity and being a fixed
none. Our strength lies in our scale, and our desire to continuously
reference point for vision. As a leader, I need to model trust and
improve our performance. “
respect, ignite pride and belief in what we do, raise aspirations and
As well as increasing the production of these current brands,
celebrate success.”
Guinness Cameroun is using the CUBE to take on a new name;
Guinness Cameroun employs over 400 talented members of
“After the launch of Orijin Bitters® a few months ago, we have
staff. “Our success as a business depends on the success of our
proudly launched Black & White®, the first ever Scotch Whisky
people.” Despite stereotypical notions that beer is a ‘man’s’ drink,
bottled by Diageo in Africa. Although we have imported and sold
the company actively encourages women to apply for roles within
the brand since 1970, we seized the opportunity to finish and
their company. GCSA’s goal is to reach 50% female employees,
bottle the Scotch whisky ourselves.”
which they are striving for not through ‘minority hires’, but through
Kimani took over the role of Managing Director at Guinness
inviting women to participate in their honest meritocracy. As
Cameroun in April 2016. He had previously worked for another
well as promoting women, the company hopes to promote young
Diageo subsidiary in Kenya, East African Breweries Limited, so
people and support them as they begin their career journeys.
when it comes to approaching leadership at GCSA, he knows how
They are working towards this through internships and training
to encourage his people the Diageo way. “The constraints of a
programmes, particularly aimed at generation Y, who the company
fast-moving consumer goods organization are such that you need
believes represent the future of the company, if they can gain a
to find the right balance between openness, empathy, rigor and
foothold on the industrial ladder. “We provide support so that
direction. It all refers to Diageo Leadership standards, which are:
all our employees can be responsible for their own growth, and
winning through execution, shaping the future, inspiring through
we ensure that everyone receives continuous and constructive
purpose and investing in talent. Having said that, my personal
feedback.” When hiring, the company is open to applicants whether
20 | Endeavour Magazine
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Created in August 2002, CAPITAL RH is an Employment Company specialized in Recruitment, Placement and Management of Temporary Workers, Training etc. Our Headquarters is in Douala, Cameroon. To build a Created in August 2002, CAPITAL RH is an Employment Company specia progressing business and play a significant role in the success of our client DIAGEO GUINNESS CAMEROON, we have always made sure to: and Management of Temporary Workers, Training etc. Our Headquarters is i
Created in August 2002, CAPITAL RH is an Employment
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233 43 87 11/ 699 45 client, 86 08 we | Email: To careTel: for (+237) the needs manpower of our keep ainfo@capital-rh.biz recruitment these workers areinequipped and encouraged to rigorous reach the place, either for temporary jobs (12 months maxi) under CAPITAL RH or for long t targets, as well as highly motivated to give their best. SERVICES, the incorporation of CAPITAL RH.
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Through various ways, these workers are equipped and encouraged to reach the and job seekers has widely publicized our fame in matters motivated to give their best. Our transparency in our dealings with clients, work of ethics and business integrity. widely publicized our fame in matters of ethics and business integrity.
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Endeavour Magazine | 21
DIAGEO GUINNESS CAMEROUN they speak English or French, to further empower the Cameroonian
Cameroonians. On top of this, the company recognises its
people and make the most of the local talent at their fingertips.
responsibility to address not just the impact of its manufacturing,
“We’re here to co-create a future and a culture that is known for
but the social impact of its products. This not only includes work
the consistency of its performance, just as much as it is known for
to promote the importance of sober driving, responsible retailing
its brands - its focus on people and its purpose.”
and alcohol awareness in young people, but also extends to
As well as protecting and empowering the future of their employees and communities, Guinness Cameroun are committed to
the company’s efforts to reduce the production and selling of illicit products.
Diageo’s drive for environmental sustainability; “Our Sustainability
It is always satisfying to witness ethical practises being
& Responsibility (S&R) Strategy encompasses the actions Diageo
rewarded with success. The Cameroonian beer market is entering
takes every day to support every link in this chain, in every country
a segmentation stage, with aggressive competition between
it operates in. We call this celebrating life, today and tomorrow.”
established
This S&R Strategy focuses on three key areas: Alcohol in Society,
Cameroun SA is well positioned to stay on top, not only through
Community Empowerment, and Water & the Environment. Their
its guarantee of a top-quality product, but through this ethical
water programme follows the Diageo Water Blueprint, which aims
involvement with its employees and communities. “We work hard
to prevent the depletion of natural resources, limit contribution to
to make the most of life, to be the best we can be at work, at home,
climate change and avoid the damaging of any species, habitats
with friends, in the community and for the community. Our values
or biodiversity - ambitious and commendable goals! However,
are not just words on a page - they underpin our business and guide
the company doesn’t stop here – as well as limiting their negative
how we work.” We’ll drink to that!
and
emerging
companies.
However,
Guinness
impact, they work to create a positive one by facilitating access to water, hygiene and sanitation for underprivileged communities. Since 2006, the programme has changed the lives of over 900,000
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22 | Endeavour Magazine
CHELMSFORD STAR CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY WWW.COOP.CO.UK
A COOPERATIVE APPROACH The Chelmsford Star Co-operative Society is a cherished part of the Essex commercial landscape, but don’t be fooled by wellstocked shelves, great prices and professional staff, as there is far more setting the society shops apart from competitors. Endeavor Magazine spoke with Barry Wood, CEO of the Chelmsford Star Co-operative Society, to find out more about his passion for the company he represents and what makes it so special. WRITTEN BY AMY BUXTON
CHELMSFORD STAR CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY
Let’s go back in time to 1867, when Chelmsford initiated
its first Co-operative society. That’s where our story begins, with pioneering people looking for a more inclusive, fair and respectful way to interact and trade and these ethics and interests have been preserved throughout the centuries. That’s right; we aren’t simply talking about decades here, but centuries of amazing heritage.
B
raintree had a society as well, back in the day, but transferred
continues to meet the needs of its members and continues to
its engagements to Chelmsford in the 1960s, allowing for a
seek new challenges to increase and strengthen its trading and its
natural expansion that now includes convenience food stores,
membership bases.”
travel agencies, department stores, funeral directorships and even property rentals. The Society says that;
Let’s talk about Barry Wood for a moment. Here is a man and a retail professional that has no interest in switching allegiances and
“The aim then was to supply goods to the general public via a
has enjoyed climbing to the top over the past 30 years, so what
membership scheme which cost £1 to join – a large sum in those
is it that keeps him at the Chelmsford Star Co-operative? For one
days and yet today it still only costs £1 to join most retail societies,
thing, he has always seen a future with the company, thanks to
including ours. Members were also entitled to receive a proportion
a nurturing and inclusive sense of community and he enjoys the
of the profit from their purchases, which was returned to them in
sense of stewardship that comes with his role;
the form of a dividend, and this is still the case.”
“As a company, we remain focused on our members are
When Barry Wood started with the company, 30 years ago as
thinking, rather than simply chasing short-term gain. We are
a Saturday-boy, there were more societies in existence, but over
focused on protecting the legacy and ethics of cooperatives for
the years, many smaller ones have found themselves struggling to
future generations, so there is a really underlying sense of longevity
continue, which has led to them being absorbed, but there is one
in any role here. Governance is increasingly important in today’s
thing to remember; all shops remain independent. This means that
society and those of us here are aware of working for an ethical
community involvement can remain the guiding influence, without
entity and wanting to do so for a long time.”
national or overarching principles getting in the way. The mission
Speaking of the community that Co-operative workers enjoy,
statement of the Chelmsford Star Co-operative Society really does
which is tantamount to a family; let’s have a look at the way that
speak volumes about just how important an intrinsic connection to
the Society seeks to give back to shareholders, staff and local
local people is;
communities.
“Our mission is to work together, giving life and meaning to
Any retail outlet measures its success in terms of balanced books,
the Co-operative difference by trading ethically in order to share
but this is no ordinary operation. Here, success is also measured in
our success and serve, support and sustain local communities.
terms of how local producers are supported, how many dividends
With stores located throughout Chelmsford, Braintree and the
can be given back to members and how much revenue remains
surrounding areas including south and mid-Essex, the Society
within the community. Using local suppliers, wherever possible,
26 | Endeavour Magazine
CHELMSFORD STAR CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY has led to the Chelmsford Star Co-operative estimating that 33p
£2.50 out of our profits for every £5 earnt. Barrow Farm Riding
of every £1 spent stays within the locality and profit payouts are
for the Disabled has earned the most so far and we have been
exceptionally special as well.
exceptionally proud to support them.”
Consumers have become a little jaded in recent years and
With an open and honest approach to profit sharing in place,
unsurprised when large organisations seek to pay top-bods
it should come as no surprise that working for the Chelmsford
exorbitant bonuses, but the Chelmsford Star Co-operative Society
Star Co-operative is something of a pleasure. Currently 900 team
looks to maintain a legacy, by offering modest bonuses, regular
members-strong, the staffing body is impressive and constantly
Member dividends and benefits to members. In this sense, Barry
supported to be the best that it can be. With those showing signs
sees himself as something of a custodian, ensuring that Chelmsford
of talent being encouraged to ‘hit the ground running’ and plenty of
Star’s good name is protected and the community benefits continue;
career opportunities springing up, thanks to recent expansion plans,
“There are a number of things we do for charity. Firstly, we
Barry encourages people to see a job with the Chelmsford Star Co-
nominate a ‘charity of the year’ which is chosen by our employees
operative as a potentially lifelong career. When you consider that a
and run events in order to support it. We look for a local, deserving
large percentage of the current workforce is made up of students,
cause and encourage the public to get involved, by displaying
this really could be a viable option for those seeking a rewarding
collection buckets and promoting fundraising events. Secondly, we
and exciting opportunity.
have our Community Card scheme. Since 1999, the Community
Looking to the future, Barry is excited, and with good reason. The
Card scheme has been in operation, whereby genuine local charities
Chelmsford Star Co-operative Society is seeking opportunities to
and community groups can apply to join and on acceptance, are
expand into London, by snapping up shops as soon as they become
given a number of cards to give their supporters. When a supporter
available, thanks to enviable relationships with local agents. Don’t
swipes their card, they earn points and these are converted into
go thinking that an indelicate approach is being taken though, as
money. We give £5 for every 1000 points earned we add a further
that simply wouldn’t be on-brand. Instead, independent shops
“We are proud to be associated with Chelmsford Star in supplying both the food & non food retail stores”
www.unishop.co.uk 6-8A, Takeley Business Centre, Dunmow Rd, Takeley, Bishop’s Stortford CM22 6SJ, UK sales@uni-shop.com • 01279 870333 28 | Endeavour Magazine
that are at risk of closure due to retirement, or other reasons, are being taken over with a sensitivity and tact that is far beyond most commercial groups and, where possible, existing staff members are retained; “The way we look at it is that there are Co-ops nationwide, but we know our local area better than any large corporation can, so we can really benefit communities with our specialist knowledge. We know what people need and where and because of this, we want to give back, in a viable and appropriate way. Of course, we need to be commercially successful, but not for gravitas, but to be able to deliver on our ethics and promises. We need profit in order to be able to use it responsibly and in a way that is special and unique to Co-op; for the benefit of the people that helped us garner it.� With new stores being taken on, existing premises enjoying serious renovations and an innovative end-to-end point of sale system in place, the Chelmsford Star Co-operative Society looks set to stride into the future with assured aplomb. After all, it has been in place for 150 years already and by staying true to the founding principles of returning money to shareholders and communities alike, we see no reason why it won’t be enjoying extensive success
MOSAIC PR & DIGITAL provides
integrated marketing services to both public and private sector clients across the UK. We are proud to support Chelmsford Star Co-operative Society and serve our local communities together. May your star shine brightly for another 150 years.
in another 150.
Endeavour Magazine | 29
WELLOCKS WWW.WELLOCKS.CO.UK // +8444 993 444
A TASTE OF PERFECTION In the British food world, the Wellocks name is synonymous with freshness, reliability and quality. We spoke with company CEO, James Wellock, about his experience growing up with the company in its early years, and how it has boomed into an unrecognisable success under his management. WRITTEN BY ALICE INSTONE-BREWER
WELLOCKS
James Wellock’s first taste of the food industry was working for his father in Lancashire. Richard Wellock had built his living supplying potatoes to local fish and chip shops, having sold up his stall in Skipton Market to focus on this more profitable side of the vegetable trade. As the company grew, he invested in three wagons and began supplying to local green grocers around the area.
J
ames grew up helping his father as-and-when, and after
with 15 employees. Under James’ management and leadership, the
college, his joined the business full-time. Traveling to
company has now exploded into a national network, delivering to
Manchester at midnight, bartering for produce at the city
every corner of the country, and those 15 employees have grown
marketplace, he thought to himself, there had to be a different way
into 470. Wellocks travel over 110 routes, delivering straight to the
of doing things. “The salesmen felt like they wanted to rip me off,”
door, whether that door is at the foot of Cornwall or the height of
James, now the company CEO, recalls. “That was when we started
Scotland. In total, Richard Wellocks’ three wagons are now a fleet
buying from local farms.”
of 120 vehicles, delivering daily to 1,500 kitchens.
This move would be a more dramatic change for the company
Wellocks’ customer base are now restaurants and hotel kitchens
than James or his father realised; cutting out the middle man
– a marked step up from their original clients, and a customer-base
allowed Wellocks to access fresher, higher-quality produce at a
that demands reliability, range and quality. They broke into this
time when supermarkets were beginning to sweep through the
market when James saw the supermarket threat growing; “One
greengrocer trade. The availability of supermarket products would
of the things we identified in the ‘90s was that the greengrocer
leave competitors needing an edge – and Wellocks would have that
side of things was dying out. Almost over-night, one of the good
edge:
greengrocers we knew started selling pre-prepared vegetables to
“It was a big win for us. We were saving money in various ways.
compete. I got together with my dad and we said, ‘We need to buy
You’re cutting out the middle man, so you cut out their wage, as it
this business,’ so we did. One of the partners is still with us.” These
were, but more importantly, we were getting a consistently better-
prepared vegetables, along with the freshness and consistent
quality product. It was a different selling point, without question.
quality of Wellocks’ good, made the company a double-threat and
When I started delivering to green grocers in Yorkshire, they’ve
allowed them to appeal to the chef market. The Northern company
historically always bought out of their local markets. We could top
later ventured their services south when one of their customers, a
this by delivering fresher products straight to their door.” Amazingly,
Michelin-star chef, relocated, and their reach grew from there.
in a time where independent businesses were falling victim to large
“I had a vision of wanting to be the best. Originally it was to be
wholesale companies, this small family business was able to stand
the best in the North, and quickly that changed to being the best
up and stand out; “We took the wholesale market on and won.”
in the UK.” In striving for this vision, James knew that customer
When James’ father retired, he inherited the business, then 32 | Endeavour Magazine
experience was key. “We give the customer the service, no matter
6 years ago Soledad flew over to introduce herself and her extra virgin oil to me and Jonny. We were gobsmacked how good it was! From this point we formed a partnership and have never deviated away form championing her oil. You could say that Special Branch was born in this partnership as we talked about how could you improve upon perfection, since our first meeting they have put their heart and soul into breaking the boundaries on extra virgin olive oil production” For more than 200 years, Finca Duernas has been growing the very best olives to offer a truly unique extra virgin olive oil.
PREMIUM EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OILS FROM CÓRDOBA, SPAIN
200 YEARS IN THE MAKING fincaduernas.com
Endeavour Magazine | 33
WELLOCKS what. We’ve bent over backwards for customers, and that aspect of
for any department to make a mistake”, James laughs. This includes
the business has never changed.”
their own online order system which, as of this year, shows chefs a
“We’re essentially a massive logistics company – one that
live update of their stock availability, giving customers the ability to
needs to take orders from around the country and deliver in a
select their own alternatives and plan their spending accordingly.
timely manner, predominantly around the breakfast period the next
“It’s in clear black and white - they’ve got absolute clarity, and so
morning.” This fast turnover, and the high demand for accuracy that
have we. There’s no answer phone message with a chef clattering
comes from high-quality kitchens, meant that in order to succeed,
pots and pans in the background, or a thick Highlands accent no
Wellocks’ logistics needed complete efficiency; “People ask us,
one can understand! There’s no grey areas, which means we’ve got
‘What is local? How do you define local?’ For us, it’s the 24-hour
no excuses.” The company has also developed a picking system that
turn-around from growing it in the fields to delivering it in the
marries with the online orders, selecting every product by barcode
kitchens the next morning. The crux is to make sure that there’s
and assigning these to barcoded trays, which are in turn assigned
only three people in the supplier chain: the producer, us and the
to a customer. The system reduces the possibility for human error –
chef.”
essential in a vast operation with Wellocks’ fast turnover.
So how does the company efficiently manage a fleet of their
This attention to detail and stress on perfection is present at
size? Everything is monitored and run from an in-house system,
every level of Wellocks’ operations. “We look at every part of the
developed and maintained by their team of IT staff. “We have
operation, and how we can make that part the best it can be.” This
software that can track every vehicle every minute of the day. Each
attitude extends right down to the appearance of their fleet: “We
vehicle has fully surrounding camera systems - in the cab, out the
don’t call them drivers, we call them Delivery Reps. They have
front, down the sides, on the back - so we know what the vehicle is
to wear a shirt and tie, and polished boots. The vehicles are all
doing, where it is and if it is being treated properly.”
polished too, every week, and they’re washed and sanitised every
“We’ve been trying to develop a system that makes it impossible
34 | Endeavour Magazine
day.” Wellocks even service their own fleet, to monitor the quality
of the repairs and get the vehicles back on the road as quickly as possible. “I think of delivery like a can of coke – you walk up to a drinks machine, put your coin in, a can drops down and you walk away happy. We’re trying to deliver that experience for 6,000 products.” Whilst every aspect of the business is important to James, he knows what it is all about – the food. The company is constantly adding to their wide range of products by broadening their already extensive supplier chain, but more than this, working closely with certain producers to create unique, stand-out products. “We’re very proud of them all, but there’s certain products that are special to us. We wondered how to get this across to a prospective customer, and so we developed Special Branch.” Special Branch is a list of around 100 products that Wellocks have developed in collaboration with their manufacturers. “For example, we worked really closely with a supplier who told us that she wanted to create the world’s best olive oil, and we backed her. Over a six-year period, she’s put some ground-breaking new procedures in place, and her product’s actually been named the best organic olive oil in the world.” Thanks to their involvement, Wellocks now
The company was established in the early 1960’s. Since then, the familyrun business has been a motor for the production of apples and pears in the Loire Valley (France). All our growers share the same targets of sustainable production, high quality standards and customer service. The fruits are grown in France and the company is capable to supply a wide range of products along the year. More than 20 varieties of apple and pears are grown, packed and sold by the company, including the Antarès® apple and the Sweet Sensation® pear.
have exclusivity for this top-tier olive oil in the UK. “We’re always
20 varieties of apples and pears
Expertise over the year
Comitted to sustainable development
France... www.apple-bird.com France - Tél + 33 (0)2 41 29 22 22 - www.levergerdelablottiere.fr Endeavour Magazine | 35
WELLOCKS developing more products like this – they improve our product range and set us apart.”
confident when ordering the product.” From local fish and chips shops in Lancashire, Wellocks’
Despite developing their reputation through local foods, as
customer list has become a who’s who of the UK’s culinary circles.
Wellocks have expanded, so has their reach. Their supplier network
“We supply the vast majority of Michelin star kitchens in the UK,
now includes companies from most of Europe, South America and
5-star hotels, country gastro hotels and pubs – even races courses
America, as well as Thailand and Kenya. Even in their over-seas
and premier league football clubs, including Man United. Basically,
ingredients, Wellocks emphasise the importance of freshness;
if you went anywhere in the country, we could recommend the best
“We’re the only UK company that air-freight limes in from Mexico
places to eat.”
every week. They leave Mexico on Saturday and we pick them up
Wellocks’ expansion as a company has been extraordinary,
at Heathrow on Monday.” Instead of a lime several weeks old by the
growing not only in size but in the products, services and sheer
time it reaches a chef’s kitchen, they can rely on Wellocks’ reaching
quality they offer. It has taken financial gambles, an entrepreneurial
them in a matter of days. “You can imagine the difference in the
mind and consistent hard work, but the CEO’s work ethic and
zest and flavour. There’s a uniqueness there that sets us apart.”
attention to detail has kept the company reaching for a high bar
Wellocks have even started to produce their own international
and delivering a reliably remarkable service. Speaking with James,
foods, which again stay as authentic as possible. For example, their
it sounds like he isn’t planning to rest any time soon: “We’ll
pasta range is made with all-Italian machinery and ingredients, right
continue to look for more special branch products, develop our
down to Italian eggs and flour. However, you can still enjoy their
delivery routes and look at expanding the customer base.” With
year-round seasonal ravioli ranges, which include British favourites
this determined work ethic, it seems Wellocks will only continue to
such as asparagus ravioli when the vegetable is in season. “We’re
grow from strength to strength. “Without a doubt, there’s still a lot
looking to give chefs better quality than what they could make in
more that we can do.”
the kitchen, as well as a consistency in quality that leaves them
ETHICALLY FARMED
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36 | Endeavour Magazine
www.thetomatostall.co.uk hello@thetomatostall.co.uk +44(0) 1983 866907 The Tomato Stall, Wight Salads Nursery, Main Road, Hale Common, Arreton, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 3AR
AMAZING WORLD DIAMOND CITY: THE PIT OF WEALTH
I
f one were to stand on the edge of Mir
due to its settlement-sized footprint. It is
- during the large Amakinsky Expedition in
mine and look down, one could easily
the forth deepest hole in the world and the
Yakut ASSR. Each was awarded the Lenin
think they were stood at the mouth of
second largest excavated site, out-done
Prize, Russia’s highest honour, for the
Hades itself. Over a mile across, the pit at
only by Bingham Canyon Mine. Mir mine
discovery, and no surprise; at the height of
first appears to be a giant, obliteration-of-
is located in eastern Siberia, a dominating
operations, the mine produced around two
the-dinosaurs sized crater, but on closer
presence next to the teetering town of Mirny,
million carats of rough diamonds a year.
inspection it seems far more surreal: ledges
which was first settled by prospectors after
At the time, this represented 23% of the
spiralling down and around the sides of the
the deposits’ discovery in 1955. The mine
world’s rough diamonds, with the largest
conical chasm make it resemble a whirlpool
is valued at £13billion, which represents
discoveries the size of golf balls. One of the
of stone – an unnatural Charybdis to
the combined value of the diamonds it has
better known prizes from ‘Diamond City’
somewhere not of this earth.
already yielded and those that are thought
is the Olonkho diamond, 130.85 carat and
to still remain within the stone.
worth around £250,000.
Appearing not unlike The Dark Knight Rises’ underground prison, this 1,722 ft.-
Mir’s diamond deposits were originally
The conditions at Mir mine are as
deep hole is in fact the site of a once-great
discovered by three geologist - Ekaterina
punishing as the pit is vast. The region where
diamond mine, aptly dubbed Diamond City
Elagina, Uri Khabardin and Viktor Avdeenko
it stands is subject to some of the world’s
38 | Endeavour Magazine
harshest weather conditions; winter can last up to seven months, when temperatures can drop as low at -40 degrees Cᵒ. It can get so cold that car tyres and steel shatter and oil freezes! If these conditions weren’t apocalyptic enough, the pit is so wide and deep that it is said to create its own air vortex, and has been thought to have pulled passing helicopters down into itself! Thankfully no
ground would turn to slush. Because of this
apprehension once this haunting context is
fatal crashes have been caused, but the
slush, the main processing plant had to be
added to its already foreboding presence.
threat has been taken seriously enough that
built 20 km away from the mine.
previous air-routes over the mine have been cancelled or re-directed.
The mine is currently owned by Russian
However, the results were well worth
diamond company Alrosa. Whilst full mining
these trials: the riches yielded by Mir mine
operations ended in 2001, a series of
of ‘Diamond
were great enough to help transform the
underground tunnels continue to produce
City’ was gruelling work, especially in the
USSR in the wake of WW2. Under Stalin,
valuable results. Plans have been proposed
winter months (which filled over half of the
these diamonds largely funded the re-
for the site, including a dome-covered,
calendar year). The ice would be so thick and
building of the country and helped to create
submerged city, but whilst companies are
the rock below so hard from the cold that jet
the global player that Russia became - a
still able to extract even a faction of the
engines were used to melt and blast holes in
mixed blessing and curse, as they also funded
diamonds that still lurk under the stone, it
the permafrost, and dynamite was then used
Stalin’s activities and the atrocities that took
seems unlikely that these plans will make it
to break apart the rock’s surface and loosen
place under his rule. Whilst an important
to reality any time soon!
the below kimberlite ore. Even during the
site for Russia’s history and economy, one
brief summers there was little relief, as the
can’t help but view the shaft with a little
Retrieving
the
riches
Endeavour Magazine | 39
GAMEWATCHERS SAFARIS WWW.PORINI.COM // +254 774 136523
KENYA’S GAME-CHANGERS Fancy an adventure? For over 25 years, Gamewatchers Safaris have been arranging ‘authentic’ safari experiences in Kenya and beyond with a focus on responsible tourism. This awardwinning tour operator isn’t just working to reduce their impact on the land – their business model is actively engineering and funding its protection. We spoke with Dr Mohanjeet Brar, the company’s Managing Director, to learn more about their mission. WRITTEN BY ALICE INSTONE-BREWER
GAMEWATCHERS SAFARIS
Over a million tourists visit Kenya every year. Of this
number, the vast majority have travelled to the East African country for the same reason: safari. Kenya’s vast unspoiled spaces and huge diversity of wildlife are renowned, and as the ever-profitable tourism industry continues to conquer the globe, demand to experience the country’s beauty rises. However, this rise brings with it increasing concerns over the impact that the industry has on local communities and environments.
K
enya’s National Parks and Game Reserves only cover about
the importance of the money and jobs these tours brought into
8% of the country’s landmass – a low percentage by global
the country. They wanted to protect the land, and the tours it
standards. This low percentage carries two risks: firstly, the
supported, for the long-term, not only for the good of Kenya’s
more choked with tour-groups these parks become, the worse
wildlife but for its communities as well.
the experience becomes for both the wildlife and the visitors
Their plan was simple: to lease land and protect it as a
themselves. Secondly, as the human population grows, expanding
conservation area, thus keeping developers at bay and providing
amounts of unprotected land may fall to the demand for housing
real benefits to the communities that own the land. The creation
developments, shopping facilities and roads.
Approximately
of these unofficial national parks would increase the percentage
70% of Kenyan wildlife lives outside of these national parks and
of protected land for wildlife in Kenya, and carried the bonus of
reserves - land that has no legal protection against potentially
providing an authentic “away-from-the-crowds” tourism experience
environmentally devastating developments.
for their tours. The company wanted to provide their visitors with
Gamewatchers Safaris are working to change all this. Rather than enjoying the country’s views and wildlife at the expense of its
something authentic, closer to nature, and in partnership with the local communities, which enriches the guests’ experience.
ecosystem, Gamewatchers found an ingenious way for their tours
By signing long-term leases with the communities for this
to directly support it. Dr Brar explains; “A long time ago, when
protected land, Gamewatchers are fully committed to their mission.
the population was smaller, it was less crucial to protect the land
They financially support their conservation efforts with the same
through conservancies because there were very few people living
amount month by month, regardless of how well their business
in those open spaces, but all that has changed very fast. So, over
fares, meaning the support doesn’t drop in the slow seasons.
twenty years ago, our Chairman and Founder, Jake Grieves-Cook,
The first conservancy area was leased in 1997, twenty years ago;
realised that we needed to come up with a solution before it was
13,000 acres of land in the Amboseli eco-system. Following its
too late – before the land was all fenced homesteads, towns and
success, a new site of 8,000 acres was established – the Ol Kinyei
golf courses. The way we wanted to do that was through tourism.”
Conservancy in the Mara eco-system. Today, this conservancy
Rather than working to reduce tourism, Gamewatchers wanted
is now 18,700 acres. The number and size of Gamewatchers’
to utilise and reform it. The company was passionate about the
conservancies – and the Porini camps found within - have grown
experiences they had been offering to visitors, and also knew
many times since then, and with it, their levels of business. The
42 | Endeavour Magazine
GAMEWATCHERS SAFARIS company puts the land and low-impact tourism before maximising
affair with Kenya’s natural beauty, and the now father of two wants
their profit - they limit tour group sizes using the model of one
to ensure a future where his children can share his experiences.
guest tent per 700 acres in the conservancy, with a maximum of
However, for Gamewatchers, preservation isn’t just about the
12 tents to any one camp. Even so, with their growing land and
land – it is also about preserving the local culture and working
popularity, their annual funds have raised enough to pay over US$
respectfully with the local Maasai people. Every conservancy
1 million a year back into the land, three years in a row. On top
area that the company has taken on was chosen by the Maasai
of caring for the land, this money also goes towards supporting
landowners; the locals elected to move from these areas voluntarily,
local communities, such as the company’s recent push to replace
in order for the land to be protected and, in turn, for them to profit
potentially deadly kerosene lamps with solar-powered alternatives
from the jobs this created.
or paying bursaries to cover the school fees for children of the local community at Ol Kinyei.
“Our whole concept is very much a partnership with them. It’s not us coming in and say, ‘Hey, this is the way it’s going to happen.’ Rather, it is us coming as investors, sitting around under the tree and
This level of long-term financial commitment goes beyond
sharing the proposal and its benefits with them.” Gamewatchers
good business sense – it shows a passion for the world that they
currently employ about 280 staff. 95% of those employed in the
are sharing with guests, and an honest desire to protect it. We
conservancy and camps are hired from the local communities, with
asked Brar where he got this passion; “I’m 4th generation Kenyan.
community staff having the opportunity and training to rise to
My great grandfather came over in the 1890s when Kenya was
camp managers and beyond within the company. “As a company
a British colony. I grew up in nature. We used to go walking and
with a strong focus on bringing benefits to local communities, we
see elephants near our backyard. We were surrounded by forests,
believe that one of the best ways to do this is through employment,
so I grew up appreciating nature and loving it, and I wanted to do
which gives a cash income directly to the individual families. So,
something that helped preserve it.” Brar’s childhood gave him a love
we employ community landowners and many that have not even
44 | Endeavour Magazine
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Endeavour Magazine | 45
GAMEWATCHERS SAFARIS completed high school, and train them on how to be waiters, store
“The difficult thing with development is its negative impact on a
keepers, room stewards, safari guides, rangers etc. We’re very
culture’s way of life. However, in ecotourism, unlike other kinds of
proud that we now have many community members who are at the
development, culture is actually a benefit. If you work in a factory,
management level as head guides, managers and senior wardens.
your culture has no value, whereas with ecotourism, culture has a
“The community are very much on board. They’ve seen the benefits. At first, they were sceptical, but we’ve been building that relationship, and I think like any relationship, as it builds, it builds that trust, and it is much easier moving forwards.”
huge value. Our guides are able to share that culture with guests and are able to be proud of it.” Tours vary to meet the needs of different holidaymakers, from gentle-paced drives for photographers and bird-watchers to more
The company may be a key asset to the Maasai people it
adventurous expeditions for eager travellers. Gamewatchers also
employs, but this relationship is far from one sided: guests of
cater to a range of ages, though they do not allow children under
Gamewatchers staying at their Porini Camps receive the double
eight due to the unfenced nature of their campsites, where wildlife
benefit of a crowd-free safari experience, and also the chance to
is likely to wander through at any time. Their biggest markets are the
immerse themselves in Maasai culture. The company’s friendly staff
US and UK, with India quickly rising to third place; to cater to their
pass on Maasai stories, teach their names for constellations, give
global audience, the company has guides and sales team members
lessons in archery and are genuinely passionate that guests leave
who can speak Spanish and French, as well as sales offices around
having a great time and making new friends. When people leave,
the globe to provide local contact and support.
they rave about their guides as much as the nature itself:
Political turmoil has at times been a deterrent to travellers
“If you go on Trip Advisor, a lot of the comments we get are
considering whether or not to visit Kenya in past years. However, as
actually about the staff in the camps. A lot of them have more
terrorism becomes a tragically common worldwide phenomenon,
Facebook friends than I do –they’ve made friends from all over the
Brar feels that people’s perception of his country is changing;
world and keep in touch.
“Terrorism is no longer a Kenyan problem – it is happening to
46 | Endeavour Magazine
everyone in their own backyard.” As well as this perception shift, Brar has noticed a rise in traveller conscientiousness, especially in the millennial market, which now accounts for a large portion of his customers. Holiday-makers are growing more concerned about the effect they have on the countries they visit, and are no longer content to turn a blind eye to awkward truths - Brar hopes this trend bodes well for the growth of his company. Currently, around 30-40% of travellers chose Gamewatchers because of their ethical approach. From the way trends are changing, this statistic should only rise. “Authenticity is extremely important for them, and giving back is just as important. So, I think this is something we’re going to be able to continue growing.” Challenges for the company continue – in particular, land prices are going up as land use options for landowners increase. However, since Gamewatchers began investing in conservancy, the idea has caught on, with multiple companies and even celebrity figures such as Richard Branson eagerly getting involved. It seems that their passion over the last twenty years has created something selfsustaining, and in turn, given the gift of safety and sustainability to the lives and land it protects.
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Endeavour Magazine | 47
KISHUGU KISHUGU.COM // +27 13 741 6400
TAMING THE FLAME Last year, Endeavour spoke with Kishugu, South African masters in combating unwanted fire. In particular, Kishugu specialize in suppressing wildfire and preparing others to do the same. We decided to catch back up with CEO Chris de Bruno Austin to see what was new for this heroic company. WRITTEN BY ALICE INSTONE-BREWER
KISHUGU Following the inspirational mantra, “For the Greater
Good”, Kishugu have pooled their knowledge and talents towards the battle against fire since 2003. A South African company, Kishugu now teach fire management not only in their own nation, but wider Africa and even overseas. They believe in preparation and fire prevention, and when this isn’t enough, rigorous and thorough plans to halt flames in their tracks as soon as possible. Their planning and expertise is extensive – and it needs to be.
s Kishugu know all too well, disasters do happen. In June this
A
Part of Kishugu’s efforts to prevent and limit tragedies such
year, people the world over watched in horror as wildfires tore
as Knysna is the continued training of government officials. The
through the coastal town of Knysna, found east of Cape Town
company recently partnered with the Japan Forest Technology
on South Africa’s famed tourist trail, the Garden Route. 10,000 of
Association (JAFTA), who were looking to help promote fire
the town’s 77,000 residents had to be evacuated and at least 150
management in Africa. The programme, Prescribed Fire Operations
properties were destroyed. These fires were spread, in part, by a
Training, looks to equip the Southern African Development
savage storm that hit the Cape Town area following hot on the
Community (SADC) secretariat and member states with the
heels of a drought. This deadly combination of factors seemed like
knowledge to sustainably manage forest conservation and wildfire
a nightmare, but it is exactly this sort of emergency that Kishugu
prevention in their states. Kishugu’s role in this programme covers
prepare for. We asked Chris de Bruno Austin, company CEO, about
the ‘integrated fire management and trans-border issues’ elements
their involvement during the crisis:
of the course, following off the back of their work with SADC
“Kishugu is the proud implementing agent for the award-
delegates as a part of their three-phase ‘Forest Conservation and
winning South African Government’s Working on Fire Programme
Sustainable Management of Forest Resources in Southern Africa’
(WoF). The WoF Programme is the most successful job creation
project. Again, this seeks to help delegates reduce wildfire damage
and skills development programme in the history of South Africa.
in their own countries.
WOF is an Expanded Public Works Programme, funded by the
Willie Buchner, CEO of Kishugu Training, elaborated on the
Department of Environmental Affairs, to help fight unwanted
training provided; “Essentially, the purpose of this course is to
veld and forest fires in South Africa. 497 firefighters from the
enable the delegates to coordinate controlled burning operations
programme, as well as 20 Management and Incident command
according to a fire prevention plan.
personnel, were deployed from across South Africa to assist with
“You could say we are in the infancy of this project, which we
the raging wildfires in Knysna. The aviation component consisted
hope will lead to greater awareness about wildfires across Southern
of Spotters, Air Tractor 802’s and Huey helicopters.”
Africa – and perhaps even further North.”
One of Kishugu’s most vital branches, Kishugu Training, work
Careful
operations
conducted
with
well-informed
risk
with their WoF firefighters to train them specifically to suppress
management is the crux of Kishugu’s training. As Chris explained,
veld and forest fires. As well as working with these firefighters, they
“The concept of risk management underpins all decisions in fire
also train government personal, forestry operators and commercial
management. It involves research, risk profiling and balancing.
landowners so they have the knowledge needed to protect land
You have to balance the likely occurrence of a fire against the
and prevent these fires starting in the first place. Fortunately, when
consequences should one occur. It takes economic, environmental
this isn’t enough, the brave personnel they have equipped are
and human risk all into account.
ready are step in. 50 | Endeavour Magazine
“We understand that fire management planning is a long term,
KISHUGU integrated process depending on many factors. It is a process that
training and insight around the globe. They are spreading the
evolves over time and adapts to changing conditions.” Some of
implementation of their own successful model: Integrated Fire
the varying factors on a risk profile could include weather, climate
Management (IFM). IFM Solutions involve an integrated range of
change, fire-trends, fuel types and veld age and type, as well as
initiatives, checks and actions to monitor, prevent and combat
local fire history and urban edge activities. They must also take the
fire. Included in this vast range are fire awareness and prevention
availability of resources into account, so that plans do not rely on
programmes, risk mapping, hazard identification, resource sharing
routes, equipment or services that aren’t there.
and coordination, fire detection, fire suppression, fire damage
As well as careful plans and expertly informed personnel,
rehabilitation and research at a local, provincial and national
technology plays a major role in Kishugu’s methods. The company
level. This hefty package represents Kishugu’s thorough and well-
constantly re-assesses its technology to make sure that they stay
researched approach to wildfire after 30 years of experience, and
ahead and are using the best tools that could be at their disposal.
despite its density, they are adapting these solutions to apply the
Some of their key pieces of equipment include the well-named
world over.
FireHawk system – a network of rotating high definition digital
“We are confident in our products, services and solutions - we
cameras set up to cover large areas of forest. The FireHawk can
know that, if implemented correctly, IFM can solve a myriad of fire-
detect and recognise fire, smoke and glow, and can differentiate
related problems. By continuing to share what we know, Kishugu
between the three. If it spots a fire, it raises an alarm, allowing
can serve the greater good by saving more lives, properties and the
responses to start racing to the area before a wildfire has been
environment.”
able to begin. This time-saving technology could prevent a forest
To increase the reach of their knowledge, the company offers
fire all together, or at least means that a fire does not need to
online training courses. However, when working internationally,
reach emergency status before it is detected. This system works
they know that country-specific content needs a more personal
in conjunction with FireFly software, which allows people on the
approach; Kishugu take the local cultures into account, making sure
ground to access the FireHawk footage in real time.
to involve them in their adaptation process. Rather than dictate,
Kishugu do not only work locally – instead, they offer their
52 | Endeavour Magazine
they want to ensure that they produce something that is not only
best suited to the local people’s needs, but will be accepted in a
through the introduction of exotic and invasive plant species.
crisis. “Community buy-in is extremely important for a successful
In Kishugu’s global expansion, they are focussing their attention
IFM Solution, and one should never underestimate the value of
on areas that suffer from high rates or high risks of wildfire, including
indigenous knowledge.” The company’s IFM Solutions can be
South America and Southeast Asia, as well as Canada and the USA.
adapted to suit varying factors and needs, ranging from national,
“Due to climate change, more fires occur. Many countries
regional and local governments to fire protection associations,
followed a reactive approach to wildland fires and spent millions of
large-scale commercial forestry operations and private land owners.
dollars on suppression, before they got introduced to IFMS. Now,
It also needs to be adapted to meet country-specific legislation, but
more and more countries realise the importance of proactive fire
the core principles stay the same. The company outlines these core
management: IFMs’ proactive approach save money and reduce
components as:
the damage to the environment, property and even lives.”
Reduction: mitigating and managing the start and spread of unwanted fires. •
• •
Response:
Kishugu have seen the effects of climate change first hand – the disasters in South Africa last June were just a taste. Now,
accurate
in September 2017, we are seeing the watery fallout from our
information and the correct resources to an unwanted fire
coordinated
actions
to
bring
changing planet, but Kishugu know that we haven’t seen the last of
without delay.
these crises’ fiery counterparts.
Readiness: activities developed to mitigate and manage
“Climate change is a growing threat - it holds severe
the start and spread of fires.
consequences and should not be ignored,” Chris stressed.
Recovery: Rehabilitation of the burn areas.
“Governments, environmental agencies, large landowners and members of the Disaster Management sector have to take a
In this final point, Kishugu display that their involvement in a crisis doesn’t end once the fires die. The dangers of a fire go beyond
proactive approach against unwanted wildfires spiked by climate change, to prevent an increase in fire-related disasters.”
the immediate damage caused; other issues include soil erosion and potential longer-term damage to recovering crops and ecosystems
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Endeavour Magazine | 53
NATURAL FLORA
NATURAL TREASURES
WRITTEN BY ALICE INSTONE-BREWER
I
n matters of romance, certain classics will always hold true. Flowers and jewellery are gifts we keep coming back to, and with good reason: they are beautiful, personal, and they serve no
practical use except to celebrate the person they are given to. We purchase these small treasures to show how treasured someone is to us – but is tradition enough? To truly make a romantic gesture, showing genuine thought and care behind the gift, we often find ourselves searching for something more. Natural Flora have the answer. The Indian company sells stunning gilded flowers, fruits and other trinkets from the natural world, all coated in 24kt gold, silver, platinum or copper. Their gifts combine the elegance of nature with the eternity of precious metals. As well as classic roses, their most popular flowers include orchids, pansies and even various varieties of leaves. In total, the unique company offers over 60 different gilded products, electroplated in the metal of your choice. Their greatest
their gilded offerings, the company are also offering luxury items
sellers are, unsurprisingly, their golden long-stemmed roses; the
such as all-natural hand-carved soaps, aptly in delicate rose and
flowers are freshly cut before being dipped into the 24kr metal,
orchid designs.
preserving the flower at the peak of its beauty.
Natural Flora are a small team that look after each other. As
Natural Flora was founded in 2004 by Sachin Sakhuja. The
well as regular training days, the staff enjoy group Yoga sessions to
company operates out of New Delhi; most of their clients are well
keep themselves peaceful, stress-free and in the best mindset to
established companies in India and abroad, although they do also
work. This tranquil working environment will assist them in the near
sell to individuals on the hunt for that perfect present. In total, they
future – Sachin has ambitious goals for his company, particularly in
currently export to over 60 countries.
increasing their global reach:
The road has not always been a simple one. We spoke with
“We are planning to expand our business into new countries,
Sachin about the company; “I started Natural Flora after learning
as well as aiming to break into the national market by tapping up
the tricks of the International Trade, and having experienced many
established firms and companies. We are also collaborating with
ups and downs. There had been instances where my team and I
duty-free stores at major international airports worldwide. We
felt that we were at the end of our journey, but dedication and
are also coming up with our own logistics and distribution centres
choosing the right paths led us to our success today. My team and
in Europe and USA, and we are already in process of opening up
I stand together, and we are all proud to be a part of Natural Flora.”
our sales stores in USA & Germany by April 2018, and Canada by
In terms of competition, the company’s biggest rivals are
October 2018.”
Chinese merchants, who are notoriously hard to compete with on
As Sachin describes it, Natural Flora turn “breath-taking flower
price. However, Natural Flora pride themselves on their quality,
stems into lifelong treasures.” These unique gifts come from the
both in their production and the materials they use. Their R & D
heart of India, reflecting the country’s taste for all things decadently
team are constantly working to expand and improve their product
beautiful, and should speak straight to the hearts of whoever you
range, and have an exciting new line already in mass-production
are shopping for. Flowers fade, but Natural Flora sell memories that
ready for Diwali/Christmas 2017 and Valentines 2018. On top of
will last forever – who can put a price on that?
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AMAZING WORLD THE HUNGRY GHOST FESTIVAL
A
utumn sees the world around us change from sunshine to darkness, shortening our days and draining nature’s vibrant
palette to muted greys and browns. As the pale, chilling limbo of winter approaches, we can’t help but huddle a little closer together whilst our minds turn to thoughts of the macabre. Many cultures have created festivals to light up the dark during these autumn months, as we start to reflect on an idea we attempt to downplay the rest of the year: death, and more importantly, the dead. In Mexico and South America, November kicks off with the colourful Dia de los Muertos, created through a combination of Aztec and Catholic traditions, whilst many other countries sharing this Catholic influence mark All Hallows’ and All Soul’s Day. In certain Western cultures, this religious observance has interbred with pagan celebrations of the Fae, leading to the creation of Halloween, when both the dead and the magical supposedly draw closer to the land of the living. In China and much of Asia, a similar celebration falls earlier than all of these: the Hungry Ghost Festival, celebrated on the 15th day of ‘Ghost Month’, which usually falls in September through the Chinese lunar calendar. Whilst in many ways this spooky-sounding festival resembles Dia de los Muertos in particular, its origins are completely separate. Unlike other Asian festivals honouring deceased ancestors, Ghost Month is thought to be a time when the realms of the living and the dead exist closer together, making 56 | Endeavour Magazine
it is possible for spirits to visit their families.
were alive. Today, this has become a more
The idea comes from Taoist and Buddhist
whimsical tradition – a way of showing love
traditions, based on a time of the year when
and respect for those who have passed
the Buddha and his disciples would meditate
by leaving smalls gifts and gestures. Of
deeply and so bring the two worlds closer
course, there are always plenty of sweets
together. Monks then used this proximity as
and delicious food left over for the living to
a time to intercede on behalf of the dead,
enjoy!
to ease their experiences in the afterlife; as
As well as leaving small plates of food,
a part of this, food was left as offerings for
families will host large dinner parties, with
‘hungry’ spirits who were unable to eat as
empty chairs left for relatives who are no
punishment for mistakes made when they
longer with them. Entertainment is also
put on for the ghostly guests, from small
King in the hope that he will protect their
things back far enough, these celebrations
household parties to large cabarets and
homes by making sure that dead that visit
all came from a single source – or perhaps
concerts, with theatres keeping the first few
them are behaving themselves! Celebrations
they just reflect our shared fascination with
rows of seats are kept empty and numbers
also include the burning of incense and joss
the supernatural, as well as our ongoing
dedicated to any who dead who may be
paper, and releasing miniature paper boats
love for those who have passed on. These
watching. In China, effigies are built out of
and lanterns on the water, to symbolises
celebrations brighten the night as the
colourful paper or Papier-mâché depicting
guiding lost ghosts and spirits back to the
seasons get darker, and are a lovely, candy-
mythical figures such as the Ghost King – an
afterlife.
coated excuse to make something fun out of
intelligent outcast who, after he died, was put
It’s curious that separate cultures can
in charge of keeping the ghosts of the world
develop such similar traditions from entirely
in order. People leave offerings to the Ghost
different backgrounds. Perhaps if we trace
something scary, and help those who have left us to feel a little closer in the process. Endeavour Magazine | 57
USE-IT WWW.USE-IT.CO.ZA // + 27 31 7652349
WASTE NOT, WANT NOT They say that one person’s trash is another person’s treasure. This couldn’t be truer than when talking about USE-IT, the veritable Wombles of South Africa’s NGOs. USE-IT research waste to develop new uses for the things we throw away; we spoke with Chris Whyte, USE-IT’s Managing Director, to learn more about the group’s current projects and their vision for the future of the South African recycling sector. WRITTEN BY ALICE INSTONE-BREWER
USE-IT USE-IT’s mission is a simple one: to prevent wastage.
They aim to achieve this goal by adding to the technology, facilities and interest in South Africa’s recycling arena. To do so, they are committed to researching waste materials in search of new uses that will justify further investment in their recovery and re-processing, as well as working to develop new methods and innovations to improve efficiency in the growing sector.
U
nlike similar NGOs, USE-IT work with all types of waste, from
and sectors are already a financial gamble for businesses - a
the organic waste that is utilised by bioenergy plants (such
problem that is impacting green economy solutions the world over.
as wood, garden clippings, food, sewage sludge, agricultural
Where there is not legislative support, this hurdle becomes even
waste and industrial food and beverage processing waste), to less
greater. However, municipalities and local government bodies
commonly used forms of ‘rubbish’ such as tyres, electronic waste,
are beginning to get involved; “We are now seeing a more open-
demolition waste, chemical waste, hydrocarbon waste and packing
door policy with the government, and currently there are active
materials. As Chris Whyte explains; “Essentially, anything that is
and exciting initiatives bringing the government sector and private
currently considered waste is what we would consider potential
sector together to work towards unlocking these issues, and to
resources to unlock the green economy.”
pave a way forward for a more enabling business environment.”
As well as trying to create a greener future, USE-IT hope to
As this business environment changes, USE-IT hope their
create jobs, both in a direct sense through their operations in
research and development will have prepared the way for a slate
South Africa, and in the long-term as their research develops new
of innovations. One of the key areas the company are looking to
industries and processes. In a country with 27.7% employment (a
develop is the recycled plastics arena, which is gradually beginning
statistic that is believed by many bodies to actually be much higher),
to pick up speed. Their aim is to convert plastics into a liquid
this is as important a goal as USE-IT’s main mission.
energy that is able to replace fuels for lighting, cooking and even
“The current state of the recycling and waste beneficiation sector
generators which are heavily used throughout Africa’s more remote
could at best be considered ‘emerging’”, says Whyte, referencing
locations. This energy would be created from plastics that would
national statistics that show South Africa recycles less than 10% of
have otherwise polluted African waters, and its recovery and
what it sends to landfill sites. USE-IT’s research aims to find new
processing is estimated to create thousands of jobs nation-wide.
and viable uses for this waste in order to divert large amounts of it
USE-IT are also proud to be embarking on the construction of
away from landfill and towards a productive alternative. However,
their greatly anticipated Hammarsdale Waste Beneficiation Centre:
whilst progress is slow, Whyte is confident for recycling’s future,
an eco-industrial hub centred on recycling and waste beneficiation
claiming that in certain areas, healthy, ambitious growth is starting
activities. “This is a green industrial development designed with
to occur. “Recycling is certainly growing, and as the success of the
green intentions. It will be the first of its kind in Africa, and has
sector starts to impact significantly on the GDP, as we expect it to
recently attracted the attention of the national government, who
do, then we should see exponential growth.”
now want to drive this forwards as a priority project,” Whyte tells
Currently, one of the largest challenges facing the sector is
us proudly. This project has been in the works for several years,
a lack of supporting legislation; “There are huge challenges and
with legislative and planning delays slowing the process down
obstacles facing the sector. Legislation, regulation and compliance
every step of the way, but USE-IT’s frustration finally seems to be
has not really kept pace with it, and under the current framework
at an end.
doing business in this sector is difficult.” Developing technologies 60 | Endeavour Magazine
With challenges facing the developing sector, it is key for USE-
Endeavour Magazine | 61
USE-IT IT and similar companies to work together and pool their resources.
organisation we have assisted, established, facilitated or developed
“In terms of what we do at USE-IT there really is no competition.
becomes part of our partnership network, and this expands
There are other agencies across South Africa where there is an
continuously.”
overlap in what we do, but because of the emerging state of the sector we all find that collaboration is better than competition.”
As Whyte said, this pool keeps growing. “We work with everyone from individual community members to cooperatives,
These collaborations are not just with friendly rivals, but with
Enterprise development, SMME’s, large corporates, public sector,
investors and supporting partners who believe in what USE-IT are
civic organisations and other NGO’s.” As well as conducting their
doing. These partnerships are particularly crucial when there is a
own research programmes, the company provides and analyses
lack of national legislative support. “USE-IT is nothing without its
data for other companies, provides policy advice, assesses market
partnerships,” agrees Whyte. “Our strongest relationship is with
needs, offers training, and even offers support to groups trying to
the eThekwini Municipality, who currently provide the bulk of our
leverage their own project funding. Finally, they use their ever-
operational funding and support us in any way they can when it
expanding contacts to offer networking between companies,
comes to dealing within the complex quagmire of ‘administration’.
laying foundations for the future of the country’s recycling not only
They have provided back-up and support with co-financiers and
through the research they conduct, but through the relationships
provided guarantees and structures when we leverage external
they enable.
funds…We could not have gotten to this point without them.”
Personnel-wise, USE-IT is only a small entity, with four
USE-IT’s other key partners include the National Treasury,
permanent staff and eight staff currently contracted on particular
through their support with the Jobs Fund, and the DBSA and
projects. However, in an emerging field, an economic approach to
Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) via the Green Fund.
research pays – in the past eight years of operations, the company
“We have had some great partnerships with other funding agencies
has consistently shown the eThekwini Municipality an impressive
such as TIKZN, SEDA, SEFA, NYDA, Invotech, TIA and other
1500% return on their investment and created more than 2400
NGO’s like LifeCo, Sophia Foundation, Waste Knot, KZN Recycling
jobs in the sector. “There are no other companies in the world
Forum and too many others to mention. More importantly, every
who can claim to achieve what we have done with such limited
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resources, but it does take its toll. We are currently stretching out
On top of their numerous projects, the prolific and apparently
to find additional resources to take some of the pressure off the
never-sleeping USE-IT are trying to fund a media project that they
current team. Unfortunately, in this industry it is relatively easy to
hope will educate the population on issues of recycling, sustainability
fund project developments, but nobody wants to fund operational
and green business. The project will be a TV documentary series
costs.”
titled The Green Journey. “The concept is to not only highlight the
There may be pressures, but Whyte and his team take great
problems we are facing nationally, but to showcase the current
satisfaction from seeing what their work can achieve. As well as
solutions we have. We want to raise awareness of the opportunities
the Hammarsdale Waste Beneficiation Centre and their work in
that are available for unlocking the green economy in this country
plastics, the company is currently securing finances for their glass
and creating many thousands of jobs. This will extend beyond
recycling initiatives, which they predict will create jobs in each
waste to also showcase energy, water, food, education, health,
province. Currently, the glass recycling sector lacks facilities, which
infrastructure development and community upliftment.”
in turn makes the process non-profitable: USE-IT’s work has shown
USE-IT are a small team with giant plans, and so far, they’ve
that over 30 products currently imported or created with mined
shown that they have the drive, organisation and ability to pull
materials in the country can in fact be made from recycled glass,
them off. Whyte seems tireless as he talks about the future,
which greatly increases its perceived value and makes this a sector
propelled by passion for his country and for what his group are
worth further expansion. They have also created Africa’s first
doing: “USE-IT has not even scratched the surface of the market
5-Star rated EcoStandard building product from recycled materials,
opportunities in recycling and waste beneficiation yet, and we plan
using the waste soil and rubble that currently fills up 40% of their
aggressive expansion in the coming years. We are trying to secure
landfills. Their impressive portfolio hasn’t gone unnoticed. “In
the resources we need to drive this expansion, and after eight years
January this year, we were selected as one of the top six global
of continued success, we have the track-record to prove that we
finalists in Circular Economic Development by the World Economic
can do it and the model to show that this works.”
Forum’s Circular Awards. It was an honour to be ranked amongst the world leaders in what we do.”
Endeavour Magazine | 63
SUNBIRD WWW.SUNBIRDGROUP.CO // +44 207 297 0364 // +27 11 082 8500
GIVING THE REGION WINGS East Africa has long been known to stand on rich land, yet extraction of these resources has been fraught with difficulty for the region’s population. Finally, the area has reached a tipping point where investment and interest outweighs these challenges, and the countries are set to face an industrial and economic boom – if the companies are able to form and embrace the opportunities. The Sunbird Group want them to do exactly that, and they’re here to help. WRITTEN BY ALICE INSTONE-BREWER
SUNBIRD
The Sunbird Group was founded in 2014 by Michael
Aldridge and William Sykes, both old hats at seeding enterprises in Africa. Likewise, all the Group’s key stakeholders have a history of working within the region, or a passion for seeing it flourish. This team works in conjunction with industry leaders in the UK who are committed to East Africa industry and living, including Arthur Andersen, Morgan Stanley, KPMG, PwC, Kroll and Carillion.
T
ogether, the Group works to support East African industry by
of the ten fastest growing economies in the world were in Africa.
bringing world-class standards in construction and services
Three years later, now is a pivotal and delicate time for the East
to emerging projects. It focuses on construction and support
African industry sector: Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Mozambique,
services, assisting in the building, running and blossoming of
Uganda and South Africa were and are all experiencing high levels of
companies across South and East Africa. They achieve this for
foreign investment, creating a ripe environment for new companies.
and with young or growing companies, offering assistance either
These investments followed the discoveries of various natural
through the services that their subsidiaries provide, or by partnering
resources, sparking not only interest, but the eager construction of
with these newer companies on joint-ventures.
new infrastructure capable of supporting the latest in 21st century
Whilst the Group’s head office is in London, they have five
industrial practices. East Africa reached a point where it no longer
office sites across Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. More importantly,
needed to rely on foreign aid, the level of investment becoming
though, is that their subsidiaries are locally based, hiring in the
sufficient to overcome the challenges presented by the region’s
regions and working closely with the communities around them,
conditions: all that is needed now, Sunbird believed, was a little
be it a busy urban project or a business in the remotest of rural
push.
locations. Their mission is to not only see their own companies
The Sunbird Group wants to see this influx not only inject
grow within the Group, nor the companies they work alongside,
new life into East African industry, but as a result, permanently
but the entire East African region. As they state themselves;
improve the lives of the region’s local people. To ensure this, as
“We’re committed to Eastern and Southern Africa and its
well as working to support new companies, they also work within
evolution as a major hub for business. We know it in depth and in
these communities, developing the infrastructure needed to raise
detail - from the physical landscape to the local business customs.
living standards. Whilst employment and enterprise is needed to
We’re perfectly positioned to help companies of all sizes as they
economically improve an area, Sunbird do not want to put the
establish themselves and grow their businesses.”
cart before the horse; they know that without workers having the
By injecting essential expertise and financial support into projects that are still putting down their roots, Sunbird hope to
basic essentials of healthcare, education and of course shelter, a company or area cannot achieve improvement in the long-term.
see a stronger new wave of industry emerge. They believe that the
Whilst established and run by a strong combination of industry
potential and opportunity was already there – in the year they were
experts, Sunbird didn’t automatically have the influence and market
founded, 2014, the IMF World Economic Outlook found that six
position required to carry out all of the change they wanted to see.
66 | Endeavour Magazine
SUNBIRD Between 2012-2014, they worked to strengthen their position
are a part of Sunbird’s overarching mission to support African
by expanding their supplier and content networks, building
development, each using their unique tools and expertise.
connections and studying what was needed in the region. Since
Sunbird Asset Finance provides capital to a wide range of
2014, they have won major construction, property and support
property development projects, giving East African companies the
services contracts with a variety of businesses, both regional and
financial flexibility and backing they need to get their dreams off
multinational.
the ground. Not only this, they support projects at every stage of
Many challenges face these developments. For one, the region’s
the development process, from securing plots of land to offering
six countries occupy highly diverse types of terrain, meaning that
advise during construction, and even the lease or sale of a property
standardized solutions cannot be applied to all operations. This
once completed.
is where companies need not only technical support, but sound
Meanwhile, Sunbird Developments project manage their own
advice. Thankfully, knowledge and knowledge-based growth is the
developments, individually or in partnership with other developers,
cornerstone of Sunbird’s operations, covering not only in-depth
taking a well-researched and risk managed approach to their
understanding of the landscape, but analysis of market’s subtleties
builds. Finally, once a project is complete and your business is
and their client’s own requirements, in order to suggest the best
up and running, Sunbird Facilities Management will provide and
solutions and path forwards.
manage hard and soft services to assist your operations. They offer
However, Sunbird’s support is delivered in a variety of ways.
this support to all brands of business, from office work through
The Group’s umbrella covers many companies, mostly working
to heavy industry, and even remote rural endeavours. Whatever
in the arenas of design and construction, but also branching out
you are undertaking in East Africa, Sunbird Group have your needs
into finance and even crisis training. Out of a total of eight, the
covered.
group’s three major subsidiaries are Sunbird Asset Finance, Sunbird
Some of the Group’s successes to date include several world-
Developments and Sunbird Facilities Management: all three
class mining facilities, established in Tanzania and Mozambique.
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68 | Endeavour Magazine
t: +27 11 607 8299
Locals in these areas have literally been sitting on gold mines, without the reliable resources to access and prosper from the resources at their feet. Coal is another extremely valuable resource that can now be mined, and the recent discover of hydrocarbons in Kenya suggests that this area could eventually become a major oil producer. With all this potential finally able to be tapped, it is predicted that by 2040, Sub-Saharan Africa could have the largest proportion of economically active adults in any major market. This is an incredible statistic, and one that would change the global face of East Africa for the foreseeable future. If the Sunbird Group get there way, this prediction will soon become a reality, and they’ll be there every step of the way.
Endeavour Magazine | 69
AUTOMOTIVES CITROEN SPACETOURER FLAIR XS BLUEHDI 150
M
PVs
(Multi-Purpose
Vehicles)
or
minivans have been around for years, but they haven’t been as popular in
the UK as some countries. However, with their wide variety of uses, they are on the increase as the vehicle of choice amongst families. With their cavernous space and the upright driving position, they make for a very comfortable place to be. I really enjoy this style of driving and for several years an MPV was my only mode of transport. The Spacetourer has great curves and a big, bold presence on the road, but don’t be put off by its size, as it is actually shorter than an Astra Estate. The Citroen offers four engine choices in 1.6 or 2.0 litre diesels, all featuring their blueHDi technology. They are either available as a six-speed manual or, if you purchase the 2.0 litre diesel, there is an automatic option. All engines are strong pulling from low revs to around 4,000 max., but they don’t have much more to give thereafter. These aren’t racy engines, but they are good plodders
which could tilt and give more than enough
lengths, with the XS at 4.6m, the Medium at
connected with a nice clunky gearbox.
leg room for everyone. There are no lap
4.94m and finally the big brother XL at 5.3m
These cars come with a standard seat
belts here - each seat is full size and comes
long. They are all 1.9m tall, meaning they are
configuration for five people – however,
equipped with a three-point seat belt, plus
multi-story carpark friendly.
you can change this up to fit your needs,
plenty of head room for all.
We had the base-level car, which
with the ability to add an extra row of seats
This MPV has a very comfortable cabin
and accommodate up to nine people. The
and is friendly to use, with everything fitted
generously
obvious compromise for this is you reduce
in the correct place. There are loads of cubby
comes with cruise control, parking sensors, a
your boot space. Our Spacetourer had two
holes and cup holders, exactly where you
full-sized spare wheel, DAB radio, Bluetooth,
front seats and two rows of three seats, all of
need them. The Spacetourer comes in three
and automatic headlights and wipers. One
70 | Endeavour Magazine
even with standard features was already equipped:
the
Spacetourer
you don’t have to open the whole tailgate.
Every new Citroen car has the benefit of
Our vehicle did come with the 360-degree
a three-year warranty package, plus a 12-
camera, and I would strongly recommend it,
year anti-perforation warranty and a paint-
as it made parking a doddle.
year paint warranty.
The
official
fuel
figures
for
the
Overall, the Spacetourer is a mile-
thing I think this model misses is a nice
Spacetourers are economical, returning
munching,
leather-bound steering wheel - this is the
around 45-54 mpg. Ours delivered slightly
spaciously seat up to nine people, whilst
part of the car you are in contact with all
less than this, but the driving we undertook
also able to be easily changed into a van
the times, and for this vehicle, I don’t think
was a lot of stop and starting in the city,
for transporting large cargos. It is fun and
a plastic steering wheel is good enough.
followed by a longer, fully laden journey
incredibly easy to drive. It is no wonder that
There are optioned extras available, such
with eight adults, neither of which help
sales of MPV’s are sky rocketing - they are
as a motorized side door that opens when
fuel consumption. However, none of our
such a flexible and amazing vehicle to use,
you waggle your foot under it, a panoramic
seven passengers complained about being
and Citroen have more than met the mark
roof, head-up display, 360-degree reversing
uncomfortable! Once we were on the open
with their awesome Spacetourer.
camera and an opening rear window so that
road, we saw the MPG go much higher.
practical
vehicle
that
can
Endeavour Magazine | 71
Making life easier for fleet managers everywhere
NOVOPRO WWW.NOVOPRO.CA // +1 514-286-0004
FROM THE GROUND UP If you’ve never needed the services of a project management operation, you won’t have experienced the genius that is NOVOPRO; a Canadian-based company that makes industrial project planning look like a walk in the park. Endeavour Magazine got up close and personal with the team to find out exactly why everyone could benefit from their services. WRITTEN BY AMY BUXTON
NOVOPRO
If project management sounds like a dark art to you,
you’re not alone; gone are the days when it simply involved delegating the overseeing of progress to someone with a different coloured hardhat.
T
hese days, project management is a complex, specialist
years of experience, engineers at NOVOPRO have acquired the
undertaking that can mean the difference between a
knowledge and expertise necessary.”
logistically difficult, time-consuming and expensive idea being
Don’t be bowled over by technological knowhow just yet though,
made feasible, or simply being relegated to the pile of impossible
as while this is an impressive knowledge base all on its own, the
dreams. Speaking about the company itself, the team at NOVOPRO
team at NOVOPRO are just as well versed in other fields. The list is
revealed that;
seemingly endless, but includes magnesium and potash industries,
“We specialise in developing, engineering and managing projects
life sciences, environmental engineering, research & development
and related technologies as applied to the mining and metallurgical,
and, to top it all off, public institution projects. It wouldn’t be a
mineral processing, chemicals and life sciences industries. We have
stretch of the imagination to assume that there is nothing the
been involved in assisting clients to develop a number of projects
team doesn’t know, but what are the day-to-day specialisms of
from inception and feasibility, through to financing, implementation
NOVOPRO? They are actually split into three disciplines; project
and finally, start-up. Our experience has been gained through the
development, project management and project engineering.
development of projects ranging in capital scope from $500,000 to $800million.” There’s certainly no doubting the impressiveness of those figures, and given the technical nature of the industries that
Project development might sound like a fancy way of saying planning, but in reality, there is far more to it: “Conceptual
design
and
feasibility studies,
programme
NOVOPRO works alongside, it seems a fair assumption that every
development, preparation of capital and operating cost estimates,
member of the team is highly qualified and continually supported,
financial model simulations and assistance in obtaining project
in a bid to remain at the very top of his or her game. The truth is
financing.”
even more complex than you might already assume:
Project engineering focuses far more on the design elements
“For projects in the mining and metallurgy sector, a requirement
involved in new industrial projects, including technical drawings
for processes and technological development and adaptation is
and 3D modelling, but it really is at the project management phases
required, which are based on local raw materials and site conditions.
that NOVOPRO comes into its own:
A sound knowledge of the major players with regards to available
“One of NOVOPRO’s core competences is project management,
technologies and related equipment is also essential in designing
which in every project, has the most potential to determine the
production plants that are cost-effective and reliable. Through
outcome in terms of successful implementation. The lessons learned
76 | Endeavour Magazine
NOVOPRO over the years have provided the managers at NOVOPRO to use
projection, managerial procedures, and other requirements that
sound methodology and diligence in making recommendations for
drive a project as it unfolds. This grants us the required skills when
decisions to be made by the client. Providing the correct information
interfacing with clients and assisting them in the decision-making
at the appropriate time is what is essential for a sound decision
processes.”
to be made and project management ensures this and therefore,
There is the crux of the matter: clients HAVE to be able to trust
drives all other disciplines to produce the tools required for the
their project management professionals to act as representatives
project to run safely, on time, and on budget. Considering project
and stewards. It’s not enough to simply take an objective look at a
management as the key ingredient in developing and implementing
company’s modus operandi and attempt to copy it, as an intrinsic
projects, NOVOPRO has made a point of emphasising this aspect
immersion into the culture, beliefs and ambitions of a client is the
of its capabilities by choosing skills within our team members, in
only way to truly work alongside them. This is vital for their benefit,
order to render efficient and effective services in every field.”
which is exactly why NOVOPRO does it, every time.
There’s a lot of ‘team’ talk going on here, and that is important,
We can’t doubt the heritage, expertise and success of
given that NOVOPRO seeks to create a cohesive and integrated
NOVOPRO, but what does the future hold? Naturally, a huge
collaboration with clients. It’s not a case of ‘them and us’, but ‘we’,
number of projects are on going, too many, in fact, to talk about
as soon as NOVOPRO has been commissioned to undertake a
all of them, but a notable addition to the portfolio is a contract
contract;
with Valleyfield Fertilizer Corp., as Jay Hussey, Vallyfeild’s President
“NOVOPRO works closely with the client and other consultants
confirmed;
as one close-knit team, the client’s interests always being regarded
“NOVOPRO will represent Valleyfield’s interests in advancing
as our primary objective. Having worked closely with and as
the project through to full production, including activities being
consultants, we are well aware of all operational aspects of projects
performed under the Engineering, Procurement and Construction
such as project control, cash flow forecasting, scheduling, manpower
contract awarded to SNC-Lavalin. Once complete, the Quebec-
78 | Endeavour Magazine
-2000
ertech.com a.com based SOP facility will be the first in North America to utilise the proven Mannheim Process. Quebec-based NOVOPRO has a proven track record in our particular segment of the fertiliser industry and a depth of skill sets that will serve to protect our interests as we proceed through the technical and construction phase of the project.” Endeavour Magazine will be watching closely, to observe how NOVOPRO continues to set itself apart from competitors, while operating on a global scale and maintaining close-knit relationships with clients. This might not sound like a manageable task, but never forget that NOVOPRO oversees seemingly impossible projects every single day.
VEOLIA’s fertilizer industry experience
ensures industry leading technologies, process design, and project execution. HPD® Crystallization Technologies combined with Veolia’s experience, stateof-the-art testing facilities, and project execution capabilities provides producers a reliable partner in potash project development. Contact us for greenfield projects, capacity expansions, or systems evaluations. We also specialize in optimizing non-Veolia systems. Click here to learn more: http://bit.ly/2xAg5m0
Expect Big Things for your Potash Projects with Veolia’s HPD® Technologies.
WATER TECHNOLOGIES
USA Tel: +1 815-609-2000 www.veoliawatertech.com hpd.info@veolia.com Endeavour Magazine | 79
STAATSOLIE MAATSCHAPPIJ SURINAME N.V. WWW.STAATSOLIE.COM // 597 499649
REFINING THE FUTURE Staatsolie Suriname has made an impressive name for itself within the oil and energy industry, thanks to focused leadership and a refreshing attitude to remaining adaptable in a turbulent marketplace, so Endeavour Magazine spoke with Rudolf Elias, Managing Director, to find out what the future holds.
STAATSOLIE MAATSCHAPPIJ SURINAME N.V.
Founded on December 13th 1980, Staatsolie Suriname
(Staatsolie) is a state-owned company. While there is no denying that Staatsolie is a commercially run enterprise, there is also an important element of institutional function at play as well, making this a truly versatile and diverse operation. The question is, what are defined as Staatsolie’s main activities?
“C
ommercially, Staatsolie is involved in the exploration,
are right now, we invest in production and exploration as a good
drilling, production, refining, marketing, sales and
return locally outweighs increased risk, for us.”
transport of crude and refined products, as well as the
Don’t you find this approach refreshing? Whereas commercial
generation of electricity. In its institutional function, Staatsolie acts
enterprises throughout the world are normally looking to expand
on behalf of the State in assessing Suriname’s offshore hydrocarbon
as soon as possible, often at the detriment of service standards,
potential,
companies,
Staatsolie is confident that focusing its attention at a local level at
negotiating petroleum contracts and monitoring the execution of
attracting
qualified
international
oil
this moment is the key to continued reliability and success. There is
such contracts.”
such an inherent understanding of the instability of the oil industry
Essentially, if there is an activity that is in any way connected to the energy industry in Suriname, you can be assured that Staatsolie
that unnecessary risk is simply not an option right now, with serious austerity measures being taken instead:
is involved and operating with the best interests of the area at its
“The plummeting of world market oil prices in 2014 and 2015
core, but the commercial aspects really are worth noting as well.
has continued. The price of a barrel of Saramacca Crude even
Selling premium gasoline and diesel, fuel oil, bitumen, electricity
dropped to US$16 in January 2016, the lowest level in years. In
and bunker services, both locally and regionally, the company has
order to cushion the effects of the falling international oil prices
an impressive impact on a number of industries that have come
since 2014, several austerity measures were taken. The first half
to rely on Staatsolie. Thanks to its professional demeanor and a
of 2016 was one of the toughest periods in Staatsolie’s history.
deep commitment to clients, industries including manufacturing,
Recovery of oil prices, next to the austerity measures taken, created
agriculture, fishing and power generation have all come depend on
more breathing space in the latter half of 2016. Prospects for this
Staatsolie, but we wanted to know whether these services might
year are positive since the oil prices are recovering, the refinery will
be offered a little wider afield. That’s the question we posed to
be producing more premium products and there will be revenues
Rudolf Elias, Managing Director.
from the Merian gold mine, in which Staatsolie has a 20% stake.”
“That’s a difficult question to answer at this time in the oil cycle.
It really is enlightening to encounter an organization that seeks
Of course, we would like to expand into new areas, but the further
to make no bones about the stress it has been placed under, and
you go, the more risk you take. With local prices being what they
the team divulged further:
82 | Endeavour Magazine
“Staatsolie is the national oil company. There are no other
crafted an enviable reputation in the petroleum sector over the last
operators in the local petroleum sector (production and refining).
36 years, through an in-depth understanding of market conditions
Still, we must consider the challenges for operating in the current
and continued supply of high quality products, professionals are,
international and local business environment. Internationally,
naturally, keen to work for this seemingly future-proofed set-up
these challenges are in terms of the oil prices and competition in
and that’s not something that Staatsolie will ever take for granted:
attracting partners for offshore exploration. With the diminishing
“Staatsolie currently employs around 1,000 people. Based on
influence of the OPEC on the oil prices, we can expect ongoing
the belief that people are key to the company’s success, Human
volatility. We are very much aware that we must tune our business
Resource development is a vital aspect of our business practices.
to the ongoing volatility. That’s why we strive to stay in the lowest
Training for staff is aimed at the development of knowledge and
cost quartile of oil producers. Also, the precarious economic
skills in a way that is beneficial for both employer and employee.
conditions in Suriname pose a challenge.”
We promote as much as possible from within, but for certain
So many other companies might have opted to simply ‘power through’ a period of financial turbulence, but Staatsolie has set itself apart by directly tackling it and the rewards are starting to
specialized skills we have to seek candidates outside the company.” Rudolf was keen to emphasize that employees at Staatsolie should enjoy as much satisfaction from their roles as possible:
speak for themselves. Had austerity measures not been taken,
“Our staff members are a real valuable part of the company,
this could have been a very different article, but thanks to strong
because of their intellect. In the coming year we would like to
leadership, industry expertise and a savvy approach to investment,
do everything to educate our team and to focus on our younger
Staatsolie is ready for the next chapter.
members, as they will be the individuals carrying the company
So, what will keep Staatsolie operating on a higher level than
to the next level. We put a lot of our effort into our young
its nearest competitors? The answer is a simple combination of a
intellectuals, by exposing them, amongst others through extensive
stellar reputation and an incredibly talented body of staff. Having
training and even internships abroad , to expand their horizons.
Endeavour Magazine | 83
STAATSOLIE MAATSCHAPPIJ SURINAME N.V. We aim for a sense of purpose when our staff comes to work and in
move forward and tackle industry turbulence head on, as the
return, we facilitate them so they can return home with a sense of
infrastructure already in place, completed refinery expansion and
accomplishment every day.
dedicated team have combined to create a genuine force to be
With the future of the company looking to be in fantastically
reckoned with. Rudolf seems keen to lead Staatsolie into the future
well-equipped hands, we wanted to know what other steps are
with a positive mindset as well, as he concluded the interview by
being taken to keep up with demand for products. A key project
stating that,
looks to have been the extensive refinery expansion project, which
“By 2020, we will have a company with, more than ever, happy
was completed in 2015. When we say extensive, we really do mean
people who have an extraordinary sense of accomplishment. We
it as this one project expanded the refining capacity from 7,200 to
will grow to a value that is far bigger than it is today, as I strongly
15,000 barrels of crude material per stream day. With exciting new
believe that in the coming three years, we will find oil offshore,
developments on the horizon, it was a prudent move two years
together with our partners. This will change the history of the
ago, as the company is in an enviable position now:
company and Suriname. We will find it and when we do, we will
“We have a number of future projects that are being tackled right now. Onshore, we have a 141 well-drilling program to boost the crude production back to 17,000 barrels per day, as in 2016, the crude production had declined. We are keen to attract one or two farm-in partners for the exploration in nearshore blocks and in the offshore we are looking to close two Petroleum Sharing Contracts (negotiations ongoing) in 2017.” There can be no doubting that Staatsolie is ready to
84 | Endeavour Magazine
float 10-20% of shares into the market and enjoy real success.”
AMAZING WORLD THE THIRD THUMB PROJECT
C
ontemporary author Jess C. Scott
3-D printed body that can be moved and
re-imagined the prosthetic arm as a piece
once wrote; “The human body is the
controlled through pressure pads in your
of jewellery, and ‘The Bone Knitter’, which
best work of art.” However, the non-
shoes. However, this thumb isn’t created
knits casts over broken bones using all-
conformist writer, whose genres include
to replace one that’s missing – it’is worn
natural materials. The Third Thumb was
urban fantasy and cyberpunk, may well
on the other side of your hand, and instead
inspired when Dani looked up the definition
approve of the medical creations by designer
of re-creating an action that human beings
of ‘prosthesis’ and found it means “to add; to
Dani Clode. The most recent of these
can do, it allows the hand to do things it
put onto”, rather than to replace. This raised
innovations is the Third Thumb Project,
never has before. Dani says of her design;
the question for Dani: why are prosthetics
which takes the idea of prosthetics to a new
“It is part tool, part experience, and part self-
only used to replace, and not also to extend?
level and raises questions about the limits
expression.”
of ‘ability’ and the human experience in the
“The Third Thumb aims to challenge
Dani has previously invented several
the perception of prosthetics, creating a
other aesthetic and innovative additions
shift from medical device to positive body
The Third Thumb Project is the design
to the world of prosthetics and medical
image statement.” This aim is similar to that
for a prosthetic thumb with a dextrous
technology, such as ‘Synchronised’, which
of ‘Synchronised’, but of course, it takes
modern age.
86 | Endeavour Magazine
a prototype, Dani is keen to explore its aesthetic potential, to “create a catalyst for society to consider human extension, framed in an approachable, accessible design.” Said simply, if one can market the Third Thumb as a fashion statement the way we regard glasses or watches, or as fashionable body modification similar to piercings and tattoos, then this currently alien or medical-seeming idea can become an accepted part of everyday life, and one that people are keen to invest in, play with and use to express themselves. The Third Thumb won the Helen Hamlyn Award for Creativity and has already become an internet sensation. People seem to be things a step further. “When we reframe
shoes, under the toes, which send signals
enjoying the thumb both for its look and
prosthetics as extensions, then we start
to the thumb via Bluetooth. Using the feet
for the extra abilities it can give: if nothing
to shift the focus from ‘fixing’ disability,
for control was inspired by the amount of
else, it allows us to experiment at using a
to extending ability.” The Third Thumb’s
interaction
already
body that is different to the one nature
existence is a dialogue about augmentation,
existing between our hands and feet, which
gave us, inviting further innovations into
and a visual discussion about the limitation
are capable of working together without
augmentation and challenging humanity to
– or lack thereof – on extending the human
requiring too much focus. The technology
take itself to the next level.
‘body’ further in the future.
may change in time, but what this project
The thumb’s motors are controlled by two pressure sensors fitted into your
and
communication
has done is introduce a new idea. Whilst the third thumb is currently
You can find out more about the Third Thumb Project and Dani Clode’s other designs at www.daniclodedesign.com Endeavour Magazine | 87