Autumn 2021
How to
6
FINANCIALLY PREPARE
MYTHS ABOUT VACCINES, DEBUNKED
for divorce
New
Two brand-new benefits coming soon!
Safety tips for online shopping
Turn to p. 21
READ BEFORE YOU CLICK
The power of
Candice Modiselle’s hustle
Examples of coupons available MCCAIN
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Ready to test your family’s
financial know-how? She’s a speaker, author, influencer… now Nicolette Mashile is hosting the Sanlam Moola-Money Family Game Show on eTV, kicking off on 3 April. She explains why the show is about more than great entertainment.
“One of the reasons why I wrote my book, What’s Your Move? A Collection of Ordinary Financial Lessons, was to share financial education with as many South Africans as possible. You can’t do that better than via TV. As families, we gather around the TV, which is why the Sanlam MoolaMoney Family Game Show could have an enormous impact on the financial literacy of many.”
‘boring’ and ‘inaccessible’. Now we’re trying to show people that there’s some fun to be had in finances. “The show is about balancing entertainment with education. We’re compiling quiz questions that are fun and approachable, but also unpack important topics. When putting together the content for the show, we asked ourselves, ‘What are the small things that, if people just knew, could put them on the course to change their financial confidence?’”
“It’s about changing the face of financial education”
“Creating confidence, capability, comfort around money”
“Through the show, we’re changing the perception of financial education in South Africa. Traditionally we associate financial education with being
“In a country like ours where unemployment is high, we need to learn how to use our money to make more money. Understanding things like
CATCH THE SHOW! 24 families, 13 episodes and a grand prize of R500 000! Watch as families go head-to-head on the Sanlam Moola-Money Family Game Show on eTV, starting at 6pm on Saturday 3 April. Learn more at sanlammoolamoney.co.za.
compound interest, different kinds of assets and how to make investment choices – that will unlock financial confidence. This is a big reason for hosting the Sanlam Moola-Money Family Game Show. “I always talk about the three Cs: confidence, capability and comfort. If you have these things when you make a financial decision, then you know you’ve done the best you could in your situation. We have to drive education in
order to deliver these three Cs to people.”
“It’s time to have meaningful conversations with our families” “If the show achieves one thing, I hope it’s to open up conversations about financial education in families. I hope it will spark meaningful conversations, and that these conversations will break any taboos around talking about money with the people we love.”
Photography: pch.vector/Freepik, supplied
“TV offers a chance to reach so many South Africans”
New!
Contents
You have two new benefits! Coming soon. Turn to p.21
On the cover 4
CANDICE MODISELLE
“Watch out, world: I’m shifting gears”
15
18
DIVORCE
How to financially prepare for divorce
VACCINES
6 Myths about vaccines, debunked
Also inside 4 8
11
QUIZ
12 12
MONEY BUYING VS RENTING
ONLINE SHOPPING
Safety tips to read before you click
16
10 ENTERTAINMENT
LIFE READY FOR A ROAD TRIP?
Explore Mzansi’s must-see spots
What kind of shopper are you?
We unpack the pros and cons of both
18 HEALTH 22 CAN JUNK FOOD AGE YOU? Yes – find out how to combat this
24 CLUB 24 YOUR MEMBERSHIP
8
+ Get to know a member
What is your hope for South Africa this year? EDITORIAL Editor Jaime Waddington Content editor Dominique Bowen Email mag@sanlamreality.co.za Contributors Angelique Ruzicka, Candice Modiselle, Cebokazi Sotobe, Christine van Deemter, Helen Wallace “I hope for healing and unity after a tough 2020. I also hope for solutions, accountability and action against gender-based violence.”
PRODUCTION Head of production Nicky Scheepers Campaign manager Kelly Hendricks CREATIVE Creative group head Juan Geel Art director Marisa Steyn
NARRATIVE Managing director Robyn Campbell Business lead Lauren Brabant Chief content officer Sarah Browning-de Villiers Account manager Roxanne Lopez-Maggott CAPE TOWN HEAD OFFICE Tel: 021 487 9100 Email: mag@sanlamreality.co.za 50 Harrington Street, Zonnebloem, Cape Town, 7925 PO Box 16258, Vlaeberg, Cape Town, 8001
“To see an end to gender-based violence. Enough is enough!”
SANLAM REALITY PROGRAMME Head of digital, marketing and communications Francois Uys Communications manager Lucille Moore Communications coordinator Hasina Khan
PUBLISHED BY NARRATIVE FOR SANLAM REALITY
Photography: Shutterstock, supplied
Telephone 0860 007 325
SANLAM REALITY CALL CENTRE Email info@sanlamreality.co.za Website www.sanlamreality.co.za
REAL FUTURES (PTY) LTD Real Futures is a wholly-owned Sanlam Ltd company managing the Sanlam Reality programme for the Sanlam Group. Chairman Jan Steenkamp Directors Gary Allen, André Larisma, Jean Lombard, Theesan Moodley Deputy company secretary Zuko Mgawuli
Sanlam Reality is the loyalty programme of the Sanlam Group and its strategic partners. The programme helps members to make the most of their money in a way that’s honest, meaningful and real. Sanlam Reality empowers its members to make responsible financial choices and enables them to live their best possible financial lives – all because Sanlam Reality believes that taking care of your money should be rewarding.
Published by Narrative. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrievable system or transmitted in any form or by any means – electronic, photocopying or otherwise – without the prior written permission of the copyright owners, Narrative Media Group, Harrington Street, Cape Town, 7925. Printed by Novus Print. While reasonable precautions have been taken to ensure the accuracy of advice and information given to readers, the editor, proprietors (Real Futures (Pty) Ltd) and publishers cannot accept responsibility for any damages or inconvenience that may arise from incorrect information. Printed by
All content and pricing correct at time of print.
A division of Novus Holdings
Printed on paper sourced from sustainable forests.
ON THE COVER: Photography: Katinka Bester; creative directors: Juan Geel and Marisa Steyn; hair: Kevin Epstein (Hot Scissors); make-up: Sarah Whiteside; stylist: Cleo Marcopoulos; producer: Nicky Scheepers; CANDICE WEARS: Blazer dress, Style Rotate; earrings, Lorne at The Ultimate Summer Pop-Up
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Autumn 2021
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life
COVER STORY
Candice
Modiselle is on
fire She may be young, but 2021 is set to be the year of Candice Modiselle. The actress, presenter and entrepreneur shares her recipe for success and financial freedom with JAIME WADDINGTON.
CANDICE WEARS, LEFT PAGE: Dress and heels, ALYSU at The Ultimate Summer Pop-Up; earrings, Matter of a Fakt at The Ultimate Summer Pop-Up; RIGHT PAGE: Blazer, skirt and top, Zara; earrings, H&M
THE ENTERTAINMENT BUSINESS RUNS IN CANDICE MODISELLE’S FAMILY. You’ll likely already know her famous older sisters: Refilwe, a model, and Bontle, a dancer and choreographer. But successful older sisters haven’t meant Candice’s own success has been easy; she’s hustled hard and worked for every opportunity she’s had. After graduating with her honours degree in drama from the University of the Witwatersrand in 2017, Candice landed her first big gig at the age of 21 as a presenter on SABC 1’s YoTV. Three years of acting in Generations: The Legacy followed. Now the 26-year-old’s career is reaching new heights as she stars in the Netflix African original series, JIVA!. But that’s not all: she’s also started her own youth skills development company, Busetsa Media. If 2020 taught Candice anything, it was not to wait. Here, she shares her tips for being a go-getter.
“I was raised to follow what feeds my spirit” “We’re all storytellers in my family. My dad was a model before he passed in 1997, and my mom has always loved the arts. As a single mother, my mom encouraged us to lean into
I struggled for years to find work. Be unshakeable and unwavering. Trust in your potential. our different disciplines – to follow what feeds our spirit and not only what feeds our pocket. “Of course, she wants us to be successful and wealthy, but she’s always taught us never to sell our principles for a quick buck. Her words of encouragement have sanlamreality.co.za
been, ‘Start with nothing, start with fear, start with doubt, start anywhere, and where you fail or fall, I’m here to catch you.’ She’s allowed us to be human in our failures and shortcomings, and with failure comes success.”
“A blessing delayed is not a blessing denied” “I believe that if something is truly meant for you, it will find you – even if it takes longer than you’d hoped. I struggled for years to find work. I went to audition after audition with no luck. One day, my agent contacted me for a presenter gig on YoTV. Six months after being on YoTV, the opportunity to play Lerato Matema on
Generations: The Legacy presented itself. “What I came to learn was not to take rejection personally. I realised that not getting chosen for a role was not a reflection of my character; the job just wasn’t meant for me. “My advice? Surround yourself with people who believe in you. Be unshakeable and unwavering. Trust in your potential, your gift and your hustle. It’s hard, but so important not to allow rejection to take something from you.”
“If you can’t buy it twice, don’t buy it at all” “This has always been my greatest money lesson. Autumn 2021
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COVER STORY
to save’; and yet, there always was. There is always something to save. Putting away a small amount every month makes a big impact. “A pandemic quickly exposes the importance of having a rainy-day fund. If your stream of income is affected by something like COVID-19, you need to be able to rely on your savings. “If you’re not sure where or how to start, ask for help. I’ve always found it so frustrating that our education system never taught us about things like tax, saving for retirement, why your credit score matters, mental health and consent.”
“The greatest form of self-care is setting boundaries”
I am the architect of my financial future. I own my decisions, my transactions, my money. We all hold the key to our financial freedom. If you can’t afford it, don’t buy it. I ask myself this question before I purchase anything. “Another one is to have multiple streams of income. There are many ways to make money. Just because I’m in the arts doesn’t mean I should only earn in this space. Side hustles can make a big difference.
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Autumn 2021
“I’m aware that I now stem from a position of privilege. However, growing up in a home with limited resources helped me develop a healthier relationship with money. My mother taught me the power of ownership. She always encouraged me to do things myself and to not have to rely on others.
I am the architect of my financial future. I own my decisions, my transactions, my money and my stuff. We all hold the key to our financial freedom.”
“As tough as it is, save!” “Stop making excuses. The number of times I’ve told myself, ‘I have nothing
“One thing 2020 taught me was learning to say ‘no’; to value my space and time. As much as the grind is important, you can’t underestimate the value of rest. We often attach our value to how present we are in other people’s lives, especially as women – as the mom, as the girlfriend, as the sister – that we forget to be present with ourselves. Sayings like, ‘Sleep is for the weak’ and ‘I’ll sleep when I’m dead’ are destructive. We need to unlearn a lot of that thinking. You can’t pour from an empty cup. “After a long day, week or year; you need to pour back into yourself. We need to take the time to sanlamreality.co.za
Photographer: Katinka Bester; creative directors: Juan Geel and Marisa Steyn; hair: Kevin Epstein (Hot Scissors); make-up: Sarah Whiteside; stylist: Cleo Marcopoulos; producer: Nicky Scheepers; CANDICE WEARS, LEFT PAGE: Blazer dress, Zara; earrings, H&M; head wrap, stylist’s own; RIGHT PAGE: Top, pants and earrings, Zara
life
replenish, recharge and recuperate without guilt.”
“We need to give new talent the opportunity to shine” “This is what excites me so much about JIVA!. It’s a dance series that features so many new faces. Not only does it give rise to new talent, but to different South African storylines too. “It shows how multifaceted South Africans are. Who is South Africa as a dancer? Who is it as music, as a culture? South Africa is more than just stories of poverty and crime. We are a country of movement and spirit. “JIVA! puts our identity on a global platform. ‘Jiva’ means ‘the physical interpretation of music’. It’s how our bodies speak and we get to translate that to the world.”
“Watch out, world: I’m shifting gears” “I love the world of acting, but now my focus is to become an engineer of storytelling; writing, directing and mentoring young South African talent. This is a big part of my company, Busetsa Media: to give young rising stars access to information and opportunity through workshops, mentorships and festivals. “I’m all about giving back to the craft that has fed me. Acting has fed me spiritually, mentally, emotionally, physically and financially. It’s time for me to pay my dues and give back.”
TRAVEL
Ready for a
road trip? If you’re catching the bus home for the Easter holidays, why not stop off along the way to explore Mzansi? Start with these popular spots.
EASTER – OR, AT LEAST, THE FUN- AND FAMILYFILLED GETAWAYS THAT OFTEN COME WITH THIS HOLIDAY – may have been cancelled last year, so this year, catch up with loved ones. Taking a road trip by bus is an economical and scenic way to see SA – especially when you get 50% off Intercape Bus (up to R375) as a Reality Club member! Here are Intercape’s popular autumn routes, and the must-see spots you can stop off at along the way.
POPULAR EASTER ROUTES Where are South Africans going during the Easter holidays? According to Intercape Bus, their most well-travelled routes over this period are: • Pretoria to Durban • N1 routes (between Cape Town and Pretoria) • Pretoria/Cape Town to the Eastern Cape
Text: Helen Wallace; Photography: Shutterstock, katemangostar/Freepik
life
CAPE TOWN The Mother City is a tourist hotspot with loads to offer. If you want an authentic taste of Cape Malay cuisine, the Bo-Kaap Kombuis is sure to hit the spot. 021 442 5446, bokaapkombuis.co.za After lunch, kick back and take a look at our solar system at the Iziko Planetarium and Digital Dome – the most advanced digital planetarium on the African continent. Adult entry R60, 021 481 3800, iziko.org.za
PORT ELIZABETH Not only does the ‘Friendly City’ have a variety of beaches perfect for chilling on, it’s also home to the fascinating Donkin Reserve, Pyramid and Lighthouse. Adult entry R10, kids R5, 041 585 8884, Athol Fugard Terrace
SAFETY FIRST Worried about travelling in the age of COVID-19? Visit sanlamreality.co.za/ wealth-sense/programme-updatebenefits-impacted-by-covid-19 to see the measures Intercape has in place to ensure the safety of all its passengers.
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Autumn 2021
N1 N2
sanlamreality.co.za
PRETORIA It isn’t only jacarandas on offer in Pretoria. At Ludwig’s Roses, you can grab a bite while taking in the scent of hundreds of fragrant rose bushes. Free entry, 012 544 0144, ludwigsroses.co.za Declared by former president Thabo Mbeki as a place of celebration and a tribute to humanity, Freedom Park was built to honour those who fought for political freedom. Adult entry R65, 012 336 4000, freedompark.co.za
N1
JO’BURG Zoo Lake is a popular spot to congregate for a scenic, laid-back picnic on the banks of this man-made lake, offering a nice break from the urban sprawl. Free entry, corner of Jan Smuts Avenue and West World Street, Parkview For something more rebellious, The Talking Vandal offers authentic graffiti tours and experiences around Joburg’s inner city, allowing you to unleash your inner artist. R600, 082 332 6943, thetalkingvandal.co.za
DURBAN
N3
MAKHANDA Selfie with a giant pencil statue? That’s just one of the interesting things to see – and photograph – at Amazwi South African Museum of Literature. Free entry, 046 622 7042, nelm.org.za
N2
N2
N2
The Big Rush Big Swing at Moses Mabhida Stadium was named the world’s tallest swing by the Guinness Book of Records and will get your adrenaline pumping! R695, 031 312 9435, bigrush.co.za Afterwards, you can refuel while exploring the renowned Victoria Street Market, which offers an eclectic mix of African and Indian food, art and keepsakes. Free entry, 151-55 Bertha Mkhize Street
MTHATHA The Nelson Mandela Museum is home to exhibitions that illustrate the extraordinary life of this former president, freedom fighter and international icon. Free entry, 047 501 9500, nelsonmandelamuseum.org.za
EAST LONDON Relax on the lawn with a ‘brewsky’ at Table 58 Brewing. While you’re there, grab a wood-fired pizza to munch on while enjoying the view of the Indian Ocean. Free entry, 043 748 2815, table58brewing.co.za
sanlamreality.co.za
GET 50% OFF YOUR BUS TICKET As a Reality Club member, you get 50% (up to R375) off your Intercape Bus ticket. Visit sanlamreality.co.za/ benefit/bus or call 0860 00 7325.
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ENTERTAINMENT
It’s movie time! Get R30 movie tickets at Nu Metro, just for being a Sanlam Reality member. WATCH THESE FOR ONLY R30!
WHAT’S ON SHOWMAX? 1 / Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway Everyone’s favourite mischievous bunny faces an adventure that pushes him to decide what kind of bunny he wants to be. Release date: April 2021
2 / Black Widow Natasha Romanova is forced to face her KGB past and the broken relationships she left behind before she became an Avenger. Release date: May 2021 2/
T&Cs apply.
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Autumn 2021
3 / F9: The Fast Saga Dom Toretto is up against the most skilled assassin and driver he’s ever faced, and it’s a battle close to home. Release date: May 2021
PAY R30 FOR MOVIE TICKETS Pay just R30 for a 2D ticket and R35 for a refreshment combo at Nu Metro using your benefit. Book via the free Sanlam Reality App or call 0860 00 7325.
SKEMERDANS See the Cape Flats through a new lens in this 13-part half-hour Showmax Original series that centres around the murder of Glenn Fortune, owner of The Oasis jazz club. The story of a deadly power struggle following the murder plays out in a neo-noir style, with a nostalgic Cape jazz soundtrack – making this a proudly locally produced series with international flair. Release date: April 2021
3/
Our partners, like Nu Metro, have measures in place to keep you safe from COVID-19.
NEW BENEFIT ALERT: COMING SOON! As a Reality Club member, you get 3 months’ access to Showmax, at no cost to you, using your benefit. To learn more or to activate your benefit, visit sanlamreality. co.za/benefit/showmax. T&Cs apply.
sanlamreality.co.za
Text: Dominique Bowen; Photography: Zaheer Banderker, supplied
1/
TALI’S BABY DIARY The long-awaited sequel to the awardwinning first-ever Showmax Original is here! Following on from Tali’s Wedding Diary, the mockumentary sees Tali and her hubby Darren facing an unexpected pregnancy. How will the Instagram influencer cope with the change to ‘wholesome momfluencer’? You’ll find out, with guaranteed chuckles along the way. Release date: March 2021
QUIZ
life
What kind of
shopper are you?
Are you coupon-crazed or a shopaholic? And what does it mean for your bank account? Take this quiz to find out. 1. It’s payday! You head to the mall with…
4. Do you bring grocery bags to the shops?
A … a short shopping list and a rough budget. B … a detailed shopping list and grocery coupons. C … money to spend.
A Not when I’m on a spontaneous shop. B Always – I keep them folded and
stored, ready for my next shop. C No, I always forget.
5. What’s your game plan at the till?
2. How do you shop for your non-perishables? A I get 2-for-1 offers, but only when
I can afford them. B I always have something saved for bulk offers. C As and when they’re needed.
3. How do you spot a good price?
Text: Dominique Bowen; llustrations: pikisuperstar/Freepik
A I look out for specials. B I compare the per-unit or -kilogram
prices on similar products. C I don’t pay much attention to that – I just stick to my favourite brands.
A I just make sure that all the specials check out at the right price. B I watch the cash register like a hawk – and cash in my coupons, of course. C I don’t have one.
6. Before you leave on a shopping trip, what’s your routine? A If I have time to plan, I quickly check what I’m running low on. B I compare specials online and avoid shopping on an empty stomach. C I get my cards and cash ready to shop up a storm!
Answers*: MOSTLY AS: Keep budgeting, but be more specific about how your money is spent. “If we don’t budget, there’s a risk of spending our money on unnecessary household items,” says Jyoti Gopee, a financial planner at Pinnacle BlueStar.
MOSTLY BS: You are nailing it as a savvy shopper! Keep it up. “At year-end you can use your savings towards your festive season budget,” says Gopee.
MOSTLY CS: It’s time to take shopping more seriously and start saving more. “Put money away in a separate savings account whenever the thrill of impulsive spending takes over. After a while you will be impressed by the accumulated amount,” says Gopee.
*This quiz is not intended to replace the advice of an expert, a professional financial planner or a debt counsellor.
sanlamreality.co.za
3HELPSMART TOOLS TO YOU SHOP + A BUDGET A clear budget will help prevent unnecessary splurges. Start your budget with this template: sanlamreality.co.za/ wealth-sense/setting-up-afamily-budget-that-works. + COUPONS Take grocery coupons with you to the shop so you know how you’ll save before you’ve walked in the door. Claim your coupons by visiting sanlamreality.co.za/ benefit/discount-coupons or dial *134*20019#. + A SHOPPING LIST A shopping list will hold you accountable when you’re tempted to add that item that you don’t really need (or can’t really afford) to your trolley. Autumn 2021
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PROPERTY
Rent vs buy When it comes to buying or renting a house, there is always a debate about which makes the most financial sense. Here, we unpack the pros and cons.
SOME MAY ADVISE YOU to get onto the property ladder as soon as possible – their argument being that by renting, you’re paying someone else’s home loan off, instead of your own. Still others advise buying the biggest home that you can afford, often adding: “You’ll grow into it in time”. In reality, there are many financial reasons why renting may be the better option. We break down the advantages and disadvantages of home ownership and renting.
THE ADVANTAGES OF BUYING You can make a profit You can make a profit on your house if you make smart money decisions and don’t overcapitalise (spend more money than your home could ever be resold for) on making home improvements. But, unless you are a professional, this is generally only possible over the long term. It is also possible to buy a home and for it to lose value – for example, if the neighbourhood around you gets worse, or the home is not kept in good condition.
You can improve your credit profile Grant Smee, managing director of Only Realty, says: “Your mortgage account (home loan or
sanlamreality.co.za
bond) is a great place to put your savings: it accumulates interest, and it’s also got a low interest rate should you wish to borrow against it in future. Making repayments on your home each month (on time) improves your credit record.”
Lower interest rates “The interest rates were cut four times in 2020, bringing rates down from 9.75% to 7%, setting the interest rate at the lowest it had been in over 50 years. This means bonds are now more affordable for many aspiring homeowners,” says Paragon Lending Solutions CEO, Gary Palmer.
THE DISADVANTAGES OF BUYING It’s expensive If you own your own home, you are responsible for all the maintenance. A leaky roof could cost thousands of rands to repair. Neglecting any defects may make the problem worse.
If this were to happen, owning a home could become unaffordable – particularly if you already stretched your budget purchasing a house. You have to make sure not just that you can
You may not make a profit James McMillan of Highway Properties says: “The main reason people don’t make a profit is that they do not keep their homes long enough and overspend in areas that don’t yield high returns. You should keep a home for a minimum of five years.”
THE ADVANTAGES OF RENTING No long-term commitment Smee explains: “If you’re undecided about where you want to invest or whether your income will be secure in the longer term, then renting is best for you.”
You don’t have to pay for maintenance Smee points out: “Homeowners are sometimes hit with costs that tenants don’t have to factor in. These relate to maintenance, levies, rates and taxes, and home insurance.” As a tenant, much of this is paid for by your landlord.
Investing in stocks vs investing in property Between 2000 and 2020, if you had invested your savings in the JSE All Share Index instead of a house, you’d be better off. However, according to research by one of SA’s largest banks* (see chart below), timing is everything and the JSE All Share doesn’t always outperform the housing market. Homeowners were better off in certain periods, such as during the 2008 financial crash and between 2001 and 2007. John Loos, property sector strategist for this bank’s commercial property finance department, says: “Some argue that you can save money by renting, and use those savings to invest in the stock market. Property loans impose financial discipline, as you make monthly repayments, and you end up with an asset. The argument of share-investing fails to take into account human nature. Spare cash is usually spent.” FNB House Price Index vs JSE All Share Index performances since January 2001
Your rent may be less than a bond
ACCESS A CREDIT COACH – FOR FREE Understand your credit profile and speak to a credit coach with Sanlam Credit Solutions. Visit sanlamreality.co.za/wealthsense/sanlam-credit-solutions to register. T&Cs apply.
sanlamreality.co.za
Nick Gaertner, director and chief operations officer of Knight Frank, says COVID-19 has had a massive impact on the rental market, and it is incredibly difficult for landlords to find good tenants. “In the current market, landlords are far more willing to negotiate reduced rentals in order to secure a steady income with a strong tenant that they can rely on.”
631,39
650 Index Jan 2001=100
Text: Angelique Ruzicka; *Source: FNB Property House Index; Photography: Shutterstock, Freepik/pch.vector, Freepik/rawpixel
Interest rates can increase
afford your bond repayments at the current interest rates, but that you still could if interest rates increased.
550
539,50
450 350 250 150 50 Jan 01
Jan 04
Jan 07
Jan 10
FNB House Price Index (Jan 2001=100)
Jan 13
Jan 16
Jan 19
JSE All Share Index (Jan 2001=100)
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PROPERTY
SPEAK TO A FINANCIAL PLANNER Speak to an expert financial planner to help you budget and plan. Call 086 123 5433 to book an appointment.
Renting is the less favoured option over the long term, as you pay money monthly but never end up owning the home. You could benefit from ‘extras’ To attract the best tenants, landlords are including some of the typical expenses into the rents. McMillan says: “Renting can be great as you don’t have to cover the rates and levies, and often the lights and water are included, plus Wi-Fi and sometimes DStv.”
THE DISADVANTAGES OF RENTING You’re paying off someone else’s bond Renting is the less favoured option over the long term, as you pay money monthly but never end up owning the home. You just pay for the privilege of living there until the lease expires.
You can’t upgrade the property to suit your needs Victoria Silberbauer, residential real estate agent at RE/MAX Premier, says: “If you wanted to reduce your water bill by installing a borehole, you would not be able to do that, and if you did get permission, you’d be spending money on someone else’s property.”
You could lose your home
USE YOUR BENEFIT Got legal questions? Use your Legal Assist benefit – you can call our helpline and get free legal assistance 24/7. Call 0860 007 325, or visit sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/legal-assist. T&Cs apply.
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Loos, property sector strategist for one of South Africa’s biggest bank’s commercial property finance department, says: “On the renting side, the problem is the landlord determines your date of departure and not you, and your life can be disrupted.” sanlamreality.co.za
ONLINE SHOPPING
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Ways to stay safe shopping online
Before you click the checkout button on your online cart, take note of these safety tips.
1
“Ensure the URL of the website is secure by checking if it begins with ‘https’ (not ‘http’),” says Kriben Reddy, consumer vice president at TransUnion.
2
Mobile devices use abbreviated URLs, which can lead you into a phishing scam, cautions Reddy. “Phishing links can be disguised as links to legitimate websites. If you look closely, these URLs are often misspelt or point to a fake subdomain. Never shop using a public Wi-Fi network.”
Text: Dominique Bowen; Illustration: pikisuperstar/Freepik
3
Use well-known payment platforms such as PayPal, PayFast or Ozow to reduce the risk that comes with entering your credit card details on many sites, says Reddy.
4
“One of the first places any fraud on your accounts appears
MY DATA’S BEEN BREACHED. NOW WHAT?
1 Change your password and username. 2 Report the identity theft to SAPS, and the company, bank or financial institution where the fraud occurred. 3 Freeze your accounts and notify credit-reporting agencies like TransUnion, who will block any further credit applications made in your name.
is on your credit report,” says Reddy. Check it regularly by using Sanlam Credit Solutions, a free credit dashboard that helps you better understand and manage your credit profile. Visit sanlamcreditsolutions. co.za.
5
“Using a credit card provides an extra layer of protection against fraud and makes it easier to get a refund,” says Jeremy Dixon, director
GET A FREE CREDIT REPORT & COACH Easily check your credit score and credit history all on one dashboard with Sanlam Credit Solutions. Visit sanlamreality.co.za/wealth-sense/sanlamcredit-solutions to register.
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of consulting at Publicis Data Sciences. Most major credit card providers include zero-liability fraud protection, says consumer credit report provider Experian.
6
Report suspicious websites to the Internet Service Providers’ Association at ispa.org.za.
7
Dixon recommends checking to see if the website has a padlock icon on the navigation bar. This means you have a secure connection.
8
Keep a strong password and change it often, too. It should be something difficult to guess, using a combination
YOU HAVE FREE LEGAL HELP You have access to free legal help over the phone, 24/7. Call 0860 007 325 or visit sanlamreality. co.za/benefit/ legal-assist for more.
of characters, numbers, and different letter cases, and be longer than eight characters.
9
Stick to websites with a good reputation, a familiar name and positive online reviews.
10
Are there contact details of an actual person on the website? Dixon suggests looking out for this, as the site is more likely to be trustworthy if there’s an actual person who is contactable and accountable for possible fraudulent activity. Autumn 2021
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money
DIVORCE
How to financially prepare for
DIVORCE While it’s not a subject anyone likes to think about, financially preparing for a divorce can save you a lot of hardship (and money!). We explore what it means to uncouple in today’s world. By CEBOKAZI SOTOBE
REAL-LIFE LOVE STORIES DON’T ALWAYS HAVE A ‘HAPPILY EVER AFTER’. In fact, Statistics South Africa found in 2019 that four in 10 couples get divorced before their 10th wedding anniversary. What’s more, the divorce rate increased by 20% during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown, according to law firm DIY Legal. If you’re thinking of or going through a divorce, here’s what you need to know to financially prepare yourself.
1 Check your marital regime One of the most important issues will be the divorce settlement. It is important to know what marital regime your marriage was concluded under. “Under South African law, there are two marital property regimes: a) marriage in community of property, and b) marriage out of community of property (with or without accrual). “These apply to civil marriages, civil unions and customary marriages. They determine how a couple’s assets will
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be managed during the subsistence of the marriage, and how they will be distributed at termination through either divorce or death,” explains Daniel Zantsi, a legal practitioner. a) IN COMMUNITY OF PROPERTY This is a legally binding 50-50 sharing arrangement where all assets, like
a paid-off car or house that each spouse owns, becomes jointly owned property. “Basically, this is a ‘what’s mine is yours’-style legal contract. Should your marriage end, both of you are entitled to half of the joint estate,” explains Zantsi. This includes any debt – it becomes a shared liability.
It’s crucial to immediately reinstate medical aid in your own name if you are no longer under your partner’s.
GET FREE LEGAL HELP As a Sanlam Reality member, you have access to free legal help over the phone, 24/7. Call 0860 00 7325 or visit sanlamreality. co.za/benefit/ legal-assist for more.
b.1) OUT OF COMMUNITY OF PROPERTY, WITH ACCRUAL In this contract, ‘what was yours before the marriage remains yours’, and ‘what you have earned during the marriage belongs to both of you’ apply. The separate estates are evaluated prior to marriage and then upon divorce, and the difference between the net increases in the estate during the sanlamreality.co.za
GET EXPERT HELP
4/10 couples get divorced before their 10th wedding anniversary. In 2020, COVID-19 increased the divorce rate by 20%. Source: Stats SA 2019, DIY Legal
Photography: Shutterstock, Freepik/stories
marriage is divided equally between the two parties if the marriage is ended. b.2) OUT OF COMMUNITY OF PROPERTY, WITHOUT ACCRUAL With this contract, ‘what’s mine is mine and what’s yours is yours’ applies. Each spouse has separate and independently managed estates, which contain their respective assets and their debts.
For example: if Nombulelo buys a car during her marriage to Sibusiso, she will be the sole owner if the car was in her name. Spouses are responsible for their own debts. So, if Sibusiso takes out a personal loan, only he will be responsible for that loan. If one spouse becomes insolvent (unable to pay debts owed), the other spouse will not become insolvent. “To enter into this agreement, you can have an attorney draft an antenuptial contract that is tailored to your needs. But independent legal advice for each spouse is advisable,” says Zantsi.
2 Cut back on spending Writing for Parent24, legal expert Deborah Di Siena says an uncontested divorce (where both parties amicably agree on the terms) can cost anything from R7 000 to R10 000. If the divorce is contested and the spouses cannot agree, this figure goes up. An attorney starts at around R2 000 an hour, an advocate can cost even more, and court hearings also add up. Over and above the legal costs, separating your lives and home can be really expensive. So, it’s important to make an effort to cut back and save.
WHAT ABOUT CUSTOMARY MARRIAGES? Traditionally among many African cultures, divorce doesn’t exist; however, a customary marriage can be dissolved by a court of law. The Recognition of Customary Marriage Act of 1998 declares that it can be dissolved by an order of decree of a competent court for marriages that are registered. If your marriage is registered, this means that it will be recognised as marriage in community of property. An unregistered customary marriage is recognised as out of community of property, meaning couples lose the right to share in the assets and estate.
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Speak to a financial planner to get personalised advice on how best to cut back and save if you are going through a divorce. Call 086 123 5433 to book an appointment.
3 Secure your medical aid It’s crucial to immediately reinstate medical aid in your own name if you are no longer under your partner’s. This can be costly, as the price of medical aid is higher for a primary member than if you were a dependant.
4 Update your life policies It’s important that this also covers maintenance obligations. For example, if your ex-spouse passes away, maintenance is a preferential claim (a claim deemed more important than another) on the estate,meaning your ex-partner’s beneficiary may be forced to sell assets in order to free up cash to cover this claim.
5 Update your will The Wills Act makes an allowance for divorcees to amend their wills in the three months following the divorce. If you or your former spouse die after the three-month period, the former spouse will be eligible to inherit. Autumn 2021
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health
VACCINATIONS
Vaccine myths
DEBUNKED Vaccines are not a shot in the dark – they save millions of lives every year. Here’s what you need to know about them. For as long as there have been vaccines, there have been people who mistrust them. Some say it’s because of their religious beliefs, or sanitary or political objections. Some people don’t trust science or their government, while others believe the many myths around vaccinations, or simply don’t think they are necessary. Thanks to the COVID-19 vaccine, there is a fresh interest in the safety of vaccines. Research shows that most of our biggest fears about vaccinations are unproven.
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MYTH
MYTH
#1
#2
In 2005, Rolling Stone published an article focusing partly on a conspiracy theory that the US government was covering up evidence that thimerosal, a preservative containing mercury and used in vaccines, was causing autism. The article was amended after flaws and fraud in the science were exposed. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there is no
Children’s vaccinations are spaced out from birth to age 12, with most concentrated in the first 18 months. There is no scientific evidence that this places strain on their immune systems. According to WHO: “If an infant is eligible for more than one type of vaccine, it is safe to give the different
Vaccines contain toxins
Children’s immune systems can’t handle so many vaccinations
Children are exposed to countless bacteria and viruses every day, and a healthy immune system cannot be ‘overloaded’. evidence that links thimerosal to health problems – plus, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also pointed out, it was removed from vaccines in 2001. There is also no evidence that today’s vaccines contain traceable and/or harmful amounts of formaldehyde or aluminium.
THE COVID-19 VACCINE IS FINALLY HERE Vials of vaccines are being delivered to medical facilities nationwide. But it could be a while before it’s your turn. While you wait, continue with prevention efforts such as wearing a mask, social distancing and frequently washing your hands.
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vaccines at different injection sites during the same session.” The Department of Health also emphasises: “Never miss a chance to immunise…. If in doubt whether a child has had a certain dose or not, give that dose. Extra doses aren’t harmful.” Children are exposed to countless bacteria and viruses every day, and a healthy immune system cannot be ‘overloaded’, since its cells are constantly replenished.
MYTH
#3
Vaccines make you sick
Vaccines can cause mild symptoms of the diseases they protect you from, but according to a 2016 study published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, side effects
THE DISEASES YOU ALMOST FORGOT ABOUT (THANKS TO VACCINES)
SMALLPOX Status: eradicated After killing hundreds of millions of people and wreaking havoc for more than 3 000 years, smallpox was eradicated in 1980 following a global vaccination programme by WHO. So far, it is the only infectious disease that’s achieved this distinction.
MEASLES Status: dramatically reduced, with recent upticks owing to non-immunisation After decades of low infection rates, there have been new measles outbreaks in the US among unvaccinated children.
POLIO Status: dramatically reduced, with only a few isolated pockets Africa was declared polio-free this year, with the last case detected in Nigeria in 2016.
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health
VACCINATIONS
THESE VACCINATIONS ARE FREE IN SOUTH AFRICA Immunisation saves millions of lives every year. It works to stimulate the immune system to provide protection against specific infections. Immunisation is available for free at all state clinics in South Africa, says The National Department of Health, with the first round – against polio and tuberculosis – given at birth. Thereafter follow vaccines against diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis B, measles and the rotavirus, among others. Read more about child immunisation at gov.za/services/ child-care/child-immunisation or contact the Department of Health on 012 395 8000.
are less-than-one-in-a-million rare. These symptoms are not a sign of infection, but a sign of the body’s immune response to the vaccine.
MYTH
#4
Vaccines cause autism
The falsehood that the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine could cause autism stems from a now-debunked 1998 study by a UK doctor, Andrew Wakefield. Not only was the claim medically unsound, but a 2004 investigation also showed that he had applied for a patent for an MMR vaccine of his own and was being paid by a lawyer who was trying to sue MMR manufacturers. A subsequent investigation also found that he had performed painful and unnecessary procedures, including
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lumbar punctures and colonoscopies, on children. His paper was retracted, and his medical licence revoked. Yet the myth still persists, with believers cherry-picking data to support baseless claims. One upside of the myth, though, was that it prompted a number of scientific studies – one involving 1.2 million people – with no evidence whatsoever being found that links the MMR vaccine to autism.
GET FREE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE & TRAUMA CARE You have free access to Trauma, Assault & HIV Assist as one of your benefits. Get 24-hour medical assistance and counselling telephonically by calling 0860 00 7325.
MYTH
#5
Natural immunity is better
In some cases, it could be – but just like in Russian roulette, your odds can quickly go south. According to the CDC, if you want to build immunity against measles by contracting measles, your chances of death are one in 500. Yikes.
MYTH
#6
With better hygiene and antibiotics, vaccines are no longer necessary
While disease rates have definitely fallen since humanity started properly washing its hands (even surgeons only started regularly scrubbing up in the 1870s), sanitising and eating healthily, the impact of vaccines on devastating diseases such as measles and polio cannot be denied. sanlamreality.co.za
Text: Christine van Deemter: Photogrpahy: Freepik, Shutterstock
According to a 2016 study published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, side effects are less-than-one-in-a-million rare.
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health
JUNK FOOD
Can JUNK FOOD make you
AGE FASTER? Yes – regularly eating ultraprocessed food can impact our lifespans on a chromosomal level. But there’s a way to combat this.
I
t’s no secret that junk food isn’t good for you, but it wasn’t until recently that scientists could conclude just how bad this indulgence could be for us in the long term. Research presented at the European and International Congress on Obesity in September 2020 confirms that eating lots of ultra-processed foods can double the chance of your DNA and telomere proteins being shortened.
What are telomeres, and why do they matter? Telomeres are the protective end caps on our chromosomes – the thread-like structures in each of our cells that house our DNA. It’s natural for our telomeres to shorten each time our cells divide as part of the ageing process, and the result is a marker of our biological age. But, as research shows, eating more ultra-processed foods can speed up the rate of your biological ageing.
Processed vs ultraprocessed food: which is the bigger enemy? Did you know that the pre-sliced sweet potato
you buy packaged and ready to cook is considered ‘processed’? “Any fundamental changes to agricultural produce can be defined as processed foods,” says Carla Gerryts, a registered dietician and spokesperson for the Association for Dietetics in South Africa. “This includes frozen vegetables and fruit juices – and not all of them are bad!” Processed food’s evil cousin – ultra-processed food – is the addition to your shopping trolley you should be more wary of. As Gerryts says, “This type of processing requires the addition of salt, sugar, fats, preservatives, colourants and other additives to
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How your body benefits from unprocessed food BRAIN Include fatty fish like pilchards and mackerel for their omega-3 fatty acid content, which aids in brain function.
Chronic underhydration can lead to fatigue and even contribute to weight gain. Remember that water intake!
Text: Dominique Bowen; Photography: Shutterstock, Freepik/macrovector
Non-starchy vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, cauliflower, peppers and mushrooms are stars in the longevity department.
make the product’s shelf life last longer. These additions also improve the taste, and create more convenient options for consumers.” So chips, chocolates, soft drinks and even ready-made meals fall into this category.
How junk food harms us in other ways Besides ageing us, other health-related risks of a diet high in ultra-processed food are the development of hypertension, dyslipidemia (higher cholesterol levels), diabetes, non-alcoholic liver disease and colon cancer. Gerryts credits common culprits for an increased risk of these diseases: sodium (salt), sanlamreality.co.za
trans and saturated fatty acids, a lack of fibre, starchy simple carbohydrates and fried red meat.
Food for a longer life “Vegetables should truly be the filler on your plate, contributing to at least 50%,” says Gerryts. “Non-starchy vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, cauliflower, peppers and mushrooms are stars in the longevity department.” She also notes the importance of other food types like antioxidant-rich berries, which can really aid in slowing down the ageing process, contribute to your fibre intake and aid in cancer prevention.
HEART
STOMACH
Introduce the following fat sources to prevent cognitive decline, help appetite regulation and enjoy cardiovascular benefits: avocados, olives, nuts, nut butters. Remember portion control!
Introduce whole and ancient grains such as quinoa, couscous, bulghur wheat and barley to aid in digestive health and promote good gut flora balance.
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Autumn 2021
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club
GET REAL
MEET THE
MEMBER
Clinical psychologist CURWYN MAPALING, 27, lives in Makhanda and has been a Reality Club member since May 2016.
Make the most of your Reality Club membership These are all the benefits and discounts available for you to enjoy.
“Sanlam Reality allows you to delegate things that are important to you while also giving you peace of mind. Ultimately, fewer hassles, more time, and all of this almost instantly.”
“The Sanlam Reality App makes life more comfortable” “Being able to avoid unplanned waiting periods and not having to stand in long queues is sometimes the best form of social distancing. For example, the App allows me to book my discounted movie tickets directly.”
“Get quotes effortlessly” “With the Personal Assistance (PA) benefit, I’ve been able to save through the variety of options offered, and rest assured that I end up with a trustworthy product and/or receive excellent service. “We recently had a wedding in the family and
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Autumn 2021
BENEFIT YOU HAVE A PA IN YOUR POCKET! Don’t waste time on sourcing quotes – let your free Personal Assistant benefit do it for you, 24/7. Visit sanlamreality.co.za/ benefit/personalassistant.
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Wealth TaxTim
Easy tax returns with TaxTim
Wealth Sense
Online financial assistance
Day-to-Day savings Discount Coupons
Savings at Shoprite, Checkers and Checkers Hyper
Health Planet Fitness Gym
20% Off a 12-month contract
JustGym
Up to 60% off a 12-month contract
Travel Intercape Bus
Get 50% off; two tickets per year
Entertainment
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the PA was incredibly helpful. We sourced quotes effortlessly from various service providers and that was an instant financial relief on the couple.”
Nu Metro movies and refreshments
R30 for a 2D ticket, R35 for a refreshment combo (10/month)
NEW! Showmax
Three months’ entertainment streaming per year
Reality Club magazine
Three times a year
Personal services Personal Assistant
On call, 24/7, 365 days a year
Dial-A-Teacher
Educational help and call-back service
NEW! Ivy Online education platform
Access a free online supplementary education platform for Grades 8-12, and a complete online schooling platform at discounted tutor rates for Grades 10-12
Legal Assist
Legal helpline (24/7)
Trauma, Assault & HIV Assist
Expert assistance helpline (24/7)
Use this benefit in your Sanlam Reality App. For more, call 0860 00 7325, visit sanlamreality.co.za or email info@sanlamreality.co.za. Benefit T&Cs apply. sanlamreality.co.za
Interview: Dominique Bowen; Photography: Shutterstock. Pricing correct at time of print.
“I would definitely recommend the programme”
Travel with peace of mind
As a Reality Club member, you can get 50% (up to R375) off two Intercape Bus tickets and reach your destination safely. Your travel checklist Mask Sanitiser
All safety measures are in place and partners will follow due protocol.
Visit sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/bus. T&Cs apply.
KINGJAMES 51022
Four hours. That’s how fast Sanlam pays most funeral claims. Terms and conditions apply. Excludes Sanlam Employee Benefits Funeral Insurance.
So that you have the time to plan the funeral, the space to grieve, and the support to focus on what really matters: celebrating their memory and the times you spent together. To find out more about Sanlam Funeral Plans, SMS “Funeral” to 37166 for a callback.
Sanlam is a Licensed Financial Services Provider.