Ntshebele

NTSHEBELE GAUTENG

M AG A Z I N E

OCT-DEC 2016 ISSUE

MEC MAZIBUKO

KICK - STARTS THE SCHOOL READINESS CAMPAIGN

OPENS STATE OF THE ARTS FACILITIES

FITNESS BUNNY CHANGE IS

AHEAD PostHolidays detox

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up close & personal with Themba Masondo

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we are all

DIFFERENT and that is

BEAUTIFUL happy 2017 SACR

SACR CONGRATULATES MATRIC CLASS OF 2016! 81,1%

Compliments of the New Year Greetings to you all my wonderful staff!

I’m quite certain that you had a restful festive holiday break. May the New Year bring us more wonderful opportunities to work together. A New Year is about resolving to embrace progressive ideas and thinking to make society better. Here’s wishing you the gift of peace and prosperity throughout 2017… You are all officially welcomed.

I wish that each and every one of you could within time internalise the Ten Pillar Programme outlined by the Premier, especially the over-arching framework of TMR (Transformation, Modernisation and Reindustrialisation) into our plans/programmes and work ethics this year. It was Henri Berson (French Philosopher) who said: “To exist is to change, to change is to mature, to mature is to go on creating oneself endlessly” There are a lot of changes ahead colleagues. We are going to transform all our five (5) corridors. We are going to be active Public Servants, who serve communities on a daily basis. I therefore encourage all of you to look at change with a different approach, as a step forward to your career. Leave your comfort zone, masisebenzeni colleagues. We are here to serve the people of Gauteng.

I therefore appeal to all of you that we curb absenteeism in the workplace; and give our best in all we do. This is our last quarter of the 2016/17 fiscal year, I therefore urge you to track all your unit’s targets set out, that we step up performance and manage our expenditure properly.

Let us put our hands on the deck as we embark on this amazing journey for 2017.

Together, we move Gauteng City Region Forward.

Ms Faith Mazibuko MEC for Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation

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“‘Everyone can rise above their circumstances and achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do’’ -Nelson Mandela.

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INSI DE THE MAG NEWS

FEATURES

10 Corridor Meetings

18 Up close & Personal with Themba Masondo

16 Opening of Facilities 24 Fitness Bunny: Bulelwa Tom 22 Mandela Remembrance Walk 34 Gauteng Crafters 28 Kasi Community Games 36 Year-End Parties

Contact Us

39 Tumelo visits Czech Republic

Tel: 011 355 2703/2534/2707

29 16 Days of Activism

LIFESTYLE

QUARTERLY

Post-Holiday Detox

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32 Wedding Bells

34 How to financially survive January

38 Happy Feet 38 Birthdays

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Must Hear

42

Must Watch

45 Retirement 101

Email: SACR.Communications@gauteng.gov.za Web: www.sacr.gpg.gov.za SOCIAL MEDIA @Instagram.com/GautengSACR @facebook.com/GautengSACR @twitter/GautengSACR Physical Address: 35 Rissik street, Johannesburg

Editorial Team MASHUDU MAGADA Editor-in-Chief

VINOLIA CHERE Content & Design

Zanele Nkumane

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editor’s note C

ompliments of the new season dear colleagues. We hope you enjoyed your holidays and returned back safely from your respective journeys. It’s the New Year and I bet we all have resolutions. Well, mine is to ensure that Ntshebele keeps you informed and entertained non-stop. Thank you to all who contributed to our first issue of the magazine, the feedback we received is excellent and it reflects good mutual relationship amongst all of us as employees.

Over the third quarter, which was towards year end, the busiest time of the year, the Department hosted a number of events such as the Gauteng Sport Awards, Recreation Day, 16 Days of Activism, Mandela Remembrance Walk and Kasi Games to name a few. We thank everyone who participated and celebrated 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against women and children which is an international awareness campaign that condemns abuse to women and children, the pledge was signed and that really shows dedication. I must applaud the Employee Health and Wellness Unit for running the World AIDS Day campaign and continuously engaging employees for health screenings during wellness days. It’s important to take good care of ourselves.

MEC Faith Mazibuko emphasized the importance of SACR employees attending departmental events. We are very proud of all employees who participated at the third annual Mandela Remembrance Walk in honour of the late Madiba, celebrating and reflecting on the life and legacy of our beloved former state President Nelson Mandela.

May you continue to do the same for all departmental events and programmes.

We trust that this issue will inspire you to share your work/life stories with us so that we can build mutual relationships among ourselves.

Thank you to all who share, contributors and the editorial team.

Enjoy!

M. Magada Editor-in-Chief

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he Department, with assistance from the Office of the Premier is currently reviewing the organisational structure. The structural review of the DSACR emanates from the awareness that as a lead department in Outcome 14 “Building Nation and Social cohesion� there is a need to reposition the department by aligning its new mandate to the Provincial priorities such as modernisation of the public services etc.

MEC Faith Mazibuko coordinated staff meetings for all corridors towards the end of 2016, with the aim of sensitising employees about the change management process that is underway.

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MEC Mazibuko visited all the corridors to further inspect working conditions in the cluster offices as well as to interact with corridor employees on their state of work. Employees from various offices engaged with the MEC to raise their respective concerns.

The MEC informed employees that focus will be on strengthening the work of corridors so that our communities can access government services swiftly. She also reiterated that people must be passionate, committed and dedicated to their work.

We are changing how the Dep back to servicing our communiti

“Do your work diligently and respect the community you work with, even if they insult you or shout, you must remain calm at all times.” said MEC Mazibuko.

One of the key issue raised among others was the lack of working resources and MEC Mazibuko assured everyone that the issues are being taken into account and will be resolved as soon as possible. MEC Mazibuko encouraged employees to knock on doors of ward councillors and develop working relationships with them as they are also stakeholders.

partment operates, focus is going ies and promoting healthy lifestyles.

The draft organisational structure is currently being processed and is pending approval.

The primary aim of this review is to enhance institutional capacity within the Department to deliver services to the public and to realise statutory and political mandates.

MEC Faith Mazibuko has assured all that the Department is going to change positively as regions are going to be capacitated. “We are changing how the Department operates, focus is going back to servicing our communities and promoting healthy lifestyles.”

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MEC FAITH MAZIBUKO WELCOMES THE DIEPSLOOT COMBINED SCHOOL LEARNERS BACK

by SACR Media

A

s schools prepare to start their 2017 curriculum, MEC for Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Ms Faith Mazibuko visited the Diepsloot Combined School on Wednesday, 11 January 2017, as part of the Gauteng school readiness campaign.

The visit was meant to give the school morale support. MEC Mazibuko met the school management team to assess among others academic preparedness and availability of stationery. MEC Mazibuko gave away school uniform to needy learners and sporting equipment to help learners in their sporting activities.

An imbizo with community stakeholders as well as the public was held later in the evening at the New Creation Ministries Hall in an effort to encourage community support towards the school.

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“O

“Hey Rendi, Check this out...”

OMG this issue is lit, a must get.”

“Wow amazing!”

~Ntshebele~

“We inform; we educate; we entertain, bringing you quartely news at its best ”

Official Opening Of Kagiso Me M

EC Faith Mazibuko and the newly elected Mayor of Mog the art Kagiso Memorial and Recreation Centre and Rietv the opening of the monument which among others is aimed veterans and fallen heroes within the Mogale City. The Kagiso the community can use freely. The centre has a gym, two danc the Rietvallei Library, which is part of government’s objective educational resources, especially in underprivileged communit Together, Moving Gauteng City Region Forward!

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emorial & Rietvallei Library

gale City Michael Holenstein officially opened the state of vallei Library on 19 December 2016. The day started with d at identifying and recognising contributions of struggle o Memorial will also serve as a Recreation Centre which ce studios and two squash courts. The second facility was to improve socio-economic conditions through access to ties.

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In one line tell us who is Themba?

Easy going and enjoys spending time with people.

Where do you originate from?

I am originally from the Limpopo Province.

I was born in Chavani village, about 30km from Makhado (formerly known as Louis Trichardt).

Born

How do you manage work-life balance?

Planning is key for maintaining my work-life balance.

I normally plan my week taking into account immediate home and work deliverables, and other voluntary activist responsibilities.

However, sometimes things often really get hectic and one end up being snowed under with work. Whatever the circumstances may be, I always try my best to create adequate time for my family and friends; pastime activities and exercise. I refuse to allow work to be the only activity in my life. I create time to live, love and laugh!

10 Oct

What does your job entail in a nutshell?

th

My job has three components. I assist with the development and review of the Departmental operational (internal) and GPG wide sectoral policies. The second aspect involves conducting basic and fieldwork research for the Department.

I also have a responsibility to develop and coordinate the implementation of a Departmental Knowledge Management Strategy. This strategy is not yet finalised.

How long have you worked for the Department?

It has been two years and few months. I joined the Department in March 2014.

Up close and personal with Themba Masondo How would you advise a young person who would want to pursue a career in Policy, Where can they start?

The most important requirement is to have the necessary academic qualifications either in management or social sciences. Policy work requires a certain level of analytical and conceptual capabilities, and a fair understanding of how South African public service works. Anyone who is interested in policy work must also keep track of the latest developments in an area of policy focus.

With these qualities anyone can pursue a career in policy.

Explain your leadership/management style?

I think my leadership style can be summed into three words: consultative, open and goal oriented. I value the views and perspectives of my colleagues on how our work can best be accomplished. I prefer an open and honest working relationship with people I work with.

I give sincere credit where it is due. I am also not afraid of frank and difficult conversations when unconvinced about a conduct or performance of any of my colleagues. My colleagues can also talk to me anytime about anything that bothers them, even if it involves me. At the end of the day, there is unlikely to be issues when we are all committed to achieving the set goals and targets.

Favourite dish?

Pasta & Mince

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Themba Masondo If you had to change one thing about the department what would it be?

If we can all take pride and fully support the good work of our Department. This Department organises or coordinates a lot of events aimed at expanding the sporting, cultural and artistic capabilities of the people in the Gauteng City Region. My observation is that some of us do not fully support the events organised by our own Department. I wish all staff members can make the effort and attend some of these events.

Have you travelled the world? Which destination would love to visit and why?

No, not really. I have travelled the world but not on my own terms. In most cases it was travel for research commitments.

I would like to visit Cuba on my own not as part of any predetermined (work) commitments. I have always wanted to visit Cuba, my friends tell me that it’s a very nice country.

What was the worst moment you have ever had on the job / tell us why ?

When I heard about the passing away of my former colleague, Mzwandile Skosana. I worked very well with him. May he rest in peace.

What is the biggest misconception you feel people have about working in this Department or Gov in general?

There is a perception among some people that public servants are not fully committed to their responsibilities. In reality, however, we have a lot of truly committed public servants who go all-out to ensure that our Department delivers efficient service delivery in communities. At least with my experience in this Department, the idea that all public servants are just idling remains a misconception.

Lastly, any advise you would like to give to everyone, generally.

Just work hard, and really hard! Let the fruits of your hard work and dedication be your silent voice. Don’t go around asking what people think of you. You won’t like what you’ll hear.

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Mandela Remembrance Walk

by Godfrey Pitje

T

he third annual Mandela Remembrance Walk took place on Sunday, 11 December 2016, and got the people of Gauteng moving in honour of Madiba. It started at the Union Buildings in capital city of South Africa.

Hosted by the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation together with the City of Tshwane and Nelson Mandela Foundation this year’s edition event was the most popular by far.

Thousands of people took on the 5.3km steep walk, going through the Pretoria CBD all the way to KgoĹĄi Mampuru II Correctional Service Centre.

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Gauteng Premier David Makhura, Tshwane Mayor Solly Msimanga, MEC for Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Faith Mazibuko joined by representatives from Mandela family -Ndileka and Mbuso Mandela, the CEO of the Nelson Mandela Foundation and struggle stalwarts including Advocate George Bizos, Sophia de Bruyn and many others started proceedings with the wreath laying ceremony by the Mandela statue at the Union Buildings.

To start the Walk a number of doves were released into the air by Premier Makhura and his entourage.

A reflection on Madiba’s Legacy

The walk followed the route that was used to transport the body of the former statesman as he lay in state for the mourning of the nation. It was attended by people from all walks of life, including a significant number of elderly and veterans who remembered uTata for uniting the country and making South African a rainbow nation.

Gauteng Premier David Makhura said that the next edition of the walk next year will include a fun run for the scores of young people who prefer to run the distance.

As the walk grows in appeal and popularity, attracting people beyond the borders of Gauteng, the event will evolve to meet the needs of the people who take part to celebrate the life of Madiba.

The event was a massive success, attendees had a fun filled and family friendly day, enjoying aerobics session and performances from an array of music artists who entertained the crowd. Participants, proud to have been a part of such a special event and with a souvenir medal in hand vowed to support the walk, ensuring the event will forge ahead for years to come.​

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Bulelwa Tom

1. How did you get started in fitness?

I started body building from Primary, I was an active girl, by that time sports was not taken seriously even my parents were not so supportive when it came to the sport I had chosen. My father tried to stop me, but I managed to join the guys I trained with secretly, I had to lie and say I am going to the library. It became a day to day habit I fell in love with and never stopped exercising after that.

2. How did u stay motivated in the career?

They always say you have to love what you do in order to be successful in anything in life. That’s if you want it badly enough, you will achieve it. It can’t be that simple. We can all fall short of our goals despite our best intentions. For me I’ve learned there’s more to it than loving what you do. Wanting it badly enough is only half the battle. What happens when you’re faced with the reality of what it really takes to achieve your goals? That’s where passion comes in. The word passion comes from the Latin root, Pati-which means to suffer or endure. The intense emotions of “love ‘or “wanting something badly” enough are just the first layers of passion… the first steps of an endless journey.

3. What is your favourite music when you’ve working out?

Hip-hop keeps me going, balanced and energetic.

4. What is your favourite cheat meal?

My weakness is pizza, after having it I know I need to burn those calories.

5. How do you deal with cravings?

Stay positive, mind over matter. Avoid having cash lying around so that you will not be tempted to buy Junk. Water is the best, you could just try and drink atleast 8 glasses a day.

6. What does your diet consist of?

Fibre, protein, fruits, and natural fats. Having a good eating plan is very important to maintain a great body.

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7. What are your favourite workouts?

Stomach, Squads and Shoulders. At the gym I warm up for about just to uplift my mood. In 30minutes I do shoulder 4 sets, 15, 12, 10, 8 raps. The more you add weights the number drops, it goes along with all of my exercises. Goals are often centered on losing weight or looking better.

8. Who do you look up to?

Kathy Drayton, she originates from the United States. It is very hard being a woman in a sport that is male dominant. There are a number of challenges but you must remain rooted. I also learned to believe in myself, that only my best is good enough for me.

9. Do you use any Supplements if so\what do you recommend?

I started using supplements January 2016, they really worked in boosting my body. I would recommend EVOX 100% (Whey Protein) and USN CREATINE (Transport System), it builds muscles slowly, also repairs at the very same time and provides endurance that lasts the whole day.

10. Any plans for 2017?

To see myself growing in this sport and compete on International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) and Nationals. Also helping young women who would like to see themselves in this particular sport (bodybuilding) as their personal coach. I am a qualified coach trained by SACR to Generic coaching in 2010.

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S

ACR supported a number of community games during the festive season to keep the community involved and entertained during the festive season. The games were hosted in different areas in johannesburg namely Lucas “masterpieces�, Moripe Goodwill Games in Atteridgeville, Joseph Makhanya Games in Kagiso Ext 12, Imbewu Entle Youth Development Football Touranament in Daveyton, and VOSTOC Diski 99 in Vosloorus. #Gautengsacratwork #Siyabangena

The Golden Team Gauteng

by Zanele Nkumane

I

t was a joyous event that was held in Polokwane where the National Active Ageing Golden Games were held with the aim to promote healthy lifestyles amongst senior citizens. This was a week-long event held from the 23rd October to 29th October 2016, at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane. Amongst others, the team participated in dress walking, brisk walking and 800 meters run.

Team Gauteng scooped second position in the National Active Ageing Golden Games, a great success for team Gauteng. It was amazing seeing senior citizens of South Africa having such a good time under the blazing sun of Limpopo seeing their smiles as they participated in various sporting codes made it all worthwhile.

We are looking forward to the 2017 Golden Games hoping that Team Gauteng will bring the Top Achiever cup home.

Mr & Mrs Mokoena

Mr & Mrs Maake

Mr & Mrs Tampe

Therefore what God has Let no man separate

Mr & Mrs Matloha

joined together, e... Matthew 19:6

Mr & Mrs Mamabolo

Mr & Mrs Mabena

The Department of Small Business developement through the Cape Craft Design Institute has rolled out a series of nationwide workshops in the provinces. For this purpose, the Gauteng Tourism Authority and the Department of Sport, Arts Culture and Recreation assisted by coordinating the workshops held in Gauteng.

The intention of these workshops is to ensure that all provinces are given the opportunity to have access to capacity development for their businesses. This is made possible through a good understanding of the unique needs and challenges that each craft enterprise faces in the current economic climate.

During these workshops, crafters were provided with the business skills needed to develop and operate a viable craft business and to engage effectively with the online media and retail markets.

The Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation’s Visual Arts, Craft and Design unit together with Communications worked tirelessly to assist participants document their products.

By Palesa Mopeli

This was done in preparation for the National Database and E-portal workshop which required each enterprise to have high-resolution pictures and a short unique brief of either the production specifics or the enterprise’s background, which were up-loaded onto the PEEK website.

The E-commerce Readiness Workshop incorporated aspects of business vision, managing finances, and marketing and communication tools. While the E-portal and National Database Training Workshop focused on providing the following: a background of CCDI as a sector development agency, the importance of a national database that can be accessed by all stakeholders throughout South Africa, the E-portal’s objectives in assisting enterprises from the margins to the centre of the industry and the PEEK website as an incentive for joining the national database.

Both workshops comprised of practical and in-depth content which can be highly useful when implemented accordingly with the correct support structures. These workshops exposed craft enterprises to new online media that can be useful as marketing tools and platforms that enterprises can access to grow, generate sustainable income and develop recognisable brands.

Gauteng Crafters 35

Happy!

YEAR END TEAM BUILDING SESSIONS

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Happy Feet..

Phakamile would like to introduce her newborn baby boy..

Luthando Siyabonga Mahamba Born: 24 November 2016 Congratulations are in order for your new bundle of joy!

Libra September 23 - October 22 Strengths: Cooperative,diplomatic, gracious, fair-minded, social Weaknesses: Indecisive, avoids confrontations, will carry a grudge Libra likes: Harmony, gentleness, sharing with others, the outdoors Libra dislikes: Violence, injustice, loudmouths, conformity

Scorpio October 23 - November 21 Strengths: Resourceful, brave, passionate, stubborn, a true friend Weaknesses: Distrusting, jealous, secretive, violent Scorpio likes: Truth, facts, being right, longtime friends, teasing, a grand passion Scorpio dislikes: Dishonesty, revealing secrets, passive people

Sagittarius November 22 - December 21

Capricorn December 22 - January 19

Strengths: Generous, idealistic, great sense of humor Weaknesses: Promises more than can deliver, very impatient, will say anything no matter how undiplomatic Sagittarius likes: Freedom, travel, philosophy, being outdoors Sagittarius dislikes: Clingy people, being constrained, off-the-wall theories, details

Strengths: Responsible, disciplined, self-control, good managers Weaknesses: Know-it-all, unforgiving, condescending, expecting the worst Capricorn likes: Family, tradition, music, understated status, quality craftsmanship Capricorn dislikes: Almost everything at some point

Hello Colleagues!

M

y name is Tumelo Moloi. I’m an intern within the Creative Industries Directorate. I was afforded an opportunity by the Department to visit Czech Republic capital city Prague, a home to grand th 9 century Prague Castle, a preserved medieval old town and statue-lined Charles Bridge.

The International Cultural Leadership Summit was intended for managers of cultural and arts organisations, artists, students, academics, and representatives of ministries of culture and other public agencies serving the cultural sector. The Summit was held in the Suk Hall of the Rudolfinum in Prague (Czech Republic) in September 2016. I was intrigued by the presentation of leadership from the Devos Institute of Arts Management that had been listed as a keynote on the Agenda. The presentation explored topics such as; strategic and artistic planning, fundraising, and marketing which motivated and inspired me to attend.

As a special added value of this event I found the opportunity to network with other professionals across the world, which was an exceptional opportunity for horizontal exchange of experience. I perceived this also as an occasion to familiarise myself with good practices as a channel for my career development. Furthermore I used this opportunity to express my willingness to share the knowledge in my country upon my return.

I’m grateful for this extraordinary opportunity to participate at the summit. It was a real honour, and priviledge to be with international pioneers serving the arts and culture fraternity with integrity.

Notably, I’m honoured to have had the opportunity to represent my country, South Africa. I’m grateful to the event organisers, Devos Institute of Arts Management at the University of Maryland: United State of America and Czech Republic for the invitation. A special gratitude goes to National Arts Council of South Africa, Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, (Mr Daddy Nakana and Ms Shirley Naran, in particular) and my friend Lorato Molepo for their support and continued inspiration. Thank you...

Artist name: Thandiswa Mazwai Album name: Belede Year Released: 2016

Artist name: King Sifiso Album name: Ilanga Year Released: 2016

a c o L k e L Artist name: Vusi Nova Album name: Walk into Light Year Released: 2016

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s i l a r e k k

Artist name: Amanda Black Album name: Amazulu Year Released: 2016

Artist name: Sands Album name: Tigi Year Released: 2016

Artist name: Black Motion Album name: Ya Badimo Year Released: 2016

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Movie Director: Thabang Moley Happiness is a Four-Letter Word Joburg does “chick flick” with a difference in this tale of three ambitious black women trying to find happiness while maintaining the image of respectability and success.

Director: Akin Omotoso Tell Me Sweet Something A love story with Joburg firmly at its heart. Came in at 5th spot in its opening week at SA cinemas, competing with major international studio films like The Southpaw and Fantastic Four.

Director: Sara Blecher Ayanda A modern African tale set in Joburg’s Afropolitan community of Yeoville, Ayanda won a Special Jury prize at the 2015 Los Angeles Film Fest before being released in US theatres.

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Time Director: Brett Michael Innes Sink A finely crafted drama about a Mozambican domestic worker living in Joburg, Sink explores new territory for South African films.

Earned official selection at the 2016 Atlanta Film Fest.

Director: Mandla DubeKalushi An authentic African biopic based on the journey of Solomon Mahlangu from teenage hawker and “train-surfer� in Mamelodi to human rights legend and martyr.

Director: Grant Humphreys Taking Earth The first sci-fi feature film produced in SA since the internationally acclaimed District 9. Has secured a sales agent from Canada, and had its world market premiere at the 2016 Berlin Film Festival.

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Retirement 101

Importance of saving for your retirement Early planning for retirement is critical because it typically takes many years to accumulate the necessary funds to live comfortably when you no longer enjoy the advantages of a salary. If you begin your investing early in your working life, it will allow funds to accumulate and grow over the subsequent decades, so that you have substantial resources for navigating your retirement years.

It is always a good thing to start saving for retirement as soon as you receive your first pay cheque. When you start saving during your twenties, your money has about forty years to grow and earn interest before you retire. On the other hand, if you start saving when you are in your forties, your money will only have twenty years to grow and you will lose out on a lot of interest.

As a start, you must calculate how much money you will need to retire comfortably and also how much you need to save on a monthly basis to get you there. It is also a good idea to track your progress at least once a year to see where you stand and if you will attain your retirement goal.

You can do this with the help of online quality retirement calculators.

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What should my financial priorities be?

20s: In your 20s, your focus should be on paying off any outstanding debts, such as overdraft facilities, credit card debt and study loans.

30s: In your 30s, it may be necessary to shift your financial goals towards the purchase of a house or perhaps to expand of your family. Carefully monitor existing debts and make sure that you are making good progress in paying them off.

This is also an excellent time to join your company pension scheme or to invest in a personal retirement annuity. Other long-term investments should also be considered at this stage.

40s: In your 40s, you should focus on saving, so acquiring a share portfolio or savings account becomes essential at this stage. At this point, all salary increases and bonuses should be seen as an opportunity to contribute more to your pension fund or savings account.

50s: This is the time during which you have to decide on your exact retirement age. It must serve as a guideline for your saving strategy going forward, as this will determine the amount of effort you will need to put into reaching your retirement goals.

How often should you revisit your retirement plan?

It is generally a good idea to review your retirement investment decisions once every year. If you’ve had life-changing events like a promotion, additions to your family, changes in your health status or anything else that might cause you to retire earlier or later than initially envisaged, consider having a conversation with your financial adviser to see how these events affect your retirement contributions.

How can I get my spending under control?

Many people have trouble saving money and often find it impossible to make ends meet. Out of desperation, many of them feel that earning an extra income is the only way to survive. The sad fact is that most of them still struggle with saving, despite the increase in income. Start by determining the exact flow of funds into, and out of your bank account on a monthly basis.

Once you know exactly what your spending habits look like, you can start to control them. One of the biggest culprits that keeps South Africans from saving is the fact that too many people live above their pay grades. Buy cheaper and smarter. Also avoid incurring additional debt that will ultimately only keep you from reaching your financial goals for longer.

Under which circumstances is it acceptable to cash out your pension money?

Preferably not before your official retirement date. The problem with withdrawing before retirement is that you are taxed at a much higher rate.

The first issue is that, if you change jobs, or withdraw from your pension or provident preservation funds before age 55, you will only receive R25 000 tax free compared to R500 000 upon retirement.

Second, people who use their pension funding to consolidate or settle debt very seldom adjust their expenditure budgets and keep on spending at the same rate as before, leaving them with not enough extra income to “catch up� on their pension savings.

Source: www.fin24.com

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DETOX

H

olidays are over and surely you were feasting on tons of cookies, fizzy drinks, alcoholic beverages and the holiday cheese plates, it’s safe to say you may be feeling the need for a reset.

POST-HOLIDAY

The good news is that you don’t have to resort to a crash diet or hours upon hours of exercise to get back on track.

Your body is resilient and knows how to heal itself. Here are a few gentle ways you can help it along the way.

LEMON-INFUSED WATER Begin your day with warm lemon water and sip it throughout the day. Warm lemon water alkalizes your body, revs up your metabolism, and curbs cravings throughout the day. Consuming enough water is essential to help your liver and kidneys filter out toxins. add cucumber, ginger & fruits to enhance the flavour.

GYM FLOW You can start by walking, jogging, doing aerobics and going to Gym to keep your metabolism going and sweat off the excess fat and toxins. 30 mins a day goes a long way. don’t forget to stretch and hydrate while at it!

EPSOM BATH SALTS Hot water draws toxins out of the body to the skin’s surface, and while the water cools it pulls toxins from the skin. Epsom salts augment this detoxification by causing you to sweat. These natural salts also help to cleanse your colon when added to water.

CHOOSE PLANT-BASED MEALS Although you may be tempted to eat very little after eating so poorly, it’s important to focus on nourishing, healthy meals. Think fruits, veggies, and plant-based proteins. Try sipping on warm green tea before and after meals to keep your metabolism and digestive fire strong.

YOGA Yoga has been proven to increase health and body awareness allowing yoga participants to better control their bodies. From flexibility increases to better body alignment, Yoga can help with a variety of ailments.

Source: www.marieclaire.com

HOW TO FINANCIALLY SURVIVE JANUARY

W

ith Christmas and holiday time over, many people will struggle to financially survive January. Marietjie Esterhuizen, president of Rocci Roodepoort Chamber of Commerce and Industry has compiled a list of useful tips for readers to manage their finances this month:

Compile a shopping list Make a shopping list before going shopping and stick to it. According to Esterhuizen, it has been proven that people tend to over-spend when shopping on an empty stomach, so eat something, before shopping.

Draw up a budget And stick to it. “Get into the habit of saving a small monthly amount,” said Esterhuizen.

If you cannot pay your debts talk to your creditors Do not buy brand names, if you cannot afford it Compare prices Look for specials and shop around. According to Esterhuizen, it’s easy to look up advertisements on the internet.

Plan ahead “Start planning for next month and even for next Christmas.

Put a fix percentage or amount in a separate account.

This will help you get into the habit of saving and will prevent overspending next Christmas.”

Pack homemade lunchboxes for school or work By doing this you can save money. It is also a much healthier option.

Plan lift clubs Start a lift club and save money on petrol by travelling together to school, work and the gym.

Use electricity and water wisely “You will not only save money, but will also assist with the country’s shortage.”

Clear your clutter “If it’s not used in months, sell it. You will be surprised about the value of these items,” said Esterhuizen.

By making small, but much-needed changes it will be easy to not only save money this January, but can also take on habits that will last a lifetime.

Pay cash if you can Stay away from credit cards. “Credit is expensive.”

Use loyalty points to pay for your purchase

Source: www.roodepoortnorthsider.co.za

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