Leadership Botswana - Volume 01/01 2015

LEADERSHIP THOUGHT LEADERSHIP & CRITICAL THINKING FOR BOTSWANA

VOL.1, ISSUE 1

BASHI GAETSALOE DOING THINGS DIFFERENTLY AT THE HELM OF BDC

LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

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VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015 LEADERSHIP

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LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

In this issue 26

Sir Q.k.J Masire: A Testament To True Leadership

4

10 12 18 25 36 39 43

Perspective

48 51 56 60 63 70 76 80 82

Leadership

True Leadership

Cover Feature Bashi Gaetsaloe

Technology Innovation

In One Picture Finding Beauty In Despair

Wealth Management The Path To Financial Independence

Insight Actions Speak Louder Than Words

Nothing Succeeds Like Success The MultiChoice Botswana Story

Finding Your Executive Power

Q&A Botswana Couriers CEO, Leatile Medupe

Changing The Game Tebogo Lebotse

Career What Are You Great At?

Q&A Entrepreneur, Lesego Mathware

Travel Break Kubu Island

More Dynamic, More Impressive The New BMW X5 M And X6 M

Lifestyle It’s In The Bag

Observation Networking

30

Uncoverable? Life Insurance Companies Violate The Law

Contents | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

LEADERSHIP

32 20

The Making Of An Educator: Botswana Accountancy College’s Mike Lesolle

72

An Icon Reborn: The All New Audi Tt Coupé©

Taking Liberty: Lulu Rasebotsa

66

Social entrepreneurship TAKES GRIT AND HEART

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LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

Publisher’s Note Time and again we are asked what the most

Botswana, and outline what it really means for

important legacy this generation can leave

our communities. A collection of the country’s

behind for the future of Botswana, and the

finest have grouped together to help make

answer is simple. Leadership. Only by truly

this magazine a reality, and our heartfelt

understanding, and exploiting, world class

thanks goes out to all of those who have

leadership – across all industries, sectors,

contributed, participated, advertised with us

organisations and Government - will we be

and promoted Leadership Botswana. Without

able to put Botswana at the heart of a strong

you, it wouldn’t have happened, so thank you.

and emerging Africa on the global stage.

It’s been an exciting journey to get this far, but Leadership Botswana is a unique publication

make no mistake - we have only just begun.

showcasing thought leadership and critical

Leadership Botswana will become the central

thinking for Botswana; an opportunity to

resource for leadership in Botswana, and we

share the stories of those who have ‘been

want to hear about all YOUR success stories

there, done that’ and learnt the hard way

from across the country and beyond. Like

the importance of leadership in fostering

good leadership in practice, we want to make

innovation, growing businesses, managing a

this a vibrant, two-way conversation.

crisis and nurturing the best talent.

“

So buckle up and join us for the ride because

... an opportunity to share the stories of those who have ‘been there, done that’ and learnt the hard way the importance of leadership...”

International Group Publisher: Botswana Publishing Partner: Africa Group Publisher: Sales and Marketing: Project Manager & Production: Editor: Creative Direction: Images: Public Relations:

Every edition will feature CEO interviews,

our mission is clear and simple - we want to

leadership profiles and articles from opinion

put leadership front and centre in Botswana.

formers, entrepreneurs and ‘best in class’

It’s no small task; the future of our country

organisations – people with cutting-edge

depends on it.

ideas who turn them into reality. These are the people with a vision for the future that will inspire ground-breaking economic growth for

Sven Boermeester Best of Botswana Publishing Thapelo Letsholo Balepeng Montwedi, Delphine Lungah Lebogang Bokole Peta Krost Maunder Avrio Communications PressPhoto - www.thepressphoto.com, Image Lounge, Pako Lesejane, BOPA RedPepper PRC

Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in ‘Leadership’ vol.1. The views expressed in this magazine, represent those of the authors and not the staff, management or owners of ‘Leadership’. Neither ‘Leadership’, Best of Botswana Publishing, RedPepper PRC, Avrio Communications nor GVPedia Communications cc assume any responsibility for errors, omissions or submissions by participators. The editor reserves the right to amend and alter copy and visual material as deemed necessary.

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Contact details: Best of Botswana Publishing PO Box 26382 Gaborone, Botswana • Tel: +267 3951363 • Fax: +267 3951368 • Email: info@redpepperprc.com In Partnership with: www.GVPedia.com • Global Village Partnerships: info@GVPedia.com

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Thapelo Letsholo

VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015 LEADERSHIP

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LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

Contributors Chedza Mogae

is an independent researcher/writer/journalist and trainer who is most well known for her insightful political and socioeconomic commentaries in Botswana’s Weekend Post and Sunday Standard broadsheets. With over 15 years’ experience in the communications and research space, she holds a degree on Sociology and Politics from the University of Botswana and a Master of Laws in International Politics from Fudan University in China.

Uyapo Ndadi

is Managing Partner at Ndadi Law Firm. Ndadi has extensive experience in human rights and constitutional law issues and is celebrated internationally for his advocacy work, particularly on strategic impact litigation. He has been honoured as an outstanding Top Ten Young Person of The World, and was specifically recognised by USA President Barack Obama by inviting his input on the role of young people in the Africa- USA relations. uyapo@ndadilawfirm.com

René Carayol

Liesl Venter

is a seasoned South African journalist who cut her teeth in the world of newspapers before embarking on a freelance career. Writing for several business and lifestyle publications she is based in Cape Town. She holds a BA Honours degree in Communication from the University of the Free State.

Setshwano Ngope is a

is CEO of the Inspired Leaders Network (ILN), author and popular BBC broadcaster He is the best-selling author of the leadership and culture bible, ‘Corporate Voodoo’ and has had the privilege of working closely with some of the world’s best leaders; from former US President Bill Clinton to the seventh SecretaryGeneral of the United Nations Kofi Annan and from former US Secretary of State Colin Powell to Sir Richard Branson.

thought leader in personal financial management.

She writes personal finance articles and runs seminars & workshops to improve the public’s financial literacy levels. Setshwano is currently the Head of Retail at BIFM Unit Trusts, and is passionate about promoting Batswana’s investment in financial instruments.

Pako Lesejane is a Landscape Fine Art Photographer who’s passion for photography began when he was about 12 years old, as he assisted his father, a Military Photographer, on his assignments. His professional career started in 2005 when he sold one of his photographs to Cbet (Publishers of Botswana Guardian and The Midweek Sun) and the picture subsequently made the front page. An avid traveller, he has so far covered 11 countries photographing landscapes selling the pictures as investment art. He is currently working for Cbet as a Photo Editor but still invests time in landscape photography.

8

Luke Manning

is a freelance journalist, who has written for publications around the world (including the Times, the Guardian, the Financial Times and the Moscow News), he has also worked with the likes of Balfour Beatty, HBOS, Barclays Bank, Vodafone Global Enterprise, AXA UK, Scottish Enterprise and AON.

Peta Krost Maunder

has been a journalist in South Africa for decades, starting out on newspapers for 16 years before becoming managing editor of Carte Blanche, a weekly current affairs television programme on MultiChoice’s M-Net channel. Eight years ago she launched her own media company, outsourcing her skills as a magazine editor and journalist. She has edited The Media magazine, The WITS Business School Journal and NEPAD Yearbook.

VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015 LEADERSHIP

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LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

True Leadership 10

written by: LUKE MANNING

Perspective | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

LEADERSHIP

Wherever you look, leadership is always being defined, commoditised and packaged by those that want to harness it and make it something that everyone can have “on tap”.

B

ut time and again they come

In contrast to David’s entrepreneurial zeal,

up short because as soon as

Kim Winser is the ultimate corporate role

you try to teach it or assess

model. Renowned for her success at turning

it, you are moving away from

around struggling fashion brands with an

leadership to management. If management is

unwavering eye on the bottom line and scant

about process, strategy and motivation then

regard for sentiment, she is known for being

leadership is about vision, culture and morale.

tough, driven and relentless in getting the job done. It resulted in her being awarded an

This cannot be broken down into simple

OBE for services to industry from the Prince

rules and measured with key performance

of Wales.

indicators; leadership must be about authenticity and intuition.

But it is the fierce loyalty that she so clearly

If the age-old question is “are leaders born or

enjoys from everyone that has worked with

made?” then the only credible answer is that

her over the years that shines through above

leaders are found.

all else. Her people are by far the most important aspect of her work and they in turn

Given the right time and place and a unique

deliver the results for which she is justifiably

set of conditions, everyone has the capacity

renowned. She leads through respect and

to lead. It is about inspiring other people

empowerment.

towards your vision. I’ve been lucky enough to have been around some of the finest and

Put quite simply, when it comes to leadership

most charismatic leaders in the UK and Africa

one size does not fit all.

during my time with the Inspired Leaders Network and yet true leadership is rarely found in the most obvious place.

Two of the most compelling and unforgettable speakers at our events over the last few years in London have been the Birmingham City FC Chairman and Ann Summers owner David Gold and Aquascutum’s CEO Kim Winser.

“

leadership must be about authenticity and intuition.”

Can anyone develop into a leader?

David Gold’s lifelong quest to escape the

Yes and yes again. Just look at some of the

abject poverty of his childhood has driven him

most unlikely leadership success stories

to become the revered business icon that he

from Bill Gates to Barack Obama and from

is today and yet he is the only entrepreneur

Sir Seretse Khama to Nelson Mandela. All

that I have met who is entirely ego free – a

have emerged either from obscurity or from

softly spoken man with a steely resolve and a

adversity to rise to a challenge where most

sense of humour that grabs your interest and

would have fallen away.

holds your attention. He’s exactly the person

Leadership is about finding out what you

you want on your side in business; genuine,

stand for and knowing what you want to

unblinkingly focused and without an agenda.

achieve. Only then can you inspire those

He leads through trust and persuasion.

around you to do the same.

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LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

Smart Steady Strategic Bashi Gaetsaloe on Doing Things Differently at the Helm of BDC 12

written by: Chedza Mogae

Feature | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

LEADERSHIP

Bashi Gaetsaloe never envisioned himself heading-up a quasi-governmental organisation, having mostly worked in the private sector. So why him? What was it about him that led BDC’s board to believe he was the man most suited to turn BDC around? He’s certainly an individual who thrives on challenge, and is geared towards change for the better.

H

e commenced his career-life as

years and is still in existence today.

an economist at the Botswana

Gaetsaloe left HRMC to head-up KPMG

National Productivity Centre,

Consulting where he was CEO and built-up

where he worked for a year.

a very successful management consulting

He then left to start his own business, and

division, which was latterly bought by EOH,

was a director and shareholder of HRMC,

and again, EOH is still in operation. Post

considered by many to be Botswana’s

KPMG, Gaetsaloe went on to found and head

premier recruitment company, a firm which

the Botswana division of Accenture, a global

he ran successfully with his partner for seven

management consulting, technology services

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LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

and outsourcing company, where he advised

After a fairly auspicious beginning, after

and consulted to the Botswana Government

some 30 years, BDC has been seen to

as well as to Botswana’s leading companies

flounder and has over the last several

across the banking, telecommunications,

years been beset by scandal, with the

insurance, manufacturing and mining

corporation and its management accused of

industries. In his capacity as Country

gross maladministration, fiscal impropriety,

Managing Director at Accenture, he was

negligence and outright misconduct. It is

responsible for developing local competitive

against this backdrop and that of outstanding

strategies based on the overall global direction

losses that Bashi Gaetsaloe was brought in

and policy of the firm.

as an agent of change who would usher in a

He has held leadership roles in South

new era defined and demarcated by business

Africa where he was appointed Head of

acumen, impeccable corporate governance,

Management Consulting for the Public Sector

the highest standards of professionalism

serving both national and provincial clients.

and positive development outcomes and

He also worked as part of a wider geographic

profitability.

team reporting into Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) where he has developed

The Botswana Development Corporation has

strong international networks and business

been the progenitor and sponsor of some

relationships.

rather spectacular development project

He believes that it is this, the cumulative

calamities in the last several years that have

weight and effect of his 18 years of

ended up costing the tax payer millions of

experience in the private sector, across

Pula in the hundreds of multiples. It has been

all segments of the economic spectrum,

so mired in controversy as to render the

facilitating and bringing about organisational

organisation predominantly ineffective, barely

change that identified him as the person best

operational and overwhelmingly incapable

suited to lead BDC through the maze that is

of delivering on its mandate. So why, rather

transformation and into the realm of business

than trying to resurrect it, has government not

prosperity.

simply dismantled BDC? Bashi Gaetsaloe smiles when I ask this of

The Botswana Development Corporation

him, thanks me for getting to the heart of the

that BDC is in itself is a failed enterprise

Limited (BDC) was established in 1970 to be

matter and willingly dives in. He acknowledges

and that contrary to what many people may

the country’s main agency for commercial

that BDC has suffered considerable losses

believe BDC has backed a fair amount of

and industrial development. Its mandate was

over the last few years, takes heed of the

successful commercial undertakings and

as clear, simple and concise as that.

Wholly owned by the Government of Botswana, BDC was established as a private company rather than a parastatal organisation endorsed and sanctioned by statute, the intention being that it would run as a commercially viable entity.

While De Beers prospectors had discovered diamonds in northern

“

BDC has backed a fair amount of successful commercial undertakings and built and contributed to a number of very important industries in Botswana.”

Botswana in the early 1970s and

built and contributed to a number of very important industries in Botswana. He points to Botswana’s financial services sector where BDC played an important role by funding a number of the pioneering insurance companies, backing this assertion by directing my attention to BDC’s investment in Metropolitan Botswana in which BDC invested in years ago when there were only a handful of players in that market and how today the

mining was to become the main driver of the country’s economy, even then the

fact that BDC has backed a number of

insurance market has grown and matured.

Government of Botswana saw the wisdom

questionable commercial ventures such as the

In this particular instance, BDC co-invested

of economic diversification and the dangers

Shanghai Fengyue Glass factory project in the

with Metropolitan South Africa and in terms of

inherent in an economy largely reliant on one

village of Palapye and further, he concedes

setting up in Botswana, BDC provided 33%

sector of the economy and a non-renewable

that BDC’s reputation in the public domain

of the equity. Furthermore, Gaetsaloe is of

resource. It was in this space that the BDC

is largely in tatters. However, he begs to

the opinion that Metropolitan partnered with

was to operate.

differ somewhat with my earlier contention

BDC because they wanted to team up with

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Feature | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

an entity that had specialist knowledge of the

industry in Botswana is certainly greater than

local environment and that could assist them

that of any other individual company or firm.

with government regulatory requirements.

He points to these projects and partnerships as tales of accomplishment that can only

“

LEADERSHIP

Bashi Gaetsaloe was

He identifies BDC’s founding investment in

be defined as successful, in terms of their

the Avis car rental company from which it

balance sheets, paying taxes and providing

has since divested, as another narrative of

employment. Additionally, he points out,

achievement, made at a time when the car

these important past commercial feats have

rental industry was in its infancy. He speaks

occurred across all sectors of Botswana’s

demarcated by business

to the fact that Avis today is fully fledged

economy.

acumen, impeccable

and doing exceptionally well. He remarks

brought in as an agent of change who would usher in a new era defined and

corporate governance,

upon BDC’s initial outlay with regard to one

Having said that, he concedes that BDC

of Botswana’s biggest companies, Sechaba

has in the recent past undergone and

Brewery Holdings Limited, a company which

experienced certain significant setbacks

BDC established some 30 years ago and one

and that as a corporation it embarked upon

that is still going strong.

a number of projects that it didn’t have the

He classifies BDC’s investments in the

capability to manage. As a result of this, BDC

hospitality industry as triumphs; particularly

found itself encumbered with failed activities

BDC’s interests in the hotel group Cresta

such as the glass factory project, an abortive

Marakanelo and its part ownership of

endeavour which is now in liquidation.

Mashatu Lodge in the Tuli Block. He posits

There were other similarly disappointing

that BDC’s contribution to the hospitality

ventures, such as a tile factory project. So

the highest standards of professionalism and positive development outcomes.”

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LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

“

Bashi Gaetsaloe sees BDC manned by world class talent with the requisite skills, knowledge and expertise to run with the large scale business projects that BDC is looking to fund and oversee.”

of late, he acknowledges that BDC has

basis and exercise special care and regard to

as a form of shock-treatment to some of

made significant losses in the last 5-6 years

economic and commercial merits”.

their business partners, in the main because

and as such BDC is in the middle of; “…

And when I enquire as to BDC’s vision, the

traditionally BDC had bailed out failing

an aggressive turnaround programme, a

aspirational statement that lays out BDC’s

enterprises; saving them from ruin by injecting

transformation and remodelling programme.

most important and primary goals? “The new

more capital, now a thing of the past.

One that is trying to… not correct the past…

BDC will ask and answer the big questions

Thirdly, as part of its on-going efforts to

not trying to right the ship per se but one that

that are facing this country”.

address its own internal process issues,

has allowed us to step back and say, ‘You

BDC is examining, evaluating, rectifying

know what? The company cumulatively over

It then becomes necessary to ask how these

and remedying its in-house frameworks,

the last five years has made losses of some

lofty goals are to be achieved, a question

such as risk assessment and management,

500 billion Pula. So let’s step back and look

Bashi Gaetsaloe is ready for. He informs me

supervision and internal controls and financial

at what BDC’s mandate is. Is that mandate

that they’ve identified, targeted and are in

and managerial reporting. Systems and

still relevant in a modern Botswana?’

the process of converting four key areas of

structures that are vital for ensuring that

the business. Firstly, they’ve taken a long

BDC’s goals and objective are met and

Not forgetting that this company has been

hard look at BDC’s portfolio. Deciding on

geared towards achieving both long and

in existence since 1970 and subsequently

what areas of the business they will keep

short-term profitability targets that allow for

none of these fundamentals have been

and those that they will move away from. He

a commercially viable BDC. And the final

re-examined or re-worked and that time has

gives BDC’s property portfolio as an example.

area of redress has been that of capability

now come.

He doesn’t believe that BDC should be in

and expertise, ensuring that BDC is able to

the business of collecting rentals when the

provide the best class multi-channel service

And we’ve started that journey, my journey

market can most capably do so.

delivery required by their clients and other

really by taking a look at the mandate and

On the other hand, there is a most definite

stakeholders, who demand more, in a tighter

asking ourselves, ‘Do we still have the right

dearth in the lower income housing market

macro-economic and regulatory environment

mandate? What really should we be doing and what business areas should we be focusing on? Should this business even still exist? And if so what shape and form should the business take?’ And that’s been the genesis of the transformation journey we have embarked upon.”

“

where and when now, competition is tougher.

The new BDC will ask and answer the big questions that are facing this country”

BDC has gone about this component of its transformation, by restructuring the organisation.

They have to date, since Gaetsaloe took over, separated with 60% of its staff complement.

Coupled with this, they have gone out

So what then is BDC’s reconfigured mandate

and recruited the required and necessary

under Bashi Gaetsaloe’s helmsmanship?

and BDC are ready and willing to talk to

expertise internationally in investment

It turns out to be as upfront and direct

those who are interested in addressing this

banking, venture capital and in private

as its new leader. The fiat of BDC is “to

gap. He also believes that BDC, in its role as

equity. “…people with deep skills in reading

promote and facilitate the economic

a development bank, can now move away

and understanding balance sheets at a

development of Botswana, to develop new

from the Small and Medium Micro Enterprises

very profound level”. Bashi Gaetsaloe sees

and existing industrial, commercial, property

(SMMEs) sector, largely because they are a

BDC manned by world class talent with the

and agricultural businesses and property

number of other dedicated players promoting,

requisite skills, knowledge and expertise to

development, to provide direct financial

financing and assisting in this space.

run with the large scale business projects that

investment or assistance, procurement

Secondly, BDC is in the process of shutting-

BDC is looking to fund and oversee.

of financial or management assistance

down non-performing businesses and

and participation with persons, firms or

focusing on commercially sound development

If anyone can be the catalyst that

companies – both locally and externally and

projects. He describes this exercise as difficult

revolutionises BDC, Bashi Gaetsaloe appears

to conduct its business on a commercial

and unpleasant and one that came across

to be that man.

16

Feature

| 1, ISSUE 1 2015 VOL. LEADERSHIP

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LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

INNOVATION While presenting a TV series called Business 2025 back in 2007 for BBC World, we took six CEOs of disparate companies from a variety of sectors and asked them one simple question: “What will your company look like in 2025?”

18

written by: René Carayol

Technology | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

“ W

LEADERSHIP

can innovation be an exact science or is it more of an art form?”

orking alongside some

rules or challenges the hierarchy.

they get things right.

eminent futurologists, we

But is it really all about size? Received

There are three distinct approaches that

analysed their predictions.

wisdom points to small start-ups, with

any enterprise, large or small, can learn

From mobile phones to

entrepreneurial and visionary leaders, who

from Google’s innovative culture. First is that

electric cars to satellite systems (and with

thrive on backing themselves and proving

innovation can come from anywhere – it

20/20 hindsight), they all got it completely

the world wrong as a much stronger source

can come from the top down as well as the

wrong. Looking back at the episodes,

of innovation. However, whenever these

bottom up, and from the places you least

everything they thought they would do in

young, nimble companies are acquired by

expect. Secondly, aim to be 10 times better

18 years was achieved in less than three.

larger corporations, they are unintentionally

– if your target is a 10 per cent improvement,

The rate and pace of innovation and change

strangled. Many would put this down to the

you will get, at best, incremental change. If

is getting forever faster and ever-more

fact that they are just too big and unwieldy to

you want radical and revolutionary innovation,

unpredictable.

be either innovative or entrepreneurial.

think big, at least 10 times improvement, and that will force you to think the unthinkable.

This begs the perennial question – can innovation be an exact science or is it more of an art form?

Most innovation still occurs in small, fastmoving and agile organisations where people are encouraged to think “outside the box” and “fail fast” and start all over again, without a corrosive blame culture and no bureaucratic burden. Large successful businesses tend to inadvertently extinguish the creative spark innovation so desperately needs.

Finally, give employees 20 per cent of their

Most innovation still occurs in small, fast-moving and agile organisations where people are encouraged to think “outside the box” and “fail fast” and start all over again

time to pursue projects they are passionate about; the subject matter is irrelevant, even if it is outside the core mission of the company.

That’s one day a week – “They will delight you with their creative thinking”.

Management has become conditioned to slow all innovation into a safe and deliberate plan – this brings the efficiency required, but change can never be risk-free. Efficiency and innovation are very strange bedfellows.

They tend to fear failure more than they

But there are some large and successful

It might be true that we cannot maintain

desire success; consequently processes and

companies that have broken the mould, none

exponential change for ever – the task of

procedures are To innovate successfully, you

more so than Google, a company that puts

innovation is to demonstrate the courage to

must ask questions without worrying about

its success down to a common purpose

never accept that.

the answers built which become increasingly

of innovation and a set of strong principles

“safe” and risk averse.

which empowers all employees to be creative

In pursuit of innovation it is essential to be

and challenge anything. They continue to say

bold enough to still ask questions rather than

Many corporate cultures can become

“yes” and resist a culture of “no”, accepting

have all the answers – go up all alleys to

uncomfortable with anything that breaks the

the inevitability of failures, and persevere until

prove they are blind.

19

LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

TAKING Liberty Liberty Life’s Lulu Rasebotsa talks candidly to Chedza Mogae.

She’s a CEO, she’s a person of significance in the life insurance industry, she’s a daughter, she’s a sister, she’s a friend and she’s a mentor, but after an afternoon in her company and that of her staff, as successful as she is, Lulu Rasebotsa confesses, first and foremost, she is the mother of two.

A

20

fact that she’s proud and

sexes of her team’s children and is genuinely

unabashed of; and on any given

interested in their well-being. She’s very clear

day given a choice between the

that indifference is a characteristic not well

welfare of her two children or

suited to great leadership and that if you

a corporate board meeting, her kids come

want to manage people well you’ve got to

first and she doesn’t care who knows it. Her

care about the whole person; that the litmus

leadership style embraces her femininity and

test of a first-rate leader is in whether or not

all its connotations; she brings gentleness,

those you lead are better off for being led by

empathy, and sensitivity to the job. She is

you. She is by nature empathetic and doesn’t

beautiful and well-put together – a woman

hide behind the wall of corporate propriety

who definitely knows how to take care of

so as to safeguard herself from her staff. And

herself. She knows the names, ages and

if you’re getting the impression that all Lulu

Interview | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

LEADERSHIP

21

LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015 Rasebotsa is; is warm and fuzzy, then you’d

contributing 60% of gross premium written

– too afraid to put forward her ideas and/or

be dead wrong, as those who’ve attempted

in Botswana. And while the Liberty brand is

views – perhaps overcompensating for that,

to take advantage of her compassionate

one that is well-known and well-respected in

which sometimes has resulted in her coming

and caring nature have learnt. She may be

the other African markets in which it operates,

across as aggressive.

caring, tolerant and nurturing but mistaking

as a relative newcomer to Botswana, Liberty

these traits for feminine frailty or some sort

was an unknown quantity. And it is fact

I ask her about how she got to this point,

of feebleness is an error those she comes in

rather than opinion that Lulu has worked

how she became MD, how she became a

contact with make only once.

tirelessly to position the brand in a market

person others identified as a role model.

She was appointed as Managing Director of

largely dominated by one major player. She

She pays tribute to her parents, both

Liberty Life Botswana in June 2011 and her

identified market problems and opportunities

educationalists, and their constant support

tenure reflects Liberty’s mantra of, “making

and developed solutions based on market

and encouragement. She recounts how in

a difference in people’s lives”. Liberty Life

research, segmentation and supporting data,

the Rasebotsa household, there was no

Botswana is a subsidiary of Liberty Holdings,

furthering Liberty’s position by taking it retail

differentiation in the chores assigned her

a Pan-African financial services company

in combination and conjunction with its affinity

and her older brother Sean. They were both

which is head-quartered in Johannesburg,

sales - selling insurance through groups such

expected to cook, clean and do yard work.

South Africa. Founded in South Africa by

as professional and business associations –

Her parents invested in an English medium

entrepreneur and philanthropist, Sir Donald

based approach.

primary school education, but her secondary

“

education was undertaken in government

The litmus test of a first-rate leader is in whether or not those you lead are better off for being led by you.”

This tactic resulted in substantial growth with

institutions. Her father was after all, a head

regard to Liberty’s market share and since

teacher in various public secondary schools.

Lulu’s tenure began Liberty has gone from

As a product of such, she does let it slip

being the infant in a market of nine players to

how heart-wrenching she finds the decline

now placing fourth. In terms of revenue Lulu

of public education in Botswana. She

has overseen a Liberty that has grown its

went on to pursue a BSc Honours in Maths

earnings by over a 100%.

& Statistics from the University of Kent,

She credits much of this success to her

followed by a COP (Certificate of Proficiency)

industrious team of 13, five of whom she

in life insurance and an ICiBS (Intermediate

found in place and the rest of whom she

Certificate in Business Studies) both from the

hand-picked.

Insurance Institute of South Africa. All in all she has over 18 years of experience in the

As a boss she is approachable, accessible

financial services industry. Her experience

and when something of significance is on the

has been as both an insurance underwriter

horizon, it’s not whispered in the corridors,

and that of a broker. She also has significant

they’ll hear of it from Lulu herself. And

experience in pension fund administration,

equally, she’ll always give

having headed up such

Gordon, in 1957, the company has since

time to a member of staff

grown to hold R611 billion in assets under

who has concerns or

management (as at 31 December 2013). The

comes upon a stumbling

group’s principal operating business, Liberty,

block. With regard to their

is the third largest life insurer in South Africa

duties and the day to day,

while wholly owned subsidiary, Stanlib, is the

they were unequivocal;

second largest investment manager in South

when Lulu sets a task she expects them to

failures, are just opportunities for change and

Africa. Liberty Holdings is 54% owned by the

get it done.

betterment. Her weaknesses can be turned

In terms of revenue, Lulu has overseen a Liberty that has grown its earnings by over a 100%.

Standard Bank Group which is the largest African bank by total assets.

services in Botswana and South Africa.

When I wrap up and ask her what next? She’s effusive, her so called

around and transformed into strengths.

She empowers them. She ensures that they have the necessary tools through a

She plans to take Liberty from strength to

With a presence in 15 African countries,

combination of mentoring, training and

strength. She’s going to continue mentoring,

Liberty has grown from being a South African

encouragement. She’s taken each individual

moulding and learning from those around her,

life insurer to a Pan-African financial services

team-leader to Johannesburg to meet Liberty

and accepting with thankfulness and grace,

company, offering asset management,

brass themselves. She sits with all of them,

the love and support she’s received in her life

investments, insurance and health products.

from the tea-lady to team leader, touching

that have allowed her to get where she is.

Liberty Life Botswana was established

base, taking the time to make sure that the

After a number of hours in her company and

in 2008 and is a specialist life insurance

‘whole’ of them is well.

that of her team, I thank her and say my

company which focuses on providing

goodbyes. I’m exhausted quite frankly by the

group based and individual risk insurance

She accepts that she is as flawed as the next

tangible levels of energy of Lulu Rasebotsa

products for death, disability, critical illness

person; she regrets that her marriage failed,

and her team, but then again, it’s probably

and other life changing events. Insurance is

she has compunctions about how she has

what marks her the most, as a woman on a

a multi-billion Pula industry with life insurance

conducted herself professionally in the past

mission.

22

Interviews | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

LEADERSHIP

WE’RE BUILDING A LEGACY THAT STARTS TODAY. Join us at khoemacaucm.co.bw

From these rich soils, a bold new era of prosperity shall rise. Through teamwork and determination, the fruits of these prosperous hills will enrich our land for many years to come.

23

LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

24

In One Picture | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015 LEADERSHIP

Finding Beauty in Despair: As Gaborone Dam levels continue to drop and uncertainty rises amongst consumers, photographer Pako Lesejane, showcases the dam as never seen before.

(The dam level was 2.7%, as at April 15th 2015.)

25

LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

SIR Q.K.J Masire

A Testament to True Leadership

At a time when it was unheard of on the African continent, at a time when term limits on the Presidency did not exist in Botswana or anywhere else on the continent, Sir Quett Ketumile Joni Masire did the unimaginable, the improbable and the extraordinary; he voluntarily stepped down from the Presidency of Botswana and went into retirement.

26

written by: Chedza Mogae

Icons | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

LEADERSHIP

27

LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

U

nlike other African leaders whom have overstayed their welcomes, Botswana’s Quett Ketumile Joni Masire took the

road less travelled and of his own free accord, went willingly into the political goodnight.

No threat of criminal indictment hung over his head, no menace in the form of revolt or revolution presaged his departure, no jeopardy in the form of coup d’état lay on the horizon and poor health did not force his hand. He discerned before most that

substantial improvements in nutritional levels

could not refuse the call of the International

clinging on to power carries inherent dangers,

throughout the country between 1981 and

Panel of Eminent Personalities Investigating

especially in Africa more than in other

1988, despite on-going and severe drought,

the Circumstances Surrounding the 1994

continents where political power tends to be

we rejoiced with him and took pride in this

Rwanda Genocide. Masire chaired the

more personal than it is institutional. Where

most singular achievement. As a Presidential

excruciating and exacting work of this

alliances promising post-election favours and

personality, Sir Ketumile led from the front,

commission from 1998 to 2000, finally

patronage networks rather than institutions

encouraged by example, spearheaded

presenting its report, “Rwanda: The

are the key to power and wealth and that

progress and mentored the generation of

Preventable Genocide”, in memory of the

therein lay the originally slippery slope; the

technocrats that would craft a Botswana

hundreds of thousands of innocent victims of

potential for the corrosion of principle, the

that was better and became known as the

the genocide, to the OAU on the 29th of May

possibility of the countenancing of hubris

“African miracle”. It then came as almost no

2000.

and the probability of a total descent into depravity. So Sir Ketumile, put his house in order, did the decent thing, and left while the going was still good and he could look back and still take pride in his legacy.

The Botswana he led and then left in the capable hands of others was one in the midst

“

of economic boom, experiencing a growth

Sir Ketumile, led from the front, encouraged by example, spearheaded progress...

as peacemaker was not to end there and in December of 1999 he was appointed Facilitator of the stalled Inter-Congolese Dialogue (ICD) process. In 2001, after more than a year of shuttle diplomacy and numerous setbacks, Sir Ketumile managed to bring all the main Congolese players to the table in Gaborone to begin the long-awaited

rate of some 10 percent per annum. His

28

The former President’s new-fangled guise

reign was synonymous with that of Botswana

surprise when in 1991 Dr. Quett Ketumile Joni

process of negotiating an end to the conflict.

as a pre-eminent economic performer. His

Masire became Sir Ketumile Masire when the

His tenacity garnered the dialogue a new

administration positioned and gave social

Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael

start. While Sir Ketumile’s efforts to broker a

welfare as much precedence as they had

and Saint George (GCMG), a British order

peace in the DRC were tireless, a multiplicity

economic development and as such, by

of chivalry was bestowed upon him by the

of factors, such as funding, absence by key

the end of his tenure, he’d left education,

Queen.

players and parties and so forth resulted in a

health, housing and communications on

Even when obvious to all that this man had

dilution of the process and its outcomes. Not

a firm foundation. And in 1989 when the

more than earned his rest, the international

one to give-up he called upon South African

International Hunger Project Award was

body politic was as yet unprepared to leave

President Thabo Mbeki to assist. In the final

conferred upon him in recognition of the

him to his leisure. And this humanitarian

analysis, the Sun City Accords were signed

Icons | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

LEADERSHIP

to defuse a political crisis in Lesotho. His

loss, Lady Gladys Olebile Masire passed

job, as mandated by SADC, was to break

away leaving a void never to be filled. In his

the political stalemate over a disputed

memoirs Sir Ketumile described her as a

parliamentary election that had resulted in

“superlative partner.” Mme Mma Gaone, as

discord and violence around the allocation

she was fondly known, was mother to many

of seats in the government. The dispute was

most especially the disadvantaged, youth,

mediated by SADC and Masire, but in vain.

young children and women. She was his

Finally Sir Ketumile resigned in 2009 as he felt

touchstone, she enabled him with regard to

he could not get the parties to resolve their

making him a better leader, together they

differences because they were not genuinely

raised a family and as a team both left an

committed to seeking solutions.

indelible mark in the history of this nation.

Even in the face of such loss, seldom does

Additionally, in 2007, with his late wife

Sir Ketumile just sit.

Lady Olebile Masire, Sir Ketumile launched

by a number of the warring parties on the

the Sir Ketumile Masire Foundation. The

Instead he’s out farming, he moves from his

Foundation strives to facilitate and drive

Gaborone residence to his Kanye homestead

efforts to promote peace, good governance

with frequency and regularity. He forms part

and political stability internationally, to assist

of a panel of elders that still advises the

children living with life-long disabilities, and to

leadership of the Botswana Democratic Party,

promote innovation in agriculture.

which he helped found. At the helm of his

2010 saw Sir Ketumile back in his role as

Foundation he calls upon Botswana’s youth

elder statesman and in May of that year he

to do better and as part of the Board of the

led the African Union (AU) Election Observer

Mo Ibrahim Foundation he champions the

Mission to Ethiopia’s Legislative Elections.

cause of greater standards in governance on the African continent. And his associations

19th of April 2002 at the luxury South African casino resort of Sun City, largely as a result of the course of action under taken and nurtured

by Sir Ketumile.

Sir Ketumile’s so-called retirement, had thus far not allowed for any sort of serious reflection of the past, but finally, he found

and affiliations geared towards the greater

...by the end of his tenure, he’d left education, health, housing and communications on a firm foundation...

good are significant; Co-Chair of the Global Coalition for Africa, Member of Club de Madrid, Member of the Africa Forum and so on. Never does he hesitate where he can help and the parents at a local Gaborone primary school are often astounded when they see him there picking-up or keeping his grandson

the time, put pen to paper and composed

company during the lunch hour. He’s a

his memoirs entitled, “Very Brave or Very

Further, as part of a Global Leadership

teacher who’s received Honorary Doctorates

Foolish? Memoirs of an African Democrat”.

Foundation (GLF) initiative, our former

from the University of Botswana, St John

This modest tome consisted of his personal

President co-led (with fellow GLF Member

University, De Paul University, Williams

musings on Botswana’s political, social and

Joe Clark) a National Democratic Institute

College, Sussex University, the University of

economic development. It was vaunted as

pre-election assessment mission in Nigeria,

Port Elizabeth, Ohio University, and Carlton

“a significant insider account of an African

which identified a number of hurdles that

College. He is in all respects an African giant,

success story” and very well received,

could undermine the holding of successful

yet he remains humble, full of humour and a

Sir Ketumile’s now extensive intercession

state and national polls in 2011.

man of good cheer.

experience meant that he was the first

On May 17th 2013, Sir Ketumile, his six

And this year, when this icon turns 90,

person called upon by the Southern African

children, numerous grandchildren and

Leadership pays tribute to Sir Quett Ketumile

Development Community (SADC) in 2007

the nation suffered a most indescribable

Joni Masire, a testament to true leadership.

It then came as almost no surprise when in 1991 Dr. Quett Ketumile Joni Masire became Sir Ketumile Masire when the Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George (GCMG), a British order of chivalry was bestowed upon him by the Queen.

29

LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

Uncoverable?

Life Insurance Companies Violate The Law, writes Uyapo Ndadi

30

Legal | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

LEADERSHIP

This is my maiden article and I am looking forward to insightful deliberations and feedback on this column. The column will focus on the law as it interfaces with leadership and businesses, in Botswana. Today our focus is more about a personal experience I went through with the insurance sector in Botswana in my bid to obtain life cover.

S

ometime in 2009 I applied for my

premium. The insurance company will check

any employment or the provision of goods

first Home Loan, my bank made it

applicants for serious diseases or habit that

or services.” This is one of the remarkable

clear to me that for them to grant

would affect their life expectancy, to reduce

provisions that came out of the said Act.

me a loan I need to obtain a Life

their risk.

Cover with any reputable insurance company.

My enquiries have shown that despite the

I found one. One of the requirements for

Against this backdrop, my view is that when

express law prohibiting the practice, some

getting a policy cover was undergoing an HIV

HIV hit us before antiretroviral drugs, we lost

test if the amount exceeds BWP100 000.00.

lives. As Unity Dow once put it, Saturdays

insurance companies still do insist on an

And of course I was asking for more than

was for funerals. Today we are fortunate

BWP100 000.00 as I was buying a house in

enough, thanks to the growing body of

the city. City houses do not come cheap.

medicine to have treatment that goes a long

I asked the agent who was assisting me as

way in making HIV positive persons live

to need for the test. He proffered no clear

longer and healthy. HIV is no longer a death

answers save to say if I were to be found

sentence, as it were.

HIV positive I will be denied a life cover. In the end, I had to choose between losing an opportunity to buy a house and pursuing a principle. Out of desperation I tested for HIV to get the life cover policy and consequently secured a home for myself.

My story is not unique. Many homeowners have gone through it unless they have money to buy houses cash. Some people out there have resorted to buying cars instead of houses because of this practice. Is denying HIV positive persons cover justified? Does it make business sense to deny cover? What about human rights?

It is a given that insurance companies need to acquire information in order to access the risk of entering into a contract with any person.

This information will also help the company to decide what premiums to charge. You must provide information (correct info) about yourself- that is a legal duty. nThe smoker is a high risk for the insurance company (lung illnesses and cancer) nSmoker will therefore be charged a higher

Is testing for HIV for insurance purposes lawful?

HIV test and a positive test will result in the rejection of the application for cover.

“

In terms of Section 96 of the Insurance Industry Act, specifically subsection 1, thereto provides as follows, “an insurer must not make or permit to be made any discrimination in respect of the rate of premiums charged or the bonus granted between life polices which are of the same kind and under which the persons whose life is insured have an equal

A person shall not induce another person to undergo an HIV test for the purpose of any employment or the provision of goods or services”

expectation of life.”

It would appear that the insurance companies

In terms of the Constitution of Botswana,

are violating this law unless they show

the right to privacy and non-discrimination

that persons living with HIV have a lower

is guaranteed. My submission is that these

expectation of life. As far as I know some

rights are violated as one submits to an HIV

persons living with HIV can and do live longer

test because they have no options. It is either

than those who are HIV negative. I don’t think

you give away your personal dignity by testing

HIV positive status indicates life span.

for HIV and get a house, or preserve your dignity by not testing and be homeless.

The 2014 Public Health Act, in particular, Section 104 (2) provides that:

In conclusion, life insurance companies,

“A person shall not induce another person

ignorance of the law, which is not an excuse

to undergo an HIV test for the purpose of

anyway.

violate the law, either deliberately or out of

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LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

The Making of an Educator Botswana Accountancy College’s Mike Lesolle

Chedza Mogae talks to Michael Lesolle, Executive Director of the Botswana Accountancy College, Botswana’s premier business school and tertiary-level institution proffering professional accounting education and qualifications, degrees in business administration as well as a various levels of certification in insurance, computing and enterprise control.

32

Interview | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

H

LEADERSHIP

is qualifications and experience

and operational business activity and

and advancement. It is known that BAC

speak for themselves; he is s

financial, managerial and enterprise related

graduates enter the market place with the

Fellow of the Association of

education. And it reflects in his mantra, the

right skills because their curriculum combines

Chartered Certified Accountants

things he says about being in a profession he

professional development with practical work

and a Member of the Certified Public

loves, and the manner in which he expresses

experience. It is BAC’s constant interaction

Accountants Association (formerly the

himself with regard to being an educator.

with the market that has resulted in superior

Association of Certified Public Accountants).

After just over ten years at BAC, he’s still

levels of responsiveness to the needs of

He has extensive experience in various

energised. He admits that after a decade

industry. I begin to understand why, in an

aspects of business finance and the

in this place – his longest organisational

economy where lack of work ethic has been

accountancy profession and over the course

stay – he’s stunned on a daily basis by how

identified as more than problematic but a

of the last twenty years he has utilised his

rewarding he still finds this work and how he

contributing factor with regard to the ease

skills, expertise and experience at the apex

knows that he’s in the right place at the right

of doing business. It is common knowledge

of organisational leadership; as an architect

time.

that along with proficiency BAC equips its

and designer of organisational transformation,

graduates with other vital skills through its

strategy formulation and implementation and

After only a short while conversing with

structured ethics components.

as a the principal project manager overseeing

Mike I begin to realise why, in an economy

I begin to comprehend why, in a country

profound institutional change. While he’s

where the dearth and disconnect between

where tertiary education graduates are unable

spent much of his career at the heart of

graduates coming out of institutions of

to find employment and concurrently lack

commerce, he’s found his métier in the niche

higher learning and what the market requires

the skills, ability, confidence and cash to start

that lies between pure accounting, pecuniary

presents as a significant obstacle to growth

their own small businesses. It is patent that

33

LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

…a solution provider, going away from the theory of learning to the doing.

BAC graduates are sought after, even before

objectives of the institution were to reduce

graduating, businesses have been known

the reliance on expatriate accountants and

to contact the college asking when potential

in the long term to become a fully-fledged

new recruits will emerge from its doors. And in

commercially viable operation. Thus its very

a nation where the state of public education is

genesis was a rejoinder to the requirements

in crisis, the Botswana Accountancy College

of the market and over the years, BAC

(BAC) has distinguished itself from the rest

management has never lost sight of its raison

and is clearly the exception. Begging the

d’être. Secondly, early on BAC recognised

question, what is the complex equation that

that it order to stay relevant and current, it

BAC has identified, utilised and so efficiently

had to put mechanisms and channels in place

and effectively put into place? What is their

that would allow for a constant conversation

recipe for success?

with commerce and industry, government and other key stakeholders that would

34

Mike puts the BAC success story down to a

inform the college’s overall direction and core

multiplicity of factors, he begins by touching

curriculum. It has achieved by maintaining

upon the origins of BAC. It was established

unbroken lines of communication with its

as a special purpose vehicle in 1996 as joint

initial joint venture partners, namely MFDP,

venture between the Ministry of Finance and

the Ministry of Education and Debswana and

Development Planning (MFDP), The Debswana

the college continues to cooperate with the

Diamond Company and the Botswana Institute

Botswana Institute of Accountants. It has

of Accountants (BIA). From the onset the

aligned its strategy with Botswana Vision 2016

Interview | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

“

LEADERSHIP

in order to stay relevant and current, BAC had to put mechanisms and channels in place that would allow for a constant conversation with commerce and industry, government and other key stakeholders...”

“

...it is also about inspiration, aspiration and motivation in order to help learners “conceptualize their own future”, allowing them to formulate a “personal vision” of their own.”

- Botswana’s strategy to propel its socio-

provider, going away from the theory of

He and his staff constantly engage with

economic and political development into a

learning to the doing”. I accuse him of false

students, inside and outside the classroom

competitive, winning and prosperous nation.

modesty because all higher institutions claim

and they encourage students to express

that their scholars are proficient and work-

themselves, their challenges, individually and

It works with bodies such as the Tertiary

place ready, in the meantime their graduates

as part of a whole and their ambitions. He

Education Council, which oversees

are unable to find employment. He expounds

considers this to be what sets BAC apart.

compliance with education quality standards

further. Education he says is not just the

When ultimately I ask, how he came upon

in Botswana, in regards to policy formulation.

process of receiving or giving systematic

this equation for educational attainment

It is linked with professional international

instruction. It is also about inspiration,

and success, of his own personal journey?

accounting and insurance bodies such

aspiration and motivation in order to help

He credits his upbringing and parents, who

as Association of Chartered Certified

learners “conceptualise their own future”,

allowed him and his siblings to wholly delve

Accountants (ACCA), and the Insurance

allowing them to formulate a “personal vision”

into the possibilities life offered. It is because

Institute of Southern Africa (IISA) and others.

of their own. And this is done how? By

of them he went to London and qualified in

It has collaborative agreements with reputable

making education holistic he says, because

“the city”.

universities in the United Kingdom. And finally

a career is carried by “more than skills and

He acknowledges his siblings and the fearless

it maintains a constant dialogue with perhaps

expertise”. He believes that BAC’s team of

example they set him. He pays tribute to his

its most important stakeholder, its students.

educators share this belief and as such they

Malaysian wife Jenny, who has much to do

When I ask Mike Lesolle about his leadership

seek to impart the lesson to their scholars

with his world-view. And with regard to BAC,

style, and his track record of achievement in

that their education just as their lives and

he pays tribute to his team and their singular

one of the most difficult of fields, education,

work, is about exposure, exploration and the

pursuit of excellence, they have taught him a

he credits it to BAC being, “…a solution

sum of their experiences.

great deal.

35

written by: Setshwano Ngope

LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

Wealth Management The Path to Financial Independence The increasing complexity of financial markets and products calls for investors to be more savvy in the management of their finances. The path to financial independence dictates for careful planning and prudent financial decisions to be made though out one’s life time.

Start Early, Start Young

investment and generate a stable income.

neighbourhoods. Life Insurance is a sure way

When it comes to investments and financial

Keep An Eye On Debt, Live Within your Means

to protect a family’s livelihood beyond death.

decisions, the only advantage you have on your side is time! The more time you spend in the market, the better – the earlier in your life you make prudent financial decisions, the better. Begin your path by investing in property in your 20s, so you have a lifetime to pay off your first property, and use it to acquire others. You must also get into the habit of saving & investing as soon as you start earning an income – don’t wait until you are earning enough, start now!

Invest in Different Things

Bad financial decisions like being overindebted, can take many hard years to get over. It takes discipline and a sharp

across different vehicles, and across

place, to ensure that upon death, the balance remaining on the mortgage can be cleared off.

focus on your future financial security, to

Leave a Lasting, Enduring Legacy

avoid borrowing more than you can afford.

There is no point in making an effort to

Being realistic about one’s priorities is also

build any kind of financial security, if you are

a game changer in personal finance; don’t

not going to protect your assets for your

buy that fancy car until you have a roof

children and their children. Drafting a valid

over your head – don’t borrow money for

Will is one sure way of ensuring that your

consumption – pay your credit card off in

assets pass onto the right hands upon your

full every month – all of this will save you

death. A Will also eliminates the hassle of

years of unnecessary interest payments.

having your minor children’s’ inheritance

We call it diversification in investments – wherein you spread your investments

Mortgage Protection must also always be in

being transferred to the Guardian’s Fund.

Life is Full of Risks, Mitigate Them

different regions and sectors. Someone who

The very nature of life is such that it is

An Ally To Light Your Path

has a well diversified investment portfolio

uncertain. While tomorrow can never be a

In order to navigate this complex world of

has a little bit of their money in shares,

guarantee, one can always use insurance

personal finance, engaging a wealth planner

some in property, some in bonds, some

solutions to cushion the blows of some of

can be useful. This is an independent

in unit trusts and just a little bit in cash.

life’s disheartening situations. When death

professional who will be there to give you

This person will look at their investment

and disability befall, there can be dire financial

unbiased advice. They will and must consider

objectives – what they are really trying to

consequences; when the breadwinner in

you personal goals and aspirations, your

achieve – and decide which investment to

a family dies, lifestyles are often crippled –

financial circumstances, your income,

get into based on that. When investing, this

with kids having to be taken out of decent

assets and liabilities - before they give

person will be looking to both grow their

schools, and families having to change

you any kind of investment advice.

36

Finance | 1, ISSUE 1 2015 VOL. LEADERSHIP

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37

LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

38

written by: LUKE MANNING

Insight | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

LEADERSHIP

Actions

Speak Louder Than Words In the months leading up to the UK election, the media frenzy that has engulfed the main candidates has increasingly turned its focus to their differing body language and signs as to who is feeling the pressure and who is confident of victory.

B

ut this is nothing new. Politics has

the candidates for the first time. And the

always been about body language

result of a poll taken after the first debate was

and there is still no better example

astounding.

of the importance of non-verbal

For those who had listened to the debate

communication than the 1960 Presidential

on the radio, there was an overwhelming

Debates between President Nixon and

consensus that Nixon had won the opening

Senator Kennedy.

battle convincingly.

They were the first televised debates in

But the television viewers told a different story.

presidential campaign history and it enabled

They were firmly behind Kennedy and had

the 70 million voters to both see and hear

been swayed by his charm, gregarious nature

39

LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

See how many of the eight questions you can answer and think about it next time you are in a meeting, interview or appraisal.

1. What emotion is associated with the

4. What does it mean when a person rubs

C. Scrutiny

“palm to chest” gesture?

his or her nose?

D. Suspicion

A. Superiority

A. Superiority

B. Critical judgment

B. Anticipation

C. Sincerity

C. Dislike

D. Confidence

D. Anger

2. What is the meaning of the “thumb under

5. What message is conveyed when a

A. 20%

the chin” gesture?

person touches his or her eyeglasses to

B. 40%

A. Deceit

their lips?

C. 70%

B. Boredom

A. Interest

D. 85%

C. Anxiety

B. Stalling

D. Critical judgment

C. Disbelief D. Impatience

3. What non verbal message is conveyed

7. What is the impact of non verbal communication in a face-to-face conversation?

8. Which of the following gestures is/are associated with lying?

A. Talking through fingers

with the “chin rub” gesture?

6. When a person looks over the top of his

A. Decision

or her eyeglasses, what message are they

B. Deceit

sending?

C. Ear rub

C. Control

A. Contempt

D. Lack of direct eye contact

D. None of the above

B. Distrust

E. All of the above

and trim appearance. Viewers who were

on customer service, body language and

interviewed afterwards reported that Nixon’s

temperament styles.

stubble and darting eyes had made him seem

He has developed a simple yet compelling

more sinister and far less presidential than

short test to see how much YOU know about

Kennedy.

the most common and basic signals people

B. Eye rub

“

give away and how you can turn them to your It showed once again what all of us know

other people and how to

So, do you have a working knowledge of

influence others’

body language?

perception of

There is a quite brilliant American speaker, author and entrepreneur called John Boe

Learning how to read other people and

(www.johnboe.com) who has been talking

how to influence others’ perception of you

about the importance of face to face

is half the battle; it might just be the added

gestures in business for over two decades

advantage that keeps you one step ahead of

and is an internationally recognised authority

the chasing pack.

Answers

that they don’t like the subject. When you see this gesture

communication is achieved non verbally. In addition, studies

you would be wise to probe with open-ended questions to

show that non verbal communication has a much greater

2(D) The thumb under the chin gesture indicates critical

draw out the other person’s concern.

5(B) When someone touches his or her eyeglasses to their

reliability than the spoken word. Therefore, you would be wise

judgment and a negative attitude. A good way to get the person to drop this gesture is to hand them something.

lips it signals that they’re stalling or delaying a decision. If they

3(A) The chin rub gesture indicates decision. When you see

put their glasses back on, it’s a “buying signal”. If they put

this gesture, avoid the temptation to interrupt. If the gestures

them away, you have more work to do.

that follow chin stoking are positive, it is time to take control

6(C) When a person looks over his or her eyeglasses it

accurately depicts the three primary hand-to-face gestures

of the situation.

indicates judgment and scrutiny.

associated with deceit. See no evil, hear no evil and speak

4(C) When someone rubs his or her nose it’s an indication

7(C) Research indicates over 70 percent of our

no evil.

1(C) The palm to chest gesture indicates sincerity.

40

how to read

advantage.

instinctively to be true; actions speak louder than words.

Learning

you is half the battle...”

to rely on body language as a more accurate reflection of a person’s true feelings.

8(E) All of the above. The statue of the Three Wise Monkeys

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41

LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

“ 42

MultiChoice’s determination not to skimp with regard to bringing new tools and modernizations to its customers, has translated into commercial triumph.”

written by: Chedza Mogae

Interview | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

LEADERSHIP

Nothing Succeeds Like Success Billy Sekgororoane, MultiChoice Botswana’s CEO on the FDI success story that turned MultiChoice into a household name.

B

oth I and Billy Sekgororoane are

At the press of a button the worlds of sport,

old enough to remember the

news and entertainment are readily available

days of one television channel

and MultiChoice is a household name and the

in Botswana. Back in the late

most recognised of brands.

1970s, early 1980s when Botswana received

He recounts how the body corporate we now

colour TV service from neighbouring South

as MultiChoice was birthed in the Republic

Africa. The South African Broadcasting

of South Africa in the mid-1980s, at which

Corporation (SABC) – South Africa’s state

time it was simply known as, “M-Net”.

broadcaster –initially broadcast only in English

M-Net began as a terrestrial broadcaster;

and Afrikaans, for a few hours a day, with

broadcasting in which the television signal

an emphasis on religious programming on

is transmitted by radio waves to the TV

Sundays.

receiver from a terrestrial (Earth based)

As I ask Sekgororoane to tell me the

transmitter, a television station, and received

sensational tale of the business hit that is

with an antenna. In October 1986, M-Net

MultiChoice Botswana, he asks that we skip

kicked off its single-channel broadcasting

forward to some thirty five years later where

service in South Africa, for 12 hours a day,

life without MultiChoice’s pay-television

to approximately 500 households who had

and internet subscriber platforms seems

bought decoders. Although subscription-

inconceivable. Honestly, what would we all

based, the South African Broadcasting

do without MultiChoice’s voluminous channel

Authority granted them a one-hour time

offerings and the programming it provides?

slot each day, in which the channel could

43

LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

broadcast unencrypted, free-to-air content,

In 1995, the PanAmSat-4 Satellite (PAS-4)

in order to promote itself and attract potential

was launched which allowed for direct-

subscribers. It was from these humble origins

to-home television (DTHTV) - a method of

that M-Net began.

receiving satellite television by means of signals transmitted from direct-broadcast

“

44

It was in the early 1990s that M-Net

satellites – meaning that the M-Net signal

alighted in Botswana due to the initiative

could now be received by individual house-

of local businessmen John Maynard, who

holds through use of the slighter sized

recognised the huge potential of pay-

disks that are now a common feature on

television in Botswana and an opportunity

the outside of people’s homes. The launch

with regard to re-broadcasting the M-Net

of the PAS-4 allowed for M-Net to go into

signal in Botswana. After negotiations

multi-channel broadcasting and therein lay

with M-Net’s South African parent, he and

the origins of MultiChoice, who named their

fellow entrepreneurs Phil Steenkamp (now

new multi-channel product Digital Satellite

deceased) and Reg Richardson formed a

Television, more commonly, DStv.

local company, RSM (Pty) Ltd in 1992 that

MultiChoice Botswana is the first born child of MultiChoice Africa’s joint venture projects and has subsequently acted as the base model for MultiChoice’s further expansion into Sub-Saharan Africa.”

went about obtaining the proper licensing and

DStv is MultiChoice’s digital satellite

after being allocated a broadcast frequency,

TV service in Africa, launched in 1995,

then, in the form of a joint-venture, launched

providing various bouquets offering general

M-Net Botswana. A suitable site for M-Net’s

entertainment, movies, lifestyle & culture,

terrestrial transmitter was found atop what

sport, documentaries, news & commerce,

was then known as the Grand Palm Hotel,

children, music, religion and consumer

and M-Net commenced broadcasting in

channels to MultiChoice subscribers. The

Gaborone in May of 1993. It was then

original multi-channel bouquet consisted of a

through collaboration and in partnership

mere 8 channels where now it numbers over

with local television owners associations that

100. Further when DStv started, it startled

M-Net began to be broadcast nationally.

the growth of the original business, M-Net

These entities would obtain licenses for

terrestrial broadcasting… which stopped

their particular towns and municipalities,

growing. Customers were migrating en masse

erect transmitters of their own and then re-

from M-Net’s single channel service to DStv

broadcast the M-Net signal.

and its multi-channel offering. As such the

Interview | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

Billy Sekgororoane

LEADERSHIP

From its original 370 subscriber households, MultiChoice Botswana subscriber numbers have increased exponentially, year on year.

prototype M-Net single channel service was

his answer is simple, succinct. Not only

closed down in Botswana.

did MultiChoice pioneer pay-television and internet subscriber platforms in South Africa,

What then happened is that M-Net split and

Botswana and the other markets within

reorganised and a completely new parent

which it operates. It has consistently broken

company emerged, MultiChoice, whose

new ground with regard to bringing new

activities involve the operation of pay-

technologies and innovations to its clients.

television and internet subscriber platforms.

In 2002 MultiChoice launched interactive

The MultiChoice group includes the digital

television. In 2003 MultiChoice brought us

satellite pay-television business DStv, which

the dual view decoder. In 2008, MultiChoice

has been in operation since 1995. M-Net

launched DStv’s first high definition (HD)

which had once operated as a multi-

decoder the first HD channel, M-Net HD. In

functional pay-television service; managing

2011 DStv Mobile was initiated.

its own marketing, taking care of its own subscription management services, selling

Year after year, MultiChoice has delivered

of decoders etc. then re-emerged as a pure

to its customers and the market, the most

channel provider, responsible for delivering

cutting-edge technologies and innovations

thematic channels and exclusive content to

to be found in the stadia that is pay-

DStv subscribers.

television.

That says Billy Sekgororoane is what

Today’s MultiChoice is a far cry from the

differentiates MultiChoice in the main, and

M-Net that birthed it and MultiChoice

that is what is responsible for MultiChoice’s

Botswana is the first born child of

business accomplishment. In the world’s

MultiChoice Africa’s joint venture projects

humblest region, normally at the end of the

and has subsequently acted as the base

receiving line with regard to the transfer of

model for MultiChoice’s further expansion

technologies, MultiChoice’s determination

into Sub-Saharan Africa. From its original

not to skimp with regard to bringing new

370 subscriber households, MultiChoice

tools and modernizations to its customers,

Botswana subscriber numbers have

has translated into commercial triumph. And

increased exponentially, year on year. And

that is the lesson it can and does impart to

when I ask Billy Sekgororoane why that is,

the market.

45

LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

BEST OF THE WORLD Our mission is to proudly showcase the Best of every Nation, their Cities and its People to the World

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47

LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

Finding your executive power

Through using psychology, Dr David Lieberman has guided people in enhancing the way they do business, writes Peta Krost Maunder.

B

usiness is all about human

He has helped many a Fortune 500

relationships, and the way people

company enhancing its business, and

treat each other – whether they

has written numerous books empowering

are bosses, staff, suppliers or

business people by using psychology in

customers – is what really counts towards the

the workplace. His books guide those in

company’s success.

business in motivating employees, reclaiming lost customers, resolving conflict and

48

Dr David Lieberman is an internationally

improving leadership skills and interpersonal

recognised leader in the field of human

relationships, and include Executive Power,

behaviour and interpersonal relationships.

Get Anyone to Do Anything and You Can

Leadership | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

LEADERSHIP

Read Anyone. “One of the keys is eliminating

important in a healthy company. In terms

the politics of personalities to create

of leadership, he says: “Humility attracts

harmonious working relationships,” says

us to somebody, while the ego repels as it

Lieberman. “The point is when there is a lot of

implies arrogance. People assume humility is

strife and conflict in the workplace, everything

weakness, but it isn’t. Instead, if a leader is

can come to a grinding halt. People land up

humble, they recognise their strengths and

impairing the company’s larger objective. So

talents as a gift to be grateful for, rather than

it is essential to get it to a happy and more

believing that the world owes them because

productive space – what is the alternative?”

they are wonderful. Can you see how believing the world owes you will set you up

He explains that everybody wants to be

for lousy relationships?”

appreciated and acknowledged for the good work they do. “All anyone wants is to feel

Lieberman says a great leader is a visionary

needed, recognised and appreciated and,

who is clear about their objectives. They need

in fact, money is low on the totem pole of

to be flexible but unwavering in their vision.

needs.”

“They also need to be realistic and have a clear strategy that they can communicate

Lieberman says that executives constantly go

well. But, whatever you do, don’t make

for money as the cure-all to fix any problem

promises you can’t keep, because it

with staff, but it doesn’t really work.

undermines your trust and the staff’s faith in you.”

“Employees want a voice – nobody wants to feel like a drop in the bucket. Nobody

But, he says, don’t shy away from making

wants to feel like their ideas aren’t being

mistakes – he believes failure is a prerequisite

considered or their issues addressed. So,

for greatness.

the most important thing a leader can do is empower employees in their area, give them

Lieberman uses Nelson Mandela as an

responsibility and some degree of freedom to

example of a true leader and visionary who

make decisions.”

didn’t rule out of fear but understood that the country was more important than his own

Lieberman explains that acknowledgement

ego. “He had every reason to be angry at the

goes a long way. He cites those seemingly

establishment but he chose a different path

trite photographs of employee of the month

and, because of that, the entire country was

on the walls of retail stores as being very

better off.”

valuable. “They work wonders because they make people feel valued for our efforts. We

Ego, Lieberman says, is so often at the

all want this – it starts from getting stars

bottom of conflict between people.

in grade school. This acknowledgement is

“

Employees want a voice – nobody wants to feel like a drop in the bucket.”

worth more than any raise, because money

“When you are talking to people, you always

does not increase loyalty,” says Lieberman.

need to look at their ego. So, if you assuage

“If a person thinks that they have traction in

their ego then you have dealt with most of

their company, that they are effective and

the problem,” says Lieberman. “Nobody likes

acknowledged for this by their superiors,

feeling hurt, so if you ride roughshod over

they are just going to want to work harder.

someone’s feelings, they believe you are

If their effort is ignored time and time again,

disrespectful and it will cause a breach in the

any incentive – financial or otherwise – is

relationship. They could also be envious, and

undermined and they feel ignored.”

this is a different cause with a similar solution.

He says as long as the person does not really

“So, you have to rise above your own ego

need that extra money, the offer of money

and make nice. In very simplistic terms, you

won’t keep them in a company in which they

need to say, ‘I am sorry. I was wrong and you

are unhappy.

are great.’ But you really have to mean it. The people who can put their egos aside are the

Any company’s personality stems from its

ones who get ahead.” However, in business,

leadership, and strong leadership is hugely

conflict arises. Sometimes it is internal and

49

LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

other times it is industry-wide, such as labour

is a gift as opposed to a problem, depending

issues.

on how it is dealt with. “If it is resolved to the customer’s satisfaction, that customer is

Dr David Lieberman

“Every argument has two components: the

likely to become more loyal to the company

facts and personalities. The facts are the

than it ever was before the complaint,”

facts, but most disagreements don’t happen

says Lieberman. “The problem is when

because of what we say but the tone of

the company tries to pacify the customer

our voice. A lot has to do with frustrations,

or perhaps put them in the ‘maybe-it-will-

resentments and anger – all emotions, not

go-away’ box. By resolving, you make a

facts,” explains Lieberman.

customer for life.”

“When I mediate, I try to sift out the facts

He says the customer wants two things: to

and help the parties move past the emotion

be heard and to be appreciated for what they

to see what is in whose best interests. Then

have experienced. “They don’t want to feel

we need to deal with the facts. They aren’t

like they are just an insignificant number,”

easy, but when you look at both sides, you

says Lieberman.

can then try to find a compromised solution.

Sometimes there are people who won’t

“Most people just want to be heard, so rule

budge, and other times we find that if we add

number one is don’t interrupt them until it

to the basket a few facts, that are somehow

is off their chest, and try and understand it

related and could swing the decision, we can

from their perspective. They don’t even want

make everyone happy.”

to be compensated, but if you interrupt or begin to lay blame, you have made a cardinal

But as a business manager or leader, you

mistake.”

want to find the right people for the job and people who will fit the culture of the company.

And throw in social media, which enables complaints to spread like wildfire, and the

Lieberman has a few tips on talent hunting.

damage can be exacerbated. “Social media

“I always look for the person who shows

is a double-edged sword,” says Lieberman.

up on time. It shows they are a decent and

“While you can have your finger on the pulse

conscientious person, and everyone wants to

of what people are thinking, you can also

hire such people.

have your company’s reputation shattered so fast. This can be done by just one angry

“I look at how he treats the receptionist

person.”

or secretary. Is he respectful? This shows

“ 50

All anyone wants is to feel needed, recognised and appreciated and, in fact, money is low on the totem pole of needs.”

good character and everything trickles down

So, he explains, companies have to be

from that,” he says. “If there are two people

particularly vigilant in terms of protecting their

coming for a job, the one has 100% of

reputation because of the damage unhappy

the skills necessary but is gruff and not so

customers can do. “This is one of the biggest

pleasant and the other is smiley, happy to

areas where businesses are dropping the

be there, eager to learn and has 80% of the

ball in dealing with customer complaints,” he

skills, I would take the latter any day. Hire the

says.

person of character and you won’t fail.”

Vital to any company is that magic ingredient:

While his books speak volumes, Lieberman

the customer. And a key area of learning for

says the key to any business is how you treat

any company is that a customer’s complaint

people. “It is all about trust and respect.”

Q&A | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

LEADERSHIP

Q&A

Leatile Medupe, CEO of Botswana Couriers on what keeps the company moving forward

Please tell us the history of Botswana Couriers.

Botswana Couriers and Logistics is a privately registered company under the Botswana

Johannesburg trading as Hub25.

What is the core business of Botswana Couriers?

Companies Act and is governed by a Board

We offer domestic and international courier

of Directors. It was formerly a business within

and freight services through 220 global

the BotswanaPost but a decision was made

partnerships and our local footprint. We

to let it run as a private entity under the

also offer Warehousing and distribution,

Ministry of Transport and Communications.

Messenger services as well as tender and

In three years the company has grown

embassy collections. We are committed to

almost exponentially to be a leading player

this and want our customers, clients and

with the largest distribution of 130 locations

stakeholders to trust us with these services

in Botswana. We also have a franchise in

while they focus on their core business.

51

LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

At the time of its establishment, which entities or companies were providing these services in Botswana?

How is the company run?

These services were run through the

to make Botswana Couriers and Logistics

BotswanaPost. There are other players in the

a preferred business partner for value

courier and logistics business.

adding and innovative supply chain and

I have a dedicated Executive management team which has a complementary skills mix

logistics solutions. We have oversight from

How did Botswana Couriers position itself so as to differentiate itself from the competition? How is it positioned as a brand?

We see ourselves as an indigenous

a fully fledged Board of Directors, whose members also have diverse experience and backgrounds to turn us into a self-sustaining enterprise.

view my leadership of Botswana Couriers

Where is it headquartered?

How many offices does it have countrywide?

and Logistics as national service; it is a

Our Head Office is in Gaborone and we have

contract between the nation and me. I

a network of about 130 locations across the

have inculcated this in all my employees,

country. We do have a staff complement of

that whatever service they render they

240 employees.

company. We are owned by Batswana, when we fail we will have failed Batswana. I

should endeavour to ‘go beyond’ just giving business guided by our core values of:

Who are Botswana Couriers’ customers and significant stakeholders?

•

Entrepreneurship

Our customers are segmented across

•

Partnerships

our services depending on the size of

•

Innovation

consignment e.g. couriers and freight. Of

•

Service excellence

note is the Ministry of Health where we

•

Accountability

are managing the Central Medical Stores

service. So it is the manner in which we do

warehouse and also distribute to about 96

52

Q&A | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

facilities across the country. Our other large corporate customer is BotswanaPost.

What brings them back to Botswana Couriers?

We pride ourselves in being a customer centric company and have been recognised

by PMR Africa for our exceptional service.

We have set the benchmark in the logistics industry and are a premier courier company in our market. We live up to our core values, one of which is innovation, so we are continually innovating and creating tailor made solutions for the interests and business needs of our customers and clients.

Who are your personnel? What is the quality and caliber? What are their skill sets? Where do they emanate from (institutions of learning) and how are they mentored and trained?

I believe we have the right talent to drive the company objectives and strategy. We normally enrol our staff members on refresher

What are gross/net profits? How have these profits grown year on year?

We have received accolades from renowned

revenue company with a net profit of 20% and a consistent customer satisfaction index.

• •

Partnerships- foster and execute value adding partnerships

have grown our fleet, our local and global presence. We are a self-sustaining company.

Entrepreneurship- develop and nurture a culture of entrepreneurship

bodies such as PMR Africa. In barely three years as an autonomous entity we

LEADERSHIP

•

Innovation- leverage IT to achieve efficiency

“

I have inculcated this in all my employees, that whatever service they render they should endeavour to ‘go beyond’ just giving service.”

What is Botswana Couriers’ Mission, Vision and Corporate Values? How does it get its staff to buy-in with regard to the aforementioned?

Our vision is to be the preferred business partner for value adding and innovative supply

courses, coaching and mentoring programs.

chain and logistics solutions. Our mission is

Botswana Couriers asserts that it is the market leader in courier and logistics services.

How is this ascertained?

logistics solutions that enable our customers

to deliver tailor made, secure and efficient and government to focus on their core mandates. We want to be a self-sustaining company and our goal is to be a P100m

•

Service Excellence- transform the workforce, our people are proud to be working for us

•

Accountability

What is the company’s attitude with regard to Corporate Social Responsibility? With respect to CSI, what initiatives does Botswana Couriers support?

Our Corporate Social Investment is at the core of our mandate to Batswana and all the communities in which we do business. It is about citizenship and nationalism, it has got to drive the national aspirations and short falls which government cannot meet by herself.

Through corporate social investment initiatives and partnerships Botswana Couriers and Logistics finds meaningful ways of contributing to nation building and social cohesion thereby improving the quality of life of Batswana in a sustainable way.

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LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

KAMOSO Consulting

KAMOSO plays a unique and valuable role in assisting Botswana’s evolving economy at the dawn of the African century.

54

VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015 LEADERSHIP

KAMOSO Consulting (Pty) Ltd is the

of organisations, products and services.

continued partnership between RedPepper

This drives results by converting business

and Australia based design studio

strategy into meaningful brand activation and

SouthSouthWest.

engagement.

Leveraging the resources of international

Due to the depth of engagement with client

brand consultancy SouthSouthWest and

organisations, Kamoso prefers to partner

Gaborone-based communications firm

with organisations long term, meaning that

RedPepper, Kamoso Consulting plays

projects will all be overseen past their launch

a unique and valuable role assisting

phase, ensuring the strategic objectives are

Botswana’s evolving economy at the dawn

met and a viable brand positioning can be

of the African century. The agency develops

achieved and upheld.

powerful strategies, enhancing the value

Tel: +267 395 1363 Email: dumela@kamoso.co.bw Web: www.kamoso.co.bw

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LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

Changing The Game Tebogo Lebotse epitomises what it means to be a team player. And while she’s a wellknown sporting personality, she’ll tell you that team players are not only those who play on sports sides, they are also people who work for an organisation, they are people who play and/ or work well as a member of a squad or group and that ultimately teams in organisations need strong team players to perform well and reach their goals.

S

he firmly believes that

She became President of BONA, the

membership in such requires

governing body of netball in Botswana, in

a certain disposition, one that

2007 but has been active in the sport since

can be taught and learned;

she was in primary school. She describes it

and that characteristics or personality traits

as her passion and credits her life-long love of

such as commitment, a collaborative spirit,

the sport as having given her the audacity to

dependability and reliability, enthusiasm,

succeed in other areas of life. Netball, a ball

the ability to communicate effectively and

sport played by two teams of seven players,

problem solving skills are brought to the fore

its development, derived from early versions

and developed by such involvement and

of basketball, began in England in the 1890s

participation. And in her role as President

and by 1960, international playing rules had

of the Botswana Netball Association

been standardised for the game. With regard

(BONA) and President of the Africa Netball

to Botswana, it was during the 1970s that

Association, she’s determined to give players,

netball was first introduced and offered as

mainly young women and girls, more than just

a school sport to girls in primary schools as

a regular workout and the chance to keep fit,

part of the school curriculum. To this day,

but a sense of belonging and inclusion.

netball in Botswana is predominantly played by girls and women and as such has become

The ability and capability to make connections

a ready and widely available ‘tool’ for the

and build relationships, involvement in an

development of the girl-child, an ‘individual’

activity and an association that will empower

whom Tebogo Lebotse wants to mentor,

them by teaching them to train hard, play

motivate and empower.

harder, compete fiercely and fairly, and to

56

be of support to others when and where

As BONA President, Lebotse does not

necessary so as to reach a common goal or

interact with the individual in netball or

objective.

specific team entities but rather aims for

written by: Chedza Mogae

Interview | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

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57

LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

maximum impact and effect by dealing with

not only an honour, but as something that

issues at the macro-level. And with regard to

occurred due the exertions of a group. She

her on-going exertions on behalf of netball

acknowledges the many different people

in Botswana, Lebotse believes her mandate

and forces in netball Botswana that helped

is clear; delivery at every level starting from

her arrive at this moment; and gives a nod

the grassroots, the training and development

in particular to other women in sport who

of local coaching talent and umpiring skills

mentored her personally, such as softball’s

and the construction and development

Naledi Dikgomo-Goulden, running’s Tsosi

of infrastructure. In her opinion, netball in

Magang and former Botswana National

Botswana can and will only realise its full

Sports Council President Dorcas Makgato-

potential, when BONA is able to meet and

Malesu, to name but a few. She sees her role

fulfil the aforementioned directives.

as President of African netball as synergetic with the objectives she’s set for netball

As team leader of the sport, she also plays a

nationally.

key role in promoting netball and attracting the sponsorship the game desperately needs.

Additionally, she aspires to see African netball

She is grateful and indebted to organisations,

playing nations ascend into the highest

such as Spar, who a number of years back

echelons of netball’s rankings and hopes

bestowed P1.2million upon the league in

to bring this about through greater levels of

sponsorship. She hopes that Spar’s example

continental and international contact and

will encourage other corporate entities to

competition.

come forward and offer support in cash or

58

in kind. She’s appreciative of the recognition

And as if Lebotse didn’t have enough on her

of her efforts for the betterment of netball in

plate, arising from her standing as President

Botswana. And sees her accession to the

of the Africa Netball Association, she is also

highest office in African netball in 2010 as a

a board member in good standing, of the

Interview | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

Her mandate is clear; delivery at every level starting from the grassroots

LEADERSHIP

network of decision-makers, politicians,

their role in the team - she says her family

researchers, educators and students,

operates in much the same way. Her husband

coaches, athletes and volunteers, the voices

Tebogo is most definitely team captain,

of women and girls have been shared at

and while she is co- commander, she lets

conferences and seminars, at country

his voice in the home speak with the most

parliaments and other offices of power.

authority. In Tebogo Lebotse and Tebogo

Within the 20 years of the IWG’s existence,

Sebego’s home, there is a team routine, a

more than 400 organisations have signed

team schedule; there’s work time, there’s play

the Brighton Declaration, which aims to

time, there’s family time and there’s the time

engage organisations to commit towards a

they put aside for one another. In the middle

more equal sporting world. The Declaration

of my interview with Tebogo at her Gabane

is meant to complement all sporting, local,

home, the village just outside Gaborone in

national and international charters, laws,

which she was raised by her grandmother,

codes, rules and regulations relating to

her husband walks in, and in self-deprecating

women or sport. In her role as Declaration

fashion admits he’d gone all the way into

Ambassador Lebotse’s task is to promote

town to buy something only to discover he

the declaration amongst netball community

had no money, could she give him some?

both locally and internationally, as well as

They laugh together, these two co-captains

encourage her counterparts in the Botswana

obviously in sync with one another.

Sport codes to sign.

Tebogo treasures her family, especially as she is her parents only surviving child of three,

And while netball takes up much of Tebogo’s

both of her brothers, older and younger

time, it’s not the only team game in which

having perished in fatal car accidents within

International Netball Federation (INF), the

she is involved. She is half of sporting

a 5 year period. She credits her mother’s

worldwide governing body for netball. The

power couple Tebogo and Tebogo, her

strength for keeping the family going. And

INF, which was established in 1960, is

husband is a prominent Gaborone attorney

often times when she and Tebogo go off

responsible for world rankings, maintaining

who is also President of the Botswana

together, just the two of them, her children

the rules for netball and organising the World Netball Championships. The organisation has five regional areas: Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe and Oceania and Tebogo Lebotse is the INF’s Africa representative. Currently the INF is singularly focused on lobbying the International Olympic Committee (IOC) so as to gain inclusion for the sport at future Olympic Games.

And finally, with respect her sporting activities Tebogo Lebotse is the Declaration

head to her parents’ home in Mochudi.

Netball in Botswana... has become a ready and widely available ‘tool’ for the development of the girl-child, an ‘individual’ whom Tebogo Lebotse wants to mentor, motivate and empower.

She’s also a career woman, and is Mascom’s Chief Communications and Public Relations Officer, a demanding job that requires a heightened level of dedication. Often she must travel, and often her working hours depart the bounds of 9-5, but she is obviously taken with her role; interacting with customers, vendors and other stakeholders.

She is, much like her role in netball, the voice of this major corporation.

Ambassador for the International Working Group (IWG) on Women in Sports to which

Football Association. She and her husband

So how does she juggle all her roles and

Botswana is a signatory and home to

are parents to eight, five girls and three

responsibilities? With the help of a team that

the current secretariat. The International

boys, seven of whom are from previous

also acts as her cheering squad; parents,

Working Group on Women and Sport (IWG)

relationships and one little girl that they had

husband, friends, house-hold help who are

was established in 1994 at the first World

together, with six of their children living with

more like family, work colleagues and other

Conference on Women and Sport held in

them, under the same roof. She describes

women, in both sport, work and play. She

Brighton, UK. Since 1994 the IWG has served

her family as a blended one, and much like

conducts her life in the only way she knows

as a platform to give a voice for women and

in the game of netball, where each player is

how, as part of a prized entity, as part of a

girls across the globe. Through an active

assigned a specific position, which defines

team.

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LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

What Are

You Great At?

60

written by: René Carayol

Career | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

LEADERSHIP

As the business world becomes increasingly fast paced, unrelenting and unforgiving, the solution to the myriad of problems that organisations face appears to become ever more complex.

But the answer always lies with leadership.

T

he role of any inspired leader is

the rest will follow on naturally once you are

around. You don’t have to have charisma or

to energise their people towards

seen to be brilliant at something. And yet

be able to address a crowd. You just need to

their vision and to create more

finding out what we are great at can be the

resonate with your people.

leaders; ensuring the highest levels

hardest and most fundamental task we will

of business can compete globally, embrace

ever face.

Think a little about two other great leaders,

the future and not dwell on the past. This is

Are you brilliant with customers? Fabulous

one old and one new. Nelson Mandela has a

not a tangible skill. It cannot be learnt out

with numbers? Good at seeing the bigger

personal brand based purely on humility and

of a text book or on the internet. It needs to

picture? Punctual and logical?

self belief and everything he has achieved has

be witnessed, discussed and absorbed first

Finding the answer doesn’t have to be such

stemmed from these traits. Barack Obama’s

hand. If management is all about process,

a challenge. “Things I really enjoy I tend to be

brand is based on the simple tenets of hope,

tasks, plans, implementation and execution

good at. Things I tend to be good at I really

optimism and eloquence and it has propelled

then leadership is something entirely different.

enjoy.” Once you start to unravel the different

him to near the top of the American tree.

It’s about people and vision.

strands of what you are great at then your

But neither is perfect.

“

Leadership is not about hierarchy, it’s about those who ask themselves the relevant questions.”

No leader has to be good at everything.

Instead they surround themselves with people that compensate for their weaknesses, leaving them the time to expose their strengths on a regular basis. You can still be the conductor of the orchestra without knowing how to play every instrument.

Leaders are those that can tell stories and give their team the space to evolve, make

leadership brand can be built around these

their own conclusions and find their own way.

We are going to explode the myth that you

strengths. Remember a brand is the promise

It is a process that, for you, starts today. To

can be promoted from being a manager to

of an experience and if that promise is not

get the ball rolling I want you to begin thinking

being a leader. It’s far more than that; it’s

fulfilled then your customers’ (in this case

about what the people around you are great

about your attitude and mindset. You’ve

your people’s) reaction will be both swift and

at, starting with me.

got to WANT to be a leader and anyone in

severe; you must be brutally honest with

the business can step up to the plate; be it

yourself and strive for authenticity.

a sales executive to a project manager to a director.

In every appraisal throughout my career I have been told repeatedly where my faults lie and

You can’t pretend or make up what you

what my areas for improvement are. The list is

WANT to be good at. It must be what you

as long as my arm but I have been fortunate

Leadership is not about hierarchy, it’s about

ARE good at. Think about the best leaders

enough to stumble across the answer to the

those who ask themselves the relevant

you have worked with and their stand out

question “what are you great at?”

questions. What am I great at? Why would

strength will often be their authenticity. Look

So give it some thought. If you can work it out

people want to work for me? Why do

around us – Bill Gates will always be a geek

for me then you can work it out for yourself

people engage and connect with me?

but it doesn’t stop him from being one of

and it might just be the one simple thing that

The first question remains the most vital and

the most inspirational and smartest leaders

changes your career.

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LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

Entrepreneur extraordinaire, Lesego Mathware, talks bootstrapping his way to success and turning a dream into a revolutionary business.

Please tell us the history of Health Generation Health Generation is Botswana’s first and only juice, smoothie and salad bar, founded in 2013. When I was still living in New York I used to play around with fruits and blend them in my apartment. One thing led to another and now we are here in Botswana having fun with the health concept. It was also heavily influenced by my mother, who had just retired and was looking into ways

We have been fortunate to have the first mover-to-market advantage, so at the time of launch up to now there has been no one else doing this. I have to caution, though, that although we are the only company producing this type of product, we cannot get complacent. We are our own worst enemy, and wake up every morning with the mission to outdo ourselves. We are our competition and our clients are the judges.

As for funding, almost all the banks thought

How did Health Generation position itself to be different from the competition?

I was nuts: they could never imagine that a

Aspirational, affluent but most importantly,

business based on squeezing fruits could be

healthy! Our brand is perceived as luxury and

viable. So I risked all my life savings in this

above average: that is because we have

venture and no bank funded us. In hindsight,

worked very hard to produce a brand that is

this was a good thing as we became self-

aspirational. We like to believe that we cater

sufficient and bootstrapped the project to

for all generations who want to be healthy,

make it a success.

hence the name Health Generation. When it

We at Health Generation are breaking new

comes to product pricing it is slightly more

ground by educating Batswana to diversify

expensive than similar products, because we

their dietary options and not just rely on meat

believe you can never put a cost on health.

and heavy starch.

The amount of money you spend buying our

What is your core business?

juice is nothing compared with the cost of

she could keep fit and deal with her medical conditions.

The core business of Health Generation is to serve freshly made juices, smoothies and salads to the consumer. We have also

treating diseases that have developed as a result of bad eating habits over long periods of time.

especially with their wellness days. In the

How many Health Generation shops are there countrywide?

future we see ourselves tailor-making healthy

Our strategy is to operate retail branches in

meals that can be delivered to people’s

malls in Gaborone, and currently we are at

offices and homes.

Airport Junction Mall and at Jack’s Gym in the

At the time of Health Generation’s establishment, which entities or companies had similar

Central Business District. We hope to have

entered the market of catering for corporates,

62

services in Botswana?

two more retail locations this year, making a total of four.

Q&A | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

LEADERSHIP

Q&A

with Lesego Mathware 63

LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

Who are Health Generation’s customers?

We cater for all types of consumers because our product is not associated with luxury or class: good health is something everyone needs.

What are Health Generation’s Mission, Vision and Corporate Values? How does it get staff buy-in to these?

We do not have things like mission, vision

in England as a garden boy to get myself

and made sure that it is something I enjoy.

through A levels. I also worked in New

At this stage in my life, I am not interested in

York alongside hip-hop and music mogul

taking any vacations. I plan on working as

Russell Simmons as we set up the Diamond

hard as I can possibly manage, and later in

Empowerment Fund, an organisation that

life I can have what’s called a ‘stay-cation’,

funds students in Africa. This is mainly where

where I dictate my hours and my schedule.

I got my life skills, as I was just a village boy from Botswana who was thrown in the deep

Where do you draw support?

end in New York, and I made it work. I got

Throughout my journey I’ve had great support

to experience what dedication and hard

from my family, especially from my father who

work means because I was literally setting

passed away in 2010, and from my mother; I

everything up from scratch.

currently work hard to ensure that she never

and corporate values. We feel these things bog down companies and prevent them from being truly great at what they do.

We live by our mantra: “YOUR HEALTH IS YOUR GREATEST WEALTH”. We are a new entrant in the market, we are young,

needs anything. My siblings and I are very

How did your upbringing and education make you the person you are now? What are your values? And how does all this manifest itself in the workplace?

close when it comes to family issues, but we choose to pursue different things in life that make us happy.

lot of rules in the food business (in a good

Born in Gaborone, I am from a family of four

What has been your greatest success on the job? Greatest challenges? Greatest failings?

way) and having fun with it. We operate

and was brought up by my parents until I

our stores in a way that we as service

You are as good as your last achievement,

decided to branch out on my own at sixteen

providers would like to be treated if we

so with everything I pursue in life I try and do

after high school. I went to college in New

better than before. I honestly feel that if you

and most importantly, we are breaking a

were the consumer and not the producer.

“

have vision and stick with it, you can reach

I had a vision I relentlessly pursued but had it not been for my team, I would still be a kid from Botswana dreaming.”

levels you never imagined. Seeing people mature to become the best at anything they put their mind to is what gives me the most pleasure, and I have been fortunate to enable some people to do exactly that. I continue to face challenges every day, be it in the workplace where I fight for the youth to be given a chance, or at the restaurant where I fight for the customer to get the best service.

How did you come to own Health Generation? What is your previous experience? How do you mentor/train/ encourage and support your staff?

Technically yes, I am the owner, but I think a lot of credit should be given to my team. I had a vision I relentlessly pursued but had it not been for my team, I would still be a kid from Botswana dreaming. These guys put everything they have into ensuring that we kick ass when it comes to being in the food industry.

I am very passionate about encouraging my team to excel beyond their perceived

York and worked there for some years. I was

When it comes to failing, I never believe someone can fail: it’s more about learning

fortunate enough to travel the world through

than failing, seeing it as an opportunity to

sport and meet some amazing people; I took

learn something so that you can do it better

this thing called life by the neck and drove

next time.

it till the wheels came off. My experiences and work ethic have always been inspired by a statement my mentor likes to make: “God is in the work”. This simply means that your work is not just work, it’s where you exhibit your talent to the world and your talent is a blessing that the world needs to embrace.

What are your hobbies? Where do you take holidays, and with whom?

How do you motivate your staff?

My team members know how important their roles are in this dream we are building, so I normally don’t talk much but like to motivate them by doing what I expect them to do. If I want the floor swept in a particular way, I will simply get the broom and sweep it myself.

That way they see that we are all equal, there is no boss and, most importantly, when I want

limitations, because it’s important to show

I read a lot in my spare time, which helps me

something done a particular way they know

them that they can be future franchise holders

calm my nerves. This sounds like a cliché, but

what I’m expecting from them. I tell them

of Health Generation.

in all honesty my work is my hobby: I have

quite often, “Everybody is born a brand. You

My previous experience includes working

carefully selected the type of work I engage in

decide what type of brand you want to be”.

64

Q&A | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

LEADERSHIP

ADVERT

65

LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

Social entrepreneurship takes grit and heart Social entrepreneurship is so much more than helping the less privileged; it is about building people and communities, writes LIESL VENTER.

B

ig problems don’t necessarily

innovative and new ways to address these

need big solutions. Often the

challenges.”

simplest of actions can have the

As a concept, social entrepreneurship is still

biggest of impacts.

relatively new on the continent, but is fast growing in popularity. In its simplest form,

It’s a lesson Africa’s growing number of social

says Krige, it is the application of business

entrepreneurs are slowly but surely teaching

models to solve social problems – a person or

and learning as they tackle issues often

organisation that pursues an innovative idea

considered to be insurmountable.

solving a community problem using business

“Africa has daunting challenges,” says Kerryn

techniques.

Krige, a senior programme manager at the

“As a concept, it addresses some of the

Gordon Institute of Business Science (Gibs)

constraints that civil society organisations

Network for Social Entrepreneurs. “But

have experienced. It introduces a profit

every day, social change-makers are finding

motive to the running of an organisation,

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Entrepreneurship | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

LEADERSHIP

Joy Twinomusasizi works out of Living Goods branch in the Bwaise slum - one of the poorest areas of Kampala, Uganda. With her branded uniform and business-ina-bag she delivers high-impact, affordable products to poor consumers in Bwaise.

67

LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015 A World Bank study showed that pass rates of an entire school increased from 57% to 100% after students studied with bright solar lighting at night. Here, these brothers study by the light of a lamp sold by their local Living Goods agent.

which fundamentally shifts the way non-profit organisations approach their work,” says Krige.

“It has become clear that we cannot tackle social issues in isolation,” she says.

On their own, governments and nonprofit charitable organisations are just not addressing the massive social needs that exist fast enough because they are all facing their own sets of challenges and issues.

American multimillion-dollar direct mail catalogue founder, Chuck Slaughter, saw this first-hand in Uganda and Kenya.

A successful entrepreneur who has always had a keen interest to develop business ideas

Social entrepreneurship harnesses the power of enterprise to social mission and purpose. It is an socio-economic model for sustainable change

health entrepreneurs, who generate an

“Companies donating 1% of net profit is not

income for themselves by walking door to

enough,” says Pillai, who is CEO of Lifeco

door selling the smallest and cheapest – but

Unltd SA, an organisation that addresses and

also often the most necessary – supplies to

sets out to change the attitudes that underpin

communities. The reason why products can

the poverty mindset. “Social entrepreneurship

be sold cheaper is simply due to the scale

harnesses the power of enterprise to social

that is achieved with the approach.

mission and purpose. It is an socio-economic

“It is a model with the potential for creating

model for sustainable change.”

that potentially have a big social impact,

game-changing scale,” says Slaughter,

Slaughter realised the shortcomings of the

whose direct door-to-door selling concept

Slaughter says while there is no single answer

public and private sectors whilst looking at

is neither complex or new, but is allowing

to whether social entrepreneurs will be the

a franchise model involving pharmacies in

people to access products – be they life-

game-changer in Africa at large, they do

East Africa. With thousands of children under

saving malaria drugs, tablets to purify water,

represent a hugely positive development.

the age of five years dying due to a lack of

fortified food or solar lamps – that change

“It gives me hope that so many bright people

access to medical supplies, Slaughter found

their very existence.

are willing to take risks to create markets and

that medicine dispensaries were continuously out of stock, whilst people also stayed far away and could not easily access them. At the same time, medicines were expensive, with the retail price often costing 300–400% of the manufacturing price.

His solution was Living Goods, an

“

businesses that take a double bottom line

In bridging the worlds of business and social good, we are going to see a difference.”

organisation that creates a platform which

approach to their work,” says Slaughter. “I’m humbled to be considered among them and consider it an amazing club to be part of.”

Social entrepreneurship is “exciting as hell”, says Jaco Slabbert, an impact practitioner who has worked with social entrepreneurs across Africa. “It is an innovative way to drive social and environmental change. There’s no

can deliver a range of products at an

Social entrepreneur Pat Pillai says that in an

affordable rate right to the door of the people

question that traditional philanthropic giving

increasingly unequal world with increasing

is often unpredictable, making it difficult for

social and environmental problems, capitalism

charitable organisations to plan ahead,” he

and grant-based non-governmental

explains. “Social entrepreneurship makes

organisations (NGOs) have not managed to

sense in the world we live in. Businesses are

stem the world’s pressing problems at scale.

being held more responsible for the effects

in need of them.

Considered one of Africa’s top examples of social entrepreneurship, the company recruits, trains and supports community

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Entrepreneurship | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

“

LEADERSHIP

It’s tough out there, and perseverance and dogged determination are vital to surviving the early stages of establishing one’s venture.”

A client in Uganda shows off his Ugastove collection. These locally manufactured improved cook stoves are one of our agents’ top sellers, with over 55,000 sold to date. perseverance and dogged determination are vital to surviving the early stages of establishing one’s venture.”

Having a great idea is by far not the key to success. “I think 10% is the good idea, 10% good fortune or providence and the other 80% is all about hard work. Like a commercial entrepreneur, you have to be willing to take risks, fail and learn as you go along.”

Slaughter says nothing worth doing is easy and nothing easy is worth doing. “Like in any market, entrepreneurship in Africa takes hard work, dedication and probably a bit of luck.”

The challenges facing the continent are myriad, and scaling up efforts to find solutions is crucial.

Says Cox, “Social enterprise is the best vehicle for doing exactly that.”

According to Pillai, it is not about taking over

they have on society and the environment.

different shapes and sizes.”

the role of charity or non-profit organisations.

Charities are constantly trying to become

Like Josh Cox, founder of Trade-Mark,

“We will always need good NGOs, as not

more professional and business-like. Social

an organisation that empowers skilled

everything can be turned into sustainability.

entrepreneurship is in many ways where

tradespeople from the township to build

Social entrepreneurs, however, are a vital link

these two sectors cross.”

sustainable self-supporting businesses.

to stimulate in the middle of our economies.”

“It’s still a fairly new concept in Africa and, as

And change is happening, he says. “We are

a result, there tends to not be a lot of support

seeing the impact. Many social enterprises

According to Krige, there are great examples of social entrepreneurship at play, such as the Oasis Association, which generates income through recycling activities.

“Greg Maqoma, for example, set up a forprofit company to fund the development of young dancers through his Vuyani Dance Theatre. Another example is the focus of

exist and are demonstrating impact and

Like in any market, entrepreneurship in Africa takes hard work, dedication and probably a bit of luck.

Spark School to improve the calibre of

profitable surpluses and profits.”

It is undoubtedly disrupting the status quo, says Slabbert, even though it will not bring all the answers. “Social enterprises can create relevant solutions to developing world problems. Social entrepreneurs will bring water to the driest parts of the deserts,

teachers by focusing on teacher training,”

for social entrepreneurs,” he says. “But it is

bring affordable education to the slums, and

she says. “Iyeza Express delivers chronic

what is needed to bring about change. In

help small-scale farmers access markets

medication to patients using bicycles at an

bridging the worlds of business and social

and increase their income. If anything, it’s

affordable R10. Clare Reed responded to

good, we are going to see a difference.”

almost ideal for Africa. It absolutely suits the

vegetable growing by developing a fertilised

Ask Cox what makes a social entrepreneur

Afrocapitalism ideology; fair and transparent

seed strip, which she sells in nurseries and

and he says, “Grit is probably the key quality

capitalism that measures financial, social and

schools. Social entrepreneurs come in all

that you need. It’s tough out there, and

environmental successes.”

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LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

Kubu Island

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Travel Break | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

LEADERSHIP

In the Makgadikgadi area, approximately 500km from capital city Gaborone, lies Kubu Island. A dry granite rock island, it is a national monument with an eerie beauty augmented by its quietness and stark desolation.

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LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

An Icon Reborn The all-new Audi TT Coupé© Audi South Africa is proud to introduce the third generation of the Audi TT Coupé, the compact sports car which captivates as a design icon with the driving dynamics of a genuine sports car and a revolutionary, fully digital cockpit.

T

he third generation Audi TT Coupé has taken many of its design cues from the first generation car. The contour of the sills creates a striking

refracting edge, while the broad wheel arches form their own geometric bodies.

The front wheel arch breaches the line of the bonnet, which continues over the door as a tornado line and runs almost horizontally through to the tail as a strong body shoulder.

Its rear design and twin tailpipes are also positioned closer to the middle of the vehicle, reminiscent of the first generation Audi TT.

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Motoring | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

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LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

Xenon plus headlights are standard, and Audi can optionally provide LED headlights or Audi Matrix LED headlights, where the high beam is generated by controllable individual LEDs. The third brake light is an extremely narrow strip positioned under the edge of the rear spoiler and plays an essential part in defining the tail light silhouette.

Body Lightweight construction is one of Audi’s greatest areas of expertise and impacts positively on acceleration, handling and

view, the speedometer and rev counter are

fuel consumption. The new TT, Audi

in the foreground; in “infotainment” mode the

has systematically taken this composite

virtual instruments are smaller.

construction principle even further, therefore the Coupé’s underbody structure has optimised axle loads and is made of modern, high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel alloys.

The side sills and roof frame are made of extruded aluminium profiles that are integrated into the structure using cast aluminium nodes. This structural principle creates a very rigid and safe bodyshell. The aluminium side sections and roof complete the structure. The hood, doors and trunk lid are also made of this light metal.

Interior

Engines Audi South Africa will offer the new Audi TT with a four-cylinder engine including turbocharging and direct injection. The 2.0 TFSI petrol engine combines athletic power with trailblazing efficiency and start-stop as a standard feature.

The 2.0 TFSI is available in two versions – a 169 kW front-wheel drive version, as well as a 169 kW quattro version. It delivers a torque figure of 370 Nm from 1,600 to 4,300 rpm. It accelerates the 2.0T FSI S tronic front-wheel drive from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds, up to an electronically governed top speed

Undoubtedly the biggest revolution is in

of 250 km/h. The fuel consumption for this

the interior of the new Audi TT. As with

seven-speed S tronic model is 6.3 litres per

the exterior, horizontal lines and surfaces

100 km with a corresponding CO2 emissions

emphasise the width while clear and purist

figure of 146 g/km.

“

lines underscore both the lightness and the

a design icon with the driving dynamics of a genuine sports car”

uncompromising sportiness of the interior.

On the version with six-speed S tronic and

The instrument cluster and the MMI screen

quattro all-wheel drive, the sprint from 0 to

have been combined to form a central, digital

100 km/h takes 5.3 seconds; top speed

can be controlled by paddles on the steering

unit – the Audi virtual cockpit.

is 250 km/h; fuel consumption of 6.8 litres

wheel.

per 100 km and CO2 emissions of 159 g The Audi Virtual Cockpit is a fully digital

per km. The dual-clutch transmission shifts

In the new Audi TT, quattro permanent

instrument cluster, drivers can choose

through the six gears without any noticeable

all-wheel drive delivers additional stability,

between two display modes: In the classic

interruption in traction, and in manual model it

traction and driving fun. Its electro-

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Motoring | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

LEADERSHIP

Equipment

The Audi TT Coupé will be offered in South Africa with a significant level of standard equipment, as follows:

Audi TT Coupé 2.0T FSI S tronic:

Audi TT Coupé 2.0T FSI quattro S tronic:

•

Virtual cockpit with Audi MMI

• New generation quattro® all-wheel

navigation Plus and Touchpad

drive with adjustable torque split via

control

drive select

•

17-inch alloy wheels

•

18-inch wheels

•

Xenon headlights

•

Milano leather upholstery

•

Keyless entry

•

Exterior and interior quattro badges

•

Audi drive select

•

Virtual cockpit with Audi MMI

•

Audi music interface with USB

navigation Plus and Touchpad

•

Bluetooth interface with audio

control

streaming

•

Xenon headlights

•

Alcantara/leather upholstery

•

Keyless entry

•

Light/rain sensor

•

Audi drive select

•

Front centre armrest

•

Audi music interface with USB

•

Leather-trimmed, 3-spoke

•

Bluetooth interface with audio

flat bottom multi-function steering

streaming

wheel Plus with shift paddles

•

Light/rain sensor

•

Front sports seats

•

Front centre armrest

•

Cruise control system

•

Leather-trimmed, 3-spoke

• Digital air conditioning

flat bottom multi-function steering

•

wheel Plus with shift paddles

mounted on the rear axle. The intelligence of

•

Front sports seats

quattro drive - the software that determines

•

Cruise control system

precisely the possible torque distribution

• Digital air conditioning

between the front and rear axles – is a

•

hydraulically controlled multi-plate clutch is

LED interior lighting

LED interior lighting

completely new development.

By networking quattro drive with Audi drive select, the driver of the new Audi TT can adjust the all-wheel-drive properties to suit his or her individual requirements. In “auto” mode, this produces optimum traction and balanced driving dynamics.

In “dynamic” mode, torque is distributed to the rear axle earlier and to a higher degree, which means that driving dynamics are enhanced further, especially on surfaces with low friction coefficients.

The engine combines athletic power with trailblazing efficiency

Pricing The new Audi TT Coupé will be priced as follows, standard with the 5 year/100 000km Audi Freeway Plan: •Audi TT Coupé 2.0T FSI S tronic: R 558,000 •Audi TT Coupé 2.0T FSI quattro S tronic: R 642,000

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LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

More dynamic More impressive The new BMW X5 M and X6 M

76

The ultra-high performance with exceptional fuel efficiency that characterises every car from BMW’s sporty M division is once more fused with allroads, all-weathers capability with the introduction of the second-generation X5 M and X6 M.

Motoring | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

C

ompared to the 2009 models which they succeed, they bring improvements of up to 10 per cent in power, torque and

The new M TwinPower Turbo V8 engine: the best of all worlds The bare figures for the new BMW 4.4-litre V8 engine in the X5 M and X6 M are impressive

performance while lowering fuel consumption

enough in themselves, but they tell only half

and CO2 emissions by over 20 per cent.

the story. This new power unit develops its

Both models are powered by a new 4.4-litre

maximum 575 hp – four per cent more than

M TwinPower Turbo V8 engine with two

the engine in the previous models – from

TwinScroll turbochargers. With outputs

6,000 to 6,500 rpm, while peak torque of

of 575 hp and 750 Nm, it is the most

750 Nm (a gain of 10 per cent) is available

powerful engine ever developed by BMW

from 2,200 to 5,000 rpm. This combination

for four-wheel-drive vehicles. It is linked to a

of high-revving capability with linear, rapid

newly developed eight-speed M Steptronic

response is thanks to the engine’s innovative

automatic transmission now featuring

M TwinPower Turbo technologies, which

Drivelogic. The cars’ outstanding driving

include cross-bank exhaust manifolds, two

dynamics benefit from specific tuning by

TwinScroll turbochargers, direct fuel injection

BMW M, while their bespoke interior and

working at a pressure of up to 200 bar and

exterior designs blend sportiness, luxury and

VALVETRONIC variable valve control.

“

LEADERSHIP

With outputs of 575 hp and 750 Nm, it is the most powerful engine ever developed

by BMW for four-wheel-drive vehicles.”

functionality.

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LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

“

BMW created the Sports Activity Vehicle sector with the original X5 and X6, and the new M models are once again the ultimate expression of the genre.”

in terms of responsiveness of the M Double Clutch gearbox in other BMW M models, with the smoothness of a torque converter automatic. It also allows for a wider spread of gear ratios to foster greater fuel efficiency, and for the first time in a torque converter automatic it permits ‘creep on demand’ through the Low Speed Assistant system.

The Drivelogic function allows the driver to prioritise fuel economy, comfort or sports performance, while gear changing can be fully automatic or driver-controlled via paddles on the steering wheel. A Launch Control function is fitted to permit perfect standing starts.

Sports Activity Vehicles with the emphasis on ‘sport’ BMW created the Sports Activity Vehicle

These technologies, in combination with the newly developed eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, ensure performance more than meets the expectations of a car from BMW M while at the same time demonstrating exceptional fuel efficiency. The X5 M and X6 M accelerate from 0-62 mph in a supercar-equalling 4.2 seconds, but in normal road driving they are capable of 25.4 mpg, with CO2 emissions of 258 g/km – reductions of over 20 per cent compared to the previous models.

The eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic delivers all the advantages

78

sector with the original X5 and X6, and the new M models are once again the ultimate expression of the genre. They now deliver improved cornering force through revisions to the upper front wishbones, which have increased camber, camber progression and steering pivot axis, while directional

SPORT+ modes allows the driver to personalise the suspension settings at the touch of a button.

This combination of highrevving capability with linear, rapid response is thanks to the engine’s innovative M TwinPower Turbo technologies...

stability has been increased thanks to revised elastokinematics with more rigid bearings.

The X5 M and X6 M feature firmer suspension tuning than other X5 and X6 models, a 10 mm lower ride height, Dynamic Drive active roll stabilisation and self-levelling air suspension at the rear. Dynamic Performance Control with COMFORT, SPORT and

Sportiness meets luxury in the function-led design The exterior design of the new BMW X5 M and X6 M is purely function-led. The four large air intakes and flaps at the front and the

Motoring | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

Body

LEADERSHIP

X5M

No of doors/seats

X6M

5/5

5/5

Length/width/height (unladen)

mm

4880/1985/1754

4909/1989/1689

Wheelbase mm

mm

2933

2933

Track, front/rear

mm

1666/1667

1666/1667

Ground clearance

195

195

Turning circle

m

12.8

12.8

Tank capacity

app ltr

85

85

Cooling system incl. heater

ltr

16.8

16.8

Engine oil1)

ltr

9.5

9.5

Weight, unladen, to DIN/EU

kg

2275/2350

2265/2340

Max load to DIN

kg

695

685

Max permissible weight

kg

2970

2950

Max axle load, front/rear

kg

1420/1630

1420/1610

Max trailer load (12%) braked/

kg

2970/750

2970/750

unbraked Max roofload/ max towbar download

kg

100/140

100/140

Luggage comp capacity

ltr

650–1870

550–1525

cd x A

0.38 x 2.93

0.37 x 2.89

V/8/4

V/8/4

Air resistance Engine Config/No of cyls/valves Engine technology

BMW M TwinPower Turbo technology with variable inlet geometry, TwinScroll biturbo charging, High Precision Petrol Direct Injection, Double-VANOS, VALVETRONIC

diffuser at the rear perform essential cooling and aerodynamic functions, for example, and the same is true of the M-specific Air Breathers behind the front wheels, which reduce turbulence in the front wheel arches.

Airflow around the cars is so well managed that both drag and lift are minimised.

The interiors exude sporting luxury. There is an M leather steering wheel with gearshift paddles, an M gearshift lever, an M Drive menu in the information display and M Drive buttons on the steering wheel. The M front sports seats, like the rest of the upholstery, are trimmed in fine-grain Merino leather with contrast stitching, and there are embossed

Capacity, effective

cm3

4395

4395

Stroke/bore

mm

88.3/89.0

88.3/89.0

Compression ratio

:1

Fuel grade Max output at

10.0

10.0

RON 95–98

95–98

kW/hp

423/575

423/575

rpm

6000–6500

6000–6500

Torque

Nm

750

750

at

rpm

2200–5000

2200–5000

Battery/installation

Ah/–

105/luggage comp

105/luggage comp

Alternator

A/W

209/n.b.

209/n.b.

Electrical system

Performance Power-to-weight ratio (DIN)

kg/kW

5.4

5.4

Output per litre

kW/ltr

96.2

96.2

Acceleration

M logos.

0–100km/h

s

4.2

4.2

0–1000

s

22.6

22.6

Door sill strips with model lettering, aluminium

in 4th/5th gear 80–120km/h

interior trim strips and an anthracite-coloured

Top speed

s

–/–

–/–

km/h

250 (280)2)

250 (280)2)

roof liner from BMW Individual add further

Fuel Consumption EU3)

touches of sporting exclusivity.

With standard tyres:

Standard features include Adaptive Dynamic

Urban

l/100km

14.7

14.7

suspension, Adaptive M suspension, Cruise

Extra-urban

l/100km

9.0

9.0

Control with brake function, Driving Assistant,

Combined

l/100km

11.1

11.1

Dynamic Stability Control Plus (ABS, ASC,

CO2

brake drying, brake fade compensation, brake

Emission rating

pre-tensioning, Cornering Brake Control, Dynamic Brake Control, Dynamic Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Hill-start Assistant), Hill Descent Control,

g/km

258

258

EU6

EU6

Specifications applicable to ACEA markets, data relevant to homologation applicable in part only to Germany (weight) Figures in brackets refer to automatic transmission 1) Oil change 2) In conjunction with optional M Driver’s Package 3) Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions depend on the selected tyre format

BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M Indicative Recommend Retail Price (incl. VAT)

front and rear Park Distance Control and a rain sensor with automatic headlight control.

8-Speed M Steptronic Transmission CO2 Tax Retail Price including CO2 Tax

KT62 X5 M

KW82 X6 M

R1 643 000.00 R14 158.8 R1 657 158.8

R1 676 500.00 R14 158.8 R1 690 158.8

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LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

Outside Emporio Armani fashion show

IT’S IN THE

BAG

80

Bag trends come and go, and it seems designers are not the only ones to look to for the ultimate in style at any fashion week.

Fashionistas attending the shows also bring out their unique take on fashion as evidenced by the handbag and clutch styles spotted on the street, outside various fashion shows.

LEADERSHIP

Stefano Tinti / Shutterstock.com

Stefano Tinti / Shutterstock.com

Shana Schnur / Shutterstock.com

andersphoto / Shutterstock.com

Lifestyle | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

Outside Dirk Bikkembergs fashion show

Stefano Tinti / Shutterstock.com

Stefano Tinti / Shutterstock.com

Outside Byblos fashion show

Outside Byblos fashion show

Outside Byblos fashion show

Outside Gucci fashion show

Stefano Tinti / Shutterstock.com

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written by: LUKE MANNING

LEADERSHIP VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

T

ime and again people ask me

or sample the free food and wine but

about networking. What makes

fundamentally it is to meet people.

a good networking event? How

For so many it is seen solely as an

do I network well? Which events

opportunity to meet potential customers, or

should I go to? And whilst for some it has

perhaps a potential employer or employee.

become an art-form honed through reading

But it doesn’t have to be as clear cut.

networking bibles, and attending ‘how to’

The real benefit is often found in the most

lectures and seminars, for others it remains

unlikely situations or the most unsuspecting

both daunting and unnecessary.

of people. So for those who are focusing

Networking

purely on the ‘choice’ people in the room

It needn’t be. Networking is a simple process

to snare with their products and services,

that can be incredibly fulfilling and rewarding

they can bypass the more meaningful

when done well. After all, your contact list is

conversations that lead to longer term

your currency when operating in business.

relationships.

You don’t need to read through hints and tips about positive thinking, prepare an

The person you are talking to might not be

introduction that can be used time and

the one that makes the difference. But they

again, worry about mirroring posture or start

might know someone who will. Of course

researching people on the guest list before

the success of any networking session

you get there. All can be used effectively but

also depends on the event itself, and many

for many it makes a very easy process far

organisers struggle to keep the attention of

more complex than it needs to be. Instead

the audience. Whilst some go to extreme

think about the greatest networkers of all and

lengths to find the next gimmick or famous

how they do it.

face to attract their audience, the best networking events are the ones filled with

Children.

“

like-minded individuals who are there without an agenda.

Networking is a simple process that can be incredibly fulfilling and rewarding when done well.”

Again the key is keeping it simple - it’s all about picking the relevant subject matter, a suitable venue and a balanced audience.

Nothing more, nothing less.

So next time you find yourself invited to a networking event, or want to organise one, take it for what it is – an opportunity to bring people together who might otherwise

82

They are the perfect role models for anybody

be ships that pass in the night. If these

trying to make new contacts - naturally

encounters bring some benefit, either

happy and engaging, talk openly without fear

individually or for organisations, then it’s got

of rejection or judgement, always smiling,

to be worth doing.

laughing and inquisitive, and never fail to

And remember, once you’re there and

express an opinion. Children get quickly

surrounded by strange faces, don’t be

involved in conversations and easily make

daunted. Never try to be something you’re

new friends. After all, what are you trying to

not - authenticity will always shine through,

achieve by going to a networking session?

and with it comes an authority that the people

Yes it might be to see the guest speakers

in the room will always be attracted to.

Insight | VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 2015

LEADERSHIP

When knowledge rolls up its sleeves, people’s realities change.

At Liberty, we know that people don’t follow knowledge, they follow those who know.

They don’t follow those who talk about there, they follow those who have been there, those with dust on their shoes. Those who know. Because until knowledge has its sleeves rolled up, until it gets stuck in, until knowledge becomes action there is no freedom, there is no progress, there is no advantage. We are Liberty. And we know the way to financial freedom, because we walk it every day. This is the advantage we offer. The Advantage of Knowing.

For more information on our group and individual risk insurance products for death, disability, critical illness and other unfortunate life changing events visit us on www.liberty.co.bw or call us on +267 369 2200.

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