POST UTENG 2012 | GA
atric
•INSIGHTS •STUDY TIPS •IDEAS •GUIDANCE •FINANCE
fresh inspiration career ideas inside
a word from the ed
Our Team
EDITOR
Samantha Collins sam@yesmedia.co.za ART DIRECTOR / DESIGNER
ONWARDS AND UPWARDS
Stephanie Loy stephloy@gmail.com PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR
Ursula Munnik ursula@yesmedia.co.za COPY EDITOR
Olivia Main CONTRIBUTORS
Neil Gardiner, Peter Rudden, Christina Kennedy, Kim Maxwell, Robbie Stammers, Lara Terner PROJECT SALES MANAGER
Charlton Peters charlton@yesmedia.co.za ADVERTISING SALES
Priscilla September, Shakier Groenewald, Ibtesaam Sasman, Brian Hearne, Cheryl Pinter, Abigail Zengetwa TEL 021 761 7906 FAX 021 761 9524 E-MAIL info@yesmedia.co.za POSTAL ADDRESS PO Box 44383,
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Post Matric is published by Yes!Media. All copyright in material appearing in this magazine belongs to Yes!Media and/or the individual contributors. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor or Yes!Media. No responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions in the contents of the magazine.
OUR COVER
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P E T E R
R U D D E N
Post Matric ISSN number 2074-4412
If you were given this magazine at school, most likely you are in your final year and two things are taking centre stage right now (aside from dreaming about the matric dance), namely: how best do I get through and pass this year and, what on earth shall I do next year? Even though school has been hard at times, with tests, exams and endless piles of homework, the one thing you may not have had to think about much is, what next? Back in the day the answer was simple, go back to school and carry on. But at the end of this year, everything changes. From now on it’s your choice as to what you will do with your life and this can be quite daunting. So what is the right decision for you? While some of you are fortunate enough to have decided long ago, others may have no idea. If that describes you, don’t worry. The good news is that it is far from too late. In fact, even if you have decided already, a career is a lifelong project and there is almost unlimited opportunity to rethink things and change direction. I know I have, many times! In the pages of this magazine you will find ideas on a variety of career directions, as well as information and contact details for many educational institutions. If you think you don’t have the money to study further, check out ‘Funding made Easy’ on page 25, you may be surprised at what is available to deserving students. For those of you who know you won’t be going to varsity, explore the alternatives – and there are many – in ‘No Varsity, no Cry’ on page 25. The world is a fast-changing place, and more and more people are making a success of their lives through attending colleges and private institutions or undertaking apprenticeships and on-the-job training. Whatever route you decide to take, we wish you well on the exciting journey that lies ahead.
COVER CREDITS JO SPIES
Sam Collins EDITOR: POST MATRIC post matric 2012
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contents 11 20 features
12
The Fresh Drive
DJ Fresh speaks about making a career out of something you love.
20
Make or Break Time
Top tips on how to study effectively and cruise those exams.
27 Funding Made Easy s p i e s
Where to turn if you can’t afford tertiary education.
32
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J o
Inspirational Noma
Former Business Women of the Year and founder of one of SA’s most dynamic SMEs on entrepreneurship.
39
No Varsity, No Cry
Internships, private colleges and onthe-job training in the spotlight.
12
44
Driven to Succeed
How Post Office worker Marlin Rhode worked his way up the ranks from forklift driver to advocate. post matric 2012
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contents
career junction
53 Q&As
Here’s food for thought: The inside scoop on 28 different professions.
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11
Must-Have Gadgets
Get your hands on the latest games, gadgets and gimmicks.
102 First-Year Survival Guide Advice on surviving your first year of tertiary education.
104
Post-Traumatic Dress Disorder
A tongue-in-cheek look at what life’s like for parents of teenagers, and teenagers of parents.
p e t e r
entertain yourself
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91 Florist 92 Photographer 95 Technical Engineer 97 Teacher 98 Hairstylist 100 Marketing Strategist
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55 Travel Consultant 56 Veterinary Assistant 57 Optical Dispenser 58 Musician 61 Electrician 63 Wine Sommelier 65 Magazine Editor 67 Podiatrist 68 Make-up Artist 69 Bureau Manager 70 Control Room Manager 71 Animal Behaviourist 73 Social Worker 74 Horticulturist 75 Librarian 76 Concierge 79 Tax Consultant 83 Small Business Owner 85 Museum Curator 86 Food Scientist 89 Retail Manager 90 Art Director
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P H OTO :
R E A L I T Y
V I E W
I S
D E V I C E
D E P E N D E N T
BLACKBERRY CURVE 9380
SMS the name of the province you live in, followed by your age, followed by the name of the school where you got your copy of Post Matric to 34009. EXAMPLE: ‘GAUTENG 18 AZARA SECONDARY’. If you did not get your copy from school, SMS the relationship of the person from whom you got your copy – for example, ‘GAUTENG 15 BROTHER’ or ‘GAUTENG 17 FRIEND’.
post matric 2012
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cool collectables
camera caNoN S100
Toy Parrot ar.DroNe Try justify it to your folks that you should own a toy quadrocopter. It won’t be easy, till you show your dad how it hovers automatically, indoors or out, and is controlled using an iPhone, iPod Touch or Android phone. Tactical war games, tagging your mates or viewing a party from above using the on-board camera. R2999, www.ardrone.parrot.com
Phone cameras are fine, until you want ultimate control for pro results (many pros use these as backup). The ring around the lens can be assigned to different functions, like aperture, ISO or exposure control, plus the larger 12 megapixel sensor copes brilliantly in low light. +/- R4500, www.ormsdirect.co.za
Gotta have Tech whizz Neil Gardiner sniffs out the latest and greatest gadgets guaranteed to put a smile on your dial... phone htc chacha This phone is not made by Facebook, but is one of the best ways to use it. It rocks the Android 2.3 Gingerbread operating system with a 5MP camera on the back and a VGA camera on the front for selfportraits. Press the blue button when viewing and it’ll prepare to upload, or when browsing and you’ll be taken to Facebook places. Easy! www.leaf.co.za
headgear SkullcaNDy roc Nation aviator: Chuck your iPod earphones in the bin – time for decent cans. They sound phenomenal, especially acoustic tunes, and have a volume controller and track advancer / call answerer for smart phones. R1450
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game GearS of war 3 the long-awaited third in the trilogy does not disappoint. Get reacquainted with the Delta Squad and save the world in this third-person shoot’em up with rich storyline, visceral gameplay and beautiful landscapes. R489, www.kalahari.com
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inspirational people
the
Fresh drive He’s driven, passionate about radio and a likeable guy. DJ Fresh speaks about making a career out of something you love. By Kim Maxwell. Photos by Jo Spies.
I
f you’re a radio listener in South Africa, DJ Fresh of 5FM epitomizes cool. He greets call-in listeners with a perky ‘Five, hi’ and has an addictive throaty laugh while keeping his audience entertained and in conversation on their journeys home. Fresh hosts ‘The Drive Time’ on weekdays during the 4pm to 7pm time slot, and 'The Power Night' on Wednesday evenings. His trendy music, comedy inserts and chitchat appeals to 5FM’s core listeners, the under 25s. They have a cross-genre of musical tastes, are technologically savvy, fashion-forward and positive about South Africa’s future. Much like Fresh for that matter.
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Thato Sikwane is DJ Fresh, a disc jockey born and raised in Gaborone, Botswana. He moved to South Africa in 1994 to study, and 17 years later he’s a household name. Radio broadcasting is a family occupation, because Fresh met his wife Thabiso Sikwane on the job – she was reading news on his show when they both worked for YFM. Today Thabiso hosts a talk show on Kaya FM. Like many radio deejays, Fresh loved music as a teen and laid the groundwork for his future career by spinning the decks at social events for his peers. Gaining experience while doing what you love is a very
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FRESH ADVIC E
If you have passion and drive, nothing can stop you.
while doing what you Gaining experience strategy. eer car d goo a love is
Being able to express yourself is very important. Practice public speaking and build confidence.
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good career strategy. ‘At 13 I started deejaying at one of the socials at boarding school in Botswana. They needed a DJ at short notice and the entertainment officer at the school knew I collected music,’ he explains. Fresh secured his first radio show in Botswana at age 18. In South Africa Fresh developed a following for his breakfast slot on YFM, joining the broadcaster in 1997 and hosting a show for eight years. His fan club has expanded further during his past five years at 5FM. He won both ‘best daytime’ presenter and ‘best night-time’ presenter at the 2011 MTN Radio Awards. Business ventures on the side keep him busy too – he’s released 25 house music albums to date, has shared the DJ booth with a number of international artists, and is a sought-after personality for promotional events and music gigs in clubs around South Africa. He manages all this work through his own production company Big Dawg Productions. A music career wouldn’t have happened if Fresh had followed his original career path.
O
ne of his many dreams growing up was to be a high-powered lawyer. Conveniently, this overlapped with his father’s aspirations. ‘The thing is, music was a hobby that was happening already. So by the time I got into law school at the University of Botswana, I’d already been on radio as a deejay. In my first year I lost interest in law quickly,’ he says. Ultimately radio won out. ‘I spent one year trying to study and stay interested, at the same time doing gigs on the sly because my dad wanted me to be a lawyer. He insisted I repeat my first year, so the only way out was to ensure I failed so badly that they kicked me out! So basically my second year of “studying” was literally spent in my room playing TV games and videos. The only class I attended was political science ‘cause I love politics’. ‘The radio station was giving me more and more time on air, which didn’t help my dad’s cause,’ he continues. ‘And it was decent money for a 19 year-old so I wasn’t complaining.’ He signed up for a Media Studies diploma at Boston Media House
S U P P L I E D
Ma ximise t he good . you c a n do
ou Even if y t n le have ta t u o g in z oo rs, a e r of you ou y re o m the e th , y stud more at tage an advan . you are
P H OTO S :
SETTING SOLID, REALISTIC GOALS HELPS YOU STAY INSPIRED.
inspirational people
in Johannesburg, majoring in journalism and advertising. ‘When I told my dad I’d been accepted he wanted to know how he could be sure I wouldn’t fail this too,’ laughs Fresh. ‘But I graduated eventually. In my third year YFM radio had started up and I began working there. I completed my diploma exams but took my time with the dissertations.’ Fresh remains interested in law, and wouldn’t mind finishing his legal degree at some point.
S
Hob-nobbing with top celebrities, masses of public appearances and rock-the-house gigs attended by thousands of fans – it’s all in a day’s work for 5FM’s DJ Fresh.
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S U P P L I E D
o is studying necessary for a radio deejay? Not necessarily. ‘For radio generally you either have a knack or you don’t. Much as you can train a good broadcaster,
I don’t think any degree will guarantee that you will be a good one,’ says Fresh. ‘Anyone can learn to play guitar but not everyone will be supremely talented. But having said that, even if you have talent oozing out of your ears, the more you study, the more at an advantage you are.’ Yet good communication skills are crucial. ‘Depending on the type of radio format you want to work in, being able to express yourself is very important,’ says Fresh. He recommends that aspirant deejays join the debating club or take drama classes to practice public speaking and build confidence. Specialised music knowledge isn’t essential.
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inspirational people
‘What is important is having the passion and drive to make it work in the first place, else those degrees won’t help much,’ he adds.
F
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✱ I’m a family man with a daughter aged 17 from a previous relationship. I also have a son of nine and a three-year-old daughter with my wife Thabiso. ✱ I’m a sucker for lamb chops. It doesn’t matter where on the planet I am, it’s the first thing I’ll check for on the menu! ✱ As with any trip, it’s the destination that counts because otherwise you won’t know when you’ve arrived. ✱ I played a lot of sport in high school – soccer, basketball, tennis, table tennis and baseball. It gave me some sort of gym ethic. ✱ I won’t lie: every weekend for the last 15 years I’ve had gigs. Some weekends I’m literally doing eight gigs – the last few weekends were like that. So it gets that crazy, but in time you can control how busy you get. ✱ I collect movies and TV series. But thanks to my iPad I can carry books and movies and get the best of both worlds. ✱ Sometimes after a heavy weekend of burning the candle at both ends my larynx has taken a beating. I’ve had tonsillitis, laryngitis, you name it.
S P I E S
seriously
J O
did you know?
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resh is refreshingly grounded, and genuinely connected with the wider community that listens to him. ‘If as a listener you’re touched by something, then our job is done,’ he says. Through the DJ Fresh Foundation, he’s actively involved in educating a few deserving young people – previously disadvantaged kids are prioritised. They are enrolled annually in post-matric study scholarships at Boston Media House, Rosebank College or Monash South Africa. ‘The challenge in radio is to respect the power of the media. For a lot of radio deejays, once they’re in there, they forget it’s a powerful tool that can be an instrument of change. We need to maximise the good we can do,’ he smiles. Of course it’s easy to be charitable when there is food on the table. For most broadcasters, income earned as a presenter is the tip of the iceberg. Fresh learnt this valuable lesson on a radio course shortly after moving to SA. ‘The one thing they drummed into us: your radio salary should be a quarter of your monthly income. That’s because there are so many spinoffs from being on a platform, from appearances to gigs to MC to motivational speaking,’ he explains. ‘The sky is the limit: you can write your own pay cheque, depending on how hard you work, and if you have a good manager or agent. In the radio business, if you have passion and drive, nothing can stop you!'
advertorial
GETTING AHEAD IN THE PROPERTY GAME Discover an ever-changing career path as an Estate Agent in the South African Property Industry.
A
n estate agency career is not only interestingbut alsodiverse. Estate agents operate in avariety of differentiated areas including: 1) Residential sales: where agents are requiredto coordinate the sale of residential property. The sellingof flats andapartments (known as sectional title units) also falls under residential sales but requires additional skills, knowledge andcompetencies. 2) CommErCiAl/industriAl sAlEs: usually done at avery high level andincludes the sale of offices, warehouses, shopping centres, factories andso forth. 3) rEsidEntiAl lEttings: the agent finds suitable tenants for properties; draws uplease agreements; arranges collection of rentals and, frequently, deals with the financial or maintenance issues that arise. 4) CommErCiAl/industriAl lEtting: the lettingof commercial/ industrial premises. 5) AuCtionEEring: some estate agents are involvedin auctioneeringwhere immovable property is marketedfor sale. 6) BusinEss Broking: where estate agents attendto the sale of businesses as goingconcerns.
EntrY rEQuirEmEnts 1) non-principal Agents: All newestate agents enteringthe profession for the first time must
first serve acompulsory one-year internshipperiod. Duringthis time the intern agent works under the active supervision of aprincipal agent, or afull status estate agent, who has heldavalidFidelity Fund Certificate for at least three years. Amentor-protégé relationshipis thus created. The intern estate agent will also be obligedto maintain andkeepalogbook (sometimes referredto as an intern Portfolio of Evidence) that reflects the activities that have been undertaken duringthe internship period. As with non-principal estate agents (or estate agents in the service of an estate agency enterprise), the intern agent is requiredto complete the Further
Education andTrainingCertificate: Real Estate. This is intendedto enhance the provision of entry-level service andto provide the required knowledge andskills. The intern estate agent may be certificated against the qualification after undergoingtrainingthrough an accreditededucation provider. Once the intern has completedthe qualification andservedthe twelve month internshipperiod, they will gain full status – although not yet professional status – as an estate agent. 2) Principal Estate Agents: Newentrants who wish to act as principal estate agents (or run their own enterprises) must be certificatedagainst the National
Certificate: Real Estate. This qualification adds value to the understandingof the property and real estate sector andenhances their appreciation of the practical functionalities occurringwithin the workplace. The qualification builds on the skills that were gainedwhen qualifyingfor the Further Education andTrainingCertificate.
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3) Professional Designation Examination: The completion of the Further Education andTrainingCertificate: Real Estate, or the National Certificate: Real Estate, constitutes aprerequisite for admission to the Professional Designation Examination (PDE). The PDE is a practical andintegratedtest of knowledge andis conductedby the Estate Agency Affairs Board. This the final test of the estate agent’s ability to implement andapply the learningthey have achieved. No person can be registeredas afull status estate agent prior to successful completion of the PDE. Anon-principal agent who successfully completes the PDE is awardedthe designation Professional Practitioner in Real Estate (PPRE), while aprincipal estate agent is awardedthe designation of Master Practitioner in Real Estate (MPRE). 4) Continuing Professional Development (CPD): Acontinuingprofessional development requirement is soon to be implementedin accordance with current best practice requirements in most worldwide
real estate regulatory jurisdictions. All registeredestate agents will be requiredto earn aprescribed minimumnumber of CPD points over athree year rollingcycle.
LEGAL REQUIREMENTS All estate agents are requiredto register with the Estate Agency Affairs Board, the statutory regulator of the estate agency profession. Upon registration, estate agents are issuedwith a Fidelity FundCertificate. Illegally operatingestate agents are not allowedto earn any commission or remuneration for estate agency acts performedwhile they were not in receipt of avalidFidelity Fund Certificate.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS The correct personality traits, such as excellent communication and negotiation skills, the ability to manage relationships with clients andstakeholders andto obtain their trust, andafocus on achieving targets, are, amongst other qualities, extremely important. It goes without sayingthat honesty, integrity andthe highest ethical values are all distinguishing characteristics of successful estate agents.
REMUNERATION Estate agents do not, generally, earn asalary. They are paida commission, calculatedas a percentage of the value of the property sold, or the value of estate agency services rendered. Although residential estate agents earn acommission when
asale agreement is concluded, that commission is only paid upon registration of transfer of the property sold. This process can take anythingfromafew months to an extremely longtime. Therefore agents needto carefully budget their finances andcash flow. For this reason many people prefer to enter the profession in an administrative capacity by assistingwith the preparation of property details, sittingat show houses andengagingin simple correspondence. It is preferable that estate agents are computer literate, own their own motor vehicle andhave a cellular telephone.
OPPORTUNITIES Many opportunities exist in this stimulatingfieldandthe role of an estate agent is an exciting and variedone with no two days being the same.
study guide
Make or
Break
Time
The countdown has begun and the clock is ticking as the ‘biggie’ looms on the horizon. Once you’ve got Matric under your belt, you can saddle up and ride off into your very own sunset.
Good
preparation and sound study techniques are vital when it comes to optimum performance during those allimportant exams. Studying is a technical skill and, like any skill, the more you practice the better you become. Being motivated is an important aspect of studying, and this means really knowing what you want out of life – and
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what marks you need to get it. Christine Battersby of Yearn 2 Learn – a Cape Town based company that runs study workshops – suggests avoiding relying too heavily on reading and reading over the work, and setting realistic goals for yourself such as an improvement of 10% on your next exam. Here are some more tips from the experts…
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t e x t:
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L e r n e r ;
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i s to c k p h oto.c o m / L a s e r 2 2 2
study guide SIX TOP STUDY TIPS sitting pretty Have a dedicated study space that is clean, organised and well lit. This can be a desk in your room, at the local library or even a space at a relative’s house. Use a chair that supports your back and avoid lying on your bed. It’s important not to have distractions, such as TV or background music, except perhaps classical baroque music (Bach, Vivaldi and Handel), which is said to help by stimulating the parts of the brain dealing with memory. fuel 2 brain Diet plays an important role in certain brain functions such as concentration and memory. ‘Green leafy vegetables, oily fish, berries, oats, nuts and seeds, and green tea are recognised as “brain foods” that boost functioning in these areas,’ says dietician Kelly Lynch. ‘It’s also important to avoid sugar, caffeine and junk food.’ Consuming small, frequent meals will keep your energy levels up, and drinking plenty of water will prevent you from feeling sluggish. enough sleep 3 get Ensuring adequate sleep will help ensure that your brain is functioning optimally. ‘Staying up all night to cram leads to anxiety and consequently not writing at your best. The thinking part of your brain shuts down with too much stress and fatigue,’ says Judi Kurgan, a literacy and educational consultant. Getting regular exercise ensures that your body and brain are getting plenty of oxygen. prepared 4 be Good studying starts before and in the classroom. ‘Come to
1
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h o d g e i s to c k p h oto.c o m / © J o s h u a
class prepared,’ says Judi. ‘Arrive knowing what you don’t know, so you can ask relevant questions. Your number one job is to be actively present at school. This means being focused, asking questions and taking effective notes in class.’ all in the timing 5 With teachers piling on homework and scheduling tests, it can be difficult to stay on top of things. Having a daily and weekly ‘to do’ list and noting important events on a calendar will help you to set a realistic
timetable. It’s also valuable to take advantage of the time of day when you work the most effectively. Keep your brain alert by studying in short intervals and taking breaks. We tend to remember more at the beginning and end of a study session, so it’s better to study for about 30 minutes, then take a 5 minute break and start again, rather than study for one hour straight. take note 6 Good note taking is a skill. Some universities actually offer courses on how to take notes. One of the methods taught is Cornell Notes (see info bubble above for tips on how to make them). It is still a good idea to make notes in your own words, even if your teacher has given you handout notes already.
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Draw a vertical line down a page (larger side to left). Write the basic info being relayed (not every word), then add a keyword on the right. To revise, cover the left so that only the keywords are showing. Now see how much you can recall.
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Making Cornell notes…
question
Improve your understandIng
tress, th ’t s
la
SQ3R r formu the
rev iew
ConCept mappIng
revIew, revIew, revIew
Concept mapping (also referred to as mind mapping or spider diagrams) is a visual way of presenting information that facilitates a deeper understanding. The nonlinear fashion of concept mapping encourages the righthand side of your brain to be more involved in the learning process, especially if you use colour and shapes. When the whole brain is working on something you will achieve a greater understanding, and be able to tap into more creative ways of looking at things because it will be easier to see how ideas interrelate. Concept maps also help you to organise your thoughts, see the important issues, communicate complex information, and are easy to recall, which makes them perfect for note-taking and reviewing purposes.
Unless you were blessed with a photographic memory, when you learn something new you’ll probably only remember that concept or information for a day or so before the memory starts to fade away. To take something from your short-term memory and actively commit it to your longterm memory takes work. Regular reviewing means that you don’t have to spend time relearning information or cramming the night before exams. Your first review should happen as soon as possible on the day of learning, the next review a day later, then one week later, then one month later and then every few months. Avoid simply re-reading your material. To really test yourself, start by writing out your notes or concept map from memory, then see if you’ve left anything out. Another great
Without looking at the book, try to remember the key concepts.
l cal re
Look through the book and take note of what you didn’t remember.
Carefully read the contents, make notes, take time to understand the concepts.
read
Pick out the key components.
Do n
sur vey
Ask yourself: How does this relate to what I’ve been studying?
sn’t ano is i
‘The better you understand something, the easier you will be able to learn it and recall it,’ advises Judi. ‘By understanding and knowing how to apply the knowledge, you’ll know how to answer more abstract questions.’ ACTIVE READING makes sure that you make the most of your reading time. This involves engaging in the text, mainly by asking questions, and using a review component to make sure the info sticks in your brain. There are many methods to choose from, such as SQ3R and RWCSR (Read, Write, Cover, Say, Review). See the diagram graphic to the right for how to use the SQ3R technique.
way of reviewing is as part of a study group. Discussing concepts with friends can provide you with new ways of looking at things, and being able to teach a concept to someone is evidence that you truly understand it yourself. One of the best ways to prepare for exams is to write exams from previous years. Old exams are readily available online. Don’t just look over them and say ‘yeah, I know that’. Write them from memory within a time limit, and then ask your teacher to mark your work. Take note of how much each section is worth and how much time you should allocate to it on exam day.
USEFUL WEBSITES wced.pgwc.gov.za www.unisa.ac.za
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study guide
Dealing with exam nerves
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‘Remember that your best IS good enough,’ says Bruce. ‘There is a huge amount of stress involved, but good exam results shouldn’t come at the expense of overall health and well-being.’ Don’t forget to talk to your school counsellor for more ideas on how to tackle anxiety issues.
20% In the US, an estimated 5% to 20% of adolescents suffer from an anxiety disorder, with test anxiety high up on the list.
l a b o r ato r y
some deep breathing) before you begin writing. ★ Carefully read through all the questions first. ★ To get your brain thinking, start off with a few easier questions and use concept mapping to assist you.
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Many people suffer from exam anxiety, but there are steps you can take to try and counter a bad case of the nerves. ‘Positive thinking is a good way to deal with anxiety,’ suggests high school councellor Tania Bruce. You may find yourself having self-defeating thoughts like, ‘I’m not good enough’ or ‘I’m going to fail’. Replace these with realistic, believable phrases like ‘I’m going to do the best I can’. Here are some last minute tips to help beat the nerves: ★ Arrive at your exam early and be prepared. ★ Take a moment to relax (do
find funding
T E X T:
C H R I S T I N A
K E N N E DY;
I L L U S T R AT I O N S : DÁNH CHO
g n i d n u F made easy Bright but broke? Ambitious but penniless? Here’s the good news – financial aid is on hand to set serious students on the path to greatness.
Picture
it: you’ve scored good marks in your exams, and are all fired up and raring to study… but your pockets are depressingly empty. Don’t just shrug and say, ‘Well, that’s life’ – get out there and start looking for funding! The costs of studying at university or private college can be exorbitant, so make sure you are serious about your field of study before committing thousands of rands to your tertiary education. You could end up making a costly mistake. But once you’ve firmly set your sights on your dream career path, it would be tragic to let an obstacle like a shortage of funds stand in your way. The first thing to remember is to apply for bursaries, grants and other types of funding
several months before you write your Matric exams. Even if you don’t have access to the internet at home or school, go to the local library or find a coffee shop with free wi-fi access, and start googling away. Phone, e-mail or write letters to institutions that may be able to offer you financial assistance. Rejection is a part of life, so remember: DON’T GIVE UP HOPE. If you are turned down by one sponsor, apply elsewhere. But if you start feeling that door after door is closing in your face, reassess your situation. Are you applying for the correct field of study to suit your capabilities? Should you consider rewriting some Matric subjects, to improve your marks and your chances of securing financial aid? post matric 2012
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1
REALITY CHECK
rose to 70.2%, and The 2011 national Matric pass rate entrance. rsity unive ned 24.3% of those obtai NOT guarantee you But remember, a university pass does s matrics obtained year’ last of 000 85 than More a place at a university. mmodate a acco only can s rsitie exemption, but the country’s unive at the University of pede stam The level. ar rst-ye fi at fraction of those er g which a prospective student’s moth Johannesburg in early 2012, durin died, tragically illustrated this fact. ent rate is about 23.9%. For In South Africa, the overall unemploym 5%. For those with a Matric 36.9 to ckets those without Grade 12, it skyro is only slightly lower – 32.35%. certificate, the unemployment rate ation, 12% are jobless. But educ ic Matr postFor those with some is rsity degree, the unemployment rate among South Africans with a unive lent chance of getting a job excel an have you s, word other In only 4.46%. if you obtain a tertiary qualification. 000 and R45 000 for your first You can expect to pay between R15 Ouch! and that’s just the tuition . study uate rgrad year of full-time unde ution where you intend to study instit the of fees! Check out the bona fides . so you don’t fall prey to a fly-by-night
2
TIPS FOR CLEVER BURSARYHUNTING
The subjects you choose in Grade 10 are vitally important. You don’t want to find out when you get to Matric that a particular field of study is closed to you because you took the wrong subjects. Find out the minimum entrance requirements for admission to your chosen degree, diploma or certificate course well in advance. Then make sure you don’t just meet those requirements, but exceed them. Even if you get enough entrance points, a course may be oversubscribed and you could fail to secure a place if your marks aren’t brilliant. Determine what the requirements are for applying for a bursary. Again, try to attain far higher marks than the minimum required. This will significantly improve your chances. Attend the open day(s) of your desired universities or institutions, and gather info on funding options. ★ Apply early! Send in your funding applications while you’re still in Matric. The closing date for
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some institutions’ bursary schemes can be as early as the June of the year before you plan to study. Pay careful attention to your CV, ensuring it is well written, free of errors and attractively presented. It should include a compelling motivation why you should be considered for the bursary. Have certified copies made of your school report (your Grade 11 and prelim results, if available) and your ID document. This can be done at your local police station. A useful handbook to snap up is The Bursary Register, which will help you to compile a CV, apply for bursaries, scholarships and loans, and advise how to conduct yourself at an interview. Find it at bookshops, libraries and tertiary institutions’ financial aid offices. Alternatively, phone Riva Levin at (011) 672 6559 or e-mail rlevin@mweb.co.za. A handy online resource is www. gal.co.za – aka Get a Life – where you’ll find listings of almost 2000 bursaries available in South Africa. Also check out the Go Study website sa.gostudy.info or www. gostudy.mobi – a great one-stop information shop.
3
WHAT ARE YOUR OPTIONS?
TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS Apply for a bursary at the university or college where you intend to study. Visit, e-mail or phone their financial aid office well in advance to find out more. Many of these bursaries are dependent on you being a South African citizen. Once you are enrolled at university, you may also qualify for an academic merit award based on your academic results during your first year of study. Some universities – like the University of the Free State – also offer partial bursaries for art, cultural, sporting or leadership achievements at school. Remember that some overseas universities, especially from the UK and Australia, also operate in South Africa. THE PRIVATE SECTOR Many companies award bursaries, usually with conditions such as: You have to pass your subjects – otherwise you must pay for the courses you fail; You will be contractually bounded to work at the company for a specified number of years after completing your studies; and You will be required to study in a field specified by the company (e.g. BCom Accounting, BSc Engineering). Companies that award bursaries include: Spoornet, Transnet, Sasol, Absa, Anglo American, Gold Fields, Anglo Platinum, Eskom, Sasol, Iscor, De Beers, Edgars, SA Breweries, Harmony, Mintek, AECI, Engen, Group 5, Murray & Roberts, PPC and Old Mutual. Eduloan is a private company that provides loans to students whose parents are permanently employed. Visit website www.eduloan.co.za.
find funding
TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS THE PRIVATE SECTOR GOVERNMENT INSTITUTIONS SETAS AND THE NATIONAL SKILLS FUND BANK LOANS
GOVERNMENT INSTITUTIONS Approach your local municipality, or the provincial or national government department relevant to your studies – they often have a number of bursaries up for grabs. THE NATIONAL STUDENT FINANCIAL AID SCHEME (NSFAS) The Department of Higher Education’s National Student Financial Aid Scheme helps South African students who are academically deserving and financially needy. It provides study loans at a low interest rate (currently 5.2%), and you only have to begin your repayments once you are earning a salary of R30 000 or more a year. Funds are made available for studies at universities or further education and training (FET) colleges, but not private colleges. In 2009, more than 138 000 students received funding, with R3.1 billion being made available for loans and bursaries. As an incentive to excel in your studies, a NSFAS loan has a builtin bursary option that works to the benefit of academic achievers. If you study hard and pass all your
courses, you could qualify for a 40% bursary. But if you drop out, you’ll have to repay the entire loan. The NSFAS also administers four bursary funds (some conditional on employment in the relevant sector afterwards): the Funza Lushaka bursary programme for aspiring teachers, bursaries for social work students, the National Skills Fund (for students whose study focus is in a scarce skills area), and FET college bursaries. Contact the NSFAS at (021) 763 3232, SMS 32261, e-mail info@ nsfas.org.za, visit www.nsfas.org. za or write to Private Bag X1, Plumstead 7801, South Africa. SETAS AND THE NATIONAL SKILLS FUND Did you know that if you go straight from school into the workplace, your employer might be able to pay for your studies? Larger employers have to pay a skills development levy, which goes to Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) and the Skills Development Fund to finance the training of the contributing companies’ own employees. Employers can claim a SARS
Once you know what you want, set your sights high. Apply and keep on applying until you find the funder that’s right for you. Remember the saying: where there’s a will, there’s a way.
refund if they train their workers. In other words, you may be able to enrol for certain courses or qualifications through the workplace – as long as it is related to your job – and your fees will be paid by your boss. BANK LOANS All South Africa’s major banks offer student loans, to be repaid over a fixed term at a predetermined interest rate. You will need someone to sign surety. Non-South Africans with valid study permits can also apply for these study loans, which can be taken out for studies at a university, FET college or SA Qualifications Authority-accredited private institution. Standard Bank Call centre: 0860 123 000, www.standardbank.co.za First National Bank Call centre: 0860 100 762, www.fnb.co.za ABSA Call centre: 0860 100 372, www.absa.co.za Nedbank Call centre: 0860 555 111, www.nedbank.co.za post matric 2012
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advertorial
Back to our future Southern Africa is not only the cradle of humankind, but offers some of the world’s greatest geological, biological, climatic and oceanographic diversity.
ACCESS is a community of scientists andstudents workingin a range of related science fields in our globally recognizednatural laboratory. The focus is on the study of earth systems andtheir dynamics in an eraof rapidchange, major environmental challenges andopportunities. ACCESS is amultidisciplinary programme – apartnershipamong southern African universities and research agencies. As an NRF Centre of Excellence, ACCESS aims to deliver a newscale of intervention in earth systems science within the scope of the Dept of Science andTechnology’s Global Change GrandChallenge. ACCESS supports anew generation of scientists to deliver outcomes of global significance andderive skills that contribute towards aknowledge economy. Access offers subprogrammes in: ★ Earth Systems Modelling & Biochemical Cycles ★ Seasonal/Inter-annual Climate Predictability ★ Water Resources Dynamics ★ Urban & Rural LandCover & Use ★ EcosystemServices & Livelihoods ★ Long-termClimate & Impacts ★ Marine & Coastal, Estuarine Systems.
In addition to bursaries andscholarships offered to support earth systems science students, ACCESS facilitates the holistic development of students’ andyoungprofessionals’ research by working across institutions with arange of innovative activities designedto buildan integrated earth systems science community. ACCESS has also developed relationships within the southern African region, as well as the rest of the African continent. education & training portfolio ACCESS facilitates education to: ★ Students, fromschool to post-doctoral level ★ Expandresearch capacity andsupervision ★ Increase graduation levels in global change study fields ★ Strengthen global change knowledge, capacity andlearning. research & services portfolio
Through its partnerships, ACCESS can conduct research andcreate services that: ★ Will deliver aplatform of unprecedentedscale for scientists andstudents to produce work of global significance ★ Are applicable to agencies of government andcivil society ★ Will contribute to the sustainable development of southern Africa. approach ACCESS’ approach to the above-mentioned portfolios is basedon transformation by: ★ Developingand expandingscientificfields in southern Africa ★ Addressingthe challenges and opportunities posed by global change environmental drivers ★ Contributingto the transformation of southern Africato aknowledgebasedeconomy ★ Reachingand supportingabroader pool of undergraduates and researchers ★ Actively engaging partners at historically
Pretoriatel: +27 (0) 12 841 4781 CaPe town tel: +27 (0) 21 658 3992 Website: www.access.ac.za email: info@access.ac.za
disadvantaged institutions, augmenting existingor introducing newprogrammes and academicpartnerships. Partner with ACCESS as it works towards: ★ Developing, expanding andtransformingearth systems science in southern Africaand producingglobally significant scientific outcomes ★ Addressingthe challenges and opportunities posed by global change environmental drivers ★ Producingoutputs that contribute to the goal of transforming southern Africatowarda more knowledge-based economy ★ Changingthe scale andscope of earth systems science in the region anddoubling the current number of earth systems science graduates ★ Inspiringanew generation of emerging African researchers; and Integratingsouthern Africa’s approach to the Global Change Grand Challenge.
Habitable Planet Programme Lectures formakey part of the workshop andin these we aimto explain why Planet Earth is habitable. To make this acontrolled experiment we only change one variable at atime andobserve the result – that with this purely physical model, we still cannot explain why the planet is habitable. To do this we need to introduce biology, evolution, photosynthesis andbiogeochemical cycles.
However, this staticpicture
is still not enough to explain the planet’s present habitability, andtherefore a paleontological perspective is also needed. Lastly, in light of the human induced problems we currently findourselves embroiled with, an understandingof social science andpolitics is required. In this light, the programwill engage students to think across the humanities-science divide; the complexity of the Earth andits components is nowthe interest of politicians, sociologists, and economists. Only by gaining an appreciation of all of these different areas can we begin to truly understand why our planet is so special.
With four Habitable Planets Workshops beingrun every year, there is always time to apply for the next one. For more information contact Dr Carl Palmer on cpalmer@ access.ac.za
The ACCESS Habitable Planet Programme is a series of ten day student workshops which aimto introduce thirdandfourth year undergraduates to the emergingdiscipline of the Earth SystemSciences. The course is run all around Southern African four times ayear andfocusses on the concept of an African perspective on climate change.
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inspirational people
I dreamed a dream…
w o r d s :
c h r i s t i n a
k e n n e dy;
p h oto s :
j o
s p i e s
Nomahlubi Simamane, the founder of one of SA’s most dynamic SMEs, believes entrepreneurship will be the country's saving grace. Before you can become an entrepreneur, you first need to put in the hard yards, be patient and work your tail off. But it’s even more important to have a dream and then go all out to acquire the skills and knowledge to pluck that dream out of the sky and plant it in the real world. It’s good advice, coming from someone who is living proof that it works – Nomahlubi Simamane, CEO and founder of South African company Zanusi Brand Solutions. As the recipient of several industry awards – including being named businesswoman of the year by Black Business Quarterly magazine and Topco Media – Simamane’s knack for business and strategy saw her climb the
corporate ladder before starting her integrated branding agency in Johannesburg 11 years ago. Emphasising the value of entrepreneurship in South Africa, she believes that ‘the formal economy is not currently fulfilling the requirements of the unemployed in this country. There are vast opportunities in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) – in fact, the economy is driven by small operations, and there are millions of families who depend on these for their livelihoods.’ She studied biochemistry and went on to enjoy a stellar career in building brands for Unilever, British American Tobacco and BLGK Bates, including stints working in the USA and Kenya. post matric 2012
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inspirational people
money, When your only motivation is it very often happens that When the money is not there, the motivation is not there eit her
Her star was undoubtedly on the rise in the corporate world, but slowly a seed started germinating in her mind: a yearning to run her own business. ‘From my studies I had learned to be a logical and analytical thinker, and to build a case, which proved useful in the business world. I had built up experience as a marketing director, but needed to understand more about communications,’ she relates. With this in mind, when Simamane was offered a lucrative and high-powered position at a major multinational, she instead opted to turn it down to gain experience in communications at
an advertising agency– albeit at a much lower salary. But it was a strategic move that would eventually pay rich dividends. Simamane was brimming with ideas, having noticed how brands were not investing in their future to ensure their sustainability, taking into account changing consumer dynamics. And at the turn of the millennium, the time felt ripe for a major leap of faith. ‘All the signs were there – I had to put my stake in the ground and state what I wanted to do.’ So, she took money out of her bond to open her own brandbuilding agency. And so Zanusi – which originates from the Zulu word for the high priest or priestess of sangomas – was born. ‘Zanusis are very much rooted in Africa,’ she explains. ‘When
you go to one, in order to foretell your future and put your life on the right path, they will look at your history and at your current situation. Based on that, they will project your future. Basically, zanusis bridges yesterday, today and tomorrow – and that’s what we do at our agency: migrating brands for future profits.’ Starting up a new business was a risk, but it has paid off handsomely. Simamane drew up a a ‘wish list’ of clients – and ended up securing business from an amazing 60% of them! Today she runs a successful small business that is 100% black-owned, employs a number of staff and has branched out into Africa. She currently has blue-chip clients such as BP, Medscheme medical aid and Nedbank. Her SME is regarded as an influential player in the branding arena. Among their recent projects were the City of Johannesburg’s Arts Alive International Festival, the Newtown public viewing area
Tips to ace that dream career ★ Be clear in your mind about what you want to do with your life. ★ Don’t ‘faff’ around. ★ Don’t stick with a particular study or career path if you know it’s wrong for you, even if you risk disappointing mummy and daddy. ★ Once you have embarked with confidence on your dream career, have staying
power – you’ll experience up days and down days, but need to pick yourself up, dust yourself off and soldier on. ★ Don’t job-hop. Gain all the skills you need in a particular job before moving on. ★ Self-confidence is essential: your mantra must be ‘I believe in myself and my abilities’. ★ If you don’t have the
necessary capabilities to fulfill your career dreams, then make a plan to acquire them. ★ You have to be selfdriven and self-motivated to succeed – don’t expect others to do it for you. ★ Money is not the beall and end-all. Keep reminding yourself why you are doing what you are doing, and keep reigniting that flame.
★ It’s OK to make mistakes. It’s also OK to go backwards for the benefit of your longerterm vision. ★ Always be excited about what you do. ★ Be prepared to start at the bottom and work your way up. ★ Be patient – once you have the basic foundations, the world is your oyster! post matric 2012
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inspirational people
during the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the Airports Company of South Africa’s brand repositioning. The agency also helped launch the first Pick n Pay Hyper in a township – the Maponya Pick n Pay in Soweto – while developing a blueprint to roll out stores in other townships as well. This trailblazer’s advice for young people heading out into the world is simple: ‘You need to get a sense of what you love doing, and that dream, that seed will already be planted in your mind when you go about collecting the skills base to move towards the achievement of that goal,’ she says. She strongly recommends devoting enough time to studying, on-the-job training or doing an apprenticeship in your chosen field before heading out into the big, bad world of entrepreneurship, guns blazing because in your eager naiveté you may get blinded by the stars in your eyes, and become easily disillusioned. ‘There are so many people who want to set up businesses, but lack the skills base. You really need that strong foundation to be able to set out on your own.’
Simamane calls this ‘paying your school fees’: taking the time to learn about your profession and steadily working your way through the ranks. If necessary, go and intern somewhere – even if you offer your services for free. When the time is right and the planets are aligned, strike out on your own – but do so with your eyes open, she warns. ‘Even though our economy is driven by SMEs, the environment is overregulated, complicated and squeezed. Funding is also a big issue – it’s not easy to get loans.’ So many school-leavers are stepping out into the job market with dollar signs glinting in their eyes, but Simamane cautions against becoming too materialistic. ‘When your only motivation is money, it very often happens that when the money is not there, the motivation is not either,’ she says. She believes that the saying ‘bigger is better’ does not always apply. As a small agency, Zanusi is lean and hungry, regularly competing – and winning – on the same playing field as the big boys. ‘We may be small as a business, but we bite!’ she confides.
advice for budding entrepreneurs Do your homework and approach them with your proposals – you have nothing to lose!
Identify opportunities that exist in the marketplace 36 //
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Compile a basic business plan
Draw up a list of target clients
noma in a nutshell Favourite indulgence Once it was red wine, but now that I’m trying to live a healthier lifestyle it’s being pampered at a spa. What book are you reading? I read a whole lot of books at the same time, but at the moment I’m focusing on different forms of spirituality and am reading a book by CT Msimang about African spiritual traditions. What’s on your ipod?I love jazz fusion and South African artists such as Jabu Khanyile, Miriam Makeba, Letta Mbulu and Caiphus Semenya. Who inspires you? No one person, really. It’s those who have less than me, yet remain motivated. It’s the rural woman who has to carry water from the river every day, yet still has a smile on her face. It’s people like my late mother, who raised and educated a family on a small schoolteacher’s salary. Favourite saying or motto? ‘You’re only as good as your last project’ and ‘Don’t rest on your laurels’. You need to be the best you can be every time you do something – even the little things. I’ve found people have very short memories. What do you love about south aFrica? The different people, the opportunities that are available, the sunshine and blue skies, the countryside… Whenever I go hiking I marvel at the fact that there is beauty wherever you go, from the people to the landscapes. pet hates Corruption, and the fact that many of our politicians seem to have forgotten who pays their salaries.
t e x t:
C h r i s t i n a
K e n n e dy;
p h oto : m e d i a C l u b .C o m / s a s o l
explore the options
no
There’s no need to fret if you haven’t cracked a university place – here are some options to get you superskilled and job-ready.
Varsity no cry post matric 2012
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The
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workforce must acquire the right skills to enable our economy to compete, innovate and flourish. These in-demand skills will not only come from university graduates. There is a mistaken belief that any tertiary education other than a degree is inferior, and this is simply not true. Extremely valuable skills can be learned at private and FET colleges, or through apprenticeships and onthe-job workplace training. Remember that some of the country’s most successful people have no degree hanging on their wall. Musician Sipho ‘Hotstix’ Mabuse has achieved great things in his musical career, but has now gone back to school to obtain his matric. DJ Fresh studied at a private college, and has since scaled great heights. So, what’s the solution to the post-matric dilemma? Be openminded – here are some options:
InternshIps, learnershIps and on-the-job traInIng
Several college and university courses have a workplace experience component. This is extremely valuable, as it means students are placed in an employment situation for a defined period – often for free, or at a reduced wage – and can
thereby shore up valuable experience. Because that’s the first thing a potential boss will ask you: ‘What experience do you have?’ Well, interning is a win-win solution: the company gets the benefit of your labour, often at a bargainbasement rate, and you get to insert a job reference on your CV. And if you really knock their socks off, well, they may just ask you to hang around permanently! Even if you aren’t enrolled for any qualification, it’s worthwhile approaching a business where you’d like to work and ask if they have any ‘skivvy’ work for you – even if it’s emptying dustbins or making coffee. Chances are, if you work hard and display a good attitude, you’ll end up rising through the ranks, learning the ropes as you go. Alternatively, consider volunteering your services – working for mahala – to gain experience that money can’t buy. That’s the biggest challenge for the thousands of unemployed matriculants out there: just getting a foot in the door. The value of education is immense, but in many cases there’s no substitute for good, oldfashioned on-the-job training. If you are enthusiastic and willing to soak up knowledge and skills like a sponge, and are lucky enough to have an encouraging mentor, so much the better. Some companies also offer learnerships, providing you with the opportunity to work while
m e d i a c l u b .c o m / s a s o l
By undertaking an apprenticeship or internship you can gain valuable skills and exposure in your chosen field of work, maybe even securing a job at the end.
p h oto :
tragic stampede at the University of Johannesburg in early 2012 brought into sharp focus the fact that there are not enough first-year university places available for matriculants with university entrance. President Jacob Zuma has subsequently announced plans to build two new universities – one in Mpumalanga and another in the Northern Cape – to try and cater for the massive demand. But the strain on our universities is unlikely to ease any time soon, especially with increasing numbers of matriculants obtaining university entrance. The harsh reality is that tens of thousands of matriculants will have to look at alternatives if they wish to study further. The fact is, varsity is not for everyone – and shouldn’t be seen as the be-all and end-all of higher learning. Here’s a sobering fact: the Human Sciences Research Council estimates that only 15% of South African university students who start a degree end up finishing it. And of the dropouts, 40% quit in their first year – mainly because they’ve failed, chosen unsuitable courses or had financial difficulties (and, sometimes, because they’ve partied too much…) Clearly, not everyone can be part of that 15% elite – especially given the rocketing cost of tuition. Plus, what about the school-leavers who did not obtain exemption? Are they doomed to become yet another unemployment statistic? Not necessarily. Consider this: the World Bank says that countries with higher skill levels are better equipped to face new challenges and master technological discoveries, but points out that Sub-Saharan Africa’s needs are not currently being met by its available workers. This critical skills shortage means that South Africa’s
explore the options
studying and training towards your chosen qualification.
Private colleges
Academically speaking, private colleges are positioned between high school and university level, and the entrance requirements are not as stringent as they are for university programmes. There are several independentlyrun colleges dedicated to, for example, nursing, fitness, business or media studies, while others offer broader and more general fields of study. A potential minus is that some charge rather steep fees – but this is because they are not subsidised from the public purse. Some of the better-known private colleges include Boston, Damelin, City Varsity and Midrand Campus. It is critically important to check that the college is accredited by Umalusi on behalf of the Department of Higher Education and Training. This means that its courses have been approved and comply with industry standards. Also, be sure to check the NQF (National Qualifications Framework) level of your prospective qualification against the requirements of the marketplace. An NQF-registered grading means it is a nationally recognised qualification. As of 2011, there were 452 registered private colleges (including private FET colleges) in South Africa. But there will always be some dodgy operators trying to make a quick buck, so first do your homework – or you may end up saddled with a diploma or certificate that’s not worth the paper it’s printed on. Says Dr Felicity Coughlan, director of the Independent Institute of Education: ‘If the institution cannot easily answer your questions or substantiate their status, you should walk away.’
Fet colleges/ vocational training
Rather unfairly, vocational training is often seen as the ugly stepsister of South African higher learning. Yet this form of study is a highly feasible option that should be seriously considered. There are a number of further education and training colleges in South Africa, often referred to as technical colleges. Many are public colleges, but there are also scores of private institutions offering specialised education and skills geared towards a particular career. Some of these colleges require only a Grade 9 or Grade 10 certificate, making them accessible to the average student. At FET colleges, students will receive job-specific or occupational training, and will obtain a certificate in their particular chosen field that makes them highly employable. Interestingly, only private FET colleges have to apply to be accredited by Umalusi. Public colleges are automatically accredited – which has perhaps given rise to the widespread misperception that FET training is in some way inferior. Some FET students may qualify for admission to a university of technology to continue their studies, making this a valuable stepping stone or bridge for those who still dream of going to varsity.
aPPrenticeshiPs
Because of South Africa’s shortage of skilled tradespeople, ‘appies’ are in high demand and can command high salaries. So this option is not to be sneezed at! According to the Careers Portal website (www.thecareersportal. co.za), a trade apprenticeship combines workplace and formal learning, and is based on an
agreement between the individual who wants to learn the skill and the employer who needs a skilled worker – another win-win situation. An apprenticeship can last between two and four years. Most of it involves the apprentice learning practical skills on-site under the close supervision of a qualified tradesman. The remainder entails learning the theoretical and technical aspects of the chosen trade. There are several pluses to this option: you earn a salary while learning, you are taught valuable skills in a practical environment, and you are virtually assured of a job at the end of it.
college checklist Choosing a college should not be undertaken lightly. Cobus Potgieter, managing director of MSC Business College, has some tips for prospective college students: Is it accredited and can it produce a registration number? Does it offer diplomas and/ or certificates, and at what NQF level? What are the cost implications, and are there flexible payment options available? Are there any hidden costs, such as study materials and registration fees? Does the college offer extracurricular activities to enhance your student life? What study resources – such as libraries, computers and internet – are available to students? Does it have a good reputation in the job market? Check out www.colleges. co.za for a list of accredited and recommended colleges. Also try the South African Qualifications Authority website for info and careers advice – www.saqa.org.za post matric 2012
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advertorial
get HANDS-ON SKILLS FOR LIFe Find out more about Vocational Education and Training (VET) and how it can assist you on your path to a fulfilling and successful career. The Services Sector Education and Training Authority (SSETA) is one of 21 Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) established in terms of the Skills Development Act and falls under the regulation of the Department of Higher Education and Training. The SSETA looks after 39 industries within the Services sector. SSETA VISION AND MISSION Vision: A professional world-class Services sector supporting inclusive growth and development. Mission: The Services SETA aims to: ★ Account and mobilise progression and recognition of practitioners in the Services sector and establish and maintain quality partners through professional bodies; ★ Benchmark skills globally and evaluate against service excellence standards; ★ Adopt a skills policy in support of inclusive growth and development to address the three key challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequity; ★ Develop skills to address both national and sectoral priorities while supporting employers and learners. Values: The overarching values that the SSETA aims to promote: ★ Commitment to serving stakeholders with improved customer service; ★ To become a world class public entity; ★ To subscribe to high levels of professionalism through lifelong learning and continual improvement. VET is education that prepares learners for jobs or careers at various levels from a trade to a craft or a position in Marketing and Communications, Project Management, Cleaning and Laundering, Interior Design, Hairdressing, Fashion Design and other services, Beauty Therapy, Estate Agency, etc. Vocations are usually based on manual or practical activities, traditionally non-academic, related to a specific trade or occupation. VET was previously referred to as a technical education as the learner directly developed expertise in a particular group of techniques. Vocational training thus provides a link between education and the working world. It is usually provided at high school level, post-secondary trade schools or Further Education and Training (FET) colleges. WhAT ArE ThE ADVANTAgES? Since VET often begins in high school, students can
graduate prepared to take a high-paying, skilled job immediately. Graduates of trade or vocational schools have an advantage over informally trained job-seekers because an independent organisation certifies that they have the skills needed to perform a specific trade. WhAT ArE ThE OppOrTuNITIES? VET affords students a smooth transition into the national labour market. It provides young people with a solid basis for lifelong learning, and opens up a wealth of job opportunities. WhErE cAN I AccESS VOcATIONAl TrAININg? VET can be accessed through the Further Education and Training (FET) colleges, and accredited training providers.
FOr MOrE INFOrMATION WITh rEgArDS TO ThE quAlIFIcATIONS rEgISTErED WITh ThE SSETA, cONTAcT uS: Head Office Johannesburg, 15 Sherborne Road, Parktown Tel: 011 276 9600, Fax: 011 276 9623 durban 73 Ramsay Avenue, Musgrave Tel: 031 207 1761/2, Fax: 031 207 1766 cape TOwn 58 Strand Street, 11th Floor, Picbel Parkade Tel: 021 425 0417, Fax: 021 425 1575 pOrT elizabeTH 3 Edward Street, 1st Flr Kalinga Linga House, Central Tel: 041 582 033, Fax: 041 582 1678 nelspruiT 37 Brown Street, 4th Floor, Mid City Building Tel: 013 752 2207, Fax: 013 752 6434 blOemfOnTein 57 Kellner Street, Suite 5 ,6, 7, Westdene Park Tel: 051 430 6223, Fax: 051 430 8771 easT lOndOn 15 St Matthews Road, Southernwood Tel: 043 743 5410, Fax: 043 722 0587 Kimberley 33 Long Street, Albertynshof Tel: 053 833 7447, Fax: 053 833 7452 pOlOKwane 5 Neethling Street, Hampton Court, Bendor Avenue Tel: 015 296 4858, Fax: 015 296 4729
For a full list of industries within the Services sector, visit www.serviceseta.org.za
project
mArketing And communicAtionS
mAnAgement
FASHion deSignerS
mAil HAndling & lAundering
export
& cAtering
cleAning
eQuipment Hire
HAirdreSSing
FunerAl ServiceS
vAriouS metAlS
Function
dry & import oF
And courier ServiceS
BeAuty
modelling AgencieS
interior deSignerS
(including puBlic relAtionS)
BrAnding
QuAlity mAnAgement And relAted ServiceS
BArgAining councilS Admin & SecretAriAl And diSpute reSolution
& proviSion oF StAFF
renting event oF mAcHinery
& eQuipment
pet cAre vAluerS (including AuctioneerS)
& upHolStery cleAning
temporAry employment ServiceS
cArpet
mAke-up ArtiStry
reAl
eStAte ActivitieS
& Skin cAre
cAll centre mAnAgement oF people
gArden truck mAintenAnce & plAnt Hire ServiceS lABour recruitment HeAltH mAnAgement & conFerence
ngo
mAnAgement
And ServiceS
Driven to Succeed How a young man from humble beginnings made his way from forklift driver to advocate.
S
ecurity is tight at Cape Mail with numerous barriers to cross before entry is permitted. After making it past the stringent checkpoints, I am escorted to an office tucked away at the end of the longest corridor I’ve ever seen. There Marlin Rhode greets me and I can’t help but comment on the lengths I’ve gone to in order to get to him. He laughingly
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admits that he and his colleagues dub the corridor ‘the long walk to freedom’ at the end of a hard day’s work. Befittingly, a framed picture of Nelson Mandela takes pride of place on his desk, alongside photographs of Marlin’s wife and two adorable children. But despite the in-house jokes about the passageway, this is a man who truly loves his work and he jumps at the chance to share the story of his success. ‘I grew up in Montana, a suburb close to Cape Town airport,’ he begins. ‘My schooling was fairly normal: from Windermere Primary, I went on to Kensington High School. Sure, there were kids there who were drinking alcohol and smoking dagga, but that never appealed to me. I was in with a good crowd of friends and the one thing that was always in the back of my mind was that I didn’t want to disappoint my parents.
w o r d s :
s a m
c o l l i n s ;
p h oto s :
p e t e r
r u d d e n
inspirational people
They had – and still do have – so much faith in me. My parents worked hard to provide us with everything we needed in life, ensuring there was always electricity in the meter, clothes on our backs and food on the table. ‘Teachers were stricter in those days. The meneer would klap you if you didn’t dress appropriately. You were scared of them back then, but it was a good fear, if I can say that. There was one woodwork teacher, Mr Hudsonberg, who had a wooden box on his desk and if you didn’t get the required results in woodwork, you would have to pick a number – that was how many lashes you’d get. It was actually better to get a higher number, as he would apply the cane more gently! ‘Although I enjoyed school, I didn’t work too hard. It was my heart’s desire to be a chef and I figured I wouldn’t need many qualifications to do that, just talent in the kitchen. I got through Matric, but didn’t sail through. I had no clear vision, but knew I needed to earn money for catering school, so in 1995, when I saw an advert for mail handlers at the Post Office, I applied. All that was required was good hand-
eye coordination. I was one of about 200 people employed part-time on a one-year contract.’ Marlin stops and opens a desk drawer, pulling out a dog-eared piece of paper – his first ever pay slip – testifying to his then meager earnings: the princely sum of R1000 per month! ‘After a few months earning an income the goggatjie (bug) bit me and I became accustomed to earning, no matter how small the salary,’ he admits. ‘I was enjoying my independence and my aspirations of tertiary education became secondary to my earnings. In 1997, I was promoted to fully-fledged forklift driver. My possession of a driver’s license sealed the deal. In 2003 my title was changed to mail processor as a result of a collective bargaining process, although I still drove the forklift and my duties didn’t change much.’
M
eanwhile, outside the world of work, wedding bells had sounded and in 2004 his wife, Carlenette, gave birth to their first-born, a daughter they named Phoenix. ‘Her arrival changed everything,’ he professes. post matric 2012
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inspirational people
‘It was a real light bulb moment for me; the proverbial penny dropped and I realised that if I carried on as I was going, we would never be in a position to provide Phoenix with the kind of upbringing we wanted for her. If she was to have a great education, I was going to need to bring home a salary to sustain that. So I decided then and there to equip myself with at least a degree so that I could secure myself a job with more earning potential. Problem was that I had absolutely no idea what I wanted to study!
‘A
rmed with a brown envelope containing my Matric certificate, I attended appointments with career counsellors at different universities. As luck should have it, I had the fortune of coming across a gentleman called Dr Fredricks, whom I will never forget. He looked at my results and said, “You qualify for university admission, young man. You should study law and become a lawyer or magistrate”. I just packed out laughing,’ Marlin recalls with a smile. ‘I told him he was crazy, that lawyers were clever people, people with status, and I was a forklift driver. I mean really! Come, let’s go to Coca Cola or Nampak and tell the forklift driver there that they can become an advocate. He’ll think you are smoking something!’ But Fredricks’ words stayed with him and sure enough, he applied to study law at UWC. ‘When I received my provisional acceptance, I was shocked out of my wits!’ Marlin grins.
I am one of the fortunate few who earn a salary doIng somethIng I love
And so the hard work began… from Monday to Thursday, between 2005 and 2010, Marlin ended his working day by hauling out the books and putting his head down to study. Looking back, he admits that he couldn’t have done it without the unwavering support of his wife. ‘My family were truly the driving force, I did it all for them,’ he states proudly. ‘My wife also works at the Post Office as a supervisor, so that made it easier for me to study long hours. She never distracted me or complained. We both wanted the world for our children (by now our son, Zachary, had been born). It’s easy to wish for your child to become a rocket scientist, but you have to provide the means for them to get there. ‘And I also couldn’t have done it without my faith in the Almighty. My grandfather was, and uncles are, ministers in the church and whilst I am not a born again Christian, I cling to the principles and beliefs that religion has taught me.’ I ask Marlin a question that's been on my lips. A law degree doesn’t come cheap… How did he afford to fund his studies?
MORE ABOUT THE JOB MY JOB ENTAILS advising union and management on what the law ultimately says in relation to a specific issue, facilitating disputes between union and management, and then advising them both. I represent the Post Office in external tribunals at the CCMA and bargaining councils. All Post Office disputes are referred there. I listen to disputes, advise and give opinions.
IF YOU WANT TO BE A LAWYER… Go to the courts, wait outside and ask an attorney questions. Don’t be afraid to ask. Find out what the job entails and what they like about it. If the first one doesn’t have time for you don’t be put off, keep on trying and someone will help you. Use the information to formulate an opinion. Speak to a few different people before you decide.
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inspirational people
‘F
inancially it was hard. For the first year I had to fund my own studies, at around R10 000. I’d applied for a bursary from the Post Office in 2004, but didn’t get it. At the time I felt my employer saw me as a forklift driver with delusions of grandeur! But I had a point to prove, and refused to let this hurdle stand in my way. I would show them. I wasn’t a forklift driver applying for a bursary to do a law degree; I was Marlin Rhode applying, and I knew I had the staying power to see it through. I studied like crazy and made the Dean’s Merit List. At the time I didn’t even realise what an achievement this was – I was a top performer in my group! But the decision-makers at the Post Office clearly noticed, and they agreed to fund my studies from that point forward. ‘Perhaps it was a good thing that I had to pay my own way initially, as that meant I could not possibly mess up. Maybe if the Post Office had paid I wouldn’t have taken it as seriously. A blessing in disguise!’ Around the time the Post Office provided Marlin’s bursary, the position of Employee Relations Practitioner was advertised and
I wasn’t a forklIft drIver applyIng for a bursary to do a law degree, I was MarlIn rhode applyIng…
although he didn’t have all the required qualifications just yet, the powers that be now recognised his potential and awarded him the job. Six years and many hours spent sitting at a desk later, at the age of 31, this hard-working scholar wrote his final exams, and his dreams came true when he was capped by Desmond Tutu at an official ceremony at UWC. And then another dream came to fruition on the day of his admission as an advocate. ‘There I was, standing in court and being sworn in before Justice Samela and Acting Justice van Standen. There were so many things going through my post matric 2012
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inspirational people
mind. No money in the world could ever have bought that moment. I sacrificed so much to get there – time with family, special occasions, rugby games, watching England play in the World Cup, but it was all worth it,’ Marlin reflects. ‘My wife, daughter and mother were there to share it. I hope that day will impart in Phoenix a sense of selfbelief; a knowing that she can do anything she puts her mind to.’ Marlin is also thankful to the Post Office for playing a supporting role in his success. ‘As as an organisation, they have proven their commitment to assisting employees in acquiring the necessary skills to progress their careers. Whenever I asked for time off, study leave or just quiet time, they were supportive. If you want to study and you are working here, it is a good combination.’ And colleagues at the Post Office further honoured the advocate’s achievements last year by presenting him with a Silver Star Award for Self Development at a glitzy gala in Johannesburg. It seems there is no stopping Marlin now… last year he applied to do his Masters and he is currently busy on his proposal. His thesis: A critical analysis of privacy in the work place. If all goes well, he should graduate in 2013. Seems that the long days of all work and no play are not over just yet. But he's not even slightly phased. ‘Although my career at the Post Office started off as a means to earn, these days money has become secondary. I am one of the fortunate few who earn a salary doing something I love. I have a passion for the law and faith in our judiciary system. Doing what I do is such an awesome feeling – I don’t want to be selfish and keep it all to myself. If you are a young person interested in becoming an advocate or attorney, you are welcome to contact me and I’ll advise you as to how to get started as best I can.’ If you are interested in finding out more about a career with the Post Office, visit www.postoffice.co.za
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I’ve learnt that... ★ Money talks (lets call a spade a spade). ★ We tend to set ourselves standards and believe that this is our pinnacle, but actually the sky is the limit. ★ It’s great to have dreams, but you need to be able to sustain them. ★ People will tell you that you are not good enough; that it is not possible. Be stubborn. If your mind tells you that you can do it, you probably can. ★ There is always a reason for everything, although it may be far from clear at the time. ★ Lawyers need to be equipped with the gift of the gab. I am not a fighter, but I earn my bread and butter with my mouth. ★ If you can’t negotiate, then this is the wrong profession for you. ★ As a parent you need to start saving early for your children’s education. Even just putting away R50 per month can make a difference. ★ There are times when you do get it wrong, but that’s just part of life. ★ Stress relief is important and having hobbies helps you relax. For me it’s cooking, I still have aspirations to be a chef (ask my wife!).
Interfacing African Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Modern Sciences BACHELOR OF INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS (B.IKS) B.IKS is a multi-disciplinary qualification which has been designed to prepare learners with the necessary knowledge, skills and values relating to Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS). The qualification is based on a holistic approach to understanding IKS and lays a solid foundation for learners to gain academic and practical competencies.
■ Promote understanding of IKS globally including
THE BACHELOR OF IKS AIMS TO:
Four year Degree Programme (480 credits)
■ Affirm African cultural values and integrate IKS
into the formal educational system. ■ Promote cooperation between educational
institutions, business, industry and local communities. ■ Contribute to sustainable livelihoods and development through utilizing IKS as a resource in innovation.
affirmation of indigenous knowledge holders.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Matriculation with Exemption and/or Advanced Level Certificate
DURATION OF THE PROGRAMME JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Public and private sector, within and outside South Africa. The fields include: science and technology, health, law, education, tourism, environment, agriculture, rural development, etc.
FINANCIAL AID Students can apply for bursaries and educational loans from various financial institutions such as: National Research Foundation (NRF), National Indigenous Knowledge Systems Office (NIKSO), National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), Thuthuka, Fundza Lushaka, Edu Loan, Eskom, Telkom etc.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT THE FOLLOWING INSTITUTIONS: ■ ■ ■ ■
University of North West: (018) 389 2294 University of Limpopo: (015) 268 3133 University of Venda: (015) 962 8131 Department of Science and Technology: (012) 843 6314
Alternatively visit the following link/website for detailed information on a qualification: http://reggs.saqa.org.za and use the following qualification ID 63429 to search for B.IKS
CREDIT: MEDICAL RESEARCH COUNCIL OF SOUTH AFRICA
career junction turn over to discover a world of possibilities
travel industry
making dreams come true Why the travel industry?
From a young age I wanted to travel, and visiting every country on earth was my dream. Initially I thought about being an air hostess or a tour guide, but life took me in a slightly different direction and I ended up working for Beachcomber Tours, a wholesale tour operator.
What exactly do you do?
I deal solely with travel agents. We put together tailor-made packages to Mauritius and Seychelles with air tickets, airport transfers and hotel accommodation.
p h oto :
s u p p l i e d
What training did you do?
I started off doing a three-year diploma at a Technikon but I didn’t finish my third year. At the time some of the subjects seemed to have little relevance to what I wanted to do, although if I had to study those today I’d find them far more interesting as I would be able to apply them to my daily life/work. I then did a one-year diploma through Damelin. The subjects were more condensed and I felt they were focused on working in a travel agency or operator, or even at an airline. I would also recommend a course in airline reservation systems like Galileo or Amadeus to those wanting to get ahead in the travel industry.
Karen Botes
ReseRvations ManageR BeachcomBer Tours
What do you enjoy most?
The holidays! We go to Mauritius once a year for a refresher.
anything you don’t like?
Unhappy clients – we don’t have many but it is a fact of life that things can go wrong. Some people are understanding, but others aren’t and they will blame you for anything and everything.
hurdles you’ve overcome?
Learning to see the bigger picture. It’s important to figure out which battles are worth fighting and which ones aren’t, and also not to take things too personally. It’s hard to remove yourself emotionally when clients are upset as you try so hard every day to deliver the best service you can.
career highlight to date? It’s an ongoing highlight.
experience or training?
Depends on which avenue you choose as there are different requirements for each. For our line of work, I believe a one-year (max two year) travel diploma is sufficient to give you a foot in the door. Experience is key – you learn 90% of the job on the job. A good grounding in the basics will help.
Which traits are required? Someone with a lot of patience. You must have a deep desire to make other people happy; remember that they are putting their dreams and a lot of money and trust in your hands and this is not something to be taken lightly. If can see the bright side in almost every situation, you are goal orientated and an accurate worker who can foresee problems before they arise, this would be a challenging and satisfying career.
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veterinary medicine
fur, feathers and fangs Why did you choose this profession?
Ever since I was younger I have loved being with and working with animals, and I knew I needed something different to your usual office job. Every day at the veterinary practice brings its own excitement.
What training did you undergo?
I studied at Onderstepoort, Faculty of Veterinary Science.
is there a type of personality best suited to this Work?
Yes! Just because you work with animals does not mean you don’t need people skills. You must be a people person.
kennels doing dentals, treatments, wounds, x-ray and the anesthetic for the operations that are booked in for the vet. Finally all the accounts need to be done and the medicines organised for when owners come to collect their pets.
What do you like the most about your line of Work?
The fact that every day is different, with new cases in the hospital and exciting new things to do.
Which aspects are you least keen on?
Euthanasing animals is never an easy thing for me to do.
describe your job in three Words
Challenging • Exciting • Dirty
What advice Would you give to someone starting out in your career?
Before you make an ultimate decision about what you want to do, work for a few days in a veterinary practice to see if this job is really for you. This is not a very clean, ‘ladylike’ career. Someone told me that on my first day at Onderstepoort. The professor asked: ‘Are there any ladies here that like to have long, painted nails? They can leave the class, thank you.’
This is not a very clean, ‘ladylike’ job
is experience as important as formal training?
Yes. Over the years I have found that working at different organisations and working overseas has helped my career a lot. You do get better at your job and get to know what you are best at.
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Veterinary assistant CitiVet gardens
s a m
Carina Visser
p h oto :
The day usually starts off with drug orders – what was used the previous day and what will be needed. Then it’s admitting all the hospital procedures for the day and discussing what needs to be done with the owners, as well as confirming collection times. Next I’ll be having hospital discussions with the vet about all the cases in hospital and what needs to be done. Up until 2pm I am between the theater and the
c o l l i n s
describe a typical day on the job
optometry
FOCUS ON YOUR FUTURE Deidre America
OPTICAL DISPENER BAUER OPTOMETRIST
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO WORK IN THIS FIELD? My mom started wearing spectacles when I was in high school about ten years ago. The profession fascinated me to such an extent that I took it up.
WHAT DOES AN OPTICAL DISPENSER DO?
Dispensing, essentially, is sitting the patient down and explaining the different types of lenses, coatings and frames that best suit the prescription.
WHAT DID YOU STUDY?
My studies included two years of theory at Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) and a one-year internship at Bauer Optometrist.
DESCRIBE YOUR AVERAGE DAY
P H OTO :
P E T E R
R U D D E N
I start off with a strong cup of coffee, then spend a fair amount of time on the phone with laboratories checking that the spectacle orders are on track. I spend time with patients helping them look for a frame, and sit them down to explain what they are going to get in their lenses. Repairs, adjustments and ordering of spectacles fill the rest of my day.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST?
The fact that I interact with different people every day, and the little stories that come with them. I enjoy a challenge, so I like doing tricky repairs.
PARTICULAR TRAITS REQUIRED...
your feet, focusing and being accurate. You need to be a people person, hardworking and able to separate personal life from work.
WHAT MAKES YOUR DAY?
A difficult patient who is very happy and satisfied at the end of the day.
SHARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS
To take my studies further, and to open up my own practice one day.
EXPERIENCE VERSUS FORMAL TRAINING?
Experience is very important. You need to know how to approach and address a patient’s problems accordingly. As they say, practice makes perfect.
ANY ADVICE FOR NEWCOMERS?
Be patient and listen – listen to your patient and then think before you act.
YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS
Love, passion and perseverance.
I enjoy a challenge, so I like doing tricky repairs
Multitasking is very important, thinking fast and on post matric 2012
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music industry
HITTING A HIGH NOTE WHAT DO YOU DO, IN A NUTSHELL?
Neil Potgieter
I perform, write, produce and play music.
PROFESSIONAL MUSICIAN / MEMBER: MACSTANLEY
WHY MUSIC?
I’ve loved music from a young age and somehow couldn’t get away from it no matter what I did, so figured it was the right thing to do.
WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?
It depends what gig I’m on or what stage of the process I’m involved in. For writing, it would mean just sitting and capturing ideas as they come and then working them until I’m happy with the result. For studio, when tracking for an album, getting in early and laying down the music with the right feel is vital, so no sleepy heads normally helps. Touring means early rises, lots of travelling, sound checks, the actual performance, packing up, travelling again and then hopefully getting some sleep.
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It’s very fulfilling. It gives me great pleasure and I think that somehow that pleasure is transferred to the people listening, so it’s a win-win situation.
ANY DISLIKES?
The activity when music is not played – the business end. This needs to be dealt with diligently and can take up a lot of time, which, in short, frustrates me a little, because, well, we could be playing something!
HURDLES OVERCOME? Ha ha! Many. All three of them: drugs, sex and Rock n’ Roll!
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE…
Hearing my music on the radio, especially when it
hits Top Ten or Number One! Playing for 35 000 people. Touring Germany. Having a European label sign you based on a song you wrote. Simply just playing the guitar! It’s all good, but I must say that seeing people get off to your music is always the highlight for me. Then I know my work is done!
FUTURE GOALS…
Start a side blues/ rock project; learn to sing better; write and produce in other genres; keep learning guitar; get Macstanley’s third studio album out, then win a SAMA for it, and get a couple of hits both locally and abroad.
TRAINING VERSUS EXPERIENCE?
Well, you can’t learn
experience, but getting a good education in music won’t hurt, depending where you get it.
WHAT MAKES A SUCCESSFUL MUSO?
Don’t get caught in the hype of light! Stay away from the party scene if you find that you have an addictive personality. Write from the heart, perform from the heart, and be completely honest with yourself.
ADVICE FOR NEWCOMERS?
Practice, practice and practice some more. Whatever it is you are aiming for, get in that groove and keep chugging away at it until you feel that you’ve got it. Persevere and believe in yourself.
S U P P L I E D
DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY IN YOUR WORLD
ASPECTS YOU LOVE…
P H OTO :
I did a year of music theory at MIT in Los Angeles and the rest is self-taught using books, internet and, very importantly, my fellow musicians.
tradesmanship
PLUGGED IN AND SWITCHED ON Ilunga Jean Paul Muambayi ELECTRICIAN
ELECTRO SURGEON
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?
I enjoy working with people and prefer being on the road than in an office. There is always work available for electricians because it’s one of the most common trades, and there is always a lot of growth potential when you work for a well-known company.
WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO AND WHERE DID YOU DO IT?
R U D D E N
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS?
I did an apprenticeship section 28 with ECA and Train All training centre in Cape Town.
DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON THE JOB
YOUR FUTURE GOALS ARE…
WHAT ARE THE BEST PARTS?
P E T E R
I have found that in this industry you have to keep your focus and be positive because when I started it was not easy. I did not get a lot of help and not many companies wanted to hire me because I hardly had any experience.
When I resolve the problem by giving satisfaction to the ones in need and I can look back and be proud of how much experience I have gained.
We mainly work on maintenance on electrical work in houses and small buildings – like plug points, light fittings, earth leakages, etc. Every day there is something different and we are always needed.
P H OTO :
HAVE THERE BEEN HURDLES TO OVERCOME?
I enjoy a good team spirit, and when a client is happy with my work.
WHAT DON’T YOU LIKE?
I don’t like it when sometimes a client thinks they know what is wrong and overrun my decisions when I’m fixing a problem, in the end realising that I did intend to do the right thing. This is why you need lots of patience and good social skills!
To find myself managing a big electrical company.
HOW DOES EXPERIENCE WEIGH UP AGAINST FORMAL TRAINING?
The more experience you get, the better equipped you are mentally and physically.
WHAT MAKES A ‘GOOD’ ELECTRICIAN?
An electrician needs dedication, passion and a hard working ethos.
ANY ADVICE FOR SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN YOUR CAREER? Always be willing to learn and take on new opportunities. Never give up.
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hospitality
a taste of things to come Luvo Ntezo
Wine Sommelier The One&Only Cape TOwn
career highlights so far?
Being awarded South Africa Young Sommelier of the Year 2008, and coming fourth in the world.
What does a sommelier do? Well, simply put it’s all about aesthetic analysis of wine; being able to pair wine with food while brushing aside all the complications, and being able to explain and recommend wines to guests without coming across as arrogant or snobbish.
What is required?
A combination of a complex love for viticulture, people and diversity in the culture of wine and service.
p h oto :
s u p p l i e d
Where did you study?
Through Getsmarter. I completed a course in Wine Evaluation under the University of Stellenbosch’s Faculty of Viticulture and Oenology, and completed a Tasting Diploma at UCT Graduate School of Business under Michael Friedjohn, as well as a certificate with the Cape Wine Academy.
describe a day on the job
Doing this interview; going through appointments with winemakers,
suppliers, etc, and making sure all the wines are available as advertised with their correct vintages; doing wine training with staff; getting on with wine service and making sure all diners get the very best service out of me and my team – which is my main goal.
What do you love most about your Work?
Everything about my job is a constant pleasure. Perhaps if computers were nonexistent, my job would be the best in the world!
so What don’t you like?
The aforementioned computers, and bad-smelling people.
hurdles you’ve overcome...
Having not been born in the world of wine, I had to work much harder on both the academic side and theoretical aspect of wines. With the Western Cape being the heart of wines, I had to make a tough decision to be based there while my family live in Durban.
your future plans?
I don’t want to spoil the occasion, but I have massive and concrete plans for the future!
hoW does experience compare to training?
Academics play a very important role, while experience makes one seamlessly handle any situation.
describe a ‘successful’ sommelier
You have to be passionate about lifestyle and healthy living. You have to have love and patience for people and not be snobbish about what you know, and you absolutely have to be very well groomed… ‘a cheap-looking person will never sell me anything’.
advice for youngsters...
You’ll need patience, determination and a passion for lifestyle. Remember that in the end, wine is a beverage that contains alcohol and those that have a love for wine will never abuse it. post matric 2012
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publishing
David Mwanambuyu EDITOR
BLACK BUSINESS QUARTERLY
WRITING THE HEADLINES WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO BE AN EDITOR?
It came naturally. Since my teenage days I always wanted to know what was happening around me and read just about everything that came my way. I love words and that was obviously a major factor in my decision.
WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?
I studied journalism with the Writers Bureau College of Journalism in Manchester, United Kingdom.
P H OTO :
P E T E R
R U D D E N
IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED TO THIS WORK? A passion for people and an unquenchable quest for knowledge are key traits.
IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING? In my view, experience sets one apart, it gives you the confidence to explore any subject under the sun. That’s why it’s very
important for graduates to do a bit of writing on a freelance basis prior to seeking a full time job. It’s a very competitive profession, as such editors usually prefer dealing with the tried and tested. So, get your byline out there for all to see.
WHAT DON’T YOU LIKE?
DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY IN YOUR WORKING LIFE
I would love to go into media ownership one day.
It’s frenetic. I check my diary first then edit freelance copy, read the business press, research ideas, then put pen to paper.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE THE MOST ABOUT BEING AN EDITOR?
The interaction with people from all walks of life, the constant flow of information at my disposal and the art of turning bare facts into a readable story. That is artistic!
The perennial deadlines.
WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER?
Editing Black Business Quarterly.
WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE FUTURE?
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN THE MEDIA INDUSTRY? The industry is not as glamorous as it is made out to be; it’s hard work as you need to be prepared to go the extra mile at all times.
DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS A bookworm’s paradise.
the industry is not as
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beauty industry
fancy footwork Why did you choose to Work With feet?
After a ski accident! I was taking part in a competition and broke my cross ligaments. I had an operation and underwent physiotherapy for six months, then met a podiatrist who created insoles for my ski boots to rebalance my feet. The following season I won the competition. This man changed my life! After three years, I got my license to practice podiatry. At 23, I opened a medical office and very quickly was very busy (20 clients a day, six days a week, bookings one month in advance). At 25, I sold it and created my concept of pedicure - the true pedi-cure: cure the nail (natural shine), cure the skin (medical knowledge), cure the mobility (strong massage). I started in a luxury spa in Paris and quickly developed a client base in New York and London. Before long I was moving between the three.
What practical training did you undergo?
A medical license in pedicure (three years training in France).
characteristics required…
Someone who wants to help, to travel, to invest lots of time and energy in order to reach perfection.
p h oto :
s u p p l i e d
hoW do training and experience interplay?
I myself started with only a French podiatrists license. Since opening in Cape Town I’ve realised that you can have amazing results with anybody who is really keen to learn. Now we have young
Bastien Gonzalez
Podiatrist / Pedicurist President BGAcorP And Pedicure
Never stop focusing on doing your best staff undergoing education in our PediManiCure Studios worldwide.
describe a typical day in your World
I start the morning with checking and answering e-mail, and then try to find some time to do some sport to help fight off jetlag (I’m travelling every three days). My appointments start at 8am and usually finish around 9pm. Somewhere I try and find time to meet with my PA.
your career highlights include…
Helping people walk on air with no pain and, as a director, seeing my staff learning and growing and finding their way with me.
What turns you off?
Clients coming back with a problem that is not being fixed.
What are you Working on currently?
Opening a school to train pedicurists on the real way to do it. My first school will be in South Africa. The wish to travel and to learn seduced me into opening in Cape Town before any other place!
your future goals…
To have a few schools and 100 studios around the world so that all the main cities have a contact point for a good pedicure.
advice for someone starting out?
Be a perfectionist and never stop focusing on doing the best you can in your treatment for your clients.
your job in three Words
Perfection • Service • Education post matric 2012
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beauty industry
HEY, GOOD LOOKING WHAT DO YOU DO FOR A LIVING?
I am a hair and make-up artist and work with different production companies, for magazines, weddings and personal clients. My job is to make up and style the model according to the client brief.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?
I started with a cosmetology course at Pivot Point in Kenya. Then moved to South Africa where I studied art directing for Motion Pictures at City Varsity.
DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY
I am never in the same place for long. Some days start early – maybe at the beach for a morning shoot, other days I am on set doing a fashion shoot with a magazine, or shooting a cooking show. I could work for only three hours or for 21 hours depending on the nature of the job.
EXPERIENCE VERSUS FORMAL TRAINING?
MAKEUP ARTIST KRISTEENKURIA.COM
WHAT HURDLES HAVE YOU OVERCOME?
There have been many hurdles along the way, especially being a freelancer. There were times when business was slow and I had to face the fact that I wasn’t getting a salary that month. I find the greatest hurdle is myself! I constantly have to battle with my mind and keep pushing myself to continue even when things are tough. I’ve had to train my mind to be positive and keep looking for new opportunities.
WHAT MAKES A ‘GOOD’ MAKE-UP ARTIST?
They say that Picasso did not become great because he was talented but because he put his gift to use every day. It’s the same with this career – experience will get you further. It is important to go to school and learn the basics, but more important to get out there and work on different faces and with new products.
People skills play a huge role. Make it a point to study people and treat them according to their personality. You need to be patient because you will encounter situations that don’t make you happy. You should also have a good sense of humour, and know the time to talk and time to stop talking. Try to keep your client’s information to yourself. Respect for people goes a long way.
YOUR FAVOURITE ASPECT?
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A NEWCOMER?
My job has taken me to places I never thought of going, and I love meeting different people and seeing their transformation after the makeover. It feels good that my handy work gives them confidence, it makes me feel like some sort of a healer to the ego!
WHAT DON’T YOU LIKE?
People who have no respect for what you do.
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post matric 2012
Be patient and when work is slow find models to practice on. Information is key, so stay informed. Market yourself to get your name out there.
It makes me feel like some sort of healer to the ego
S U P P L I E D
WHERE DID YOU TRAIN?
Kristeen Kuria
P H OTO :
I’ve loved art and cosmetics since childhood. I helped a friend of mine to do make-up on set and discovered that I could make money just by making people look beautiful. That got me thinking and I decided to join a beauty college.
accounting
the queen bee me, but like everything else, I find ways to work around it.
career highlight?
I have to mention the bureau’s month-long coverage of the 2010 Soccer World Cup as an event all of us will remember. It was really hard work for all concerned, the logistics proved to be a nightmare. The coverage was brilliant.
your future goals?
Marlene Pillay Why did you choose this profession?
My favourite subjects in school were Mathematics, Accountancy and Biology. We tend to excel at the things we enjoy doing so I kind of knew that I would be crunching figures for a living. Either that or living out my parents’ dream of me becoming a nurse!
What training did you undergo?
I completed Practical Accounting & Accounting I & II at Damelin. I have also completed various accounting-related refresher courses since.
p h oto :
d i a n e
m c c a r t h y
What is it that you do?
My primary task is that of being the accountant, and all related financial responsibilities. I must make sure all suppliers are paid timeously. I’m always on the lookout for competitive pricing for services. The second half of my job title means that the entire admin responsibility falls under my
AccountAnt & BureAu MAnAger CNN, JohaNNesburg bureau
portfolio: anything from arranging a driver, to following up on travel arrangements with the travel agent to arranging visas at very short notice. I am faced with anything that needs to be done to ensure the bureau runs smoothly and the staff have the resources. to function efficiently.
favourite parts...
I will NEVER be bored. I enjoy the fact that I have no idea what my day will be like and that I must always be prepared to face the challenge as it surfaces.
anything you don’t like?
I often find myself in a situation where I am unable to finalise a job because I need third party input. This becomes really frustrating for
I will never be bored
I want to complete my BCom Degree. Also our bureau is growing at a very healthy pace and a growing office comes with the obvious growth in admin. I am working on streamlining processes to ensure smooth operation.
experience or training?
Experience is definitely more important than formal training. No amount of training can ever teach you about handling stress, having patience when you feel like you don’t have any, and being tolerant under very tense conditions. I have learnt a great deal from our Bureau Chief, who has been in the industry for over 25 years.
What defines a ‘good’ accountant?
You must be very flexible. Also, irrespective of what position you hold in an office, all levels of respect are very important. There are some situations that require me to play very hard ball.
advice for neWcomers?
Be prepared for hard work. You have got to accept that you win some and you lose some, but you must never lose sight of what your purpose is. Always do your best. post matric 2012
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security services
about this industry is the long hours one has to work.
HAVE YOU OVERCOME PERSONAL HURDLES?
A year ago I was diagnosed with hypertension. As I am working in a stressful environment, I had to teach myself to stay calm in stressful situations.
YOUR CAREER HIGHLIGHT?
I was promoted to Control Room Manager in 2009. The control room is the heart of the business, so being the Manager means one has a huge responsibility.
JOB SECURITY
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THE SECURITY INDUSTRY?
I actually wanted to become a chartered accountant but unfortunately there was no money available for me to further my studies. Security was the only option at that stage, and I’ve been in the industry ever since.
WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO AND WHERE?
In order for any person to become a security officer you need to be registered with PSIRA (Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority). In order to become PSIRA registered, you need to do your security grading (Grade E to Grade A). If you go into the armed response division you need to be fire-arm competent and must have armed response training.
IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING? Most definitely: formal training can’t prepare you for the real-life
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post matric 2012
situations you’ll be faced with while on the job.
DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY
There is no typical day. Every day you deal with different people and different situations. We deal with alarm activations, and every time an alarm signal is received a person life could be in danger.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST?
I work with a brilliant team of people that makes coming to work exciting. I enjoy the different challenges I face on a daily basis, whether it is client or staff related.
ANYTHING YOU DON’T LIKE?
I don’t like an unhappy client. Service delivery is a very important aspect of the business and we always strive to go the extra mile for our clients. The other dislike
ANY FUTURE GOALS?
I’m currently studying to become a computer technician and on completion of this course would like to enter the IT field, and maybe start my own business.
WHAT MAKES OR BREAKS A MANAGER IN THE SECURITY INDUSTRY?
One needs to be focused on service delivery, meeting deadlines and must have a lot of patience, especially when it comes to staff. You must have good interpersonal and communication skills.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT? In the beginning, security was just a job to me, but it has become a career. Hard work and dedication is the only way to climb the ladder in this industry.
YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS
Challenging, Stressful & Enjoyable.
Hard work and dedication is th e only way to climb the ladder
R U D D E N
CITY BOWL ARMED RESPONSE
P E T E R
CONTROL ROOM MANAGER
P H OTO :
Selwyn Makeet
animal behaviourism
Talk wiTh The animals Why did you choose to Work With animals?
As a young boy I loved my dogs and spent hours training them in my back garden. After visiting Sea World I knew that one day I would work with marine mammals and birds. From that point on I spent as much time as possible learning about animal behaviour.
What training did you undergo?
After completing Matric I focussed on dog training, and then built on the knowledge I had acquired when I started working at Sea World uShaka.
What makes a ‘good’ animal behaviourist?
You need to be patient, patient, patient. You also need to be physically fit, passionate about conservation and be a team player.
is experience as important as training?
strengthening the bond of trust, do some training and prepare them to participate in the seal show.
What do you like the most about your Work?
I love sharing my animals with the public and watching the audience as they learn about conservation through the animals.
any dislikes?
I don’t like to sit down and do paperwork – but it is essential and needs to be done on a daily basis.
What’s been the highlight of your career so far?
I loved being part of the move from the old Sea World premises to our new home at uShaka Marine
World. This brought so many challenges and was a once in a lifetime opportunity for me to learn about how animals adapt and adjust to change.
What are your goals for the future?
I am going to continue working towards my goal: A world where everyone cares about the environment. You will notice when I have reached it – we will be living in a litter free South Africa!
any advice for neWcomers? I would advise them to volunteer at their local animal care facility or conservation organisation to find out if this is the work they want to invest themselves in. This is not just a job – it’s a lifestyle.
It’s a broad field your job in that can suit all manner three Words Sharing, Caring of personalities and Nurturing.
I think you need both, and that in my position one never stops with either formal training or gaining valuable experience.
describe your typical Working day
p h oto :
A n n
K u n z
Most of my day is spent with the seals. When we arrive in the morning we check them to ensure they are in optimal health, prepare their morning feeds, spend time playing with them and
Mbhabe Daniel Mtetwa
AnimAl BehAviourist: seAls, Dolphins AnD penguins saambr, sea world ushaka
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social work
Yeukai Chideya
Social Worker / Project leader Victim EmpowErmEnt for childrEn projEct
supporting role Why social Work?
I have always had a passion to help people overcome their emotional and psychological challenges, and also to assist those who come from a disadvantaged background to acquire what they lack.
Explain What you do
I am a Clinical Social Worker at the Trauma Centre for Survivors of Violence and Torture. We work with people who have experienced severe trauma such as torture and sexual violence.
p h oto :
p e t e r
r u d d e n
What training did you undErgo?
I studied at the University of Cape Town where I graduated with a Bachelor of Social Science in Social Work in 2006 and then completed my Honours in 2007. I finally graduated with a Masters of Social Science in Clinical Social Work in 2010. I also did a number of internships as part of my study requirements.
dEscribE a typical day
Each working day is different. I see individual clients for counselling
and also do group/family counselling. I work in schools with learners, their parents and teachers. At times I may facilitate workshops and have meetings with stakeholders in the community.
What do you Enjoy most?
I enjoy building relationships with my clients and witnessing their growth and development.
any dislikEs?
Not being able to help everyone because there are limits to what you can do to help a client.
What hurdlEs havE you had to ovErcomE?
Sometimes I become overwhelmed by the challenges that my clients face. I have had to learn to separate work from my personal life by putting boundaries in place because the nature of my work can be emotionally draining.
What’s bEEn thE highlight of your carEEr so far?
Taking a group of clients from a disadvantaged background for a leadership camp at a resort; seeing
how much they appreciated the experience and the impact the workshops had on them.
is ExpEriEncE as important as formal training? Both are equally important as a lack in one may result in a poor or ineffective intervention.
What traits should a ‘good’ social WorkEr havE?
Anyone who wants to become a social worker should at least enjoy working with people. They must be versatile, have a passion to help others, be emotionally stable and a good listener.
advicE for somEonE starting out?
Being a social worker can be quite stressful and emotionally draining, hence you need to prioritise self care; to look after your wellbeing. You have to take good care of yourself in order for you to be able to help your clients effectively. Live a healthy lifestyle!
your job in thrEE Words A rewarding experience.
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horticulture
FLOWER POWER (HIP WITHOUT THE HIPPY!) WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS WORK?
Since a very young age I was keen to help out in the garden. I love how nature positively influences our busy lives in the concrete jungle; stopping us in our tracks to take a deep breath, relax and enjoy a bit of surrounding beauty, whether wild or cultivated.
WHAT DID YOU STUDY?
I completed a three-year National Diploma in Horticulture at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology and have also undergone training in Business Management.
WHAT MAKES A ‘GOOD’ HORTICULTURIST?
DESCRIBE YOUR TYPICAL DAY
Most of my time revolves around people management. As a horticulturist you spend your time guiding and directing the actions of the staff you supervise. They in turn care for the majority of plants and gardens. More specialist aspects of the daily routines are left for the expertise of the horticulturist, such as drawing
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KIRSTENBOSCH BOTANICAL GARDENS
up maintenance plans, special propagation and care of rare plants, garden design and landscaping. Some days you give presentations to the public or garden clubs, and as a botanical horticulturist we also do field work from time to time.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST?
I love the diversity horticulture offers. So many things amalgamate and define your job that you are always presented with something interesting and challenging.
ADVICE FOR NEWCOMERS?
Explore your potential. Allow your passion to drive you and develop an interest in discovering and, if possible, experiencing most aspects of horticulture. Start by working out your strong points, then you will narrow the field into the discipline of horticulture that suits you best. Be sure you like working with plants!
It’s a broad field that can suit all manner of personalities
R U D D E N
No academic training can provide an understanding of key elements within horticulture like practical experience can. Because of the variety of positions available, experience helps you find your niche.
GARDEN HORTICULTURIST
P E T E R
EXPERIENCE VERSUS FORMAL TRAINING?
Monique McQuillan
P H OTO :
Horticulture is a broad field and can suit outdoorloving people that like physical work, extending all the way to those that prefer laboratory environments. Various niches accommodate different personalities. Very motivated production and marketing orientated personalities suit commercial wholesale nurseries; people, sales and marketing orientated types suit retail horticulture; design orientated and creative types suit landscape orientated horticulture; design, creative, horticultural research and botanically orientated people suit botanical garden horticulture; service, design and maintenance types suit horticulture practiced in Parks departments; people, policy, reporting and staff orientated in horticultural management. Regardless of where you find yourself, you must be practical, have a love for nature, a passion for plants and be people orientated.
librarianship
information station educational and recreational needs of people until you actually do it. You often have to think up new and enterprising ways of getting the job done.
What do you Enjoy moSt?
The interaction with people, and the fact that one is constantly learning. The public actually expect a librarian to know everything, so I am always trying to add to my knowledge. I love it when I get to introduce people to stuff that they had no idea existed – such as different kinds of music, films or books. What I enjoy most is when students come back to me Librarian: Performing and say ‘I really did well/passed/ got the job/found that math was arts & music section fun because you helped me’.
Katherine Moon Why did you bEcomE a librarian?
I have always loved books and believe that knowledge, information and education should be freely available to everyone, no matter whether they are rich or poor, and this is the purpose of a Public Library.
WhErE did you Study?
I did a BA degree at the University of Cape Town, followed by a Postgraduate two-year Advanced Diploma in Remedial Music (Music Therapy) and then a Postgraduate Higher Diploma in Librarianship. I had also studied violin, piano and singing (Royal School of Music), and ballet (Royal Academy of Dance). I am a specialist librarian in the Performing Arts and Music section of the Central Library.
dEScribE a typical day
There are no ‘typical’ days when one works with the public – there is a lot of variation! This Friday, for example, I did the banking for
Central library, Cape town
the library and attended a staff meeting. After that, I catalogued some CDs and books. After lunch, I went ‘on desk’ to help the public. I helped an elderly lady to choose audiobooks, a UNISA student find pieces of contemporary classical music, and gave school students a template for doing a film review for a project. I also helped a drama student decide which songs she would sing for her exam, and how she would present them. At the same time, I was issuing and returning books, CDs, DVDs and audiobooks.
ExpEriEncE VS training?
Yes, one needs the formal training, but nothing prepares you for dealing with the various
One needs infinite patience
carEEr highlight to datE
When my library received a huge grant of money from the Carnegie Foundation and we were able to buy books and audiovisual material that we’d only dreamed about. It was so much fun doing the ordering and buying, and even more fun to see how happy the patrons were when they found that we had a lot more stock!
dEScribE a SuccESSful librarian
One needs infinite patience and plenty of empathy and kindness! We deal with approximately 3000 people a day, and most of these people need one-on-one time, plus help with many diverse subjects. A lot of people are not even sure what they are looking for and one has to ask questions in order to narrow down the query to a specific topic. A good sense of humour is a must! Do not do this job if you have a short temper. post matric 2012
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hospitality
at your service Why did you choose the hospitality sector?
I love helping guests to get the most from their holiday. As the Concierge I have daily opportunities to share the best aspects of the hotel and the city with visitors.
describe a typical day on the job
My days start early, as guests want to plan their outings first thing in the morning. I do all the bookings and arrangements to meet their various requirements. This means I have to be very organised, as I often have quite a few different things to arrange at the same time. My relationships with people at local restaurants and attractions are also very important. Sometimes I have to rely on these connections to meet the needs of my guest. The job is very dynamic and no day is ever the same.
What do you enjoy most?
The guests! I love interacting with different people from all parts of the world… every single day. I never get bored with the job.
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Tony Cele
AssistAnt ConCierge The OysTer BOx hOTel, DurBan
anything you don’t like?
People interfering in my arrangements. There are many people in the hotel environment all dealing with customer service and sometimes our paths overlap, which can cause confusion!
any hurdles you’Ve had to oVercome?
Because I am pretty young and I am also very small in size, I found managing staff very challenging. I have recently undergone management training and I feel much more confident now.
career highlights include
Working with different characters and different cultures. An occupation in hospitality gives you the chance to have a worldwide experience, wherever you work.
What ‘makes’ a concierge?
You have to be a people person and be outgoing; be adaptable and willing to learn new things.
your future goals?
To get my Concierge Keys, and become one of the most wellknown and respected concierges in the world.
experience Versus formal training?
Formal training is very important to provide a good foundation for your career, but there are things you can’t be taught that come only with experience.
any adVice for school-leaVers?
You must be familiar with your environment; be prepared to go the extra mile to get information that you didn’t have; you can’t be a ‘clock-watcher’; you must be able to communicate with different personalities and cultures; be well organized; and you mustn’t be afraid to take risks.
your Work in three Words Dynamic • Passionate • Focused
s u p p l i e d
I’ve had a ‘mixed journey’ to get to my current position. I started off in the scullery at eMakhosini Boutique Hotel in Durban, and was then promoted to waitron, Barman Supervisor, Receptionist and finally Night Audit. I started in Night Audit at The Oyster Box hotel and was recently promoted to the Assistant Concierge position.
p h oto :
What training did you do?
finance
L’Amour Penderis
Senior Tax ConSulTanT Tax MoniTor
Why did you choose to Work in finance?
After doing some training in England and coming back to South Africa about six years ago, I got offered a job at South African Revenue Services. From there, my knowledge in the tax field just grew and my interest was sparked.
What training did you undergo?
p h oto :
p e t e r
r u d d e n
I started with on-the-job training, but soon noted that would not be enough and did a Higher National Certificate in Taxation through University of Stellenbosch. I soon continued with further development in Taxation and Accounting through Unisa.
describe a typical day on the job
It all depends on what time of year it is – the start, the middle, or even the end of a financial year. But most average days start with e-mails and planning the day. Then
number crunching
it’s onto the calculations of income and expenses, checking which of your clients are making profits and which are running at losses.
best parts of your job?
Starting with a client’s income, working your way through all the business expenses and then ending up with a totally different end perspective.
What hurdles have you had to overcome?
The biggest objective was not knowing the answer to the question, as you want to know all the answers all the time. But you first need the knowledge and the training to be able to answer the questions. Taxation is a large and important field in South Africa.
career highlight so far?
Moving from South African Revenue Services – the receiver, to the direct opposite – the private sector (us – the taxpayer). With
this perspective I have learnt both sides of the tax and accounting field, which gives you a very unique outlook on the way the tax field works.
What makes or breaks a tax consultant?
You need to be a people person; to be able to connect with your client and through that build a good business relationship. By knowing your client you are able to assist them in the best way to benefit them, and you, in their tax and accounting needs.
any useful advice for neWcomers?
Get the training and the knowledge when you start your first job, then you are able to answer the questions from day one. Also, be patient, as tax is a very large field and all the knowledge will not be gained in one day, or one month, but with a lot of time and patience, it will happen. post matric 2012
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ADVERTORIAL
INTERNAL AUDITING AS A CAREER Discover the stimulating and challenging career path of an internal auditor... WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO BE AN INTERNAL AUDITOR? Internal audit plays a major role in the wellbeing of an organisation and exposes me to every aspect of its functioning. I am uniquely positioned to make a significant difference as an assurance provider and trusted advisor to management. This is a multi-dimensional discipline; an exciting job with lots of variety and no room for boredom. I enjoy the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life. Internal audit is also an excellent training ground for those who want to move into executive positions. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN INTERNAL AUDITOR AND AN EXTERNAL AUDITOR? External audit is primarily a financial discipline with a statutory obligation. The external auditor's main function is to provide assurance that the organisation’s financial position is what management has reported it is. Internal auditors have a much broader scope as the focus is on every area, from HR to supply chain management and procurement to IT. We focus on strategy; risk management; fraud, ethics, compliance, sustainability, environmental and other risks; governance and performance of the organisation’s core business. WHAT DO INTERNAL AUDITORS DO? The job starts with understanding the risks the organisation is facing, then looking at whether there are adequate controls in place to mitigate those risks. We are assurance providers and our primary client is the Board, whom we report to through the Audit Committee.
PROFILE NAME: Shirley Machaba POSITION: National Enterprise Risk and Internal Audit Leader COMPANY: PwC
WHAT TRAINING DO YOU RECOMMEND? My advice is to follow the Institute of Internal Auditors South Africa (IIA SA) career path. The IIA SA is the professional body that represents the interests of the internal auditing community. The career path has been designed to fulfil the elements that define a professional. The basic steps are firstly to obtain an academic qualification and become a member of the IIA SA. Once you have begun working in internal audit, enrol in the IIA SA’s Professional Training Program (which involves serving articles) and then write the Certified Internal Auditor exam. After you have qualified, maintain your knowledge through the IIA SA’s continuing professional development program. Many Internal Auditors also opt to write the IIA’s specialty exams to further enhance their skills in particular areas. For more information, visit website: www.iiasa.org.za
catering
the icing on the cake Explain what you do for a living
I am one of the owners of our family-owned business Charly’s Bakery, established in 1989. I’m also a cast member of reality TV show Charly’s Cake Angels.
why did you choosE this profEssion?
My dad is the Charly in Charly’s. He and my mom Jacqui started the bakery when my sister and I were young. I started working at the bakery on weekends and fell in love with the business and the passion my parents had for it. I decided that taking over the family legacy was where I could see myself.
did you undErgo formal training?
I have no formal training in the baking industry, but growing up in my parents’ business has trained me well and taught me to ‘play’ while learning. My parents have allowed me to teach myself new and fun ways of being in what used to be a ‘traditional’ industry.
dEscribE a typical day in thE bakEry
I arrive at work and immediately check up on all the orders for cakes, petit fours, etc. I then check that all areas of the bakery are running on time, e.g. the bakers in the oven section, the confectioners in the icing section, the decorators in the front of shop. Throughout the day I update our order lists as each order comes in. At the end of the day I do numerous checks for placing orders with suppliers, make sure that everything for the next day is on track and deal with staff issues, wages and administration.
bEst part of thE job?
Being able to work in a creative space, connecting with creative people and coming up with new and innovative designs within the baking industry. There’s also nothing as awesome as seeing a person’s face when they come to collect their dream cake, or getting a phone call or e-mail a few days later to say how much they loved the cake… it’s priceless.
p h oto :
p e t e r
r u d d e n
thE worsE part?
The long hours, as well as dealing with difficult customers; people believing that the customer is ALWAYS right (often not the case). We do our absolute
I love being able to work in a creative space
Alexandra Biess
Baker and Owner Charly’s Bakery CC
best to try and accommodate everyone’s needs and desires, but sometimes we need to be treated like human beings that also make the odd mistake.
thE highlight thus far?
Filming season one of our 13-episode TV show ‘Charly’s Cake Angels’. This was an incredible highlight and really allowed us to showcase to the world what we are able to achieve in the Mother City at the foot of Africa. We start filming season two later this year.
how doEs onE survivE in thE industry?
Anyone who is willing to work really hard, is creative and good at teamwork will make it. The baking/service industry is not a 9-5 job and people need to be willing to put in the extra time and effort for the end result.
advicE for wannabE bakErs…
Surround yourself with (A) People who love you (B) Hard working people (C) Creative people (D) All of the above and (E) most importantly, be prepared to WORK your business yourself; don’t expect any manager to run or love your business as well as you would. post matric 2012
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geology
decoding the past Why did you choosE to bE a palaEontologist?
It was my honours year at UCT and I was still uncertain as to which field in geology I would pursue. Geology provides various sub-disciplines; invertebrate palaeontology is one of them. My honours project required me to study the remains of small, strange little marine organisms called foraminifera. I was intrigued and immediately developed a keen interest in the study of creatures that lived millions of years ago.
What training did you do?
I completed my Honours degree in Geology two years ago from the University of Cape Town and am currently doing my Masters degree.
is thErE a typE of pErsonality bEst-suitEd to this Work?
ExpEriEncE vErsus formal training?
Palaeontology is a very handson profession. Formal training provides the foundation on which experience is built.
What’s bEEn thE highlight of your carEEr thus far?
When my research output proved to be valuable to an offshore mining company.
What arE your goals for thE futurE? My immediate goals are to complete my MSc and
Palaeontologists are passionate about fossils
PhD degrees. I envisage the establishment and expansion of invertebrate palaeontology at certain universities to encourage and expose students to it. I would also like to see and be actively involved in an exhibit on the evolution of invertebrate animals through time.
What advicE Would you givE to somEonE starting out in your fiEld? Invertebrate palaeontology is not a monotonous career. It can be used in various fields of study such as geology, entomology, zoology, etc. In this line of work you will grow in what you do; every day is about learning something different.
your job in thrEE Words Fascinating • Rewarding • Inter-disciplinary
Palaeontologists are passionate about fossils. Our work requires dedication and seeks to answer questions about animals and extinct species that lived millions of years ago.
r u d d e n
What do you Enjoy most?
p h oto :
Few days are the same and this is also what makes this profession interesting. I look through the fossil collections – seeing they are updated, do work in the laboratory, present lectures to students, and consult on fossils that members of the public have made enquiries about. Certain days also require that I undertake fieldwork.
p e t e r
dEscribE a typical day at thE musEum
Unravelling the secrets of a fossil that have been kept hidden throughout millions of years.
Eugene Bergh
(AssistAnt) CurAtor of invertebrAte PAlAeontology And geology IzIko South AfrIcAn MuSeuM post matric 2012
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food technology
QUALITY ASSURRED WHAT IS IT THAT YOU DO?
I work as a quality coordinator. I deal with internal audits, investigation of customer complaints, training, quality checks, verification of equipment and consumables.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?
DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY
High pressure and challenging. Planning is key. In the morning, I verify that the equipment is in operating order, that the temperature is in spec and may be used. Thereafter I check that the media used to analyze products has passed its quality sterility indicators – that’s standard every day. Then there are other duties like spot checks and audits, investigation of non-conformances, training, etc.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST?
Each day is different and presents new challenges. You always have to think out of the box.
ANYTHING YOU DON’T LIKE?
Long hours. Whether you work in a lab or production, your work hours are not always set. If there is a problem on the production line or in the lab you need to ensure that the problem is fixed. You can’t fix it the following day. Products need to be produced for customers to consume. If you are analyzing products, the client always wants the results ASAP.
WHAT HURDLES HAVE YOU OVERCOME?
Self-discipline. I recall my lecturer saying that
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SWIFT MICRO LABORATORIES
Food Technology is one of the busiest courses at the campus. You have to focus and study while everybody else on campus is playing dominoes and shooting pool. It was all worth it though.
THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR?
When Swift won the SADC Quality Award for Service of the Year. The award system was established by government through the Department of Trade and Industry with an aim to promote and raise awareness about the need for quality assurance, quality management and the different methods on how to achieve such quality standards. The award reflects commitment to local production and quality.
EXPERIENCE VERSUS TRAINING: WHO WINS?
You really start learning when you start working. I would recommend studying at a university that offers experiential learning as part of the course. That time spent can also help you decide which field of Food Technology you should pursue.
A FOOD TECHNOLOGIST IS...
Able to work under pressure and meet deadlines, to operate with a team, as well as independently. They must have a big dose of patience and understanding, and a passion for the task at hand.
R U D D E N
I did Food Technology at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology.
QUALITY COORDINATOR
P E T E R
WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?
Naqsha Savahl
P H OTO :
I was accepted to study BCom and Food Technology. I did further research about both career options and felt that Food Technology would be more interesting and challenging. The microbiology component also intrigued me. Food Technology is a versatile career. One can work in a chemical or microbiology lab as a product developer where you would develop new products, match existing products or reduce costs of an existing product without compromising taste and quality, or on the production floor where you are expected to manage the production line or work as a quality controller.
retail management
Johnny Telo & Miguel Alves Managers
Vredehoek kwikspar & kwikspar on kloof
life – to ensure work problems don’t cross over.
What’s been the highlight of your career to date?
running a tight ship Why did you choose retail?
What do you enjoy most?
What training did you undergo and Where?
What don’t you like?
johnny: Well, fishing is my passion, but I wasn’t sure about managing a fish shop! miguel: My family are in food retail. I began packing shelves in my father’s shop during school holidays when I was seven.
p h oto :
p e t e r
r u d d e n
johnny: Behind the Shop Counter! miguel: I learnt everything on the job. It was only in the last couple of years that Unisa started offering a BCom in Retail. Spar introduced an in-house course a couple of year’s back, which has now become accredited.
describe a typical day
johnny: My day starts early (5am) and goes on until late. There is an emphasis on the financial side (cash ups, paying accounts) and, or course, a focus on direction – to steer the store.
johnny: Getting it right, before the time. miguel: Everything – it’s a complete package: sweet and sour. You are dealing with people and if you enjoy this – and I do – then every day is good.
johnny: Nothing! I promised myself that the day I get up and don’t want to go to work is the day I retire. But retail is not for the faint-hearted and you will be under constant pressure. Everything that goes wrong is your fault!
hurdles to overcome...
johnny: Lack of capital and cash flow weakness. miguel: Staff problems – because of the nature of the work and the long hours staff are often leaving. This leads to paperwork and training. I also have to keep staff motivated, and balance my family
johnny: Winning Kwikspar of the Year, year on year. This has never been done before. miguel: Becoming a partner in Kwikspar on Kloof.
future goals?
johnny: To win the national Kwikspar of the Year. miguel: Winning Kwikspar of the Year regional.
What maketh a manager?
johnny: A people person with the ability to concentrate on an issue until it is resolved. The ability to multitask and handle pressure. The ability to work with people from different cultures and various types of people.
What advice Would you give to someone starting out?
johnny: If you have no common sense, this is a bad career choice. Don’t go into retail if you don’t like: people, stress, long hours, shift work, working on weekends, being loved today and hated tomorrow. miguel: Retail is like a duck swimming in a pond: on the surface it looks smooth and calm, but under the water those little feet are paddling furiously!
describe your job in three Words
johnny: Common sense • Work miguel: People • Perseverance • Standards. post matric 2012
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graphic design
out the
THINKING BOX WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?
Stephanie Loy
ART DIRECTOR/VISUAL COMMUNICATOR
DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON THE JOB
I graduated from NMMU (previously known as a technikon), specialising in theory and practical tuition. The course is divided into an undergraduate and a postgraduate programme. The first three years is your basic training and on successful completion, you extend it to a fourth year, graduating with a BTech degree. To qualify for the postgraduate programme, it is vital to have a minimum of two year’s work experience, before you can submit a proposal to research a postgraduate thesis.
Most times I work on project-based jobs, each day is different depending on what stage I’m at. At the beginning it’s researching target audiences, what colour and type of fonts might suit them, what the competitors are doing, and meeting with the printers to discuss final shape of the artwork. In the middle of a project I’ll be setting up shoots or sourcing images. If I’m working with a copywriter or editor I’ll find myself discussing headlines or new names for new products. At the end of the project, it’s putting all these elements together and setting it up to present to client. Once approved, it’s final tweaking.
DESCRIBE A ‘GOOD’ DESIGNER
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY THE MOST?
EXPERIENCE VERSUS FORMAL TRAINING?
Experience is important because you put what you’ve learnt in theory to practice. The more you do something, the faster you think of solutions.
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It’s thought-provoking, visually stimulating and I like making people happy.
ANYTHING YOU DON’T LIKE?
Deadlines, extended deadlines and unreasonable times set for deadlines.
WHAT’S BEEN A CAREER HIGHLIGHT?
Having worked with great teams on the country’s top magazines and commercial brands, and now being my own boss as a freelancer.
ANY ADVICE FOR YOUNG DESIGNERS?
Bite the bullet. Have fun. Be humble, there’s no place for big egos, they just get in the way of having fun.
DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS 100% visual communication
R E E D
They must enjoy problem-solving and making things (tangible objects or experiences) better. They must have the stamina to work hard, and love colour, shapes and numbers. It helps if you’re decisive, organised and a self-starter. It’s a visually stimulating environment, so if you don’t enjoy having fun while working hard, then this isn’t for you.
G E O R G E
WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?
P H OTO :
From a young age, I was primed for a BSC (Behind Shop Counter), but being surrounded by labels of various products, especially groceries like tinned baked beans, matches, soaps, tobacco, hair products, etc, I was a lot more interested in the pretty colours than in the profit margins. I also thought the ads running on the ‘kassie’ (telly) were boring and dull and someone had to do something about it. Not too long into my teenage days, I heard a glamorous sounding phrase, ‘graphic design’. In my research on this intriguing walk of life, I found the visual image starts here, even though I had no formal art training, I took the plunge. Fortunately for me, I successfully completed the course (cum laude) and haven’t regretted this stimulating career choice.
floristry
a rose by any other name why did you choose this profession?
My grandmothers were florists and I always felt I needed to do something creative and work with my hands. Flowers have a profound effect on one.
where did you train?
I studied part-time at The Soanesbury School of Floristy whilst I was working full-time for a fashion designer, Malcolm Kluk. I completed a number of courses before starting on my own from my spare room in my home with only a small amount of money, a telephone and an old hand-me-down computer.
describe a typical day
Ordering and buying of fresh flowers, taking orders and briefs, arranging flowers, working out quotes, conceptualising and sourcing materials, meeting with clients and viewing venues.
good people skills in order to understand different individual’s needs.
any advice for a budding florist (excuse the pun!)?
To first work as an assistant at an established florist. This will give you a good understanding of what it is really about. People have a misconception that working with flowers is peaceful and serene. It is this, but there is a lot more to it.
describe your job in three words Creative, unpredictable and rewarding.
Flowers stimulate all the senses
what do you enjoy most?
The beauty of our creations – flowers stimulate all the senses!
anything you don’t like?
The stress of receiving poor quality flowers on the day of a wedding and the suppliers letting us down at the last minute. Having to tell a bride that her favourite flower (which she has been dreaming about since she was a little girl) didn’t arrive in time is a very unfortunate position to be in!
career highlights include…
Working on high-profile weddings and making people smile.
your future career goals?
p h oto :
p e t e r
r u d d e n
To keep pushing the boundaries creatively and to maintain our business as the success it is today.
experience versus formal training?
Experience is key in this field – there is a lot to be learnt technically and this can only be achieved by getting stuck in and getting your hands dirty.
what makes a ‘good’ florist?
Natalie Haarhoff
Florist and Co-owner Aspen And Co Flowers
You definitely need to be creative and to be able ‘to think outside of the box’. It’s also important to have post matric 2012
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photographer
Take your besT shoT
Yasser Booley
FREELANCE PHOTOGRAPHER
Why did you choose this profession?
I chose to do photography as I have been passionate about it from the age of 17, and had the good fortune of being asked to do a photo essay for a magazine called Design Indaba. This made me realise that I could do what I love to earn money.
did you undergo training?
I got my first camera when I was 17, and instantly fell in love with photography, so I just kept on taking photos until my friends helped me see that I needed to take my photography to a more serious level. Two years ago I got a bursary to study documentary photography in Berlin. I had a really fantastic time exploring and photographing the city and its diverse people.
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What makes a ‘successful’ photographer?
Photographers differ in so many ways, but when one goes slightly deeper, one realises that what all the really good ones have in common is that they are very skilled at their craft, and they are good at listening, so they can translate their clients needs into visual images. It doesn’t hurt if one happens to be friendly, though it is important to be able to deal with people professionally.
describe your typical day
It all depends on what one is shooting. Here’s an example of shooting models on location: The day usually starts early, depending on what kind of light is required, with meeting the clients to reconfirm the brief. Everyone gathers, then moves to the location together. The models are made up, and the lighting set up. The models are directed to assume different poses and the actual photography starts. Sometimes there is more than one location, which means that the whole
process takes place again. Another type of shoot is one where I have to document an event, or an area with its people. This is my favourite kind of shoot, which basically involves being ‘submerged’ in a community, area or event, and watching for a moment that will tell the story.
What do you love the most about your Work?
The opportunity to meet new and different people, as well as getting to see things that I would not normally see. For example, one job had me taking a helicopter ride at 4am to a rig out at sea, then photographing the workers from the bottom to the top of this amazing structure. I like doing different things.
What advice Would you give to someone starting off? Work hard, take lots of pictures, and be excited and inspired.
your job in three Words Exciting • Inspiring • Rewarding
s u p p l i e d
The type of work I do varies: from working as a stage manager at public events, to coordinating photo shoots, to taking photos of events, people or products.
p h oto :
What’s your job all about?
engineering
THE NUTS AND BOLTS WHY ENGINEERING?
It started with me as a boy – I was always taking things apart and trying to figure out how they worked! In high school my fascination with processes and systems grew and I had the urge to improve and simplify. During my final years in high school I decided to study industrial engineering.
JC van der Westhuizen
WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO?
I studied B.Eng (Industrial) at the University of Stellenbosch. I received my degree in 2005.
P H OTO :
P E T E R
R U D D E N
YOUR TYPICAL DAY...
There is never a typical day, as new challenges unfold daily. Much time is spent liaising with customers via e-mail, telephonically or directly, as well as on resolving issues and identifying practical solutions in order to deliver projects on time and on budget. I am often required to fly to Joburg for the day to visit a customer, or to gain a better understanding of their needs and requirements. I work closely with clients in either improving their current system/ processes, or on new ventures that they might be exploring.
TECHNICAL SALES ENGINEER HEAT AND CONTROL (PTY) LTD
YOUR FAVOURITE PARTS OF THE JOB?
I enjoy the fact that you can never know everything and are required to learn about new processes on a regular basis. This keeps me on my toes and enables me to solve problems and work with the customer.
ANY DISLIKES?
Unreasonable and ignorant people, which often leads to the wasting of valuable time and money.
EXPERIENCE VERSUS FORMAL TRAINING?
You have to start with some form of tertiary education; training is the foundation just to be hired in the industry. Formal training shapes
your line of thought, which is required when you go onto practical experience. Therefore – even though experience is as important – you can’t have one without the other.
HURDLES OVERCOME... One of my biggest challenges is to be persistent and percussive enough to ensure a sale. Another challenge is being ‘young’ compared to other people in the engineering industry – but being taken seriously by older peers.
WHAT ‘MAKES’ AN ENGINEER?
You have to be a professional and motivated person who is able to work alone or as a member of a team.
You have to be a handson, results-orientated, proactive team leader. You have to be able to focus on a client’s business needs rather than functional needs. You need excellent communication skills at all levels, and to be able to work under pressure and to prioritise.
ADVICE FOR NEWCOMERS
If possible, obtain a tertiary qualification first. Make use of every opportunity to gain experience in as many fields as possible. Be hungry to learn; you are never too old. Once you are hired – be dedicated, motivated, trustworthy, and above all, always follow ethical business practices. post matric 2012
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teaching
educating
our future industry leaders
Mr Niam Jaffar
Grade 7 Teacher Virginia PreParatory School
according to the timetable. We have a lunch and tea break during the academic day. Then our extramural programme begins, when we coach sport or are involved in arts and cultural activities.
Why did you choose teaching?
Not only did I come from a family of teachers, I started coaching karate at a very young age at my own club. I was very passionate about it and really enjoyed it. It was inevitable that I would end up following this path.
Where did you study?
I did a four-year Higher Diploma in Education at Bechet College of Education. It involved formal theoretical training and practical teaching at various schools.
p h oto :
s u p p l i e d
is experience as important as training? Yes, definitely. When starting out you should learn as much as you can from experienced teachers.
What characteristics should a teacher possess? They should be a people person, someone who is comfortable with
others and enjoys interacting with young and old alike. You need to be caring, and possess patience and understanding.
What do you like the most about your Work?
I like the idea that every day is different. Most importantly, however, is the fact that I’m playing a role in shaping the lives of our youths.
What don’t you like? Administration!
describe your typical day It starts with a staff briefing to discuss the day ahead, then the teachers head to the classrooms where we administer work, teaching our class the subjects
career highlight?
The letters I receive at the end of the year from the learners and parents thanking me for the wonderful year.
What do you do When you’re not teaching? Trail running, roof gardening, interior design and up-cycling second-hand furniture. I like to try my hand at DIY!
advice for neWbies?
Never stop learning! Surround yourself with positive people who are inspiring and share your enjoyment for what you do.
describe your job in three Words Interesting • Fulfilling • Challenging
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hairstyling
Andrew Guilfoyle
THE CUTTING EDGE DOES YOUR JOB ENTAIL MORE THAN JUST CUTTING HAIR?
Yes! You could say I run people. Hairstylists are all unique, so they require attention, and that is a job in itself.
WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO AND WHERE?
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR LINE OF WORK?
My clients, and the ability to be creative on a daily basis.
IN YOUR LINE OF WORK IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING? More so, training teaches, whereas experience brings out your own knowledge.
WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER TO DATE?
WHAT ASPECTS DON’T YOU LIKE?
I love my salon so much that sometimes I see it as a separate person!
WHAT HURDLES HAVE YOU HAD TO OVERCOME?
IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED TO THIS TYPE OF WORK?
Other people’s problems.
I have had burglaries, deaths, but the worst has
Hairstyling requires hard work, constant patience,
and flexibility, while still maintaining your creativity.
WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE CAREER GOALS?
New businesses with staff as partners.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN HAIRSTYLING? Go and find the most successful hairdresser you know and then spend a year working with them (possibly only earning tips).
DESCRIBE YOUR JOB IN THREE WORDS Awkward, bizarre, and exciting.
P H OTO :
I trained at Terry Scott in Durban. I believe that hands-on is always the winning approach in this industry.
A typical day usually needs a wake-up call that will prepare you for anything. I can definitely say that no day is ever the same.
to be competition that tries to drag you down.
R U D D E N
To be honest the profession chose me. I started cutting hair at school and the rest, as they say, is history.
DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY ON THE JOB
SCAR, KLOOF STREET
P E T E R
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS PROFESSION?
HAIRSTYLIST
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marketing
A GAME OF STRATEGY Patricia Saunders
Marketing StrategiSt RadmaRk
The science of marketing, particularly the drivers that influence a consumer’s reaction to a brand or advertised message, aroused my curiosity. Coca-Cola is a wonderful example of a brand’s longevity and success. Launched in 1886, the brand has touched the hearts of millions through clever advertising campaigns and remains the biggest-selling soft drink in history, as well as the best-known product in the world.
I completed a marketing degree graduating with honours from the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in Port Elizabeth. After studying, I entered the dynamic and exciting world of media, working in radio and top-end glossy magazines.
deScribe a tYpical daY
There is a lot of variation within the job spec so a typical day involves a fair amount of multitasking ranging from brainstorming ideas for long-term planning, to profiling audience demographics.
What do You enjoY moSt?
The mental stimulation, analytical as well as creative input, and colleagues who believe that teamwork gives us the edge!
What don’t You like?
The tight deadlines and long hours that add to the stresses of modern-day life.
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career highlight?
Being awarded Radmark Employee of the Year, which was an immense honour as my colleagues
work to very high standards. I attended a radio conference in the heart of London as a prize.
experience VS training?
Enthusiasm, a positive attitude and a good dose of common sense can certainly make up for a lack of experience or formal training!
What abilitieS doeS a StrategiSt require?
A strategist should have the ability to plan ahead, be able to pay attention to detail, and possess excellent communication skills. They should also have a love of research and reading, and a people-centric approach.
adVice for neWcomerS?
The field of marketing has broad scope with many options and career paths. There is a marketing function within any business, and any industry. Be curious and read as much as you can on various topics. Then you will come across as someone who is informed, interested and insightful.
Your job in three WordS Challenging • Stressful • Rewarding
r u d d e n
WhY marketing?
Where did You train?
p e t e r
I am a marketing strategist and work for a leading media solutions company that represents wellknown radio and online brands in South Africa. One of the important functions I assist with is providing insights – from consumer to business, competitor analysis to current trends, and everything in between – to benefit our stakeholders and our clients.
p h oto :
deScribe Your job function
choice words ‘FORGET YOU EVER WENT TO HIGH SCHOOL; YOU WILL LOVE IT IF YOU LEAVE YOUR PRECONCEPTIONS BEHIND.’ Jeremey Carver, Animation, City Varsity ‘SURROUND YOURSELF WITH THE RIGHT PEOPLE. HAVE FUN, BUT PUT STUDYING FIRST, AND DON’T SMOKE POT.’ Kyla Philander, Acting/ Performance Art, City Varsity ‘REMEMBER TO BE AN INDIVIDUAL; BE YOURSELF. TAKE IN AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE.’ Colette Molomo, Environmental Management, CPUT
‘ASK FOR GUIDANCE FROM THE PEOPLE WHO HAVE BEEN AROUND THE BLOCK.’ Monde Phangwa, Internal Auditing B-Tech, CPUT
FIRST-YEAR SURVIVAL
Strategic advice on making the most of first-year at college or varsity from those who have bravely gone before you… ‘KEEP TRACK OF WHAT IS EXPECTED FROM YOU.’ Sisonke, Management, Marketing and Enterpreneurship, CPUT ‘KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE PRIZE.’ Elizabeth Pretorius, Journalism, City Varsity
‘ONLY PARTY ON A FRIDAY NIGHT, DON’T CARRY ON INTO THE WEEKEND.’ Siphesande, and ‘ALWAYS HAVE YOUR STUDY MATERIAL WITH YOU.’ Xolani, Management, Marketing and Enterpreneurship, CPUT
‘BE OPEN TO ANYTHING THAT LIFE THROWS AT YOU.’ Danica Corelse, Acting and Performance Art, City Varsity
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‘DON’T FORGET TO RELAX. IT’S NOT WORTH GETTING WORKED UP ABOUT STUFF.’ Roxanne Plait, Jewellery Design, CPUT
‘BALANCE YOUR SOCIAL, SPIRITUAL AND WORK LIFE.’ Vee Buthelezi Chemical Engineering, CPUT
‘DON’T ROCK UP EXPECTING SOMETHING BECAUSE WHEN YOU GET HERE IT’S NOTHING LIKE WHAT YOU EXPECTED.’ Jamie Freeman, Acting and Performance Art, City Varsity
‘MAKE USE OF THE SETAS THAT ARE AVAILABLE. DON’T SIT AT HOME BECAUSE YOU HAVE NO MONEY.’ Gavin Daniels, Journalism, City Varsity
‘THERE IS TIME FOR EVERYTHING, BUT ONLY IF YOU MANAGE YOUR TIME. CLUBS AND PARTYING WILL ALWAYS BE THERE.’ Leanne George, Fashion Design, CPUT
‘WORK FROM DAY ONE AND ATTEND 80% OF YOUR CLASSES. EVERY DAY IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN SOMETHING NEW.’ Melissa Notshe, Fashion Design, CPUT
‘THIS IS NOT LIKE MATRIC. BE PREPARED TO WORK HARDER. STAY UP TO DATE OR THE WORK WILL PILE UP.’ Stephen Victor, Multi-Media Design, City Varsity
‘DON’T GET PULLED IN WITH THE CROWDS; THERE ARE LOTS OF PARTIES IN FIRST-YEAR.’ Sintetemba Nkukwana, Engineering B-Tech, CPUT
‘TAKE A GAP YEAR BEFORE STARTING. BELIEVE IN YOURSELF; YOUR DREAMS ARE ACHIEVABLE.’ Lizelle Jafta, Journalism, City Varsity
‘IF YOU NEED EXTRA HELP WITH ACADEMICS THERE ARE RESOURCES OUT THERE – SEARCH ENGINES, DIFFERENT INSTITUTIONS. EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS. PUT YOUR SOCIAL LIFE ON HOLD, YOU CAN HAVE FUN AT A LATER STAGE.’ Sibongile Kotela, Environmental Management, CPUT
‘A LOT OF PEOPLE FAIL FIRST-YEAR BECAUSE THEY ARE UNFOCUSSED. TIME MANAGEMENT IS SUPER IMPORTANT.’ Stefanie Ludwig, Multi-Media Design and Development, City Varsity
SOSO
‘MAKE AS MANY FRIENDS AS YOU CAN, BUT STAY AWAY FROM POLITICS AS YOU WILL ONLY GET IN TROUBLE. LEARN ABOUT THE DIFFERENT CULTURES.’ Jason Bernardo, Marketing, CPUT
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for a laugh
A
t a recent family gathering, the women in my life got to talking about ‘the good old days’ and their matric dances. Of course it wasn’t long before the conversation moved onto THE matric gown, and at this point my girlfriend squealed in delight and dashed out of the room. She returned a few minutes later with dishevelled hair and what looked like mothballs clinging to her jersey. Held aloft for all to see she triumphantly displayed the prize, her matric dance dress! The ladies coo-ed and aah-ed in unison, then took turns in stroking the dress, as if it were a gift presented by the gods. Now as a lowly male, I don’t expect to understand why you would want to hold onto a dress for all these years, especially one that you’ll probably only wear once in your entire life, but it turns out I don’t know the half of it. In my day, the most exciting thing about a matric dance was seeing how many dances you could get invited to. What you wore paled in comparison. Pathetic, but I’m being honest. For the girls of my day, the event was very special, but after speaking to the moms at
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my office, who have recently been through this with their offspring, those days don’t come close to today’s matric dance status. The term ‘post-traumatic stress disorder’ is defined as a severe anxiety disorder that can develop after exposure to any event that resulted in psychological trauma. Well I have termed a new phrase: ‘post-traumatic dress disorder’ – something your parents will undoubtedly be experiencing soon. Now, I don’t deny that you can text 80 words within 60 seconds on your cell, but that does not equate to a comprehensive understanding of the number of green notes that accompany your ‘needs’ for prom night. Let’s starting tallying it up… The days of Aunty Constance whipping out the Singer (that’s a sewing machine FYI, guys) and putting together a dress are loooong gone. Now only a lavish, marked-up-todeath ballgown will do. Cha-ching – we’re looking at hundreds already. Then you simply HAVE to have THOSE shoes because, ‘Mum, surely you don’t want my archenemy Carol to upstage your schnookums?’ No, heaven forbid. So we’re heading for the thousands
and the folks are on the phone, begging to the bank manager. Then, of course, an outfit would be nothing without accessories – bring on the jewellery and accompanying handbag. And ugly feet in beautiful shoes simply won’t do. A mani-pedi is essential, as are highlights/extensions and a professional make-up artist. Now all the poor folks need to fork out for is the fancy car and the actual price for the matric dance ticket itself. And you wonder why mum is hitting the bottle, while dad is sobbing and continually turning over his empty wallet – post-traumatic dress disorder. Don’t get me wrong, I understand this is a rite of passage and your end of school celebration is a biggie, but shouldn’t your last soiree as a scholar be about having the time of your life with your friends? Shouldn’t you remember whom you partied with and how special they were over the fact that Carol had the same colour ballgown and matching clutch bag! But alas, I know I am going to have to go through the same thing soon with my own kids, so I cling to the hope that there’s one thing that definitely will happen: you will wear THE dress, love it, tuck it away safely for the next ten years, and then haul it out again, dust it off and wear it to your wedding!
I L L U S T R AT I O N :
Robbie Stammers urges you to consider what your poor, dear parents go through in order to keep up with your matric dance expenses.
ZC O O L
DRESS DISORDER