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5 Skills Every Matriculant Should Learn Before University

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5 Skills Every Matriculant Should Learn Before University

Finishing matric is an exciting milestone, but stepping into university or the world of work brings a new set of expectations. Many young people discover that academic achievement alone doesn’t guarantee a smooth transition. Practical skills matter and developing them early can make the journey less overwhelming and far more rewarding.

Xoe Mfokazi, Head of Operations at TransUnion GCC Africa explains it simply: “Young people entering university or workplace programmes benefit enormously from a stronger skills foundation. The earlier they build these habits, the more confidently they navigate new environments and responsibilities.”

Below are five essential skills that can give matriculants a valuable head start.

  1. Digital Fluency

Technology is woven into everything from university coursework to everyday workplace communication. Being digitally fluent means understanding how to use online tools, manage information safely, and adapt to new platforms quickly. This isn’t about becoming an expert; it’s about being comfortable learning and working in digital spaces.

  1. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving

University life requires more independent thinking than high school. Students often face situations where they must analyse information, make decisions, or find solutions without step-by-step guidance. Developing critical thinking skills early helps young people manage academic pressure, peer pressure and real-life challenges with more clarity and confidence.

  1. Communication Skills

Clear communication can make academic work easier and team projects more successful. Whether it’s writing an email, preparing a presentation, or listening actively during group discussions, strong communication skills help students collaborate better and express themselves effectively.

  1. Financial Literacy

Many young people enter university without understanding how to manage money and quickly feel the consequences. Basic financial literacy, including budgeting, saving, and understanding credit, is essential for independence. These skills help matriculants avoid common pitfalls and make responsible decisions as they navigate their first taste of financial freedom.

  1. Adaptability and a Growth Mindset

University brings change: new routines, diverse social interactions, and unfamiliar academic expectations. Being adaptable, open to learning, willing to try new approaches, and able to adjust when things don’t go as planned helps students stay resilient. A growth mindset turns challenges into opportunities rather than setbacks.

Xoe notes: “We see young people thrive when they believe they can learn through effort and support. Whether they come through university or a learnership, the mindset they bring shapes their future more than the path they choose.”

A Closer Look at Learnerships

While university remains the most common next step after matric, learnerships are becoming an increasingly valuable pathway for young people who want to gain both education and experience at the same time.

Learnerships combine classroom-based learning with practical workplace exposure. Participants work towards a recognised qualification while earning a stipend, building real skills, and learning directly from professionals in the field. This structure is especially helpful for students who prefer applied, hands-on learning over purely academic study.

For many matriculants, learnerships offer:

  • A chance to explore career paths before committing to long-term study
  • A bridge into industries where practical experience matters as much as formal education
  • Support and mentorship while adjusting to a professional environment
  • A strong foundation for future employment or further study

“Learnerships can be particularly empowering for young people who are still figuring out their direction or who want a more financially sustainable start to their career journey,” concludes Xoe.

TechnoGirl Champions Rail Sector Transformation as WIRSA’S Flagship Programme

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TechnoGirl Champions Rail Sector Transformation as WIRSA’S Flagship Programme

As Women in Rail South Africa (WIRSA) launches with its mission to reshape the country’s rail landscape, the TechnoGirl Programme is recognised as WIRSA’s flagship initiative, advancing a shared commitment to break the systemic barriers that limit women’s access to education, training, and technical careers. For more than two decades, the TechnoGirl Programme has equipped girls from under-resourced communities with the exposure, confidence, and STEM orientation they need to make informed career choices. By integrating rail-specific job-shadowing, mentorship, and professional pathways, the TechnoGirl Programme is creating a direct pipeline of future engineers, technicians, operators, and innovators who reflect the diversity and potential of South Africa’s young workforce.

The launch of WIRSA signals a renewed effort to build an inclusive and equitable rail industry that reflects the full spectrum of South Africa’s freight and passenger rail ecosystem. For the TechnoGirl Programme, this collaboration represents a powerful opportunity to ensure that young women are not only encouraged to pursue STEM careers but will also serve as a strategic feeder pipeline to WIRSA member companies seeking to attract young, diverse, and high-potential female talent into the rail and freight sector.

Aligned to WIRSA’s theme, “On Track to Empowerment,” the partnership responds directly to longstanding barriers faced by young women with limited exposure, inadequate mentorship, and lack of access to technical workplaces. By deepening collaboration between the TechnoGirl Programme and WIRSA members, more girls will receive pathways into rail careers that were once perceived as inaccessible. Speaking at the launch, WIRSA Steering Committee Chair, Staff Sithole, emphasised that women’s participation, visibility, and advancement are central to the sector’s long-term development. This message was echoed in the keynote address by Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy, who said: “Women’s participation in the transport sector is often concentrated in providing indirect services and not in the mainstream. Women often provide services such as catering. We need to mainstream women’s participation in the transport sector. In March 2026, we will be hosting a national transport conference and this is one of the issues we need to discuss there.”

A standout moment at the WIRSA launch was the collective pledge taken by women across the rail sector, affirming their commitment to inclusion, integrity, and professional excellence. For the TechnoGirl Programme, this pledge aligns with the future it seeks to build: one where today’s young girls become tomorrow’s rail engineers, operations specialists, safety officers, innovators, and executives.

As WIRSA opens a new chapter for South Africa’s rail sector, the TechnoGirl Programme is ready to strengthen this transformation, ensuring that girls from under-resourced communities are not only welcomed into the sector but equipped, supported, and empowered to thrive.

Together, WIRSA and the TechnoGirl Programme are putting young women “on track” for a future defined by opportunity, leadership, and impact.

Brandtech+ has 100 Global Creative Roles for South African Talent

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Brandtech+ has 100 Global Creative Roles for South African Talent

 Brandtech+, the global creative and technology “engine room” of The Brandtech Group, announced they have 100 global roles open for mid-to-senior talent and AI-aligned specialisations.

It’s a bold move at a time when South Africa’s advertising and production sector is facing retention challenges, consolidation and rising uncertainty around AI.

A global gateway few South Africans know exists, but should

Despite being one of South Africa’s largest production operations with over 220 local employees, Brandtech+ remains relatively unknown as one of the country’s biggest global creative players.

Globally, the company forms a 1000-person creative engine powering Brandtech Group companies including OLIVER Agency and Inside Ideas Group, delivering work exclusively for international brands across the US, UK, Europe, Asia and Latin America. With teams across five continents and deepening investment in South Africa, Brandtech+ offers one of the most scalable global-work gateways available to African creatives today.

Why the focus on South Africa right now?

“South Africa remains one of the world’s most sought-after talent hubs for global creative work and has been one of our strategic hiring markets,” says Candice Siege, Global Chief Operations Officer at Brandtech+. “The favourable time zone for UK, Europe and the US, the internationally recognised creative pedigree, the strong work ethic, and a maturing remote-work culture all make South African talent an exceptional fit for global work.”

“We’re scaling faster than we can hire, and that’s a good problem to have,” she adds. “There’s a misconception that growth equals instability. In our case, it’s the opposite. We have a low attrition rate because we can connect opportunity for them to work on global brands, receive world-class training, and feel genuinely supported by our leadership teams.”

AI is not the threat, it’s the accelerator

While AI continues to unsettle the global job market, Brandtech+ positions technology as an enabler, not a threat. Brandtech+’s message lands squarely in this moment: AI isn’t taking creative jobs, it’s enabling better ones, and South Africans are well positioned to lead that evolution. Every new hire receives advanced training through Pencil, The Brandtech Group’s proprietary AI platform that equips creatives to work smarter, faster and more imaginatively.

Siege says, “AI isn’t taking over creative roles; it’s removing inefficient processes, enabling more time for strategic thinking and creativity. Exceptional talent will always be valuable, but AI enhances what skilled people can do. Our goal is for South Africans to lead this change instead of observing from afar.”

A culture built for self-starters, problem-solvers and pioneers

At the heart of Brandtech+ lies a culture intentionally designed to help ambitious people thrive. “Creative problem-solving, pioneering innovation and self-starter energy are baked into our DNA, fueled by a shared ambition to help clients grow and a belief that diversity, dedication, inspiration and integrity drive world-class creative performance, our people want to win.” says Siege.

She adds that with strong support teams and peer networks, the company’s remote-first model empowers talent to do the best work of their careers while staying connected to a global creative community.

“We’re fun and irreverent, but we take people’s careers and development extremely seriously,” she says. “Our culture works because it empowers self-starters to grow and deliver meaningful work.”

A fully remote, globally immersed career, without relocating

“South Africans don’t need to emigrate or navigate the local pitch treadmill to work on the world’s biggest brands,” she says. “Our model is remote and genuinely flexible, giving talented people the chance to build global careers from home.”

What the 100 available roles represent

Siege points out that this wave of new openings marks Brandtech+’s next scale phase, built on one core belief: Great talent can come from anywhere. Global creative opportunities shouldn’t be limited to traditional hub locations; it should belong to anyone talented enough to deliver it.

“Our goal is simple,” she concludes. “We want incredible, future focused South African creatives, strategists, producers and technologists to realise they can build international careers from home, and that Brandtech+ is the most exciting and empowering place to do it. We’re building the world’s best GenAI marketing company, and South Africans will be a defining part of that future.”

Available roles include:

Creative Directors, Art Directors, Copywriters, Designers, Motion and CGI Artists, Developers, Project Managers, Account Leads, AI-aligned hybrid creative roles, Content teams, Digital producers and more.

To find out more about the available roles visit: the Brandtech+ Website or LinkedIn and Instagram.

More cheer, less chore: The smart kitchen upgrades that save Christmas

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More cheer, less chore: The smart kitchen upgrades that save Christmas

The festive season is steadily approaching, meaning presents, parties, food, and fun. This year, shift the focus from traditional stocking fillers to a single, transformative gift that benefits every member of the household: a smart kitchen ecosystem.

This time of year is often defined by the immense workload of preparation and clean-up, turning the joy of hosting into a daunting chore. To truly maximise the time spent with family and friends, a host needs an uninterrupted experience – one where the kitchen works seamlessly in the background. If you want to enjoy less time cleaning and cooking and more time with your loved ones, then investing in premium home appliances from LG belongs at the top of your Christmas wish list.

The vibe creator

If any smart home appliance deserves to be the centre of the festive celebrations, it is the LG MoodUP™ refrigerator. Forget regular fridge features, the MoodUP™ fridge offers so much more, making it the perfect combination of innovation and style.

Bring your party to life with the MoodUP’s™ colour-changing LED panels. Match your vibe in seconds using the connected LG ThinQ™ app, whether you’re looking for a classic festive red and green theme for your Christmas party or a warm gold and white palette for an elegant New Year’s Eve.

In addition, the MoodUP’s™ built-in Bluetooth speaker system allows you to play your favourite festive tunes straight from the fridge. Simply pair the MoodUP™ fridge with your phone, switch to Party Mode to match the lighting to your music and watch the lights bounce, flicker, and flow to the beat.

The capacity king

What makes InstaView™ fridges stand out above the rest is their signature knock-twice window. This feature gives you the ability to see what’s inside without opening the door by knocking on the glass panel. Because you don’t have to open the fridge door, cold air loss is reduced, meaning energy is saved, and your food stays fresher for longer. When the house is full of guests helping themselves to snacks and refreshments, this is a particularly useful feature to have.

Apart from the clever knock-to-see feature, these refrigerators boast hundreds of litres of storage space. So if your Christmas lunch always ends up being more of a mega spread with roast meats, veggies, salads, trifles, and all the extras, you’ll always have space – even when the guest tasked with bringing chips ended up bringing two extra milktarts. There’s even enough room for all the endless leftovers without having to squeeze anything in.

Several LG refrigerators are equipped with the InstaView™ feature, including the MoodUP™ fridge, the 674L InstaView™ Door-in-Door Side by Side Fridge with Uvnano™ Ice & Water Dispenser in Black Finish and the 900L InstaView™ Door-in-Door French Door Fridge with UVnano™ in Black Finish.

The sous chef

Like any reliable sous chef, the LG NeoChef™ Microwave is there to assist you and make your job easier, whether that’s defrosting without cold or hot spots or warming food as fast as possible. But the NeoChef™ is useful for so much more than reheating; it is also powerful enough to handle cooking side dishes when the main oven is full. So skip the stress, and get your gammon going in the oven while the NeoChef™ microwave does the rest using smart inverter technology, from roasting veggies and steaming greens to crisping up meat and even baking small treats.

The clean-up crew

After entertaining and enjoying a festive feast, no one wants to spend time cleaning up. That’s why an LG QuadWash™ Dishwasher is key when it comes to taking care of that dreaded after-party clean-up. Using four rotating spray arms that move in multiple directions, QuadWash™ ensures that all your dishes are cleaned from every angle.

What’s more, the TrueSteam™ feature uses high-temperature steam to reduce water spots and get rid of stubborn stains, perfect for delicate dishes and glassware. Thanks to LG dishwashers, you can end the celebrations on a high note and spend more time relaxing post-meal with your friends and family.

A word from LG

“This festive season, we want families to spend more time on connection and less time on chores,” says Carol Guedes, Consumer Electronics Sales Head at LG Electronics South Africa. “That’s why LG smart kitchen appliances promise to do all the hard work behind the scenes so you don’t have to.”

The Woman Behind Bertie – How Michelle Turned an Unexpected Detour Into Cape Town’s Most Loved Coffee-on-Wheels

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The Woman Behind Bertie – How Michelle Turned an Unexpected Detour Into Cape Town’s Most Loved Coffee-on-Wheels

If you’ve ever heard the cheerful buzz of a tuk-tuk approaching a school gate at dawn, or followed the smell of freshly baked cookies drifting through a weekend market, you already know Bertie. It’s the small-but-mighty mobile café that has become a Southern Suburbs staple, a little burst of joy on three wheels.

But behind Bertie’s charm and community magic is someone even more remarkable.

This is really a story about Michelle – the thinker, the doer, the community builder and the unexpectedly brilliant entrepreneur who created one of Cape Town’s most beloved businesses without ever planning to.

From Barefoot Farm Days to Big-City Business

Michelle’s story begins far from the city bustle — on a citrus farm near Addo in the Eastern Cape. Running barefoot through orchards with her siblings, she grew up with the kind of practical, grounded confidence only a farm childhood gives you.

Entrepreneurship wasn’t a word she used then, but it was already in her blood. At fourteen she was selling roses from the farm to classmates, her first unofficial business.

Bertie

After earning her BComm Management Accounting degree from Stellenbosch, Michelle spent a decade in London becoming a Chartered Management Accountant and carving out a successful corporate career. Cape Town eventually called her home in 2011, and she settled in the Southern Suburbs with her young son, Jack.

She built a solid career, built community connections, and built a life she loved.

What she didn’t know then was that life was quietly steering her towards building something of her own.

A Community Project That Sparked a Business

Bertie didn’t start with ambition. It started with generosity.

As the founder of the Keurboom Park Family Market, Michelle met countless local vendors — including a small coffee shop owner who dreamed of owning a mobile coffee vehicle. Michelle didn’t just encourage him; she spearheaded the fundraising, rallied friends, sourced sponsorships, and helped raise more than R130 000 to bring that dream to life.

But sometimes life veers unexpectedly.

Just before the tuk-tuk was completed, the owner stepped away from the project, leaving Michelle with a nearly finished vehicle and a very big question:

What now?

It was a crossroads moment, the kind of moment where most people would step back. Michelle stepped forward. She took ownership of the tuk-tuk, named it Bertie (after a friend’s beagle), and made a decision that would reshape her life.

Becoming “Mrs Bertie”

With zero coffee experience but endless determination, Michelle hired William Mofolo — now her right hand and Operations Manager — and approached a handful of schools. Parents loved it. Kids adored it. The community welcomed Bertie with the kind of enthusiasm money can’t buy.

Within weeks, the brand had personality.

Within months, it had momentum.

And before long, Michelle had a new nickname in the neighbourhood: “Mrs Bertie.”

She became the woman behind the wheel, figuratively and quite literally, juggling early mornings, late-night baking with her son Jack, stock management, scheduling, events, staff, and a growing fan base.

Building a Business with Heart (and Cookies)

What makes Bertie work isn’t just the coffee.

It’s the ethos Michelle built it on:

Warmth.
Integrity.
Community connection.
Consistency.

Every barista is chosen not just for skill, but for kindness. Every interaction matters. Every cookie tastes the same because only butter is used, and every drink is served with the familiarity of a neighbour, not a franchise. Bertie became more than a mobile café, it became a trusted part of people’s daily lives.

In 2023, the business earned the KFM Best of the Cape Station’s Choice Award. Demand skyrocketed. A second tuk-tuk was added. Two bakers were hired. Michelle’s mom’s homemade lemonade recipe became a sell-out favourite.

And in September 2025, Bertie hit its proudest milestone yet:

Almost 6000 hot drinks sold in one month
2600 cookies baked and enjoyed
A thriving business born entirely from resilience, instinct, and heart

Why Michelle’s Story Resonates

Michelle didn’t start Bertie to chase success.

She started it to solve a problem. To honour a commitment. To make something out of an unexpected situation. That’s why her story resonates so deeply. It’s not a glossy entrepreneurial fairytale, it’s a grounded, real, very human reminder that sometimes the greatest opportunities are the ones we never planned. Her strength isn’t just in the business she built.

It’s in the mindset she brought to it:

When life changes direction, you don’t crumble.
You adapt.
You build.
You keep your integrity intact.
And you create something meaningful.

What’s Next for Michelle and Bertie?

Ask Michelle and she’ll say the same thing she says to her team:

“Anything is possible.”

Maybe it’s Bertie’s Bakery.
Maybe it’s Bertie’s Ice Cream.
Maybe it’s a fleet of cheerful tuk-tuks buzzing through more communities.

Whatever comes, one thing is clear:

Bertie is more than a business.
And Michelle is more than an entrepreneur.

She is the heart, the backbone, the visionary and the quiet powerhouse proving that great things grow when passion meets purpose.

To see where Bertie will be next, follow the tuk-tuk’s adventures at www.bertieonthego.com.

 

Building Stronger Foundations: Tackling Mental Health in the Construction Industry

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Building Stronger Foundations: Tackling Mental Health in the Construction Industry

Mental health pressures across South Africa continue to rise. For those working in construction this is exacerbated by long hours, high-risk environments, tight deadlines, job insecurity, and a culture of stoicism creating an environment of stress, anxiety and emotional fatigue. These pressures affect not only safety and productivity but also the lives of workers, their families, and the wider community.

“International research echoes the severity of the problem,” says Petra Devereux, Executive Director, Master Builders Association Western Cape (MBAWC). “We need to intensify our efforts, highlighting mental health as an essential and urgent industry priority.”

A 2020 Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) survey of 2,081 construction workers found that more than a quarter (26%) had experienced suicidal thoughts, while almost half reported poor mental health and only 56% said their workplace had a mental-health policy. The updated 2025 report shows little improvement: workers remain reluctant to seek help, often suffering in silence until the strain becomes overwhelming. Of the 865 respondents in 2025, 24% reported stress, 20% fatigue, 18% anxiety, 7% depression and 2% suicidal thoughts. Rising pressures such as limited-term contracts, long commutes, time away from family, and a ‘macho’ culture further exacerbate the problem.

These global concerns mirror South Africa’s own construction landscape. Local research from the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) and the Department of Employment & Labour confirms that construction workers shoulder significantly higher mental-health risks than most other sectors.

The reasons are systemic: unstable work opportunities, hazardous conditions, economic stress, lack of diversity, substance abuse as a coping mechanism, and the persistent stigma that discourages openness. Further, the South African Forum of Civil Engineering Contractors’ (SAFCEC) recent workplace trends also pointed to a rise in anxiety and burnout among supervisors and site managers due to increased administrative and compliance demands.

“Mental health challenges have become impossible to ignore,” says Devereux. “We’re seeing increased pressure and mental fatigue across all levels from business owners to labourers who start their day with long, expensive commutes. With the surge in developments in the Western Cape and frequent project commencement delays, many contractors are being pushed into impossible timelines. By raising awareness, we want to shine a light on the often-overlooked mental well-being of our workforce. Mental health is a legitimate safety concern, not an optional extra.”

The human impact is profound. Workers under strain are more vulnerable to accidents, near misses, reduced concentration and slower reaction times. Productivity suffers, team cohesion breaks down, and communication, essential on fast-moving sites, weakens. As Devereux notes, “A safe site is not only one free of physical hazards. It is one where mental wellness is protected.”

Chandré Abrahams, Chairperson of the MBAWC Marketing Committee, agrees that cultural and systemic barriers compound the problem. “Construction has long been shaped by a ‘work through it’ mindset,” he says. “Many workers fear judgement or even job loss if they speak up. Stigma remains one of the biggest obstacles, especially in male-dominated environments. But talking about stress should be as normal as talking about scaffolding safety. That’s the shift we need.”

This cultural shift must begin with leadership. MBAWC emphasises that site managers and senior staff play a pivotal role in breaking down stigma and creating a climate where workers feel safe to voice concerns. “Leadership must show visible support,” says Devereux. “If managers don’t acknowledge mental health as a real issue, no policy or poster will make a difference.”

Practical, accessible interventions are essential. MBAWC encourages companies to embed mental well-being into their health and safety systems, just as they do with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) or fall protection. Recommended steps include:

  • Incorporating mental health into site-specific health & safety policies
  • Providing access to counselling or Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) services
  • Scheduling monthly mental-health toolbox talks
  • Training supervisors in mental-health literacy and supportive communication
  • Appointing mental-health champions or ‘first aiders’ on site
  • Offering anonymous reporting channels
  • Ensuring fair workloads and realistic deadlines
  • Encouraging peer-support groups and fostering work–life balance where possible

Many South African firms are already adopting these measures, demonstrating that meaningful progress is possible even in high-pressure environments. Abrahams stresses that small, consistent habits can transform site culture. “Real change doesn’t only happen in workshops; it happens in daily check-ins, in supervisors asking, ‘Are you okay?’ and in teams knowing they won’t be judged for speaking up.”

MBAWC’s commitment includes providing members with guidance, awareness materials, toolbox talk templates, and links to established resources such as the South African Depression and Anxiety Group’s (SADAG) counselling line, community mental-health organisations, and sector-specific guidance from the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) and MBAWC.

For employers and site managers, MBAWC’s message is clear. “Mental health is not a personal issue. It’s a safety issue, a productivity issue and a people issue,” says Abrahams. “When workers feel supported, they work more safely, more efficiently, and with greater resilience. Healthy businesses are built on healthy people.”

Devereux echoes this, “Employers must prioritise mental wellness with urgency. Our industry is built on human effort, and those individuals deserve care, support and understanding. Strong foundations aren’t only made of concrete. They are built on the wellbeing of the people who bring our projects to life.”

Empact Group celebrates milestone as 15 students complete three-year chef qualification

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Empact Group celebrates milestone as 15 students complete three-year chef qualification

Empact Group has reached a significant milestone in its commitment to transform lives through professional training designed for employees’ families. 15 young chefs have successfully completed the final practical examination of their three-year Occupational Certificate: Chef qualification.

The programme, sponsored by Empact Group’s Food by Empact division, reflects the company’s “Do Right By You” philosophy in practice. In 2022, Empact invited employees to nominate family members for a unique opportunity: a fully-funded, three-year culinary qualification that would prepare them for professional careers in the hospitality industry.

“This programme is a clear commitment to building South Africa’s future through these young people,” says Colette Herbst, Head of Learning & Development at Empact Group. “Three years ago, many of these students couldn’t have imagined this opportunity. Watching them develop from nervous beginners into confident culinary professionals has been a real privilege. The qualification has opened doors they didn’t know existed.”

Empact Group Artisan Chefs

Rigorous final examination tests culinary mastery

The students recently prepared and served a four-course meal during their final practical examination, which was judged by the NDS Chefs Academy examination team and served to VIP guests. This year’s ambitious menu included vegan options for both starter and dessert, challenging the students to work with unfamiliar ingredients and master techniques beyond the traditional three-course format.

Examiners assessed cooking technique, plating and presentation, timing, hygiene and safety, creativity, cost management and nutritional aspects across a two-day examination. The first day focused on mise en place, pre-preparation and venue setup, whilst the second day tested cooking, finishing and service under pressure.

Main – Fillet Steak Potato Pave

Real-world experience sets graduates apart

The qualification (SAQA ID: 101697, NQF Level 5) combines theoretical knowledge with extensive practical skills in planning, preparing and executing high-quality cuisine, along with kitchen management and safety. Run in partnership with NDS Chefs Academy, the programme includes classroom theory at Empact’s Linbro Park offices and workplace training across the company’s food service sites.

This hands-on approach gives graduates a distinct advantage. Students spend significantly more time in professional kitchens than typical class-based programmes, which often include only three to six months of work-integrated learning. By year three, students have worked across diverse catering environments, developing genuine industry experience and professional work ethics.

Main – Charred Bok Choy with Braised onions and roasted cherry tomatoes

Students exceed expectations

The programme has produced standout talent across the cohort. When the group needed an executive chef for their final examination, they unanimously chose Kagiso Pitso – recognition of her natural leadership abilities that have shone throughout the three years. Tshepo Maake has become known for his willingness to help, going beyond what’s required whether he’s in the classroom, working on practical assignments or on site. Meanwhile, Boipelo Maringa pairs technical culinary competence with creative writing skills, producing thoughtful food blogs that showcase her understanding of cuisine. Zandile Mahlangu combines technical precision with genuine passion, bringing tenacity and skill to every dish she prepares.

The students’ own words reveal the programme’s impact. They speak of gaining deep knowledge about the hospitality industry and its challenges, developing strong food handling skills and seeing dramatic improvement over three years. Many have gained the confidence to seek opportunities outside Gauteng, eager to broaden their experience in new environments.

Dessert – Pavlova Meringue made with Aquafaba

Opening doors to professional futures

Their path to full qualification continues with the students writing their National Artisan Moderation Body (NAMB) Trade Test in March 2026. Recent changes by the QCTO mean they can now apply for trade testing immediately after completing their final exams, removing what was previously a longer waiting period between finishing the programme and achieving professional certification.

Throughout the three years, Empact has covered all tuition costs and provided stipends so students could focus on their studies without financial pressure. The investment creates tangible returns: graduates leave with three years of workplace experience across diverse catering environments, making them highly employable. Empact’s goal is to employ these graduates within the business, bringing skilled professionals into their own operations. However, students also have the choice to use their internationally recognised qualification to travel the world, with opportunities on cruise ships and in kitchens abroad.

Of the 17 students who began in 2022, 15 have reached this final milestone. Their success reflects Empact’s conviction that supporting employees means investing in their families’ futures, creating opportunities that ripple through generations and contribute to South Africa’s economic development.

For more information about Empact Group’s service offering send an email to [email protected], call 011 209 2400 or visit www.empactgroup.co.za

Khoi Tech Announces Price Adjustment for Award Winning Khoi Afripods1 TWS Earphones.

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Khoi Tech Announces Price Adjustment for Award Winning Khoi Afripods1 TWS Earphones.

In a move that marks the maturation of a homegrown tech success story, Khoi Tech has announced a price adjustment for its flagship product, the Khoi Afripods1 True Wireless Stereo (TWS) earphones. Effective from midnight on the 8th of December, the recommended retail price will increase to R999, up from the introductory and promotional price of R899.

This adjustment follows an extended period of discounted pricing, initially launched as an introductory offer to establish the brand and later extended through major sales cycles, including the recent Black Friday promotions. The change reflects the company’s commitment to sustainable growth and its confidence in the product’s value proposition against established multinational competitors like Apple, Samsung, Huawei, and JBL.

“Launching the Khoi Afripods1 at an accessible price was our promise to the continent, to deliver world class technology without a premium import price tag,” said Seati Moloi, Founder and CEO of Khoi Tech. “The overwhelming response has validated our vision. The new price of R999 ensures we can continue investing in local innovation, robust customer support, and the high quality standards that have become our hallmark. This is not just a product, it’s a statement of African technological capability.”

World Class Quality at an Affordable Price

Critically, even with this strategic increase of only R100, the Khoi Afripods1 remains firmly positioned as an affordable high quality True Wireless Earphones with world class features, functionalities and benefits. The brand’s core mission is to democratize premium technology. Comparable TWS earphones on the market, offering the very same suite of high end features like Active Noise Cancellation and Bluetooth 5.3, are routinely priced above R2500. At R999, the Afripods1 shatters this premium barrier, delivering high end, world-class quality with the best components at a fraction of the cost. This commitment to affordability ensures that exceptional audio technology and cultural design remain accessible to most people, representing undeniable value for money.

Proudly South African, Built for African Lifestyles

The Khoi Afripods1 stand out as a genuinely homegrown consumer electronics brand, designed and engineered to compete on the global stage. Every unit is tested and certified by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA), guaranteeing compliance with national safety and quality regulations, and is backed by a comprehensive 12-month warranty.

A Celebration of Heritage: Where High Tech Meets African Art

image

Beyond pure engineering, the Khoi Afripods1 make a profound cultural statement. Their aesthetic is a beautiful, original design that intentionally celebrates Africa’s rich heritage. The charging case and earbuds feature intricate patterns that thoughtfully incorporate iconic Ndebele art forms with Khoisan iconology. This deliberate strategy of merging cutting-edge technology with profound African artistry creates a product that is not only a listening device but a wearable piece of cultural pride. It represents the vibrant intersection of high tech and African art, allowing users to carry a piece of the continent’s soul in their pocket.

Technical Specifications: Power in Your Palm

The Khoi Afripods1 is packed with features that rival any international brand:

  • Drivers: 10mm dynamic drivers for rich, balanced sound with deep bass.
  • Active Noise Cancellation: Advanced hybrid technology to block out ambient noise for immersive listening.
  • Bluetooth: Latest Bluetooth 5.3 for ultra-stable, low-latency connections and efficient power consumption.
  • Multi Point Pairing: Seamlessly connect to multiple devices simultaneously (e.g., a laptop and smartphone).
  • Battery Life: Up to 26 hours of total playtime with the charging case. Earphones offer 5 hours on a single charge with off, extendable with the compact case.
  • Fast Charging: 30 minutes in the case provides up to 2 hours of playback.
  • Controls: Intuitive touch controls for music, calls, and active noise cancelling mode activation.
  • IP Rating: IPX5 water resistant, protecting against sweat and light rain.
  • Microphones: Built-in ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation) microphones for crystal clear call quality.

More Than Music, A Tool for Modern Life

The benefits of the Khoi Afripods1 extend far beyond listening to music, making them an essential accessory for daily life:

  • Immersive Entertainment: Perfect for private music listening, streaming podcasts, binge-watching series, and mobile gaming with enhanced audio clarity and minimal lag.
  • Professional & Personal Communication: Take private calls or conduct online meetings with superior voice pickup and noise isolation, ensuring you are heard clearly in any environment.
  • Safe & Smart Driving: Answer calls hands-free, listen to navigation prompts, or enjoy audio-books without taking your hands off the wheel, promoting safe driving habits.
  • Focus & Fitness: Use Active Noise Cancellation to create a personal oasis of focus in busy offices or cafes, or power through workouts with a secure, water resistant fit and motivating soundtracks.

The Khoi Afripods1 TWS earphones will be available online at www.khoi.store , www.makro.co.za , https://shop.proudlysa.co.za and selected Telkom stores from December 9th 2025 at R999.

Where Legends Play: Nedbank’s Green Time Network Welcomes Sun City’s Finest

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Where Legends Play: Nedbank’s Green Time Network Welcomes Sun City’s Finest

As Golf’s Greatest Partner, Nedbank continues to demonstrate its commitment to the game with the inclusion of the Lost City Golf Course and the Gary Player Course into its exclusive Green Time network – a move that strengthens Nedbank’s long-term commitment to growing and enriching the game of golf across South Africa.

Green Time is an ever-evolving network that offers Nedbank Private Banking account holders’ exclusive access to the country’s most sought-after golf courses. Existing partner courses include Ebotse Golf & Country Estate and Bryanston Country Club in Gauteng, Zimbali Country Club in KwaZulu-Natal, East London Golf Club in the Eastern Cape, Maccauvlei Golf Club in the Free State, along with Pecanwood Golf and Country Club in the North West Province. The addition of Sun City’s two celebrated courses now expands this network of premium courses, enhancing the value of Nedbank’s client offering and reinforcing its position at the heart of South Africa’s golfing landscape beyond the fairways of the Nedbank Golf Challenge.

“This collaboration embodies everything Nedbank stands for as Golf’s Greatest Partner, which is a celebration of world-class golf, remarkable experiences, and a deep respect for the game’s heritage,” says Khensani Nobanda, Group Executive for Marketing and Corporate Affairs at Nedbank. “By welcoming the Lost City Golf Course and the Gary Player Country Club into the Green Time network, we are creating new opportunities for our clients to experience golf at its finest, while continuing to grow the game and its community.”

Lost City

With its breathtaking scenery, distinctive desert-style design, and renowned hospitality, the Lost City Golf Course is a natural complement to the Gary Player Country Club, home of Africa’s Major. Together, they represent the pinnacle of South African golf, a blend of prestige, performance, and passion.

Beyond the fairways, this partnership reflects a shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and the pursuit of the extraordinary. Through Green Time, both courses will gain exposure to an elite community of passionate golfers, while Nedbank continues to shape an ecosystem that celebrates connection, community, and the culture of the game.

Here’s Why The Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve Is Your Ultimate Summer-Holiday Escape

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Here’s Why The Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve Is Your Ultimate Summer-Holiday Escape

As the year ends and families hunt for memorable ways to celebrate, skip the shopping centres and head straight to the wild. Just 45 minutes from Johannesburg and Pretoria, the Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve in the Cradle of Humankind is the perfect end-of-year day trip or overnight adventure.

Spanning over 1 200 hectares of pristine bushveld, the reserve is home to more than 700 animals including white rhino, lion, cheetah, endangered Cape wild dog, giraffe, hippo, zebra and dozens of antelope species. Here are the experiences that make it South Africa’s favourite close-to-home wildlife destination this festive season.

Self-Drives and Guided Game Drives 

The primary experience at the reserve revolves around its superb opportunities for viewing African wildlife. Guests have the freedom to enjoy flexible self-drives at their own pace, navigating the well-maintained routes to spot various species, including the reserve’s iconic rhino and lion. For those who prefer expert guidance, join a guided game drive (morning, afternoon or sunset options) for insider knowledge and the best wildlife sightings.

The Bothongo WonderCave

The Bothongo WonderCave

Descend 87 steps into the Bothongo Wondercave – the third-largest cave chamber in South Africa, a 15–20-million-year-old limestone masterpiece set within 2.2-billion-year-old dolomite. Marvel at glittering stalactites, stalagmites and flowstone formations. It’s cool, educational and unforgettable for all ages, solidifying the Reserve’s place as a highlight within the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site.

Delicious Food and Beverage Options

There’s something for everyone’s palate at the reserve. With its relaxed atmosphere and generous menu of all-day breakfasts, freshly baked pastries, gourmet sandwiches and hearty light lunches, Thatch Café offers a relaxed environment and easy bites. The Neck & Deck restaurant sits high above the reserve, where guests can watch wildlife roam while tucking into wood-fired pizzas, flame-grilled burgers, crisp salads and ice-cold craft beers or milkshakes. It’s the perfect spot for breakfast, a leisurely lunch or sunset cocktails.

 

A Kids’ Haven

The Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve understands that happy children mean happy parents. The reserve boasts a number of sparkling swimming pools, jungle gyms, trampolines and dedicated children’s play zones designed to burn off energy for hours. Older kids, and adventurous adults, can tackle the junior 4×4 obstacle course under professional supervision which is a guaranteed highlight of any family visit.

Full Safari Tour

Unforgettable Animal Encounters

Beyond standard game viewing, the reserve offers several unique and scheduled activities that elevate the visitor experience. Guests can enjoy the rare chance to get up close and hand-feed the reserve’s friendly giraffe, Skye. The highly anticipated predator feedings take place every Wednesday, on weekends, and all public holidays, giving visitors an exciting look into the natural behaviours of the reserve’s big cats. The Snake & Reptile Park adds an educational twist, offering insight into local reptile species through engaging snake shows every Tuesday to Thursday, as well as on weekends and public holidays.

With so much on offer, the Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve is the perfect day out this holiday season. For more information, visit https://www.rhinolion.co.za/ or the Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve’s Facebook or Instagram pages.

 

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