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Tech companies are increasingly helping app developers scale, create and innovate

By
LnT Desk
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World Creativity and Innovation Day is celebrated every year on the 21st of April. This day is dedicated to encouraging people, businesses, and even big organisations to think creatively, come up with new approaches to challenges and improve the world around them.

With the technology industry constantly evolving at an incredibly fast pace, it is one of the areas in which innovations and creativity are refined and polished. New technologies, platforms, programming, frameworks and tools are always emerging and keeping up with these changes which requires continuous learning and adaptation.

If you’re an app developer, navigating these complexities requires extensive expertise, resources and a holistic understanding of the various dimensions of the industry. Here are three steps you should consider:

  1. Identify the challenges and possible solutions

Developing an app can be a daunting task for small businesses because of the numerous complex procedures required. Some of the common challenges include having limited resources, especially when it comes to budget and capacity. As a result, developing an app will require a significant investment of time and money, which may not be feasible for many.

Businesses will also need technical expertise in various areas, such as coding, UX/UI design and app architecture. If you are just starting out and building your first app, you may not have in-house experts and will need to outsource work to third-party developers which can be costly.

When it comes to compatibility, it’s imperative for apps to be well-suited for different devices, operating systems and screen sizes. Ensuring compatibility across all platforms can be difficult and requires additional development work. Similarly, security is a critical aspect of app development which you may not have the resources or expertise to ensure that your app is secure from potential threats.

With the app market being highly competitive, small businesses are also often finding it tough to stand out among the thousands of apps available. Therefore, it’s critical that entrepreneurs carefully consider what it is that they may be facing and find solutions to the problems.

To start with, you can seek support by partnering with tech experts and experienced app developers to leverage app development tools and platforms.

  1. Find a suitable tech company to partner with

Huawei, like other technology companies, invests heavily in research and development to close the technology gap in Africa. The company has a strong focus on innovation and has made significant advancements in supporting and nurturing the development of new technologies and innovations.

Small businesses have for years benefited from the Huawei Developer Program (HDP).  This division includes an ecosystem of tools, resources and support that is designed to help developers build, distribute, optimise and monetise their applications on Huawei devices. Through these platforms, developers can access a range of services, including development kits, technical support, marketing support and funding opportunities to grow and scale their businesses.

Huawei is also committed to promoting open innovation and collaboration with other tech developers. Huawei has established several OpenLabs around the world, which are collaborative spaces where developers can work together to develop new technologies and solutions.

  1. Place your app on the market

AppGallery is Huawei’s official app distribution platform, which provides a great way for developers to reach a large audience of over 9 million device users. By publishing your app on AppGallery, you can make it easy for device users to discover and download your app. With a global presence and availability in over 170 countries, AppGallery is especially beneficial if you are looking to expand your app’s reach beyond your local market and tap into new international markets.

Enhanced App Promotion are also guaranteed, as Huawei provides various promotional tools and resources to help you market your app on AppGallery. This includes featured placements, promotional campaigns and marketing support which can help maximise the visibility and impact of your app on the app market and drive downloads and engagement.

With security and privacy measures being key to the user experience, you’re going to want an app market that has extensive protection. Huawei has a comprehensive four-layer security detection mechanism to scan apps for potential security risks before they are published on AppGallery, which helps create a safe and trusted environment for app users.

Cultivating creativity and innovation is a lifelong journey that requires continuous effort and practice. Visit Huawei Mobile Services to find out how you can better advance your app, that is of value to users.

How you know your smartphone has been hacked and what can you do about it?

By
LnT Desk
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TCL looks at the signs that indicate your phone has been hacked or infiltrated by malware, and what you can do about it.

Android mobile devices are pretty secure, provided you follow common-sense precautions such as using strong passwords for all of your accounts, downloading apps only from Google Play or official phone manufacturer app stores, and not clicking on suspect website links you receive by email or instant messaging.

Still, it’s possible for you to accidentally download some malware on your device or give your account details to a persuasive scammer. Cybercriminals are clever and persistent and it’s not always easy to keep up with their latest tricks. And once they’ve breached your phone, they might quietly steal your personal data, hijack your social media accounts, or use your phone to mine cryptocurrencies.

Here are a few signs that might indicate that your phone has been hacked or that there is malware installed:

  1. Your battery life is suddenly worse than it used to be. Some malware and fraudulent apps constantly run in the background on your phone, draining its battery.
  2. Your phone is running hot and you are using more data than usual. This may also indicate that malware or spy apps are running in the background.
  3. Performance has become degraded. Another sign that there is a malicious app on your phone is that performance has become worse. For example, it takes longer to load websites and apps are freezing, crashing, or running slow. This is another sign that a malicious app is stealing resources on your device.
  4. There are strange things happening on your online accounts. If a cybercriminal has access to your info, they might try logging into your apps like social media or online banking. If you are getting emails and texts for password resets or notifications that someone is logging in from an unfamiliar location, you might be breached.
  5. Mystery apps, texts and calls. If you start seeing apps you haven’t downloaded, calls you haven’t made, and texts and emails that you didn’t send in your history, that’s a major warning sign.

So, you suspect that your phone has been breached? Here are some steps to consider:

  1. Disconnect your phone from the internet. Immediately disconnect from the internet to prevent malware from sending more data from your device or the hacker from controlling your phone.
  2. Remove any suspicious apps. Check your phone for any suspicious apps that you may have unknowingly installed. Uninstall them immediately.
  3. Install a reputable antivirus app. Use a good antivirus app to scan for any malware or viruses that may be present on your device.
  4. Change your passwords. Change the passwords for all your accounts, including your email, social media, and banking accounts, to prevent the hacker from accessing them.
  5. Perform a factory reset. If nothing else works, consider doing a factory reset of your phone to remove any malicious software and start fresh.

About TCL Communication

TCL Communication Technology Holdings Limited (TCL Communication) designs, manufactures and markets an expanding portfolio of mobile and internet products and services worldwide under three key brands – TCL, Alcatel and BlackBerry. With a portfolio of products currently sold in over 160 countries throughout North America, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific. TCL Communication ranked as a top-10 global mobile phone manufacturer in the first quarter of 2017 according to IDC and company data. Incorporated in Hong Kong, TCL Communication operates its highly efficient manufacturing plant in Huizhou, China and nine R&D centers worldwide. For more information, please visit www.tclcom.com.

 

How the right TV will level up your gaming experience

By
LnT Desk
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Johannesburg, 18 April 2023 | TCL, the global Top 2 TV brand and the number one 98-inch TV brand, understands enthusiasts use their TV sets in many different ways. These devices are used for watching sport, binge-watching series, unwinding with a movie, displaying presentations and, of course, playing video games.

It’s every gamer’s dream to get up close and personal to the action and gamers look to manufacturing companies to ensure an elevated gaming experience with fine attention to detail. That is why TCL has created a range of gaming TVs that pride itself on offering their gamers, viewers, and everyone in-between unadulterated viewing quality.

A Smooth Gameplay Experience Makes All Of The Difference

Gamers are forever looking for smarter ways to up their ante. A gaming TV is the answer and does wonders for that authentic gaming experience. The secret is in the attention to detail, smooth gameplay, and optimised next-gen consoles. These features will have gamers brushing up on their skills and taking the gaming experience to a whole new level.

Global brands like TCL are now building TVs specifically for gamers. TCL’s MINI LED and QLED C735 and C835 models offer brilliant clarity and fine attention to detail that ticks all the boxes.

Whether participants are new to gaming, or play competitively, every player wants the best experience possible. Upgrading will keep playing levels up to speed. QLED TVs are the easiest way for that ideal play-through experience. TCL’s latest gaming TVs have exclusive features like Game Master which automatically shuts off everything unnecessary running on the processor, freeing space for a faster response while playing, giving gamers a one-up on their competition.

TCLs’ big-screen offerings include ultra-low input lag and auto low latency mode (ALLM), giving contenders the perfect opportunity to respond to the action as and when it happens. Competitors find this high level of responsiveness exhilarating and especially useful when multiple contenders participate. With gaming, timing is everything!

TCL offers the latest generation of TVs with the advancement of colour quality. Much has changed over the past few years with the advancement of new colour technologies, like the popular Quantum Dot QLED which TCL introduced back in 2015.

TCL’s Auto Game Mode automatically adjusts TV settings for that immediate responsive game-feel when participants fire up their consoles and will remember the settings for perfect convenience. Additionally, these devices are equipped with a VRR or Variable Refresh Rate of up to 144Hz on some models while the C635, for example, is equipped with an impressive 120Hz DLG. This enables screens to line up with every frame rate. Participants have the advantage with AMD FreeSyncTM on the latest 5 and 6 series QLED models.

Cinematic Quality Gives Players That Feel-Good Interactive Experience

Big TV screens, like those of TCL with Game Master Pro, deliver cinema-quality images and powerful audio to gamers of all levels. They offer much more in the way of smooth play and instant response times.

Many game titles are now supporting Dolby, ensuring players take full advantage on big screens, enjoying all the features on offer. This is why gaming on units supporting Dolby Vision & Dolby Atmos makes for the perfect gaming experience.

There’s So Much More Than Fast Response Times and Low Input Lag

Gaming on a big screen TV equipped with AiPQ technology is an additional game-changing feature available on selected TCL TV units. This feature uses machine-learning algorithms for optimal colour, clarity, and contrast. All this in real time, ensuring gamers enjoy unrivalled 4K HDR interactive viewing.

The Dolby Digital decoding maximises sound clarity, creating virtual surround sound. Dolby Atmos adds a big 3D real-life sound experience while clarity of true audio envelopes gamers for an immersive listening experience.

Plus, select TCL TVs have up to 4 HDMI ports, two of which are equipped with the 2.1 technology, an Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC), and you can even enjoy a seamless audio upgrade with TCL Alto Sound Bars so you’ll have everything you need to level up.

Find out more about television excellence at TCL South Africa | TVs and Electronics | TCL.com.

About TCL

TCL Electronics (1070.HK) is a fast-growing consumer electronics company and a leading player in the global TV industry. Founded in 1981, it now operates in over 160 markets globally. TCL specialises in the research, development and manufacturing of consumer electronics products ranging from TVs, audio and smart home appliances.

 

Employee productivity tools and privacy: monitor performance, not the person

By
Andrew Bourne, Regional Manager, Zoho
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Andrew Bourne

In today’s fast-paced work environment, employee productivity is a critical component of organisational success. To ensure optimal performance, employers often resort to various productivity tools, which range from time-tracking software to project management applications. However, some of these tools can infringe on employees’ right to privacy, leading to negative consequences.

 

Employee-monitoring software, for example, is a common productivity tool that has gained popularity in recent years. These tools capture and track employees’ activities, such as keystrokes, screen time, and web browsing. While this technology may seem like an excellent way to gauge productivity levels, it often results in a breach of privacy, and employees feel as if they are under constant surveillance. In light of this, how should organisations approach the task of ensuring their employees are functioning optimally?

 

 Many monitoring tools are counterproductive  

In order to answer that question, it’s important to understand why so many employee monitoring tools are actually counterproductive (despite forming part of an industry that’s expected to be worth US$2.1 billion by 2030). Instead of enhancing workforce productivity, a considerable portion of these tools elicit a sense of being monitored among employees.

 

If you’ve ever had to complete an urgent task with somebody standing over your shoulder, you know how detrimental that can be to productivity. Suddenly your ability to type, design, or run spreadsheet formulae flies out the window. Having a machine do the digital equivalent is scarcely any better. That’s to say nothing of the fact that they focus on employees as the primary vector of productivity, rather than processes, fragmented software ecosystems, and numerous other factors that play a role in determining productivity.

 

Trust is a crucial component of the employee–employer relationship, even in traditional office settings where employees are trusted to do their jobs. The use of employee monitoring software, particularly for high-performing employees, compromises this trust.

Moreover, many productivity tools measure poor proxies for actual productivity. For instance, an advertising agency employee who produces three high-quality briefs in the morning before running personal errands may be more productive than an employee who takes the whole day to compile one brief. However, some monitoring tools focus on bums-on-seats, rewarding the latter employee instead. This approach can demotivate high-performing employees, leading to a higher staff turnover rate.

 Measure the right things, reap the rewards  

Good task management software will easily allow businesses to manage and track the life cycle of all projects in the pipeline. They cannot just monitor performance against set tasks, they also need to make it easier for employees to be productive by converting emails into tasks, for instance.

 

Furthermore, they allow organisations to filter out employees who are overburdened, distribute work evenly, and also keep track of important key performance indicators (KPIs). Using software that takes this approach means that you can measure performance against work done, rather than time spent online. Additionally, because it’s less intrusive than employee monitoring software, it doesn’t provide the same dispiriting sense that you’re constantly being watched. A good task management software can also help firms identify bottlenecks. Managers can then create processes to overcome them.  

 

 Embrace change now  

Asynchronous work is becoming more prevalent, and successful four-day workweek experiments have shown that traditional work models may no longer be effective. Consequently, businesses must adopt a performance-based approach to monitor productivity that aligns with their goals. Employers can make data-driven decisions that result in positive and productive changes for the organisation.

 

South African Tourism Celebrates Jazz Legend Hugh Masekela’s Induction into the Ertegun Hall of Fame

By
LnT Desk
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Hugh Masekela’s children, Selema Masekela and Pula Twala, and his nephew, Mabusha Masekela accept Ertegun Hall of Fame award on behalf of the late jazz musician from Seton Hawkins (Jazz at Lincoln Center) and Themba Khumalo (South African Tourism).Images Sara Kerens/AP for South African Tourism

NEW YORK – South African Tourism, in collaboration with the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation, celebrated the legendary jazz musician, Hugh Masekela, at an event held at Dizzy’s Club at Jazz at Lincoln Center. The event honored Masekela’s contributions to jazz music and his impact on South Africa as a cultural destination.

The highlight of the afternoon was the induction of Hugh Masekela into the Ertegun Hall of Fame, a prestigious recognition for his exceptional talent and remarkable achievements in the music industry. South African Tourism and the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation hosted a pre-induction reception at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Ertegun Hall of Fame which was attended by special guests, jazz enthusiasts, and journalists, who gathered to pay tribute to Masekela’s legacy. Following the reception, guests were invited to Dizzy’s Club for the induction ceremony and special musical performances, which included select performances from Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation scholarship students from the Manhattan School of Music. Selema Masekela and Pula Twala, the children of Hugh Masekela, accepted the honor on behalf of their late father.

Images Sara Kerens/AP Images

Hugh Masekela, fondly known as “Bra Hugh,” was born and raised in South Africa, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time. His unique style and fusion of African rhythms, jazz, and world music have captivated audiences around the globe for decades. Masekela’s music has become a symbol of South African culture, showcasing the rich heritage and diversity of the country and inspiring travelers to experience the destination’s unique offerings.

“In 2015 Hugh Masekela established the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation for the express purpose of preserving and promoting our African heritage and the restoration of our African identity through various mediums. In the five years since his passing the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation has continued to devote energy and time to maintaining and motivating projects that Bra Hugh initiated while still with us, as well as new initiatives that fit within our mission statement,” stated Pula Twala, Board Member of the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation. “None of these projects or initiatives would be possible without the continued support, both material and spiritual, of our friends and family, sisters and sons, institutions and organizations, near and far, sharing the values that Hugh espoused, promoted and stood for.”

Visitors to South Africa can immerse themselves in the local culture through music, art, dance, and cuisine, which are integral parts of the country’s identity. The destination also offers a range of adventure activities such as wildlife safaris, hiking, and water sports, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking unique and diverse experiences.

Speaking about the event, Themba Khumalo, Acting CEO of South African Tourism said, “We are honored to pay tribute to the late Hugh Masekela, a true icon of jazz music and a cultural ambassador for South Africa. His music continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world, and his legacy lives on through the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation. We are proud to celebrate his induction into the Ertegun Hall of Fame and highlight the unique cultural offerings of South Africa as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking enriching experiences.”

The event honoring Hugh Masekela at Dizzy’s Club at Jazz at Lincoln Center was a successful celebration of his legacy and South Africa’s cultural richness. South African Tourism is focused on promoting the country’s cultural heritage and diverse travel offerings to visitors from around the world, inspired by the legendary musician’s contributions to jazz and his homeland.

ABOUT SOUTH AFRICAN TOURISM

South African Tourism is the national agency responsible for marketing South Africa as a preferred leisure and business events destination.

From breathtaking beauty to sun-soaked coasts; from wildlife to adventure; from vibrant urban energy to the incredible warmth and cultural diversity of its people – South Africa is a traveler’s dream! Destination South Africa offers a wide variety of experiences in close proximity including wildlife safaris in 19 national parks, breathtaking diverse scenic outdoor spaces, vibrant modern designer cities, an amazing 2,500 km coastline with Blue Flag beaches, inspiring heritage and cultural journeys, as well as active adventure experiences and holidays offering impressive value for time and money at any budget.

ABOUT THE HUGH MASEKELA HERITAGE FOUNDATION

From his birth to his passing Hugh Masekela’s most ardent passion was the restoration, promotion and evolution of African identity, heritage and culture. The Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation is an expression of that passion, that legacy, through the creation of cultural information programmes, the support and involvement in heritage arts, and the dissemination of this information and cultural inheritance throughout the African Diaspora and the world. The Foundation’s specific focus is in the areas of Inter-generational collaborations, Exhibitions, Music, Dance, Theatre, Literature, Visual, Culinary, Arts, African History, Languages and Genealogy. www.hmhf.co.za

Warm up winter with the hottest local travel destinations

By
LnT Desk
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The morning air is getting crisper, and the temptation to stay under the duvet is getting stronger. Winter is fast approaching, and with it a slew of holidays and long weekends.

Are you prone to the winter blues? The best way to beat them is by embracing the season and heading off for a getaway. Make the most of our mild South African winters and opt for a bush break or go in search of snow in the mountains.

Flight Centre statistics from 2022/2023 show that South Africans tend to go on holiday for an average of four nights. All you have to do is take two days’ leave around a weekend and you have your winter break. Looking for some inspiration? Here are the hottest picks for winter travel in 2023:

Visit Cape Town
Cape Town remains the number one bestselling local destination based on booking numbers, according to Flight Centre statistics from January 2023.

As for what to do in the Mother City? Flight Centre reports that the most booked experience/add-on for Cape Town is a city tour followed by a Table Mountain Aerial Cableway tour.

Where to stay

With views of the iconic Table Mountain and, on a clear day, Robben Island, Milnerton’s Lagoon Beach Hotel offers seaside accommodation that can still be enjoyed on those mild winter days – but without the crowds. Use the direct beach access for long walks and enjoy a drink at the beach bar when you return. If it’s a little too chilly outdoors, make use of the free shuttle to the premier shopping, entertainment and lifestyle destination of the V&A Waterfront.

Why not add a few days to your break and venture out of the city? Head to Somerset West and check into the historic Lord Charles Hotel. Overlooking the Helderberg Mountains, the property is a stone’s throw from the Paarl, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch Winelands – ideal for day trips to award-winning estates. Enjoy the wine tastings and then settle in at a cosy restaurant with a fireplace for lazy wining and dining.

Hunt down snow

The Drakensberg is South Africa’s answer to the Alps (and dare we say it, just as beautiful?). If you’re chasing snow, you might get lucky too.

It’s the perfect winter playground for a family holiday. Fly into Durban’s King Shaka International Airport or Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport (they’re almost equidistant from the Berg), pack the family into a rented car and set off on the three-and-a-half-hour journey (approximately). The highest peaks of this mountain range will most likely be dusted with snow, and the magnificent landscape of rivers, waterfalls and valleys is best explored by hiking or on horseback. Other activities include rafting, mountain biking and fishing.

Where to stay

The charming Alpine Heath Resort’s six-sleeper, self-catering chalets are perfect for families or groups. The little ones are catered to with a kids’ entertainment programme, and there are 150 km of marked trails for horse riding, hiking and mountain biking suitable for all ages and levels of experience.

Bushman’s Nek Berg and Trout Resort is another great option, situated in the foothills of the Southern Drakensberg, accommodation ranges from luxury rooms to affordable self-catering apartments and rustic log cabins.

Surf and safari
Opt for the best of both worlds in the North West Province. The Pilanesberg National Park is home to the Big Five, 7 000 animals and 360 bird species and there are more than 200 km of roads for self-drive game viewing.

Situated on the border of the park you’ll find the one-stop resort destination of Sun City with a casino, loads of entertainment and activities, two top golf courses and the Valley of the Waves man-made beach and waterpark. If you’re craving the beach and sunshine, escape to this place of fantasy and fun. With a choice of accommodation for every budget and temperatures always warmer than Johannesburg, Sun City will make you forget it’s winter!

“A Pilanesberg safari and Sun City holiday makes for the perfect combo,” says Antoinette Turner, General Manager Flight Centre. “Depending on your route, the Pilanesberg National Park and Sun City are approximately 20 kilometres apart.”

Where to stay
The numbers speak for themselves. Flight Centre South Africa’s most popular hotel according to bookings is the Cabanas Hotel at the Waterworld Lake. Ideal for families, there are kids’ activities, watersports and sunset cruises, while a free shuttle allows for exploring the rest of the resort.

Follow the sun

Plan an escape to the warm and sunny KwaZulu-Natal North Coast. The Capital Zimbali is a luxurious eco-estate five minutes from Ballito. Here, you can enjoy a private beach, pampering at the spa, golf, and world-class dining at the Indian fusion restaurant OSA. Soak up the sun at the pool, sip cocktails at the bar and savour afternoon tea overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Get lost in the wilderness

Get off the grid on the Wild Coast, further south. Travel with a local for an authentic and responsible first-hand experience of this stretch of pristine, rugged coastline. Visit the Hole in the Wall at Coffee Bay, a natural arch carved by the sea into a rocky outcrop, enjoy an isiXhosa meal in a colourful thatched rondavel and wander along the beach dotted with a few roaming cattle.

Where to stay
The Wild Coast Sun Hotel in Port Edward is beloved by generations of South African families. Situated on an unspoilt beach with tropical bush as its backdrop, the hotel offers a variety of leisure activities from golf, scuba diving and a waterpark to a casino and a selection of restaurants.

Winter safari
June to August are ideal for planning a family safari. Why? It’s the dry season, so wildlife in the game reserves will be congregating around water sources. They’ll also be on the move more frequently, instead of seeking shelter from the sweltering sun, making them easier to spot in the bush, which has also died back.

“Limpopo is a top destination for game viewing due to its expansive stretches of bushveld wilderness. Furthermore, there is a wide variety of game lodges and reserves to visit, ranging from budget-friendly options to super luxurious alternatives,” says Turner.

Where to stay
Mabula Game Lodge in Limpopo’s Waterberg is just under two-and-a-half hours from Johannesburg by car. Cosy up in the luxury thatched-roof suites and enjoy hearty local dishes such as impala casserole and kudu and red wine potjie. The lodge is set in a Big Five private game reserve and offers morning and late afternoon game drives, where other inhabitants to spot include hyena, warthog and a variety of antelope.

If getting away from it all is what you need, travel to the North West Province to Thakadu River Camp in the eastern portion of the Madikwe Game Reserve. Staying here is all about tranquillity and immersion in the bush, and your accommodation is in luxury tented suites with viewing decks overlooking the Marico River. Family suites are also available. At nightfall enjoy a dinner under the stars alongside a fire in the boma.

With all these top “winter warmer” holiday ideas the only difficulty is to choose just one destination. Luckily there’s always next winter…

Hey, Netflix – stop calling shows ‘bingeworthy’.

By
Lila Bruk,Registered Dietician
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It’s become a favourite pastime among friends, couples who are out of ideas for date night, and people who simply want to relax and unwind after a long day. This is the era of what has come to be known as ‘binge-watching’ – spending an inordinate amount of time in front of a screen, eagerly tapping the ‘next episode’ button to find out how your favourite show progresses, or lining up a string of films to watch, marathon-style.

To be fair, Netflix isn’t the only one making use of the word ‘binge’ in an inappropriate context. It’s not uncommon to hear people talk about ‘binge-eating’ a slab of chocolate over the weekend, or ‘binge-listening’ to their favourite murder mystery podcast.

Common as it may be, the causal use of the term bingeing is damaging. Bingeing in the casual sense is a choice to indulge a little more than usual, to have a ‘cheat’ day every now and then, or to consume entertaining content in excess because you simply can’t get enough of the gripping story line. Bingeing, or Binge Eating Disorder, in reality, is a serious mental health condition that should not be made light of.

“Binge Eating Disorder is a type of eating disorder characterised by recurrent episodes of binge eating, where a person consumes large amounts of food in a short amount of time and feels a loss of control over their eating,” explains registered dietician, Lila Bruk who specialises in eating disorders,  “BED along with all other eating disorders, are often associated with shame and secrecy due to the stigma and misconceptions surrounding them. People may feel embarrassed or ashamed to admit that they have an eating disorder, particularly if it is misunderstood or dismissed as a lifestyle choice rather than a serious mental health condition.”

Importantly, while many of those who use it in a casual sense probably don’t mean any harm, the biggest problem with using a word with such connotations so flippantly is that it contributes to the current stigma and lack of awareness that exists around eating disorders. This in turn prevents people from seeking help or admitting that they have a problem at all, causing them to feel afraid or ashamed to speak up.

“This is the reason that the Panda mental health app has started an eating disorder support group, to create a safe space for users to connect with a mental health professional and with others facing similar struggles. This connection plays a significant role in giving those with eating disorders the support they need to help manage their experiences,” says Kerri Howell, occupational therapist.

Taking eating disorders more seriously can also help to demystify fact from myth. For instance, eating disorders affect men too – pop icon, Ed Sheeran, recently shared his own experiences with Bulimia Nervosa and called for greater awareness of eating disorders in general. In addition, eating disorders are not simply connected to body image issues or wanting to look thinner.

“While weight loss or body dissatisfaction may be a common symptom of an eating disorder, it is important to recognise that eating disorders can affect people of any body size or shape. Eating disorders can also manifest in different ways, such as through obsessive exercise or rigid food rules, and may not always involve a desire to be thin,” adds Bruk.

So, if we can’t use the word ‘binge’ in these unhealthy, insensitive ways anymore, what words can we use to describe watching episode after episode of a series? A few ideas include marathon, or an all-day session. You could even customise it to your favourite show and call it (name of your favourite show)-fest.

The point being, we don’t have to perpetuate the stigma surrounding eating orders or shame the people who suffer from them to enjoy a pastime (or a cheeky midnight snack).

Lila Bruk is hosting free monthly Eating Disorders support groups every first Monday of the month, which started  on 3 April, on the Panda app.

Regent Business School hosts webinar on crucial importance of cybersecurity

By
LnT Desk
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Regent Business School (RBS) recently presented a webinar designed to help business leaders from small business owners to corporate executives, understand the current cybersecurity landscape and learn the steps necessary to protect their organizations from potential cyberattacks. With the help of experts in the field, the webinar not only provided an overview of the cyberthreats businesses face, but also provided actionable strategies to mitigate cyber risks. Attendees were empowered with a better understanding of the importance of cybersecurity and the steps necessary to ensure their organizations are as secure as possible.

“In the current digital world, security threats have become a major concern for businesses and individuals alike. Valuable insights into the latest cybersecurity trends and best practices, as well as the resources available to protect data and systems from malicious attacks were explored during this webinar which was by invitation to our alumni. A discussion around the potential risks and vulnerabilities associated with cyber security, and the steps you can take to stay safe and secure in the digital age,” commented Professor Osman Seedat, Deputy Dean at Regent Business School and moderator of the webinar.

New cybersecurity technologies are emerging to combat the increasing threat of cyberattacks on organizations, as they face the challenge of keeping their environments protected in the age of cloud computing and IoT (internet of things) devices. According to recent statistics, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) are particularly vulnerable, with many lacking basic or any security measures to protect their systems.

One of the major challenges faced by organizations is the issue of cloud vulnerabilities, as more companies adopt the latest technologies hosted or managed in the cloud. However, not all organizations are prepared for the cloud adoption framework, leading to complexities and increased expenditure. Remote work has further complicated cybersecurity, with many employees connecting on networks outside of the organization’s firewall, exposing sensitive data. Companies need to ensure that employees follow best practices, such as using a Virtual Private Network (VPN), enforcing password policies, using multi-factor authentication and providing cybersecurity training.

“As individuals, we must take responsibility for our own online safety by setting goals and following best practices to protect our sensitive data. This includes identifying all connected devices, limiting unnecessary applications, using password managers, and using public Wi-Fi with caution. However, small to medium enterprises must also prioritize cybersecurity by implementing policies and following frameworks like NIST Cybersecurity Framework. In the event of a breach, it’s important to respond quickly and efficiently, while keeping clients and employees informed. Ultimately, cybersecurity is a team effort, and everyone must play their part.” says Liaqat Wahid Hassan, Managing Director of Cyberedge Security who was on the panel of experts.

Organizations must measure their cybersecurity effectiveness, list their current capabilities, identify vulnerable assets, and practice regular patching and updates. In the event of an attack, organizations should be able to know their response time and the time it will take to remediate the issue.

According to another panel expert Craig Law, Chief Information Security Officer of Corporate and Investment Banking at Standard Bank the onus is on you to protect yourself from cybercriminals. He stressed the Importance of recognizing phishing emails and social engineering through social media: “As technology continues to evolve, cybercriminals have found new ways to steal personal information and commit fraud. Phishing emails and social engineering through social media are two common tactics that these criminals use to deceive people. Phishing emails are fraudulent emails that appear to be from legitimate sources, but in reality, they are sent by cybercriminals to steal personal information. Social engineering through social media involves creating fake profiles or posing as legitimate individuals or organizations to gain the trust of targets. Once trust is established, attackers may request personal information or convince victims to click on malicious links.

“It is crucial for people to be aware of these tactics to prevent the devastating consequences of falling victim to them. By staying vigilant and learning to recognize these tactics, individuals can better protect their personal information and avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes. Don’t become a victim of cybercrime. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and protect yourself from phishing emails and social engineering through social media,” Law warned.

Emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning are set to revolutionize cybersecurity by offering advanced predictive abilities that monitor user behaviour without human intervention. These technologies will be widely used in the coming years to make cybersecurity stronger and more powerful.

With the adoption of these emerging technologies, organizations will have the tools they need to stay protected from cyberattacks and ensure their cybersecurity best practices. As technology continues to evolve, it is imperative that organizations remain vigilant and proactive in implementing the latest cybersecurity solutions to stay ahead of potential threats.

Reference 1: Fortinet’s 2023 Cybersecurity Skills Gap report based on a survey of over 1 800 IT and cybersecurity decision-makers from 29 countries, including South Africa.

2023 Telkom netball league begins

By
LnT Desk
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12 April 2023, Sandton – The 2023 edition of the domestic netball league, the Telkom Netball League (TNL), is set to start on the 27th of April at the Ngoako Ramahlodi Sports Complex in Seshego, Polokwane for the opening week before heading to Pretoria in May.

Netball South Africa (NSA) together with its partner Telkom held an official media launch event in Sandton to announce the start of the 2023 TNL season.

Telecommunications giant Telkom, who are the headline sponsors of the domestic league are in the fifth year of the partnership with the netball federation since coming on board in 2019.

In line with Telkom’s commitment to drive the development of netball in South Africa Telkom have also renewed their partnership with Netball South Africa by a further three years effective from 01 April 2023. Telkom are not only sponsors of the league but have also thrown their weight behind the Netball World Cup and are one of the premium sponsors of this global showpiece that will take place in July in Cape Town.

As it has become the new norm, the 2023 TNL will be played across two provinces, with the opening week taking place from the 27 April to the 01 May at the Ngoako Ramahlodi Sports Complex in Seshego, Polokwane.

“Our relationship with Telkom is growing from strength to strength with every year that passes by. As a federation, we are delighted about their commitment to the growth and development of the sport. Their sponsorship renewal for another three years is a testament to their dedication to the sport, and we appreciate that,” said Netball South Africa President, Ms Cecilia Molokwane.

The second and final leg of the league will see games being played at the Heartfelt Arena in Pretoria between the 2 June to the 1 July 2023. Heartfelt Arena will be home to TNL for the third consecutive year.

Apparel sponsor Puma, who recently launched the 2023 Netball World Cup kit for the national team were also in the room as they unveiled the new kits for the teams participating in this year’s edition of TNL.

Gugu Mthembu, Telkom’s Chief Marketing Officer elaborates on the success of Telkom’s sponsorship saying, “As proud sponsors of this year’s TNL, we look forward to yet another successful competition and ultimately continuing with the development of Netball in South Africa.”

“Through TNL, we want to continue showcasing the best netball talent in the country, whilst growing the sport and encouraging South African youth to stand tall through life’s adversities.” She continues to say that, “TNL will provide a platform for all the players and coaches to raise their hands for a chance to make the final Proteas squad for Africa’s first Netball World Cup.”

Netball South Africa further announced that there will be two new teams added to the league, which will then bring the total number of competing teams to 15. The two additional teams are from the Free State and Limpopo provinces. They will be known as Free State Sonoblomo and Limpopo Lilies, respectively.

The two added teams will ply their trade in the second division of the league, while the Eastern Cape Aloes who are the champions of the same division earn a promotion to the first division.

Molokwane concluded by saying “the addition of two more teams to the league can only mean one thing, and that is we are doing something right when it comes to growing the sport and making our domestic league more competitive.”

Winners of the Responsible Tourism Awards 2023 announced at WTM Africa

By
LnT Desk
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Cape Town, 12 April 2023 – WTM Africa 2023 celebrated the champions of Responsible Tourism on the African continent on 4 April 2023 by announcing the winners of the WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards 2023.

These annual awards highlight and promote the very best practices in sustainability and responsibility in the tourism industry. The aim is to promote good practice and showcase pioneering projects that focus on the wellbeing and sustainability of tourism, while also caring for the people and landscapes that make the industry thrive.

The winners of the WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards 2023 are:

Best for Addressing Climate Change:

Gold, Tourism Authority Mauritius

Gold, Weeva

Best for Diversity and Inclusion:

Gold, BirdLife South Africa

Silver, Liveable

Best for Local Sourcing, Craft and Food:

Gold, Ngwenya Glass

Gold, Tourism Authority Mauritius

Silver, Artisans Co Ltd

Best for Meaningful Connections:

Gold, uThando South Africa

Silver, Happy Soul Adventures

Best for Nature-Positive Tourism:

Gold, Wildlife ACT

Silver, BirdLife South Africa

One to watch: Cape Vulture Lodge

Best for Tackling Plastic Waste.

Gold, Lemala Camps & Lodges

Free to enter, the 2023 Awards are split into four regions, with the winner of each region going forward to compete in the Global Awards.

Megan de Jager RX Africa Portfolio Director Travel, Tourism & Marketing said:

“Congratulations to all the winners of the WTM Responsible Tourism Africa Awards. Your passion, commitment, and innovative approach towards tackling sustainability is truly inspiring. WTM is thrilled to recognise and celebrate your efforts towards creating a positive impact on the environment, local communities, and the tourism industry as a whole.

“It’s remarkable to see how small changes can have such a big impact. From eco-friendly accommodations to community-based tourism initiatives, each winner has shown that sustainability is not only achievable but also profitable. Your success stories are a testament to the fact that responsible tourism is the way forward.

“We wish all the winners the very best at the global awards and hope that your accomplishments will inspire others to follow in your footsteps. Let’s continue to work towards making the tourism industry more responsible and sustainable, one step at a time.”

World Travel Market (WTM) Portfolio comprises leading travel events, online portals and virtual platforms across four continents. The events are:

WTM Latin America takes place annually in the city of São Paulo and attracts around 20,000 tourism professionals during the three-day event. The event offers qualified content together with networking and business opportunities. In this its tenth edition – there have been nine face-to-face events along with a 100% virtual one, which was held in 2021.

Next event: Monday 3 to Wednesday 5 April 2023 – Expo Center Norte, São Paulo, Brazil

http://latinamerica.wtm.com/

WTM Africa launched in 2014 in Cape Town, South Africa under the Africa Travel Week umbrella.  In 2022, WTM Africa facilitated more than 7 thousand unique pre-scheduled appointments, an increase of

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