Rwanda has undergone a remarkable transformation since the tragic events of the 1994 genocide. The resilience and determination of the Rwandan people to rebuild their country and create a better future are truly inspiring. Despite the immense challenges they faced, they have managed to achieve impressive social, economic, and political progress.

The achievements highlighted, such as sustained economic growth, meeting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), promoting gender equality, improving education, and implementing effective healthcare systems, demonstrate Rwanda’s commitment to progress and development.

The emphasis on unity, forgiveness, and changing the prevailing narrative from hate to a message of reconciliation is a crucial aspect of Rwanda’s journey. By addressing the root causes of the genocide and actively working to prevent its recurrence, Rwanda has positioned itself as a nation dedicated to learning from its past and fostering a culture of understanding and unity.

The use of education, like bringing students to the Kigali Genocide Memorial to learn about history, is a powerful tool for transmitting the lessons of the past to the next generation. By doing so, Rwanda is ensuring that the painful history is not forgotten and that future generations are equipped to contribute positively to society.

In a comparison of Rwanda to Dubai, while illustrating its rapid development, also underscores the unique identity and progress that Rwanda has achieved. Rwanda’s journey from tragedy to recovery is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the potential for positive change even in the face of extreme adversity.

The story of Rwanda is a reminder that countries can overcome deep-seated challenges and work towards a brighter future when they commit to reconciliation, development, and unity. It’s also a testament to the importance of understanding and learning from history so that we can prevent similar atrocities from occurring in the future.

For media enquiries please email Rebecca Lekwane:  [email protected]

That overwhelming frustration and anger that feels like it comes out of nowhere, but could probably be related to the inexplicable seven kilograms of weight you’ve just picked up this past year; a menstrual cycle with a mind of its own… also, what is up with these nipple hairs?

If this sounds like a page out of your diary, it’s likely that you’re one of the 8-13% of women who suffer from a common but under-diagnosed condition called Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

Yet, as common as PCOS is, and as severe as its symptoms are known to be, PCOS typically goes undiagnosed for months and in most cases for years. “Many women and sometimes even their healthcare providers shrug off the symptoms associated with PCOS as a natural part of being a woman. Sadly, this all too often leads to delayed diagnoses,” says Dr Bradley Wagemaker, Medical Director at Lamelle Pharmaceuticals.

“While strides are being made in the medical industry and through PCOS Awareness Month in September, to improve the number of women being correctly diagnosed and treated at an early stage, women need to educate themselves on the signs to look out for,” he says.

PCOS is an endocrine (hormonal) condition that affects both girls and women but is often only diagnosable in women of reproductive age. Some of its signs include heavy, irregular or even absent periods, excess facial and body hair, oily skin and acne, and small cysts on the ovaries. Women with PCOS may also be more susceptible to insulin resistance, weight gain, psychosocial disorders, endometrial cancer, and other serious and life-threatening conditions.

PCOS also often leads to infertility in women; with the hormonal imbalance brought about by PCOS, the ovaries are unable to grow and release eggs, stunting the ovulation stage in a women’s cycle – that all-important time for baby-making.

“It’s sadly very common for women to suffer in silence, thinking that the uncomfortable, inconvenient and even traumatic symptoms of PCOS are nothing more than a normal part of being a woman, or a burden for them to deal with on their own,” says Dr Wagemaker. “Instead, the message we should be sending to all women is that PCOS is manageable, and that you may not have to forgo your weight loss goals or your dream of starting a family.”

Maintaining a healthy diet with limited sugar and carbohydrates is a good starting point, as is regular exercise. There are also supplements available to help alleviate the symptoms of PCOS. Ovaria, for instance, is a nutritional supplement that helps regulate insulin activity in the body.

In this process, the cells in a woman’s body are better able to use the glucose stores available, helping to regulate blood insulin levels, the ripple effect of which is normalised androgen levels and improved PCOS symptoms (bye bye, weight gain, so long, nipple hairs). This also improves fertility for women who are trying to fall pregnant.

“Ovaria has been proven to help with PCOS symptoms. This is due in great part to its main ingredient, Myo-Inositol, the efficacy of which is backed by clinical research,” adds Dr Wagemaker. “It’s also safe for breastfeeding mums.

While there’s still a long way to go in ensuring more women can get the PCOS diagnosis and effective treatment they deserve, women who are armed with the right information have more control over their own PCOS journeys – and that’s half the battle, won.

SOWETO, JOHANNESBURG: This week marks the last trading weekend of Brutal Fruit Spritzer SheBeen, the first pilot women-only venue in Soweto. As the countdown nears to the last days of the establishment, which is set to close on the last day of women’s month, 31 August, the venue has lined up fun activities to keep the revellers entertained.

To close off women’s month on a high note, key activities lined up for the closing weekend include quiz games that will be hosted on Thursday 24 August with DJ PlayGal taking on the decks. Friday which is themed Bestie Friday, will feature sing along songs, Amapiano and old school Hip-Hop, courtesy of DJ Shirley pebbles who will be on the ones and twos. Saturday 26 August will be an all-woman brunch, while Jozi FM’s Refiloe Motsei will host the popular soul Sundays.

The name of the venue, SheBeen, is a play on words where the prefix SHE, refers to the woman patrons who have exclusive access to the venue, and the suffix BEEN, denotes a place where she is inspired, celebrated and truly belongs.

Since its launch, Brutal Fruit Spritzer SheBeen has set tongues wagging across the country due to its novelty. The space was created by the proudly  woman–centric brand, Brutal Fruit Spritzer for SHE to BE free, comfortable, inspired and her authentic self. Thereby affording women the opportunity to come and celebrate one another for the entire month of August through good music, and a tailor-made menu, in a space where they can feel special.

Brand activation and events company Living Masks, was responsible from the activation to operations stage and ensured that the experience of the guests was met and exceeded.

Yolandi Michaels of Living Masks, says she was excited about working on the Brutal Fruit Spritzer SheBeen project as it ideologically resonated with her and her female team. “If I could choose a project to work on, it would definitely be this one. It spoke to some of our experiences as women and gave expression to our desire to have our own space where we feel a sense of belonging and where we can connect and have fun without any inhibitions,” says Michaels.

She continues: “The experience on the ground-working with patrons has been wonderful. The feedback we received from the patrons and the owner has been nothing short of amazing. The patrons are just disappointed that the space is  short-lived and will  not been given a longer lifespan. But overall, the vibe and the feedback has been phenomenal,” says Michaels. She points out that the Brutal Fruit Spritzer SheBeen concept was a conversation starter that has sparked a thought on how brands and consumers can do things differently.

In line with creating a female-friendly establishment, the venue was given a facelift with pink tiles, floral roof, designer furniture, mirrored walls with words of affirmations and a vanity bathroom to celebrate women for the duration of women’s month.

“We are delighted with the overwhelmingly positive feedback we received from the public and the patrons about Brutal Fruit Spritzer SheBeen. The venue has been a talking point for millions of people across South Africa on social media platforms. The concept of She-Been stems from Brutal Fruit Spritzer’s  brand mantra of You Belong, which seeks to provide women with the confidence experiences and spaces  that accentuate their femininity and sense of belonging.

Brutal Fruit Spritzer SheBeen also vindicated our conviction that is based on anecdotal evidence and market research that there is a place in the market for women only spaces or experiences where they can  go out and just be free to express themselves unapologetically. We have learnt important lessons from this trailblazing venture, and the insights we have gained will help us to create more enhanced experiences for women where they can enjoy themselves without any inhibitions, in spaces where they belong,” says Candice van den Bosch, Acting Head of Brand, Brutal Fruit Spritzer.

Prenatal care is an essential part not only of a healthy pregnancy, but also for giving birth and beyond. Expectant mothers who receive quality care from the beginning of their journey can be confident that their baby will have the best start in life, with individual care and support from their healthcare providers. However, while childbirth, including elements of pregnancy and prenatal support, are covered by medical aid, there can be significant medical expense shortfalls, particularly when it comes to the delivery of the baby. Having an appropriate medical aid plan, complemented by the right gap cover, can help to ensure that young families do not start the next phase of their lives with added financial stress.

The benefits of proper prenatal care

Prenatal care plays a vital role in ensuring a healthy pregnancy as well as a positive outcome for both the mother and baby. During the pregnancy, healthcare professionals will monitor maternal health through regular check-ups to help identify and address any potential health issues, such as high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, infections, or anaemia. Check-ups monitor the unborn baby, to ensure they are growing and developing properly and that any abnormalities or concerns can be detected early, and timely interventions can be made, including referrals to specialists where needed. The mother and baby are screened for any infections that may be harmful to either or both, which can then be treated quickly to prevent complications or transmission of infections to the baby during pregnancy or childbirth.

Prenatal care also helps to educate expectant mothers on various aspects of pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal care, including information about nutrition, exercise, breastfeeding, and how to take care of their overall well-being. This knowledge empowers mothers to make informed decisions and take necessary steps to ensure a healthy pregnancy and a positive childbirth experience. It is also an important part of developing a supportive network of providers, where expectant mothers can discuss any concerns, ask questions, and receive emotional support throughout their pregnancy journey.

Where the gaps creep in

Comprehensive prenatal care is well recognised for helping to reduce complications with childbirth and ensure positive outcomes for the mother and baby. Many medical aid schemes will enable their members to access a basket of care during pregnancy to ensure they look after their own health as well as the health of their unborn baby.

However, there may still be gaps in medical expenses that are not covered by medical aid schemes, especially when it comes to specialist care as well as childbirth itself. These gaps can include co-payments and fees for certain specialised services or treatments, as well as hospital co-payments and medical expense shortfalls from doctors, surgeons, anaesthetists and more.

Covering the gap

Gap cover can help to ensure that young families begin their journey without significant out of pocket expenses, providing additional coverage for medical expenses that may exceed the limits or reimbursement rates set by the medical aid scheme. Having gap cover can provide peace of mind for expectant parents, knowing that there is an additional layer of financial protection in case of unexpected medical expenses. This peace of mind contributes to a positive pregnancy experience.

However, it is important to understand that gap cover providers have waiting periods and exclusions for pre-existing conditions, which includes pregnancy. As part of comprehensive financial planning, and before beginning the journey toward becoming a parent, it is important to talk to your financial advisor to select a gap cover option that best suits your needs and budget.

About Turnberry Risk Management Solutions Founded in 2001, Turnberry is a registered financial services provider (FSP no. 36571) that specialises in Accident and Health Insurance, Travel Insurance, and Funeral Cover.

With extensive experience across healthcare and insurance industries in South Africa, Turnberry offers unsurpassed service to Brokers and clients. Turnberry’s gap cover products are available to clients on all medical aid schemes, as they are independently provided and are therefore transferable in the event of a change in the client’s medical aid scheme.

Turnberry is well represented nationally, with its Head Office based in Bedfordview, Johannesburg with Business Development Managers in Cape Town and Durban. The Turnberry Team’s focus on outstanding client service comes from having extensive knowledge and experience in the financial services sector and is underwritten by Lombard Insurance Company Limited. Lombard Insurance Company Limited is an Authorised Financial Services Provider (FSP 1596) and Insurer conducting non-life insurance business.

Unmarried, no kids, and a bank balance that’s a little low? Your chances of successfully getting a visa to travel just got slimmer. Not everyone’s equal when it comes to visa applications. Factors such as your marital status, whether or not you have children, ownership of property, how long you’ve worked for the company, your bank balance, and even your social media activity can count against you.

According to Andrew MacRae, the director of Execuserve SA, a visa application partner of Corporate Traveller, these factors have been leading to a rise in visa rejections among South African travellers. Embassies consider granting a visa as “a privilege, not a right”. This puts the onus on the traveller to prove their motives for travel are legit.

“Your visa application needs to prove why you’re travelling, if you’re planning to return home and if you’re a potential threat,” he explains – hence an increase in visas being rejected after a “social media review”.

Jumping through these hoops is increasing the burden on those arranging business travel for younger, lower-earning staff, recent hires, and first-time visa applicants, says MacRae.

And let’s not forget the game of political chess that adds another layer to this already complex board. MacRae says some countries impose restrictions or additional requirements on South Africans based on how their citizens are treated when applying for South African visas. Plot twist!

Ensuring your visa documents are in order doesn’t guarantee a stamp. Certain embassies prioritise interviews, which can be intimidating. Nervousness, (even if you’ve got nothing to hide), can lead to rejection. The solution? “We provide interview coaching for companies with novice travellers. This helps them anticipate and confidently face the interview,” says McRae.

Time’s not on your side either. Visa processing times have taken a slower lane – due to the post-Covid curveball of staff shortages – warns McRae. What once took weeks now requires more patience. This situation is exacerbated during major events, such as a regional rugby World Cup, potentially extending visa lead times from a few weeks to as long as six weeks, he says.

MacRae’s advice for visa applications for a business trip: Begin by sending your passport and travel details to a visa specialist as soon as you can. This information is essential for them to accurately assess your visa eligibility and predict the processing time. DIY research is risky. Information published on embassy websites is usually outdated, he warns.

And what about travellers who can’t prove a healthy bank balance? Here you’ll need the support of your employer. “Schengen nations demand personal bank statements reflecting a daily surplus of around €190, irrespective of travel purpose or full business coverage. A corporate credit card is insufficient too; your company should transfer the necessary amount for your trip expenses into your account as part of your application process.”

Your company’s support is key to cracking the visa code – which is why having a travel management company (TMC) is invaluable for businesses with international travel needs, says Rategang Moroke, operations manager at Corporate Traveller.

“Your travel manager ensures your flights, accommodation, and travel plans are on track, while our visa partners make sure your visa process goes smoothly, from scheduling appointments to dealing with embassy requirements. Working together, we take care of your travel, so you can focus on your work goals and have a stress-free trip,” she explains.

How to up your chances of getting a visa green light? Moroke has the following advice:

Check your passport: Before diving into your international plans, check your passport’s expiration date. Numerous countries require a validity of at least six months after your return. Your travel manager will always track these details from your profile, while Corporate Traveller’s tech automatically notifies you about expiring visas.

Chat with travel experts ASAP: Contact your travel manager as soon as you have a sense you may need to travel. They’ll help you determine what kind of visa you need based on your destination and nationality. Your travel manager can also hook you up with visa pros who know the ropes.

Sort out travel insurance: When applying for a visa, you must show that you have travel insurance. Your travel manager can suggest insurance companies with the right coverage for your work trip.

Keep up with rule changes: Rules can flip overnight. Your travel manager will keep you posted about any changes that might mess with your plans, so you don’t have to worry about it constantly.

Stay flexible with bookings: Your travel manager can book flights and accommodation options that are less restrictive and more flexible, allowing you to make changes and cancellations as needed.

“Having a TMC like Corporate Traveller can really make a difference to the success of your visa application. Our tech analyses your profile, so you can always ensure your passport and visas are valid. Your dedicated travel manager will also make sure your bookings are refundable if, for some reason, you can’t travel, which can be a big cost saving in these times of visa volatility. And because we partner with visa specialists, you get the guidance you need to reduce your chances of being rejected,” Moroke says.

The bottom line? Prep your paperwork, polish your confidence – and crucially – take the advice of your visa application partner and TMC.

About Corporate Traveller

Corporate Traveller is a division of the Flight Centre Travel Group, dedicated to saving businesses across Southern Africa time and money. Corporate Traveller has the benefit of being part of the world’s third-largest travel retailer, leveraging its global negotiating strength. It has access to over 50 of the world’s leading airlines and deals with more than 100 000 hotels around the world to guarantee savings for clients. Corporate Traveller provides clear, consolidated reporting of all its clients’ travel activities, helping them to control travel spend and identify opportunities to save costs.

For many of us, there is a good chance that the first vlogger we ever met was long before the YouTube era. It was probably an uncle or maybe even an older sister. Whoever it was, the first vlogger we met was almost certainly that one family member who always had a camcorder strapped to one hand. Back then, the name vlogging may not have existed, but millions of households across the globe knew who the family content creator was, and that person’s camcorder was probably big and clunky by today’s standards.

Shaky Beginnings

The first vlog is widely believed to have started on January 2, 2000, by Adam Kontras when he posted a video alongside a blog entry to document his cross-country move to Los Angeles. It would later become the longest-running video blog in history. Since then, we have come leaps and bounds. In the early days, vlogging resembled a bumpy ride on a pothole-riddled road. Armed with handheld cameras, aspiring content creators struggled to find the right balance between capturing the moment and remaining authentic. Awkward angles, shaky shots, and distorted audio plagued their videos, but they persevered. In 2005, YouTube burst onto the scene, and the growing pool of vloggers finally had a platform where they could easily share their work with the world.

A Continuing Evolution

As time passed, vloggers grew more sophisticated. The introduction of flip-out screens allowed them to see themselves while recording, saving countless takes from ending up on the virtual cutting room floor. Improved autofocus technology ensured that vloggers remained in sharp focus, enhancing the overall viewing experience. But there was still something missing—a camera that understood the unique needs of vloggers, a camera that could capture both their personality and the world around them with finesse.

The rapid improvement of technology and the increasingly widespread availability of vlogging equipment forced manufacturers to look closely at how to go from simply making a good content creation camera to designing something truly remarkable and how their product could best meet evolving demands.

When Vloggers Needed A Wider Shot, Sony Said “Watch This”

If you have ever tried vlogging with your smartphone or a camera with a narrow lens, then you will be familiar with the frustration of trying to fit everything into the shot. Cameras of the past struggled with this. Designed to capture the world the way you want, the Sony ZV-1 II lets you shoot everything from group selfies to sprawling cityscapes with ease. Its wide-angle 18mm lens can capture a wider field of view than the human eye, so you can easily fit everyone or everything in the frame. Whether you’re indoors or out, the wide-angle lens turns everyday scenes into dynamic footage and helps ensure that you spend less time editing.

Size Matters

Cameras of the past needed a gym membership to operate. They were heavy and bulky, making shooting, travelling and generally moving around a mission. The fact that it weighs less than 300g and was designed to take up as little space as possible means modern vloggers can take the ZV-1 II any and everywhere. Combining this with its powerful image stabilisation technology also means that the shaky footage that used to typify vlogging is a thing of the past.

Always Focused

Equipped with cutting-edge autofocus technology, the ZV1-II knows how to make vloggers shine. Its autofocus technology locks onto their eyes, tracking their movements effortlessly, even in busy and unpredictable environments. Now, they can maintain crystal-clear focus, no matter where their vlogs take them. Blurred backgrounds with stunning bokeh effects are just a click away, making every shot a cinematic masterpiece.

Sounds Like Progress

Audio problems are also a thing of the past. Thanks to Sony’s ZV1-II innovative built-in mic, new-age vloggers can convey their message with utmost clarity. Background noise becomes a distant memory because of the camera’s ability to prioritize the vlogger’s voice, ensuring that viewers don’t miss a single word.

Vlogging has come a long way since the days of bulky camcorders with tapes in them, and as the world of vlogging has continued to evolve, one thing has remained constant: the importance of authenticity and the desire to capture lives in all their glory.