BareMetal is a South African company with its headquarters in Cape Town. It was founded in 2011 to offer a range of professional Information Technology services, mainly in the form of wireless internet. The company’s goal is to assist small businesses, individuals and companies through its expertise and range of IT business services.

The company was looking to extend the range of services that it offers in order to cater to a more diverse market, including informal businesses, households, and underserved communities that previously had limited access to reliable internet.

Growth opportunities with fibre

In order to achieve this objective, BareMetal partnered with Frogfoot RISE, a provider of prepaid, uncapped internet access in underserved communities. By providing robust and reliable fibre optic infrastructure, Frogfoot ensures that BareMetal has access to high-speed, scalable internet that can help the company continue to grow while meeting the evolving needs of their customers. Having a dedicated customer support team always on hand to address any issues quickly and efficiently, helps BareMetal minimise downtime and maintain a seamless experience for their end-users.

By integrating fibre into its service portfolio, BareMetal has significantly enhanced its service delivery, while being able to offer high-speed, reliable connectivity has broadened the company’s client base and solidified its position as a key player in the digital landscape.

“Transitioning from a Wireless Internet Service Provider (WISP) to a Fibre Internet Service Provider (ISP) has been a transformative shift for BareMetal, largely due to our partnership with Frogfoot RISE. The robust infrastructure, technical support, and access to previously unattainable customers has allowed us to scale our offerings,” says Graham Khan, CTO at BareMetal.

Bridging the digital divide

The growth seen as a result of this transition has also empowered BareMetal to make a tangible positive impact on local communities through the creation of numerous employment opportunities, both directly within the company and through partnerships with local organisations. This includes a focus on upskilling community members by providing training in areas such as fibre sales, support procedures, customer support, and even technical maintenance.

As an example, Khan says that one of the company’s early hires, a local youth named Asenathi, joined BareMetal as a general sales agent, and after undergoing training, is now leading its fibre sales & support team that includes five staff members. “Stories like Asenathi’s are a testament to how partnerships like ours with Frogfoot RISE can foster personal growth and uplift entire communities,” says Khan.

“This collaboration with Frogfoot has allowed us to bridge the digital divide in remote areas that were previously neglected. The benefits extend beyond just connectivity, as local businesses can now thrive, students have reliable access to online learning, and essential services are more easily accessible through the power of high-speed internet.”

Work, school runs, lunch boxes, and homework—the daily routine is back in full swing for South African families after the festive season. While every parent treasures family time, with memories of the holidays still fresh, the everyday grind can feel unrelenting. Juggling work, school, cooking, cleaning, homework, lunch prep, baths, and bedtimes often leaves little room for meaningful moments. Where’s the time for romping with your children, reading bedtime stories, or sharing a quiet chat over hot chocolate?”

But this year, instead of running on autopilot, why not take a step back and reimagine your routine?

According to FUTURELIFE® Dietitian Sonal Ratan, smart lunch preparation could be one of the keys to reclaiming up to 20 minutes a day. “By simply setting aside half an hour once a week, preferably on a Sunday night, you can transform your daily lunchbox routine,” says Ratan. “That’s six and a half extra hours each month to dedicate to family time that previously might have slipped away in the normal daily rush. And the bonus? No dreaded last-minute lunch box panic.”

Ratan shares her top tips for making lunch prep efficient and nutritious:

1. Freezer Magic
Prepare sandwiches in advance. Fillings like, chicken mayo, roast beef, tuna, or egg mayo freeze exceptionally well. Store them in the freezer in reusable sandwich bags and simply defrost them by placing them in the fridge overnight. You can also bake and freeze FUTURELIFE® Smart Muffins for up to three months (just click on https://futurelife.co.za/blogs/recipes/futurelife-smart-snack-muffins for the recipe).
Pro Tip: Skip veggies like cucumbers and lettuce—they tend to get soggy when frozen. Pack these as a side snack instead.

2. Cool and Refreshing
Freezing diluted fruit juice or water in 500ml bottles doubles as a refreshing drink and a lunchbox cooler. “This hack keeps the lunch fresh and gives kids a perfectly chilled drink by break time,” says Ratan. Plus, reusing bottles means less plastic waste.
Pro Tip: 500ml bottles fit snugly in most lunch bags and are freezer-friendly.

3. Breakfast-on-the-Go
Need to get the kids to school bright and early for morning sports training and it’s just too soon for breakfast? Offer them a fruit snack, and for after training, pack a shaker with 150-200ml of water and a separate container with 50g of FUTURELIFE® Smart food™ for quick and convenient mixing. Everything can be measured and prepped in advance, making for a quick and convenient breakfast on the go!
And, if you have a child who struggles to wake up in the morning and ends up with no time for breakfast, make them a quick smoothie that they can enjoy in the car. Simply blend FUTURELIFE® Smart food™, milk and a fruit and decant into a reusable smoothie cup.
Pro Tip: For afternoon sports, try the  FUTURELIFE® ENERGIZE High Energy Shake Vanilla flavour or their new Banana flavour—no prep required!

4. Snack Prep Made Simple
Pre-portion snacks like dried fruit, nuts, FUTURELIFE® GRANOLA CRUNCH Smart food™, or FUTURELIFE® RICE POPS into reusable containers on Sunday evenings for the week. Freeze fruits like berries, grapes, peeled bananas or pineapple for a cool treat.
Pro Tip: While berries and tropical fruits freeze well, avoid freezing apples, oranges, and watermelons—they don’t thaw well.

“By streamlining tasks like lunch preparation, you free up valuable time in your daily routine,” concludes Ratan. “It’s just about reassessing your habits and, with a bit of planning, you can enhance your family’s nutrition while creating more opportunities for connection.”

For more smart nutrition tips and recipes, visit FUTURELIFE® online.

Lanseria International Airport and AERO South Africa, Southern Africa’s leading business-to-business trade show for the General Aviation industry, is proud to announce Lanseria International Airport as the new venue for its fifth edition, scheduled to take place from 25 to 27 June 2025. This move marks an exciting new chapter for the event, which has become a cornerstone of the General Aviation sector in the region.

Why Lanseria International Airport?

Lanseria International Airport has been selected for its exceptional suitability to host an event dedicated to General Aviation. Its comprehensive infrastructure and strategic location make it an ideal venue to continue the legacy of AERO South Africa.

Focus on General Aviation

As a major hub for General Aviation, Lanseria International Airport aligns perfectly with the event’s focus. The airport handles a wide variety of general aviation operations, from charter flights to private aircraft services, making it a fitting backdrop for exhibitors and attendees alike. ”As part of our strategic intent, we have partnered with AERO South Africa to showcase what the airport has to offer to the GA community in terms of upgraded facilities and new facilities that we are constructing”  said Rampa Rammopo the CEO of Lanseria International Airport.

Mr Rammopo further noted that the event aligns perfectly with the airport’s strategy to establish itself as an innovation hub in the region.  With the pipeline of capital projects to be launched in the near future, including the development of a Fixed Base Operator (FBO) precinct, the airport is well positioned to continue supporting the general aviation industry.

Infrastructure for Fly-ins and Demonstrations

AERO South Africa places significant emphasis on “fly-ins” and demonstration flights, which are integral to connecting exhibitors with potential buyers. Lanseria’s modern facilities, including a newly expanded runway capable of accommodating larger aircraft, provide an excellent platform for showcasing the latest advancements in aviation technology.

Convenient Location

Situated near Johannesburg, Lanseria International Airport is easily accessible for attendees and exhibitors from across South Africa and beyond. Its central location and excellent transport links ensure a seamless experience for all participants, reinforcing the event’s commitment to fostering meaningful connections within the General Aviation industry. 

Looking Ahead to 2025

“The move to Lanseria International Airport reflects AERO South Africa’s dedication to evolving and enhancing the experience for its exhibitors and visitors. With its modern facilities, strong alignment with General Aviation, and convenient accessibility, Lanseria is poised to elevate the event to new heights.” said Michael Dehn, the Managing Director of Messe Frankfurt South Africa.

About AERO South Africa: AERO South Africa is the premier business-to-business trade show for the General Aviation industry in Southern Africa. The event connects industry professionals, showcases innovations, and facilitates meaningful discussions on the future of aviation.

SALES CONTACT

For sales enquiries, please contact: Louise Olckers Show Director, AERO South Africa

Ford’s Struandale Engine Plant in Nelson Mandela Bay has played an instrumental role in the success of the locally assembled Ford Ranger – both in South Africa and in the more than 100 markets it is exported to around the world.

All the engines used in the Silverton-built Ford Ranger are proudly manufactured at the Gqeberha facility, using the latest technologies and advanced quality management systems to ensure the highest level of performance, reliability and durability that Ranger is renowned for.

This video provides insight into the Struandale operations which currently produces three different diesel engine programmes, comprising the silky smooth and powerful 3.0L V6 Diesel, the refined and efficient 2.0L Single Turbo and 2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel, as well as the renowned 2.2L and 3.2L Duratorq TDCi.

10 interesting facts on the Struandale Engine Plant:

1. This plant opened in 1964, making it the first dedicated engine assembly plant in South Africa
2. It has produced 11 different engine programmes over the past 60 years: Essex V6, V4, Kent, 2.0L OHC, CVH, Pte, Mazda B-Series, RoCam, and current production of the 2.2L/3.2L Duratorq TDCi, 2.0L Single Turbo/Bi-Turbo and 3.0L V6 Diesel
3. The Struandale plant machines the cylinder heads for the 3.0L V6 Diesel engine, and assembles the engines
4. In a Ford-first, the same assembly line also produces the 2.2L and 3.2L Duratorq TDCi engines. The combined installed capacity of this line is 130 000 engines per annum. It can produce one engine every 120 seconds
5. Production of the Duratorq TDCi engines includes component machining of the cylinder head, block and crankshaft
6. The popular 2.0L Single Turbo and 2.0L Bi-Turbo engines are produced on a separate assembly line with an installed capacity of 120 000 engines per year – or one engine every 134 seconds
7. The assembly lines feature multiple fully automated robotic and camera stations that ensure the highest level of production quality
8. Every engine produced is subjected to a Cold Test cycle to validate quality. In this test the engine is run at pressure without being started. Additionally, rigorous dynamometer testing is conducted on-site at scheduled intervals to evaluate performance and durability
9. The entire birth history of each engine is recorded with Ford’s online Quality Management Systems. This documents each step of the manufacturing and assembly process for traceability and quality
10. In August 2023, the Struandale plant produced its 4-millionth engine – a remarkable achievement!

You can watch and share the video here: https://youtu.be/TTjQ1cvRfIw

De Beers Group is proud to announce the winners of the 2024 Shining Light Awards, a jewellery design competition dedicated to empowering the next generation of designers from the countries where De Beers recovers diamonds, including Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa.

Originally launched in 1995, the Shining Light Awards are part of the De Beers Group Designers Initiative, a youth beneficiation skills development initiative aimed at cultivating world-class jewellery design and manufacturing skills within De Beers Group’s host countries. The competition runs every two years and is open to jewellery designers aged 18 to 35 who are in their final year of a jewellery design programme, have already graduated or who have relevant experience in jewellery design.

This year’s design theme, “Luxury Redefined”, invited entrants to present innovative, authentic and inclusive visions of luxury, while celebrating diversity. Each entry included designs for a complete jewellery collection featuring a ring, necklace, earrings, bangles and bracelets. A total of 104 entries were submitted this year, from which 22 finalists representing each country were selected.

Moses Madondo, CEO of De Beers Group Managed Operations, said: “The Shining Light Awards are a testament to De Beers Group’s commitment to beneficiation in the countries where we recover diamonds. By creating accessible opportunities within the diamond sector, we are actively investing in local talent, with a particular focus on supporting youth in our host countries to benefit from the diamond industry. Through the Shining Light Awards, we provide a platform that not only nurtures and develops emerging designers but also highlights the value of skills transfer, entrepreneurship, and creativity along the diamond value chain. We are truly inspired by the level of talent and innovation showcased by this year’s finalists.”

The Shining Light Awards are a cornerstone of De Beers’ youth beneficiation strategy, designed to create an environment for growth, skills transfer, entrepreneurship, global experiences and mentorship in the jewellery design sector. An international panel of judges representing the four countries, led by CEO of De Beers Jewellers, Céline Assimon, evaluated and selected this year’s winners.

“The Shining Light Awards provide a platform to spotlight young talent and open doors within the diamond sector and global markets. This year’s theme, Luxury Redefined, inspired a range of creative interpretations with designers exploring sustainability, natural elements and cultural heritage as sources of inspiration, reflecting how luxury is shaped and defined by individual lived experience. It was an honour to be part of this year’s competition, and congratulations to our winners and all applicants for their exceptional submissions,” said Céline.

The 2024 Shining Light Award prizes are designed to advance each winner’s career by further developing their skills and equipping them with essential tools for success. The prizes include business support, a structured skills development programme, and tuition assistance, all aimed at empowering winners to build sustainable careers in the jewellery industry and contribute lasting value to their communities.

The 2024 winners are:

First Place

• Legakwana Leo Makgekgenene (Botswana)
• Alisha Ansems (Canada)
• Juliana Fransisko (Namibia)
• Otlotleng Moshupa (South Africa)

Second Place

• Tsholo Cater Mogobye (Botswana)
• Elinor Nelson-Hachey (Canada)
• Padja Kaitungwa (Namibia)
• Eve Julia Schneeberger (South Africa)

Third Place

• Tshegofatso Sheba Kenalemang (Botswana)
• Samantha Yeung (Canada)
• Luka Ndivayele (Namibia)
• Lisa Henn (South Africa)