RNEWS https://westerncapenews.co.za Western Cape Tue, 19 May 2020 13:29:22 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.2.15 Alimandi – A Leader in Indigenous and Water-Wise Plants https://westerncapenews.co.za/alimandi-a-leader-in-indigenous-and-water-wise-plants/community/2200/ Tue, 19 May 2020 09:09:31 +0000 https://westerncapenews.co.za/?p=2200 Amongst all the chaos and uncertainty in our world right now, it is refreshing to find a business that has embraced nature and a genuine down-to-earth way of living. They have done this through their retail and public nursery. Alimandi, situated off the Klapmuts turnoff in Paarl, is a family-owned and run business. Brothers, Pieterjan (PJ) ... Read moreAlimandi – A Leader in Indigenous and Water-Wise Plants

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Amongst all the chaos and uncertainty in our world right now, it is refreshing to find a business that has embraced nature and a genuine down-to-earth way of living. They have done this through their retail and public nursery.

Alimandi, situated off the Klapmuts turnoff in Paarl, is a family-owned and run business. Brothers, Pieterjan (PJ) and Oeloff du Plessis, together with Maresa Samuel, bring over 12 years of experience within the landscaping and nursery industry. They believe in a sustainable lifestyle and want to impart that element into every client’s life as best they can. Their passion can clearly be seen in the quality of their plants and the way in which they work with their customers.

Alimandi specialises in Indigenous, Local and Water-Wise Plants, Plant and Tree Sourcing, Project Management, Consulting, Landscape Management and Design, and now open to the public with their Succulent Trading Post at Klein Joostenberg, Stellenbosch, as well as an Online Shop.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

For many years, Alimandi only catered to wholesalers and retailers, but when they realised there was a need from the public for quality succulents and other water-wise plants, they explored how they could expand their offering.

After much chatting, whiskeys and ‘kuiers’ with the owners of Klein Joostenberg, they agreed that Alimandi could carve out a space on their property for their Succulent Trading Post.  Within a few weeks, they were ready to trade and opened to the public. Right now, even in our lockdown, Alimandi is able to trade and supply plant and garden lovers with their amazing quality-grown succulents and other water-wise plants through their public and retail nursery.

And, if you can’t get down to Klein Joostenberg, they have just launched their Online Shop, where you simply choose the succulents you want, pop them into your check-out basket, pay and they will deliver.

SPREADING THE LOVE – SHARING THE LEKKER

With lockdown affecting everyone, and not only businesses but also our fragile emotional state, Alimandi have started the initiative #dontbekaksharethelekker. Along with a client, they are encouraging all South Africans and even further beyond our borders, to reach out to a friend, family member, customer, or anyone you feel simply needs a willing ear.

Sometimes, that is all it takes – just a chat and a laugh – knowing that we will all get through this and this too will be a distant memory soon.

To connect with Alimandi, find out more about what they offer through their nursery and support their #dontbekaksharethelekker, head on over to their website or Facebook page.

To keep up to date with all local news, be sure to follow us on social media – links below. Or if you want to advertise.

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Offering you IT solutions in one innovative box https://westerncapenews.co.za/offering-you-it-solutions-in-one-innovative-box/business-link/2193/ Sun, 17 Nov 2019 09:56:42 +0000 https://westerncapenews.co.za/?p=2193 The world, it is a changing! And, along with it so are the types of suppliers we need to have around us. Digital Transformation should be part of your business and if it isn’t, now is the time to start. One such supplier is Cloudbox, an innovative pioneer in the IT industry, who have a ... Read moreOffering you IT solutions in one innovative box

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The world, it is a changing! And, along with it so are the types of suppliers we need to have around us. Digital Transformation should be part of your business and if it isn’t, now is the time to start.

One such supplier is Cloudbox, an innovative pioneer in the IT industry, who have a highly experienced team whose mission is to help their clients work smarter through their Digital Transformation journey.

WHAT’S IN THE BOX?

File Sharing & Collaboration

Highly secure data sharing.

File & Email Backups

Never lose an important email or file.

Email & Calendaring

Have access to secure communication from any device.

Office 365 Productivity Suite

Simplify collaboration, networking & work from anywhere.

Cybersecurity

Never fall victim to hackers with built-in Antivirus, Email Security, Website filtering and URL protection

WHAT ELSE CAN CLOUDBOX OFFER?

If you don’t want to take the entire box of goodies, you can opt for standalone solutions, such as:

FILING STORAGE & SHARING

  • Unlimited Storage
  • Securely Share Files
  • Automatic, instant back-up
  • GDPR Compliance
  • In-depth audit and logging
  • Easy deployment and control
  • File synchronisation across any device
  • Safest and most secure
  • Control your business information

HOSTED PBX BUSINESS PHONE SOLUTIONS

  • Cost-Effective
  • Multiple Ways To Be Connected
  • Great Call Quality & Voice Recording
  • Easy Bill Management

IT SUPPORT AND NETWORK MANAGEMENT

  • Automated Proactive Support
  • Onsite resources
  • Network Monitoring & Alerting
  • Security Management
  • Guaranteed Response Times
  • Project Management Services
  • Hardware Procurement
  • Patching & Software updates
  • Preventative Maintenance
  • Monitoring

AZURE & TERACO CLOUD SERVERS

High-performance cloud servers that are flexible and sized to what your business needs:

  • Datacentre Choice: Microsoft Azure or Teraco
  • Ultimate Reliability
  • Scalability & Flexibility
  • Cost-Effectiveness

ADDITIONAL SECURITY SERVICES

  • Managed Firewalls
  • Advanced Email Threat Protection

No matter whether you are a start-up or an established business, it may be time to try a new box out!


GET IN TOUCH TODAY
 and find out how they can guide you through your Digital Transformation journey.

And, be sure to follow us on our SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS to keep up to date with the latest news.

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Leaving a Legacy one Domestic Worker at a time https://westerncapenews.co.za/leaving-a-legacy-one-domestic-worker-at-a-time/community/2185/ Fri, 15 Nov 2019 08:29:01 +0000 https://westerncapenews.co.za/?p=2185 Cape Town, South Africa – November 2019 – Have you ever wondered about the journey your domestic worker must take in order to arrive at your doorstep to clean your house or look after your kids?  Or, who she is leaving behind every time she makes that early morning walk to the bus stop or ... Read moreLeaving a Legacy one Domestic Worker at a time

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Cape Town, South Africa – November 2019 – Have you ever wondered about the journey your domestic worker must take in order to arrive at your doorstep to clean your house or look after your kids?  Or, who she is leaving behind every time she makes that early morning walk to the bus stop or taxi rank?  Maggie Oewies-Shongwe has lived and breathed the life of a domestic worker since the impressionable age of 9 years old and she can tell a story or two to bring a tear to your eye.

Where did it all start?

Maggie

Born in South West Africa in 1940, Maggie learnt the hard way how cruel the world could be. Witnessing her father’s execution at the age of 7 years old, and then moving to Cape Town at the tender age of 9 to be a domestic worker was just the beginning. She raised a family’s 10-month-old baby and eventually ran the home, which meant Maggie had to grow up fast.  It was during this time she became acutely aware of the inequality experienced by non-white women and men. Especially those who worked as housekeepers, butlers, caregivers, caretakers and gardeners. She realised that domestic workers needed support, and so she founded the Domestic Worker’s Association (DWA) back in 1974. She put insurance cover in place and assisting with training to empower these workers. With the support of the greater community, including people like Helen Suzman, who was the first to sign up her gardener, the organisation pioneered to fight for these worker’s human rights. The arrival of politically affiliated labour organisations introduced a political influence on labour matters. This mix that did not fit her aspiration of impartial representation of labourers’ rights. Maggie then redirected her focus towards the members’ need for childcare services closer to their place of work. – and went on to opening Pinocchio Creche in Green Point. They currently cater to over 70 children, majorly still servicing children of domestic workers and general household labourers. Many of these workers feel the stress and worry of leaving their children, often alone, commuting from various townships and urban areas around Cape Town. Pinocchio Creche brought them peace of mind, knowing their babies were being looked after and receiving an education to boot.

The creche has been running since 1984 and has grown from strength to strength, starting off with only 40 kids and now bridging on almost 80. The programme has a holistic approach to children’s development – besides cognitive, social-emotional, and fine and gross motor skills development, they offer violin music, organic garden, and even tennis development programmes to all attendees. They have a non-exclusion policy. In 2001 the organisation was re-launched as the Domestic Workers Association Educational Trust, under which Pinocchio Creche is a project branch.

Helen … holding the lamp high for Maggie

Helen

Helen, Maggie’s daughter, was one of the first to enrol in the creche.  “I grew up within this nurturing environment that greatly contributed to the fundamental growth of each child at the crèche; and today I admire the efforts of those parents who prioritise the welfare of their children, despite financial limitations,” says Helen.

Amongst Helen’s impressive achievements is receiving the Lion Derek Livesey Memorial Award for her community work at the age of 14 years. She was also nominated for the 2007 Reebok Human Rights Award by the University Of Toronto Faculty Of Law. She was further awarded three provincial awards by the Department of Social Development.  To add to this, Helen was also awarded three Certificates of Appreciation from the Western Cape Department of Social Development. This for recognition of valuable contributions made to the Atlantic Seaboard and Cape Town Early Childhood Development Principals Forum in assuming the roles of Chairperson and Secretary. An award was also given in participation of the ECD Program Development Registration Workshops.  Helen credits her early years at Pinocchio Creche for these awards and accolades.

A few more accolades, which Maggie was primarily instrumental in, was the influence she had on multi-racial multi-cultural Model C schools in South Africa.  After years of campaigning, in 1991, Maggie finally managed to convince the Department of Education to open Model C schools to all races.  Helen was one of the first non-white pupils to attend Ellerton Primary School in Sea Point and the event was covered both internationally and locally across all media.

More recently, in 2010, Pinocchio Creche launched a Cape Town International Service Learning partnership with Howard University School of Social Work in Washington DC. Over 300 members of faculty, Masters and Doctoral students have passed through their doors to learn and experience their social work within the early childhood sector. All this with limited resources.

What next for DWA Educational Trust and Pinocchio Creche?

Through the DWA Educational Trust’s fundraising efforts, a five-year plan was developed which involves a very focused growth model – 

  • • the current premises which home Pinocchio Creche is in desperate need of an upgrade, as well as the equipment and the curricula – to enable the creche to appeal to the LSM 6-9 market, and not just to the low-income workers this upgrade is top of the list for them. A step towards creating an integrated learning environment – and illuminating indirectly segregated learning spaces.
  • • they wish to eventually charge income-based tuition. Which will, in turn, improve their current revenue stream and they envisage achieving this by late 2020, early 2021.
  • • their staff complement needs to also grow by at least 87% to accommodate the increase in pupils
  • • they wish to establish additional income streams. Such as transportation services, events venue hiring services, extra-mural programs and courses. i.e. robotics, coding and STEAM, of which they need guidance and assistance with
  • • and, by year 5, they would love to be able to purchase a building of their own to start up a primary school. Here they can feed their pre-primary graduates into – an urgent need.

The goals are huge but the will and passion are real!

In the words of the now-retired Maggie, “We can create a better future. In fact, we have it in our hands. Our children are our future.

Whether you are simply a caring citizen or a corporate who employs low-income workers, you too can be part of the cause and movement.

How?

Simply, reach out today and enquire on how you too can make a difference.

To keep up to date with all local news, be sure to follow us on social media – links below. Or if you want to advertise.

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John’s Service Centre – the best vehicle service centre in Cape Town https://westerncapenews.co.za/johns-service-centre-the-best-vehicle-service-centre-in-cape-town/uncategorized/2171/ Mon, 09 Sep 2019 10:08:08 +0000 https://westerncapenews.co.za/?p=2171 From humble beginnings in 1994, John Prinsloo began to service and repair vehicles from his home. With two stands and a love for cars, John eventually moved his part-time business to Montague Gardens in 2001. Maria, his wife, with her creative background, posted a small advert in the local newspaper,   in the hopes that it ... Read moreJohn’s Service Centre – the best vehicle service centre in Cape Town

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From humble beginnings in 1994, John Prinsloo began to service and repair vehicles from his home. With two stands and a love for cars, John eventually moved his part-time business to Montague Gardens in 2001.

Maria, his wife, with her creative background, posted a small advert in the local newspaper,   in the hopes that it would bring in some business.

The advert was the start to them growing their business with the support of the surrounding community.  Today, some 18 years later, John’s Service Centre is still going strong.  In fact, if you ask any local in a 10-20 km radius of their workshop in Montague Gardens, where the best service centre is, you will, most times, hear them say, “Johns, of course!”.

THE AMAZING TEAM

John’s Service Centre’s family is made up of:

The Management Team

JOHN: The Owner

MARIA: The Financial Administrator

ANTON: The Workshop Manager

CATHI: The Admin Assistant

The Workshop Team

NAZEEM & ISAAC: The Skilled Mechanics

NKOSI & JP: The Semi-Skilled Mechanics

MUSTAFA & BERENISE: The General Workshop Assistants

WHAT ALL DOES JOHN’S SERVICE CENTRE OFFER?

At John’s Service Centre, their service is guaranteed, and whether your vehicle is diesel or petrol, privately or fleet owned, their service offering is wide and they cover all makes of vehicles.

At John’s Service Centre they also offer their free 73-point safety check, which includes:

  • Regular maintenance services
  • Major maintenance services
  • Mechanical repairs
  • Engine overhauls
  • Gearbox repairs
  • Water pumps
  • Cambelts
  • Vehicle diagnostic analysis
  • Radiators
  • Cylinder heads
  • Auto electricals
  • Clutch & brakes
  • Suspension repairs
  • Diff repairs
  • Shocks
  • Wheel bearings
  • CV joints
  • Tie rod ends
  • Ball joints
  • Drive shafts
  • Carburettors
  • All vehicle related repairs

WHAT DOES A SERVICE INCLUDE?

Your vehicle should be serviced once a year or every 10 000 km for Diesel and every 15 000 km for Petrol.

All John’s Service Centre’s work is guaranteed and their parts too under the manufacturer’s warranty.

There are two types of service options available:

MAJOR SERVICE

Oil Filter  |  Air Filter  |  Plugs  |  Micro Filter  |  Engine Oil  |  Fuel Filter

MINOR SERVICE

Oil Change  |  Oil Filter  |    Engine Oil

If you’re in need of a vehicle service, or simply want to have your car checked out for any reason or repair, just connect here with John’s Service Centre in Montague Gardens, Cape Town.

To further stay connected with everyday news and helpful tips, follow us.

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Healthy in a Jar! Try Jar Bar in Cape Town! https://westerncapenews.co.za/healthy-in-a-jar-try-jar-bar-in-cape-town/home-food-and-travel/2164/ Tue, 03 Sep 2019 12:03:34 +0000 https://westerncapenews.co.za/?p=2164 When it comes to fast food, one always gets a little nervous about what the nutritional value is in each meal. Will it be healthy? Will I get my daily quota? You know you need instant gratification, so the don’t-have-time-to-make-lunch / grab-a-meal on-the-go attitude reigns, and so you choose the nearest option.  The nearest option often ... Read moreHealthy in a Jar! Try Jar Bar in Cape Town!

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When it comes to fast food, one always gets a little nervous about what the nutritional value is in each meal. Will it be healthy? Will I get my daily quota?

You know you need instant gratification, so the don’t-have-time-to-make-lunch / grab-a-meal on-the-go attitude reigns, and so you choose the nearest option.  The nearest option often being an oily, fat-laden, non-nutritional and almost always unappetising taste-choice.

Well, what if we told you that you could order (online) or walk in and order a high quality, wholesome and delicious meal that wouldn’t set your wallet on fire?

And, to boot, they are local and lekker!

Jar Bar, situated in the heart of the CBD, 12 Spin Street to be exact, are doing just that!

For a reasonable price you can order a meal in a jar – yes! Literally! – a jar filled with tasty food, ready for you to pop on a plate or bowl and simply enjoy. And, if you can’t get there (i.e. stuck at your desk or in another meeting) you can order online and have it delivered. (Jar Bar delivers within a 5-10km radius from Spin Street).

What’s on offer?

A wide range of seasonal salads, soups, curries and sweet stuff – all in a reusable jar!

Check out their range here or pop into their quaint little sit-down café on Spin Street.

And, if you return your jar, you will receive R15 off your next order by way of a coupon!  You can either return the jar in person or order online and receive the coupon by hand.

Get the office onboard!

Many times, in an office situation, there is a mix of people bringing their own lunches or ordering in, the former because they want to be in control of their nutrition, the latter because it’s just easier.

If you get the entire office in on the Jar Bar way of eating, then you all can be eating healthy and contributing to a sustainable way of living.

Jar Bar offers deliveries to offices within their 5-10km radial area from Monday to Thursday (11am to 4h30pm) and Fridays (11am to 4pm), closed on weekends.

Additional services to businesses are:

  1. Ordering regularly
  2. Catering for a corporate event
  3. Stocking Jar Bar at the office

To enquire, simply send them some info here!

We can only tell you so much here so we really do encourage you to give Jar Bar a try.

And, be sure to follow them on their social platforms – FacebookInstagram – to keep up with their specials and new meal additions.

15% off your first order too!!  

To keep up to date with all local news, be sure to follow RNews on social media – links below. Or if you want to advertise.

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Timbu.com to hire 1,000 South Africans in the next three months https://westerncapenews.co.za/timbu-com-to-hire-1000-south-africans-in-the-next-three-months/business-link/2160/ Fri, 30 Aug 2019 10:55:58 +0000 https://westerncapenews.co.za/?p=2160 According to the South African department of statistics data currently shows that:       👨‍💻       29.0% of the South African population is currently unemployed.        👩‍💻       The youth population make up 55.2% of this population.       👩‍💻       Youths are turning to remote jobs.       👨‍💻       The youthful population are best suited to tech-related work  Keeping this ... Read moreTimbu.com to hire 1,000 South Africans in the next three months

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According to the South African department of statistics data currently shows that:

             29.0% of the South African population is currently unemployed. 

             The youth population make up 55.2% of this population.

             Youths are turning to remote jobs.

             The youthful population are best suited to tech-related work 

Keeping this in mind, Timbu.com is an international online travel agency and are looking to launch into Africa, starting by expanding into South Africa. Due to the technical nature of their services they are seeking individuals with technical expertise in software, marketing, and logistics. “We are looking to hire 1,000 South Africans in the next three months, to achieve this goal we are spending $500,000.” On July the 16th the announcement was made during a meeting with top officials and shareholders during a company meeting. 

What does Timbu.com offer?

The services that Timbu.com provides involves a lot of technical expertise, and these services require technical skills and knowledge. 

With the unprecedented boom in the tech industry, and more people taking interest in visiting exciting destination and having adventures; the decision to hire more people, is all part of our plan to increase productivity; as well as to provide excellent service to our customers. We at Timbu.com felt that this is a move in the right direction‘ the Head of Growth at Timbu.com Victor Rowland was quoted as saying. 

This development which is mainly aimed at the youthful population of South Africa is expected to inject more jobs into the South African labour force,  as well as battle the unemployment rate in the country. The move is expected to take effect from August 2019.

Interested applicants can apply here.

They are here to recruit

Timbu.com. is the fastest growing online travel booking agency in Africa that serves more than 2,000 unique visitors to the site daily. Visitors can book flights, apply for visas, book hotels in their destination country and even get transportation to move around the cities. 

For more information please visit https://timbu.com/#. Or email us at [email protected].

To keep up to date with all local news, be sure to follow RNews on social media – links below. Or if you want to advertise.

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Are you a Boob Ambassador? https://westerncapenews.co.za/are-you-a-boob-ambassador/community/2151/ Tue, 20 Aug 2019 09:05:21 +0000 https://westerncapenews.co.za/?p=2151 Thursdays sure are! As a business, who saw the gap in the market place, where women with cup sizes C and up were not being supported properly (in every essence of the word!), they decided to help them support their boobs. Who is the Brains behind the Boobs? The Thursdays range of lingerie is not ... Read moreAre you a Boob Ambassador?

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Thursdays sure are!

As a business, who saw the gap in the market place, where women with cup sizes C and up were not being supported properly (in every essence of the word!), they decided to help them support their boobs.

Who is the Brains behind the Boobs?

The Thursdays range of lingerie is not only beautifully made but super comfortable and supportive for women blessed with a buxom bosom.  Did you know that there are over 1,5 million women in South Africa who wear a C cup and up and most are not wearing the right bras.

Shona Macdonald, the founder and owner, who you may recognise as one of the Survivor SA: Champions contestants a few years back, has shown that she is no ditsy blonde. She is a successful businesswomen, who even managed to impress the Shark Tank investors with her Thursdays Lingerie and Swimwear business concept.

The Launch of the Year

On the 6th of December this year, Thursdays Lingerie and Swimwear launched their new Fynbos Lingerie range. Their proudly South African production is like fynbos, blossoming in the Cape after the “fire” which has seen the dramatic increase in Chinese imports. The abundance of cheap imports has led to the loss of nearly two thirds of the clothing sectors jobs over the past two decades. Thursdays has been working hard to find and upskill the right team, to make quality lingerie that is unique to the Cape.

Are you a Boob Ambassador?

The evening started out with a bang at Grand Daddy Boutique Hotel in Cape Town, where the hand-picked VIP guests were treated to all brands of yummy gin mixes, complements of Chroma Gin, African Handcrafted Gin and Waverly Hill Wines, vibey tunes and an amazing runway fashion show.  Boudoir Box helped the ladies out in measuring them up, ensuring they were wearing the correctly sized bras.  And, just to add to the spoiling, DYME Beauty App offered complementary pamper sessions for all!

The Thursdays models were simply stunning, strutting their stuff, most for the first time on stage, in the black and white fynbos lingerie – such confidence – such beauty!

The evening was a testament to the power of collaboration, supported by many other female entrepreneurs. Special thanks goes out to My People’s Office for the event co-ordination, Sigrid Kenmuir for pre-event copy editing, Lisa Bell of The Word Architect for her journalistic submission, Hot Coffee Media for event photography, TMS Make Up and Hair for dolling up the models, and to the prize sponsors LynnD Boudoir, Creative Angels Fashion Benefit and Chroma Gin for spoiling the guests.

What else does Thursdays offer and how can you get your hands on it?

Thursdays is growing year in and year out and we are excited to see what else they will come up with.  Going back to their routes, Thursdays has their Urban Zebra Collection which is a range of stylish black and white swimwear.  You can choose from beautifully designed and comfortably-fitting full costumes or go daring with their two pieces bikinis.  Their Urban Zebra swimwear range does cater for all sizes and you can purchase their two pieces separately as they know not all ladies fit into one size range.

Are you a Boob Ambassador?

And if you fancy their Fynbos Lingerie range, take a look at these – you will feel like a queen, we guarantee!

If you’re keen to pimp your lingerie or swimwear wardrobe, simply hop onto their online shop and order away!  Their prices are reasonable and you get free delivery for orders over R1000.

Thursdays was created in support of those big breasted women who struggle to find perfectly fitting underwear.  If you support boobs as Thursdays does, then you have to take a look at their eclectic collection.  Not only do they have tasteful and beautiful lingerie, they do swimwear too.

Contact Shona and her team today! EMAIL: [email protected]; TEL:  +27 84 807 6990; FACEBOOK URL   https://www.facebook.com/thursdays.swimwear/

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The Top 5 reasons a professional portrait photo is important https://westerncapenews.co.za/the-top-5-reasons-a-professional-portrait-photo-is-important/home-food-and-travel/2148/ Thu, 15 Aug 2019 18:28:43 +0000 https://westerncapenews.co.za/?p=2148 We are all photography professionals today it seems, snapping away with our smartphones, working with lighting, shadows, and angles. Yet, most don’t really know what they are doing and trying to come up with portrait photos for professional use, can be a dangerous pastime. There are many reasons to have a professional take your portrait ... Read moreThe Top 5 reasons a professional portrait photo is important

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We are all photography professionals today it seems, snapping away with our smartphones, working with lighting, shadows, and angles. Yet, most don’t really know what they are doing and trying to come up with portrait photos for professional use, can be a dangerous pastime.

There are many reasons to have a professional take your portrait photos. Marike Herselman of Marike Herselman Photography gives us 5 reasons you need a professional portrait photo.

1. You have 4 seconds to impress

When someone pops onto your professional profile, they first look at your photo. If they see a very “FaceBook” style photo, they are going to hesitate about checking you out further. Photos that are cut off from a group pic or have an odd background, just don’t look good. A simple head and shoulders with a plain background are what works best, and a “normal” face on.

2. Matching your headshot with your brand is key

Whether you are representing your own business, that of your employers or you are seeking employment, ensure your portrait headshot matches the brand. For the latter, your personal brand. Should you be outdoors? Should you be wearing a suit? Should you smile? All these factors come up when I schedule a portrait shoot.

3. Outdated just doesn’t cut it

Many times, when meeting someone for the first time, all we have to go on is their portrait picture, either from LinkedIn, their WhatsApp profile, or their website. If that picture was taken 20 years ago, there is a good chance they won’t look like that anymore. Sure, you were slimmer. Sure, you had fewer wrinkles? No matter. We want to see you as you are now. And, that is a good reason to have your portrait photos regularly updated.

4. Body Language speaks volumes

When I first engage with a client for their portrait shoot, I have a look at how they sit and what their posture is like. Most of us slouch, especially tall folk, and I try to get them to straighten up, without looking overly formal. The way you hold your head, the angle of your face, and many other factors, are all spoken about and directed, during a shoot. It is possible to find that quiet confidence within every person.

5. Its all in the eyes

Have you ever been caught off guard when a photo was taken of you? Compare it to when you had to do the “cheese” thing and actually pose. Look a little closer at your eyes. You will see that the “off guard” shot will render a more natural look in your eyes. That is what I try and achieve with all my portrait shots. I want to see a calm and natural connection in the eyes. It can take a while, but there is that moment when my subject lets down their guard and I am able to capture that perfect look. People relate better to a genuineness that resonates from the eyes. This can be obtained when working with a professional photography agency.

At the end of the day, you want to look your best and most receptive. The chances of a good connection with someone else all starts with that first impression moment – the profile picture.

For all your portrait photography needs get hold of Marike

To keep up to date with all local news, be sure to follow us on social media – links below. Or if you want to advertise.

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Support a Crowdfunded Initiative https://westerncapenews.co.za/support-a-crowdfunded-initiative/business-link/2129/ Sat, 10 Aug 2019 13:34:18 +0000 https://westerncapenews.co.za/?p=2129 Did you know that there are 84 bra sizes – all between an A cup and a K cup! And, if you have ever shopped for a bra, you will know that there are definitely NOT 84 sizes out there available to the public.  One of the biggest problems, when it comes to lingerie is ... Read moreSupport a Crowdfunded Initiative

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Did you know that there are 84 bra sizes – all between an A cup and a K cup!

And, if you have ever shopped for a bra, you will know that there are definitely NOT 84 sizes out there available to the public.  One of the biggest problems, when it comes to lingerie is knowing what is the perfect size for you, and most cannot actually find their exact size because it doesn’t exist.

crowdfunding

At least, not until now!

Thursdays supports women of a C cup and up!  And, they are doing this with style and elegance too!  Their products are pure South African which makes this all the more amazing!

Shona Macdonald, who you may recognise from her little endeavour within the Shark Tank and as a real survivor on Survivor SA: Champions a few years back, is an innovative entrepreneur, always looking for ways to promote her latest project.

Thursdays has been going since 2015 with an official lingerie launch in December 2018, and now Shona is venturing into the world of Crowd Funding. 

We caught up with Shona at Heavy Chef in the last week, where she launched the official start of her Crowdfunding aptly named #Thundaboobs!

Why Crowdfunding?

In order to create bra sizes further than an F cup, they need a little help.  The fact that if you want a plus plus size bra you have to look at spending around R1500 and have it custom-made.

Through Thundfund, Shona is pushing the #Thundaboobs Campaign, where she aims to raise a whopping R3 000 000.  Their tipping point is R100 000, which means that if they don’t reach that point, then they must refund everyone their donations.

Their actual milestones?

Milestone 1: Expand our size range to a G cup
Milestone 2: Expand our size range to a K cup
Milestone 3: Create a maternity wear collection
Milestone 4: Create a swimwear collection for 2020
Milestone 5: Design functional sports bras 

What do you get out of it?

“But, I don’t have big boobs! Why should I bother supporting?”

Good question! Why, indeed?

Well, because you just want to support something bigger than yourself (lol!) and because you will get something out of it too!

Here are the ways in which you can support this crowdfunded initiative.

Option 1 – Just the breast

$7 (+-R100) – Every bit helps, more than you can imagine! We will thank you on our social media platforms, and put your name on our wall of fame!

Option 2 – Captain Chesticles

$14 (+-R200) – Your pledge gets you a super slick #wesupportboobs t-shirt  made from recycled PET plastic (ladies and men’s designs available). These t-shirts are environmentally friendly and 100% locally sourced and produced. They are made with BeSoCool and BeSoSoft Technology, maintaining a soft finish and regulating your temperature and moisture when you get active! 

Option 3 – Boob Ambassador

$21 (+-R300) – Show your colleagues that you support boobs with a super sexy “We Support Boobs” ceramic mug.

Option 4 – The Breast Bra – EXCLUSIVE DEAL

$56 (R800) Save 40% – Pre-order 2 of your favorite Thursdays bras in white or in black. Choose between the oh-so-royal Queen Protea Longline Bra (C cup to K cup) or the Cape Everlasting Bralette (B/C cup to D/DD cup). Retail value: R1400.

These bras will be made to order, and include our extended size range. We will contact you post campaign to confirm your size and selected style. It will be delivered to your door within 3 months of the campaign closing. 

Option 5 – The Breast Supporter

$160 (+-R2300) Save 50% – Pre-order our whole fynbos lingerie range in both colour ranges, and only pay for one! (2x black bras , 2x white bras, 3x black panties, 3x white panties) available in your size from our new, extended size range! Available from a C cup to K cup! Retail value: R4480.

This will be made to order, and include our extended size range. We will contact you post campaign to confirm your size and selected styles, and deliver it to your door within 3 months of the campaign closing. Feel free to mix and match, if you would rather have 3 of the same panty, and one style of bra, that’s fine! 

Option 6 – D Cup Duchess

$140 (+-R2000) Become a VIP Brand Ambassador, and receive 25% off all online purchases for life! We will ask for your feedback and collaborate with you on future designs. You will be given the option to become one of our fit test models, using you as a sample tester to give us commenting on the designs and fit for your size. All samples you test will be complimentary!

Option 7 – The Boob Enthusiast

$1 050 (+- R15 000) Pre-buy R15 000 worth of our stock, we will sell it on your behalf and split the profits with you 50/50. Make your investment back, plus a profit of R3000 within one year. 

Option 8 – The Big Boob Baller

$3 500 (+- R50 000) Pre-buy R50 000 worth of our stock, we will sell it on your behalf and split the profits with you 50/50. Make your investment back, plus a profit of R10 000 within one year.

If you’re keen to get involved, choose your option and get involved.

Or, if you simply want to purchase some beautiful lingerie, go to their online shop.

To keep up to date with all local news, be sure to follow us on social media – links below. Or if you want to advertise.

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Team Focus – Leadership through Culture https://westerncapenews.co.za/team-focus-leadership-through-culture/business-link/2120/ Mon, 01 Jul 2019 13:20:32 +0000 https://westerncapenews.co.za/?p=2120 It takes all types of leaders to grow a company. And, the type of leaders is directly relational to the type of company and its business cycle. To have effective teams, you need effective leaders. According to Team Dynamics Consulting, based in Cape Town, this comes down to company culture. And, further, company culture leads ... Read moreTeam Focus – Leadership through Culture

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It takes all types of leaders to grow a company. And, the type of leaders is directly relational to the type of company and its business cycle. To have effective teams, you need effective leaders.

According to Team Dynamics Consulting, based in Cape Town, this comes down to company culture. And, further, company culture leads to leadership culture. They are very closely related and one cannot work without the other.

But, how to lead through culture?

WHAT DIRECTION IS YOUR TEAM GOING IN?

Take into account where the company is going, what their goals are, and make sure that all are in the know.

BRINGING IT ALL TOGETHER

So many ideas – so many thought patterns – so many ways of doing one thing- how will we bring it all together so it works well?

Defining roles – aligning skills and drives – defining who works independently – who works interdependently – who is capable of each of these – yet still with the same goal and end result in mind?

COMMIT COMMIT COMMIT

Is everyone committed to producing the best work possible – along the same path? Are we willing to accept the leader’s decisions – only questioning when it means a plus towards the greater good? Are we committed to this project and this team?

Heavy questions to ask but in the pursuit of a cultural leadership, we must consider all these and more.

Team Dynamics Consulting is a consulting firm who help corporates take their teams from good to great!

They are all about maximizing the Individual and the Teams Potential as well as Increasing Productivity!

“We assess the underlying team dynamics; strengths and weaknesses, resistance and obstacles to change or goal setting, and non-alignment to the company mission and vision”, says Ann Baret, one of the founders and members. “Effective results and flow is achieved when a team’s natural energy is balanced and aligned to the company vision.”

Team Dynamics create a cohesive, transparent work environment as teams understand each other as well as clear accountability in teams and individuals to achieve the company goals.

Ann and her team also work with businesses in the recruiting of new team members in order to build a highly engaged productive team.

Some of their clients include; Land Rover, Sanlam, Monsanto, Indigo New Media, Alpha Power Solutions and Nationlink Plattekloof.

If you’re keen to give your team a boost, reach out to Team Dynamics Consulting today.

Be sure to follow us on our social media platforms and enquire about our advertising options.

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