Esther launched the first ever of its kind exclusive wheelchair race in South Africa in May 2002 and the first race was held in October 2002 with 27 disabled persons in wheelchairs racing down the Outeniqua Mountains in George.

She grew the race into an International event with over 650 athletes from all ages and types of disabilities in wheelchairs and sporting equipment for road races.  She single handed managed to convince sponsors and the host city to support this event and the success of this race is proven in the growing number of athletes that annually enters the race (hundred plus every year).

Esther won numerous awards for this project of which the greatest was the Shoprite Checkers SABC 2 Woman of the Year in 2006.  With this event she not only restores dignity in wheelchair bound people’s lives, but showcases their ability rather than the disability.

Clare Schwulst relocated Inkulu Tyres to the Eastern Cape in 2006.  Clare and her team were able to set up and install a retreading factory in three weeks (staff of 8)

The challenges were the same as starting a project from scratch; recruiting skilled staff, wooing customers and coping with large distances from the suppliers. Our biggest assets are Brian Schwulst the Production Manager with thirty something years of experience in the industry and our INKULU TEAM. Initially there was some resistance in the market to the new kids on the block and it took a lot of hard work to penetrate a closed market.

In 2008 Inkulu Tyres aligned itself with one the the top brands in the tread market namely LEADER RUBBER. The factory was upgraded to increase production of truck and earthmover retreads, improve quality and provide superb service.

Today we have a large network of Dealers in East London, Mthatha, Queenstown, Port Elizabeth and the surrounding areas.

The success of Inkulu Tyres can be attributed to: THE INKULU TEAM - a happy and balanced group.  CUSTOMERS – where the customer is still king.  SUPPLIERS – accounts are conducted with integrity and bills paid on time.

The purpose of the business is to provide a quality product with safety first,
Provide jobs (23), and reduce the carbon footprint on the planet by recycling old tyres , relieving the pressure on landfill sites.

Clare’s motto in life is………”do not put off for tomorrow what you can do today – have no regrets”

Peta Ann bought a 50% share of Party Magic in 2002.At the time Party Magic’s core business was a retail shop that also catered for fancy dress costume hire. In 2003 Party Magic moved from Berea to Vincent as the existing premises was too small. In 2005 Peta Ann bought out her partner and diversified Party Magic to include The Venue at Latimers Landing as well as the Party Shop in Amalinda. Party Magic offers a one stop shop for all your entertainment requirements ranging from adult and kiddies parties, Weddings, corporate functions, Birthdays, event planning and promotions, catering, and conferencing. Party Magic’s clients range from Multi nationals, corporations, local and central government and private functions. Plans are currently in progress to expand Party Magic premises situated at 48 Balfour Road Vincent in order to offer East London a shop where they can have access to a bigger range of product and more than 4000 fancy dress costume to choose from. Party Magic has only been able to get to where it is today because of Peta Ann’s commitment to service and the support of all her loyal customers and friends.�

Sculptures is the brain child of Lynne Corby and was born on 5 May 1994.  She started out in a small rented building with a staff complement of 3.  They resided in this building for 3 years before moving to their own premises in Devereux Avenue.  When Lynne realised they had outgrown their old salon, she had a dream to create a new one, and in 2006 she transformed an old dilapidated house, 48 Devereux Avenue, into an architect designed haven with a flowing circular feel, complete with chandeliers and refreshment bar.  She now boasts a very capable staff complement of 21.

Lynne is the wife of Kevin, also an entrepreneur; they have two children, a daughter Tayla (11) who attends Clarendon Primary of which Lynne serves on the Governing Body and a son Brad (8) who attends Selborne Primary.

Lynne not only owns the building with her husband, she is also actively involved in the daily running of the business as well as being a fully booked up stylist for up to 3 weeks

Lynne’s strength of character makes her a popular leader while fulfilling the role of nurturer she also takes pride in the success of her staff.  She often quotes that she does not feel like she is doing a days work as she loves her work and sees it as her ministry. Lynne is also passionate about her family, staff and clients.  She believes that success comes from a philosophy that says, be positive and passionate and you will do well in all that you do.  She bubbles with positive and passionate energy.

She boasts many accolades and is actively involved with many charities and sponsoring of fund raisers in East London.

LS Consulting was started by Leanne Schlemmer on 01 October 2008. I left full time employment in 2006 to join my husband in his business and then decided to take the next step and venture out on my own. I had very limited capital and only one client secured. The vision of the business was to be a payroll consulting organisation, but has since grown and developed into a fully fledged payroll and HR consulting organisation with a client base of twenty two active clients. This growth took place in the first twelve months of the organisation being in operation.
The business is still continuing to grow from strength to strength.

I am the Executive Director for DNF Waste & Environmental Services, a company I started in 2008 (see website:�www.dnfwaste-enviro.co.za for services offered).  I am the newly elected Vice President of the Institute of Waste Management of Southern Africa (IWMSA) and immediate past Chairperson of the Institute of Waste Management (IWMSA) Eastern Cape branch and a Director on the Responsible Pacakaging Management Association of Southern Africa (RPMASA) board.

I studied toward a B.Sc degree at Rhodes University and started my working career at S.A. Breweries in 1991 as a Senior Laboratory Technician.  In 1994 I joined King Tanning Company in KingWilliamstown as the Laboratory and Environmental Manager.  The responsibilities included implementation of an Environmental Management System as well as the management of the laboratory.  In 1999 I joined Amatola Water to become the Scientific Services Manager and here I was responsible for the management of the Scientific Services division as well as the implementation of the Environmental Policy.  In 2002 I joined DaimlerChrysler S.A. as the Integrated Management Systems manager and the core duties entailed management of the Health and Safety, Environmental and Quality Management Systems portfolio for the production plant located in East London. In January 2007 I joined Arcus Gibb as a Senior Environmental Scientist. In March 2008 I took the plunge and started my own business, DNF Waste and Environmental Services cc.  My areas of expertise include Project Management; Training in Waste and Environmental matters, Environmental Auditing; Environmental Due Diligence Auditing, Environmental Management Systems; Sustainability Reporting, Environmental studies, Environmental Impact Assessments, Environmental Management Plans, Public Facilitation, Waste Management studies, Waste Site Identification and Permitting and Health and Safety Management Systems.

I was an adjudicator on the Daily Dispatch Business Awards 2008 panel of judges, adjudicating the Environmental category.  I was an Adjudicator  / auditor for the National DEAT Cleanest Town Competition 2006 as well as the EC DEDEA / IWMSA Clean Industry Awards 2007.

My family and my work are my main motivators in life and my motto is “be the best you can be – put God first in everything you do”, and always be positive in the face of adversity – perseverance is rewarded in the end.

Carol Taggart has been employed within the MSC College Group since 1999 and she has played a significant role in the growth and development of the organization as well as the corporate culture that has been developed over the years. Carol has worked in various positions in the Group and it is this varied experience together with her passion for education and up-liftment that makes her suitable for the position of Managing Director that she holds today. She oversees the management of the 4 colleges owned by MSC Head Office as well as the Head Office operations. She manages to balance the roles of dealing with the people factor on one hand and acute business acumen on the other, with aplomb.
Carol is a natural leader and her leadership style; is a hand’s on one, she leads from the front which results in a high level of respect from all she comes into contact with. She heads up and directs a dynamic management team who work tirelessly to continuously provide support and direction to the MSC Group which is comprised of the Head Office and 22 campuses/franchisees. She is a great team player who always brings an element of fun and humour into the workplace and through this, is able to bring out the best in those she works with. She is able to multi task and works equally well on operational issues as she does strategically.

She also works very closely with the franchisees where she exhibits high levels of professionalism in dealing with various levels of conflict, confrontation and negotiation. Her ability to see each situation from multiple perspectives promotes good decision making and contributes to the strong bonds of trust she has fostered with the franchisees.  Carol is always prepared to be accountable and in times of adversity, Carols’ first reaction is to reflect on her role and behaviour in a situation before taking the necessary action.

Carol has a strong social conscience and has been involved in numerous social responsibility projects since she started with the Group. She is currently driving the national bursary project which touches approximately 220 individuals per annum. By nature she is motivated to make a difference in the lives of others and people are naturally drawn to her charismatic personality. There are numerous students (from her time at the college) and staff members who have achieved and excelled under her guidance and mentorship.  Despite her passion for upliftment she has also shown true leadership when having to make tough decisions regarding employees. Carol has a strong personal value system, she is not prepared to compromise on integrity and is not afraid to stand up for what she believes is right.

She is an extremely committed person and puts in long hours to ensure deadlines are met. Despite the many demands on her time Carol is currently completing a post graduate diploma in Management Practice through the Graduate School of Business at the University of Cape Town – she has elected to do this to enhance her performance as a manager and leader. To further illustrate her drive and determination she has also completed 2 Comrades Marathons, 1 Two Oceans marathon and 2 Cape Argus cycle races, in the time she has been with MSC.

Regardless of the success she has achieved and the important position she holds Carol has the ability to engage fully and meaningfully with individuals on every level, making each person feel equally important. She remains humble and is always grateful for any opportunity she receives. She is a real asset to my business and I treasure her not only as an employee but also a trusted friend.

Ayanda Ramncwana is a keen communications and brand management specialist whose strong belief is that strategic communication tools have an integral role to play in enhancing a company’s competitive edge. A journalist by profession, Ayanda cut her teeth at the Daily Dispatch newspaper in East London as an education report in 2001. She discovered her passion for business and economic development when she was promoted to Business Reporter by the Daily Dispatch. As a young black female journalist, Ayanda did well to develop Eastern Cape specific content for the Daily Dispatch newspaper and grew coverage of positive local business stories for the publication. Ayanda also wrote a column for the Daily Dispatch sister publication, Indabazethu. Named Moneywise, the column provided money and consumer related advise to the readers.

It was this passion for numbers and developmental issues that led Ayanda to join the East London Industrial Development Zone, a young company whose main aim was to attract export oriented manufacturing investors into South Africa. Ayanda joined the East London IDZ as a Communications and Public Relations Officer in 2002 and quickly rose up the ladder to becoming a Communications and Public Relations Specialist reporting to the Chief Executive Officer.
As the head of the Communications and Public Relations function of the East London IDZ, Ayanda’s responsibilities include management of stakeholder communication, management of internal communication, brand management and profiling as well as the development of marketing tools for the East London IDZ. Ayanda also chairs the Corporate Social Investment and Event Committees within the East London IDZ and is part of the Executive Management Committee.
Ayanda’s key achievements in the East London IDZ include the development of Communications and Corporate Social Investment Policy Frameworks for the organisation. Ayanda was also leading the team that reviewed and remodelled the East London IDZ brand architercture and positioning in 2006. She has received numerous awards to recognise her achievements as a young black woman including the Youth Innovator Award (Border Technikon, 2003) and the Youth Award for Communications and Media (CKI FM Awards 2006).

Ayanda is married to a supportive husband, Ntsikelelo Ramncwana and they have two children , Iminathi and Ayazingca. Ayanda’s main aim in life is to fulfil God’s purpose for her life and she believes that this starts with playing a key role in transforming the economy of the Eastern Cape.

René joined St Bernard’s Hospice on 01 April 2003 as the Nursing Manager and was appointed as the General Manager on 01 March 2005. With her experience in governmental and private hospital management she realized what a challenge it would be, but nevertheless grabbed this opportunity with both hands and worked tirelessly towards achieving the goals set for St Bernard’s Hospice.

With her leadership and vision and together with a very good team she managed to change St Bernard’s Hospice from just one of 70 HPCA registered hospices to one of the leading hospices in the country and a leading palliative care centre in the Buffalo City Municipality area.

René has 16 years experience in health management, which include community nursing and private hospital management. She believes that if all the NGO’s and CBO’s work together, it will make a difference in people’s lives.

René reflects strong faith and applies her values in the way she conducts both her personal and business life. Her positive outlook and rule of abundance is inspiring, which has a very positive effect on the patient care provided by St Bernard’s Hospice.  She believes that it is all about the people and they are the bottom line.

Lereen Naidoo is the Director of Salem Baby care Centre.  She obtained a bachelor of Social Science degree, majoring in Social Work, through Rhodes University. She worked for NICRO in Community Victim Support, establishing, setting up and managing support Centres at various police stations. She started working for Salem in 2004 as a Senior Social Worker and then took on role of Director. She manages the organization and does all the fundraising and funding application. Lereen grew the organization from being a handout centre to a better established organization with programs in place. Lereen is also fully involved in controlling the budget and plays a major role in securing funding for the organization and making sure that is run effectively and is sustainable. Over the past year she has taken the organization to whole new level financially, by securing funding for over a million rand. Lotto funded the organization over R400 000 for 2008 and over R600 000 for 2009. Lereen also obtained financial support from KFC for R120 000 for 2009 & 2010 for food, providing food has always been a major challenge for her and this has been a huge success for her. Lereen is very passionate and dedicated to the work that she does at Salem.

Lereen is married and has a four year old daughter, who keeps her very busy. Bringing up her daughter and seeing the privileges and advantages she has, makes her more dedicated and determined to help, care and provide for those who are less fortunate. Lereen is expecting her second child in July 2010.

African Angels, formed in 2007, seeks, receives and allocates sponsorship for the education of orphaned and vulnerable children living in rural areas of the Eastern Cape, taking a unique partnership approach with parents, working with two informal settlements in the East Coast Resorts area.  I play dual roles of trustee and the initial educator of the Angels, getting them ‘school ready’ for entry into mainstream fee paying schools.  We have 31 children sponsored and attending good quality schools.  African Angels is a registered tax deductible organization in South African.

African Angels retains a maximum of 5% of sponsor contributions to assist with running costs of the organization.  Aggressive fund raising has seen us purchase a bus for transport of children, cover ad hoc telephone and internet charges; domain hosting charges and UMAMA club meetings.  We are fully aware that as we accept more children into the programme than the logistical requirements increase exponentially, and as such have designed and implemented a short, medium and long term marketing and communication plan to drive funds into the organization.  Maintaining a careful balance between expansion and understanding what is required (in fiscal, time, and people aspects) to ensure the project is sustainable is constantly reviewed and assessed. 
 

Lize was born in Cape Town and matriculated in 1995 at Sentraal High School. On the 2nd of January 1996 she started working at AVBOB Industries Ltd as a Human Resources Clerk.

CPI started off as a Payroll Company, which changed around into a Multi-million rand status within 2 years. CPI has worked on the biggest film production ever done in South Africa that required payment of 24,000 artists.

Minette Luus knew in high school that she has a natural talent and flair for style. After considering becoming a fashion buyer and starting a degree in Consumer Science, she soon realized that she would prefer to ‘do her own thing’.  She wanted
to open her own boutique but after travelling overseas she decided to create the S.A. Image Company in 2007 as inspired by the Australian Image Company.

After a year she founded the S.A. Image Academy.  She holds 100% shares in both the Image and Academy ventures that generated a huge turnover in 2009.

She is professionally associated with the Professional Image Association of Africa, the Association of Professional Image Consultants of S.A. and the Association of Image Consultant International (First Level Certificate)

Minnette uses a motivational approach when presenting to build confidence and her clients have included Tatum Keshwar (miss S.A. 2009), Vicky Fourie (Miss Deaf S.A). She frequently appears on OFM’s Breakfast Show.

In 2004 Bernadette established the company, Kopano. The focus is on being the best Procurement Agency in obtaining and facilitating contracts and purchases. Kopano is owned 51% black Female and 49% White Female and is BBBEE and SMME empowered. They function through PDI joint ventures like truck hire, forklift and equipment rental, chauffeur services, contract cleaning, furniture removal, labor hire, low-cost geysers, mobile housing, property rentals and sales.

Bernadette is a Director of the Dynamic group and is currently involved in the daily operation of the business as well as sales and marketing for the group. The company is involved in a feeding scheme started July 1999 (Phetoho Community Centre) reaching 200 children twice a week (4000 mugs of soup) prepared daily; a Community Children’s Church; Talitha Cumi Place of Safety for 26 abused children in March 2008. They are planning to build 4 houses to accommodate 8 children and a mother.

Ms. Clara Makara obtained a Woolworths franchise in November 2006 in Ladybrand.  She created a cc with herself and Pule Makgoe as owners.

The Ladybrand shop was turned around in one year and they then bought another Woolworths franchise store in Phuthaditjhaba. Both shops show a positive growth rate (Ladybrand 50% and Phuthaditjhaba 30%)

Twenty six employees are employed between the two stores and the owners focus on internal promotion and assisting children of the workers with bursaries to study.

They have been nominated and awarded “Woolworths Rookie of the Year “ (2007), FASA “Most Promising Black Franchisee” (2009); Woolworths Ambassador of the Year 2009” ( Ladybrand )and “Performing the Best in Large Clip” category (Phuthaditjhaba).

Ms Makara holds a BA Communication from UFS and she is an accredited facilitator, mentor, assessor with Theta (Seta). She did voter training for previous elections.

Lize-Mari Booyens created Lekkerbekkie 15 years ago when she started primary school and participated in the school’s entrepreneur’s day activities. Her first profit was R 3.50. Two years later her sister Mari-Lize started school and joined
her.

Initially Lekkerbekkie functioned as a ‘tuck-shop’ but with time the sisters employed about 8 other children to work for them and paid them for their time. During their school years the sisters won several entrepreneurial competitions and they
gave workshops to other learners.

Through the years they developed into a profitable business. They have won numerous awards and at present they have two stalls at the Bloemfontein Boeremark whilst studying at UFS. (Liza-Mari 3rd year MBW –Sport and Mari-Lize 2nd year B.Rek)

They also have stalls at various markets during the year (Eunice,UNICA, Lions and Charity in Pretoria and Welkom). They have recently been accepted to visit the Gallagher Estates expo as representing a going concern.

The two ladies are financially independent. They pay their own studies (and hostel) fees, buy their own clothes and raw materials and they have appointed a young lady as assistant.

Kholwa Signs specializes in traffic signs, digital printing (labels, embroidery), indoor displays, estate agency boards, number plates and corporate clothing.

Thandeka Mahlatjie established Kholwa Sign Master in April 2006 with a vision to become market leaders by positioning the company strategically throughout South Africa as the leader in the sign industry.

In 2009 the company was a winner in the Project KickStart programme of South African Breweries. Thandeka was the only woman in the top five and the company was selected as finalist in the Eskom Business Competition in September 2009.

Thandeka gained experience in administration, sales and service while employed by Child Welfare, Mac Steel, Dept of Road & Transport and Eskom.  She obtained a BAdmin in 2003.

The company has an Executive Manager (Thandeka), an Operarional Manager Emmanuel Mahlatjie, two graphic designers, two sign technicians, one sales consultant and a receptionist (9 members).
 

Dr. Shane Foulkes qualified as MB Ch B in 1984 at the UFS.  She further obtained a Diploma in Obstetrics (1986) and M FAM in 2001. From 1986 to 1988 she served as Medical Officer in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and from 1989 she practiced as GP (specializing in Ultrasound) and serving as Breastfeeding Consultant. From 2005 and ongoing dr Foulkes is involved in Research at JOSHA as Principal, Principal and Sub Investigator on several Studies.

Nature of research includes Asthma, Pneumonia, Herpes, Diabetes, Hypertension, Osteoporosis and HIV incident studies (Family ealth International).

Dr Foulkes has wide-ranging exposure to patients and whilst running a full time practice and assisting as specialist in Ultrasound Obstetrics and Gynecology she also carries responsibility for the scientific integrity of research done, with
particular emphasis on HIV-Incidents Studies.

Dr. Foulkes is experienced as an exceptional physician with wide ranging interests, responsibilities and a dedicated involvement with HIV Counselling and Community Development.

Jenwil Bluestar Financial Advisory Services, established in 2009 was only the second practice in the country that complied with the required standards to qualify as a BlueStar Business of Sanlam.  Rothea van Biljon has been a financial advisor of Sanlam since 2002 and she is actively involved in various Institutions and Boards.

She started her career as secretary and at one stage owned a Modeling Agency and Public Relations Practice. During 1984 – 1990 she took time out to raise a family.

Rothea’s professional memberships include PRISA (Full Member), FISA and FPI.

She has served and still serves on various Institutions like the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (having served as Board Member, Vice President, President and Honorary Treasurer); Chairperson of AHI, Bloemfontein and member of Board of AHI National; Vice Chairman of CUT Board, Board member of Central University of Technology (Science Park Board, advisory committee Tourism Faculty); Member of the Executive Committee of the Kovsie Alumni Trust and a Trustee of the Trust.

Jenwil Bluestar’s team consist of six professional and one administrative member.

She has been practicing successfully as a lawyer for the past 16 years.

She is married and the mother of three children aged 5 years, 3 years and 18 months.

Her commitment, dedication, responsibility and perseverance to succeed in what needs to be done have contributed to her rise in an extremely competitive area of practice in a relatively short period of time.

She actively adds value to the community she serves, particularly in contributing to the development of young people through courses she presents from time to time. She also participates in running Marathons and swimming the Midmar Mile.

Amanda is Client Services manager and forms part of the senior management team of the Bloemfontein Medi-Clinic hospital for the past four years.  The work entails planning, co-ordination of all marketing activities in the hospital and aligning this with the Group hospital vision and values.

She obtained B Soc Sc (SW) and M Soc Sc (SW) at UFS and the MDP (School of Management) UFS 2006. Her career included managing the offices of AFM Executive Welfare Council Bloemfontein; Program Manager: Public Relations & Fundraising (Child Welfare Bloemfontein & Childline Free State) and Client Services Manager at Bloemfontein Med-Clinic in 2006.

Amanda’s key performance includes: Continuous performance and quality management; Public Relations; Information management; Marketing planning; Media relations and financial control.

She has a passion for involvement in the wellbeing of others offering volunteer service where possible. She is married, has two children, enjoys music and aims to ride the Cape Argus in 2011.

Elmarie Prinsloo is the Chief Executive Officer of the Show grounds Development Trust and the Central Agricultural Society. The Bloem Show is one of the three largest shows in the country that combines the commerce, industry and agricultural sections. The Development Trust focuses on maximizing utilization of facilities further developments on the show grounds. The trust employs 11 people (90% women) and during show-time, they employ on a temporary basis more than 300 people.

In 1999 she became show manager. She was appointed CEO in 2008. She holds a B.Econ degree of the UFS (Economics, Marketing, Money and Banking) and in 2008 she completed the Management Development Program at UFS.

She has completed the Cape Argus five times and is an active golfer. Elamarie is active in her community and with her Bible study group reaches out to street kids, orphanages and old age homes.

With her Bloem Show team they are involved at the Sunrise Day Care centre in Freedom square and Elmarie serves as trustee at the Marthie du Plessis School.

Ms. Sephoti has worked for twelve years in different legal and regulatory capacities in the Public Sector until head hunted and joining the South African Breweries as Corporate Affairs Manager for the Central Region based in Bloemfontein in October 2005.

She studied at the University of Stellenbosch, University of Bophuthatswana (LL.B and B.Juris) and her dissertation for the degree LL.M in Labour Law is still outstanding. She is a member of various legal associations, general secretary of
Nadel (2000-2001) and Chairperson of Business against Crime – Free State (2007 to date). She was recently appointed a member of PACOFS Audit Committee (2010).

Ms Sephoti runs an entrepreneurship program called Kickstart at SAB to assist Business Owners, administers a Corporate Social Investment programme, supports children’s charities and is actively involved in the Women’s Network of her church.

Drinè Ras registered Kukama Creative Designs in 2007 with its primary focus being the design and manufacturing of furniture using hides of game and cattle tanned on the farm and then using it as fabric for upholstering. Kukama design and manufacture  exclusive leather and skin products (Leather, Hide and Horn) with a focus on executive furniture, handmade goods and corporate gifts.

A secondary company has also been established for making an exclusive range of handbags and fly-fishing gear. All activities are focused on providing:

• quality products
• to become a recognized role-player in the market for leather, hide, wood and steel products
• much needed employment opportunities to deal with poverty, lack of hope and the future
• training for employees in making leather goods and furniture
• help to upcoming artists and hand-crafters to sell their products in an existing shop in Christiana

Drine Ras trained as a hairdresser and cosmetologist, obtained a certificate in Tannery and did a course in Upholstery. Her career included employment with PricewaterhouseCoopers, VIP Payroll Consultant and HR Divisions.

She is in the process of registering a charity organization with projects already running from January 2008 at a nearby town. They supply clothing to 30 households; they assist pupils with transport to a Farm school.  Drine started the charity project with GijimaAst who has sponsored 26 desks for upliftment of post-matrics to develop workplace skills.

Ansie Fourie experienced financial setbacks forcing her to seek sources of basic income. She started a small recycling business and with a friend Sandra Netherlands focused on turning scrap metal, old enamel and things like old steel ceilings into art and décor articles. This enabled them to generate an income for themselves and for unemployed job seekers who now collect scrap metal and other articles and who assist them in their workshop. The Blikplek Art Yard employs ten men in the junk workshop and thirteen people in total.

Ansie and Sandra have a passion to help those who are destitute, to experience a sense of achievement, to develop a positive self-esteem and to earn a living. Some of the unskilled workers they employed have become skilled welders, other unemployed people are commissioned to create unique articles that are sold through the Blikplek and they are starting to train young women in business skills, catering, hospitality and management.  Small entrepreneurs are given monthly opportunities through a Saturday Market to sell their own wares.

Ansie and Sandra also run a restaurant, a coffee shop, a conference/function venue  as well as personalized tours in Ficksburg and surrounds.

They have received various awards, exposure at nationally held festivals and they have featured in publications like Landbou Weekblad, Country Life Magazine and on Kwela.

Annamarie Potgieter, Hasso Advertising Agency

Rachel Taldi, Uvuko Civils

Cynthia Mkhombo, Masana Hygiene Services

Nthabeleng (Tabisa) Khoapa, Tabisa Training Management Services

Roseline Nhlapo, Sgegede Group

Colette Symanowitz, MBAconnect.net

Belinda Lentz - Regional Marketing Manager, Sanlam

Sinah Phochana - Group Communication Manager, Denel

Sbusisiwe Myeni - Risk Manager, Absa

Esther launched the first ever of its kind exclusive wheelchair race in South Africa in May 2002 and the first race was held in October 2002 with 27 disabled persons in wheelchairs racing down the Outeniqua Mountains in George.

She grew the race into an International event with over 650 athletes from all ages and types of disabilities in wheelchairs and sporting equipment for road races.  She single handed managed to convince sponsors and the host city to support this event and the success of this race is proven in the growing number of athletes that annually enters the race (hundred plus every year).

Esther won numerous awards for this project of which the greatest was the Shoprite Checkers SABC 2 Woman of the Year in 2006.  With this event she not only restores dignity in wheelchair bound people’s lives, but showcases their ability rather than the disability.

Clare Schwulst relocated Inkulu Tyres to the Eastern Cape in 2006.  Clare and her team were able to set up and install a retreading factory in three weeks (staff of 8)

The challenges were the same as starting a project from scratch; recruiting skilled staff, wooing customers and coping with large distances from the suppliers. Our biggest assets are Brian Schwulst the Production Manager with thirty something years of experience in the industry and our INKULU TEAM. Initially there was some resistance in the market to the new kids on the block and it took a lot of hard work to penetrate a closed market.

In 2008 Inkulu Tyres aligned itself with one the the top brands in the tread market namely LEADER RUBBER. The factory was upgraded to increase production of truck and earthmover retreads, improve quality and provide superb service.

Today we have a large network of Dealers in East London, Mthatha, Queenstown, Port Elizabeth and the surrounding areas.

The success of Inkulu Tyres can be attributed to: THE INKULU TEAM - a happy and balanced group.  CUSTOMERS – where the customer is still king.  SUPPLIERS – accounts are conducted with integrity and bills paid on time.

The purpose of the business is to provide a quality product with safety first,
Provide jobs (23), and reduce the carbon footprint on the planet by recycling old tyres , relieving the pressure on landfill sites.

Clare’s motto in life is………”do not put off for tomorrow what you can do today – have no regrets”

Peta Ann bought a 50% share of Party Magic in 2002.At the time Party Magic’s core business was a retail shop that also catered for fancy dress costume hire. In 2003 Party Magic moved from Berea to Vincent as the existing premises was too small. In 2005 Peta Ann bought out her partner and diversified Party Magic to include The Venue at Latimers Landing as well as the Party Shop in Amalinda. Party Magic offers a one stop shop for all your entertainment requirements ranging from adult and kiddies parties, Weddings, corporate functions, Birthdays, event planning and promotions, catering, and conferencing. Party Magic’s clients range from Multi nationals, corporations, local and central government and private functions. Plans are currently in progress to expand Party Magic premises situated at 48 Balfour Road Vincent in order to offer East London a shop where they can have access to a bigger range of product and more than 4000 fancy dress costume to choose from. Party Magic has only been able to get to where it is today because of Peta Ann’s commitment to service and the support of all her loyal customers and friends.�

Sculptures is the brain child of Lynne Corby and was born on 5 May 1994.  She started out in a small rented building with a staff complement of 3.  They resided in this building for 3 years before moving to their own premises in Devereux Avenue.  When Lynne realised they had outgrown their old salon, she had a dream to create a new one, and in 2006 she transformed an old dilapidated house, 48 Devereux Avenue, into an architect designed haven with a flowing circular feel, complete with chandeliers and refreshment bar.  She now boasts a very capable staff complement of 21.

Lynne is the wife of Kevin, also an entrepreneur; they have two children, a daughter Tayla (11) who attends Clarendon Primary of which Lynne serves on the Governing Body and a son Brad (8) who attends Selborne Primary.

Lynne not only owns the building with her husband, she is also actively involved in the daily running of the business as well as being a fully booked up stylist for up to 3 weeks

Lynne’s strength of character makes her a popular leader while fulfilling the role of nurturer she also takes pride in the success of her staff.  She often quotes that she does not feel like she is doing a days work as she loves her work and sees it as her ministry. Lynne is also passionate about her family, staff and clients.  She believes that success comes from a philosophy that says, be positive and passionate and you will do well in all that you do.  She bubbles with positive and passionate energy.

She boasts many accolades and is actively involved with many charities and sponsoring of fund raisers in East London.

LS Consulting was started by Leanne Schlemmer on 01 October 2008. I left full time employment in 2006 to join my husband in his business and then decided to take the next step and venture out on my own. I had very limited capital and only one client secured. The vision of the business was to be a payroll consulting organisation, but has since grown and developed into a fully fledged payroll and HR consulting organisation with a client base of twenty two active clients. This growth took place in the first twelve months of the organisation being in operation.
The business is still continuing to grow from strength to strength.

I am the Executive Director for DNF Waste & Environmental Services, a company I started in 2008 (see website:�www.dnfwaste-enviro.co.za for services offered).  I am the newly elected Vice President of the Institute of Waste Management of Southern Africa (IWMSA) and immediate past Chairperson of the Institute of Waste Management (IWMSA) Eastern Cape branch and a Director on the Responsible Pacakaging Management Association of Southern Africa (RPMASA) board.

I studied toward a B.Sc degree at Rhodes University and started my working career at S.A. Breweries in 1991 as a Senior Laboratory Technician.  In 1994 I joined King Tanning Company in KingWilliamstown as the Laboratory and Environmental Manager.  The responsibilities included implementation of an Environmental Management System as well as the management of the laboratory.  In 1999 I joined Amatola Water to become the Scientific Services Manager and here I was responsible for the management of the Scientific Services division as well as the implementation of the Environmental Policy.  In 2002 I joined DaimlerChrysler S.A. as the Integrated Management Systems manager and the core duties entailed management of the Health and Safety, Environmental and Quality Management Systems portfolio for the production plant located in East London. In January 2007 I joined Arcus Gibb as a Senior Environmental Scientist. In March 2008 I took the plunge and started my own business, DNF Waste and Environmental Services cc.  My areas of expertise include Project Management; Training in Waste and Environmental matters, Environmental Auditing; Environmental Due Diligence Auditing, Environmental Management Systems; Sustainability Reporting, Environmental studies, Environmental Impact Assessments, Environmental Management Plans, Public Facilitation, Waste Management studies, Waste Site Identification and Permitting and Health and Safety Management Systems.

I was an adjudicator on the Daily Dispatch Business Awards 2008 panel of judges, adjudicating the Environmental category.  I was an Adjudicator  / auditor for the National DEAT Cleanest Town Competition 2006 as well as the EC DEDEA / IWMSA Clean Industry Awards 2007.

My family and my work are my main motivators in life and my motto is “be the best you can be – put God first in everything you do”, and always be positive in the face of adversity – perseverance is rewarded in the end.

Carol Taggart has been employed within the MSC College Group since 1999 and she has played a significant role in the growth and development of the organization as well as the corporate culture that has been developed over the years. Carol has worked in various positions in the Group and it is this varied experience together with her passion for education and up-liftment that makes her suitable for the position of Managing Director that she holds today. She oversees the management of the 4 colleges owned by MSC Head Office as well as the Head Office operations. She manages to balance the roles of dealing with the people factor on one hand and acute business acumen on the other, with aplomb.
Carol is a natural leader and her leadership style; is a hand’s on one, she leads from the front which results in a high level of respect from all she comes into contact with. She heads up and directs a dynamic management team who work tirelessly to continuously provide support and direction to the MSC Group which is comprised of the Head Office and 22 campuses/franchisees. She is a great team player who always brings an element of fun and humour into the workplace and through this, is able to bring out the best in those she works with. She is able to multi task and works equally well on operational issues as she does strategically.

She also works very closely with the franchisees where she exhibits high levels of professionalism in dealing with various levels of conflict, confrontation and negotiation. Her ability to see each situation from multiple perspectives promotes good decision making and contributes to the strong bonds of trust she has fostered with the franchisees.  Carol is always prepared to be accountable and in times of adversity, Carols’ first reaction is to reflect on her role and behaviour in a situation before taking the necessary action.

Carol has a strong social conscience and has been involved in numerous social responsibility projects since she started with the Group. She is currently driving the national bursary project which touches approximately 220 individuals per annum. By nature she is motivated to make a difference in the lives of others and people are naturally drawn to her charismatic personality. There are numerous students (from her time at the college) and staff members who have achieved and excelled under her guidance and mentorship.  Despite her passion for upliftment she has also shown true leadership when having to make tough decisions regarding employees. Carol has a strong personal value system, she is not prepared to compromise on integrity and is not afraid to stand up for what she believes is right.

She is an extremely committed person and puts in long hours to ensure deadlines are met. Despite the many demands on her time Carol is currently completing a post graduate diploma in Management Practice through the Graduate School of Business at the University of Cape Town – she has elected to do this to enhance her performance as a manager and leader. To further illustrate her drive and determination she has also completed 2 Comrades Marathons, 1 Two Oceans marathon and 2 Cape Argus cycle races, in the time she has been with MSC.

Regardless of the success she has achieved and the important position she holds Carol has the ability to engage fully and meaningfully with individuals on every level, making each person feel equally important. She remains humble and is always grateful for any opportunity she receives. She is a real asset to my business and I treasure her not only as an employee but also a trusted friend.

Ayanda Ramncwana is a keen communications and brand management specialist whose strong belief is that strategic communication tools have an integral role to play in enhancing a company’s competitive edge. A journalist by profession, Ayanda cut her teeth at the Daily Dispatch newspaper in East London as an education report in 2001. She discovered her passion for business and economic development when she was promoted to Business Reporter by the Daily Dispatch. As a young black female journalist, Ayanda did well to develop Eastern Cape specific content for the Daily Dispatch newspaper and grew coverage of positive local business stories for the publication. Ayanda also wrote a column for the Daily Dispatch sister publication, Indabazethu. Named Moneywise, the column provided money and consumer related advise to the readers.

It was this passion for numbers and developmental issues that led Ayanda to join the East London Industrial Development Zone, a young company whose main aim was to attract export oriented manufacturing investors into South Africa. Ayanda joined the East London IDZ as a Communications and Public Relations Officer in 2002 and quickly rose up the ladder to becoming a Communications and Public Relations Specialist reporting to the Chief Executive Officer.
As the head of the Communications and Public Relations function of the East London IDZ, Ayanda’s responsibilities include management of stakeholder communication, management of internal communication, brand management and profiling as well as the development of marketing tools for the East London IDZ. Ayanda also chairs the Corporate Social Investment and Event Committees within the East London IDZ and is part of the Executive Management Committee.
Ayanda’s key achievements in the East London IDZ include the development of Communications and Corporate Social Investment Policy Frameworks for the organisation. Ayanda was also leading the team that reviewed and remodelled the East London IDZ brand architercture and positioning in 2006. She has received numerous awards to recognise her achievements as a young black woman including the Youth Innovator Award (Border Technikon, 2003) and the Youth Award for Communications and Media (CKI FM Awards 2006).

Ayanda is married to a supportive husband, Ntsikelelo Ramncwana and they have two children , Iminathi and Ayazingca. Ayanda’s main aim in life is to fulfil God’s purpose for her life and she believes that this starts with playing a key role in transforming the economy of the Eastern Cape.

René joined St Bernard’s Hospice on 01 April 2003 as the Nursing Manager and was appointed as the General Manager on 01 March 2005. With her experience in governmental and private hospital management she realized what a challenge it would be, but nevertheless grabbed this opportunity with both hands and worked tirelessly towards achieving the goals set for St Bernard’s Hospice.

With her leadership and vision and together with a very good team she managed to change St Bernard’s Hospice from just one of 70 HPCA registered hospices to one of the leading hospices in the country and a leading palliative care centre in the Buffalo City Municipality area.

René has 16 years experience in health management, which include community nursing and private hospital management. She believes that if all the NGO’s and CBO’s work together, it will make a difference in people’s lives.

René reflects strong faith and applies her values in the way she conducts both her personal and business life. Her positive outlook and rule of abundance is inspiring, which has a very positive effect on the patient care provided by St Bernard’s Hospice.  She believes that it is all about the people and they are the bottom line.

Lereen Naidoo is the Director of Salem Baby care Centre.  She obtained a bachelor of Social Science degree, majoring in Social Work, through Rhodes University. She worked for NICRO in Community Victim Support, establishing, setting up and managing support Centres at various police stations. She started working for Salem in 2004 as a Senior Social Worker and then took on role of Director. She manages the organization and does all the fundraising and funding application. Lereen grew the organization from being a handout centre to a better established organization with programs in place. Lereen is also fully involved in controlling the budget and plays a major role in securing funding for the organization and making sure that is run effectively and is sustainable. Over the past year she has taken the organization to whole new level financially, by securing funding for over a million rand. Lotto funded the organization over R400 000 for 2008 and over R600 000 for 2009. Lereen also obtained financial support from KFC for R120 000 for 2009 & 2010 for food, providing food has always been a major challenge for her and this has been a huge success for her. Lereen is very passionate and dedicated to the work that she does at Salem.

Lereen is married and has a four year old daughter, who keeps her very busy. Bringing up her daughter and seeing the privileges and advantages she has, makes her more dedicated and determined to help, care and provide for those who are less fortunate. Lereen is expecting her second child in July 2010.

African Angels, formed in 2007, seeks, receives and allocates sponsorship for the education of orphaned and vulnerable children living in rural areas of the Eastern Cape, taking a unique partnership approach with parents, working with two informal settlements in the East Coast Resorts area.  I play dual roles of trustee and the initial educator of the Angels, getting them ‘school ready’ for entry into mainstream fee paying schools.  We have 31 children sponsored and attending good quality schools.  African Angels is a registered tax deductible organization in South African.

African Angels retains a maximum of 5% of sponsor contributions to assist with running costs of the organization.  Aggressive fund raising has seen us purchase a bus for transport of children, cover ad hoc telephone and internet charges; domain hosting charges and UMAMA club meetings.  We are fully aware that as we accept more children into the programme than the logistical requirements increase exponentially, and as such have designed and implemented a short, medium and long term marketing and communication plan to drive funds into the organization.  Maintaining a careful balance between expansion and understanding what is required (in fiscal, time, and people aspects) to ensure the project is sustainable is constantly reviewed and assessed. 
 

Lize was born in Cape Town and matriculated in 1995 at Sentraal High School. On the 2nd of January 1996 she started working at AVBOB Industries Ltd as a Human Resources Clerk.

CPI started off as a Payroll Company, which changed around into a Multi-million rand status within 2 years. CPI has worked on the biggest film production ever done in South Africa that required payment of 24,000 artists.

Minette Luus knew in high school that she has a natural talent and flair for style. After considering becoming a fashion buyer and starting a degree in Consumer Science, she soon realized that she would prefer to ‘do her own thing’.  She wanted
to open her own boutique but after travelling overseas she decided to create the S.A. Image Company in 2007 as inspired by the Australian Image Company.

After a year she founded the S.A. Image Academy.  She holds 100% shares in both the Image and Academy ventures that generated a huge turnover in 2009.

She is professionally associated with the Professional Image Association of Africa, the Association of Professional Image Consultants of S.A. and the Association of Image Consultant International (First Level Certificate)

Minnette uses a motivational approach when presenting to build confidence and her clients have included Tatum Keshwar (miss S.A. 2009), Vicky Fourie (Miss Deaf S.A). She frequently appears on OFM’s Breakfast Show.

In 2004 Bernadette established the company, Kopano. The focus is on being the best Procurement Agency in obtaining and facilitating contracts and purchases. Kopano is owned 51% black Female and 49% White Female and is BBBEE and SMME empowered. They function through PDI joint ventures like truck hire, forklift and equipment rental, chauffeur services, contract cleaning, furniture removal, labor hire, low-cost geysers, mobile housing, property rentals and sales.

Bernadette is a Director of the Dynamic group and is currently involved in the daily operation of the business as well as sales and marketing for the group. The company is involved in a feeding scheme started July 1999 (Phetoho Community Centre) reaching 200 children twice a week (4000 mugs of soup) prepared daily; a Community Children’s Church; Talitha Cumi Place of Safety for 26 abused children in March 2008. They are planning to build 4 houses to accommodate 8 children and a mother.

Ms. Clara Makara obtained a Woolworths franchise in November 2006 in Ladybrand.  She created a cc with herself and Pule Makgoe as owners.

The Ladybrand shop was turned around in one year and they then bought another Woolworths franchise store in Phuthaditjhaba. Both shops show a positive growth rate (Ladybrand 50% and Phuthaditjhaba 30%)

Twenty six employees are employed between the two stores and the owners focus on internal promotion and assisting children of the workers with bursaries to study.

They have been nominated and awarded “Woolworths Rookie of the Year “ (2007), FASA “Most Promising Black Franchisee” (2009); Woolworths Ambassador of the Year 2009” ( Ladybrand )and “Performing the Best in Large Clip” category (Phuthaditjhaba).

Ms Makara holds a BA Communication from UFS and she is an accredited facilitator, mentor, assessor with Theta (Seta). She did voter training for previous elections.

Lize-Mari Booyens created Lekkerbekkie 15 years ago when she started primary school and participated in the school’s entrepreneur’s day activities. Her first profit was R 3.50. Two years later her sister Mari-Lize started school and joined
her.

Initially Lekkerbekkie functioned as a ‘tuck-shop’ but with time the sisters employed about 8 other children to work for them and paid them for their time. During their school years the sisters won several entrepreneurial competitions and they
gave workshops to other learners.

Through the years they developed into a profitable business. They have won numerous awards and at present they have two stalls at the Bloemfontein Boeremark whilst studying at UFS. (Liza-Mari 3rd year MBW –Sport and Mari-Lize 2nd year B.Rek)

They also have stalls at various markets during the year (Eunice,UNICA, Lions and Charity in Pretoria and Welkom). They have recently been accepted to visit the Gallagher Estates expo as representing a going concern.

The two ladies are financially independent. They pay their own studies (and hostel) fees, buy their own clothes and raw materials and they have appointed a young lady as assistant.

Kholwa Signs specializes in traffic signs, digital printing (labels, embroidery), indoor displays, estate agency boards, number plates and corporate clothing.

Thandeka Mahlatjie established Kholwa Sign Master in April 2006 with a vision to become market leaders by positioning the company strategically throughout South Africa as the leader in the sign industry.

In 2009 the company was a winner in the Project KickStart programme of South African Breweries. Thandeka was the only woman in the top five and the company was selected as finalist in the Eskom Business Competition in September 2009.

Thandeka gained experience in administration, sales and service while employed by Child Welfare, Mac Steel, Dept of Road & Transport and Eskom.  She obtained a BAdmin in 2003.

The company has an Executive Manager (Thandeka), an Operarional Manager Emmanuel Mahlatjie, two graphic designers, two sign technicians, one sales consultant and a receptionist (9 members).
 

Dr. Shane Foulkes qualified as MB Ch B in 1984 at the UFS.  She further obtained a Diploma in Obstetrics (1986) and M FAM in 2001. From 1986 to 1988 she served as Medical Officer in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and from 1989 she practiced as GP (specializing in Ultrasound) and serving as Breastfeeding Consultant. From 2005 and ongoing dr Foulkes is involved in Research at JOSHA as Principal, Principal and Sub Investigator on several Studies.

Nature of research includes Asthma, Pneumonia, Herpes, Diabetes, Hypertension, Osteoporosis and HIV incident studies (Family ealth International).

Dr Foulkes has wide-ranging exposure to patients and whilst running a full time practice and assisting as specialist in Ultrasound Obstetrics and Gynecology she also carries responsibility for the scientific integrity of research done, with
particular emphasis on HIV-Incidents Studies.

Dr. Foulkes is experienced as an exceptional physician with wide ranging interests, responsibilities and a dedicated involvement with HIV Counselling and Community Development.

Jenwil Bluestar Financial Advisory Services, established in 2009 was only the second practice in the country that complied with the required standards to qualify as a BlueStar Business of Sanlam.  Rothea van Biljon has been a financial advisor of Sanlam since 2002 and she is actively involved in various Institutions and Boards.

She started her career as secretary and at one stage owned a Modeling Agency and Public Relations Practice. During 1984 – 1990 she took time out to raise a family.

Rothea’s professional memberships include PRISA (Full Member), FISA and FPI.

She has served and still serves on various Institutions like the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (having served as Board Member, Vice President, President and Honorary Treasurer); Chairperson of AHI, Bloemfontein and member of Board of AHI National; Vice Chairman of CUT Board, Board member of Central University of Technology (Science Park Board, advisory committee Tourism Faculty); Member of the Executive Committee of the Kovsie Alumni Trust and a Trustee of the Trust.

Jenwil Bluestar’s team consist of six professional and one administrative member.

She has been practicing successfully as a lawyer for the past 16 years.

She is married and the mother of three children aged 5 years, 3 years and 18 months.

Her commitment, dedication, responsibility and perseverance to succeed in what needs to be done have contributed to her rise in an extremely competitive area of practice in a relatively short period of time.

She actively adds value to the community she serves, particularly in contributing to the development of young people through courses she presents from time to time. She also participates in running Marathons and swimming the Midmar Mile.

Amanda is Client Services manager and forms part of the senior management team of the Bloemfontein Medi-Clinic hospital for the past four years.  The work entails planning, co-ordination of all marketing activities in the hospital and aligning this with the Group hospital vision and values.

She obtained B Soc Sc (SW) and M Soc Sc (SW) at UFS and the MDP (School of Management) UFS 2006. Her career included managing the offices of AFM Executive Welfare Council Bloemfontein; Program Manager: Public Relations & Fundraising (Child Welfare Bloemfontein & Childline Free State) and Client Services Manager at Bloemfontein Med-Clinic in 2006.

Amanda’s key performance includes: Continuous performance and quality management; Public Relations; Information management; Marketing planning; Media relations and financial control.

She has a passion for involvement in the wellbeing of others offering volunteer service where possible. She is married, has two children, enjoys music and aims to ride the Cape Argus in 2011.

Elmarie Prinsloo is the Chief Executive Officer of the Show grounds Development Trust and the Central Agricultural Society. The Bloem Show is one of the three largest shows in the country that combines the commerce, industry and agricultural sections. The Development Trust focuses on maximizing utilization of facilities further developments on the show grounds. The trust employs 11 people (90% women) and during show-time, they employ on a temporary basis more than 300 people.

In 1999 she became show manager. She was appointed CEO in 2008. She holds a B.Econ degree of the UFS (Economics, Marketing, Money and Banking) and in 2008 she completed the Management Development Program at UFS.

She has completed the Cape Argus five times and is an active golfer. Elamarie is active in her community and with her Bible study group reaches out to street kids, orphanages and old age homes.

With her Bloem Show team they are involved at the Sunrise Day Care centre in Freedom square and Elmarie serves as trustee at the Marthie du Plessis School.

Ms. Sephoti has worked for twelve years in different legal and regulatory capacities in the Public Sector until head hunted and joining the South African Breweries as Corporate Affairs Manager for the Central Region based in Bloemfontein in October 2005.

She studied at the University of Stellenbosch, University of Bophuthatswana (LL.B and B.Juris) and her dissertation for the degree LL.M in Labour Law is still outstanding. She is a member of various legal associations, general secretary of
Nadel (2000-2001) and Chairperson of Business against Crime – Free State (2007 to date). She was recently appointed a member of PACOFS Audit Committee (2010).

Ms Sephoti runs an entrepreneurship program called Kickstart at SAB to assist Business Owners, administers a Corporate Social Investment programme, supports children’s charities and is actively involved in the Women’s Network of her church.

Drinè Ras registered Kukama Creative Designs in 2007 with its primary focus being the design and manufacturing of furniture using hides of game and cattle tanned on the farm and then using it as fabric for upholstering. Kukama design and manufacture  exclusive leather and skin products (Leather, Hide and Horn) with a focus on executive furniture, handmade goods and corporate gifts.

A secondary company has also been established for making an exclusive range of handbags and fly-fishing gear. All activities are focused on providing:

• quality products
• to become a recognized role-player in the market for leather, hide, wood and steel products
• much needed employment opportunities to deal with poverty, lack of hope and the future
• training for employees in making leather goods and furniture
• help to upcoming artists and hand-crafters to sell their products in an existing shop in Christiana

Drine Ras trained as a hairdresser and cosmetologist, obtained a certificate in Tannery and did a course in Upholstery. Her career included employment with PricewaterhouseCoopers, VIP Payroll Consultant and HR Divisions.

She is in the process of registering a charity organization with projects already running from January 2008 at a nearby town. They supply clothing to 30 households; they assist pupils with transport to a Farm school.  Drine started the charity project with GijimaAst who has sponsored 26 desks for upliftment of post-matrics to develop workplace skills.

Ansie Fourie experienced financial setbacks forcing her to seek sources of basic income. She started a small recycling business and with a friend Sandra Netherlands focused on turning scrap metal, old enamel and things like old steel ceilings into art and décor articles. This enabled them to generate an income for themselves and for unemployed job seekers who now collect scrap metal and other articles and who assist them in their workshop. The Blikplek Art Yard employs ten men in the junk workshop and thirteen people in total.

Ansie and Sandra have a passion to help those who are destitute, to experience a sense of achievement, to develop a positive self-esteem and to earn a living. Some of the unskilled workers they employed have become skilled welders, other unemployed people are commissioned to create unique articles that are sold through the Blikplek and they are starting to train young women in business skills, catering, hospitality and management.  Small entrepreneurs are given monthly opportunities through a Saturday Market to sell their own wares.

Ansie and Sandra also run a restaurant, a coffee shop, a conference/function venue  as well as personalized tours in Ficksburg and surrounds.

They have received various awards, exposure at nationally held festivals and they have featured in publications like Landbou Weekblad, Country Life Magazine and on Kwela.

Annamarie Potgieter, Hasso Advertising Agency

Rachel Taldi, Uvuko Civils

Cynthia Mkhombo, Masana Hygiene Services

Nthabeleng (Tabisa) Khoapa, Tabisa Training Management Services

Roseline Nhlapo, Sgegede Group

Colette Symanowitz, MBAconnect.net

Belinda Lentz - Regional Marketing Manager, Sanlam

Sinah Phochana - Group Communication Manager, Denel

Sbusisiwe Myeni - Risk Manager, Absa