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Despite the less-than-ideal weather, last night’s gathering at the Mandela Business School was nothing short of remarkable. Gqeberha’s book lovers, business leaders, and young professionals showed up in full support of Dr. Babalwa Maholwana, who launched her new memoir, The After 40 Dilemma, in partnership with the <a data-mce-href="https://bmfonline.co.za/" href="https://bmfonline.co.za/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Black Management Forum (BMF)</a>. The evening was a powerful blend of authenticity, vulnerability, and strategic insight - a timely conversation about navigating the complexities of life and leadership, particularly for women in their 40s.From the start, it was clear this was not going to be an ordinary book launch. The BMF NMB Chairperson, Siyabulela Jodwana, opened the evening by reminding us of BMF’s core mandate: To celebrate black excellence and advocate for the inclusion of black professionals in strategic corporate spaces. He noted, “As BMF, we are focused on empowering young professionals because as the current leaders, we will not occupy these positions forever. Strategic positions are held by black professionals, but the gates are still closed. We are saying to young professionals: occupy those spaces and be active in a meaningful way.”<figure id="figure-4i3yukm79mm88v82q1"><img id="4i3yukm79mm88v82q1" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6Ng93xSYIogGjWUBoZrz90InBbiVxa0vHgKGdwEBr1Tb3crMZa3HUE0Vtqakp0i0.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6Ng93xSYIogGjWUBoZrz90InBbiVxa0vHgKGdwEBr1Tb3crMZa3HUE0Vtqakp0i0.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Dr. Babalwa’s memoir struck a deep chord with the audience. The panel, composed entirely of women, unpacked the realities of juggling corporate leadership, motherhood, and personal growth - often at the expense of their well-being. The book is not only a memoir but also a guide on how to be authentic, set boundaries, and prioritize oneself while managing work, family, and relationships.Leadership roles held by women are often portrayed as a victory - a symbol of progress in the fight for black women’s inclusion in professional spaces. However, the truth is far more complex. Women in leadership face immense pressure to prove themselves twice as much as everyone else while simultaneously handling the emotional labour of family and personal relationships. These struggles are rarely acknowledged - until burnout hits, until women collapse under the weight of their “superhero” roles. Yet, these same women are the architects of future professionals. Their motherly instincts extend beyond the home into their workplaces, where they lead, coach, and build the next generation of leaders.The panelists shared stories of resilience, heartbreak, love, toxicity, and exhaustion. One panelist, Ziyanda Arosi-Dlulane, who is a clinical psychologist, offered a poignant reflection, “Balancing your everyday life means giving your most energy to what is important at that specific moment - you don’t have to split yourself in two all the time.” Her words resonated deeply, highlighting the importance of setting realistic expectations and knowing when to shift focus.<figure id="figure-koabp9xmqgm88vc0k1"><iframe id="koabp9xmqgm88vc0k1" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kK24bFxgYYo" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="" data-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kK24bFxgYYo" data-corners="default" data-fullWidth="false"></iframe></figure>My personal takeaway from the evening is that the “superhero” in women is not some natural superpower - it’s a collection of hard-won experiences that are not always sweet, comfortable, or healthy. We shouldn’t celebrate hardship, even though it often shapes our greatest strengths. As we raise the next generation, more coaching, mentoring, and deep meaningful conversations (DMCs) should become the foundation for helping our children navigate the inevitable imbalances of life, love, and purpose.Of course, the evening’s insights would not have been as profound without the wise words of Nomhle ‘Chinese’ Tys - Public Sector Lead: Metrolife, Zola Ngoma - Head HR Manager: Coega, and Dr. Babalwa Maholwana herself. And a special thanks to Shalom Mso Khandanisa, who did an exceptional job facilitating the discussion - ensuring clarity and drawing out thoughtful insights from each speaker.To me, The After 40 Dilemma is a roadmap for both women and men who are navigating the complex intersections of leadership, family, and selfhood. Dr. Babalwa’s work is a powerful reminder that true strength lies not in doing it all, but in knowing when to let go, creating boundaries, and prioritizing oneself.Get your book <a data-mce-href="https://books2read.com/The-After-40-Dilemma-Babalwa-Maholwana" href="https://books2read.com/The-After-40-Dilemma-Babalwa-Maholwana" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>!!!

Reflections on "The After 40 Dilemma" launch at Mandela Business School.

If it weren’t for WhatsApp, I honestly don’t see how we would have managed to execute our tasks efficiently as teams working from different locations to achieve one goal. Imagine trying to coordinate multiple teams, ensure media alignment, and keep stakeholders updated - all without the instant connectivity that WhatsApp provides. Whether it’s a quick text to update a colleague, a group call to align on strategy, or even a last-minute message to inform your spouse you’ll be late for dinner due to a client meeting, WhatsApp has seamlessly integrated itself into our professional and personal lives.I say this with conviction because I just hit SEND on my final message to a WhatsApp group of local media, wrapping up another incredible <a data-mce-href="https://www.sa20.co.za/" href="https://www.sa20.co.za/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Betway SA20</a> tournament season. The scale of communication involved in organizing such an event is overwhelming to some, yet for many of us, WhatsApp was the ultimate tool for alignment, delegation, and execution. From coordinating media logistics to keeping external stakeholders informed and even ensuring ticket winners had all the details they needed - WhatsApp remained the go-to platform for real-time, streamlined communication.Of course, with great efficiency comes a few workplace dilemmas. The biggest frustration among employees today is how WhatsApp has blurred the lines between work and personal time. Many argue that work-related WhatsApp messages have encroached on their personal lives, making it difficult to switch off. Even managers, at times, struggle to draw the line between business hours and after-hours communication. But let’s be honest - while the debate continues, isn’t it the same WhatsApp that allows an employee to report they are stuck in traffic, running late from lunch, or unable to make it to work due to a doctor’s appointment? Sure, an email could work, but who really sends an apology email while away from the desk (probably fetching a kid from school or at a doctor's appointment)? Meanwhile, WhatsApp remains a tap away, offering the quickest way to stay connected.Within the current high-speed business world, WhatsApp has become more than just a messaging app - it’s an indispensable corporate tool that drives efficiency, collaboration, and instant connectivity. Love it or hate it, there’s no denying its impact in keeping businesses and projects running seamlessly.Access our new edition <a data-mce-href="https://konvenientmagazine.gumroad.com/l/skukrb" href="https://konvenientmagazine.gumroad.com/l/skukrb" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.

It’s amazing how WhatsApp has revolutionized our team's communication and efficiency.

It's not every day you meet a woman who has boldly stepped into the heart of the plumbing industry, but it’s even more inspiring when that woman has built her company from the ground up. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Ntombomzi Sweetness Mbaza, a powerhouse in the construction and plumbing sector, to discuss her incredible journey from an underpaid administrator to the founder of Itha Plumbing - a company that has grown from just two employees to a thriving team of 30.Sweetness started her career managing an RDP housing project while earning a meager R2,500 a month. She wasn’t just handling paperwork - she was running the entire operation, from securing subcontractors and organizing materials to coordinating building inspections and processing payments. Yet, she worked under a boss whose business ethics left much to be desired.“I started my business out of anger,” she admitted. “If I could do all of this for him, why couldn’t I do it for myself?”That fire led her to take on her first independent job, an R1,000 public works project. It was a small step, but one that ignited the foundation of Itha Plumbing.Like many entrepreneurs, Sweetness faced early setbacks. Her first attempt at building RDP houses failed due to financial mismanagement. Instead of giving up, she pivoted, narrowing her focus solely to plumbing.She started small, securing minor contracts and submitting quotations until departments began to take notice. Along the way, she groomed her brother and brother-in-law to join the business. Her breakthrough came in 2008 when Itha Plumbing secured its first major tri-annual tender with the metro. Since then, the company has never looked back.<figure id="figure-uoc57qlcbm7rcc2jl"><img id="uoc57qlcbm7rcc2jl" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2dL0A7ozVh4Jb0XOge7tzPXcSA0hGwvv3VYL66n2in0e4O7y9QAt3V3TOqPXkeUd.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>Breaking into an industry dominated by men wasn’t easy. She constantly had to prove herself, fight to be taken seriously, and navigate threats that her contracts would be revoked if she didn’t meet unrealistic expectations.“I was told who to hire for certain projects, struggled to get yellow machines for bigger jobs, and even had to work with old, unreliable equipment,” she shared. “But I worked even harder until I could buy my own.”Like many startups, Itha Plumbing faced financial constraints. Loans, sheriff visits, and repayment plans were part of the struggle. However, Sweetness made strategic sacrifices, reinvesting every possible cent into the business to ensure its survival and growth.Her time with Raizcorp played a significant role in transforming her business. The mentorship and training she received improved her financial management skills, and during her tenure there, she purchased her first major piece of equipment.Running a company alongside her husband and raising children was another challenge. While her husband and brother handled operations on-site, Sweetness juggled work and motherhood.“My kids understood my business from a young age,” she explained. “I’d pick them up from school, take them to the site, and help with homework either late at night or early in the morning.”With Itha Plumbing now employing 30 people, Sweetness remains resilient despite the challenges she faces. Some industry players have tried to push her out, but subcontracting has helped her sustain the business.“I had to swallow my pride and adapt,” she said. “Owning my resources makes things easier.”For women looking to enter construction, Sweetness has one clear message: Don’t be intimidated.“Some men in this industry don’t even know the job,” she pointed out. “Get qualified people, pay them well, educate yourself about your field, and hire someone to handle administration so you can focus on finding opportunities.”Her entrepreneurial spirit truly shone when she decided to establish her own plumbing company. Her journey from an administrative role in construction to leading her own business exemplifies perseverance and determination, epitomizing the adage that success favours the bold. Sweetness Mbaza's story offers a glimpse into the potential of women in trades. Breaking through barriers and redefining norms, she embodies the spirit of resilience and innovation, paving the way for future generations of women in plumbing and beyond.For more, visit: <a data-mce-href="https://ithaplumbing.co.za/" href="https://ithaplumbing.co.za/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Itha Plumbing &amp; Civil Construction</a>

Paving the way for future generations of women in plumbing and beyond.

The skincare industry is one of the industries that has been growing since it landed in our communities, with entrepreneurs who have managed to learn the ins and outs of it either via YouTube or through proper research. While global trends and international brands often dominate the shelves, there's something deeply refreshing about the rise of homegrown businesses that speak directly to the needs of African skin. At the heart of this movement is Zimasa Modie, founder of Uncuthu Organics, whose story is not only inspiring but also a celebration of entrepreneurship rooted in culture, family wisdom, and personal resilience.When I asked Zimasa what inspired the birth of Uncuthu Organics, she took me back to her childhood memories and personal struggles. “I was born in Lenasia South, Johannesburg, but spent my early years moving between there and Cofimvaba in the Eastern Cape. My journey into skincare started with my own battle with severe acne. I tried everything - high-end products, oral treatments - but nothing worked. It wasn’t until I revisited the traditional remedies my mother and grandmother swore by that I saw real change. That experience inspired me to create Uncuthu Organics in April 2021, to offer natural, effective solutions for people like me.”But building a successful business, especially in an industry as competitive as skincare, is no easy feat. Zimasa candidly shared the steep learning curve she faced, particularly around the business and financial side of things. With her background in engineering, she admits that navigating compliance requirements and securing funding opportunities felt foreign and challenging. “I had to seek guidance from experts and mentors in the business space. I also learned that real growth begins when you understand your own core values and embrace the difficulties that come with staying true to them.”This sense of authenticity shines through in the products themselves. I asked Zimasa what makes Uncuthu Organics stand out in a crowded market, and her passion was unmistakable. “We don’t just label ourselves ‘organic’ for marketing appeal. Every product is free from harmful chemicals and preservatives. But more importantly, each formula is designed with the African skin in mind - acknowledging the diverse levels of melanin and the unique challenges that come with it.” This deep understanding of local skin needs gives Uncuthu Organics an edge, combining ancient wisdom with modern formulation techniques.<figure id="figure-h09tjqvhfum7rbzjyq"><img id="h09tjqvhfum7rbzjyq" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/134cTQj55ynTbnIF9BAgjS4NXsBeQYS2t9fPnndPiV8qffYkmtvjnXXll1HGmf8u.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>Of course, ensuring consistent quality in every batch is crucial to maintaining customer trust. Zimasa credits her team’s ongoing research, development, and customer feedback for helping them evolve. “We constantly refine our products based on what our clients tell us they need. That’s the beauty of being a hands-on, locally rooted brand - we’re agile enough to listen and improve.”Asked about her most rewarding moments since starting the business, Zimasa’s voice softened with emotion. “It’s the messages from clients who tell me they’ve regained their confidence after years of struggling with their skin. For some, it’s the first time they feel seen and beautiful. That’s the true reward.” Beyond skincare, Uncuthu Organics also empowers distributors across the country, giving them an income stream and a way to support their families.As for the future? Zimasa’s ambitions for Uncuthu Organics are clear and bold. The brand is already available on Amazon and Takealot, with direct sales through their office and a growing distributor network. But she’s not stopping there. “By the end of this year, we want to see Uncuthu Organics stocked in major retail stores. And because we see an increasing demand for premium men’s skincare, we’re also developing a specialised male range to complement our unisex offerings.”Zimasa Modie’s story is a reminder that entrepreneurship is more than building a brand - it’s about solving problems, embracing personal stories, and uplifting communities along the way. Uncuthu Organics is more than just skincare; it’s a testament to heritage, resilience, and the beauty of homegrown innovation.For more, visit: <a data-mce-href="https://uncuthuorganics.my.canva.site/" href="https://uncuthuorganics.my.canva.site/">Uncuthu Organics</a>

Discussing the rise of Uncuthu Organics with Zimasa Modie.

Straight out of Gqeberha, a small but growing deli is making waves by offering more than just delicious treats - it's already baking a story of passion, resilience, and innovation. At the helm of Ryders Deli is Nkosomzi Damana, a determined entrepreneur whose journey into the culinary world was sparked by necessity and fuelled by ambition.At 29 years old, Nkosomzi Damana is not only a father to an 8-year-old son but also an NMU Alumni with a National Diploma in Human Resources Management. Despite his academic background, he found his true calling in baking. His entrepreneurial drive earned him recognition as a top finalist in the Standard Bank Ignite Your Hustle competition and a top three contender in the Nexus Programme by the Centre of Entrepreneurship Rapid Accelerator.“I never thought I’d end up in baking,” he admits. “But sometimes life pushes you in unexpected directions, and you have to embrace it.”Ryders Deli was born in 2022, fuelled by necessity and opportunity. While working as a Teacher Assistant at Seyisi Primary School, Nkosomzi noticed that many students and staff skipped breakfast. This observation sparked an idea - why not provide them with freshly baked muffins to start their day?“At the time, I was earning just R1,500 a month, and it wasn’t enough,” he recalls. “So, I thought, let me do something extra. That’s how Ryders Deli started.”What began as a small operation at the school soon expanded when he realized the potential of selling at local taxi ranks. "I saw an opportunity to reach more people, and that's when I took my muffins to the taxi ranks," he says. Despite facing competition, he remained committed to quality and innovation.Initially, Nkosomzi relied on muffin mix to prepare his baked goods. However, thanks to a sponsorship from SEDA, he attended a baking school, where he learned to make muffins from scratch. This opened doors to cakes, cupcakes, and more advanced recipes.<figure id="figure-4y35onui1am7rb8ap8"><img id="4y35onui1am7rb8ap8" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/7bh9gFXL4mLVmD8lmD19kQnEVbZUUJ3ctfkLwqooqg05hGFh5ADJoGOlu3wCnYiy.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/7bh9gFXL4mLVmD8lmD19kQnEVbZUUJ3ctfkLwqooqg05hGFh5ADJoGOlu3wCnYiy.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Now, Ryders Deli is setting itself apart by introducing a unique twist - alcohol-infused baked goods. “It’s a market that hasn’t been fully tapped into,” he explains. “I want to bring something different to the table, something that combines baking and entertainment.”With his background in the entertainment industry, Nkosomzi envisions Ryders Deli as more than just a bakery. “I see it becoming a lifestyle brand, where people don’t just come for the food but for the experience.”Although Nkosomzi currently operates Ryders Deli alone, he acknowledges the crucial role of his family and friends. “Whenever I get a big order, they step in to help,” he says. “They follow my instructions because I have the training, but their support makes all the difference.”With six local taxi ranks in his vicinity, expansion is the next big step. “My goal is to have a presence in all six taxi ranks,” he shares. "Getting a professional logo will also give the brand a stronger identity and help customers recognize us instantly."In a highly competitive industry, quality and variety are key. To ensure Ryders Deli stands out, Nkosomzi continuously improves his craft. “I’ve taken additional baking courses and invested in cookbooks from world-renowned chefs,” he says. “I study different techniques and apply them to my work.”What started as a side hustle has grown into a business with a vision. With creative products, expansion strategies, and a passion for excellence, Ryders Deli is on the rise."As long as I keep improving and offering something unique, I know Ryders Deli will continue to grow," Nkosomzi says confidently. "This is only the beginning."With dedication, innovation, and community support, Ryders Deli is poised for greatness - one delicious bite at a time.For orders: rydersdeli@gmail.com

Ryder's Deli: A thriving business driven by innovation, passion, and community support.

Known as one of the pioneers of the spaza movement from Cape Town, Driemanskap is that iconic Xhosa hip-hop group that has stayed relevant for over two decades. Most of their songs aren’t just about hip-hop, the streets, and having fun - they also carry messages of encouragement, urging their fans to keep pushing through life’s challenges. In this edition, we sit down with them to talk about their upcoming single featuring Bravo Le Roux, PHAMBILI!!!Phambili carries a powerful message just from its title. What’s the story behind the song, and what inspired you to create it?Driemanskap: Life is a never-ending war; every chapter comes with its own challenges. It doesn’t matter who you are, where you’re from, or where you are in the world - you will face something that forces the fighter in you to come out. The song sends a clear message to all fighters: keep going and never look back because PHAMBILI is the only way forward.How was the process of creating Phambili, from writing to recording? Were there any challenges or standout moments during production?Driemanskap: The hook itself is a chant - a hymn that we didn’t originally compose, so we can’t take credit for that part. However, we recorded all the vocals ourselves, with help from a few friends. Because we’ve been walking this road for so long, the message hit home for us, and that inspired everything that followed. What came out wasn’t just a song - it became a masterpiece.The writing process felt natural and effortless because it came straight from the heart. Recording was pure fun - the energy in the room was amazing, and the synergy was beautiful. We recorded the song over two sessions: first laying down the hook until we were confident it was exactly what we wanted, then stepping away to write the verses before returning to the studio to complete the track a few days later.<figure id="figure-h0k2udi07m7ragbpv"><iframe id="h0k2udi07m7ragbpv" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LGlmjb0q4FE" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGlmjb0q4FE&amp;t=64s" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LGlmjb0q4FE" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>Bravo Le Roux is a powerful force in the game right now. What made him the perfect fit for this feature, and what was it like working with him?Driemanskap: We’ve always been known for using chants in our live performances - it’s part of who we are. We noticed Bravo Le Roux has a similar love for chants, so collaborating made perfect sense. When we sent him the song, his response was, “Yhuu eza wey zam, we got one masambe,” followed by a flood of fire emojis and crying faces - that excitement said it all.Even though he was abroad at the time, Bravo made time in his busy schedule, recorded his verse, and sent it through. We were all together when we heard it for the first time, and we immediately jumped on a call to thank him. His verse is fire - big love to Bravo for always pushing boundaries.As Xhosa artists, how does it feel to collaborate with other local Xhosa rappers who are also pushing the same cultural narrative in hip-hop?Driemanskap: IsiXhosa is a beautiful language, and the world needs to hear it. What better way to amplify it than through music - in our case, hip-hop. Collaborating makes the mission easier because we’re stronger together than trying to fight this battle alone. We all share the same goal: putting Xhosa hip-hop where it belongs - right at the top.What can fans expect from the final version of Phambili? Any surprises or special elements that set it apart from your previous releases?Driemanskap: What we can confidently say right now is that Phambili is incredible from start to finish. As for surprises? Definitely - but we’ll let the fans discover them for themselves when they hear it.March looks like a big month for you - where can fans catch you performing, and are there any plans for a full album?Driemanskap: The buzz around Phambili is already wild - and the song isn’t even out yet! Its energy demands attention.March is going to be packed - we’ll be on a full PR run to promote the single and hit some stages along the way. As for a full album? That’s dropping later this year. But before that, expect a few more singles to heat up the streets. Our fans need to stay ready because 2025 is going to be a massive year.As the sun rises over Cape Town’s townships and the echoes of struggle, survival, and triumph fill the air, Driemanskap’s message is loud and clear - PHAMBILI. A reminder to every hustler, creative, and dreamer that no matter how tough life gets, there’s only one way to go - forward, always forward.With decades of experience and an unshakable love for their culture and craft, Driemanskap isn’t just leading the charge for Xhosa hip-hop - they’re inspiring a whole new generation to walk boldly into the future. The anthem officially drops on 4 March 2025 - when it does, raise your fists, lock your eyes ahead, and move boldly PHAMBILI.For more, visit: <a data-mce-href="https://www.youtube.com/@driemanskap/videos" href="https://www.youtube.com/@driemanskap/videos" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Driemanskap</a>

Business News

Reflections on "The After 40 Dilemma" launch at Mandela B...

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Paving the way for future generations of women in plumbin...

Discussing the rise of Uncuthu Organics with Zimasa Modie.

Ryder's Deli: A thriving business driven by innovation, p...

PHAMBILI: Driemanskap's unstoppable journey.