educor connect march 2015.pdf

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“Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.” Henry Ford STAFF NEWSLETTER connect connect March 2015 • Winners and New Competitions • Message from the CEO and Breakfast with the CEO • Educor Spirit Awards • Meet the Head Office Finance Team • One on One with Our New CFO • Staff and Brand Highlights • Must Haves for Your Home, Car and Tummy • Your April – July Gig Guide • Shed the Load Shedding Blues • Cooking with Our In-house Chefs • Easy Easter Recipes • Keeping It Trendy This Winter – Our Fashion Guru Shares Her Magic! Editor's Desk Share your thoughts and ideas on how we could improve any area of the Edu- cor business and you could win a R1000 shopping voucher to splash out on a new winter wardrobe! Send to [email protected] Hunt your way to chocolate delicacies by finding the hidden eggs in this issue. Look inside the fonts, under the images, over the blocks, across the lines and who knows, the answer could be just around the pages. The first 10 entries to find the correct number of eggs will win a chocolate voucher worth R150 each. Email your answer to [email protected] Sorry, winners from our December 2014 issue will not be able to enter this competition. Win one of 10 chocolate vouchers worth R150 each Write to the Educor Connect team (educorconnect@ educor.co.za), and tell us in ten lines what you love the most about your job and working at your brand. Keep it fun, keep it real and Winning Letter you could walk away with R500. Share and Win a Winter Wardrobe Worth R1000 From the In this issue... Welcome to another bumper edition of Educor Connect, filled with exciting news, competitions and awesome prizes. We trust that you will enjoy this refreshing new online format, designed to bring you so much more in one edition. With Easter around the corner, chocolate is the magic word and we have some delicious treats up for grabs with our fun Easter hunt. Meet our new additions to the U family and enjoy delicious recipes; our trendy fashion wardrobe, the famous gig guide and shopping must-haves. Learn how you could enter the Educor Spirit Awards and WIN a breakfast with the CEO. Write to us on [email protected] with your comments and contributions. Your feedback is valuable. Enjoy! Group Head of Communications New Competitions Crossword Winners Dec 2014 The race has been won, with a record number of entries received minutes from release of the last newsletter. Thank you to all for your enthusiasm and contribution. Congratulations to our tortoises who each win R100, and to the hares out there, look out for the next prize around the corner. It could be yours! HEAD OFFICE FACE-2-FACE •Shane Shaw •Noeleen Naicker •Shantal Sheoprosad •Garth Elliott •Sukenia Naidu •Josephine Puckree •Valencia Muthukisten •Aysha Waljee •Shankari Poovalingam •Avinash Brijlal ICG •Jill Ryan •Ria Goetsch •Babiley Petersen •Turchia Petersen •Salma Khan •Nazeer Anthony •Wesley Gentry Contact Ashmika Chottu on educorconnect@ educor.co.za to claim your prize. 1

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  • Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success. Henry Ford

    STAFF NEWSLETTER

    connect

    connect

    March 2015

    Winners and New Competitions Message from the CEO and Breakfast with the CEO Educor Spirit Awards Meet the Head Of ce Finance Team One on One with Our New CFO Staff and Brand Highlights Must Haves for Your Home, Car and Tummy

    Your April July Gig Guide Shed the Load Shedding Blues Cooking with Our In-house Chefs Easy Easter Recipes Keeping It Trendy This Winter Our Fashion Guru Shares Her Magic!

    Editor's Desk

    Share your thoughts and ideas on how we could improve any area of the Edu-cor business and you could win a R1000 shopping voucher to splash out on a new winter wardrobe! Send to [email protected]

    Hunt your way to chocolate delicacies by fi nding the hidden eggs in this issue. Look inside the fonts, under the images, over the blocks, across the lines and who knows, the answer could be just around the pages. The fi rst 10 entries to fi nd the correct number of eggs will win a chocolate voucher worth R150 each. Email your answer to [email protected], winners from our December 2014 issue will not be able to enter this competition.

    Win one of 10 chocolate vouchers worth R150 each

    Write to the Educor Connect team ([email protected]), and tell us in ten lines what you love the most about your job and working at your brand.

    Keep it fun, keep it real and

    Winning LetterWinning Letter

    you could walk away with R500.

    Share and Win a Winter Wardrobe

    Worth R1000

    From the

    In this issue...Welcome to another bumper edition of Educor Connect, fi lled with exciting news, competitions and awesome prizes. We trust that you will enjoy this refreshing new online format, designed to bring you so much more in one edition. With Easter around the corner, chocolate is the magic word and we have some delicious treats up for grabs with our fun Easter hunt. Meet our new additions to the U family and enjoy delicious recipes; our trendy fashion wardrobe, the famous gig guide and shopping must-haves. Learn how you could enter the Educor Spirit Awards and WIN a breakfast with the CEO. Write to us on [email protected] with your comments and contributions. Your feedback is valuable. Enjoy!

    Group Head of Communications

    New CompetitionsCrossword WinnersDec 2014The race has been won, with a record number of entries received minutes from release of the last newsletter. Thank you to all for your enthusiasm and contribution. Congratulations to our tortoises who each win R100, and to the hares out there, look out for the next prize around the corner. It could be yours!

    HEAD OFFICEFACE-2-FACEShane Shaw Noeleen NaickerShantal SheoprosadGarth Elliott Sukenia NaiduJosephine Puckree Valencia Muthukisten Aysha WaljeeShankari PoovalingamAvinash Brijlal

    ICGJill RyanRia GoetschBabiley PetersenTurchia PetersenSalma KhanNazeer AnthonyWesley Gentry

    Contact Ashmika Chottu on [email protected] to claim your prize.

    1

  • Teamwork divides the task and multiplies the success. Anonymous

    Louise Nair, Educor Group CEO

    Welcome to staff who have joined the Group in the last quarter, and a special welcome to our new Chief Financial Offi cer, Charles Reeves. Congratulations to Neville Thambiran, appointed as CEO of Educor Property Holdings, our subsidiary property investment company.

    April marks the end of season, and as we resume our normal offi ce hours again, I would like to thank you for your hard work and long hours during a very challenging 2014-2015 season. Our focus this quarter is on measurement of targets, identifying gaps, reviewing

    business models and re-steering the company towards positive growth. Assessing environmental challenges, responding to regulatory requirements and addressing the needs of our student market continues to be our priority.

    A key focus this year is on corporatisation, streamlining systems and processes, and positioning Educor as an attractive product to investors.You, our people, are top on the agenda of priorities. Employee engagement and interaction with more training and team building, and improved communication

    structures are part of our strategy for better and more ef cient teams. Performance and being accountable for deliverables is every staff members responsibility, and as a company it is our responsibility to recognise and reward you. The Educor Spirit Awards launched in this issue is the fi rst step in identifying our star employees. Share your thoughts by writing to me on [email protected]

    Warm regards

    WIN a breakfast with Louise and ask her anything you want. What a great way to share your thoughts over a cup of tea and a scrumptious breakfast! Write to us on [email protected] and tell us why you should win.

    Win a Breakfast with the CEO

    Are you an outstanding staff member whose talents and hard work are going unnoticed?

    Heres your chance to shine and win at the same time. Educor will be launching the EDUCOR SPIRIT AWARDS in April. And no, it's not an award for the best drinker! It's an award for the staff member with the best attitude and worth ethic in your brand. Who will be the judge?

    Well fi rstly you will need to impress your manager, and your colleagues and a panel of judges will also have their say. The winning staff member from each of our seven brands will win loads of amazing prizes, bragging rights for a year and a fl oating trophy to place on your desk for an entire year. Look out for details coming soon.

    Educor SpiritAwards

    Message from the CEO

    Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the nos. 1-9.Soduku

    Are you an outstanding staff member whose

    SpiritAwards

    SpiritAwards

    Spirit

    connect 2

    CEO

  • The nice thing about teamwork is that you always have others on your side. Margaret Cartyconnect

    Meet the Finance Team at Head Offi ce

    Name: Karona (Masha) Gree RajDesignation: Creditors SupervisorQuali cation: BCom (Law) Bio: I love music, reading and spending time with my family. Im married for two years and have no children yet. I joined the Educor Payments Department in 2014 and was then promoted to the Finance Creditors Department a year later. I am generally awesome, occasionally pointless. Educor has opened up so many opportunities for me and I truly go with the CityVarsity quote "Choose a job you love and youll never have to work a day in your life!"

    Name: Audrey KhumaloDesignation: Creditors Clerk ICESAQuali cation: BCom (Part)Bio: I am a quiet, reliable and honest person who likes performing my duties to my best ability. I love laughing when people joke around. I am married with no kids. I like playing football as I feel more at ease when I'm around boys. I am new here in Durban and still adjusting to the Durban lifestyle.

    Name: Nhlanhla MagwazaDesignation: ICESA Financial AccountantQualifi cations: Cost and Management Accounting National Diploma (and SAIPA articles)Bio: I have been with the Educor group for four years now and have been promoted three times. My fi rst position in the group was as an Accounts Clerk working at Damelin Durban City. Late in 2014, I was promoted to the ICESA Financial Accountant position. I am engaged and have two daughters. I love soccer and I support Kaizer Chiefs (Amakhosi for life).

    Name: Nersan PillayDesignation: Creditors Clerk (Damelin)Quali cation: BComptBio: Educor holdings is my fi rst job. It has been a big change from studying to a working career. I work around a fantastic group of people in the fi nance department as well as the friendly staff of Educor. My biggest hobby is being a football fanatic and a supporter of Chelsea FC. Understanding all the politics and the different football clubs' history is something I always enjoy reading.

    Name: Dayandree GovenderDesignation: Creditors ClerkQualifi cation: Diploma in Computers and AdministrationBio: I am 34 years old and married for three years. I have an 18 month old baby boy, Shiven, who is the apple of my eye. I like spending quality time with my family and also like reading. I have been at Educor for two years and acquired a lot of experience during this time. I recently registered at Damelin for the bookkeeping course.

    Name: Lucky ChettyDesignation: Financial Controller Qualifi cation: Diploma in Business Administration and Management Bio: I come from a management background in customs with special emphasis on tariffs and valuation issues. My hobbies include playing pool, indoor cricket, watching soccer and cricket as well as listening to music.

    Name: Tholsie SubramaniDesignation: Creditors Clerk (Damelin)Qualifi cation: 28 years work experienceBio: I am married with two sons, aged 22 and 16. I am a strong-willed person that always strives for the best. I am a person that is always willing to assist at all times and accepts no nonsense. I love reading and spending time at the beach.

    Name: Seshnie AnkaduDesignation: Creditors Clerk INTEC CollegeQuali cation: Practical Bookkeeping UNISA and currently studying through Damelin ICB: Bookkeeping. Bio: My Educor journey began in May 2014. I have nine years working experience in the nancial environment. Prior to Educor I worked for First Resorts Management for seven years. I am married with no kids. Whenever I get free time and money I shop, shop and shop...

    Name: Suresh NathooDesignation: Group Internal Auditor - EducorQuali cation: BCom CTA (completed articles)Bio: I enjoy listening to Indian music. I sing with a Bollywood band as a hobby. I have performed in numerous radio, stage and television programmes and I am actively involved in the promotion of Indian culture and music. I have had the pleasure of associating with numerous Bollywood stars and artists. I also enjoy interior decorating.

    Name: Rehana Vanker Designation: Financial Manager Damelin/ICESA/CityVarsityQualifi cation: Chartered AccountantBio: I have been working for Educor for the last 16 months. Im married to Suleman who is a Physicist at UKZN. I enjoy interior decorating in my spare time. Due to religious reasons I don't take photos.

    Name: Rajeshnee Chetty (Sheritha)Designation: Creditors Clerk for INTEC Quali cation: Unisa Practical BookkeepingBio: I have over 10 years working experience in the fi nance department. I started at Educor in January this year and previously worked at uShaka Marine World for six years. I am married and have two children, nine and seven. I like listening to music and spending quality time with my family.

    3

    Name: Ashlin GovenderDesignation: Financial ManagerQuali cation: BCom Honours (Acc) (MBA - completion 2015)Bio: I am a sociable and fun loving individual. I enjoy playing soccer and like a good braai. I believe in working smart and not hard. I enjoy working towards a common goal and motivating people towards that goal.

  • Meet the Finance Team at Head Offi ce

    Start by doing what's necessary, then what's possible, and suddenly you are doing the impossible. - Francis of Assisiconnect

    Name: Prenushka Keerath Designation: Accountant, Educor HoldingsQuali cation: BComBio: I joined Educor Holdings as an accountant in 2011. In my spare time I enjoy reading and would enjoy travelling more if possible. I also enjoy watching sports, going out and I am a food channel fan.

    Name: Ruwaida CassimDesignation: Senior BookkeeperQuali cation: ICB Senior Bookkeeping Certi cationBio: Im 28 years old and Ive been working at Educor for four years. My hobbies include shopping, going to movies and taking long walks on the beach. Im married to Fayaaz and I have a gorgeous four year old son.

    Name: Ragini ReddyDesignation: Snr Financial ControllerQualifi cation: MatricBio: My job entails liaising with creditors and fi nancial aspects of the business. My hobbies include baking, reading and going to gym. Keeping busy and staying fi t is very important to me.

    Name: Ridwan KhanDesignation: Bookkeeper - INTECQuali cation: 3rd year BCom student Bio: I am the bean counter as they call us in the industry, and number crunching is the game.

    Name: Priscilla BarrettDesignation: Creditors Clerk (Damelin)Qualifi cation: MatricI am 28 years old. I am absolutely gorgeous and I love me some me. I have two spice girls, Tiara, four and Chelsea, two. I am a muse for AVON and I love dunked wings from KFC. People tend to label me as a drama-mama, but I am actually an introvert. I think I should be voted the next president of South Africa.

    Name: Yuthika DukhipersadDesignation: Junior Financial Controller Qualifi cation: Matric Bio: Big dreams, good music and expensive taste.

    Name: Sulaiman OsmanDesignation: Financial Accountant CityVarsityQualifi cation: Chartered Accountant (SA)Bio: I enjoy playing squash.

    Name: Daphne Marie Designation: Bookkeeper for Damelin.Quali cation: Bookkeeping through Varsity CollegeBio: I enjoy movies, socialising and some sport.

    Name: Laveshnee LukhaiDesignation: Damelin Financial AccountantQuali cation: BCompt degree and have completed three years articles.Bio: Ive been employed at Educor for over three years. I enjoy social-ising, movies, baking and sport.

    Name: Logan ArcharyDesignation: Financial AccountantQuali cation: BCom Bio: Job-personality trait compatibility is of utmost importance as it leads to personal gratifi cation.

    Tyre air pressure kit from Makro: R350

    Sunbeam air cooker from Game: R420

    Ottoman/Sitting stool from Mr Price Home: R350

    Creative fridge magnets: R134

    Consol grip and go 500ml glass drinking bottle:

    R35 Bouquet of

    customised donuts from Wicked Donuts: R95 per 12 donuts

    50 Shades of Grey (hard cover) from Exclusive Books: R310

    Soft cover from CNA: R170 Cooler bag from

    Cape Union Mart: R286

    2 x tickets to the Sharks Super 15 Rugby Game: R510

    Bosch handheld rechargeable drill from Builders Warehouse: R420

    Digital photo frame from Clicks: R255

    Eyelash extensions from Beauty Therapy (Durban North): R160

    Yoga mat from Mr Price Sports: R180

    Beach volleyball kit from Sportsmans Warehouse: R380

    Dinner voucher at Harveys for two: R500

    Advanced driving lessons through Ford for 3hrs: R600

    Solar panel garden lights

    Builders Warehouse: R150

    Retro Kenwood smoothie maker from @home: R410

    Microlighting for two at Virginia Airport: R730

    Car wash voucher at selected Caltex garages (six valets over two months): R280

    We shop around, so you dont have to.

    continued

    Must Haves for Your Car & Tummy!Home,

    4

  • There is no substitute for hard work. - Thomas Edisonconnect

    Hi Louise. For staff who dont know the other side of Louise Nair, tell us more about yourself.Im very family orientated and try to have a good balance in my everyday life between family and my work commitments. In the offi ce, Im a businesswoman, managing a highly charged and complex organisation. With this role comes a required business persona, but as an individual, Im actually quite a carefree person. I enjoy fun activities like fast rides, theme parks and games.

    What do you do in your free time?Lots of me time with my fi ve year old daughter, Leah! We bake, play puzzles, do art and spend quality time together. I also bead, listen to jazz music and love shopping!

    Do you fi nd the time to cook?Oh yes, I love my curries. My mum and I make our own masala, and my favourite food is breyani. Im excited that for three years running I am known as the mum who packs the healthiest snack box.

    Wow, so you pack your daughters own lunch?Defi nitely! I go out shopping on Sunday and plan our meals for the week ahead. I make sure that her snacks and

    our meals are well balanced.

    Is health important to you?I was raised in a middle income family, and my parents did their best to instil the importance of good health in me, but lets face it, healthy living can also be costly. Now, Im quite pedantic about it. I only use olive oil, reduced salt and no bread!

    Apart from curry, what foods do you enjoy?I have quite an adventurous palate and enjoy trying different cuisines. I would say sushi, Chinese and Thai food are my favourites!

    What are you reading now?As it is the Lenten period now, I am reading books on spirituality and religious development. This period is important for me in terms of inner growth, refocusing and reenergising amidst the stress of daily living.

    Any plans to study further?Personal and career growth is ongoing for me, and this year my goal is to register for my Masters in Corporate Law.

    How would you describe your management style?I would say that as a woman managing mainly a male EXCO team, I need to be tough and Im sometimes perceived as unapproachable. But, I have never turned away anyone that had an opinion. I actually appreciate a person who expresses their mind, and also appreciate a person who recognises that their opinion is not always right.

    Any plans to have more children?Yes, when the time is right.

    Are you someone who takes work home?Only when necessary. Im in the offi ce daily until 7pm and when I go home I put on my mummy cap. Until 9pm its just family time.

    Pet hates?Smoking, smoking, smoking.

    What do you admire in people?Trust and commitment from staff is what I look for and admire.

    One on One with Our New CFOWelcome Charles and thank you for agreeing to chat to me about your fi rst three weeks with Educor.

    Charles, tell us more about yourself?I would say that Im defi nitely a peoples person. Titles are not important to me and I believe in interacting on all levels. I respect people and their opinions. I dont believe in micro-managing and expect my staff to know their jobs and to get on with it. Im fl exible and approachable, but dont come to me with a problem without a solution.

    Why did you choose this profession, or did it choose you?My mates dad was a number cruncher and I guess that is where I got my interest. But, Im

    not your traditional fi nance guy. I dont like sitting behind a desk looking at numbers all day. I enjoy corporate strategy and in my over 20 years of experience, I have been involved in all areas of the business from IT, sales, business development, auditing, legal and operations.

    More on your work experi-ence?I started in the manufacturing industry setting up various offi ces internationally; worked as Audit Manager, Financial Manager, and Chief Financial Offi cer; travelled a bit, consulted for a while and then took a years sabbatical to spend time with my family.

    What is your fi rst plan of action as CFO?Im looking at the business model

    holistically and reviewing systems and processes. I do believe we have solid teams and its all about plugging holes and moving away from our silo approach. There is a good mix on the EXCO team, with over 100 years of experience in education between them. I think this is impressive. We have an amazing product and my initial focus will be on implementing corporate structure.

    What do you do in your free time?Im a family man, so I enjoy spending time with my kids. I love my sport. I play golf, hockey and surf skiing. I also enjoy running and do at least one international marathon every second year.

    Do you have any pet hates?Offi ce politics! It totally

    deconstructs and pulls people down. We all have a job to do, and that should be our focus.

    What is your management style?Open door. The people aspect for me is critical. I believe that there needs to be more outward fl ow of information, rather than just downward fl ow. You are only as good as the people who work under you.

    In each issue we will be introducing the EXCO team. This month we are profi ling our CEO, Louise Nair, and new CFO, Charles Reeves.

    Getting Up Close & Personal with Our CEO

    5

  • Family

    Satisfaction lies in the effort not the attainment. Full effort is full victory. - Mahatma Gandhiconnect

    Damelin awarded full HEQSF alignment for all their qualifi cations CityVarsity awarded 80% HEQSF alignment for their programmes and 20% moved to a CAT C of the HEQC process ICESA awarded 80% HEQSF alignment for their programmes and 20% moved to a CAT C of the

    HEQC process MLA Durban received full accreditation from APPETD MLA PMB received full accreditation from APPETD

    Well done to all our academics involved in this process.

    Staff and Brand Highlights

    Group Academic Highlights

    In a bid to acknowledge the hard work and progress of the fi rst quarter of 2015 achieved by the Group Collections Department, a function was held to celebrate their success.

    This focused on strengthening bonds and work relationships, as well as developing further team building in order to achieve results, meet targets and accomplish tasks. The team looks forward to the rest of the year, aiming to develop and improve new and existing relationships with the rest of the business.

    Group Collections Team Celebrate Their Success

    Congratulations to David Naidoo, General Manager of Damelin Randburg on completing his Masters Degree in Education at Wits, specialising in inclusive education.

    David was also nominated by the university to accompany three other delegates to present a paper at the ISEC Congress in Lisbon; a huge feather in his cap. Well done David!

    David Naidoo completes masters and gets personal

    invitation to Lisbon

    DCC Cape Town, Sales Consultant Shaun Sheldon and his wife Candice welcomed a bouncing baby boy, Saige, on Friday, 20 March at 7:05am. The DCC team wishes Shaun and family all the best with their new addition.

    New additions to the

    Congratulations to Educors Senior Graphic Designer, Donovan Heilbron and his wife Yvonne who also welcomed their precious little bundle baby boy Deucalion on Friday, 20 March at 8:38am. The team at Educor Head Offi ce wish Don and his family all the best on their new arrivial.

    Wanna buy? Wanna sell? Wanna trade? Wanna bargain? This is the place to do all of it.

    In our next issue, The Swop Shop will be up and running. So if you have an old set of golf clubs you want to sell, or youre looking to join a lift club, whatever your need, The Swop Shop will be the place to fi nd it, buy it, sell it, trade it or bargain for it.

    Send us your advert in one line or less. Adverts will be selected based on space and content. The transaction/negotiation is between the parties only. Educor will not get involved or accept any responsibility for any disputes. Send your Swop Shop advert now to [email protected]

    Swop ShopThe

    6

  • The one who creates a positive environment in all situations will be presented with countless opportunities. Anonymousconnect

    All work and no play makes Edu-cor staff dull boys and girls! This issues gig guide is packed full of thrilling events, shows and fun activities that will be happening in and around your city, so go out and enjoy!

    Compiled by: Garth Elliott

    DURBAN

    Splashy Fen Music FestivalAll roads will lead to the southern Drakensberg again this Easter for the Splashy Fen Music Festival - its milestone quarter century! Festival-goers can expect non-stop entertainment, loads of exciting food and drink outlets, a vibrant craft market and retail area, nearby tourist attractions as well as various camping and accommodation options.Venue: Himeville, Underberg District, DrakensbergEvent Type: Music FestivalDate: 2/04/15 - 6/04/15

    Chris Brown ConcertGrammy winning star and multiplatinum selling artist, Chris Brown, is heading to Durban! Breezy has scheduled only two stops in the SA leg of his world tour and KZN fans have been lucky enough to score one.Venue: Moses Mabhida StadiumEvent Type: Live ConcertDate: 4/04/2015Tickets: R690 for General Access and R1100 for Golden Circle

    Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve Walk Enjoy a brisk nature walk with friends and family while taking in the serene local fl ora and fauna of Durban. The trail is safe and suitable for children and senior citizens.Venue: Umhlanga Lagoon Nature ReserveEvent Type: Nature WalkDate: Daily from 9am, 11am and 3pmTickets: Contact 031 561 2271 for bookings

    Get Wet Summer Music Festival Feat. Alex SteinGet wet brings you an entire day of outdoor fun, happiness and an international headliner. Make your way to the Greyville Racecourse to get a taste of the divinity and hedonism that can be enjoyed in April when you synchronize your movement with the right line-up. Venue: Greyville Racecourse Event Type: PartyDate: 05/04/2015Tickets: Between R100 and R250 from Computicket

    The Chester Missing RoadshowChester Missing, described as "the connection between politicians and ordinary people", is South Africa`s favourite puppet. Chester is renowned for asking the tough questions of our political elite on the Late Nite News with Loyiso Gola, and has developed a reputation as the guy who refuses to be anyone's puppet.Venue: iZulu Theatre, Sibaya Casino Event Type: Ventriloquist Theatre ShowDate: 10/04/2015Tickets: R120 from Computicket

    Inferno LAN and Expo DurbanInferno LAN brings you three days of ultimate gaming experience. The ticket also gives unlimited access to the inferno expo with gaming, technology and more. The LAN comprises of a state of the art network where both professional and amateur gamers bring their own PCs and compete on a number of platforms. It features sponsored competitions from suppliers as well as prize money.Venue: Durban Exhibition CentreEvent Type: Lifestyle, Exhibitions and GamingDate: 19/04/15Tickets: R375 from Computicket

    Crown of the Russian BalletThis world renowned three-act ballet features performers from across the globe and brings ballet to the masses with new choreography built to mesmerize both young and old. Venue: The Playhouse Opera TheatreEvent Type: BalletDate: 28/04/15Tickets: R150-R280 from Computicket

    IndabaIndaba is one of the largest tourism marketing events on the African calendar and one of the top three must visit events of its kind on the global calendar. It showcases the widest variety of Southern Africa's best tourism products, and attracts international visitors and media from across the world. Venue: ICCEvent Type: TourismDate: 9/05/15 11/05/15

    Sunfi tEnjoy a free workout with sweeping views

    of the Indian Ocean! If youre a fi tness fundi or simply want to get into shape, Sunfi t is for you! These FREE exercise sessions are inspired by Lisa Raleigh and offer kickboxing, zumba, yoga, aerobics and boot-camp.Venue: Suncoast Casino and Entertainment WorldEvent Type: FitnessDate: Weekdays: 5:30pm to 6:30pm Saturdays: 7am to 8:15am

    International Belly Dance ShowStunning Simona Minisini, Italian dancer, teacher, and choreographer and her world class belly dancing show are coming to Durban! This show brings to you a magical spin that lightens up your imagination with master skills. The show will include other performances that will leave a lasting memory. Venue: ICCEvent Type: Live ShowDate: 18/04/15Tickets: R200 to R1000

    JOHANNESBURG

    The Melrose Arch Gourmet MarketIf you love food, then this market is the place to be! The Melrose Arch Gourmet Market which blends fi ne dining with an al fresco ambiance is blooming this season, offering a selection of gastronomical delights to tickle the taste buds and tantalise your senses!Venue: Melrose ArchEvent Type: Food MarketDate: Every Saturday from 10am-4pmEntrance is free

    Rand Show 2015 Do you like being entertained? Then get ready, because South Africa's biggest consumer show is gearing up for another bumper entertainment extravaganza. Get ready for 10 action-packed days of family fun. Venue: Nasrec Expo CentreEvent Type: EntertainmentDate: 3/04/15 to 12/04/15Cost: R100 for adults and R20 for kids from Computicket or at the door

    Chris Brown ConcertGrammy winning star and multi-platinum-selling artist, Chris Brown, is heading to

    7

    JOHANNESBURG

  • A closed mind sacrifi ces opportunities, and is quite often perilous. Wisdom is being eager to learn from every situation. Anonymous

    connect

    Johannesburg! Breezy has scheduled only two stops in the SA leg of his world tour and Jo'burg fans have been lucky enough to score one.Venue: The Coca-Cola DomeEvent Type: Live ConcertDate: 4/04/2015Tickets: R690 for General Access and R1100 for Golden Circle

    Festival of Show Jumping at the Nissan Easter Festival Easter is family time and what better way to spend it than in the presence of the countrys top horse riders. This equestrian extravaganza is an action-packed family affair including a safe Nissan Kids Zone, and a village market with food stalls and shopping and live entertainment. Venue: Kyalami Equestrian Park, 1 Dahlia Road, KyalamiEvent Type: Show JumpingDate: Now showing until 6/04/15Free entrance and all ages welcome

    Emirates Lions vs Cell C SharksThis game forms part of Super Rugby 2015. Come and see the giants of the game battle it out on the fi eld with hundreds of other spectators.Venue: Emirates Airline ParkEvent Type: SportsDate: 11/04/15Tickets: R40 to R120 from Computicket

    Mamma Mia Experience the wonderful, irresistible storytelling magic of ABBA's timeless songs. This enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship will guarantee that everyone at the performance will be having the time of their lives. Venue: The Teatro at Montecasino Event Type: Theatre Date: Now showing until 26/04/15Tickets: R150 to R500 from Computicket

    Afro Jazz and Soul Picnic Dont miss this relaxed musical and social event celebrating live art performances for soul and jazz fans. Entertainment provided by: Zonke, HHP, Jazzmeloz, Guru Logic and moreVenue: Moriting Park, Tembisa Event Type: MusicDate: 26/04/15Tickets R120 to R500 from Computicket

    One Republic ConcertInternationally renowned Grammy award-nominated band One Republic returns to South Africa to perform in major Mzansi cities to promote their third full-length album, Native.Venue: The Coca-Cola Dome Event Type: ConcertDate: 19/06/15Tickets: R340 to R650 from Computicket

    CAPE TOWN

    Tale of Peter RabbitThis ones for the kids! Fall in love with the tale of Peter Rabbit, the classic childrens story, in this truly enchanting theatre production. Venue: The Artscape Theatre FoyerEvent Type: TheatreDate: Now showing until 11/04/15Tickets: The early bird special is R60, thereafter ticket prices are R80. Bookings at Computicket.

    CabaretFeast your eyes on one of Broadway's greatest musical productions. Get acquainted with the infamous Kit Kat Klub, where the Emcee, Sally Bowles and the raucous ensemble take the stage nightly to tantalise the crowd and to entice them to leave their troubles outside. But as the life of pre-WWII Germany grows more and more uncertain, will the decadent allure of Berlin nightlife be enough to get them through the dangerous times? Book a ticket and fi nd out.Venue: The Fugard TheatreEvent Type: TheatreDate: Now showing until 30/05/15Tickets: R100-R280 from Computicket

    Those Were The DaysThose Were The Days is the grooviest show in town and is the perfect way of getting your Easter started. This sixties party is just what the doctor ordered and will get you rocking and singing along from the fi rst note. The show features the crazy host, Awesome Powers, who will get you tuned into some of the greatest music of our time.Venue: The Barnyard TheatreEvent Type: TheatreDate: Now showing until 19/04/15Tickets: R140 on The Barnyard Theatre website

    Orange River Rafting, Easter 2015Do something way out of the ordinary for Easter 2015 and go whitewater rafting on the 'Groot Gariep', the mighty Orange River. Learn how to negotiate grade 2-3 rapids with ease, fl oat along relaxing in between, lunch on the river banks and spend the evenings under the stars; either at base camp or at Fiddlers Creek.Venue: Groot Gariep, Orange RiverEvent Type: GetawayDate: 2/04/15 to 6/04/15Tickets: R395pp. For bookings contact Erica Liebenberg on 073 221 2353 or email [email protected]

    Rock and Roast Sundays at BeerhouseBeerhouse, the funky concept beer hall on Cape Towns infamous Long Street,

    is offering patrons a chance to enjoy a traditional Sunday meal and some live music that will make the impending Monday blues more bearable. Every Sunday from 12pm onwards, the Mother City hotspot serves choice cuts of meat with all the traditional trimmings.Venue: BeerhouseEvent Type: LunchDate: 05/04/15Tickets: R85pp. Call 021 424 3370 to make a reservation

    The Constantia Food and Wine FestivalThe festival showcases a selection of food and wine from Constantia Valleys award-winning restaurants.Venue: Constantia Uitsig Wine Estate Cricket OvalEvent Type: Food and WineDate: 17/04/15 to 19/04/15Tickets: R160 and R30 for under 18s

    Decorex Cape TownDecorex is South Africa's oasis of great ideas and the Mother City's leading dcor, design and lifestyle exhibition. The exhibition takes place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. Visitors can look forward to a wide-ranging showcase of the latest dcor and design trends, products and services breeding great ideas and inspiration for their interior and exterior spaces.Venue: Cape Town International Convention CentreEvent Type: DesignDate: 24/04/15Tickets: R80 for adults, R70 for students and pensioners, and R15 for kids from http://www.thebereed.co.za

    Juliet String QuartetThe newly formed Juliet String Quartet comprises four of the Cape Town Philharmonic's nest musicians. Their fresh approach ensures an evening both modern and beautiful.Venue: Baxter Concert HallEvent Type: OrchestralDate: 25 /04/15Tickets: R150 for adults, R130 for seniors and R50 students from http://www.ctconcerts.co.za/

    Freedom Festival 2015The fi rst Freedom Festival event for the year will be kicking off at Cape Town Ostrich Ranch. The festival has a heart-jolting line-up awaiting you. So set your spirits free for a day of non-stop dancing. Move until it hurts and let go of all that holds you back.Venue: Cape Town Ostrich RanchEvent Type: Live MusicDate: 27/04/15Tickets: R495 from https://www.ticibox.com/event/3692467

    8

  • Many of lifes failures are people who did not realise how close they were to success when they gave up. - Thomas Edison

    connect

    with our In-House Chefs

    Cooking This month were talking about family favourites. Why not try out this three-course menu with our choice of reliable go-to recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family!

    Kavithas (Damelin Call Centre Manager)Crme de la Crme Stuffed Mushrooms

    Ingredients: 1 block cream cheese cup green onions, nely chopped 200g bacon or chicken, chopped, cooked and drained cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese 40-50 mushrooms, washed with stems pulled out

    Method:Mix cream cheese, green onions, bacon/chicken and Parmesan cheese together in a large bowl.Stuff mushrooms with fi lling, as much as desired. I do about 1 tsp depending on the size of the mushroom.Season with pepper and salt.Bake stuffed mushrooms at 180 degrees for 15 minutes.Serve warm on a bed of rocket and baby spinach leaves.

    Sayuris (Marketing Online Coordinator) Mistress of Spices Chops Chutney

    Chops Marinade Ingredients: Lamb chops (12 pieces) 1 tbsp of ginger and garlic 1 tbsp of mint paste 5 tbsp of honey 4 tbsp of olive oil 2 tsp of chilli powder 1 tsp of tumeric powder

    Chutney Ingredients: 1 tsp of olive oil 1 onion chopped 5 green chillies 7 tomatoes (grated/liquidised) 1 tsp of salt 1 tsp of chilli powder 1 tsp of tumeric powder

    Method:Combine all the chop ingredients in a baking tray. Bake in the oven at 180 degrees until chops are brown.On a medium heat, braise all in-gredients for the chutney, making

    sure the tomatoes are not totally cooked.Once the chops are done, com-bine the chops together with the

    Shannos (Marketing Media Buyer)

    Sinfully Sweet Malva Pudding

    (Serves 4 to 6)

    Pudding Ingredients: 1 heaped tbsp Stork Bake 1/2 cup sugar 1 cup our 2 tbsp smooth apricot jam 1 egg 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda 1/2 cup milk

    Method:Cream the Stork Bake with sugar and add beaten eggs and jam.

    Add sifted dry ingredients and milk alternately.

    Bake at 180 degrees until brown for approximately 45 minutes.

    Sauce Ingredients: Half cup brown sugar Half cup Stork Bake Half cup milk or water Half cup cream

    Method:Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to the boil.Simmer for 5 minutes.Pour sauce over cooked pudding while hot. Add cream when you serve.

    NB (If you make a double mixture, it must bake for 1 hour and ten minutes)

    cooked marinade into the chutney. Cook until chops are infused! Dish is ideally served with Indian naan bread or roti.

    STARTER

    MAIN

    DESSERT

    9

    In-House Chefs

    Cooking

  • We cannot build our own future without helping others to build theirs. - Bill Clintonconnect

    Easter Egg BasketsCombine marshmallows and butter in saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, 6-8 minutes or until mixture is melted. Stir in noodles until very well coated.

    Press mixture evenly onto bottom and up sides of prepared muffi n pan cups with buttered fi ngers. Immediately press liquorice ends into each basket to form handle, if desired. Refrigerate at least 2 hours or until fi rm.

    Remove baskets from muffi n pan cups. Decorate baskets with melted candy coating, decorator sugars and/or coconut as desired; ll with candy. Store in container with tight-fi tting lid for up to 2 days.

    It isnt Easter without the delicious look, smell and taste of a comforting hot cross bun. Why not try a different take on this traditional treat with our decadent chocolate version!

    This recipe adds chocolate to the traditional hot cross bun combo of cinnamon and mixed spice.

    Ingredients:Buns: 600g plain our 2 tsp dry yeast 60g brown sugar 2 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp mixed spice 1/4 cup cocoa 2 tsp salt 2 eggs 250ml milk, lukewarm 2 tbsp orange marmalade, chopped 40g unsalted butter, softened cup currants cup small chocolate chips or chopped chocolate buttons 1 tbsp mixed peel, optional

    Crosses: Plain our Water

    CrossChocolate Hot

    Buns

    Glaze: cup castor sugar cup water

    Method:Mix together the fl our, yeast, sugar, cinnamon, mixed spice, cocoa and salt.In a separate bowl, add milk, eggs and marmalade.Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet or, if using a stand mixer with a dough-hook, add wet mixture to the dry.

    When mixed through, knead in the softened butter, then the choc-chips and currants/mixed peel. Knead for 5 more minutes.Spray a large bowl with canola oil, put dough in, and cover with cling

    fi lm. Allow to proof until it doubles in size (approximately 1 hour).Re-knead for 3 minutes and then divide into 15 rolls, place them on a greased baking tray about 2cm apart, re-cover with cling wrap and leave to proof a second time until they double in size.Preheat oven to 190C.Put the crosses on the buns by mixing some fl our and water in a zip lock bag until it makes a runny-ish paste. Cut the corner off the zip lock bag and pipe on the crosses.Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes until they start to brown on top.Whilst hot, make the glaze by boiling the ingredients together until the sugar has dissolved. Brush on with a pastry brush.

    Shed the Load Shedding BluesLoad shedding can be a nuisance and disrupt your daily routine, but with power outages being South Africas current reality, rather than throwing our toys out the cot, we might as well look on the bright side and make the most of the darkness.

    Heres a few nifty ways to beat the load shedding boredom:

    1. If its a hot day and load shedding has stolen your right to air-conditioning, pack your family in the car and head off to the beach. Its all natural, a great way to cool off and best of all - its free!2. South Africas favourite pastime, braaing becomes very useful during these times. So, throw your hands in the air, step away from the stove and head outside to make your meals caveman-style.3. Make sure your laptop is charged (thats something you have to do before the power goes off) and then use the power wisely by catching up on your favourite movies and series. 4. Engage in all those fun electricity-free activities that you just never have time for go on a hike, try your hand at gardening etc. The lightless world is your oyster!5. If youre thrown back into the Stone Age while at the offi ce, use the offl ine time to do some team-building exercises you could try group yoga, group debates or even partake in some overdue spring cleaning and rearrange your offi ce space.

    Try this easy peasy simple recipe that the whole family can enjoy doing together to add that extra bit of charm to your Easter spread.

    Ingredients

    2 cups miniature marshmallows 1/4 cup butter 1 package (4 cups) chow mein noodles

    Decorations Coloured liquorice, cut into 5-inch lengths, if desired Vanilla- avoured candy coating (almond bark) melted, if desired Glace icing in different colours Coconut, tinted, if desired Speckled eggs candy or jelly beans

    Method:Butter 12 muf n pan cups; set aside.

    10

  • GET THE LOOK:

    Cable knit dress from Mr Price

    Price: R159.99

    Jacqaurd dress from Truworths

    Price: R460

    Flared textured skirt from Woolworths

    Price: R 499

    GET THE LOOK:

    connect

    TrendyWinter

    Keeping itthis

    With most South Africans still recovering from scorching summer temperatures, its comforting to know that cooler weather is just around the corner. Why not prepare yourself to beat the winter chill in style with these hot fashion trends taken straight off the runway!

    Mini-skirts, trapeze dresses, patent Mary Janes, graphic bobs and pastel colours are all the rage globally, presenting a fresh take on the Swing-ing Sixties London. Slip on a sweetly short dress or skirt with a slightly fl ared hem. Add fl irty details like bows or a collar for added effect, and transition into winter by slipping on thigh high boots. J. Lo loves this trend!

    From Fendi to Miu Miu, the athletic aesthetic continues to inspire designers. Seen both in fl eece and mesh fabrics in a red, blue and black palette, each item brought a cool, dynamic sportswear vibe to the runway. Who said fashion doesnt equal comfortable?

    One of the most prominent trends for winter is the comfortingly soft, full look in wool, as seen at Stella McCartney and Marc Jacobs. Nuzzle up to a cuddly sweater dress or go daring in knit pants and a matching top. This autumn/winter is all about neutrals, so stick to beigy browns, greys and winter whites.

    GET THE LOOK:

    All-over Knits:

    Feline ladies sweat top from Jay Jays

    Price: R199.99

    Bold Sportswear:

    Sixties Mod:

    by F

    aiez

    a Im

    amdi

    n

    Genius is one percent inspiration, ninety-nine percent perspiration. - Thomas Edison 11

  • GET THE LOOK:

    GET THE LOOK:

    Utility jogger from Mr Price

    Price: R129.99

    Parker jacket from Mr Price

    Price: R199.99

    Red batwing tunic from Mr Price

    Price: R99.99

    Textured checkedcoat fromWoolworths

    Price: R650

    GET THE LOOK:

    This winter, suits take on a masculine edge, as girls walked the runway in boyfriend-borrowed ensembles.

    Its all about military green this season, viewed by tailored jackets, boots and chic skirts. Play with animal prints for added pizzazz, as witnessed in Balmains show stopping collection.

    The Masculine Styled Suit:

    Going beyond the call of duty EDITORIAL & CREATIVE TEAM

    Colour Your World:

    Military Penchants:

    Ladies active pants from Jet

    Price: R139.99

    Update your look by adding elements of iridescent gold and passionate red to your wardrobe.

    Write to us on [email protected]

    Well done to Wayne Dewey of CityVarsitys IT Department after he responded to an after-hours call from the BA lm staff who had unexpected computer shut down containing a number of student assessments. Wayne cobbled together a new computer out of various bits and pieces and had it up and running in no time.

    Jessie Naidoo Group Head of CommunicationsDonovan Brouard Senior CopywriterAshmika Chottu Group Public Relations CoordinatorFaieza Imamdin CopywriterGarth Eliott Copywriter/ProofreaderRavin Bugwandass Group Creative HeadThobani Msabala Junior Designer

    CREDITS:1. http://en.vogue.fr/fashion/fashion-inspiration/diaporama/20-trends-for-fall-winter-2014-2015-givenchy-chlo-chanel-louis-vuitton-valentino-

    alexander-mcqueen-stella-mccartney-marc-jacobs-dior-burberry-roberto-cavalli-miu-miu-balenciaga-prada-saint-laurent/144732. http://fashionbombdaily.com/2014/09/04/ ve-top-fall-winter-2014-2015-trends-wear/

    Go for it now. The future is promised to no one. - Wayne Dyer 12

    Department after he responded to an after-hours

    student assessments. Wayne cobbled together a new computer out of various bits and pieces and