Durban Seminar for Entrepreneurs and Small Business in Woodwork Industry

ENTREPRENEURIAL OPPORTUNITIES IN THE WOODWORK INDUSTRY

Small businesses and those that aspire to start a business in woodwork and furniture manufacturing, will have the opportunity to gain more insight on this sector at an information sharing session in Springfield Wednesday, 29/04/2015.

The seminar, which is organised by eThekwini Municipality in partnership with Furniture Technology Centre Trust (Furntech), is targeted at unemployed youth, Small, Medium and Micro Entrepreneurs, and those who tried to establish businesses but were unsuccessful. Participants will get an opportunity to learn more about the carpentry sector and contribute in growing the economy through job creation.

Deputy Mayor and Chairperson of Economic Development and Planning Committee, Nomvuzo Shabalala said, this sector is at the heart of the City’s economy and is the key driver of job creation and growth. Not only does it positively impact in the economy but also plays a vital role in the protection of the environment because it has the potential to reduce carbon emission that causes global warming.

“The Municipality is committed to such programmes to enable us to deal with the triple challenges of high levels of unemployment, poverty and inequality. The majority of people who are affected and live below the poverty line are our youth. It is for this reason that the Municipality and Furntech have taken an initiative to support youth who are keen to starting businesses in this sector,” she said. 

Aspiring entrepreneurs and unemployed youth from eThekwini who are between the ages of 18 to 35 and have carpentry skills are invited to attend the session. Participants are required to have a Grade 10 education qualification with Mathematics or Maths Literacy and should be first-time beneficiaries from a similar programme.

The seminar is scheduled as follows:

Venue: Furntech Springfield

Date: Wednesday, 29 April 2015

Time: 09h30 –12h00

For enquiries regarding the programme contact Mpume Ntuli on: 031 311 3451

Register for the Durban Business Fair - Vacancies in the Arts

DURBAN BUSINESS FAIR LAUNCHED 

THE City has invested more than R100 million towards the Durban Business Fair since its inception and plans to spend about R63 million in the next three years to continue inspiring growth and sustainability to small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs).

This was announced by the Deputy Mayor and Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee, Nomvuzo Shabalala today, 27/03/15, during the 2015 Durban Business Fair launch held at Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre under the theme, ‘Connecting Durban Business Fair Globally’.

This is the 17th edition of the Durban Business Fair.  

The Durban Business Fair scheduled to take place on 16-18 October 2015 at the Durban Exhibition Centre will be preceded by five Regional Business Fairs that will take place in the West, South, East and North Regions. They are scheduled as follows: Hammarsdale Junction on 17-19 April; KwaMnyandu Mall on 22-24 May and Bridge City Mall on 19-21 June. Two additional regional fairs, which will happen in partnership between the City and the Province, will be held at Folweni and Clermont in April and June respectively.

Shabalala said the City decided to increase the number of the Regional Fairs because of the growing interest in the Fair from businesses within eThekwini and beyond. This limited other interested businesses access to be part of this ground-breaking event as it could only accommodate about 500 exhibitors.

“Today the City pride itself of the many success stories that the DBF had produced. This includes ICT business that is operating at a global level, women owned businesses that are operating at national level and businesses that are not only relying on Government tenders, but able to obtain work from the private sector and self-sustainable,” said Shabalala. 

Sibusiso Shabalala of Adapt IT who once benefited in the City’s business development programmes such as exhibiting in the Durban Business Fair said: “The best recipe of the successful business is to focus on one business and to do many things at once, develop a deeper understanding and become an expert on what he/she does.

He said it is very critical to never forget the real reason that made one venture into business because government wants to invest in experts that can innovatively create jobs and tackle poverty using their skills.

“When I founded Adapt IT my vision was to create eThekwini as an IT hub and make a difference by creating employment. I used all the available government platforms available to source knowledge and upgrade my skill and became an expert hence why today KwaZulu-Natal produces the highest number of technicians,” he said.

Shabalala added that his company is now valued at 1.2 billion, they have offices in Cape town, Johannesburg and Durban being their headquarters and now exporting their services and have people based in Australia, New Zealand and Ireland. He employs about 550 permanent people.

Registration to participate in Regional Business Fairs is now open. For the Inner/Outer West Region contact 031 837 0616, South Region 031 829 6460 and North Region 031 564 2273.


Vacancies In The Arts 

The PANSA Western Cape Administrative assistant/ coordinator.

Duties will include providing efficient and effective administrative and support functions to ensure the smooth running of PANSA.

The role is primarily an administrative one, and strong numeracy and literacy skills are required. The applicant will be able to demonstrate a better than average knowledge of computerised systems and standard office procedures.

Minimum educational requirements are a Matric exemption certificate with at least five (5) years of relevant experience.

Specific skills required include:

• Experience in a computerised accounting system
• Experience in bookkeeping and accounting procedures
• Experience in a computerised Customer Relationship Management system
• Better than average skills in office productivity software, such as Microsoft Office
• An ability to create and maintain accurate records relating to financial information, including petty cash recons and payment schedules
• Excellent organisational and project management skills
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) in at least two of the following languages: Xhosa, English and Afrikaans
• Good inter-personal skills
• A knowledge of, and passion for, the performing arts would be an advantage.

Salary will be commensurate with experience and skills. The successful applicant will report directly to the National Administrator and National Coordinator.

Submit your CV, including at least three contactable references, to administrator@pansa.org.za

Closing date for applications is 31 March 2015.

Project Manager (British Council Connect ZA)

We are looking for an experienced project manager to join the British Council Connect ZA arts team.

British Council Connect ZA is a project from that is working to connect the new generation of creative professionals and audiences in the UK and South Africa. The project utilises innovative digital techniques in developing programmes of work. Connect ZA reaches new diverse audiences for the arts by working in spaces and places where our audience live and work. Our showcasing develops audiences for work that challenges and updates perceptions of contemporary creativity. Our partners share expertise in working digitally, developing young audiences and supporting new creative careers.

The British Council’s Creative Economy programme forges connections between the growing creative industries in the UK and overseas. Using on-the-ground resources in over one hundred nations, and a global network defined by direct access to policymakers and collaborative dialogue, we co-create programmes to develop cultural enterprise, leadership, skills and infrastructure in partnership with a range of organisations and individuals.

The global arts team is a group of experts in the Arts in the UK and worldwide who build strong external networks and partnerships. Using these networks, working with colleagues across the organisation, they develop international opportunities in four specific priority areas:

- Bringing new UK work to new global audiences
- Showcasing the UK at events of international importance
- Developing skills and leadership in the creative sector
- Harnessing the power of arts in achieving international development goals

Accountabilities, responsibilities and main duties:

The post holder will be accountable to the Connect ZA Head of Arts for the successful progress and implementation of projects either developed by the team or individuals.

Specific duties will include:
- managing partners that deliver projects
- financial management and reporting
- monitoring and evaluation
- support delivery of creative sector development events and initiatives
- developing relationships with relevant creative sector stakeholders
- working with partners to develop opportunities for young creatives
- supporting our work around audience development with our partners
- helping to develop digital engagement strategies and platforms
- documenting work and publicising activities across our digital platforms
- Working closely with the Head of Arts and the Regional Business Manager in seeking opportunities for partnerships and income potential

Key relationships:

Internal:
- coordination and cooperation with the Connect ZA team
- support to senior managers in representing the Council’s operational programme to external stakeholders
- collaboration with communications colleagues to promote project marketing
- general team working with colleagues across the directorate
- connection with the advisory teams in London

External:
- coordination and cooperation with project partners and the wider creative sector

Other important features or requirements of the job:

Operational project work requires occasional (or sometimes regular) work outside conditioned hours, for example in the evenings or at weekends. TOIL should be agreed with the line manager in advance to maintain an adequate work-life balance. Post holders may be required to travel abroad on British Council business and should therefore hold valid travel documents.

The position of CZA Project Manager has become available in the Johannesburg office. For more details about the post, please read through the role profile below and apply, please complete the application form and submit via email to Recruitment.SA@britishcouncil.org  by Thursday 2 April 2015

Please ensure to quote the reference number on the application form: CZA-PM-CE

More info on: http://www.britishcouncil.org.za/jobs

The Sanlam / Business Partners Entrepreneur of the Year Competition

Here is all you need to know for this competition for Entrepreneurs:

• Entry forms available on www.eoy.co.za
• This competition is also about developing a standard of excellence
• Entrepreneurs will also be promoted and educated so they reach a standard of excellence

Prizes

• Finalists stand the chance to win prizes worth a total value of R1 345 000 which includes cash prizes of R300 000.
• Finalists and winners are able to expand their networks and receive invaluable exposure for their business.

For more info:

www.eoy.co.za

www.facebook.com/EOY.SA

www.twitter.com/EOY_SA

email: enquiries@eoy.co.za

Tel: 011-713-6600

This competition is brought to you by Sanlam and Business Partners.

For more info visit: www.businesspartners.co.za or www.sanlam.co.za/sme 

This edition by Fred Felton

Twitter @fredfelton

Catch 'Ngizwise' at Jomba Dance Experience in Durban Tonight & The Hookup Dinner Durban Is Coming

Choreographic collaboration creates charisma at Jomba!

Dance lovers attending the Jomba! Contemporary Dance Experience in Durban have the opportunity to enjoy a fascinating collaborative work performed by MIDM tonight and tomorrow.

The work is choreographed by South African Sonia Radebe and Canadian Jennifer Dallas and performed by the Moving into Dance Mophatong (MIDM) Company.

“Ngizwise” (a Zulu word meaning let me taste/help me listen) is the culmination of six weeks of gently crafting and honing the dancers’ artistic voices to develop a thought-provoking dance about four men revealing intimate stories of the past and projections for the future.

The hour-long performance sheds light on subjects of community, power, individuality and masculinity in a globalised modern society in a fun yet confrontational manner.

MIDM Company dancers performing Ngizwise are Oscar Buthelezi, Teboho Gilbert Letele, Sunnboy Motau and Muzi Shili. Teboho Letele is also taking charge of the music.

Nadia Virasamy CEO of MIDM said “Ngizwise is a wonderful, welcome addition to MIDM Company’s repertoire”, while Sylvia ‘Magogo’ Glasser MIDM founder said “This beautifully crafted, imaginative work is full of delightful and evocative surprises”.

Radebe and Dallas’s work will be performed at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre as part of the 16th Jomba! Contemporary Dance Experience on 3rd September. For more info go to www.cca.ukzn.ac.za or like the Jomba Facebook Page.

JOMBA! Contemporary Dance Experience is organised by the Centre for Creative Arts (UKZN) with valuable support from the eThekwini Municipality.

(Source - Jomba Dance Experience) 

Catch The Hookup Dinner in Durban

The event for Entrepreneurs.  Featuring guest speakers, networking and your chance to pitch your buisness.

Date: Friday 5th September

Venue: Factory Cafe, Durban

Time: 6h30pm for 7pm 

To RSVP: http://www.thehookupdinner.com/

#THUDDurbz

This edition by +Fred Felton 

Free Nedbank Business Workshops For South Africa & A Business Plan Competition

Nedbank's SimplyBiz Seminars Are On The Go Around South Africa

Friday, August 22, Elizabeth Place, P.E. - Speaker - Jabu Stone

Tuesday, August 26, Tromonto Venue, George - Speakers - Andrew Smith and Paul Galatis

Tuesday, September 2, Del Amor Wedding & Conference Venue, Witbank - Speaker - Reg Lascaris

Friday, September 5, The Pivot, Montecasino, Fourways Sandton - Speaker - John Vlismas

Register Here: http://simplybiz.co.za/events

(Source - Nedbank)


2014 Lions' Den Business Plan Competition

For more info and a application form email nonhle.memela@durban.gov.za


This edition by +Fred Felton

Funding Database for South African Entrepreneurs

A Powerful Resource For SA Entrepreneurs

Useful link from the Deloitte KZN Funding Fair

This week I attended the Fair and was made aware of a fantastic resource for Entrepreneurs in South Africa.
It is a huge database of funders where you can seek funding for your business idea.  It features details on each fund and contact details and the process.  A great tool for any Entrepreneurs in SA.

To access the Database click on the link below and click on 'Funding Database for DEDT


Funding Database For South African Entrepreneurs

Click on Funding Database for DEDT

(Source - Deloitte KZN Funding Fair)


INDABA Networking Golf Day

9 May 2014

Registration at 9am

Tee-off: Shotgun start at 11am

Where: DCC Beachwood Golf Course

For more info email melissa@indabagolfday.co.za

This edition by +Fred Felton 

News for Writers, Bloggers, Art Lovers, Events and More

Talking Heads - 20 April 2013














(Source - AfricaCentre)


Writing Tips from +Cath Jenkin

Great Interview



China-Africa Business Summit

We are very pleased to confirm our keynote speaker, Dr Wang Jianye, Chief Economist at the Export-Import Bank of China (China EXIM Bank) who will be presenting at the upcoming China-Africa Business Summit on the 17^th April in Johannesburg. Dr Wang Jianye is the second of two keynote addresses to be delivered on the day – the other being H.E. Arthur Mutambara – the Deputy Prime Minister of Zimbabwe.

These keynote speakers are a powerful addition to the already impressive line-up of organisations and speakers sharing their knowledge and insights on China-Africa Commercial relationships this year at the China-Africa Business Summit. 

The Business Summit will hold a number of panel-discussions on the Mining & Resources Sector; China’s investment in Infrastructure and its Impact on African Economies & Integration; Evaluating the Potential for China’s Energy Sector to Power Growth in Africa; and the Outlook for China-Africa Trade & Investment.

Speakers participating include business leaders from China Construction Bank, Sinohydro, Shenzhen Energy, the China-Africa Development Fund, Sinosteel, China Geo-Engineering, China Harbour Engineering Corporation, Webber Wentzel, the South African Chamber of Commerce & Industry, AfraAsia Bank, Aveng, Deloitte, the Industrial Development Corporation, Zimbabwe Power Company, J&J Group, Marsh Africa, Wits Business School and Moneyweb.

Don’t miss the definitive China-Africa business forum of the year. Register at chinaafrica@frontieradvisory.com

(Source - Frontier Advisory )

(Source Ushaka)




To Book Follow the Link

http://www.fasa.co.za/showevent.php?event=25

Booking Fee - R100

(Source - FASA)

Art

Paul Senyol (Cape Town) Represented by Salon 91
& Wesley van Eeden (Durban)
Opening reception: April 11th, 7pm
Show runs: April 11th - May 25th, 2013

For the upcoming show titled "Transformative" Paul Senyol and Wesley van Eeden explored the notions of reality and society in a constant stage of change. Van Eeden was taken by the idea of how something we do today will have a certain influence on the way we live tomorrow, next week, a month from now and for many years to come. Trying to grapple for a grasp on the present moment, we find ourselves in eternal stages of change. Senyol took a deeper look at the very fabric of his everyday life and those who orbit his existence as a starting point for working towards a final outcome.
Facebook Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/139586709556624/

Paul Senyol - Represented by Salon91

For enquires please contact Assistant Director Elmarie van Straten.
Cell: 072 226 9815
Landline: (021) 447 3994
Email: elmarie@a-word-of-art.co.za

Music 

Tim Wells Blues Band will play at St Clements this Fri 12 April from 19h30pm. R50 at the door. Tel 031 2022511

News for KZN Writers

The WGSA KZN committee would like to invite you to attend a meet and greet on Monday 15 April at 18h00.  During this session WGSA Council would like to get your input to put forward a programme for the rest of the year.

So, be there!

VENUE:
Smile Spa, Shop 2A, 136 Cowey Road
Musgrave

Entrance on Cowey Road
Free secure parking

Contact Details:

Thea Aboud
Writers’ Guild of South Africa

Mobile: 082 575 6901
Office: 011 888 4349
Fax: 086 654 1972
Email: admin@writersguildsa.org / wgsainfo@gmail.com
Website: www.writersguildsa.org
Skype: writers.guild
Office Address: 125 3rd street, Linden, Johannesburg
NPO registration: 081-261
PBO registration: 930-036-168

Event for Entrepreneurs

Pat Fleuriot started working 1 week after finishing High School and continues to enjoy doing so today. He completed his Articles of Workmanship through Price Waterhouse, spent 18 years in Accountancy and has been a Financial Advisor for 22 years and a Certified Financial Planner since 2007. 
Over the years Pat has participated in a number of business ventures including franchise outlets with Famous Brands and investing in Close Corporations. 
Pat is currently a Fellow Partner (with his son, Richard) and a Financial Advisor at Fleuriot & Associates. He is passionate about ascertaining client’s needs, assessing their financial strength, challenging and guiding them to protect and create wealth. 
He is married to Jacqueline, for only 26 years. They have a pigeon pair – Richard, his son and partner in F&A and Danielle, his daughter is doing her Masters in USA. 
Pat is a skilled learner, analytic, disciplinarian and activator – which is sure to challenge you! 

Come and join us as Pat shares his journey with us: 
Date: 19th April 2013 
Time: 7:30am-9:30am 
Venue: Three Peaks House, 22A Underwood Road, Pinetown 
Cost: R 114.00 incl. VAT. (Healthy breakfast and coffee incl.) 
Bring a business associate or customer who has never attended one of our workshops before and only pay for one seat. 
Seats are limited to encourage the interactive nature of this event so BOOK NOW to avoid disappointment. 
To book: Contact Janis on 0861 373 257 or email: janism@threepeaks.co.za

(Source - ThreePeaks) 

Attention Script Writers 

Twist Theatre Development Projects, in partnership with the National Arts Festival and PANSA, will be hosting the annual Novel-Script Project, a master-class for script writers, in Grahamstown from 22 to 28 June. 

This project brings together writers from South Africa, Zimbabwe and the Netherlands in an intensive 5 day workshop that focuses on writers honing their craft.

Participants are provided with travel, accommodation, a per deum, and an invaluable experience.
We will be selecting just two South African writers to be part of the project for 2013.

This is a professional programme, and writers must be mid-career, and meet the following criteria:

•Fluency in writing and conversing in English, 
•Experience with having staged at least 2 of their own original scripts on the professional stage,

•Computer literacy, and own lap-top for the duration of the project,
•Openness to constructive criticism and workshop processes,
•Full availability over the period 22-28 June,
•The project does involve some preparation, and participants must be willing to complete an assignment in May. 

Applicants should email an application to info@twistprojects.co.za by Monday 22 April. 
Applications MUST include the following:

1) A short Curriculum Vitae containing the following:
Personal Information  
Relevant Education and Training
Theatre Writing Experience

2) A short motivation for acceptance to the workshop, with names and contact details of two theatre-related referees 

3) A short 3 - 8 page sample of an original theatre script  (please do not send the full script). 

Applicants will be contacted by the end of April regarding the outcome of the selection process. 

Twist will be hosting a development workshop for less established writers later in 2013, and will make a separate call for this project. 

(Source - Pansa)