Get It - Dec 2012

GET
zululand
IT
free!
labelling of
the future
fashion
Miracle baby through surrogacy
Sven Chetty
shopping,people and lifestyle in your neighbourhood
December 2012

The vibrant Zulu themed Umfolozi Hotel Casino and Convention Resort, is
located in Empangeni and provides a convenient stop-over en-route through
Zululand between Durban and popular destinations like St Lucia, Hluhluwe,
Sodwana and Kosi Bay.
Enjoy superb accommodation at the 3-star Peermont Mercourt hotel with great
service at affordable prices. Be part of the action with live sports on big screens,
flirt with Lady Luck in the casino or get groovy at the Sugar Room with live jazz
and cocktails. There are also superb multi-purpose conference, wedding and
banqueting venues, as well as a team building action park.
Your stay with us will always be incredible. Call now to find out available specials.
Come to Umfolozi and let’s celebrate!
2 Copper Drive, Kuleka, Empangeni
Tel: +27 (0) 35 787 8200
Fax: +27 (0) 35 787 3780
E-mail: info@umfolozicasino.co.za
Website: www.umfolozicasino.co.za
PEERMONT CENTRAL RESERVATIONS
Tel: 0860 777 900 (SA only)
+27 (0)11 928 1928 or (0)11 557 0777
Fax: +27 (0)11 557 0888
E-mail: reservations@peermont.com
Website: www.peermont.com

contents
GET IT
Editor
Ronelle Ramsamy
Editorial
• Laurie Smith • Megan Erasmus
• Angela Kelly • Kameya Reddy
• Mia Moorcroft • Charles Cornew
• Steven Makhanya
Phone: 035 799 0500
Email: zulobs@zululandobserver.co.za
Proofreading Dirk Minnaar
Layout • Theresa Botha
Graphic Design • Natalie Potgieter •
Dylan Deyzel • Benice Gertzen • Theresa
Botha
Advertising Sales Manager
Yolandé Veldsman
Phone 035-799-0500
yolande@zululandobserver.co.za
Advertising Sales
• Burnadette Oosthuizen • Louise
Jacobs
• Charmaine Heath • Tanya Reddy
• Tammy Harmse • Marissa Smit
Phone 035-799-0500
Distribution
Central Media Distribution cc 035-787-
1872
Get It Zululand is distributed free of
charge. For a full list of where it is
available phone 035-799-0500
A hot date
2 Catch South African musician ‘Snotkop”
at the Umfolozi Hotel Casino Convention
Resort
wish list
6 A guide to the perfect gifts this
December
Social
8 Paws for thought
people
10 Meet the girl next door
12 What’s the greatest gift of all?
Fashion & beauty
14 Fashionable journey of Sandile
Mlambo
16 A stunning makeover for Vivian
Patterson
Food
20 For the holiday sweet tooth
decor & Gardening
18 Select an alternative Christmas tree
19
Published by Zululand Observer
24
Volume 7
Issue 1
December 2012
14
Get It Zululand December 00

A hot date!
Your neighbourhood hot list for December...
C
-16 Game, Marlin & Bottom Fishing
14Festival - Join in the fun and
excitement. Lots of prizes up for grabs and
entertainment for the whole family. For
further information contact Magrieta &
Elizabeth at the Meerensee Boat Club on
035 788 0258
Catch South
15 African
musician ‘Snotkop’
at Umfolozi Hotel
Casino Convention
Resort at 8pm.
Tickets cost R100
per person. To book
tickets, phone
035 7878200.
Zululand Hospice Tree of Light -
4 Empangeni. Contact the Zululand
Observer on 035 799 0500 for further
information.
Zululand Hospice Tree of Light -
Richards Bay.
6
Don’t
miss it!
Umhlanga Vodacom
Summer Carnival
8-23 December
Find the ideal Christmas gift at
15 the Meerensee Arts, Crafts &
Farmers’ Market, cnr Anglers Rod &
Krewelkring, Meerensee.
Phone 082 8361749 / 084 7006371.
Take the children to the
22 KickstArt’s festive season
pantomine ‘Beauty and the Beast’
at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre
in Durban. The show runs from
December to 6 January.
Book at Computicket.
Photographer/Image credit:
02 Get It Zululand December 12

City of
uMhlathuze
Its features and attractions include:
• Township tours available
• Summer all year round
• Fantastic scenery
• Birding paradise with some 300 species to be seen
• Zulu cultural experiences and outings to traditional villages
• Variety of basic and luxury accommodation
• Endless opportunities for fishing and water sports
• Charters and cruises
• Hiking trails
• Arts and Crafts
• Ample restaurants, shops, golf courses and sporting facilities
• Bird and game parks
The uMhlathuze area, incorporating Richards Bay and
Empangeni is becoming increasingly popular among tourists.
For enquiries please contact
035 907 5018 / 5630
uMhlathuze Municipality,
Private Bag X 1004, Richards Bay, 3900
• Email:tourism@richemp.org.za
• Website:www.richemp.org.za

Review
An Unexpected
Journey for a
1937 children’s
book
DON’T
MISS!
‘The Hobbit’
JRR Tolkien’s classic masterpiece, ‘The
Hobbit’, is expected to draw hordes of
fantasy fans to cinemas countrywide as
it makes its debut on our big screens on
14 December.
Three fantasy-adventure films will
follow the journey of Bilbo Baggins in
his epic pursuit to reclaim the lost Dwarf
Kingdom of Erebor from the fearsome
dragon Smaug.
It may seem like a cliché now - the
unlikely hero confronting a dragon -
but Tolkien’s imaginative hero quest
between the Age of Faerie and the
Dominion of Men was an immediate hit
75 years ago and the original fantasyadventure
set the tone for books and
films following the mythic fantasy theme
for many years to come.
When the book was first published
in 1937, millions of people, young
and old, fell in love with the story
commencing with a modest Bilbo
Baggins comfortable in his hobbit hole
in Hobbiton, The Shire, when an old man
04 Get It Zululand December 12
with a staff and a tall pointed hat, a long
grey cloak and a very long white beard
appears and falls into conversation with
the hobbit.
‘The Hobbit’ was originally intended
to be a children’s tale. However, the
overwhelming success of the book
illustrates how countless individuals of
all colours, shapes and sizes across the
globe could and still can identify with
the wonderfully simple Bilbo Baggins.
Perhaps, deep down, we all feel like
little hobbits wanting only the comfort
and peace of a warm place safely tucked
away in the world. However, on the
other hand, there is Bilbo’s fun side as
he secretly harbours a love for maps,
explorations and fairy tales.
Today, after a 17-year-pursuit to film
the fantasy novel, Peter Jackson is finally
giving us the prequel to ‘The Lord of the
Rings’.
Jackson originally expressed interest in
filming ‘The Hobbit’ in 1995, envisioning
‘The Hobbit’ and ‘The Lord of the Rings’
as one trilogy, but could not get the
production rights to his first choice, so
he soldiered on to produce the wellreceived
trilogy ‘The Fellowship of the
Ring’ (2001), ‘The Two Towers’ (2002) and
‘The Return of the King’ (2003).
Anyone who enjoyed being
transported to Middle Earth by Jackson’s
‘Lord of the Rings’ would be overjoyed
about its upcoming prequel trilogy.
‘The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey’
will be the first installation of the film
series with ‘The Desolation of Smaug’
to follow in 2013 and ‘There and Back
Again’ in 2014.
The series will star Ian McKellen,
reprising his role as Gandalf, Martin
Freeman as Bilbo Baggins, Richard
Armitage as Thorin Oakenshield, and
Benedict Cumberbatch as Smaug.
Several other actors will reprise their
roles from The Lord of the Rings,
including Andy Serkis, Hugo Weaving,
Cate Blanchett, Christopher Lee, Ian
Holm, Elijah Wood, and Orlando Bloom.

A guide to the perfect gifts this December!
Ltd kiddies’ tights
and top set R299
at Truworths
Inspired by timeless Hollywood
glamour and fronted by a
modern icon, Blake Lively - this
new fragrance is an invitation
to embrace one’s own red
carpet moment. Gucci Premiere
EDT available at Truworths
Elements for R835
Add to your wish list this
Glitter and animal print
open toe heel. Available
at Truworths for R380
Pay only R1695
for this perfect
Christmas gift -
a high fashion
Guess watch
available at
Foschini stores
Get style sassy this
Summer with this
stunning accessory
bangle - R59.95 each.
Available at Edgars
stores nationwide
Stand out in red at that
New Year’s Eve party with a pair of
this Scarlet ZIVA number.
Available for R299 at
Designer Shoe
Outlet stores (DSO)
These sterling
silver and cubic
zirconia earrings
are a stunner with
any dress and can
be found at Galaxy
and Co. stores for
R999
06 Get It Zululand December 12

Stay. Save. Smile
R200
PER ADULT
R100
PER CHILD
UNDER 10 YEARS
HOLIDAY
ACCOMODATION
RATES
@ R315 PP
SHARING INCLUDING
BREAKFAST
BOOK YOUR YEAR-END
FUNCTION WITH US
- VENUES SEATING UP TO
70 PEOPLE
-MENUS STARTING AT
R120pp
Prokard discounts do not apply • Full pre-payment required in advance
• Contact Cynthia on 035 753 1246 Or email her on fodutymanager@bayshoreinn.co.za
.za
Tel: 035 753 1246 • Fax: 035 753 2335
• The Gully (off Hibberd Drive) • Meerensee, Richards Bay
Steed 5 2.0 VGT
Now with 110kW of “HORSE POWER” under the hood.
GWM Richards Bay
Tel: 035 799 3000 , 13 Ceramic Curve, Alton
www.gwmrbay.co.za
From only
R224 990
- NEED WE SAY MORE?

Get social
Kirsty Hartley and her beautiful
model, Bear
Chantelle Down looking classy
Paws for thought
The Umfolozi Casino Dome thundered
with applause at the Empangeni
SPCA Calendar Launch 2012, as over
600 people over two nights enjoyed
singing, dancing, performing and
modelling in aid of those who can not
speak for themselves
Calendar girls Monique Nel, Nontando
Mhlongo
Photographer: Laurie Smith
Rosanne and Vernon Govender
Lee-Ann and Steve
Whittaker supported
the cause
wholeheartedly
Carolyn Frara with her two fur
babies, Misty and Mr Biggles
Brothers Matthew and Thomas Vivier
08 00 Get It Zululand February December 0912

Season’s Greetings to all our valued clients.
May 2013 bring joy and prosperity. Thank you for your
valued support in 2012. Yours in Vorsprung
Audi Centre Richards Bay
100 Dollar Drive, Richards Bay. Tel: 035 789 1168

girl
The
door
next
At home
Her mom’s house in Meerensee is
her home-base, but Bridgitte spends
a lot of time travelling, training and
making guest appearances at events.
‘I miss my mom’s home-cooked
meals the most, especially the roast
chicken and vegetables. And when
I’m home I like to spend time visiting
friends and family,’ she says.
She has two half brothers, Luke
(13) and Bryce (11) who live in
George and who she hopes to spend
Christmas with this year.
When it comes to relationships,
Bridgitte just smiles and explains
that it was difficult to maintain a
relationship when she travelled so
much and her training schedule is
also hectic.
But there have been a few date
requests since winning at the
Olympics she confesses, but finds it
all a bit amusing.
Frilly, girlie dresses have never been her
style, but now that she is an Olympic
superstar, Bridgitte Hartley confesses she
does like to dress up.
The 29-year-old blonde Richards Bay
beauty has become a celebrity overnight
after winning a bronze medal in the K1
500m final at the London Olympics.
Born in Sandton on 14 July 1983,
Bridgitte started school at Glenstantia
Primary School in Pretoria.
After her parents separated, she moved
to Empangeni with her mom Vera and
brother Sean and attended Grantham
Park Primary.
She remembers playing netball and
taking part in athletics and gymnastics.
But surfing was her favourite pastime
and she represented Zululand in the SA
junior and senior championships.
'I still surf for fun. It gives me a break
from training and it’s social,' she says.
Bridgitte remembers her first job which
was not a glamorous one - she painted
houses.
'My mom was an estate agent, so my
brother and I used to help her paint
for extra money. I was saving for a new
surfboard,' she says with a grin.
'I was always hanging out at the beach.
Favourite clothing: Comfy jeans and leather jacket
Best book: Spud
Favourite TV programme: Sports channels
Family pet: Cara the dog
Signature dish: Chocolate cupcakes
Weakness: Pizza and chocolate
I would get up early to surf so I wasn't
keen on sleepovers as none of my friends
ever wanted to wake up early.'
Ironically, she never made the swim
team at school, but spent school holidays
working as a lifeguard at Alkantstrand
to earn extra money while she was
studying.
Fondly known as 'Nooks' to her mom,
Bridgitte was not a shy child and her
family knew she would perform when
she was older, they just didn't know to
what audience.
She started her high school career at
John Ross College, but two years later
moved back to Pretoria to Pretoria Girls’
High.
'My dad thought it would be a good
idea for me to attend the school as it had
a wide variety of sports and house plays.
I went on to matriculate there.'
It was then that Bridgitte started
paddling with her dad, completing
just one Dusi canoe marathon as she
preferred sprint canoeing.
At Pretoria University she enrolled
for a Bachelor of Science degree, but
confesses she failed chemistry and
decided to take up Human Movement
Science instead.
10 Get It Zululand December 12

Get Medalled
Get It journalist Angela Kelly finds out
more about our Olympic medallist, Bridgitte Hartley
Story & Photographer: Angela Kelly
December 12 Get It Zululand 11

Get Parenting
The
greatest
gift
of all
With an infectious smile and bouts of baby
jargon echoing through the hallway, oneyear-old
Sven Chetty gleefully makes his
way to the lounge.
Our conversation stops as we are
mesmerised by a miracle toddler, who
just one year ago beat all odds for survival
in the neo-natal unit of Netcare’s The Bay
Hospital.
His mum Elaine (32) holds him close to
her bosom as she recollects an arduous
journey of almost 11 years to conceive.
‘There was never a reason why we
couldn’t have a baby, so we never gave
up,’ says Elaine as she glances at husband
Silven (33) before opening a painful
chapter.
12 Get It Zululand December 12
The Richards Bay high school sweethearts
were inseparable as teens and surprised
many when they decided to tie the knot at
19 and 20 respectively.
In their second year of marriage, the
couple started planning a family and
two years later, were referred to a fertility
specialist.
‘We tried everything from laparoscopies
to several rounds of intrauterine
insemination, which were not covered by
medical aid.’
IVF
The couple then turned to the Care Clinic
in Durban in 2005 where they attempted
in-vitro fertilisation (IVF), a procedure
unspoken of within Indian circles.
‘There is a 45% success rate with IVF. It
would take me about six months to recover
after an unsuccessful attempt and then I
would try again. I couldn’t stop. I could see
the end result.’
And it was this determination to have a
baby and have time at their disposal to visit
out-of-town specialists, which drove Elaine
to move from being a litigation secretary
to the more flexible hours of a real estate
agent. This resulted in her eventually
purchasing Seeff Property in Richards Bay.
The couple then visited the MedFem
Fertility Clinic in Sandton in 2009 to pursue
the IVF option once more.
‘During this time, we toyed with different
ideas, including adoption. But there was a
lot of red tape with this option.’
In 2010 Elaine fell pregnant with twins
but after 10 weeks she was given the
painful news that her babies had ‘stopped
growing’.
‘I was absolutely devastated, but I said to
Silven – ‘next year this time, we are going to
have a baby’. This is what kept me going.’
Surrogacy
Elaine’s inability to carry to full-term
prompted them to consider surrogacy –
an option suggested by her sister-in-law
nearly three years ago.
Another IVF attempt saw a fertilised egg
being implanted into her sister-in-law
yielding positive results as she was soon
pregnant with twins.
Losing one of the babies in the first
trimester, baby Sven was eventually
delivered through an emergency
caesarean section after 30 weeks.
‘At first we were pushed aside in the
hospital. Nobody understood why there
needed to be four people in the delivery
room.
‘I sang throughout the delivery and
recovery process ‘How great is our God’.
Sven could not breathe when he first came
out and then there was a little squeak.’
Three weeks later the couple were able
to hold Sven for the first time and Elaine
nursed her infant daily until he could go
home.
‘There are days we pinch ourselves
to ensure we are not dreaming. Sven
completes us. My family and church were
amazing throughout this process. We owe
everything we have to God.’
So where to from now - ‘a sister for Sven’
says Elaine, as she admits to purchasing a
pregnancy magazine a week earlier.
‘There is no cost to happiness.’

Get It journalist Ronelle Ramsamy spends
an afternoon with Richards Bay couple
Elaine and Silven Chetty, who share their
touching journey to conceive a child
through surrogacy
December 12 Get It Zululand 13

Get fashion
Mtubatubaborn
fashion
designer
Sandile
Mlambo
Labelling
future
fashion
Fashionable journey
After matriculating at uMfolozi High
School in the late 1990s, Sandile headed
for Technikon Natal where he completed
his studies in the fields of management
and technology, financial accounting and
human resources management.
He returned to Zululand in search of a
job and when that did not materialise, he
started experimenting with his mother’s
old dresses and sheets, turning them into
designer items.
‘One time after I had spent an entire
day making a pair of skinny pants and
sewing it by hand, my mother pulled out
14 Get It Zululand December 12
her sewing machine which was collecting
dust and handed it over. That was the
beginning of great things.’
Secretly he knew that he was no briefcase
and suit man.
And when his friends marvelled over
his unique dress code, he started creating
items for them and it snowballed
from there.
He creates garments from inception to
pattern making and sewing,
‘I take care of all the details to the end.’
For all those aspiring designers out
there, Sandile’s tips for staying on top
of your game is to know what you are
doing, know what’s happening outside,
befriend people in good financial spaces,
never stop learning, take criticism with a
pinch of salt and laugh at yourself often!
Lastly, don’t throw tantrums if you mess
up.
Socialite
The vibrant and sassy social mover is
talkative, interactive and has a humorous
side that is contagious.
One cannot help but enjoy his funny
side.
‘You have to interact and network with
people to get ahead in this field. You
need people to succeed in this business,’
he says.
He does not believe in luck, but rather
that the choices we make shape our
future.
‘You can kneel and pray till your knees
bleed, but prayer won’t plug in that
machine and make that dress. You have
to get up and do it!’
Creative flair
His creative flair for fashion evolved from
a mere pastime and hobby to a thriving
business - with its own signature label

‘House of Alfalfa’.
Mtubatuba’s Sandile Mlambo is making
waves in the fashion world and, in
September, was chosen to showcase
his ladies’ wear collection in the Emerging
Designers’ category at the Durban
Fashion Fair.
Now residing in Morningside, Durban,
right opposite the home of the prestigious
Durban July horse racing event, the
30-year-old who has crossed paths with
the rich and famous, creating wear for
local celebrities, including members of
President Zuma’s family, has not allowed
the hype get to his head.
Although he never studied fashion, his
raw natural talent enabled him to secure
a scholarship to study fashion entrepreneurship
last year at the University of
KwaZulu-Natal.
He says his lifelong interest in textiles,
colour and design naturally developed
into his choice of career.
In his personal design label he fuses
contrasting ideas to create a look he describes
as ‘rock star meets ballerina girl’.
‘It is hard and soft, flowy and edgy. It’s
dark, but happy, rebellious yet feminine,’
he says.
cRiTERia
TALENTED female vocalists, who
want to turn their dreams into
reality, have a shot at stardom
with upcoming auditions for a
new girl group – coached and
spearheaded by Lindie Roos,
owner of Role Model and
@titude Dancers. Energetic and
ambitious girls between the
ages of 16 and 26 are invited
to audition for the chance of a
lifetime.
Three vocalists will be selected
to join the girl group.
Large cash prizes are up for
grabs including a combined CD
recording and the three winners
pRESENTS
will also perform at local shows
in Richards Bay.
Send your entry form before
the competition closing date 31
December. Auditions will take
place next year on 26 January.
Under the theme ‘Live’ and ‘Let
Live’, the aim of the competition
is to provide a platform to
expose local talent.
Any sponsorship will be greatly
appreciated.
Details of sponsors will appear
on the programme of every
public performance.
For more information, email
lindie.roos@gmail.com
SiNg &
DaNcE
cOMpETiTiON
2013
• Female between the age of 16 – 26 years on 26 January 2013
• Bilingual - English and Afrikaans
• Richards Bay resident
• Healthy and fit
• Sing and dance talent
WiLL iNViTE 12 caNDiDaTES
juDgED FROM ThE ENTRY
FORMS aND phOTOgRaphS
auDiTiONS: 26 jaNuaRY
VENuE TO bE cONFiRMED
Story & Photographer: Angela Kelly
ENTRY FORM
Name & Surname: ..........................................................................................................
Date of birth:..........................................Home Language:..............................................
Name of School/Student/Company you are working for:....................................................
Telephone number and cell phone number:......................................................................
Postal Address:................................................................................................................
Email address:.................................................................................................................
Give a summary of your talents, interests and hobbies: .....................................................
......................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................
Which sport or physical activity do you enjoy the most?.....................................................
Who is your Role Model in life and why?............................................................................
......................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................
What would you like to change or improve in your community? .........................................
......................................................................................................................................
On a separate A4 sheet, describe why you are entering and deserve to win this competition
and what are your dreams for the future and the purpose and passion in your life? Include
1 full length and 1 head and shoulders, most recent photograph of yourself (postcard size)
and mail it to P O Box 102192, Meerensee, 3901
Please attach a copy of your ID or birth certificate.
Signature:..............................................................
(Applicant or parent/guardian if the applicant is younger than 21 years.)
Terms & conditions apply
December 12 Get It Zululand 15

Get Makeover
Isn’t she
lovely?
After her stunning makeover, Vivian Patterson
felt rejuvenated and ready to get back to taking
care of her health while juggling a busy career
There are two words that best describe
Vivian Petterson of Empangeni:
determined and funny.
This young woman has had several
challenges thrown her way over the past
several years - but none as dramatic as
discovering she has a brain tumour.
Her response?
‘A brain tumour is not going to get me
down. It may be the size of Texas, but I’ll
get through this,’ is her general attitude.
Vivian entered the ZO Makeover
Competition because she needed a
‘serious pamper session’, and some style
advice after recently losing over 27kg after
she was diagnosed with a serious thyroid
condition.
‘I have lost a drastic amount of weight,
so basically I’ll land up looking like Barbie -
but with a brain tumour,’ she quips.
Before

Streaks a head
‘This makeover really did make me smile
and feel very pampered,’ she said, after
being treated to a full hair overhaul
including a style, colour and treatments
at Hairstreaks. ‘Here’s a perfect example
of how much drama a new cut and
colour can deliver to get this amazing
shine and depth,’ said Suzette van Wyk of
Hairstreaks. ‘We used rippled shades and
angled layers, which were styled to be
flicked out.’
Bejewelled
Then it was off to the fashion guru -
Marita Fick of Zululand’s Miglio Jewellery,
who gave Vivian some professional advice
on how best to dress her beautiful new
shape, and how to wear accessories to
highlight her best features.
‘We chose oblong earrings to soften
Vivian’s jaw line, and the longer chains
elongate her neck and complement
the colour of her hair and eyes. With
the versatile look we gave her, she can
transform from day into night in a matter
of moments by simply changing the
enhancer on her necklace to something
with clear crystals for a glam evening
look.’ - Marita Fick - Miglio style and
jewellery consultant.
Make-up
There was no time for a breather as
it was off to Richards Bay’s Skin Care
International for a face and body
treatment and full professional make-up.
‘Vivian has a beautiful skin so I simply
used a light concealer and highlighted
her eyes by using a shimmer cream
highlighter, which lifted her brow, and
then eye shadows in bronzes and coppers
that complemented her eyes and helped
them stand our as she wears glasses. The
eyeliner was a dark brown, followed by
lengthening mascara. I used a pink/peach
matte blush, with a pink lip gloss, which
didn’t draw the attention away from her
striking eyes.’ - Teane White, Skincare
International
Picture perfect
The whirlwind day
was topped off with a
professional studio
portrait shoot by
Rentia Davidson of
GR Photography.
‘Vivian was
initially not
comfortable
in front of the
camera, and
we relaxed her
before starting
the session.
This resulted in
some stunning
photographs!’ -
Rentia Davidson,
GR Photography
Photo: GR Photography
After
Buy online at
www.coverderm.co.za
Visit our website at www.nailmetics.co.za
or contact us
telephonically on 012 460 1220
to locate your nearest stockist.
00 Get It Zululand June 09
Coverderm South Africa

Get local
Branch out this
Christmas
Local nursery owner Yvonne Tabrett
suggests South Africans select an
alternative to the traditional plastic
Christmas tree.
The Henkel’s Yellowwood (Podocarpus
henkelii) she says, is a fantastic indigenous
option that will last for many years when
placed in a large pot.
The is a South African species of conifer
in the Podocarpaceae family and is grown
in gardens for its strikingly neat, attractive
form and its elegant, drooping foliage.
An attractive ornamental tree, it has a
straight, well-formed trunk and naturally
assumes a pyramid-shape as it grows,
eventually becoming very tall if planted in
the ground (30m) - a perfect substitute for
the green plastic Christmas tree.
‘It’s a fantastic plant as it does well in a
large pot, does not drop its leaves, so it
won’t mess in the house, and can be used
every year as it has a long life span,’ says
Tabrett of the Garden Cove Nursery in
Empangeni.
‘The leaves and shape of the branches
lend themselves to holding ornaments
well,’ she said.
It can also be pruned if necessary to
change its shape.
This tree was named after Caesar Carl
Hans Henkel (1839-1913), the Eastern
Cape forester and father of John Spurgeon
Henkel, Conservator of Forests for Natal
and Zululand.
Podocarpus henkelii is easy to cultivate
and tough once established.
It can be propagated from seed, which
should be planted promptly in a moist,
semi-shade position.
The fleshy fruit that surrounds the
seed must be removed as this inhibits
germination.
Like all Yellowwoods, it is dioecious, with
separate male and female trees.
As conifers they produce cones,
although its their fruit-like seeds that are
most prominent.
In South Africa it is found in the Kwazulu-
Natal and Eastern Cape provinces.
It is a protected tree in South Africa.
Although it is the real Yellowwood tree
that is officially South Africa’s national
tree, the Yellowwoods as a group -
including Henkel’s Yellowwood - are felt to
hold that position in practise.
All the more reason to raise and protect
one as your annual Christmas tree.

Get Modern
The modern day child minder
Zululanders agree - cell phones are a
necessary security tool for their children.
We live in an age in which technology is
part of the everyday lives of our children.
This Christmas, should you be the parent
of children aged from six upwards, your
child will be asking for a cell phone from
Father Christmas - if they don’t have one
already.
The general consensus among Zululand
parents is that cell phones are acceptable
from around the age of nine, which is
when most of them bought the devices
for their children.
They are, however, adamant that
primary use of the phones is to keep in
touch with parents and for safety
reasons.
Parents speak
Leandri Clifton-Smith says
she believes cell phones are great for
children, since it enables them to
remain in contact with parents in
cases of emergency.
‘But it should be a standard
phone that is not worth stealing
and with no Internet access,’ she
says.
Derron Greyling says her children - aged
10 and 11 - are on their second handsets
already.
‘It helps with Googling things for
assignments, and there are great apps
available too.
‘They are growing up in tandem with the
technology advances,’ she says.
Envery Pillay says he feels the content
that is being viewed online should be
strictly monitored.
‘My five-year-old uses my wife’s phone
- and I don’t even know how to use a
Blackberry.
‘In this day and age, parents need to take
responsibility and make sure they keep up
with the times.’
Charlene Lawrence gave a cell phone to
her eight-year-old daughter.
‘I’ve installed a tracker on it so that I can
see where she is at all times.
‘I do not allow Facebook or Internet use,’
she said.
Safety features aimed at youngsters
‘Cell phone companies offer fixed
dialling on most of the handsets,’ says
Louia Gouws of Nashua in Richards Bay.
‘With this service you can add up to a
maximum of nine phone numbers, and
only those phone numbers can be called .
‘You can also choose a ‘Top Up’ option on
all three major networks - MTN , Vodacom
We are living in a time when, to withhold
technology from our children is to
place them at a disadvantage to their peers. But what
is the right way to ensure your child’s
physical safety and connectivity, while also protecting
them from the dangers of the Internet community?
and Cell C - to control costs,’ she explains.
‘There is a further option for setting up
short codes with which they can check
their airtime balances immediately after
making a call, and this teaches your
children or teens to keep within their
allocated budget .
With regards to Internet safety, Gouws
says that Vodacom offers a service
wherein a short code can be programmed
into a handset to bar the downloading of
any content from the Internet.
She says when using the BIS (Blackberry
Internet Service) function on Blackberry
smart phones, youngsters will have access
to both BBM (Blackberry Messenger) and
the Internet.
We find that
due to BIS
being available
on Blackberry,
it is one of the
most popular
handsets that
the youngsters
want - and it
offers them
quick
access to
Facebook, Twitter and so on’
‘If taken on a Top Up contract, they can
budget themselves as they have to buy
airtime once they have depleted the
allocated airtime .
She says Blackberry handsets have
become very affordable and still seems
to be the most popular choice for both
children and parents, as they can stay in
constant contact for no extra cost using
the BBM service.
December Month 12 09 Get It It Zululand 19 00

Get Fruity
holiday
For the
tooth
sweet
Delightful alternative
to the traditional
Christmas fruitcake
One of our favourite things about
Christmas is undoubtedly good food.
Delicious feasts prepared over days, it
can be baked, roasted, poached, peeled,
mashed or even liquidised, and we love
it.
Especially when it comes to dessert.
Unfortunately, unless there has been
a disaster in the kitchen in need of a fire
extinguisher, Zululanders are not likely
to get the white Christmas pictured on
all our cards.
In fact, even Santa Claus, donning his
thick black boots and fleecy red suit,
dreads visiting the Zululand Observer
each year to light the Christmas tree.
At Christmas time, the heat is on in
Zululand
For that reason we have searched
far and wide for an alternative to the
heavy Christmas fruitcake that our
grandparents loved so much; something
lighter and cooler to grace your dining
table come December 25.
Chef Siza Ngcongo from the
Umfolozi Casino Resort
recommends a delicious Pavlova for
such an occasion.
‘It is fresh and delicious and is not
heavy, so it complements a Christmas
meal perfectly.
‘Also, it is easy to prepare and will
make you look like a culinary whizz.’
Step 1
Before you do anything, make your
meringue according to method
itemised. Remember to leave the
meringue in the oven to cool.
Remove the grease-proof paper and
place on a plate.
Step 2
Whip up your pouring cream with
some sugar and vanilla essence to
create a light and fluffy chantilly.
Just be careful not to overdo it – no
one wants butter on their meringue!
You can also prepare your fruit by
slicing or dicing as you desire.
Step 3
Gently spoon the chantilly cream
over the meringue and arrange the
fruit as you desire.
Serve immediately.
Ingredients:
4 cups egg whites at room
temperature
2 cups castor sugar
2 tbsp white vinegar
2 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups normal sugar
5 cups pouring cream
Assorted seasonal fresh fruit.
Making your
meringue
1 - Preheat the oven to (180°C) and
place the rack in the middle of the
oven. Line a baking tray with greaseproof
paper and draw a circle and
sprinkle with sugar.
2 - In a clean and dry large sized metal
bowl, beat the egg whites with a clean
and dry electric mixer on medium
speed, until the whites form soft peaks.
3 - Gently sprinkle the castor sugar
and vinegar into the egg whites, one
teaspoon at a time. It is important to
remember not to add all the sugar
at once and never stop beating the
eggs until you finish the sugar. Your
egg whites should now be glossy, stiff
peaks.
4 - Sprinkle the cornstarch on the
meringue and fold in gently with a
plastic spatula. Add the vanilla and
gently fold the mixture again.
5 - Now gently spread the meringue in
the circle on the foil to make a circular
base. Make sure the edges of the
meringue are slightly higher than the
centre so you have a very slight well in
the middle.
6 - Bake the meringue for about 25 min
at 180°C and then for an additional 30
minutes at 160°C, or until it goes a light
golden brown.
7 - At this point, turn off the oven, but
leave the meringue inside with the
door slightly open until the meringue
cools completely. When you turn the
oven off, the meringue will still look
‘wet’ and uncooked. It is cooked and as
it cools it will begin to crack slightly and
look crunchy.
Photographer: Megan Erasmus
00 20 Get It Zululand June December 09 12

Tips to remember:
• You need only prepare this
dish shortly before serving, as the
combination of the cream and
our famed humidity will cause the
meringue to lose its crunchy texture.
• You can use any fruit, but seasonal
fruits make creating your masterpiece
a little cheaper and easier.
• When you are folding your other
ingredients into the egg whites, make
sure you fold, and do not mix, as this
will cause your whites to flop, not
fluff.
Visit us to view our wide
selection and range of
packaging catering
and baking items
Fancy lace
muffin cup holders
Paper & foil
doilies
Photographer: Megan Erasmus
Serviettes
48 Piece nozzle
set
Silicone chocolate
mould
Character cake
pans
Icing gun set
Red velvet cake mix &
plastic icing & marzipan
Ginger boy & girl cutters
& Silicone muffin cup set
Cake lifters
Cake knife
Cutters - various
83 Bullion Boulevard, Richards Bay
Tel: 035 789 7584 / 035 789 7572 • Cell: 082 836 6528
Fax: 035 789 5850 • Email: fampak@lantic.net
December 12 Get It Zululand 21

Get Local
I’m dreaming of an African Christmas...
just like the one I used to know...
I will forever cherish the
memories of my early
childhood days when Christmas
approached.
Those magic days will never
return, but at least nobody can
take away the recollections
forever ingrained in my
memory.
As children growing up in our
dusty neighbourhoods, we had
so much fun and no care in the
world as we went about our
daily, uneventful lives.
When Christmas approached
it would be a big affair in our
neighbourhood, as it was the only
time of the year when all members of
our families would come together for
some memorable times.
Uncles, aunts, mothers and fathers
all came home during that time of the
year in anticipation of the big family
feast, culminating with the slaughter of a
beast. The feast, singing and dancing to
African rhythms went on till the wee hours
of the morning.
Those were the days of celebration and
having fun, while enjoying the time spent
with uncles and aunts and even fathers
who worked in big cities like Durban and
Johannesburg.
I remember as a herd boy looking after
my grandmother’s cows in the fields, that
I never cared for fancy things life could
provide. I never knew anything better.
With the little that we had, my
grandmother and I took life in our stride.
Christmas came only once in a year.
We had no fancy food, no fancy clothing
and absolutely no partying or anything
like that as we went about our daily
normal lives. We were content with the
little we had.
During the festive season though,
all around there would be an air of
celebration and jubilation as everyone
began to anticipate what Christmas could
possibly bring for us.
When the schools closed for the
Summer holidays we would start doing
rehearsals to sing Christmas carols, buying
each other little presents like sweets and
looking forward to the time when we all
would enjoy fancy foodstuffs, as perhaps
an uncle who worked in Durban would
present us with fancy goodies like biscuits.
I remember these guys in the
neighbourhood who, when their mothers
and aunts came home for Christmas,
would buy them suits and fancy shoes
and hats, and on Christmas day they
would be wearing them right there in the
fields while running after the cattle.
This was a time for merriment, a time
when we had a little happiness and a spirit
of giving prevailed; something we didn’t
usually have during the normal days of
our lives.
22 Get It Zululand December 12

EVERY LITTLE
BIT HELPS.
“Use electricity wisely and together
we can create a brighter future for
all South Africans.”
Minister Malusi Gigaba
www.49M.co.za
Month 09 Get It Zululand 00
S&S/446211/E/49M/Minister

Get it Promotion
Energy saving
WARRIORS
Saving electricity is really about changing attitudes. By simply making
small changes in our everyday lives, collectively we can make a massive
difference. 49M initiative aims to inspire and rally all South Africans behind
a common goal - save electricity and create a better economic, social
and environmental future for all. Get It Zululand chatted to some local
community ambassadors, who shared ‘bright’ ideas on conserving energy
daily
Duncan Pritchard,
Director of ETC-Africa (Environment,
Tourism and Carbon Consultants),
Richards Bay
To Zululand environmentalist Duncan Pritchard,
conserving electricity is not just about saving money, but also about
being efficient and trying to reduce ‘his’ impact on the planet.
‘Each kilowatt hour of electricity I use contributes to my carbon footprint
and has an impact on the entire planet,’ says Duncan.
‘The vicious storms we see every day on TV, the droughts, the floods,
the melting ice caps - in a little way - we all play a part in helping that
process. Managing your energy is about managing your carbon footprint
and this is probably one of the biggest global challenges the next
generation will face,’ Duncan explains.
Being mindful of the small things, says Duncan, plays a huge role in
bringing down the electricity bill.
‘Leaving the lights and TV on all add up and I find when my electricity
bill is higher than usual, it’s not because I was using more heavy
consuming electricity appliances, but rather because I ignored the small
things. ‘I don’t use tumble dryers and try to keep the pool pump to a
minimum possible running time each day. Use a gas stove, which is a
huge money saver.
‘Most importantly, just be aware of the little things.’
24 Get It Zululand December 12

Vukile Mathabela
uMhlathuze Chief
Communications Officer
Although Vukile Mathabela juggles a difficult
balancing act between the pressures of local
government and home, he still finds time to save power in his
daily routine.
‘Every morning when I leave for work, I switch off my geyser,
kitchen appliances from the plug itself including the toast
and kettle.
‘It is important to save electricity because our country does
not have enough power. My action assists others to have
electricity.’
And the uMhlathuze Chief Communications Officer says these
habits were instilled from an early age.
‘As a child, I would always switch off the lights, radio and TV
when it was not in use. I loved reading and one night I fell
asleep and left the light on the entire night. So I learnt from
my lesson.’
Vukile’s tips
• If I don’t need the air-con, I open the windows
instead
• I boil enough water just for one cup of coffee
Rekha Naidoo
uThungulu District Manager:
Public Relations and mother
of two Richards Bay
‘I don’t think that energy conservation is a choice anymore,’
says uThungulu District Public Relations Manager Rekha
Naidoo. As the cost of electricity increases each year, Rekha
admits that average households will not be sustainable if
they do not follow an energy-saving programme.
And the Richards Bay mother of two implements practical
energy saving tips at home and work. ‘At work I choose to
have my blinds open to let in natural light, which saves on
keeping the lights on. I also do not like the air conditioner
so I don’t switch it on unless it is sweltering. I also switch off
all computer equipment before leaving for the day.’
To save energy at home in the kitchen, Rekha enjoys
sharing the cooking apron with her hubby.
‘My husband loves cooking outdoors, so that’s a reduction
in stove time over the weekends and holidays. I also have a
pressure cooker to save time on cooking meals that require
long cooking times.’
Teaching her children about conserving energy, Rekha says
her two sons do not leave the phone charge and appliances
plugged in unnecessarily and switch off the television when
not in use. ‘At home, I only switch on my geyser an hour
before bath time at night and in the mornings. We have
solar-powered lights outside and in some of the rooms.
The lights that are not solar-powered are on a timer so that
there is no wastage when we are away from home. The pool
pump is on a timer as well.’
Janien Pereira
Empangeni housewife, mother
and owner of a bed and
breakfast establishment
I have always taught my daughter Trinity (8) to switch off
lights when leaving a room or when they are not needed,
but around the house we are generally electricity smart.
We also use fewer bulbs with higher wattages as well as
sensor lights at the bed and breakfast.
‘Tumble drying is a no-no unless it is absolutely necessary.
In Zululand we are not often short of sunny days so we
utilise sunshine.
‘When washing clothes or linen we use cold water and
select the shortest possible washing programme,’ she said.
When defrosting meals for guests, Janien leaves it in
the fridge overnight to thaw out and seldom uses the
microwave to cook food. She also fills the dishwasher
completely before switching it on.
Known for her great Portuguese cooking, the busy mom
never preheats the oven as she said it is not necessary
except for foods requiring high temperatures and slow
cooking times.
When it comes to heating the guest house, Janien said she
does not have a heater option on her air conditioners.
‘If guests are cold, we usually give them extra blankets,’ she
says with a chuckle.
Janien felt not enough families were energy-saving
conscious and said even though it was sometimes difficult
to switch off the geyser or remember to turn off lights, it
was worth it in the long run.
REMEMBER YOUR POWER
December 12 Get It Zululand 25

Beware
what you wish for
I have to admit that every time the
Christams season approaches I break
into cold sweats and have sleepless
nights.
The reason for this is quite simple
- Christmas gifts! T hese prettily
wrapped presents fill me with
dread in so many ways.
Firstly, having to decide on
suitable items for friends and
family is stressful enough, you
have to work out a budget, think
about what everyone likes, make
sure one doesn’t buy a bigger,
better, nicer gift for one person
at the expense of another - and
then you have to wrap them
all up.
This involves brightly
coloured paper, miles of sticky
tape and little bows.
For some unknown reason the
presents that I am required to
buy never come in square boxes,
but rather in the oddest and most
impossible shapes and sizes which
require paper folding skills that even
an origami expert would be baffled
by.
To be honest this frightens me
enough, but what really strikes dread
into me is the receiving of gifts.
While I try my best, I am one of those
unfortunates who battles to lie with a
straight face, and although I have spent
hours in front of the bathroom mirror
practising a look of delight and surprise, it
never quite comes off properly.
This is especially true when I open
the annual parcel from my doting
grandmother and find yet
another pair of
striped
socks and the traditional hand-knitted
cardigan.
The look of disappointment on her
face each year is enough to send me into
months of penance and self flagellation
for breaking her dear heart yet again.
However, while close family will forgive
and forget, it is with the significant other
that things can go really wrong.
I recall a life changing incident
numerous years ago.
It involved the squeeze at the time and
went something like this.
Arriving at her house with my carefully
wrapped present for her, I began a
tirade against my family who, to the last
member, had bought me silk boxer shorts.
I had built up a huge head of steam over
the course of the day and I let vent with
gusto.
While I ranted and raved over the quality
of people who lacked originality and
who could not think of any other gift
than silk undergarments, I failed to notice
the colour drain from her face, then the
mounting redness before she burst into
tears.
Still not thinking straight, I
imagined they were tears of joy at the
thoughtfulness and beauty of my gift to
her.
I thus quickly opened mine knowing
it would be a wondrous present and
we would bask in our mutual love and
gratefulness to the other.
Unfortunately, it was not to be as inside
my wrapping paper was...
yep, silken boxer shorts.
Needless to say the girlfriend didn’t last,
but I do still have those under shorts.
So, before unwrapping your gifts this
year, remember this cautionary tale and
follow this simple tip - keep your mouth
firmly closed and plaster a huge smile on
your face and you’ll be certain
to have a very merry
Christmas.
26 Get It Zululand December 12

Get it Promotion
‘Communication is key’
Port Manager, Preston Khomo, Port of Richards Bay attributes
the success of his career to setting challenging goals
Can you tell us a bit about your background?
I was born in Port Shepstone and graduated from Adams College before
undertaking several years of study, including obtaining degrees from HED
at Fort Hare (B.Sc Hons), Alabama University (M.Sc), RAU (Dip Human
Resources Mgmt), De Montfort University in the United Kingdom (MBA)
and attending various leadership courses at, to name but a few, the
Gordon Institute of Business Science and experiencing leadership and
management training in Antwerp, Belguim.
Can you briefly elaborate on some of your
previous posts and what led to your eventual
move to Zululand?
I started my professional career as a geologist in the coal division of Shell
SA in the early eighties. I then spent time lecturing and teaching before
joining the President Brand Gold Mine. I have also had the privilege of
managing the Phalaborwa Municipality and teaching and managing in
various posts including Rio Tinto and the South African Port Operations.
In 2004 I was appointed as Head of Infrastructure Development at
Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) Richards Bay.
Assuming the role of Port Manager at Richards
Bay is a challenging task. How
have you approached the new
responsibilities so far?
I have to ensure the Port constantly achieves the
objectives set by the Market Demand Strategy
(MDS). This means the Port contributes
towards the development of the country as a
whole - while also remaining poised to become
one of the world’s largest freight hubs and
logistics groups.
Do you have a specific vision -
what are some of your shortterm
and long-term
goals?
My short-term goals include
successfully completing the
various Port projects for this financial year. Looking into the near future,
I have to ensure that we achieve our objectives as set out in the MDS,
while our seven year goal is to unlock the country’s economic potential by
spending billions on infrastructure projects. I look forward to witnessing
the Port develop and hence the expansion of the Richards Bay area too.
The Port is the nation’s ‘asset’ and it should be developed so that the
entire community can benefit from the Port. My vision is to see the Port
of Richards Bay positioned as the best bulk Port in the world.
Can you elaborate on your family? Children?
I am married to Zanele and we have five beautiful children, including a
set of twin boys, who are in Grade 4. I also have a son in Grade 8, and two
adult daughters.
I’m sure your career puts demands on your life.
How do you manage to balance work and family
life?
I commute every weekend to Durban to spend quality time with my
family. I also take full advantage of all forms of communication available
to keep in touch with them constantly. Communication is the secret to
a healthy family relationship, and I place enormous importance on this
aspect of our lives.
What are some of your hobbies and what do you
do to unwind?
I love playing golf whenever I have the opportunity. My relaxing and
unwinding time is shared between this sport and others, including
watching international sport and following the various soccer leagues. I
enjoy cooking and tasting traditional food, and have spent time travelling
to enjoy the various delights our country has to offer. I love visiting the
game reserves we are blessed to have in our vicinity and venturing into
local history by visiting battle trails.
What is your motto in life or is there any driving
motivating factor?
I firmly believe that once you succeed, you are ‘driven’ to move on. The
level of success determines the next level of success. Keep aiming high,
and keep moving forward.
What do you love most about Zululand?
What I love most about Zululand is … the people! Having come from
the South Coast, what fascinates me is the dialect of the people. Just by
listening to them, you can identify from which area they originate within
our close, yet diverse communities.
Yvonne Tabrett with a young
Henkel’s Yellowood (Podocarpus
henkelii), which she feels
is the perfect option for an indigenous
Christmas tree

Get it Promotion
Balance is the secret
Zama is a very busy young lady - but that doesn’t stop her from
reaching for her dreams and maintaining a balanced lifestyle
What defines you as a woman?
The best thing about being a woman, is having the ability to find the
strength to rise after every storm. We are incredibly strong, and we
can use that strength to accomplish great things.
What are some of the characteristics that make
you unique?
I forgive easily, because I believe life is too short to bear grudges
and harbour ill-will. I pride myself on being a people’s person, and
thrive on being sociable and having the opportunity to put my good
interpersonal skills to use.
I’m sure your job places demands on your life.
How do you manage to balance work and family
life while still staying on top of your game?
I try to prioritize maintaining a healthy lifestyle which entails
regular exercise, watching what I eat and a good spiritual balance.
I ensure that I give the right amount of attention to each of these
priorities, and that’s what keeps me so grounded.
What is your motto in life or is there any driving
motivating factor?
I believe that life is beautiful. And I always try to remember not to
sweat the small stuff. This means focusing on the things that are
most important, and solving problems according to their urgency
and importance in my professional or private life.
What do you love the most about Zululand?
The same thing that every Zululander loves most: The people are
great. This area is home to RBM, SAs largest sand mining and
beneficiation company. I love the fact that we live in an area
where the big five live right at our doorstep – As long as
the snakes stay where they belong!
What are some of your goals
for the New Year?
I choose not to set unrealistic personal
goals, but rather to just be the best that
I can be, and to do the things I set my
mind to.
How did you approach your
responsibilities and what do
you attribute your success to?
The same way I approach everything: With a
tenacious spirit. I don’t give up easily, and at
work I am blessed to work with a great team
that is motivated, committed, driven and most
importantly, one that comprises of people who are
beautiful on the inside as well as on the outside.
What advice would you offer younger women
trying to climb the corporate ladder?
First and foremost, you have to know where you want to be at each
stage of your life. We want and need different things in our twenties
compared to say, our forties. Our personal and financial profiles change
as we grow. In that respect, you should understand these needs and
channel all your energy and enthusiasm to meeting – or exceeding -
those needs. It is also incredibly important for any young woman to
have a mentor whom she admires and trusts.

Get it Promotion
‘Five is fabulous!’
Muneera Adam of Richards Bay Minerals successfully
juggles a thriving career, while being a supermom to five
beautiful children. Get It shared a cup of coffee with this
inspirational woman, and found out a little more about
what really makes her tick
What defines you as a woman?
The same thing that defines women at large: Our incredible inner
strength and beauty and our innate nurturing ability. I love being able
to impart knowledge and seeing people use that knowledge to grow,
both personally and professionally. I also pride myself on always being
the glue that holds the family pages together.
What are some of the characteristics that make
you unique?
My enquiring mind that continually gives me the drive to learn and to
understand, and my confidence, which allows me to explore freely and
not set boundaries.
I’m sure your job places demands on your life.
How do you manage to balance work and family
life while still staying on top of your game?
Shew!! I have five adorable children, (two sets of twins) and one
cat. The secret to any full-time working mother’s success is support,
support, and more support! My unwavering husband, my mum who
has been a constant lifeline for me, family, and two dedicated helpers.
It is also inspiring to be surrounded by successful, thriving women who
face similar challenges of being a professional, a wife, and a mother.
My leaders are amazing and inspirational figures in my life.
What is your motto in life or is there any specific
driving motivating factor?
I firmly believe that we should all lead every day by placing our
personal values first. Respect, honesty and humility are three of my
core personal values, and I instill these in every aspect of my life. I also
believe that we should all set aside time for charity and good deeds, as
I feel the more we give, the more blessed and grounded we will be.
How do you approach your responsibilities and
what do you attribute your success to?
Strive to do your best, don’t be too hard on yourself, and learn from
your mistakes. I have been blessed by the Almighty and I attribute my
success to my Mum and my late Dad who have constantly stood by me,
guided and supported me. Miss my Dad dearly.
What advice would you offer to younger women
trying to climb the corporate ladder?
The most important thing for any young woman to remember - in her
personal and professional life - is to be honest and true to yourself.
Hard work pays off, don’t expect things to just happen. You need to
take some initiative while understanding that patience and humility
are virtues. Always show respect for your elders and your mentors
- they will always offer you good advice and guidance through your
life.
What do you love the most about Zululand?
There is nothing quite like it. We are surrounded by beautiful blue
skies, tranquil world famous beaches, amazing lush greenery and
exquisite wildlife. We are blessed to live in an area that people travel
many miles to experience.
What are some of your
goals for the New Year?
To remember to always enjoy being
in the present, live each day as if it
were my last and strive towards
spiritual fulfilment.

GET IT DIRECTORY
To advertise here call name Zululand Observer on 035 799 0500
A wide variety of
CHRISTMAS GIFTS,
crockery + ornaments
NOW IN STOCK
Catering • Coffee Shop • Gifts • decor
Tel: 035 772 3242
Sharon : 083 306 9026
Charmaine: 083 417 0613
Email: lattelace@gmail.com
JOIN US ON TO SEE OUR SPECIALS. EXCLUSIVE TO MEMBERS
ONLY
Powershot SX 500IS
R2 999
Includes:
• 16mp • 30x Optical Zoom
• 3” LCD • HD Video recording
• Intelligent Image stabilisation
• Digic 4 image processor
BOARDWALK RICHARDS BAY
035 789 7461
NEW
HOUR
DIGITAL
1LAB

GET IT DIRECTORY
To advertise here call Zululand Observer on 035 799 0500
...your online Slimming Store
www.saslimming.co.za
Email us on: info@saslimming.co.za
Order Fax No: 086 611 8412
Jenny van Niekerk
Cell: +27 (0)71 464 3322
+27 (0)78 499 2780
• Telefax: +27 (0)35 753 4746
• Email: corpo@absamail.co.za
EMPANGENI
Tel: 035-7929129
RICHARDS BAY
Tel: 035-7532086
LET US BUILD YOUR DREAM KITCHEN
Shop 7, Essenwood Park, Richards Bay
Tel: 035 789 9804
Lakeside Mall, Richards Bay
Tel: 035 789 0135
Empangeni, Central Park
Tel: 035 772 5637
Meerensee Mall, Richards Bay
Tel: 035 753 1553
TRADITIONAL
FISH & CHIPS
• Calamari • Prawns • S/Ribs
• Burgers • Schwarmas • Curries
• Fresh cut chips daily • All foods
prepared in open-plan kitchens!
• All fi sh 100% guaranteed
no bones
18 YEARS OF PROVEN
QUALITY FOOD TO ZULULAND
& STILL VOTED N0.1
...MAKES YOU THINK???
PADAYACHEE BROS
CHRISTMAS TREES
FROM
CHRISTMAS
LIGHTS(100’S)
R12-50
FROM
R20-00
(10M) ROPE LIGHTS
R110-00
(20M) ROPE LIGHTS
R195-00
CHRISTMAS HATS
FROM R5-00
CHRISTMAS STOCKINGS
FROM R10-00
GIFT BAGS
FROM R6-00
SANTA SUIT
R65-00
LANTERNS
FROM R5-00
TREE DECORATION
FROM
D.I.Y CANDLE ART
R6-00 R35-00
CHRISTMAS WREATHS TINSEL
FROM R2-50
FROM
R35-00
GIFT BOXES
FROM
R15-00
BALLOONS(PACK 10)
R8-95
CHRISTMAS CRACKERS
FROM R15-00
CHRISTMAS RIBBON
FROM R5-00
BAKING BOOKS
FROM
CHRISTMAS BOOKS
R39-95 R25-00
FROM
GARLANDS
FROM
R4-00
Trading Hours: Mon-Fri: 08:15 - 16:45
Saturday: 08:15 - 12:45
Shop 4A, Checkers Centre, Richards Bay
Tel: 035 789 3367 - Fax: 035 789 3368

GET IT DIRECTORY
Coming soon in
2013
The Nissan Leaf
Nissan has announced plans to
launch the Nissan Leaf in South Africa
in 2013,this is after the successful
conclusion of discussions between
the government and the motoring
industry on the establishment of
charging infrastructure and the
introduction of customer incentives.
The EVs, which can be charged from
purely renewable energy sources,
such as solar and wind power, aim
to play a critical role in reducing the
impact of climate change.
The cars' batteries can be charged at
home.
Although they're more expensive in
some countries, people who own the
cars are assisted by their governments
with free parking in busy cities, tax
rebates and other incentives.
2012 has been an exciting year for Imperial Nissan Empangeni. The dealership has
welcomed a number of new staff members to its family as well as having to say sad
farewells to others.
We have also had reason to celebrate on more than one occasion as our staff members
have been presented with national awards for their superb performance.
While the economy has had its ups and downs it has still been a good year for the dealership
and for this we wish to thank you, our customers and friends, for your loyal support.
I would like to take this opportunity to wish one and all a safe and happy festive season
and a prosperous 2013.
Debbie Smith,
Dealer Principal
www.ipledge.co.za
dsmith@imperialnissan.co.za
www.imperialnissan.co.za
1 Lood Avenue Kuleka, Empangeni
035 787 8600

Life might be like a
box of chocolates...
The
Sweetest
Choice