| TURNING YOUR LINKEDIN PROFILE INTO AN IMPACTFUL TOOL |
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Last week’s Marketing Mix forum on LinkedIn was one of the most popular events at Chamber this year.
Of the host of social media options out there, LinkedIn is considered by many users as arguably the most appropriate platform for business purposes. To this end, LinkedIn strategist Mary Gedamu facilitated a Marketing Mix forum at the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business last week that explained some of its leveraging capabilities to help grow the business and personal brand of attendees.
In a dynamic and engaging session, Gedamu showed how to optimise their LinkedIn profiles for maximum visibility, build a credible and influential digital presence, and attract meaningful connections and global opportunities. Gedamu also shared actionable strategies that can be implemented by anyone, from seasoned professionals to new entrepreneurs, how to stand out online and create real impact by converting a LinkedIn profile into a powerful business asset or personal tool.
Click here for the full programme of forums and networks at the PMCB.
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| CALLING EARLY-STAGE ENTREPRENEURS FOR INCUBATION PROGRAMME |
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and UVU Africa have launched the Timbuktoo Creative Hub Ideation Incubation Programme, a six-week virtual initiative aimed at early-stage creative entrepreneurs aged 18–35. Entries for the programme starting next month closes on Friday, 27 June. Scroll down to the NEWS YOU CAN USE section for more information and how to enter.
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| ALL IS NOT WELL IN THE INCREASINGLY UNSAFE AI UNIVERSE |
The bombing of a California fertility clinic by two men using AI to access bomb-making instructions, have drawn attention to the rampant development of AI. As the industry races ahead, safety often lags behind that prompted AI pioneer Yoshua Bengio to launch a nonprofit to create AI models designed to minimise social harm. Click here for more about Bengio’s initiative to make AI safer.
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1835: Port Natal was renamed Durban in honour of Sir Benjamin D’Urban, governor of the Cape Colony from 1834 - 37.
Elsewhere, in 2016, the UK voted to leave the European Union, setting in motion a process that took almost four years to be formally completed.
Today is observed as International Widows' Day. |
AUTOMOTIVE BODY ON A MISSION TO BRING EV CHARGING TO THE PEOPLE
South Africa’s electric vehicle future is accelerating, as naamsa - The Automotive Business Council launches a nationwide rollout of 120 public EV charging sites. The project will connect major cities and leisure destinations, using both alternating and direct current chargers. While initially grid-tied, the system will integrate small-scale renewable energy for speed and affordability.
Backed by manufacturers and government, the plan prioritises brownfield petrol station sites and partnerships with fuel retailers. A black- and women-owned consortium is spearheading deployment, supporting the Automotive Masterplan 2035’s goals of 60% local content and 25% black-owned value chain participation. Local production of charging components like cables, plugs, and aluminium pillars is already under way, signaling greener mobility and inclusive growth. (SOURCE: Engineering News)
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… AS GREEN ENERGY MASTERPLAN TARGETS 25 000 JOBS BY 2030
South Africa’s Renewable Energy Masterplan (SAREM), launched at the Green Energy Summit and Africa Energy Forum, aims to industrialise the renewable and battery storage sectors. The plan targets inclusive growth, job creation, and local manufacturing, with a goal to employ 25,000 people by 2030 - especially youth and women. SAREM promotes public-private localisation, supply chain development, and skills training while supporting a just energy transition. Backed by the Ministry of Electricity and Energy, the plan also offers a potential roadmap for other African nations to replicate in their green industrial development efforts. (SOURCE: Engineering News) |
FAST-TRACK ENVIRONMENTAL APPROVALS DELIVERED IN 70 DAYS
Forestry and Environment Minister Dr Dion George reports significant progress in streamlining environmental governance under his first year in office. Speaking on June 19, George detailed reforms through the new ‘Regulatory Efficiency Strategy for Environmental Turbocharge’, which has halved approval times for renewable energy projects in designated zones. Fast-track authorisations for low-sensitivity areas now take just 70 days. A new web-based screening tool also helps developers identify suitable sites with minimal environmental impact. Since July 2024, George has finalised 162 environmental appeals, reinforcing government efforts to balance environmental protection with accelerated green infrastructure development. (SOURCE: Engineering News)
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SPCA GOES AFTER DAYBREAK FOR ‘SYSTEMIC ANIMAL ABUSE’ OF BIRDS
The National Council of SPCAs has laid criminal charges against the board of Daybreak Farms after over one million chickens died or suffered extreme distress due to what’s being called one of South Africa’s worst animal cruelty cases. Investigations uncovered widespread neglect, starvation, and inhumane culling, prompting a High Court order forcing urgent welfare reforms. Despite this, Daybreak has entered business rescue, raising fears of financial evasion. The NSPCA accuses the company of systemic animal abuse, operational collapse, and morally bankrupt leadership. With the Public Investment Corporation holding a controlling stake, scrutiny now extends to oversight failures at the highest levels. (SOURCE: Daily Maverick) |
TARDY HOME AFFAIRS ORDERED TO ISSUE VISA TO UK PROFESSIONAL
The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has been ordered by the Pretoria High Court to issue a critical skills visa within 30 days to a British professional - after two years of delays and a previous court order in 2024. The court found the minister and director-general in contempt. Despite progress in clearing visa backlogs under Minister Leon Schreiber, immigration experts say illogical rejections and a growing appeals backlog remain. Legal professionals report persistent inefficiencies, unresolved appeals, and rushed decisions following litigation. Calls for a more transparent and responsive visa system are mounting as delays disrupt individuals’ lives and business confidence. (SOURCE: Moneyweb) |
R6.8 BILLION TRANSFER KEEPS DIS-CHEM EMPIRE IN THE FAMILY
Dis-Chem founder Ivan Saltzman has transferred a 25% stake in the pharmacy group - worth R6.8 billion - to sons Dan and Mark Saltzman, keeping ownership within the family. The 217 million shares were distributed from Ivlyn Local Investment Holdings, Ivan’s investment vehicle. This move follows previous stake sales to executives, BEE partners, and fund managers, reducing the Saltzman family’s total shareholding. Mark, a commercial lawyer, and Dan now each hold 12.62% in Dis-Chem, while third son Saul received a smaller stake via a trust. Ivan remains involved in the business post-CEO tenure, earning nearly R18 million last year. Dis-Chem's shares remain unaffected on the JSE. (SOURCE: Moneyweb)
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WEBUYCARS MOOTS RETAILING NEW VEHICLES
WeBuyCars, South Africa’s leading used vehicle retailer, is exploring the sale of new vehicles following interest from several motor manufacturers. While discussions are still in early stages, the move could streamline the buyer journey by offering both new and used car options. The company sells nearly 190 000 used cars annually and plans to open three new branches in 2025, creating 500 jobs. Amid rising consumer complaints about vehicle inspection reports, WeBuyCars is reviewing its partnership with Dekra and considering more transparent diagnostics and independent evaluations. It is also investing in AI-driven technology for enhanced vehicle assessments to improve customer confidence. (SOURCE: Moneyweb) |
PWC UNDER SCRUTINY OVER 2018 CHOPPIES AUDIT
Botswana’s Accounting Oversight Authority has launched an investigation into PwC and former lead auditor Rudi Binedell over alleged misconduct during the 2018 audit of Choppies Enterprises. The delayed audit led to the retailer’s suspension from the JSE and Botswana Stock Exchange, wiping out 75% of its market value. Choppies accuses PwC of abusing confidential data and professional trust, while a Botswana court considers a R653 million damages claim from Choppies shareholders. The case includes allegations of judicial misconduct and counters by Justice Zein Kebonang, who accuses PwC of manipulating proceedings. PwC says it is cooperating with the regulator’s investigation. (SOURCE: Moneyweb) |
RISING MIDEAST TENSIONS STOKE OIL-PRICE VOLATILITY
Tensions in the Middle East are driving oil market volatility after U.S. airstrikes hit three Iranian nuclear sites - Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan - escalating conflict alongside Israel. Brent crude surged 11% over the week, with traders bracing for $100-a-barrel scenarios, depending on Iran’s retaliation. Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil route, remain a key risk. Freight costs, insurance premiums, and derivatives volatility have all spiked. Despite no current supply curbs, the market remains on edge, with nearly 1,000 vessels experiencing GPS jamming. Analysts say the next few days will be crucial in determining diplomatic or military outcomes. (SOURCE: Reuters) |
YOU WANT TO MEET ONLINE? TUESDAYS ARE BEST, FRIDAY NOT SO MUCH
If your calendar feels more like a marathon than a schedule, Microsoft’s latest Work Trend Index says you’re not alone. Late-night meetings (post-8pm) are up 16%, and a third of workers are still in their inboxes at 10pm. Tuesdays win the crown for “meeting mayhem,” while Fridays breathe easy. Surprise: 57% of meetings aren’t even scheduled! And email? The average worker gets 117 a day, skims them in under a minute, and receives 153 Teams messages too - many after hours. With interruptions every two minutes, it’s official: your job now follows you like a needy pet. (SOURCE: Moneyweb) |
NEWS YOU CAN USE
VIRTUAL 6-WEEK PROGRAMME TARGETS UNDER-35 ENTREPRENEURS
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and UVU Africa have launched the Timbuktoo Creative Hub Ideation Incubation Programme, a six-week virtual initiative aimed at early-stage creative entrepreneurs aged 18–35. Set to begin in July 2025, the programme will support 20–30 participants from 10 African countries, offering training in entrepreneurial thinking, branding, financial literacy, and pitching. Selected founders will receive mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to a final demo day with potential investors. Focused on industries such as design, multimedia, and heritage, this initiative promotes inclusive growth and cultural innovation. Applications close on 27 June. Apply here.
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Winners make a habit of manufacturing their own positive expectations in advance of the event.
Brian Tracy |
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