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Johannesburg 29 April 2024 Belgium Campus iTversity has taken the lead in several initiatives in recent years to spur the number of women in the information technology (IT) sector.

Jannie Zaaiman, Chief Executive for Education and Academic Collaboration at Belgium Campus iTversity, explains that it has a multifaceted approach with several initiatives, but its central initiative is TICON Africa, which stands as a testament to their commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity in the tech sector.

The Technology Information Confederation Africa (The inaugural TICON Africa Conference 2023, held in Uganda in September 2023, proved to be a groundbreaking event dedicated to that central idea and has drawn significant interest and collaboration.

One of the first initiatives of this organisation – which includes Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, South Africa, Rwanda, Ghana, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Botswana – was to launch a Women in ICT chapter, with representatives from Uganda, Botswana, and Zimbabwe leading the charge. Subsequent conferences, such as the upcoming one in Mombasa, Kenya, aim to continue fostering partnerships between academia, government, and industry stakeholders.

Zaaiman explains the underlying rationale for its Women in IT focus: “Despite encouraging statistics showing a growing female presence in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) fields, particularly in natural sciences, there remains a concerning disparity specific to the IT sector. While women now constitute a majority in STEM graduates, their representation in IT remains notably lower. Recognising this gap as a pressing issue, Belgium Campus iTversity aims to prioritise efforts to promote STEM subjects among young learners, even at the pre-tertiary level. Our initiatives therefore include integrating discussions on the importance of STEM subjects into career counseling sessions particularly for high school female learners pre-Grade 9, before they have committed to alternative subjects, so as to raise awareness of the considerable career potential of IT.”

When it comes to reaching girls at the pre-matric level, Belgium Campus iTversity actively engages with schools and encourages sponsors to support female students. It does so while prioritising applicants' ability to study, ensuring equal opportunities for all aspiring IT professionals.

Moreover, Zaaiman emphasises the considerable importance of gender visibility in the tech industry. Belgium Campus iTversity, through its affiliation with organisations like the South African ICT Association, seeks to showcase female role models to inspire and empower aspiring women in IT.  Zaaiman acknowledges the presence of inspiring female role models but underscores the need for greater representation, especially in areas like tech entrepreneurship. While many tech companies led by women exist, efforts to promote gender diversity and inclusion in events and conferences are ongoing, reflecting Belgium Campus's commitment to fostering a more equitable and inclusive tech ecosystem.

The Covid-19 pandemic has not only accelerated the adoption of flexible work arrangements. Such  work environments are not just beneficial for women but are also key for them to deliver their best work. The contributions they make are invaluable, and by bridging the gap between academia and industry, Belgium Campus iTversity aims to ensure that female IT students are equipped with the skills and experiences needed to thrive in the evolving tech landscape.

Belgium Campus iTversity recognises the significance of providing opportunities for education and skill development, particularly in ICT. “Coding clubs and workshops are among our various initiatives aimed at nurturing interests and talents in the field, ensuring that young learners have access to resources and support to pursue their passions,” he adds.

Addressing the looming skills gap in the IT industry is crucial, particularly in areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and data science. With the skills gap widening each day, it's imperative to bridge it to ensure a steady supply of skilled workers for the digital economy. “With this in mind, our planning takes into account future trends and the evolving needs of the workforce, to ensure we suitably prepare the next generation of tech professionals.”

Zaaiman says that Belgium Campus iTversity plays a key role in the organisation of these initiatives: “For instance, we initiated the formation of TICON Africa. Additionally, we take the lead in facilitating knowledge sharing and collaboration through various platforms, including Digital Dawn breakfast sessions which stimulate discussion advancing ICT development, based on the insights of expert speakers within the South African ICT industry. Other sector conferences bring together industry experts and academics to discuss emerging technologies and best practices, ensuring that the institution remains at the forefront of innovation and education in IT.”

He emphasises the need for diverse perspectives and experiences to drive innovation and inclusivity. Encouraging women's participation in the tech sector not only benefits the economy but also enhances productivity and fosters a more rewarding work environment.

“Mentoring programmes play a vital role in empowering women in ICT, providing guidance and support as they navigate their careers. Breaking stereotypes and celebrating the achievements of women in technology are also essential in inspiring the next generation of female tech leaders.”

Zaaiman acknowledges the multifaceted nature of the gender gap in the tech industry, which includes social stereotypes and unconscious biases. By advancing initiatives that promote gender diversity and inclusion, Belgium Campus iTversity is committed to closing this gap and empowering women in technology at every level. 

ABOUT BELGIUM CAMPUS ITVERSITY NPC 

Belgium Campus is a South Africa-based pioneering ITversity in South Africa that helps raise the bar in private education in the ICT industry. The higher education institution collaborates with the industry to provide students with the financial support necessary to forge successful futures. Well-established and renowned, it has campuses in Pretoria, Kempton Park, and a newly opened campus in Stellenbosch. Its success stems from a Participative Development Model of Education which accounts for the needs of students, industry, academia, government, and society alike, resulting in demand-driven, student-centred, and business-focused higher learning. 

ISSUED ON BEHALF OF BELGIUM CAMPUS 

For more information contact: 
Lunice Johnston Communications 
Lunice Johnston 
Mobile: +27 82 824 6384

Durbanville, Cape Town - The results in the 2023 Cambridge International Academic Awards have been announced, and Reddam House Durbanville students have once again achieved exceptional results. A total of 10 prestigious awards were scooped by seven remarkable students across A Levels, AS Levels, and IGCSEs, showcasing outstanding academic excellence and dedication.

The Cambridge International School leaving qualifications are a growing option for many parents in South Africa. As at the end of 2023, more than 120 Cambridge International centres offer this acclaimed curriculum to South African students. These qualifications are benchmarked internationally, with the curriculum being offered in over 160 countries around the world.

Among the highlights of these achievements are multiple 'Top in South Africa' awards, recognising exceptional performance in various subjects. These accolades underscore the exceptional quality of teaching and learning at Reddam House Durbanville.

Barry Nieuwoudt, Executive Head of Reddam House Durbanville, commended the students and teachers for their outstanding efforts. "We congratulate our formidable students and express gratitude to our teachers for their dedication and commitment to delivering excellence," he said.

A Levels

Sarah Webber demonstrated extraordinary proficiency by achieving 'Top in South Africa' for A Level French, securing the 8th place globally with an outstanding score of 92% (A*). Sarah's remarkable success in French, the official second language of the Cambridge International curriculum, is a testament to her language expertise and dedication. Sarah is currently studying at UCT.

AS Levels

Jake van der Westhuizen demonstrated exceptional academic prowess by being recognised as the Best Across Four AS-Levels and securing First Place in South Africa. This outstanding achievement reflects Jake's strong work ethic, intelligence, and determination to succeed. Additionally, Jake attained Top in South Africa for AS Level Mathematics with an impressive score of 99%. Jake is currently studying at UCT in the Science faculty, majoring in Physics and aiming to pursue further studies abroad. Notably, Jake completed an unprecedented seven AS Level subjects, including self-taught AS Level Biology, where he achieved an excellent score of 93%.

Minkyum Kim secured Top in South Africa in Computer Science with an impressive score of 96%, securing him a place to study Computer Science at Cambridge University in the UK. Minkyum is accelerating his A Levels and is currently completing A Level Further Mathematics and A Level Physics in the June 2024 exam series, enabling him to commence his studies at Cambridge in September this year. This milestone marks the first time a student at Reddam House Durbanville has pursued A Level Further Mathematics, demonstrating Minkyum's commitment to academic excellence and advanced learning.

Matthew van Wyk received Top in South Africa awards for both Biology (93%) and Chemistry (95%) at AS Level. These accomplishments highlight Matthew's dedication and exceptional proficiency in the sciences. Matthew is currently studying Engineering at Stellenbosch University, embarking on a promising academic journey.

Emma Nel achieved Top in South Africa for Mathematics with an outstanding score of 99%. Emma received offers from numerous prestigious universities and elected to pursue her studies in Medicine at Stellenbosch University, where she is enjoying her degree immensely.

IGCSE

Soyeon Lee achieved Top in South Africa in English First Language (91%) and Computer Science (95%) at IGCSE level. Soyeon's impressive scores highlight her commitment to academic excellence. She is currently in Grade 12, continuing her studies at Reddam House Durbanville with dedication and enthusiasm.

Razeena Ismail also attained Top in South Africa in English First Language (91%) at IGCSE level, showcasing her outstanding language proficiency and academic dedication. Razeena is currently in Grade 12, poised for further academic achievements in her final year at Reddam House Durbanville.

Ravi Nadasen, CEO of Inspired Education Group Africa, expressed immense pride in the diverse range of achievements across various faculties. "We are extremely proud of the accolades received across so many faculties, from Mathematics and Sciences to Arts, Humanities, and Commerce," noted Ravi Nadasen. "These achievements reflect the dedication of our students and the exceptional quality of education at Reddam House Durbanville."

Dual Curriculum Offering

Reddam House Durbanville offers a dual assessment opportunity for students, including both Cambridge Assessment International and the Independent Examinations Board (IEB). Cambridge Lower Secondary is offered from Grade 7 to Grade 9, after which students can select either the Cambridge IGCSEs and AS Levels or the South African IEB examinations. A Levels are taken as a post matric option and are an elective that students choose to better their prospects of entering South African universities or the opportunity to study abroad at prestigious universities.

The dual offering gives students the opportunity of a win-win choice between two renowned, quality options, both preparing candidates more rigorously for tertiary education requirements, as well as workplace critical thinking and problem-solving expectations.

For more information, visit the Inspired Schools website and click on Africa & Middle East link.

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MEDIA INTERVIEWS: For spokesperson interview requests, please contact Vanessa Naude at Strategic Public Relations on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 083 271 6000.

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About Inspired Education Group:

Inspired Education Group is a leading global premium schools group operating in Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America, educating over 65,000 students across a global network of more than 80 schools. It is a co-educational, non-denominational, independent schools group designed to inspire students to achieve their maximum potential in a nurturing, progressive academic environment from ages one to 18. All the Inspired schools are individually developed and designed in response to their environment and location, delivering an excellent education to their respective communities. For more information go to: https://inspirededu.com/

Uphile Shange who achieved seven distinctions in the matric 2023 exams has settled well into tertiary studies at the University of Cape Town.

The former pupil of Sidelile Secondary School in Umkomaas on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, said while it took some time to adjust to life away from home, he was coping well with the unfamiliar environment.

Uphile achieved distinctions in Zulu (93%), English (91%), Life Sciences (98%), Physical Science (100%), Mathematics (98%), Geography (100%) and Life Orientation (91%).

He is studying towards a Bachelor of Business Sciences in Analytics at UCT. The BBusSc in Analytics is an introductory look into a multidisciplinary field that incorporates statistics and computer science while using quantitative skills in business.

Uphile was full of praise for the extra tuition that he received from the Ithala Edu-platform which assists Grade 12 learners with extra classes in subjects that they are struggling with. Uphile attained first position in KZN in physical science after being assisted by one of the tutors, Innocent Mbay.

“Thanks to the extra tuition that I received from the Ithala Edu-platform, I moved from 17% to 98 percent in mathematics and from 33% to 100% in physical science. I will recommend pupils who are having difficulties in matric subjects to seek help from the tutors at the Ithala Edu-platform,” he said.

Sambulo Mtshali who received distinctions in three subjects, including English, said his good pass would not have been possible without extra tuition.

“I struggled with English, but the tutor at Ithala Edu-platform was most helpful,” said Sambulo who is studying towards a Bachelor of Arts in Drama which will allow him to pursue his dream of acting.

Mlungisi Mpanza from Nkosinathi Secondary School in Inanda thanked Ithala Edu-platform tutor Muzi Mthembu who assisted him get a distinction in Geography.

“I would text Mr Mthembu even at 11pm to ask him questions and go through the workbook together. He did this so tirelessly. I am deeply indebted to this fine teacher,” said Mlungisi.

Several of the Ithala Edu-platform tutors were among those teachers who received awards from the KZN Department of Education for their outstanding performance.

The Ithala Edu-platform can be accessed on https://myithala.education. You will need to register in order to access lessons. To the 2024 class, make us proud!

About Ithala 

Ithala SOC Limited is the only state-owned entity that provides full banking services; is fully regulated by the South African Reserve Bank and other banking industry regulators and is fully committed to ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations. A current distribution network of 38 branches in KZN provides convenient transacting facilities. Ithala offers a comprehensive portfolio of corporate and personal banking solutions.

A strong determination to succeed, a mentoring nature and her grounding in humility are the attributes that have contributed to Nozipho Ngobese’s rise from junior clerk to Head of Operations during three decades at Ithala SOC Limited.

Despite a passion to become a chartered accountant after matriculating at Bhekuzulu College in Nongoma, Ngobese’s parents could not afford to finance her tertiary education since her two older brothers were already at university.

“It was so painful for me when my hopes of studying accounting were crushed. But I did not give up. I was determined to continue with my studies and get a decent job,” she recalled.

Nongoma-born Ngobese took a short course in computers and office administration and was thrilled when she was accepted as an entry-level clerk at Ithala’s Nongoma branch.

This was her steppingstone to a long and satisfying career in banking that has taken her to the top.

“I always wanted to work at Ithala because the company’s ideals align with my own values. I grew up in a rural area and Ithala is committed to empower people living in rural areas,” said Ngobese.

Before long she moved from clerk to teller, senior teller, and assistant branch manager. She applied and was appointed branch manager at Kwa Mashu which she remembers was “scary” because this was a rough area, and the branch was having negative growth.

By engaging with the community, building relationships, improving customer service, and motivating her staff, Ngobese turned the branch around within 18 months and was chosen Branch Manager of the Year.

She then moved to a bigger branch in Church Street, Pietermaritzburg. Again, she improved the branch’s performance, making it the best performing branch in transactional accounts in 2004 when she was again chosen as Branch Manager of the Year.

She then held various positions at a regional level in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands before being appointed as Senior Manager Business Development and Special Projects in 2010 tasked with growing Ithala business with government and high-net-worth individual accounts. In 2010 Ngobese was appointed Business Development & Special Projects Manager and introduced several new banking products. In 2012, she was appointed acting Divisional Head: Channels.

Along her professional journey, Ngobese improved her academic qualifications, attending in-service courses for accelerated development and enrolling for university degrees, with all her studies being financed by Ithala. Today she holds, among other qualifications, a Master’s in Business Leadership, Postgraduate Diploma in Finance, Banking, and Investment Management and a Bachelor of Business Administration.

Ngobese believes her greatest strength is strong leadership, strategic thinking, attention to detail, problem solving, analytical thinking, courage and resilience which helped her to turn around non-performing departments within Ithala. Empowerment is also close to her heart - she likes developing people.

“You cannot grow without growing your people. I have helped many high school and tertiary students with free tuition and advice. I want to continue helping struggling students and women with potential to reach the top,” said Ngobese.

She said her father was her greatest inspiration because he believed in her. “I used to be incredibly quiet, but my father encouraged me to come out of my shell. Today I can engage freely.”

Ngobese, whose husband died tragically several years ago, is mother to a daughter and son, and has three grandchildren.

In her spare time, she reads, spend time with grandchildren, partake in community engagement programs, goes to the gym, and plays table tennis.

New Hope School, a beacon of hope and education for children with special needs in Pretoria, is set to receive a generous donation of R150,000 from Jacaranda FM's Good Morning Angels initiative. The donation, facilitated by Power Build and supported by Jacaranda FM, will contribute towards the construction of a much-needed Skills Development Centre at New Hope School.

For nearly 50 years, New Hope School has been dedicated to providing education and support to children with special needs, catering to 417 learners from pre-school to Grade 12. With a focus on empowering learners to reach their full potential, the school offers three Curricular Streams, including mainstream CAPS, Vocational Training, and Basic Life Skills.

Despite the school's impressive 100% matriculation record over the past seven years, there remains a critical gap in post-school support for many learners. The new Skills Development Centre aims to address this gap by providing after-school training and stimulation, enabling school leavers to acquire valuable skills and pursue sustainable careers.

The initiative, spearheaded by New Hope School's community, has already made significant progress, with the centre's construction well underway. However, the project remains a massive financial undertaking, requiring additional support to reach completion.

Recognising the importance of the Skills Development Centre, Agora has been providing pro bono Project Management & QS-services to facilitate the project. Their dedication to the cause prompted them to seek assistance from Good Morning Angels on behalf of New Hope School.

Armand Feldtmann, MD of Power Build, through Jacaranda FM’s Good Morning Angels initiative saw the incredible work New Hope School has been doing and has generously stepped in to help. Armand explains that Power Build has a commitment to supporting worthy causes and recently hosted a Golf Day to raise funds for those in need of building assistance. To help, Power Build has donated R150,000 of these funds to New Hope School's Skills Development Centre Building project.

The generous donation from Power Build, facilitated by Jacaranda FM's Good Morning Angels, will play a vital role in realising the vision of the Skills Development Centre. It reflects the collective efforts of individuals and organisations coming together to make a positive difference in the lives of learners with special needs.

Listen to Good Morning Angels every Wednesday morning on Jacaranda FM’s Breakfast With Martin Bester.

Umhlanga, South Africa - Reddam House Umhlanga is proud to announce that its choir, comprising 50 talented members of the College, from grades 9 to matric, is gearing up for a lifechanging journey to New York City in June. This co-ed ensemble, including 10 former Drakensberg Boys Choir students, is set to captivate audiences at renowned venues such as Carnegie Hall.

Under the guidance of four dedicated staff members, including Executive Head Adam Rogers, the choir will showcase their musical talent and represent South Africa on an international stage. With a mission to share their passion for music and foster global connections, the choir will participate in workshops, performances, and sightseeing activities during their time in New York City.

The adventure begins on 4 June and includes workshops and performances at renowned institutions such as Carnegie Hall, Dalton School, and St. Patrick's Cathedral, as well as cultural excursions to Central Park, Times Square, and Broadway.

Adam Rogers expressed his excitement about the upcoming tour, saying, "We have been eagerly awaiting our first ever international College Choir Tour in our school’s 21 years of existence. Over a year in the planning, and bringing together Reddam House Umhlanga parents, choir and staff members, as well as the wider Umhlanga community, this College Choir Tour is the culmination of creative collaboration, considerable generosity and commitment. We wish to thank our organising and fundraising committee, parents and sponsors for making this tour possible.”

Aidan McArthur, Choir Captain, added: “This tour might have been just over a year in the planning but, in truth, our College Choir has been preparing to embark on this journey of musical discovery and inspiration for many years under the guidance of maestro Mr Russell Scott. We have also forged bonds that transcend mere friendship. Through shared experiences and shared passions, we have become a tight-knit community bound together by our love for music and the excitement of this shared journey.”

In addition to the performances, the tour serves as a community-driven initiative, with a significant fundraising element aimed at easing the financial burden for students and ensuring that all students have the chance to take part in this unforgettable experience.

Reddam House Umhlanga invites the community to join in celebrating the choir's achievements and supporting their fundraising efforts. Stay tuned for updates and highlights from the tour as the choir represents South Africa with pride and passion on the international stage.

For more information, visit https://inspirededu.com/our-schools/ and click on Africa & Middle East link.

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ISSUED ON BEHALF OF INSPIRED SCHOOLS SOUTH AFRICA BY STRATEGIC PUBLIC RELATIONS.

MEDIA INTERVIEWS:
For spokesperson interview requests, please contact Vanessa Naudé at Strategic Public Relations on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 083 271 6000 (WhatsApp only).

About Inspired Education Group
Inspired Education Group is a leading global premium schools group operating in Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America, educating over 80,000 students in over 111 schools across 24 countries. It is a co-educational, non-denominational, independent school group designed to inspire students to achieve their maximum potential in a nurturing, progressive academic environment from ages one to 18. All the Inspired schools are individually developed and designed in response to their environment and location, delivering an excellent education to their respective communities. For more information go to: https://inspirededu.com/

Danny Painter, a beloved figure in South Africa's entertainment landscape, marks an incredible milestone as she celebrates 20 years of dedication and success in the industry. From her humble beginnings on stage at the age of 6 to becoming a prominent voice on radio and television, Danny's journey has been nothing short of remarkable.

Reflecting on 20 years in the entertainment business, Danny Painter expresses profound gratitude for the journey she's travelled. "These past two decades have been filled with incredible experiences and opportunities that have shaped me both personally and professionally," says Painter. "I am immensely proud of the milestones I've achieved and the relationships I've built along the way. Being part of the Jacaranda FM family has been something I am so grateful for. It's an honour to work alongside such talented individuals and be part of an award-winning team that continues to inspire and innovate in the world of radio.”

Danny's career began after a chance encounter led her to join the teen channel 'GO' on DStv in her matric year, propelling her into the world of radio and television. Over the years, she hosted various shows on different platforms, including the flagship magazine show 'Vicious Delicious' and SABC 2’s live daily kids TV show 'World of Winners'. Danny then went on to star in South Africa’s first animated series, ‘Captain Zaka’.

Danny continued to fall in love with media after she was introduced to the world of radio where she appeared on a number of regional and community stations before joining the Jacaranda FM family in 2018. Today, Danny hosts the wildly popular ‘Love Songs With Danny Painter’ show every Monday – Thursday between 19:00 and 22:00 and The CTM Top 40 on Saturdays between 10:00 and 14:00 on Jacaranda FM.

When asked about her illustrious career so far, Danny shares, "I've been fortunate to interview some of the biggest stars, attend prestigious award ceremonies, and forge lasting friendships with inspiring individuals." Her journey includes being the first South African to be slimed at the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards, starring in a movie featured at an international film festival, lending her voice to Ubisoft's 'Beyond Good and Evil' video game, releasing four singles, and hosting DUB’s birthday festival with a 9-hour live broadcast on Camps Bay beach.

Danny adds “I am so privileged to have had the career that I have, I worked hard and sacrificed a lot, and I think that’s something we don’t often acknowledge, the blood, sweat and tears. I missed things like my Matric farewell, parties, normal teenage things, but in making those choices I also set myself up in a career that has served me and blessed me endlessly!’ she says. “I wouldn’t change a thing, every ‘no’ pushed me to a ‘yes’ and every yes elevated me to another level. I can’t wait to see what the next 20 looks like! I have a feeling it’s about to be bigger and better than I could ever have imagined!"

Danny has also had many incredible opportunities to interview some of the biggest stars on the planet, has attended some of the world’s best shows and award ceremonies and filmed in some of the most beautiful locations in the world. Some interview highlights include chats with Steve Aoki, Morgan Freeman, Slash, James Blunt, Becky Hill, Neon Dreams, Saxby Twins and Mopreme Shakur – the brother of legendary hip-hop star Tupac.

However, it’s the connections she’s made that have been the most memorable looking back. “I have met some truly inspiring humans throughout my career, humans remain in my life until today and have been there from the very beginning,” Danny shares. “People that have millions and millions of followers and I have to pinch myself every time I WhatsApp them! I think the highlight of my career has and will always be the friendships I make.”

"I owe a debt of gratitude to my mom, Sandy Ngwenya, whose unwavering support made it all possible," Danny acknowledges. Despite the challenges of the industry, she remains proud of her resilience and determination to succeed in every endeavour, whether on radio, TV, singing, or acting.  Looking ahead, Danny is enthusiastic about embarking on new projects. “I am venturing into the world of audiobooks and have just completed my second. I would like to voice more video games and I will definitely be back in studio recording a new song in the coming months!” Danny shares. “But, right now I am thrilled to be a part of the Jacaranda FM family! It’s such an honour to be a part of an award winning team of some of the greatest names in radio.”

Listen to Danny Painter on ‘Love Songs With Danny Painter’ every Monday - Thursday between 19:00 and 22:00 and on The CTM Top 40 with Danny Painter every Saturday between 10:00 and 14:00 on Jacaranda FM.

In an inspiring move to honour and support the unsung heroes of wildlife and marine conservation across Africa, African Secret Cream Liqueur created "The Secret Hero of Africa" initiative. This campaign is dedicated to celebrating the courageous efforts of individuals and groups working tirelessly to ensure the preservation of Africa’s rich wildlife and marine life for future generations.

As a brand deeply rooted in African heritage, African Secret Cream Liqueur is passionate about showcasing the continent's diverse culture and natural beauty. Recognizing that wildlife is an essential part of what makes Africa unique, the brand is spotlighting the remarkable stories of triumph and dedication from the many conservation heroes they had the privilege of working with.

Here are three heroes and their reasons for doing what they do:

Harry Bailey, Founder of Run for Rangers - Spearheaded by the ambitious matric student, Harry, along with his father Donavan Bailey and Mr. Chris Kingsley, Run for Rangers is an annual charity run aimed at raising funds for game rangers on the front lines of wildlife conservation. This initiative underscores the importance of supporting those who protect Africa's wildlife, emphasizing that even the smallest donation can make a significant impact. Their next event takes place on 26 – 29th of July 2024.

Kate Church, Founder of African Wildlife Vets - From school teacher to founder of a wildlife non-profit organisation, Kate's determination to make a difference in protecting and saving wildlife species resulted in her identifying an area of conservation that was underfunded and required support. African Wildlife Vets provides essential veterinary support to wildlife-protected areas and conservation organisations.

Colin Levin, CEO of Oceans Alive Conservation Trust (NPO) - This organisation has multifaceted initiatives to combat oceanic and coastal pollution through education, conservation, and community engagement. As a global non-profit, their Adopt-a-School project provides young learners with vital education on marine life. Additionally, the Oceans Alive Training Academy offers education and work experience, empowering students to support themselves and their families while contributing positively to environmental conservation. Recognizing the critical issue of plastic pollution, Oceans Alive has also launched monthly beach clean-up operations in partnership with various foundations across key coastal areas, including Durban (Umhlanga), Saldanha Bay, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, and Hout Bay.

African Secret Cream Liqueur invites everyone to join in supporting these conservation heroes by visiting their website and seeing how they can offer their support. The brand believes that by bringing these efforts to light, they can inspire more people to contribute to the noble cause of preserving Africa’s natural heritage.

For more information about their campaign and partners and how you can show your support, please visit African Secret Cream Liqueur at https://africansecret.co.za/ and follow them on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AfricanSecretLiqueur and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/africansecretliqueur/.

On Thursday, 7th March, there was excitement and joy from both learners and educators at Lodirile Secondary School in Krugersdorp at the handover of Raspberry Pi gadgets by Wisenet (Adapt IT). 

Raspberry Pi is a series of single-board computers that aims to educate individuals in computing and is used worldwide to learn programming skills, build hardware projects and conduct home automation.

There to witness the handover were members of the Adopt-a-School Foundation (AAS), a partner entity of Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation, Wisenet CEO, Ben Hamilton and his team as well as Adapt IT. 

Lodirile Secondary school has a long-standing relationship with Adopt-a-School Foundation and Adapt IT.

The school has benefitted much through this partnership since 2019, with the renovation of its computer laboratory and additional resourcing and training. In addition, a coding and robotics programme is currently underway with the latest donation of 25 Raspberry Pi gadgets by Wisenet.

Grade 8 to 12 learners were present to express their gratitude at the handover ceremony while a choir entertained guests. Happy Molefe, Human Resources Executive of Adapt IT said she was honoured to be part of the programme. 

Through the support of Adapt IT, this Information Communication Technology (ICT) programme empowers the youth in the community. The development of learners and educators is key – they are motivated, through these programmes, as they introduce new teaching tools such as ICT into curriculum.

Steven Lebere, AAS Chief Executive Officer said: “I commend the school on how it has sustained the resources donated by Adapt IT over the years. We believe part of the impact made to the school is reflected in the 82.8% matric results achieved by the school and shared last month.”

Pontsho Maredi a Grade 11 learner said: “I am very grateful to Wisenet for the gadgets. Having seen the impact that the ICT lab has had on us, I cannot wait to use these Pi’s.” 

Tshidiso Ramaboa, a Grade 12 learner said: “These gadgets will help us apply to universities as we don’t have access to laptops and internet at home.”  Thanking Wisenet for the Raspberry Pi, he said it was new to him and that he looked forward to exploring the benefits of the gadgets.

Through its Whole School Development (WSD) programme the Foundation aims to effect change across the school spectrum, providing a schooling environment conducive to teaching and learning. To understand more about the work of Adopt-a-School Foundation you can visit www.adoptaschool.org.za. 

As each school year begins, you can be sure of one thing: Your social media feed will fill up with proud parent posts, showing excited, smiling children who don their uniforms for the first time and start their grade one year.

There is also a fair share of grade eight parents sharing the start of their child's high school journey. And, of course, there are those nearing the finish line and beginning their matric year. These years are considered important milestones that mark the educational road. They bring new challenges and exciting changes and are a rite of passage.

But there is a critical year in a child’s school life that usually starts without as much fanfare—grade four – a rollercoaster ride if there ever was one.

I taught grade four for many years, and it has a rather strange reputation among parents (which ultimately trickles down to the kids.) For instance, one of the first things parents bring up is exams, usually written for the first time in grade four. And the little ones walking through the door on their first day are already terrified of them.

I always played them down and gave plenty of pep talks (mainly to the parents) on approaching the subject without fearmongering. I reminded them that no one is expected to run before they can walk, and as the year progressed, they would mature and be ready. But it's also not THAT big of a deal.

This may sound strange coming from a teacher, but the truth is that many parents put so much emphasis on a few tests at the end of the year that they lose focus on the rest. As a result, they could miss out on something far more critical, such as how their child is coping day to day.

Grade four is possibly the most significant adjustment your child will need to make in their school career. The Foundation Phase focuses on Literacy, Numeracy, and Life Skills, but suddenly, kids are thrust into a more formal academic world, complete with a string of subjects, cycle tests, a wider variety of teachers, and the need to work quickly in order to keep within the school time table. Then, there is the added peer pressure and hectic extra mural commitments with minimal downtime.

Like most things, some will take to it like a duck to water. But some really struggle, especially those who have already found the academic world more challenging than expected. Some have already been referred for assessments by this stage due to their distractibility, inattention, poor work ethic, and poor performance. The assessments usually pursue a diagnosis of ADHD or a similar learning challenge.

However, very often, these assessments end up revealing something else. Intelligent and capable kids are stifled by a system that tries to squish them into an ill-fitting box, leaving them crippled with anxiety and low self-esteem. And when the anxiety is tackled, the children often thrive. 

This often sits just under the surface during the earlier years, and when grade four starts, the wheels come off.

So, How Can We Help?

The most important thing we can do for our kids is to be present enough to recognise the signs, communicate with them, and make them feel safe to communicate with us. Awareness of your children's mental health is just as essential as physical health.

I am not a doctor or a psychologist. I am just a teacher and a mom who dealt with these issues on the ground and speaks from my observations and experience. The extremely high expectations and pressure on kids often stood out to me. And grade four is where it really rears its head for the first time.

Parents are well-meaning. They want their kids to do well at school to set them up for a bright future in a competitive world. We want them to participate in team sports or other sports and cultural activities to build character, create social bonds, and be 'off their screens.' But it can be overwhelming and counterproductive.

Sometimes, they just need to be kids. I can hardly count the times I've had a child in tears in my classroom because they are so disappointed in a test result. And when I tried to reassure them and comfort them, their response was along the lines of, 'My parents are going to kill me!'

I've had children experience full-blown panic attacks. When we sit and chat, I discover that they struggle to keep up with schoolwork because their afternoons are full of karate classes, horse riding, gymnastics, and swimming practice – the list goes on. While these things are great outlets when done in moderation, many kids are doing more than one of these a day, getting home at supper time and then still trying to keep up with school.

What they need are opportunities to engage in hobbies that revitalise them and have no expectations, to spend quality time with their families, and to achieve the elusive work/life balance that we adults work so hard to achieve.

Finding balance

But we also want our children to grow up resilient so they can handle life's hard knocks. Trying to avoid or eliminate the source of their anxiety can disempower them. The key is to help them manage it and to recognise it. When they feel safe enough to discuss their feelings, they will also be open to letting you know when the pressure is just too overwhelming, and you can help them choose the activities that give them an outlet and walk away from the ones that smother them.

We constantly push concepts like 'Don't give up,' 'Stay committed', and 'Don't quit.' While this serves a purpose and is a good attitude in many cases, it's about balance, self-care, and knowing your limits. Keep your expectations realistic, too. Not every child is an academic – even the brightest –  and should be supported and encouraged to do their best rather than chase unattainable results. With less pressure and anxiety, you may find they do better anyway and come into their own once they are through the system.

It's also okay to admit that your choice of school may no longer be the right fit. We make these choices with the information we have at the time and always aim for the best outcome. But sometimes, life shows us otherwise, and making a positive shift could be life-changing.

Jacqueline Aitchison, Executive Head of Education Incorporated Private School, says, ‘The significance of choosing the best school for your child cannot be understated. Wherever your child is on their educational journey, selecting a school for them should be a careful and considered choice... and open to change if the need arises. Many parents prioritise prestige above all else. They mistakenly think that enrolling their child in a prominent, big-name school is a ticket to smooth sailing. This isn’t always the case.’

Parenting is not for sissies. It's a fine line between firm encouragement and gentle support, wanting them to conquer the world and helping them get through a day. We doubt ourselves constantly, regardless of which stance we take, but at the end of the day, we all want what is best for our kids, which is the source of our efforts. But we need to cut our children some slack so they can one day go out and conquer the world thanks to good self-esteem, valuing their own needs, and having compassion and empathy through our example.

In a Nutshell

Having a good relationship with your child’s teacher is crucial. Teachers rarely suggest significant changes like moving to a smaller school or repeating a year unless they genuinely believe it will benefit your child.

Here are some practical strategies:

Spend Calm Time Together: Regular, relaxed time with your children is vital. It strengthens your bond and supports their emotional well-being.

Listen and Encourage Sharing: Make sure your kids know they can talk about their feelings and worries, especially with all the new things they’re experiencing at school.

Use Positive Reinforcement: Encourage and reward your children, avoiding criticism about their school work or test results.

Show Interest in Their School Life: Be actively interested in your child's education and support them with their homework and projects.

Avoid Over-scheduling: Ensure your child has enough free time to play, read, listen to music, or relax.

Children do best in a structured yet supportive environment. Here’s how to create that from the start of the year:

Set a Homework Routine: Decide a specific time and place for homework and studying. This area should be quiet, organised, and have all the necessary supplies.

Don’t Leave Things to the Last Minute: Teach your child to start on projects early, avoiding the stress of rushing just before deadlines.

Be Involved: Remember, most grade four students aren’t quite ready to study independently. Spend time with them, helping with their studies and finding the best methods.

Prepare the Night Before To reduce morning chaos, get your child into the habit of packing their school bag and any sports kit the night before.

Check In Regularly: Go through your child’s school books weekly. It’s an excellent way to see how they handle the workload and cope with academic demands.

Communicate Early and Often: Don’t wait for the first parent-teacher meeting to discover any issues. Stay on top of school communications and be punctual with all school-related paperwork.

Following these tips can help smooth the path through grade four, making it a positive and productive year for your child.