Nadia Neophytou

Izimvo has the pleasure of introducing award-winning arts and entertainment journalist; Nadia Neophytou.

Currently the Arts and Entertainment Journalist for Talk Radio 702, Highveld Stereo 94.7, Kfm 94.5 and Cape Talk, Nadia knew from a young age that she was destined for a career in journalism.

While completing a BA in Film, Media and Visual Studies from the University of Cape Town, Nadia became music manager at UCT Radio and Arts Editor at the student paper, Varsity.

Moving back to Johannesburg to become a research journalist at 3rd Degree, Nadia’s passion for arts and culture eventually won out and lead her to Primedia where she is now responsible for building the arts and entertainment coverage across the four radio stations.

Website: http://missntertainment.blogspot.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/nadianeophytou
Location: Johannesburg

Nadia was kind enough to answer the following questions:

Personal

Q: The all important personal profile. How would a close friend introduce you at a social event? i.e. Name, age, company, interesting fact etc.

A: My friends usually like to tell people who I am right off the bat – or introduce me as “Nadia Neophytou, you know from the radio”. That’s usually followed by – “she’s been to Cannes and the Oscars, and, and, and…!”

Q: Tell us something that not many others know about you. This could be anything from a phobia to your favorite movie.

A: I have a fear of falling backwards on an escalator.

Q: What do you enjoy doing when you want to get away from it all?

A: Go to a spa like the one at the Saxon!

Q: How would you describe your dream home and where in South African would you like it to be?

A: It actually exists in Blouberg in Cape Town! It’s a quaint little home right on the beach, with a gorgeous view of Table Mountain, and has a big open window from which you can look out onto the sea.

This Question was proudly sponsored by Private Property.

South African Journalism

Q: You’ve recently returned from the Cannes Film festival at which the South African film, “Life, Above All” received rave reviews and an unprecedented 10-minute standing ovation. Tell us about the experience of being at the film’s world premier?

A: It was absolutely amazing! There are so many other journalists from countries with films that get so much attention that it was nice to have some of the spotlight shine on South Africa. I remember sitting in the audience, being overcome with emotion, and how proud I was to be South African.

Q: South African film has seemingly gone through a renaissance with the recent success of movies such as Totsi, District 9 and now “Life, Above All”. To what would you attribute the recent success and do you feel that enough is being done to promote South African film to local audiences?

A: Haha – is this the subject of a thesis? It’s strange because I don’t think there is only one reason for that. People say that District 9 proved that a no-name cast can still make a hit movie – and to a large degree it did – but the fact that Peter Jackson was a producer on it also got the ball rolling. I think there have been some great collaborations between local talent and international funding.

Life Above All was produced by Germans and South Africans, but at the heart of it was moving performances by young talent. Tsotsi too – had to rely on funding from overseas – but Presley Chweneyeagae and the rest of the cast gave superb performances. The rest of the world is starting to take notice of that, and they’re willing to put the money behind it.

Until we – as a country – can do that for ourselves, we need to nurture these relationships, rather than moan about why local stars aren’t given bigger parts. I believe that will come – and if you’re good enough, your talent will shine through even a small-budget film.

Q: Selecting the perfect question is a science. From where do you draw inspiration for your questions and how much preparation goes into each of your interviews?

A: Depends on who I am interviewing and for how long. I usually only get a short amount of time to interview someone so I usually go for the news angle first – what part of the interview I can use to get the story onto the News. Then I expand on that – and bring in a South African angle if possible. I also have a Celebrity Green Tip that I do on Redi Direko’s show so I am also concerned with trying to find out how “environmentally friendly” certain celebs are.

Q: One of the biggest perks of being an arts and entertainment journalist must be reporting from events such as Cannes and the Oscars. Which of your assignments have you enjoyed the most and which celebrity has had the greatest impact on you personally?

A: I’ve certainly had many adventures along the way! I really enjoy the travelling and covering international stories for a local audience – even if it means I have to sleep on a friend’s couch or find a sponsor to help me get there. One of my career highlights has to be being at Michael Jackson’s memorial in Los Angeles last year, where I learnt the true meaning of the word “fan”. Celebrity-wise, no one has really had a personal impact on me.

Q: What are your thoughts on the South African tertiary education system and do you think enough is being done to keep up with the rapid changes in journalism?

A: Well, I think you can never put too much emphasis on practical experience. No matter what you study there needs to be that internship or job-shadowing that comes with it, so that you’re not going out there into the working world without a clue as to what you really want to do.

Having said that, no one ever really teaches you how to interview rockstars! You learn and develop your own style. I can’t speak about all the universities, but I think many of the best journalism professors in SA are well aware of the rapid changes in journalism and are making sure their students are up to scratch.

Q: With the recent popularity of devices such as the iPhone, iPad and Netbooks, what are your predictions for the future of journalism and do you agree with paywalls as proposed by News Corp’s founder Rupert Murdoch?

A: I think that there’s this perception that anyone can be a journalist and that it’s not a profession that deserves respect – like, say being a doctor – but there is a certain skill and even though the tools make it easier for citizen journalism, people are going to still want news from reliable sources. And we shall see how much they want that by the amount they are willing to pay for that content. I think paywalls are interesting – but maybe not the solution – as we are navigating the way forward.

Q: What can we look forward to from Nadia Neophytou for the remainder of the year and beyond?

A: More reports from around the world! More exclusive interviews! More bubbly enthusiasm!

Life in South Africa

Q: Have you or any of your immediate family been affected by crime? If yes, has it changed your perception of the country and the way you and your family live your lives?

A: Yes, when I was in Std 5 my dad’s jewellery store was robbed by armed thieves who cleaned him out of everything, while firing shots. Thankfully no one was injured, but I will never forget the look on his face after that. He has always tried to make an honest, decent living and I remember how defeated he was, and that made me angry.

More recently I had a smash-and-grab at 2am on the way home from a party. It made me scared and nervous to drive by myself for a while, but I got over it. I am always cautious and alert, but it hasn’t stopped me living a great life in this country. Having said that, I feel as if I should add a “yet” to that sentence, because of the crime statistics in this country and stories from friends…

Q: Which South African celebrity would you most like to interview and what would your last question to them be?

A: Elon Musk – he’s a rocket scientist born in SA who has become such an inspiration. I’d ask him if growing up in South Africa had any impact on his skills and abilities.

Q: What advice would you offer to first-time visitors looking to experience the ultimate South African experience?

A: They must check out a local band performing – our musical talent is incredible!

Q: If you could wave your magic wand and change one thing about South Africa, what would it be?

A: Hope that’s a big wand! The crime and poverty – I would make sure everyone had a home to live in and didn’t have to fear crime.

General

Q: If you could invite any three celebrities to a dinner party, who would you invite and which South African dish would you serve?

A: Brandon Flowers from The Killers, Robert Downey Jnr and Madiba – because he’s the biggest celebrity of them all! I’d serve some Greek dishes with a bit of a South African twist – like lamb kebabs made on the braai with tsatsiki.

Q: Which book would make required reading for all school-leavers and which book would you say has influenced your career the most?

A: Eveything I read has been helpful, but perhaps the best one has been The Elements of Style, by William Strunk Jnr, which is quite practical for writing well.

Q: What advice would you offer anyone wanting a career in journalism and what is the one thing you wish you knew when you first started your career?

A: Read, read, read anything you can get your hands on so you’re clued up on what’s going on. The one thing I wish I knew when I was starting out, was that it’s okay to feel a bit unsure of whether you’re on the right track with your questions or things like that, but just to trust in your instincts. If you’ve read up on something and thought about it, you will be interested in it and can create a conversation around that.

Oh – and “don’t make friends with the rockstars”! That line from the Almost Famous movie sums it up best: you may think the celebs are your friends, but they’re not and you need to have a life of your own.

Q: Who would you most like to read about on Izimvo and what would you ask them?

A: Charlize Theron – and I’d ask, why doesn’t she like speaking to South African press?

We’d like to thank Nadia for taking the time to answer our questions and wish her every success for the future.

Reminder to follow @izimvo on twitter for regular updates and our Facebook page to submit question and interviewee suggestions. You can also follow all our previous interviewees on Twitter at http//twitter.com/izimvo/interviewees

GiGi

Izimvo has the pleasure of introducing the winner of South Africa’s first celebrity Survivor; GiGi.

Recently voted as the winner of M-Net’s Survivor South Africa: Santa Caroline, GiGi beat out 14 celebrity contestants to walk away with the show’s first prize of a million Rand. By winning the competition, GiGi earned R500 000 for herself and R500 000 for Hospice, her charity of choice.

GiGi, a trained actress, has appeared in the successful Nipplecaps and G-strings stage production, sun City’s Spellbound and has been seen on the big screen in Poena is Koning. GiGi is also well-known as the owner of The Lollipop Lounge, an exotic dance club in Johannesburg.

Website: http://www.gigi.co.za
Location: Johannesburg

GiGi was kind enough to answer the following questions:

Personal

Q: How would you like to be introduced at a social event?

A: GiGi, winner of Survivor S.A., business women and actress.

Q: Tell us something that not many others know about you. This could be anything from a phobia to your favorite movie.

A: I was born with six fingers, on every hand. My father was a composer of classical music.

Q: What do you enjoy doing when you want to get away from it all?

A: I particularly enjoy going to the Overberg, especially Franskraal.

Q: How would you describe your dream holiday home and where in South Africa would you like it to be?

A: A home away from home with all necessities that prevent you having to pack for a holiday. The Kelders outside Gaansbaai, where the whales gather to breed.

This question was proudly sponsored by Private Property – Looking for the ultimate home in the Western Cape? How about this 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home right on the rocks with views from the lighthouse at Hangklip all the way to the lighthouse at Cape Point.

Winning Survivor South Africa: Santa Carolina

Q: Congratulations on winning Survivor Santa Caroline! Now that you’ve had some time to reflect on the experience, what did you most enjoy about your time on the island and what is the one piece of advice would you offer future contestants?

A: I enjoyed the fact that there were no cell phone calls to answer or emails to write, just the silence was wonderful. The beauty of the location was also spectacular. Be prepared to be REALLY, REALLY, HUNGRY.

Q: Survivor managed to raise R2.27 million for 17 local charities including R530 000 for your charity, Hospice. Tell us about your history with Hospice, why you selected them as your charity on Survivor and what it was like giving them the winning cheque?

A: We, The Lollipop Lounge, have had a long history with them, my business partners wife passed away from cancer and we have since then pledged to help Hospice however we can.

Q: What were the greatest lessons your learnt about yourself during your time on the island and which of your fellow contestants surprised you the most in terms of breaking your initial perceptions of them?

A: I learned that one can do more than one at first perceives, if you apply yourself accordingly. It also taught me never to give up. Proverb surprised me the most as he stuck it out right to the end.

Q: Give us a little insight into daily life on the island?

A: Wake up, realise how hungry you are and try to scavenge for anything that you can possibly eat.

Q: What was the first thing you treated yourself to when you arrived home from the island?

A: A box of Quality Street chocolates and I do mean, the WHOLE BOX.

Q: What is the first thing you bought with your prize money from the show and what can we look forward to from GiGi in 2010 and beyond?

A: I am currently renovating parts of my entertainment venue and the prize money went a long way towards easing that burden, So you can all look forward to a BIGGER and Better Lollipop lounge.

Life in South Africa

Q: Have you or any of your immediate family been affected by crime? If yes, has it changed your perception of the country and the way you and your family live your lives?

A: My sister-in-law was recently, senselessly murdered in Stellenbosch and I and my Business partner and several staff were held up by seven assailants at gun point and robbed. I was also assaulted during this robbery and can truly say that I feared for my life. I think I, my family and all other people in this country tend to admire the beauty from behind trellis fencing and spot lights.

Q: If you were given the opportunity of sitting down with the president. What advice would you offer him?

A: I would advise him to enter for the next celebrity survivor, as I think that he would have a clearer understanding of what it feels like to be so helpless and hungry. Who knows, it may inspire a man with such power to influence change on those to whom helplessness and hunger is not just a competition that will end in a month.

Q: If you were tasked with spending a portion of the Lotto revenues on improving South Africa, where would you start?

A: The Roads.

Q: What are your thoughts on the Soccer World Cup and the impact it will have on the local adult entertainment industry? Is Lollipop Lounge planning anything special for the duration of the tournament?

A: I and all of us in the industry are hoping that it will result in brisk trade and to that end, we at the Lollipop Lounge will be putting on shows that showcase the local flavor.

General

Q: If you could invite any three contestants from Survivor South Africa to Lollipop Lounge, who would your invite and who do you think will have the best time?

A: Ockert Brits, as just to see him blush would be worth it. Sade, as she is a dancer in an M Net presenters body and lastly, Sandi as she is pretty nifty with a hula hoop, shake it girl as you have certainly got it.

Q: One book that you would make required reading for all matric pupils and which book would you say has had the greatest impact on your life?

A: The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera.

Q: If the next Survivor South Africa were to be for South African politicians, which challenge would you start the season with?

A: The hardest tasks would be first to weed out the weak.

Q: If you could go back in time and give your eighteen-year-old self one piece of advice, what would it be?

A: Always do the things you fear most, as the end of fear is a certainty.

Q: Who would you most like to read about on Izimvo and what would you ask them?

A: Mr Nelson Mandela. I would enjoy almost anything he has to talk about and if there were ever a person as well versed in overcoming challenges.

We’d like to thank GiGi for taking the time to answer our questions and wish her and the team at Lollipop Lounge every success for the future.

Michael de Pinna

Izimvo has the pleasure of introducing multi-talented entertainer and Mr Yebo Gogo; Michael de Pinna.

Best known for his antics in Vodacom’s “Yebo Gogo” adverts, Michael is a highly respected and sought-after entertainer with over 25 years in the entertainment industry. Besides being a professional actor, singer, dancer and cabaret artist, Michael has also recently opened an exquisite executive guest house, de Pinna’s, in Northern Johannesburg.

Website: http://www.michaeldepinna.co.za
Location: Johannesburg

Michael was kind enough to answer the following questions:

Personal

Q: How would you like to be introduced to an audience in Australia?

A: As there are so many South Africans in Australia, Ladies and Gentlemen please welcome Mr Yebo Gogo himself!

Q: Tell us something that not many others know about you. This could be anything from your morning routine to your favorite brand of underpants.

A: I hate clutter!

Q: What do you enjoy doing when you want to get away from it all?

A: Falling off a Chez Longue (lounger) straight into the warm Indian Ocean.

Q: How would you describe your dream holiday home and where in South African would you like it to be?

A: I like the Seychelles, but having said that my dream holiday home would be overlooking the sea at the top of Lions head in a penthouse surrounded by my five King Charles Spaniels.

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South African Entertainment

Q: With over 25 years in the entertainment industry, which of your many accolades are you most proud of?

A: My singing has always been the closest to the real Michael, but I guess becoming known as “Yebo Gogo” in the Vodacom series of advertisements and hanging onto the role for 15 years.

Q: Tell us about how you were first hired for Vodacom’s award-winning “Yebo Gogo” advertising campaign and what do you think it was about the character that made him so popular with South African audiences?

A: I was appearing in a play in Cape Town and merely went to an audition and got the plumb job of the decade. The popularity was all about being the victim which people can sympathize with, but nobody wants to be.

Q: South Africans are known for our sense of humor and the ability to laugh at ourselves. What is it about South African humor that makes it so unique?

A: I think it is because we have so many senses of “humour” in South Africa relating to the rainbow nation that lives within this wonderful country.

Q: Give us a little insight into your daily routine. How much time do you spend working on new shows, preparing for your next gig etc?

A: I am a “rehearser”! I rehearse and rehearse until I get it right. I give attention to things in order of importance as and when it comes along.

Q: If you were opening a new dinner club, which young South African entertainer would you ask to do the opening act?

A: Nianell.

Q: What can we look forward to from Michael de Pinna in 2010 and beyond?

A: I’m very involved with my guest house in Melrose North in Johannesburg, and I also still perform my cabaret shows for corporate companies and am getting involved with a medical company, and will be their new presenter on TV for the various products and subjects that they wish to discuss. I also present a chat show on Radio Today with the glamorous Carolyn Steyn.

Life in South Africa

Q: Have you or any of your immediate family been affected by crime? If yes, has it changed your perception of the country and the way you and your family live your lives?

A: My sister and her daughter were attacked in their house in Johannesburg, and both have emigrated to pastures new. My perception of SA has not changed, but I do think one cannot live in SA without security which is “state of the art.” If you don’t have it, and sometimes even if one does have it, I think once can become a sitting duck. Sad but true.

Q: If you were given the opportunity of sitting down with the president, what advice would you offer him?

A: To take a leaf out of Nelson Mandela’s life, and to build up the country, and not divide it.

Q: Who do you consider as South Africa’s greatest entertainer?

A: Mark Banks.

Life in Johannesburg

Q: What do you enjoy most about living in Johannesburg?

A: The trees and the fact that it is home.

Q: Favorite restaurant for a celebration?

A: I do not have one.

Q: What are your thoughts on the Guatrain and as a guest house owner, do you feel it will directly benefit your business?

A: Please God, and while we are on the subject where is it and how do we use it?

General

Q: De Pinna’s is your executive guest house in Melrose North, Johannesburg. What was the impetus for opening the guest house and are you fully booked for the World Cup?

A: My father was in the hotel business and it kind of happened by default. I am not fully booked for the world cup. July is still wide open.

Q: Which three South African entertainers would you most like to go on a long road trip with?

A: Annabel Linder, Harry Sideropoulos and Steve Hofmeyr

Q: If you could go back in time and give your eighteen-year-old self one piece of advice, what would it be?

A: Get a degree or a personality. I have a personality.

Q: One book that you would make required reading for all matric pupils and which book would you say has had the greatest influence on your career?

Q: The Power of One.

Q: Who would you most like to read about on Izimvo and what would you ask them?

A: Bisop Tutu – to run as our next President.

We’d like to thank Michael for taking the time to answer our questions and wish him every success for the future.

Reminder to follow @izimvo on twitter for regular updates and our Facebook page to submit question and interviewee suggestions. You can also read all of our interviews on your iPhone using the Izimvo iPhone application.

Paul Freathy

Izimvo is honoured to introduce Television Director, Producer, Voice artist and Radio DJ; Paul Freathy.

Since starting at Springbok Radio in the early days of South African radio, Paul’s illustrious radio career includes Radio 702, East Coast Radio, Radio Namibia and 5FM’s breakfast show with the legendary Alex Jay.

Paul is also well known for presenting Lotto, SABC news and Road 2 Riches as well as his work behind the camera as a highly respected director and producer.

Twitter: http://twitter.com/paulfreathy
YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/paulfreathy
Location: Johannesburg

Paul was kind enough to answer the following questions:

Personal

Q: The all important personal profile. How would a close friend introduce you at a social event? i.e. Name, age, company, interesting fact etc.

A: I suppose a friend would introduce me as the oldest … hardest working TV producer in the country! LOL! I have a bit of a reputation of being able to make things happen, and to be honest I am proud of it! I have been in TV for so long my personnel number at MNET was … 12!!!

Q: Tell us something that not many others know about you. This could be anything from a phobia to your favorite movie.

A: I am terrified of heights! But really, like can’t even walk over a bridge without sweat pouring down, and some totally uncool trembling!

Q: What do you enjoy doing when you want to get away from it all?

A: Beaches! I am a beach freak. My wife and I lived for a while in Seychelles and we spent almost everyday on a beach. I miss it terribly here in Johannesburg. I also enjoy quiet weekends away in the Magaliesburg. Quite often my wife and I pop off to a little pet friendly self catering place we know, cause our little mutt Chutney is a huge part of our family! She has to go too! (thank goodness she also loves beaches!)

Q: How would you describe your dream home and where in South African would you like it to be?

A: I know you’re gonna think this is real kitch …. but the dream home is a little simple place, down on the … Beach! Got to be around the South Coast somewhere cause I love it down there. Saw a lovely little “log cabin” down there a while ago that was up for sale and was dying to buy it! Maybe one day!

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South African Radio and Television

Q: You have worked for a number of South Africa’s biggest radio stations including Springbok Radio, Radio 702, 5FM and East Coast Radio. What are some of your fondest memories from the early years of South African radio and what would you say has been the greatest innovation in radio since you first started?

A: Radio years ago was the best. It had a magic to it, that we just don’t have now. Everything is so serious! I really enjoyed my early days at 702. We broadcast from the mountain in Garankua and it was like a 2 hour drive to get to the studios, but we had a pool up there, a lapa and we braaied over weekends WHILE doing our shows and had huge parties. It was such fun (I don’t think as much fun for the listeners as it was for us though!). In those early days there were no egos, we were all friends, having fun.

5FM was incredible too. I did news on Alex’s show, and even though we chatted and had fun every morning he was in Cape Town and Ian F, John Walland and I were in Jhb! It was chaos every morning, all morning!

I think the greatest innovation in radio is the computer! In my days, the early ones, we had things called records … Which got stuck …. And 8 track carts … Which needed rewinding before you could use them …. and …. got stuck! Many times we would put on a song like “Radar love” by Golden Earring, cause it was so long, and would rush off to the loo, coming back to hear to the record stuck, playing the same riff over and over and over.

Q: Besides being a radio DJ, you are also well-known as television director, producer and voice artist. Which of these do you enjoy the most and are there any other disciplines that would like to add to your CV?

A: Web designer! Love it! So creative, I do it for fun, I don’t have any clients or anything, but I do run my own company websites, and do all the design and programming and updating myself. Nothing fantastic mind you, but I do have fun doing it!

Of all the disciplines I have done over the year I love being a DJ the most. I miss it, until just recently I did a show for OFM in the Free state but it didn’t work out, and I left. So …. If you’re looking for someone who knows their stuff…

Q: Which South African radio and television personalities do you admire the most and what advice would you offer those starting out in the industry?

A: May I say the older personalities? John Berks, Clark McKay, David Gresham, and the sharpest of them all John Robbie. I admire them cause they didn’t just walk into a studio and try build audiences through the sound of their own voices, they actually worked on their shows, prepared links, and the golden rule, if they had nothing to say … they didn’t!

Today’s personalities talk and talk and talk, sometimes just too much! I think if you are starting out in the industry, take time to learn where the industry comes from, how it works, listen to some great broadcasters from around the world (easy with streaming these days) and see what real broadcasters do! Take tips from the guys that have been around, they’ve been around for a reason!

May I say though there is one “newer” local personality that I really enjoy on radio and TV … Pabi Moloi. I think she’s got an awesome future ahead of her, and would love to see more like her!

Q: What are your thoughts on the current state of the SABC and do you feel that enough is being done to promote locally produced content?

A: Shocking, terrible, and sad. The SABC has let us all down, producers, actors, financiers, and the public. They do nowhere near enough to promote local content, they don’t go out of their way to grow the industry, I mean just look, DSTV has the VUKA awards which is an incubator run by Big Fish school of digital filmmaking, and it’s free for students, they have awards, they screen the products that the students make, they really try, and encourage youngsters who are the future of this media, but the SABC don’t, and they could, and should!

Q: Do you feel that podcasting will ever become a threat to local radio?

A: No. Not for a long time. Local radio is big because of traffic jams and the fact that the largest demographic listening, don’t have access to internet! Radio is a major form of communication in SA. I think it’s going to stay that way for a long time.

I think where podcasting could play a role though is in keeping the archives of radio and making them available for the worked to hear. For example some of the old Springbok radio shows are available on podcast, as are some of the old Capital shows, and every now and then it’s good to go back and remember, and learn from what those that came before us have done. They set great examples for us to follow. You know, the funny thing about radio, is that NOTHING is new, it’s ALL been done before, just in a different way, by a different person! Podcasting won’t change it, neither will any other technology in a hurry!

Q: What can we look forward to from Paul Freathly in 2010 and beyond?

A: As I get older, I just want to live a quieter life, BUT having said that I am dying to pass on all this knowledge I have, in radio and TV, so hopefully you won’t hear much from me, but will hear from people who are learning from me, changing my ideas and thoughts to creatively blend into today’s mainstream media, on TV and radio all over SA.

Life in South Africa

Q: Have you or any of your immediate family been affected by crime? If yes, has it changed your perception of the country and the way you and your family live your lives?

A: Oh yes. We live in a prison, we don’t reverse out our driveway, and we lock everything all the time. I honestly believe we live in constant fear. My wife and daughter were held up at gunpoint and I was gassed while sleeping and cleaned out, so we’ve been there, and don’t want to go there again! I think South Africa is in trouble, and I think the government need to wake up, and react, before our gorgeous country becomes another Zimbabwe.

Q: If you were tasked with spending a portion of the Lotto revenues on improving South Africa, what would your first project be?

A: Health care. I ended up in the Jhb gen about a year ago, in intensive care. I got better, just so I could get out of there! It was frightening! When I went to have a MRI scan done, having to walk down the stairs to that floor cause the lifts were broken, I was told I couldn’t have the scan because the computer had been stolen! I feel so sad for people who are ending up there because they have no alternatives. We need to care of our people, they make us great.

Q: With less than 30 days to the first African Soccer World Cup, what advice would you offer to first-time visitors looking to sample the best in South African cuisine?

A: I think it would have to be …. BILTONG! As a hobby I make my own biltong at home, I could eat biltong from breakfast lunch and dinner if I got the chance, preferably on pizza! Lol. SA has some wonderful dishes to offer, but also some that just aren’t going to be all that well accepted by foreigners! I am not mad about our local food, I love boerewors, biltong and all those Durban curries! And let’s face it, there’s nothing like a Bunny Chow!

Q: If you could wave your magic wand and change one thing about South Africa, what would it be?

A: Crime. It’s going to ruin our country!

Life in Johannesburg

Q: What do you most enjoy about living in Johannesburg?

A: The sea! …. Hang on, am I dreaming again? To be honest I am not mad about Johannesburg, it’s not my city of choice, rather a case of living where the work is!

Q: Favorite destination for an outing with a group of friends in or around Johannesburg?

A: I am a real homebody, love being at home, with the family, relaxing, but if I do go out, it’s more often than not just to the Brightwater commons! It’s become such a cosmopolitan place over the past few years and I love strolling around, watching people, eating prawns. I am not one of those “got to be seen at every event” kinda people, in fact I would rather not! I am these days even taking my name off the TV shows I work on, and instead giving my protégés a chance to get recognized for what they do. I feel I have been there and done it, and got the wet T-shirt. Now it’s someone else’s turn, and I want to help.

Q: If you were tasked with commissioning a 2010 World Cup poster depicting the beauty of Johannesburg, what images would you select?

A: Wow difficult question. Suppose you don’t want pictures of taxis, potholes or traffic jams do you? To me Johannesburg has an early morning beauty, as the sun rises, over the city, the early morning fog starts to lift, the hawkers come out and set up their little stalls, the warming fires get lit, the traffic starts to move, people start heading off to work … that’s the real Johannesburg. The reality of day-to-day life in the city for so many.

General

Q: If you could invite any three South African radio and television personalities to a poker game, who would you invite and what snacks would you serve?

A: I would invite John Robbie, Pabi Moloi and Michael de Pinna. John would play according to the rules, he will have prepared, studied the experts, and be ready to go all out to win. Pabi would play for fun, frivolously, in a lighthearted style, adding glamour to the event, and would probably win! Michael would pretend he knew how to play, and would fake all the moves, losing …. to me! As for snacks … I would be clever, and hold the evening at O Braseiro, the Portugese restaurant, so they could worry about that!

Q: Which book would make required reading for all school-leavers and which book would you say has influenced you the most?

A: I wish there was a book called “Believe your Dad, he’s been there before”. Written by me, but there isn’t, so I would suggest that each individual find that one book themselves, that lifts them up, inspires them and drives them to be more than they are. It has to be a different book for everyone, otherwise we would all be the same person.

Q: Given a free hour at home, which would you rather do, put your feet up and relax or look for something productive to do?

A: A free hour? What’s that? The couch …. Feet up, relaxing, hopefully watching something good on TV, if not, maybe just dozing!

Q: What advice would most like to give the 18-year-old you?

A: Make the most of everything while you are young enough to be able to! You get old damn fast, and once you’re old, there’s no going back! You want to …. it’s just that you can’t!

Q: Who would you most like to read about on Izimvo?

A: I would love to see some of the SABC’s commissioning editors on here. They are the people who make all the decisions at the moment with regards to our national broadcaster, let’s find out more about them, who they are, why they make the decisions they make, who they think the SABC broadcasts to, those sort of things, hey another question we could ask them is, what qualifications they have for the job! If you can’t get one of them, you might want to ask young Kamza Bako a question or two, he’s the presenter of Treasure Hunt on SABC 2, also a roving reporter on Talk SA, an ex radio 2000 presenter and 5 fm presenter, and he’s only like 24, he’s gonna go far! Love his work.

We’d like to thank Paul for taking the time to answer our questions and wish him every success for the future.

Dave Miller

Izimvo has the honour of introducing the CEO of Incredible Connection; Dave Miller.

Part of the JD Group of companies, Incredible Connection is Africa’s leading computer and technology retailer. With stores throughout the continent, Incredible Connection distributes a comprehensive range of technology and related products as well as provide assistance with installations, upgrades and technical repairs.

Website: http://incredible.co.za
Blog: http://www.incredibleblog.co.za
Connect Magazine: http://www.connect.co.za
Location: Johannesburg

Dave was kind enough to answer the following questions:

Personal

Q: The all important personal profile. How would a close friend introduce you at a social event? i.e. Name, age, company, interesting fact etc.

A: Some close friends introduce me as “Jocks Miller” and yes it does have something to do with the underpants …

Q: Tell us something that not many others know about you. This could be anything from a phobia to your favorite movie.

A: I have always had a desire to train as a jet pilot.

Q: What do you enjoy doing when you want to get away from it all?

A: My “get away from it all” would be escaping to the bush.

Q: How would you describe your dream holiday home and where in South Africa would you like it to be?

A: To own a bush lodge situated in the Sabi Sands Reserve, my own little piece of paradise surrounded by peace and tranquility, with friends and or family.

This question was proudly sponsored by Private Property – Looking for the ultimate African getaway? How about this R16.2m Dullstroom countryside farm. The farm boasts a magnificent opulent home where no expense has been spared.

Incredible Connection

Q: Congratulations on achieving your best December sales ever. Which product categories were your biggest sellers and what are your thoughts on why December was so successful – considering the financial pressures we have all been facing?

A: Our biggest sellers were notebooks, netbooks, digital cameras, gaming consoles and games. Our sales were good due to a number of reasons: People appreciate that technology has become very much part of our daily lives. The items that we sell make great gifts and can be used for business as well as pleasure. In difficult times customers tend to stay with companies that have solid reputations and whose brands they can trust.

We have been very aggressive about our variety of stock and with 58 stores around the country we have a tremendous geographic presence which makes it convenient for people to come shop at us.

Q: Your monthly Connect magazine was launched early in 2009 and features reviews of new products as well as a resident tech-expert. The magazine attempts to shine a light on today’s tech-jargon. What was the impetus for launching the magazine and why did you opt for print over online?

A: We have found that one of the greatest barriers to buying technology is the fact that people are intimidated. We are trying to dispel the myths and fears and make our customers aware of how easy it is to use and how much value it adds to all spheres of our lives. Our online site allows one to compare different products and make educated decisions when choosing an item to purchase. Some sections of Connect magazine are available online through our website.

Q: How do you find and retain great talent within your stores?

A: Firstly one must have an understanding of what great talent means to our business which we do believe we know. Retail can be tough. It requires staff who are prepared to work the long hours and weekends that is needed and therefore the ability to find the right kind of people is critical.

In terms of the culture of our organization, we have to find people who can work with us and at the same time, add value. We focus on career development and therefore allow our staff to have autonomy in their business unit. The ability to recognize and reward talent is a great tool which is an important part of our culture. Our staff are acknowledged for good work and love being a part of a vibrant and energetic company.

Q: As South Africa’s largest Apple seller, what are Incredible Connection’s plans regarding the Apple iPad and when do you think we will be able to purchase them here in South Africa?

A: The iPad is causing a huge amount of customer excitement and there is going to be an enormous demand for the product. However, we do need to temper the public’s expectation based on the amount of stock which will be allocated to the authorized distributor in SA (Core). Once the distributor receives their allocation from Apple world-wide, only then will we receive our stock.

Right now we believe, based on apple’s forecast – end of May 2010. Whilst the iPad is available elsewhere we always need to make sure that it is compatible with SA standards and all customer warranty issues have been taken care of which wont be if it is purchased outside of SA – as a reputable retailer we don’t want to prejudice customers by selling products with warranties not supported locally. I also believe that customers would far rather prefer to have the release with 3G than the current model which doesn’t.

Life in South Africa

Q: Have you or any of your immediate family been affected by crime? If yes, has it changed your perception of the country and the way you and your family live your lives?

A: Sadly there are very few South Africans that have not been affected by crime in one way or another. Even if one has been affected indirectly, it is a cost to all of us because it affects our national psyche.

We live in abnormally stressful times, but it hasn’t changed my view and belief that this is an amazing country with amazing people. Working together we will eventually move through these troubling times and come out stronger at the end. South Africans are a resilient nation and have overcome huge obstacles in the past.

There is no doubt in my mind that collectively we can and will work out a solution for the unacceptably high levels of crime that we experience in the country.

Q: When asked internationally about crime in South Africa, how do you respond?

A: Unfortunately the local and overseas media tend to sensationalise the situation in South Africa. There is no doubt that we have disproportionate levels of violent crime here and obviously that is unacceptable. However, tourists in any country around the world are susceptible targets as they are unaware of the areas to avoid. As in South Africa, there are pickpockets, muggings and stabbings and they would be no more at risk than Columbia, Rio Paris or London in the wrong areas.

Q: With less than 30 days to the first African Soccer World Cup, what advice would you offer to first-time visitors looking for the ultimate South African experience?

A: Be involved and absorb yourself in the culture of South Africans – we are a very hospitable nation and have been looking forward to hosting this event for 4 years now. South Africa has so much to offer … find out where to go and what to see from reputable sources and just enjoy the experience.

So do what South Africans do – drink beer in a shabeen, ride in one of our infamous taxis, and between the Drakensburg mountains, winelands and coast we have the most beautiful countries in the world. Try and see as much about that as you can. Not without standing our hospitality and friendly culture and of course visit our great technology retail stores.

Q: South Africa’s greatest technological export is?

A: Electronic Banking.

Life in Johannesburg

Q: What do you most enjoy about living in Johannesburg?

A: The vibrancy of the city and the number of trees that line the suburban streets – we live in one of the most treed city in the world. No single day is the same. We have the most unbelievable life-style in Johannesburg and whilst we yearn for a more peaceful existence there is a bit of Joburg in all of us that loves the energy of being part of the metropolis. Joburg offers a huge variety of entertainment … except for the sea and Germiston Lake is a poor second.

Q: Favorite restaurant for a business lunch?

A: I don’t do lunch. I use my day fully and constructively and don’t have the time to spend on lunches. The best place for business dinners is the Grillhouse in Rosebank. Their service is excellent as is the consistently good quality of their food. Their menu is extensive and varied enough for most palates. The atmosphere is friendly and conducive to doing business. Their whiskey selection is remarkable.

Q: If, with the flick of your fingers, you could improve one thing about life in Johannesburg, what would it be?

A: The Education system. Our education system should be geared and designed towards providing our future generations with, not only the life skills of a South African environment, but equip them to survive in a global economy. Provide them with the skills necessary to take South Africa into the real realm of the first world and become a true international globally competitive country.

General

Q: If you could invite any three South Africans to a dinner party, who would you invite and what wine would you serve?

A: Julias Malema, Prof Jonathan Jansen, Evita and a lot of wine.

Q: Which book would make required reading for all school-leavers?

A: The Road Less Travelled, by M. Scott Peck.

Q: Where would you like to wake up tomorrow?

A: If I could I would wake up anywhere that Bear Gryls was doing his next challenge as long as I could do it with him. My second choice would be on a ship cruising in the arctic and hopefully getting to see the northern lights.

Q: As the CEO of Incredible Connection, you must get to play with all the latest gadgets. Which gadgets do you personally use on a day-to-day basis and if you had to pick a single gadget you could live without, which would it be?

A: On a day-to-day basis I use my notebook, cell phone and blackberry The single gadget I could live without – notebook.

Q: Who would you most like to read about on Izimvo and what would you ask them?

A: Cyril Ramaposa and the question I would ask – What would it take for him to run as South Africa’s next State President.

We’d like to thank Dave for taking the time to answer our questions and wish him every success for the future.

ZA Tech Show – Episode 103 with Dave Miller

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Gareth Oliver

Izimvo has the pleasure of introducing current Head Boy of Jeppe High School for Boys; Gareth Oliver.

Established in 1890, Jeppe High School for Boys is Johannesburg’s oldest public school and is considered one of South Africa’s Top 20 boys schools. Having an excellent sporting and academic reputation, Jeppe’s prominent old boys include Herman Charles Bosman, Jim Christy, Des Sinclair, Brian Mitchell, James Dalton and Jake White.

Website: http://jeppeboys.co.za
Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeppe_High_School_for_Boys
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jeppeboys
Location: Johannesburg

Gareth was kind enough to answer the following questions:

Personal

Q: The all important personal profile. How would a close friend introduce you at a social event? i.e. Name, age, company, interesting fact etc.

A: My name is Gareth Oliver, I am 18 years old and I go to Jeppe High School for Boys. I really enjoy playing sport with cricket being my top priority. In December 2009 I had the honour of playing in the Highveld Lions Cubs side at the National Cubs Week.

Q: Tell us something that not many others know about you. This could be anything from a phobia to your favorite movie.

A: Haha, um this might sound a little strange but as sporty as I am, I cannot ride a bicycle!

Q: What do you enjoy doing when you want to get away from it all?

A: When I want to escape I do 2 things, I either go for a run or I listen to music while lying on my bed. My favourite genre of music is Punk Rock and my favourite band is Yellowcard.

Q: How would you describe your ultimate matric holiday destination?

A: Anywhere at the coast where my friends and I can have a great time.

This question was proudly sponsored by Private Property – Looking for the ultimate holiday flat along South Africa’s Dolphin Coast? How about this R3.5m fully furnished 3 bedroom apartment in Umdloti. Located on the ground floor and virtually on the sand.

Jeppe High School for Boys

Q: What do you most enjoy about being a student at Jeppe Boys?

A: The uniqueness of the school and its boys. It’s difficult to describe what gets instilled into a boy when he puts on his black and white blazer, it’s almost an instant sense of belonging, you feel at home.

The sport at Jeppe is rich in tradition and pride so whenever you are representing the school it just gives you a great sense of honour in knowing you are part of something special. The boys at particularly Jeppe are from a wide variety of backgrounds and making friends with such boys justs adds to the joys of being a part of Jeppe.

Q: As well as being the current head boy, you are also the first team cricket captain, play first team hockey, run in the athletics team and have been awarded full colours academics. How do you manage to find the time for everything and do you have any advice for fellow students struggling to keep up with their studies and participate in school sports?

A: Being the current Head Boy, First Team Cricket and Hockey captain, participating in athletics and being awarded half colours for academics has just been a bonus to being a Jeppe Boy. I wouldn’t say I have found the exact balance in terms of managing every aspect of my school life but I have found that once you have been given a specific task to do, focus on that task and everything that is not a necessity must take a back seat. Discipline, dedication and time management is the key to success.

Q: Jeppe is known for being a school steeped in tradition. What traditions are most proud of and is there a concerted effort to keep the traditions alive or is it something that comes naturally to the school?

A: The tradition I am most proud of is having to wear my blazer at all times with both my buttons buttoned up. I would like to think our traditions come naturally because if you have a look at our old boys, they love coming back to Jeppe to see the current boys in their blazers shouting their lungs out for the Black and White.

Q: What are you plans for once you have matriculated and where would you like to see yourself in the next five years?

A: My Dream is to play cricket for South Africa! But that dream has to go alongside with studying at university hopefully something in the medical profession.

Q: With the recent Jeppe – Kes derby being televised on national TV, what are your thoughts on the impact commercialisation has had on schoolboy rugby?

A: I think the increased exposure of schoolboy rugby to the nation can only benefit rugby as a whole for South Africa. My only concern is coaches and boys becoming obsessed with winning in such an exposed environment where illegal substances start to play a role in the sport.

Q: Tell us a little about what it is like being head boy of a school as well-known as Jeppe. What went through your mind when you first heard you had been given the honour?

A: I can only say it has been a huge honour to have been given the opportunity to lead such a well-known school. I can only hope I have done those who served before me proud. The only word to describe what I first felt is euphoria.

Life in South Africa

Q: Have you or any of your immediate family been affected by crime? If yes, has it changed your perception of the country and the way you and your family live your lives?

A: A few members of my family have had a car or two stolen but I would still say I am a proud South African. We are definitely more aware as to what dangers might be present around us.

Q: If you were given the opportunity of sitting down with the president, what advice would you offer him regarding education in South Africa?

A: The education system needs a complete restructure. I feel increased funds should be made available for the development of Pre-Primary schools so that each and every child can have at least two years of Pre-school education.

Q: With the Fifa 2010 Soccer World Cup less than 50 days away, what advice would you give young visitors wanting the ultimate South African experience?

A: Visit everything that South Africa has to offer in terms of natural beauty. Personally I feel that’s the easiest way to really enjoy and experience South Africa is to visit it with an open mind and have some understanding of the diverse cultures evident in SA.

Life in Johannesburg

Q: What do you most enjoy about living in the Johannesburg ?

A: The energetic vibe present where everything is constantly on the move and keeping you on your toes.

Q: Favorite weekend hangout with a group of friends?

A: Having a braai at one of my friends’ houses with good food and great music.

Q: If you were not a student at Jeppe, which other school in or around Johannesburg would you have wanted to attend?

A: Difficult to say because as my grandfather is a Jeppe old boy, no other school has ever crossed my mind.

General

Q: One book that you would make required reading for all matric pupils?

A: The Power Of One – Bryce Courtney.

Q: Being online and having any information source at your finger tips is something we take for granted today. Tell us about the computer facilities at Jeppe and the extent to which technology is used in the curriculum?

A: Over the last few years Jeppe has been very fortunate in investing in numerous SMART boards which has offered many new teaching methods making the curriculum easier to understand and quicker to finish.

Q: If you could have any South African as your mentor, who would it be and why?

A: John Smit, his evident calmness in high pressure situations is something to be admired. He isn’t our most successful rugby captain for nothing.

Q: Who would you most like to read about on Izimvo and what would you like to ask them?

A: Gary Kirsten. What would he attribute his cricket success to, both as a cricket player and coach.

We’d like to thank Gareth for taking the time to answer our questions and wish him every success for the future.

Reminder to follow @izimvo on twitter for regular updates and our Facebook page to submit question and interviewee suggestions. You can also read all of our interviews on your iPhone using the Izimvo iPhone application.

Kerry McGregor

Izimvo is delighted to introduce South African Supermodel: Kerry McGregor.

One of South Africa’s most successful and popular supermodels, Kerry McGregor is a name synonymous with the South African fashion industry. Discovered at only 16, Kerry has appeared on many local and international magazine covers including Cosmopolitan, GQ, Sports Illustrated and FHM. Voted FHM’s sexiest, Kerry was also the face of Wonderbra for over 5 years.

Today, Kerry is married to South African cricketer, Neil McKenzie, and spends her time balancing being a successful model and a mom.

Website: http://www.kerrymcgregor.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/kerrymcgregor
Location: England

Kerry was kind enough to answer the following questions:

Personal

Q: How would you like to be introduced to a group of people who may not be familiar with your work?

A: Oh God, are you kidding? That can happen everyday!! To be honest, it makes the meeting less intimidating (for me) and honest!

Q: Tell us something that not many others know about you. This could be anything from a phobia to your favorite movie.

A: I don’t like birds! Really! They freak me out!

Q: What do you enjoy doing when you want to get away from it all?

A: A good movie!! Preferably at the cinema but I don’t get too much time to do that so a dvd at home always removes me from reality! Otherwise, my iPod and a bath!

Q: How would you describe your dream holiday home and where in South African would you like it to be?

A: Oh my word, this could be a long answer!! Short version: Cape Town (it’s where I grew up and my family’s all there) and it would look very similar to the house on the movie “The Holiday”!!

Modelling in South Africa

Q: Which of your many career milestones are you most proud of?

A: Wow, umm, I would say doing Sports Illustrated and being the face of Wonderbra for 5 years…

Q: Your modeling career started at the young age of 15 and you left South Africa for Paris at only 16. What advice would you offer girls who are starting out in the industry?

A: Oh man, just remember to stand up for yourself and you don’t have to do anything you aren’t 100% comfortable with – believe me! And don’t take rejection personally!! It’s just a look they want, it’s no reflection on your personality (which is really the important part, isn’t it!)

Q: Can you give us an insight into the daily life of an international model? Is it really as glamorous as it seems?

A: No, it aint! Usual day in season can see a wake up call as early as 3:30/4am and finish after sunset for days on end! Lots of airports, planes and hotels – after a while can get exhausting!

Q: Which young South African models have recently impressed you the most and who would you consider as South Africa’s greatest fashion export?

A: SA has tremendous talent (as I’m sure you all know) but I would say Candice Swanepoel (done Victoria’s secret) and Candice Boucher (who recently shot Playboy)…

Q: If you had to select only one of your many covers to represent your body of work, which would you pick and why?

A: Crikey! I would say one of my earlier FHM covers with the African story (I wore skins) and it was chosen by FHM internationally as their favourite SA cover a few years back!

Q: Do you have any health and fitness secrets?

A: At the moment?! NO! Haha! I would say everyone’s different. At the gym its important for me to do cardio and light weight training but to mix it up a little. Don’t let your body get used to any 1 exercise! Drink loads of water and always take your make up off before you go to bed (no matter how late it is ;))

Life in South Africa

Q: While living in England and traveling internationally, what do you miss most about life in South Africa?

A: My family, friends, freezo’s and the sun!!

Q: When asked internationally about crime in South Africa, how do you respond?

A: I try answer as honestly as possible really! I speak purely from how I feel living there and not a general consensus – and no, it’s not always positive unfortunately!

Q: With less than 50 days to the first African Soccer World Cup, what advice would you offer to first-time visitors looking for the ultimate South African experience?

A: If they have the time they should do a game drive in the Kruger Park, spend a day or 2 in the winelands and take a drive up the garden route and west coast! I could go on and on!

Q: If you were tasked with selecting the face of South Africa, who would you pick and why?

A: I would say without a doubt – Madiba!!! Surely that answer speaks for itself!

General

Q: What was it about modeling that first attracted you and if you had not become a model, which career path do you think you would’ve selected?

A: The travelling and the money! If I hadn’t taken the step into modelling I really don’t know what path my life may have taken! I was young when I started so by he time I finished school and would’ve made a career choice I was already fully set up in the industry. When I was a lot younger I wanted to be a zoologist though!

Q: If you could invite any three personalities from the fashion industry to dinner, who would you invite and what would your topic of discussion be?

A: Heidi Klum, Roberto Cavalli and my sister Tracy! Heidi for the reason she’s built and empire, had 4 kids and still looks fabulous! Roberto Cavalli for his designs and my sister for the laughs and tequila! We’d get greased and talk about cricket! Hahaha!

Q: Your husband, Neil, has recently confirmed that he will be playing cricket for the Lions in the near future. What about living in Johannesburg are you most looking forward to and do you think the move will be a permanent one?

A: I’ve been living in JHB for the last 7+ years and plan on staying there for another couple of years and then maybe making our way to Cape Town for a while! Be great for the kiddies!!

Q: Who would you most like to read about on Izimvo and what would you ask them?

A: Ryk Neethling and I’d ask him where he does his gym! ;)

We’d like to thank Kerry for taking the time to answer our questions and wish her and Neil every success for the future.

Reminder to follow @izimvo on twitter for regular updates and our Facebook page to submit question and interviewee suggestions. You can also read all of our interviews on your iPhone using the Izimvo iPhone application.

Margaret Hirsch

Izimvo has the great honour of introducing the Managing Director of Hirsch’s: Margaret Hirsch.

From humble beginnings as an appliance repair business started with R900 in 1979, to a chain of mega appliance and home furnishing stores in KZN and Gauteng, Allan and Margaret Hirsch are a shining example of the South African dream.

Hirsch’s is very much a family run business with all four members of the Hirsch family involved in day to day operations. They have grown at a phenomenal pace, launching, on average, one store every two years and are working to top the R1 billion turnover milestone by 2012.

Website: http://www.hirschs.co.za
Twitter: @HirschAppliance
Location: Durban, Johannesburg

Margaret was kind enough to answer the following questions:

Personal

Q: How would you like to be introduced at a social event where those attending might not be familiar with the Hirsch’s brand?

A: I would like to be introduced as a professional problem solver. However I am a jack of all trades having done the selling, invoicing, demonstrating, being a delivery person on the trucks, installing and demonstrating in customers homes and generally taking care of everything at Hirsch’s for the past 31 years.

Thank goodness today we have built Hirsch’s from a tiny little “mom and pop’s” store to a billion rand company and I hope that I will be an inspiration to others to know that they can live their dreams as well.

Q: Tell us something that not many others know about you. This could be anything from a phobia to your favorite movie.

A: Most importantly I’m foremost a wife, a mother and a grandmother and this is what is really important to me. The money has just come naturally but I have always focused on my family first and the business second.

Something else you may enjoy is that since coming to Johannesburg we have built a flat on top of all our shops, so when we worked in Fourways we lived above Fourways store, when we opened Strubens Valley, we built a flat above that shop and at present we are based in our flat above our Centurion store. The fourways flat is now our advertising department as our ad spend could get to as high as R2m per month! We have also brought a lot of our staff from Durban so they are accommodated in our Strubens Valley flat where they live rent free until they can afford a place of their own.

Q: What do you enjoy doing when you want to get away from it all?

A: I go to my game farm in the Natal Midlands with my grand children and that to me is heaven on earth.

Q: How would you describe your dream holiday home and where in South African would you like it to be?

A: I actually have my dream holiday home – Its in the Natal Midlands which is a wonderful farm-house on 500 acres of natural indigenous vegetation which is home to giraffe, zebra, about twenty different kinds of buck and one hundred and eighty species of bird and it’s just the best place in the world.

This question was proudly sponsored by Private Property. Looking for an idyllic farm-house in one of South Africa’s most picturesque towns? How about this R4.9 30 hectare divine water property with 3 enormous dams and charming farmhouse.

Hirschs

Q: Hirsch’s was started by you and your husband back in 1979 with only R900 in savings. What were your initial goals for the business and which of the companies milestones are you most proud of?

A: Our initial goal for the business was to get through the first week because at the end of the first day we didn’t have any money.  (We had spent R300 on the electricity deposit, R300 on a sign and R300 on the first months rent).  By the end of the week we had to have the salary for two of our staff members who we employed – and we had to feed ourselves as well as we had gone from having two jobs and no children to two children and no jobs in the space of one year!!

The milestones that I am most proud of are:

1. The birth of my children and my two grandsons.

2. Recovering from a massive loss in 1988 of R5 million rand which we did not have which resulted from trusting the wrong person to do the right thing and then deciding to carry on regardless and still coming up and keeping our head above water.

3. And them coming up to Johannesburg, because what most people don’t know is that I had never set foot in Johannesburg in my life till I arrived here eight years ago ready to open a business.

Hirsch's Pinetown

Q: Hircsh’s is known for being a family run business with both you, your husband and your two children, Richard and Luci, working for the company. How important is keeping the business in the family and what have been the greatest challenges in running a family owned business?

A: I think it is very important to keep the business in the family. We have been offered huge amounts of money to sell the business but to me it’s a way of life. Although I do need to point out that both my children went over seas and worked in various different companies overseas and in South Africa before they joined our company.

I think the greatest challenge in running a family owned business is to teach your children from a very young age that they have to work really hard to get ahead. Some people think they can work for a while and the money will keep rolling in but it doesn’t work like that. You have to keep working every day of your life.

Q: What does the average day as the managing director of Hirsch’s involve and what is the one task that you wish you did not have to deal with?

A: The average day as Managing Director and CEO at Hirsch’s starts at 4am when we get up and meditate. At 4:30am we leave for gym and we go to gym from 5:00am till 6:00am everyday. After gym we shower, change and we are at our desks by 6:30am, 7:00am at the latest.

Our managers come in at 7:00 and we then work with our managers from 7:00am – 7:30am to help them plan their day and or their week. At 8:00am we have a motivational meeting with all the staff to make sure that they are motivated to do their best for the day and to grow them as human beings.

After that there are various chores that have to be done in the stores but mostly working with customers to make sure that our customer service is still the best in the country.

After a full day which finishes at 6:00pm once we have cashed up etc. we will come upstairs to shower, change and normally meet with our suppliers as we don’t have time to meet with them during the day.  We discuss promotions going forward because in addition to our eleven shops we do sixteen shows a year and we are now working on concept stores out of Hirsch’s and in shopping centers.  There is therefore always a load of forward planning to do with our suppliers.

We work right through to 11:30pm, go to bed at midnight and get up a 4:00am the next day so it’s not for the faint hearted.

Q: What advice would you offer to other retailers looking to emulate the Hirsch’s success story?

A: Lots of people have tried to emulate us but they just cannot keep up with the pace. The pace we work at is phenomenal and it’s a non stop pace.  It’s something you’ve got to do everyday, on weekends and even when you are on leave.

We work on our Blackberry’s coping with daily emails from customers that feel they need personal attention etc. If anybody can stay the pace and persevere until they get through, anybody can be a success but it’s the hard work and perseverance that separates the winners from the losers.

Q: What can we look forward to from Hirsch’s in 2010 and beyond?

A: 2010 is going to be our best year ever and as we open our new Hillcrest store this year and hopefully our new store will open at Meadowdale in Johannesburg. We are just waiting for our plans to go through and building work to start.

My biggest goal for 2011 is to open in Cape Town. We have two premises there which are just waiting in the wings for us to complete our tasks in Johannesburg and then we move to Cape Town to carry on working there.

Having said that we will not move to Cape Town permanently. We will still commute to Johannesburg and to Durban every week to make sure that all the other branches stay up to speed.

The other exciting thing is that we are training our core group of eight special people who have been with us for many years ie. Mr Paul Lockwood has been with us for 21 years and these people will be taking over some of the tasks we are currently doing. We have also formed an Action Group of 12 managers who will also be driving the business forward.

Life in South Africa

Q: Have you or any of your immediate family been affected by crime? If yes, has it changed your perception of the country and the way you and your family live your lives?

A: There is not one member of our family that has not been affected by crime. As you may or may not know Luci and I were held up in our Umhlanga store by seven men with AK47’s and we knew that these same men had raped another lady the night before so we where really on our guard but I always say that being a toaster sales lady first helped me talk my way out of a really difficult situation with them.

Richard was held up three times in four weeks in out Superstore in Durban but we all have the strength and character to know these things will happen and if you live in Africa you live by Africa’s rules.

It has made us more careful and has made us take extra precautions. Thank goodness that for many moons we have not been affected by crime. I believe prevention is better than cure. All these things made us stronger and we are thankful to be alive and thankful for everyday that we live in this magnificent country.

Q: How do you respond when asked about South African crime while traveling abroad?

A: I tell people exactly what I said before. If you live in Africa, you live by African rules. You cannon live in Africa and live by American, European or English standards, its impossible.

You have to know that if you live here, you do have burglar bars, you have electric fences, you have a guard outside and you do take every single precaution to make sure that you don’t leave yourself open for attack.

You have to know that people who attack us in this country are lazy and will take the line of least resistance and you just have to make things really difficult for them. I always tell people abroad that South Africa is the best country in the world and I consider myself and expert because I’ve lived in the UK, the USA and in Australia and there is still nowhere better of the face of this earth.

Q: If you could, with the flick of fingers, change anything about South Africa, what would it be?

A: What I would change is our Police force. I believe that if the criminals knew that they would be locked up and have serious hard labour and have a really miserable life inside a jail where they would not see the light of day, the word would soon get out and it would be a deterrent to other criminals. If they knew they would be caught and locked up for the rest of their lives, I believe crime in this country would grind to a complete halt.

Q: Which South African retailers have been the greatest source of inspiration?

A: I have studied Raymond Ackerman since the inception of Pick n Pay and read all his books and attended every talk that I could by him. I have also studied Mr Mark Lamberti and met with him on a couple of occasions to try to understand his thinking. These are both incredibly brilliant men and I think its to South Africa’s loss that they are no longer in retail in this country.

General

Q: If you could invite any three South Africans to a dinner party, who would they be and what would you serve?

A: If I could invite any three people, I would invite Mark Lamberti because I still think he has got a wealth of information which I would like him to pass on to me. I would also invite Maria Ramos and Trevor Manuel because I think that they have single-handedly helped South Africa to go from strength to strength.

I would love to talk to them about how they have managed to

1. be a couple and

2. be the most influential couple in South Africa for such a long time.

What I would serve then is, a buffet of various vegetarian and salad dishes as I am a vegetarian but for them I would probably include Salmon and Chicken – I would use most of the recipes out of my cookbook which is on sale in all Hirsch’s stores.

Q: One book that you would make required reading for all matric pupils and which book would you say has had the greatest impact on your life?

A: The book that I would choose is by Anthony Robins and its called “Unleash the giant within” and I believe Anthony Robins was one of the turning points in my life. I believe that every school going child should study his work.

The Hirsch's

Q: What advice would you offer to married couples wanting to start a business together?

A: First of all you’ve really got to love each other and not only love each other, you have to really like each other too.

It’s not easy to work together and to live together but we’ve proved it’s possible. If you could just weather through the hard times, the good times really come and it gives you an extra bond. After nearly forty years of marriage we still know that we made the right choice!

Q: Besides Hirschs, which is your favorite South African brand?

A: There are so many. I love Queenspark clothing. I love Woolworths and think its fantastic and I’m a sucker for trying new brands. Every time a new store opens I’m the first one there to try everything out and recommend all the good parts.

Q: Where to from here?

A: I love this country and believe its got everything going for it. I believe its God’s own country. I believe that as soon as Zimbabwe opens up, it will open up doors for South Africa like we have never seen before. I believe this county is really going to go from strength to strength and I know that if we as South Africa focus on the good points and forget about the bad points the bad points will go away and we will prove to everyone that this is the best country in the world.

Q: Who would you most like to read about on Izimvo and what would you ask them?

A: This could take ages because I have lots of people who I would love to interview amongst which are Raymond Ackerman, Mark Lamberti, Maria Ramos, Trevor Manual to name just but a few.

We’d like to thank  Margaret for taking the time to answer our questions and wish her and the Hirsch family every success for the future. The manner in which the family have managed to grow the Hirsch brand from nothing to the success it is today is a true inspiration to all entrepreneurs.

Ashley Hayden

Izimvo has the honour of introducing Survivor South Africa finalist: Ashley Hayden.

One of South Africa’s most popular celebrities, Ashley has been involved in the entertainment industry for over 15 years. Her career highlights include becoming a house hold name as an MNet continuity presenter, traveling the world  as the anchor for MNet’s travel programme Bon Voyage and hosting both the Miss South Africa and Mr South Africa pageants.

As an actress, Ashley has also been in numerous local and international productions. She has hosted corporate events, gala dinners, conferences, fashion shows, and awards evenings and is much in demand as a voice artist for television and radio.

Lookout for the details on how to win an Survivor South Africa hamper at the end of this interview.

Website: http://www.mnet.co.za/Survivor
Location: Santa Carolina

Ashley was kind enough to answer the following questions:

Personal

Q: How would you like to be introduced at a social event?

A: I don’t really like to be introduces as anything – a name is enough! Besides, there are so many things that I do that it would get a bit ridiculous – “I’d like to introduce you to Ashley Hayden, Survivor, motivational speaker, voice artist, actress, television presenter and business woman!” Also I don’t like to be put in a box, so a name suffices!

Q: Tell us something that not many others know about you. This could be anything from a phobia to your favorite movie.

A: I love taking long baths, which have to be accompanied by a cup of tea, the telephone, sudoku puzzle, book, specs and sometimes if I’m in for the long haul, chocolate!

Q: What do you enjoy doing when you want to get away from it all?

A: My home is my sanctuary, and the company of Charlie and the children – we hang out, braai, swim, play – it’s the nicest thing to do – i often feel scrutinised in public so being home is a private, comforting, cocooning space.

Q: How would you describe your dream holiday home and where in South African would you like it to be?

A: Open plan, relaxed and comfortable, with loads of room for friends to come and stay. Ideally somewhere on the coast – where it doesn’t rain at Christmas!

This question was proudly sponsored by Private Property. Looking for the affordable holiday home along the Dolphin Coast of South Africa? How about his R830k 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom home in the Palm Lake Estate, Ballito?

Survivor South Africa: Santa Carolina

Q: Congratulations on reaching the final two! What was your first reaction when you were first asked to be on Survivor South Africa and how long was it before you agreed to become a contestant?

A: My first reaction was…”are you nuts?!” Charlie was a lot keener on the idea than I was, as he is a huge fan of Survivor, and in the past, when the show has come on, I usually head for the bathroom for some uninterrupted reading in a deep tub. When I said to him ” How can I possibly leave you and the kids for a month” he looked at me and said in a very kind way “Dont worry, you wont be there that long”…! I decided almost immediately that I would prove him wrong!

Q: Your charity, The Homestead, is an organisation that helps South African street children. Tell us about your history with the organisation and what are some of the ways the prize money will benefit the children should you go on and win on Wednesday?

A: I first found out about The Homestead last year when I did the Femina Nearly Nude Calender, and the Homestead were the beneficiaries. I was so taken with what an amazing thing it is that they do that I knew I wanted to help get kids away from the means streets and back into mainstream life, so that they stand a fighting chance for a bright future.

If I win on Wednesday, the R500 000 will go towards a new house that they are building for the kids in Kayelitsha. It’s not nearly enough, but its a great start, and I hope to be able to use my celebrity (or should that be notoriety!) to be able to help raise more.

Q: During your time on the island, what were some of the things that you learnt about yourself and which of your fellow contestants surprised you the most in terms of breaking the perceptions you had of them?

A: I arrived on Santa Carolina quite prepared to heartily dislike Gigi on the basis of her profession, and ended up really liking and respecting her – reinforcing once again that you should always actually meet somebody before you make any kind of decisions about them. Dur! I feel dumb even writing this, but there it is!

I also learned that women are amazing, strong, determined creatures, and that the ability to succeed depends not on the strength of your biceps, but in the strength of your determination.

Ashley and Kaz

Q: Give us a little insight into daily life on the island.

A: We’d wake up at first light, about 4.15am, and then gradually get going. First priority was to get food, firewood etc before the heat of the day hit us. I’d then go and have my morning “bath”, a dip in the sea, accompanied by vigorous scrubbing with sand to try to get the filth off. I’d also wash my clothes in the sea.

Mornings were usually taken up with preparing to go to the challenge, which was often around mid-day (hectic, because the sun is about 42 deg C then). We’d go to challenge, and then in the intense heat of early afternoon, try to rest in a shady spot if possible.

After the challenge, we’d all head off in search of food again, and then at about 5ish we’d start the walk to tribal council. From there it was back to camp, sleep and when the sun came up the next day, we’d start all over again.

Q: What was the first thing you treated yourself to when you arrived home from the island?

A: The day after I arrived back I went down to the Fruit and veg store in our neighbourhood and bought cherries, apricots, grapes, strawberries, apples and pears. It seemed like unimaginable luxury to eat such delicious amazing fruit after a month with only boiled ground cover!

Tribal Council

Q: What are your plans for your share of the prize money should you go on to win and what can we look forward to from Ashley Hayden in 2010 and beyond?

A: Alas, the first thing I will have to do is probably give the taxman 40% of it, which frankly is a bit galling, but there it is! Then I want to take the family on a holiday – the furore surrounding the show means that I have been working quite hard, and would really love for us all to spend some fun time together.

I’m putting the finishing touches on my new Corporate Survivor presentation, which extrapolates lessons learned on the island into the business world, and examines leadership, teamwork and strategy. This will run alongside my seminars that I give on the role of women in the corporate sector.

I will also continue with what I usually do – broadcasting, MCing, Conference facilitation, voice work, and various other bits and pieces. So that’s the immediate future – from there – who knows – the Universe is wonderfully random, and presents you with opportunities that you never dreamed of (like Survivor) – I look forward to seeing what else is coming my way that I don’t yet know about!

Life in South Africa

Q: Have you or any of your immediate family been affected by crime? If yes, has it changed your perception of the country and the way you and your family live your lives?

A: Fortunately, we ourselves have never been victims of crime. Friends have had break-ins and being held up by weapons, but we have not, and I think it certainly colours the way you view things – we still feel optimistic and blessed to live in this country. That is of course until certain politicians stand up and make idiots of themselves, and then I think “Oh Hell! We’re heading down the same road as Zimbabwe”

Q: If you were given the opportunity of sitting down with the president. What advice would you offer him?

A: I’d tell him to stop spending money on wasted things like armaments, weapons and the army, and to focus all his energies on educating the youth. Without a strong moral and fiscally sound generation of youngsters growing up right now, we will doom ourselves to more of the crime and violence we are experiencing now. I’d also tell him to give back the R200 000 from the Survivor prize money that will go off in tax, and give it to The Homestead!

Q: If you were tasked with commissioning a postal stamp depicting the beauty of South Africa and it’s people, which image would you select?

A: The faces of children of different skin colours.

Q: With less than 60 days to the first African Soccer World Cup, what advice would you offer to first-time visitors looking for the ultimate South African experience?

A: Get to know the locals! they know the good spots, and we are the friendliest bunch on the planet – we will ensure you have a great time!

General

Q: If you could invite any three contestants from Survivor South Africa to a dinner party, who would they be and what would you serve?

A: Sandi Schultz, Louw Venter, and Kas Pillay, because I really got on well with all of them, prior to my voting them off! I would make roasted cherry tomato pasta with fresh herbs and garlic, followed by a cold lemon soufflé and freshly ground coffee and cream and a large box of the ultra dark Lindor chocolate balls.

Q: One book that you would make required reading for all matric pupils and which book would you say has had the greatest impact on your life?

A: Possibly The Road Less Travelled by Scott Peck, which starts “Life is difficult..” It certainly is but once you acknowledge that it is, you go about making a plan to deal with the challenges, and then you can move forward.

Q: If the next Survivor South Africa were to be for South African politicians, which challenge from your show would you start the season with and who would you have your money on for being voted out first?

A: We’d play truth or dare. Malema would be voted out first.

Q: Which other contestant would you most like to read about on Izimvo and what would you ask them?

A: Pro – and how come he got to be such a cool cat?

We’d like to thank Ashley for taking the time to answer our questions.

Reminder to support Ashley during the 90 minute season finale on MNet tomorrow night at 19:30. The winner will walk away with the R500 000 for themselves and their chosen charity.

Win a Survivor South Africa Santa Carolina Hamper
Your chance to win an amazing Survivor South Africa: Santa Carolina hamper consisting of Signed autograph card, a branded lip ice, branded match box and a stylish Survivor hat. All you have to do to win is one of the following:

• Simply tweet the following hashtag: #izimvo_survivor_sa
• Leave a comment on this interview
• or leave a comment on our Facebook page.

Good Luck! The winner will be drawn at 9pm after the season finale.

Ryan Botha

Izimvo has the pleasure of introducing professional footballer and model: Ryan Botha.

Ryan began his professional football career with Finland’s MYPA-47 in 2003 and later went on to sign with Turkish club, Denizlispor, in 2004.

Since returning to South Africa in 2007, Ryan has played for Thanda Royal Zulu FC and today plays for Sowetan giants, Moroka Swallows.

Ryan has represented South Africa at under-23 level and has appeared at the UEFA Cup. He has also won Goal of the Season in the 2008/09 ABSA Premiership.

Website: http://www.ryanbotha.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/ryanbotha
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=568080857
MNet All Access Interview: Link
Location: Johannesburg

Ryan was kind enough to answer the following questions:

Personal

Q: The all important personal profile. How would a close friend introduce you at a social event? i.e. Name, age, company, interesting fact etc.

A: Ryan Botha, 29 yrs old, I play football for Moroka Swallows, an interesting fact would be that I played in Europe for 7 years.

Q: Tell us something that not many others know about you. This could be anything from a phobia to your favorite movie.

A: haha! Well I’m actually terrified of spiders, no matter how big or small, I kill them on site.

Q: What do you enjoy doing when you want to get away from it all?

A: I enjoy relaxing with my fiancé and baby at home watching DVDs.

Q: How would you describe your dream home and where in South Africa would you like it to be?

A: I would love to live in Cape Town, I think its one of the most beautiful cities in the world. My dream home there would be a 4 or 5 bedroom place right on the beach, so when you walk off your balcony, you on beach sand.

This question was proudly sponsored by Private Property. Looking for the ultimate in apartment Cape living right on the coast? How about this R9.9m 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment in Bantry Bay.

Soccer in South Africa

voted as one of South Africa’s sexiest men

Q: Congratulations on your recent inclusion into the South African squad. Tell us what it would mean to you personally if you were selected for the World Cup squad?

A: Thanks a lot! It’s always been my dream to play in the world cup, would be amazing to do it here on home soil in front of my family and friends. It would really be one of the biggest achievements of my career. I would look back one day and be able to tell my kids that their dad was apart of 2010.

Q: Having been apart of the national squad for a few weeks now, what is the atmosphere like within the squad? Are the players and staff ready for the challenge ahead?

A: Well I’m not with the world cup squad but rather the CHAN tournament team which is being played next year in Sudan. All the boys here know though that if they put in the effort here our chance could come. The world cup buzz is so present in the camp and the think every South African is ready….

Q: You’ve been playing professional soccer from a very young age. Which career milestones are you most proud of?

A: Playing in Europe for seven years was something I will never forget. I got to play in the UEFA cup which was amazing. Playing in the Olympic qualifiers was incredible and scoring 2 goals in the first 4 minutes against Algeria is something I will never forget.

Q: What would you say are the fundamental differences in the game is played here in South Africa compared to the rest of the world? Do you think our style of play is a positive or a negative when looking at the modern game?

A: The biggest differences are that the European game is played very technically and with a lot of discipline meaning not a lot of mistakes are made. Mistakes in Europe and generally punished with a goal. Here in South Africa we play more diski style which is more skill orientated and our mistakes aren’t always punished. I wouldn’t say it’s positive or negative but rather if we could implement the European discipline with the local diski football we would be an international force!

Q: What advice would you offer the young school boy wanting to emulate your career?

A: First thing is to finish school, then decide what you want to study part-time through out your career because you don’t want to be left stranded after your playing years are done with no job. Then work your heart out at training and put the extra work in on your weaknesses.

Q: Which young players have recently caught your eye?

A: I prefer not to mention names as sometimes this goes to the youngsters head and sets him back a couple of years….

Life in South Africa

Ryan bungee jumping from the Orlando Towers

Q: What about life in South Africa did you miss the most while living and playing internationally?

A: I missed the people. South Africans have a unique way of conversing and expressing themselves…

Q: If, with the flick of your fingers, you could improve one thing about South Africa, what would it be?

A: The crime, it is a major issue.

Q: When asked about South Africa and the current crime levels by those internationally, how do you respond?

A: That we a young country in terms of democracy and equality and that due to our past we have many people uneducated and who struggle to find employment. This doesn’t justify the crime rate but unfortunately gives some sort of understanding of the desperation some people experience.

Life in Johannesburg

Q: What do you most enjoy about living in Johannesburg?

A: That there is a large variety of things to do.

Q: Favorite restaurant in or around Johannesburg for dinner with friends?

A: Rocket in Sandton or Capello’s in Bedford Center is enjoyable.

Q: Favorite activities for those rare occasions when you are not training?

A: DVDs at home.

General

Q: Which non-soccer sporting captain do you most admire and why?

A: John Smit…. he is the definition of professionalism and shows what a captain of any sporting team in this country should be like.

Q: Which local and international clubs did you support as a teenager?

A: Liverpool is my favorite team and I have always enjoyed the Chiefs….

Q: One book that you would make required reading for all school-boy soccer players?

A: Giggs – The  Autobiography

Q: Which South African personality would you most want directing you on your car’s GPS device?

A: Leon Schuster. Ha ha!

Q: Who would you most like to read about on Izimvo and what would you ask them?

A: Nelson Mandela… what he thinks of some of the ANC leaders today destroying all the hard work he put in.

We’d like to thank Ryan for taking the time to answer our questions and wish him every success for the future. We look forward to seeing him representing South Africa at Africa’s first World Cup.

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