Sam Wilson

Izimvo has the pleasure of introducing the Editor-in-Chief of Women24, Parent24 and Food24: Sam Wilson.

Sam, who began her career as a commercial lawyer, became a freelance writer after the birth of her sons. Sam rejoined the corporate world as a strategist at a publishing company once her sons were at school. Today, Sam is the Editor-in-Chief of three of the largest Women’s websites in South Africa namely Women24, Parent24 and Food24.

Women24 attracts over 200 000 visitors each month and is focused on becoming a discussion hub for South African women.

Website: http://www.women24.com
Blog: http://blogs.women24.com/editor
Twitter: http://twitter.com/samwilson1
Location: Cape Town

Sam 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: “This is Sam. She’s loud and rude, but fun. Don’t let her drink all the tequila.” I can’t imagine any of my close friends introducing me more formally than that.

Bio info though: I’m Sam Wilson, I’ve just discovered that I am 36 and not 37 (as I have believed for much of this year), I work at 24.com and steer chick chat for a living.

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

A: My full name is Samantha Patricia Wilson-Spath. When I was an attorney they had to get an especially long Commissioner of Oaths stamp made for me.

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

A: I’m an extremist so I either like tucking myself into my family – camping, reading, knitting and cooking – or spending a night kicking off the stress by dancing til dawn with The Wedding DJs at LB’s on Long St.

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

A: A wooden cabin in Nature’s Valley with a foofy slide into the river, and a canoe to take me to the beach.

This question was proudly sponsored by Private Property. - Looking for the ultimate home only a stone’s throw from the beach. How about this 7 bedroom, 6 bathroom, double story house with a self-contained 1 bedroom flat in Jeffreys Bay?

South Africa Online

Q: Having worked online for 5 years now, tell us a little about your background and how did you first get started in the online space?

A: I practised commercial law until my sons were born, and then I switched to being a freelance writer so I could work from home. Once the boys were old enough to go to school, I got a job as a strategist at a customer publishing company, after which Media24 recruited me to give their women’s online products more personality… and I have been with 24.com ever since.

Q: Give us an insight into the daily running of not one but three popular women’s websites in South Africa?

A: I manage a team of truly fabulous women who actually do the day-to-day running of the websites… I do more steering and seagulling than editing these days. But it’s quite fast-paced, honest, very down-to-earth and a lot of fun. I manage via the spontaneous team allocation of the Tiara of Fabulousness, the Plastic Pig of Shame and the Smock of Despair.

Q: Women24 covers various topics including fashion, beauty, gossip, wellness and parenting. How do you go about selecting the topics to be covered and what are some of the sources that you and your team follow to keep up-to-date with issues concerning the average South African woman.

A: Over 200 000 SA women visit Women24.com each month, and we have hundreds of active bloggers. Our job is not so much to select topics and tell them things from on high, as a print magazine would do, but more to listen to what’s already being chatted about on our site and feed into those conversations.

Q: What are your predictions for online publications such as Women24 and Parent24 here in South Africa and what impact do you feel devices such as the newly launched Apple iPad will have on the industry?

A: I think unless women’s websites crack the conversation challenge (too many women’s magazine websites still talk at women, rather than with them)… growth is hard. Women24 and Parent24, I feel, HAVE cracked that – so I am excited about the future.

I am not sure yet that the iPad is a game-changer. My favourite iPad quote so far is: “At last! An iPhone that doesn’t fit in my pocket!” Tablet technology is still so new here (I don’t have a Kindle or an iPad yet)… but I think being community-focused and device-agnostic is the only way to stay flexible in this industry.

Q: What can we look forward to from Women24, Food24 and Parent24 in 2010 and beyond?

A: More chat, more honesty, more connections… and more breaking of stereotypes. Women are so much more interesting than we’ve been allowed to explore together and online is the perfect medium for chick chat: collaborative, circular and multi-tasking.

We’re hoping to continue to build on our 500 000+ readers, while adding new and dynamic threads to the conversation all the time.

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, I’ve been mugged and burgled before, but we prefer to live bravely and in the sunlight, rather than behind self-imposed bars, both literally and figuratively.

Q: What advice would you offer new parents who have concerns about the future of the South African education system?

A: There are alternatives to traditional schooling, if you need them… or additional methods of keeping your children from either turning into sheep or losing their own vitality. This I think, is the most important thing for all parents, in any country: to try to bring up children who are secure enough in themselves to be able to embrace difference. I don’t think enough parenting discussion turns on that… but, at Parent24, we sure try!

Q: With less than 60 days to the first African Soccer World Cup, what advice would you offer to first-time visitors looking to sample the best South African cuisine has to offer?

A: Food24 has the largest database of restaurants and recipes in South Africa. My own advice would be to be adventurous. Oh, and to visit the Winelands.

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

A: Dude. Being Captain Shagaplenty is seriously undermining the ANC’s lip service to women’s equality. If you can see women as equals, maybe more men in South African could follow your lead. And who knows how that may impact domestic violence, single-mother families and society’s respect for unpaid work ‘outside the capitalist, economic paradigm” (i.e.: at home)?

Life in Cape Town

Q: What do you most enjoy about living in Cape Town?

A: The mountain, the sea, the forests… and the idea that it’s not all about the money.

Q: Favorite restaurant for a Sunday lunch with the family?

A: I’ve actually just returned from a lovely Sunday family lunch at The Annex, the new restaurant behind the Kalk Bay Bookshop. Fabulous views, delicious food… and books! What more could you want?

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

A: Gosh. Um. Children of all races frolicking together in the Sea Point pool, with Robben Island in the distance?

General

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

A: Antjie Krog, Pregs Govender and Ferial Hafajee. And what would I serve? Well, I’m having a Terrior moment, so probably Michael Broughton‘s prawn risotto, his signature slow-roasted pork belly and cider jus, finished off with pear soufflés and Frangelico. That’s of course, if my guests do shellfish and pork… otherwise I do a good butter chicken and yellow lentil dhal. Ooh, with a stuffed naan! And… (don’t get me going on menu planning. I have a weakness there.)

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

A: ONE book? Aargh, that’s impossible! Right now, I’d say all South Africans should read Ellen Kuzwayo’s Call Me Woman (now there was an ANC YL president!). And the book that’s influenced me the most? Dancing at the Edge of the World: Thoughts on Words, Women, Places by Ursula K Le Guin.

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: Put my feet up. Definitely!

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

A: Relax. You’re not as weird as you think. And bravery is really important in a woman.

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

A: Lucien van der Walt from Wits. He’s recently co-authored a really interesting book on anarchism, The Black Flame: The Revolutionary Class Politics of Anarchism and Syndicalism… I’d like to ask him to explain how to get anarchists and trade unionists talking in South Africa.

We’d like to thank Sam for taking the time to answer our questions and wish her and her team at 24.com 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

Walter Pike

Izimvo has the great pleasure of introducing marketing maven: Walter Pike.

With more than 30 years of experience in branding, marketing and advertising, Walter is an international thought leader on social media and digital marketing.  Walter’s  impressive Résumé includes being the former Head of Faculty: Marketing and Advertising, at the AAA School of Advertising, the founder of the Digital Marketing Academy, the first in the world to be accredited by Google and a member of the international chief marketing officers council advisory committee, as well as being the founder of PiKE | The New Marketing Agency.

Website: http://www.pike.co.za
Blog: http://walterpike.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/walterpike
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/walterpike

Walter 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: Walter is the owner and founder of PiKE a new kind of marketing/advertising agency – especially geared to operate in the new always on always connected world. (a new marketing agency in fact). The founder and owner of the Digital Academy, teaching new marketing and digital marketing. A happily single father of three stunning children. His mind is always active and is in demand as a speaker in conferences and corporate events, and has a weekly segment on Classic FM’s “the internet economy” and a frequent guest on international podcasts, radio and TV. If there is a commercial that has been built to summarise Walter’s attitude it is Apple Think Different Oh how old is Walter? that’s a difficult question, he thinks that he is going to live forever.

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

A: I suppose that not many people know that I started off as a farmer, was a very keen Polo player and bred and raced a racehorse who won me a couple of races.

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

A: Ha ha. I have been very bad at getting away from it all. I love flyfishing because it’s very active and can be intellectual – but in a totally different way to what I do all day. It a way of connecting into a different world, I like fishing clear mountain streams.

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

A: Thats an amazingly difficult question as I need to balance both quiet time with connection with the buzz of the city. When I want the quiet I want it really quiet, very far from the crowds my favourite town is Rhodes (near Barclay East) but when I am in work mode – it must be Johannesburg, our unbeatable weather and energy is just what I want. What kind of house? comfortable nicely decorated and a place to leave.

This question was proudly sponsored by Private Property – looking for the ultimate home on northern Johannesburg? How about this R10m 6 bedroom farm-house mansion in North Riding. Enjoy the lifestyle of the country gentry with all the trappings of modern amenities close at hand. No compromise required…

Education & Digital Marketing  in South Africa

Q: In your experience, have you found that our tertiary education system is keeping up with the rapid changes of technology?

A: Not even close. I have just left a position as Head of Faculty in a tertiary institution and I can tell you that without doubt.

Q: Do you feel that South African corporates catching onto Social Media & the web in general?

A: It is still very early in the adoption curve. We have moved from total ignorance to a position now that people are interested – but really don’t know much, but at least the awareness is there. They will catch on big time very soon.

Q: What are your thoughts on the local early adopter market? Are you finding that consumers are becoming more sophisticated in the choices they are making?

A: Interesting that you should ask that, I did a whole show on the Internet Economy talking about that very point. There is a segment in the market who are very quick in catching on and taking advantage of the market, in this space South African’s are truly world leaders. But – it’s a small group and the rest of the market are miles behind. Fantastic example was when Marc and I were sitting in Ballito and getting updates on Foursquare from exactly the same people.

Maybe more interesting is that in this space the corporates are behind the customers, for example very few are taking advantage of how the lower LSM’s are adopting cell phone technology, the marketing departments just don’t understand what is happening.

Q: Tell us more about the Digital Marketing Academy you started in 2009, and how the course is structured and what accreditation you can receive from the courses you offer?

A: The idea was that I felt that there needed to be a place where people could learn about Digital Marketing because i expect that when the market explodes its going to be really difficult to find the skills.  So far we have only one course which is an overview strategy course, but it’s really comprehensive and we cover 22 topics from search engine optimisation to games and social media. During this year we will also be rolling out intensive courses in some of the topics. Google Adwords, Social Media, SEO etc. The Digital Strategy Course is given in conjunction with the AAA School of Advertising and is soon to be incorporated into the degree so is at NQF level 6 (degree level), graduates get an official AAA qualification.

I am aiming the academy at corporates, the ad agency sector and marketing departments. Interestingly many of the people on the course are people already involved in digital business.

Q: Which international web trends do you believe will shape the future of the web here in South Africa?

A: The adoption of the mobile internet is moving at a pace 8 times that of the “desktop” based internet at the same stage of its development. This will impact countries like South Africa even more than first world countries. the other think that we must keep in mind is that the new bandwidth coming in will change pricing and accessibility.

At the upper levels, smart phone use will similarly change the way people do business – and the big thing will be location based services. I also see augmented reality being a huge thing in the not too distant future.

Q: What can we look forward to from the academy in 2010?

A: A series of new specialised courses and in-house training programs covering the entire digital marketing space. These will include 1/2 day seminars on specific topics.

Q: Your other business PiKE – whats it all about:

A: I don’t believe that most people realise that online is not just another media channel. This is because the connections that are the internet have changed the way society operates and the fact that it provides a platform for people to publish have changed the way people find out stuff and how they buy things. The world changed – so marketing should change. I call this new marketing and it’s what we do.

Notice that it’s not digital, nor advertising, nor interactive its how to use all these tools to deliver marketing results in an always on, always connected world. We can deliver a television campaign for example – but in a different way. We are also very skilled in social media marketing.

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: I had a car stolen a year or two back. But to be honest I refuse to be restricted by fear, I am not reckless but in the same vein I live my live as I want.

Q: Have you ever considered emigration? If yes, where do you think you would emigrate to?

A: Not sure actually – maybe Europe?

Q: What are your thoughts on the fiber optic cables such as Seacom and the impact they will have on Southern Africa?

A: They are going to have a massive impact – huge. Broadband connectivity is a significant driver of growth the real issue is the last mile – how do we get everyone connected, and there are some hugely innovative projects going out around this.

Q: With less than 100 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: Look past all the stereotypes and engage with real people in read places.

Life in Johannesburg

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

A: The pace, and the incredible weather. Also the fact that almost everyone I want to talk to is here.

Q: Favorite restaurant for a lazy Sunday afternoon lunch?

A: Papachinos in Midrand.

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

A: Johannesburg is the biggest urban forest in the world – Trees and bird life.

Q: If you had to pick a getaway less than 2 hours from Johannesburg, where would it be?

A: The Vaal is one of the most interesting and productive rivers anywhere – somewhere below the barrage – say Potch – amazingly enough!

General

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

A: Is there really a single book? At the moment Linchpin by Seth Godin or Crush It by Gary Vaynerchuk.

Q: Once piece of advice you would most like to give the 18-year-old you?

A: Listen to everyones advice – but don’t take it – do what gives you a rush. Every single one of my best decisions have been made with my heart. Embrace failure – the only people who have never failed are those who have never tried!

Q: What was the last movie you saw on the big screen?

A: Avatar.

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

Be sure 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

Telana Simpson

Izimvo would like to introduce the woman trading a matchstick for offices: Telana Simpson.

Trading a single matchstick for offices. That is the ambitious goal of Telana Simpson who started her adventure in June 2006. Documenting her progress on onematchstick.co.za, Telana has made 9 trades including an ordinary green pen, a fluffy toy frog, R3000 cash and a party for 150 people with DJ Al.

Telana’s ninth trade was the party for 375 funky Springleap T-shirts which she plans to trade with 375 people. What will the 11 trade be? Be sure to follow matchstick-girl’s progress to find out.

Website: http://onematchstick.blogspot.com/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/Telana
Location: Johannesburg

Telana was kind enough to answer the following questions:

Personal

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

A: Hi, meet Telana. If you felt the need to say more, then “she helps people have no regrets in life, and is also known as the matchstick girl.”

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 roller-blading, especially fast, but I have never mastered how to stop quickly on my blades, so I tend to be a menace and have to use walls to stop myself, if there isn’t enough space to gradually slow down.

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

A: Anything in nature, and if it’s active even better. Like scuba diving, swimming, walking in a rain forest or the bushveld, climbing a mountain or even a tree. If I cant get away, just sitting on my roof helps.

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

A: My ideal home is small, but spacious. And it has a roof that’s fairly easy to climb onto that has a spectacular view over rooftops and trees. It’s here in Jozi, and there will need to be a swimming pool too!

This question has been proudly sponsored by Private Property – Looking for the ideal home in Johannesburg’s Northern suburbs? How about this newly built magnificent Gary Louw masterpiece for the truly discerning buyer.

One Matchstick

The first trade for a green pen

Q: You set out in June 2006 with the goal of trading a matchstick for an office. What was the impetus for the idea and what about the project has surprised you the most?

A: A friend in London had started blogging, so introduced me to blogs. She mentioned in one of her posts about Kyle Macdonald in Canada who was busy trying to trade a red paperclip into a house. I read his blog, and it was like the floodgates of possibility and creativity opened for me, and I knew that I just had to try this out too. So I started trading my matchstick. Kyle has since then got to his house.

My drive to keep going is the absolute curiosity about if I can do this, and also it challenges me to be creative and keep coming up with ways to move forward. I am also learning so much through the process, from stamp collecting to all about motorbike helmuts to refining my negotiation skills. Not the mention the people I am meeting J

What has surprised me the most? Two things so far. One was when I decided to take cash for the Holiday. I was interested to see what would happen when I put “R3000″ cash up to trade, and it turned out to the most difficult trade so far. I got over 100 offers, but all at the value of R3000. So having money as an item to trade took out the element of perceived value, and it took me ages to find something that was- in my opinion- a step up in value. I was so glad to meet Claire and trade the cash with her for the hot air balloon flight!

The other surprising moment was a trade I did recently which involved 1 Springleap T-shirt for 60 books which will be influencing 750 children! Lewis offered to deliver 60 Jumpstart handbooks in exchange for a T-shirt, and Chris of the Bookshelf project wanted the books. I found an anonymous Angel to donate the cash which made this trade happen, and now Chris is distributing the books at his Bookshelf Centres in informal settlements. And to think it all started with a single matchstick!

Q: Your current trade is 375 Springleap T-Shirts which you traded for a party with DJ Al. Tell us about the trade and why you selected it over the other offers you received?

A: I had been getting quite a few people saying to me that they’d love to take part in my story, and help me, but the value of the item I was at was too high for them. When Eric and Eran of Springleap contacted me, it took me a few days to see how I could use their offer of T-shirts for the party. I decided to trade with them because they really wanted the party, and also what they offered me gave me the opportunity to trade each T-shirt on with a whole bunch of people- 375 to be exact. I could offer more people the chance to take part and also make 2 trades happen in one go. Plus I just love Springleap T-shirts, and the guys there rock!

Q: How important has social media been in promoting the project and which social media services have you found to be the most effective?

A: Social media has been important, but I have found that meeting people in person has just taken my reach and support to another level. And it’s just so much more fun to meet people in person. Social media is playing a key part in helping me to meet new people though, people I would otherwise not have had the opportunity to meet. For example, I met Eric and Eran of Springleap over twitter before I met them in person. And social media is a great way to get to know my new and old friends even more, and keep up to date with their busy lives in this busy world.

I use my blog to track my story and share what I am learning and who I am meeting through it, and hear from others through their comments. I use twitter for quick updates on how my trades are going, and I use facebook to organise events. I also use youtube and flicker for videos and photos. I’d say these services have been the most effective

Q: What is the best way for our readers to support the project?

A: The best way for readers to support my project is to be active in it- be active spectators. Take part: chat to me, make comments, share posts about it on facebook, and even better- make me offers to trade with me. If you feel that whatever you have to offer is a fair exchange for the current item I am offering, then let me know what you are thinking. That way we can see if there is a possibility. I hear every now again someone say they have something to offer me when I get to bigger values- It would be a great help to know about these possibilities, (even if the person wants to keep it hush hush for now) so that I can work towards it. If I know what that person can offer, and what they’d like for it, it helps me make decisions on what to do now to get there.

Q: How long do you think it will take you to reach your goal of trading for offices?

A: Funny, I’m getting asked this quite often now. I haven’t the foggiest idea! Maybe a few more months, maybe a few more years. I believe it will all depend on how creative and active I am and those that participate become- the more offers I get, the more choice I have, the quicker I can make trades, the quicker I can get to my offices.

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: I have been affected by crime, but not to the extend of some people in this country, or in this world as a matter of fact. My run-ins with those who do crime have been bigger in my travels in Europe actually, than here in South Africa, and that was when some of my beliefs were not as strong as they are now. I believe that I am not naive about our problems, but I do tend to be idealistic and look for the possibilities and opportunities around me, while still remaining street-smart. I strongly believe that what you focus on grows, where you put your attention, you give that more energy. So I am not anti-crime, I am pro-education. I’m not fighting poverty, I am developing minds. I choose not to live in fear of my fellow South Africans, but to love them and look for their gifts and encourage their expression of those gifts and their dreams. This is a tricky philosophy to live out in our world, but I do my best.

Q: If you were hired as the president’s personal coach, what approach would you take?

A: I am assuming that the President hired me himself as his personal coach. If he didn’t buy into the process, I wouldn’t coach him. So assuming he did buy into the process, I would approach it like I would any other client. I would be the objective sounding board by asking a lot of questions to help the President find his own answers, apply his own resources and reach his full potential and highest intentions.

Q: To which three local attractions would you first take an international visitor?

A: There would be three experiences I would suggest: to explore our wild life and scenery, with a trip to Pilanesburg Game Reserve or the Kruger National Park; to have tea in a shack in an informal settlement with my friend Margaret or Phillip; and to have dinner at Moyo’s Melrose Arch. With these three experiences, I believe that visitor would have tasted a small sample of the diversity of our country.

Q: South Africa’s greatest export is?

A: It’s people. It is sad that so many people feel a need to leave, and with that we loose skills and knowledge and our greatest asset- our people.

Life in Johannesburg

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

A: The people and their pace. The “You make Joburg Great” campaign for me sums up this point very well. Lots of my friends and family live here in Jozi, so I enjoy spending time with them, and also the buzz of the opportunities of this city.

Q: Favorite venue for a picnic with a group of friends?

A: The Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens.

Q: Given an unlimited budget, what attraction would you build in Johannesburg?

A: I would build a training facility like none ever experienced before. It would have a lot of technology and different styles of training facilities. And it would be an experience that would be a mix of Disneyland and the most peaceful retreat you can imagine. Full of paradox and a feast for our senses, and an experience of child-like wonder at everything we can learn and explore and share. You’d leave having experienced abundance in action, and having new understandings that would transform positively how you see the world. And each visit would be unique.

General

Q: Why a matchstick?

A: I love candles, so there is always a box of matches somewhere around my room. And when I decided to try out this bartering idea, I liked the idea of a matchstick because it’s just a sliver of wood with a sulphur head. As it just sits there on my desk, it has a lot of latent potential. It’s only when you apply some energy to it, when you apply the action of sticking it against the match box, that it lights up, and with that one action you then have the choice to light a candle, or a bonfire!

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

A: After a lot of thought I would say a book about some of the most useful Neuro-Semantic principles and techniques. I’ve been racking my brain through all the books I know of, and would suggest “Movie Mind” by Dr Michael Hall or “Users Manual for the Brain“ by Dr Michael Hall and Bob Bodenhammer. (I think there might be a gap here for a book- so I just might write it!)

Q: If you could invite any three South Africans to a dinner party, who would you invite and what album would you play in the background?

A: I’d invite Madiba, to witness a man with exceptional leadership skills and presence (his high SQ and EQ- or Spiritual Intelligence and Emotional Intelligence fascinate me), Mark Shuttleworth, so I could ask what it was like in space and explore some of his business know-how, and Kevin Richardson, the animal behaviourist who works with some of the most dangerous animals we know. Three intriguing men who represent different areas of interest to me.

I’d probably start the evening with playing Goldfish “Perceptions of Pacha“ in the background, and then later some Hedkhandi (Served chilled, vol 1) or a Café del Mar.

Q: Where would you like to wake up tomorrow?

A: In the arms of my future life partner.

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

A: Ohh, there’s quite a few people. If Madiba, Mark or Kevin can’t make my dinner party, then one of them. Also, it would be great to hear someone like Natalie du Toit, Allon Raiz or Steuart Pennington’s (founder of SA The Good News) thoughts on what they would say is the leverage point – the difference that would make all the difference- in our country today.

We’d like to thank Telana for taking the time to answer our questions and wish her every success for the future. We look forward to following her trades with great interest. Keen to support Telana, why not buy on of her designer Springleap T’s. All there details are here.

Reminder that you can now listen our interviews at http://izimvo.com/listen or subscribe to our Podcast feed http://bit.ly/bgC35E

Brad Brown

Izimvo has the honour of introducing 94.7′s Brad Brown.

Brad, a familiar voice on Johannesburg’s 94.7 Highveld Stereo, is a great example of determination. After an unsuccessful Hot Jock audition in late 2002, Brad got right back into the massive audition lines and tried again. Second time round Brad made it through the preliminary judging and went on to book his place in the final. Although he did not win, Brad used the opportunity to push for an audition show which he finally got in 2003.

As well as Radio DJ on 94.7, Brad is also an accomplished voice over artist, club DJ and successful entrepreneur with interests in three companies.

Website: http://www.bradbrown.co.za
Twitter:  http://www.twitter.com/bradbrown947
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Brad-Brown/158393978752
Location: Johannesburg

Brad 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’m not really big on huge social events but my best mate would introduce me as Brad, 33, entrepreneur, radio jock and proper South African bloke.

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 secret ambitions of being the front man of a rock band! Seriously, I got into radio because at the time I got an opportunity to get into the entertainment industry and I thought it would be a way to get to my goal. Thirteen years later I’m still on radio and don’t have a band.

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

A: I love the bush. I really don’t get to go often enough. I also enjoy a round of golf to put things into perspective. With my golf game you realise things can’t get much worse that that!

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

A: Ideally it would be in the middle of a game reserve. Nothing to big, but comfortable, all open plan with huge full length glass sliding doors so that it can open up the entire house. If I could run my businesses from the Kruger Park I’d move out there tomorrow.

This question was proudly sponsored by Private Property

Radio in South Africa

Q: You first stated your radio career at RAU Radio where you hosted various shows and eventually becoming head DJ. What were the most important lessons you learnt while working for the student radio station?

A: The few years I spent on RAU Radio (Now UJFM) were probably the best foundation I could’ve ever hoped for in my radio career. We had a phenomenal group of on and off air talent. Many of them have gone on to successful careers. I learnt two big lessons on campus radio. The first was to find someone you could learn from take their advice to keep getting better. As soon as you think you’re good enough you stop growing. The second was to believe in yourself. I learnt quickly that if you don’t back yourself no one will. Those two lessons haven’t only helped me in my radio career; they’ve been invaluable in my businesses too.

Q: Your 94.7 Highveld Stereo “lucky break” included a failed attempt at their “Hot Jock” Idols like competition. What made you come back again and was there ever a stage where you thought it was not to be?

A: I had sent demo tapes through to Highveld for a couple years with absolutely no luck. I’m the proud owner of a whole bunch of standardised rejection letters. By the time Hot Jocks came around in 2002 I had been on campus, community and retail radio consistently for about 4 years.

I remember standing in that line waiting to audition like it was yesterday. My nerves just got the better of me at the first audition and I blew it. I knew that I was better than that and I decided to get back into the line and try again and ended up winning that regional round and made it through to the final week of the competition.

Although I didn’t win it was a foot in the door at the station and I bugged them until they gave me an audition. I was determined to work for Highveld and the thought never crossed my mind to stop trying.

Q: What do you enjoy the most about working at 94.7 Highveld Stereo?

A: I think it has to be the people. Our line up has some serious superstars on it and I am extremely proud to be part of the same team as the likes of Jeremy Mansfield, Alex Jay and Mark Pilgrim. I am often dumbstruck in that building when I realise that I am on the same line up as those legends.

Q: South Africa has a rich history when it comes to radio and radio personalities. If you were to establish a South African Radio Hall of Fame, who would be your first inductee?

A: Alex Jay. He is without a doubt the most genuine, down to earth bloke I have ever met. If anyone in the radio industry could afford to have a big head it would be Alex but there isn’t even the hint of an ego with that man. He is so humble it’s amazing.

Q: What advice would you give those wanting a career in radio?

A: Get used to rejection and never give up. There are nowhere near enough radio stations in South Africa so the amount of on air time slots are very limited. Keep sending demos and bug programming managers until they give you a shot. But also make sure that you are 100 percent prepared when the opportunity presents itself. You might only get one shot.

Q: What are your thoughts on podcasting and do you think it will ever become a threat local radio?

A: I’m in two minds whether podcasts are going to be a threat to radio in South Africa or not. I do think that digital music platforms are however already a threat to local radio. We live in a world of instant gratification and the internet and technology is making it easier and easier to get what we want when we want it.

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: We have but fortunately nothing to serious. It is probably the thing that scares me most about the future of South Africa. I think we have a real problem that needs to get dealt with urgently. I also think there needs to be an adjustment in the way average South Africans think about crime for the situation to get better.

The way I see it is if everyone just took care of what they were doing the authorities would be able to deal with the bigger issues. Having a police officer pull you over for speaking on your cell phone is preventing him from perhaps apprehending a more serious offender. I’m not sure if that make sense. By breaking the law yourself you are contributing to the bigger problem. In my mind shoplifting is the same as robbing a supermarket with a firearm, they are both theft. Granted one is more serious that the other but both are still a crime. What are you teaching your kids by breaking the law, like speaking on your phone while driving? You’re teaching them that it is ok to break the law as long as you don’t get caught and that is not ok in my book.

What really grates my carrot is when people write letters to my local paper bitching about how the metro police hide in the bushes with their speed guns catching people speeding. There is a simple solution to that problem. Don’t speed. If you take care of the little things the big things will take care of themselves. It is up to us as individuals to take care of the little things.

Q: Have you ever considered emigration? If yes, where do you think you would emigrate to?

A: I have thought about it but I do not want to emigrate. After matric I took a gap year (by gap year I mean 3 years) and travelled quite a bit. I lived and worked in the US and the UK and enjoyed living in both but I realised I am South African and this is where I belong.

Q: What are the must-see attractions for visitors to the Soccer World Cup?

A: This country is so vast with so much to see it is difficult to narrow it down. I think time in the bush is a must for any visitor to SA.

Q: South Africa’s greatest export is?

A: The England cricket team.

Life in Johannesburg

Q: If, at the flick of your fingers, you could change anything about life in Johannesburg. What would you change?

A: If we could have Cape Towns beauty this would be the best city in the world to live in.

Q: As a father, what is your families favorite kid friendly restaurant and what would you recommend on their menu?

A: We love Papachinos in Crowthorne. Their pizzas are really good and it’s a great place for the kids. They get to make their own pizzas and they have a really cool area for them to play in with child-minders to keep an eye on them.

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

A: I think the Joburg skyline at sunrise. There is something beautiful about watching the sun rise over the Brixton tower and Ponty on a clear Highveld morning.

Q: You are currently training for the 2010 Comrades marathon. What are your favorite training routes in or around Johannesburg?

A: There are so many. I really enjoy the tree-lined streets in the Ranburg area, especially when the Jacarandas are flowering. There is also a hilly little suburb close to where I stay called Noordkruin that has some of the most spectacular views of Joburg.

General

Q: As a father, radio DJ, voice over artist, emcee and a successful entrepreneur with interests in 3 businesses. Where do you find the time for everything? Do you have any time management secrets that you can share with our readers?

A: I think proper planning is the key. I schedule everything from my runs to my son’s sports games. That way nothing gets forgotten and I manage to work everything in that is important and needs to get done.

Q: Public speaking is rated as one of the most feared activities. What do you enjoy most about it and how did you overcome the natural fear? What is the biggest crowd you’ve MC’d to?

A: I still get nervous when I need to be on stage in front of a lot of people but I’ve learnt to deal with it. I think it just boils down to doing it enough so that you become comfortable with doing it. It’s the old cliché that practice makes perfect. I’ve emceed a few big concerts probably around 12 000 people. But when your eyes are as bad as mine you only see the first few rows of the audience.

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

A: The Magic of Thinking Big by David Schwartz.

Q: If you had to pick one South African as a mentor, who would it be and why?

A: Madiba. I think he is an amazing man. To go through what he went through and not harbor any hatred is unbelievable. I think we owe much of what we have in South Africa today to him.

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

A: I am sport mad, anyone sporty would be good. I would love to ask Bruce Fordyce if he thinks he would have been as successful as he was and won 9 consecutive marathons if he was at his peak now in 2010.

We’d like to thank Brad 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.

Barry Bramley

Today’s inspirational voice belongs to the founding partner of TomorrowToday: Barrie Bramley.

Barrie is the Chief Imagination Officer at TomorrowToday, a company which he co-founded in 2001. He heads up the Talent Development Project where his focus is on strategic consulting and advice on issues relating to the ‘new world of work’ and attraction and retention of today’s worker. Barrie is recognised as a creative and strategic thinker with an ability to influence both individuals and teams.

As a sought after speaker, Barrie has spoken in many countries around the world. He speaks to over 100 organisations every year on important issues like, Talent, Web 2.0, Generations, Communication and the New World of Work.

Website: http://www.barriebramley.com
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/barriebramley
Google Profile: http://www.google.com/profiles/barrie.bramley
Twitter: http://twitter.com/BarrieBramley
Location: Johannesburg

Barrie was kind enough to answer the following question:

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: This is Barrie. He’s a ‘ballie’ now that he’s 40, works for TomorrowToday, has some interesting choices in footwear, and he’s one of those very energetic and interesting people that grab your attention. (It’s not how I would introduce myself, but it is how it’s often done)

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

A: When I was 15 I received junior springbok colours for BMX. I spent 10 years working with a community based organisation in youth and community development, and I’m game for almost anything that doesn’t require my feet leaving the ground.

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

A: Does this sound crazy? My best ‘escape’ is the big screen. Here’s the potentially weird part, I book a seat that’s one row in front of everybody else. That way I get the feeling that I’m the only one in the theatre. As long as I can’t hear anyone or see anyone I can literally escape completely into what I’m watching. An iPod attached directly into my ears can also do it. In fact I’ve done some strange public things with loud music filling my senses, allowing me to escape into my own world.

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

A: My dream home isn’t big. It’s got enough space, and the space is wide open. As few walls as possible. Ideally I’d want the house to be facing a mountain. My wife would want it facing the beach. So it’s got to be a place that has both, and there isn’t a lot of choice to meet those criteria in South Africa. Parts of the Cape (Western and Southern) meet those criteria, so that would be it.

This question was proudly sponsored by Private Property

Professional Training

Q: You are the co-founder of TomorrowToday, a company that researches and communicates trends around young people entering today’s work place. Can you tell us about the company and the services you offer?

A: We started TomorrowToday with the conviction that there had to be a better way to work. We knew that younger people entering the business environment were struggling to find what they were looking for, and that business needed to see this and adjust accordingly if they were going to attract the best and brightest, both inside and out. The majority of our work is spent communicating this to various organisations. Mostly in a business context, but community, education and government are facing that same challenges.

Q: Your official title at TomorrowToday is Chief Imagination Officer. How would you describe your position to someone you’ve just met?

A: It’s a title that was given to me by my colleagues. If you ask them, I see things quite differently to most people. This isn’t always useful because it can be quite counter-culture and challenging, and if I’m honest, not always correct. But I do see myself as a catalyst for change and for challenging the status quo. I don’t believe everything must change, but I do add value in ensuring that things being done have been thought through rigorously.

Q: Which of your projects at TomorrowToday are you most proud of?

A: I’m most proud of the platforms I’ve been a part of creating that allow us to communicate our thoughts and discoveries. Our presentations, our blog, and our continual exploration of the new communication channels that are being created all the time (PodCasts, Twitter, Video, etc) I’m also very proud of our thoughts around the ‘War for Talent’. It’s not main stream, and I do think it gets closer to the real issues than current main stream thought.

Q: What are the greatest challenges facing the South African employer today?

A: I’d say that one of the biggies has to be a combination of a skills shortage we have as a developing world economy, coupled with the shortage of people that the developed world is facing. We’re under constant threat of more developed world businesses reaching in and attracting our most valuable people with a superior offering and package. We also have a tremendous challenge to develop the skill we need while all this ‘poaching’ is going on. It sometimes can feel like 1 step forward 5 steps back, for many South African companies.

Q: What is the secret to a happy employee and what advice would you offer companies struggling with staff retention?

A: It’s a bit of a cliche, but a happy employee is an engaged employee. However that challenge is to fully understand what engagement means to today’s younger people. It’s not what it used to be. So my advice would be that companies need to work really hard to understand the criteria today’s younger people attach to engagement, and then to work extremely hard to integrate it into their organisational structures. This is much easier said than done, as many of these ‘new criteria’ are fundamentally different to what has worked up until now.

Q: What can we look forward to from TodayTomorrow in 2010?

A: Our biggest focus this year is on building more robust platforms to distribute our thoughts and discoveries. Some free and some paid for. But if we get it right we’ll be able to provide a really useful resource for anyone who finds our work interesting. We’ve also recently developed some new really exciting strategic inputs. One that looks at what the world will look like once we come out of this economic recession (After Shock), and the other on how Web 2.0 (social media and the like) are impacting how we connect with and to each other (Beyond the Hype).

Life in South Africa

Q: How would you rate the current governments performance since the last general election? What would you want them to most improve upon?

A: My own opinion is that, unfortunately, it’s still too early to rate anything. I think that a fairly large change in government has taken place, and therefore it’s not simply carrying on from the Mbeki era. From an operations perspective, I’d like to see the current government strengthen accountability and delivery. These two areas continue to be very lacking. From a strategic perspective I’d like to see clearer thinking around the world we’re entering (10-15 years from now). I fear we’re still trying to find our feet in the current reality, and if that’s all they achieve we’ll continue to fall behind the global changes happening. If I had to name one specific area it would be ‘connectivity’. if more people had access to cheaper (free) connectivity we’d stimulate far more relevant education, greater creativity, increased small business development, we’d be in a place to invite outlying communities into the main stream and they’d be positioned to compete on a far more even playing field. My mind boggles at the possibilities.

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 wife, Leisha, had a smash and grab last year. It was a traumatising event for her and for me. Thankfully that’s been the extent of my family’s crime experience. I know others have had far worse experiences. My view of South Africa is the same as it was when I voted in Kwa Mashu for our first truly democratic election. Do I worry? Yes I do. Do I think South Africa is headed for the scrap heap? I can’t say. But I am determined to play the best role I can in ensuring that doesn’t ever happen. Do I have a ‘Plan B’? Absolutely not.

Q: Which South African personality would you pick to have breakfast with?

A: I’d like to have breakfast with Bishop Tutu. He’s done and seen so much. He knows ‘the conversation’ that happens behind closed doors, but he’s far enough removed to not be sucked in by it. He’s inspirational. He’s a counter-culture human being. He’s passionate. Outside of just taking in his story, I’d like to ask him about how he centers himself. When you’ve had a life like I imagine he has, I’d want to know how he’s help it all together at times?

Q: South Africa’s greatest export is?

A: It’s another cliche (I’ve used two now) but it’s got to be our people. I’ve had the privilege of traveling quite extensively outside of South Africa, and I can say without doubt that w’eve got great people. What makes us great is our love for personal interaction, our lack of fear in tackling the tough conversations, by pointing out the elephant in the room, and our wonderful, continually expanding sense of humour.

Life in Johannesburg

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

A: The energy. When I’m driving in our famous ‘parking lots’ I try to see everyone as energy. Going somewhere or coming from somewhere. On one level that’s all true. And there’s just so much energy. There’s always action. You can’t help but be impacted by it. I really try to let it impact me positively.

Q: Favorite restaurant for lunch with the family and what would you recommend on their menu?

A: Leish and I have 2 young daughters, so we’ve been a ‘Spur Family‘. Thankfully we’re emerging out of the ‘Spur Phase’ of our lives and beginning to explore new and interesting places. So there’s no ‘regular’ at the moment.

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

A: How do you fit the amazing city lights, the growing integration and comfort with diversity you see at venues like Mandela Square, the smiling faces of children playing sport, the energy and vibe depicted in a grid locked highway, the inter-play between vendors and motorists at traffic intersections, the hope represented by all the construction onto one stamp? I’m sorry but I’d have to ask to commission a catalogue of stamps.

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: I’d want to invite three people that would ensure an edge was created for the evening. The wine I’d serve would be Fat Bastard, and I’d make sure there was at least ‘one of them’ in the room. For example, FW De Klerk, Thabo Mbeki and Julius Malema. Can you imagine when the wine came out the new energy that would be released in the room? Palpable. Or what about Bobby Godsell, Jacob Maroga and Jimmy Manyi (you could also put Julius Malema in here – in fact he’d be a great guest at most of my functions) I’d name my theme – ‘You, me and the FB?’

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

A: One book? Are you crazy : ) But if it’s going to be one, then I’d make it Malcolm Gladwell’s ‘The Tipping Point‘. Here’s why….

It’s not the most sophisticated piece of writing out there, but it’s accessible in that it’s easy and really interesting to read. Gladwell thinks about things in a way that most of us don’t, so they could learn from just that. But it’s a book that talks about how important people are in creating and giving life to a future business, their own ideas and social memes, etc. It’s a book that gives you a framework to use as an entrepreneur (and we need lots of them in South Africa). But my biggest goal in suggesting this book would be to introduce them to an exciting style of thinking that would have them exploring Freakonomics, the Wisdom of Crowds, other Gladwell, and others.

Q: As a prolific blogger and twitter user, how would you say social media has improved your life and what are your predictions for how social media will change over the coming years?

A: Twitter especially, has had a large impact on my reading. I have built my ‘Twitter World’ around people who’s thoughts I’m desperate to hear. I don’t care if they’re taking a shower or having breakfast (I ex-communicate most of those Tweeps). So almost every time I log into Twitter on my phone, there’s someone presenting something interesting. It’s like assembling the smartest people you know into one room and asking them to send you what interests them all the time. It’s amazing.

My view on the future of social media is that it’s going to continue to get more intelligent and personal around who you are. I see it exploding some traditional business models and re-creating new ones. I can imagine a world, for example, in which I can assemble the best journalists in the world, regardless of who they ‘work for’, into one feed that I get everyday. I’ll pay each of them a small amount of money for their thoughts. It becomes ‘MY newspaper’ with the best people available that I choose, instead of someone else’s newspaper with the best people they can afford. That kind of thinking completely blows my hair back : )

Q: Which emerging technology excites you the most?

Q: Some may argue it’s not ‘emerging technology’, but I’d say mobility and the convergence of everything useful to us all being crammed into one device. All the dreams we have for technology become increasingly closer to being realised when it’s accessible, mobile and easy to use.

Apple’s launch of the iPad (no matter how crap you think it is) is significant in this space. Smart phones up until now, have been amazing but for their little screens. The iPad (and the avalanche of competitors to Apple who’ll be releasing now) attempts to take the best of the smart phone, the best of the laptop and put it into one. This is fantastic for all of us. Assuming Vodacom prices it right (fat chance), I can get very excited thinking about the world things like an iPad make possible for people. I’d love to be part of a project that takes 100 iPads and integrates them into the learning programme of a school in a very rural area in South Africa. Imagine?!

Q: Public speaking is rated as one of the most feared activities. What do you enjoy most about it and how did you overcome the natural fear? What is the biggest crowd you’ve spoken to?

A: There’s an energy and excitement that I get when I have to stand in front of people to speak. I don’t know if it’s caused by the challenge of ‘taming’ the fear running through my body, but there are not many other places in my world that come close to the feeling I get when I have to speak. I do get nervous, even scared, but as I get in front of that audience, the fear is replaced by the extreme opposite. It’s a completely addictive rush in that moment. I started speaking in front of audiences in my late teens / early twenties, in a youth development context. I got to learn from some of the best communicators in the country in a very nurturing environment.

My biggest audience was around 2000 people with 7 large screens behind me, and a stage that stretched into the middle of the audience, like a cat walk, at the Sandton Convention Centre. It was very very cool.

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

A: I’d like to read about Mark Hayter. He’s the principal of Grayston Prep (www.graystonprep.co.za) in Sandton/Sandown. My kids go to his school. I’ve not enough conversation with him, but I know he’s passionate about the use of technology in education. I’d want to know what he sees that most of us don’t? What the possibilities are? What the obstacles are to achieving the introduction of the best technology and the best of the internet into our schools (outside of just money)? Why we as parents should be working with schools to tackle these obstacles? I’d like to know what pushed him to become passionate about this? I’d like you to ask him to describe his perfect school (from size, to facilities, to curriculum, to teachers, to technology, to resources, to amount of hours in a day, to amount of years to complete, etc)?

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

Reminder that you can now listen our interviews at http://izimvo.com/listen or subscribe to our Podcast feed http://bit.ly/bgC35E

Rich Laburn

We are thrilled to bring you the very first Izimvo video interview with founder of North Pride Male consulting, Wildlife Filmmaker and Writer, Rich Laburn.

Rich, online marketer at Londolozi, has not only taken the time to answer our questions but has also produced a breathtakingly beautiful video giving us an insight into what life is like at one of South Africa’s most treasured game reserves.

With Londolozi as the back-drop, Rich answers our questions and shares footage of some of the more memorable moments at the reserve. Be sure to watch the video at the end of the interview.

Website: http://www.northpridemale.co.za
Blog: http://blog.londolozi.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/northpridemale
Location: Londolozi

Rich was kind enough to answer the following questions for us:

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: Rich Laburn, Founder of North Pride Male consulting, Wildlife Filmmaker and Writer.

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

A: I once harbored huge ambitions to play lead guitar in a rock band….just like Slash from Guns n Roses.

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

A: I enjoy living out in the bush which is pretty away from it all in the first place, however walking in the bush and surfing are the two things that I enjoy the most.

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

A: My dream home would be in the middle of the bush with a beautiful view, some river frontage and the interior design you see in the Conde Naste magazines.

This question was proudly sponsored by Private Property

Conservation in South Africa

Q: Can you tell us about an average day at Londolozi?

A: There is no average day at Londolozi, the lodge environment is constantly changing and presents different challenges everyday. However there are definitely elements of fun, innovation and empowerment that occur on any average day.

Q: When did Londolozi first start using social media to promote itself and has it been successful?

A: Londolozi has had a long time tribe of past guests and alumni and so our shift this year to the online world has been a successful start. We have created a virtual space with our blog (http://blog.londolozi.com) where everyone has the opportunity to feel like they are at Londolozi despite being elsewhere in the world. So far we have had a great response, but we are really going to kick things up a notch in 2010.

Q: You must have witnessed some amazing things during your time in the bush. Can you tell us about some of your most memorable experiences?

A: The three things that I love most in the bush are sunsets, big cats such as lions and leopards as well as elephants. This footage of this leopard cubs and this elephant bull swimming was also pretty special.

Q: Do you think our government is doing enough to protect our parks and wildlife for future generations?

A: I think that the government have shown a huge amount of foresight in their conservation achievements so far. Londolozi is part of a greater peace park that is a little of 6 million acres in size and will continue to grow. The emphasis and value that has been placed on these wild areas is priceless. I hope that an attitude of care and conservation will continue to be a primary point of focus for the government in years to come.

Q: What advice would you give those wanting a career in conservation?

A: My advice would be to start looking at doing things dynamically and differently. Conservation can sometimes get stuck in an old world mindset when in fact it has the potential to be completely original. All it needs is more people to bring contemporary ideas to the table. My other piece of advice would be to remember the importance and value that the internet and technology offers, despite living and working in wild isolated areas.

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: No fortunately not.

Q: Have you ever considered emigration? If yes, where do you think you would emigrate to?

A: I have not, however I am very keen to travel nonetheless.

Q: If you were South African president for just one day, what would you change?

A: I think that President gets so much advice anyway, that I would rather engage in a dialogue rather than try to impress upon him my opinions and advice. I would offer him encouragement and support more than anything else.

Q: To which three attractions would you first take an international visitor?

A: At Londolozi I would take them to watch a leopard cubs in the North, visit a Grade 1 Graduation ceremony in the surrounding community and then take in the sunset in the evening. In the broader sense of South Africa I would visit the bush, the Apartheid museum and Cape Town.

Life at Londolozi

Q: Can you give us an insight into the logistics needed to run a private game reserve such as Londolozi?

A: The logistic of running a Private Game Reserve are huge and constantly shifting. It requires and agile and flexible approach and most important to not take yourself too seriously.

Q: When not working, what do you enjoy doing in or around Londolozi?

A: Filming wildlife and writing.

Q: Living in a city is synonymous with traffic, crime, busy malls etc. What are issues that concern you while living in the bush?

A: Large and Venomous snakes, bumping into elephants late at night and the occasional bout of malaria.

Q: The 2010 Fifa Soccer World Cup is said to being 500 000 visitors to our shores. Have you seen an increase in demand for destinations such as Londolozi?

A: Without a doubt there has been a major increase in all lodge bookings, both at Londolozi and for the hospitality industry as a whole. If the travel forecasts are true then South African tourism in general is heading in a great period for the next three years as a result of the Soccer World Cup.

General

Q: Where would you like to wake up tomorrow?

A: Right here in the middle of the bush.

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

A: Synchronicity – Joseph Jaworski. The sooner people learn the benefit of being of service to life the better for themselves and for the world.

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

A: I would like to read about people who are blazing their own trail in life and who are doing things in a unique way.

Not only was Rich kind enough to answer our questions, but he took the time to produce an amazing video answering the questions above. It is nothing short of brilliant and gives a great insight into what life is like at Londolozi. Many thanks to Rich and the team at Londolozi.

Direct link to video on YouTube

Simon Dingle

Izimvo has the great pleasure of introducing technology journalist, writer, broadcaster and professional speaker, Simon Dingle.

Simon, who writes for Finweek magazine and contributes to Fin24.com, also presents shows on Talk Radio 702 and hosts the weekly ZA Tech Show Podcast.

Website: http://www.simon.co.za
ZA Tech Podcast: http://zatech.co.za
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/simondingle
Mahalo: http://www.mahalo.com/simon-dingle
Location: Johannesburg

Simon was kind enough to answer the following questions for us:

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 can’t remember who this is, but I like his t-shirt.”

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

A: I’m rubbish at hacky sack. And I couldn’t possibly pick a favourite movie, but something by Wes Anderson would be right up there. I have no real phobias, but hippies do worry me intensely. If I was capable of studying I would go back to varsity and sign up for quantum mechanics.

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

A: I really like my jobs and so I don’t really view life and work in a modular way. It’s just one big mash of awesomeness. Every day is part work, part holiday and all rad. I spend most of what some people would regard as ‘free’ time with my two sons who are 1 and 4 and very busy. I love console gaming, tai chi – although it has been two years since I last attended a class, single malt whisky, travel, inspiring conversations, writing, listening to audio books in traffic and I occasionally pine for my days in the music business, but that’s another story.

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

A: My goal is to have a few houses in choice locations around Mzansi. We’ve just moved into a new home in Johannesburg that is great. I would also like a large apartment in Bantry Bay, a cottage on the beach on the KZN south coast and a lodge in Limpopo. I don’t ask for much.

This question was proudly sponsored by Private Property:

Journalism in South Africa

Q: Do you think that our tertiary education system is keeping up with the rapid changes in journalism?

A: I honestly have no context from which to answer that question. I don’t have much experience with tertiary education. At least not recently. I have worked with some sharp interns this year, from a variety of institutions, but I believe that you define your own capabilities. Formal education is just an accessory.

Q: You host the weekly South African technology podcast, ZA Tech Show. Can you tell us a little about the show and how it started?

A: It started as an idea of a good friend of mine and fellow tech journalist Brett Haggard. He was instrumental in getting the whole thing going. We used to listen to international technology-related podcasts and felt that there was scope for something that focused on the local scene and offered tech-related discussions relevant to South Africans. So Brett called up Duncan McLeod, Ben Kelly and Jon Tullett. We lured them to our offices with beer. And the rest is history. To some.

Q: What are your thoughts on the recent news that Rupert Murdoch’s online newspapers will be implementing measures to block Google in an attempt to get readers to pay for content?

A: I think that Murdoch is hoping that by pushing an extreme view on content provisioning he will manage to forge an exclusive arrangement with Google. If he is successful it will also set a precedent for how “professional” news outfits engage with search providers and aggregation services in the future.

At face value his rantings are shortsighted and the only outcome of playing hardball with Google will be his publications falling by the wayside of the information super highway. He doesn’t seem to grasp the dynamics of our information economy and where the value of content lies. I think he should call me and pay me a couple of million dollars to sort it out for him. I have time Rupert. Seriously.

Q: If you were to pick a single technology story of 2009, which would it be?

A: That’s a tall order. I could pick the reduction of mobile interconnect rates, undersea cable Seacom’s landing, MTN and Bharti agreeing not to do anything together, Apple’s market-beating results or Icasa and Vodafone duking it out in court. There were many big stories this year, but I could sum it up as, ‘things happening in telecommunications in South Africa. And quickly.’.

Q: Who have you most enjoyed interviewing and do you ever get nervous before an interview?

A: Again, I couldn’t pick just one. I’ve spent an hour interviewing podcasting god Leo Laporte over Skype, had coffee with science fiction writer and open content activist Cory Doctorow in Croatia and interviewed Creative Commons founder Larry Lessig and the father of Wikipedia Jimmy Wales in Cape Town.

I’ve spoken to most CEOs of listed tech companies in South Africa and recently met some remarkable technology professionals in China, not long after interviewing Nokia’s Kai Öistämö in Stuttgart.

I also have a long list of musicians and other artists I’ve interviewed, including hanging out with Nelly Furtado for an afternoon in 2001 and chatting to Will Smith when he visited Johannesburg in 2004.

I don’t get nervous before interviews – they are an integral part of what I do and something I thoroughly enjoy.

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, yes and no. Crime is scary, especially the resentment-based violence we see in South Africa. But the truth is that crime happens everywhere, on varying scales, and intelligent people are careful all over the world. More so in Africa.

Q: Have you ever considered emigration? If yes, where do you think you would emigrate to?

A: I consider myself to be a global citizen, even if my South African passport somewhat limits the reach of that statement. I spend much of my time traveling internationally, but South Africa is home. If I had to live anywhere else it would be the USA. Probably on the west coast. I also wouldn’t mind spending more time in China, Japan and some other places. But I wouldn’t live there. And I can’t think of anything that would make me live in the UK, Europe or Australia. Bleh.

Q: If you were given the opportunity of interviewing the president, what would be your first question?

A: I would switch off all recording equipment, put down my pen and ask him what really happened with the arms scandal. There are greater forces at play in politics and economics in South Africa than what are immediately apparent. As former head of intelligence for the ANC, JZ knows all about them.

Q: To which three attractions would you first take an international visitor?

A: If we were confined to Johannesburg then Maropeng (The Cradle of Human Kind), Constitution Hill, Newtown for dinner and Soweto for drinks. And then out on the town. Sorry – I know you said “three” but I can’t help myself. If I could zip them around nationally then I can think of at least 20 places that are must-sees, including the Northern Cape, Limpopo, the Waterburg, Cape Point, Table Mountain, the Union Buildings, the Apartheid Museum and many more. We have a vast and diverse country.

Life in Johannesburg

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

A: The weather, the people, the hustle and bustle. Johannesburg is big and colourful and unassuming at first take. The city has so much to offer once you scratch below its surface, including art galleries, monuments and some of the best restaurants on the globe. This city stands up to the best in the world. I know, because I’ve seen many of them.

Q: Who makes the best coffee in Johannesburg?

A: I do.

Q: Favorite restaurant for dinner with a group of friends?

A: I really enjoy Casalinga, Orient, Kong Roast, The Meat Company and Longmeadow Restaurant and Piano Lounge, amongst others. I can’t pick one as favorite.

General

Q: The ZA Tech Show podcast features the panel’s weekly picks / pick-ons. What would your pick of 2009 be?

A: If I had to pick just one it would be the iPhone 3GS for its all-round awesomeness. But I would also assign honorable mention to indy adventure game Machinarium, Nokia’s Linux-powered N900, the ultra affordable Blackberry 8520 that takes smartphones to a wider market, and Twitter, which was around before but was defined in 2009.

Q: Favorite South African brand?

A: Cadac. They make really good braais. You can’t fuck with that.

Q: Where would you like to wake up tomorrow?

A: In my bed in Johannesburg next to my beautiful wife and with our two boys.

Q: If you had to pick one South African as a mentor, who would it be and why?

Q: This will potentially come across as cheesy – but I treat most of the people I meet as having something to teach me. Most of the “famous” people I’ve met aren’t that interesting or inspiring, they merely have jobs that place them in the public eye. The wisest among us are often the most unassuming.

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

A: Someone I’ve never heard of before. I like meeting new people.

A massive thank you to Simon for taking the time to answer our questions.

Reminder to download our Izimvo iPhone application in the Apple iTunes App Store. Have access to South Africa’s most inspirational right in your pocket. iTunes Link.

Sheena Gates

Izimvo has the honour of introducing popular blogger and editor of NerdMag.co.za, Sheena Gates.

Website: http://www.shebee.co.za
Twitter: http://twitter.com/ShebeeGee
Location: Johannesburg

Sheena was kind enough to answer the following questions for us:

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: This is Sheena.  She’s not well.  Better known online as SheBee, she’s 25 and striving to break into the digital world professionally.

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

A: I’m horribly afraid of fish.  Lots of people already know that (and tease me endlessly) though, so I suppose I could tell you that my right foot is shrinking.  Truly.

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

A: I’d love to say that it’s something as divine as tanning in the sun with a good book, but truthfully the sun hates me (you should check me peel!) and I can’t really lie still for very long unless I’m engrossed in a vampire series of some kind.

Blogging in South Africa

Q: Which local blogs do you read on a daily basis?

A: I’m terrible, I hardly ever go to the actual blogs (let alone comment) but I flip through my Google Reader at least twice a week and my absolute favourite blogs list as follows:

Baglett (http://baglett.blogspot.com)

Angels Mind (http://angelsmind.co.za) one of my very good friends who has finally found her happy ending.

ExMi (http://expensivemistakescheapthrills.co.za) a psychotic fellow illegal driver and very special mate of mine.

Cath Jenkin (http://cathjenkin.wordpress.com) my non-lesbian soul mate.

iMod (http://imod.co.za) a sexy Capetonian blogger I’ve followed for years who happens to have gotten engaged recently too.

Q: What advice would you give to South African bloggers wanting to turn their passion into a career? Is it possible to be a professional blogger?

A: Of course it’s possible, unfortunately not very often probable.  But keeping in mind that my blog is far from professional, and also that I probably shouldn’t be taken at face value for anything, it is my professional belief that you should keep at it, ensuring you have fun while you’re at it.  Don’t take sh*t from your troll readers (you’re not a true blogger until someone’s hating you on your own online turf, hey) and be nice to the advertisers.  The rest will follow.

Q: There is a fine line between promotion and spam, how do you promote your blog?

A: Other than Twitterfeed, I don’t promote my blog.  I used to belong to Amatomu in the hopes that other members would see me in the top ten and click the link, but that whole site went rather pear-shaped and so I did what everyone else was doing (I’m cool and original like that) and jumped the boat.  I think I might be with Afrigator still, come to think of it. They’re cool though.  Their sister, Adgator gives me free money, so how can I complain?

Q: In what other ways do you engage with your readers?

A: I try respond to all their comments in some way or another, be it in the comments section or in follow-up posts.  If requested to elaborate on things, I do if I’m in the mood.  I listen to them, chat with them and try to get to know them.  I love my readers.  More than I love cheese cake, even.

Q: Can you tell us about some of your most popular posts on your blog? What defines a good blog post?

A: Well, there was that one time I accidentally hijacked my own car.  Or the time I fell in front of my life-long one true love, Ryan Kankowski.  Those were legendary posts to write, if I say so myself.

What defines a good post?  I have no idea.  When I blog, it’ll be because I was inspired by one minute of real life action or a particular phrase in my head at the time.  When I get the urge, I have to sit down and write it there and then, or its lost in sands of time… and these are the days of our lives. I’m easily distracted, my mind is all: LOOK, A DISTRACTION! LET’S NOT DO THIS RIGHT NOW! And then it’s gone, forever and ever amen.  So yeah, what makes a good post for me?  One that’s finished…

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: Yip.  Once, my blanket was stolen right off my bed while I was sleeping.  The dudes also made off with my step-dad’s wine collection.  But we caught those buggers within hours because they drank the stolen goods and passed out on the railway track not very far from the house.  Chops.

More seriously, my little brother is an SAP Dog Unit member and was shot in the head while on duty earlier this year.  He almost didn’t make it and that changed our whole family’s perspective of South African crime.  It made it more real for all of us.  And it makes me cross how lahdidah we’ve all had to become about it.  It shouldn’t be this way.  But no, in this country or the next one or even the one after that, there will always be crime.  I won’t let it affect my perception of SA, it’s a gorgeous country and it’s MY gorgeous country.

Q: Have you ever considered emigration? If yes, where do you think you would emigrate to?

A: Yes I have.  My dad, other mother & baby sister immigrated to Land of The Oz.  I almost went with them, but changed my mind at the last-minute.  I think if I went anywhere, it would be on a long and well-deserved holiday, nothing more.

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

A: Easy, peasy:

1. Dude, change your fashion style – can you say “laaaaaaaaaaame”?
2. Fire Juleeee-yus.  He’s doing you no favours.
3. More importantly, keep up the good work!

Q: To which three attractions would you first take an international visitor?

A: esCape Town: Quay 4 at The Waterfront to experience the worlds greatest Pina Colada.  My friend Sue Rutherford introduced me to them.

Hoburg: Brightwater Commons Mimmo’s – they have the best pizza and a music orchestrated water fountain of awesomeness.

Dirtbin:  Taco Zulu’s in Florida road.  It’s run by a bunch of geek surfer boys and has a kick bum Mexican influenced menu, with loads of stickers and funky Rasta art all over the place to round off an amazing Durban vibe.

Life in Johannesburg

Q: Having recently moved to Johannesburg, what have been the biggest differences from your life in Durban?

A: For one, the boys open my doors here, they’re much less Neanderthal than most of the Durban boytjies.  There’s a different vibe here, people work hard but they play hard too.  My life is crazy up here, my boyfriend and I are on the go all the time and we literally have to schedule some quiet time at home.  I promise, you should see what my Google Calendar looks like.

I miss the ocean though, and sometimes even the humidity.  Especially in Winter when I’m walking around whining about the cold and plugging my heater into the nearest available power point.

Q: Who makes the best breakfast in Johannesburg?

A: There’s this awesome little unassuming place called Nikita’s near Hartebeesport Dam.  Their breakfasts are fit for a king and the service from Alfred, the head waiter is top-notch.

Q: Where are you doing your Christmas shopping?

A: I’m loving the online shopping vibe this year.  My Goodies is a good place to start.  Cresta Mall is also up there if I absolutely have to go shopping in person.

General

Q: If you could pick anyone as your mentor, who would it be and why?

A: My mom.  She’s awesome.  She’s overcome so much emotionally and personally, yet she can still kick back on the deck at home and make us all giggle. At the age of 40 she decided she hated her career, gave it all up and studied for a few years and now is the owner of her own little empire.  I’m very proud to be her daughter.

Q: Favorite gadget that you could not live without?

A: My Blingberry (it’s a bedazzled pink & white Blackberry).  No, my Mac.  No, no, definitely the Blackberry.

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

A: The Spud series.  A must read for all South African scholars.  Educational too.  Okay, not really, but highly entertaining.

Q: Where would you like to wake up tomorrow?

A: In bed with my better half, on a beach somewhere in Zanzibar.  Where he will feed me chocolate covered edible glasses of bottomless Pina Colada.  A girl can wish, right?

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

A: Angel Swemmer of Angels Mind.  She’s an inspirational [ex] single mother helping those in need, supporting those who support those who suffer from ADHD.  She also bakes the best cupcakes on planet Earth, plans weddings and has the most amazing personality I’ve ever known.

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

Rafiq Phillips

Izimvo has the pleasure of introducing SEO specialist and popular blogger, Rafiq Phillips.

Rafiq, winner of the 2007 Top ICT Youth Innovator in Africa, works as an SEO specialist for Naspers as well as running iDrive.co.za and popular South African blog, Web AddiCTs.

Rafiq was featured on MNet’s Carte Blanche on the topic of Social Networking and Communication. Link to the video.

Website: http://www.idrive.co.za
Blog: http://www.webaddict.co.za
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/rafiqphillips
Twitter: http://twitter.com/rafiq
Location: Cape Town

Rafiq was kind enough to answer the following questions for us:

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: Rafiq Phillips, 26, work as an SEO specialist at Naspers’ www.mihswat.com consulting to some of the largest Internet companies throughout the developing wwworld during the day while at night my project www.idrive.co.za which connects learner drivers with the best driving schools in South Africa. I’ve been blogging since 1999- coding HTML in notepad.

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

A: I do not eat butter or margarine, ever. Never have, never will.

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

A: I really enjoy fishing in the mountains just outside Cape Town. Do not get there nearly enough.

Blogging in South Africa

Q: Which local blogs do you read on a daily basis?

A: I usually catch up with blogs on my mobile phone using Google Reader mobile before I go to bed. There are too many to mention. Best see my Google Reader Shared items on my profile http://www.google.com/profiles/rafiq.phillips

Q: What advice would you give to South African bloggers wanting to turn their passion into a career?

A: Don’t give up your day job. It takes a lot of patience and consistency. I’ve heard many people talk about starting their blogs for many months even years and have not gotten as far as writing their firsts posts. Jut do it!

Q: There is a fine line between promotion and spam, how did you promote your blog in the early days?

A: I didn’t :) I used www.webaddict.co.za as a testing bed for seo and blogged about technology that I was passionate about or found interesting. There was a very small tech blogging community back in 2005/2006 and we just happened to stumble upon each others blogs while Googling.

Q: As a local technology enthusiast, which South African technologies have you the most excited?

A: There is not one specific technology that really excites me. Rather the way in which technology is used to solve South African problems. A few examples would be Reconstructed Living Labs http://www.rlabs.org/ who are using a host of technologies to battle drug abuse, gangsterism and raise HIV/Aids awareness.

Q: What are your thoughts on the Silicon Cape Initiative?

A: Any initiative that focuses attention on the local tech scene is a good one.

Q: Can you tell us about some of your most popular posts on Web AddiCT?

A: You are able to view the popular posts from any page on Web AddiCT(s); A post becomes popular once it receives continuous media attention or becomes mainstream. I didn’t really answer that did I?

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: I do not believe there is a person in any country that has not been affected by crime. You should always take precaution no matter where you are. A little common sense should keep you safe.

Q: Have you ever considered emigration? If yes, where do you think you would emigrate to?

A: NO.

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

A: Don’t preach what you practice.

Q: To which three attractions would you first take an international visitor?

A: Table mountain, Cape Point via Boulders beach and the Waterfront.

Life in Cape Town

Q: Favorite restaurant for a romantic dinner?

A: Tought one, there aren’t many Halaal restaurants in Cape Town that can be considered romantic.

Q: Who makes the best coffee in Cape Town?

A: Our coffee machine at the MIH SWAT office by far.

Q: Which of the various malls in or around Cape Town would you recommend for Christmas shopping?

A: The Internet. I don’t do Christmas shopping and am not a big fan of malls.

General

Q: If you could pick anyone as your mentor, who would it be and why?

A: MXit CEO, Herman Heunis. I Admire the way he runs his business.

Q: Favorite South African sporting moment of the last 10 years?

A: 1995 Rugby Word Cup final.

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

A: Robert Kiyosaki’s Cashflow Quadrant. You’d have to read Rich Dad, Poor Dad too

Q: Where would you like to wake up tomorrow?

A: Where I’ll be waking up on the 21st of December: next to my wife :)

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

A: Gavin Marshall

A massive thank you to Rafiq for taking the time to answer our questions. We wish him every success for the future.

Reminder!
Don’t forget to enter our competition as announced on yesterday’s interview with Springleap.com co-founder, Eran Eyal. To enter, simply become a fan of the Izimvo and Springleap Facebook pages. Winners will be announced tomorrow morning at 9am. Good Luck!

Tertia Albertyn and her beautiful family

Izimvo has the great honour of introducing the courageous Tertia Albertyn.

Tertia’s blog (www.tertia.org) is about her struggle to have children was judged the top blog in the country in 2007 and again in 2008. Her book ‘So Close’, based on her blog and detailing her five-year battle with infertility was released in South Africa in August 2006 and on Amazon in 2009. The book was a finalist in the 2007 Lulu Blooker Awards.

She recently founded ‘Nurture Egg Donor Program’ (www.nurture.co.za) bringing hope to infertile couples all over the world. Tertia has a MBA from the University of Cape Town and her day job is with IBM. She lives in Cape Town with her husband and three children.

Website: http://www.tertia.org/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/Tertia
Location: Cape Town

Tertia was kind enough to answer the following questions for us:

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: Tertia Albertyn (nee Loebenberg) is a recovering infertile and now mother to twins conceived on her 9th IVF plus another ‘surprise!’ baby who is now 6 months old.

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 a very odd person, but I am in touch with my inner crazy and as I get older, I learn to embrace my inner oddness and care less and less about social norms and niceties. I am who I am, take it or leave it. It is incredibly liberating not to worry what other people think of you.

Other interesting facts….I am scared of birds. I don’t like being near any bird that is able to fly near my head. I have a thing about birds and my head. Clearly.

I don’t like movies or movies on TV. I can’t get over the fact that it is not real. You are not XYZ, you are Tom Cruise pretending to be XYZ. Why would I want to watch you do that? I hate movies.

I can’t cook. I don’t cook. At all. I don’t even know how my oven works.

I am very fond of Chardonnay(this is not a secret).

My husband is five years younger than I am. Cradle snatcher!

I have been married for almost 10 years. My longest relationship before that was 10 months.

My husband is not allowed to touch me while I am sleeping. I have a line in the middle of the bed. None of his body parts may cross that line while I am sleeping. There is some for touching, but NOT WHILE I AM SLEEPING.

I don’t hug. I don’t like to be touched unnecessarily. I do however like sex. Just not while I am sleeping, and if I am sleeping, do not wake me. That was a joke.

I have sensory issues (touch and noise) and I am slightly ADHD. Which means I better move on before I lose concentration.

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

A: I have a full-time job, a business to run, a baby, twin preschoolers plus staff. I never get away from it all. But if I had to, I would probably work. My work (www.nurture.co.za) is my passion, my hobby, my love, my life.

Fertility Treatment in South Africa

Q: Your twins were conceived on your 9th IVF treatment. How did you and your husband stay positive during this time and was there ever a stage when you thought of stopping?

A: With lots of support from my cyber friends in the interwebs and with lots of wine, fags and happy pills. It was tough, and there were times I wanted to stop, but stopping (and facing the thought of a childless future) was always scarier than carrying on with the next treatment.

Q: Where did you first hear about egg donation and when did you and your husband decide that this is what you wanted to try?

A: My twins weren’t conceived with egg donation. I was lucky enough to conceive with my own eggs, but egg donation was something we seriously considered along the way.

Q: You co-founded Nurture, an egg donor and surrogacy programme, with Melany Bartok. What was the impetus for starting the company and how has the response been?

A: For years I have wanted to be involved with helping other people have their families, and have always wondered how I could help when one day the idea just came to me – egg donation. The response has been overwhelming, we have way exceeded our most optimistic expectations and have helped over 200 people with egg donors.

Q: In your experience, what are the main reasons why women become egg donors or surrogate mothers?

A: These women, those who become egg donors or surrogates are the most amazing women. They are the type of women that care deeply about their fellow humans. They volunteer, they recycle, they care. You know how you just get some really amazing people? These are those type of people. Many of them have seen friends or family struggle and know what it is like to go through this pain.

Q: What advice would you offer woman looking for or who have started fertility treatment?

A: Do NOT waste any more time, go see a fertility specialist immediately. Eggs have an expiry date, it doesn’t matter how fit you are, how well you look on the outside, your eggs have an expiry date, and it is sooner than you think. Do not take your fertility for granted, and do not leave it too late.

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: I am extremely fortunate in that we haven’t been affected by serious crime. I get nervous even saying that because I know how prevalent crime is. I am constantly aware of the threat of crime, but I can’t imagine myself living any where else.

Q: Have you ever considered emigration? If yes, where do you think you would emigrate to?

A: I have, I am sure the thought has crossed every South African’s mind at some point, but I have never seriously considered it. I don’t think I could live anywhere else but here in SA.

Q: If you had an opportunity to sit down with the president, what advice would you offer him?

A: Please make sure that you and the other officials don’t fuck this country up. We have so much to offer, we have such a beautiful country. Be ruthless with corruption, stand a firm stand against any type of crime. Lead by example.

Q: To which three attractions would you first take an international visitor?

A: Moyo at Spier, the Waterfront, wine route.

Life in Cape Town

Q: Which kid friendly restaurant do you consider to be the most adult friendly?

A: We aren’t big on eating out, so I don’t have too much for this one. Saturday breakfast at Willowbridge our favourite thing.

Q: What are your favorite places to take the family on those perfect summer days?

A: It doesn’t really matter where we go, everything is a big adventure for my kids. But we do like to go down to the local dam to feed the ducks. Or anywhere with water (beach, little streams).

Q: What about living in Cape Town are you most proud of?

A: The beauty of the place, the gorgeous summers and the friendly people.

General

Q: As a business woman and mother of 3, how do you find the balance between work and home life?

A: Ah, the eternal question – one to which there is no perfect answer. I wouldn’t be able to do any of what I do without help. I have the most amazing nanny and without her, I wouldn’t survive. My precious work time is in the morning when the kids are at school. I get three good hours in then. The rest I make up early morning and late at night. It is always a delicate balance between making sure I am there for the kids, and then putting in the hours necessary to earn a living. My poor husband gets the short end of the stick I’m afraid. However my kids are always my first priority.

Q: If you were able to pick anyone as your mentor, who would it be and why?

A: That is an excellent question and one that I am grappling with at the moment. I am looking for a mentor. I would like someone to bounce ideas off and to get guidance from. Being a specialized field, I don’t have too many people to choose from, but I am on the lookout currently. I would like someone who has started their own business from scratch, someone who is entrepreneurial and who has gone global. But mostly I want someone who runs their business the way I do, with heart. Every decision I make, I make with heart and feeling. Sounds wishy washy, but it works for us. I like to be able to sleep at night with a clear conscience. So, if you have any suggestions for me, I would love to hear!

Q: Where would you like to wake up tomorrow?

A: Right here at home. I LOVE LOVE LOVE my home and my family. I love being at home. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.

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

Q: My book? ;-) probably scare the living daylights out of them. Not sure actually. I either read business books or baby books, I don’t have time for anything else.

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

A: Inspirational real life stories of women who have made a difference, or have made it big.

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