Matthew Buckland

Izimvo has the pleasure of introducing South African Internet maven, Matthew Buckland.

Named as one of South Africa’s top 100 most influential media and advertising people, Matthew’s illustrious career includes founding 20FourLabs.com and heading up Mail & Guardian Online.

Matthew has recently left the corporate world to start his own company,  Creative Spark. He has also recently launched Memeburn.com, an online publication focused on startup news and analysis.

Websites: http://www.matthewbuckland.com
http://memeburn.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/matthewbuckland
Location: Cape Town

Matthew 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 Matt – he’s somewhat of a geek. He’s now 35. He’s left the corporate world and now runs his own company Creative Spark, which builds websites, mobile sites and apps, but also publishes memeburn.com and amatomu.com.

Interesting fact? He started programming at the age of 7 (ZX Spectrum 48k in BASIC), did a journalism degree specialising in new media and has a wife, two little daughters and a Weimaraner.

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

A: I have a real issue with Parktown Prawns. I get irrational about them. I can be slightly OCD sometimes.

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

A: Playing squash. Spending time at the family farm just outside George at the top of the Outeniqua pass in the W Cape. Playing the odd game of geek cricket. Travelling. Playing with my two naughty daughters, Isabel and Stella.

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

A: It would be right here in Cape Town, one of the best places in the world to live. I might opt for Kommetjie though, and it would have glass walls.

This question was proudly sponsored by Private Property. Looking for the home that has it all? Well this R6.15m 5 bedroom home in Noordhoek has top finishes throughout the house, views, pool, underfloor heating, fireplace and much much more.

South Africa Online

Q: Congratulations on the successful launch of Memeburn. What was the impetus for starting the site and what have been the greatest obstacles in bringing the idea to fruition?

A: Thank you. There were two major reasons for starting Memeburn (pronounced “Meem”).

One: I’m just doing what I enjoy, which is writing and reading about emerging technologies, start-ups, new media and social media trends.

Two: I felt there was a gap in the market for a site that analyses social media and emerging technology trends in South Africa, Africa and broader emerging markets.

The biggest obstacle has been budget and time. Memeburn is 30% of what we are doing — but as the site grows and generates more revenue, we’ll bring onboard more journalists and a full-time editor and begin expanding to Africa and emerging markets. We have signed up some quality advertisers on the site and the site’s done solid traffic for its very first month — so it’s very promising.

Q: What advice would you offer those wanting to start an online business and is an advertising-only business model a viable option here in South Africa?

A: I think you should look at multiple revenue models, which include advertising and transactional revenue. There has been quite a bit of criticism about the banner ad (from yours truly too), but the reality is that this is what the industry knows and understands at the moment — and broadly they work.

The advertising model needs to evolve and adapt however. There isn’t enough innovation happening here. All the advertising innovation is happening at companies like Google and Facebook. The online publishing industry seems to be stuck in a rut, not sure what to do here.

Efforts to create paywalls just show a lack of imagination. Media companies can go ahead and paywall themselves into extinction: It’s a fundamental misunderstanding of what the internet is.

Q: Give us an insight into the daily running of the site. How are stories selected, how many writers do you have contributing to the site and who clicks the final publish button?

A: We have more than 70 contributors signed up, of which we have published just over half. Our contributors are industry leaders and contributors who can write well and have interesting things to say. We have a freelance writer who does the news too. I also sometimes compile the news reports. We have a project manager who subs the stories and puts them live.

Q: What were your initial traffic goals for the site and have your readership numbers been inline with your estimations?

A: I wanted 25k uniques and 50k PI’s in the first month — and it looks like we are on track for this. It’s been an amazing experience because this is a site that has been launched and marketed solely via social networks and the blogosphere. It seems to have worked.

Q: As one of South Africa’s most influential new media specialists, what are your predictions for an online South Africa? Do you think we are capable of producing the next Google or Facebook?

A: I think there are many opportunities for niche social networks. I also think that all major websites should start seeing themselves as “unrealised social networks” and build social layers on their offerings: bespoke and integrated with the world’s major networks like Facebook and Twitter. Networking and sharing is a fundamental part of humanity, why shouldn’t it be a part of the sites we read too?

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

A: Once the revenue model has stabilised and I have a full-time editor we’ll look at Memeburn Phase 2. We need to separate opinion and news, we need to get more news and interviews. We’ll also expand more aggressively into Africa and key emerging markets elsewhere. We need to think about it though, because the current format is working well. I’ll also start paying some of our top contributors.

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 we have, but luckily nothing severe. We had an attempted burglary in Hout Bay that was, luckily, averted. In Joburg we had a break in and car radios stolen. It just means we are more careful and take more precautions to secure our properties. It would be naive to not be aware of the vast socio-economic inequities we have in this country, which I believe is a cause of the crime problem. I’m not angry at anyone: it’s our reality.

It’s none so apparent in the place I live, Hout Bay, which features simultaneously some of Cape Town’s wealthiest houses and the very poorest. Somehow the community manages and there is a good spirit.

Hout Bay gives me hope for the rest of the country. We’ll work it out.

Q: If you were asked by the Minister of Communications for advice on how to improve Internet adoption and usage in South Africa, what recommendations would you make?

A: Aggressively promote competition. Open up regulation. Provide tax breaks and incentives for those that are contributing towards building our information economy. It’s the backbone of all business. And move at internet speed, not government speed.

Q: With less than 50 days to the first African Soccer World Cup, what advice would you offer to first-time visitors looking to sample the best in South African cuisine?

A: I’d tell them to head off to Moyos, do a “township tour” and dine out at some of Cape Town’s best such as Belugas, Five Flies, Katimas etc

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

A: The inequitable socio-economic situation we find ourselves in. We need to build a strong middle-class — this is the foundation of all successful democracies and integrated societies. This is what we should aim for.

Life in Cape Town

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

A: I enjoy the tech entrepreneurial scene that appears to be growing here — and it gave me the desire and confidence to finally go it on my own. Julius Malema feels a million miles away when I drive from Hout Bay on Victoria avenue to Town, with the vast Atlantic ocean on my left and a beautiful mountain on my right.

Q: Favorite destination for a fun outing with a group of friends in or around Cape Town?

A: Groot Constantia, Llandudno beach, Betty’s Bay.

Q: If you were tasked with the building of a new tourist attraction, which other cities would you draw inspiration from?

A: I’d look at Berlin. It’s an amazing city from a historical perspective. So much happened there and so much of it is preserved and celebrated in memorials, exhibitions and museums. The whole place is like a living museum. My best city in the world, apart from Cape Town.

General

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

A: Nelson Mandela, Barack Obama and Albert Einstein. We’d serve nachos with a healthy dose of guacamole and chilli.

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

A: Netocracy. It helped me understand on a very fundamental level how the world is changing as a result of the information revolution. Also Lord of the Rings: one of the best reads ever.

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: I like being productive. More often than not I’m working. I don’t understand what 9-5 means. My perfect situation is working on my laptop with the Test cricket in the background. I’m trying to cut down on the late nights though.

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

A: Be bold. Don’t join a corporate. Start your own business. Believe in yourself more. Seek out mentors and don’t be afraid to hound them down.

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

A: Pete Cashmore. Got any traffic to share with me mate?

We’d like to thank Matthew 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.

Michael Sutcliffe

Izimvo proudly introduces the man behind the city, Mike Sutcliffe; eThekwini City Manager.

Dr Sutcliffe grew up in Amanzimtoti, part of a large, conservative family, with six siblings, raised by a stay-at-home mother and an accountant father. In 1978, Dr Sutcliffe moved to the United States with his wife, Felicity, in order to complete his PhD in Geography at Ohio State University. He and Felicity returned to Durban in 1982 where he has worked hard to build a formidable reputation as an academic and activist.

In 1994, Mike Sutcliffe was elected as an ANC member of the provincial legislature and has since held a chair on the Local Government Portfolio Committee. He has been Chairperson of the Municipal Demarcation Board since 1999 and is credited as an associate professor at the University of Natal.

Newsletter: http://www.durban.gov.za/durban/government/media/cmn
Location: Durban

Dr Sutcliffe 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: Michael Sutcliffe, 54 years, City manager: eThekwini, striving to get advantaged South Africans to chill out and realise that they are actually Africans in love with Durban, Africa.

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

A: I don’t like pompous idiots. Loved Bolero, the movie.

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

A: Watching game, reading, thinking.

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

A: Addington Beach, Durban.

This question was proudly sponsored by Private Property

Durban

Q: Can you give us an insight to what the average day is like as the Durban City Manager?

A: Up around 5:30 a.m, walk a few times a week along the beachfront, City Hall around 6:45; meetings, talks, discussions until 7pm, home and either cook dinner or go out with Felicity, watch TV, do eMails, listen to music (from Eminem to Janis Joplin to Chopin), watch DVDs (love the latest Leonard Cohen one) friends pop over, get to bed between 12 midnight and 1am

Q: What are the greatest challenges facing Durban today?

A: Getting those who have (education, jobs, money) to own their city and work with us to address the challenges of poverty, unemployment and AIDs.

Q: What can the average Durban resident do to improve the city?

A: Start by saying I want to be part of the solution, clean your mind, empathise with those who are poor, do anything (small acts of kindness to larger acts of development) to make a difference, keep talking up our city, country and continent.

Q: What are your predictions for tomorrow’s municipalities?

A: 10 years ago over two-thirds of our country did not have a municipality and had poor sanitation, housing, electricity and water. Today we have reduced these basic levels of underdevelopment so that over 50% of our people have better housing, water and sanitation. But now we need also to focus on citizenship, building a non-racial, non-sexist, united and democratic South Africa.

Q: What are the must-see attractions in or around Durban for visitors to the Fifa World Cup?

A: uShaka, Harbour, Moses Mabhida stadium, Inanda heritage trail (Gandhi settlement, Ohlange where the ANC was born and Nelson Mandela voted in 1994), beaches, Valley of 1000 Hills, Inanda/Clermont/Umlazi, Florida Road, davenport and other nightlife areas.

Q: Can you tell us about some of the projects that are as a direct result of the Fifa World Cup?

A: (i) The Moses Mabhida stadium and its precinct – we have built the only stadium in Africa which can host a Commonwealth games or Olympics,

(ii) Public Transport – starting to get an integrated system in place with 3 hubs and then an Inner City Distribution System,

(iii) Infrastructure – stadia, roads, beautification projects, etc.,

(iv) ICT – rolling out fibre throughout the city,

(iv) Beachfront upgrades,

(v) Eventing strategy

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. No, has not changed the way we live, in fact made us realise that the more we surround ourselves with security technology the more unsafe we feel.

Q: What would you say to South African’s considering emigration?

A: If you’re stuffy and stuck up, please go. If you are unsure of the future, talk to us and please stay.

Q: If you could change anything about South Africa by waving a magic wand, what would it be?

A: The mindsets of those who have education, jobs, houses and security – simply asking them to stop whinging and whining and to become part of the solution.

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

A: Central Beaches (the most non-racial place in our country), uShaka (one of the greatest Marine Parks in the world), Gandhi settlement and Dr. Dube’s grave.

General

Q: If you could invite any three South African’s from any era to a dinner party, who would you invite and what would you serve?

A: Albertina Sisulu – how did she remain so lovely having lived through such hardship; Beyers Naude to thank him for what he was and did for us, and Brenda Fassie so we can finish the conversation and drinks we had one day on a flight from Johannesburg, just before she died. I would serve a garden salad, my oxtail potje and baked cheese cake for dessert, with lots of good red wine.

Q: Favorite South African brand?

A: (i) ANC and Nelson Mandela, (ii) our wonderful people, (iii) great leisure opportunities.

Q: Where would you like to wake up tomorrow?

A: Durban.

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

A: Oliver Tambo – he led us through the toughest of times but kept his dignity and made sure our African humanity won out.

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

A: Passionate people who live their dreams, committed people who know this is their place and loving people who like chilling out

We’d like to thank Dr Sutcliffe 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.

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

Andy Hadfield

Izimvo is honoured to introduce Online Strategist at First National Bank, Andy Hadfield.

Andy, who is currently responsible for First National Bank’s personal banking digital strategy, co-launched www.gAL.co.za while studying communications at UCT. The site, which become the largest national student portal, is considered by some to be South Africa’s first social network.

Andy has also spent 4 years as the COO of The Virtual Works where he pioneered South Africa’s first niche social network for designers, www.designmind.co.za.

Website: http://www.andyhadfield.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/andyhadfield
Location: Johannesburg

Andy 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 Andy, he looks older than he actually is. I don’t quite know what he does – but it’s got something to do with the web. He likes beer, buy him one…

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 a devastating leg spinner. Sometimes devastating to the batsmen, other times to the score line. Our team, The Fine Legs, challenge for greatness every Saturday in the Joburg Last Man Stands T20 league.

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

A: Unplugging. It’s so important to get out of the city when you can – go hiking, biking, sailing, diving… If you’re stuck in the city, do what most immigrant Gautengers do, support the Stormers!

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

A: I’m really loving Joburg at the moment, and will probably be around for a good couple of years to come. Dream home? It’s probably a combo. I’ll forgo the R20 million mansion for a luxury flat in Joburg, Cape Town and a small holiday house in the Eastern Cape. Best of all three worlds.

This question was proudly sponsored by Private Property

Banking in South Africa

Q: When you joined First National Bank, your were tasked with driving digital adoption in the personal banking segment. How have you found working for a large corporate and what are the biggest obstacles facing you in meeting your objectives?

A: I’ve actually been blown away by how much fun I’ve had at FNB. No lies, I thought I’d struggle inside a corporate structure, but First Rand as a group has an (wait for it, the last word you’d probably expect) extremely entrepreneurial culture. It’s a bunch of businesses inside a mother brand – driving hard to deliver great products to the customer. Inside that, it’s really easy to get ear-time for the channel of the future.

In terms of obstacles, I’ve been lucky to work with bunch of really visionary people. From the Online and Mobile teams to the Product Houses – obstacles aren’t really the biggest worry in my life at the moment.

If anything, it’s been trying to convince people that while digital platforms aren’t delivering the “real numbers” at the moment – they will be the sales destination of the future. We’d better prepare now, make our mistakes, bump our heads and get our internal people excited so we’re ready when the floodgates open.

Q: South African’s have a love-hate relationship with their banks. What are some of the ways that you are trying to address this using social media?

A: Doesn’t FNB have just the greatest strap line in the world? How Can We Help You? Social media is just a logical extension of this brand positioning. We try help people. Openly. Honestly. And with a bit of FNB flair.

Q: Do you use social media as just a customer acquisition and retention tool or just another marketing channel?

A: Not a marketing channel yet. You have to be so careful. Social media is that conversation you used to have around a braai on the Sunday, brought online. Who likes the guy who rocks up at the Sunday braai to sell Amway?

Social media is about engagement above all else. As a company, you will sell more and retain more customers if you build valued relationships with them. Building online relationships is about open conversation, not pushing marketing messages.

That said, there is a space to build marketing messages to opt-in communities that are targeted and relevant. The trick is always relevance…

Q: What are your predictions for how companies such as FNB will use social media 5 years from now?

A: FaceBook was only invented 6 years ago. I’d be silly to even suggest I can imagine where the Internet will go in 5 years time.

FNB has always been fairly on top of the adoption curve – so if I had to hazard a guess – I’d go with more contact points via more channels and providing faster turnaround times. Brands will become conversation hubs in the social space. You’ll either be in the centre of that conversation, or on the outskirts.

Q: What advice would you offer to companies who have not yet started using social media?

A: Don’t. Listen first. Do a whole lot of listening. There is a conversation going on out there that is loud, vociferous, skewed to a certain population group, valuable and also downright worthless. You’ve got to understand what people are saying and the context of that conversation before even venturing down this path.

We truly understood the future scope of the social sphere by doing a Twitter search of the term “FNB”. Bearing in mind that Twitter is a micro community of SA’s privileged Internet users, it’s frightening to see the level of conversation going on. It’s exciting to see what kind of marketing intelligence you can gather from that conversation.

Once you’ve listened, listen some more, and only then venture forth. Start a conversation with a customer. You’ll be amazed at the warmth you can generate when you help someone. You’ll be more amazed at how these conversation shape your products and services as they develop.

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’ve lived in a crime bubble – and it scares me. Couple of minor break-ins is about the sum total of it. I do remember a shoot out in my street, but again, I was behind two brick walls and tweeting as opposed to being in any grave danger.

It really worries me how I’d react if myself or my family was a victim of violent crime. I know it happens and I know it’s out there – it’s all the media talk about these days. But until it happens to you…

Sad, really.

I think South Africa’s number one priority in the next 10 years should be PR. We need to fix those base economic factors that cause crime, and while we’re fixing them, shout it to the world. Some ghettos in America will make Hillbrow look like a picnic, yet tourists flock there without a predetermined destiny of death.

PR.

Now.

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

A: Not seriously enough to have considered a country. Perhaps a beach bar in Zanzibar? I kid… South Africa’s way too much fun to leave.

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

A: Make decisions and be a strong leader. South Africa seems to like you. You’re a personable chap with a funky Umshini Wam thing going. We like that – it fits with our African style.

Keep the flair, but now take sides, make decisions, get your house in order and move us forward. Be the link between the personality of Mandela and the policy of Mbeki. And seriously, I know Malema diverts attention away from you, but the guy needs a good spanking.

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

A: Strandloper, the beach restaurant in Melkbos, Cape Town.

Any game farm in Joburg. Long, boozey game drive as the sun goes down.

Soccer City. Chiefs vs Pirates makes Man U / Chelsea look like a garden party.

Life in Johannesburg

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

A: The people and the weather. Joburg weather beats even Plett (IMHO) and the people are amazing – driven, friendly and always willing to do stuff. It takes an earthquake to get a Capetonian to drive more than 8km, while Jozi folk will pop out to Krugersdorp for a quick round of golf without blinking.

Joburg. Stuff happens.

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

A: Kong Roast, just off Witkoppen in Fourways. It’s Kong (Asian) and Roast (Western) – two completely different restaurants designed inside the same space. Amazing food, brilliant service and an interesting view over the Lonehill pond!

Q: Who make Johannesburg’s best breakfast?

A: Chocolat Cafe, Cedar Square, Fourways. And that Gingerbread Coffee ain’t half bad either.

Q: Which are your favorite venues on or around Johannesburg for a quick weekend getaway?

A: Mabalingwe. It’s a beautiful private game farm with a golf course tacked on the end. My rubbish handicap was adversely affected by an amorous ostrich. Where else can you get that?

If I’ve got the opportunity to go a bit further out, it would have to be a diving site. 75% of the world is underwater. I’ve got a lot of exploring to do.

General

Q: If you could invite any 3 South Africans to dinner, who would you invite and what would you serve?

A: Julius Malema, Graeme Smith and Mark Shuttleworth. Love ‘em or hate ‘em, the guest list puts politics, leadership and technology at the same table. Graeme has the English Test Series so he’ll be on boiled chicken, but prawns and a fine Ernie Els red for the rest of us.

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

A: The Protea’s Test Victory over Australia in Australia. Possibly the greatest Test Series across the world in the last 10 years. It was the perfect mix of grit and heroism, balanced teams and edge of the seat excitement. It put Test Cricket back on the map in a big way.

Where were you when JR died? Where were you when 9/11 happened? Where was I when JP Duminy went to 150 and Dale Steyn was staring down the barrel of a test century!?

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

A: A Million Little Pieces by James Frey. I don’t care that he made it up. So it’s fiction and he cheated on the marketing. It remains one of the most inspired and intense novels I’ve ever had the “pleasure” of experiencing. This isn’t an anti-drug book, it’s a pro-living book. Kids need to read this stuff.

Q: Where would you like to wake up tomorrow?

Q: At home, with my wife. Perhaps the cats (Dexter & Phoebie) can be there too.

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

A: I’d like to see the unsung heroes of South Africa getting their 15 seconds of web fame: the innovators within Government, the leaders within Education and just about anyone who’s trying to make a difference to this beautiful country of ours.

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

Brent Shahim

Izimvo is honoured to introduce Managing Director of Aqua Online, Brent Shahim

As one of South Africa’s biggest new media agencies and with clients such as Avis, Southern Sun, Nokia, Standard Bank, Pick n Pay and MTN, Aqua Online are at the forefront of a digital South African.

Brent is a qualified Chartered Accountant having completing his articles at PricewaterhouseCoopers. He also holds a Bachelor of Commerce and an honours degree in Business Information Systems from Wits.

Aqua Online was recently sold to WPP and now is the official digital arm of Y&R in South Africa.

Website: http://www.aquaonline.com/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/brentshahim
Location: Johannesburg

Brent 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: Brent, 37, Aquaonline.

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 an accountant of all things, but have a latent creative streak and have been a co-author of a play in my distant past. Two of my favourite movies are Jerry Maguire and Pulp Fiction.

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

A: I am a rugby fanatic and watch at every opportunity. I love reading and enjoy eating out with close friends.

A Digital South Africa

Q: Aqua Online was founded in 1998 and was perfectly placed to take full advantage of Web 1.0. In your experience, what was the impact of the Dot Com crash on South African web development companies and what did Aqua Online do to weather the storm?

A: Aqua repositioned itself from a software development company to more of a digital marketing agency – that meant that we could tap into IT and Marketing budgets. It also meant that we were more strategic and value-add as opposed to the commoditised software development space.

Q: What are the current web trends which you believe will shape the future of the web here in South Africa?

A: I believe that increasing bandwidth and reducing costs are going to fuel an explosion in internet ecommerce opportunities and drive digital as a more mainstream marketing channel to compete with television and print.

Q: Aqua Online have been involved in a number of very large projects including BMW, Avis, SAB, Virgin Money to name a few. What projects are your personally most proud of?

A: This sounds cliché but I am really proud of all the great work we do and how we have managed to pull most of our clients into the digital age. They are seeing value from the work we do and are investing in us more and more.

Q: When it comes to the web and web development, South Africa competes in a global market place. Even with the benefit of the Rand, why do you think it is that local companies are not hired for more international projects?

A: Unfortunately, the Rand is quite strong and we struggle to compete on the off-shoring model with countries like Russia and India. That said, we are doing some significant off-shoring work and I think that off-shoring is going to continue to grow.

Q: How do you hire great talent?

A: We have a great internship program and over the years we have a designed a rigorous interview process.

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 was held up by 6 guys in my office when I first moved in. I did start thinking about my options to immigrate. But to be honest, there are amazing opportunities here. So those plans are on hold.

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

A: Probably Sydney Australia.

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

A: I would ask him to invest his most money and best people in fighting crime. Once the crime abates, we can deal with all the other issues we face as a country.

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

A: Cape Town, A Game Lodge, Apartheid Museum.

Life in Johannesburg

Q: What is your favorite restaurant in or around Johannesburg for a quite Sunday afternoon lunch with family and friends?

A: The Inanda Club.

Q: What is your favorite destination in or near Johannesburg for a long weekend getaway?

A: De Hoek in the Magaliesburg.

Q: What are the greatest benefits of living in Johannesburg?

A: The energy, business opportunities, entertainment and the weather.

General

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

A: I would love to pick Steve Jobs. He has had personal and professional challenges and huge successes. He is also a visionary who has managed to change the way people live.

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

A: Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela; The Fountainhead by Anne Rand.

Q: Where would you like to wake up tomorrow?

Q: In Cape Town – the Ambassador Hotel.

Q: What question would you like us to ask our next interviewee?

A: What is the secret of happiness?

A massive thank you to Brent for taking the time to answer our questions. We wish him and his team at Aqua Online every success for the future.

Eran Eyal

Izimvo has the pleasure of introducing Springleap.com co-founder Eran Eyal.

Springleap is a website where every two weeks designers get to enter a t-shirt design competition to win R7482.18 (about US$900) – half in cash and half t-shirts – plus massive exposure online and offline. They also get royalties on reprints.

Winners are selected by the site’s users who vote on their favorite designs. Springleap.com also offers free next-day delivery anywhere in South Africa.

Website: http://www.springleap.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/eranEyal
Location: Cape Town

Eran 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: Eran Eyal, 34, co-founder of Springleap.com, They are working on a crowdsourcing social media platform to compete with Ning in 2010! They also make rad t-shirts!

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

A: I play Japanese Shakuhachi, Hochiku and other transverse flutes. Also carry one in my car as well as a harmonica in case I get stuck in rush-hour traffic :) Biggest phobia I had – Clinical Vertigo. Got over it.

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

A: Playing the flute somewhere natural and quiet. Practicing Shaolin Kung-Fu and Bagua Zhang.

E-Commerce in South Africa

Q: Congratulations on winning in the best clothing and accessories category in the 2009 Jump E-Commerce awards? What does an award like this mean to a startup like Springleap?

A: Thank you! We are over the moon about it! For our brand Springleap, it means we are definitely heading in the right direction in an extremely difficult and saturated market often dominated by amazing corporate brands like Woolworths. Receiving an accolade of this sort from a jury of what we truly believe are our peers is really a massive morale boost for us as well as tip of the hat indicating we are doing something right. Oh yeah. Bragging rights :) don’t forget those! – No, seriously, it is fantastic for the shareholders to see us constantly and consistently taking the business to the next level and it gives us an excellent introduction to corporate clients.

Q: What advice would you give young Internet entrepreneurs starting out with little or no money?

A: Don’t give away too much too soon. We played it that way and are really happy. It’s tough and tempting to give away equity, but hold on as long as you can. Startups are very often a marathon, so make sure you have the emotional and mental stamina. Do regular physical activities to keep your body and mind occupied. Remember what makes you passionate about your business and hold onto it.

Entrepreneur December 2009 Article

Q: Can you give us a little insight as to what it is like behind the scenes at Springleap?

A: Wow – right now it’s quite crazy. Springleap.com is growing fast and we have really weathered the garment industry’s tiresome road. Now our major mission is to focus more on building the brand and solidifying the branding as well as hosting more corporate themed competitions (which are piling up nicely!).

We are currently moving to larger offices downstairs which are awesome and are hiring some amazing new people. The real development is actually more on our holding company’s side. Recently I raised R4m from an Angel Investor…and it’s not for Springleap. Rather it’s for the complete overhaul and redevelopment of our platform which we have been using Springleap.com as a test case for.

In the new year we will be launching multiple new brands, and more excitingly a SAAS model – you will be able to create your own mini-Springleap site via a drag-and-drop interface in a manner of minutes… For free. The platform will incorporate social media flavors you love ranging from profile pages, hosting events, making different tiers of friends, virtual gifts etc, e-commerce with crowdsourcing methodology as a focus at the heart of it all.

Of course there will be value added features at a price and full-blown corporate models deliverable with a few weeks from point of order. In the new year we will be hiring an internal development team to affect this.

Q: How do you hire great talent?

A: Wow – luckily? It can be a real lucky packet. From hiring talent over the last few years the best methodology is still word of mouth and referrals. We always try to focus more on the jockey than the horse he came riding in on.

Q: What advice would you offer to smaller sites wanting to commerce enable their sites?

A: Wait till next year when our platform launches ;) or just come chat to us! The door is always open and advice is often free. Read the E-Myth and E-marketing. They are tenement books on the matter.

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: Not my family so much, but we were affected when we had 5 break-ins in Florida Rd, Durban a few years ago when we had the eSquared shops. Very tiring stuff. Luckily no one was hurt and we were insured.

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

A: mmm. I have considered it in the past, and glad I didn’t – I studied a CELTA course with a view of emigrating to Japan. That was when I was living in Durban. Moved to Cape Town about a year ago. Wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. I am happy as a pig in… Well you know.

Q: Given the opportunity, which governmental department would you select to lead?

A: Good lord. None of them. I suppose it would have to be ICASA/telecoms at a push. We need some serious headway here… It’s holding us all back.

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

A: The rocks in Llandudno at sunrise/sunset, The canons of Camps Bay on a beautiful day (like the one we just had on Saturday – I took some amazing pictures – here is the link and see what I mean)  and – of course – my place if they are really nice. Scratch that – just kidding on the last one ;) The third would be for a tour of Franschhoek and walk through the mountains there. Gorgeous.

Life in Cape Town

Q: Best spot for a romantic night out?

A: Nobu restaurant at the One and Only

Q: Favorite venue for team building?

A: Go-Carting!

Q: First place you would go in or around Cape Town to put a new camera through its paces?

A: A drive through Woodstock. You won’t believe the variety of rich and lush Cape-townian life you can experience there.

General

Eran playing the flute

Q: Which South African blog do you read on a daily basis and why?

A: iMod. Chris Mills is awesome – he offers good general information, tech reviews and a break from all things mundane. He also has a good casual writing style.

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

A: Steve Jobs. He is an incredible visionary and an amazing public speakers. A man who has changed the rules on every level ranging from commerce to technology. What an amazing leader.

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

A: The Business Brickfield.

Q: Favorite South African brand?

Q: Springleap. Hands down. I know it sounds egotistical, but I really do believe we are doing a great job and have an amazing product that constantly surprises even me.

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

A: Johan Rupert- I head him speaking for the first time at Silicon Cape. It was a milestone I shall soon not forget.

We’d like to thank Eran for taking the time to answer our questions and wish him and the team at Springleap every success for the future. We looking forward to seeing some amazing announcements from the team in the coming months.

Right, competition time.
Win one of the trendy Springleap T-Shirts. To enter simply make sure that you are a fan of both the Izimvo and Springleap Facebook pages. Thats it!

Winners will be drawn Wed 9th Dec at 9am. Good luck!

Marlon Parker

Izimvo is honoured to introduce technology lecturer, Marlon Parker.

Marlon is a Social Entrepreneur and an Information Technology Lecturer at Cape Peninsula University of Technology. He started a programme of rehabilitating drug addicts on the Cape Flats using mobile technologies such as MXit. The programme, which has been a massive success, has grown to include services in other parts of South Africa and in other social areas such as HIV/AIDS and debt counselling.

Website: http://marlonparker.co.za
Twitter: http://twitter.com/marlonparker
Location: Cape Town

Marlon 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: A close friend would introduce me as “Makes” from Silvertown or more formally Marlon Parker from Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) and RLabs, Social Entrepreneur who have a passion to reconstruct communities.

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

A: I always wanted to be an actor while growing up.

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

A: Spend quality time with my wife and watching movies.

A Mobile South Africa

Q: Your PhD thesis involved using mobile social networking tools such as Mxit and Twitter to combat drug abuse in South Africa. Can you give us an update on the progress of the project.

A: The project itself has grown so much that we are expanding services to other parts of SA and in other social areas such as HIV/AIDS and Debt Counselling. What has been important for us has been mobilising the local communities to be champions of these projects.

Q: What advice would you give to local companies wanting to market to a mobile South Africa?

A: Realise that mobile phones have gone past the stage of just being a device owned by a user, but that it has become part of who the user is and their daily activities. Do not just push your message to your mobile market but use it as a medium to engage and personalise.

Q: What are your thoughts regarding governmental involvement in the reduction of South African cellphone tariffs?

A: This is definitely a move in the right direction and I fully support this initiative. It is important though that the average user of cellphones in South Africa should be able to have access to connection services and this could open more avenues in the use of mobile phones for social change.

Q: What are some of the more interesting uses of mobile technology that you have seen during your research?

A: The use of mobile phones in the area of Agriculture in Rural parts of India. I am also very impressed with the guys of the broccoli project and how they are using mobile technology.

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, our family has been affected by drug and gang violence. NO I still believe this is the best country to live in and that those experience were instrumental in the work that I’m pursuing now.

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

A: All paths lead back to Cape Town, South Africa.

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

A: Free Education and healthcare.

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

A: Cape Flats, Table Mountain, Robben Island.

Life in Cape Town

Q: What do you think is Cape Town’s number one tourist attraction?

A: The People.

Q: What do you think will be the biggest benefits for Cape Town as a result of next years Soccer World Cup?

A: Infrastructure and new friendships that will be developed with visitors to the Mother City.

General

Q: What are you going to buy yourself as a 40th birthday present?

A: Uhm, well hopefully the world’s first mobile phone that can microwave my food.

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

A: King Solomon who was described as being the wisest man to have ever lived.

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

A: Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren.

Q: Favorite South African band? Have you seen them live and do you own at least one of their albums?

Q: Seuns van die HoutKruis, Yes saw them live but they are yet to release their first CD.

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

A: Other social entrepreneurs.

We’d like to thank Marlon for taking the time to answer our questions and wish him every success for the future. The manner in which he has managed to touch and improve the lives of many is a true inspiration.

Reminder to become a fan of Izimvo on our Facebook page. It’s a great place to submit suggestions for future interviewees.

Aki Anastasiou

Izimvo has the great pleasure of introducing Radio 702′s Aki Anastasiou.

Aki, a name synonymous with 702,  is the man responsible for the mammoth task of getting Johannesburg’s commuters safely to work on a daily basis. He also presents the Technobyte feature on David O’ Sullivan’s show where he discusses the latest developments in the field of technology.

Website: http://www.702.co.za
Technobyte: http://www.702.co.za/pages/shows/technobyte.asp
Twitter: http://twitter.com/akianastasiou

Aki 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: Depends on which friend, but mostly I get introduced as Aki the traffic guy on 702 and tech guru (I cringe at the guru part because I am just very passionate about technology). Spend most of my life on radio since I was 15, always wanted to be on the radio. Made coffee, packed away LP’s, paid my dues and got the chance to learn with the best in the broadcasting business.

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 the Godfather movies and mafia movies in general. Deep inside I am a HUGE softie and enjoy chick flicks and I easily shed a tear or two when movies get sad and sniffy.

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

A: Silence. No technology whatsoever, minimal contact with the outside world, getting back to nature and basics is what really relaxes me.

Radio in South Africa

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: There are just so many radio legends in this country that span different generations. For me it would be John Berks.

Q: You have been heavily involved in the development of 702′s Internet presence. To what extent do you think the station and it’s listener’s have benefited from this?

A: Talk Radio 702 is a news and information station and over the years the listening habits of people have changed. Many listeners want to refer back to information that was broadcast. The content on the radio is very much driven by the listener.

Our internet presence has allowed us to engage with our listeners, provide them with up to date information and allow them to listen and to refer back to content when they want, via podcasts and other interactive media.

Today it is not only what comes out the box that counts, listeners want to see the guests on the radio, if there is a breaking news story they want visuals such as pictures and video. So our website has developed into a rich interactive multimedia experience reflecting what is on the radio.

Q: Who have you most enjoyed interviewing and which historical figure would you most like to interview?

A: One of my favourite interviews was with soccer legend Pele; he was such a warm down to earth person. I would love to interview the Wright Brothers: Wilbur and Orville, I find aviation incredibly fascinating.

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 have been affected by crime and so have members of my family, I remain very optimistic about South Africa. Yes we have problems mostly socio-economic, but having traveled extensively around the world, there is no other country like South Africa. We have an incredible magic and amazing people; we just need to make a concerted effort to eradicate crime.

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

A: It has gone through my mind but never considered it seriously; I love this country too much.

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

A: I would change the criminal justice system and spend huge money on the police.

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

A: 1. The Drakensburg for is just one the most special places in the whole world.
2. I would take them to Constitution Hill, a place of such important historical importance.
3. The Kruger National Park for a true bushveld experience like no other anywhere in the world.

Life in Johannesburg

Q: Reporting on Johannesburg’s traffic every day, do you have any insights that might ease the plight of Johannesburg’s commuters?

A: Patience and respect. It is incredibly frustrating and stressful commuting in Joburg these days; the city is becoming larger and larger. Flexi hours is the key here. Big organisations need to understand that employees will become considerably more product with less stress.

Q: Which is your favorite Greek restaurant in or around Johannesburg?

A: It would be Plaka and Mythos restaurants.

Q: Which outdoor venue is your favorite for enjoying those perfect summer afternoons on the Highveld?

A: The Westcliff Hotel.

General

Q: What are you going to buy yourself as a 43rd birthday present?

A: A 27 inch Apple iMac! What a gorgeous machine.

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

A: The 5th One Day International cricket match between South Africa and Australia, played on March 12, 2006.

Q: Where would you like to wake up tomorrow?

A: Right on a beach, listening to the waves crashing and watching a beautiful sunrise.

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

A: Nelson Mandela. He has taught me so much about humility, forgiveness and about the basics of life and humanity.

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

A: Archbishop Desmond Tutu

We’d like to thank Aki for finding the time to answer our questions.

Richard McLennan

Izimvo is honoured to introduce the man behind the official Durban 2010 Website, Richard McLennan.

Website: http://fifaworldcup.durban.gov.za
Twitter: http://twitter.com/richmclennan
Location: Durban

We first met Richard when he presented on the development and progress of the 2010 website at 27Dinner here in Durban. His presentation followed a slew of negative press regarding the costs associated with site. We were impressed by the presentation and the manner in which Richard spoke openly about the process.

We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Richard to chat about the project, his involvement and what makes him tick.

Richard, who is now 35, grew up in Umhlanga, Durban where he attended Northwood Boys High. His first career as a diver started with two years national service in the Navy as a navy diver and ended in his mid 20′s as a commercial diver and sport diver instructor.

In 1999, with a Visual Basic diploma in-hand, Richard headed for the UK looking to kick-start his IT career. Using the Dot-com boom to his advantage, Richard secured a position as an HTML coder with a small startup just outside Manchester.

After 6 months, Richard moved on to join the 3rd largest web agency in Europe, working on large projects for companies such as Channel 5 TV and Marks & Spencer. He was later head-hunted by M&S to startup a e-commerce business and ended up as web manager on the Marks & Spencer account. At the time, the Marks & Spencer site was generating about £60 million in sales annually. Richard later joined Monsoon Accessorize as e-commerce manager.

3 years ago, after getting married and having a child, Richard decided to head back home to Durban. Richard, who now works for AdaptIT, has been working on the Durban 2010 website project since its inception.

Richard explained that the long-term development project has been broken up into 3 phases with the first going live a couple of months back. The initial deployment included a Microsoft Sharepoint CMS implementation, English and Zulu content, interactive maps, stadium web cams amongst other features. The remaining phases include features such as translations into Spanish, French and German, social media integration advanced interactive maps etc.

Below is a quote from Julie-May Elingson, head of Durban’s Strategic Projects Unit, explaining the thinking behind the website:

“It’s important that the website provides a productive, memorable and frustration-free experience for our visitors. We wanted to create a website that would be a source of useful information for tourists who want to visit the city, as well as showcase Durban as being a technically savvy city. When it comes to Durban 2010, www.fifaworldcup.durban.gov.za will be the ‘one stop shop’ for all information.”

Besides working on the Durban 2010 website, Richard is a family man who loves a wide range of sports. He is a regular at the local mountain bike races, enjoys kite boarding up and down the Kwazulu Natal coast and an early morning paddle on the local lagoons. Richard exudes a rare passion for Durban and South Africa which is highly contagious.

Richard was also kind enough to answer a few general questions for us:

General

Q: What are you going to buy yourself as a 40th birthday present?

A: Eye laser surgery and a dye job to get rid of this grey hair I am getting.

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

A: Winning the 2007 Rugby World Cup!

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

A: Spud!

Q: If you were to win the Lotto this weekend, what is the first thing you would buy with the winnings?

A: My house and then I’d probably take the family to the Spur or maybe Sushi if I decide to go really big.

Q: Having lived in the UK for 9 years, what are the things that you miss the most?

A: Good coffee and amazon.co.uk

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

A: Interesting people from all facets of life.

A huge thank you to Richard for taking the time to chat to us. Richard has a very difficult task over the coming months, one that we will follow with a great deal of interest leading into the World Cup. We wish him and the team behind the Durban 2010 website every success.

Daryl Impey

Izimvo is honoured to introduce professional cyclist Daryl Impey.

Daryl, at the age of 24, has recently signed with Lance Armstrong’s new team, Team RadioShack. Not only will Daryl be riding alongside the seven-time Tour de France winner but he will also be managed by Armstrong’s long-time team manager, Johan Bruyneel.

Back in April, Daryl suffered two broken vertebrae and a fractured jaw as a result a horrific crash at the Tour of Turkey. The manner in which Daryl always remained positive during his incredible recovery has been a true inspiration. After two months back on the bike, Daryl has made a full recovery and is looking stronger than ever.

Website: http://www.darylimpey.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/darylimpey
Location: Johanessburg

Daryl 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: Easy, this is my friend. Daryl Impey (most say he is a cyclist)

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

A: I take a box of Ouma rusks overseas each time I leave SA.

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

A: Coming back to SA is the best place for me to relax with my girlfriend, family and friends. Most of the time a braai at home does the trick.

Professional Cycling

Q: To what do you attribute the popularity of South African cycling over recent years?

A: I think when Rob won a stage at the tour, many riders (including myself) saw it was possible. Also MTB is growing more than Road due to the fact that our roads ae too dangerous to ride on.

Q: You recently suffered a very bad fall during a final sprint at the Presidential Cycling Tour in Turkey. Do you feel that the matter, in which it seemed that you were pushed by a fellow rider, was handled correctly?

A: The matter was dealt in the best way it could, it was handled according to the rules.

Q: Congratulations on your recent signing with Radioshack. What about living in Spain are you most looking forward to?

A: Thanks! Riding for Radioshack is going to be great for me and my career. The move to Spain wasn’t easy from Como, I need to learn a new language and make new friends, that being said I’ve weighed up the “pro’s” and “con’s” and Spain has so much more to offer. It has great weather for starters and most of my english riding friends stay in Girona. I’m looking forward to adding Spanish to my vocabulary.

Q: Which young local rider impresses you the most and do you think that a South African riding for a South African team could ever win the Tour de France?

A: I had a camp earlier this year called “Base Camp” and I had some juniors with me. It was aimed at young riders only and I was impressed with JC Nel who is still young but so eager to race. He has already won a race overseas this year. Winning the Tour de France is possible for any nation, it just depends on budget, management and most importantly the riders.

We have talent here in SA, it’s just sad we have no system in place yet for youngsters trying to make it overseas.It is not so easy to convince SA sponsors to have a team racing in Europe.

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 my brother has been hi-jacked while riding and in his car. It makes you more alert, thats for sure. We know in the back of our minds we could be a statistic but we also have got used to it.

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

A: Well for me it would be yes. I would purely emigrate because of my passport issues. Visa’s are the worst. I would probably end up living in Italy or Spain.

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

A: I would take Taxi’s off the road.

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

A: Sun city, Sabie and Cape Town.

Living on the Road

Q: Which is your favorite of the many cities that you get to race in?

A: I still think the Amashova has the best scenery for a race, although I never get a chance to do it now that I’m racing overseas.

Q: What do you find yourself doing on the days off during a long stage race?

A: Relaxing by the pool or watching some DVD’s. Most of the time I’ve got chores in the house as well.

Q: How do you find traveling on a South African passport?

A: An absolute nightmare,every Embassy I go to I am first treated as a criminal until proven innocent. I have to give so much personal info in order to get one. Europeans just jump on a plane. We give the access in SA without visa’s, but it’s not returned, explain that?!

General

Q: Do you have any routines that you like to follow before a big race?

A: Most of the time, 20 min before leaving the hotel, I have my bags packed and I just chill on the bed in my cycling kit listening to my music. I dont like to rush and go, I need to chill before heading to the bus. 20 min before the start, I knock an Espresso back and sign on.

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

A: When Bafana scored a goal earlier this year vs Brazil from the penalty to make it go to extra time.

Q: Which cycling personality have you most enjoyed meeting?

A: Ah thats a difficult one. There loads like Rob Hunter, Malcolm Lange, Doug Ryder and Nic White. They’ve steered me in the right direction and they all have totally different personalities.

Q: Which South African bands are in the music collection that you travel with?

Q: They not a band but a group called Household Funk. They make their own music, parties and put it together brilliantly. Check them out at www.householdfunk.co.za

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

A: Anyone who can teach me why my ball fades to the right each time I play golf. Seriously!

We would like to thank Daryl for taking the time to answer our questions and we look forward to a long and very successful career from this Jeppe Old Boy.