Can our Children benefit

from television?

EducationChanges lives

Month-to-Month Planner in every issue

A U GS E P T2 0 1 4

Dress for the job you want not the job you have

Serbia

© dubova | dollar Photo Club

a PlaCe of pots and more

50 Reserves in fifty years

Profusion Magazine2 Aug | Sept 2014

Editors notethere are very few of us that actually feel like we are living a life filled with purpose. many of us regardless of our accomplishments and aspirations are left unfulfilled, always wondering about what is missing in our lives.

on closer inspection, we often find that people are more focused on themselves, their problems and their families rather than others, which brings me to the topic for this issue - unconditional love.

as we celebrate the life of Profusion, i am reminded that it is not just the dedication and drive of our contributors, team and readers that has brought us this far, but rather it’s our unconditional love for a positive change, the people around us and the world we live in that makes us push on.

unconditional love is giving without wanting anything back, caring for someone for greater reasons than personal gain or fulfillment. no matter the failings of man one can always love unconditionally to overcome the greatests disappointments, to forgive, encourage and bring back those we have lost. above all it teaches humility in accepting the things we cannot change and exercising patience in the things we can. though it is difficult to love unconditionally at first, it is key to discovering a life without boundaries, expectations and limitations - one without fear or loss.

to love another person under any circumstances is not relegated to passionate love either. it is not what the pop psychs refer to as “enabling” or just letting someone be discounting to us and you continue to accept the neglect. unconditional love allows you to love yourself first, so that you have the strength of heart and mind to give the same to another person. - lisa Pool

Allan Desmet

PROFUSION

TM

INSIGHT INSPIRE INVENT

“”

turns 1

© rockvillephoto | dollar Photo Club

happy birthday Profusion!turning one is the first milestone of many. i look forward to the journey with you - Mandy

happy birthday Profusion and thank you to all the loyal readers, this month we celebrate our first year of cutting edge and action provoking journalism, encouraging a new generation of proactive interactivity that propels you into a new dynamic of life where words activate change. With all your enthusiastic and vibrant support we hope to tackle the new year with vigour of achieving even greater heights. in the meantime, never stop reading Pro-enthusiasts

- Eva

thank you for a great year full of nurturing, growing and learning. may the years to come be as fulfilling and productive as the last. happy birthday Profusion

- René

What an exciting year it has been! filled with new experiences and a lot of growth on my part. What i have realised in this year is that nobody can stop you from achieving your dreams. i have come across two profound quotes that have changed my outlook on life and i want to share them . the first: “that sometimes you win and sometimes you learn, but you never lose.” the second: “learning to love the little things in life is learning to be happy.”i would like all our readers to remember that it is not who you are that matters but who you dream to be. remember those dreams and always remember that you are unique and that there is nothing wrong with that. happy birthday Profusion! - Danette

it has been a year of promise and great expectation. as we celebrate our first year of Profusion i would like to say that it has been an honour working with such amazing and passionate people who dedicate themselves to our readers...without them, there would be no Profusion.

to our readers, thank you for your continued support and i hope that you have grown and gained as much from our features as i have. We will strive to make the next year an even better one. happy birthday Profusion!

the greatest journey is one where you are a part of peoples lives and make a positive difference in the world we live in.

- Allan ,Ed

happy birthday Profusion!may the next year be filled with as much zest and life lessons as the one that has passed.

- Jess

- Natalie

PROFUSION

TM

Congratulations to allan and his team on their 1st birthday. the magazine is wonderful and fills a great niche for young people looking for information, inspiration and guidance. aPso is proud to partner with Profusion in providing the expertise for job seekers in the Profession section. happy birthday, may it be the first of many!

Profusion Magazine4 Aug | Sept 2014

ContentSaug | sept 2014profusionmag.co.za

a place of Pots and more50 Reserves in fifty yearsCan our children benefit from TV?dress for the job you want ...education changes livesserbia, a poetry of war and beauty

101826324662

on the Cover

In THIS Issue

how important is eating well to youColombia - among top 10 greenest CountriesCycling towards liberationgetting your manuscript ready for submissionPros and cons of e-learninginsure your future income against retrenchmentWhat skin type are youinside the teen mindback in actiongoing Car free

8162438404852545764

Profusion Magazine Aug | Sept 2014 5

EdITorAllan Desmet

SUB-EdITorMandy Schubach

CoNTrIBUTorSAttie BotesAlison LowryAnelie SwartAnsja FerreiraDaniela BascelliDuane KohlLizé OosthuizenNatalie SingerPaul LeonardSara ProkopowiczTracey McDonaldVincent van der Merwe

WrITErSDanette SwanepoelEva SgroiJess NicolsonNaseema KhanNothando SizibaTaryn HerbstVenezia Fanner

GrAPHICS/LAyoUTRene du Plessis

PHoTo/ IMAGESShutterstockDollar Photo Club

hobby featureCreative CornerCause of the monthdelishes dishesCliques and Crewsmonth to monthKnow your rightsjob seeking 101read itTerrific TalesCorner of delightback in timetwisted termsQuoteyou said

Facebook Facebook.com/Profusion.co.zaDeviantArt Profusion-media.deviantart.com Pinterest Pinterest.com/weareprofusionWeb ProfusionMag.co.zaTwitter @weareprofusion

Contributors

In Every Issue

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ProfUSion SoUth afriCaPublished by: Profusion Media (Pty) LtdTel: +27 11 766-5454Fax: +27 861 672-5651E-mail: info@profusionmag.co.zaWebsite: www.profusionmag.co.zaPost: Postnet Suite 122, Pvt Bag X1, Florida Hills, 1716

Advertising: advertising@profusionmag.co.za

Letter to Ed:allandesmet@profusionmag.co.za

DiSClaiMer

Profusion is a registered trademark of Profusion media (Pty) ltd. the material contained in this publication is copyright and belongs to Profusion media, unless otherwise indicated.

no part of this publication may be quoted, photocopied, reproduced, translated or stored by any electronic system without prior written permission of Profusion.

While every reasonable precaution is taken to ensure the accuracy and soundness of the contents of this publication, the use of the information contained herein is at the readers' own risk. the information provided in this publication is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal, psychological, financial or other professional advice, on any subject matter. you are encouraged to obtain professional advice before taking any course of action relating to information, ideas and opinions expressed in this publication. the reader accepts full responsibility and risk of any injury, damage or loss resulting from the use or reliance on information contained in this publication. Profusion, its authors, publishers, employees and/or agents will not bear any responsibility for damages or injury which may result relating to the use of, or inability to use, this publication or the information contained herein.

acceptance of material for publication is not a guarantee that the material will in fact be included in a particular issue since this depends on the space available. Contributions may be edited for clarity, space and/or language.

editorial opinion or comment is, unless otherwise stated, that of the editor and publication thereof does not indicate the agreement of any institution featured in the magazine unless otherwise stated.

the appearance of an advertisement in this publication does not necessarily indicate approval by Profusion media for the product or service advertised.

info@profusionmag.co.za

Creative Corner

Hobby Feature

A place of pots and more

PROACTIVE

”

Whatever you are,

be a good one.

abraham lincoln

How NB is eating well

Spar Women’s RaceKZN: 24th Aug 2014 | PTA: 31st Aug 2014

both 5 and 10 kilometre entries accepted. for more information or to enter visit:www.sparwomensrace.co.za

“

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Profusion Magazine8 Aug | Sept 2014

how important is

eating wellto you?

By Jess Nicholson

PRO ACTIVE FEATURE

One of the most common misconceptions, in general conversations, is that going

to gym does not mean you have to eat well. Many believe that occasional exercise allows them to overindulge without consequences. There are times when we think to ourselves “I’d better go to gym as I plan on eating a huge meal tonight”. This is a psychological concept that only makes us feel mildly less guilty about what we eat.

Among the worst things I deal with, as a personal trainer, is clients that refuse to change their diet. This is contradictory to achieving their weight and fitness goals and they usually do not last long. They become frustrated with their trainers because they do not see any results. This is a waste of everyone’s time and ends in money thrown down the drain. Exercise only forms 20% of a weight loss program, while the other 80% relies on a healthy diet. This is why people lose weight simply by eating right, but exercise tones your muscles, releases endorphins that make you feel good and gives you confidence you never thought you had.

The most obvious benefit of eating well is weight loss but there is also increased energy, improved moods and higher concentration levels to consider. When we talk about ‘healthy eating plans’, we do not mean celery sticks and lettuce leaves. This is decidedly a very unhealthy way to provide nourishment. Rather eat enough, throughout the day, so that you never feel hungry. An optimal diet does not involve starving yourself and it is vital that you eat the correct amounts of the right foods.

Ideally, you should be eating five small meals spaced equally apart each day. Personal experience has taught me, and millions of others, that it changes how you feel completely. Instead of feeling drained at the end of the day, you have the energy to be excited about a thorough workout session. This method speeds your metabolism and maintains it at that level, which is needed to burn fat. While changing your diet is crucial for weight loss, there is no need for an immediate lifestyle revolution. Stick to your morning ritual of coffee, for example, making the necessary changes gradually. Just be sure to choose the

Profusion Magazine Aug | Sept 2014 9

healthiest option available. Cutting everything out too soon will depress you, which is the fastest route to failure. After about a month, your mindset should change and you will feel squeamish at the thought of a greasy meal.

The secret to weight loss is not a secret. You should simply lose more calories than you gain. Maintaining weight involves equal input and output of these calories. This is why a ten minute walk on the treadmill will not cancel out that massive meal. Calories are the measure of energy contained in food and it depicts how much energy we will have, making it essential that we only consume what we are going to use. Never waste your intake with ‘empty’ calories that contain no nutrients, such as sweets and cold drinks. Active people require more energy than those behind a desk all day. This is relative to individuals and a nutritionist

will advise on the amount right for you.

The most important food group for weight loss is protein. Eating only salads will not help in the long run. Proteins build muscle, creating a leaner figure that continually burns energy. It should constitute at least 40% of everything you eat and include tuna, eggs, mince and chicken. You will quickly fall in love with these foods because you will look and feel so much better. I have recently put myself on diet and my food bill is half, as is the time spent in the kitchen.

Cooking in advance may seem bothersome, but it will help you avoid take-outs as there is food in the fridge. Having something readily available will make you feel calmer, in control and able to curb those bad eating urges.

I developed this plan myself, taking ideas from fitness athletes online. There are substitutes for these ingredients and you will never go hungry. I recommend a nutritionist for those desiring a diet for their specific needs. A personal trainer will work out an exercise plan for optimal results, giving you direction and confidence. In time, eating healthily becomes a hobby, as it did for me and countless others.

Jess’ daily meal breakdown

07h00

10h00

13h00

15h30

18h00

34 G Oats | 1 Boiled Egg

100 G Tuna | 100 G Sweet Potato | 1/2 cup Brown Rice or Barley

1 Grilled Chicken Brst (Olive Oil, Lemon Juice, Herbs) | 3/4 cup Broccoli

100 Lean mince | 100 G Sweet Potato | 1 cup Brown Rice | 1 Orange

100G Protein (White fish/ chick or mince) | 3/4 cup Barley or Brown Rice | 3/4 cup Broccoli

Profusion Magazine10 Aug | Sept 2014

a place of

potsand more...

For more than 15 years the Pot Place has brought life to gardens and interiors.

Based at one of the busiest roads in Johannesburg, the Pot Place receives all kinds of requests and has an array of pots in all shapes, sizes and materials that will bring out the landscaper or interior decorator in anyone.

This decor centre is also home to other creatives that specialise in Hair and Beauty treatments, Pool and Spa filtration as well as an Art Bazaar and if that isn’t enough, there is a restaurant that is sure to win favour with visitors.

The Pot Place is managed by Adri Neuper - a vibrant, enthusiastic and dedicated designer whose passion and love for beautiful things further energises this entrepreneurial garden and decor centre. Adri’s dream is to create a place where all artists, especially potters and sculptors can display their work. She believes the public wants to buy locally produced art and would like to make Proudly South African Products more accessible and visible in larger retail outlets and chain stores.

By Allan Desmet

PRO ACTIVE FEATURE

Profusion Magazine Aug | Sept 2014 11

PROACTIVE

adri neuper

The Pot Place is a place where Adri can build her dream. Adri has worked with many artist and non-profit organisation such as the Boitumelo Project in Hillbrow and Out of the Box. She is also currently involved in providing art for government primary schools in rural areas. During the world cup she worked with a team that upgraded the townships of Ekhuruleni with art. She also gets involved with corporate projects, providing large planters for rooftop gardens.

Most of the items in the decor centre have been created or manufactured onsite whilst others have been given by artists of various trades to showcase their work at this outdoor gallery.

You can be sure to find what you are looking for at the Pot Place. With a variety of eclectic, classic and custom designs available, you will find the best suited pot for you.

For more information on the Pot Place:

www.thepotplace.co.za

Tel: +27 11 462 2609Fax: +27 11 462 3971

2 7 9 Church Street JHB North 2153

how fantastic clay is - a miracle with its own origin and story“

”

hobbyfeature

By Allan Desmet

Creative

Knitting

For more information contact:mysticknitting.weebly.comFacebook.com/mysticknittingsac.ratto@telkomsa.net

Sandra Ratto has over 15 years experience, combining the talents of wire frame artists,

beading and her style of knitting, she manages to create a kaleidescope of colour in her pieces.

Taking an average time of around 2 - 4 weeks to complete, these animals are hand-crafted, custom-made and are one of a kind.

Sandra’s passion began with clothing, mixing all kinds of fabric with knitting to create unique garments that were chic and boutique-worthy. Realising that she couldn’t cater for the demand and complexity relating to garment production she sought to do something that was still unique and creative, but was accessible to a larger customer group.

Her range currently includes a dog, cockerel, two rhino, a warthog, giraffe and a bull. She has also recently received a request to make a pig. Animal selections are completely random and on buyer request.

These pieces are not toys and would make ideal gifts or keepsakes for any home or work space interior.

each piece has parts that have been knitted with hand-dyed yarn, which in my opinion is the best type of yarn and is very difficult to come by. ”

“ - sandra says

Visit us and experience so much more.

Consult with our fountains, poolsand ponds expert to find the right water feature to suit your needs,

however big or small.

Tel: +27 11 462 2609Fax: +27 11 462 3971

www.thepotplace.co.za2 7 9 Church Street

JHB North 2153

Creativecorner

More on our group and the above artists at: www.profusion-media.deviantart.com

During the months of June and July Sleyf, a deviantart artist consistently added beautiful work to our gallery and was on more than one occassion our Most active member. Thank you for your participation & amazing art.

other deviants over the year

Cause of the month

50 reserves in fifty years

PROCARING

”“

never underestimate your

ability to make someone else’s life

better - even if you never know it.

greg louganis

Colombia

Arbor Week1st - 7th September 2014Plant a tree this arbor week and help make a positive change to our world.

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Profusion Magazine16 Aug | Sept 2014

PRO CARING SERIES

By Taryn Herbst

Greenesttop10countries

W ith 56% of Colombia covered by natural forest, as well as being home to as many

as 55,000 species of plants (which is 15% of the total global plant population), there is a lot at stake for this South American country - and the rest of the world. This is why Colombia has gone to great lengths to become more sustainable. These efforts have been successful and have not gone unnoticed. In 2008 and 2010, Yale University listed Colombia among the top 10 on the Environmental Performance Index, a report released every two years that ranks the sustainability of countries according to a number of indicators.

dedicated to Clean energy diversification

Unlike South Africa, which is heavily dependent on coal for as much as 77% of our energy, Colombia has embarked on an ambitious clean energy diversification program. Their current portfolio includes wind and solar power, bio-fuels and hydroelectricity. Their national government has launched an aggressive, localised public-private drive to mobilize the extensive wealth of energy resources available in Colombia, by creating a bio-industry sector that can compete with the best in the world.

Areas of focus include environmental services, bio-commerce and biotechnology.

international Cooperation

Colombia is invested in worldwide initiatives to reduce the effects of climate change and is involved in the Kyoto Protocol and the Copenhagen Accord. The country is also collaborating with other states in the Western Hemisphere to further the Energy and Climate Partnership of the Americas. This partnership was created in 2009 by President Obama and is dedicated to prioritizing clean energy and low carbon development that can handle the effects of climate change.

Protected areas

Considering that Colombia is one of the world’s 17 mega-diverse countries, and the second most diverse in the world after Brazil, protecting its natural heritage is of primary importance. 11% of the surface area has been set aside to ensure that a large percentage of the planet’s biodiversity survives for future generations, and forms the basis of the National System of Protected Areas. To put

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Profusion Magazine Aug | Sept 2014 17

this into perspective, South Africa is about the same size as Colombia but only 8% of the available surface area is protected by South African National Parks (SANParks).

Challenges

Every country has its problems and Colombia is no different. One of the biggest threats to Colombia’s untouched ecosystems is the drug trade. The most recent statistics indicate that the country is still the world’s biggest manufacturer of cocaine and the impact on the environment has been devastating. The use of damaging chemicals, slash and burn methods to clear forests and harmful practices are wiping out Colombia’s environmental assets and polluting water reserves. In response to this, the Government of Colombia has introduced two key programs. The first one, the Shared Responsibility Program, builds awareness about the social and environmental effects of drug production. The second initiative, the Program for Ranger Families, provides economic, social and technical support to Afro-Colombian, local and indigenous families who live in areas that are either impacted by, or in danger of being used for, the development of illegal crops. The government has also instituted farming programs that support the growth of indigenous medicinal plants as opposed to illegal drugs.

Other problems include a growing gap between the rich and the poor in urban areas, which according to the United Nations, is the worst in Latin America. A rapidly expanding population, insufficient use of available resources, unsustainable tourism development and social and cultural disputes are primary reasons for environmental stress.

Even though tourism has been considered a ‘low-growth’ industry in Colombia since

the 1990s, the government is becoming increasingly aware of what can be gained by attracting foreign visitors. Since Colombia is one of the most diverse countries in the world, there is no shortage of tourists wanting to see it. A number of people are catching on and there are a lot of options if you want to visit Colombia and enjoy the vast natural wealth on offer - while doing as little damage as possible. The nomination of Colombia as The Best Ecotourism Destination at the China Trade Show earlier this year is evidence of this. The only thing that locals and the rest of the world can hope for is that this trend continues to grow.

South Africa and Colombia have a lot in common and we can learn much from each other. Both countries are roughly the same size in terms of land and population, have high levels of inequality, are recognized for their diversity and regularly suffer from social and cultural conflict. We could learn from Colombia’s ambitious energy diversification program, while our South American sister could pick up a few tips from the great eco-tourism initiatives happening in our back garden. It will be interesting to see whether any of this has happened by the time Profusion turns two. Happy First Birthday!

in our neXt issue

Singapore

Profusion Magazine18 Aug | Sept 2014

PROCARING

By Vincent van der MerweEndangered Wildlife Trust (EWT)

Cheetah were extripated from 91% of their historical range in South Africa by

the 1920s. For almost 50 years Cheetah were present in only two South African reserves, namely the Kalahari Gemsbok National Park (now Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park) and the Kruger National Park. In 1965 the former Natal Parks Board embarked on an ambitious programme to reintroduce Cheetah back into Zululand. Almost 150 Cheetah were brought in from Namibian farmland and released onto five small fenced reserves. These reintroductions largely failed with Cheetah populations becoming established on only two of the five reserves. Lessons were however learnt and these two attempts at reintroductions pioneered the idea that Cheetah could be held on small fenced reserves.

Further reintroductions followed and Cheetah were reintroduced into Gauteng Province in 1975, the Eastern Cape Province in 2000 and the Western Cape Province in 2003. Finally all nine South African provinces contained wild Cheetahs in 2013 when the EWT coordinated the reintroduction of Cheetahs into a Free State reserve. There are currently 318 Cheetah on 48 small fenced reserves in South Africa. These reserves average 19 560 hectares (196km2) in size and total 939 000 hectares (9 390km2) of safe habitat for Cheetah in South Africa. This represents an area almost half the size of Kruger National Park with a population of about 100 Cheetah

less than Kruger. Cheetah will have been present on small fenced reserves for 50 years by 2015 and it is anticipated that 50 reserves will have reintroduced by 2015 with six potential reserves currently waiting for Cheetah to become available. These Cheetah reserves offer a conservation opportunity for Cheetah in South Africa if they are managed effectively with the aim of maintaining genetic and demographic integrity.

The Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Cheetah Metapopulation Project was launched in 2011. A managed Metapopulation is a set of geographically isolated populations that exchange individuals through human controlled movement. Before the launch of the project Cheetah on small fenced reserves were managed in an ad hoc manner. Predator naive Cheetah were introduced onto reserves with high predator densities. Cheetah were moved between reserves without consideration of their genetic origin. The sale of ‘problem’ Cheetah into inadequately fenced reserves resulted in further Cheetah-farmer conflict. The lack of long term management on some reserves resulted exponential population growth, disturbing levels of inbreeding and decimation of prey populations. The principle objective of the Metapopulation Project is to implement a more coordinated strategy for the management of Cheetahs in small fenced reserves and to, in the long term, increase their resident range in South Africa.

50 Reserves in

fifty years

© lucaar | Dollar Photo Club

Profusion Magazine Aug | Sept 2014 19

The project has not come without its challenges. The captive Cheetah industry continues to offer reserves lucrative prices for wild Cheetah. The recent loss of two wild Cheetah to a captive facility was a major blow to the project after we had successfully halted the loss of wild Cheetah to captive facilities for 23 months. The project is management intensive with numerous swaps and relocations necessary to retain the genetic and demographic integrity of the metapopulation. Cheetah are particularly susceptible to immobilisation complications and almost ten percent (n=16) of Cheetah moved between reserves have been lost in transit. This has been identified as a key issue that needs addressing and the EWT Cheetah Metapopulation Project is working with authorities and veterinary organisations to resolve the problem.

These current challenges to metapopulation management have been accompanied by some unexpected positive developments. Metapopulation Cheetah have spontaneously established small, free roaming populations in KwaZulu-Natal, the southern Kalahari and in the Eastern Cape. Unknown Cheetahs have suddenly appeared on six reserves, bringing with them new genetics and reducing the requirement for intensive and risky

management.

While it is acknowledged that managing Cheetah in small fenced reserves is controversial, it is an answer to a uniquely South African situation. South Africa is one of the most developed countries in Africa with few wide open spaces available for Cheetah reintroduction. The post democracy tourism boom resulted in the proliferation of small fenced private game reserves. This has presented a conservation opportunity and South Africa now has 300 more Cheetah that are protected and in habitats that were previously void of Cheetah. Lessons learnt through the Cheetah Metapopulation Project can prove valuable in restoration projects for Cheetah in other range states as human populations expand and Africa’s wilderness areas become increasingly fragmented.

For More InformationContactvincent van der merweCheetah Metapopulation coordinatorCarnivore Conservation ProgrammeEndangered Wildlife TrustCell + 27 74 166 0410Email: vincentv@ewt.org.za

The Cheetah Metapopulation Project is funded by national geographic big Cats initiative, Columbus Zoo and aquarium, scoville Zoo, st. louis Zoo and relate bracelets.

Profusion Magazine20 Aug | Sept 2014

r u nfor schools

Cause of the month

By Taryn Herbst

changing lives one child at a time

L iving in an area with the highest crime rate in South Africa is tough for anyone,

but it is worse if you are a kid. With as many as 55 crimes reported to the police in Mitchell’s Plain every day, the fact that many people stay away is hardly surprising. Escalating gang violence and distrust in the police’s ability to do their job has prompted the community to ask for help from the anti-crime group Pagad. Ten year old Jaylen Sculard is the latest innocent victim, caught in the crossfire on July 1. There is a dedicated team of sports lovers who have been fighting this trend for the last ten years. Founded in 2004 by Dutch marathon runner and personal trainer Leslie Pangemanan, Run4Schools provides ‘in-school’ sports activities in accordance with the Department of Education’s guidelines for physical education, an after-school program which allows school children to get involved in sports after school and a holiday program on the first and last three days of the school holidays. Critical hours

Children in Mitchell’s Plain are most vulnerable after school, before their caregivers get home from work. Run4Schools keep 3,000 kids

constructively busy during these critical hours. Bearing in mind that physical activity is crucial for any child’s development, this is more than a glorified babysitting service. Unfortunately, since most of the schools in Mitchell’s Plain are free, there is not much budget left over for this. Run4Schools provides dedicated coaches and equipment to four primary schools in the Mitchell’s Plain area, keeping children off the streets and healthily occupied. Creating employment

According to South African General Manager Frank Steyn, eight coaches from the local community are employed by Run4Schools on a full-time basis. They cater to four primary schools in Alpine, Northwood, Caradale and Tafelsig. Money for these activities is raised by taking part in running events. In Holland, the major fundraiser is the Letterenloop (Literary Run). Well-known Dutch writers run with their fans, publishers and children to support Run4Schools.

Challenges

Running this kind of program in the toughest neighbourhood in South Africa is not easy. Frank claims the biggest obstacles that Run4Schools face is vandalism and theft. At Caradale Primary, the fencing had to be removed as people were cutting off parts of it for their gardens. Another common occurrence is the theft of equipment and watching turf grass disappear from the field and reappear in people’s yards. Given that Mitchell’s Plain is one of the poorest areas in the country, it is

millionbookscampaign2013 - 2016

BiblionefIt costs R60 to

donate one book, making the

‘1 Million Books Campaign’

a worthy cause that many South

Africans can easily support.

Biblionef donate’s new storybooks to organisa-tions working with children in South Africa in all 11 languages. We are dedicated to revealing the magical experience of reading a book to younger generations. By donating R60 you will help raise a generation of South Africans who will be able to make imaginative, educated and informed decisions.

Please go to our website and click on the donate button which will take you to the GivenGain secure platform to make your donation.

Contact Number: 021 531 0447E-mail: info@biblionefsa.org.zaWebsite: www.biblionefsa.org.za

hardly surprising that people take what they can. The schools cannot afford to employ security guards, so this is something that they just have to contend with. Community support

When asked about the attitude of the general community towards Run4Schools, Steyn told me that the community knows who Leslie is. Parents are also very supportive. They get involved in the annual Two Oceans Marathon by helping with food parcels for the event.

future Plans

Since Jaylen’s death, coaches organised a soccer tournament and soup kitchen in his honour on Madiba’s Birthday - at the last minute and from their own pockets. Childline has become involved and have agreed to train the coaches in trauma counselling, abuse detection and parenting skills. Eventually the plan is to reach out to the entire community through skills development. More immediately, at the end of August, Run4Schools is planning a media campaign in Westgate Mall and Promenade Mall (the two biggest shopping centres in Mitchell’s Plain). If you want to take part in their ten year birthday celebrations, keep an eye and ear out around December when Leslie will be back in South Africa. To find out how you can get involved, visit: http://www.run4schools.nl/en/contact-1

YOU ARE LOOKING AT EVERY WILD DOG LEFT IN SOUTH AFRICA.

Population numbers estimated at time of going to press.

To save the last 394 visit ewt.org.za

Cliques and Crews

Delicious Dishes

Can our children benefit...

PROCULTURE

”“

a nation’s culture resides in the

heart and in the soul of its people

mahatma gandhi

Cycling for Liberation

National Womens Day SA09th August 2014a day when we commemorate the strong women in our society who helped lead us out of the apartheid era by taking a stand for justice and equality.more on our history: here

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Profusion Magazine24 Aug | Sept 2014

PROCULTURE

cycling towards

liberationGino Bartali - the man who saved

hundreds of Jews

By Eva Sgroi

Sport, like many other careers, has the habit of placing athletes on a heroic pedestal.

It is widely glamorized, accrediting victors with celebrity status on an international scale. They receive much love and admiration, from the highest ranking official to the layman in the street. Whether or not this is truly deserved is debatable, but it bestows a weighty responsibility on those who become prey to this blessing in disguise.

As has been proven time and again throughout history, prestige instantaneously transforms the average person into a mega-icon, with the eyes and ears of the world focused on their every move. However strenuous this attention may be, stardom propels people to greater heights, conferring upon them the credibility and opportunity to make a difference in the world. Sportsmen, their many flaws paired with superhuman-like abilities; portray strengths and qualities that prove if you push yourself hard enough and go the extra mile, anything is possible. It is a message that if applied with perseverance and a positive attitude, is a recipe for guaranteed success.

Understanding the power possessed by such individuals, we look at the story of a man who managed to impact the lives of thousands of

men, women and children. He risked his own life on a daily basis and the only credit he could take was that he was a cyclist, not a righteous man who performed benevolent acts of compassion - simply a cyclist.

In an interview conducted by a Fox News reporter with the son of the great man, Andrea Bartali, recalling his father’s reaction towards his heroic acts, he said: “When people were telling him, Gino you’re a hero”, his father would humbly respond, “No, no. I want to be remembered for my sporting achievements. Real heroes are others, those who have suffered in their soul, in their heart, in their spirit, in their mind for their loved ones. Those are the real heroes. I’m just a cyclist.”

Gino Bartali, Italian World Champion cyclist who became the pinnacle of media interest just before the start of World War II, had won the 1938 Tour de France and the Giro D’Italia in 1936 and 1937. It propelled him into superstardom at a time when the world seemed to be in a state of hopelessness. He also won the 1947 Giro D’Italia and the 1948 Tour de France after the War.

Due to his success, he gained the approval of the then fascist leader Benito Mussolini,

”

Profusion Magazine Aug | Sept 2014 25

and was respected and adored by the people. Besides being a dedicated sportsman, he was also a devout Catholic committing his life to saving hundreds of Jews from the Nazi’s.

He used his hero status to help the Jewish-Christian Network transport counterfeit identification documents around Italy. This helped secure safety for those who were outlawed by the Italian, or rather the then Nazi puppet state. It is said that he hid the documents in the frame of his bike and when stopped for inspection, he specifically asked that his bike not be touched since the parts were carefully calibrated to achieve maximum speed. There are numerous accounts made by surviving Jewish families that testify to the life-changing impact that Bartali had on the people.

On Thursday, 10 October 2013, at the Hall of Names in the YadVashem Holocaust Memorial in Jerusalem, a ceremony was held to honour and induct Bartali into the prestigious Garden of the Righteous among the Nations for his heroic acts. Among those attending were two children of Holocaust survivors, Giulia Baquis

and Giorgio Goldenberg, who reminisced about what he had done for their families. Goldenberg was a child when his entire family was hidden by Bartali, a friend of his father, in his cellar until the Liberation of Florence in 1944.

A man who took advantage of the favour that derided from his achievements, not for himself but to help others overcome their difficult circumstances, has set a standard for others to follow. It is a standard that should be upheld by anyone fortunate enough to impact people’s lives. As we go through life, regardless of what it is we do, who we are or where we come from, we should ask ourselves: are we willing to set aside our desire to be acknowledged and appreciated? Move beyond our humanistic tendencies to focus on self-empowerment and personal advancement? Are we able to make it our goal, even if it is in littlest of things, to help someone else other than ourselves?

Statistics show that eighty percent of Jews in Italy survived the Holocaust.

...real heroes are others, those who have suffered in their soul, in their heart, in their spirit, in their mind for their loved ones. those are the real heroes. I’m just a cyclist.

“gino bartali

http://sampottsinc.com/100tours/img/content/14_1938bartali.jpg

http://image.nanopress.it/ecodellosport/fotogallery/625X0/5995/gino-bartali-tour.jpg

Profusion Magazine26 Aug | Sept 2014

PRO CULTURE FEATURE

By Nothando Siziba

Many parents ask themselves if it is good to let their children watch television.

This is a two-sided coin, as there are both pros and cons.

While there in no arguing such common sense, television can be a useful tool in helping to stimulate our children’s minds. They can learn languages, both foreign and local. They are exposed to different cultures, which would not be possible otherwise. There are certain programmes that are actually in the best interest of a child, such as religious shows that teach the value of honesty, helpfulness and respect.

It is absolutely true! Television can be a very effective tool used to stimulate children mentally. It will also give them insight into their behaviour and that of others. Due to its high entertainment value, TV is known to quickly influence the mind. Fortunately, there are many learning opportunities that we can

take advantage of. Scientific and historical channels are good examples, but there are also fantastic educational programmes and wonderful cartoons.

When put to good use, television will actually shape a young mind positively. Human beings are visual and auditory animals, reacting to what we can see and hear. Amalgamating moving pictures with a strong message will greatly aid in teaching children what they ought to know in this world.

However, television has also been proven destructive for young minds. Some programmes have a terrible and long-lasting effect on kids, especially damaging to their way of thinking and their behaviour. These shows have no intellectual basis that would enhance the way a child reasons. There is no call for critical thinking and no valuable information to absorb. Such programmes turn our kids into mindless machines, unable to

Can our children benefit

from Television?

Profusion Magazine Aug | Sept 2014 27

judge things wisely or see situations clearly from all angles.

An example of this would be WWE, which teaches only violence and vulgar language – all in the name of sport. This does not add any ethics to a child’s development and ultimately causes them harm when they display similarities outside of the home. These problems revert back to the parents, who are solely responsible for what their kids watch on television.

It is extremely important to monitor the cultural aspect and message of what our children are exposed to. In the end, their final adjustment to society causes a lot of conflict in communities. This is because one way or another, TV has a resonating influence on every child. It is our job to make sure that the impact is good instead of bad.

Since it has been scientifically proven that children who watch TV have a higher intelligence ranking than those who do not, it has the potential to make star students of them. As parents, the burden is on our shoulders to provide our kids with every opportunity for success. It is vital that we teach people the value of television, as it is not a bad invention but rather an effective tool at our disposal.

Let us not be responsible for ruining the good of television in our children’s lives. Yes, there are bad programmes, but it is our duty to prioritize our children’s development. Rather than fight what is here to stay, it is far easier and more beneficial to simply monitor what our kids are watching.

extract from roald dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate factory

TV rots the senses in the head! it kills the imagination dead! it clogs and clutters up the mind! it makes a child so dull and blind. he can no longer understand a fantasy, a fairyland! his brain becomes as soft as cheese! His powers of thinking rust and freeze .

“

”

Profusion Magazine28 Aug | Sept 2014

dishes

2 Cups Cake Flour2 Cups Castor Sugar2 Tsps Baking Powder2 Eggs2 Tsps Vanilla Essence1 Cup Boiling Water1.5 Tsps Salt1 Cup Milk3/4 Cup Vegetable Oil3/4 Cup Cocoa Powder

MethodPreheat oven to 180 degrees C. Prepare two cake pans by spraying with spray and cook or buttering and layering with wax wrap.

Cake:Add flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, bicarb, and salt and espresso powder to a large bowl. Combine well. Add milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla essence to flour mixture and mix together on medium speed until well combined.

Reduce speed and add boiling water a little at a time to the cake mixture. Beat on high speed for about 1 minute to aerate the batter.

Pour cake batter into the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until a skewer / cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean.

Remove from the oven and cool. Remove from cake pans.

Ingredients

Best Chocolate

Cake ever!

FrostingCream together 1½ cups softened butter and 1 cup sifted cocoa powder. Add icing sugar (5 cups) and (1/2 cup) milk to cocoa

mixture by adding 1 cup of sugar at a time followed by about a tbsp of milk. After each addition has been combined well, turn mixer onto high speed for about 1min to beat well. Add 2 tsp vanilla essence. If frosting appears too dry, add more milk, a tbsp at a time until it reaches the right consistency.

delicious

by Naseema Khan

Profusion Magazine Aug | Sept 2014 29

Cliques& crews

© dimashiper | Dollar Photo ClubUnravel the aromatic world of spices. Aroma one Spice is convenience in a jar. Blended from the finest spices, Aroma is guaranteed to make your cooking experience simple and easy.

Cook up no fuss favourites with Aroma one Spice or kick start your braais

with Aroma Chilli Sauce.

Naseema Khan+27 31 208 1669 | +27 76 53 8959www.aromaspices.co.za

Established in May 2012 by organizer, Lizé Oosthuizen, when it was realized that

Pretoria, in particular, has a large interest in wine but few opportunities for wine lovers to get together and enjoy wine in the company of others. Currently standing at over 300 members in Pretoria and Johannesburg, with events taking place in both areas, the club has grown steadily since it was founded. The club is online based via Meetup.com, making it convenient for members to join.

The Pretoria Wine Lovers Club is open to everyone 18 years and older, and is suitable for anyone who enjoys wine and/or would like to learn more about wine. Members range from novice wine drinkers to connoisseurs and are welcome to suggest events and can attend as many events as they choose.

It is an informal club, with no monthly payments due, you only pay for events you attend. Events range from personalized wine tastings and food pairings with the wine club to wine shows. What’s more is that even though it is a wine club other forms of tipple are also explored, such as beer, whiskey and brandy!

If you would like to meet new, interesting people who share your love for wine and socializing, join The Pretoria Wine Lovers Club today and celebrate wine in all its glory with us! For further information visit: http://www.meetup.com/The-Pretoria-Wine-Lovers-Club/ or contact Lizé (organizer): +27 72 345 2344

ptA Wine Lovers Club

By Lizé Oosthuizen

august 2014S M T W T F S

national Womens day

sa

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3 4 5 6 7 89

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int youth day

13 14 15 16

17 18 19 20 21 22Wrld

humanitarianday

23remembrance of slave trade/

abolition

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30int day against nucleartesting

Womens MonthOrgan Donor Month

31 september 2014S M T W T F S

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28 29 30Heritage MonthTourism MonthPublic service Month

Arbor Weekint day of

Charity

int literacyday

Wrld suicide Prevention

day

heritage day sa

int day of Peace

WrldRetina Week

int day for Preservation ofozone layer

Int Clown Week

Month-to-Month

Job Seeking 101

Know your rights

PROFESSION

”“

to succeed in life you need two

things: ignorance and confidence

mark twain

Dress for the job...

Secretaries Day03rd September 2014they are always there when you need assistance with the printer, your pc or the booking of a function. be sure to show your appreciation to the secretaries, administrators and office managers this year with something from netflorist

32

35

36

PRO FESSION FEATURE

Profusion Magazine32 Aug | Sept 2014

By Natalie SingerAPSO COO

Dress for the job you want not the one you have

Professional dress can be a bridge or a barrier to clients, customers and interviewers.

If they don’t like the messenger, they’re not going to get the message. Communicating professionalism through dress is important, particularly when being interviewed for a senior or skilled role.

Who makes the rules about business dress code?

Most people agree that what you wear to an interview matters, but how do you decide what is appropriate? Most of today’s job seekers, particularly Generation Y, believe that it shouldn’t matter what you wear, so long as you can deliver the goods, but considering they’re likely to be interviewed by a Baby Boomer who still believes strongly in corporate dress codes, this is not the case.

Your choice of dress should be guided by the kind of job you’re interviewing for, and the corporate culture of the organisation. Generally, a more corporate office will have a higher expectation for professional dress and certain professions, like legal and finance, tend to be suit and tie environments. An artistic role, like graphic designer, PR consultant or advertising executive would expect an

element of creativity and boldness. Wearing a dull suit with no personality will likely cost you the job if this is the environment you’re interviewing for.

Wearing what an organisation expects you to wear, including to the interview, shows them that you’ve made a conscious decision to be part of the team. If the interviewer can look at you and “see” you sitting behind the desk for the role they’re recruiting, you’re halfway there.

What about personality?

For many individuals, the thought of wearing a uniform to work, whether official or unofficial, is off-putting. I mean, who wants to look just like everyone else, and how boring to wear the same thing day in and day out.

Just because there is an expectation for a certain look, doesn’t mean that you can’t allow your choice of outfit to reflect your personality. A successful dresser finds a distinctive way of dressing that is appropriate for what they do and is a true reflection of their personality. A feminine woman could add a touch of the romantic by choosing a ruffled blouse in a soft pale pink fabric to wear under a traditional

Profusion Magazine Aug | Sept 2014 33

Think about these ten things when dressing for an interview, or important meeting.

Choose a maximum of 3 colours only and ensure that one of them is neutral.

Select clothes that have clean, uncluttered lines and simple shapes for a strong, professional impact.

Use detail as a focal point. If you choose a pair of bold earrings or bright tie, ensure that the rest of your outfit is understated. Don’t risk garnering the interviewer’s attention for all the wrong reasons!

Avoid mixing patterns in a single outfit. Choose a single patterned garment and pair it with block colour.

Consciously combining textures helps to create interest. Pair shiny satin with a dull matt finish of wool, for example.

FOUR pattern

THREE detail

TWO Line & shape

ONE colour

dark business suit, or an outgoing man might opt for a bright red tie to show off his bold personality.

the Power of Colour

Using colour does not only help your personality shine through; colour psychology can give you the edge when attending an interview or an important business meeting. Whether we are conscious about it or not, the colours we choose for our business attire sends a strong message. The image you project with a beige suit is very different from the way you’d look in a navy suit, for example.

There are a few simple “golden rules” to consider when choosing a business outfit, based on colour:

* The darker the colour, the more powerful the “look”* Monochromatic colours, like different shades of grey or brown, look sophisticated.* Bright colours are less formal. You’re likely to be taken more seriously if you avoid colours such as yellow or orange in the business environment

Always be well-dressed...even when begging.

”“

hindu Proverb

FIVE texture

TEN RULESfor successful dressing

Profusion Magazine34 Aug | Sept 2014

cont from pg 32...

Know your body and balance any “out of proportion” area by adding visual detail where necessary. Balance wide hips with a top with shoulder interest, or use a solid dark colour on the bottom and a bright, interesting necklace to draw the eye up.

Remember that unequal proportions are visually more dynamic. Think about the size and placement of bold patterns, large jewelry or hair accessories to get this right.

Select individual garments for an outfit that connect with each other by picking up a common element of colour, line, shape or texture.

High contrast colours, like red and black project authority. Medium contrast cool blends, like blue grey suggest sophistication and low contrast warm tones like rust with cinnamon suggest approachability.

Use accessories to emphasize your ‘style and personality’ either to add a twist to classic business dress or emphasize attractive features, for example bold framed glasses to highlight eyes.

don’t blow it by forgetting instant image breakers

It doesn’t matter if you’ve chosen an outfit that “fits” all the rules, if you forget to avoid these instant image breakers. Image breakers can be grouped into dress style, clothes maintenance, and personal habits and grooming.

The most common turn-offs reported by interviewers include overpowering fragrance, careless shave, unpolished shoes, bad breath, laddered stockings, strange body odour, chipped nail polish, dandruff on collar, shoe heels in need of repair and scruffy hairstyles.

Personal hygiene and grooming are non-negotiable in any business setting but more so in an interview situation where all eyes, and attention, is focused on you.

Plan your interview outfit and get it ready at least the day before you are scheduled to attend the interview. The last thing you want to have happen a few minutes before you need to leave the house is to realize that your trousers don’t fit anymore, a button’s missing off your shirt or you forgot about the coffee stain dribbled down your front.

get a second opinion.

Ask someone you trust to give you honest feedback about your planned interview outfit. Let them give you frank, but constructive, advice on what the outfit says about you. Does it portray the image that you intend?

Remember that above all, you need to feel professional and confident in the outfit if you wish to make a good impression.

SIX balance

SEVEN proportion

EIGHT harmony

NINE contrast

TEN emphasis

Profusion Magazine Aug | Sept 2014 35

the basics for job seekersCredit and Criminal records:

By Attie BotesAPSO

rightsknow your

PROFESSION

When looking for a job or a new career two of the most common background

checks that will be conducted on a job seeker is a criminal record check and an adverse credit record check. These checks may not be done without the express permission of the job seeker.

In terms of a check for criminal records the agency or employer may no longer conduct a name and ID number check anymore. The candidate will have to provide his/her fingerprints through a biometric scan conducted by a trained and registered biometric officer. A criminal record may not be used as an automatic disqualification for employment and must be relevant to the position that is applied for. As an example in this regard a criminal record for fraud may be relevant to a candidate applying for a position as an accountant. Likewise any criminal record held by an applicant for a position as a security officer may be a real concern in light of the tasks and responsibilities associated with this position. The same will apply for someone operating heavy machinery or driving vehicles that have a criminal record for abuse of alcohol or intoxicating drugs or driving under the influence of such.

A job seeker’s express permission is also required before a credit check can be done.

A credit check is only relevant in as far as the position and inherent job requirements relate to sound financial management or the degree of trust that is associated with managing finances and access thereto. In this regard a job seeker with an adverse credit record in a position of over indebtedness will find it difficult to motivate their application for any position requiring them to manage and be accountable for company finances. Likewise it is a requirement that a company director shall not have an adverse credit record as such a person is held accountable on a higher level in terms of fiduciary duties and responsibilities.

Recently in the media “credit amnesty” was announced. In this regard consumers were encouraged to pay off all of their debt following which any adverse credit record (for paid up debt only) would be removed and may not be relisted. This did not mean that a consumer’s bad debt was wiped out. The reasoning behind this was to encourage responsible financial behaviour and create greater access to employment opportunities for job seekers.

Profusion Magazine36 Aug | Sept 2014

101Job seeking

By Daniela Bascelli

social media Job Huntingt i P s

About the Author: daniela bascelli is the digital marketing specialist & founder of onyx digital.

@danielabascelli www.onyxdigital.co.za

When you apply for a job on social media AKA a “career opportunity” - you are

expected to hold a level of professionalism.

Social media offers a whole new world of possibilities because it’s real-time and accessibility to specialised recruiters is common-place. Here are some tips to help you in your job hunt using social media as a platform.

doComplete your LinkedIn profile like a rockstar! Recruiters need to find you, make yourself available in search results pertaining to the roles you are interested in landing.

Build your digital life respectfully. Don’t get too involved in the negative “pockets of life”. Potential employers tend to screen applicants on social media to understand them better.

Share relevant content about the industry you are seeking employment in, people will begin to associate you with that topic.

Follow and like key recruitment companies on social media to view updates of fresh jobs that come in.

Get involved in positive chat about the industry of work you are interested in. Join a couple of good and active LinkedIn groups and search Twitter to find current “Twitter chats” that could have relevance in positioning yourself online.Personal brand marketing 101: Always check your spelling!

doN’TDon’t apply for jobs that don’t match your skills-set just to be noticed because you see a company is actively looking to fill a vacant position. It is pointless applying for everything you see, and it creates the wrong impression.

Never approach a potential employer or recruiter by saying “Call me on 071 ….….. neh!”. This will surely create the wrong impression and nobody will call you.

Don’t type text to a recruiter like this “Ya know dat job u had going, I will give you CV l8er”. Consider your application from this point on, unsuccessful!

Never take your communities for granted. Many people mistake the fast-power of social networks so don’t say anything you wouldn’t want posted on a billboard for millions of people to view.

Don’t update your profiles when you have had a couple of alcoholic-drinks or are in a bad mood. “Step away from the keypad”!

Keep your eyes peeled for more social media and job hunting tips to assist you in creating your professional future.

Profusion Magazine Aug | Sept 2014 37

Read It

Pros & Cons of Elearning

PROLEARN

”“

the difference between ordinary

and extraordinary is that little

extrajimmy johnson

Getting your manuscript...

Business Opportunities & Franchise ExpoStarts 11th September 2014Proudly brought to you by eskom and Coca Cola dome

more information: www.bofe.co.za

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Profusion Magazine38 Aug | Sept 2014

PRO LEARN FEATURESERIES

getting your manuscript

ready for submission

By Tracey Mc Donald andAlison Lowry

for the budding author:

These days it’s unusual for writers to send off hard copy manuscripts and

it’s unusual for agents or publishers to require this. A Word document sent as an attachment to a covering email is the norm. Still, do check the publisher’s or agent’s requirements on their website or wherever you’ve accessed their details, and do what they say. Occasionally, a writer simply doesn’t have access to technology and while this might present a difficulty or a chance of not being taken seriously, if you explain the circumstances, you ought to get as fair a reading as anyone else. Sometimes a publisher might even discover a gem this way, but this is rare.

This sounds ridiculous even to say it, but we have to say it anyway: before you send your manuscript off, in whatever format you’re sending it, read it through one more time from start to finish – you, personally, not a helpful friend who used to be a teacher. And make sure that it is as clean as you can possibly make it. These things ought to be self-evident, but having been at the receiving end of manuscript submissions, they’re worth noting again. It’s all about respecting the process and letting the publisher see that you do.

Don’t leave track changes on the scriptCheck your chapter numbering to make sure it’s sequentialIf you’re sending hard copy, don’t scribble over a line that’s suddenly struck you as wrong and write the better sentence above it or in the margin. Print out a clean page with your corrections and rewriting already incorporated. Don’t be lazy or sloppy. It will only tell the publisher that you are lazy and sloppy.Number the pages. Some editors and agents still read hard copy and if your manuscript falls off a desk or is dropped on the ground in a car park on a gusty day …Don’t send off one version and then sit down and rewrite it in a panic and follow it up with frantic Please read this version instead emails and three more Word attachments. There comes a point when you have to let your book out of your hands to sink or swim on its own in the powerful current carrying the 150 or so other manuscripts destined for the same slush pile as yours in any given month. Then try to put it out of your mind. Clean

www.getyourbookpublished.co.za

© gloszilla | Dollar Photo Club

Profusion Magazine Aug | Sept 2014 39

out your kitchen cupboards or something once you have sent it off. Don’t brood and don’t fret. And don’t rewrite – or at least not yet.Try to avoid a sans serif font. It’s not that comfortable to read, especially for fiction.Double spacing might mean more pages, but it’s easier to read (and to make notes on) than single spacing at this manuscript stage. Use 1.5 spacing at least.Don’t think you need to be a typesetter or book designer and attempt to make the pages look exactly like you imagine they’ll look when the book comes out of the oven. The chances are they won’t. And just because your laptop came with 35 new fonts doesn’t mean you should try them all out at once. No matter how carefully you have input the manuscript in Word and might have done clever things with dropped caps and spacing, once the book gets to the production department, the look and feel is probably going to be different to suit the format the publisher decides is best for the book. Word is not the programme they will be using. This is

part of the publishing process, not yours – yours is the writing and rewriting process.

Whether you send off the full manuscript or the usually required three chapters, don’t forget to send a synopsis as well, and also a brief biographical piece. The synopsis that publishers and agents always ask for is more to see how well you can explain your book reasonably succinctly than anything else.

Don’t send off three ‘representative’ random chapters. If the publisher’s or agent’s requirements say submit a synopsis and three chapters, take it that they mean the first three chapters. Don’t send Chapters 3, 4 and 7 “because that’s when the story really gets interesting” and you were into the swing of the writing by then. If your first three chapters don’t grab the publisher, they’re probably not going to grab anyone else either so they’d never have got to Chapter 7 anyway.

How do you know when the book is ready to go? The minute you triumphantly key in the final full stop? No, not then. The chances are that whether you have been writing your novel intensely for only six months or have laboured long and hard on the last section for the last four years, you are going to be very close to the book. This can be a good thing or a not so good thing. Somebody else should give it a read before you send it off (besides you, that is). Pick your reader/s carefully. You need a neutral reader, not someone who will feel awkward about telling you that they didn’t enjoy the book. Try to find someone whose opinion you value and trust, or someone who doesn’t know you and will do this for you professionally.

in our neXt issueThe final installment for the budding author...

The Pitch

By Danette Swanepoel

It does not matter how slowly

you go, as long as you do not stop.

Confucius “ ”

Profusion Magazine40 Aug | Sept 2014

PROLEARN

When British scientists, Donald Davies and Tim Berners-Lee, began materializing

their biggest work, the largest technological advancement the world had seen yet, no-one foresaw what the results would be. Inventing the Internet has had such a dramatic impact that it is hard to envision a life without it. Not only can we connect and share information easily with the press of a button, we also have the opportunity to run businesses virtually, within a global marketplace. Another advantage is that anybody can further their

education, learning new skills from the comfort of home – regardless of where they are in the world.

E-learning is creating quite a buzz and for good reason. The use of electronic media and technology to enhance what is being learnt is a distinct advantage for many people. While mostly done online, education is usually achieved in conjunction with traditional brick and mortar programs.

pRos & CoNs of

E-Learning

Profusion Magazine Aug | Sept 2014 41

Before embarking on such an endeavor, it is wise to do some research beforehand:

- The Good -

learning venue and proximity: You can study from an academic institution, your room or in the safety of your favourite hideaway. You are also able to access lectures, workshops and courses that are offered elsewhere - on different continents, at different institutions and even for different course materials that may not be available in this country. Some are not able to attend traditional workshops and face-to-face gatherings. Physical disabilities, distance, travelling costs, medical reasons and social issues are often responsible for this. Fortunately, online programs level the playing field for all learners and ensure equality for all.

flexibility: Instead of being constrained by normal teaching methods, you now have the flexibility to study in your own time. You can choose when to start, when to stop and how to divide your subject matter to fit into your schedule. This makes it a viable option for individuals who are studying part-time while working, raising a family or committed to other projects.

affordability: With such a wealth of information available, all you need is your computer and a reliable Internet connection. No costs need to be incurred for additional equipment and textbooks. There are no travelling expenses and no use of expensive libraries and other resources provided by an institution, including payment for a professor’s time spent at the lectern.

accessibility: It is almost impossible for students from remote or rural areas, without the necessary infrastructure, to attend brick and mortar programs. Now they have access to facilities that they never had before. They are able to gain a world-class education because they can enrol into classes from developed and successful institutions of their choice. This improves the educational standard in areas and countries that are suffering ineffective schooling systems or poor infrastructure.

- The Bad -

accessibility: While certainly an advantage, many locations do not have a reliable internet connection. This is a challenge as signal is essential.

laziness and procrastination: Flexibility is a benefit but it can be dangerous. Unmotivated students have a tendency to become lazy and procrastinate. They fall behind and seldom finish assignments. The lack of immediate feedback is de-motivating and it can take several days to get a response to a question. Making the necessary time to stay focused and complete courses is pivotal to successful online learning. Nobody will do it for you and tomorrow promises an even bigger workload.

Computer technology and proficiency: For learners who are inexperienced with the use of computer equipment, software or the internet, the reliance on this technology may be a bit overwhelming. Also, due to our current electricity problems, unreliable power sources or hardware can cause interruptions in learning.

lack of social interaction: Although an e-education offers the ability to study in privacy, it also isolates learners. Non-existent

Profusion Magazine42 Aug | Sept 2014

cont from pg 40...

social interaction is unquestionably a negative and for those who do not make an effort in this area, it may lead to feelings of despair. Due to the fact that students seldom meet, they are unlikely to feel comfortable discussing difficult assignments with each other. There is very little support from peers and while professors do their best, help is never immediate.

Unfortunately there is a bias against online learning. The high rate of failure and the lack of reputability of some of these courses make the value of the degree questionable. Little practical experience is acquired, which may result in someone else being hired. As with all obstacles, they are easily overcome. Enrol in an established program that has the required accreditation, stay motivated and volunteer your services to gain experience.

The rapid success of this teaching method has ensured it is now included in traditional curriculums and this bias is disappearing. Whatever your reasons for pursuing your education, as Confucius said: “It does not matter how slowly you go, as long as you do not stop”.

the lion and the lamb - Memoirs of a vetby mike hardwich

visit mike’s blog for regular animal updates by visiting: www.mike-hardwich.co.za

Profusion Magazine Aug | Sept 2014 43

I Love Bookswww.ilovebooks.co.za

facebook.com/Enjoyabooktracey@ilovebooks.co.za

Read ITreview

The stories in The Lion and the Lamb – Memoirs of a Vet are first-hand experiences of Mike Hardwich, both a vet and a farmer. Mike is no ordinary vet. Although initially drawn to the larger domestic animals such as cattle and racehorses, as his practice grew so did the variety of animals he was called on to treat.

In demand by everyday pet owners with their usual cats and dogs, he is also called on to attend to the ailments of wild species - an off-colour orang-utan, an elephant with a leg abscess, a celebrity lion with chronic rhinitis, a jaguar with a broken tooth, a crocodile with a fractured femur – not to mention a fruit bat with conjunctivitis.

In places this book is laugh-out-loud funny, and in others incredibly sad – it is suitable for all ages, for all animal lovers, and is a must read for all aspirant vets.

Books are available in all good book stores, or you can order them online at Kalahari.com

© unclepodger | Dollar Photo Club

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Terrific Tales

Insure your future...

PROPLANNING

”“

the future belongs to those who

believe in the beauty of their

dreams.eleanor roosevelt

Education changes lives

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By Paul Leonard, CFP®Executive Director of Consolidated Financial Planning

Profusion Magazine46 Aug | Sept 2014

PRO PLANNING FEATURE

When I matriculated I had few financial resources but wanted to study further.

While trying to figure out how to pay for this tertiary education a friend’s mother gave me one of the best pieces of advice I have ever received, she said: “Never let money be the reason you don’t get an education”.

There is no doubt that education is directly linked to improving your station in life, and that of those around you. In fact research shows that successful wealth accumulators believe that education is extremely important. Only one in every five prodigious accumulators of wealth in a study conducted by Dr Thomas Stanley is not a college graduate, and many of them have got post-graduate qualifications. They also spend heavily on the education of their children and grandchildren. If your children are young then you have time to save up for

their tertiary education, use it wisely.

A unit trust investment is a useful and flexible option. Unit trusts enable you to save regularly and to make ad hoc contributions. You can also increase, decrease, stop and re-start regular investments without penalty. While you can’t invest in the name of your child (as a minor) some companies give you the ability to give the account a unique name such as “Tammy’s University Investment” or “Sihle’s studies”.

Another option is to pay extra into your loans so that you are debt free by the time your children matriculate. That money that was previously used to pay a mortgage bond will be freed up to pay for tertiary studies. This presumes that you will have job security. We have used this approach and celebrated our family’s DEBT-FREE-DAY in the year of our eldest son started his first year of BSc Computer Science studies.

If you don’t have time to build up your savings over time or to settle your mortgage

educationchanges liveshow to save for a child’s education

and unforeseen emergencies

Profusion Magazine Aug | Sept 2014 47

bond then a student loan for your child is a viable option. While my father couldn’t afford to pay for a tertiary education, he was able to stand surety for a student loan which paid for a large portion of the university fees. It took me many years to pay off that loan but the return on that investment in education is paying handsome returns

Getting a loan has become more difficult than it was when I got my student loan since lending criteria have become more stringent in South Africa. So if you have exhausted all of the options above then your youngster could consider the “earn while you learn” option. Work and study part time. I was able to get work during the university holidays (some of which are quite long) and this enabled me to close the gap. This does take longer and is hard, but take responsibility for your life and do what it takes: “Never let money be the reason you don’t get an education”.

Emergency Funds (margin)

The ideal situation to be in is to have an emergency fund that is large enough to cover your monthly expenses for 6 months if you lost your job. If you do lose your job, your job becomes finding a new job. Having a large emergency fund gives you the time to put good quality time and effort into finding a new job. An emergency fund also gives you the resources to cover expenses when the inevitable setbacks happen.

Saving an emergency fund that is equivalent to six months’ worth of take home pay is not an easy or quick goal to achieve. The first step is to spend less than you earn so that you have something to save.

Tracy couldn’t save because her expenses were more than her income. Her first goal was to reduce her shortfall little by little until her

income matched her expenses. Her next goal was to save 1% of her take home pay. Once she had done that successfully she increased that to 2%. After a while she was able to set a much larger percentage of her income aside for emergencies.

Where should Tracy put her money for emergencies? Appropriate savings vehicles would be bank accounts such as savings accounts, money market funds, etc. The important consideration is that the money needs to be easily accessible at short notice.

Another good alternative is to paying extra into the “access” facility in your mortgage bond. Gerhardt currently pays R5,000 per month into his mortgage bond, this is the minimum instalment. If Gerhardt paid an extra, say, R500 per month into the mortgage bond then he would be able to draw that R500 out again sometime in the future, and in the meantime his bond account will not be charged interest on that R500 per month extra that he pays in which means that if he never has an emergency requiring him to draw that extra R500 out he will end up settling his bond early.

a penny saved is a penny earned.benjamin franklin“

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By Duane KohlCertified Financial Planner ®Strategic Financial Services

Profusion Magazine48 Aug | Sept 2014

PROPLANNING

insure your future income against retrenchment

Profusion Magazine Aug | Sept 2014 49

It didn’t take too long after AMCU ended their record 5-and-a-half month long strike, for NUMSA to jump on the band wagon and begin their own rendition.

The striking in both of these sectors cripples the fabric of our economy, and in some surreptitious way, the effects will slowly filter through the economy and affect each one of us financially—in one form or another. Many small to medium businesses have began com-plaining about the decline of trade, and when the data is released shortly, we may well find that the South African economy has slumped into a recession (i.e. 2 consecutive quarters of negative economic growth).

History will again prove that retrenchments will be an austerity tool used by employers to cut costs in a tough economy and market environment.

If you fear that you are at risk of falling prey to retrenchment in the future, you may be interested to learn that Liberty Life has an income protection product that caters specifically for the event of retrenchment. The product details are as follows:

liberty retrenchment Protector

The Retrenchment Protector benefit pays a monthly claim payment for a period of up to six months if the Life Assured is retrenched, from their nominated occupation and cannot find employment within one month of their previous

employment terminating.

The Retrenchment Protector benefit will pay the Sum Assured subject to a maximum of 75% of in-come or R30 000 per month (the lesser of).

The Retrenchment Protector benefit must be in force for a minimum of 6 months before a claim will be considered—so do not wait to apply the benefit if you suspect future retrenchment.

How much will it cost me?

For a 40 year old male, non-smoking, the maximum sum assured of R30 000 per month retrenchment protector, will cost a monthly premium in the region of R280 per month (subject to individual demographics).

Application is subject to normal underwriting requirements. Contact Duane Kohl for a written quotation.

get a quote from duane

duane@strategicicfc.co.za

Terrifictales

the fourtravellers

Once upon a time, a Merchant, a Noble, a Shepherd and a Prince were travelling on

the sea. Suddenly, a storm occurred. The four travellers were thrown by the waves onto an unknown island.

Their clothes were torn and they had lost all their belongings.

The Prince started crying,”This is all because of our sad fate.”

The Shepherd said, “Forget about what has happened. Now think of what to do next. We will not gain anything by crying, but if we work hard, we could go home or maybe live here and make a good home here.”

The other three, at once, agreed with the Shepherd. They started thinking what they could do best. The Merchant and the Prince decided to teach. The Noble said he would open schools for the subjects they taught.

The simple Shepherd then said, “Why talk so impractically, are we to starve till then? Think of something you can do now and here!”

Then he went into the forest and brought a bundle of twigs and took it to the market to sell. With the money from the sale they were able to buy some food.

Moral:We need to be practical

to solve problemssource

PROFUSION

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Promote it hereinfo@profusionmag.co.za

Corner of delight

Back in Action

Inside the teen mind

PROSELF

”

you never know how strong you

are until being strong is the only

choice you have.

bob marley

What skin type are you

The Princess and the Frog BalletStarts 14th August 2014bellville Civic theatre Cape townmore information: visit Computicket

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By Anelie Swart

Profusion Magazine52 Aug | Sept 2014

PROSELF

What is the definition of clear and beautiful skin? Can it be defined by

what foundation you wear or are there other ways to enhance your skin’s natural beauty before using cosmetics?

I say there is! The skin is the largest organ of the human body and it consists of five different layers. Every person is born with their own unique skin type and it is important to know what yours is, as this is the only way to ensure your skin remains naturally beautiful.

There is a diversity of different skin types and we group people into these various categories. Ascertaining your skin type is an essential first step in knowing how to treat your skin, what products to use and how to maintain your natural glow.

Statistics show that 80% of women have no idea what their skin type is. Here are a few easy steps to help determine which category your skin falls into:

Step One: Wash your face

Wash with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. During this procedure, makeup must be removed completely. Cleanse away oils and dirt that may have accumulated during the day, giving your skin a fresh start.

Step two: Let your skin breathe!

Wait a while, approximately an hour, for your skin to dry. It will then return to its natural state, the characteristics of which will determine your skin type. Avoid touching your face during this process.

once your skin has dried thoroughly, you will be able to identify your skin type:

normalSkin shows neither oil nor flaking skin. Your skin should feel nicely smooth. This is a very rare skin type.

oilyYour skin is damp and full of moisture. A person with oily skin will often show enlarged pores but will have fewer wrinkles as the skin ages.

dryThe skin may feel taut or show flakes of dead skin. Dry skin is associated with small pores but wrinkles will present themselves more readily through the aging process. Moisture is very important for this skin type

What Skin Type are you

Profusion Magazine Aug | Sept 2014 53

Combination This category is the most common among women. It exhibits traits of all the above skin types. Usually the skin is very oily in the T-Zone and normal to dry elsewhere.

Once you have determined your skin type, correct procedures can be followed to ensure natural and beautiful skin.

There are many techniques to keep your skin looking healthy and glowing. The following tips may prove helpful:

Always use a broad spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. A little sun is healthy and mood-elevating but can be dangerous too. Protect your face by applying sunscreen.Stay hydrated by drinking 7-8 glasses of water a day. This will flush out toxins.

Never wear makeup to bed. Rather spend the few minutes it will take to remove it.

Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables. The Mediterranean diet is great for skin. Salmon and foods rich in omega 3’s make a positive impact. When it concerns your skin, you are what you eat. Note that sugar is inflammatory and results in a puffy-looking complexion.

Keep your skin clean and moisturize; dermatologists recommend moisturizing dry skin twice a day and overnight.

For oily skin, use toner or natural fruit acids.

Green tea is anti-inflammatory and has been scientifically proven to heal skin.

Exercise to shed stress hormones and improve circulation.

Get your beauty sleep, as skin regenerates and hormones balance themselves.

Do not smoke. Avoid second-hand smoke and other obvious pollutants.

Aim for good health. When you are healthy, you look more youthful and vibrant. Illness weighs you down and saps your energy.

Never force your beauty. Rather enhance it. Avoid using harsh chemicals and treatments, drastic changes and too much makeup. Simplify with a more natural approach. Express who you are instead of some artificial ideal. Do not mask the real you. Living the truth of who you are is gorgeous and allows your inner beauty to shine through as well!

80% of women have no idea what their skin type is.

Inside the teen mind

Profusion Magazine54 Aug | Sept 2014

PRO SELF FEATURE

By Ansja Ferreira

other teens and peer pressureA lot of problems like bullying, peer-pressure, relationship problems, attitude problems, body issues as well as self-esteem problems, can be linked to the interactions between teenagers. Peer pressure plays a large role in the way teenagers act as their friends encourage them to change their attitudes, values, or behaviors to conform the group norms. What their friends do and think of them has a huge impact on how a teenager reacts to certain situations. According to experts, the reason for this is mainly that a teenager’s identity is largely based on what others think of them, whether positive or negative. In the past year *Devin (17 years) has had three girlfriends, and all three of them deceived him. His self-esteem is at an all-time low; he feels depressed and lacks self-confidence.

A person with a lack of self-confidence often feels that they cannot make a change in their lives. They are literally too afraid to try.

Sometimes they have been run-down over a period of time, and as a result lost their self-confidence. Someone like this will benefit from small accomplishments to make their life better. By achieving small successes, their confidence can be rebuilt. Be aware of negative thoughts about yourself. Identify them. Are they really true? In terms of these self-thoughts, ask yourself - are you being too critical, too hard on yourself?

Make an effort to be more positive. It’s very easy to fall into a rut of negativity or excessive critique. The next time you’re negative about something or someone, stop yourself, and try to deliberately find something positive about it or the person, and then focus on that. Try to see the other side of a situation.

Set up a list of goals for yourself, for example: "I'm going to make an effort to make new friends before the end of a specific time

A glimpse at the challenges, issues and problems facing our teenagers

today

Profusion Magazine Aug | Sept 2014 55

range." Write it down and regularly check and update your list of goals, and whether you've achieved your goals as yet. Stick your list of goals on your fridge and look at it every day. Do not give up. Everyone is disappointed and has experienced failure. Just because it has happened several times, it does not mean that it will happen every time. Perseverance is very important, perseverance wins. depression, suicide and risk takingAccording to The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), the suicide rate for children aged 10 to 14 years old has more than doubled over the last fifteen years. According to experts, depression is often expressed in ways that we do not normally associate with the illness. Elements like anger, hostility and physical pain (like stomach ache and headaches) are just a few of the symptoms that people easily miss, or don’t associate with depression. Several studies show that a teenager’s unique brain development makes them more prone to taking risks and that a teenager's brain is specifically developing in the prefrontal cortex. Current research suggests that the adolescent brain differs from the adult brain, because the teenage brain is actually still in a process of growth and evolving. Several studies by Dr. Jay Giedd of America in the nineties have brought this to light.

According to GASP (Games Adolescents Shouldn’t Play) between 250 and 1000

The biggest problem teens face, are in

fact, other teens.

children die annually in the U.S. because of the Choking Game and other dangerous activities such as sniffing aerosol and butane gases. Accurate statistics in South Africa are not available, since many of these cases are wrongly recorded as suicide.

negativity and playing the blame game“When I failed my math test, I decided that I no longer like mathematics and that the fault lies with the mathematics teacher and the subject, and not with me. I became very negative towards the subject as well as my teacher, stopped doing my homework and started to believe that I will never pass my math exams and that everything is the teacher’s fault.” (*Josh, a 15-year old). People in a state of negative thinking remains stuck in a comfort zone where they can blame others for their failures. If you believe you will fail, you will fail.

The player of the blame game is the eternal victim and fails to take responsibility for his or her own life. Everything is always someone else's fault. The people, who blame others for everything that go wrong in their life, are living in a comfort zone that becomes their prison. Such people stagnate and stay wherever he or she is, without personal growth.

Information overload and internet addiction: Research has shown that some on-line users become addicted to the Internet in much the same way that others became addicted to drugs, alcohol or gambling.

” *james - a 16 year-old teenager.“

Profusion Magazine56 Aug | Sept 2014

cont from pg 54...

Teenagers are growing up with mobile phones, text messages, Facebook, Skype, games, podcasts and blogs, and they run the risk of becoming addicted. Experts recommend that one should turn off the TV and mobile phones during family time.

the changing role of parentsAlthough it is important to build and maintain a relationship with your teen, parents must be careful not to try and act cool or be too strict. Your teen may need to talk to you. They should look up to you and respect you as their parent – the boundaries between the role of friend and parent should be clear. The other side of the coin is of course, where parents are too strict and unrealistic. Sometimes these parents do not want to accept that the teen is

no longer a child, and that there are certain things they need to do on their own.

"A parent's love, unconditional acceptance and support are essential to help a child through the stormy teenage years of peer pressure and transition into adulthood.”

Josh McDowell wrote: “Rules without relationship leads to rebellion. If you want children to cooperate with household rules - build a relationship”.

“Adolescents are not monsters. They are just people trying to learn how to make it among the adults in the world, who are probably not so sure themselves.” - Virginia Satir, American psychologist and writer.* pseudonym (skuilnaam)

hammett79

By Sara Prokopowicz

Profusion Magazine Aug | Sept 2014 57

The days of constantly having to deal with aches and pains are over.

Sara Prokopowicz is a specialised Sports Massage Therapist who works with all kinds of muscle problems, injuries and discomfort.

Through the years of treating clients, Sara has discovered that most problems are related to certain scenarios, these include:

Sitting at a desk for long periods of timeStanding for long periods of timeNot enough physical activityToo much physical activity, and finallyStress

She confirms that everybody is different and thus handles stress in different ways. The body is the same, each person holds stress in different areas of the body. The spot that you would experience the most discomfort or tension is where you hold your stress.

If the stress isn’t worked out of the muscles, it can get worse over time affecting tendons, ligaments and eventually even bones and joints.

Massaging can help a great deal in getting rid of temperamental spasms or pains that are often triggered by stress, lack of nutrients like magnesium or dehydration.

Pressurepoint techniques, dry needling and

sports therapy are different types of massage therapies that aid in the relaxing of bad spots.

Daily routines and jobs are understandably stressful, filled with their own demands, to-do lists and deadlines however during the day it is likely to find colleagues clenching their jaws or tensing their shoulders in reaction to the workload. These reactions eventually cause migraines or tension headaches and pain in shoulders which slowly starts pulling on muscles.

Be mindful of how you sit or think, know that you are clenching or tensing and consciously try to stop it.

For those that sit or stand all day, you need to get those muscles out of that same position. This prevents spasms and pulling. Sports, regular exercise, gyming and stretching can also help strengthen, stretch and better recover these muscles.

Lots of water, regular exercise and proper sleeping patterns can also help the body recover from stress and minimize the risk of spasms but also in the long run, prevent bigger problems one needs to deal with in later years.

We only have one body, we should treat it as an investment, one that will look after us for many years to come.

Back inaction

Profusion Magazine58 Aug | Sept 2014

corner ofdelight

Many people think of Cape Town CBD as a place where you will pay a lot of

money for really good food. This is definitely true, but not if you know where to go. Dias Tavern is a Portuguese restaurant located on Caledon Street. It is a well-kept secret by those in the know and with very good reason.

The red plastic chairs might put some off, the fact that you have to book in advance on a Saturday is ample evidence of its

popularity. The food and service are so good that the owners have no need to impress with over-the-top decor, and this is exactly how the locals like it.

It is perfect for those sick of a sometimes pretentious city. You do not need to spend a fortune at the Waterfront to have a good time in Cape Town. If you simply want to relax, watch the game or have something to eat before heading to the nearby Fugard Theatre, this is the ideal spot to do it.

Dias tavernthe Perfect Way to Compliment your fugard eveningBy Taryn Herbst

Profusion Magazine Aug | Sept 2014 59

Sara Prokopowicz

Sports Massage & Beauty Therapy

197 SMIT STREET ENERGY HOUSE SUITE 1 FAIRLANDS

084 919 9175

http://www.diastavern.co.za/14-2/

15 Caledon StrCape Town021 465 7547

If you enjoy good food at a great price, this is where you need to be. Meat lovers are in for an absolute treat with the Espetada - an Espetada Grande (350g) goes for R120.00, while the smaller 250g version is a reasonable R95.00. Other perennial favourites include the Trinchado (200g rump steak fried in wine, with garlic and peri-peri) for R87.00, the Baby Chicken (R97.00) or the half chicken (R74.00). They also serve prawns and the price is available on request. All of their options are fantastically delicious.

Drinks are reasonably priced and they offer an excellent wine selection. Do not expect craft beers and other exotic fancies. This is more of a ‘good food and good times, without the fuss’ kind of place. Dias Tavern caters for private functions as well. I had my 21st there; everyone was extremely helpful and set menus were arranged in advance for my guests.

Theatre enthusiasts will be delighted to know that Dias Tavern is really close to the Fugard. Dinner before a show can be arranged through the theatre or simply by contacting Dias Tavern yourself. You then saunter over after dinner. What more could you ask for when planning a trip to one of the most relevant art venues in the country?

Twisted Terms

Back in Time

Going Car Free

PROTRAVEL

”“

life goes on within you and

without you.

the beatles

Serbia

Joburg Day13th September 2014With performances by dj Kent, Prime Circle and gangs of ballet this is an event not to be missed. tickets on sale now. more information: Click here

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Profusion Magazine62 Aug | Sept 2014

Serbiaa poetry of war and beautyby Eva Sgroi

Notes of deep sadness resonate in the air of this tragically poetic nation, as it

boasts odyssey’s of heroically overcoming the agonizing cold of greyed skies and war. As you wonder through its bright white and tarred city streets its mystical element of barring a history replenished with scars and tears is reflected in the appearance of old bombed buildings and the elderly gazing right through your soul- as if they have known the world without its disguise.

Serbia formerly known as the people’s republic of Yugoslavia is situated in South Eastern Europe and boarders with Croatia on the northwest, Hungary on the north, Romania on the northeast, Bulgaria on the east, Macedonia on the south, and Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina on the west. It is a largely mountainous landscape with the river Danube intersecting through its core.

Containing the very essence of a hard exterior having suffered through violent and turbulent times having gone through many long periods of economic and political instability, held responsible for sparking the flame that led to the first world war the country has slowly began to re-develop from the ground up throughout the years subsequent to the end of the war. It is a history worth understanding to fully appreciate the austere beauty lurking in its shadows.

Prior to Serbia gaining its independence in 1878, it had undergone having been considered to be the most powerful state in the Balkans under the rule of Stefan Dusan in the 14th Century to being consumed into the clutches of the Ottoman Empire after Serbia was defeated in the battle of Kosovo in 1389. With Turkish influence in this Slavic country, they left behind a residue of middle eastern art that can be seen in everything from its traditional clothing and tapestry to its exotically breath-taking dark-skinned brown eyed beauties.

A rare display of orthodox propriety and strong Slavic tradition meets magical and mystical Arabian flare. This creative influence is evident in the countries byzantine style of architecture and fruitful medieval monasteries that decorate the hilltops of its luscious green lands. It is this creative burst of occupancy from the Turkish that Serbia emits a cultural sense of diversity in its people, cuisine, art and language.

Many people today, when hearing the often overlooked name of the country Serbia, have very little understanding of the nation’s richness and heroic ascending to triumphant victory. Apart from its deeply harrowing past, today Serbia attracts hundreds of tourists desperate to unveil history hidden in its soil being an archaeological gold mine of history that extends all the way back to ancient

Profusion Magazine Aug | Sept 2014 63

Serbiaa poetry of war

antiquity. Whether you are a history hunter, a poetry and literature lover or simply desire to experience something new and different Serbia has it all.

The Capital of Serbia is Belgrade, a bustling city home to over one million habitants which include locals and expatriates alike having built an economy that hosts numerous mega-brand foreign companies. The Best recommended places to visit in and around the city would be the Belgrade fortress which is situated in the heart of the city centre, it occupies high ground overlooking the city and the Danube river. Another interesting place to visit is ‘Ada Ciganlija’ which is a beach like frontier surrounding a river island that has artificially been turned into a peninsula, located in the Sava River’s course through central Belgrade. It is filled with local restaurants serving authentic Serbian Cuisine and atmospherically delightful bars which face the river. There are shops to rent bicycles if you prefer to ride around the island and sport courts where you can enjoy a quick game of tennis or bravely join the local boys in a gruelling match of soccer.

There are many more attractions surrounding the capital in Novi Sad, with its beautiful monasteries, to the immaculate Ski resorts in Zlatibor which is situated in the western part of Serbia, a part of the Dinaric Alps to Kopaonik found in the central part of Serbia

with its highest point, Pancic’s Peak extending to 2,017 meters above sea level.

Serbia is a rich country complete with bitter heartbreak and pain and stories of how they overcame these heart wrenching tragedies, somehow they managed to preserve all the beauty that their enemies left behind and combine it with their own folklore and culture to produce a platter of spice and mystery that is nothing less than a poetic nation. If you want art, you will find it, if your heart desires the feeling of ice cold snow on your finger-tips and a warm cup of ‘Topla cokolada’ (Hot chocolate) Serbia entails the full all around Balkan experience.

Note: If you wish to taste the flavour of Serbia there is a Balkan Grill situated at the Hazeldean Food Market in Pretoria where you can try some the staple fast foods which include a meaty extra-large ‘Balkan Burger’ or otherwise locally known as ‘Plescavica’ or the flavourful Kebabs ‘Cevapcici’

http://cdn.serbia.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/tara-planina.jpg

the beautiful mountain - tara

http://www.sustainablemelbourne.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/CarFree-Day-Poster09.jpg

Profusion Magazine64 Aug | Sept 2014

PROTRAVEL

going

Car - freeby Venezia Fanner

Profusion Magazine Aug | Sept 2014 65

Car - free

The initial aim of Car Free Day is to encourage motorists to give up their cars for one day.

World Car Free Day is held annually on the 22nd of September and The Washington Post had this to say about it: “It promotes improvement of mass transit, cycling and walking, and the development of communities where jobs are closer to home and where shopping is within walking distance”. Campaigns to reduce our reliance on cars have been planned for over 1,500 cities in 40 countries and are designed to highlight alternatives such as public transport, healthy lifestyles and car-free zones.

The events held on this day vary depending on your location, but they give motorists and commuters a chance to experience their streets car-free. There were many projects trying to achieve this but it was only in October 1994, where Eric Britton gave a speech at the International Accessible Cities Conference in Toledo, Spain, that a solid call to finally structure these events was sounded.

Within two years, the first Car Free Days were organized in Reykjavík, Iceland, Bath, Britain and France. The informal World Car Free Day Consortium was organized in 1995 to support this initiative worldwide. The first ever national campaign was inaugurated in Britain by the Environmental Transport Association in 1997. The French followed suit in 1998 with their “In town, without my car!” campaign, which was then established as a Europe-wide project by the European Commission. In the year 2000, the program went global with a World Car Free Day launched by Car Busters, now World Car Free Network. The same year saw collaboration between the Earth Day Network and the World Car Free Day Consortium.

While a considerable amount of momentum has been gained from media coverage, it is often difficult to achieve real success with these events. Many countries do not have alternative options for motorists to use. In some cases, it is dangerous or unreliable to use public transport and people are not able to leave their cars at home. There is considerable uncertainty about the usefulness of this approach, even a decade later.

Currently, the world record holder for this event is Bogota, Columbia. They have the largest Car Free Day on earth that restricts vehicle access to the entire city – and it is held during the week when people are most reliant on their own transport. The city of Jakarta is not far behind. They block their main avenue off completely and invite locals to exercise and be active there. Cars are totally cleared out so that pedestrians can actually enjoy their city on foot and bicycle. Their events are so successful that the area has been declared a car-free zone every Sunday since May 2012.

While we have some major public transportation problems in our country, there are solutions if we are creative enough. If you live close to work, why not cycle there? If not, or if you do not have a bicycle, how about organizing a lift club where one car is used instead of several? This approach offers an exciting change to your daily routine and will make the traffic more bearable. So do your part on the 22nd of September. Try and go car-free so that we can get South Africa involved in this worthy initiative.

Coco Chanel’s revolutionary influence on women in society

Profusion Magazine66 Aug | Sept 2014

Threading inspiration

timeback in

By Eva Sgroi

into the fabric of life - Coco Chanel

The notorious account of Mademoiselle Chanel’s life is one that has been tediously

and vainly lacerated by countless fashion aficionados all with the intent to unravel a mystery that has purposefully been buried in time. Besides the media and stories passed on by friends there are very few intricate details available to fully delve into the personage of the woman whose profound influence contributed towards the shaping of what has now become the quintessential modern woman.

An icon of allure, innocent yet ruthless self-expression at the cost of the status quo and individuality - her entire being igniting the inception of an era that can still be observed today. In some small way, starting with an ability to create, using a needle and thread, she not only shaped the way that women clothed themselves but also the way that women thought.

From humble beginnings “Coco” Chanel blossomed into a globally successful megabrand, but today the portrayal of glamour, luxury and sophistication seen in her designs significantly over-shadows the hardships that characterised her life. Before she was infamously dubbed with the cute nickname ‘Coco’ she was formally known as Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel. Born on 19 August 1883 in a poorhouse in Saumur - a market town in France. Peasantry marked the first eleven years of her life until the death of her

mother, which then spurred her father to send her to Aubazine - a nun’s convent.

Here she learnt how to sew becoming inspired by the austere and conservative attire of the nuns who raised her. She remained at the convent until she was 18, and was then sent to the Notre Dame school in Moulins. At the school she was given further lessons in sewing.

The Mother Superior found Gabrielle a job as a shop assistant and seamstress in a draper’s store on the rue de l’Horloge, which sold trousseaux and mourning clothes to the local gentry, as well as outfits for new born babies. Although she was fortunate enough to position herself in a way that would earn moderate independence she struggled with abandonment issues which then later determined the outcome of many of her relationships.

Her first creative endeavour was making straw hats stripped of embellishments and exaggerated ornaments. Her signature style was that of modernity and simplicity, designed to present an illusion of sheer elegance. With the help of one of her male admirers she opened her first shop in Paris in 1913, where she sold hats and a selection of clothing items for women which revolutionised the standard corset and skirt at the time. Her designs were comfortable and allowed women to move more freely. She also introduced trousers and

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Coco Chanel

PROFUSION

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suits for women which had never been done before.

During WWI women were forced to take on the role of men in the workplace to uphold the economy and with this came the desire to express independence and new found identity.

Chanel was able to market her personality and style well which made up for a large proportion of her success besides her tenacious drive, attention to detail and focus on perfection, altogether her classic iconography and modern designs established a lasting effect on women in society and created a platform for fashion by that is still influenced today. One of Chanel’s most popular creations was the ‘Little-Black-Dress’ an item made to be suitable for day as well as evening wear throughout subsequent seasons has preceded to become a classic piece of twentieth-century women’s wear.

Chanel knew that she needed to change the way society perceived women and show them as individuals able to write their own destinies and discover elegance and confidence, capable of success. The story of Chanel’s life and the establishment of her brand is an inspiration indicating that with a powerful ideology, talent and enough perseverance one can certainly make a significant change in the world.

in order to be

irreplaceable, one should always be different

Profusion Magazine68 Aug | Sept 2014

Life is like a coin. you can spend it anyway you wish but you only spend it once.

Lillian Dickson

effulgentOriginating from the 18th century from the latin word effulgence, the word mean emanating goodness or joy.

adverb | effungentlynoun | effulgence

shining forthradiant

you said...

Loved the article (My Heart beats for South Africa), left me longing for Home. I left 7 years ago to move to the UK to help and support my Dad. It was a very difficult desicion, I left my children, friends and a Land I Love behind. One cannot replace what we have in South Africa, the African bush and glorious Sun. The golden beaches and blue oceans. The mountains and never ending plains.Most of all you cannot replace the people and the culture and the music. The Braai in the afternoon after a South African thunder storm with its amazing lightning display, the klippies and coke, a bietjie Melk tert and koek suster. Lets not forget die vleis.

We speak so many different languages but yet they are one voice, we are proud to be South African. We can spend so much time on all the negatives but why when we have so much to share, to give and enjoy as a nation. Let's never lose site of that, after all we have been through as a nation, we are still here and will always be.

Adrian Fanner”

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twisted terms

Quote In our next issue:

the PitChfor the budding author

toP 10 Green CoUntrieS: SinGaPore

BaCk in aCtion ContinUeS...

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