The buzz_Dec 2019 Print

Issue #7 I December 2019

Konica Minolta plants trees on Robben Island

Message from the CEO Our reputation as Konica Minolta is one of our most
treasured assets and the foundation on which we have
Not only the end of built our brand and company. The only way to protect
another calendar year and improve our sustainability is to exceed clients'
but also a decade expectations, meet and beat our commitments, be
that began with us hosting innovative and inclusive and deliver excellence on all
the football World Cup and fronts. By understanding, and embracing our clients'
ended with us winning the challenges, issues and goals, we will be able to build
Rugby World Cup. There was stronger and lasting relationships that will yield short
a lot in between but the most and long term results.
significant impact came
from the political front…with We are very excited about what 2020 has in store
a decade of damage that for all of us. This will be a year of growth and new
has brought our economy opportunities. We appreciate your continued commit-
to its knees. The reversal of ment to the company and to our growth. We are
this will only be seen in the confident we can make this mutually rewarding.
next ten years and taxpayers are tired of funding poor
performance with no accountability. One of our major achievements in the past year has
been our ability to settle into our new lean and mean
We have seen a drop in demand due to the tough head office structure, stabilise and strengthen our
economy and complex RT3 tender process. To compound existing client relationships, define and institutionalise
this a reduction in print volume (clicks) is also putting operational processes.
pressure on our margins and turnover.
“It is in your moments of decision that your destiny is
In a downturn the pressure is immense, we have to shaped.”
continuously improve all we do incrementally to stay
ahead of the pack. The Japanese call this 'Kaizen', a I would like to wish you all a magical festive season
business philosophy of continuous improvement of and a fabulous new year filled with health, happiness,
working practices and personal efficiency. spectacular success and time to rethink and recharge!

As you know, we are always investing in our people, Marc Pillay
our most important asset. We continuously work on
improving our ethos, culture, value system and work
environment. We have invested heavily in business
efficiency and automation.

2 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019

Stand a chance to win a prize by answering the following questions:
Question 1: On which island did Konica Minolta plant trees in September?
Question 2: Who is the founder of World Wide Worx and editor of Gadget.co.za?
Question 3: What are the five elements head office is focusing on regarding 'The Connected Office'?

Send your answers to [email protected]
by 05 May 2020

BUZZJUNE 2019theprize winner !

east london

Anita Money (East London branch)
- winner of theBUZZ competition (June 2019)

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 3

Congratulations Willie!
CPaarl
ongratulations Willie Engelbrecht 'Success isn't always
on securing the Breedevallei
Municipality contract. about greatness.
We know how hard you worked to It's about consistency.
make your presentation perfect and Consistent hard work
you deserve both our thanks and our
congratulations. We are very pleased
that we have you on our team.

leads to success.

Greatness will come.'

Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson Whoever was available helped
unload the truck.

Thank you for your team work!

Willie Engelbrecht The biggest truck we have ever
off-loaded stock from in Paarl
We hope you view this success not
only as part of your job, but also as the TROPHY WINNERS JERSEY HAND OVER
personal victory that it is. Don Mathapo (vice-captain) l-r: Pepe Moselekwa (team manager),
Keep up the good work! & Andries Lediga (head coach)
Morne Etchell & Mami Lediga
SRAuPgbSyLiTmeapmopo (team member)

Polokwane

Tby Morne Etchell
he annual SAPS Limpopo rugby
sponsorship was once again
available, although smaller than
usual, we supported the team by
sponsoring a set of jerseys and rugby
shorts.

They attended the National Rugby Week
in Secunda and played in the 'B Divi-
sion', which they won on Saturday 15
June against KZN 22-3.

Well done guys!

4 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019

Pteraemtorbiauislderinvgice ladies In the end, we were given a lesson in bowling as Kgaugelo
took the honours and beat us all. Clearly she has been
Pretoria practicing in her spare time! After the bowling, we treated
ourselves to a light lunch and a few drinks to celebrate, relax,
Iby Wayne Pagel unwind and enjoy the rest of the afternoon amongst great
n June, we decided it was our ‘Super Service Ladies’ turn work colleagues.
to have some fun out of the office. With stress at an all
time high, what better way to unwind than with some Ten
Pin Bowling at ‘Let's Go Bowling’.

As with all sports, the day was filled with much anticipation
as to who would be victorious and who would succumb to
the gutter ball! There was much laughter as the proceedings
got underway, with some balls finding their way to the pins
and some, well let’s say the gutter was calling. Then, we
had Edith showing us how to use the mini ramp for those
that were new to the game, however, this did not deter
all the ladies from joining in and supporting their fellow
teammates.

SERVICE LADIES TEAM
l-r: Zandile Thwala, Mapula Mohlopi, Esethu Vuntu,
Nthabiseng Sithole, Irma Prinsloo, Rofhiwa Siphuma,

Edith Moholane & Kgaugelo Masilela

WHAT A SHOT! 'GIRLS JUST WANT TO HAVE FUN'!
l-r: Edith Moholane, Rofhiwa Siphuma, Irma Prinsloo, l-r: Kgaugelo Masilela, Rofhiwa Siphuma, Edith Moholane,
Kgaugelo Masilela & Esethu Vuntu in the background
Esethu Vuntu, Zandile Thwala & Nthabiseng Sithole
theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 5

CNeewleFinbarnaciatliYoeanr BRANCH MANAGER'S BRANCH EMPLOYEE OF THE QUARTER AWARD
AWARD l-r: Dustin Leibach (service), Janine Jekwa (logistics),
East London Shanna Grundlingh (admin) & Inga Freegard (sales)
Damian Bezuidenhout
On Friday 26 July, East London branch (service supervisor)
gathered to celebrate the start of
the new financial year. WOW FACTOR AWARD
The afternoon began with a branch l-r: Nomawethu Myoli (sales), Thembela Malawana (service),
meeting where Gary looked back at the
previous financial year and celebrated all Suraya Chetty (admin) & Noel Noble (service)
the achievements.

The previous financial year 2018/2019
was a really great year for the branch and
we did extremely well. This was due to
the staff pulling together as a team and
working really hard.

Gary handed out a number of special
awards to the following staff:
Branch Manager's Award
Damian Bezuidenhout (service
supervisor)
Branch Employee of the Quarter Award
Dustin Leibach (service)
Janine Jekwa (logistics)
Shanna Grundlingh (admin)
Inga Freegard (sales)
WOW Factor Award
Nomawethu Myoli (sales)
Thembela Malawana (service)
Suraya Chetty (admin)
Noel Noble (service)
CS Remote Care Award
Dustin Leibach (service)
Performance Award
Lailah Obaray (sales)

The day ended with a braai and fun-
time playing pool, darts and beer pong.

OTHER AWARDS
l-r: Damian Bezuidenhout (Branch Manager's Award),
Lailah Obaray (Performance Award) & Dustin Leibach (CS Remote Care Award)

6 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019

Nelspruit exhibits at ITIL successfully completed
the SAPA Conference
Nelspruit
Nelspruit
The Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) Foundation
Athree-day expo was held in conjunction with the is an international service management course offered by
national South African Principals Association (SAPA)
conference, which took place in September at the Konica Minolta Germany. It is a head office requirement that all
Ingwenyama Conference Centre, in White River. service managers are ITIL certified. Pictured above are

Nelspruit branch exhibited at the expo which proved to Peet van Tonder, Keith Labeeuw & Gerhard van Tonder who
be most successful, drawing huge crowds from Nelspruit, all successfully completed the course.
White River and surrounding areas.
Braai time
The energy from the team was phenomenal and a big
‘thank you’ to a super sales-team consisting of ‘ROCK Polokwane
STARS’.

l-r: Zelda Venter, Dirk Myburgh, Shereen Moorad Following a very busy two
& Trinity Mthembu engage with the visitors weeks, after financial
year-end it was time for
l-r: Gerhard van Tonder, Dirk Myburgh, Zelda Venter, a well deserved braai at the
Trinity Mthembu & Shereen Moorad office.

Meat, bread rolls, sauce
and spices were bought and
within minutes the fire was
lit and the meat was on the
grill!

As the newest staff
member, Wouter Botha
was (and will remain) the
designated braai-master. The
tongs will change hands
only when the next new
staff member is appointed!

Braai-master, Wouter Botha
theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 7

Women's Month

Nelspruit Pietermaritzburg
by Gerhard van Tonder
The Pietermaritzburg ladies celebrated Women’s Month
To celebrate Women’s Month all the ladies in the by spending a fun evening together, having dinner while
branch were asked to participate in a fun team- making their bracelets. 'Girls just love to have fun!’
building exercise, initiated by head office, which
they all enjoyed!

On behalf of our branch a big ‘thank you’ to all ladies -
these are the special people who not only take care of us,
but who cook, clean, lend a listening ear when needed
and who are always there for us, regardless.

A big thank you to Laetitia for initiating this project for
Women’s Day!

back: Lindokuhle Kunene & Bernie van der Bijl
front l-r: Thembi Madlala, Carol Jaftha, Sharmain van der Byl,
Gaylene Harvey, Kaycee King, Serena Sheik, Jenitha Govender
& Nivana Nunkumar

Mthatha

l-r: Billynda Hamman, Shereen Moorad, Zelda Venter,
Bianca Casey, Farzanah Shah, Mavis Mnyambo,

Donalda Schatz, Lindeni Chiloane, Judith Mbuyane
& Bongiwe Moroepane

The Mthatha ladies busy beading

Bongiwe Moroepane & Judith Mbuyane l-r: Fundiwe Libala, Nerees Masella, Lusanda Mkona
8 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 & Dyomfana Tandiswa showing off their bracelets and necklaces

East London

To celebrate Women’s
Month, head office
sent all the ladies in
the company a small gift,
it was a packet of beads
with instructions on how
to make a bracelet.

With it came a chocolate
and tea bag symbolising
a woman’s strength and
energy.

All the ladies in the
branch gathered together
in the boardroom to make
up their bracelets.

East London branch ladies
celebrating Women’s Month

Johannesburg

Tby Edith Makhubu
his special get-together photo of the
ladies at our branch was taken on
Women’s Day.

We were celebrating women in the
workplace regardless of race or background
- we were celebrating life because we spend
about eighty percent of our lives in the
workplace and therefore why not celebrate
women at work.

Work shouldn’t just be about computers
and paperwork, but also about the joy, tears
and laughter we share as women at work.
We find our strengths and weaknesses in this
journey, called work.

The support system is what drives us and JOHANNESBURG BRANCH LADIES
this includes Konica Minolta’s commitment back l-r: Rebecca Mokati, Nonhlanhla Mashinini, Nandi Makhubela
to empowering us with opportunities to & Janiera Thompson
study further and for this the ladies at middle l-r: Charmaine Ogle, Joey Setlhatlole, Bronwyn Griffith, Edith Makhubu,
Konica Minolta are most grateful. Sagree Ramalu, Nonhlanhla Ngubeni, Lindi Dlamini & Gillian Schneiderman
front l-r: Hayley Britton, Althea Zaage, Anthea Zaage, Tracy Lee Stanton-Jones,
Happy women are productive women - Lerato Rampai, Brenda Manoko & Desiree Bothe
Women’s day is not only celebrated in August
but all year round at our branch.

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 9

MAndelA DAY 2019

18 June

pTrlaeneting

Port Elizabeth

Port Elizabeth branch celebrated Mandela Day by
giving back to the community and planting trees
at the Donkin Reserve and St. Dominics Priory
School. The branch also went a step further and donated
toiletries to the Oosterland Child and Youth Care Centre.

l-r: Gregory Cops (Parks & Cemeteries acting director),
Warren Diakos & Idris Rahim at the Donkin Reserve

back: Warren Diakos l-r: Annelie Morton (fundraising assistant), Tarrin Killian
front l-r: Tarrin Killian, Idris Rahim & Casey-Leigh Felix & Casey-Leigh Felix

at St Dominic's Priory School
10 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019

Mthatha As we were driving to Mvezo, it was astounding to see the
by Lusanda Mkona number of trees that Konica Minolta has donated over the
past four years to this area and what made it even more
Mandela Day has a different meaning for all South rewarding was to see how well these trees were growing.
Africans, however, for Konica Minolta it means
another opportunity to partner up with Food and This year, our first event was at the Nelson Mandela
Trees for Africa in a quest to preserve our environment. School of Science and Technology in Mvezo, where we
were welcomed by the school choir, followed by a group of
This year was certainly no different. At the end of July learners who had prepared a dance routine and which was
the Konica Minolta team, together with Food and Trees for absolutely amazing.
Africa, embarked on another journey to Mvezo, The Great
Place, to plant trees in honour of Mandela Day. This has We then proceeded to an area which had been designated
been a longstanding tradition, but for me this year was by for the new trees and where a group of learners were
far the best. eagerly waiting to get started with the tree planting.

Gary Eves together with the principal of After a demonstration by Jeminah Mkhize from Food &
The Mandela School of Science & Technology Trees for Africa, on how to plant a tree and the importance
of conserving nature, the learners were quizzed on what
planting the first Konica Minolta tree they had just been told and all received a prize for their
attentiveness.

We ended off the day at The Great Place ‘Komkhulu’
where we planted a tree with Mamu Nolusapho (Mandla
Mandela’s mother) who named the tree ‘Mphakanyiswa’
in memory of the first chief. The tree was planted next to
the entrance where his servers used to salute him as they
entered saying, ‘Ah Chief Mphakanyiswa’. This was their
way of showing respect to the Chief. What a great way to
end the day!

After four years of planting trees in this area, I can honestly
say each year keeps on getting better and better. Thank you
to Mamu Nolusapho and the Nelson Mandela School of
Science and Technology for making this year a memorable
one.

We look forward to making next year bigger and better.

Learners from The School of Science & Technology in Mvezo
theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 11

MAndelA DAY 2019

Pretoria

Eby Emerentia du Toit
shana Pillay who works in our debtors department rescued a
stray cat a few months ago, whom she chose to call ‘Matteo’.
Eshana was unable to keep the cat and needed to find a safe
place for him where he would be taken care of, so she contacted
‘Friends of Ferals’ – a cat shelter.

Pretoria branch decided that helping the cat shelter would be
the perfect initiative for Mandela Day and took on the task of
building and painting 50 much needed beds for the cats.

We were divided into six groups and throughout the day staff
helped paint pallets with recycled toner paint and they also
assisted with mattresses for the cats, which were filled with
granulated chips from recycled toner bottles.

Nelspruit Once again, Pretoria branch joined hands and after a lot
of hard work and fun we know that we changed the lives
Fby Gerhard van Tonder of the cats at the Friends of Ferals shelter.
or Mandela Day, the
Nelspruit team visited The staff at the shelter were most grateful for the
Ndlaphu Primary School. colourful beds and blankets.
Food parcels were handed
out to families whose children NELSPRUIT TEAM
attend the school. l-r: Bianca Casey, Gerhard van Tonder, Farzanah Shah,
Keith Labeeuw & Shereen Moorad flanked on either side by staff from the school
We thanked the school for
giving us the privilege of being
part of this wonderful initiative
and a big ‘thank you’ to the
team from the branch for all
their hard work and support.

12 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019

Durban

In honour of Mandela Day, Durban branch
partnered with Ethekwini Municipality
and visited KwaVulindlebe School for the
Deaf.

This initiative was part of the branch’s
67-minute outreach programme.

The children were provided with meals
as well as colouring books, pencils and
over and above the branch also sponsored
the school with a colour printer.

Cape Town Pierre du Plessis with a
winner clutching her
Wby Carol Harris beautiful new blanket
e made our ’67 minute’ difference at Nazareth
House situated in Elsies River - a non-profit, 'We change the lives of those
charitable organisation, which has served the who have no hope'
communities of South Africa for over 130 years.
They enjoyed every moment of us being with them,
They have a total of 27 residents of which most are in which included the dance we had with them. It was
wheelchairs or need the assistance of a walker, with the heartwarming to see what joy and happiness our visit
oldest resident turning 100 this year. brought to each and every one of them. We had arranged
for a printer to be delivered to the home and as we took
The Konica Minolta South Africa team looked forward photos we immediately printed them out for the residents.
to spending quality time with the seniors and arrived They were overwhelmed and totally amazed when we
bright and early to meet them. We decided to spoil instantly presented them with their photographs.
them and treated them to tea and cake. We also gave
them each a gift bag with essential toiletries, as well It was sad leaving them as they blessed us and could not
as a Konica Minolta mug which included a sweet treat. stop thanking us for all the wonderful gifts and for giving
We ran lucky draws and the winners each received a up our time to be with them. One thing is for sure……
beautiful warm blanket for winter.
"Youth is a gift of nature, but age is a work of art”.
l-r: Pierre Du Plessis, Olivia Engelbrecht, Andre Idas,
Carol Harris, Michelle Wessels, Melanie Gerber
& Allenora Ziervogel

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 13

Service Team Building
Pietermaritzburg
During November, Pietermaritzburg service department
had a team building braai at Midmar Dam. Even though The main braai-master for the day was service manager Harry
the weather was not the best, spirits were high as Roestoff, who ensured that everyone’s meat was cooked to
everybody huddled around the fire, engaging in friendly banter perfection. A good time was had by all.
and laughter.

front l-r: Pranil Panday, Roopesh Seyambu, Kenneth Mkhize,
Sandesh Jadoo, Harry Roestof & Sanjith Brijlal
back l-r: Sbonisa Gwala, Mitesh Ramboros, Pride Ndimande,
Kavesh Harrilal, Lyal Murugan & Erwin Fortman

World Champions South Africa 2019

Johannesburg
by Johan Mcculloch

Firstly, hats off to the Boks for
winning the 2019 Rugby World
Cup. The Boks were the first team
to arrive in Japan and the last to leave!

By winning the Rugby World Cup
final in Yokohama on Saturday 02
November, the Springboks accomplished
something more than ownership of
the trophy itself. They captured the
country’s attention with their bravery
and camaraderie.

We are all very, very proud of the back l-r: Chrispen Nkhata, Johan Mcculloch, Mario Nunes & Edgar Motha
Springboks – well done guys!!! middle l-r: Desiree Bothe, Paul Symonds, Joey Setlhatlole, Althea Zaage, Glen Hannan,
Trevor Escorcio & Hannes De Bruyn
front: Manfred Kali & Wesley Ngwenya

14 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019

Rimpex flies Konica Minolta flag in Mozambique

Maputo

Claudia Kanje has spent several
decades serving customers in
the office-supply industry in
Mozambique. She has seen her labours
come to fruition as her Konica Minolta
business has grown into a thriving family
operation.

Rimpex Maputo

Neida Taju, Commercial Director, Rimpex The initial vision for Rimpex (which In 2007, Rimpex was able to build
& Claudia Kanje, CEO, Rimpex means import-export) was as a a three-story office in the centre of
stationery business, with the main focus Maputo as its headquarters, focusing
Claudia began her career in the on schools. From there, the operation on Konica Minolta products to service
industry as a sales representative in grew to offer printing and copying the growing need for copy, production
1980, operating in the office-supply services, with the opening of a copy and wide-format printing.
space. Her experience of the industry shop with one second-hand machine.
convinced her that there was an In 2013, Claudia expanded the
opportunity to start her own business, Rimpex went from strength to business even further, opening a
and she opened Rimpex in 1995. strength. Old customers contacted second branch in the suburb of Matola,
Claudia, the business grew further and 10km from the city centre, to provide
the demand for machines expanded. machines and consumables to the
Claudia formed partnerships to import expanding Rimpex client base.
new and used machines.
In 2016, Rimpex was recognised as
Her relationship with Konica Minolta Mozambique’s SME �f The Year in the
began in 1997, when she contacted country’s prestigious annual 100 Best
the company on behalf of a client who SME's Award.
urgently needed a machine. A healthy
partnership was formed and Claudia Today, Claudia’s daughter Neida Taju
began importing spares and pre- serves as Rimpex’s commercial director,
owned Konica Minolta equipment into having headed up the sales division
Mozambique. since 2008 with an unyielding passion
for customer service. She spends most
In 2003, Konica Minolta opened a of her work days running between the
branch in Nelspruit and Rimpex was company’s two offices and overseeing
one of its first clients. This relationship the sales department.
prospered and as Rimpex grew, Claudia’s
husband, son and daughter also became Matias Cossa began work at Rimpex
shareholders in the business. as a technician in 2004 and soon
became a mainstay of the company.
l-r: Clayton Passmore (Business Development Specialist, BEU for southern Africa), He is currently the service manager,
Porky Barbosa, David Nuttall (Business Manager, BEU for Africa & The Middle East), running a service department of six
technical staff.
Marc Pillay, Luis Kanje (Rimpex) & Claudia Kanje (CEO, Rimpex)
The Rimpex focus remains on
service excellence, high standards and
technical/product training in sync with
Konica Minolta. The company makes
caring for its community a big priority.

“For us, it’s all about people. Never
put money first, Rimpex is a business
of value and high standards. Our vision
is to grow with our customers,” said
Claudia.

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 15

San Fransisco & Las Vegas

The recent trip to the USA, ‘What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas!’
celebrating Konica Minolta’s sales
incentive trip for (2018/2019), was The highlight for me was visiting
truly amazing and in particular visiting Alcatraz Prison in San Francisco.
the West Coast of America for the first Las Vegas has many highlights that
time. one can share and talk about for
hours, and there is a saying, 'What
What made the experience so special happens in Vegas stays in Vegas',
was the group of special friends. On however, I thought I would share a
a daily basis we explored America sneak preview of the fun that you
together, as a closely bonded team. The can have in the desert.
laughter, the fun and the endless stories,
made this trip even more special. Gary Eves - East London

Chantelle, Gary, Cherise, Chad,
Gerhard, Sharon, Jacolene & Dave

16 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019

Inga Freegard and her daughter Jinty Breaking old traditions, Konica Minolta EXCO granted me
the opportunity to invite my daughter, Jinty, to join me
on the travel incentive to San Francisco and Vegas.
Day 1 in San Francisco found us visiting local places of
interest, Jinty wearing her favourite sweat top, which her dad
and I bought in San Francisco, back in 1995. Then it was on to
Vegas, where we continued to live the best.

Thank you Konica Minolta for letting me share sweet
memories with Jinty!

Inga Freegard - East London

We were accompanied by our CEO Marc Pillay, on the recent
incentive trip to the USA. On behalf of the team, a big thank
you to Marc for being so open-minded, hands-on and always
willing to listen to staff. Marc took it upon himself to look after the
entire group travelling to the US – thank you Marc, it was great travelling
with you.

Upon our arrival in the US, we first visited San Francisco, the home of
Facebook and many hi-tech specialised companies.

We also went to Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge, both incredibly
interesting to see.

Our next stop was Las Vegas and wow what an eye-opener this was -
people do not sleep in this city!

Visiting the Grand Canyon was an absolutely amazing experience. I
have included a photo of the ‘A-team’ and what a privilege it was to
spend time with these fantastic staff members and their partners.

Gerhard van Tonder - Nelspruit

back l-r: Cherise Serra, Chantelle Olivier, Gary Eves, Sharon & Dave Roux, Marc Pillay & Gerhard van Tonder -
front l-r: Chad Serra, Jacolene & Gerhard van Tonder at the Grand Canyon Golden Gate Bridge

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 17

It took, Cherise, Wayne and myself the
entire night to get to the Vegas sign and
back to our rooms. We decided to walk so
as to give ourselves the opportunity to see
the strip. We left at 21h00 and got back at
05h00! We had no idea that it was so far, but
at least we got the photo and luckily drinking
beer is allowed on the streets.

Henk du Plessis - Kimberley

Ican’t explain the experience in words. What an in Las Vegas were out of this world. Everything was very well
awesome trip with a great group of people. From the planned and I really enjoyed every moment. Thanks very much
Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco to the Grand to Konica Minolta for this once in a lifetime experience.
Canyon in Arizona and the neon lights of Las Vegas. Both
the Palace Hotel in San Francisco and the Palazzo Hotel Wayne Kayser - Pretoria

THE GRAND CANYON
l-r: Henk du Plessis & partner, Eugene du Toit & partner and Wayne Kayser

18 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019

Gerhard & Christa Krüger Golden Gate Bridge

We were in San Francisco on 1 September and went to
see the famous Alcatraz prison as well as the amazing
Golden Gate Bridge, where many movies have been
filmed with Clint Eastwood and his detective colleagues. It was
an experience that we will never forget.

Gerhard Krüger - Kimberley

What an amazing trip. When Konica Minolta said
Platinum, my word did they mean ‘Platinum’.
The luxurious places and adventures on this
trip were simply one of the best ever. There were so
many highlights such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Grand
Canyon, Foodie Tour, Gondolas, Gambling, Trams,
Madame Tussauds, the shows and much, much, more.
'What happens in Vegas can simply not stay in Vegas' –
WOW!

Sharon Roux - Cape Town

Sharon Roux Grand Canyon ‘Living Life on the Edge’
(officer in the making...) Dave & Sharon Roux

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 19

Cambodia
A is for ANGKOR WAT - the reason we were in Siem Reap and
for ANTS – the biting kind – with an itch that lasts and lasts. Group on the temple tour

B is for BEER – cheap. Cheaper in a lot of the pubs, And, it ended with six hours at the Singapore
clubs and restaurants (at US$ 50c) than Coke in the Airport – one of the best in the world – with
supermarkets which costs between US$ 55-65c. And not to gardens, massage chairs, sculptures and even a
forget BARGAINING which is as much a part of Cambodian light/sound waterfall show. A tour within a tour.
culture as is … dare I say it… morning glory and lemon But sadly, it was the end of the incentive.
grass! (You have to have been there).
Gillian Schneiderman - Johannesburg
C is for CULTURE – so different, and CIRCUS – acrobatic
entertainment one night and one of the highlights
A to Z – this incentive delivered.

T TEMPLES (a wonderful step into history) and TUK-TUKS ($1).
M MARKETS and MASSAGES (so cheap), MONKS

(blessings) and MALI’S (the latter a super smart
modern restaurant – best forgotten for its MENU).

S SOFITEL (hotel) and SERVICE with a smile, day and
night. It is also for STEPS (soooo many) and SNAKES.

P is for PUB STREET & POOL – our preferred places to
be… and 'P' is for PICTURES which will tell more of our
story.

This trip delivered so much – from exploring the ancient
temples, to a private Buddhist blessing for the group, a tour
along the lake past a floating village - and an appreciable
amount of free time to explore independently and shop,
or relax. From a hilarious visit to a trick art museum, to a
sombre introduction to the Killing Fields at a local temple/
memorial site where a mass grave was uncovered and the
skulls displayed.

The bathing beauties

20 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019

No time to sleep, too much to see, too much
to do, too - too much – and too little time…
FOMO ruled...
We pounded the pavements! (gotta make
the Discovery points) Terrified of the Tuk-Tuk
traffic (insisted on splaying arms and pointing
at everything, giving no thought to the passing
scooter and pedestrian traffic which nearly took
off a few helmets and heads).

Bargained – and then – horrors – what if it was
to be found cheaper elsewhere? Paraded up and
down Pub Street – gathering propositions ($15).

Escorted Gillian (Dora the Explorer) and Grey
(50 Shades ticking). Was on first aid standby when
Gillian climbed the 1,000 steps at Angkor Wat –
but took the back row when she posed with the
Python on the floating village tour (she who runs
from spiders did WHAT!!!)

Marilyn and I

Temples, shops, markets, circus, fish spa, swimming - even Marilyn
Monroe, the Great Wall of China and 'surfing' at the Trick Art Museum...
– so much to see… no time to stop.

And then, farewell Siem Reap, hello Singapore (Airport)… On a
mission… did the full weeks 'Discovery Steps' target in pursuit of ALL –
as in EVERY attraction the airport had to offer….

BUT – oh dear – Discovery points start again Saturday morning – so
off the plane straight to a Park Run.. AND ONLY THEN… HOME SWEET
HOME - to catch up on sleep (as if ….. with three children under 5).

Byron Haylett - Johannesburg

At the Trick Art Museum Our branded Tuk-Tuk
theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 21

Cambodia isn’t one of those places Irma Prinsloo & Cambodia Circus performer Then there was the Cambodia Circus.
that everybody knows about. What a performance! When we heard
When I mentioned where I was ‘circus’ we immediately thought of
going, most people I know had to animals and clowns. This was definitely
Google it! not a traditional circus. It was an
acrobatic display of incredible talent.
I went on this trip with no previous Musical theatre, drama and comedy
experience of any other trip to all-in-one. Besides the high-flying and
compare it with and this made it so balancing acts, there was also a solo
much more exciting. Everything was guitar performance. I cannot remember
new and different. Even my first time when last I enjoyed a stage production
flying was exciting! as much as this one.

If I had to choose what really stood The Konica Minolta group were good
out for me, then it would have to fun and great to be with - we had an
be the visit to the Buddhist Temple, absolute blast! Lasting friendships
where we received a ‘blessing’, it was were formed over ‘Angkor’, a bite of
an experience of a lifetime. lemongrass and also while eating that
strange-tasting local vegetable, called
‘morning glory’!

Overall, it was a fantastic trip and if
I ever have the chance again, I will go
back to Cambodia and run away with
the circus... I think.

Irma Prinsloo - Pretoria

Buddhist Monks during the blessing of the group

Angkor Wat Temple in the background The Cambodia Circus - performers in action

22 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019

Q: WHAT happened in Siem Reap Seelen?
A: BEER, beer and lots of beer.
Q: WHERE was all this beer Seelen?
A: Pub Street and at the pool.
Q: Tell us about PUB STREET Seelen
A: Rather ask Byron, he got the most propositions.
Q: Propositions?
A: Yes – YOU KNOW – boom boom….. 15 Dollar
Q: But this is your interview Seelen –tell us about your highlights.
A: The Beer – Pub Street – the Group – 50 Shades…
Q: And what else?
A: What happens in Siem Reap STAYS IN SIEM REAP

Interview with Seelen Julius - Johannesburg

Pub Street At the hotel pool

S Spotted in town The ‘family’ were hosted to a private In front of Angkor Wat
iem Reap and specifically Angkor blessing by three monks, but we also
and its Temples, is a Unesco World had an appreciable amount of free Skewered spiders, frogs and
Heritage site and the reason time that allowed us to head off in scorpions were on offer too – but
we were in Cambodia. Suknin, our separate directions. Admittedly all we settled on safer, identifiable
tour guide helped us appreciate the roads seemed to lead to PUB STREET pizzas. However, we did get a taste
unbelievable mastery of the builders and back to the hotel pool where this of Cambodia at several of our formal
and picture the way of life as it would ‘family’ bonded. meals – and will not soon forget
have been over 1,000 years ago. ‘morning glory’ and lemon grass…
It was an easy commute by Tuk-Tuk
As a survivor of the Killing Fields and to Pub Street and the surrounding But other memories will remain
an ex-Monk, he also shared some of markets and massage parlours and too – the humble people we met
the tragic history of Cambodia and it is safe to say that every member and despite no clear rules of the
introduced us to their very different of the ‘family’ has fond memories of road and absolutely minimal robots,
Buddhist culture. times spent exploring the area and their admirable tolerance and road
the liquid refreshments available. etiquette.

Paul Symonds - Johannesburg

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 23

Our Trip to Japan was amazing. The culture and
pride that the Japanese live by was inspiring.
Everything is done right, the first time with no
short cuts. Patience, respect and humbleness.

Pierre van Rooyen - Integra Tech

What a wonderful experience to be able to share this
unique culture with the humble people of amazing
Japan. It was a busy agenda with a trip full of some
truly incredible experiences and excursions - from the beauty
of the mountainous country, to shrines and temples, as well
as the cleanliness and efficiency of cities proved to be a very
humbling experience.

What stood out and what was really inspirational for us
was the Japanese culture of total passion and respect for the
country and themselves as a nation. Thank you Konica Minolta
South Africa for giving us this opportunity to enjoy this ‘far
away land’ called Japan.

Paul & Penny Corbett
Corporate Business Automation (CBA)

'Amazing 1,000 Arches' walk to freedom 'Sushi you Sushi me..'
24 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019

On 18 August the Konica Minolta Dealer Incentive group left for
Japan via Dubai on ‘Emirates’.
Our group of 56 people were treated very well and were blessed
with well organised and pleasant tour guides throughout. We had an
enjoyable time in an extremely well-run and functional country. What
made this trip even more special, is that we were able to share this
experience together, all of us being part of the Konica Minolta family.

In Tokyo, the group were treated to a wonderful stay at the
prestigious 5-star Hotel Conrad, overlooking the magical Tokyo Bay.

One of the highlights of Tokyo was most certainly the visit to the
Customer Engagement Centre at Konica Minolta in Hachioji. Here,
we were given a hands-on opportunity to operate the world-leading
Konica Minolta AccurioJet KM-1.

We also visited Mount Fuji, the highest single point in Japan and Golden Pavilion, Kyoto
certainly a global icon.

Our Tokyo visit concluded with a dinner-cruise on Tokyo Bay, where the group
at our table were first introduced to Sake a Japanese alcoholic drink made from
fermented rice.

Next it was off to Kyoto where we stayed at the Kyoto Century Hotel - here
we witnessed just how well the Japanese make use of the very limited available
space they have in the country.

The heat and humidity in Japan made us all spare a thought for the Springboks,
who at the time, were just three weeks away from arriving in the country to
represent South Africa in the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

We were completely taken aback at the prices of things in Japan, especially
burgers and beers!

Amongst many of the important cultural sites we visited in Kyoto, the highlight
was our visit to the Golden Pavilion with its beautifully manicured gardens.

It was a magical trip where we shared a lot of laughs and got to experience the
Japanese culture accentuated by respect and excellence.

ASAKUSA We finally headed home, departing from the world-renowned Kansai
l-r: Linda Viljoen, Ryno Opperman International Airport built on a man-made island in the middle of Osaka Bay!

& LeRoux Viljoen Ryno Opperman - Konica Minolta Business Solutions

Konica Minolta Dealer Incentive 2018/2019
theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 25

Walking through KYOTO, we bumped into Trevor Noah! Seen in the picture from
left to right are Trevor Noah, Bruce Meyerson & Max James.

Bruce Meyerson - Konica Minolta Connect

What an amazing experience this
dealer trip was for me, personally.
There were so many highlights
and beautiful places, with rich history and
awesome scenery, that there is simply
too much info to put this on a one or two
pager.

Therefore I am not placing a picture of
landscapes, buildings, temples etc. but of
one person which depicts the people of
Japan.

It may look like an old man sweeping
stones at a temple, but this picture actually
personifies what Japan is all about.

Never have I met more helpful, friendly,
disciplined people in my life. Everyone
in their society is respected - from the
sweeper to the doctor.

Frikkie Bosman - FFR Konica Minolta

26 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019

Japan is an extremely efficient and respectful nation with Konica Minolta products are manufactured in Japan and
only two percent unemployment. the group from South Africa were most fortunate to be
It is without a doubt a first world country with the food, able to visit one of their showrooms.
language and religion being very different from South
Africa - you would have to look far and wide to find any It was a great experience to see the flagship
overweight Japanese! Konica Minolta AccurioJet KM-1 in action, with key
features such as versatile print applications, unparalleled
My wife, Anna-Marié and myself tasted ‘Sake’, which is media handling, patented UV ink technology for out-
wine made from rice. We were in awe of the advanced standing inkjet results, absolute consistency in paper
toilets in Japan, they had at least eight different buttons! feeding, registration, image quality and repeatability with
outstanding front-to-back registration accuracy and up
At the ‘Shibuya Crossing’ we witnessed up to 3,000 to 3,000 sheets per hour in simplex with high-resolution
pedestrians crossing the street at the same time in five print heads, 1800IS, which deliver true 1200 x 1200 dpi
different directions! resolution!

The bullet train, travelling at 300km/h offers ultimate Hennie & Anna-Marie du Toit
luxury - an amazing experience and definitely a highlight Diverso
of our trip!

The group at Mount Fuji

A night out exploring Tokyo - 'The Beatles' live in Japan! Dinner cruise in Tokyo Bay
Moira Blignaut & Melanie Blignaut

Melanie van Rensburg - Busi Quip

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 27

Japan is a destination that frequently
appears on many bucket lists, so
when we set off on the dealer
incentive trip to Japan in August 2019
we couldn’t wait to start exploring the
year’s most talked about country.

Apart from being a technological
hotspot, Japan offers the most
incredible mix of traditional and
modern day culture with many
historical natural wonders to explore.

Our group was treated to an Part of the Komitake Shrine at the fifth station
impressive and action-packed array of 2,300 metres above sea level on Mount Fuji
activities from the moment we touched
down at Narito Airport in Tokyo. The
Conrad Hotel in the business district is
a technological and design masterpiece
with incredible views over Tokyo Bay.
After checking in to the hotel, we were
taken to the Tsukiji Outer Market, a
visual feast of colour and flavours,
consisting of dozens of stores selling
rather unusual seafood and beautifully
crafted souvenirs such as folding fans,
origami chopstick holders, quality
kitchen knives, swords, umbrellas,
stationery, matcha tea, sake, wagashi
(a type of Japanese sweet), tenugui
(hand towels) and kimonos to name a
few.

There was much laughter among the beautiful traditional tea ceremony Lastly, no trip to Kyoto would
our group while learning to make and experiencing the high-speed be complete without a visit to the
sushi with somewhat foreign seafood bullet train to Kyoto, but my favourite Fushimi Inari Shrine, probably one of
ingredients at Hassan, a traditional yet moments were exploring Kinkakuji the most ‘Instagrammed’ places in
modern shabu and sushi restaurant, in Temple, a Zen temple otherwise known Japan! This Shinto shrine is famous
the Roppongi midtown district. as the Golden Pavilion surrounded by for its thousands of red vermilion torii
a magnificent garden and pond, as gates, which straddle a network of
Highlights of the trip for many, well as Nijō Castle where we learnt trails behind its main buildings. The
included the Symphony ship dinner about the fascinating history of the trails lead into the wooded bamboo
cruise, the excursion to Mount Fuji, Tokugawa shoguns. forest of the sacred Mount Inari, which
stands at 233 metres and belongs to
the surreal shrine grounds.

Japan is a country we will never
forget. There is so much to admire
such as their design philosophy, the
fusion of tradition and modernity in
their culture, exquisite Zen gardens,
punctuality, politeness, cleanliness
and consideration.

Thank you Konica Minolta for an
incredible trip!

We were also very fortunate to have
met so many interesting and fun
people along the way. We hope to see
you all next year!

Botswana dealer Graeme and Faye-Marie Cloete visiting Graeme & Faye-Marie Cloete
The Ninomaru gardens of the Nijō Castle in Kyoto
Office Technique - Botswana

28 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019

Kyoto was the definitely the highlight of our very
‘privileged’ trip, packed with its timeless charm, tradition
and history, to the enchanting sightings of young girls
dressed in ‘kimonos’ at ancient temples and the old wooden
buildings in Gion.

The experience of a traditional tea ceremony gave one
an insight into the cultural principles of true Japanese life
and their spiritual heart, from the detailed rice cake, to the
green matcha tea, to the witty Japanese lady dressed in her
kimono. It was an authentic Japanese experience with their
traditional values of harmony, respect, purity and tranquility.

Keith & Tracy Lee - Konica Minolta Office Solutions

Konica Minolta Customer
Engagement Centre, Hachioji

Production Printing
Showroom Hachioji

Porky Barbosa - Head Office

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 29

Head Office National Quarterly Award -Quarter 1 winners

East London Mthatha Kimberley

Janine Jekwa Siphiwo Ngxabani Bismarck Francis

Janine Jekwa received the most votes Congratulations Siphiwo Ngxabani Well done to branch service
in the branch and won this award. for receiving the most votes in the supervisor, Bismarck Francis
Well done and congratulations Janine. branch and winning this award. from Kimberley.

South Coast Durban

Ashwin Ramlall & Ravina Ramlall Janine Jekwa
Ashwin Ramlall & Clive Govender
The South Coast branch has recognised their Phenomenal
Woman! Ravina Ramlall has been awarded for her Congratulations to Clive Govender on his impeccable
remarkable performance and her humble approach. performance as a service technician. Well done Clive!
Congratulations Ravina!

30 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019

Polokwane George

l-r: Jan Esterhuizen, Morne Etchell, Pierre Kruse & Jacqui Jones
Ina Dennill & Welhemina Hlope (front)

After the votes were cast, six staff members received votes, but Jacqui Jones who is the branch service controller
there could be only one winner, Welhemina was a clear winner was nominated for this award by the George
receiving the majority of the votes! Congratulations and please branch. Jacqui handles and runs the workshop
keep up the good work! every day and especially now in Owen’s absence.

Upington Johannesburg She takes care of every-
body’s requests and demands
in a professional manner and
her work is always done on
time. Jacqui gives feedback
to customers and staff and
always tries to deliver on her
promises.

Jacqui is also the person
that the customers will
complain to if a technician
has not delivered on their
promise and handles the
customers with respect and
treats their requests as a
matter of urgency.

Maryna King & Edson Lukas Mark Muller You do not have to ask
Jacqui twice if you want
Edson Lukas had the most votes at the Mark Muller‘s name was drawn at something done. She does
Upington branch. Edson is our workshop our most recent management it immediately and correctly
technician and whenever there are urgent meeting as the winner of this award - the first time without any
technical calls to be done in Upington, he well done! excuses. It is my opinion
attends to them. that Jacqui is the backbone
of the technical department
and does not always get the
credit that is due to her.

Congratulations Jacqui, this
nomination is so deserved,
well done!!

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 31

Currie Cup win for the Toyota Free State Cheetahs
Konica Minolta Business Solutions (Bloemfontein)

by Cindy Snyman In 1991 Alan Griffith, then M.D. of Helios Minolta chose to sponsor the Cheetahs.
His reason was as follows in his own words: “Helios Minolta has chosen to sponsor
The Toyota Free State Cheetahs the Cheetahs because they play exciting rugby and represent all styles of the game
are the proud winners of the in South African rugby”. He went on to say that the Cheetahs adapt and maintain
2019 Currie Cup. themselves well when playing against Northern Transvaal with its dominant
The last time a Currie Cup final was forward. He also remarked that the Cheetahs were equally adaptable and excelled
played on Free State territory was at playing against a team like Natal, who liked to run with the ball.
in 2016 when the Cheetahs beat
The Blue Bulls 36-16.

Steeped in history and tradition
the Currie Cup dates back to
1891. It is one of the oldest rugby
competitions, with the first game
played in 1889, but, it was only
in 1892 that it officially became
known as the Currie Cup.

With all the excitement of
winning the Currie Cup this year,
we decided to celebrate with our
clients, family and friends at our
office in Bloemfontein.

Photos were taken with the Currie
Cup, together with the PRO14
Trophy. Even those clients who
could not make it were not left out
– we drove to their offices where
more photos and celebrations took
place.

32 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019

Teambuilding 2019

PPort Elizabeth
ort Elizabeth branch had their game faces on as they were
preparing for this year’s team-building event which took place on
12 July.
The Smurfs, Bumblebees, Zebras and the Magenta Maniacs were
competing against each other in 'Minute to Win It'. All were inspired
to win the golden prize which was an all-expenses paid game drive at
Kragga Kamma Game Park, including lunch.

THE ZEBRAS MAGENTA MANIACS
Our winning team enjoying the game drive at Kragga Kamma Game Park back l-r: Viwe Zinja, Siphiwo Gomba, Lukhanyo Dyisi
back: Natalie Knight & Tarrin Killian & Rita Meyer
middle l-r: Timothy Paulsen, Petrina Nefdt & Juan-Pierre Barnard front l-r: Suzette Strydom, Casey-Leigh Felix
front: Joseph Petse & Wonga Bumyula (team captain) & Nikki Swaphi

Round after round every team gave their best
but the team who rose above were Team Zebra
- they won by a whopping 7.5 points!

Well done THE ZEBRAS!

THE SMURFS THE BUMBLEBEES
back l-r: David Van der Merwe, Chris Barnard, back: Neville Phillips & Marius Van Rooyen (team captain)
Mzimasi Ngwendu & Reagan Mumble. front l -r: Devon Uithaler, Sanele Dlwati, Idris Rahim, Craig Jeffrey
front l-r: Siyazama Tetyana (team captain), & Yvan Diedericks
Nicole Barth & André Venter
theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 33

in the news Jan-Nov 2019

the proof is in the press.....

The media landscape is constantly shifting, as is the way brands interact
with the media. With the rise of digital technology and the pace of instant
news, Konica Minolta South Africa has to evolve in the way it shares its
stories with media, if it is to stand out amongst the clutter.

Here you will see our major highlights in newspapers, magazines and online
publications. Our news is breaking through in the trends and innovation
space and our CSI work is too. Let’s take the time to celebrate that journalists
are writing about us and that we have so many good stories to tell….

received in newspapers, W
magazines, radio & TV interviews t
W
and online publications o
issued to media since G
M
January 2019 e
h
b
B
T
o

Biggest tree planting event in
with Food & Trees for Africa:

20 news clips in newspape
publications, amou

34 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019

Writer and speaker on tech
trends, founder of World
Wide Worx and editor
of Gadget.co.za, Arthur
Goldstuck interviewed
Marc Pillay on the
evolution of the printer and
how the Konica Minolta SA
business has evolved. Interview was covered in
Business Live, Times Live, Gadget and Sunday
Times (nationally in 4 regions of SA), reaching
over 9 million people nationally.

event in our history through our partnership
Africa: Robben Island Tree planting received
spapers, radio & TV interviews and online
amounting to significant PR value.

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 35

Konica Minolta South Africa Technology Innovation:

Head Office
by Mohammed Vachiat

Head office have embarked on Together, we ‘Rethink’ Head Office are focusing on the
today to redefine following elements:
P'The Connected Office' journey. tomorrow. • Rethink Collaboration
hase one of the training, which • Rethink Connectivity
has been completed, focused on ‘Rethink’ is at the heart of our shared • Rethink Print
assisting our sales force to fully global commitment to become a • Rethink Security
understand and embrace the company’s ‘digital company which provides better • Rethink Workflow
transformation from commodity-focused solutions’.
selling to providing more in-depth, value- This process forms an important part
add solutions via 'The Connected Office'. We do this by questioning traditional of Konica Minolta South Africa’s aim to
This training initiative was put in place thinking and challenging the status provide diversified services to our local
in order to look at the critical challenges quo. customers, helping them to increase
and needs currently being experienced productivity, minimise wastage, enhance
within the marketplace, including: We continually push ourselves and configuration, in order to avoid under
• document accounting verticals our customers to ‘Rethink’ what is or over-utilisation and ultimately, to
• the shift towards cloud and mobility possible. improve ROI.
• document and information
We are always creative in our As technology evolves across the
management approach, empowering everyone to personal, social and business space,
• scanning strategies shine and help improve the world life becomes more connected and
• digitalisation around us. convenient, but our very understanding
of our lives also has to change. 'The
We then looked at how the ‘bizhub We care about people and strive Connected Office' is no different – work
i-Series’ can be used as an intelligent to make the future a better place for will never be the same.
platform to assist companies in everyone.
meeting these changing requirements,
improving security and by adding
greater business value and allowing
for improved control over business
processes.
There are four crucial value fields
which come together in ‘The Connected
Office’:
• Connect IT - helps customers

to empower and simplify their IT,
utilising hybrid IT services or
providing managed IT services
• Connect Security - ensures the
safety of the entire office, including
IoT devices and multifunctional
peripherals (MFPs)
• Connect People - supports the
organisation by improving
workflows and providing tools for
creativity
• Connect Work - provides the latest
and most suitable business apps,
brought together in one store:
‘The Konica Minolta MarketPlace’
We encourage our sales staff to make
use of the head office showroom, as
all of our new technologies are at their
fingertips to showcase to customers
and also a means to constantly upskill
themselves.

36 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019

THE500 ‘Distance For Difference' Challenge

Diverso

On 12 and 13 October, ‘Distance
For Difference’ hosted ‘THE500’
event at The Lord Charles Hotel
in Somerset West.

Twenty cyclists cycled 500kms in 24
hours with short breaks every two hours.
Additional riders had the opportunity to
cycle one or more laps with the initial
group of twenty cyclists to contribute
towards the fundraising efforts of the
event.

During the same 24 hours, a spinning
bike marathon also took place, where
companies were invited to book one Hennie and Ettienne amongst the other riders, still full of smiles during the first
or more spinning bikes for this unique hours of the challenge in the hot sun

team-building opportunity. Diverso’s team, amongst other Meanwhile, on the hilly roads bet-
corporates and social teams, were ween Somerset West, Stellenbosch,
This special event was aimed at raising invited to occupy a spinning bike for 24 Kuilsriver and Lourensford Wine Estate,
R1 million, with fifty percent of the funds hours (from 11h00 on the Saturday until Hennie du Toit and Ettienne Botha from
being donated to PATCH Helderberg 11h00 on the Sunday). At the spinning Diverso and 18 other cyclists attempted
Child Abuse Centre, while the other challenge, members and employees to cycle 500kms in 24 hours! It was
fifty percent went to various children’s from more than 20 groups and warm. It was cold. It was dusty. It was
charities supported by Distance For organisations had loads of fun cycling on windy. It was extremely tiring! After 23
Difference.
their spinning bikes for one or more of hours and 55 minutes and about 6,474
In the words of Stéphan Pieterse from the 24, 45-minute sessions. meters of elevation gain, a bunch of
Distance For Difference: “How does one new friends who shared something very
sum up an event filled with so many A number of wonderful instructors special, crossed the finish line together
highlights and very special moments? encouraged and spurred the cyclists with music from ‘Chariots of Fire’
To say it was a grand, overwhelming, on. Diverso employees and their family triggering more than just a few tears.
joyous, humorous, remarkable, awe- members completed this challenge by Eleven cyclists, including Hennie du Toit,
inspiring, humbling, challenging and staying on their spinning bike for the full managed to complete all 500kms!
very satisfying experience would 24 hours. At the same time there were
perhaps just touch the outer edges of a six remarkable individuals attempting to A ‘tunnel of love’ was formed by the
complete description of the event.” spin for all 24 sessions - five succeeded! spinners, family members and friends
and the cyclists were welcomed back
[500kms in 24 ]hours amidst tears of joy, into the Grand
Ballroom. The MC, Colin Heckroodt, also
deserves a medal! For 24 hours he was
like an energised bunny, encouraging
the spinners and cyclists to keep going,
informing the crowd of the reason
behind the event, sharing stories from
the beneficiaries Distance For Difference
and ending the event with a meaningful
prayer, giving glory to our Heavenly
Father for an unforgettable event.

After the event, the fundraising total
stood just shy of R600,000. Yes, still
some way off the R1 million target, but a
donation that will have a positive impact
on the lives of many vulnerable children

Distance For Difference aims to host
another event in 2021 - be sure not to
miss it!

The final seconds of the 24-hour spinning challenge

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 37

Bidvest Golf Day 2019

Port Elizabeth

The Annual Bidvest Charity Golf Day took place at the The total value of donations received for the three
PE Golf Club on 8 November. It was attended by 130 selected charities namely, Algoa Bay Council for the
Bidvest Executives and VIP guests and also included Aged, Isithembiso Babies Home and Save-A-Pet was in
88 golfers who joined in the fun. excess of R100,000.

back l-r: Chris Barnard, John Rankin (Engeli Enterprise Development (Pty) Ltd), Silicia Scheppel,
Barnard & Fenner Barnard (Action Coach Business Coaching)
front l-r: Warren Diakos, Idris Rahim, Natalie Knight & Tarrin Killian

Diverso achieves 92.9% client satisfaction score
Diverso

by Hennie du Toit Diverso CSI Measurements

Diverso has achieved an 99.0%
impressive 92.9% customer
satisfaction score in its recent 97,0% 96,1%
customer survey.
95,0% 93,7% 93,9% 94,9%
We are thrilled about the outcome 93,0% 94,4%
and will always strive to better our 91,0% 90,6% 90,6%
service levels. 91,9% 92,3% 92,6% 92,9%

Thank you to every customer who 91,1%
took the time to participate.

Going forward, Diverso will put 89,0%
out an annual customer satisfaction 87,0%
survey.

VPCPRarlroeouosfbmelp-eefAosmvsonFuimrase-iinoliSevncamodelaaboltbinviilinaiseontecsnsygmyk
ACpopnseEualmrtapatanitcoheysn
Reliability
Courtesy

The above graph shows how Diverso's customers have rated us on our supplementary services.

38 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019

Go Bokke

KONICA MINOLTA BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

The Konica Minolta Business Solutions 'Go Bokke supporters'

Pink Drive ‘Bin a Bra’ campaign When Pink Drive visit the most
remote rural areas around South
Head Office Africa to provide much needed breast
health services, they see the incredible
Pby Ritchi Smith need for this service in our country.
ink Drive NPC, a health sector They have also noticed that an item
NGO, was founded in 2009 that we take so for granted, such as a
by Noelene Kotschan, on the bra, is a luxury to have in some of the
premise that ‘Early Detection Saves areas they visit. Through generous
Lives'. donations, Pink Drive is able to provide
these ladies with a much needed
Pink Drive’s main purpose is to in South Africa. Pink Drive’s services bra when they visit the Pink Drive
contribute meaningfully towards prevent- include free education on women’s mammography mobile unit for breast
ing, as many people as it can from health, free mammograms, free pap cancer screening.
succumbing to breast, cervical, smears, free clinical examinations and
prostate and testicular cancer. It’s breast self-examinations. Pink Drive recently ran a ‘Bin a Bra’
primary focus is on citizens without campaign in October. The initiative
access to reasonable care for these was shared with the Konica Minolta
conditions, and who reside in areas ladies and the response received was
where health services do not reach. overwhelming with four boxes of bra’s
It recognises that treatable cancers being donated in total!
receiving even the basic levels of care,
could translate into varying lengths of We would like to thank each and
extended life for the afflicted, when every lady who contributed to this
detected and treated early. Its posture initiative by generously donating a bra
is ostensibly a promoter of health for those so in need.
awareness in general and specifically
health education and heightening
awareness of gender-related cancers

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 39

CCoapnefeTroewncne& Paarl Branch Manager’s

Cape Town & Paarl back l-r: Sheldon Thyssen, Michelle Wessels, Dewald Van Wyk, Piet Coetsee,
Louisa Bissolati, Hilton Petersen, Shaun Fortuin, Anel Van der Berg,
These words ‘Everything is Shahied Adhikarie, Denver Neff & Ian Smit
Connected’ were continuously front l-r: Shaun Witbooi, Luigi Bissolati, Carol Harris, Sharon Roux, Karen Hayes,
heard at the conference, which Melanie Fourie, Richard Berg & Wilstan Weichardt
was held at the beautiful Houw Hoek
Hotel situated in the Grabouw area.

It was wonderful having our
colleagues from the Paarl branch join
us at this year’s conference.

We arrived bright and early and
were welcomed by the friendly staff
with fresh coffee and eats.

The programme was packed with
team-building activities and brain-
storming sessions.

Once the formalities were out of
the way, we immediately got into
action. There were four break-away
sessions with different topics:

Session One: It was very intense and everyone After each break-away session,
A. What do we need to do, to was enthusiastic about giving their we all got back together to give our
become a customer centric led input, which was based on ‘how positive feedback and comments,
business? (at branch level) we can improve to become a more as well as an action plan. Lunch and
B. What do we need to change to customer centric led business’, at tea breaks were kept to a minimum,
meet this objective? branch level. We also covered areas so that we could continue with our
C. What processes will compliment such as how to improve our skills, sessions. The conference ended fairly
this objective? increasing our market share and also late on the first day, but still allowing
worked on defining a culture change us sufficient time to freshen up and
Session Two: which we need to embark on. have dinner. We all retired very early,
A. What skills are we short of? as it had been a long day and we had
(be specific and why) CONFERENCE VENUE to be up very early for the second
The Houw Hoek Hotel day of the conference.
Session Three:
A. How can we increase our market After breakfast, we were back full-
share? steam ahead – now the teams had
to do presentations. Although it
Session Four: was hard work, we had so much fun
A. Define a culture change you feel presenting and putting our plans into
we need to embark on – How? action, which we were now going to
We were split into three teams; implement once back at the office.
Blue, Orange and Green.
In closing, we were presented with
a video clip of the ‘All Blacks Haka' –
which clearly shows off their pride,
unity and strength as a team. One
thing is for sure - together, we will
positively continue striving towards
creating the synergy of becoming
one unit! - 'BRING IT ON'.

40 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019

Awards

Rustenburg

The branch hosted a small function
at a venue situated on a farm,
close to Rustenburg to celebrate
2018/2019 staff achievements.

Awards as well as vouchers were
handed out for:
Best Sales - Sindiswa Tshabalala
Best Service - Corneus Makau
Best Admin - Thoko Siluma

Congratulations and well done!

l-r: Sindiswa Tshabalala, Corneus Makau & Thoko Siluma

Farewell Leon l-r: Marlise Dicks, Leon Minnie Nominee Head
& Nicole Spider Office National
Head Office Quarterly Award
- Quarter 1
Earlier this year, we said farewell to
Leon Minnie , manager of production Nelspruit
print.
Leon began his career with Farzanah Shah
Konica Minolta as a software engineer in
2002. A few years later in 2005, he was Congratulations Farzanah on being
promoted to colour supervisor. In 2007 nominated for the Head Office
he moved on to become the company’s National Quarterly Award (Q1).
production specialist until 2014, when
he was appointed the manager of You lead from the front with a
production print. positive outlook on life and always
willing to give. There is so much we
Last year Leon and his wife made the can learn from you.
decision to emigrate with their young
family to Australia. theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 41

At his farewell head office manage-
ment thanked Leon for his outstanding
contribution to Konica Minolta and
wished him and his family all the very
best for the future.

Hi everyone,
All good things come to an end and as my family and I embark on a new adventure in
Australia, I just wanted to thank you for all the laughs, assistance, guidance, support
and lessons learnt throughout the last 17 years. I have incredible memories to take with
me. It’s been fun and I am going to miss this great company and all the great people I
have met and worked with.

I know Konica Minolta will continue to grow and remain a force to be reckoned with.
For those that would like to keep in touch me, my private email address is :-
[email protected]
Wishing you and your families everything of the best for the future!
It's been an honour working with you, my sincere thanks again.

LEON

Planting trees of hope on Robben Island

Head Office & Cape Town

September 18 this year saw Konica Minolta South
Africa and our environmental partner NPO Food &
Trees for Africa (FTFA) achieving something that has
long been a dream – planting trees to bring sustainable
shade and greenery to Robben Island – where Nelson
Mandela and others sowed the seeds of hope and
change in South Africa.

On this special day, guests, media, Konica Minolta head
office and Cape Town branch team members as well as
Robben Island Museum staff were ferried from the V&A
Waterfront to the island, where we planted the first of a
total of 101 trees that were donated by Konica Minolta
South Africa. The tree-planting was to celebrate what
would have been 101 years since Madiba’s birth and to
coincide with September’s Arbor Month.

Planting the first Konica Minolta tree on Robben Island The Konica Minolta
Marc Pillay & Mpho Mahanyele (board chairman, Robben Island plaque
Food & Trees for Africa)
At the planting ceremony, there were speeches by
Our partnership with Food & Trees for Africa is eleven dignitaries including Dr Pascall Taruvinga, chief heritage
years old, and has seen us donating a total of 48,501 officer for the Robben Island Museum, Morongoa
trees, offsetting an estimated 17,897.05 tons of carbon Ramaboa, spokesperson for the Robben Island Museum
dioxide equivalent (CO2e). (RIM), Mpho Mahanyele, board chairman for Food &
Trees for Africa and our CEO, Marc Pillay.
The Robben Island trees are the first step towards
creating a sustainable habitat that can also be home to “We’re proud to contribute to South Africa’s natural
seabirds, especially endangered African penguins and and historical heritage,” said Marc. “Our partnership with
other species that form part of the island’s landscape. Food & Trees for Africa has enriched community spaces
and helped to offset carbon emissions and better the
environment. We’ll be coming back to Robben Island to
continue this work in the future, facilitated by Food &
Trees for Africa.”

After the speeches, the guests were taken on a tour of
the island by former political prisoner and professional
guide Sipho Msomi.

Our other tree-planting projects this year have taken
place predominantly at primary schools across the
country and on specific special occasions such as Mandela
Month. It’s all part of our initiative of greening schools
and historical landmarks.

We are thrilled to have built this relationship with the
Robben Island Museum, and we are all looking forward
to getting back to the island to continue our work of
greening one of our country’s most valued historical
landmarks.

We look forward to making next year bigger and better.

42 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019

The Bidvest Family
Head Office & Newcastle

by Rashaad Patel

The EXCO team at head office Car Service, Bidvest Bank Investments Project visit – Rashaad Patel
entrusted Vernon van der Merwe etc, all joining heads around one
(Newcastle branch manager) and table to learn content and sort out An entrepreneur in Hillbrow – Sandile,
myself, Rashaad Patel (head office hypothetical problems. A melting pot who runs a ‘takkie cleaning’ shop
finance manager), with the opportunity of skills and ideas! A great deal of the
to enrol for the Bidvest Academy 2019. content centred around the effects of We thank the EXCO team at head
the ‘Digital Disruption’ wave coming office for the opportunity to attend
The annual Management Develop- and not only how we can fortify our the 2019 Bidvest Academy and wish
ment Programme, expertly run by businesses from the disruption but to share our learning experience and
the Bidvest Corporate office, sought prepare to capitalise on them! content with our co-workers in an
to empower our management skills effort to propel our company to even
by exposing the attendees to some of As part of the learning process, we greater heights.
the best lecturers and content in the were also given a personal project
country. by our Office & Print divisional head,
Kevin Wakeford, to analyse and
In the highly profitable Bidvest advise him on our sister company,
decentralised model, the 300 Bidvest Waltons’ furniture business. This
companies and their 130,000 staff very specific brief exposed us to the
are given the autonomy to trade as inner workings of the Global Office
independent businesses. The Bidvest furniture industry, as well as its various
Academy, however, gives 60 Bidvest players and products. We grabbed
managers the opportunity to meet, this opportunity wholeheartedly and
learn and interact with other managers engaged in discussions and debates
of the ‘Bidvest Family’ over a period of with decision makers from board level
eight gruelling months on an annual to logistics and sales staff. We will
basis. forever remember our ‘experiential
learning’ day that comprised of a
We were exposed to topics on visit to Alexandra township in order
finance and economics, politics and to view Africa’s richest square mile
globalisation, management and leader- (Sandton), from the ‘other side of the
ship, to name a few. The daily class and tracks’. On that day we also learnt
projects were interesting indeed. Just the sad reality of hard-knocks and
picture for a moment, managers from substance abuse when we interacted
Konica Minolta finance, BidFreight Port with the ‘recyclers’ in lower Hillbrow.
Operations, Steiner Hygiene, McCarthy

GRADUATION CERTIFICATES FINAL PRESENTATION
l-r: Lynne Africa, Rashaad Patel, l-r Mark Steyn (Bidvest CFO), Marc Pillay & Vernon van der Merwe
Vernon van der Merwe & Marc Pillay Rashaad Patel & Kevin Wakeford
(Bidvest Office & Print CEO) (Waltons Furniture rugby captain)
theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 43

'

Whos who aT KoNicA MinoLtA

- POLOKWANE -

Admin

Sales

l-r: NShoewiliakoMwa(kdeenbato(rresc)e&ptAionng)e,lHineallPeundLiektasboeaklowa(a(dsmtoirne)s,)
Lyn

Management l-r: W(silalilaems cMonasduildtmanatl)o&(dPeielitveHrlywcareelwa )(,dCehliavnetraylcl rReowb)inson

Service

l-r:MJ&aonIrnnEasetDeEertchnhuneiizlllle((nabd(rsamenricvnhicmmeaamnnaaagngeaergr)e) r), back l -r: Onkab etsi (Ad venture) Mabuza (field technician),
44 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 Mushe Ndou (field technician), Fhumulani Ramaano (field technician)
& Pholoso Pilusa (field technician)
middle l-r: Elias Mokgolobotho (field technician),
Tendani (Lloyd) Midzi (field technician),
Welhemina Legodi (service controller)
& Mack Molepo (field technician)
front l-r: Nfihlakalo Ndleve (workshop technician)
absent: Quinton Harmse (service supervisor)

Financial year-end spit braai Jabu Maseko Gloria Mudau
top field technician top on-site technician
Johannesburg

Aspit braai was arranged at Johannesburg branch to
thank all staff for their hard work and effort during the
past financial year. Everyone enjoyed the food, laughs
and the time spent together.

We hosted our annual technical incentive for both field and
on-site technicians, as well as our top site-manager during
the 2018/19 financial year.

The performance of technicians was measured monthly and
the reward for those who met their KPI targets was a ‘glass’,
which was equivalent to a ticket into the lucky draw.

The technician who achieved the most points, every month,
received two glasses and two tickets into the lucky draw. The
technician with the most accumulated points was then voted
‘Top Technician’.

Ruksaar Sheik
top site-manager

Gideon Geldenhuys & Shane Britton The branch are proud to announce that the Top Field
Technician Award went to, Jabu Maseko. Gloria Mudau
received the award for Top On-site Technician and The Top
Site-Manager Award went to Ruksaar Sheik.

After being handed their tickets, the technicians and site-
managers then placed them into the lucky draw box.

The draw was overseen and audited by both Porky Barbosa
and Hussein Mangera.

The winners of the draw were Chrispen Nkhata, field
technician, Gloria Mudau on-site technician and Michael Van
Der Linde site-manager.

Congratulations and well done to all the
technicians and site-managers

l-r: Joey Setlhletlole, Edith Makhubu & Lerato Rampai l-r: Reyanha Lawson, Nadia Najam & Sagree Ramalu
theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 45

Dealer Conference 2019
Head Office

by Phillip Azzie The outstanding achievements were The Dealer Golf Day was held at the
awarded to the following dealers: Eye of Africa Golf Course, situated
The Dealer Conference was held Dealer of the Year 2018/2019: south of Johannesburg. Once again
at the Thaba Eco Estate where Dalitso Business Equipment the banter amongst the dealers was
Marc welcomed all the dealers in Monochrome Dealer of the Year fantastic.
his capacity as our new CEO and also 2018/2019:
introduced the new Exco. Dalitso Business Equipment The winning four-ball consisted
of Marc Pillay, Edgar Antezana, Jaco
The Dealer Division had a very Mienie and Andries De Lange.
successful year.
The 'longest drive' trophy went to
Tasmyn launched the new i-Series Colour Dealer of the Year 2018/2019: Frikkie Bosman and 'closest to the pin'
range of MFP`s and Mohammed Dalitso Business Equipment went to Alex Maree.
introduced new Value Added products Spares & Consumables Dealer of the
which will be implemented during the Year 2018/2019: After such a successful year, we
course of the new financial year. Konica Minolta Gauteng believe that we could repeat the feat
This was followed by the awards dinner again!
where no fewer than 25 dealers received
Gold Awards for achieving their targets
for the 2018/2019 financial year.

Edwin Banda (Dalitso) proudly displaying
Dalitso's amazing achievements

New floor The workshop now looks great! We thank the technical
team for going above and beyond.
TRustenburg
he Rustenburg technical staff together with assistance Well done!
from a ‘Pretoria support team’ enjoyed a team-building
afternoon while completing ‘the new floor project’.
The team recently stayed on after work to install new
flooring in their workshop, which has made for a cleaner
and more professional environment. Their hard work was
rewarded with a delicious braai.

Thabo Monareng & Yazini Dube l-r: Jacques van Dyk, Yazini Dube, Andrew Tsikira
46 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 & Thabo Monareng

Spotlight on Rendani Muninyi
Head Office
I was also given the responsibility
Iby Rendani (Socks) Muninyi of being part of the warranty claim
joined Konica Minolta South Africa in investigative team. I am the first point
2013 on a technical learnership support of contact with regard to warranties. I
apprenticeship programme, for seven receive them and make sure that the
months. At the end of the learnership two required documentation is in order. I
learners were chosen out of the original also investigate and match the physical
six students and I was lucky enough to component to the claimed history that
be one of those chosen. At this point I it has on the paperwork. This task has
became a trainee technician and in 2015 taught me another component of the
I was promoted to national workshop business, having a clear understanding
technician. of the component change and bulletins
that are published. This helps me in
In May of the same year I did a course informing technical staff and alike of
in health and safety. After completing the change and the reason why they
this course successfully, I was appointed have experienced failure on certain
national service health and safety officer components.
for the Johannesburg training centre.
In 2019 I was nominated to be part
During 2017, I was asked to assist with Rendani (Socks) Muninyi of SDP (Supervisory Development
the installation at WITS University and Programme). This course was run
later that year I was part of the head office In 2018, I was given the opportunity at head office together with other
team sent down to Durban to help with to be part of the team who mentored staff from various branches which
the eThekwini municipality installation. learners on the Konica Minolta technical I successfully completed after four
learnership programme. This was a new months.
I also assisted the marketing department challenge for me, however, I thoroughly
on a TV shoot - my responsibility was to enjoyed mentoring and assisting these I am now assisting the current
ensure the printer was in good working students. learners with the practical part of
condition throughout the shoot. their course.

Rimpex Launch Neida Taju, commercial director, The event was successful for both
welcomed those attending which Rimpex and Konica Minolta South
IMaputo included; clients, bankers, suppliers Africa. It was supported by Gerhard
n October, Rimpex, Konica Minolta and the media. She then proceeded to van Tonder and Keith Labeeuw
South Africa’s new dealer in Maputo introduce the Konica Minolta guests as both from Nelspruit branch, as
hosted an open day to showcase the well as the Rimpex staff. She concluded well as Clayton Passmore, business
company. with a brief presentation on Rimpex developmentspecialist, Konica Minolta
which included the products and Business Solutions Europe.
Here the official Dealership Certificate services they offer and support.
was handed over to Claudia Kanje,
owner of Rimpex, by Porky Barbosa,
who warmly welcomed Rimpex into the
Konica Minolta family.

Porky Barbosa & Claudia Kanje back l-r: Luis Claudio Kanje, Keith Labeeuw, Luis Cesar Kanje,
Gerhard van Tonder, Porky Barbosa, Matias Cossa, Danilo Jamal
& Clayton Passmore
seated l-r: Naira Luis Kanje, Claudia Kanje & Neida Taju

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 47

SDpaotvlieghCt oonchran

- Konica Minolta Vaal -

Give us your history with Minolta and later What do you put your success as a dealer down
Konica Minolta to?

I originally trained in instrumentation and in 1983 left to join I think that it all comes down to the team around you
OP Properties as a technician. Back then we traded as Canon and I am blessed with amazing staff. The competition out
and Minolta as we had dealerships for both products. Alan there is fierce and I think that service excellence is vital.
Griffith felt that we could not trade in both products and Many customers have been with us since the beginning
persuaded us to make a choice. and that is very satisfying.

It was decided to go the Minolta route which was What 'motto' do you live by?
distributed by Helios in Laub Street. My first interaction was
with the training centre, meeting Les Vorster, Brian Darrol Treat everyone that you meet with respect and dignity!
and the legendary Joe de Souza with whom I developed a You will be amazed how it simplifies life.
special friendship.
What has been your biggest achievement?
I have been part of the journey as Minolta moved to
Ormonde, the merger of the Konica and Minolta brands I think the opportunity that I have afforded people to
into Konica Minolta and the enormous growth of Minolco. It grow and develop. It is very satisfying to see people
has been such a wonderful journey with a diverse group of achieve success. I would like to think that I have also
people including various dealer managers. made a difference to various institutions that in turn are
here to support the local community.
One can only marvel at how our products have evolved
from the original electrostatic ink machines to the amazing What is your favourite country to travel to and
products of today. why?

How long have you been a Konica Minolta dealer? The USA is my favourite. It is wonderfully vast and diverse,
missing family there also creates a bias.
2020 will mark our 40th year as a Konica Minolta dealer.
The dealership was started in 1980 by Brian Taylor, What have you learnt in the last five years about
Harry de Villiers and Mac Michelli. the industry that will influence Konica Minolta
Vaal?

The pace at which technology changes brings many
challenges that can only be overcome with knowledge
and training. The challenge is training and retaining staff
that you have invested in. I believe that great relationships
built with clients are key to success.

If you had to take a book to a remote island what
would it be?

John Grisham is great for lazy days, I also enjoy
autobiographies.

What is on your bucket list?

The Open Championship at St Andrews is next.

48 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019

Springbok Fridays

Port Elizabeth

For the duration of the 2019 Rugby World Cup 2019, Port Elizabeth branch has shown their support for the Springboks by wearing
green or their Springbok rugby jerseys every Friday. GO BOKKE!

Gary’s 60th
Birthday Surprise

East London

On Friday 23 August East London branch
held a surprise 60th birthday party for
their branch manager, Gary Eves.
Gary said he had no idea that anything was
being planned for him so the party came as a
real surprise!
He was really thrilled and appreciated all the
effort that the staff had put in to make his day
extra special.

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 49

Branch Employee - Quarter 1

Johannesburg back l-r: Mark Muller, Jeremy Butler, Johnny Oggen, Sylvester Ntimang
front l-r : Nonhlanhla Mashinini, Lerato Rampai, Brenda Manoko & Nonhlanhla Ngubeni
The Johannesburg Branch Employee
of the Quarter Award achievers absent: Lindric Brooks
were as follows: l-r: Elliot Sonjani, Leonie Noble, Romanique Cronje-Lamb
Nonhlanhla Ngubeni & Shanaaz Alexander
admin (receptionist)
Nonhlanhla Mashinini
logistics admin)
Mark Muller
logistics (stores)
Johnny Oggen
logistics (driver)
Jeremy Butler
technical (field technician)
Brenda Manoko
technical (service controller)
Lerato Rampai
debtors (credit controller)
Sylvester Ntimang
technical (workshop set-up)
Lindric Brooks
software (support engineer)

Congratulations to you all and
to each and every one of you at
the branch, keep up the great
work and most importantly keep
striving for excellence!

East London

Well done to the following
staff who received the
Branch Employee of the
Quarter Award for the First Quarter
of the new financial year:
Shanaaz Alexander
service
Leonie Noble
admin
Elliot Sonjani
logistics
Romanique Cronje-Lamb
sales
Keep up the outstanding work.

50 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019