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Published by Candace Bentel, 2018-08-28 05:38:49

My Sappi - Edition 2 | 2018

Demo

Sappi Southern Africa
Issue 2 | 2018
Own Safety, Share Safety
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Own Safety, Share Safety
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Vol 18 Issue 2
A safe business is a successful business
Q3 RESULTS
Weaker third quarter does not deter growth.
2020VISION/STRATEGY
Sappi Valida trade show attracts good interest.
ECONOMIC GROWTH
Sappi supports BLSA; Project Vulindlela to boost KZN economy.
OWN SAFETY, SHARE SAFETY
Sappi’s safety focus; why report near-misses; safety records; a staff member’s real-life safety story.
GSAW 2018
Global Safety Awareness Week in SSA at a glance.
THE POWER OF WOMEN IN BUSINESS
Female colleagues share their Sappi experience.
MANDELA WEEK
Staff reached out across Sappi Southern Africa.
BUILDING COMPETENCE
Tackle your project like a pro; Managers-in-Training update
SHARED VALUE
Sappi Technology Centre partnering for success.
4
5 6-7
8-11
12-13 14-15
16-17 18-19
20-21
RECOGNITION
Sappi Forests rewarded for rural development; safety campaign wins Gold Quill.
SUSTAINABILITY
Update on Energy Biomass Project at Ngodwana Mill.
IN THE NEWS
A round-up of Sappi online and in the media.
DIVERSITY
Sappi to integrate people with a disability.
SOCIAL INVESTMENT
Abashintshi is youth development in action.
PEOPLE DEVELOPMENT
Become a Teach to Learn volunteer and support our Sappi Skills Centres.
SAPPI LINK
What is this initiative about?
CYBER SAFETY
Don’t be fooled – follow the tips shared in our cyber safety campaigns.
Alex Thiel
CEO, Sappi Southern Africa
Safety has been a key driver at Sappi for many years. In 2017 we intensi ed this focus when we partnered with DuPont Sustainable Solutions–to learn more about the need to change
people’s perspectives on safety in order to change their behaviour.
We also spent time in our European operations to learn more about their SPE&I (Sappi Performance Engine and I) programme, with the objective of using this concept to embed safety in our daily shop oor and performance improvement conversations. We have already started rolling out some of these new safety initiatives in the Southern African business.
After much research, it was evident that we needed greater involvement and effective communication to achieve a safer working environment. This means moving people from simply following rules to being acutely aware and genuinely caring about their own safety and that of others.
Apart from the safety theme, this issue also covers our Q3 results – a weaker performance as predicted, but our future prospects are strong. Also read about exciting new ventures, projects to uplift our communities and shared value initiatives. (More about Sappi’s focus on shared value in the next edition).
Keep up the good work!
22 23
24
25 26-27 28-29
30 31-32
We’re expanding our reach – be part of it
As Sappi’s journey of intentional evolution moves us beyond the con nes of traditional pulp and paper borders and into new and diverse markets, the cyber universe – is connecting us to our stakeholders, shareholders, potential partners and the public on a whole new level.
Our presence on social media opens multiple new opportunities to inform, promote and in uence people’s perspectives on who we are, what we do and the value we add to the economy, the environment and society.
As Sappi citizens, we want to urge you to become part of this cyber expansion by joining our Sappi communities on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Each ‘like’, ‘share’ and positive comment made, helps to widen our impact and spread the Sappi success story to a broad and diverse audience globally.
On our social media pages, you’ll nd the latest news on exciting new business ventures, opinions from Sappi’s leadership, shared value initiatives, community upliftment projects and related industry news. Read more on page 24 of this edition.
Also remember to write to us and share your feedback and contributions. It might just get published in a future edition.
Mpho Lethoko General Manager Communications, Sappi Southern Africa
Cover printed on Sappi GalerieArt Silk 200g/m2 and text on 115g/m2.
2
Contents


What’s
new
Boosting our
biore nery capacity
Sappi has given the go-ahead for the construction of a demonstration plant to scale up our novel Xylex® technology for the production of Xylitol and Furfural.
The plant will be located next to the existing sugars and lignin extraction plant at Ngodwana Mill. It should be operational early in 2019.
Commenting on the decision, Sappi CEO Steve Binnie said, “Biomaterials and biochemicals are integral to our strategy of extracting maximum value from wood bre – our natural and renewable resource. We have taken a signi cant step towards generating meaningful revenue from this new business segment.” Louis Kruyshaar, Executive Vice President for Sappi Biotech, added: “Sappi’s biore nery plans are focused on building a sustainable, pro table business from the manufacture and sale
of food ingredients, materials and chemical intermediates derived from the C5 sugars produced as a co-product of our dissolving wood pulp production, and from the lignin produced in our global pulp production.”
Xylitol is a high-value, low-calorie sweetener (suitable for diabetics) with exciting growth prospects. Furfural is a versatile green industrial chemical derived from C5 sugars, with a diverse range of derivatives.
Pending successful results and further approvals, it is anticipated that Sappi may construct commercial Xylitol and Furfural plants adjacent to our mills in the USA and South Africa.
The new demo plant will be constructed } next to the existing plant.
Vol 18 Issue 2
3


Vol 18 Issue 2
Q3 results: Slight slump no deterrent for future growth
We have a more resilient business than in the past, with more stable earnings. This makes us highly attractive to our shareholders,” said Sappi CEO Steve Binnie in comment on Sappi’s results for the second quarter of FY2018.
“We’re on track to achieve our 2020Vision targets, all our businesses are in a good place and I am very excited about our future prospects.”
Market response
Generally, analysts and nancial markets didn’t share our optimism following the weaker results. “Their feedback and the drop in share price was marked by a bit of negativity,” Steve said, “but it was also an overreaction.”
In essence, some project management issues hampered our performance in the quarter. The conversion of Somerset PM1 took longer and cost more than planned, and the extended shuts at Sappi Saiccor and Ngodwana Mills also affected our bottom line – but only by a slight margin.
“It is something we will learn from. We will not be repeating our mistakes and we intend to prove to the investment market that our projects for growth will reap the expected bene ts,”
Steve added.
EBITDA for the quarter at US$155 million was the same as last year. Pro t for the period, at US$51 million, dropped slightly compared to Q3 2017 (US$58 million). Net debt of US$1,603 million
is down US$29 million on the prior quarter. And earning per share (excluding special items) is 10 US cents (compared to 11 US cents in Q3 2017).
SA region’s performance
In his presentation, Richard Wells, Sales and Marketing Director for Sappi Paper and Paper Packaging (standing in for SSA CEO Alex
Thiel), agreed that it was a tough quarter for the business, but that prospects in the SA region look very promising.
On the dissolving pulp (DP) side, we had a loss in productivity, but market demand remains strong. Whatever we produce, we’ll be able to sell at good prices.
The paper business performed exceptionally well; 3% ahead of budget. Market conditions are looking good and the focus for the next quarter is to further maximise production and boost earnings.
Also, in the packaging sector, the future is bright – especially in the light of a huge global drive to convert plastic to paper.
Our tissue and newsprint businesses are under
a bit more strain – “which makes it crucial to continue our focus on containing costs and work as ef ciently as possible,” Richard said.
He also pointed out that SSA’s safety performance has shown a huge improvement. “Looking out for our own safety and that of others is an important part of our success as a business; something we should continue to prioritise.”
Steve concluded that Sappi is well on track to achieve its intended goals, and that we are working on setting targets for 2025.
4


2020Vision
Vol 18 Issue 2
Looking pretty
with Sappi Valida
With over 18,000 visitors and 773 exhibitors, the annual cosmetics tradeshow, In-Cosmetics Global, re ected on the growing interest in innovative technologies in the personal care industry.
At the tradeshow held in Amsterdam earlier this year, Sappi’s developing Nanocellulose product, Valida, featured as one of the exhibits, taking advantage of the rising demand for bio-based ingredients in cosmetics.
“Valida is a 100% bio-based functional additive with the potential to offer superior performance in various cosmetic applications,” said Lixian Xu, Product Manager Valida at Sappi Biotech. When incorporated into cosmetic formulations, Valida functions as a moisture retainer, emulsion stabiliser, active ingredient carrier, rheology modi er, UV accentuator or even as a wrinkle ller.
Positive feedback
Potential customers were particularly interested in the fact that this product is sourced from sustainably managed plantations. Its natural, unmodi ed surface also attracted interest.
The Valida team will continue their work in broadening Sappi’s network, learning about future trends and promoting this revolutionary product in markets where it could be put to good use, such as the cosmetics, automobile, coatings, packaging and food industries.
For more information, go to www.sappi.com/nanocellulose.
René van der Westhuizen (back, Sappi Technology Centre) assisting visitors at the 2018 In-Global Cosmetics trade show in Amsterdam.
5
Future collaboration
“We used this exhibition to generate new leads for future collaborative projects,” said Lixian. The team made great progress, as more than 100 leads were established:
} 40% represented distributors from Europe, North America, Asia and South Africa } 40% were formulators who are seeking new ingredients
} The rest were interested service providers.


Vol 18 Issue 2
Supporting BLSA
in building the economy
South Africa is strong when business is strong. Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA) is an independent association of 80 of South Africa’s largest and most well- known companies, including Sappi, who use this forum to exchange ideas of national interest, and to create effective dialogue with government and other stakeholders.
Its objective is to support the development of a prosperous South Africa by building a strong and inclusive business environment.
As a forum, BLSA (and its members) signed a ‘contract with South Africa’, pledging to help:
• Create jobs by growing the economy
• Encourage and empower senior black leadership
• Invest in South Africans
• Invest in communities
• Support small businesses
• Condemn and root out corruption.
Sappi is fully committed to these objectives and has a proud track record of actions and commitments over many years. See our latest 2017 Sustainability Report for details.
Find out more about BLSA and its activities at
www.blsa.org.za/.
Economic growth
6


Economic growth
Vol 18 Issue 2
Project Vulindlela:
economic growth in action
Sappi is investing R2.7 billion in a capacity expansion project, and a planned R5 billion over ve years in various continuous improvement initiatives and upgrades, at Saiccor Mill in Umkomaas. These investments will provide a signi cant boost to our growth prospects, and to the economy of Kwa-Zulu Natal.
“We are pleased to be able to support President Cyril Ramaphosa’s call for signi cant investment into the South African economy,” said Sappi CEO Steve Binnie. Sappi contributes 1% of South Africa’s total foreign revenue from our operations and supplies the fruit export industry with most of their packaging requirements – adding 4% to the country’s foreign revenue.
“We are considering further investments in SA over the next ve years,” he added.
Project Vulindlela will increase the mill’s dissolving pulp production from 780,000 tons to 890,000 tons per year. “In addition to expanding capacity,” says CEO of Sappi Southern Africa, Alex Thiel, “we will invest in upgrading technology, processes and manufacturing systems. We will also secure the mill’s future competitiveness and signi cantly reduce its environmental footprint.”
Providing local jobs
These investments are expected to create employment for local job seekers through construction companies, and business prospects for entrepreneurs from local communities around the mill. During the peak of the project, there will be between 2,500 and 2,800 contractors working on site.
All general workers seeking employment through Sappi or its contractors will be required to attend training at the Sappi Skills Centre at Saiccor, where they will receive basic skills required for job opportunities during Project Vulindlela.
“The commitment we had made and implemented during our previous expansion remains,” says Alex. ‘The majority of the workforce will be local community residents employed by contractors on the project”. In addition, many other services and products required during the construction phase and beyond, will be sourced from local emerging businesses.
Saiccor Mill and Sappi Forests – which sources and supplies the timber required by the mill – are already major contributors to the KZN economy through job creation, community investment, local supplier programmes, world-class research and development facilities and training and development programmes.
}
}
Sappi has invested some R4.3 billion from 2012 to 2018 to increase its dissolving pulp capacity in South Africa.
4.3 billion...
R2.7 billion...
To be invested at Saiccor in 2018 and 2019 due to strong growth in the global market.
7


Vol 18 Issue 2
Own Safety, Share Safety
Safety is about
“me, you and us”
“It’s all about stewardship. The job of taking care of the safety of others – and convincing them to do the same.” The reason why Sappi Southern Africa’s Regional Risk Services Manager Merten Jansen van Rensburg took up this role a few years back, is still the same today.
“Whenever there is a fatality or severe injury at one of our operations, I take it personally,” says this former engineering manager, who started
his Sappi career at Ngodwana Mill after years in engineering and risk management at SASOL and the gold mines of Anglo American.
“The question I ask myself is: what could I have done differently? says Merten. The impact of a fatality or disabling injury has a huge negative effect. Growing up without a parent, or losing a spouse or dealing with physical loss of whatever kind, have devastating consequences that remain with those affected or left behind, for the rest of their lives.”
This is what keeps Merten dedicated to his job. His main pursuit is to help the Sappi Southern Africa region become a zero-injury, zero-fatality workplace – through external collaboration, team work, more ef cient processes and most importantly, changing people’s perspectives on safety.
“We cannot tolerate any form of risky behaviour.” – Merten Jansen van Rensburg
Merten Jansen van Rensburg (Regional Risk Services Manager, Sappi Southern Africa).
Our biggest challenge
For Merten, changing people’s psyche on safety is a crucial link in the quest for safer operations. “That is our biggest challenge. Not simply to follow the rules or look out for ourselves, but to truly being concerned for our own safety and that of others.”
When it comes to road safety, the term ‘defensive driving’ is often used. According to the National Safety Council, it’s a way of driving with the intention of saving lives and preventing accidents in spite of the conditions or the actions of others.
Working and living in a way that prevents injuries and helps to keep lives safe.
“We have to break down the silos in our organisation and weave safe behaviour into all aspects of the business – from our operational staff to production, quality control and logistics, all the way through to administrative and of ce-bound roles.
“Safety is about looking out for ‘me, you and us’, Merten concludes. “I’m committed to doing just that. I invite you to join me.”
“It’s time that we talk about defensive working and living,” says Merten.
8


Own Safety, Share Safety
Vol 18 Issue 2
The ultimate goal: a mature safety culture
Sappi’s safety collaboration partner DuPont – an American chemical company and expert
in workplace safety since 1811
– has pioneered a world-class safety culture based on what they call the ‘DuPont Bradley Curve’.
DuPont’s employees have been guided through different phases to reach a mature safety culture:
} From the initial reactive phase (not taking any responsibility for safety)
} To becoming dependent (following rules made by others)
} Then independent (each taking responsibility for themselves)
} And ultimately, interdependent (take ownership for themselves and others).
Source: www.dupont.com.au/
DuPont Bradley Curve
DuPont found Sappi to be largely dependent and our goal is to shift to be interdependent.
In our Sappi Southern African scenario...
We still have too many people who:
Think they can either ‘handle’ the safety risks or bypass the rules
Are ignorant of the risks their behaviour poses to themselves and their colleagues
Overestimate their ability to perform a task safely and underestimate the risks involved.
This needs to change...
We can all help to make Sappi a safe place to work by:
Becoming active participants in all safety initiatives
Reporting near-misses
Being more alert and aware of our behaviour when performing a task
Looking out for the safety of our colleagues when performing a task
Pin-pointing the risks, and immediately take action to correct them
Talking openly about safety and the lessons we’ve learnt from our mistakes.
9


Vol 18 Issue 2
Own Safety, Share Safety
What is a near-miss?
Why should I report it?
Look at the scenario below and see all the near misses that could have led to a serious injury.
An employee walks down the hall, stepping over an extension cord stretched across his path. He turns a corner and nearly collides with another worker. To avoid the collision, he steps to the side, spilling coffee onto the oor and inadvertently jostling a shelving unit, on which a tool placed close to the edge of the top shelf, falls and hits the ground. No one is hurt, but it could have turned out much worse. (Safety and Health Magazine, 24 August 2014.)
A near-miss is therefore an unplanned event that did not result in injury, illness or damage – but had the potential to do so, according to the National Safety Council.
Please report all near-misses
One of the key safety interventions at Sappi is a request for staff to report all near-misses taking place in their work environment.
“The intention is not to blame or shame anyone,” says SSA’s Regional Risk Services Manager Merten Jansen van Rensburg, but to help us prevent future accidents by:
} Analysing safety risks
} Determining the possibility of a
fatal accident or serious injury
} Pin-point possible system
failures
} Broaden our scope when
doing safety inspections and maintenance.
So, whether you almost hit your nail with a hammer, came close to falling off a ladder, spilled some chemicals in the lab, or almost tripped over cables along your of ce walkway, don’t keep quiet for fear of busting your unit’s lost-time injury record.
Important: Report near-misses to your supervisor/safety
coordinator and help Sappi’s risk management team to identify, analyse and address the risks in the business more effectively.
Let’s do a quick test
Did you pinpoint all the near-misses above? Type them out and eMail them to [email protected] (before 30 September 2018) to win a Sappi backpack.
Answer and win
Did you know?
Statistics show that every 300 near-misses result in that one, unguarded moment when the near- miss becomes an accident that leads to injury.
They put safety rst
Well done to the following operations on achieving signi cant safety milestones since the start of FY2018:
Clan Nursery: One million lost time injury (LTI)-free hours on 18 January 2018.
Ngodwana Mill: Reached two million contractor LTI-free manhours on 28 January 2018.
Saiccor Mill: One million manhours without an own employee lost time injury on 18 March 2018.
Sappi Forests: Own employees currently have more than two million manhours without an LTI; and an LTIFR of zero up to the end of April 2018.
Tugela Mill: Attained one million manhours for own employees in May 2018. Tugela Mill: A lost-time injury frequency rate (LTIFR) of zero.
Lignotech: Operated for more than 1,3 million manhours without an LTI (the last LTI occurred in August 2012). This is an exceptional performance, given the small number of people employed at the plant.
10


Own Safety, Share Safety
Vol 18 Issue 2
Let’s talk...
“Safety gear helps to save lives”
By Sipho Magubane, KZN Management Forester
Hard hats, gloves, ear plugs, goggles, safety jackets... is it really that important to wear personal protective equipment (PPE)? It could mean the difference between life and death.
“Our Bulwer team of Sappi foresters and contractors started the morning with prayer in the boardroom, as usual. We had good reason to feel a bit anxious.
The predicted re danger index was in the ‘severe’ category of re risk. In forestry terms this meant: there could be trouble ahead.
That afternoon a look-out spotted a re on the boundary of the Sappi Comrie plantation. Quick to take action, our then Forestry Manager Dieter Deppe asked the F695 crew and I to go out and verify the sighting.
Big billows of black smoke became visible as we approached, and the wind was pumping. The re was still small, only about the size of a bakkie. We decided to contain it immediately before things got out of hand... but to our surprise the wind turned on us and the re became stronger instantly.
Suddenly our lives were in danger! I ran towards the bakkie but couldn’t get inside. Flames surrounded the vehicle. I had even more reason to panic. I didn’t wear any protective re gear.
Running the 30 metres to the nearest rebreak was my only chance of escape. As I stood in the open gap panting for air, I
Sipho Magubane with foresters in one of our plantations.
looked around – and couldn’t believe my eyes.
The water tanker, which carried the rest of the crew, had tried to reverse, but got blocked by a tree. The truck caught re, so did my bakkie. Was the crew still in the burning vehicle or not?
The heat and ames were everywhere. I felt so much pain on my face and arms... but
much worse was the emotional pain, thinking that the crew of six might have lost their lives.
It was an unbearable thought.
The next twenty minutes felt like eternity... and then I saw the driver and the re crew. They were alive! They managed to escape in time.
If I wore the correct safety gear that day, my injuries wouldn’t have been nearly as bad. I ended up in hospital for two weeks to recuperate.
I’m grateful for my second chance. Was it not for God’s grace, my three children might have been fatherless today. I also want to thank everyone who assisted me during this dif cult period, especially Babalwa Mqedlana, Dieter Deppe, Hloni Nkomo and Sister Robyn de Wet. Umuntu Ngumuntu ngabantu. In IsiZulu: a person is what he is because of other people.”
What have I learnt?
“If your job requires you to wear proper PPE, do so at all times. Also, think and plan before getting on with the job. It could save you a lot of pain, and even your life.” – Sipho Magubane
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Vol 18 Issue 2
Global Safety Awareness Week
Staff took our
‘own safety, share safety’
theme seriously
Our Global Safety Awareness Week (GSAW) which took place in June this year, was a hive of activity as employees and contractors at our operations embraced
this year’s safety theme.
Activities at our units ranged from role plays to safety demonstrations, mocked protest marches, hazard hunts and competitions, which all highlighted our quest towards a zero-injury work environment. Here are some highlights. (Also refer to the online Special Edition Sappi News for global GSAW feedback).
Global Business Services
At this of ce in KwaZulu-Natal, employees divided into groups, each depicting what this year’s safety theme means to them. The blue group is performing a war cry on the importance of being safe.
Saiccor Mill
‘Be wise, don’t compromise’ was the name of Saiccor
Mill’s safety show, highlighting the consequences of risky behaviour. Here, Suhana Harilal (left, in the role of Beauty) is chatting to her friends about her crush on ‘Risky’, one of the key characters in the show.
Sappi Forests Mpumalanga Venus
Gobonzela contractors celebrating GSAW with Sappi forestry staff. Workers felt so strongly about safety that they staged a march, carrying posters in support of ‘Stop and Think Before you Act’.
Lomati Mill
Ngodwana Mill
Members of the Technical department at their winning GSAW safety exhibition.
Stanger Mill
Employees, wearing their red safety T-shirts, lling up the venue at the mill to watch the safety videos produced by each department.
How focused are you? This was the theme for the last display of the week, where employees had the opportunity to test their skills, and focus with the wire loop game.
Sappi Export Services
From left (front, clockwise): Vezumuza Nzama, David Naidoo, Pauline Govender, Msawenkosi Mzolo and Banele Duma discussing what safety means to them.
12


Global Safety Awareness Week
Vol 18 Issue 2
Sappi Forests Mpumalanga Camelot North
Contractors from Beziway hosted a ‘show and tell’ session highlighting our safety theme. They were also given special clothing as part of GSAW.
Sappi Forests Mpumalanga Sjonajona
PJV contractors celebrated their four million manhours without a lost time injury (LTI). From left: Tshepang Montoedi, Solomon Maseko, Simon Gininda and Vusi Yende.
Sappi Forests KZN Shafton
Contractors from Riblore, SOS and Naickers Cleaning Services joined together to share safety messages and stories with the Sappi team during the Midlands GSAW event at Shafton.
Technology Centre
Ashley Smith (left) playing the role of an attacker. The self- defense instructor demonstrated how you can break free from such an attack.
Sappi Forests Mpumalanga Sudwala (Mooifontein)
Ngwenya forestry contractors took part in a role play (about the danger of driving whilst talking on a cellphone), as well as safety songs and a dance. They also came up with a couple of life-saving rules.
Sappi Forests Mpumalanga Camelot South
Sibambane contractors divided their employees into groups and performed songs and industrial theatre with safety as the main theme. They also received a certi cate for working over six years without a lost time injury.
Sappi Forests KZN Bulwer
The KZN South event held in Bulwer attracted several contractor companies and government departments, sharing safety messages in the form of role plays and musical performances.
Tugela Mill
Sappi Forests Mpumalanga Ndubasi
Kanyi Ilanga Trading contractors talked about the principles of the ‘Stop and Think Before you Act’ campaign.
Sappi Forests KZN Pietermartizburg
Kehly-Ann Samuels (Environmental Of cer) starred in the role of a victim in the ‘effects of using a cellphone while driving’ role play at the Victoria Country Club in Pietermaritzburg.
Sappi Forests KZN Clan
The Global Safety Awareness Week safety display winners for the third consecutive year: the Safety Spirit team.
Rosa Moodley and Marlene van Aswegen looking for clues during the hazard hunt, during which staff had to identify ten hazards that pose a safety risk.
Clan Nursery celebrated one million hours without a lost time injury. Konrad Buchler (Nurseries Manager, KZN) receiving the Sappi Safety Gold Award from Terry Stanger.
Rosebank Head Of ce
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Vol 18 Issue 2
Empowering women
The power of women
in business
The perception that women are not suited to excel in a corporate environment may still be lingering in some circles, but research shows that it’s simply not true.
“The future of business lies in recognising the merit of women in leadership roles,” states an article on ivyexec.com. In fact, it says a study between 2002 and 2014 “compared the returns of Fortune 1000 companies led by female CEOs to those of the S&P 500. During that time period, companies with women at the helm saw returns that were 226% higher.”
Why? The Journal of Organizational Behavior, a research-based periodical, suggests that women-led teams are more collaborative, communicative and open to learning.
Women in Sappi
“There’s no glass ceiling as to what women can achieve in our company,” says Leola Britton, Group Organisational Development Manager, Sappi Southern Africa (SSA). “Our company is committed to the empowerment of all people, especially women, and ample opportunities are available to thrive in roles previously dominated by men.”
During August, Women’s Month, we’ve asked some of our female colleagues to share their take on how to be successful in a corporate environment.
Also worth reading: The seven deadly myths about women in business https://goo.gl/QLrm5c
Pramy Moodley, Chief Financial Of cer, SSA
What women bring to business: “We are masters at multi-tasking and are highly collaborative. Women also tend to take complete ownership and will not quit until a task is done.”
The challenges? “In a male-dominated environment it is key to have self-con dence and be assertive.”
Work versus personal life: “I didn’t always have a balance, especially in the early stage of my career when I was hungry for Sappi knowledge. Over time this has changed with setting priorities, working smartly and having other interests outside of work.”
“Sappi offers many opportunities for those willing to take the extra step in shaping their future.” Pramy Moodley
14


Sibongile Gama, Production Manager, Ngodwana Mill
What makes women effective: “We tend to begin with the end in mind: “What am I trying to achieve?”. This is a powerful driver for success. We also have emotional intelligence, we pay attention to small details, we teach whilst learning, and women often seek rst to understand then to be understood.”
Sappi is an employer of choice because: “It’s a ‘continual learning’ organisation, diverse, creates platform for growth, doesn’t stereotype certain jobs for certain people, and if you are capable you are given an opportunity to show what you have.”
Sappi’s biggest challenge by having someone like me in this organisation? “I’m keen on breaking the rules, I’m not a conformist. If there’s another way out, I’ll use it (if its safe to do so).
onki
Empowering women
Vol 18 Issue 2
Liza Koen, Group Corporate Communications Manager
Bene ts of women in leadership: “According to a Harvard Business Review, adaptability is a new competitive advantage. Women are highly adaptable in nature. They can seamlessly manage a crisis and are turnaround experts.”
Training and development: “Sappi offer programmes to support women in leadership and technical positions. We also have a strong commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity.”
“The best women leaders have circular vision that enables them to be well-rounded people.” Liza Koen
Krelyne Andrew, Sustainability Manager
Special qualities: “Generally, women have excellent communication skills and nd it easy to relate on a more personal level. These are great qualities, as it helps in relationship and team building; key skill sets needed to effectively achieve goals.”
Opportunities: “In my business unit I have been exposed to some great opportunities for growth, which occurred through departmental restructure, the expansion of our dissolving wood pulp operations and a change in customer focus. I was able to see and grab the opportunities when they arose.”
Excelling in a male-dominated environment: “Credibility is vitally important when leading and managing teams. I believe that this is only gained by having a good understanding of the subject matter, which in turn drives the con dence to participate and lead discussions.”
Zininzi Monki, Scientist, Technology Centre
Opportunities for growth: “My rst opportunity for growth was when Sappi chose me as an intern in 2013. After that, every day has been a chance to improve myself. A major bene t is our open-door policy towards learning – anyone can study anything that could add value to the business through the Sappi study grant system. People are also friendly, willing to assist and to share knowledge.”
Balancing work/family life: “As a rule, I don’t take work home. I’ll rather work late if there is extra to be done. After work I go home and focus on my family. I keep my personal life separate from my work.”
“There is no male/female distinction at Sappi. The sky is vast enough for all of us (women and men) to y and excel.” Zininzi M
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Vol 18 Issue 2
Human Resources
Mandela Week:
Making a difference where it matters
For this year’s centenary International Mandela Day celebrations, Sappi staff across the SSA region reached out into the communities surrounding our operations to impact lives with a spirit of sel ess giving. Thank you to all who made this week-long outreach such a
worthwhile effort.
Global Business Services
Ngodwana Mill
This Sappi team spent Mandela Day at the oldest children’s hospital on the African continent. The KZN Children’s Hospital in Durban was in dire need of a renovation. GBS staff helped by participating in the #BuyABrick fundraising effort. They washed windows, donated Typek paper and contributed over R6,000 to the fund. The team also immortalised their names in paint on the hospital’s ‘rainbow wall’.
Judges hard at work on Mandela Day (from left): Gertinus Lundie, Moya Lesedi, Natacha C, Robin Jansma and Elsabe Coetzee. Sappi’s leadership in the Lowveld hosted their annual cookoff in aid of the Nelspruit Community Forum (NCF). They cooked and donated 200 lunches to the NCF, who feeds families in need. Sappi also handed over a cheque of R15,000 towards the feeding scheme.
Lomati Mill
Sappi Export Services
Staff from Lomati Mill and the Sappi Lowveld region cooked outstanding meals for families in need who rely on the Nelspruit Community Forum (NCF) for their daily meals. From left: Pretty Mnisi, Hayley Dreyer, Caren Venter, Gertinus Lundie (chef), Elsabe Coetzee, John Eyssel and Riaan Ellis.
The group of employees donated a batch of tted sheets, clothing, toiletries, party packs, a foosball table and swing ball sets to the Malvern Children’s Home in Queensburgh, KZN.
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Mandela Week
Vol 18 Issue 2
Sappi Forests, KZN
Bongani Hadebe, together with the Sappi Riverdale team, visited the Amandosi Primary School. Bongani is seen demonstrating the correct use of a bee-smoker to learners. This was part of a re awareness initiative.
Sappi Forests, Mpumalanga
Fencing at the Glenthorpe Crèche needed to be extended to ensure the safety of the kids. In a joint effort, Sappi donated the materials, and Gobonzela Construction made staff available to do the construction work free of charge.
Stanger Mill
Stanger employees partnered with Food for Life Kwadukuza and braved a cold winter morning to cook Breyani for thousands of children in the community. Staff also donated 100 winter hampers to the Dolphin Coast Hospice Association.
Rosebank Of ce
Sappi Forests Pietermaritzburg staff spent time with kids at the local children’s home. They generously donated R30,000, as well as food parcels, toiletries and household detergents.
Zululand forestry staff planted indigenous trees at the KwaMbonambi Primary School. They also gave learners an insight into Sappi’s ‘Stop and Think Before you Act’ safety campaign.
Saicccor Mill
Saiccor employees went out in their numbers to lend a helping hand to Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres and schools in the area. They packed and donated food, painted walls, xed dilapidated buildings and fences and spent time playing with the kids.
Tugela Mill
Sappi Rosebank volunteers visited two Afrika Tikkun centres in Alexandra and Braamfontein, where they painted classrooms, took part in storytelling and provided career guidance to post-matric learners. Our executive team also packed and delivered 100 food parcels to families in Alexandra.
The Sappi Inkwazi team donated a set of stationery to each learner at Glenthorpe Primary School. The school also received ve boxes of Sappi Typek paper.
Sappi Technology Centre
Technology Centre staff on their way to deliver specially packed food parcels to patients at the Mamelodi West Clinic in Pretoria.
Volunteers at Tugela Mill dressed up to entertain kids and spoil them with party packs at the Blessed Gerard’s Care Centre, a hospice in Mandeni.
Parow Sales Of ce
Our colleagues in Parow entertained youngsters at the Christine Revell Children’s Home in Cape Town with a performance of Goldilocks. In between hugging and playing with the kids, our team also prepared lunch, assisted
with laundry, mended clothing and donated party packs, detergents and non-perishable food to the home.
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Vol 18 Issue 2
Building competence
How to...
Tackle your project like a pro
Project management is not only reserved for those who head up large ventures with big budgets. Whether you’re a machine operator, admin of cer, line manager... we all
have big or small ‘projects’ that need to be managed to succeed in our jobs.
Someone with a wealth of experience in project management is Andrea Rossi, a former Sappi Strategic Projects Director. In his current role, Andrea is our Senior Project Executive on Expansion Projects (semi-retired).
Over the past 28 years, he has managed numerous large-scale projects at Sappi using some key principles that can be applied to any task:
Plan, plan and plan some more
“If you don’t plan to the last detail, your project will fail,” is Andrea’s straight-forward answer to achieving success.
The ability to succeed starts long before the execution of the project. “Spend more time on scoping, planning and giving attention to details – the how, what, who and when – before you even think of performing the actual task,” he says.
Plan everything carefully beforehand, so that you are in control of scope changes when they occur.
Get the right people and follow a strong methodology
Resource up with skilled and experienced people who you know and can trust,” says Andrea.
He points out that our learnings from other Sappi projects are essential. “Many of the projects repeat the same mistakes, namely:
} Unclear project estimates: Do not be bullied into cutting costs without changing the scope or the deliverables”.
} Unrealistic project schedules: Your plan could be based on previous projects that were successfully executed, but make sure you adapt it according to the relevant risks, new legislation or issues that could affect productivity. The schedule can be ambitious, but it should still be attainable.”
For big projects, he also suggests using Sappi’s project PM2 methodology, “which will give you a ghting chance of success. Use it. It was developed over many years and it works.”
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Communicate and get buy-in
It’s important to get everybody on board right from the start, even before a project gets approved. “Inform all parties who’ll be involved
or affected on what you’re plannning, why it’s necessary, what the scope is and what resources would be required.
“This makes your chances of success so much greater,” says Andrea.
Poor communication and buy-in could cause delays and waste time and money during the execution process.
Tackle problems as they arise
“Problems won’t disappear on their own. Get help, ask for advice, collaborate. I always say: “If we only know what Sappi knows”.
Andrea strongly believes in communicating the facts and steering away from excuses and from blaming contractors.
“If it’s a Sappi project, take responsibility for it. Become accountable for the project being a success.”
Andrea Rossi, Senior Project Executive on Expansion Projects
Adopt the right attitude
A positive, winning attitude is the biggest strength for someone who needs to manage a project or task. It is what motivates (or discourages) people to work together towards the same goal.
“Even in tough times, it’s crucial to stay positive, respect people and live Sappi’s values. Choose to see the good in those you collaborate with, but also have the courage to speak up when someone is not performing,” Andrea adds. “Being slack or having a negative attitude rubs down on everyone.”
So, the next time you need to tackle a project or task, apply these ve basic principles and give yourself a kick-start towards achieving success.
Other key project management essentials include:
1. Clearly de ning the scope of your project.
2. Carefully selecting the members of your team.
3. Outlining your goals (and keeping them speci c, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-based).
4. Managing your data.
5. Monitoring progress daily.
6. Motivating your team.
7. Managing your resources wisely and prudently.
(Source: Financial researcher Maricel Rivera – comindware.com)


Building competence
Vol 18 Issue 2
MIT programme
gets international accreditation
The Sappi Manager-in-Training (MIT) programme, which helps new managers become more competent in their leadership roles, has received formal accreditation from the London-based business school, Institute for Leadership and Management (ILM).
This means that colleagues who complete assignments at the appropriate quality level, will be registered with ILM for their level 4 diploma. This diploma is equivalent to an NQF level 5 (Higher Certi cate) in South Africa.
The second group of MITs – 82 participants in total – are currently busy with the programme.
Some of the employees who joined as part of the rst intake tell us what made this journey worthwhile:
“This programme has played an important role in helping me discover my own
leadership style, using problem-solving tools to make informed decisions.
A valuable lesson that I’ve learnt is how to delegate effectively. I also understand con ict management better.” Metsing Maloka, Primary
Production Superintendent
“What was really helpful, was that I was able to complete some of the tasks
with the group of people I manage. I was therefore able to pass on what
I was learning. I also became aware
of my actions, the impact of body language and my con ict style.” Judy
Moodley, Assistant Financial Accountant
“I’ve learnt to do less, better. Also, that with hard work and dedication anything is
achievable. To grow, requires extensive introspection; getting to know myself
by exploring what motivates me, testing my self-con dence and emotional intelligence, and forming
a clear vision of where I want to be.”
Belinda White, Commodity Specialist: Services
“Each module had useful lessons, but Finance stood out for me. After
completing this module, I fully understood costing and I was able to
apply my knowledge to the Facilities department’s monthly cost report.” Reuben Ndlovu, Of ce Service
Supervisor
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Vol 18 Issue 2
Shared value
Tech Centre
is partnering for success
The Sappi Southern Africa Technology Centre,
in partnership with several internal and external collaborators, has been very successful in completing critical milestones for key research projects in the past nancial year. These successes led to some of the projects being approved for transition from laboratory to pilot – and demonstration scales.
“To be successful in today’s world of fast and rapid changes in technology, it is virtually impossible to work
in isolation,” says Nelson Sefara, Technology Centre Manager. “Taking advantage of external technical knowledge and expertise is one way to complement in-house skills and expertise.”
The Tech Centre has partnered with various internal groups and external research institutes on key projects.
Here are some highlights:
} Nanocellulose for personal care and food products
In collaboration with the CSIR’s National Centre for Nano-Structured Materials, the STC team
is evaluating the use of Sappi’s nano brillated cellulose, Valida, to add functionality in various personal care products and food.
The team was able to demonstrate the unique functionality of Valida and how it changed the feel and texture in commonly used body creams and facial products. When added to food, Valida has also been found to provide added thickening functionality not observed with the currently used products, such as starch and xanthan gum.
The Sappi team will continue to develop unique
nanocellulose bres required for each of the functionalities identi ed.
} Extracting hemicellulose sugars from wood
Internally, a multidisciplinary team was established to fast track the development of a process to extract and clean up hemicellulose C5 sugars from wood. C5 sugars primarily consisting of xylose, are earmarked to be converted into xylitol, which is a high value sweetener produced from biomass.
René van der Westhuizen (left, Technologist) demonstrating the application of Sappi Valida in general food products at the 2018 Technology Centre annual executive review. He is joined by Marjorie Boles (Chief Information Of cer).
Nelson Sefara, Technology Centre Manager
The team working on this project consisted of engineers, scientists, technologists and plant operators from the Sappi Technology Centre, Sappi Ngodwana Mill and Sappi BioTech UK. The latter was formed following the acquisition of the Plaxica technology last year.
Jointly, the team developed an ef cient extraction process that ensures maximum yields, without impacting existing dissolving wood pulp production. The recommended technology will
Nanocellulose used in skincare products can change its feel and texture. In food items, it acts as a thickener.
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Shared value
Vol 18 Issue 2
be escalated to demonstration scale in FY2019, prior to the building of a commercial plant.
} ‘Green’ glues from lignin
A new partnership with a local glue manufacturing company is being formed with the aim to develop new environmentally friendly glues derived from lignin, extracted from wood.
Lignin is the glue that binds the wood bre together. There is no reason why it can’t be developed to perform the same glue functionality in wood composites and plywood. Work is currently underway at STC to breakdown and
functionalise lignin from our various Sappi mills, into similar phenolic compounds that are found in phenolic resin glues.
The partner company has substantial knowledge in this eld and is assisting with nding the preferred intermediate that will replace up to 50% of the partner’s current fossil-based glues, with a green product from woody biomass.
“We will continue to form partnerships to make sure we deliver on strategic projects in the shortest time possible, whilst ensuring bene ts for all parties involved,” concluded Nelson.
“Collaborations such as these help to bridge internal technology, skills and knowledge gaps, and ensure the sharing of valuable
learnings.”
– Nelson Sefara, Technology Centre Manager
Deon de-Wet Roos (Consultant) is demonstrating the application of lignin-derived glues to plywood at the 2018 Technology Centre annual executive review.
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Vol 18 Issue 2
Recognition
Sappi Forests awarded for rural development
Sappi Forests received multiple awards at the inaugural Absa Business Day Supplier Development Awards held in May this year.
The team won the Women’s Empowerment Award and Rural Economies Award and were also recognised as an overall nalist and as a nalist in the Innovation category.
The awards were based on Sappi’s contribution to supplier development in South Africa through Project Khulisa. Sappi is focused on creating shared value through community development that delivers real value to Sappi and the communities. We are also busy developing further programmes to help build our rural economy and our communities who live there.
Supplier development is a crucial component of SA's economic growth and transformation. Done properly, it leads to sustainable business, genuine empowerment and positive bene ts for stakeholders.
22
At the awards ceremony (from left): Dutliff Smith (Development Manager Khulisa), Terry Stanger (Vice President Forestry), Nat Maelane (Chief Procurement Of cer), Mbeko Nkosana (Senior Area Manager Khulisa) and Tim Netterville (Project Manager Khulisa).
Safety campaign wins a coveted gold
Sappi Forests’ Stop and Think Before you Act (STBA) initiative has won a Gold Quill Award for safety communication management from the International Association of Business Communications (IABC). The work was also selected as one of eight Best of the Best entries from 258 awarded entries.
Well done to Regional Communications Manager Elsabe Coetzee and consultant Caren Venter, who developed this initiative.
“Only exceptional work earns an IABC Gold Quill Award,” said Cindy Schmieg, an ABC and IABC fellow and chair of the awards committee.
In feedback from the Gold Quill evaluators, it was noted that the programme was a very comprehensive and well-considered solution. “You have done well to nd a way to engage such a diverse audience. It was particularly pleasing to see a solution that was co-developed, tested and re ned.”
A total of 699 entries from 27 countries were judged.
Caren Venter, Elsabe Coetzee and André Oberholzer (Group Head Corporate Affairs) with the Gold Quill and Best of the Best Awards at the ceremony held in Quebec, Canada.


Sustainability
Vol 18 Issue 2
Our Energy Biomass Project at Sappi Ngodwana Mill is set to play a signi cant role in South Africa’s renewable energy initiatives.
“We are proud to contribute to the increased availability of renewable energy in South Africa,” said CEO of Sappi Southern Africa, Alex Thiel. “Sappi will continue to focus on extracting maximum value from the renewable and sustainable wood bre that we grow.”
Alex’s comment follows the signing of the contract on 04 April 2018, which of cially made Ngodwana Energy a part of the Department of Energy’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP).
The project is a partnership between Sappi Southern Africa, KC Africa and African Rainbow Energy and Power (AREP).
Ngodwana Mill’s still-to-be-erected 25MW biomass plant will feed electricity into the national grid near its location within the Elands Valley, between Emgwenya (formerly Waterval Boven) and Mbombela (formerly Nelspruit).
The value-add over the term of the Power Purchase Agreement is signi cant due to the project’s positive nancial, job creation and socio- economic impacts in the community and Mpumalanga province.
Globally, Sappi has developed and constructed ve hydro, two gas and 31 steam turbines, which generate around 800MW of renewable power on 14 sites across seven countries.
Only a small number of biomass projects are currently operating within the South African renewable energy market.
Bene ts of using biomass fuel to generate electricity:
200,000MwH a year
Biomass power has a high load factor (90% compared to other technologies, which have 30- 40% availability factors).
Creating employment
The value chain creates higher employment in operations.
Not affected by seasonality
The forestry industry is not as affected by seasons and climatic conditions compared to annual crop supply chains.
Sustainable energy source
We can reinvest in raw material supply by replanting trees for future use as an energy source.
Adding nancial value
There will be broad-based participation through the Ngodwana Energy Employees Trust and Ngodwana Energy Community Trust. Each will hold a 5% stake in the project.
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Biomass plant
to expand our green footprint


Vol 18 Issue 2
In the news
For more interesting facts, refer to our 2017 Sappi Southern Africa Sustainability Report. https://goo.gl/Rr8gU7
Five things
you (probably) didn’t know about Sappi
1. We have six declared nature reserves on Sappi land.
2. 95% of the water we extract for use at our operations is returned to the environment.
3. Our SiyaVikela programme at Ngodwana Mill provides accredited training to women in the community, tasked to clear 6,000ha of land from invasive alien plants.
4. At Saiccor Mill, instead of sending boiler ash to land ll, we are giving it away to 18 blockmaker operations, who use it to make construction blocks.
5. A third-party service provider has been contracted to ensure that only valid Emolument Attachment Orders are deducted from Sappi employees who have had garnishee orders issued against them.
CEO
In the media
Check it out online
Worth knowing:
The future is exciting. Have a look at this video on the Sappi Group Facebook page ‘Sappi at a glance’.
Worth watching:
The 2018 Sappi Karkloof Classic Trail Festival was an absolute blast. Click to watch video highlights. https://goo.gl/BYR7tb
Worth reading:
Could this be potentially good news for Sappi’s focus on the viscose textile industry? Click to read the article. https://goo.gl/1kQrJQ
See what CEO Steve Binnie says in The Messenger SA’s interview on Sappi’s journey of reinvention”.
Read the full article.
https://goo.gl/dRf1HT
Expansion at Saiccor
Engineering News reports that Sappi will continue to invest in growth and has submitted an environmental approval application to expand Sappi Saiccor Mill by another 110,000m2. Production is expected to start early in 2020.
Read the full article.
https://goo.gl/BY5dU4
Our CFO in the spotlight
“We need to get the integrity back into nancial statements,” says Sappi Chief Financial Of cer Glen Pearce. In this article on cfo.co.za, Glen describes what makes a good CFO.
Read the full article.
https://goo.gl/BY5dU4
Towards Vision2020
The Quarter 1, 2018 edition of TAPPSA Journal runs a piece on Sappi’s major plans to raise capacity in dissolving wood pulp production and speciality packaging.
Read more.
https://goo.gl/BY5dU4
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Diversity
Vol 18 Issue 1
Sappi
continues to integrate people with a disability
Lesa Bradshaw (Disability Integration Specialist, Bradshaw LeRoux Consulting) is working closely with Sappi on its disability integration strategy.
Sappi has embarked on a journey to further integrate people with a disability (PWD) into our workforce, thereby recognising the value that this form of diversity brings to an organisation.
Joining forces with a disability specialist
Sappi is working with Lesa Bradshaw, a Disability Integration Specialist from Bradshaw LeRoux Consulting, to ensure that disability integration is better understood, better supported, more sustainable and underpinned by empowerment and inclusivity initiatives.
For more information contact your onsite Sappi clinic, or HR representative.
Etiquette when engaging with people with a disability
Ever been nervous to speak to a person with a disability in case you say something offensive? Here are some etiquette tips to follow:
} Relax. It’s a person in front of you, not a disability.
} Always speak to the person directly – even if he/she uses an
interpreter.
} Don’t be afraid to offer assistance, but never rush in and give it without asking rst. If the person accepts your help, ask them how you can assist.
} Never put a ‘pity’ tone in your voice or speak in a condescending manner.
} Never ask someone you don’t know well “what happened to you?”, or how they acquired their disability.
} Don’t stress if you use everyday language such as, “I see what you are saying” (when talking to a visually impaired person), or “she just walked in” (when talking to someone using a wheelchair) etc. They get the point. Laugh at yourself with them and move on.
} Avoid assigning labels, such as “inspirational”, “brave” or “courageous” just because the person has a disability. Like everyone else, some overcome their challenges in life, and some don’t. Some are inspirational, and some are not. Judge each person based on their merit.
} When planning events, ask the question: Is it accessible for people with a disability (if applicable)? Don’t assume. Approach them directly for advice.
25


Effecting change
from within
Read more about these successes on:
• The Abashintshi community Facebook page: https://www. facebook.com/Abashintshi/
• Or on the Sappi website: https://www.sappi.com/ abashintshi-project-sappi
Vol 18 Issue 1
Social responsibility
A group of Abashintshi visiting Saiccor Mill.
Since introducing the Sappi Abashintshi programme back in 2015, this community development initiative has grown from 18 young ambassadors in southern KwaZulu- Natal, to 116 trainees from 65 communities in KZN and Mpumalanga.
The programme provides the ideal platform for young people
to realise their potential to achieve entrepreneurial success, whilst contributing to the social and economic upliftment of their communities.
Fires on Sappi land in those communities have also declined by 89% in just two years. Perceptions of Sappi has shifted signi cantly to be more positive, and the communities have developed a better self-help attitude.
Approximately 419 small businesses have either been started up or rejuvenated with the assistance of Abashintshi. These range from brickmaking projects, poultry and pig farms to crèches, home industries and many more.
Fakazi Mbhele (from Hluthankungu, KZN) started his own chicken business through the programme’s Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) initiative.
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Social responsibility
Vol 18 Issue 1
“It changed my way of thinking”
Mthobisi Shezi (24), a soft-spoken gentleman from Bulwer near Pietermaritzburg, who has done well for himself, his family and his community through the Abashintshi programme. Although he has graduated from the programme, his good work hasn’t stopped.
“I never thought I could start my own business and that it could be successful, but this programme has opened my mind,” says Mthobisi, who started his own tuck shop.
His efforts made it possible to provide for himself and his family. His tuck shop brings in a monthly turnover of close to R4,000, which
Mthobisi was named the Abashintshi’s Alumni of the Year for 2017.
Tuck shop entrepreneur Mthobisi Shezi can now provide for his family.
enables him to pay for his sister’s school fees and offer nancial assistance at home. He also gives help and advice to neighbours on running their businesses.
Mthobisi’s latest achievement is the R10,000 he was awarded for being the Alumni of the Year at the Abashintshi Awards in 2017. “This money will help me expand my business. Now I will be able to transport vegetables from town to my community. I will use some of the money to add onto my savings to purchase a van.”
The future looks bright for young people like Mthobisi, who is an advocate for change in his community.
“I want kids to feel safe and protected”
Thobani Miya
Thobani Miya is a Human Resource graduate from Kwamgodi, High ats. He is also the founder and chairman of the High ats Child Protection and Advocacy organisation.
With the assistance of the Abashintshi programme, Thobani’s non-pro t organisation (NPO) came about with the aim of empowering the community so that children, especially young girls, can feel safe and protected.
Thobani Miya, founder of High ats Child Protection and Advocacy, wants to ensure the wellbeing of children in his community.
Before the NPO was started, thorough research was done. The main problems identi ed were the abuse of children in their homes and at schools, their malnourishment and the spread of HIV/AIDS.
Thobani and his team conducted HIV/AIDS and life skills seminars. He also started a crèche for kids in the community. Among the lessons taught is how to deal with an abusive person and how to report the abuse.
Although funds are still a hassle for this growing NPO, the founder is con dent that it will become a sustainable source of help and protection. “We don’t need money, we just want to in uence those who are in power through what we do.”
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Want to sign up?
Read more about the Sappi Skills Centres at Ngodwana and Saiccor Mills on sappi.com at https://www.sappi.com/sappi-skills-centres
Vol 18 Issue 2
People development
Your skills could help the Skills Centre youth make their dreams a reality.
The Sappi Skills Centres at Saiccor and Ngodwana Mills are now fully operational. As a next step to uplift the youth from surrounding communities through basic skills training, we have launched a ‘Teach to Learn’ volunteer programme.
Volunteer to teach at the Sappi Skills Centre
This programme gives employees and trainees on all Sappi training initiatives the opportunity to share their expertise and help these young people nd employment or start their own small businesses.
Volunteer trainers can present basic courses in hand skills, life skills or business know-how. Technical apprentice training is done by quali ed artisan trainers.
Who can register as ‘Teach to Learn’ volunteers?
} Primarily, employees from areas close to Ngodwana and Saiccor Mills (as travelling costs won’t be covered by the Skills Centre budget).
} Any other employee who feel strongly about imparting essential life or business skills to the Skills Centre trainees.
} *Trainees on other Sappi training programmes (Engineers-in- Training, Foresters in Training, Process and Diploma trainees, Workplace Learners).
What is required of the volunteers?
} Staff need the approval of their managers to register for this programme.
} To observe the process and prepare as trainers, volunteers must attend one class with the Skills Training trainees. The quali ed trainer will then determine if they are able to present a class.
} Employees on this volunteer programme can give a maximum of 24 hours of training per year during working hours.
} Trainees and apprentices on other training programmes (as mentioned above*), are required to conduct 40 hours of volunteer training towards the end of their training programmes.
How to register?
} Send an eMail for queries
The Skills Centre eMail address for queries is [email protected]. It is operated by local coordinators, and the key contacts are:
- Leizelle du Preez (Ngodwana Mill) and
- Riana Barnard (Saiccor Mill).
} Apply on Sappi Learning
Once you are signed off as a ‘quali ed trainer’ you can apply on Sappi Learning to run a speci c session for one or more days. This application is under the ‘Volunteer Management’ menu option.
If you have a desire to give back to the community, uplift the youth and assist them to successfully enter the job market, then this is the programme to sign up to.
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People development
Vol 18 Issue 1
Being a ‘Teach to Learn’ volunteer...
“...helped me to grow “...was a humbling and
rewarding experience”
as a person”
When Simphiwe Khumalo (Raw Material Bookkeeper, Sappi Saiccor) signed up as a volunteer, his intention was “to do something worthwhile for the community.” He never thought that the process would also be personally rewarding.
“The trainees had some great ideas on what they wanted to do with their lives,” says Simphiwe. Some dreamt of starting their own brick laying businesses, others were keen on going into electrical work, a couple thought about opening their own shops or starting a car wash service.
What they needed though, was the nancial know-how. Simphiwe used his expertise as a bookkeeper to teach them how to draw up a business plan. He taught them the basics of nancial statements, income and expenses, how to calculate property and managing a budget.
“The biggest surprise was how the training helped me to grow as a person. Explaining the principles of my work to others, helped me to look at my own job differently. It was an enriching experience that I would de nitely recommend.”
Kirsten Dirkse van Schalkwyk (Regional Learning, Tugela Mill) volunteered to present Business Essentials (Entrepreneurial Skills) to Skills Centre trainees – a module that deals with all aspects of running a small business in their local community.
The learners also had to do their own market research, bake their own cupcakes and scones and sell them on market day at the mill.
Their response following the training was priceless, says Kirsten. “They showed so much appreciation – even hugs and tears. You could see how their faces lit up, especially on market day.” And a remark such as “Thank you for the opportunity” was often heard.
“This experience was very humbling and rewarding,” says Kirsten. “It uplifted my spirit and made me appreciate
the seemingly small things in life again. It was absolutely worthwhile.”
Teach to Learn volunteer Simphiwe Khumalo sharing some nancial know-how with Sappi Skills Centre trainees.
Kirsten Dirkse van Schalkwyk (back, third left) with a group of enthusiastic Skills Centre trainees.
Skills Centre trainees baking cupcakes for Market Day (left), in the workshop (middle) and balancing the budget during nancial training (right).
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Vol 18 Issue 2
We are thrilled to announce Sappi Link.
At Sappi, we are all focused on achieving our strategy and 2020Vision goals. Collaborating as OneSappi, using the best tools available to do our jobs ef ciently, is essential in our quest towards pro table success. We are thrilled to announce Sappi Link – our company's global initiative to provide modern digital services for every employee.
Slight updates to follow.
Information about the project is available at http://sappilink.sappi.com – a website where employees can view all Sappi Link related information such as the project schedule, list of regional champions/ambassadors, FAQs and much more. The site is currently available in in English, Dutch, German and Finnish.
The rst location to go live was South Portland, Maine on Monday 09 July 2018. Migration at the Rosebank Head Of ce commenced on Monday 20 August. The Implementation schedule can be viewed here: http://sappilink.sappi. com/schedule. Watch this space to see when it’s your turn.
Chat to Slinky, our bot created to provide users with answer to technical/project-related questions in an instant message chat format. You can nd Slinky on http://sappilink.sappi.com/slinky.
Your modern digital of ce.
Your modern digital of ce will consist of various Microsoft products, including Windows 10, Of ce 365, Outlook, Skype for Business and OneDrive for Business.
We will start rolling out this upgrade in the coming months.
Reach out to your local change champion for more information.
Your local change champions are Lushen Chetty (Saiccor Mill), Lance Faul (Ngodwana Mill), Chris Gengan (Stanger Mill), Thinus Miennie (Victoria Country Club Estate), Fumani Nkuna (Rosebank) and Soné Heyneke (Rosebank).
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Don’t be fooled – follow our cyber security tips
Vol 18 Issue 1
Sappi’s Cyber Security eMail campaigns show us just how easy it is to get caught out by cyber criminals.
Share content wisely
In the rst campaign, the dangers of phishing was covered.
Watch the video: www.sappicybersecurity.com/en/en-phishing/).
Next up, were tips on how to share content wisely on social media. You can compromise sensitive data with a simple post, without even knowing it.
Identity theft
The third campaign highlights what could put you at risk of identity theft.
Watch the video: https://sappicybersecurity.com/en/.
Never share the following on social media...
A cyber-criminal can easily clone your number plate and use it on one of their vehicles. This means that you will be held responsible for any misdemeanours or nes that these criminals make.
This opens you up to strangers phoning you, but it also helps cyber criminals to gain access to sensitive information.
This allows hackers to scan your pass barcode and obtain sensitive information about you. They can even steal your voyager miles!
This gives human traf ckers an easy way to nd your children and kidnap them.
Not only could you end up in hot water. It could also put off future employers.
Doing this can ruin your reputation and prevent future employers from hiring you.
#1 Posting an image of your car online with its number plate clearly visible:
#2 Posting your cellphone number online:
#3 Throwing away your airplane boarding pass while at the airport, or posting it online:
#4 Sharing photos of your kids’ whereabouts on social media:
#5 Bad-mouthing your job or your boss on social media:
#6 Sharing inappropriate images of yourself on social media:
REMEMBER: If you notice any suspicious online activity, immediately report it to [email protected].
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Vol 18 Issue 2
Identity theft is real
Identity thieves take over everything. It can happen to you if you share even the most innocent photo or voice note online or in a chat room. Sometimes it’s not even your fault. Your bank or favourite online store could be breached, leaking your details to the world.
Luckily it’s not always doom and gloom. There are things you could do to stop
identity theft. Find out more by visiting sappicybersecurity.com and take back control of your life.


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