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Published by Candace Bentel, 2018-12-11 06:21:58

My Sappi 11_12

Sappi Southern Africa
Issue 3 | 2018
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Looking back on a good year
CEO of Sappi Southern Africa, Alex Thiel, re ects on the past year and on what lies ahead.
How well are we on
target to achieve our
2020 objectives?
“Overall, the business
is well on track. The
paper side has grown
from strength to
strength, with good cost control, production stability and strong price increases. Our dissolving pulp business has also improved, but we need to stabilise production.” A lot of good work is also going into growing our new businesses.
Although we have a tough year ahead, what makes us well positioned to continue our success?
“Firstly, we have strong demand for our products – from paper, to packaging, to dissolving pulp. Linked to that, our focus on cost control and better production ef ciencies will stand us in good stead. The global move away from plastics to paper is further helping us to sell more product and realise good price increases.
“However, the most signi cant impact on our future is the completed projects Eagle and Morris Lite on the dissolving pulp side, giving us more tons to sell and the potential to increase our revenue and margins.”
What is our focus for 2019?
“It will be a year of capacity growth, using our raw materials better and nding alternative markets in areas where we are not optimising the use of our waste streams. This means a lot of project focus: whether to complete projects or making sure they continue at the planned pace and budget.
“Our focus on cost control will also be ongoing, especially variable costs in view of signi cant global price increases on raw materials and other input costs. We should continually ask ourselves: “How can we use our raw materials better? Where and how can we nd cheaper raw materials? And how can we get more value from the trees we grow and purchase?”.
Your festive season wishes to staff?
“Thank you for a great year. Let’s keep safety top of mind during the holidays and make sure we don’t injure ourselves or get into dangerous situations. Have a peaceful time with your loved ones, and I’m looking forward to seeing you back in the new year; well rested and ready to take on a challenging, but exciting 2019.”
Cover printed on Sappi GalerieArt Silk 200g/m2 and text on 115g/m2.
WHAT’S NEW
Sappi Typek’s ‘Live a life of note’ campaign.
FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE
Q4 and full-year results; Recognised for creating wealth and value.
STRATEGY AND BRAND
Verve – a name for our dissolving wood pulp product.
SHARED VALUE
How we are doing good, while doing good business.
LIFE SAVING RULES
Make sure you comply with these rules to eliminate serious injuries, illnesses and death.
SAPPI SAFETY MOVIE
Sappi volunteers in the ‘My Story’ movie inspire us to be safe and cautious.
PERSONAL SAFETY
How to be safe over the festive season and beyond.
BUSINESS
Sappi Limited Board visit; We are among industry- rst to deploy SAP Sidecar.
NEWS FROM THE SAPPI GROUP
Cham integration update and product news from Sappi Europe and North America.
19 20-23 24-25
26 27 28
Reason to celebrate
3
4-5
6-7
8-11 12-13
14-15
16 17
18
SAPPI ONLINE
Initiatives worth checking out on our social media pages.
EXCELLENCE
Our communication team shines at Silver Quill Awards; GAPP Awards; KZN Exporter of the Year.
SUSTAINABILITY AND COLLABORATION
Arbour Week activities; new DAFF Deputy Minister hosted by Sappi Forests team.
LEADERSHIP
How to be a great leader – learn from leaders within Sappi.
DISABILITY AWARENESS
Tech Centre employee Karabo Nguyuza shares her story.
CYBER SAFETY
Don’t gamble with your online safety – nd out more in the ‘Wheel of Misfortune’ campaign.
Vol 18 Issue 3
Alex Thiel
CEO, Sappi Southern Africa
2018... what a year! From growing our business to engaging more openly about safety, strengthening our stakeholder and community relations, launching new product campaigns and receiving recognition for excellence in several elds.
Looking back on the highlights of the past year –
some of them featured in this edition – we can pat
ourselves on the back for a job well done. The Sappi
Southern African landscape is brimming with ongoing
possibilities, and our people have once again shown
their passion and commitment to turn challenges into
opportunities. Many of the stories in this publication is testimony to that.
So, as you celebrate over the festive season, take a moment to re ect on the contribution you made to our success this year. Together, we can achieve so much more. Safe travels and looking forward to joining you for another good year.
Mpho Lethoko General Manager Communications, Sappi Southern Africa
2
Contents


What’s
new
Live a life of note with Typek
A new multi-media campaign has been launched for Sappi’s Typek of ce paper brand, challenging consumers to nd excitement through the small, inspirational things in their lives.
Think red, think Typek
Follow the campaign on social media
• Instagram: @TypekSA
• Facebook: Typek South Africa
• Hashtags: #LiveALifeOfNote #ThinkRed #TypekSA
Vol 18 Issue 3
“Just as we make sure Typek is as good as it can be, we want people to be inspired to live a life that is as good as it can be,” says Richard Wells, Sales and Marketing Director Paper and Paper Packaging.
Show a life less ordinary
The campaign features a number of ‘ rsts’ for the brand, including an exciting competition for people to showcase the small things that make their lives less ordinary. Eg, waking up half an hour earlier to watch the sunrise. Baking with their kids, doing a Park Run, saving for a dream trip... little things that make their corner of the globe a bit better and random acts of kindness that uplift others.
3


A good performance after a year of growth and transition
Year-end and fourth quarter results for the period ended September 2018
EBITDA excl special items1
US$762
FY17 US$785 million
million
Pro t for the period
US$323
FY17 US$338 million
million
EPS excl special items1 US¢60
FY17 US¢64
Net debt
US$1,568
FY17 US$1,322 million
million
Dividend declared US¢17
FY17 US¢15
EBITDA excl special items1
US$224
million Q4FY17 US$221 million
Pro t for the period
US$107
million Q4FY17 US$102 million
EPS excl special items1
US¢19
Q4FY17 US¢19
.6
18.0
(%)DWP demand a healthy but net impacted by curr
We launched Ver our DWP produc Sappi’s commitm sourced from sus
Demand for sp papers continue
.0
1 327
North America 25%
Europe 51%
9.1
growth segment
Sales by source
.1 14.8 .1 1.7
ed net nance
across all major p
Southern Africa 24%
s.
Sales by product (%)
nd market pricing remain
sales for the quarter was ency translation losses.
ve as the umbrella brand for
ts with the brand promise of ent to producing a natural bre
tainably managed forests.
ecialities and packaging d to grow in each region and
Commodity paper 7% Dissolving wood pulp 18% Other 1%
Coated paper 55%
roduct categories.
Uncoated paper 5% Speciality paper 14%
Sales by destination (%)
Sales by destination (%)
North America 23%
Europe 45%
North America 23%
Europe 45% No
Southern Africa 10%
Asia and other 22%
Southern Africa 10%
Asia and other 22% So
Net operating assets (%)
Net operating assets (%)
North America 28% Europe 38%
rth America 28% Europe 38%
Southern Africa 34%
uthern Africa 34%
4
www.sappi.com
Vol 18 Issue 3
Financial performance
Q4 and full-year results
FY2018 was another exciting year for Sappi – one of further growth, transition and great
of volumes in our manufacturing environment.
North America 25% Europe 51% Coated paper 55%
North America 25% Europe 51% Coated paper 55%
Commodity paper 7%
• CoSnouttaheirn Aifnricga 24c%osts: Everyone being sUnmcoaterdt papbero5u% t Southern Africa 24% Uncoated paper 5%
Commodity paper 7%
down and making clever purchasing dSpeccialitsy ipoapners14.%
Other 1%
Quarter ended Year ended
Notwithstanding downtime related to completing
US$ million Sept 2018 Sept 2017 Jun 2018 Sept 2018 Sept 2017 several large strategic growth projects during progress made towards achieving our strategic targets. We delivered a solid full year
Sales 1,535
and improved fourth quarter results, whilst completing higher margin conversions and
1,411 1,445 5,806 5,296 dissolviOnpgerawtingoporo dt expcl supecliapl itemds1 ebot1t4l8enec1k52ing pr8o5 jects.480 526
Special items (gains) losses1 13 1 1 EBITDA excluding special items1 224 221 155
of the prior year on a like-for-like basis. Market demand fully utilised our production
Speciality paper 14%
keeDpissinolvgingcwoosdtpsulp 18% Dissolving wood pulp 18%
Other 1%
(9)
762 785
the year, the overall result was in line with that
— capacity for dissolving wood pulp (DWP) and speciality and packaging papers.
“I’m very satis ed that we have delivered results for the year in line
withthatofPtrho etfporitoherpyeriaodr,notwithstandin1g07thedow10n2timerela5t1ed 32c3ommitme3n38t.I’mloGorakpinhgicfpoarpwearrmdatrokewtmoarkrginingsawseraetmeaimntatinoeedn.sure
to the completion of several large strategic growth projects,”
Basic EPS (US cents) 20 19 9 commented Sappi CEO Steve Binnie. “These projects enabled a
60 63
further shift in our product mix towards higher margin and growth
1 EPS excluding special items (US cents)
19 19 1,568 1,322
10 1,603
60 64
segments.”
Operating pro t excl special items1 9.6 10.8 5.9 8.3 to reap the rewards of the work invested on our path of growth,”
to sales
Net debt1
This positions us well for an exciting 2019, “where we can expect
net debt to EBITDA, further shifts the group’s 1,56N8 et op1e,3r2a2 ting assets and sales distribution
He concluded, “Thank you for a great year of hard work and another exciting and successful year in 2019.”
Increased growth-project capital expenditure,
managed around our target ratio of two times
9.9
product mix away from the traditional graphic paper business towards higher-margin and
Steve said.
S
ROCE1 Operating pro t excluding special 17.0 20.2 9.7 14 items1 to capital employed
CEO of Sappi Southern Africa, Alex Thiel agreed. At the results presentation to staff at our Rosebank Head Of ce, Alex commented
EBITDA excl special items1 to sales 14.6 15.7 10.7 13 that our SSA businesses performed very well. On the paper side,
Net debt to EBITDA excl special 2.1 1.7 2.1 2 we delivered 100% of budget in the fourth quarter, whilst the
items1
1
of budget. ISntaelrest acnovderpricing were also s1t1ro.0ng. 9.1 11.0 11
Net asset value per share1 361 327 342 36 Severalmill(UsSacecntsh)ievedproductionrecordsinthequarter:onthe
dissolving wood pulp side continued its good track record at 98.5%
paper machine at Stanger Mill; on the paper machine, in the pulp
Net nance costs reduced
mill and on the spray drier at Tugela Mill; and on the dissolving pulp
North A Southe
Compared to FY17, lower average debt levels throughout the year reduc
side at Ngodwana Mill.
costs by 15% (US$12 million) to US$68 million.
In terms of safety, Alex noted that “we have done a tremendous job in the reNgieotnotopeimraptrionvgeaswsaertesneasnsd, wsahlicehshdaist rlitbeuretdiotnhrough to a
Sales by source
Sales by product (%)
drop in our lost-time injury rate.
(%)
Sales by source (%)
Sales by product (%)
Critical focus areas for the year ahead:
Going forward, Alex remarked that the most critical components for a successful 2019 include:
• Safety rst: A safe business is a successful business. “Let’s continue to be vigilant and constantly aware of our own safety, whilst also looking out for the safety of others.”
• Strong production: The need to deliver the maximum amount
1 Refer to the published results for detail on special items, the de nition of the terms, reconciliations and supplemental information about key ratios.
for the period ended September 2018
for the period ended September 2018
for the period ended September 2018
for the period ended September 2018
for the period ended September 2018
for the period ended September 2018
for the period ended September 2018
as at September 2018
Commentary
as at September 2018
for the period ended September 2018
Key ratios (%)
Key gures
Q4FY18 FY18


Strategy
Recognised for
creating wealth and value
Sappi’s strong nancial performance earned us a second place in the highly-acclaimed Sunday Times Top 100 Companies awards held in Johannesburg.
The award is recognition of the successful turnaround of our business and the implementation of our strategy.
Capitec Bank delivered the highest return. Clicks was placed third.
“I was exceptionally proud to accept this award on behalf of everyone working at Sappi. It’s recognition for the tremendous effort each person has put in to deliver on our strategy and our 2020Vision. It was further con rmation that we are on the right path,” said Chief Executive Of cer Steve Binnie.
“I look forward to the increase in value and wealth we will deliver from the investments currently underway and those recently concluded.”
Vol 18 Issue 2
We delivered a compound annual growth rate of 34% over the period from 2013 to 2018.
No mean
feat
The Sunday Times
Top 100 Companies analyses the share price performance
of listed companies over a rolling ve- year period. At the awards ceremony, those companies that have earned the highest return for their shareholders over the last ve years are acknowledged.
This year’s investment measurement period ran from 01 September 2013 to 31 August 2018.
Bongani Siqoko (Editor of Sunday Times) handing over the runner-up award to Steve Binnie (CEO Sappi Limited).
5


Vol 18 Issue 3
Strategy and brand
Sappi launches
Verve
Sustainable dissolving wood pulp for a thriving world
For the rst time ever, our existing range of dissolving wood pulp (DWP) products has been given a brand name, Verve. Launched in October 2018, the name Verve represents life, fervour, passion and strength.
In the past, products sold by Sappi have remained unbranded and industry generic names have been used as product names. With this new brand name, we are creating a very speci c identity within the dissolving wood pulp market.
“To investors and shareholders, a brand is a tangible differentiator,” says Sappi CEO Steve Binnie. “Verve gives recognition to our DWP products and the value we offer to this market. It represents Sappi’s commitment to the entire value chain – from brand owners through to the cellulosic bre producers. It also shows a commitment to producing a natural bre from sustainable and renewable resources, and a pledge to the three pillars of sustainability: people, planet and prosperity.”
Our dissolving wood pulp is derived from sustainably managed plantations and forests and is used to meet a diverse range of global needs – from textiles to industrial and pharmaceutical applications. The majority of our dissolving wood pulp is consumed in the cellulosic bre industry, where pulp is converted through the value chain to yarn and ultimately textile garments.
Our Verve brand campaign has been one of Sappi’s biggest media launches to date, successfully utlising a broad range of marketing materials and print and social media platforms to communicate the brand message and what it represents.
“The launch of the sustainable dissolving wood pulp brand Verve, is de nitely the right way to strengthen Sappi’s leadership role in the DWP market even more.”
Extract of a letter from Stefan Doboczky – CEO, Lenzing
In numbers
16% of global DWP demand is supplied from our Sappi Saiccor (SSA), Ngodwana
(SSA) and Cloquet (SNA) Mills.
1.14 of product is collectively produced by our three DWP mills per year. Further
million tons
capacity investments are underway. This makes us a signi cant player in this industry segment.
6


Strategy and brand
Vol 18 Issue 3
Our Verve brand:
Worth knowing
#1 | Branding a product makes good business sense. Brands have value and serve as ‘identi ers’ – in terms of the products a company offer, as well as the
factors around those products’ brand ethos and what they represent.
Bernhard Riegler, Vice President Marketing for Sappi Dissolving Pulp explains, “The industry and markets in which we operate are increasingly demanding products that are sustainable and that provide clear credentials to that sustainability claim.
As a bre produced from a natural and renewable resource, Verve provides the value chain with such a choice.
#2 | A strong brand is a key differentiator.
It’s a promise made, and a promise kept. Think of your own buying habits. As consumers we often favour certain brands and the messages they represent – even if it means paying more – because we believe in the name and we trust the quality of the product. Knowing that it is sustainably sourced and manufactured, add to product’s desirability.
Therefore, strong brands ultimately lead to greater demand and higher premiums on pricing.
#3 | A brand’s impact on a company’s bottom line is real. It represents a relationship that creates and secures future earnings by growing customer preference
and loyalty.
A globally recognised fact is that many well-known brands have notable monetary value, and as such are often listed in a company’s nancial statements. The value of Coca Cola’s brand name (no assets, just the rights to the brand name) is estimated at US$79.2 billion. The value of the Apple brand name is almost US$100 billion.
These gures alone demonstrate how important branding can be, and the value it holds for a company.
#4 | The name was carefully chosen.
Bernhard explains, “During the naming process we excluded all industrial names and any link to the dissolving wood pulp sector.
“We then approached various stakeholders, including creative agencies, for suggestions of a name that conveys a concept, a passion or emotive idea. We wanted a name that could be aligned with our ideals for the brand (such as passion, vigour, stamina and energy – all words with positive emotive connotations).”
Well over 100 names were considered before a nal shortlist was compiled and checked for trademark registration. Out of this shortlist, three names were presented to a Sappi panel, with Verve by far the name most favoured.
#5 | The logo colour purple re ects Verve’s brand message.
“The colour of the Verve logo is a purple – a lively colour that represents the concepts of vibrancy, energy and a thriving product segment,
as re ected by the name,” explains Group Brand Manager Madelaine Fourie.
Another important consideration is that the colour is not used in any of our other product segments – therefore adding to the brand differentiation we strive for.
Bernhard Riegler, VP Marketing, Sappi Dissolving Wood Pulp
Brands carry tremendous value in terms of money
and demand for customers across the value chain.
In line with our One Sappi approach, Sappi and the brand name Verve is combined into the logo, hence Sappi Verve.
7


Vol 18 Issue 3
Shared value
Shared value: Key to a healthy business and society
A sustainable business equals a sustainable society.”
It might sound like the latest buzz word, but Corporate Shared Value (CSV) is so much more. For Sappi, it’s about doing
good, while doing good business.
“Shared value is fundamental to how we operate,” says CEO of Sappi Southern Africa, Alex Thiel. “It is about driving mutual bene ts for business and society. “We aim to add value to our communities by collaborating and partnering with our stakeholders. At the same time, we focus on reducing our impact on the natural resources we depend upon.
Where it began
The concept was rst introduced in a Harvard Business Review article several years ago. The term was further expanded on
in a follow-up piece, explaining how the competitiveness of a company and the health of communities surrounding it, are mutually dependent; with the added potential to “drive the next wave of innovation and productivity growth in the global economy,” as authors Michael Porter and Mark Kramer remarked.
What it is not
Shared value is not philanthropy or mere corporate social responsibility (CSR). In these cases, a company’s social contributions are not necessarily intrinsic to business value.
Put another way, CSR is about responsibility. CSV is about creating value, thereby opening up business opportunities that create
new markets, improve pro tability and strengthen competitive positioning. (www.fsg.org)
Our African Honey Bee project is a shared value initiative with business and socio-economic bene ts.
8


Shared value
Vol 18 Issue 3
Why we support shared value...
– Nat Maelane, Chief Procurement Of cer, Sappi Southern Africa.
“A win-win for Sappi and supply partners”
Procurement has a signi cant impact on the competitiveness of Sappi, particularly on the sourcing of production materials.
“These materials account for a major portion of the cost to run the business, therefore it’s important to have a reciprocal value- adding relationship with our supply chain stakeholders.
Re bre, a practical example
Sappi Re bre is a typical division within procurement that has the attributes of economic and developmental shared value.
Since 2010, our Re bre business has contributed to supply partners in the following ways:
} 88 businesses have been established
} Employment created through 484 jobs
} ZAR44 million has been invested in the acquisition of
manufacturing for suppliers
} Revenue generated for suppliers of ZAR2 billion.
Shared value goes beyond charity. It focuses on meeting societal needs and improving the livelihood of communities, whilst growing our business.”
“It aligns with our strategy”
This approach aligns with our vision and strategy, and with government and the United Nation’s Sustainable Development goals to eliminate poverty, ght inequalities and tackle climate change.
Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) Strategy
Sappi has developed an Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) Strategy that is currently being rolled out. Its objectives include license to operate, security of supply and procurement ef ciencies.”
Focused on enterprise development
Lesiba Lamola has been appointed as Regional Sourcing Manager: BBBEE, responsible for the enterprise and supplier development in the region – a regulatory requirement to operate.
Key objectives include:
• Establishing a fully integrated Enterprise Development Strategy to deliver value in terms of commercial, social and B-BBEE (Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment) compliance.
• Driving visible impact in local communities to strengthen relations.
• Establishing an ESD delivery network through strategic partnerships.
“Sappi has excellent enterprise development programmes in place such as Abatshinshi, the Sappi Skills Centres, our Re bre programme and Khulisa. If well integrated and supported, these will immensely add to our reputation in surrounding communities,” says Lesiba.
Lesiba Lamola, new Regional Sourcing Manager: BBBEE.
9


Vol 18 Issue 3
Shared value
Shared value:
We are impacting lives
Healthy societies depend on caring companies that measure success not only by their pro ts, but by the impact they make on surrounding communities so that everyone can prosper. We take this responsibility seriously.
African Honey-Bee (AHB) project
Sappi Khulisa farmers are often forced to harvest their timber after four years, which is not as pro table as waiting
till seven years. The AHB project, partly funded by Sappi, encourages entrepreneurship, alleviates poverty, curbs res and provides additional income for local timber farmers.
Value created:
} Potential 40% pro t increase for farmers who waits seven years before harvesting.
} Potential ZAR10,000 annual increase in the income by waiting longer to harvest.
} Reduction in honey hunter res. Honey hunters are now the honey farmers.
} Farmers now more self- sustaining.
The Abashintshi programme
This community development initiative in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) and Mpumalanga utilises local Sappi-trained ‘change agents’ to empower communities to create their own wealth.
Value created:
} 115 Abashintshi in 65 communities. } 750 small and micro businesses
creating income for 897 people.
} Better self-help attitude as only 9% of community members expect assistance from us (compared to 51% in 2014).
} Over 50% of community members “very satis ed” with their relationship with Sappi.
Alien-invasive plant clearing
The Abanakekeli programme at Saiccor, Stanger and Tugela Mills are operated in collaboration with WESSA (Wildlife and Environmental Society of South Africa).
Value created:
} Training surrounding communities to clear invasive plants.
} Sappi sites cleared of alien invasive vegetation that threatens biodiversity.
} Developing people to run small, medium and micro enterprises in their communities.
} 50+ households (up to 334 bene ciaries) bene t from wages and training.
} More SMME development becomes possible in other neighbouring communities.
10


Shared value
Vol 18 Issue 3
Early Childhood Development (ECD)
Our involvement extends to communities in KZN, Mpumalanga and Gauteng. There is a link between ECD and
later success in life, making this an investment in our country’s future.
Value created:
} 69 ECD caregivers in KZN have bene ted from training through the non-pro t TREE progamme. 23 quali ed as ECD practitioners; a further 36 trainees almost completed two years of formal training.
} 6,000 children reached through 114 ECD centres in Mpumalanga (in collaboration with Penreach). Also: 1,000 children reached through 12 toy libraries; 300 households reached through home-based programmes; and 650 ECD practitioners trained.
} 50 ECD practitioners in Gauteng undergo training through Jabulani Training and Development every year.
Pepper Bark project
Through this seedling project Sappi,
in collaboration with SANBI and other partners, is working hard to protect the endangered Warburgia Salutaris, sought-after for its traditional medicine properties.
Value created:
} 30,000+ seedlings cultivated at our Shaw Nursery.
} 15,000+ trees distributed to communities in Mpumalanga and Swaziland.
} Can be applied to
other endangered trees that are a challenge to grow. Rehabilitating the Prunis Africana will commence in 2019.
MiniSASS tool
A simple tool that can be used by anyone to monitor the health of a river. Collect
a sample of macroinvertebrates (small animals) from the water, and the results with give a good indication of the general river health and water quality.
Value created:
} Promoting environmental awareness through water monitoring.
} Youth from neighbouring primary schools involved near Sappi plantations in KZN.
} Continual river monitoring by fostering the ‘Adopt a river’ concept is the ultimate goal.
Sappi Skills Centres
These centres at Saiccor and Ngodwana Mills are training employees and unemployed youth in business and basic hand skills.
Value created:
} 61 trainees have completed the skills programme to date; four courses at a time, 10 participants per course per campus.
} 37 learners enrolled in the Community Learning Programme at Ngodwana Mill. Two have been placed as process trainees; two have started micro businesses.
} Empowering local community youth to start their own businesses or nd meaningful employment.
Project Khulisa
Through this timber outgrower supply programme, communities in KZN and the Eastern Cape make their land available for tree farming.
Value created:
} Almost 10,000 farmers have bene ted since 1983.
} Over 272 small- and medium businesses established in the community.
} 1,100+ jobs generated throughout the eight to ten-year growth cycle.
} 3.3 million+ tons (ZAR1.6 billion in value) has been purchased from growers since 1995.
Mountain Biking
Aimed at risk reduction in our forests and improving stakeholder relations.
Value created:
} Brand-building among the public.
} Known as environmental custodians through trail events on our land.
} ZAR231 million economic bene t in Karkloof through MTB tourism.
} 4,936 Karkloof day riders in 2018 (917 in 2011).
SiyaVikela programme
This initiative to rid Ngodwana Mill of alien invasive plants also involves valuable skills training.
Value created:
} Eight women from the nearby community underwent accredited training. } 2,000ha of land identi ed for clearing of invasive alien plant species. 183ha
cleared during Phase 1 of the project.
} Recognition as Ngodwana Mill won the Kruger Lowveld Chamber of Business and Tourism’s Annual Environmental Award this year.
11


Vol 18 Issue 3
Own Safety, Share Safety
Safety rst
Do you
comply with
Sappi’s Life Saving Rules?
In our quest for zero injuries, Sappi’s prime safety objective is to eliminate all serious injuries, illnesses or fatalities (also known as SIFFS) in our mills and non-manufacturing environments. To reach this objective, our regional safety team have compiled a number of Life Saving Rules. None of them are new to the business. Help us to make Sappi safer by making sure you understand these rules, and how they apply to your job.
1 Comply with lockout work permits.
A permit to work, or a lockout system, ensures that any work being carried out is being done in a controlled way to minimise potential hazards.
Apply it: Never work without a valid permit and ensure that it covers all applicable issues. Adhere to the precautions, isolate and lock all potentially harmful energy sources.
2 Work safely at heights.
This rule means working at any raised position that is not on a at, sturdy and stable surface protected by railings. The possibility exists to fall from the raised position.
Apply it: Check the equipment before using it, put fall protection measures in place, prevent items from falling, make sure there
is someone close-by to help if needed, don’t stand on furniture to reach heights, only use ladders to the height indicated. In manufacturing, hook on a harness and get a permit.
12


Own Safety, Share Safety
34
Vol 18 Issue 3
Use machine guards and protective devices properly.
Machine guarding refers to a shield/device covering hazardous areas of a machine to prevent contact with body parts, or to control hazards like wood chips and noise from exiting the machine.
Apply it: Ensure that nip points are guarded and protective devices are working correctly. Never override/disable them without authorisation, and don’t work if someone is exposed to unguarded points. Ensure that of ce equipment safety devices are in place.
This rule applies to the use of safety belts, vehicle checks, regular maintenance, operator licenses and the use of cellphones while driving.
Apply it: Be licensed and competent, make sure the vehicle/ equipment is safe to drive/use, adhere to traf c rules and speed limits, ensure passengers are transported safely. Don’t text and drive.
56
Conduct lifting and suspended load operations safely.
Anything that is lifted above ground is considered a suspended load.
This rule applies to: Loads lifted by forklifts, wheel loaders, overhead booms and cranes. Avoid sudden snatching, swinging, and stopping of suspended loads to prevent accidental dropping.
Safety critical PPE refers to protective clothing, helmets, goggles or other garments or equipment designed to protect the wearer’s body from serious injury or death.
This rule applies to: Respiratory equipment, electrical ash protection, fall arrest equipment, lanyards and ballistic pants. Also make sure you wear the right protective equipment when working at home.
Operate vehicles and mobile equipment safely.
Wear the right personal protective equipment.
78
Prevent exposure to hazardous substances.
This refers to substances with the following properties: ammability, explosiveness, toxicity or the ability to react when combined with oxygen.
Apply it: Only use and dispose of these substances if trained
and authorised. Always read the instructions. Store incompatible substances separately. Have these storage areas clearly marked. Know where designated escapes are. Wear correct PPE. Label chemicals correctly and store safely away from the reach of children at home.
Being aware of your surroundings can drastically reduce accidents.
Apply it: Assess tasks and your surroundings to identify possible hazards and risks to yourself and others. Ensure that appropriate protection and emergency response measures are in place. Always be aware of your surroundings.
Assess all risks in your surroundings before you start.
Carefully consider how these rules apply to your job/work area, or at home and follow them closely. It could save a life and that life could be yours.
13


Vol 18 Issue 3
‘My Story’Ssuasfetatyinmaboilvitiey
“Don’t let our stories become yours”
Accidents hurt. They’ve been there. They know what it’s like. In the ‘My Story’ safety movie recently screened at units across Sappi Southern Africa, seven Sappi employees share their painful injury experiences to ensure that their stories don’t become ours.
7
Devan Ramsamy, Production Superintendent
“I watched as my esh washed away into the ef uent drains.”
André Nel, Engineering Hydraulic Fitter
“I should have thought about it more carefully.”
Devan was injured when a valve ruptured and sulfuric acid splashed all over him.
Standing under the safety shower, the water reacted with the acid and he could feel his skin tightening. “I watched as the esh from my body washed away into the ef uent drains.”
He spent almost a month in hospital. 17% of his body was burnt and he had to undergo skin grafting.
The palm of Joshua’s hand was seriously injured when it was pulled in between two motor-driven steel rolls.
“It all happened so quickly. I saw the sheets break and felt a pain in my right hand. There were no physical signs of injury on the back of my hand. But when I turned it over, I noticed the open wound on my right palm.”
14
André cut his hand badly when he and a co-worker attempted to pull a heavy hydraulic tank onto a forklift.
“As it landed, the tank bounced, and the impact caused the sharp edges to cut my right hand. I was not wearing gloves.”
5
Learn from Devan
“Never be complacent. Think of your family and make sure you work safely and follow procedures. If there’s a problem, talk it through, instead of doing the wrong thing and getting hurt, or even worse, getting killed.”
3
Joshua Kistan, Will Cutter Operator
“It happened in a split second.”
Learn from Joshua
“Machines don’t feel pain. We feel the pain. Nowadays, I respect the machinery I work with. I’m far more cautious about my colleagues and my surroundings.
I don’t want others to go through the same pain.”
Learn from André
“Getting injured is the wrong way to learn that you always need to be safe. Before doing any task, take a step back and think about what needs to be done before rushing into it. If it’s not safe, rather get help or walk away.”
MY STORY ... shouldn’t be yours.
“I spent 7 days “I watched as my esh became “We were hit by a in ICU” detached from my body” burning furnace”
“I could have died that day”
Movie Screening
09 November 2018
Own safety. Share safety.
Oxford Room
Two show times: 11:00-12:00 or 13:30-14:30
Book your seat: [email protected] by 05 November Complimentary Popcorn!
sappi safety


‘My Story’ safety movie
Vol 18 Issue 3
3
Siphelele Mdakane, Land and Commercial Legal Counsel
“We both let out deafening screams.”
Learn from Siphelele
“Safety is for everyone, in all circumstances. We often take the impact of our daily chores at home for granted. We think accidents happen to others. I wish I could turn back the clock to stop, think and then act.”
Siphelele sustained serious burn wounds when the lid of the family’s pressure cooker at home exploded and the contents spilled over her and her sister.
“We were rushed to an emergency trauma unit. I was admitted to hospital for almost two weeks and had to undergo plastic surgery. This incident changed my life forever.”
Mervin was tasked to attend to PM1. He had to change the doctor blades on the machine. All isolations were made and
the machine was shut, but as he started working, he was unaware that the rst dryer section was already handed back.
“When I removed the doctor blade, the drying cylinder started to turn. I moved away, but one of my long welding gloves got caught in between the drive and the pinion gear. I couldn’t free my hand and stood there helplessly, as I heard my bones being crushed inside the glove.”
Doctors tried desperate to save his hand, but it had to be amputated.
A re was spotted on the boundary of Sappi’s Comrie plantation. Sipho and the F695 crew were asked to go out and verify the sighting.
Big black smoke became visible as they approached, and the wind was pumping. But the re was still small. Sipho decided
to contain it immediately before things got out of hand... but to the crew’s surprise the wind turned and the re became stronger instantly.
“If I wore my re safety gear that day, my injuries wouldn’t have been nearly as bad. I ended up in hospital for two weeks to recuperate.”
Mervin Liversage, Engineering Fitter
“I could hear my bones crushing.”
1
Baryn Hulley, Chargehand Operator
“I thought I had killed someone!”
As a spare shift relief, Baryn offered to help knock a divert valve into position. It didn’t work.
“I looked around for something heavier and
I found a scaffolding bar nearby.” The rst knock didn’t help, so he tried again, harder, and this time it moved into position. But his hand got hurt and he dropped the scaffolding bar in the process.
The bar bounced on the grating and fell over the edge. Baryn leaned over and watched in disbelief as the bar headed straight for the one person that was working down below in a normally quiet area.
The bar hit the man on his hard hat, and he fell over. There was blood everywhere. The person (only) sustained a fracture, but for Baryn it was a serious wake-up call.
6 2
Learn from Mervin
“Take nothing for granted. Especially when it comes to the isolation of machinery, always double check those isolations yourself and make sure it’s done correctly. If not, you could land up injured, disabled or even dead.”
Sipho Magubane, Management Forester
“The heat and ames were everywhere. I felt so much pain.”
Learn from Sipho
“If your job requires you to wear proper PPE, do so at all times. I’m also very aware now of applying the safety principle of stopping and thinking before you act. It could save your life.”
Learn from Baryn
“Don’t wait. Get serious about safety right now. I share my story, because I don’t want others to rst face an incident before realising the importance of safety.”
15


Vol 18 Issue 3
safe
Personal Safety
Tips for a
festive season
i Did you know?
of hijackings take place in 50% residential driveways and
parking lots and within a 5km radius of a victim’s home.
of vehicle theft occurs at 80% shopping centres, schools
and social events, mainly over weekends.
85- of road crashes can be attributed to driver error. Be a
defensive driver, anticipating 90% potential errors of fellow
motorists.
1 Drink responsibly. 0,05% is the legal blood alcohol limit. If you drink more than 350ml of beer or have more than a single tot of brandy or other spirit, you may already be over the limit. Organise a lift or order a taxi service.
2 Plan your night out. Tell someone where you are going and when you will be back.
4 If you’re going away, make your home look occupied. Leave some lights on and invest in day-night globes. Get a trusted neighbour to regularly check in on your property.
6 Secure all doors and windows of your home.
3 Park and lock your car in secure, well-lit areas, keeping valuables hidden.
5 Ask your neighbour to clear out the post box and keep your driveway mail-free.
Safe when shopping
• Avoid carrying large amounts of money.
• Keep handbags zipped.
• At ATMs, cover your pin number and
only draw as much money as you
need.
• Don’t leave valuable belongings in
the trolley.
• Don’t keep your wallet or phone in
your back pocket.
• Hold your child’s hand and/or always
keep him/her in viewing distance.
• Always accompany young kids to the
bathroom.
7 Make sure your alarm is in good working condition and activated when you’re not there.
Be a smart driver
• Plan the route to your destination and allow yourself enough time to reach it.
• Make sure that your vehicle is in a roadworthy condition.
• Do not overload.
• Try to avoid driving in the early hours of the morning when you are normally asleep. It’s also best to not drive after dark.
• Have a good rest before you embark on your journey.
• Take safety breaks every two hours or 200km.
• Try to recognise potentially dangerous drivers on and pedestrians alongside the road and keep well clear of them.
• Be visible. Drive with your lights on.
• Maintain at least a two-second following distance.
• Avoid distractions on the road such as texting and talking on your phone.
• Be courteous to other drivers and keep your temper in check.
16
Sources: SAPS, Department of Transport, SANRAL and City of Johannesburg


Business
Vol 18 Issue 3
Sappi Limited Board impressed by mill tour
Our Saiccor Mill team were proud to host the Sappi Limited Board in October this year, where they experienced rst-hand some of the investments made for a sustainable future. The visit included a tour of the mill’s Technology Centre, MgO2 plant, Bleaching 3 section and the Saiccor Skills Centre Campus.
We’re among industry- rst to deploy SAP Sidecar
For the past two decades, Sappi has been a loyal consumer of SAP systems.
In fact, we can claim our leadership in digital transformation. Globally, we deployed the latest version of SAP Business Suite for HANA (S4 HANA), thus enabling us to adopt newer technologies in the Cloud Applications space.
SAP Sidecar system
In doing so, certain features enabling our business processes in the Occupational Health and Industrial Hygiene functional area, had to be shifted from the classic SAP ECC system to a new home, the SAP HR system. In the SAP industry this is referred to as a ‘Sidecar’.
As the name suggests, this SAP system sits alongside the SAP digital core S4 HANA system. Whilst SAP recommend that this nature of build takes anywhere between one and one-and-a-half years to deploy, our team executed this huge shift in only nine months, and well within budget.
A great team effort by (from left) Sylvia Jenkins, Koosh Panday, Shelewe Matlala, Chris Erasmus and Christo Janse van Rensburg. They were supported by the back-of ce and fellow colleagues
in the business who assisted with the testing cycle and future proo ng of the system.
17


18
Vol 18 Issue 3
Group news
News from the group
Cham integration going exceptionally well
Several months have passed since the acquisition of the Cham business as part of the Sappi group. Sappi Trading’s Sales Director Consumer Goods and Self-Adhesives, Michael Bethge, gives an update.
Customers’ response to the acquisition: “The Cham customers we have spoken to are very positive. We have built a great reputation in the packaging industry and in the pressure sensitive adhesive markets. They view us as a trusted and reliable partner that will help them grow their businesses.”
Added resources: “The biggest change Cham customers are experiencing is access to the entire Sappi portfolio: from packaging speciality papers, boards and printing and writing papers. Also: increased research and development resources, faster delivery times, tailored marketing, highly automated systems and improved sales and customer support. In turn, our customers get access to Cham's diverse product line.”
Entering new markets: “One area of great interest to us is the dye sublimation business. Cham has a fantastic portfolio under the family brand name of TransJet, with great market recognition. This allows us to accelerate growth in this dynamic industry segment.
“Another area is barrier papers. Sappi and Cham are both strong in developing innovative barrier paper technology and we are excited to learn from each other, spurring even further innovation. This area is important to the industry and has signi cant environmental bene ts, with the opportunity to reduce the amount of plastics used in packaging.”
Cham’s Carmignano Mill.
A unique folding box board launched
In Europe, Sappi launched Atelier©, a premium folding box board1 (FBB1) that is unique in the marketplace. Atelier features the ultimate in brightness, purity and gloss with a silky touch and feel, paired with bulk and stiffness.
It is produced at Sappi Maastricht Mill in the Netherlands, which has undergone
a signi cant upgrade in innovative papermaking technology that has allowed production of this extremely high quality FBB1 product.
SNA debuts rst paperboard packaging line
Sappi North America (SNA) launched its paperboard packaging line with two sustainable paperboard packaging products, Proto and Spectro, at Pack Expo International held in October in Chicago, USA.
This product launch follows a year-long rebuild of Paper Machine 1 and the modernisation of the woodyard at Sappi Somerset Mill.
“This line will allow us to provide luxury packaging and folding carton applications that complement our existing specialty packaging products," said SNA’s Vice President of Packaging and Specialties Business, Deece Hannigan.
The Sappi team at their Pack Expo booth. From left: Tom Glas, Heather Pelletier, Mike Browne, Scott Marquis and Wayne Nablo.
Atelier – a cut above the rest
100% brightness level on the top side exceeds the market standard compared to the current industry top value of around 92%.
98,5% brightness factor on the reverse side, which accommodates the increasing demand for printing on both sides of the board for added impact.


Sappi online
Vol 18 Issue 3
Check it out online
President’s Investment Summit
At Pres Cyril Ramaphosa’s Investment Summit, Sappi CEO Steve Binnie shared some of our investment plans to ensure meaningful growth and job creation in South Africa.
CLICK HERE
https://bit.ly/2KB2UrW
Highlights video 2018
It was a great year of further growth for Sappi. Watch
a video with some of the highlights that made the year a memorable one for Sappi Southern Africa.
CLICK HERE
https://youtu.be/lqymscZ-2Nw
Typek campaign: like and share
CLICK HERE
Remember to support Sappi Typek’s new brand campaign, Live a life of note, by liking and sharing their posts on their Typek South Africa and other social media platforms.
https://www.facebook.com/ pg/typeksa/posts/
Abashintshi
celebrates
Great excitement as Sappi’s Abashinthshi community ‘change agents’ celebrate a year of success at different awards ceremonies held in the region.
CLICK HERE
https://bit.ly/2R3ebU9
Sappi calendar inspiration
South African artist and illustrator, @Chris Valentine explains the creative inspiration behind his oil on canvas artwork ‘Sergi’ that appears on our printed wall calendar for 2018.
CLICK HERE
https://bit.ly/2TQzUkc
More value from trees
Learn more about how Sappi is focusing on extracting more value from each tree to move into new adjacent markets.
CLICK HERE
http://ow.ly/g3LH30lF2lG
We’re growing online
Bird and bee houses
How cool is this for corporate responsibility? Sappi ordered 25 owl houses, 10 bat houses and 10 bee hives from the Owl Rescue Centre to be installed in forests in Mpumalanga.
CLICK HERE
https://bit.ly/2rrnvWZ
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Vol 18 Issue 3
Excellence and recognition
Our communication team
among Africa’s best
Even the best projects and strategies require proper communication skills to be executed successfully. In Sappi Southern Africa, we’re lucky to have an extremely
competent communication team who know how to develop and implement creative ideas to engage people and ensure an effective outcome.
Our Sappi communication team won ve Silver Quill Excellence Awards and the 2018 IABC Africa Best of the Best Award at the 2018 International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Africa region’s gala function in October this year.
What makes these awards such a noteworthy achievement, is that over 50 work samples from major corporates, universities and agencies were assessed. Only fteen of these received Excellence Awards, and only four won Merit Awards.
Best of the Best Award
Sappi Mother’s Day Concert
Entered by: Elsabe Coetzee (Sappi Regional Communications Manager, Mpumalanga), and her team of Caren Venter and Media Match
This team won a Silver Quill Excellence Award and the coveted 2018 Best of the Best Award, for using public relations to cultivate reputation and relationships through the Sappi Mother’s Day Concert in Mpumalanga. The project excelled in all of its objectives.
Elsabe Coetzee, André Oberholzer and Caren Venter with the Singer Refentse performing at the Sappi Mother’s Day Concert. IABC Best of the Best Award.
20
In numbers
In an anonymous, independent survey of the Mother’s Day Concert:
91% of patrons felt
that Sappi made a valuable contribution to the community.
100% stated that the event lived up to its marketing promise.
99% indicated it was a special day for families.
99% said they would recommend the concert. 98% of Sappi hosts agreed that
it was a valuable networking opportunity.
ZAR138,000 was the record amount donated to the Garden for conservation.


Excellence and recognition
Vol 18 Issue 3
It’s a success
} In 2018, mountain biking (MTB) events on Sappi land increased to 21 (from 16 in 2012), and from zero to three trail running events in the Karkloof area.
} In a survey, 89% of people (internal and external) believed Sappi’s exposure to MTB- associated risk has been reduced through the strategy and tools of the project.
} 82% felt that Sappi’s brand has been heavily strengthened and well positioned through the project.
} In Bicycling Magazine’s Top 100 Trails 2014, the Karkloof MTB Trails were rated No 1, Mankele MTB No 2 and Howick MTB Trails No 12. To have three Sappi Trail custodians in the Top 20 was an excellent result.
} In a 2016 Sappi and TKZN Recreational Mountain Biking
EIA, 42% of respondents named Sappi as the brand most associated with the trails they ride.
Other Silver Quill Excellence Awards
Sappi Mountain Biking Project
Entered by: André Oberholzer (Sappi Group Head Corporate Affairs), Zelda Schwalbach (Communications Manager Forests) and Next Step Consultants
The Sappi Mountain Biking Project was started in 2012 to help reduce operational risk within Sappi Forests and improve stakeholder engagement, whilst boosting the local economy. The project successfully ful lled these objectives.
Zelda Schwalbach with a Silver Quill Award for her Mountain Biking Project.
Mountain bike riders along the Karkloof trail.
Refresh – Sappi’s Head Of ce Relocation Project
Entered by: Samantha Johns (Manager Corporate Digital Communication)
A multi-platform internal change management communication campaign was developed to support staff throughout the move to a new head of ce space. It had to address the emotions and stress that result from a physical move, whilst assisting staff in familiarising themselves with their new environment.
A positive outcome
88% of staff in a post satisfaction survey
revealed that their expectations of the move were met or exceeded.
62% were satis ed/very satis ed with their
workspace a year after occupation.
91% were either satis ed or very satis ed that
the new building and environment were safe.
A clever approach to selling the project. Effective use of
resources.”
Judges’ comment
Samantha Johns with her Silver Quill.
Our Head Of ce in Rosebank.
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Vol 18 Issue 3
Excellence and recognition
Our communication team among Africa’s best...continued
Clever Me Toolbox Talk
Entered by: Elsabe Coetzee and Caren Venter
Sappi’s forestry operations are almost 90% outsourced to contractors. Functional illiteracy and language are major barriers. To communicate important concepts to improve safety, a symbol and picture-story toolbox talk was developed to guide people to make safe decisions and behave safely.
Elsabe Coetzee and Caren Venter Staff with safety messages used as part of the ‘Clever Me’ concept.
Excellent alignment with the audience’s needs. Outstanding and innovative approach.”
Success in numbers
486 safety leaders trained on the ‘Clever Me’ concept. They, in turn, trained almost 100% of labourers in the targeted contractor companies.
Safety improved as knowledge of ‘Clever Me’ increased. For the relevant period, a drop in fatalities (from three to one), Accident Injury Frequency Rate (from 4.9 to 4.72), Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (0.25 to 0.23), Lost Time Injury Severity Rate (135.77 to 47.94) and Injury Index (33.47 to 10.88).
Judges’ comment
A brilliant idea to engage
the audience within a
limited budget.”
Judges’ comment
22
#CommunityMatters
Entered by: Elsabe Coetzee and Caren Venter
For the rst time ever, Sappi launched a four-month social media campaign aimed at creating awareness of the value its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts are creating for local communities in the Lowveld, thus increasing our reach in these communities.
Objectives reached
} An increase in average daily reach from 63 to 1,770 people per day.
} Facebook fans increased from 2,989 to 4,224 fans, which increased Sappi’s reach and engagement.
} Gained 20 entries for
the #CommunityMatters competition where charities and individuals could win their share of ZAR35,000.
The Sappi Lowveld team doing social good in one of the communities.


Excellence and recognition
Vol 18 Issue 3
Great print job
on great paper
Sappi’s Annual Integrated Report (AIR) scooped the overall gold award ( rst place) in the Best Report category at the recently celebrated GAPP Printing Awards. Our Sappi Southern Africa Sustainability Report (SSA SR) was named runner-up in the same category.
The GAPP Awards is regarded as the pinnacle of excellence in the South African print, packaging and signage industry.
“This recognition of excellence is testimony to the quality of Sappi papers used in combination with superior design and print techniques,” said Group Head Corporate Affairs, André Oberholzer. “We also congratulate our design partners and the printers, House of Print (AIR) and Mortimer Offset (SSA SR), for such high-quality work.”
Sappi Annual Integrated Report
SSA Sustainability Report
In numbers
54 categories covered in the GAPP Awards,
spanning all substrates and types of print, including litho, signage, gravure and exo, as well as all types of end products ranging from stationery to packaging. 80% is the minimum score required for a gold trophy. Bronze and silver were also awarded in each category.
800+ entries received
135+ companies entered,
making this the largest print competition in the world.
29 of the winning entries used Sappi
paper, mostly GalerieArt and Magno, but also some of our packaging papers.
Shining at KZN Exporter of the Year Awards
Our sterling contribution to the economy was recognised at the recent KZN Exporter of the Year Awards. Sappi Southern Africa was named winner in the Manufacturing category and recognised as a nalist in the Large Exporter category.
We provide employment opportunities to about 16,000 people in South Africa and empower even more through our forestry value chain activities, particularly within rural communities.
“Sappi ships approximately 75,000 TEU (twenty-foot containers) equivalent containers a year out of Durban harbour operations, which earn around 1% of South Africa’s total foreign revenue,” said General Manager of Sappi Export Services, Morgan Moodley.
Team Sappi celebrating our success at the KZN Exporter of the Year Awards 2018.
23


Vol 18 Issue 3
Sustainability
Greening our future, today
We believe in contributing towards a sustainable future and focusing our actions on helping to mitigate climate change. During Arbour Week this year, we did our part in several ways, planting and donating trees at work and in our communities.
Miss Earth nalists visit Head Of ce
We teamed up with Miss Earth SA 2018 nalists, who handed out Warburgia Salutaris trees (the highly endangered Pepper Bark) to each employee to plant at home. From left: Nicole Kruger (Miss Earth SA nalist), Brenda Tennant, Hazel Zwane and Mpume Maduna (Miss Earth SA nalist).
Pepper Bark seedlings given to staff
Maureen Tladi, Cyprian Ngubane and Pulane Jele (Technology Centre) are pleased with their Pepper Park seedlings donated to employees to take home and plant in their gardens.
Planting trees at our mills and of ces
Stanger Mill employees Nerisha Sundraj, Dolly Govender, Krish Padayachee, Russel Sondezi and Christo Willemse with one of the trees planted at the mill. Herb plants were handed out to staff to cultivate at home.
Mbuso Khambule ensuring that suf cient fertiliser
is used during the Arbor Week tree- planting initiative at the Victoria Country Club. He is assisted by Sappi Forests KZN South’s Mark Barnardo and Sunday Mbokane.
Creating awareness at schools
Naidoo Memorial Primary School staff and learners with some of the Sappi Midlands staff planting 10 indigenous trees at the Morton Estate plants and tree posters donated by Saiccor Mill during Arbor Week. Primary School near our Demagtenburg plantation.
24


Sustainability
fact- nding
mission
Vol 18 Issue 3
On a
Sappi Forests hosts DAFF Deputy Minister
Our Sappi Forests team invited Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) Si so Buthelezi on a
tour of our KZN and Mpumalanga forestry operations. As a relatively new incumbent
to his position, Deputy Minister Buthelezi was keen to engage with us as he learnt more about our research facilities, nurseries, silviculture and re protection initiatives. He also joined Sappi staff in planting trees for Arbour Week.
Terry Stanger (fourth left, MD Sappi Forests) and DAFF Deputy Minister S so Buthelezi (on Terry’s right) joined by management and staff at the Ngodwana Nursery.
We were able to highlight
the important role that Sappi plays in providing access for many participants in the rural landscape to share in the lucrative forestry value chain.”
Alex Thiel, CEO of Sappi Southern Africa
Front (from left): Mpho Lethoko (General Manager, Communications), Alex Thiel (CEO, Sappi Southern Africa) and Si so Buthelezi (Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries) joined by staff from the Shaw Research Centre and DAFF delegates during the Deputy Minister’s fact- nding tour of Sappi’s KZN forestry operations.
25


Vol 18 Issue 3
SuLsetaidnearbsihliitpy
How to... be a great leader
It is said that a leader is someone who knows the way, goes the way and shows the way. At Sappi, we are all encouraged to be leaders in our sphere of in uence; pursuing our company’s mission, vision and values in all we do.
But what are the most important traits of an effective leader? People in key leadership positions at Sappi share their views:
A positive attitude builds trust | Gary Bowles, Group Head Technology: “One of
the keys to strong and effective leadership lies in understanding that you personally create your own environment, and that you can and will make a difference when applying a positive approach and attitude. Building relationships, consistency, fairness, sound business principles and ‘walking the talk’ are all essential in building trust.”
Be consistent, communicate well | Naresh Naidoo, General Manager, Ngodwana Mill: “To be a good leader, I believe you need to be
consistent in your approach. How you communicate is often more important than what you communicate. Encourage staff to be engaged, to take responsibility and ownership and to ask themselves, “How can I add towards my unit’s contribution to Sappi’s objectives”. Then set the example.”
Stay true to yourself | Bev Sukhdeo, General Manager,
Tugela Mill: “As a captain of the ship, the wellbeing of your crew and passengers will always be more important than your self-advancement. Be true to who you are; it is the only position that allows one to earn credibility. Have fun doing what you do – it inspires your team. Also, learn how to communicate well, so that you are able to champion your ideas.”
Where
do you t in?
Sappi has a Global Leadership Framework that identi es ve levels of leadership in the company. Talk to your HR representative to nd out what your level
of leadership is and the development opportunities available to you.
Listen and understand | Duane Roothman, General Manager, Sappi Forests KZN: “Sticking to a simple principle of listening and
seeking to understand, is one of my golden rules. Being a good leader also means knowing oneself and working hard to constantly grow and develop as a person. Integrity is non- negotiable. Guiding and coaching people to nd and own a solution is another key factor to get the best from your team. After all, they are the experts. Respect that, and encourage them to own up to it.”
Be open to different opinions and ideas | Paul Bortolan, General Manager, Paper and Paper Packaging SSA: “Allow
people to do their jobs, but be available for support and guidance when needed. Ultimately, an effective team is a collaborative effort. Each member must play their part. I encourage debate and enjoy being challenged by different opinions. It’s also important to listen to people. Often, those who say the least are the ones that come up with great ideas. I also believe in standing up for my team and staying committed to what I believe in.”
Build trust within a safe environment | Dietmar Schroeder, General Manager, Sappi
Forests Mpumalanga: “To me, leadership starts with caring for the people in your team and building them up by creating a safe environment where they can learn and grow. Once trust is built and entrenched, you will reach great heights.”
26


Diversity
Vol 18 Issue 3
Talking straight
about disability
At Sappi we recognise that disability is just another form of diversity. Karabo Nguyuza, an employee from our Technology Centre, gives us some valuable insight into her life as a disabled person and the challenges it presents.
“Respect us, instead of just tolerating us. To respect someone is to admire them for their abilities.”
“A part of me still longs to walk again. During puberty, you must manoeuvre your way through mood swings, tantrums and insecurities about physical appearance. Imagine how devastated I was when doctors told me I would no longer be able to walk! I didn’t get a polio vaccine when I was younger, so at the tender age of 10 my life completely changed. I had to take medication daily and started getting seizures. Moving from
a public school to a special-needs school was another big adjustment. I found those rst few years of needing to cope without the ability to walk, very dif cult.”
“Being disabled comes with a lot of barriers.
You have to work three times harder than an able-bodied person. Most places are not user- friendly, so gaining access like other members of society is a huge problem. Public transport for example, which is supposed to be easily accessible to everyone, is not accessible at all. And public toilets are a nightmare!”
“Growing up I had other career goals, such as becoming a pilot. My disability restricted me from ful lling this dream, because there are certain requirements that come with the job. Sometimes disabled people tend to settle for less, because industry requirements and laws put us on the side line before we can even show our abilities.”
“For a long time, I suffered emotionally because of how society looked upon me... cruel comments and remarks, even cultural beliefs that said I must have committed an abominable sin to end up this way. Some people cast blame and said I lack faith because I’m
not healed after being prayed for. You learn to accept these views for what they are: senseless, ignorant beliefs.”
“Disability does have some positive aspects.
Many disabled people have had to learn to be patient... waiting for someone to assist you across the road, up some stairs, or to be dressed or fed. Luckily, I can do almost everything on my own. My disability allows me to help myself and be independent.”
“Sappi is an accommodating employer. The building where I work is very accessible. Even the bathroom and parking areas are user- friendly. Looking at the way it enables free and full movement, it’s almost as if it was built for people with disabilities.”
My colleagues are understanding, respectful and supportive. My
managers too; they go the extra mile
to help me with my condition and even bought an SOS device that assists in giving a signal when I’m having a seizure. I also appreciate that Sappi has onsite clinic staff to assist with medical/wellness care and emergencies.
“The biggest issue is not that we have an impairment, but the way people respond to it. We are all created equal in the sight of God. My appeal is that people should stop seeing disabled people as a charity case. We have the same feelings and needs as everyone else. Being disabled doesn’t make us dumb. We simply have a physical impairment. It’s not a curse or symbol of bad luck.”
“Respect us, instead of just tolerating us.
To respect someone is to admire them for their abilities. It is hard to do this when there is such
a focus on what makes us different. I’m not saying we ignore the differences, but it’s easier to recognise and celebrate them when you uncover the person rst.”
Karabo Nguyuza, Receptionist at the Sappi Technology Centre.
Sappi currently accommodates 98 people with a disability (PWD) across our units. In our pursuit to further integrate people with disabilities in our workforce,
we recognise the value that knowledgeable, skilled people can bring to the business, even though they may be impaired in some way.
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