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Women in Power

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CELEBRATING WOMEN’S MONTH AT FULL POWER


Monday 30 August 2021

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SUPPLEMENT TO THE HERALD

WOMEN IN PROPERTY Daughter keeps dad’s legacy going with Smart Properties My career in the real estate industry started at Smart Properties, when I joined my dad, Gordon Smart in 2012. I was fresh out of university, with a BCom (Marketing Degree) behind my name with no previous work experience. I was assigned the management of our 150 rental property portfolio. If you speak to any rental agent, they will confirm that this is by no means an easy task. As the years went on, I became more knowledgeable and experienced in this field. While managing our rental division, I was eager to get involved in the daily running of Smart Properties. Being a very organised and impatient person, I learnt and familiarised myself with what was re-

quired to operate our real estate agency from day to day in a short space of time. Not to many people’s knowledge, I was running the business behind the scenes and my dad had simply become “the sales agent”! At the age of 30, I was awarded with a 50% share in Smart Properties. Smart Properties had humble beginnings, with our business operating from a small room off my parents’s bedroom. After 10 years, our rental and sales division had expanded to such an extent that having our own professional office space had become a necessity. We joined the Stanley Street “strip” for a 3 year period, and have recently moved into premises in Main Road, Walmer.

On the 5th of December 2020, my dad, my mentor and business partner sadly succumbed to Covid related complications. My dad left his legacy for me to continue and what a journey the last 9 months have been. During this period, we expanded and created a commercial and industrial rental and sales division, along with new residential agents joining our team. As I reflect on my career in the real estate industry, and more so the months following my dad’s death, it has been a hard but rewarding career path that continues to keep me on my toes on a daily basis. The feeling of making my dad proud in heaven is the driving factor behind my determination to continue to run a successful independently owned estate agency in Port Elizabeth.

SMART CHOICE: Justine Smart

Affinity’s Adri paves the way for new agents Adri Pretorius started her career as a property sales consultant in 2003 after making a name as a fashiondesigner. She was the owner of a clothing manufacturing company known as Marbella Clothing. In 2001, she sold the business that employed seven seamstresses to join her husband Deon, who was invited as a visiting professor by the University of Washington in Seattle, US. The years of 2001 and 2002 were spent looking after four children, cleaning, washing, and assisting in school projects. On their return to South Africa, Adri responded to an advert for a real estate agent. Within three months she was qualified as a full-status agent and within a year she became a principal agent in a well-known company in Port Elizabeth. In six years, Adri’s business has grown to such an extent that she couldn’t service all her clients on her own and decided to open her own agency, Adri Pretorius Properties. She took in intern agents to assist her and trained them to become successful full-status agents with their own portfolio of clients. In 2016 she launched Affinity Real Estate and moved from her home-office to new modern offices

You will be rewarded because of the quality of service you give to your clients at the Acres Centre above SPAR in Perridgevale. Adri’s business has become a company that offers opportunities for people with an interest in property, who have courage, integrity, tenacity, good social skills and who are driven to succeed. Adri is supported by Landi Coetzee, her ever-dependent office manager, her son Emile Pretorius who assists with IT, design, and marketing strategy. Today Affinity Real Estate has 12 real estate practitioners who are mentored by Adri to always conduct business in an honest and caring way. Adri believes that good things and success aren’t supposed to just fall into your lap, it is the rewards you reap from the effort you put in and the quality of service you give to your clients. “What you send out comes back, if you sow the seeds of hard work you will reap the fruits of success,” says Adri and that is what she is trying to instil in her team of real estate practitioners.

Courtney at home at ANVIL Courtney is ANVIL Property Smith’s Operations Manager. Analyse, implement and oversee all operational processes of organisation training and management of all staff and implementation of all policies and procedures, drafting and maintaining all documentation Courtney has a solid educational background as ethical and communication technologies for development solutions lecturer at the Graduate Academy and also an entrepreneurial Law Lecturer at UNISA Her interest in property began when she started working in the residential sector, specifically in property management. Passionate about the industry and her desire for constant growth, the move to ANVIL was a natural fit. Courtney has obtained her Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree through Unisa, and has plans to continue studying in the near future.

BLAZING A TRAIL: Affinity Real Estate owner Adri Pretorius

JAG Independent Property Group Celebrates Women’s Month and invited our ‘Power Women’ team to encourage all women Why do women excel as Portfolio Managers in this tough industry? As Portfolio Manager you need to act as referee, psychologist, maintenance contractor, amateur attorney, financial adviser and most importantly as professional problemsolver! It just happens that women, by nature, are pretty good in wearing nicate, empathise and build strong different hats together with our relationships with clients. skills to multitask, support, commu- ● Karin Krohn - Property Portfolio

Manager @ JAG

Women Empowerment We work in a world where we are now seen as legitimate competition. We still deal with prejudice, however subtle it may be but as women we improve and grow everyday because of this. We persist and achieve beyond the expectations of our gender, breaking the boundaries, because to be a women is to be with-

out limit!

● Bianca Terblanche — Property

Portfolio Manager @ JAG

Celebrating the Feminine

“Where strength lies in softness” It is a month of celebration and we salute and honour all the brave women (and men) who have come before us to pave the way for the future generations. As we look to the past for inspira-

tion we must move forward with new ideas and purpose. Let us celebrate the feminine in the world in which ever way we relate to it and realise that in order for balance to exits in the world (whether it be nature, economy or spirituality) we need to celebrate both femininity and masculinity in equal measure. ● Tricia Mitchell — Financial Administrator @ JAG


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SUPPLEMENT TO THE HERALD

Monday 30 August 2021

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Mother and daughter pack a combined punch Mother and daughter combination: Suzette Meyer, founder and owner of Casa Mia Health Spa and Guesthouse in Addo, is celebrating 17 years in business this year in October. At Casa Mia Health Spa and four-star Guesthouse, our main aim is to be a sanctuary where one can escape and a place to unwind. Here at Casa Mia you are allowed to renew your body and mind, and embracing the time to revive and de-stress. We see this now more than ever that individuals are seeking environments that help quiet the mind, they want to feel safe and close to nature. We are situated on a citrus farm, only 50km away from Port Elizabeth, where you can enjoy fresh air and wide-open spaces, listening to the call of a fish eagle while having breakfast. Casa Mia Health Spa and Guesthouse recently was the winner of a Tourism Destination Award 2021. Amid the Covid pandemic the hospitality and wellness businesses are one of the most impacted. We upgraded the spa menu and services which are consid-

ered wellness trends worth exploring. If clients know that your spa adheres to pandemic protocols, they will feel more confident to visit and support your business. ● Suzanne Meyer started at Vo-

vo Telo Artisanal Bakery and Cafe, Richmond Hill, in November 2020, after her graduation, B.Com in Marketing & Management Science. She followed in the footsteps of her parents who are

business owners of various Famous Brands franchises. Vovo Telo coffee comes highly recommended. The freshly baked artisanal bread and pastries are all available to take away. Choose from fresh ciabatta, sourdough, brioche, rustic and rye. We love putting our great breads together with the finest and best ingredients we can find to try and create something special every day. We use local products, supporting local producers. There is plenty to choose from on our menu, creamy scrambled egg, freshly bakes scones, thin crust pizzas and healthy salads.

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW:

HAND IN HAND: Mother and daughter duo Suzette Meyer, right, and Suzanne Meyer

PROGRAMME OUTCOMES:


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SUPPLEMENT TO THE HERALD

Monday 30 August 2021

WOMEN IN EDUCATION Linkside teacher nominated for Teacher of the Year “Marlou Kwongsee has been teaching Tourism, Business Studies and Life Orientation at Linkside High School since 2009. She was nominated by her Tourism subject advisor for the 2021 Teacher of the Year Award based on her interactive, practical and learnercentered approach. On Friday, 20 August 2021, we received confirmation that Mrs Kwongsee has reached the Provincial Round of the competition in the category: “Excellence in Secondary School Education” after being hailed by the district judges as “a game changer” in her field.

She is a humble and beloved member of staff, known for her relentless dedication to education, her absolute belief in the potential of each of her learners and the incredible positivity and enthusiasm she brings to her classroom and the staff room. When asked how she will remember Mrs Kwongsee, Ayathandwa Payi (Head Girl 2020) said: “Her impact on our lives will remain forever. The uniqueness of a teacher lies in how well love is communicated while knowledge is being passed to their learners. Mrs Kwongsee did not only teach, she taught with love. She taught us that hard work always

beats talent; she pioneered our vision and helped to shape our decisions. We will be forever grateful”. Marlou is regarded as a specialist in the field of teaching Tourism. She lectured part-time at NMU (2017 & 2018) and she has been a senior marker of matric papers for many years. She is a cluster leader at district level, works closely with her subject advisor in facilitating teacher development and regularly assists colleagues in the district in setting formal assessments for Tourism in the FET phase. She completed her honours degree in Educational Management in

2019. During lockdown she prepared and provided teaching segments on various Grade 12 Tourism topics for Bay FM, which was broadcasted as part of their special educational segment for matrics in the evenings. Her classroom is an open and safe environment where mutual respect, acceptance and tolerance is encouraged. Marlou is an invaluable asset to Linkside High School. She has made an immeasurable impact on and investment into the lives of hundreds of Linksiders and we treasure her as a true Linkside legend! ● A Roulstone (Deputy Principal)

MARLOU KWONGSEE

Dream team of women who are willing to go the extra mile The Castle is the heart of the campus where every child’s development adventure begins. We form their foundation and lay down the learning cornerstones and bricks one after another are our group of resilient, ever-evolving teachers and assistants. Working at Curro Castle Westbrook is not just a job, it is our passion, our home and our calling. We thoroughly enjoy teaching and watching each child develop and grow into their own little person. We are a diverse team of women who share our superpowers as mother, teacher, psychologist, nurse, friend, dancer, encyclopaedia, comedian, Disney characters and many more while we nurture babies

from three months old to the education of five-year-olds. In our team we support and encourage each other, keep each other accountable through love and build each other up to become better at what we do daily. Administration staff From the moment you enter our doors at Curro Westbrook, you will feel like you are part of a warm and loving family greeted by our wonderful receptionists and amazing marketer, who is willing to assist with any enrolment queries. Our bursar is always ready and on top form for any financial queries. Foundation phase I would like to introduce you to the awesome Foundation Phase staff of Curro Westbrook, where we

start building the fundamental building blocks of your children’s futures. We offer robotics, science, abuti (conversational Xhosa), which are all taught by our Foundation Phase grade teachers. We have an IT teacher, a phys ed teacher, an art teacher and a music teacher. Intermediate phase Teaching is our passion, and our commitment to education is what sets us apart. We believe in the systems we have put in place to ensure each pupil has the potential to succeed. High school Where there is a woman, there is magic — and Curro Westbrook High School is full of magic.

DREAM TEAM: Curro Westbrook’s team of dedicated professionals who are passionate about quality education

Capstone School’s progressive approach creates enabling and nurturing environment Jacqui Zeelie has been involved in education for the past 34 years as a teacher and principal. She is the founder of The Capstone School, originally named Children’s World Pre-school, which opened in 1996 with an intake of 12 children. The Capstone School is a Reggio Emilia inspired progressive school, where teachers create an environment that stimulates extended exploration, problem solving, co-operation and debate that encourage pupils to observe, question and think deeply. The school is situated in two grand, charming homes on a cam-

pus offering spacious, beautiful and peaceful settings in the upper avenues of Walmer. The Capstone School mandates a low pupil-teacher ratio, which ensures that the individual needs of each child is recognised and nurtured. Since its founding, the school has steadily built a strong reputation for the excellence of its programmes and the character of its school community. Over the past 25 years a number of its past pupils have been elected to top leadership positions and achieved top academic honours. The emphasis of The Capstone

JACQUI ZEELIE

School education model is learning rather than teaching. “It equips pupils with critical thinking skills, innovative problem solving abilities and creative think-

ing in preparation of the dynamic and multifaceted future awaiting them,” Zeelie said. The school’s progressive approach creates an enabling environment where pupils work in groups, rather than as individuals. “Our teachers provide deliberate opportunities for critical thinking, observation and communication, which challenge our learners to think deeply, creatively and dare to ask questions — not just accept everything at eye value.” Pupils are often seen sitting in the outdoor classrooms doing mathematics or languages, reading to each other in the sprawling gar-

den or sketching their beautiful setting. Within the Reggio Emilia philosophy, a strong emphasis is placed on creativity through music, art and learning through real life experiences, as opposed to textbook learning. “Our pupils are taught what it is to be respectful, considerate human beings and make a difference in the environment they are in,” Zeelie said. The school is built on an ethos of accountability, and a true partnership between the school, parents and teachers, where parent participation is encouraged.


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SUPPLEMENT TO THE HERALD

Monday 30 August 2021

Congratulations Mrs Vuyokazi Jamieson We warmly congratulate Mrs Vuyokazi Jamieson, Librarian at the Cawse Library at St Andrew’s College, on being selected for the prestigious Humphrey H. Hubert Fellowship Programme in the Unites States from August 2021 to June 2022. The Humphrey Fellowship Programme is for experienced professionals interested in strengthening their leadership skills through a mutual exchange of knowledge and understanding about issues of common concern in the U.S. and Fellows’ home countries. As a non-degree programme, the Fellowship offers valuable opportunities for professional development through selected university courses, attending conferences, networking, and practical work experiences. During the year, Fellows pursue both their individual program goals and work closely with their Humphrey colleagues in workshops and seminars. Unlike a typical graduate school experience, the Programme encourages Fellows to travel away from their host campus to learn more about American culture and to network with their American peers.

In the letter informing her of her selection, the American Cultural Affairs Officer for Exchanges wrote: “Your acceptance into the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program is a testament to your demonstrated leadership ability and commitment to public service. We wish you much success with the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Programme and look forward to learning how your experience builds upon the Fulbright legacy of contributing to mutual understanding, dialogue, and partnership between the people of the United States and South Africa.”

If you would like further information on joining the St Andrew’s College family please contact: Cherié Wille c.wille@sacschool.com +27 84 549 7710

Mrs Vosloo served the school and the community as a teacher-

Mrs Penny Vosloo, principal of D.F. Malherbe High School, has risen

head of department and deputy principal. Her dedication,

through the ranks to take the lead as the first female principal at the helm

enthusiasm and willingness to walk the extra mile makes

of this prestigious school in the leafy suburb of Walmer, Port Elizabeth.

her a true leader.

Mrs Vosloo joined the staff of D.F. Malherbe in January 1988 to teach Xhosa as a third language. Through the years she made a name for her

The D.F. Malherbe family is sure that the school

self as a netball coach, a hockey organiser as well as being involved with

will thrive under her visionary and innovative leadership

the school’s annual beauty pageant.

and that the school will continue to produce well-balanced, visionary and sucessful young people

Furthermore, she qualified as a specialist Tourism teacher when the sub

who will embrace their future.

ject was introduced into the curriculum. She was appointed as marking moderator for Tourism for a number of years. She obtained a Master’s degree in Tourism Management in 2016 and received the Global Travel and Tourism

Mrs Vosloo believes in quality , holistic education and strives to bring out the best in all young people.

Partnership South Africa award for Tourism in 2016. She was a finalist

She embraces the D.F. Malherbe core values of

and awarded 2nd place in the Tourism Teacher of the Year competition.

Respect, Integrity, Responsibility, Empathy and Excellence in all spheres of life.

n Kaleidoskoop van Geleenthede A Kaleidoscope of opportunities

STATE UT PETRAM

Penny Vosloo

BRYLIN ILC AND ELLIOT ACADEMY Brylin (combination of Brian and Jenny’s middle name Lynne) is a registered Private School founded by the Elliot Family in 1999 as a Pre-School and Primary School. High School opened soon thereafter. They orignally ran the four Eliot Swim and Play Centres which opened its doors in 1975 after joining forces with the Swim School having commenced in 1974. Jenny still runs this successful School in Fairview in Architect designed premises, which continues to grow. Swimming lessons are offered to all learners on their Campus in heated indoor pools. Parents have the option of either Mainstream (IEB and National Curriculum) from Grade R to Grade 12 or Montessori methodology which now runs from Toddlers to Grade 7. Potential parents/learners are advised to call 041-3687110 or email office@brylin.co.za to obtain further information.

Meet our Leading lady It’s no secret that women are a powerful force in igniting positive change in the world, and Candice is the perfect example of how age doesn’t define success. This young female principal has made it her mission to provide learners with all the resource necessary to ensure they can play an active role in shaping their future. With more than 15 years in the education industry under her belt, this education powerhouse is leading Kabega Christian School to exciting new heights….watch this space! Candice Bosman Principal of Kabega Christian School

041 369 0644 Grd 8 – Grd 12

Registration for 2022 still open


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SUPPLEMENT TO THE HERALD

Monday 30 August 2021

WOMEN IN LAW Langson and Associates offers wide range of legal services

WILMA LANGSON

Wilma Langson is the director of the law firm, W Langson and Associates Inc, situated in Second Avenue, Newton Park. It is a 100% black-owned firm, established in September 2012. Langson qualified as a liquidator and serves as a member of the South African and International Chapters (INSOL) of the Insolvency and Restructuring Practitioners’ Associations (SARIPA). Being a member of INSOL and SARIPA means that she is part of the biggest representative body for insolvency and restructuring practitioners in SA, and as a member she constantly receives updates on insolvency and business restructuring issues and related legal matters. Langson is a member of the Master’s Panel of Liquidators in Gqeberha and is also a member of the National Panel of Liquidators. As a member of the South African Medico-legal Association, she is afforded the opportunity to network with people who work in the medico-legal space and benefit from the transfer of skills of highly qualified professionals. Besides being an attorney and a liquidator, Langson is also a qualified diagnostic radiographer and frequently presents talks on the ethics of medicine to members of the health profession. The legal profession is still very much dominated by men and for Langson it has been a challenge to prove herself as a successful attorney when the norms depict that competence and ability are tied to looking a certain way — usually white and male. Her interest in law is quite diverse and in her tenure as an attorney, she has excelled in the areas of civil litigation, with specific reference to personal injury law, as well as commercial law, property law and labour law. Langson is supported by two qualified attorneys and two candidate attorneys and five administrative staff members. She describes herself as a workaholic who is meticulous and takes pride in the fact that she has trained and upskilled every member of her staff. One of the senior administrative staff members ensures that employee is enrolled in a programme at least once a quarter to upskill. Langson is a member of the following professional bodies: The Legal Practice Council, The South African Women Lawyers’ Association, South African Medico-Legal Association, National Association of Democratic Lawyers and the , Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber. The law firm remains committed to social responsibility, through the provision of community services. Langson has many a time offered legal services at no cost to clients who cannot afford it and she offers free wills to all members of the community who cannot afford them. W Langson and Associates Inc has a strategic partnership with the True Gospel Mission of SA, where it assists by donating funds monthly for the establishment of soup kitchens to feed the poor.

Tifloen plays integral role in management of firm Sonja Tifloen, a wife to Muneeb and mom to Laaiq, Mikail and Aydin, is an admitted attorney, notary public and conveyancer. She joined BLC in 2009 as an associate and soon thereafter was appointed as a director, heading up the firm’s personal injury claims and finance departments. Sonja plays an integral role in the management of the firm. Sonja’s key responsibility as a director is to ensure the financial wellbeing of the firm. One of Sonja’s many strengths is her ability to effectively manage her workload and employees efficiently. Sonja is instrumental in guiding the firm in making decisions to ensure that it main-

‘Family law is my passion’ I’ve always wanted to be an attorney. Growing up, I felt good about helping others in need, but only when I was at university did I discover family law as my calling, I have been practising for six years and though I offer a wide range of legal services such as civil, litigation, debt review and property related matters, family law is BLANCHE my passion and speciality. Having already made my mark in family law courts during my articles, my empathy for every client gives me the edge in the market, building a diverse team of attorneys with the same approach, adding a personal touch to our services. At Blanché Attorneys, my team is my family and together we are raising the bar of ethical conduct. To all you women out there, you are strong, beautiful and powerful! I completed my LLB within the minimum period at Nelson Mandela University, furthered my studies with accounting for law and at age 23 I started my articles at a local family law firm and when I was 25, I founded my own practice, was blessed with a beautiful daughter and loving husband. Today, I can confidently tell you to never give up on your dream and: “If your dream doesn’t scare you, you’re probably not dreaming big enough” (my favourite motivational quote from Tory Burch).

SONJA TIFLOEN

tains its empowerment objectives. In 2008 she was the winner of the Business Women’s Association: Regional Business Achievers Award in the Professional category. Sonja was recognised as one of the top 40 under 40 for the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber. She also serves on the boards of the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber and the Eastern Province Child and Youth Care Centre (previously EP Children’s home).

Holistic approach vital in family law Being in a position to be able to help others in need is indeed a privilege that I take very seriously. My firm deals with Family Law, which is by far the most personal part of law. Broken relationships lead to conflict, which is where our role comes into ANNALIE ERASMUS the picture. We help you resolve and deal with the conflict as well as the financial implications of your new reality. I opened my own practice in 1999, which has grown to branches in Uitenhage and Port Elizabeth. I am a qualified mediator and I often assist married couples to pursue their own agreement at a fraction of the price of a divorce matter. The first prize will always be to finalise a divorce as quickly and as cost effectively as possible. Family Law deals with broken relationships and the fallout that ensues as a result of this. Over the years, I have learnt that being an attorney and dealing compassionately with a client’s trauma is so much more than endless paperwork and correspondence. I work hand in hand with psychologists and counsellors, to whom I refer clients (and their children) for further assistance, if needs be. I believe in a holistic approach to each individual client, as I believe we are all unique and different. I do believe that there is a big difference between giving up and starting over. I wish all the women in difficult relationships strength and wisdom and, above all, the knowledge that they are never alone.


Monday 30 August 2021

SUPPLEMENT TO THE HERALD

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WOMEN IN LAW Rushmere Noach boasts gender-diverse board Business has a significant role to play in ensuring women empowerment and gender equality in the workplace. At Rushmere Noach Incorporated, this social and corporate responsibility is implemented across the board. Rushmeres boasts a gender-diverse board comprising equal numbers of female and male directors. In 2000, Rushmeres appointed its first female director, Judy Theron. Judy is involved in litigation, including family law matters, and also runs the cost recoveries department. Judy is an Associate Fellow of the Association of Arbitrators. Liane Koorsse was appointed to the Board in 2010, two years post her attorney’s admission, and became the youngest practitioner to be so appointed in the history of the firm, where her practice focuses on commercial law and litigation. In 2016, three years post admission as an attorney, conveyancer and notary, Nicole Deschamps became the female board appointee in the conveyancing department of Rushmeres. Shelby Leigh Roberts was appointed to the board in 2018, two years post her admission as an attorney, where her practice includes commercial law and general litigation. Shelby is also an admitted

notary and in 2017 completed a postgraduate diploma in financial planning. The collective practices of Rushmeres’ female directors cover the full spectrum of services offered by the firm. Mentoring is recognised by Rushmeres as a fundamental component in advancing women empowerment. After starting their legal careers as candidate attorneys at Rushmeres, Liane, Nicole and Shelby now hold director positions. Rushmeres is also proud that both of its Professional Assistants and three of its five Candidate Attorneys are women. Rochelle Velkers and Refilwe Tsatsimpe were appointed as Professional Assistants in 2020 and 2021 respectively, both having completed their articles at Rushmeres. Mmabale Masipa is in her second year of articles, while Bathobile Vilakazi and Caitlin Birch joined the firm in January. Eighty percent of Rushmeres’ remaining staffing compliment consists of women. Bathobile is undertaking a master’s qualification in the field of Law of the Sea. Rushmeres is driven to empower women. Through executive female leadership, mentorship and merit recognition, Rushmeres is committed to diversity and equal work opportunity in its workplace.

Rushmeres is driven to empower women. Through executive female leadership, mentorship and merit recognition, Rushmeres is committed to diversity and equal work opportunity in its workplace.

Women offer unique talents in legal world Margaret Maed said: “Never underestimate the ability of a small, dedicated group of people to change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that has ever changed the world.” Relating her quote to the equality of women in the legal profession, it is without a doubt true that far more can be achieved when women are included and well represented in the legal profession. Greyvensteins Inc is committed to the core value of hiring the best staff. It benefits everyone — associates, partners, and clients — when firms ensure that they’re choosing the smartest, most gifted employees to lead from the front. We want to reach a place and time when discrimination is one less battle to fight. We focus on changing the status quo. With a staff complement of about 90% female, managed and led by MD Liesel Greyvenstein, we are well on our way to achieving this.

The key qualities women contribute to the legal profession are, among others, the following: an innate ability to think and handle various issues at once; intuition, which allows one to get straight to the facts and see beyond the obvious; emotion, which makes one passionate about their fights and interests; and planning, which enables one to organise and prioritise their activities to achieve a balance in their professional and private lives. Our staff have numerous years of experience in their fields and have contributed greatly to Greyvensteins Inc being one of the top law firms in the Eastern Cape. Our growth is not only due to our expertise, but also our client service. Clients are kept informed and have a clear understanding of the process. The law can sometimes seem daunting and impenetrable, so clients will be glad to know that we keep things as friendly as possible. We have more than 90

members of staff, including a highly committed and efficient support team, ensuring clients’ affairs are always dealt with in the most professional manner. We work in a cross-functional way to ensure clients have immediate access to experts in other services they may need. With several directors in each practice group, there is always someone with expertise to assist our clients. With more than 60 years of service, we have won numerous awards as a firm and our directors have also won numerous accolades in their personal capacity over the years. Though we celebrate our strength as women, at Greyvensteins Inc it is always team first and we wouldn’t have been the successful firm we are without the unwavering support we receive from our male counterparts. ● Greyvensteins attorneys, notaries & conveyancers at www.greyvensteins.co.za

It is without a doubt true that far more can be achieved when women are included and well represented


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SUPPLEMENT TO THE HERALD

Monday 30 August 2021

WOMEN IN LAW

KELLY BENN

SHIRLEY CHISHOLM

Attorney with a passion to change lives for the better “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair” — Shirley Chisholm. Having graduated from the Nelson Mandela University in 2014 and being admitted as an attorney in the High Court of the Republic of SA in 2016, I have been fortunate enough to live my passion from a very young age. My passion is being able to practise as an attorney and positively affect and change lives through my profession. I chose a career in law as it teaches me about rights, justice and understanding of human behaviour in an open and democratic society, based on human dignity, equality and freedom. I am a specialist Road Accident Fund attorney who rejoices in applying my expert skills and knowledge to conquer the humanitarian fight for seriously injured road accident victims. If my journey in life and my career has taught me anything, it is that nothing worthwhile is achieved easily and

My passion is being able to practise as an attorney and positively affect and change lives

having achieved reasonable success as a female attorney in a modern society has been not just a privilege but an absolute blessing to have my presence recognised and respected, especially in my workplace. In this pivotal month as we celebrate women, let us aim to build a culture in which we respect, value and idolise the women who inspire us daily. There is no limit to what we can accomplish if we work together. Let us as women always stay focused, driven towards possibilities and opportunities.

LISE-MARI

She’s passionate about legal the profession Lise-Mari graduated with an LLB degree from Nelson Mandela University in 2009 and was admitted as an attorney in 2011. She chose law as a career as she feels it is intellectually challenging, emotionally rewarding and personally fulfilling. She also feels that law continuously challenges and broadens her thought process and general knowledge, and sharpens her skill set. Lise-Mari is a specialist Road Accident Fund and medical negligence attorney with 10 years’ experience in the legal profession. She has two sons and, like most women these days, has to carefully juggle the daily challenges of a demanding career and family commitments. Lise-Mari is extremely passionate about her family, friends, career and specifically her clients. She is thankful that her profession as a specialist at-

torney not only satisfies her as a strong and independent woman but also allows her to change people’s lives for the better. To all the woman reading this: “Never doubt that you are valuable and powerful, and deserving of every chance and opportunity in the world to pursue and achieve your own dreams. “Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. “Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.” — Helen Keller

Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet

Conveyancing attorney offers professional services Kelly Benn graduated from the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in 2005 and was admitted as an attorney in the High Court of the Republic of SA in 2011. Kelly was furthermore sworn in as a conveyancer in the High Court in 2014 and attends to all property transfers and related professional services within the property industry. Kelly chose the field of law as it encompasses a career within a diverse and broad spectrum of specialised fields which are both mentally stimulating and personally gratifying. Kelly is highly passionate about the opportunity to apply her expert skill and knowledge as a conveyancing attorney to navigate fellow human beings through a process which they find at times unfamiliar. The most rewarding aspect of her chosen field is the satisfaction of guiding clients through the journey of acquiring a property which is for most people the highest value asset that they will acquire in their lifetime.

The most rewarding aspect of her chosen field is the satisfaction of guiding clients through the journey of acquiring a property which is for most people the highest value asset that they will acquire in their lifetime


Monday 30 August 2021

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SUPPLEMENT TO THE HERALD

First Avenue is an established funeral home started some 30 years ago by our director, Prue Gillespie. We are a dedicated team committed to being of service to our community. This is a difficult time for our families and we have listened and learnt to assist these families as best as we can. Our professional staff carefully guide proceedings to ensure a dignified service. We help families across South Africa and abroad using live-streaming from our lovely chapel at First Avenue. We are honoured to serve.

www.firstave.co.za

041 581 5028

Port Elizabeth

Journey’s End Funeral is owned by June Cooper and is a family orientated business and now includes June’s daughter, Jackie Oschman who stepped in when June was diagnosed with cancer in 2020. They run the business together and even though June had to take a step back, to take it a little easier and give over reins to her loving daughter, she is still at the business daily, that is how much she is invested in helping the bereaved. Journey’s End has assisted thousands of grieving families in the past 15 years. Compassion, sincerity and personal touch are very important attributes that June, with her dedicated team, use to run their business. They get to know people at the lowest point in their lives. When they need someone to say : “Dont worry, we are here for you. We understand your loss and we will assist you every step of the way. We will make your burden lighter to bear.........” Funerals, Cremations, Repatriations, policies and Tombstones all form part of Journey’s End Funeral Services. We seldom advertise, but families see what we do, how well they are treated and through word of mouth we get recommended daily. If you need an Affordable funeral or cremation with a Personal Touch, Compassion and Great service be sure to visit us at 685 Govan Mbeki North End or contact us on 041 484 1464, We are on duty 24/7. Jackie Oschman

June Cooper

081 325 1340

Jackie Oschman

Gift of Dignity Funeral Services 041 363 8432 / 072 983 7276 (24 hours)

Gift of Dignity is situated at 15A McAdam Street in Newton Park and offers full Burial or cremation services,which includes obtaining death certificates from the department of Home Affairs, printing of programmes,floral arrangements , catering , funeral policies and live streaming which is the New Norm especially during this difficult time. Gift of dignity is contracted to Isuzu formally known as ( General Motors ) , pensioners and retirees , the Old Apostolic Church and members of the new Apostolic Church. We have taken the industry to the next level by doing repatriation in record breaking turn around time both locally and internationally Mission : Gift of Dignity Funeral Services is sensitive to the various needs and requests that may be made of them in preparation of a loved one s Funeral. We remain flexible in order to respect the individual needs of each family we serve. We have thoughtfully designed our approach to meeting each family s

30 years of service in the funeral industry

Gift of Dignity Funeral Services is well prepared to manage special or unique arrangements.This is our commitment and assurance of the highest possiblestandards and to act in the best interest of all who need our service.

For all your funeral arrangements done with Dignity and Personalised Service


WE ARE RESILIENT.

WE ARE BRAVE.

WE ARE ENOUGH. WE ARE STRONG WOMEN BEHIND A LEGACY BRAND.


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Women in Power by tisoblackstar2 - Issuu