With just four months left of the year, I found myself reflecting on the journey so far. I’ve heard many stories, some of incredible success, and others of entrepreneurs who had to close their doors. This year has not been easy for many business owners, especially with the ongoing economic challenges in South Africa.
Johannesburg, Parktown 26 July 2025 – The Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce (JCCI) is pleased to announce the appointment of Caren Sutherns as its new President, following a successful Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on Wednesday at the Chamber offices.
That’s when the real entrepreneurs rise.
The ones who don’t give up when the numbers aren’t pretty. The ones who get out of their seat, put on their shoes, and go knock on doors. The ones who don’t wait for business to find them — because they know, it won’t.
Our facility is designed to offer both comfort and care. Each of our 16 residents has their own private bedroom and en-suite bathroom, allowing them the dignity of personal space while living in a safe, supportive environment. This setup helps residents feel at home, encouraging independence within a caring community.
For many years, the North West has offered one thing that bigger cities can’t: affordability. Families, students, and first-time buyers are starting to realise that they can get more house for their money here. You can still find spacious homes with gardens, in quiet suburbs, for prices that would barely get you a bachelor flat in Sandton.
Some say it’s technology — the constant comparison, the easy distractions, the endless options. Others blame stress: the pressure to hustle, the rising cost of living, the burnout. And then there’s the quiet truth nobody likes to admit — sometimes people grow apart, silently, in the same house.
Many children are misdiagnosed at first, told it’s just eczema or a fungal infection. But with psoriasis, proper diagnosis is key — as well as emotional support.
Cash flow. We all know it’s essential. We all hear the saying: “Cash is king.”
Being a mom is more than biology. It’s in the gentle way you guide your younger sibling. It’s in how you show up for your friends, your nieces and nephews, your partner, how you comfort, protect, and give selflessly when no one is watching. It’s in the nurturing role you take at work, at home, or in your community.
Physical cash provides a tangible way to manage personal finances. When people use cash, they are often more conscious of their spending, helping to prevent impulsive purchases. Studies suggest that using physical money creates a psychological awareness of expenditure that digital transactions lack, making it a useful tool for those trying to stick to a budget.
The Isle of Man’s relationship with South Africa is built on more than financial transactions—it is built on relationships, trust, and shared ambitions.
My motivation is deeply rooted in seeing tangible changes in my clients’ lives—hearing their stories, witnessing their journeys from financial distress to stability, and knowing my work truly matters. Additionally, my faith, family support, especially from my husband and daughter Amanda, and a strong commitment to personal growth through constant learning and networking, continually fuel my passion and resilience. The birth of my baby, small Dawie, at the age of 43, was one of the biggest miracles of my life, and I would be nothing without the grace of God. I am by no means perfect—but I deeply love my creator and my family.
CEO, CONNIE MATLEJOANE, LAUNCHES LERUO FOUNDATION TO EMPOWER SOUTH AFRICA’S WOMEN AND YOUTH ENTREPRENEURS As
Even as a teenager, Maria was finding her feet in business. She sold Lip-Ice at school and worked at a local video store—simple ventures, but ones that taught her responsibility and the basics of thinking like a business owner.
Though initially disappointed, he took this as an opportunity to create something tailored to local conditions. He assembled a team of experts and advisors, funding the research entirely on his own. The development and validation of the system took nearly four years, culminating in the registration of the PlantSap® trademark and concept in 2021.
Humans are inherently visual beings. Studies show that people form opinions about others within the first 7 seconds of meeting them, and in many cases, this initial judgment is based solely on appearance. A high-quality headshot, sets you up for success and ensure that your first impression is a positive and memorable one.
Passion alone isn’t enough—you need strategy. Having a great idea is just the beginning. Success requires planning, execution, and constantly evolving.
