December 2016
2017 Here’s to doing great things
OFFSHORE CONVENTION CREW DROUGHT INSURANCE promoting health and wellness CELEBRATING OMICO Oldmutual OUR EMPLOYEES RUZHOWA/UTHaNGo Vumba MOUNTAIN run Pg.13 Pg.31 Pg.34 CONTENTS
27 28 2016 NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOLS QUIZ 2016 MIDLANDS SHOW SOCIETY
5 We’ve Got M@il 26 39th National Choir Festival
7 Top Companies 29 Job Swap
10 Nurturing Rugby’s Future 31 OMICO Ruzhowa/Uthonga
13 Offshore Convention Testimonials 32 Wilika Program 2016
22 Old Mutual Unveils SME Centre 33 My First 100 Days
23 Old Mutual Brings Joy to Zvishavane 34 Old Mutual Vumba Mountain Run
24 Parting Is Such A Sweet Sorrow 35 Sweet Victory
25 Graduate Trainee Programme Graduation 2016
Editor’s LETTER
Anxious moments were experienced when it came to visa applications, but our fears proved unfounded as the process was smooth. The only comment made by the officer who interviewed Chengetai and I was that we should be prepared to earn a few extra pounds during the cruise. The interview took less than two minutes!
Although Impact Incentives & Events, the convention organisers, and Crispen Dimba from HR, did their best to prepare us for the convention, what I experienced and witnessed on the Oasis of the Seas surpassed even my wildest imagination.
For starters, the Oasis of the Seas is a city on water, with a capacity of Dream holiday from over 6,296 people. To put things into perspective, this is greater than the combined capacity of all hotels in Zimbabwe! The Oasis of the Seas is second only in size to its sister, the Harmony of the Seas that embarked on its maiden voyage on the 29th of May this year. Old Mutual! Each of the ship’s 17 passenger decks presents a unique experience to I seldom fail to picture or anticipate impending events, especially in this age voyagers. It is truly a delight to culinary enthusiasts as it has a plethora of ICT that is associated with a glut of information, courtesy of the World Wide of themed restaurants. The various pubs and bars will satisfy even those Web. It is very easy for one to research on any subject, thanks to the University with the deepest of throats. of Google, so surprises are now hard and far between. It is truly a remarkable ship that brings the nations of the world together. The Offshore Convention is one rare exception. From the start, I was caught What struck me most on the cruise liner was the standard of excellence flat-footed. Here’s how: I received an instruction from the Group HR Executive, in service, cleanliness and attention to detail. It is difficult to fathom how Mrs Angeline Mundangepfupfu, to circulate a memo with the list of the winners management of the Oasis of the Seas is able to keep things flawless on of the convention. this gigantic floating city.
As usual, I formatted the memo for broadcast and it was only on proofreading In this issue you will find various articles from colleagues who were that, lo and behold, I noticed my name. I was number 22 out of on the Offshore Convention, so I’ll leave it to them to tell their 23 winners. Words fail to describe how I felt upon this stories. Suffice for me to say the convention was a game changer. discovery. It was a surreal moment, but I It stretched my expectations in life and particularly challenged the dutifully circulated the email broadcast as way I view and plan for vacations. requested and then printed a copy for myself. For my family, this is exciting news as they know things will When I got home, I gave the copy to my wife, definitely never be the same again! Chengetai, and tongue in cheek said, “Look at how Old Mutual is rewarding some lucky It was an honour to be among the 2016 Offshore Convention employees.” She read it indifferently, perhaps Winners. wondering why I gave it to her in the first place, only for her face to light up when she got to number 22. We decided that we’d not share the good news with Tendai Mutseyekwa anyone, not even our four daughters, until just before Editor departure. Later we relaxed that decision when we advised both our parents, on the understanding they’d keep it strictly under wraps.
Contact Us: [email protected] INSIDE OUT Telephone: +263 04 308 400 Editor: Tendai Mutseyekwa Creative Team: VPCG TEAM Contributors: Laiza Musesengwa, Xolani Ndhlovu, Milton Chowadzera 4 WE’VE EMAIL US [email protected]
GOT M@IL WE’VE GOT M@IL
Please find my feedback in response to the recently held Old Mutual 2016 National Choir Festival and take note of my suggestions for next time we host:
· We need to have our own choir (Old Mutual Choir) to take part WINNING · School choirs should be included so as to pass on the tradition · The participating choirs should be awarded a branded tee-shirt highlighting the event (like the one the ushers had on) as tribute to the competition LETTER!!! Regards, Vimbai M Magadza | Credit Administrator
HARARE ATHLETIC THE 2016 CLUB COMRADES CONFERENCE SPONSORSHIP OF HEADS OF On behalf of HAC and the sponsored athletes, I would INDEPENDENT like to take this opportunity to thank you, OLD MUTUAL, for Sponsoring Monica Kativhu and Peter Mavura to take SCHOOLS (CHISZ) part in the 2016 edition of the Comrades Marathon. On behalf of all CHISZ/ATS (Association of Trust Schools) Your sponsorship went a long way in ensuring that the members, I write to thank you for your financial support athletes trained and competed in the planned races. of our recent annual Conference. We are extremely Both Monica and Peter did well at Nongoma 56km grateful for your generous sponsorship and partnership Ultra Marathon where they both became the first this year. Zimbabweans to cross the line. Monica was the second lady home while Peter was third overall. At Comrades Being a ‘non-profit’ organization, we rely totally on Monica came 11th out of 12 000 women which is the sponsorship to allow us to run this important event at the best position by a Zimbabwean woman ever attained at high standard to which we aspire. The Conference would this race. After three years of preparing for this race she not have been possible without outside sponsorship, so I finally struck gold. This would not have been possible thank you most sincerely for your generosity. without the support from OLD MUTUAL. Her target is now to be in top ten or win the race. Peter got injured It is our hope that your involvement with CHISZ has at the start of the race and it was a very painful incident been beneficial to you too and that we continue to work considering that he was fully prepared for this race. together in the future. Once again I would like to thank you for your continued Kind regards support and look forward to working together for the TIM MIDDLETON betterment of sport in Zimbabwe. Executive Director Yours faithfully, Coach Aaron T.C Whyte
5 APPRECIATION FOR A CASH DONATION TOWARDS THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE BINDURA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE EDUCATION LIBRARY
On behalf of Bindura University of Science Education, I am writing to express my sincere appreciation and gratitude for a donation of $50 000 Old Mutual extended towards the construction of a new library at the Bindura University of Science Education. It was my intention to thank you at the official handover, however since it has taken a bit long, I thought I should do it now. This donation will go a long way in ensuring that our 7 000 strong student population will have a new library in the year 2016. As I write, the construction work for phase 1 has been completed. We are now working on phase 2 through assistance from the Ministry of Public Works, Zimbabwe Defence Forces and donations from other well-wishers. It is our intention that part of the library would partially be opened before the 1st September 2016 for use by the students. The rest of the works will be completed before the end of November. As we acknowledge your donation, it is my wish that our partnership continues to grow from strength to strength and may God richly bless your entire organization for this humane act.
Yours sincerely,
Professor E Mwenje Vice Chancellor
BERNARD MZEKI INVITATION TO THE HIGH SCHOOL 39TH OLD MUTUAL CHANGING ROOMS NATIONAL CHOIR SPONSORSHIP FESTIVALS
I would like to express my gratitude towards the On behalf of Avondale Parish Choir we would like to sponsorship of swimming changing rooms made towards thank you so much (Old Mutual) for the opportunity you Bernard Mzeki School. I got to know of this wonderful gave us in the just ended Old Mutual National Choir news through the newsletter brought home by my son Festival. Indeed this will help us in a long way as far as who is in Form 1. choral music is concerned; indeed we learnt much and enjoyed the event. The feeling upon learning this was just phenomenal given this is from my company and my son gets to benefit Thank you and God bless you. from this kind initiative. Gilbert Thank you Old Mutual Group Marketing Team for (for Avondale Choir) enabling positive futures through this sponsorship. I am so proud to see my company being involved in doing great things for its wider communities.
Grateful, Vimbai Matsika - OMLAC
6 Engage Commit Deliver Top Companies Survey 2016
7 The 2016 Top Companies survey dinner was a spectacular evening held virtually every sector of Zimbabwe’s economy, Old Mutual has also on the 11th of November at the Meikles Hotels’ Stewart Room. It was a remained resolute and managed to accomplish notable milestones during night of food, drinks, glamour, live music and most importantly a night 2016 namely: where the country’s Top Companies where given due recognition. • Opening the Bulawayo Green Zone and Zvishavane mini Green Zone The third Old Mutual sponsored Top Companies Survey, was themed • CABS branches continued refurbishments Engage, Commit, Deliver. The theme embodies the vision of the Old • Trained over 12,000 people in On The Money, our financial literacy Mutual group to all its stakeholders and is a rallying call for all companies programme to engage with their customers as they seek to deliver value. • Established a tree nursery at Siabuwa High School in Binga • Set up a technology centre at Mucheke Library in Masvingo The theme calls for companies to develop effective and efficient product • Established a tree nursery at Siabuwa High School in Binga lines that satisfy customers fully. When companies display commitment, • Set up a technology centre at Mucheke Library in Masvingo they are able to strengthen local partnerships and excel. • Installed solar power and boreholes at four rural clinics • More recently, started works towards the construction of the Eastgate CABS Deputy Managing Director, Mehluli Mpofu, represented Old Mutual SME Centre that is set to transform that sector in Zimbabwe at the gala dinner. • We also embarked on various sponsorships in the field of sports, the arts and culture. “Old Mutual has a mandate to play a leading role in demonstrating and promoting best practice in business. Even though 2016 has been a very challenging year for business in Zimbabwe, it is in tough times that Mpofu added that companies that are able to weather the storm by champions rise to the occasion,” said Mpofu. As the country’s largest coming up with effective strategies in tough times will excel when there is and leading integrated financial services group, with tentacles reaching an economic upswing.
8 TOP COMPANIES 2016 TOP COMPANIES
2016 TOP COMPANIES SURVEY WINNERS
CATEGORY COMPANY
Best Perfoming Company NATFOOD
First Runner-Up BAT Second Runner-Up DELTA Disclosure & Investor Relations Best Bank STANBIC Best Bank Runner-Up STANCHART Best Life Assuarance FML Best Short-Term Insuarance NICOZ
Special Mention Most Improved Rank ART
9 OLD MUTUAL NURTURING RUGBY’S FUTURE
Old Mutual believes in nurturing children around rugby culture. From tag rugby clinics to full contact training camps. This year evidently featured a new team, freshly introduced to the world of international competitive rugby.
The Zimbabwe U13 team prepared well for this year’s Craven Week by attending the coaching clinics sponsored by Old Mutual. Subsequently the boys improved with each session, building a solid team foundation and strengthening their skills. Their teamwork and match confidence developed as they played on, granting them a win in the 2nd match and narrowly losing the last match to Namibia.
ZIMBABWE U13 RESULTS 04 July: Griquas U13 25 - 3 Zimbabwe U13 (Paarl Gimnasium C-Field) 05 July: Zimbabwe U13 12 - 6 Border CD U13 (Paarl Gimnasium B-Field) 07 July: Border U13 30-7 Zimbabwe U13 (Paarl Gimnasium B-Field) 08 July: Namibia U13 18-14 Zimbabwe U13 (Paarl Gimnasium A-Field)
10 CRAVEN WEEK ACROSS THE BOARD
Star-studded team shines at Craven Week
The Old Mutual Zimbabwe U16 rugby side’s brilliant run at the U16 NURTURING RUGBY’S FUTURE Coca-Cola Grant Khomo Week was highly commendable. The U16 team was star studded and all training sessions were purposeful and of admirable quality. The selection process for the team was difficult as all of the boys at the inter-provincial competitions aim at becoming an Old Mutual Young Sable. ZIMBABWE U18 BOYS RESULTS The boys hit the ground running and won by an impressive margin against 11 July Boarder CD in their opening game. GWK Griquas Rural U18 9 - 16 Old Mutual Zimbabwe U18 The second game was highly competitive which they narrowly lost to a (Stott Field, Kearsney College) well-respected Valke Side. The fast flowing, hard running rugby Zimbabwe 13 July displayed, won the hearts of many spectators. Seven of the first 15 were Griquas U18 78 - 5 Old Mutual Zimbabwe U18 offered Academic bursaries by top South African rugby schools. (Stott Field, Kearsney College) 16 July ZIMBABWE U16 RESULTS Namibia 3 - 34 Old Mutual Zimbabwe U18 04 July: (Osler Field, Kearsney College) Border CD U16 0 - 41 Zimbabwe U16 (Paarl Gimnasium D-Field) 06 July: Valke U16 20 - 12 Zimbabwe U16 (Paarl Gimnasium B-Field) 08 July: Breaking stereotypes on the field Namibia U16 5 - 15 Zimbabwe U16 (Paarl Gimnasium B-Field) Through sponsorship, Old Mutual has managed to push the culture and focus of rugby within communities especially in the female sector. The girls’ team continues to thrive and is the most successful Zimbabwean rugby team this year. They finished 3rd overall in the tournament and won two games out of three. Preparation set them up well as the whole team camped at Goromonzi High for a good week before travel in addition to the six training session at Alex sports club. The Zimbabwe U18 girls played a physical game that rattled and surprised their South African opponents. The girls are loving the sport and enjoying the social interaction with other motivated girls. Winning the 2017 tournament is on the cards for Coach Sykes and his team. Old Mutual has been pushing the rugby agenda in schools and most recently the movement has reached high school girls. They have grasped the sport and are proving to do exceedingly well.
ZIMBABWE U18 GIRLS RESULTS 03 July: SWD 5 - 20 Old Mutual Zimbabwe 05 July: Limpopo 5 - 43 Old Mutual Zimbabwe 08 July: Old Mutual Zimbabwe 5 - 10 Eastern Province Rugby in the eyes of true sportsmanship
The Zimbabwe U18 boys displayed great teamwork and sportsmanship throughout the entire tournament. Playing with heart and as a team saw them break a record which had stood for over 3 years of the Zimbabwe under 18 side not winning a match at the Craven week.
11 Enabling Positive Futures
AGE Position: Centre Height: 1.68m 15 Weight: 65kgs School: Peterhouse, Marondera
‘Bolt’ represented the Zimbabwe Old Mutual Young Sable at the 2014 U13 Craven Week Tournament. Following eye catching performances at the tournament, he had six top South African schools offer him full rugby scholarships. He also had two schools from the United Kingdom offering him the same, but he eventually settled with Johannesburg’s top private school, St. Stithians, where he is progressing well. He also represented Lion’s U16’s at Grant Khomo this year. A name to look out for for sure.
Munashe Chaitezvi #OldMutualShapingCareers
AGE Position: Loose Forward Height: 1.83m 19 Weight: 95kgs School: Falcon College, Bulawayo
Connor represented the Zimbabwe Old Mutual Young Sables at the 2015 Craven Week Tournament. Connor is currently at the Sharks Academy. He recently captained the Old Mutual Zimbabwe team at the World Rugby U20 Trophy in April 2016. He was also named in the top five best players at the global showpiece.
#OldMutualShapingCareers Connor Pritchard
AGE Position: Prop Height: 1.80m 20 Weight: 117kgs School: Christian Brothers College, Bulawayo
Justin has been at the Sharks Academy for over 18 months. He most recently represented the Old Mutual Zimbabwe U20 team at the World Rugby U20 Trophy in April this year.
#OldMutualShapingCareers
Justin Mendelsohn
AGE osition: Hooker Height: 1.69m 19 Weight: 92kgs School: Falcon College, Bulawayo
‘Beast’ captained the Zimbabwe Old Mutual Young Sables at the 2015 Craven Week Tournament. As well as featuring at the 2014 U18 and 2010 U13 Craven Week tournaments, he also played in the 2013 Grant Khomo Week. Upon leaving school, Brian had a number of offers from professional rugby franchises but opted to take up a rugby scholarship with Life University in Atlanta, Georgia. Life University has one of the best college rugby programmes in the USA.
Brian Mutanga #OldMutualShapingCareers
AGE Position: Second Row 20 Height: 2.01m Weight: 111kgs School: St. John’s College, Harare
Eli represented the Zimbabwe Old Mutual Young Sables at the 2014 Craven Week Tournament as vice- captain. He also represented Zimbabwe at the U13 Craven Week in 2009.
Eli has gone on to play Currie Cup rugby for the Blue Bulls U19. He represented the Junior Springboks at the Wolrd Rugby U20 Championships in Manchester, England earler this year.
Eli Snyman #OldMutualShapingCareers
12 Testimials
By Archiford Chivanga
It is certainly too difficult to explain the wonderful sojourn to the US, Haiti, Mexico, and Jamaica that was extended to my wife and I, courtesy of Old Mutual. Nothing has changed us more than this trip.
My wife and I enjoyed the experience from the very moment we left Zimbabwe aboard South African Airways. Even though the flight from Jo’burg to New York was taxing...the adrenaline to see the other side of the world kept us at bay. Getting away from the pressures of everyday life was wonderful at the same time refreshing as ever. Just being in the international terminal at the O.R Tambo International Airport gave us chills and the memories will forever be etched, from the Bidvest departure lounge to Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Nothing has changed me more than this trip. The places I explored and the people I connected with. While living your normal life, it is easy to lose sight of the importance of getting your head out of the sand and seeing things from a different place, culture and perspective.
We (my wife and I) had a bookish knowledge about the places (Haiti, Mexico, New York) we visited but being there changed us in so many ways. A week at a wellness retreat in the renowned Oasis of Seas cruise ship – its silky and plushy dining rooms and its pleasures can never be captured even by the world’s best wordsmith – it was more than satisfying and showed us a bit more about freedom that too many of us take for granted. The trip taught me that hard work pays and should be prioritized.
From the corporate life of New York to the sunny side of the Caribbean more specifically barefoot Labadie beach in Haiti, - life can never be more exciting than that. Among the memorable things about the tour was the Bob Marely Nine Mile Tour in St Ann, Jamaica. I never got to understand why the legendary crooner wrote a powerful chantey about Zimbabwe, until I saw our own Zimbabwean flag inside his home. The flag was said to be one of his greatest possessions.
The last stint at the Empire building in the States planted the idea in my head that I need to see as much of the world as often as I can. I learned that with the right inspiration and passion – happiness and money could actually co-exist.
13 OFFSHORE CONVENTION EXPERIENCE which one could take from any outlet that you could think of. There were By Gamuchirai Hungwe a number of eating places scattered across the ship – Silk, Sorrento’s, and my favourite being Windjammer Market place. It all started as a dream, a dream that I could not believe myself. Countries Visited The Journey Hear it from me; we went to the United States of America. It’s the second We took an hour-thirty minutes long flight to Mzansi, had a momentary time that I have done so in a space of two years – of course both times stay in transit in the Bidvest VIP Lounge before embarking on a 16 hour courtesy of Old Mutual. I’m sure others will tell you that we had some long flight to JF Kennedy Intl Airport (New York). From there we took moments to enjoy in Haiti, Mexico and Jamaica – Yah Man!; we were another connecting flight a further three hours to Fort Lauderdale. We there. All in all we had an incredible seven night cruise full of relaxation, were then transferred into a state of the art ‘Academy’ coach where Wi-Fi enjoyment, food, fun, amusement, wonder and you name it. We had it all was available on the go! A twenty minute drive brought us to a big ‘dream in seven days. holiday’ floating in the deep blue waters - the Oasis of the Seas. New York Oasis of the Seas It’s one city of its kind. I will not try to describe what I saw because I know The Ship is owned by Royal Caribbean International. It has17 decks I’m not good at that. Let me just tell you that we had a nice time. We visited (floors), measuring 362 meters in length, a passenger capacity of 5 400 the Empire State Building, Wall Street, the memorial of the Twin Towers, plus over 2000 crew members and has a gross tonnage of 225 282 with the American and the New York stock exchange, the Statue of Liberty and a cruising speed of 42 km per hour. It is one of the largest cruise ship in we finally went for shopping. I’m not sure how many stars the hotel that we the world. were staying in has – but I think it’s eight. It is in this world but with service out of this world. I enjoyed every moment in it. The ship features a zip-line, a casino, a golf course, multiple night clubs, several bars and lounges, a karaoke club, five swimming clubs, volleyball My story will be incomplete without mentioning the fact that we had the and basketball courts and theme parks. Each room has a balcony dazzling Gala night in New York at River Café where all the offshore overlooking the sea. delegates were honoured. It was a night to remember. Unfortunately I cannot tell you everything; you have to be in the next offshore convention The Food so that you will ‘see it on the nose like tobacco’. Now I come to the favourite part of my story – the food. To say that there was a lot of food is an understatement if not misrepresentation of facts. Once again, I say THANK YOU to Old Mutual for such a wonderful To help you understand let me just say that foods like Pizza were available recognition scheme. I am happy to advise you that seats for next year’s anytime of the day/night and FREE! I remember leaving my bed at 00.15 Offshore Convention are still up for grabs. Unfortunately, two seats have to go grab a few slices of pizza and a glass of Piña colada. I would already been occupied – the Group CEO’s and mine. So I urge you ladies normally ask myself why humans were created with such small tummies. and gentleman to work hard for the 23 remaining seats.
Sadly, on the 3rd day of the cruise, I had a running tummy and couldn’t I thank you. take as much food as I wanted. A day wasted indeed. Thank God by the fourth day I was up and running. We had an unlimited package for drinks
14 OFFSHORE CONVENTION TESTIMONIALS
AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE We left Mexico and sailed for about two days till we reached Jamaica. We By Mrs Jeche also went to the Bamboo Beach Club where we had a lot of fun, playing in water and relaxing in the sun. From Jamaica we sailed to Haiti. This is a The news came to me like a bullet in the air. I was shocked and puzzled. All very small country with a lot of art and craft activities going on. We again l could do was to kneel down and give thanks to the Almighty. spent most of the time at the beach having fun.
This amazing journey started on the 25th of June 2016. It all began when We left Haiti and travelled back to Fort Lauderdale where we boarded the the Old Mutual Zimbabwe acknowledged my husband, Gift Jeche, as a Jet Blue to New York. On arrival in New York we toured the Empire State hard working man who deserved to be given royal treatment. They also Building which was built in 1930 and has 102 floors. noted that behind every successful man there is a woman, this gave me the opportunity to accompany my husband to the United States of America. The Gala Dinner on the 3rd of July 2016 left us tongue tied. It was marvellous. We were hosted like kings and queens at the River Cafe which What shocked me most was that I had never travelled by plane in my is under Brooklyn Bridge on the Hudson River where prizes were presented entire life. We left Zimbabwe for South Africa around 1pm. On arrival, to the winners of the Offshore Convention. we connected to New York aboard the South African Airways and it took us about 16 hours to get there, where we then boarded another flight to Lastly but not least l would like to thank Old Mutual for this wondrous event Florida. in our lives. I would also like to thank my husband for working so hard in achieving the intended goals of the company. Above all may the glory be Still puzzled by the idea of travelling by air, l was introduced to yet another to God Almighty who gave us this testimony and a history to be told to our great adventure of my life. This was the Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas great grand children. Cruise, one of the biggest ships in the world. It is about 2,5 acres long and has up to 17 decks.
What amazed us most is the inside of the ship. A lot of events took place in each and every deck of the ship. The ship is like a world on its own. I enjoyed strolling through central park garden with its beautiful flowers and trees.
We had a lot of fun swimming and bathing in the sun. I really enjoyed it. Food, drinks and beer were unlimited. We ate and drank until we were exhausted, especially food from Windjammer dinning on deck 16. It was so delicious.
We sailed for about three days till we reached Mexico. We learnt about how chocolates are made in Mexico. We also had a lot of fun at one of the beaches in Mexico.
15 DOING GREAT THINGS FOR STAFF TRIP CHANGED MY LIFE By Cathrine Maliseni Spouse to George Maliseni By Rosemary Mavunga
The excitement started on 26 April 2016 when George broke the exciting I would like to thank God Almighty for the grace to be a delegate on news of the Offshore Convention. the 2016 Offshore Convention for the third time running. My great appreciation goes to Old Mutual for such a magnificent way of recognizing Cruising in the Oasis of the Seas was just awesome; it was a great its champions. A hearty thank you to our hosts of the convention, Mr. and experience cruising in such a big ship. It’s a mini city everything you can Mrs. Mushosho, Impact Incentives and all who worked behind the scenes think of from restaurants, theatres, swimming pools to golf course and for coming up with this brilliant package to witness, explore and experience basketball court all housed in it. It was exciting and a wonderful experience. this wonderful and unforgettable seven nights of excitement on the Oasis of the Seas cruise ship. “Feeling gratitude, and not expressing it, is like The highlight of the trip was a tour to see where Bob Marley, the king of wrapping a present and not giving it.” – William Arthur Ward reggae, was born and buried at 9 Miles. At one stage we were driving at about 3500m above the sea level, the road was narrow and meandering The fun actually started at the Harare International Airport on the 24th of it was breath taking. As reggae fans, both my husband and I, it was a June 2016. Meeting a group of Champions and their partners realising wonderful experience to tour the place. We saw the single bed he sang in what I thought was a dream all along was indeed reality. one of his top chart song, we were all surprised to see the Zimbabwean flag in the single room he once used. The warm welcome at OR Tambo International Airport, the luxury and grandeur of Bidvest’s VIP Lounge sent my heart skipping with joy. I asked From Haiti we cruised back to Miami where we caught the flight to New myself, “Who am I Lord, to be singing your praises, going on an all York City. New York is an amazing city which doesn’t sleep, pavements expenses paid trip.” always packed. We visited Empire State Building with 102 floors. At the 86th floor you could see the entire New York City landscape. The place Fort Lauderdale here we come. Just the sight of the ship was enough to is flocked by tourist; by the time we left the building there was a very long melt away my heart. What a difference with the kind of boats at Kariba!! and snaking queue of tourists who wanted to tour the building. We had This is actually a 17 deck hotel on water with all sporting, entertainment our dinner at HB Burger. and leisure facilities and more.
On Sunday we went shopping to Woodbury Shopping Complex which is What a wonder it was to explore Cozumel in Mexico, Falmouth of Jamaica, a two hour drive from New York City. In the evening we received Royal Labadee of Haiti, swimming in the salty waters of the vast oceans and treatment, where we were driven in limousines to River Café in Brooklyn for playing beach volley ball on the island of Haiti. a gala dinner. The evening was the most important day of the trip because it was the recognition and award receiving for spouses. The time I spent aboard The Oasis of the Seas changed completely the way I look at life. I had a chance to create new friendships, to talk to people I am very grateful to Old Mutual Zimbabwe for the great opportunity. I from other countries. I felt valued to be among the rich and famous from never dreamt of such an awesome, joyous and amazing trip. True to your all parts of the world. There is more to life than we can ever imagine. word, you Do Great Things, not to just your customers but also to your staff. No words can describe how grateful we are. The trip will remain in The tour of the New York City September 11th memorial site, Empire State our minds forever. Above all we would like to thank Mr. and Mrs. Mushosho Building and Wall Street left me with an answer as to why some countries for hosting us in a hospitable way. are called developed and others developing.
To our hosts, it’s not everyone who has a boss who is so generous, humble and accommodative and I feel blessed and honored to be part of your family. Thank you for extending your time to dine with each couple. Who would have ever thought that Rosemary Mavunga, a ghetto girl would someday dine with you, the Group CEO of such a big organisation on the Oasis of the Seas cruise ship.
I will forever support my husband Wellington, to ensure that he remains 16 a champion. OFFSHORE CONVENTION TESTIMONIALS
WORDS DO NO JUSTICE... MY BEST HOLIDAY EVER By Fadzai Zvoushe By Muriel Chabuka
They say that life is full of surprises!! Qualifying for the offshore convention The mega Oasis of the Seas loomed like a condo building or perhaps an this year was just that!! office park. The ship was amazing, making an impression even before you board. The ship’s Royal Promenade gave the impression of a hectic mall From the moment Mr Mushosho announced that the convention this year rather than a cruise ship. I enjoyed some retail therapy on the board with was going to be a trip of a lifetime, I already began to imagine how much fantastic designer boutiques selling everything from cosmetic to fragrances better it could possibly be in comparison to the Miami and Disney trip and jewellery like Michael Kors. in 2015. It couldn’t possibly get better, could it? Surely not! BOY was I The staff members were terrific. The food was good everywhere and we wrong!! mostly had breakfast and lunch in Windjammer Market Place. The huge Opus dining room was divided into three separate dining rooms each with It wasn’t that as we arrived closer to the port and I saw the size of the ship a different décor. It was so lovely to see and we mainly had our dinner in my jaw dropped; oh NO it was the glamour that greeted me as I set foot the Silk dining room. onto the ship. All the lights and people, it felt like I had just stepped onto the largest most glamourous hotel lobby. I had googled the ship closer to I visited Broadwalk - waal! with rock climbing walls and a carousel feeds the travelling date and I was excited but the experience in itself was surreal. naturally into the aft deck sports and activity areas , several decks above Seventeen decks of activity for the next seven days, so many choices of where you find the basket ball court, table tennis area and a short zipline. entertainment, from broad way shows, aqua shows, the spa (you know Also Solarium, Serenity, Central, Park and Vitality Spa and fitness center. ladies), live comedy, the list is endless!! There was something for everyone. It was really amazing to see a lot of live plants and trees in Central Park. There is no way I cannot mention the food and drinks, there was just a As the giant cruise ship made its way around the Caribbean it stopped at free flow and I can safely say I did not worry about packing on the pounds Cozumel which is a small island off the coast of Mexico .The next stop was on this trip! Meeting new people and hearing about the different parts of Falmouth, Jamaica which offered a wide variety off shore excursion under the world they were from and just how long they had saved to take the the safety and supervision of professional attentive guides. We proceeded cruise definitely made me feel so blessed. I mean how many of us can say to Haiti where we spent the day on the beach. It was really exciting and they have had breakfast as they looked out to sea watching a school of enjoyed singers from Haiti. dolphins swim alongside their ship? After seven days in Oasis of the Sea we left for New York City. It is unlike We visited three beautiful Caribbean islands. Mexico and Haiti were great any other cities in the world. It is really a place where people should live but I had the most fun in Jamaica. I took a tour through the life of Bob at least once in their lifetime. Well worth the visit and views were amazing. Marley. On the bumpy trip up to Nine Mile, his birth place, I got to see Conquering New York City in one visit is impossible. The Empire State where Christopher Columbus first arrived in Jamaica and also a bridge building oh!! what an amazing iconic and historical building. The elevator he made slaves build which still stands till this very day. The tour was a ride was a rush (30seconds) to the 86th floor. The view from the Empire great insight into how the legend, Bob Marley lived and also made me State building was awesome, the architecture is beautiful. Uncountable Sky realise how much Jamaicans love life and Zimbabweans too. I saw the scrappers!! Great views but the queues were massive and the observation resting place of Bob and his brother which is a beautiful monument above deck was really crowded. View from the top was spectacular, exploring ground, a white marble double grave. On the island we enjoyed Jamaican each of the sides. cuisine, the famous jerk chicken and I even brought home some of Bob’s mothers chilli sauce. Another notable not to be forgotten site was the Brooklyn Bridge. Fantastic and thrilled to see it, neat work of engineering. Also the statue of Liberty There is so much more I would love to mention like breath taking New York was incredible. City and the lavish gala dinner but one just needs to be there to experience it themselves. My words do no justice. My only prayer now is to again be This was my best holiday ever. Many thanks to Old Mutual. a part of this convention and to continually be motivated to do just what it takes to be there. 17 FIRST TIME ON A PLANE on a self-service arrangement. We really enjoyed the facility of having a By Munyaradzi Hwandih heavy breakfast whilst enjoying the spectacular view of the ocean. Of all the ports our most memorable experience was in Jamaica. We had Winning the Offshore Convention award in Sales and Service Excellence booked an excursion which took us on a tour around Falmouth, visited was a life changing experience for me and my wife. It opened up avenues the famous St James Parish Church on our way to John Hall plantation. which we never imagined exploring. For instance, it was our first time to We also had the privilege to eat Jamaica’s traditional delicious dishes board an aeroplane as well as travel overseas. We could not believe it was comprising 100% jerk chicken or pork, Ackee & saltfish, steam callaloo, really happening as the flight attendants were checking our seat belts and roast breadfruit, to mention a few. It was indeed a wonderful day not to the onboard video began to play the safety procedures. It was even more forget and moreover rubbing shoulders with the real Rasta man chanting surreal as the plane taxied off the runway and the flight crew welcoming us ‘Patwah” as we listened to some conscious roots reggae. on board and highlighting to us the speed, duration of flight and altitude at which the plane will be travelling above sea level. Haiti was our last stop as we headed back to New York City, for another exciting adventure as we toured the famous city. We visited the Empire Upon arrival in New York City, a real surprise hit us when we disembarked State Building, Memorial Park, Wall Street Palisade and we also had a the plane at JF Kennedy International airport which is one of the largest and close view of the Statute of Liberty. Every minute in New York was exciting busiest airports in the world. We soon began to see the huge difference in and unforgettable. infrastructure between back home and the modern New York City. During our tour, we also got the opportunity to dine with our GCEO Mr We connected onward on a flight to Fort Lauderdale, a port city where Mushosho and his wife as well as our OMICO MD Mr Muthe and his wife. we proceeded to board a gigantic cruise ship which needed one to be in It made us truly grateful, for this is an opportunity that one would not want helicopter to allow you to take a full size picture. to miss.
In brief, The Oasis of the Seas is one of the largest cruise ships in the whole Our experience on this journey has changed our view of the world since world. It had 17 decks comprising of seven distinct neighbourhoods, 25 we were exposed to other countries and other cultures. Moreover I am also dining options and 2 394 crew members waiting to serve us with a carrying grateful to Old Mutual for appreciating the effort I put in my work as well capacity of 6 296 passengers. as appreciating the support I get from my spouse to be what I am today and with this in mind I also take pride in the work that I do, knowing that it Whilst onboard the majestic Oasis of the Seas on Day 1, we were so is helping us to achieve our company goals. excited, confused and at the same time eager to explore the ship. We proceeded straight to our guest room which was situated on deck 11. Lastly but not least, I would also want to thank the Greenzone Harare Team Soon after settling, everyone was called for a mandatory lifeboat drill just for the support they gave us to make this award a success. before sailing. The drill was a relief because we were assured of our safety as we waved goodbye to Fort Lauderdale and set sail for our first port I take this opportunity to urge my fellow colleagues to work diligently and of call, Cozumel in Mexico, followed by Falmouth in Jamaica and lastly make excellence their daily pursuit. You never know, it may be you telling Labadee in Haiti. us your experience around this time next year.
On the ship, we enjoyed food at the popular Windjammer restaurant which was situated on deck 16. It was always filled with a variety of food
18 OFFSHORE CONVENTION TESTIMONIALS
AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE THE EXPERIENCE OF A LIFE TIME By Nesiah Matope By Elijah Sithole
If l was still school going age, life will would be more exhilarating “It is better to see and experience something once than to be told about it a thousand times”. This was an inscription on one of the bill boards in as l would anticipate the day my teacher giving us a composition title to Cozumel - Mexico. The 2016 Old Mutual Offshore Convention was an write something like “the day l will never forget”. In this instance, I would experience of a life time, a great experience of adventure. It made me choose, “the unforgettable experience”. It was such a privilege and honor appreciate my job at Old Mutual and most importantly realise that it is to hear the news from my husband and l just thought it was one of those more of a privilege than a right to be associated with the Old Mutual. “usual trips”. Little did l know that it was something extraordinary and astonishingly amazing. Being my first time to board a plane and to receive For me I would want to be on the 2017 list AGAIN. royal class treatment, at one time l thought this was the heaven on earth people always talk about. Once you experience the fun of the convention, it brings out the best in you in your work performance because you want to re-live the experience As we waited at OR Tambo International Airport, the fun we had at Bidvest over and over again, year after year. When I took time to reflect on how we VIP Lounge was a prophetic pointer to the kind of treatment we were going found ourselves on the 2016 list (my wife, who is my business partner, and to have ahead of us. After 16 hours in the clouds we arrived in New York I), it dawned on me that it was not sheer luck… It was because as we went and l felt a change in the air we were breathing. We later connected to Fort about our day to day work activities in 2015 we embraced the ACT NOW Lauderdale to board the ship, Oasis of the Seas. Seven days and Seven principle in its totality. (I want to acknowledge the tremendous support that nights in this immaculate ship was a breath-taking experience. The premier I get from my family, most importantly my wife) package we were booked under gave us access to anything we would crave for from food, beverage and any type of snacks or nibbles. The When the GCEO addressed the delegates at our Dinner Gala hosted in seven nights on the Oasis were spent in motion and it gave us a glimpse New York at The River Café, he spoke about “The world Of Champions” of beautiful cities in Mexico and Haiti. and it became apparent that greatness is never an accident, it comes through deliberate effort. The 2016 Offshore champions came against On this ship we were treated by a wonderful crew to various activities, from the backdrop of harsh economic environment in our country but still they evening functions, sporting activities such as golf and swimming. We had managed to excel. an opportunity to try out new things like floor riding and zip lining. Another romantic moment with my spouse was the time we viewed the sea from Champions do not wait for conditions to be perfect. In fact it is mischievous the balcony and watched the sunset, not forgetting when we walked on to expect perfect conditions in an imperfect world. the Bible says “He who the beach bare footed and playing with the sand with our hands. We felt observes the wind and waits for all conditions to be favourable will not sow so rejuvenated and fell in love all over again. If I was to be given another and he who regards the wind will not reap.” chance to choose another spouse l would still go back to the one and only Chris Matope. Many thanks to him for enduring hard moments and Growing up in the rural Chimanimani, I never dreamt of one day going on coming out a shining star in his performances at work. Last but not least a cruise, particularly on the Oasis of The Seas, one of the two largest and my sincere gratitude goes to Mr. Mushosho and the entire Old Mutual most revolutionary cruise ships in the world. The experience was awesome, management. fabulous and amazing. Walking into the ship it looked like a huge mall with everything and I mean everything. The ship is a great and completely Thank you for awarding us this unforgettable life time experience. unique piece of innovation.
We thoroughly enjoyed every activity in the ship including visiting the ports - Cozumel in Mexico, Falmouth in Jamaica and Labadee in Haiti. Kudos to Old Mutual for coming up with such an exceedingly wonderful way of recognising and celebrating individuals who would have made distinct contributions in the success of the organisation. 19 ONE LUCKY WINNER! a chance to leave the ship and toured the streets of Mexico. We had By Otilia Nyamuzihwa a chance to test Mexican food the Guacamole with nachos, it was so delicious. When I first received the news of the Offshore Convention trip, I could not believe that I was part of the Old Mutual group. When I received the mail, Day 4, we were at the sea, enjoying the facilities on-board, the rock I read through the mail but somehow I could not pick my husband’s name climbing wall and we had a chance to shop from the Royal shops on- on the list. I just thought it was other people going for the trip as usual board where there was a super sale of fashion accessories. and I was envying them, little did I know that I was part of the group, till my husband hinted to me to check for his name on the list. When I finally We were in Jamaica on Day 5 of our trip, where we toured the streets of noticed his name believe me I could not believe it because I had never Jamaica and had a chance to taste coconut milk. It is amazing how the dreamt of going beyond Southern African boarders. Jamaicans take life at ease. Day 6, we were at Labadee, Haiti, where we enjoyed relaxing by the beach and the weather was just too hot. We All I could do was to sing praises unto the Almighty, because had it not enjoyed lunch by the beach, jerk chicken, pork chops, it was just delicious. been for Him we could not have made it to be part of the selected group for the Convention. Back on the ship we had a chance to choose from a variety of styles of watch gift sets on sale for our loved ones back home at amazing prices. We The adventure had started, we had to research where we were going so also had a chance to view the Zultanite an exclusive and rare gemstone. as to know what was expected as we prepared for the trip, and it was all We participated in a raffle draw where I won a Zultanite colour changing about visualising and dreaming. gemstone worth US$500. I could not believe it that I won such a unique price on-board, that was an exciting experience. The events started to unfold when we boarded the plane SAA029 to South Africa. Upon arrival at OR. Tambo airport, we were given a special warm Day 7 was the D-day for winding up, the cruise was just amazing, it was so welcome by the Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Jonas Mushosho, refreshing such that given an option I did not want to leave so early but we who was our host throughout the trip. He advised that the adventure was just had to leave for another adventure that was waiting for us. starting and our first port of call was the Bidvest Premier Lounge where we had our snacks as we awaited to board our next flight to New York. After the seven nights aboard the Oasis of the Seas we had to leave for New York the city that never sleeps. Upon arriving in New York we toured We left South Africa that evening to New York and the trip was a long what was once the tallest building, the Empire of State Building. It was one, 16 hours, that was my first experience to travel such a long period in amazing how we went up 86 floors in a short space of time and we had a an aeroplane. We arrived at JF. Kennedy airport in the morning and went chance to view the city from a bird’s view. I used to wonder why the city through the necessary immigration process before we embarked on our is said to be the city that never sleeps, I had to witness this when we were final flight to Fort Lauderdale where we were going to board the famous coming back from our dinner to the hotel. It was late but you could see world’s largest cruise ship, the Oasis of the Seas. people going about the streets as if it was during day time for it is the city that never sleeps. Upon arrival at Fort Lauderdale we went straight ahead to board the famous ship. I had never seen such an enormous ship, we are used to Our last day in New York was the day when the winners were presented our cruise boats at Lake Chivero, Vic Falls and Kariba but the Oasis of the with their awards for the hard work. After our breakfast we went for Seas is one of its kind. I had never dreamt of a ship having all facilities shopping at an upmarket shopping mall. After the shopping it was time to on-board, it is like a block of flats when its stationery. leave for the awards aboard some limousines for the special event. It was glamourous and thanks to Old Mutual Group for such a gesture. After the Day 1 and Day 2 of the cruise we were at leisure at the sea, exploring all awards ceremony, it was time to leave for home. the facilities on board this iconic ship. It is quite amazing how some people are creative and innovative. There isn’t anything that is not available on- The trip was just a memorable one and special thanks to Mr Mushosho board, it is like you are on land whilst the ship is sailing, you will only and the Old Mutual group for such a rewarding scheme that encourages realise that the ship is in motion when you look outside and see the water and motivate oneself. I felt like a winner as well. It was such a great honour moving. We had a chance to take a walk and relax in Central Park. to be part of the group, and it is really appreciated. May the Good Lord bless Mr & Mrs Mushosho and the team. I cannot wait for the next Offshore Convention. 20 We arrived in Mexico our first port of call of our trip on Day 3. We had OFFSHORE CONVENTION TESTIMONIALS
THANK YOU FOR AN OVERSEAS HOLIDAY TRIP TO THE CARIBBEAN By Adeline Murape
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Old Mutual Group for coming up with an amazing employee recognition initiative in the form of the Stars of Zimbabwe. This year, we were afforded an opportunity to be part of the team, representing Zimbabwe on the offshore convention owing to my sister’s nomination to this prestigious award.
It was really a wonderful experience breaking the seas to have a tour of a first world country. The cruise ships were state of the art and reflected breath taking workmanship that instantly caught my admiration. The hospitality from the crew and attendants ushered me into another world of customer service that I had never experienced. Their service was indeed a befitting icing on the cake for the well-organized offshore convention. Our tour of Mexico and Jamaica also offered me an opportunity to have a first-hand appreciation of new cultures. Of particular interest is the unforgettable experience I had in Cozumel Mexico, where the people of Mexico showed passionate hospitality and friendliness in welcoming us.
I really felt that Old Mutual is a great place to work, as there is recognition for excellence which is a natural motivation to anyone. I was inspired by the royal treatment at the Gala night, WOW; I wish I could go back again! The trip was awesome and indeed a life time experience. On behalf of my family (the entire clan) a BIG thank you to Old Mutual for making us great. Continue to Do Great Things!
21 OLD MUTUAL UNVEILS SME CENTRE
Old Mutual has developed a strategy to foster financial place to explore and understand this phenomenon” he said. inclusion for local SMEs. As part of this strategy, the Eastgate Market site was identified for the development of an SME The growth of the informal sector over the past years has Centre. The project was officially pioneered in October with naturally presented real estate investors with an opportunity a ground breaking ceremony at the Metro Centre, situated to design and construct suitable working space for the SME in Harare Central Business District. This space will then be and informal sector of the economy. converted into an SME centre. On completion, the project will have a lettable space of 15,000 square metres, bringing “Old Mutual is aware that lack of convenient premises and relief to an estimated 20,000 vendors who currently ply their access to markets are some of the major issues inhibiting the trade at various informal sites across the city. desired growth of the SME sector. It is against this background that the Eastgate SME Centre was conceived with a specific Speaking at the ceremony, Old Mutual Group Chief Executive aim of addressing challenges faces by SMEs”. Officer, Mr Jonas Mushosho stated that, the development would not only improve the competitiveness of SMEs, but also Out of a total lettable space of 15,000m2 the Eastgate SME enable them to meaningfully contribute to the development Centre will provide up to 2,000m2 of refrigeration space of the Zimbabwean economy. for rural farmers that will help preserve their produce and enhance their livelihoods. In this instance embracing financial The project, which is set to be completed by 2018, will result inclusion means enabling marginalised communities to trade in the first such centre in southern Africa. Old Mutual saw their farm produce and wares, converting them to cash and a business opportunity to develop the Eastgate SME Centre therefore to sustenance. specifically for SMEs and the informal sector. “The Eastgate SME Centre will be the first in Sub Saharan “The Eastgate SME Centre will be the first in Sub Saharan Africa. We foresee our regional neighbours frequenting this Africa. We foresee our regional neighbours frequenting this place to explore and understand this phenomenon” he said.
22 Old Mutual brings joy to ZVISHAVANE
Old Mutual first launched Greenzone in 2013 in Harare. The received from this community. Today we are saying ‘thank you’, Green Zone brings together comprehensive financial advice, for your loyalty and commitment to Old Mutual.” investment and banking expertise of Old Mutual Zimbabwe Limited Companies under one roof. The Zvishavane service The Green Zone concept is part of a strategy by Old Mutual centre is the third branch to be opened. It is a mini version of Zimbabwe Limited to bring closer cooperation and synergy the bigger Green Zones that were opened in Harare in 2013 among Group Companies. and more recently in Bulawayo in April.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Old Mutual Group Chief Executive Officer, Jonas Mushosho, said, “The successes and challenges we encountered have helped create a strong bond between Old Mutual and its clients. It is in recognition of this intrinsic relationship that Old Mutual is investing into world class customer service centres such as the one we are commissioning today.”
The Zvishavane Mini Green Zone houses CABS, a wholly owned Old Mutual subsidiary, and the rest of our business units under one roof. Prior to the opening of the new service center, Old Mutual was represented by its banking subsidiary, CABS, in Zvishavane.
“Our investment in this mining town was well thought out – it is in recognition of the support Old Mutual has consistently
23 24 who cannowrelate toalldifferenttypesofpeople. Supervisor Tendai Mutseyekwafornurturing metobecomethisyounglady am nowperfectat creatingrelationshipswithpeople. ThankstomyIndustrial always founditdifficult engagingwithpeople,buttoday Icanopenlysay stakeholder management skills. As someone who is anintrovert, at first I depth familiarity with their products and services. This helped improve my almost all oftheOld Being apartofOMSSarketingalsogavemeanopportunity toworkwith become notjustamarketerbutvaluable one. that asayounglady, Iwashereforapurposethatisbuildingmydreamto saying I want to be someone in life.” This was my greatest motivation knowing who haveenergy,dreamspeoplewakeupinthemorning remember atoneeventMr.Mushosho saying, ‘’Ilikeyoungpeople,people This stimulated me to dream bigger and always think in other terms. I participating inevents,meetingnewpeoplewithinvariousindustries. Working inGroupMarketinggavemealotofopportunitiessuchastravelling, confident andcommittedineverythingIdobeitworkrelatedorpersonal. student attaché,andthishasmouldedmetobecomesomeoneresponsible, also ofvaluetotheGroupMarketing team. Icansay I wasmorethanjusta was successfulduringmyindustrialattachmentbutamoverjoyedthat Iwas value” of be to rather but success, a be to there forme and supporting me. AlbertEinstein once wrote,“S also make it. I am grateful to the the factthatsomeonejustlikemehadpulledthrough,sodefinitelyIwould work relatedlearning. To befrank,thisinstilledfearinme,butIwasdrivenby you havecometoworknotlearn” and indeeditwasontheJobtrainingnot I recallMrGeraldChinogara,(OMLAC MarketingExecutive)saying, “L situations. was indeedanamazingopportunityformeduringthesedifficulteconomic harmony. In the middle of difficulty lies OPPORTUNITY.” This find discord from simplicity, find clutter of “Out which states, of admirationhastilybroughttoremembranceaquotebyAlbertEinstein that countless of graduates in the nation would only dream of. The feeling and myhonourcamefromknowingthatIhadbeengivenanopportunity pride wasfuelledbybeingrelatedtoaverywellthought-of organization other. It was a feeling of enormous self-importance and admiration. known astheGreeniant)wasanemotionIcouldnotweighagainstany largestfinancialinstitutions(popularly of walkingintoonethecountry’s this wasanopportunitythateverystudentdesiredtohave.Thesentiment students onattachmentinAugust2015.Icountmyselfasblessedsince I amgreatlyindebtedtoOldMutualforconsideringmeasoneofthefew grab opportunitiesofbeingformallyemployedinwellestablishedcompanies. our beloved country. Every year, University students are graduating, hoping to is wellawareofthecurrenteconomicsituationandrateunemploymentin It isdevoidofaninstincthesitationthatthemainstreamZimbabweans Good-bye. say to time but it is now Old Mutual as a new on attachment, student to came I when yesterday like just was It flies! time How S PARTING ISSUCHA By LaizaMusesengwa OMSS WEET SORRO Mutual Business Units and this helped me tohave in- Group Marketing team for always being Yes, I am pleased I trive not aiza My Thank you Old Mutual! Thank youOld with.” associated you were an awesome team that anyone else would have been proud to be words Isay, “Till wemeetagainthyOldMutualfriendsandColleagues, as hellos end with goodbyes, so will goodbyes start with hellos.” With these Melody anfulsaid,“Goodbyesaresad,buttheytemporary, because thought upfarabovetheground. a youngwomanwhoisgeareduptotoleratetherealworldwithmy head the challengesIstumbledupon.Becauseofthis,havebeenshaped into believe wealllearnfromourslipups.Iwasabletopickvariouslessons from my problemsolvingcapknowingthereisnosuccesswithoutproblems andI new.” anything tried never which says,“ share ofupsandaduodowns.ThistakesmetoquotebyAlbertEinstein well asunforeseensituationswhichmayarise.Ididhavemyreasonable Mutual. Likeanyjourneythatoneembarkson,thereareupsanddownsas I amgratefulfortheexperienceandrelationshipshavedevelopedat Old will alwaysachievemorewhentheyputtheirmindstogether. lot oflifelessonsfrommystayatOldMutual.Nomanisalandmass.People like abugtothemuntilIgotwhatwanted.Becauseofhim,havelearnt ”I amprettysuretheOMSSfinanceteamcanopenlyagreewithmethatIwas “L I alwaysfoundithardtryingtoconvincepeople,butrememberhimsaying, aiza alwaysuseyourdiplomaticskillstoconvinceandwinoverpeople. A nyone whohasnever madeamistake has The hurdlesIfacedhelpedmetobear W
PARTING IS SUCH A SWEET SORROW Old Mutual Graduate Trainee Programme Graduation 2016
As part of our Responsible Business culture, we continue to employ and nurture graduate trainees offering them the best possible skills training in the two year training course. This year Old Mutual celebrated its first graduate trainees on 22 July by holding a graduation ceremony to mark the end of the program and the continuation of their success.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony Mr Mushosho stated, “Be determined in your life and be self-restrained.” All 26 graduates did exceedingly well during their time at Old Mutual and displayed growth and maturity within the 2 year time frame.
This is what some of the trainees had to say upon graduating: K.Gondo - “It is commendable that we have reached this far and we certainly have the bragging rights, we deserve. It is important to note that these are simply medals we have received on our way to greatness, but we should not stop there. Successful completion of our traineeship only shows us that we have it in us to become the leaders we’ve been trained to be for the past two years.” Munashe - “We have been privileged to be part of the green giant and this has provided an excellent platform to start our careers as well as invaluable wealth of knowledge and understanding of the financial services industry.” Ngoni - “I want to thank the Management, Mentors, HR, for having such an intellectual programme to prove our worth and skills to the organization. We are value additions, that l am confident of.” Liana – “In retrospect the Graduate Training experience was life changing, filled with both good and overwhelming encounters that we all greatly cherish. The curriculum granted us the chance to develop our strengths and pick out our weaknesses within the corporate sector.”
We would like to wish our graduate trainees the best of success in all of their future endeavours.
25 Angelic singing at the Old Mutual first ever National Choral Festival
It was a colourful affair at the Celebration Center, in Harare, host the prestigious festival. in Zimbabwe where Old Mutual hosted the first ever National “The move to be a stand alone region is much appreciated choral festival. Due to the overwhelming participation as it was overdue, as we have been lobbying for it for the from local choir groups, Zimbabwe was weaned to be a past 10 years,” he said. standalone region. Some of the groups that competed for honours at the Speaking about the festival, Group CEO, Mr Jonas festival where Midlands State University Choir, Victory Mushosho said, “Choral music plays an important role in Chorale Choir, Spiritoso Choir, Dangamvura Old Students the lives of many communities. It is part of the rich fabric of Association, Bulawayo Choristers, Masvingo Vibratos Choir our African nation and it helps to build bridges.” and Heavenly Praises Choir. “Old Mutual is a proud title sponsor of this Chitungwiza Harmony Singers came out tops scooping the prestigious event, as we continually strive best choir award. Below is the list of the winning choirs that to support the great communities where we will compete in the finals in South Africa. operate. It is also aligned to our mission of helping to cultivate excellence and enabling positive futures.” TABLE OF WINNERS Indeed people came in their numbers supporting the various NAME OF CHOIR POSITION choir groups. The world class venue, Harare’s Celebration Chitungwiza Harmony Singers Winners Center reflected the stature and uplifting spirit of the Old Heavenly Praise Chorus Runner Up Mutual National Choir Festival. Spiritoso Chorale 2nd Runner Up Chitungwiza Harmony Singers marketing manager, Peter Thole, welcomed the move for Zimbabwe to be a stand 26 alone region and described it as an honour for the nation to The prestigious event started on Monday 15 August 2016 Beitbridge. The final was a well contested affair but surprise and ended on Thursday 18 August 2016. Last year’s package St Mary’s Beitbridge came out tops, being crowned champions Marist Nyanga were bubbling with confidence the National Champions. and looking forward to defend their title. Newcomers to the tournament such as Lundi, Kuwadzana 2 and St Mary’s Beitbridge were also out to make their presence felt.
The top three winners from each province converged at Rest Haven retreat, making them a total of 30. Just before the quiz sessions started, the participating students and teachers all took part in sporting activities. The sports included volleyball and soccer and gave a chance to the teachers and students to mix, mingle and socialize.
In the quiz first round, the schools were pooled in groups of three. The best two automatically qualified to the next round.
It proved to be a tourney of major upsets with favourites like Kutama and St lgnatius being knocked out in the first THE FINAL RESULT WAS AS FOLLOWS: round. The 20 remaining schools were then seeded into five 1. St Marys Beitbridge groups of four, with the top two from each session qualifying 2. Hartzell to the next round. It was also the stage where defending 3. Goromonzi champions Marist Nyanga’s road came to an end, with St 4. Kuwadzana 2 Faith also following the exit door. For winning the tournament, St Mary’s Beitbridge took away five laptops. Hartzell the runners up, won tablets while, the The 10 schools were pooled in three groups with the first second runners up Goromonzi walked away with smart session of that round having 4 schools, and the remaining phones. two groups having three schools each. Only four schools would manage to get into the National Final. The four schools that made it into the National Final were Kuwadzana 2 , Hartzell, Goromonzi and St Mary’s 27 Old Mutual again emerged as the best exhibitor OLD MUTUAL in the Insurance Category at the recently held 2016 Midlands Show. This year’s Midlands Show Society was held at the Gweru Show Grounds DID IT AGAIN AT THE from 28 July to 31 July. For the record, Old Mutual has won an three Awards at the Midlands 2016 MIDLANDS show since its first showcase in 2012. The Midlands show is Zimbabwe’s third largest SHOW SOCIETY exhibition show after the ZITF and Harare Agricultural Show. This year’s show had about 130 exhibitors compared to 100 of last year. The Guest of Honor was the Indian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Mr. Masakui Rungsung.
The theme for the show was, “Enhancing Economic Growth in a Dynamic Environment”. All Exhibitors were tasked to support their presentations and displays in accord with the theme.
The “On The Money” programme was highly in accordance with the theme as it helps improve individual’s financial literacy levels in this harsh economic situation the country is facing.
Exhibition judging was held on 28 July and the Old Mutual presenters dwelt on the vast Old Mutual services, including the Responsible Business initiatives and the “On The Money” training to a panel of Judges. This year, the stand’s ambience also improved and it is with no doubt this contributed greatly to the overall winning.
Four business units were represented at this year’s show, OMLAC, OMUT, CABS and OMICO. Devoid of a tail of uncertainty, this platform has attested to be valuable as evidenced by the sales of mostly the Savings Plan, Funeral Plan, Unit Trust Investments and the high levels of traffic that visited our stand.
These platforms are highly important as they do not only increase product awareness but also brand awareness at large. Some people fail to differentiate between Old Mutual and First Mutual hence the need to profile our brand. The exhibitions are an effective channel of bringing light to the people considering the numbers that normally attend shows.
28 JOB SWAP
Xolani Ndhlovu joined CABS in September 2011 during which time the building society was diversifying its mortgage lending business into commercial banking. This is the period in which the society was also taking full advantage of new opportunities created by dollarization of the economy and solving newer problems faced by customers operating in a multi-currency environment. Xolani’s role at CABS was a perfect fit for this period, coming in to head the team that was to establish foreign exchange trading, a business line that is not only relatively complex but new to the majority of the 500+ employees of CABS.
Xolani’s strategic approach to serving customers well from the start was that of educating and training the core trading team and the foot soldiers that he works with in the form of retail banking staff around the country and ultimately the person who matters the most - the customer. Due to his hardwork, he was chosen as a representative of Old Mutual Africa for the 2016 Job Swap in London. 29 How did you feel when you were nominated and the conversations that followed; the afternoon tea bus as the Job swap representative for Old Mutual tour of the City of London and exploring the Titanic museum Zimbabwe/Africa? in Southampton. What are some of the key points that you picked My colleague Michelle had informed me that she had up on and would be willing to implement for Old nominated me as an eligible candidate for the competition. She Mutual Zimbabwe? called me one afternoon and congratulated me on winning the position. Initially, I could not believe that I had been chosen. As Some of the key points that I noted were in the following areas: unexpected as it was, I was excited and truly honoured. • Customer Service Strategy • Human resource practices Upon landing in London, what was your initial • Tooling and structure of call centres experience? • The STARS recognition program • Magical Moments for customers I had been to London a few times before but this time it felt so • Customer centricity in management of product life cycles different. Everything had been carefully choreographed from the airport, thanks to the incredibly efficient organising team. As Old Mutual, we have pretty smart people in marketing As the only representative from my country, I travelled alone departments, and they go all out to understand our customers. and landed a tad later than other swappers from around I hope that I can help our businesses through the contacts that the world. I got 5 star treatment from the chauffer I made in the “North” to improve some aspects of our at Heathrow to check in at the plush 5-star customer service. I should emphasise that I think this Grange St Paul’s hotel in central London. is a great opportunity for our businesses to be I was delighted to meet the other investing in technology. Mordern technology swappers from around the world. has broken down boundaries. The My first evening was punctuated modern consumer has access to by a beautiful dinner at a Greek other markets around the world from restaurant. I must add that the their palmtop for example. The bulk energy was so high from the of our new employees and middle get-go. What was only a week’s class customers across our businesses experience felt like three months’ in Africa are primarily going to be worth. The program was intense the millennial generation in the next and concentrated. few years. This is the opportune time to be innovating and leveraging The Job swap experience in its on technology as this generation entirety must have been intense if is naturally affined to technology. you state that it was focusing on Excellent customer service delivered elements that could have been through great teams of employees is covered over a 3 month period. a great differentiator especially in our particular markets in Zimbabwe. What was the programme like? And what activities did you do as a group Do you think that the other members of the that you found helpful? team learnt something from you?
The programme was split between serious fun and serious Absolutely! It is amazing how cross-pollination of personal business. As the job swappers from the south, we all got up experiences benefited others. We all operate in different close with the UK customer teams to learn from their customer countries and markets, so we all had something unique and service architecture, culture and systems. Every one of us would helpful to share. I specialise in trading, mainly global markets spend a day with departments that were closest to their line of in an economy that has the USD as both foreign and domestic business. I spent time with trading teams in the Wealth business currency. That’s interesting. Further, Zimbabwe is no stranger in Southampton and Asset management teams in London. in international media usually for the not so good reasons. I spent a good deal of time with Group Treasury in London Naturally, my fellow-swappers and hosts had tones of questions as well. The British markets are very different, fast paced and about our markets. And I had the pleasure of sharing my sophisticated. Experiencing corporate London was greatly mind experiences the best way I know. I was proud too to represent blowing. I picked up a couple of takeaways from my experience our Africa businesses alongside my colleague from Kenya. that I will share with my colleagues in our business. The pick of the lessons has to be how the UK businesses leverage on In sum, the job swap was a phenomenal experience; one of technology to create incredible customer experiences. They those that don’t come so often in one’s life. I went, I saw, I also make their customer teams feel special – and they are learnt, I grew! I was inspired to go back to my country and use some of the coolest human beings I have ever met in my life in my experiences to influence improvements in customer service the corporate world. Simple initiatives such as skip-level teas and by extension enable positive futures for our customers. That can be replicated in our markets. We also had tonnes of fun. is the mission of the Old Mutual group. That is my personal 30 If I were to pick my best three…it’d have to be the wine-tasting mission too. OMICO RUZHOWA/UTHANGO
Old Mutual together with technical partner, Blue Marble is an innovative solution that provides insurance against Micro insurance launched a drought insurance product seasonal droughts. The product offers protection aimed at small holder farmers in November 2016. through farmers’ largest investment that is inputs such as seeds and fertilizer,” said Mushosho. Blue Marble is owned by eight international insurance companies, with Old Mutual being the partner in Africa. The product offers the following benefits, among others:
Speaking at the launch of the drought insurance product, • A low-cost and accessible insurance solution to Old Mutual Zimbabwe Group Chief Executive Officer, protect against uncertainty of timing and amount of Jonas Mushosho, said small holder farmers played a rainfall significant role in providing food security for the country. • A simple and seamless customer experience through their mobile phone “The importance of agriculture in Zimbabwe cannot be • Valuable farming education based on climate overemphasized. Agriculture oils the wheels of industry data to inform planting decisions and ultimately and commerce, as well as providing food security build resilience for millions of people in Zimbabwe and the southern African region. The micro insurance product is targeted at farmers using one or two hectares of land, primarily to grow maize “It is also known that Zimbabwe has an agro based for subsistence in order to feed themselves and their economy, with small scale farmers playing a significant immediate families. role. It is these farmers who will help Zimbabwe reclaim its position as the breadbasket of SADC. The focus on these farmers demonstrates Old Mutual’s inclusive approach to fostering economic development “The micro insurance product we are launching today in Zimbabwe.
31 OLD MUTUAL WILIKA PROGRAMME 2016
By Starben Manyowa – OMSS Learning Manager
The name Wilika has become very visible in the Old • Customer Masterclass Mutual community and for Zimbabwe, 2016 was • Collective Agility another successful year. We started with “hello my name is and this is what I do” Wilika means to lead, conduct, direct or derive. It is a and ended with sharing, laughing and learning. Leadership Development programme that targets from junior managers to executives. Reflecting over the past six months, we feel privileged to be on this journey; the dominant emotion from us The 2016 Wilika programme saw the largest group all is that we are inspired by our facilitators and their of graduates. A total of 99 people made it through experiences. We truly appreciate their wisdom and the leadership development programme. The group effort they put into making the training very personal. comprised 31 females and 68 males. We look forward to the future, knowing we will be the The popularity of the Wilika programme comes from movers and shakers in Old Mutual and our society at the relevance of learning to practical business needs. large for the indefinite future. – Faithful Gunda, OMSS There is a growing testimony of the observable positive Legal. behavior changes on all those who have gone through the programme. We Malawians have benefited a lot from this course. Among others, we have learnt about self-leadership, Each year we try and focus on current business lean management, problem solving, VUCA, among requirements and tailor make the programme to others. Before attending this course, we might have address those needs. held high degrees, but if our attitudes were bad, we were nothing. This Wilika course has really transformed In 2016 the focus was on: us and we will no longer be the same because it has • Self Leadership and Insights Discovery been an eye opener. – Spencer Maiden, Old Mutual • Lean Leadership Malawi.
32 MY FIRST 100 DAYS
By Tassius Chigariro – OMLAC Managing Director
100 days already! It’s been a thrilling ride and an incredible in a year that’s been personally tough for her, and also the humorous experience as a member of the Old Mutual Zimbabwe family. It’s hard Gerald (who I call my left hand man); he never runs out of energy. to grasp that today is already my 100th day in the office. These are true ambassadors for the company.
In this short journey thus far, I have learnt a lot and encountered some I have been encouraged by Moses taking blows on behalf of the very good friends, brothers and sisters. I am truly blessed to be part of company and still energised for the next morning. A few months back, this family. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity and welcoming Lovemore showed me a sorrowful AOP with $15m looking impossible, me so warmly. now he walks around everywhere with his great smile expecting north of $20m. Since my return, I have had to face some tough questions, including: “Why on earth would you come back to Zimbabwe? Have you not Above all, I am very thankful to my right hand man, Rueben, who is heard about the bond notes? Did you not see what happened at the central piece of this success and has allowed me to settle well and hyperinflation?” My short answer has always been “God has allowed guided me through. I shouldn’t forget my buddy Shepherd, who has me to see what the eyes cannot see”. effectively inducted me. “It’s not that I don’t fear, but fear has never stopped me”. I have allowed God to lead We have an incredible pipeline of future my path, and He has never failed me. I have leaders who I see around as I take my joined a business that is in good hands and daily walks on the floor. With the help admirable leadership, the future is extremely of John and Angie we look to nurture bright and I am so thankful to the OMZIL these amazing talents who will help us leadership for allowing me the opportunity to maintain this company at a level our be part of this incredible family. forefathers remain proud.
In my 16 years in the diaspora, I never met Now that I have completed my 100 days, such a dedicated and hard-working people I am not a newbie anymore, but I will as I have seen in Zimbabwe. You only need continue to learn, I also look forward to to walk through the streets of this country to adding a hand to your efforts in servicing witness the resilience of people; you only need our clients. Our clients need us as much to drive around the morning rush to see school as we need them, as our forefathers children in school uniform investing in the articulated, we are our clients certain future; you only need to visit evening colleges friend in uncertain times. to witness adults empowering themselves.
When you have been around the world, you Roughly 20 years ago, I recall trying to will know this is uniquely special. Today might look gloomy, but the show my father how to set up a VCR and I couldn’t understand why wise are equipping themselves for a brighter tomorrow. The best he couldn’t get it. Incidentally I find myself in a position where my capital we need is never financial, but rather human capital, and we daughter was explaining to me how to set up Netflix and I couldn’t have that in Zimbabwe and we will be a shining star again. get it. It then dawned on me that I have become my father. One of the most powerful animals that once existed was a Dinosaur, but it’s I was blessed to inherit a competent and excellent OMLAC team. gone. Why is it extinct, did it run out of food, was his hunted out? In these few 100 days, I have witnessed the clinching of the biggest No, it failed to adapt. I like it when our GCEO often challenges me APE deal the Life Office has won since dollarization. I am thankful to to put on my innovation hat, which I should really never take off, Bright, David and Loreen and their teams for excellent team work to remembering that “it’s not the strongest specie that will survive, nor close this deal. I love you guys for delaying this deal until my coming. the most intelligent, but that which can adapt”.
I have seen Esnath and Susan align our processes and the amount I look forward to seeing all of you out there flying the green flag, I love of energy and drive in these ladies is beyond description. I have seen you all, God bless you, thank you so much, hasta la vista! Margaret lead her team to some incredible stuff in the Southern region 33 VUMBA MOUNTAIN RUN
The 2016 Old Mutual Vumba Mountain Run saw a diverse crowd of newbies and elite runners.
It was another successful race, which was well attended by runners and the Vumba community at large. Old Mutual continues to encourage a culture of health and wellness among communities through marathon runs held annually across the country.
The races also provide a platform where professional athletes can compete and polish up their skills for tougher races and have seen many participate in the Comrades and Two Oceans in South Africa. The Old Mutual Vumba Mountain run is characterised by steep undulating terrain that provide arguably the most gruelling test for the runners.
The antidote for this, however, is a serene inner peace brought about the Vumba’s natural beauty that runners described as most relaxing.
Runners expressed satisfaction at the 2016 event, citing the presence of clear markings and excellent marshalling.
“This year I managed to go through my race without getting lost and the water points were at the most convenient of sites – it was a great run, even though I did not manage to win. Next year I will be faster,” said Mutsa Manyere, one of the participants.
Manicaland Athletics Board Chairman, Joshua Matume, said they appreciated the sponsorship provided by Old Mutual and were equally pleased with the community participation and the lease of life the event brings to the eastern gateway city.
34 SWEET VICTORY FOR OLD MUTUAL BY TITUS T SANANGURAI – OMLAC
Old Mutual boasts a strong line of athletes in a variety of went on to beat NSSA in the semi-finals 2-1 on post- match sporting activities. One of our strongest teams is the football penalties. team that continues to do us proud as it boasts a hoard of maestros The finals lived up to the hype as Old Mutual faced it’s long lost rival, ZB Life, in the final. It was a tense match as Old Every year our team competes in the Harare Insurance Mutual had minimal possession in the first half but came Football League. The league brings together players, back with a bang in the second half, buoyed by a vociferous staff and their families and sponsors alike for an electric band of supporters who intimidated ZB Life to submission. football competition. This year’s tournament was held on We equalized to send the final to another nerve-wrecking 12 November 2016 at ZB Bank Sports Club in Vainona penalty shootout. and some of the teams included First Mutual Life, Nicoz Diamond, ZB Life, Minerva Risk Advisors, Cimas, NSSA and Urged on by a vociferous crowd cheering, complimented by Baobab Reinsurance. calm headed penalty takers, Old Mutual comfortably won the penalty shootout 5 - 3. Old Mutual showed true sportsmanship and the team shone on the field, topping their round robin Group 4 where they
35 FESTIVE SEASON SECURITY TIPS
As we go into the festive season, the following tips may • Lady-driven vehicles carrying fancy cosmetics, phones help you not become a target of crimes like robberies, and cash are targeted thefts, smash and grabs: • As a motorist presses the lock remote, the criminal also presses the jamming device CARJACKING, SMASH AND GRABS • With the 433MHz alarm signal blocked, the car doors WHAT HAPPENS? remain in unlocked mode • Normally occurs at night at traffic-light controlled • Motorists walk away oblivious that the car doors are intersections not locked • Target high-class vehicles and mostly lone lady drivers • Smash passenger windows shove hands in car to grab WHAT TO DO any items in plain view • It is important to physically check if one’s car doors • Some cases end up with carjacking where vehicle is are locked before walking away forcibly taken • Absence of an audible beeping sound or a single hazard lights flash suggests an unsuccessful arming WHAT TO DO and possible signal jamming • Upon approaching red traffic lights slow down- reach • Don’t leave any valuables in plain sight in the car- intersection as lights turn green rather lock them in the boot • If you are to stop, stay alert, keep your car in gear, doors locked, windows rolled up OTHER SECURITY TIPS • If someone tries to get in your car while you are • Beware of suspicious looking people, including stationary - drive away quickly women, at robots and intersections • Should you be trailed, don’t head home but drive to • Do your festive season shopping well in advance to the nearest police station, open store or business for avoid the risks associated with the festive rush help. • Always wear your seatbelt, obey the road rules, and • When stopping at intersections, leave enough room don’t drink and drive between your car and the one in front to avoid being • When travelling, remember the vehicle kit and boxed in licencing requirements (police checks) • Park and walk in open and well-lit areas • Have the lights at home switched on and off at appropriate times every day when away THEFT FROM CARS • A basic intruder alarm system at the residence should Theft from cars is fast becoming a common phenomenon deter, delay and deny breach in the public shopping space. Your personal safety awareness should not take a WHAT HAPPENS? holiday. Implement these simple security strategies and • Gate remotes are being used to jam alarm signals, frustrate the criminals this festive season. Wishing you a leaving vehicles unlocked Merry Christmas and a Prosperous 2017!