ISSUE 20 | March 2016

magazine

all about ATTITUDE PERFORMANCE REVIEW Wheelchair What you rugby player should know tells his story

BUDGET CUTS Doing more with less

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE WESTERN CAPE GOVERNMENT Contents

Features

3 Game Changer Free Wi-Fi to boost economic growth 4 Inspiration From ICU to Springbok rugby player 6 Main Feature 4 How the budget cuts will affect us 10 What’s New The Budget explained 12 Public Service Firefighters risking their lives for the community 14 Outpatient drug programme Teenagers get a second chance 16 Barrett Survey Results This is our story 20 Did you know? Skills demand in South Africa 28 PERA winner The magic of animation

ADVICE 12 14 18 Performance review How to prepare 22 Personal finance Your pension benefits 24 Self-development Work on your presentation skills 25 Workplace All about accountability 26 Health the truth about TB 32 Inside Info Planning for climate change

OTHER

2 Q&A 28 30 Awards 34 Support Services BETTER TOGETHER MAGAZINE TEAM:

Editor in Chief: Faiza Steyn Editor: Maret Lesch Proofreaders: Leah Moodaley, Aré van Schalkwyk Afrikaans translation: Editor’s Note Aré van Schalkwyk isiXhosa translation: Luvuyo Martins Dear Colleagues Contributors: Leah Moodaley, Sylvanus du Plessis, Charlene Sheraton, By now most of us have heard the news that the Western Jeremy Opperman, Audrey Groepies, Marc Cloete, Cape Government is tightening its belt (and all of our Letitia Isaacs, Lynn September, Alison Carstens, Fritz budgets!). We are facing tough economic times and many Fismer, Elzona Swartz, Goosain Isaacs, Elizabeth Walters, of us have already felt the impact of higher food prices and Haybré Philander, Miracle Mangena, Gershon Oliver interest rate hikes on our pockets. Art director: With this in mind, I want to challenge you to see this Trudine Scannell time of economic difficulty and budget cutting as an Layout and design: opportunity. Let’s live up to our core values and find Trudine Scannell, Sylvanus du Plessis, Hantie Engelbrecht innovative ways to keep delivering quality services to our Photographer: citizens. Zanele Jam-Jam The Better Together magazine is setting the example by Administration: cutting some of the ‘nice-to-haves’ and bringing you only Nokuzola Ngcizela the best articles to inspire and inform. When we decided to Communication and liaison: cut some pages to save money, we had to find a different Portia Percival, Nokuzola Ngcizela way of saying a lot with less space. Have a look at our Editorial Committee: infographics on the budget speech (page 10) and skills Advocate Brent Gerber (DG), André Joemat (SG), demand in South Africa (page 20) and let us know what Faiza Steyn (Head of Corporate Communication), you think. Sylvanus du Plessis (Deputy Director: Creative); While working on this issue, I’ve met people who have Maret Lesch (Editor) not only chosen to make the best of their situations, but have excelled and inspired with their positive attitudes and passion to make a difference. One of them is Raven Benny, Telephone: 021 483 3806 Fax: 021 483 8267 who has Springbok colours for wheelchair rugby. Read his Postal address: Better Together Magazine, inspirational story on page 4. P.O. Box 659, Cape Town, 8000 As one of our mandates is to inform staff, we asked E-mail: [email protected] Minister Meyer why money is so tight and why our budgets are being cut. And yes, we asked him the tough questions, All letters and competition entries can be sent to the including whether our jobs are safe and whether or not above e-mail or postal address. Only Western Cape Government employees may enter. Note that all cash we will still receive our annual increase. You can read his prizes are subject to tax. answers on page 6. Also, make time to read our advice article on how to prepare for your performance review. I look forward to hearing about how you and/or your unit have found innovative ideas to continue your excellent service delivery.

Until next time

Disclaimer: The Department of the Premier’s Maret Lesch Corporate Communication Directorate has copyright on all intellectual property and artwork in the Better Together magazine. All content in the Better Together magazine adheres to copyright law.

Better Together magazine 1 Letters

Please send us any questions you might have on processes, procedures, programmes and projects within the Western Cape Government. We will ask the appropriate department or directorate to answer you and you might see your answer in the next issue.

QUESTION: WIN R500! Dear Better Together magazine, In the absence of a spouse or dependents, Do you have any stories about excellent who will receive my GEPF benefits in the event government officials? Perhaps you have seen of my passing? I’m very worried about this, as someone do remarkable work or go the extra mile someone told me that my pension will fall away for a citizen or a colleague? Write a short letter if I don’t have a spouse or children. and tell us about them! Please can you ask the relevant directorate to assist? QUESTION: Kind regards Dear Better Together magazine, Anonymous How many people with disabilities are employed by the WCG and are we actively encouraging people with disabilities to apply for positions? In terms of access to the buildings and ANSWER: services, how disability-conscious are we as a government? Dear Anonymous Death benefits are paid when a member Regards dies while in service, or within five years Ziyanda Bomvana of becoming a pensioner. GEPF also pays annuities to the surviving spouse(s) or orphan(s) of members who die while in service ANSWER: or after retiring. Dear Ziyanda At present, there are 349 people with disabilities employed Death while in service: by the Western Cape Government across all 13 departments. The benefit paid is based on the member’s The department with the highest number of people with period of pensionable service. It is payable to disabilities in their employ is Health, with 182 individuals. the surviving spouse or beneficiaries or, if there We are encouraging people with disabilities to apply for are no beneficiaries, to the member’s estate. positions. All positions are advertised with an equity statement which states that the WCG is guided by the principles of Death after becoming a pensioner: Employment Equity. Retirement or discharge annuities are With regards to accessibility, we are in line with the National guaranteed for five years after a member Job Access Strategic Framework and Policy on Reasonable goes on pension. If the member dies within Accommodation and Assistive Devices (PRAAD) about aspects this period, his or her beneficiaries receive of access. These include buildings, facilities, constructed the balance of the five-year annuity payments spaces, transport, information, equipment, services, activities, (excluding the annual supplement) in a once- resources, utilities, language, communication and technology. off cash lump sum. However, as we are always striving to improve and provide I hope this answers your question. equal opportunities to all, we appreciate feedback and suggestions. Warm regards Faldelah Solomons Kind regards Directorate: Service Benefits Directorate: Policy and Planning Department of the Premier Department of the Premier

2 Better Together magazine Game Changer Why Wi-Fi?

Worldwide research shows that broadband helps to create jobs and grow the economy.

Compiled by Maret Lesch

roadband access across the province Internet access has a particularly big impact has been identified as a top priority and on communities who face socio-economic Bwill assist in the delivery of all five of our difficulties. The ability to effectively use high- Provincial Strategic Goals (PSGs). speed internet with devices such as mobile Based on research which indicated a link phones will give citizens the information, between broadband access and economic services, resources and opportunities to growth, the Department of Economic move themselves, their families and their Development and Tourism, in collaboration communities forward. They will now be able with Neotel, are deploying 384 Wi-Fi hotspots to read, watch, listen to and engage with across the Western Cape. This means there absolutely anything and anyone. will be one in almost every ward. These We believe that increased access to hotspots will be located at various government information will help to form a more buildings. inclusive society for citizens, businesses and This month, 50 new Wi-Fi hotspot sites institutions, as well as grow the economy and were launched. These hotspots will improve create more jobs. Internet access to information on education, skills, health and wellness, new markets, and efficiencies for businesses as well as the provision of easier access to other communities and a more integrated service INTERNET CHANGED MY LIFE delivery. As more hotspots are rolled out Thobeka Yose participated in the WCG across the province, we hope to improve Wi-Fi competition and was one of the written broadband access and empower our category winners. Her story: communities. “Internet has improved my life for the better. I never thought that by now I would be working for a company based in Europe. I am being trained online daily for the highest position at the magazine. Through my knowledge and exposure I am going to help women from the poor communities put food on the table. I am going to make sure that they send their children to school. I am also going to make sure that they read to equip themselves. I am going to make sure that I become the voice for the voiceless; I will tell their stories. Thank you for the opportunity Internet access has given me.” All about attitude

When a car accident changed his life forever, Raven Benny decided not to let his injury limit him. Instead, he joined a wheelchair rugby team and became a Springbok player. By Maret Lesch

hen Raven Benny, a Transport Raven was in ICU for two weeks and then Officer at the Groote Schuur transferred to the Southern Cross Hospital in WHospital, said goodbye to his wife, Wynberg, Cape Town, for rehabilitation. It was four children and five-month-old baby on during his stay in hospital that he realised his 3 February 2000 to go to a family friend’s attitude is extremely important in dealing with wedding in Durban, he did not expect his entire what had happened as well as moving forward. life to be turned upside down. “I had a strange twitch in my back and it Raven, his father, mother, and two of his kept me up. I was very curious and wanted to brothers were in a car accident close to the make sense of my situation. The nurse and the town Graaff-Reinet. “When I woke up, I was doctor could not explain it and I then decided upside down. I immediately realised something to also ask the physiotherapist what I’m feeling. big must have happened as I could not feel.” She said ‘No, you can’t feel below the C5 and He was transferred to a hospital in Port C6 vertebrae. Act your level.’ That was a major Elizabeth where he was told that he had broken point in my rehab. I never accepted it. I did not his neck in the C5 and C6 vertebrae. “I am want her to limit me. I wanted to be treated as paralysed in all four limbs, but not completely, an individual.” as I have limited function in my hands,” he The accident changed his entire outlook explains. on life. “I had the will to accept that what had

4 Better Together magazine Inspiration

“It is up to me to dictate people’s One of the men introduced himself to Raven and invited him to watch the match between reaction and I realised that South Africa and Great Britain. “He said a big, strong fellow like me should be playing people react to my response.” wheelchair rugby. I went to the match as a visitor of the Great Britain team. I spoke to the South African team and went to their next happened in my life is not okay, it will never practice. They put me in a chair and strapped be, but I was okay with it. I very soon noticed me in. I was hooked immediately. Not only how my attitude and behaviour under the could I feel the freedom and movement of circumstances influenced those around me. It playing team sport again, I was with other guys was then that I decided to be positive, accept who looked like I do. The social interaction and what happened and continue with my life as fitness aspects made a big difference in my ‘normal’ as possible. It is up to me to dictate life.” people’s reaction and I realised that people The following year, Raven was chosen for react to my response.” the Western Province and Springbok teams. Before the accident, Raven was an avid “I could keep the number nine that was on my sportsman and he played striker for Groote soccer jersey and it meant a lot to me,” Schuur Hospital’s he adds. soccer team. The Helping young men in situations similar physiotherapist to his is very important to Raven. “I’m using may i ASK? and occupational my experience to help other people. As a therapists advised Transport Officer, I’m the link between the Raven says that if you see him to join a ambulances and the hospital. I see when a someone with a disability, you wheelchair rugby helicopter or ambulance brings a new patient. can offer to help them. However, team, but he had I’m very involved with the spinal unit and I do you should never assume the other things on his counselling. A big part of my recovery was person needs help and start mind once he could accepting what had happened and my wife and pushing their wheelchair without go home. family’s support.” asking first. He adds that he “I had to start According to Raven, being able to drive really does not mind if people work again, as and come to work also played a huge role in ask him what happened and he we decided my his recovery and attitude. This is one of the encourages everyone to address wife was going reasons why he wants to raise awareness about someone with a disability directly to stay home and disabilities. “For many of the men in our rugby when you want to ask something. I will be the sole team, the rugby practice was their only outing. breadwinner. I also They could not go back to work because of a had to find a better lack of public transport. When I went to New place for us to stay Zealand for rugby in 2003, I had a big shock. Clockwise and find a way to drive again.” People with disabilities have equal access to from the left: When everything was sorted out, he decided public transport. In South Africa we are years Raven Benny to enquire about wheelchair rugby. “The guy behind. We have a long way to go in terms of is the captain was very friendly and said they play in Strand infrastructure for people with disabilities. Public of his club’s and that I’m welcome to come. He said they transport should be planned in consultation wheelchair can put me in a chair and we can rough each with people with disabilities.” rugby team; other up. It made me think that maybe this Through his involvement in wheelchair With a group game is not for me.” sports, Raven was introduced to the of men He then met Great Britain’s wheelchair rugby Quadriplegic Association of South Africa. In playing sport, team on a trip to the V&A Waterfront on 2008, he was elected to serve as chairperson there’s bound 9 August 2002. “I saw a table full of guys with of the Western Cape Quadpara Association to be some the same tracksuits and many of them were in and in 2009 he was elected to serve as the competition; wheelchairs. I was very aware of how I ate in national chairperson. One of the public and my wife had to cut my food in small Supporting and educating his peers and younger pieces so that I can eat it. One of the guys at their families is very important to him. ”I tell players in that table simply ate with his mouth directly out them that attitude is everything and that they the team in of his plate. I could see that he was enjoying must be positive. They don’t know yet what action. himself and he was chatting to his friends.” they are still capable of.”

Better Together magazine 5 Main feature

“We will make it”

By shifting our attitude towards money and understanding why we need to save money as a government, we will survive current financial constraints.

By Maret Lesch

6 Better Together magazine any of us feel a little He believes that we also have less tax uncertain about our revenue because our economic growth forecast provincial government’s status has been downgraded, which translates financial situation and how to less money being allocated to both the it affects us. In his provincial national and provincial governments. This is budget speech, our Minister why we will need to work smart with the money Mof Finance, Dr Ivan Meyer, said that we are allocated to the Western Cape Government. facing a tough financial situation and will need However, the big question is how these to make substantial budget cuts in order to budget cuts will affect us as staff members as survive as a government. well as how we will in turn deliver services to According to Minister Meyer, there is a the citizens of the Western Cape. financial crisis and what matters now is how we as a government respond to it. “I believe leadership must rise to the challenge and not STAFF MEMBERS fall by the crisis, and this government is rising to the challenge. We will make it.” Minister Meyer says that we can still expect a He explains that the current financial salary increase above inflation this year, as it is situation can largely be ascribed to a a binding national agreement that the Western worldwide decline in economic growth. “Our Cape Government must honour and respect. economy is not in a good However, he believes space as it is not growing. that it might not be the One of the reasons it is “...it is time to best decision. “A salary not growing, is because it increase above the is largely a commodity or rebuild the country, inflation rate poses a export-driven economy. serious risk to our fiscal The Chinese economy grow the economy stability. I think South is declining. They are and create jobs...” Africa is now at a point less dependent on our where we can no longer commodities – like iron, afford to allow increases steel, gold and platinum. This means we are above the inflation rate. As an example, if exporting less to China and have less revenue inflation is only 1% higher later this year, we will and less money. Globally, the economy is have to cut another R300 million of our budget also not growing and we’ve seen growth of in the Western Cape to accommodate it.” less than 3% in large parts of the world. That With regards to performance bonuses, may be the reason why we have less money Meyer says that as the Minister of Finance, he nationally and globally.” looks forward to people saying that it is time

Better Together magazine 7 to rebuild the country, grow the economy and Meyer views these two sectors as critical and is create jobs rather than receive performance making sure that they have enough money to bonuses. continue service delivery. “I think we are now in a situation where This means that we need to cut our budgets people must not ask what this country can do elsewhere. “We have made substantial cuts in for them, but what they can do for this country. the provision of goods and services and are It is not a good time to ask for bonuses. The reducing the use of consultants by trying to do real bonus is to have a job, to do the best you all the work inside government,” says Meyer. can and to get your salary.” We are also reducing personnel cost by However, being grateful for our jobs does introducing expenditure ceilings and freezing not mean that we will experience restructuring positions. or retrenchments. “For now it is not on the To put these drastic measures into cards for the Western Cape Government. If perspective, Minister Meyer uses the national the economy continues along the current debt to GDP ratio as an example. “South trend we will certainly have to consider such Africa as a country has a fiscal expansion. In mechanisms, but not in the immediate future,” 2009 our debt to GDP ratio was 21% and in explains Minister Meyer. 2016 it has increased to 49%. It is critical that we move from a fiscal expansion to fiscal consolidation and fiscal discipline. The Western SERVICE DELIVERY Cape Government is leading the way to fiscal consolidation.” Having less money and substantially cutting He says we’ve been cutting costs on travel our budget will not affect frontline service since 2009 and our MEC’s have been flying delivery. This includes services like health, economy class since then. We are now applying education and social work. “In the Western even stricter austerity measures by finding Cape we have made sure that even with the ways to reduce the cost of travel even more. current budget cuts, we protect frontline service delivery. These services will continue, particularly those services that are rendered to “In the Western Cape we have the most vulnerable, and occupation-specific services that are needed to grow the economy, made sure that even with the like engineers,” says Minister Meyer. This is also applicable when it comes to current budget cuts, we protect positions being frozen. We are using two frontline service delivery.” approaches in protecting service delivery. The first is occupation-specific dispensation (OSD), where critical posts, such as doctors, nurses, These measures include sending less people teachers, engineers and social workers, will to conferences, sending smaller delegations still be filled because it is critical for service overseas and using teleconferencing instead delivery. The only posts that are frozen are of travelling for meetings. We also have the non-core functions and non-OSD functions. smallest parliamentary budget in the country. The second approach is applying the value- All of this might seem a bit overwhelming, for-money principle and using the money but Minister Meyer believes that we have allocated to us as efficiently and effectively as the talent, skills and capabilities to continue possible to streamline business. According to delivering an excellent service even in difficult Meyer, this means that we will have to cut cost economic circumstances. He says that we from the administration part of government so can make a big difference when we focus on that we have more money for service delivery. working smarter, and using the tools available to us in the WCG suite to manage and monitor progress, which will lead to greater efficiency. SPENDING He also emphasises that it is very important that we spend more time on planning, as The largest portion of our budget (54%) is used damage control is very expensive. for personnel and the second largest amount The way forward is to use partner is allocated to health and education. Minister institutions. “The problems our country now

8 Better Together magazine Main feature

A faces are so big that no institution can manage them on its own. We need to partner with private inister Meyer verduidelik dat die huidige finansiële toestand institutions to deliver our objectives. Mgrootliks toegeskryf kan word aan ’n wêreldwye afname in For example, with the drought ekonomiese groei. “Ons ekonomie is nie op ’n goeie plek nie, want the banks should work with the dit groei nie. Een van die redes hoekom dit nie groei nie, is omdat dit farmers to carry them through; grootliks ’n kommoditeit- of uitvoergedrewe ekonomie is. Die Chinese with education we need private ekonomie is besig om te daal. Hulle is minder afhanklik van ons institutions to partner with in order kommoditeite soos yster, staal, goud en platinum. Dit beteken dat ons to meet our objectives. Another minder na China uitvoer en minder inkomste en geld het. example is our energy crisis. We Hy is van mening dat ons ook minder belastinginkomste het must partner with private institutions omdat ons ekonomiese groeivooruitsigte afgegradeer is, wat beteken to help us create renewable energy.” dat minder geld aan beide die nasionale en provinsiale regerings Minister Meyer says that in a toegeken word. Dit is hoekom ons slim te werk moet gaan met die time of financial difficulty, the most geld wat aan die Wes-Kaapse Regering toegewys is. important thing we should always Om minder geld te hê en ons begroting aansienlik te besnoei, sal keep in mind is that we are working geen invloed op ons belangrikste dienslewering hê nie. Dit sluit in with tax payers’ money. It is our duty dienste soos gesondheid, onderwys en maatskaplike werk. to ensure that the money is used to “Ons het in die Wes-Kaap seker gemaak dat ons selfs met die render the best services possible. huidige besnoeiing van die begroting ons belangrikste dienslewering beskerm. Hierdie dienste sal voortgaan, veral dié dienste wat gelewer word aan die mees kwesbare persone en beroepspesifieke dienste wat nodig is om die ekonomie te laat groei, soos byvoorbeeld MONEY SPEAK ingenieurs,” sê minister Meyer.

Commodity: A raw material or primary product that can be X bought and sold, such as gold or grains. Mphathiswa uMeyer ucacisa ngokuba imeko yangoku Expenditure ceiling: Uyezemali ingoyanyaniswa nokwehla kokukhula kwezoqoqosho A maximum level or cap for kwihlabathi. “Uqoqosho lwethu olukho kwimo elungileyo kuba government spending in the alukhuli. Esinye sezizathu zokuba lungakhuli kukuba luqoqoqsho course of a financial year. oluqhutywa yimpahla yorhwebo okanye luthunyelo-mveliso kumazwe angaphandle kwaye uqoqosho lwamaTshayina luyehla. Fiscal consolidation: A policy AmaTshayina awaxhomekekanga kakhulu kwimpahla yorhwebo yethu aimed at reducing government efana nesinyithi, intsimbi, igolide neplatinam. Oku kuthetha ukuba deficits and debt accumulation. asiyithumeli ngokwaneleyo impahla yorhwebo eTshayina kwaye sinengeniso nemali encinci kweli lizwe. GDP: Gross domestic product. Kananjalo umphathiswa ukwakholelwa kwinto yokuba sinengeniso yerhafu encinci kuba uqikelelo loqoqosho lwethu luhliselwe Inflation: The rate at which kwizinga eliphantsi, nto leyo ethetha ukuba incinci imali eyabelwa the general level of prices oorhulumente bamaphondo nokazwelonke. Kungenxa yesi sizathu for goods and services is simele siyisebenzise ngobukrelekrele imali eyabelwe uRhulumente rising and, consequently, the weNtshona Koloni. purchasing power of currency Ukuba nemali encinci nokucutha ngokubonakalayo uhlahlo- is falling. mali lwethu akusayi kuwuchaphazela umsebenzi wethu ophambili wokunikezela ngeenkonzo. Oku kuquka iinkonzo ezifana nezempilo, Revenue: The income of a ezemfundo nobuntlalo-ntle. “ENtshona Koloni siye saqinisekisa government from taxation, ukuba ngolu ncitshiso lohlahlo-mali, siyalukhuselawe unikezelo excise duties, customs, or lweenkonzo eziphambili. Ezi nkonzo ziza kuqhubeka, ingakumbi other sources, appropriated iinkonzo ezinikezelwa apho kukho umngcipheko khona, nakwiinkonzo to the payment of the public ezingqalileyo zomsebenzi ezifunekayo ukuze kukhuliswe uqoqosho, expenses. njengeenjineli,” utsho uMphathiswa uMeyer.

Better Together magazine 9 What’s New Budget 2016/17 A budget for Growth and creating Public Value

R55 billion budget

R19,247 billion KEY FINANCIAL towards Education POLICY R19,983 billion PRINCIPLES: towards Health

1. Fiscal consolidation R1,961 billion - reducing baseline budgets to towards Social Development ensure that we do not spend more than we have. R787,855 million 2. Fiscal discipline towards Agriculture - being financially accountable by ensuring that there is no irregular R6,788 billion or wasteful spending by any towards Transport and Public Works department or entity.

R486,769 million towards Economic Development and

THE 2016 BUDGET IS Tourism C ompiled by Leah Moodaley and Sylvanus du Plessis FOCUSED ON 2 AREAS: R2,224 billion towards Human Settlements

R217,899 million towards Local Government

1. Balancing public finances and managing financial risks to maintain a R736,184 million stable economy. towards Cultural Affairs and Sport 2. Giving effect to the 2014-2019 Provincial Strategic Plan (PSP) R292,016 million The PSP sets out the Western Cape towards Community Safety Government’s priorities for the next 5 years. The PSP is made up of 5 primary goals. These goals are R550,964 million supported by priority projects called towards Environmental Affairs and Game Changers. Development Planning

10 Better Together magazine R8,5 billion will be spent on infrastructure led growth and job creation

In 2016 the budget will buy approximately:

Medical staff and 33 Capital 5 064 related professions Health facilities

Professional nurses, staff 12 838 nurses and nursing assistants

educators and re- 15 new schools 32 039 lated professions

11 134 Transport upgrades along the N1 and N2 housing units social services 1 532 professionals

8 530 sites

Better Together magazine 11 Selfless service

Firefighters risk their lives every day to keep their community members safe. Two firefighters from the coastal town Hermanus describe it as more than just their job, it is their calling in life.

By Maret Lesch

Juandré Viviers (left) and Bevan Hess can’t imagine doing anything else other than being firefighters.

ven from a distance, it is obvious that and the programme offered training, stability firefighters Juandré Viviers and Bevan and peace of mind,” he explains. EHess are proud of their uniform and what Bevan also joined the firefighting service it represents. For them, firefighting is not just through the EPW programme. a job, but a calling and a career that they have “I moved back from Cape Town and was fallen completely in love with. unemployed. Someone told me they are According to Juandré, he always knew he looking for people for the EPW programme wanted to serve his community. “My father as firefighters. I knew nothing about being was a police officer and I considered joining a firefighter, only what I saw on television! the police force as I grew up in a house with However, I thought it was a good option as discipline and high moral values. I wanted to I had a little girl to support and needed a serve like my father did. In the end I decided to stable job.” join my local firefighting service, as I thought it After passing his fitness test, Bevan was would be the perfect fit for me.” also accepted into the EPW programme. He was part of the former reservist Although being a firefighter was just a job programme and when given the opportunity in the beginning, he soon changed his mind. to join the Expanded Public Works (EPW) “Within the first month, I fell completely in programme as a firefighter, Juandré love with the job. I knew I never wanted to immediately applied. “Job security is important do anything else. The job found me.”

12 Better Together magazine Inspiration

Serving the community matters. For example when a child runs to you Being a firefighter demands much more and hugs your leg to thank you, even when than risking your life every day to fight fires you don’t speak the same language. Being a and rescue people. Bevan is part of the firefighter is highly rewarding”. operational team, which means that he works He says the opportunity to make a twelve hour shifts and spends long hours difference also motivates him. “Sometimes at the fire station. He is responsible for the it’s really hard to do our work. We see pain ‘action’ aspect of firefighting, which means and heartbreak almost every day. We see the they fight fires, handle disaster management, other side of life and it is difficult not to get provide assistance to accident scenes and emotional. Especially when you are called out execute rescue operations, for example when to an accident scene and you get there and someone is trapped in a car there are bodies scattered at an accident scene or on a across the road.” mountain cliff. “I knew I never wanted However, Juandré “It is dangerous and we and Bevan explain that never know what to expect to do anything else. even though their work is when we arrive at a scene. dangerous, there is nothing It is important that we are The job found me.” else they want to do. “We always ready for any kind of – Bevan Hess eat, sleep, drink and run incident. Sometimes we have firefighting. It is part of our to hang down over high cliffs DNA and who we are. We to rescue someone. Other times we are fighting are firefighters, even when we are off duty,” blazes of more than 10 metres high. However, explains Juandré. our work is not all adrenaline. We’re mostly He adds that there is a very tight bond on standby at the fire station, where we clean, between the firefighters. “We are comrades drill, do fitness, and study. Sometimes it feels and love each other like brothers. In our line of as if we spend more time at the station than work, it is important that we are close and trust at home, but it is a sacrifice you make to serve each other. It’s like the saying ‘United we stand, your community,” explains Bevan. divided we fall’.” A big part of a firefighter’s responsibility is Both Juandré and Bevan feel very excited fire safety, which entails fire prevention and and positive about their careers. “This career education. This is Juandré’s area of expertise. can take you places in your life. There is “Fire safety includes advising and educating on always a future when you work for a provincial gas, plot clearing, fire breaks and fire hazards. institution. Our country and the EPW I also go to businesses and advise them on fire programme give young people stability and a signs, escape routes and fire extinguishers. future,” says Juandré. People don’t always perceive this service and inspections as us helping them, but I only want the best for them and their businesses and the correct equipment and procedures can EPW PROGRAMME save lives and money. Our primary function as firefighters is fire prevention and to stop the The Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) focuses outbreak and spread of fire,” says Juandré. on skills development. It is one of the important ways the Western Cape Government is working to reduce the levels Motivation of poverty and unemployment in the province. It does this Although Bevan faces very dangerous through: situations, he says that he cannot imagine • Giving unemployed people access to temporary work. doing anything else. “It motivates me to risk • Helping unemployed people through skills programmes my life when I arrive at a scene and although and work experience. the people don’t know my face, they see my • Ensuring that unemployed people receive an allowance uniform and the emblem on my chest. Then I for any work they have completed as part of the EPWP. can see in their eyes that they have hope and • Enhancing EPWP participants’ chances of finding jobs or that they know I will help them. Another huge starting their own businesses. motivation for me is when people thank me Source: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/general-publication/expanded- afterwards.” public-works-programme-epwp-0 Juandré agrees; “It is the small stuff that

Better Together magazine 13 Stepping

UpThanks to the Mudita Foundation’s outpatient substance abuse programme, a high school learner with a drug addiction had the chance to turn her life around completely.

By Maret Lesch

lmost five years ago, Bronwyn Williams* (17) from Eerste River, was addicted Ato a drug commonly known as Tik. Her drug problem affected her relationship with her parents, educators and peers, and severely impacted her performance at school. In 2011, Bronwyn’s mother, Noeline Williams*, sought help for her child. “I did not know the school had a drug programme. When I discovered Bronwyn was using drugs, I spoke to one of the teachers. He told me about Alison’s programme (the Mudita Foundation’s outpatient substance abuse programme). Bronwyn agreed to attend a session at the programme and they tested her for drugs. “From the results we could see she was doing Tik,” recalls Noeline. They then asked Bronwyn to join the programme. “The teacher took me to Alison’s group. At first I did not want to be there and I ran away,” says Bronwyn. Shortly after being admitted to outpatient treatment, Bronwyn’s brother passed away. Both Bronwyn and her family realised the severity of Bronwyn’s drug problems and knew they would need to do something about it immediately. “Then I realised that if I wanted to change my life, I will have to be open and honest about everything and I started attending the group sessions,” says Bronwyn. According to Noeline, it was some time before she could see an improvement in

14 Better Together magazine Inspiration

Bronwyn. “In the first weeks after she joined the programme, things were really difficult at home. THE MUDITA FOUNDATION However, as she stayed with the programme, I started seeing a difference.” The Mudita Foundation, a research-based After attending some group sessions, outpatient treatment facility, was founded Bronwyn was referred to a nearby inpatient in 2010 by Alison Carstens, an Educational facility by the Mudita Foundation. Bronwyn Psychologist. The Department of Social believes that her mother’s support, and the Development provides funding and Mudita Foundation’s caring staff, were the only support to the Mudita Foundation. things that carried her through this challenging Alison has been involved with young time. “My mom’s support made a huge people from Eerste River since 2006 and founded the difference, especially when I had to go to rehab Mudita Foundation as a way to help adolescents recover the first time. I did not want to go and when I from substance abuse disorders, with a specific focus on got out I continued to relapse. A year later I had relapse prevention. According to Alison, her team of trained to go to rehab for another two months.” This and registered counsellors and psychologists mostly treat time Bronwyn had decided to step up to the youth with alcohol and cannabis problems. This intensive challenge and take control of her life. “I realised outpatient programme is offered to learners on school the situation is getting out of hand and that it premises in Eerste River and Somerset West. must stop. The second time I went to rehab, it They attend sessions three to five times per week for was my decision. I could see there were people 16 weeks. Treatment consists of group and individual who wanted to help me and who supported sessions with trained clinicians and focuses on themes such me. This time I decided to also continue with as relapse prevention and learning how to deal with triggers Alison’s programme and to attend the group and cravings. A variety of activities are offered during sessions as well as regular urine drug testing. Alison believes that it is important to keep individuals in “This programme treatment busy, and services continue after school hours and over school holidays. When learners regularly test inspired me to make clean, they receive a reward. For example, Bronwyn has a difference in other had the opportunity to go horse riding during the school holidays because she continues to test clean. children’s lives.” The clinicians also assist patients with their schoolwork to ensure they are coping at school. “We realise that treating substance abuse disorders in isolation can sessions.” bring about limited success. We have thus tailored our Today marks more than two years that programmes to address the scholastic needs of learners to Bronwyn continues to test clean for drugs. Not further increase general functioning,” says Alison. only did her relationship with her mom improve, In only a few years, the Mudita Foundation has already but she can also see a significant improvement made a big impact on the lives of thousands of learners. in her school results. “The average age when kids start drinking is around 14 and “My marks improved a lot. When you are when we started out, the matric pass rate was 62%. Three using drugs, you want to be on the road all years later we have raised it by 20%. We walk the road with the time. Now that I’m clean, I have more time the child and don’t let go. The longer you can be with a for my homework and projects. Through the child, the better the outcome. I’ve seen how important it is programme we also have access to information for a child to know that they can trust us – a trust we build and assistance with our projects. This makes over time,” explains Alison. a big difference, as we don’t have Internet to Another important aspect of the programme is involving access information for our school assignments.” the communities and schools. “We provide appropriate Today, Bronwyn is in matric and is still support and education to the caregivers, educators and attending Mudita’s outpatient sessions regularly. significant others engaged with adolescents in treatment,” She is aiming to finish matric and hopes for an says Alison. opportunity to further her studies next year. “I want to study to become a social worker and For more information on the Mudita Foundation’s work with children. This programme inspired me Outpatient Substance Abuse Programme, or how you to make a difference in other children’s lives.” can help to make a difference, please e-mail Alison at [email protected]. * False name used to protect the minor’s identity. Better Together magazine 15 2015 Barrett Values Survey results

Information supplied by Directorate: Organisational Behaviour

What is our story?

100 Participation increased by 80 12% 60 12 291 employees

6 812 employees 52% Drop in entropy 40 40% 4 120 employees 20 29% 26% 23% 3% 18% 0 2011 2013 2015

Alignment between the current culture and the desired culture

We are currently experiencing teamwork, accountability and caring and we believe that it is necessary to ensure that the Western Cape Government will achieve its full potential in the future.

Personal values of employees

We are authentic We have an inner We have a willingness We have an and considerate drive, optimism to step up and follow appreciation for towards others. and dedication. through with our our personal lives. obligations.

Current culture

Employees are working They are attentive to the Having a co-operative together and taking needs of clients and want approach is important ownership of their actions. to meet those needs. now and in the future.

16 Better Together magazine What do we need to improve?

Rigid internal Employees feel Employees need structures frustrate overworked and clearer direction. employees. undervalued.

Internal divisions and Employees do not Employees feel power struggles hamper feel appreciated and powerless and co-operation and free- feel blamed when restricted by flowing information. things go wrong. spending controls.

Key message

Employees have confidence in the Employees want to focus direction the WCG is heading, but are on building internal and calling for some changes in the future. external relationships.

Employees want improved Employees need leaders to strengthen their working practices. skills and to ensure that every employee fulfils their obligations.

Employees want to fulfil their potential and feel appreciated for their contributions.

More than half of our staff members participated in the Barrett Survey last year. From the results it is clear that we are positive, work-orientated and that we can join hands and work together. As a group we have a culture of caring about each other and being attentive to the needs of our clients.

Better Together magazine 17 Preparing to Perform Whether you’re an over achiever or struggling to cope with your workload, you may feel slightly nervous when it’s time for your performance review. This article walks you through the process, step by step.

Compiled by Charlene Sheraton and Leah Moodaley

erformance reviews are a crucial element It is important to note that even though of the performance management process these discussions are verbal, all conclusions Pand provide employers and employees and further actions should be recorded in the opportunity to solve work-related writing for record keeping. problems, identify skills gaps and improve poor It is the responsibility of your manager performance. to monitor your work performance, coach The review gives your manager an you to achieve your performance agreement opportunity to formally discuss your overall (PA) outputs and to provide their assistance progress with you in full context and it should when required. You should be informed of take place at least twice a year – between any shortcomings in writing and given the 1 April and 30 September and 1 October and opportunity and resources to improve your 31 March, according to the performance cycle. performance through appropriate training Informal reviews can also take place during programmes. When poor performance is June and December, where early detection of identified, it is important to immediately delivery challenges can be acknowledged and establish or clarify the cause(s) thereof and addressed. Review meetings should always be to agree on a Performance Improvement Plan held in a private and comfortable environment, (PIP). Provisions are stipulated in the Incapacity away from any interruptions or distractions. Code and Procedures for the Public Service.

18 Better Together magazine Workplace

In addition, you are entitled to consult with another manager in the unit to appeal your Valuable questions to ask performance result or to respond to poor during a performance review: performance. It is the responsibility of the people manager to clearly identify the appeals • What do you feel went well this year and what could route against the performance appraisal and to have been better? inform you that you are permitted to bring a • What additional knowledge or skills would make me colleague or trade union representative along more effective in my role? to assist in the appeal process. • What are our most important goals for the coming year? It is very important that during the meeting, • How could I be more helpful to other people in the team? you and your manager acknowledge any • What changes or challenges do you see for our unit this changes in your working circumstances since year? the beginning of the performance cycle or • What could I do this year that would improve my rating since your last review. in next year’s review? • What are the areas of growth for me in the next period? Reviews may comprise of the following: • Checking the relevance of your PA to determine whether circumstances have Handling constructive criticism changed and whether the PA needs to be adjusted accordingly. 1 Don’t take it personally • Reviewing your performance against the PA React respectfully as though your critic’s intentions and agreeing on any adjustments necessary are good and respond from a place of gratitude for the to improve performance. information. • Acknowledging good performance and service standards that have been met. 2 Ask for specifics • Arranging for any necessary training, You’ll probably need more details to get to the heart of coaching or development activities. the matter. Demonstrate with your words and attitude that you welcome the constructive criticism and you will It is important that reasons for unsatisfactory begin to hear what you really want to. performance are discussed: • Has your job changed recently and have any 3 Solicit help expectations been communicated to you To show that you’re seriously interested in the feedback, adequately? request advice about how you can improve your • Is the desired output clearly understood? performance. When you candidly acknowledge your • Have you been given optimal support to deficiencies and solicit advice, you show your strength. perform? • Do you have access to all the information 4 Share your progress needed to perform the tasks? Show respect towards the person who gave you the • Do you have the correct level of competency constructive criticism. Share your progress with the required for the job? individual who shared the feedback and show that you • Have you received adequate training to heard his or her concerns and are willing to actively take enable you to perform optimally? steps to improve your performance. • Are there any external factors affecting your ability to perform? 5 Be a feedback mirror When someone shares constructive criticism with you, Lastly, your manager should initiate a the individual makes themselves vulnerable to criticism. discussion that covers any gaps in information Act as their partner in self-improvement by explaining or understanding and clarify any issues arising that their feedback is valuable and that you are happy to from differences in perception (on either side). return the favour. The objective for this part of the meeting is to achieve a shared understanding of what As the saying goes, “Nobody is perfect”. From time to time, the issues are and to formulate a PIP that will we all need others to tell us when we aren’t measuring up be put in place to address the issues. Ideally, to our full potential. Constructive criticism is essential to the PIP needs to be finalised with agreed upon our self-development. Be an agent of change in this area, timeframes and signed by both parties by the and you’ll be rewarded with useful information and healthier end of the performance review. relationships.

Better Together magazine 19 Did you know?

SKILLS IN DEMAND Compiled by Leah Moodaley

Air conditioning/ Automotive Boat builder/ Boilermaker Bricklayer Carpenter/ Cheese maker/ Chef Refrigeration body repair Ship repair Joiner Powder maker technician and spray- painting

Civil Diesel Electrician ICT Industrial Laminator and Mechanic Mechanical Engineer mechanic occupations equipment composite fitter repair technician

Mechatronic Millwright Motor Painter Plastic Plumber Rigger and Saw technician mechanic setter slinger doctor

Scaffolder Seafarer Solar heater Stone Tool maker Videographer Welder Wood Machinist/ technician mason Saw Mill Operator

*Occupations in demand constantly change in order to meet industry needs.

20 Better Together magazine Most common types of engineering:

Mechanical engineering is a branch of engineering that involves the design, production, and operation of machinery. The engineering field requires an understanding of core concepts including mechanics, kinematics, thermodynamics, materials science, structural analysis, and electricity. Mechanical engineers use these core principles along with tools like computer-aided design, and product lifecycle management to design and analyse manufacturing plants, industrial equipment and machinery, heating and cooling systems, transport systems, aircraft, watercraft, robotics, medical devices, weapons, and others.

Chemical engineering is a branch of science that applies physical sciences (physics and chemistry) and life sciences (microbiology and biochemistry) together with mathematics and economics to produce, transform, transport, and properly use chemicals, materials and energy.

Civil engineering is a professional engineering discipline that deals with the design, construction, and maintenance of the physical and naturally built environment, including works like roads, bridges, canals, dams, and buildings. It is traditionally broken into several sub-disciplines including architectural engineering, environmental engineering, geotechnical engineering, control engineering, structural engineering, earthquake engineering, transportation engineering, forensic engineering, municipal or urban engineering, water resources engineering, materials engineering, wastewater engineering, offshore engineering, facade engineering, quantity surveying, coastal engineering, construction surveying, and construction engineering.

Electrical engineering deals with the study and application of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism. Electrical engineering has now subdivided into a wide range of subfields including electronics, digital computers, power engineering, telecommunications, control systems, radio-frequency engineering, processing, instrumentation, and microelectronics.

The Western Cape’s Largest contributors to current formal overall unemployment jobs in the Western Cape.

rate Tourism 19,4% 204 000 jobs It could add a further 120 000 formal jobs by 2019.

South Africa has a high 50,4% of unemployed Agri-processing youth in the 15-24 year age group, with a further 29,1% in the 24-34 year age group. 79 000 jobs It could add a further 100 000 formal jobs by 2019.

35,5% The oil and gas sector of unemployed people in the Western Cape are between the ages of 35 000 jobs 15 and 34 it could add a further 60 000 formal jobs by 2019.

*Figures according to the PSP 2014/19

FACT: ICT Management is among the top earning jobs in South Africa.

What is a boilermaker? What is a millwright? Boilermakers assemble, install, and A millwright is a tradesperson who installs, maintains and repair boilers, closed vats, and repairs stationary industrial machinery and mechanical other large vessels or containers equipment by interpreting drawings, performing layouts and

vincial Economic Review and Outlook 2015 (PERO 2015) Sources: www.statssa.gov.za, Quarterly Labour Forcey Survey (QLFS), Pro vincial Economic Review and Outlook 2015 (PERO 2015) *Information verified by the Skills Development Programme, DEDAT . that hold liquids and gases. assembling parts until they are in perfect working order.

Better Together magazine 21 As a member of the Government Employee Pension Pension Fund (GEPF), you are entitled to death and funeral Photograph: Jupiterimages/ T hinkstock Sources: www.gepf.gov.za; GEPF Member Guide *Information verified by Pe ople Management Practices, Directorate: Service Benefits benefits, as well as a monthly unpacked payment when you retire. By Maret Lesch

ll government employees, whose conditions of service fall under the APublic Service Act, are members of the GEPF. According to its Member’s Guide, the GEPF has more than 1,2 million active numbers and over 375 000 pensioners and beneficiaries. All GEPF members pay 7,5% of their pensionable salary as their contribution to the Fund. Over and above this amount, the member’s employer contributes 13% of the member’s pensionable salary. Besides a monthly income when you retire, you are also eligible for death and funeral benefits.

Death benefit Death benefits are paid when a member dies while in service, or within five years of retiring. GEPF also pays annuities to the surviving spouse or orphan(s) of members who die while in service or after retiring. If your spouse was a dependent on your medical aid, they will also be entitled to a medical benefit.

Funeral benefit The purpose of a funeral benefit is to help pay the funeral costs when a member or pensioner passes away. A funeral benefit is also paid out on the death of the spouse, life partner or eligible child of a member or pensioner. This benefit consists of R7 500 for the funeral of a member or pensioner and their spouse. For the funeral of an eligible child, the benefit is R3 000. If both spouses are members of the GEPF, both can claim the funeral benefit for the same family member’s funeral.

22 Better Together magazine Personal finance

FAQ TOP TIP When am I or my beneficiaries entitled to benefits? You are entitled to benefits when you resign, are discharged (due You should consult a financial to ill health, dismissal or retrenchment) or when you retire. Your advisor at least 5–10 years before monthly pension after retirement will be paid every month from the you want to retire to ensure that day you retire until your death. your pension benefits will be Your beneficiaries are entitled to the payment of a lump sum if enough to meet your needs. you die in service or within five years after your retirement. A spouse’s pension will usually also be paid if you die in service or at any stage during your retirement.

What is a spouse’s annuity and who can receive it? EXTRA SAVINGS It is a monthly pension and will only be paid to the spouse or life partner of the member or pensioner who died. It is not paid to With the high cost of living and other dependants or beneficiaries. If the member dies in service, inflation, a high increase in food and the spouse will receive 50% of the annuity the member would have living expenses are expected in future. received if they retired at the date of their death. This is a lifelong Currently, only an estimated six per pension and does not stop when the spouse remarries. cent of South Africans are able to maintain their lifestyle and replace their How does a divorce affect my benefits? income fully at retirement. This means When you divorce, your spouse may be entitled to a portion of that most of us must consider making your pension interest, depending on the divorce order granted by additional provision, besides our GEPF the court. GEPF will then have to pay this divorce pension to your benefits, for our retirement. former spouse. Pension interest is the benefit that you, as a GEPF You can invest in a retirement member, would have received if you had resigned from WCG at the annuity or preservation fund in order to time of your divorce. save extra money for your retirement. The GEPF advises members to ask a What are my payment options if I resign? registered financial advisor or broker to You will receive your resignation benefit, which is a lump sum assist them in analysing their financial calculated according to a fixed formula using your final salary situation and in deciding which and years of service. You can choose to have the lump sum paid financial product is the best suited for into your bank account or to have it transferred to an approved their needs. retirement fund, such as a pension fund, pension preservation fund or retirement annuity. Remember that your decision is final and cannot be reversed. UPDATE YOUR DETAILS Can I retire before my 60th birthday and receive all my benefits? The normal retirement age for government employees is 65, but When you pass away, your pension you can retire from the age of 60 without being penalised. fund money will go to the beneficiaries you nominated. It might be a good If you have less than 10 years of pensionable service, you receive idea to regularly revise your nominated a once-off lump sum called a gratuity, which you can invest. The beneficiaries, as well as update details lump sum is the value of your benefits in the Fund, based on a fixed with regards to your spouse and formula. children. Remember that you must register your life partner, as the GEPF If you retire with more than 10 years of pensionable service, you cannot automatically consider someone will receive a once-off lump sum (gratuity) and a monthly pension a life partner. (annuity). To change your details and beneficiaries, request a form from Corporate Services Centre or download For more information, please contact the GEPF call centre one from the Blue Pages on the at 0800 117 669. Intranet. Complete it and send it to the Corporate Services Centre.

Better Together magazine 23 FlagSelf-development Header

Ready, steady, speak!

Few people enjoy public speaking, but for many of us delivering presentations or facilitating workshops is an active part of our job. The Provincial Training Institute’s (PTI) course on presentation skills will help you to master this skill.

f the idea of speaking in front of people • Be able to use various visual aids. leaves you in a cold sweat, it might be a • Be able to effectively deal with questions and difficult Igood idea to register for the PTI’s course on situations. presentation skills. This learning programme is • Understand the importance of reflecting back on a designed to equip participants on levels presentation and to celebrate the achievement. 7–12 with the knowledge and skills needed to overcome stage fright and prepare and deliver Evaluation effective and professional presentations. • Assessment is done during the learning programme using group and individual activities. LEARNING PROGRAMME DETAILS • Trainees must deliver at least two presentations during the learning programme. They will be videotaped and the Learning programme outline recordings will be played back to the class for evaluation. • Breaking the ice • Structuring a presentation TRAINING METHODOLOGY • Preparing for success • Interactive lectures • Stand and deliver • Group discussions • Dealing with visual aids • Role plays • Dealing with questions and disruptions • Videos • Conclusion and reflection • Self-evaluations • Practical activities Outcomes After completion of this learning programme PREREQUISITES the attendee should: None. • Know what presentations are, what types there are, the reasons for presentations and DURATION OF LEARNING PROGRAMME how to deal with stage fright. 3 days. • Know how to structure a presentation and the importance thereof. CERTIFICATE • Be able to follow the steps in preparing for a After successful completion of the programme, learners will presentation. receive a certificate of attendance. • Know how to use verbal and nonverbal communication to ensure effective Bookings can be made via departmental representatives on the presentations. electronic HRD system of the PTI.

24 Better Together magazine Workplace Count me in! “The moment you take responsibility for everything in your life, is the moment you can change anything about your life” – Hal Elrod

By Maret Lesch

ur organisational culture is determined Being accountable in the workplace also by the core values we live out in means that we don’t spend an excessive Othe workplace. From the results of amount of time on personal matters and being the Barrett Survey conducted in 2015, it was on our cellphones while at work. It is also our clear that most of us considered the value of responsibility to ensure that we don’t make a accountability to be an important contributing habit of being late for work and exceeding our factor to our happiness and fulfilment at work. lunch hour. To embody this culture, each of us must be When everyone in a team takes responsibility able to take responsibility for and ownership for their tasks, it means we can trust each other of our work, our decisions to deliver and that the citizen can trust us to and our actions. If you serve them to the best of our abilities. “According want to know exactly what Being accountable also stretches further to our social you are responsible for than just our responsibilities at work. It also at work, you can have a means that we represent the Western Cape media policy, look at your performance Government in our personal capacity and what agreement. This should give we post on social media, such as Facebook and we must you a clear understanding of Twitter. always act with your role and what you are Recently, a few people made headlines when accountable for. they posted insensitive and racist comments integrity and With the current economic on social media. They were dismissed climate and with national because even in their personal capacity, they respect to the and provincial government represented their place of employment. This citizen and tightening their belts, it means that we must always be mindful of our is very important that we actions, even on platforms such as social media. each other.” are extra careful with the According to our social media policy, we money we are responsible must always act with integrity and respect for at work. This means that to the citizen and each other. For example, we must ensure that all of our outcomes and you are not allowed to use your work e-mail targets are delivered on time, that our work is address to open a social media account. of a high quality and that we are very careful As proud WCG public servants, it is our when it comes to expenditure, keeping within responsibility to hold one another accountable our budgets and using fleet vehicles only for and to support each other in taking ownership approved work purposes. of our work.

For more information on our organisational values, click on the values tab on the Intranet homepage. You can find the Social Media Policy under Blue Pages on the Intranet.

Better Together magazine 25 An estimated The 1 out of every 100 people in South Africa has truth TB, irrespective of their age or socio- about economic class. The good news is that it can be completely cured if you take your medication regularly. TB By Leah Moodaley

ccording to the World Health buster Organisation (WHO), South Africa Myth Ahas one of the highest incidences of tuberculosis (TB) in the world, with statistics TB is NOT an STD; You CANNOT giving an estimated 450 000 cases of active TB it is an airborne contract TB in 2013, with 1% of the population of about 50 million developing active TB each year. disease. However, it by touching can become active or kissing WHAT? if another disease someone with TB is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium Tuberculosis, also weakens your TB or using known as Koch’s bacillus. It can spread through immune system and the same the lymph nodes and bloodstream to any organ latent TB is in your toilet seat. in the body, but it is usually found in the lungs. Other areas affected include the spine, brain system. and kidneys. When not treated, TB can be fatal. 1 2

26 Better Together magazine Health

HOW? WHO? TB is spread through the air from person to Anyone can get TB, but people at high risk person. The TB bacteria become airborne when generally fall into two categories: a person with TB coughs, sneezes, speaks, or sings. People nearby may inhale the bacteria 1. People recently infected with TB bacteria. and become infected. 2. People with medical conditions that TB bacteria can live in your body without weaken the immune system, such as HIV developing symptoms. This is called a latent TB and diabetes. infection. In most people who become infected, the body is able to fight the bacteria to stop You are at increased risk for being infected if: them from growing. People with latent TB • You have spent time with a person with TB

Sources: http://www.cdc.gov/features/tbsymptoms/; http://www.tbfacts.org/tb-statistics-south-africa/; infection do not feel sick and cannot spread TB disease. bacteria to others. • You are from a country or have visited areas TB bacteria become active in your body where TB disease is very common. when your immune system weakens. People • You live or work where TB disease is more with TB disease usually have symptoms and common, such as a homeless shelter, prison can spread TB bacteria to others. or jail, or long-term care facility. • You are a health-care worker who works with clients or patients who are at increased risk for TB disease.

You have a greater chance of getting TB http://www.webmd.com/lung/understanding-tuberculosis-basics TB bacteria most commonly disease once infected if you have HIV, you have grow in the lungs, and can health problems that make it hard for your cause symptoms such as: body to fight disease, are a child younger than four years, or you were not treated correctly • A bad cough that lasts 2 weeks for latent TB infection or TB disease in the past. or longer Because latent infections can eventually • Weakness or fatigue become active, people without symptoms should also receive medical treatment. A • Weight loss course of medication can clear the inactive • Loss of appetite bacteria before the infection becomes active. • Night sweats Parents should also ensure that their children’s • Pain in the chest vaccinations are up to date. • Coughing up blood or sputum (mucus from deep inside the Drug resistant TB lungs) A more dangerous form of TB is drug resistant TB (MDR TB). This is when the TB bacteria you • Chills caused by fever are infected with, will not respond to, and are resistant to the TB medication. South Africa falls under the 27 high burden drug resistant countries. This means that we have at least 4 000 cases of MDR TB each year. At least 10% of TB cases reported, are TB You have NOT completed MDR TB. CANNOT be treatment unless all You can get drug resistant TB when: transmitted prescribed medication • Your TB treatment is inadequate, for by sharing has been taken during example when you do not take your TB food and specified period. medication regularly or as prescribed, or when the wrong medication is prescribed. water with Incomplete treatment will • It is directly transmitted from one person to someone result in your TB infection another. with the becoming drug-resistant disease. and potentially untreatable. * All information in this article was verified by Ms Alvera 3 4 Swartz, Deputy Director: TB Prevention & Management

Better Together magazine 27 Flag Header

Making Magic

Animation is an art form that exists between wild imagination and rigorous technical discipline. According to Stuart Forrest, CEO of Triggerfish Animation Studios, it’s the perfect medium to explore our own stories and showcase our excellent technical talent.

By Leah Moodaley

alking in to an animation studio, making it very difficult for audiences to one would expect the hustle and separate reality from fantasy. Wbustle of busy feet and raging ideas, One of the biggest misconceptions about http://www.softschools.com/timelines/history_of_animation_timeline/251/

but the experience on the day proved to be animation is that it is only meant for children, http://www.3dcreativemag.com/artists/issue043_mar09/article01.pdf the exact opposite. Silently consumed by the when in fact, countries like France and Japan sounds in their headphones and the pictures produce adult animation as a dedicated sub- on their computer screens, 20 animators sat genre. Hollywood studios produce animation determined to execute their workload for the that appeals to adults by adding a lot of heart day. The air was crisp and the atmosphere or some smart humour; thereby attracting was peaceful; the creativity, however, spoke a “family” audience – a broad audience of volumes. Cartoonish storyboards, autographed children and adults alike. film posters, and animated toys splashed across Referring to Pixar’s Toy Story 3, Stuart every surface, creating the perfect environment Forrest explains how even as an adult, you for “imagination activation”. become so invested in the characters that you The art of animation film dates back to the feel the suspense and hurt when they’re put late 1800’s when a French man named Emil into the incinerator. Animation has the capacity Reynaud opened a theatre using an invention to take a very real, emotionally difficult human called the Praxinoscope. It used turning mirrors story and translate it in a medium that is easy to reflect images and produce a moving to understand. “Animation uses metaphors to picture. Animation then steadily evolved to bring across story ideas that can’t be done with the drawing of 2D characters, the addition of live actors”, says Stuart. sound, and has now become a 3D dominated Characters come to life in the script industry – with the advent of technology development process, proving that the art of

28 Better Together magazine PERA winner

animation is not only in the ability to draw, Contrary to what many may think, animation but in the ability to write a good story. “Great is a very complex art form which is not limited storytelling is when you can believe that a to cartooned drawings and bursting sound talking toy actually exists”, says Stuart. effects. Stuart, in particular, is inspired by non- The beauty of animation is in creating traditional and experimental animation but entities that can’t change after they’ve explains that Triggerfish Animation’s primary been put on paper. Who could forget Bugs goal is for broad audiences to enjoy the product Bunny’s “What’s up doc?” or Tweety’s “I think that they create, and this is why their light- I taw a puddy tat”. For generations, these hearted animations Khumba and Zambezia have are characters that became a part of their been successful in markets around the world. audience’s worlds, and even a part of their The production of animation can be families. compared to an assembly line, with different A vital element of any successful film is teams working on different phases of called the Suspension of Disbelief. This is the production. Some artists do scriptwriting, while moment when the audience begins to believe others do drawings and special effects. Stuart in the story and recognise the film as being says the golden rule is that “Everybody needs real. In animation it is an art to achieve this. to plus the shot”. If what you do to the film According to Stuart, “…as soon as you see a talking fish, your brain tells you that this isn’t Can animation change the world? real. But after just a few seconds of visual Yes it can, according to Stuart Forrest. By developing the stimulation, the other animation industry in South Africa, our films can change global part of your brain will perceptions of our capabilities as a country. kick in say ‘yes we know this isn’t real, now be quiet’, and then you can invest in the story”. doesn’t improve the story in any way, don’t do Animation transports its audiences to a it. Other qualities which are vital to producing different world, taking them to a place they’ve world class animation include the ability to never been, and while they’re there, their direct and take direction, creativity, excellent emotions come to life. Nonetheless, it is vital drawing ability, and the right voice to suit your to be technically flawless, because according character. to Stuart, one production mistake can break Over and above this, the true art of this magical spell. Characters need to move animation is found in the balance of technical and interact seamlessly, while the emotional skill, imagination, and emotion to make elements of the story remain enticing enough characters truly come to life. This is how magic to pull an audience in. is made.

PREMIER’S ENTREPENEURIAL RECOGNITION AWARDS 2015

Triggerfish Animation Studios stood proudly as the overall Best Business of the Year at the PERA Awards. This achievement came just one year after Triggerfish received the runner-up prize for Best Emerging Business in 2014.

Better Together magazine 29 awards

2015 National Batho Pele Excellence Awards

Best Frontline Service Delivery Best Functioning Provincial Employee of the Year Department

Wilfred Arendse Social Development Wilfred Arendse received the silver award under the category Best Frontline Service Delivery Employee of the Year

Judiac Ranape Health Judiac Ranape received the Bronze Award under the category Best Frontline Service Department of Cultural Affairs Delivery Employee of the Year. and Sport The Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport was recognised with a Bronze Award in the Best Functioning Provincial Department category. Best Public Service Leader of the Year

Jacqueline Samson-Swartz Human Settlements Jacqueline Samson-Swartz received the Silver Award under the category Best Public Service Leader of the Year

Best Head of Provincial Department Department of the Premier Jacqui Gooch The Department of the Premier was HOD: TPW recognised with a Silver Award in the Best Jacqui Gooch received the Bronze Award Functioning Provincial Department category. under the category Best Head of Provincial Department.

Adv. Brent Gerber Director-General: DotP Adv. Brent Gerber received the Silver Award under the category Best Head of Provincial Department.

Brent Walters HOD: DCAS Brent Walters received the Gold Award Department of Community Safety under the category Best Head of Provincial The Department of Community Safety was Department. recognised with a Gold Award in the Best Functioning Provincial Department category.

30 Better Together magazine Community Safety Health

A Certificate of Recognition Cecilia Makiwane Provincial Nursing Award for the excellent EPP support rendered to the CPF Denise Booysen Clinical Programme Coordinator Louis Brown Assistant Director: Denise Booysen started her first Community Safety community project, Mission for Vision, when she identified the Louis Brown received a need for affordable glasses. Certificate of Recognition She collected recycled glasses from community members who on Saturday 21 November no longer required their old glasses. With the help of local 2015 for his excellent optometrists, those requiring glasses were sent for eye tests and support to a community policing structure. received spectacles without cost to the community. Through In 2013 he adopted the Lutzville community the MADA and Spruitdrift projects she created a schedule that policing forum and improved participation and involved a rehabilitation team for school-going children that increased safety in the Lutzville community. deals with alcohol and drug abuse. This award is the first of its kind to an official From left: Dr Keith Cloete (DDG), Denise Booysen, Dr Beth Engelbrecht (HOD) who serves a CPF. and Florence Africa (Director Nursing Western Cape Government Health).

Department of the Premier 2015 Provincial Teaching Awards

National Excellence in Design The Western Cape Education Department and Development of Training presented awards in 10 categories to the Programmes Award province’s top teachers on Friday, 6 November 2015. Warren Handel 1. Excellence in Primary School teaching: Warren Handel, a project Ms Charnelle Hector, Belmor Primary School, Hanover Park manager at the ICT training 2. Excellence in Secondary School teaching: unit of the Centre for Ms Hannelie Ras-Pretorius, Desmond Mpilo Secondary e-Innovation, received the School, Mbekweni, Paarl National Excellence in 3. Excellence in Grade R teaching: Mrs Elizabeth Roelofse, Design and Development De La Bat School for the Deaf, Worcester of Training Programmes Award at the Public 4. Excellence in special needs and inclusive teaching: Sector Trainers’ Forum for customising Moodle Ms Conlyn Claasen, Ligstraal School for LSEN, Paarl East and therefore reducing delivery time and 5. Excellence in teaching Natural Sciences (GET): assessment of assignments. Ms Kerstin Olivier, George South Primary School, George 6. Excellence in teaching Mathematics (GET): Mrs Shirley Herman, Delville Park Primary School, Coal-Face Service Delivery Pacaltsdorp Training Programme Award 7. Excellence in technology-enhanced teaching and learning: Mrs Gafieza Ismail, Spine Road High School, Rocklands, Ronwynne Rhoda Mitchells Plain 8. Excellence in Primary School leadership: Ronwynne Rhoda received Mr Donovan Cleophas, Masiphatisane Primary School, the Coal-Face Service Ongegund, Vredenburg Delivery Training Programme 9. Excellence in Secondary School leadership: Award for her contribution Mr Charles Marthinussen, Atlantis Secondary School, in the roll-out of ICT skills in Wesfleur, Atlantis the management of e-learning programmes on 10. Lifetime Achievement Award: Mr Hendrik Botha, Excelsior behalf of the WCED. Primary School, De la Haye, Bellville

Better Together magazine 31 Inside Info

Planning for climate change

Climate change has a very real impact on many parts of the Western Cape and affects our economic growth, which is why we are implementing our Climate Change Response Strategy (2014). Compiled by Leah Moodaley

olar radiation or solar energy, produced by the sun, is either absorbed into Climate Sources: Climate Change Response Strategy 2014; WCG EADP Brochure; http://www.epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gas-equivalencies-calculator Sthe earth or reflected back into the Change atmosphere. Certain gases in our atmosphere, Response such as carbon dioxide (CO ) and methane 2 Strategy (CH4), trap energy and heat in a similar way to a greenhouse, which is why these gases are called “greenhouse gases” (GHG). As these Climate Change, layers of gas increase, so does the amount caused by human of energy and heat on earth, which results activities, has in climate change. Science has indicated already reached that human induced activities have radically two thirds of the accelerated this effect, to cause a rapid and temperature we unprecedented change in our climate. can safely thrive within. Reducing our greenhouse gas Climate change and the Western Cape contribution to climate change and enhancing our capacity The Western Cape is vulnerable to climate to cope with climate change impacts (such as increased change and the impact thereof is already flooding, prolonged droughts, extreme heat waves, and being felt in many parts of the province. The rising sea levels) is critical to socio-economic well-being projected consequences of climate change in and the ability to remain a competitive province in South the Western Cape are: Africa and globally. The Western Cape Climate Change Response Strategy, as approved by the Provincial Cabinet • Decrease in rainfall in 2014, is the transversal coordinating policy document • Increased severity of drought guiding all sectors of the Western Cape with regards to • Higher average temperature their climate change responses. • Increased intensity of extreme events • Increase in flooding and storm surges For more information and tips, • Increase in coastal impacts visit www.westerncape.gov.za/eadp. • Increased fire risk • Fewer cold and frost days Did you know? Taking action We view climate change as one of the Total energy consumption in the Western Cape biggest threats to our communities, ≈ 13% economy, and environment. As the Western 276 333 250 GJ of SA’s total usage. Cape Government, we are taking action by developing and implementing climate change Total emissions in the Western Cape response policies, programmes and projects ≈ 11% which aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 36 MtCO2e of SA’s total usage. and transform our province into a low-carbon = greenhouse gas emissions from economy by promoting sustainable energy systems. We are also adapting and increasing 7,6 cars or 12,9 tons or 137 943 km resilience to projected climate changes driven for one year of waste sent driven by an to the average and encourage all sectors, businesses, local landfill car governments and citizens to play their part in addressing and preparing for climate change.

32 Better Together magazine Employee Health and Wellness Programme

The Employee Health and Wellness Programme (EHWP) consists of independent, professional Counselling & Advisory Services – free of charge to all our employees of the CSC.

These services are not only available to staff members but also to their “household dependents”, i.e. your spouse and children.

What are the services on offer? • Independent (the services are provided by an outside service provider, ICAS) • Counselling Services which includes unlimited • Multi-lingual (you can choose to speak in your home telephone counselling as well as short-term face-to- language) face counselling for individuals and/or couples at a • 24/7/365 (service is available anytime during day and time and place convenient to you. night, every single day of the year) • Practical advice services on financial matters e.g. debt • Direct access to you via a toll free number free of management or financial planning and budgeting,legal charge to you. advice e.g. divorce or maintenance, consumer issues or wills and estates and family matters e.g. childcare, care for the elderly, education and allowances. How to contact us? • Trauma Counselling for groups and individuals after involvement in a traumatic incident. If it was a work- 1. If you have access to a landline contact is free of related trauma, the counselling will happen at the work charge on our toll-free number. place. 2. Call us from your cellphone and as soon as you speak • If the problem requires specialist help or a longer to a counsellor, ask them to phone you back on your period of counselling, you will be helped with referrals cellphone so that you don’t incur the cost. to other organisations or resources. How will it work when I phone ICAS? Why are these services a good source of support? They are: 1. When you phone the toll-free number, an automated voice message will welcome you to the Employee • Confidential (your identity, or the specific details of Health and Wellness Programme. your call, will not be revealed) 2. You will then be asked to choose your language • Impartial (the counsellor you speak to doesn’t preference by pressing the relevant number on your represent anybody else’s interest) phone. • Professional (helpdesk manned by clinical or 3. Your call will be answered by a professional counsellor counselling psychologists) who will assist you with your concerns.

If you have any problem that feels too big to handle – be it personal, family, health, or work-related – or you need information on a legal, financial or family care matter, phone toll-free for confidential, professional and free assistance and advice.

Your toll-free number: 0800 611 155 | USSD Code for a call-back: *134*905# Flag Header THE VALUES:

Caring To care for those we serve and work with.

Competence The ability and capacity to do the job we were employed to do.

Accountability We take responsibility.

Integrity To be honest and do the right thing.

Innovation To be open to new ideas and develop creative solutions to problems in a resourceful way.

Responsiveness To serve the needs of our citizens and employees.

THE VISION:

Internal vision To be the best-run regional government in the world.

External vision Open opportunity for all.

Better Together The Western Cape Government has a duty to provide opportunities. Citizens have the responsibility to make use of them.

Let’s make use of provided opportunies and make the Western Cape BETTER TOGETHER. 34 Better Together magazine