In the digital age, safeguarding your finances is paramount. Here are red flags to identify a scam banking call:
Unsolicited Contact: If they initiate contact without your consent, be cautious. Verify legitimacy before sharing any information.
Demand for Personal Information: Legitimate banks won't ask for sensitive data (account number, password, OTP) over the phone. Be wary of such requests.
Threats or Urgency: Scammers use threats or urgency to pressure you. Legitimate institutions won't resort to such tactics.
Suspicious Caller ID: Criminals may disguise their numbers. Don't trust caller IDs blindly; verify independently.
Lack of Caller Identification: If they won't provide ID or verify, it could be a scam. Genuine callers should readily identify themselves.
Online Requests: Ask you to go online into your account and transfer funds from one account to another advising that your account has been hacked by would be thieves.

If you suspect a scam banking call, Hang Up, Don't engage. End the call immediately. Contact your bank directly using official channels to confirm any concerns.

Give us a call to help us help you protect your finances

Call 033 330 3601 or visit 101 Main Street, Howick for more assistance from Cooke Fuller Group Insurance Brokers and Financial Advisers.

How technology is making workplaces better in 2024

In today's rapidly changing business environment, the significance of employee productivity and satisfaction cannot be overstated. They are critical elements that drive the success of any business.

The landscape of the workplace has undergone a dramatic transformation due to technological advancements. The advent of high-speed internet, cloud computing, and advanced software solutions has empowered employees to work more efficiently and effectively.

Warren Bonheim, Managing Director of Zinia, a technology group and Managed Services Provider (MSP), shares his top 7 insights on how tech makes workplaces more productive in 2024.
1. Revolutionising communication and collaboration
Modern technological tools have transformed how communication and collaboration occur in the workplace. Platforms such as instant messaging, video conferencing, and collaborative tools have simplified team interactions, making distance a non-issue. This development is especially crucial in the era of remote working, where effective communication and team unity are paramount.
2. Automation - a gateway to enhanced productivity and satisfaction
A standout benefit of technology in the workplace is automation. By taking over monotonous tasks, automation tools free up employees to focus on more intricate and creative aspects of their work. This shift leads to increased productivity and job satisfaction, as employees find more value and meaning in their tasks.
3. Data-driven insights for better management
The ability to gather and analyse extensive data sets is a significant advantage offered by technology. This data is invaluable for making informed decisions regarding various business aspects, including employee management. Understanding employee behaviours and preferences enables companies to devise strategies that enhance both productivity and satisfaction.
4. IT Managed Services - ensuring efficiency and continuity
The role of IT managed services is crucial in upholding and enhancing a company's technological backbone. These services ensure that all tech aspects, including software and hardware, are current, secure, and fully operational. Outsourcing IT management helps reduce technical issue-related downtimes, thus offering employees a more efficient and uninterrupted work environment.
5. Cybersecurity is safeguarding employee wellbeing
As dependence on technology grows, so does the importance of cybersecurity. Ensuring the safety of a company's data and the personal information of employees is vital. Adequate cybersecurity measures are essential in maintaining employee trust and confidence.
6. Fostering growth through technology-enabled training
Technology also plays a pivotal role in employee training and development. Through e-learning platforms and online training modules, employees can conveniently enhance their skills. Continuous learning opportunities contribute significantly to employee satisfaction and productivity.
7. The future - AI and machine learning shaping the workplace
Looking forward, technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are poised to further revolutionise the workplace. These technologies offer predictive insights, automate complex tasks, and provide in-depth analysis that might elude human observation, paving the way for greater productivity and operational efficiency.

In conclusion, incorporating technology in the workplace is no longer optional but a critical necessity for business success in 2024. Companies that effectively utilise these technological advancements will witness marked improvements in employee productivity and satisfaction. By embracing these innovations, businesses are set to foster a more dynamic, efficient, and rewarding work environment for their staff.

Supplied.

The uMngeni Municipality in partnership with the uMgungundlovu Economic Development Agency can today reveal the new logo for the Howick Falls precinct.

The logo has been developed through extensive public participation and input. This process involved numerous public engagements (in person and online), consultation with the tourism sector, newspaper and social media adverts, and even an opportunity for the public to vote.

The symbols and colours of the logo have been chosen to encapsulate in inputs of as many stakeholders as possible.

The new corporate branding of the precinct marks the completion of the first phase of the precinct redevelopment. The next phases which are scheduled to break ground in March 2024 will see the redevelopment of the walkways, the installation of fencing and access control, improved lighting, braai facilities as well as the construction of washing areas for the community at Shiyabazali. The total package is worth R5 million.

Working with the uMgungundlovu Economic Development Agency, the uMngeni Municipality remains committed to the rehabilitation of Howick Falls and the growth of the tourism sector in the region.

Cllr CJ Pappas
Mayor
uMngeni Local Municipality

Holiday Season is Here! Travel Safely and Keep Your Assets Secure with These Tips!

As the holiday season approaches, safety and asset protection are key. Here are some valuable tips to ensure your peace of mind while you enjoy your travels.

Lock up: Double-check doors and windows. Install security measures.

Trust neighbours: Share plans for home watching.

Unplug: Prevent electrical issues and use timers for lights.

Safeguard valuables: Keep them locked and hidden.

Stay quiet online: Don't announce your absence.

Inform security: Notify services or neighbourhood watch.

Final check: Ensure all locks are secure.

We’ve got you covered. Call us today!

Call HOWICK: 033 330 3601 or Visit 101 Main Street, Howick

A third green cap for player of the match was presented to Jessica Candler yesterday afternoon in the U19 Girls Week T20 matches, currently being played in Cape Town.

Jess made 38 not out and took a wicket. Bowling figures; 4 overs, 18 runs and 1 wicket.

Well done to Jess on her SA Fillies selection!

Updated 14h30 on 14 December 2023

Today Jess Candler was awarded her second green cap in two days at the U19 Girls week of cricket in Cape Town for achieving player of the match once again. Today's score for Jess was three wickets for 10 runs from 4 overs. Howick can be proud of this young sports star.

TEFL teacher shares 20 years’ worth of lessons

Teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) gave Cape Town resident Kirsten Colquhoun the opportunity to visit 27 countries by the time she was 29 – all while earning an income. After graduating with a degree in English and Psychology from the University of Cape Town, she packed her bags and set off for Thailand to begin her globe-trotting adventure, which ultimately influenced the trajectory of her life and career.

“I knew as soon as I started teaching that I wasn't going to stop, so I just didn't go back home. Since then, I’ve taught and lived in six countries, including China, Spain, and England. It’s an experience I recommend to everyone,” says Kirsten, who now develops curriculum resources and provides teacher training at The TEFL Academy, South Africa’s leading TEFL qualification provider.

Teaching abroad allowed Kirsten to save up and spend the school holidays travelling all over the world, offering a blueprint for local graduates who want to kickstart a career in teaching – or simply take a gap year in 2024. Qualified teachers can expect to earn between R190 and R560 per hour, as well as invaluable work experience.

"Throughout my time overseas, I picked up skills like public speaking and problem-solving – which was great for me professionally. Living and teaching in a foreign country is such an amazing experience for your independence. It shows you how flexible and adaptable you are. That all looks great on your CV; it shows that you’re a go-getter. There’s also the possibility of picking up another language, which is always a beneficial skill,” says Kirsten.

Her time abroad was not without its challenges. Kirsten found teaching in some rural areas difficult, since fewer people were likely to speak English. She also had to overcome her naturally shy and introverted personality to become an effective teacher. This was ultimately an opportunity for personal growth.

“Travel allowed me to become a new person. To be successful in teaching and building a life overseas, I had to discover a side of myself that could handle anything. It helps that, when you’re in a new country, you can be whoever you want to. So, I left that shy, quiet person in Cape Town and became someone who was self-confident,” says Kirsten.

Kirsten has since settled down in Cape Town with her husband and two children. Teaching abroad has significantly impacted her priorities as a mother: “It planted a seed in me about how I want my children to travel with me. I want to introduce them to different cultures and teach them how to appreciate other people and places. It changed me so fundamentally and I want them to experience it from a much younger age than what I had,” she says.

Kirsten’s advice to anyone considering taking a TEFL course is to just go for it. “Doing TEFL sets you apart from other people who don’t travel. Be open-minded and flexible. Don’t get too hung up on the details and the possible negatives. Having gone through many kinds of difficult situations myself, I can safely say that whatever happens will be worth it in the end.”

About The TEFL Academy
Offering accessible and cost-effective ways to get TEFL-qualified, The TEFL Academy provides internationally accredited and regulated online courses. The company hosts a jobs board on their website, with over 1 500 international teaching opportunities for potential teachers to pursue, across a number of countries. For more information, visit www.theteflacademy.com/za/

Supplied.

Megan Webb and Jessica Candler are representing the U19 KZN Inland Girls' Cricket team at the U19 Cricket week in the Cape. Megan has been elected the team captain and Jessica has been elected the Vice-Captain. We congratulate both girls and wish them every success. Age Quod Agis!

Our Street Store is a beacon of support, providing over 70 families with quality second-hand clothing, food parcels, and toiletries through our empowering token system. Clients collect recyclable waste materials from the community and exchange them for tokens, allowing them to 'purchase' essential items.

As the festive season approaches, we recognize that Christmas might be challenging for these households. Many struggle to provide small gifts for their children or host a celebration for the family. WE WANT TO CHANGE THIS!

Please consider spreading the joy by donating a 'Christmas Gift' for a child or contributing 'Food Items' for a Christmas hamper. Your generosity will empower parents to give their kids a memorable Christmas.

Donations can be dropped off at the Love Howick Dream Centre, 19 Morling Street, Howick before the 12th of December. Let's come together to make this holiday season brighter for everyone in our community!

Or you can contribute financially at:
Bank: FNB Howick
Account Name: Love Howick NPC
Account number: 627 747 27 039
Branch Code: 220 725
Reference: Christmas

If you are able to add uMngeni SPCA as a beneficiary on your My School card, please do so. We are always grateful for whatever support you are able to provide.

More about uMngeni SPCA

At the end of a year everyone deserves a break, some get one and some sadly, do not. So be patient with and kind to all the emergency, medical, retail, hospitality, municipal and other staff who keep showing up for us all through the holiday season.

VillageMedia will close from 20 December 2023 and re-open on 15 January in 2024. Emails will be checked from time to time during shutdown, and you are welcome to WhatsApp 072 654 9779 if something needs urgent action.

MIDLANDS HOSPICE 'A reminder to please note our Festive Trading. We will close @ 12.00 on Friday 22 December and Reopen at 8.00 on Tuesday 2 January.'

MIDLANDS SEPTIC SERVICES 'From Travis, myself and our exceptional staff, we would just like to wish our loyal customers a very Merry Xmas and hope 2024 is a great year for all.
Keep eating, see you soon.
Bookings now officially closed, and we are finishing the long list of clients today and tomorrow.
We unfortunately cannot take on any more suctions or blockages before Xmas.
We will be available on Wednesday 27/12 up until Saturday 30/12.
We close at 13:00 on 30/12, and reopen on Wednesday 03/01/2024.'

NUTS ABOUT BOOKS & TOYS

'Festive Season Trading Hours:

Saturday, 23rd Dec: 8am-1pm

Sunday, 24th to Tues, 26th Dec: Closed

Wed, 27th Dec to Fri, 29th Dec: 8.30am - 4.30pm

Sat, 30th Dec: 8.30am - 1 pm

Sun, 31st Dec to Tues 2nd Jan 2024: Closed

Best wishes to my loyal customers, followers, friends and family. Thank you for your loyal support over the past years.'

PIGGLY WIGGLY COFFEE SHOP

STANLEY'S 'Wishing all our customers a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year. Thank you for your support throughout the year.'

THE UGLY DUCKLING 'We are delighted to inform you that our stores will be open during the festive season to serve all your holiday shopping needs.

We understand the importance of finding the perfect gifts and essentials for your loved ones, and we want to make sure we are here to assist you in every way possible.

All of our stores will be open during the festive season with regular hours, except for Christmas Day and New Year's Day.

We hope to see you at one of our stores during this happy time. From our family to yours, we wish you a joyous and memorable holiday filled with love, laughter, and happiness. Thank you for your continued support and patronage.'

From noisy gifts to carols, the festive season can be quite hard on the ears. So whether you’ve been diagnosed with hearing loss, or if you wear hearing devices, good ear care is essential over Christmas time.

To help make your festive season a little easier, here are a few tips:

1. Avoid standing too close to where the main noise is - find a quiet area of the room as it makes it easier to hear conversation.
2. Seeing gestures & faces of people speaking will help you better understand what they are saying.
3. Turn down the volume of background music. Even though everyone loves a good Christmas carol, people won’t hear them when they’re having loud conversations.

If you’re concerned about your hearing, call Butlin Hearing for a FREE hearing screening, a comprehensive hearing test, or a new hearing device on 033 330 3966, or 033 342 2330, and let Butlin Hearing welcome you to the world of sound!

Claire, Mark & the team at Butlin Hearing wish everyone a merry Christmas filled with love, happiness & good hearing!

As the festive season approaches, let's bear in mind that someone we know might be facing their first Christmas without a loved one - whether it's a spouse, parent, sibling, or child. For others, this time of celebration may be tinged with the heaviness of bidding farewell.

Amidst our revelries, let's be aware that joy isn't universal for everyone. It's a season that can bring sorrow for many. So, let's make an extra effort to show kindness, generosity, and love. Extend a helping hand, and if nothing else, let's be gentle with each other. This holiday, let our warmth and understanding be a source of comfort for those who may need it most.

As I sat at my desk this morning, I reflected how swiftly this year has flown by! It feels like just yesterday we were ringing in the new year, and here we are, at the end of another year. Have you allowed life to happen, or have you taken the reins, steering your course towards achieving the goals you set?

More often than not, we become immersed in helping others' pursuits—the demands of our bosses, the needs of our children, the expectations of our families—losing sight of our own dreams and needs, putting them off to a vague "someday." The realisation struck me harder this week following the sad news of a friend's passing. It's made me acutely aware of life's fleeting nature.

Many express their anticipation for retirement, planning grand adventures or ventures they've long dreamt of. Unfortunately, these aspirations often remain unrealised. We find ourselves caught in the habit of living for others or simply counting down the days, waiting for a distant "someday" that might never come. But why wait for some ambiguous moment to seize control of our lives?

There's a saying that resonates deeply: "If you believe it, the universe will serve it." However, the universe responds only when we take action. As we enter this season of reflection and giving, I extend a challenge—to gift yourself the freedom of living life on your terms.

Let's step into 2024 armed with a crystal-clear plan to conquer the goals we've set. Start by taking small yet deliberate steps toward your desired destination. If it’s a new job, ask yourself the necessary questions: Do you have the necessary qualifications? Is your CV updated? Have you sought assistance from employment agencies in pursuit of that dream job?

For those carving travel, pinpoint your ideal destinations. What are the prerequisites for that dream trip? Compile a list of essentials, then break it down further, defining each step needed to bridge the gap between your current reality and that envisioned getaway.

Until you write down and visualise your dreams and needs, they remain overwhelming concepts. And until you act upon them, you will remain in a state of waiting and wishing.

Start now; grant yourself the gift of living the life you've dreamt of. Actively pursue your desires, charting a course towards a future that resonates with your deepest desires.

Let’s work on achieving the goals you have for 2024 together!

Connect on 082 290 5640.

Jess Candler was awarded player of the match yesterday in the U19 Girls cricket week for her allround performance. She made 61 runs, bowled 10 overs for 16 runs and took a wicket and took 2 catches in the field.

The U19 Girls Week in Cape Town which runs from 10-14 December in 2023 is a platform for the nation’s top young female cricketers to display their prowess and compete at a high level.

Pictured here L-R: KZN Inland coach Richard Hlela with Jess.

The Grade 1s put in the most heart warming performance of “Honkey Tonkey Donkey” at the end of November.

Thank you to our amazing teachers for all of the warm work and rehearsals, as well as our Grade 2 and 3 children who were in the choir.

Suprema Quaero

WESSA's first Colour Run focused on Health and Wellness which took place on Saturday, 9 December 2023, included two foreign exchange students from University in Switzerland. They are currently seconded to study at Umgeni Valley. Working On Fire also took part in the event.

We live in a violent world and scientific research has shown that if violence is not halted, it can span generations with cumulative consequences. Children who are exposed to violence are at risk of perpetuating the cycle which paints a bleak picture of the future.

Funda Nenja aims to teach children an alternative way to deal with life through the medium of dog training classes using force free methods and positive reinforcement. Kindness, patience and empathy are nurtured when a child learns how to communicate with another species using no coercion and when the child experiences the unconditional love of a dog.