It is often said that people with impeccable business skills are born, not made. This couldn’t be truer in the case of Dr Anne (as known in the business community.) She is the executive chair of Community Investment Holdings, a broad-based black economic empowerment investment company with considerable interests in health-care, logistics, energy, power and telecommunications. Her first project, initiated while studying at the Medical University of South Africa (MEDUNSA), entailed the selling of handbags on consignment: “I needed pocket money to fund my interest in fashion.”

Upon graduation, she opened a medical centre which served nine villages in the Gauteng region. And as if that wasn’t enough, she continued to take full advantage of the new democracy, establishing both a pharmaceutical wholesale company in Swaziland and Community Investment Holdings (which grew from zero-base in 1995 to a turnover R9 billion.) Today Dr Anne serves on all the boards that Community Investment Holdings is involved in aid to promote her accessibility to her team: “I believe that access to the boss is an important ingredient in the recipe for business success.”

If this mogul isn’t inspiration enough to spread your wings and take on projects which may seem challenging at first, here are some suggestions on how you as a medical practitioner/student can take advantage of the opportunities in our society whilst doing what you love most i.e. mixing business with medicine.

1. Entrepreneurship: The opportunity of starting your own medical practice in South Africa is always high. Though the country has great potential to grow, there is still a long way to go in health issues.  Majority of the South African community is rural which means civilians access health care difficultly. Set-up costs may be high; however, there will always be a demand for your services,  and
2. Like Dr Anne, investing in a wholesale pharmaceutical is practical for someone with medical knowledge. The business could benefit communities at large, making health care accessible for those in need.  Lastly,
3. Financial investment: Companies in the health care industry usually low risk. Therefore, investing in their shares tends to yield great long term returns for shareholders.   

And for the rest of us who aren’t into medicine, the key component to learn from Dr Anne is not to fear our dreams. Do everything you want to do, and do it exceptionally.

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As I sat down one morning to put on the brown pair of boots, I began to think of feet, which lead me to think of shoes and the industry at large.

Although our feet have not changed much over the decades, how we have chosen to dress them has been a diverse expression or our time, culture and personal style. From simple comfortable sandals to one-of-a-kind couture Jimmy Choo’s, the shoe industry has blossomed over the years – standing its ground in the world of fashion design – whilst providing endless investment opportunities for the ‘creatives’ and the buyers.

Whilst researching the facets of this fascinating industry, to my surprise, I discovered a simple factor relating to the road to success: you don’t need to live in New York or Paris; you don’t need to go to an expensive design school; what you do need is skill, persistence and perseverance. A reality that corresponds with a truth that many aficionados have discovered in their career: in the words of the legendary Christian Louboutin, “Magic in shoes comes from hard work and effort.”

So if you are considering venturing into shoe design, you should consider that making a brand successful takes 80% business skills and 20% design. The idea of starting a shoe line is daunting to any individual on the street. Consider Manolo Blahnik, and imagine creating a name that has and will continue to change the world! A combination of drive and a great team made it the fashion powerhouse that it is today.

In my endeavour to discover the industry secrets, I stumbled upon a quaint shoe boutique in the heart of Cape Town. The shoes were simple in design and clothed in materials unusual for a shoe line. For example, there was a very heavy gladiator sandal made of bronze and leather, as well as a chic Mary Jane peep toe design dressed in black leather and white silk finishes – and both were absolutely stunning. In conversation with the designer, I learnt a lot about the shortcomings of the industry.

He had chosen to open his own store largely due to the barriers inherent in the brand exposure. He found that many low-end retailers have a specific look which may not correspond with that of a new line that a start-up designer may be offering. Furthermore, such retailers aren’t keen on taking a chance on a ‘different’ look, which results in great difficulty for new designers to have their brands available at such stores.

High-end retailers, on the other hand, are committed to a specific brand; thus the opportunities they provide coincide with designing for that particular brand, which effectively puts you in an employer – employee relationship. ‘There is not much space for newcomers in this industry, but if you are willing to push your way to the top, then you will succeed.

If you find the notion of designing, sewing, manufacturing and promoting your own line too intimidating, take a deep breath and consider the representatives of the many different facets of the industry:

1. Technical designers: From your ideas, they create technical patterns and prototypes.

2. Manufacturers: They make the actual product.

3. Sales representatives and distributers: They find retailers to carry your products.

4. Fashion weeks and trade shows: Events such as these help you to get the media exposure necessary to penetrate the market.

The greatest advantage to this sector is the timeless appeal of shoes as design creations, and the manner with which they magically find their way to complement almost everything we wear. Also, unlike clothing, there are no ever-changing seasonal trends to keep up with. Research has shown that women’s footwear leads the market with over 50% of the share, closely followed by sportsmen’s shoes. The outdoor footwear market has illustrated a significant growth in recent years, making it one of the best investment opportunities in the industry.

It is undeniable that the opportunities offered by the shoe industry are married to many challenges. However, if it is want you want to do, then you need to look at the proverbial ‘bigger picture’. Nothing is impossible if you have drive, perseverance and creativity.

Take your first step, and keep walking until you succeed!

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If you’re adamant on becoming famous, the seemingly most obvious course to take in today’s age is that of the television presenter. Forget about spending years perfecting a novel or taking acting lessons from someone who hasn’t quite made it far in acting themselves; as a television presenter you are immediately transported into the unsuspecting TV rooms of millions. In addition, with the added help of satellite, who’s to say what the limit is?

Unfortunately becoming the next Zizo Beda or Joanne Straus isn’t as easy as walking into a TV broadcaster and knocking them dead with your charm, it takes hard work, effort and commitment to your passion. Face it, the world isn’t sitting around waiting for you, therefore dedication and willingness to learn from people who have actually made a name for themselves counts, if you are to be something more than the next Dub (not that there is anything wrong with being Dub).

That’s where television producers and mentors come in.

There are many academies which cater to the grooming of individuals to becoming television personalities. At these colleges you are taught what seem to be the basics of becoming a TV presenter, as well as learn how to present many different styles that are relevant to your own individual needs. The purposes of these workshops are to help grow your confidence and improve your personal performance in the industry.

Most of the learning in this industry is “on -the – job” training, even though there are sessions to help improve an individual’s certain qualities, there is no handbook for much of the performance that is required. Television producers play a large role in guiding the apprentices and aficionado’s of the industry, into performing in the manner that is due to them. They groom and polish, serving much as a mentor, as they shepherd the personality into the direction envisioned by the producer.

So your first step is to enroll in a casting agency, to get your foot in the door.  Next is to work hard in building your confidence and taking constructive criticism with a pinch of salt (it’s there to build you.) Become aware for opportunities in the industry because there are many, which translate to your need to be flexible. And finally, ensure that you are able to interpret and produce the desires of your producer on to the camera.

With this recipe, you are sure to succeed…all the best!

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The primary role of a television producer is to control all aspects of production, ranging from the development of the shows ideas, hiring of the cast members to the  supervision of shoots. It is often the producer who is responsible for the show’s overall quality and survivability, though the responsibilities depend on the particular show or organization.Traditionally the producers would only manage  the budget and schedule. Today the role is  more complex yet also more exciting.

The competitive industry of television is broken up into various categories which are important to take note of, as each will have its own mountains to climb before one can become a great producer of that sector. Here are just a few of these categories :

• Sitcoms
• TV movies
• Talk Shows
• Dramas
• Music Videos
• Game shows
• Newscasts
• Commercials
• Documentaries

A degree is not required to start work in this field, though though a degree in film and media would certainly be of great benefit. It would also be beneficial to look into doing internship at a respectable firm, as this would bring forth networking opportunities which are essential in this industry. An internship would also provide you with  experience, something many potential employers value more than academic achievement.

It is crucial to note that with every great job there are challenges inherent in each opportunity. As a television producer your skills, desires, creations become subject to the scrutiny of people’s perceptions. Being part of something incredible is great, yet when  almost everyone has an opinion on it(and their opinions influence the success of your show)it can become hard to balance your vision with a vision that is commercially viable. Yes like every other industry there will be challenges faced, however if you are really driven to investing parts of your creative genius in this line of work, you will be able to overcome the challenges as they arise.

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Imagine being a world renowned musician performing around the world on international stages, having millions of fans, limo rides decked to cater to your  taste, hotel suites in only the finest hotels, dining with celebrated and well known figures and having so much money that your pet chiwawa  only drinks imported bottled water straight from the Alps!

We associate such extravagance to the lifestyles of rich and famous musicians, forgetting how difficult it must have been for them to get where they are now. I had the opportunity of interviewing Jarrad Ricketts, one of Cape Town’s finest and extremely talented young musicians. An up and coming singer who was kind enough to give us inside information on how the South African music scene is at the moment and how he, through much sweat and hard work, entered the industry as a vocalist.

How does one generally start their career in the industry and how did you go about it?

Jarred: Firstly …make sure you can sing. You are not a vocalist because you tell yourself you are, a true singer is able to dazzle many with their spectacular vocal abilities. you are a vocalist when you know you’re able sing so beautifully that other people compliment and recognize it as talent! 

I started by doing small shows in my community and Church …this is the perfect way to give back and also see peoples response to your voice and music. I then gained confidence, slowly progressing to performing with live jazz bands, this is where I became easier with crowds and also learnt how to work with other musicians (how they think, etc). I joined many jazz/funk bands as well as boy bands – I tried to surround myself with like-minded, positive people so that I have a support structure when the bad times come, also, being with people with similar goals uplift each other and make your goals more tangible.

I then became a backup singer for 2 local artist, “T.J” a Gospel singer, and “Eclipse” a pop singer and also now my producer. At the same time worked for a production company, I was employed as their resident male vocalist …I recorded/sang radio adverts (jingles) and voice over’s for radio. This is where I was able to gain a bit more knowledge as far as how the recording process works. All this whilst studying. I then got another sideline job as a marketing assistant for Heart 104.9FM, this was great as I got to see how they plan events and book singers for these events. Looking back, I noticed that I always tried to find jobs that would assist me in my music career indirectly, which helped me get a broader perspective of the industry.

About two years after that I became a qualified graphic designer …so I could earn enough money to start recording my own music. I never really wanted to be signed up by record labels, as I heard some horrific stories where contracts are concerned. I approached my producer Eclipse to assist me in making my debut CD a reality, and he agreed, for a fee of course (nothing comes for free …and if it does, then there is something wrong with the situation). While I was recording, I searched the internet to educate myself on how royalties work and how percentages should be split between producers, song writers, publishers, etc. I think it is very important to do research, this is how you can have a “one up” on someone trying to scam you, and trust me there are sharks out there.

After recording my first 3 songs, I started putting my music on radio. This is a difficult process as most radio stations take at least three months (with a panel)  to decide if your music is suitable. This is where you really have to think about which producers you want to use, as each producer has a different style of mixing. This is very, very, very important because if the mix is not right, they will not play your music!

Is there an ‘easy way ‘into the industry? What route did you opt for?

Jarrad: There is no real easy way to get into the industry; you have to think cleverly about how you go about it. I can’t say that I took a specific route. I went with my gut and tried to look for short cuts which do not lead me into compromising situations. People think it is so easy to break into music, but what they forget is that there are 50 quadrillion other people  trying to get into the industry as well, so you really have to create a product that works ….this comes with trial and error. I’m still learning as I go along.

What are the challenges one should expect to face? Where there any challenges unique to you?

Jarrad: With every venture, there are bound to be challenges that put a spanner in the works. This is why I maintain that you should try to educate yourself before hand, so when these challenges do arise, one has an idea of what to do. I faced quite a few challenges ….firstly, I am and unsigned artist, so people in the industry doesn’t really take you too seriously, but I let my music speak for itself. Secondly …I am self funded, I pay for everything myself, the recording, photo shoots, clothes, etc. I don’t earn a lot of money so you can imagine how hard it gets. Though I don’t make excuses, If you want to succeed then you should suck it in and work! Nothing comes easy, and if it did, you would not appreciate your achievements if they materialize.

What are the current trends in the South African music industry? What does your music offer/contribute to the variety of sounds at present?

Jarrad: The trend seems to be leaning towards funk, jazz, house.  Many artist are producing their own music these days. I sing pop and jazz, so what I think my music offers is a mix between genres, so that people in our country enjoy it, but it could still work on an international stage. When I record music, I try to cater for the international market to.

Can one make a living form the industry? Do you plan on focusing solely on your music career or branching into other fields?

Jarrad: I think you can make a living out of it. People have a misconception that music is not a job, and with that mentality it could never be. But I think if you plan each and every step, and radiate self confidence, you can sell ice to an Eskimo! I would like to first focus on music, and then work my way into the TV industry. I studied design, so I would like to one day have my own clothing label. I want to eventually become a music and media mogul, and I will get there.

Too all who have hopes of entering the music industry, keep informed, keep focused, keep motivated and keep on pressing through and eventually you’ll get to the top of the charts!

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Before being admitted as an attorney, the graduate needs to practise as a candidate attorney, under the mentorship of an admitted and practising attorney. The required period to serve articles extends over two years. However, this may be reduced by attending a legal practice course, or acceptable performance of community service. After the expiration of the term, candidates are required to write a professional examination set out by the Law of Society in that province.

Understanding that income plays a relevant part in your career choice, one needs to realise that this term of articles could be financially discouraging. Depending on the size of the firm in which you are employed as a candidate attorney, your salary could range from (on average) R3000 – R10 000 per month. However, such short term detriments shouldn’t hinder your goals and aspirations.

Once admitted as a practising attorney, your work would include, but is not limited to: negotiating settlements of disputes, drafting legal documents, as well as preparing cases to be presented in Court.

If you wish to enter a private practice as an advocate, you are usually required to become a member of the Bar Association. To do so, one undergoes a period of training in pupillage with a member of the Bar and writing an admission examination at the end of the term.

Once admitted the general work of an advocate is includes drafting opinions and pleadings and presenting cases in court, which in this case, usually refers to the High Court.

The great news about the LLB degree is language proficiency in Latin is no longer required. However if you are practising in the South African context it is advisable to be proficient in at least two of the official languages of South Africa because of the diversity of languages spoken.

There are many career opportunities within the borders of South Africa. These can vary from the fields of business and government to non-governmental organisations.

As for those who are interested in practising off our shores, the career options are limited to a certain degree due to the industry applying to South African law specifically. However, one is able to sit in a few examinations in order to attain the qualifications to legally practise in other countries.

One note to remember, according to a few attorneys at Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyer, is to not only show commitment to your studies, but become involved in community and society projects. These count in your favour as they showcase your willingness to help others, the ability to multi-task, lead, and act as an academic.

The majority of the top five practising firms of South Africa (Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyer, Bowman Gilfillan, Webber Wentzel, Weksmans Inc and Deneys Reitz) offer summer programmes. This is where selected students are able to learn the ins and outs of the industry over a two-week period. Most of the application forms for these programmes are available on their respective websites.

In addition, for general job applications to the various firms you are usually required to submit your form a year prior to the completion of your degree if your intention is to act as an Attorney.

Like other professions, there are many requirements which one is obliged to fulfill in order to attain the qualification. Hard work is required, but if it’s truly your passion to serve as an attorney or advocate of the court, then persevere and succeed.

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