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Professor Shirley Zinn is the former Group Head of Human Resources at Woolworths Holdings Limited. Prior to this, she was the Head of Human Resources of Standard Bank South Africa and Deputy Global Head of Human Resources for the Standard Bank Group.
Prior to this she was the Group Executive HR at Nedbank. Before this, she was the General Manager for Human Resources at the South African Revenue Service (SARS).
She is also an Extraordinary Professor at the University of Pretoria’s Department of Human Resource Management, and recently been appointed as Adjunct Professor at the University of Cape Town.
Shirley is the Past President of the Institute for People Management South Africa and registered as Master HR Professional with South Africa Board for People Practice.
Professor Shirley Zinn hails from the Cape Flats in Cape Town, and started her career as a secondary school teacher of English, then moved to the University of the Western Cape where she lectured in Teacher Education.
After this, Professor Shirley Zinn served at Southern Life as Training Manager and then moved to the Department of Public Service and Administrations’: South African Management Development Institute, in Pretoria as Director.
She held the position of Executive Employment Equity at Computer Configurations Holdings. Before her appointment at SARS, she filled the role of Regional Human Resources Director for Middle East and Africa for Reckitt Benckiser, a global company listed on the London Stock Exchange.
Professor Shirley Zinn is the former Chairman of DHL: Global Forwarding SA, and currently a Non-Executive Director on the Boards of JSE listed AdvTech (Lead Independent and Chair of Remco) and Sygnia Asset Management (Lead Independent, and Chair of Remco and Social and Ethics Committee).
She also serves as a director on the Boards of Tuesday Consulting, Empowerment Capital, Knowledge Resources, Business Engage, Community Chest, and the Boston Consulting Group SA. In addition, she is the HR Advisor to the Board of Silvertree Internet Holdings.
Professor Shirley Zinn also serves on the Takeover Regulation Panel Board and on the Council of the University of Cape Town. She is a Trustee on the Nedbank Eyethu Community Trust, Ambassador for the Orbis Africa Charity, and the former Chairman of Starfish Greathearts Foundation.
She also serves on the Advisory Boards of Monash South Africa, and the University of Pretoria’s Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences. Shirley is the past President for the Harvard Alumni Association South Africa and a Fellow of the Institute of Directors SA.
She also previously served as the Chair of the Institute of Bankers. She was recently appointed as the Patron for South Africa Council of Business Women.
She is a coach and mentor to several women across multiple industries She has presented at numerous national and international conferences as a keynote speaker.
In 2015, she wrote her autobiography entitled “Swimming Upstream” which focuses on her personal and professional journey. It has officially been announced as a best-seller.
In 2016, she presented several “Swimming Upstream” talks nationally at corporates, schools, universities and charities, with the hope of motivating and inspiring especially youth and women that they can achieve despite adversity, and to never give up.
She holds a BA (University of the Western Cape); Post Graduate Higher Diploma in Education (University of the Western Cape); B.Ed. Honours (UNISA); M.Ed. (University of the Western Cape); Ed.M. (Harvard); and Doctorate in Education (Harvard).
Professor Shirley Zinn was awarded the Top Woman in Business and Government and Top Executive in Corporate South Africa by Topco Media in 2008. Professor Zinn also was recognized by the Black Business Quarterly and received the Award for Top Woman in Business and Government and most Visionary Woman in 2008.
She also received an award from the World Human resources Congress in Mumbai in 2007 and 2013 respectively for Excellence in Global HR Leadership. In 2012, was listed in the Top 30 Wonder Women in South Africa by the Wits Business Journal.
Professor Shirley Zinn was awarded Africa’s Most Influential Women in Business and Government for 2016 in the SME Sector by CEO Global.
She also completed her ninth Two Oceans Half Marathon in March 2018.
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All Women Drumming Marimba and Dance Group Basadi Le Meropa who tell the incredible stories of their lives through drums, dance, marimba and song.
Just returned from a successful tour of the Netherlands, this funky, vibey 6-piece drums, dance and marimba group represents the strength, talents and positivity of African women.
Dressed in colourful costumes, these women bring you powerful drumming accompanied by melodic marimba’s, upbeat vocals and dance, from traditional to Afro-contemporary, Pantsula, Township Jive, Gumboots and Tin-can dance
Basadi provide a dynamic feature performance or as background entertainment.
Duration: 30 – 40 minute show
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Vasti Geldenhuys will make most people feel a bit uncomfortable in a court room, but for Vasti, it is a familiar territory.
In a world of exploration, dominated by men, Vasti always watched and supported from the sideline as her now husband, pioneering explorer, Riaan Manser, completed 3 World first’s. This inspired Vasti to do something extraordinary with her own life.
After a seemingly innocent request for a holiday to New York, Vasti never imagined that she would exchange her legal surroundings to something very, very unfamiliar. The mighty Atlantic Ocean. On a journey humorously but aptly called “Take Me to New York”, Vasti and her husband embarked from Morocco, enduring a 6 month journey at sea on a 6.9 meter rowing boat.
On landing in Miami, USA on 7 May 2014 the pair became the first people ever in history to have rowed from mainland Africa to North America. Vasti also became the only woman from the African Continent to have ever rowed across any Ocean.
They continued their journey by tackling the East Coast of the USA to finally reach New York City on 20 June 2014. Rowing up the Hudson River and passing by the iconic
Statue of Liberty.
In 2015 Vasti Geldenhuys completed her pupillage at the Cape Bar and was admitted as an Advocate. The thrill of exploration remained. In 2016, after tying the knot, the now husband and wife pair decided to set new a standard for the term “Honeymoon”.
Vasti Geldenhuys again tackled the Ocean, this time the mighty Pacific, on the exact same row boat. They rowed from California to Hawaii in a record breaking time of 39 days. They earned themselves another Guiness World record for the fastest mid-Pacific row. This record was previously held by a 4-man rowing team.
Hit by a 6 meter wave and capsized, 2000 km from shore; Riaan getting separated from the boat and Vasti unable to stop the boat drifting further and further away; 12 hour rowing days while managing a new marriage in life threatening situations are just a few examples of life at sea.
Storms and ship traffic provided for harrowing escapes from natural and human threats. But there were the quiet moments when the couple could reflect, savour the sunsets on the ocean and be intrigued by the amazing wildlife.
Vasti Geldenhuys will intrigue the audience with a unique woman’s perspective of the world of adventure; a world usually reserved for rugged and very brave men. Her talk will not only inspire the audience to new possibilities but show ordinary men and women that one is capable of much more than one thinks.
Being inspired lasts longer than being motivated, real stories of having gone out and actually achieving what you set out to do.
As of July 2015, Vasti Geldenhuys can deservedly add the title of Advocate Geldenhuys to her growing status.
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Dreams of Fire they have been supplying quality professional entertainment for more than 10 years. Team Dragon Fire has captivated vast audiences with dazzling and diverse Fire Shows with interactive Fire Dancing, Fire Eating and Synched Choreography.
Delivering consistent Professional Service and international standard Entertainment, Adrian and his crew has Vast Knowledge, Technical Skill & Experience working with Fire and Safety, with their team leaders certified Fire marshals.
They have more Show Production Experience than any other fire company in SA
Freestyle: means no pre-rehearsal or structure to the performance. The performers arrive on site 30min prior to the performance time requested and do a 30min to 1 hr free style performance.
If the performance time is to be split this is to be arranged in advance. They prefer to work to music and can supply music but not sound systems. Strictly no Focal point applications can be applied when booking this style.
Focal Point: (incl Choreography and Stage Shows) means pre-planned, structured and rehearsed.
Focal Point entertainment is most suited to a stage but can be done on most surfaces and can be from 2min up to 60min performance, depending on the client requirements. (Focal Point Fire Shows are between 15 and 18min).
A minimum of 2 performers are required for Choreographed pieces but solo acts can also be booked.
Focal Point prices include 1 full dress rehearsal on site on the day for technical sound and lighting, cut & editing music, make up and their own costumes, unless client has a theme they want Dreams of Fire to fit in with, in which case costume making or hiring costs will be for the client’s account.
The price excludes additional rehearsals.
All performers through Dreams of Fire mentioned are subject to availability.
Fire Dancers, Fire Eaters, Fire Breathers, Jugglers, Drummers, Stilt walkers, Mimes, Snake Performers, Tumblers and Circus Acts.
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Tshiamo Matibela is an award-winning retail architect with over a decade of experience in revitalising and growing retail businesses. Her expertise lies in crafting innovative store designs and delivering strategic, end-to-end management solutions.
Tshiamo’s dedication to empowering local businesses has seen her collaborate with leading South African brands like Bathu and The Drip Group, playing a pivotal role in their growth, sustainability, and brand presence.
As the founder of StratScape, Tshiamo offers turnkey retail solutions that address every aspect of retail operations. From designing impactful retail spaces to implementing comprehensive management strategies, she ensures her clients achieve both functional efficiency and a compelling brand identity. Her innovative approach has made her a sought-after partner in the retail industry.
Furthering her commitment to the growth of local enterprises, Tshiamo established The Retail Girl, a Retail Academy focused on skills development and empowerment. Through this initiative, she equips local retailers with the tools and knowledge they need to enhance profitability and sustainability in an ever-evolving market.
Tshiamo Matibela’s work is a testament to her passion for driving excellence in retail. Her unique ability to blend creativity with strategic thinking has positioned her as a transformative force in the industry, inspiring businesses to achieve their fullest potential.
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Mark Fish is a distinguished South African soccer legend whose career spanned top clubs both locally and internationally. He rose to prominence with Orlando Pirates, where he played an integral role in securing the 1995 CAF Champions League title. Fish’s natural athleticism and versatility on the field earned him a move to Europe, where he played for elite clubs such as Lazio in Italy, and English teams Bolton Wanderers and Charlton Athletic, competing in the prestigious English Premier League. His solid defensive skills and leadership made him a key figure in both his club and international teams.
Fish’s international career flourished with Bafana Bafana, South Africa’s national team, where he played a pivotal role in the country’s triumph at the 1996 African Cup of Nations. His contributions to South African soccer, both on and off the pitch, have made him an icon and a source of inspiration for many young athletes. After retiring from professional soccer, Fish continued to stay involved with the sport, dedicating himself to coaching, mentoring, and inspiring the next generation. He also works as a sports ambassador, promoting soccer and youth development across South Africa.
Today, Mark Fish is highly regarded not only for his achievements on the field but also for his leadership and role in mentoring young athletes. As a sought-after keynote speaker and mentor, Fish shares valuable insights on teamwork, perseverance, and leadership, using his career to inspire those aspiring to succeed in both sports and life. His passion for soccer continues to fuel his dedication to developing the future of the sport in South Africa and beyond.
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What the world has begun to realise is that Elvis Blue resonates with a creative force that ebbs only from the most talented of artists. One simply has to listen to the hauntingly beautiful Things My Father Said or Lighthouse or Save Me, or any of his original compositions for that matter, to realise that you are in the company of greatness.
Balance this divine gift with great humility, a kind heart and the work ethic of Henry Ford and you begin to understand the soul within this artist.
The gifted musician’s journey started when he was a young boy, singing in school choirs, and busking in the streets of Joburg and Scotland. His one and only goal was to make and perform music.
After a stint overseas as a street musician, Elvis returned to South Africa where he decided to study contemporary music.
After appearing in numerous bands Elvis started a project where he sang under the name MONO. He released three albums under this time. When MONO’s record deal came to an end, Elvis decided that he would move to George where he would become a music teacher, write his own music, and live a quiet life.
After spending some time in George, Elvis was approached by a record company who wanted him to record an Afrikaans album. “The first album I did was under the name Jan Hoogendyk, my real name, and the album did really well. It won an ATKV Lier Toekening award. His second Afrikaans album, Ontskemer also under the name Jan Hoogendyk, was nominated for a 2010 SAMA Award.
While living in George he met the friend whose name he would adopt in 2008. “My wife works at an organisation that is a hospice and children’s home and I met this little boy there when I used to go and play my guitar for them.
He really wanted to be a keyboard player, and his name was Elvis Blaauw”, he says. When he passed away in 2009, as a tribute to this amazing young man, Jan Hoogendyk adopted his name and Elvis Blue was born.
In 2010, Elvis Blue won the title of Mnet Idol for that year – sharing half the profit with runner up Lloyd Cele.
Elvis Blue released the album that would change his life as a musician and consolidate all his years of hard work.
This album was simply titled Elvis Blue. On the album’s release in November 2010, it shot up the radio and sales charts and reached Gold status.
The first two singles Things My Father said and Lighthouse were massive hits, and with the third single, Save Me, is currently on playlists across the country.
The album went platinum in late 2011 – with sales in excess of 40 000 units.
Since the release of his album, Elvis has set himself apart as an exceptional performer of live music, using some of the best local musicians to round out his band on stage, insisting on delivering music with depth to audiences across the country.
Elvis is also a dedicated husband and father besides being a world class musician and a household name in South Arica.
Elvis was named an official global ambassador for the 46664 Bangle initiative, and through this opportunity he helps to educate people on the social justice ethos of Mr. Nelson Mandela.
The 46664 Bangle initiative is one of the 46664 Foundation’s key initiatives.
Elvis has also partnered with Bavarian Motorcycles as their BMW motorcycle brand ambassador for the year 2012.
In April 2012, Elvis’ credibility and talent was further acknowledged when he took home the SAMA (South African Music Award) for Best Adult Contemporary Album for the double disc special edition of his self-titled album, Elvis Blue.
The success Elvis Blue over the past few years enabled himself to invest in something very near and dear to his heart – The Elvis Blue Music Academy.
The Academy was started by Elvis to teach underprivileged children the joy of music. The organisation provides instruments and instruction in a safe, warm environment. “Music has the ability to heal,” Elvis says.
“This venture is living proof of that.” The Elvis Blue Music Academy operates in the Western Cape, George and is rolling out in Alexandra in Gauteng in the near future.
Elvis’ success is due to years of hard work, passion and commitment, and even though the path has been long and sometimes never ending, the real journey has only begun now.
There is a lingering feeling of awe when you meet this humble artist. True talent begets respect and admiration. And that’s exactly why Elvis Blue has our country at his feet.
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