SA SOLDIERSA SOLDIERThe official monthly magazine of the SA Department of Defence

Letters:feedback from our readers

SA Ambassador in Darfur

Building South Africa

Arrival of SAS CHARLOTTE MAXEKE

DOD applies the Balanced Scorecard

Siyandiza helps learner to shape his career

Assisting with recruitment

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20 Young woman to becomeair traffic controller

Five young military doctors graduated

Nursing is a promising career for our youth

Soccer player thrives on challenges

Greeniemaking history

Improve yourreading speed

Career Portfolios for MSDS Trainees

Young talent in our Air Force Band

HR Development reaches out to talented SA youth

Paving her way to be a Navy leader

SANDF lawyers excel in Italy

Sea Cadet Camp held at SAS SIMONSBERG

"The ball is nowin your court"

Up close witha female driver

A boxing legend begins

The sky is no more the limit

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STREET ADDRESS

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SA SOLDIERPrivate Bag X158PRETORIA, 0001

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Tel: 012 355 6341 Fax: 012 355 6399email: sasoldier@mil.za

website: www.sasoldier.mil.za

EDITORIAL STAFF

Editor: Ms Nelda Pienaar

Assistant Editor: Mr Lufuno Netshirembe

Editorial Staff: Ms Nomonde Vuthela F Sgt David NomtshongwanaSgt Lebohang LetaoanaCpl Elias MahumaAmn Arnaus Rakoma

CONTRIBUTIONS:

Although all possible care is takenwith articles, the editorial staff cannot take any responsibility forlost articles and photographs.

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EDITORIAL BOARD

Mr S.B. Mkhwanazi (Acting Chairperson)Col L.W. Magxwalisa Col M.T. Masuku

Col P.M. MotlhabaneCol S.P. ZeemanMs N. Pienaar Maj J.V. du ToitMr L.R.M. Netshirembe

Ms I.D. JacobsonMs J. RenderLt J. Sverdloff Sgt L.F. Letaoana(Secretary)

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www.dod.mil.za

www.dod.mil.za

2005 - Winner of the Government Communicator of the Year Award (GCIS).2005 - Winner of the National Ubungcweti Award (GCIS).

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SA SOLDIER is published monthly - 12 issues per year. The views and opinionsexpressed by the authors of articles are those of the authors and do not neces-sarily represent those of the Department of Defence (DOD). Acceptance andpublication of advertorial and advertising matter in SA SOLDIER does not con-stitute DOD endorsement or warranty in respect of goods or services thereindescribed. The DOD does not assume any liability in respect of any claims madein advertisements.

COPYRIGHT: No article or picture in this magazine may be reproduced withoutthe written consent of the Editor. 3

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For the latest news on defence matters in South Africa,

visit our website at: www.sasoldier.mil.za

FRONT COVER: Our Commander-in-Chief (President Thabo Mbeki) and ColNontobeko Mpaxa, Officer Commanding Army Support Base Port Elizabeth, atthe Freedom Day Celebrations held at Bisho Stadium in the Eastern Cape.Read all about the celebrations of 27 April 2007 on pages 12 and 13.(Photo: Cpl Elias Mahuma)

(Photo: CPO Nolan Herne)

message

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From the Editor's desk

e as a nation celebrated National FreedomDay on 27 April 2007. The SANDF held itsannual Freedom Day Celebrations Parade atthe Bisho Stadium in the Eastern Cape. Readall about the celebrations and the address ofour Commander-in-Chief (President ThaboMbeki) on pages 12 and 13.

Our second newly acquired submarine - the SASCHARLOTTE MAXEKE (S102) - was welcomed inSimon's Town on 26 April 2007. Read about her arrival onpages 14 and 15.

For the first time in history the international congress ofthe International Commission of Military History (ICMH)will be held in sub-Saharan Africa. It is therefore quite anhonour for South Africa to host the 2007 congress in CapeTown from 12 to 17 August 2007. This event is alreadyseen as part of the build-up for the FIFA 2010 World Cup

WSoccer Tournament. When the German National Commissionpresented courtesy gifts to the various national commissions inGermany (in August 2006) a genuine World Cup football washanded to Maj Gen Solly Mollo, the President of the SouthAfrican Military History Commission, as a symbolic gestureindicating that the ball was now in South Africa's court. TheAfrican voice should be heard on podiums such as these, andAfrica must take its rightful position in the international com-munity. Read all about this forthcoming prestigious occasion onpages 26 and 27.

It is June again and we are celebrating National Youth Day on16 June; SA Soldier is therefore dedicating this Special Edition tothe youth in our Department and South Africa.

SA Soldier greetings.

Nelda PienaarEditor

n November last year 35 ex-MilitarySkills Development System (MSDS)Part I qualified chefs were inter-

viewed by the Cape TownInternational Convention Centre andoffered posts in which they were tostart working in January 2007. ChefSimon Kemp reported that the chefshad "a positive attitude, showed enthu-siasm and were adapting to banquet-ing catering".

The Naval Deployment Agency(NDA) was created to assist thoseMSDS members who did not join theCore Service System in the SA Navy tofind civilian employment. These ex-MSDS members have a contractual lia-bility for service in the Navy Reserveand may be called on to render suchservice as required by the SA Navy at amutually convenient time.

Last year approximately 230trained MSDS members completed

their MSDS service in the SA Navy,after which they returned to the civiliancommunities. These members were PartI trained, inter alia in catering, personnelor protection and are now able to offertheir skills, discipline and two years ofnaval experience to their futureemployers.

Other companies that expressed aninterest, conducted interviews andoffered posts to MSDS members were:

- Safmarine, which offered maritimebursaries to SAMTRA for memberswith Grade 12 maths and science.

- Sea Harvest, which was interestedin those who could be trained as ship'sengineers.

- The SAPS, which offered 400 poststo those who were under 30 years of ageand had valid driving licences.

- Fidelity Guards, which inter-viewed 40 applicants for their guardingdivision.

Naval Deployment Agency assists MSDS

I - South Peninsula Fire Department,which offered 10 fire-fighting posts.

- Siphiwo Consulting Solutions,which expressed a need for those withadministrative skills.

Cdr Graham Matthei, who man-ages the NDA, said: "The support ofthe above companies was positive,very encouraging and will provide aplatform in the future." He and PettyOfficer Gillian Jacobs recently visitedSAS SALDANHA and addressed thenew MSDS intake on the functioning ofthe Naval Reserve and the NDA, high-lighting opportunities on offer.

Other employers who are interest-ed in offering posts to trained MSDSmembers should contact Cdr GrahamMatthei at the Reserve ManagementCentre/Naval Deployment Agency attel no: (021) 787 3156/3469 duringoffice hours. - Lt Glenn von Zeil, SANaval Reserve

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MSD MEMBER READY TO LEARNI was born on 13 September 1984 inBotshabelo. I am the third-born andhave two big brothers and a youngersister. A single parent, a very strongmother, Dilahloane, raised us all witha certain standard of discipline. Shesaid: "You must always appreciateeverything that God gives you. Do notexpect more, even less just enough andalways count your blessings."

I matriculated in 2001 and complet-ed the Financial Management NationalN6 Certificate and graduated in May2005 from Motheo FET College. I start-ed working in an Unbridled CCknown as Papa Super Maize Meal as abranch manager in Kroonstad. It gaveme an opportunity to practise all that Ihad learned at school and this helpedto reduce financial problems for myfamily.

When I received a letter of accep-tance from the SANDF I realised that Iwas going to be a soldier. I am proudto be a soldier. I joined the SANDF in2006 and did my basic training at 3 SAIBn. I found the SANDF a very interest-ing place: full of challenges to makeyou strong and help you realise whoyou really are, and opportunities touse your skills and knowledge. I havelearnt a lot about different people fromdifferent backgrounds, but with the

Winning letter

A PERFECT MELTING POTI would like to express my congratu-lations and my respect to the SAsoldiers deployed in the easternCongo for their morale, discipline andlove of the people they meet on theirpeacekeeping mission.

Our soldiers prove that they arecommitted to peace and development

R200-00 prize for the best letterSA SOLDIER welcomes letters to the Editor. Short letters are more likely to be pub-lished, and all letters may be edited for reasons of style, accuracy or space limita-tions. Letters should preferably be typewritten and double-spaced. All letters mustinclude the writer's full name, address and home telephone number. The volume ofletters we receive makes individual acknowledgement impossible. Please sendyour letters to: The Editor, SA SOLDIER Letters, Private Bag X158, Pretoria, 0001.Letters may also be faxed to (012) 355-6399 or sent via email to sasoldier@mil.za.We would like to hear your comments or ideas, particularly about matters affectingmembers of the Department of Defence. Regrettably, anonymous letters cannot beanswered officially or published - Editor.

CO Nono Khantsi. (Photo: Cpl Elias Mahuma)

same military discipline, language andlifestyle.

After the completion of my basictraining I was selected as a member ofthe leader group to do the Officers'Formative Course at SA ArmyGymnasium in Heidelberg. Their slo-gan: "Let every soldier make his or hermark" simply meant that the groundhad been prepared for me, that co-oper-ation was needed and that I had to makesomething of myself. It was very chal-lenging as we were a big group of 417,consisting of Military SkillsDevelopment System (MSDS), Regularand Reserve Force members. I believedthat I could make it.

I was psychologicallyand mentally fit anddecided to join thePersonnel Service Corpsas I was ready to learnmore after completingthe Officers' FormativeCourse. I did the JuniorPersonnel Officers (JPO)and the Human Re-sources Support DuringOperations (HRSDO PartI) courses at PersonnelService School in ThabaTshwane. Studying, writ-ing and passing were not

a problem, rather understanding thework and being focused is what reallymatters.

I am currently placed at the HumanResource Support Centre and busywith in-post training at DirectorateCeremonial and Military Music MedalSection. In March 2007 I got an oppor-tunity to join the A-Team to learn moreabout auditing the SANDU stop orders,which was the greatest learning path ofmy military career. I am willing to learneven more and do all the best that I cando with the support of my family. I amlooking forward to completing mydegree in Financial Management andfulfilling my goals. CO Nono Khantsi

in this part of our continent. Even though they come from differ-

ent cultures and races, they always sticktogether for the mission and reallydemonstrate to the world that SouthAfrica is par excellence the Africanrainbow nation, a perfect melting pot.

PS: I would be happy to get a free

subscription to SA Soldier magazine inorder to stay in touch with our soldiers'activities around the world. KalemieKatanga, Kigoma in Tanzania

All divers trained by the SA NavyDiving School from 1957 to 2007are cordially invited to attend the50th Golden Jubilee Celebrations

from 28 June to 1 July 2007.

For more information contactMs Lorna Rynhoud on 021 782 5672 (h)

or Nick on 021 780 1023 oremail: kudu57@xsinet.co.za

ATTENTION DIVERS!

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The basic principle in life is to live in asecure environment and to protect ourbelongings, but the challenge comeswhen we have to protect what we workwith (equipment and resources) in ourworkplaces. We do not make enough ofan effort to protect our equipment andresources, and we end up losing moneyas we have to repair and replace whatwe used to have.

Crime and fraud in our organisationhave become our daily bread, but wemust put an end to it. This will onlyhappen if we change our attitudetowards criminals. We should stop har-bouring criminals, and expose theminstead. Stop supporting criminal activ-ities; report them.

Criminals will always take a shorterroute to enrich themselves. Criminalactivities in our organisation do notcome from outside, but from within, eg

someone who has authorised access toinformation and equipment and thenmisuses it from evil motives. Let ussecure and protect our equipment. Asthe saying goes: "Prevention is betterthan cure". The security of our equip-ment is a personal responsibility.

There is enormous complacencyamong individuals in the SA Army interms of security, and this is where weare supposed to play a role, as we are thenation's protecting entity. No securitymeasures will be totally successfulunless users believe that security touchestheir daily lives and implement them. Ifwe continue to make security aspectssomeone else's responsibility, then wereally need self-introspection. Securityawareness can prevent and lower theimpact of incidents when they do occur.

We can install the most sophisticatedtechnical equipment to try to stop crime

in our organisation. This may help inthe short run, but when the individualstarts to master the equipment thenmanipulation starts. Raising awarenessamong Army personnel will do farmore to improve security. Be awarethat crime does no pay, and the cost ofit does not only affect you, but alsothose who depend on you. You will endup losing your job and self-respect.Creating an environment with truesecurity and without crime will takeenormous effort from all levels of man-agement down to the lowest rank in ourDepartment.

To secure our environment and ourassets requires us to be willing to worktogether to create a safe environment.Remember, challenge criminals, but donot place yourself in danger. Mr T.P.Mashilo, Principal Military SecurityPolicy Researcher, SA Army Office

BUILD A SAFE AND SECURE WORKPLACE

I love myself for being a woman. I enjoybeing a woman and the thought that Iam a woman fascinates me more thanthe world can ever comprehend.

Being a woman means lookingbeautiful, feeling good about oneself,being healthy and vibrant and appreci-ating who you are. It means wearingplain clothes and still feeling that theworld is staring at you. It has nothing todo with a beautiful face, though it willhelp having a nice figure. It's all abouthow you take care of yourself, the foodyou eat, taking the right supplements,exercising, and above all how you por-tray yourself in public and at home.

What do I mean by portrayingyourself? A woman does not shout forthe sake of proving a point. She has away of showing others the proper wayof transferring a message withoutcausing the third world war. She seeksfirst to understand rather than to beunderstood. Classy women learn listen-ing skills and wait to understandbefore responding in a conversation ordiscussion.

A woman respects herself and oth-ers. Unlike a helicopter a woman doesnot hover on top of things or others thatis she does not want or like to controlothers, be they children, brothers, hus-bands or even their female counter-

parts. A woman is a free soul specificallycreated to balance the world in allspheres of influence. A good womannever wishes evil upon someone else. Awoman sends out waves of love, pros-perity and goodwill to others, even ifthey have sinned against God. (He istheir Creator - not you or me.)

Let us congratulate men who call tolet us know they care and those who donot see giving a card or flower as a wasteof time. Let us appreciate and give acco-lades to men who love children, pull outa chair for a lady, offer seats effortlessly,compliment with sincerity or not at all,who give personal presents - somethingwhich suits both the recipient and theoccasion - and who respect a woman'sprivacy. On the other hand let usdiscourage the association of men whoare still caught up in the shackles of thepast, that is of patriarchy with all itsassociations.

Women can do anything. The Bibletells us that the Lord helps those whohelp themselves. This means that if youtackle your problem with absolute faithin the God-given power within you tofind the perfect solution - so will it be.Matt. 9:29 "According to your faith it will bedone to you." Do not let your consciousmind tell you that it will take a miracle tosolve this problem or that something

seems impossible. If He can part thewaters of the Red Sea, make the deadrise and cause the blind to see, then Hecan solve your problem as well. Theonly difference between us and thereceivers of miracles is faith. (Takeyour eyes off the storm and keep themon Jesus.)

The most successful woman is theone who does not set out to get rid ofproblems, even the deep-rooted ones;instead she knows how to counteractthem because problems are part of ourlives. A successful woman always haspositive mental thoughts, thinks posi-tively and lives positively even whenthe chips are down. Remember, God isalways on your side to help youthrough, and help you make the rightdecisions. All He asks is that you makethe first move to open the channels ofcommunication and acknowledge Himand his power. Mark 9:13 "All things arepossible to him who believes."

The tree of liberty grows strongerwhen watered by the thoughts of ameticulous well-mannered, successful-ly minded woman. Let us all rise to theoccasion, both men and women, andwe will come to enjoy the world we livein and anticipate its uncertainties.Happy Women's Day! Ms M.M. More,COLET

LOVE BEING A WOMAN

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RULES OF ENGAGEMENTIt is crucial that all soldiers in theSANDF understand what a lawfulcommand is, especially on the battle-field or other war situations.

The most important rule in the ruleof engagement is to avoid targetingcivilian institutions, churches, hospi-tals, clinics, day care centres, old agehomes or any area where there may becivilians who could be injured "enmasse". This is crucial. Take, for exam-ple, the wars now raging in Iraq, Israeland Palestine. Most of the casualtiesare innocent civilians, women, childrenand the aged. This surely is a war ofinjustice where unarmed populationsare getting injured and killed. It is cow-ardice in war to hit civilian targets. It isa hideous crime against humanity.

What all the above means is that

civilians need to be protected duringwar, not attacked. Sometimes owndefence forces go on the rampage andrape and violate women and children tosatisfy their sexual lust, and makewomen and children their prey in someparts of the continent where wars areraging. A girl child is often raped todeath by more than one man. Mothersand daughters are kept as sex slavesand raped repeatedly. This is unforgiv-able and is a punishable crime.

We witness in wars around theglobe how children are hit while havingbreakfast, how women are killed andgunned down while in church prayingfor peace, how patients are mercilesslyshot in their hospital beds. These are theresult of unlawful commands and nosoldier of integrity should ever engage

in such activities with the excuse thathe is obeying a command.

Soldiers of the SANDF should andmust stand proud among the defenceforces of the globe. Their integrity mustnot only be seen in how neat they are orin the way they march. It should beseen in how they respect life in time ofwar.

Be a soldier and attack an attackingsoldier or hit an installation that threat-ens the integrity or the safety and secu-rity of your own people in war, notinnocent civilians. Do not rape and donot plunder mineral resources duringwar. It is wrong. Forward with thedignity and integrity of our soldiersin the SANDF. B.V. Martin, ActingSSO Gender: Dir TransformationManagement

I would like on behalf of MortarPlatoon 7 SAI Bn to thank the outgoingMortar Platoon Second in Command,Lt G. Koose, who was transferred to 6SAI Bn for his commitment, leadershipand hard work. Since he worked withus from 1995 as a Group Sgt, P/Sgt,P/2IC and P/Commander in DRC 2005he has shown humanity, has personali-ty, discipline and good leadershipskills. He has left an indelible mark andhis footprints will never be erased.

All members in the unit, includingthe Officer Commanding, will misshim. His voice on the parade ground atthe officers salute will be missed.Members of Support Company willnever again hear his voice praying or

sharing the Word of God with us duringroll-call parade. His words of encour-agement and advice will not be forgot-ten. He will be missed at soldiers' funer-als as a Marshalling Officer as will hissupport at soldiers' weddings.

We lost a good commander at 7 SAIBn who cared about his subordinatesand supported them spiritually andmorally. We are not going to see himrunning around the Company during PTanymore. You will be remembered by allmembers for the good work done forthis unit.

Well done Commander, we feel veryproud of you. You did your job withresponsibility and enthusiasm. Let thegood work continue. We wish you

DEDICATION AND APPRECIATION

Lt G. Koose.

My name is Gaston Nkulu wa Malalaand I am the RSA Bn interpreter. I havebeen working with the United Nations(UN) now for more than two years,attached to the RSA Bn. My first battal-ion was 5 SAI Bn, then 7 SAI Bn, 2 SAIBn, 14 SAI Bn and currently I am with4 SAI Bn deployed in Ituri. The TacticalHQ is at Kpradoma. I have beeneverywhere with the South AfricanForces on this mission, from NorthKivu to Ituri, but today I find myselfobligated to send you some nice pho-

tos of our activities inIturi with 4 SAI Bn underLt Col B. Klaasin.

Everyone has heardabout Peter Karim. Noone could bring him outof the bush, but we havedone it, not by force, butthrough dialogue.

Readers can contactme for more info on00243813682408 GastonMalala

good luck on your new appointment.I hope and believe that you will shareyour experience with your newcolleagues. Rfn M.J. Teffo, 7 SAI Bn,Phalaborwa.

THE INTERPRETER

Gaston Nkulu wa Malala (in white T-shirt)

listening attentively to one of the soldiers

during discussions.

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MILITARY UNIFORMI would like to tell soldiers to keep theiruniform in a safe place. Civilians allover the world are wearing uniforms,they are not supposed to. Criminalsalso wear uniforms to facilitate theirrobberies, and this is bad for the imageof the SANDF. Where do these peopleget uniforms other than from soldierswho have extra uniforms? Such sol-diers are not proud of the uniform andnot loyal to the SANDF. If you haveextra uniforms, take them back to theuniform store. A uniform is a con-trolled item and it is not for sale. Let us

stop giving it to civilians or our brothersat home. We must be proud of our uni-form. The SANDF must warn memberswearing camouflage uniform illegallythat they will be prosecuted. This mes-sage must be carried by radio stations,television and newspapers.

Other civilian members are notaware that it is illegal to wear a camou-flage uniform, so they must be informedthat it is an offence. The SAPS should berequested to arrest those who are wear-ing camouflage uniforms illegally. Amember can also be charged if he wears

a uniform after hours mixed with civil-ian clothes. Let us stop doing wrongthings. Illegal use of the uniform doesnot show professionalism. Thereshould be zero tolerance regarding theillegal wearing of camouflage uniform.Be warned: If you are found wearingthe uniform illegally, whether you are asoldier or not, it will be taken from you.This is friendly advice. It is better to doour job rather than tolerating wrongthings happening before our eyes andpromoting corruption. Lt G. Koose andLt T.P. Mdlolo

SOLDIERS NEVER QUITIn the SANDF things might look tough,but they are not that tough, becauseGod says nothing is impossible for Him.We are created in His image. Wheneverwe face a difficult situation we have toconsult Him. I hope and believe that Hewill rescue us.

Policies and laws are spelt out, butthey are not really kept when we forgetthat there is a God above our laws andpolicies. To my colleagues today Iwould like to say don't quit, but be self-motivated even if your juniors are pro-moted and you don't get a promotion orwhen others get an opportunity to bedeployed 20 times and you do not get achance. Just tell yourself that anything

that didn't come to you doesn't belongto you.

I am writing this letter following anarticle I wrote in which I said: "Suicide isa permanent solution to a temporaryproblem." I tried to discourage peoplefrom committing suicide because that isagainst God. Nothing is greater than theCreator of heaven and earth. It is for usto believe that He can and is able tosolve any problem for us, so in this let-ter I want to help my fellow soldierswho are negative towards life becauseof circumstances. As a Lance Corporal Itell myself that I can do all throughChrist who strengthens me.

There is a word manoeuvre which

means a soldier can get out or go inwhile the doors are closed. This meansno one will hold the future of a soldier.Have your goals even if the situationdoesn't allow it, like David who defeat-ed Goliath by faith. Have insight, besure of what you are going to do andyou will do it. Always be positive andyou will receive positive answers inregard to everything. Lastly, do good.You will receive good things, good forgood and bad for bad. Forget the pastand focus on the future. Quitting is nota solution. Stay tuned; God is on yourside and nothing will be against you.L Cpl M.N. Madiloyi, 46 SA Brigade,OPS Clerk Command Group

I have wondered why organisationscannot retain their staff, especially peo-ple who are good, committed, diligentand very meticulous. If one looks at theDOD it is no exception. Why?

I tried looking for solutions.Perhaps organisations, including theDOD, can pause a little and dig deeperto find out if "talent management"could be the panacea to solve employeeturnover. It is the responsibility ofany organisation to ensure that onlythe right people are attracted throughrecruitment and that such peopleare further developed, motivatedand deployed effectively. These talent-ed workers must be retained in theorganisation.

Talent management process:Acquire -----Develop-----Deploy-----Retain

Neglecting the people once theyhave been appointed is a blunder of

management and this results in peopleleaving their jobs for greener pastures. Itis a given that not all people enjoy everyaspect of their work, besides whichthe organisation is not always in a posi-tion to satisfy all the needs of theirstaff. However, how people are de-ployed and lack of recognition are con-tributory factors in people leaving theirorganisations.

Employees should be exposed to dif-ferent jobs in the organisation. Researchhas shown that most people need to tryseveral jobs before they find the one thatfits them best. Some organisations makeuse of job rotation. This deploymentstrategy normally leads to the employeecoming back to his or her old job withrenewed vigour and insight. The prima-ry objective of any organisation when itcomes to human capital should be toretain the talented people in the organi-

sation for as long as possible.Organisations should have a successionstrategy in place to guarantee continu-ity. This strategy or plan should not bekept secret. Talented individuals whoknow that they are groomed for succes-sion are more likely to stay in theorganisation. Employees need to knowthat the organisation considers them animportant resource. They need to berecognised as individuals. Public recog-nition of an employee's achievements isan important aspect of the employee'scareer. Organisations should also offermaterial appreciation in the form ofbonuses (incentives) and merit pro-grammes and these tokens of apprecia-tion or recognition must be evenly anddemocratically distributed.

This letter is open to further investi-gation and debate. Ms MolebogengMore, SANDF COLET

TALENT MANAGEMENT

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"People don't care unless they know how muchyou care." - Dr David Molapo Pastor andPhilosopher

The interpretation of leadership largelydepends on the individual mind-set. Thereare several theories on leadership.

My individual understanding of leader-ship that I wish to share with my fellowmembers in the SANDF is that leaders arenot born, but are produced firstly by cir-cumstances and then because of peoplewho elected you to lead.

Military leadership is no different. Youare a leader because you qualify to lead byvirtue of your military experience, how youapply your knowledge and how you impartyour knowledge to your subordinates andyour peers in whatever rank or level.

Military leadership also refers to howyou provide opportunities for your subor-dinates to become leaders through develop-ment, training and exposure and helpSANDF members to think outside the boxand allow them freedom of thought andexpression. If this does not happen theSANDF is not a dynamic organisation.

Change does not always bring about apeaceful transition. There is always resis-tance from certain quarters by people whofeel threatened by change. If you are a lead-er with all the qualities of a leader, you willnever feel threatened because you under-stand the dynamics of leadership. You areeither a tyrannical leader or a leader of com-passion who is sensitive to the needs of thepeople.

Every coin has two sides. You are aleader who thinks you are leading, but inactual fact you are just taking a walk,because you are not exemplary, neither areyou interested in those around you, becauseyou are so full of your leadership. The otherside of the coin is that you are a leaderbecause you are interested in developingeach and everyone that walks with you as aleader - then you are leading and not simplytaking a ride or a walk and enjoying yourleadership status.

Leadership comes about because ofhard work, commitment, dedication andthe ability to transform people from nega-tive thinking to positive thinking and doingthings not to anger people by imposingyour will on them, but working with themand listening to them.

In the SANDF there is a tendency todevelop those who think and those who do.This is wrong. Each and every individualhas inherent abilities and potential thatmust be developed through the provision ofopportunities. Everyone, irrespective ofrank level, has an important contribution tomake to the growth and development ofthe SANDF. Learning opportunities shouldnot be available to a few only, while themajority are left without developmentopportunities.

dynamism.Therefore give everybody a chance,

allow everyone to demonstrate their leader-ship abilities; allow everyone whatever theirrank level to lead in their field of work, theleader providing the expertise and the careerpath. Create an environment for achieve-ment, not for failure. Everyone in their ownright is a leader.

Of particular concern is the youth of theSANDF - the youth who I watch growing oldin the same rank in the same post. Why isthis so? It shows that there is a lack of con-cern for the growth and development of ouryouth in the SANDF, and this applies to allsexes. It also means that in the hierarchythere is no intention to give way, there is lipservice to Strategy 2010, but no action.

Recycling old material is no longer theanswer. We have young people in the ranksthat have excellent scholastic qualifications,but who are growing old or disgruntled andare not being utilised according to their qual-ifications. They are not being afforded theopportunity to demonstrate their intellectualabilities to move the SANDF forwardbecause of the continuous recycling of oldmaterial at the top.

It is a fact that if you are a leader at thetop and you want to keep people at the bot-tom you are in a position to do so, but it is toyour own detriment because when you fallyou become the laughing stock and therewill be no-one to catch you.

You can step on people only for so long.In this day and age the military mustacknowledge that the youth have beenexposed to an education much in advance ofthat of those who matriculated in the 50s and60s. Today's leadership must at all costsrelentlessly strive to give the youth a chanceto lead the SANDF. Their knowledge is nolonger crucial, because the youth are moretechnically and technologically advancedand equipped. They have the strength andthe energy and should be the vanguard ofthe SANDF.

Let our leadership status not kill ourorganisation. You should acknowledge thefact that you let your own ship sink if you donot train your sailors and refresh the crewafter you have been at sea for years.

Let leadership in the SANDF be appreci-ated for sensitivity towards its members. Letleadership in the SANDF be appreciated forits ability to create leaders out of others tolead and carry on tomorrow. Let leaders inthe SANDF acknowledge that they are notthere to make a home out of the SANDF forthemselves, but that their active contributioncomes to an end at some stage, and then theymust give way to new, dynamic, creativeand innovative ways of doing things to keepin step with the development of the world'sprogressive armies.

In conclusion, leadership is not hidinginformation, but sharing information that iscrucial to the development and education ofeach and every member in his particularfunctional environment. Leadership is car-ing and being sensitive not only to your ownneeds and status, but to the needs and statusof those around you. Leadership is not aboutkeeping yourself at the top, but how you aregoing to pull others up all the way with you.Leadership is not about how to suppresspeople, but how to develop and utilise themaximum potential of each and every mem-ber of the SANDF. Leadership is about fos-tering teamwork, because not workingtogether means perishing together. TheSANDF needs people who can lead in orderto develop innovation and skills, and for themaintenance of the intellectual property ofthe organisation, especially the youth.

Let every member of the SANDF thinkbeyond the confines of the box, because it isknown that if you keep a tiger caged foryears on end, you yourself will have to runaway from it the day you let it free. Whatyou will have done is to encage and controlminds and dominate your subordinates'thinking and force them to think stereotypi-cally. The only way to attain high moraleand excellent levels of discipline is to letevery member be a self-conscious, self-driv-en and hard working individual who isaware of his or her duty, behaviour and dis-cipline at all times. Such an individualshould be aware that the strength and digni-ty of the SANDF are dependent not on oneperson or on a few, but on each and everymember of the SANDF and the DOD. B.V. Martin, Pretoria

Fltr, back: Lt Col Michael Cox and L Cpl Jacobus

Goliath. Fltr, front: Airman Lethube Phasha,

S Sgt Analien Rademeyer, Capt Pinky Simwanza

and Lt Mary Strumpher. (Photo: Cpl Elias Mahuma)

LEADERSHIPIt is known that if a

plant does not grow itdies; an organisation diesif its people do not growand develop. Therefore,the SANDF should takecare that it does not stag-nate by continuouslyproviding opportunitiesto its members to grow inorder for the organisa-tion to grow. Individualgrowth in any organisa-tion promotes organisa-tional growth and

J U N E 2 0 0 7 S A S O L D I E R

11

SA Ambassadorin Darfur

By Commander Michael,

AMIS OPS and Training

e bade farewell to the RSAEngineer Squadron andSquadron Commander,Capt Thabo Lemphane,who had successfullycompleted their sevenmonths' duty tour of

Darfur. It was the fourth rotation inwhich the Engineer Squadron hadbeen involved in Darfur, consequentlyit fell to South Africa to nominate anofficer to serve as the EngineerSquadron Commander.

Capt Lemphane took the office at acritical phase when Pacific Architectsand Engineers (PAE) were doing allthe tasks that Engineers can do. In spiteof the challenges that EngineerSquadron faced at the time coupledwith logistical constraints, CaptLemphane was not the least deterredby these daunting challenges. Underhis able leadership, elaborate gameswith forces at Force Headquarters(FHQ) and Sector 1, mine awarenesstraining for civilian police (CIVPOL)and military observers (MILOBS),negotiations with PAE with regard tothe sharing of responsibilities andwork, and lastly the arrangements andinvolvement with the United NationsMine Action Service (UNMAS) teamfor the destruction of unexploded ord-nance (UXOs) in the area of responsi-bility were undertaken.

In addition he gave presentationson mine awareness to 784 CIVPOLSand MILOBS from the following coun-tries: South Africa, Uganda, Germany,Ghana, Egypt, Denmark, Great Britain,Madagascar, Burundi, Cameroon,Senegal, Mali, Spain, Rwanda,Mauritius and many more, including

WUnited Nations (UN) advisers. Noneof the members that he briefed wasinvolved or injured by mines or UXOs.

AMIS personnel and propertybecame the target of violent attacksand once the squadron members andvehicles were stoned. Again, unde-terred by these unwarranted attacks,Capt Lemphane braved the storm andimmediately set in motion an appro-priate response by organising mem-bers of FHQ and CIVPOL residing atSector 1 to be transported by a convoy.

Through his bold initiatives of pro-moting security and safety he has nowbecome a household word amongAMIS personnel, especially inZamzam Sector 1 and FHQ. CaptLemphane, with the help of Lt ColOrungbe (Force Engineer), laid a verysolid foundation and a legacy ofdependability that should benefitEngineer Squadron.

We are indeed proud of his

achievements and we thank him for ajob well done. He will forever beremembered with his pleasant dispo-sition and sense of humour and hismany anecdotes, which inspired usand radiated hope in the face of insur-mountable difficulties. Watching froma distance we liked the competitionsthat he used to organise for his subor-dinates as part of the motivation. Weshall miss his fortitude, tenacity ofpurpose and compassion, which havebeen the hallmark of his administra-tion: he was the true South AfricanAmbassador.

I wish him the best in his futureendeavours. It is my hope that whenhe leaves us he will continue to put hisrich repertoire of knowledge andexperience at the disposal of theAfrican Union (AU) and other interna-tional organisations in our collectiveefforts at making the world a saferplace.

Capt Thabo Lemphane.

events

12

S A S O L D I E R J U N E 2 0 0 7

Building South Africa

By Nomonde Vuthela

Photos: Cpl Elias Mahuma

resident Thabo Mbeki almostcaused a pandemoniumwhen he summoned themasses and granted thempermission to "come closer"in order to see him better,when he spoke at the

Freedom Day Celebrations held atBisho Stadium in the Eastern Cape on27 April 2007. Steel barricades wentdown as people deserted the grand-stands and made their way to thepodium to get a bird's eye view of ourPresident addressing the crowd.

"We are renewing our pledge tocreate a better life for all," PresidentMbeki said to an attentive public thathad grown still as if by command. "Weare moving slowly towards building atruly equal South Africa". He statingthat South Africans were to take cog-nisance of the country's thirteen yearsof democracy.

Calling for a partnership betweenGovernment and South Africans sothat the spreading and sharing of thecountry's wealth could become a reali-ty, he said: "Together let's work toform smaller economic enterprises forthe upliftment of our people."

Because of the 1992 "Bisho

P

President Thabo Mbeki lays a wreath in memory of Bisho's fallen heroes.

Renewing our

pledge to

build a better

South Africa

for all.

Massacre", Bisho Stadium in theminds of many remains a place of

bloodshed and carnage. In2007 people who madetheir way to the stadium forthe Freedom Day celebra-tions were welcomed andnot shot at as was the casewhen people marched inpeaceful protest to the samevenue fifteen years ago."We still have a long roadthat lies ahead of us,"President Mbeki remindedhis listeners, as he urgedthe communities not to for-get what it was that wasfought hard for.

Stressing that the major-ity still lived in poverty andwere unemployed, he said:"People need proper roads… and sewage systems".The President also empha-sised the urgent need tobuild a South Africa thatwas non-racial, stating inIsiXhosa: "Do not protectthugs, thieves and rapists!"and instructed communi-ties to focus rather on theprotection of human rights.

To the youth of a coun-try filled with opportuni-ties, President Mbeki

J U N E 2 0 0 7 S A S O L D I E R

13

Female gunners making ready to fire the 21-gun salute.

warned against gravitating towards a future of crime runby criminals who have made it "a responsibility to ter-rorise our people".

He asserted that they were: "Targeting our youth tobecome drug addicts and destroying the future of theseyoung people." He advised the country's young people toset their sights on education and to utilise UMSOBOMVUfunds in order to participate in national development."Take advantage of the opportunities," he stressed.

The SANDF has become the life of any party or cele-bration - the main attraction! And as the organisationendeavours to uphold this reputation and new-foundfame, great things and good relations have emerged:stronger ties are being forged with our Commander-in-Chief (President Mbeki), the various government depart-ments, private business and other stakeholders. Whatseemed like an event that quickly flew by was in actualfact a day meticulously planned in every detail.

The Officer Commanding ArmySupport Base Port Elizabeth, ColNontobeko Mpaxa, was appointed as theLevel 4 Chief Co-ordinator for theparade. She said to SA Soldier that inter-departmental liaison started two monthsprior to the event. Good communicationwas paramount in ensuring that theFreedom Day Celebrations Parade wasco-ordinated with what the other govern-ment departments were doing.

All the different elements from theSANDF that contributed to making theparade a success without a doubtensured that the organisation lived up toits reputation of being one of the majorattractions.

The National Ceremonial Guard on parade.Young South Africans celebrate Freedom Day.

events

S A S O L D I E R J U N E 2 0 0 7

14

Arrival of SASCHARLOTTE MAXEKE

By Lt Cdr Prince Tshabalala

Photos: Courtesy

sanweb.navy.mil.za

old, wind and heavy raincould not dampen the warmhappy atmosphere at thewelcoming ceremony forthe arrival of the second ofthree of the SA Navy'snewly acquired subma-

rines, viz the SAS CHARLOTTEMAXEKE (S102) in Simon's Town on26 April 2007.

Escorted by a Navy tug, SASCHARLOTTE MAXEKE was wel-comed in the harbour with tradition-al pomp ceremony and a 19-gunsalute, which was fired by the SASAMATOLA.

SAS CHARLOTTE MAXEKE isone of the latest versions of the con-ventional type 209 Class submarinesacquired as part of the StrategicDefence Package from Germany.The diesel-electric submarine was

christened S102 on 4 May 2005 andnamed SAS CHARLOTTE MAXEKEby Mrs Mittah Seperepere on 14 May2007 after a teacher, missionary andsocial activist, Charlotte Maxeke.

Addressing a crowd of more than500 guests and families of the crewmembers, the Minister of Defence, MrMosiuoa Lekota, stated that the arrivalof the SAS CHARLOTTE MAXEKEwas the realisation of a milestone inthe process of re-equipping theSANDF. Mr Lekota said: "SAS CHAR-LOTTE MAXEKE and her sister sub-marines, SAS MANTHASI and SASQUEEN MODJADJI will bring theregion and the African continent a sig-nificant strategic deterrent capability.The submarines together with therecently acquired MEKO Classfrigates will considerably strengthenthe ability of the SA Navy to provide amaritime Defence. Furthermore, thesevessels will contribute to our regionalreach and the provision of security inthe Southern African Development

region and to the conti-nent. He said: "Our South-South co-operation willresult in an increasingnumber of obligations onthe part of our sea, air andland forces. This willresult in a higher demandfor loyal, dedicated andcompetent people who areprepared to deploy forextended periods andwho have visionary andcommitted leadership. Inthis context the develop-ment of technologicalexpertise and the reten-tion of scarce skills are notonly important, but fun-damental to the accom-

C

The SAS CHARLOTTE MAXEKE (S102).

Community (SADC), thereby assistingin the consolidation of democracywithin the region."

Mr Lekota emphasised theGovernment's commitment to the

The second

of three of

the SA

Navy’s

newly

acquired

submarines.

J U N E 2 0 0 7 S A S O L D I E R

Families were happy to be reunited with their loved ones.

national standing among the Africanpeople and one who was capable ofdealing directly with legislators andofficials. Women no longer had needof interpreters or spokesmen, butcould articulate their demands andrepresentations.

Maxeke was also involved in theworkers' struggles. In 1920 sheextended her support to the earlyefforts of Clemens Kadalie and SelbyMsimang to launch a national tradeunion movement for Africans. Withindays of the inaugural conference ofthe Industrial Commercial WorkersUnion (ICU), the Bantu Women'sLeague of Pietersburg drew up a listof grievances of women farm work-ers. Examples were cited of farmersmaking women do exceedingly heavyphysical labour. The workers alsoobjected to being forced to work untilmidnight without time off for meals.

As Native Probation Officer forjuvenile delinquents in Johannesburg,she was particularly concerned withthe conditions of women and childrenprisoners. Not merely content to helpprisoners, she was committed also tofighting the causes of crime.

Maxeke died in 1939 at the age of65. Throughout her life she showedoutstanding qualities as an ANCactivist, social worker, teacher, jour-nalist, church leader and thinker. Herlegacy serves as an inspiration in theongoing struggle against the oppres-sion of women in South Africa.

Cpl Patrick Ramokgari is the first

"medic" to qualify as a SA Navy

Submariner.

15

plishment of our strategic objectives."In conclusion, the Minister

thanked Commander Roland Shortand his crew for the commitment anddedication in qualifying, acceptingand safely navigating the submarineback home. He also acknowledged thecontribution made by the crew of SASDRAKENSBERG in transportingequipment and material toMozambique and in escorting the newsubmarine on its journey home toSimon's Town from Emden inGermany where she was built.

During the welcoming ceremonythe Minister also presented specialmedallions to the relatives of the lateCharlotte Maxeke and to the shipscompanies of both the SAS DRAK-ENSBERG and SAS CHARLOTTEMAXEKE.

FACT FILE ABOUT CHARLOTTE MAXEKE

Charlotte Maxeke was the firstpresident of the Bantu Women'sLeague (BWL). Formed in 1918 theBWL was the forerunner of the ANCWomen's League.

Born Charlotte Makgomo Manyein the Pietersburg (Polokwane) districtin 1874, she was a talented singer. Shejoined a group of singers that touredEngland, Canada and the United

States. It was during her visit to theUSA that she was offered a place at theWilberforce University in Cleveland,Ohio, which was run by the AfricanMethodist Episcopal Church. Whilethere she married fellow student,Rev Marshall Maxeke.

She graduated in 1905 with a BScdegree and returned home with herhusband to establish the WilberforceInstitute, which was later to be one ofthe leading Transvaal higher schoolsof learning for Africans.

Charlote Maxeke achieved politicalprominence as a leader of the womendemonstrators against proposals toextend the pass system for women. Itwas at this time that she decided tofound the Bantu Women's League. AsPresident of the League, she led a del-egation to the then Prime Minister todiscuss the question of passes forwomen in the Free State. The BWL,which had branches all over the coun-try, demonstrated widely and some-times successfully against passes forwomen.

Maxeke's prominent political roleclearly had a direct bearing on the pro-file and strength of the BWL. Writingabout the role of women in the firstfew decades of the ANC, FreneGinwala notes that in CharlotteMaxeke, the BWL had a leader of

insight

S A S O L D I E R J U N E 2 0 0 7

16

DOD applies the BalancedScorecard as StrategicManagement SystemBy Lt Col F.H. Makhaphela,

SO1 Performance Management &

Analysis

Photo: Cpl Elias Mahuma

ublic Service Regulations,2001 (as amended) requirespublic departments to estab-lish a performance manage-ment system in order toenhance organisational effi-ciency and effectiveness as

well as accountability for the use ofresources and the achievement ofresults.

A process of assessing progresstowards the achievement of predeter-mined objectives, including informa-tion on the efficiency, effectivenessand utilisation of allocated resources isnecessary. The Department of Defence(DOD), in its quest to fulfil its man-date, has opted to develop and imple-ment the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) asa Strategic Management System inorder to monitor and evaluate its per-formance. A brief description of theBSC as a strategic management systemfollows below.

THE BALANCED SCORECARD The BSC, as a more contemporary

means of implementing the strategiesof an organisation, was developed inthe last decade by Harvard BusinessSchool professors Robert Kaplan andDavid Norton. The BSC was viewednot only as a measurement system, butalso as a management system thatenabled organisations to clarify theirstrategies, translate them into actionand provide meaningful feedback. TheBSC is arguably the most recognisedstrategy-focused measurement frame-work. It is thus a management systemthat can motivate breakthrough

PLt Col F.H. Makhaphela.

improvements in critical areas.According to Pearce and

Robinson (2003: 337) the BSCmethodology adapts the TQMideas of customer-defined quality,continuous improvement, employ-ee empowerment, and measure-ment-based management and feed-back into an expanded methodolo-gy that includes traditional finan-cial data and results. The BSCincorporates feedback aroundinternal business process outputs,as in the TQM, but also adds feed-back around the outcomes of busi-ness strategy. The BSC thus directsan organisation to link its ownlong-term strategy with tangiblegoals and actions.

Goold and Quinn (1990) defineInternal Business Processes - "Inwhich internal business processesmust we excel in order to satisfythe stakeholders?"Building for the Future - "Howmust the organisation learn, growand innovate in order to achievepredetermined goals?"These perspectives derive their

meaning from the vision and strategyof the organisation and each containsobjectives, measures, targets and ini-tiatives that link performance mea-sures to strategy. The BSC systemreflects the natural cause and effectlogic of organisational performance.The cause and effect logic (strategymap) will be dealt with when dealingwith the development of scorecardsand roles and responsibility.

WHO NEEDS TO BE INVOLVED?

Executive leadership within theorganisation must initiate and cham-pion the development and implemen-

a strategic management as "The pro-cess which allows senior managementto determine whether a business unit isperforming satisfactorily, and whichprovides motivation for business unitmanagement to see that it continues todo so. It therefore normally involvesthe agreement of objectives for thebusiness between different levels ofmanagement, monitoring of perfor-mance against these objectives, andfeedback on results achieved, togetherwith incentives and sanctions for busi-ness management". The BSC thus fallssquarely into this category.

The traditional BSC consists of fourperspectives: Financial, Customer,Internal Business Processes, andLearning and Growth. However, theDOD has adopted the followingperspectives:

Output Deliverables - "Are wedelivering what the stakeholdersrequire from us?"Resources - "How are we planningand managing our resources?"

J U N E 2 0 0 7 S A S O L D I E R

17

Article and photo by Sea J.G. Grant,

Int Com BPRO Simon's Town

ble Seaman Ratanang Maremane isa 23-year-old woman. She was bornin Chris Hani Hospital in Soweto in

1984. She lived in Moletsane, Sowetountil the age of four. When her parentsdivorced she was moved and raised ina town south of Johannesburg calledEnnerdale. There she lived with hermother and her younger brother. Shematriculated from John Orr TechnicalHigh School in Johannesburg in 2002with electronics as her vocationalsubject.

This dedicated and ambitiousyoung woman has always had a pas-sion for sports, right from her earlydays, and she has portrayed good lead-ership skills at all times. During andafter her matric year she worked aspart-time sales assistant at RJL retailstore to earn pocket money.

In 2003 while working part-timeshe attended classes at SedibengCollege, then known as VereenigingCollege. She did engineering, mathsand science courses there. Wednesdaynights she attended netball practice for

a Central Gauteng team and onSaturdays she had modelling sessions atSpace Models in Midrand. By the begin-ning of 2004 she had achieved herProvincial Colours for netball. Her busyschedule was put on hold because of thecall-up by the DOD Youth Foundation.

In 2005 she did her military basictraining at SAS SALDANHA. She hadno idea what mustering to choose whenshe was not selected as a candidate offi-cer. Next came diver's selection, whichshe did not pass because she was not afully competent swimmer. She was

selected as a potential diver.Joining the rest of the poten-tial divers consisting of 40males and 10 females, shewent to Naval StationDurban for enablementtraining. By the end of thecourse only 18 were found tobe competent, of which shewas the only female.

In 2006 she began the dif-ficult diver's course at SASSIMONSBERG. Her passing-out parade took place on 9February 2007. She was partof the group that successful-

From non-swimmer to navy diver!

A

Able Seaman Ratanang Maremane.

ly completed the 39 m - Air ScubaCourse, which included modules suchas Air Sea Rescue, Chamber Attendantand Underwater Damage Control.Able Seaman Maremane was awardedthe Vasbyt Trophy for the course. Thiswas a tremendous achievement, espe-cially as she started off as a non-swim-mer and became a navy diver!

Able Seaman Maremane wouldlike to tell all women: "There's nothingspecial about me. I'm only human. Soif I can do it, so can you. The sky is notthe limit; you are your only limit!"

tation of the BSC. The support func-tions, such as the Human Resources(HR) and Information CommunicationTechnology (ICT) play an importantrole in aligning with and supportingorganisational objectives and measureswith regard to strategy.

BENEFITS OF IMPLEMENTING BSC

One of the strongest benefits of theBSC is that it turns the subjective pro-cess of employee performance reviewsinto an objective practice that measureshow they are performing in relation tothe organisation's strategy.

The BSC can focus the organisa-tion's key actions, which contributeto the strategy.It helps to clarify the visionthroughout the organisation.It helps to translate the strategy intooperational terms so that everyonecan understand.

It helps gain consensus and owner-ship by the executive leadership.It provides a framework to link andalign the organisation around itsstrategy.It integrates the strategic planningand implementation process.It drives the capital and resourceallocation process.It improves management effectiveness through real-timedecision-making.Makes strategy a continuous process through organisationallearning and adapting.

STATUS OF THE BSC IN THE DOD

The DOD conducted a pilot study todetermine whether it would be feasibleto implement the BSC in its Servicesand Divisions. The analysis was con-ducted in the Financial ManagementDivision (FMD) and the SA Navy. It fol-

lowed the traditional steps outlined inthe Kaplan and Norton methodol-ogy to assemble and select the suit-able Balanced Scorecards. Four per-spectives, which are commensuratefor application in the DOD, weredeveloped.

Presentations to various strategicboards and councils were made forapproval and for the way forward. Itwas in the Plenary Defence StaffCouncil (PDSC) that the implementa-tion of the BSC was approved. Theprocess of implementing the BSC isvery complex and requires well-informed, visible and dedicated atten-tion from the top management of theDOD.

Progress with regard to the imple-mentation thereof will be communi-cated in due course. Various and use-ful methods of communicating withthe members of the DOD will beutilised.

focus on youth

S A S O L D I E R J U N E 2 0 0 7

18

Siyandiza helps learner to shape his career

By CO Frans Pale, Ad Astra

e is tall and slender. Hisvoice vibrates as he speaks.He chooses his words care-fully to achieve clarity forhis listener. Listening to himyou feel that you are in thepresence of a great technical

mind.This is Olaf Martin Jensen, a Grade

10 learner at the German School inPretoria. At 16 years of age, Olaf isalready considering whether hewould like to become a helicopterpilot, fighter jet pilot or transport air-craft pilot.

Thanks to Siyandiza, an SA AirForce aviation awareness programmeat Swartkop Airfield, Olaf's life haschanged from one of an ordinarylearner to one with aviation aware-ness, following his meeting with LtCol Mmamokgethi Morobane of theSiyandiza office. "After meeting Lt ColMorobane I started visiting Siyandizaoffices where I attended orientationlessons and where I was assigned todifferent people who introduced meto aviation awareness, especially withregard to the ground work for becom-ing a pilot," says Olaf.

Many young people in SouthAfrica are not as fortunate as Olaf.This is partly because of a lack ofknowledge about what Siyandiza isall about.

Siyandiza has a twofold pro-gramme for the youth of South Africa.The first programme is that of aviationawareness for school learners all overthe country. The awareness pro-gramme involves visits to schools toinform the learners of a possiblecareer in aviation, with the emphasison the SA Air Force. During these

Hvisits the learners are informedthat if they intend becomingpilots, navigators, air trafficcontrollers or engineers in theSA Air Force they need to havescience and mathematics assubjects in Grade 12.

A further awareness initia-tive is to erect stalls with dis-play material and pamphlets atmajor air shows around thecountry. Displays are also pro-vided at major science and tech-nology exhibitions around thecountry. Some schools alsorequest Siyandiza to attendcareer exhibitions to informlearners about career opportu-nities available in the SA AirForce.

The second programme isthe Young Falcons develop-ment initiative. Learners inGrade 10 that are interested in a possi-ble career in aviation are selected ontheir mathematics and science perfor-mance at school to attend the develop-ment programme. These young peopleattend a preliminary course in aviationand military-related subjects at thenine main SA Air Force bases aroundthe country. This course is presented inone of two ways, depending on the sit-uation at these bases.

The first is to call up the learners toattend a week's course during theschool holidays at the base/unit or toattend lectures every second Saturday.Visits and other activities of relevanceare arranged for them throughout theyear. The Young Falcons are giventheir own uniforms for the course andare expected to wear the uniform at allair displays or functions whereSiyandiza is involved.

Subjects covered in the course are

the following: History of the SA AirForce, Principles of Flight, PropulsionSystems, How Radio and Radar Work,Radio Telephony, Virtual Aviation,Aircraft Recognition, BasicNavigation, Meteorology, Drill,Career Guidance and Visits, and lifeskills such as self-discipline, etiquette,hygiene, first aid, HIV/AIDS aware-ness and public speaking.

The successful Young Falcons onthe preliminary course are then select-ed to attend the advanced course dur-ing their Grade 11 year. The advancedcourse subjects are as follows: AirPower Development in the SA AirForce, Advanced Virtual Aviation,Advanced Aircraft Recognition,Advanced Navigation, AdvancedDrill and life skills, such as confidencebuilding, leadership training, conflictmanagement, budgeting and 3D per-ception abilities.

Olaf Jensen (16) shaping his

career with the help of Siyandiza.

J U N E 2 0 0 7 S A S O L D I E R

19

Article and photo by

LS V.D. Maleka, Naval PR

s this the Recruiting Office for theSANDF? What do I need to join? DoI need special subjects? Am I too old

to join? How soon after I apply will Iget a response? When you look at medo you think I meet the criteria to be asoldier? Do you know how long thetraining will be? What educationalopportunities are there for me?

These are just few examples ofsome of the questions that AbleSeaman Gordon Maseko has toanswer on a daily basis. He works atDirector Personnel Acquisitions aspart of the Recruiting and MarketingDivision. He is responsible for receiv-ing applications from people whowould like to join the SANDF and alsogives advice on the requirements foreach Service.

He enjoys his work because heinteracts with people from different

backgrounds and ethnic groups. Hefeels very proud that he can changethe lives of these youngsters by lead-ing them to the right choice of service.

As part of marketing and promot-

ing the SANDF his divisionruns recruitment drives andcareer exhibitions throughoutthe year in different provincesaround South Africa. He lovesparticipating in these drives andexhibitions as he feels theyreach out directly to the youthof South Africa and thus makesinformation about the SANDFreadily available to the youth.

He is part of the secondMilitary Skills DevelopmentSystem (MSDS) group. He said:"We represent the re-awakeningof the DOD, which gives us achance to transform what has'been' to what will 'be' for a bet-ter rejuvenated SANDF". Healso said that there were plenty

Assisting with recruitment

I

Article and photo by Sea J.G. Grant,

Int Com BPRO Simon's Town

-year-old Seaman BoitumeloPholoholo is currently working at

Naval Base Simon's Town as aProtection Force member. He has beeninvolved in a few sporting codes hav-ing played table tennis, soccer, cricketand chess and is currently doing taek-wondo, kickboxing and karate.

He started most of these sports atschool and local clubs. He received afew certificates for chess while playingfor his primary school junior league.He received a regional certificate fortable tennis in the Love Life Games. Hewas a member of his high school chessteam and received an award for hisparticipation.

Seaman Pholoholo has won numer-ous medals in karate. He participatedin the SANDF Martial ArtsChampionships in 2006 and obtainedtwo first and a second place in various

categories. He was also a member ofthe SANDF Martial Arts team. Hehas also previously competed in theNational Martial Arts Champion-ships. Seaman Pholoholo trainsquite often. He travels frequently totake part. He enjoys martial arts: "It'snot only about the kicking andpunching that's initially taught, butthe self-comfort, self-discipline,character and my body-buildingthat gets me going."

He gets his inspiration from hisuncle who is also involved in martialarts and who introduced him to thissport. Although he sacrifices a lot ofhis time for his sport, he does notregret it.

His advice to other youngsters isthat they should follow their dreamsand make the best of what comestheir way. They should not give upand remember that each obstaclethat crosses their path could be astarting point to something great.

Karate kid

22

Able Seaman Gordon Maseko.

of opportunities within the DOD and"we have to take advantage of each andevery opportunity that arises to makesure that we have well qualified andequipped members in the SANDF".

Seaman Boitumelo Pholoholo.

focus on youth

S A S O L D I E R J U N E 2 0 0 7

20

By CO Frans Pale, Ad Astra

t Nkateko Mnisi (26) grew up likeany other child who gazed up at

the sky in the direction of a passingaeroplane. As he stood with friendsand looked up at the blue sky from thestreets of Namakgale in Phalaborwa,he wondered whether he would everachieve his dream of becoming a pilot.

According to his understandingthen, the art of flying an aircraft inSouth Africa was a luxury preservedonly for some people. Now, as LtMnisi made final preparations for hisfirst flight at Air Force BaseLangebaanweg on 12 March 2006, hewas nervous and fearful of theunknown.

His mind went back to his child-hood days in Namakgale. After years

of rigorous training to become a pilotin the SA Air Force, the day for him tofly the big machine had finally come.As he approached the Astra aircraft,his heart skipped a beat. He stood bythe side of the Astra, folded his arms,closed his eyes and said a little prayer.

"Almighty God, please come withme as I fly this machine up into the skyand come back with me as I land suc-cessfully on the ground." Derivingsome strength and confidence from hisprayer, he got into the cockpit, and inno time he was cruising at 7 000 feetabove sea level. He made a happy andsuccessful landing after one and halfhours.

"That was the happiest day of mylife. My initial fear suddenly turned togreat relief as I took the Astra safelydown to the ground. From then

By Col André Coetzer

team of three South African learn-ers, all from the Aviation Academy

in Pretoria, did our country proudwhen they represented South Africain the International Aerospace Sum-mer School in the United Kingdom inAugust 2006. This was the fourth timethat a South African team was invitedto do this very prestigious course,where no less than ten teams from dif-ferent countries participated.

The course, presented at therenowned Cranfield University in theUK, is designed to encourage aero-nautically minded young people toconsider joining the aerospace indus-try after they obtain a suitable degree.The course catered for a range of expe-riences designed to help them appre-ciate the wide range of interestingcareers that the aeronautical industryhad to offer. These experiences,among others, included talks on avia-tion, aerodynamics, jet engines, flyingfixed and rotary wing aircraft (underinstruction) and also flying in a flyinglaboratory Jetstream aircraft that is

used to teach aeronautical engineersflight test techniques.

But before the fun started, therewas a lot of hard work! The selectionof the team was based on a researchpaper covering various aeronauticaltopics. A selection board then did thefinal selection where the candidateswere evaluated on their knowledge oftheir research papers and aviation ingeneral. Other selection criteriaincluded their ability to work in ateam, ability to demonstrate leader-ship and to be good ambassadors forthe country. But this was not the end

of the work because, afterbeing selected, the teamhad to prepare and sub-mit a report on an aero-nautically related topic tothe Cranfield University.This was done to intro-duce an element of com-petition between theinternational teams par-ticipating. The result? -The South African teamstood their ground andended in the top bracket

HR Development reaches out to youth

A

Fltr: Madder Steyn, Tebogo Molobye, Christof

van der Merwe and Col André Coetzer.

again, for the fourth time! Col André Coetzer from HR

Development, the organiser and co-ordinator of the South African team, isof the opinion that we have some ofthe finest aeronautically mindedyoung people in the world, judged onour performance over the last fouryears.

And the future? A South Africanteam has been invited, yet again, and40 young students are working veryhard right now to be included in thethree-person team leaving for the 2007Summer School in August this year.

onwards, I knew I was a pilot forever."Lt Mnisi's story of success in

becoming one of the current youngblack pilots in the SA Air Force makesthe vision statement of Siyandiza:Striving for Aviation Awareness amongthe Youth of South Africa - an achievablereality.

Although his initial wish was tobecome a pilot after passing Matric in1997, he worked as a dispatch clerk forone year in a chain store in Pretoria.This was because he was unaware ofcareer opportunities offered to youngSouth Africans by the SA Air Force.

It was only in 1998 when he readabout computer systems in engineer-ing in a newspaper about the recruit-ment of pilots in the SA Air Force thatthis changed. After applying to theDOD, he was invited to write a selec-

From dusty streets to blue skies

L

J U N E 2 0 0 7 S A S O L D I E R

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Article and photo by LS V.D. Maleka,

Naval PR

rowing up Ensign Mpho Mashabaparticipated in various beautypageants and was crowned "the

Queen" numerous times. It thereforecame as a shock to her parents when shetold them she wanted to join the SANavy.

While in Grade 11 she heard of theSA Navy from her guidance teacherand she immediately developed aninterest. After doing some research, shedecided then that the SA Navy was thecareer path that she would follow. Mostof her family members chose the tradi-tional career paths; teachers, doctors,nurses and police. Even her motherwanted her to follow in her path - dressmaking and catering. But she wasadamant; she wanted to be differentand the SA Navy was the choice for her.

After completing her basic trainingin 2004 at SAS SALDANHA she wasstationed at SA Naval Staff College inMuizenberg as a Protection Force mem-ber. At this college, junior officers of theSA Navy study to qualify as senior offi-cers and this is where she was inspiredto be an officer. In 2005 she successfully

applied to go on an Officers Course, acourse she says that brought capabilitiesto therefore that she did not even knowshe possessed.

Today she is a Logistics Officerunder training at SAS IMMORTELLE inPretoria, heading the LogisticsDepartment. Here she is challengedwith the responsibilities that come with

people start to look up to you. You indi-rectly encourage them to achieve theirgoals". She said the young people in theDOD should follow their hearts anddreams and not let anyone, any situa-tion or the environment discouragethem. "We all have great potential with-in us and it's up to us to realise it andbring it to the fore," she said.

Paving her way to be a Navy leader

G

running a department:administration, man-agement of the depart-ment and staff mem-bers. In addition shehas to undergo thelogistics part of in posttraining. She says that,although she is seniorto all the staff members,she is also the youngestand treats everyonewith the respect due totheir stet work and ofcourse their age, as shecomes from a very tra-ditional background.

She feels veryproud to be at the stagewhere she is, and said:"If you achieve some-thing at a young age

tion test, which he passed. That openeddoors for him to start his Basic MilitaryTraining at Air Force Gymnasium inPretoria. After successful completion of themilitary training, he was sent to AFBLangebaanweg where he was to do his pre-liminary groundwork towards a course as apilot.

Upon successful completion of his stud-ies he became a pilot. Lt Mnisi now spendshis working days flying Caravan aircraftand other at 41 Squadron in Pretoria.

In his message to the youth of SouthAfrica, Lt Mnisi says there is nothing moreexciting than aviation. "The youth of SouthAfrica should acquaint themselves with theprogrammes of Siyandiza, an SA Air Forceprogramme that raises aviation awareness,especially for the youth."

Ensign Mpho Mashaba.

Lt Nkateko Mnisi achieves his dream of becoming a pilot.

focus on youth

S A S O L D I E R J U N E 2 0 0 7

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Lt Cdr Devin Banda (right) and Lt Col Uly Dharmawanto from

Indonesia. (Photo: Lt (SAN) André Smit)

SANDF lawyers excelin Italy

By Capt (SAN) E. van der Walt,

Com Officer Defence Legal Services

Photos: Lt Cdr Devin Banda

n October 2006 three bright youngMilitary Law Practitioners weredispatched to the Italian Riviera forspecialised training at theInternational Institute ofHumanitarian Law in San Remo,Italy. They were Maj Anina Els,

BLC, LLB, LLM, SO1 Operational LawSupport at CJ Ops, Lt Cdr Devin Banda,B Iuris, OiC Legsato Sub-Office Simon'sTown and Lt (SAN) André Smit, BComm, LLB, LLM, SO1 Legal Advice,Litigation and Operational LawSupport at Legsato Cape Town at thetime, and currently an instructor at theSchool for Military Justice in ThabaTshwane.

The 1977 Additional Protocol I tothe Geneva Conventions, 1949, and theConstitution, 1996, require the reten-tion of legal advisers to advise com-manders on conducting training inInternational Humanitarian Law (IHL).The International Institute in San Remo

Iis the ultimate training institution in thisregard. The Defence Legal ServicesDivision continuously strives to improvethe capabilities and qualifications of itslaw practitioners to benefit the SANDFin general.

Maj Els attended the specialisedcourse for Planners and Executors of AirOperations, presented annually by ColAndré Retief, SSO Law Training at theSANDF Defence Legal Services and IHLexpert, as Course Director. Lt Cdr Bandaand Lt (SAN) Smit were participants inthe course for Planners and Executors ofNaval Operations. Although the coursesare initially separate, they combine dur-ing the final two days for the planning ofa joint air/naval campaign in terms ofthe constraints imposed by IHL.

During this exercise the three mem-bers of the SANDF distinguished them-selves by being appointed as legal advis-ers to the respective air and naval cam-paign commanders. Presenting theirbriefings they were commended by theChief of Staff for their invaluable contri-butions towards the joint campaignplan; indeed an outstanding achieve-

Lt (SAN) André Smit.

Maj Anina Els.

ment. The knowledge gained will beput to good use in their respectivefields. Of equal value is the interactionwith the operationally experiencedofficers from various other countries,such as Albania, China, Indonesia,Ireland, Israel, Sweden, Romania, SriLanka and Tunisia. Excellent Italiancoffee and cuisine provided the idealsetting for the forging of lastingfriendships while discussing commonissues on the Law of Armed Conflict.These relationships can only benefitthe SANDF in future.

J U N E 2 0 0 7 S A S O L D I E R

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The navigator on SAS AMATOLA, Lt Jacobs, with a few of the Sea Cadets

during a tour of the ship. (Lt Jacobs was a Cadet at TS Woltemade for five

years before he joined the SA Navy.)

Sea Cadet Camp heldat SAS SIMONSBERG

By Lt Glenn von Zeil,

SA Naval Reserve

Photos: CPO Nolan Herne

wesome, exciting, practical,fun, confidence, teamwork,knowledge and interactive" -were some of the words usedby the 60-odd Sea Cadets whoattended an orientation camphosted by SAS SIMONSBERG

in December 2006.Sea Cadets and Signats represent-

ing six units across the country (TSWoltemade in Cape Town, TS Knysnain Knysna, TS Fearless in Pretoria, TSImmortell in Johannesburg, TS Krom inCape St Francis, TS Tyberon in Durban)spent a week being exposed to the SANavy and improving their knowledgeand skills.

The assistance by Permanent andReserve Force personnel of the SANavy to the Sea Cadets is an extensionof the support that the SA Navy is giv-ing the Sea Cadet organisation nation-ally. Several members of the SA NavalReserve are assisting with training atunits of Sea Cadets and more opportu-nities are envisaged for 2007.

Many of these teenagers who havejoined the Sea Cadets have an interestin pursuing a career at sea, especially inthe SA Navy. The time was well spentin providing them with opportunitiesto improve their practical skills and toexperience Navy life first-hand.

WO2 Shawn Abrahams ran a tightship assisted by Chief Petty OfficerNolan Herne, Petty Officer ShaneRamsden and Leading Seaman MarlonAdams (SA Naval Reserve). Both ChiefPetty Officer Herne and LeadingSeaman Adams, themselves ex-SeaCadets, introduced the Sea Cadets toother positive role models serving inthe fleet.

The programme included practicalseamanship, navigation, communica-

tions, visits to ships, discipline andparade groundwork. The Cadets stoodinspection each morning and AbleSeaman Patrick Wabanie from TSKnysna commented that he was now "aprofessional bunk maker".

Petty Officer Shane Ramsden, aninstructor, commented that the Cadets"showed keenness, absorbed newknowledge well, took to the practicalexercises and were smart on the paradeground". Their leadership and team-work abilities were also enhanced.

As this camp is expected to becomean annual event the Cadets requestedmore physical activities to complementwhat they were learning and lookedforward to taking the experiences backto their units.

Any suitably qualified member ofthe SA Naval Reserve, especially inGauteng and Port Elizabeth, whowould like to assist in training SeaCadets should contact Capt PeterNapier at the Reserve ManagementCentre at tel no: (021) 787 3156/3469.

A“Leading Seaman Malgas (Sea Cadet)

operating the bilge pump on the Namacurra

harbour patrol boat.

S A S O L D I E R J U N E 2 0 0 7

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J U N E 2 0 0 7 S A S O L D I E R

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events

S A S O L D I E R J U N E 2 0 0 7

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"The ball is now in your court"

Article and photo by Cdr T.P.

Potgieter, Secretary-General of the

SA Military History Commission

outh Africa will host the pres-tigious international congressof the InternationalCommission of MilitaryHistory (ICMH) in CapeTown from 12 to 17 August2007. It is estimated that

senior delegates from up to 50 countrieswill participate in the congress. The del-egates will come from various armedforces, universities, military academies,research institutes, non-governmentalorganisations (NGOs) and from theinternational diplomatic community.

The study of military history isinternationally important to armedforces as it is seen as their "corporateknowledge". Armed forces have there-fore placed a high premium on thestudy of conflict and war, as well as itsinteraction with society as its under-standing is crucial for the successfulmanagement of the security environ-ment. The congress hosted in SouthAfrica will be very relevant and con-temporary as its focus will be on"Regions, regional organisations andmilitary power".

The various sessions will includepresentations on regional organisations,military power and military interven-tion, regional security and peace opera-tions, regional alliances, regional andmultinational forces, threats to regionalsecurity, regional conflicts and interna-tional coalitions. In addition two specialpanels will be presented on the themesof international support for liberationstruggles and the international reactionto the crisis in Rwanda.

The ICMH is a working group with-in the International Committee ofSciences. As such it is under the aus-

pices of United Nations Educational,Scientific and Cultural Organisation(UNESCO) and has the status of anaffiliated international organisation. Itaims at furthering and co-ordinatingsecurity related research throughoutthe world and at being an internation-al platform for the exchange of ideas.Many publications appear under theICHM banner and it organises one aus-picious annual international congress.National commissions (not individu-als) of United Nations (UN) memberstates are affiliated with the ICMH andit currently has about 40 national com-missions from all parts of the world.Cape Town was chosen as the host cityfor the 2007 congress, the three previ-ous congresses having taken place inMorocco (Rabat), Spain (Madrid) andGermany (Potsdam), while the 2008

S

At the 2006 congress in Potsdam (Germany) the President of the German

National Military History Commission, Dr Hans Ehlert (left), presented a

genuine World Cup football to Maj Gen (Prof) Solly Mollo, President of the

South African Military History Commission, as a symbolic gesture that the

ball was now in South Africa's court for the 2007 congress.

congress is due to take place in Italy.These international congresses are

important and prestigious events thatin many ways reflect the host country.In addition, it is the first time that theinternational congress will be held insub-Saharan Africa, or in the southern

South Africa

is to host a

prestigious

international

congress on

regional

security.

J U N E 2 0 0 7 S A S O L D I E R

27

hemisphere for that matter. It is there-fore quite an honour for South Africa tohost the 2007 congress and, in the lightof the FIFA 2010 World Cup SoccerTournament, much emphasis hasalready been placed on the ability ofSouth Africa and Cape Town to hostthis event.

A South African Military HistoryCommission (SAMHC) as the regionalchapter of the ICMH was appointed bythe Chief of the SANDF (in 2004) and isunder the Presidency of Maj Gen SollyMollo, Chief Director HumanResources Management. The ICMHapproved the South African candida-ture for the 2007 congress in 2005 andon 8 May 2006 the SANDF MilitaryCouncil granted approval for hostingthe 2007 international congress in CapeTown. The ICMH gave the final go-ahead to Cape Town in August 2006.

The 2007 international congress isorganised by the SAMHC and theMilitary Academy (Faculty of MilitaryScience, University of Stellenbosch). Assuch it represents cooperation betweenStellenbosch University and theDepartment of Defence (DOD). The

congress will take place at the BOE-Nedbank Conference Facility at theCape Town Waterfront, while thecongress hotels are the Table Bay, theCommodore and the Victoria andAlfred.

The delegates representing the var-ious national commissions are usuallyhigh-profile individuals in the securityenvironment (meaning general andflag officers and senior academicsfrom some of the eminent universitiesin the world). As a result the organis-ing states usually have high-profileparticipation. For example, the 2006congress in Germany was opened bythe Minister of Defence, and amongothers, the Minister of Defence, thePremier of the Brandenburg Province,the Mayor of Potsdam and the Speakerof the German Parliament hostedfunctions. In Morocco, for example,the congress was organised under theauspices of the King of Morocco (eachdelegate received a welcoming mes-sage from His Majesty KingMohammed VI, while a number ofstate ministers were involved.

The 2007 international congress of

the ICMH in Cape Town is alreadyseen as part of the build-up for theFIFA 2010 World Cup SoccerTournament. When the GermanNational Commission presented cour-tesy gifts to the various national com-missions in Germany (in August), agenuine World Cup football was hand-ed to Maj Gen Mollo as a symbolic ges-ture that the ball was now in SouthAfrica's court.

The theme for the 2007 congress(regions, regional organisations andmilitary power) is currently very rele-vant and topical, and it is befitting thatit should be presented in Africa. Mucheffort will therefore go into generatingand ensuring substantial South Africanand African participation in the 2007congress. The African voice should beheard on podiums such as these, andAfrica must take its rightful position inthe international community.

Parties interested in participating inthe congress can gain more informationfrom the website: www.cihm.ac.za or con-tact Cdr T.P. Potgieter on 022 702 3103 (tel) or 022 702 3060 (fax) oremail: cihm2007@ma2.sun.ac.za

focus on youth

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By CO Frans Pale, Ad AstraPhotos: Sgt Jolene Thirion

hen WO1 Frederick Jacobus Harmse (40)became Disciplinary and Liaison Officer atTshwane South College ten years ago, littledid he know how much he was destined toturn things around for the better at theInstitute.

According to him it would have been easyfor him to implement the required administration at theinstitute with an enrolment of over 500 youth withoutstrict maintenance of discipline.

As far as WO1 Harmse is concerned nothing canreplace discipline in the military environment. "Not eventhe democratic culture that swept across South Africa in1994 could take the place of discipline and the high stan-dards required to run an institute of this magnitude," saysWO1 Harmse.

The Ad Astra team recently went to Tshwane SouthCollege to speak to both current and former students whospoke fondly about the man that many refer to as a disci-plinarian at the college. "This is the man who made me theperson I am today," said Sgt Jolene Thirion, who is the cur-rent photographer at 5 Air Servicing Unit based at AirForce Base Waterkloof.

Sgt Thirion spent two years studying ElectronicEngineering at Tshwane South College. "During the peri-od when I was a student here, I did not understand whyWO1 Harmse was so strict. But, now, with all the experi-ence I have gained from field-work in the SA Air Force, Irealise why he had to be strict with us. And I thank him forthat," confesses Sgt Thirion.

Amn Belinda Mambali Thindisa (25) from Mamelodi iscurrently studying to become a Ground ElectricalMechanic at Tshwane South College. "I came to thisCollege because of encouragement from my friends who'went through the hands of WO1 Harmse". When I read inthe newspaper that there were openings for careers asGround Electrical Mechanics, I could not wait to become astudent here. As a result of my days of study here, I agreethat this College is really blessed with the presence ofWO1 Harmse."

When she finishes her course after one and half years,Thindisa will spend her average working day fixing refrig-erators and cooling machines in the SA Air Force offices."My message to the youth in my country is that theyshould consider the SANDF for their future careers."

Amn Mark Donald Watson (21) from Gauteng now

W

Discipline serves as a guide to students

Airman Mark Donald Watson.

spends most of his private time with his father fixing electricgadgets at home. Since he enrolled at Tshwane South CollegeAmn Watson has been in Workshop 2 where he is training as aGeneral Electrician. In an average day's work Amn Watson willspend time fixing motors, starters and doing electrical designand construction work.

Airman Belinda Mambali Thindisa.

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By Lebohang Letaoana

Photo: Cpl Elias Mahuma

one are the days whenwomen were expected toput on the apron and pre-pare meals for their families.Today they have swappedthe apron for constructionwork, flying aircraft and

basically doing what is called "a man'sjob". Spr Mmapaseka Letswalo fromthe SA Army Engineering Formation isone of these women.

She is the driver of Brig Gen VuyoNobanda, General Officer Command-ing SA Army Engineering Formation.Born and raised in Lethlabile, Brits,this 24-year-old joined the SANDF as aMilitary Skills Development System(MSDS) volunteer in 2005. "I wasencouraged by my uncle to join theSANDF because he thought it wouldbring a bit of direction and stability inmy life," she said.

Another reason that made her jointhe SANDF was the lack of funds tocontinue with her studies. After shematriculated in 2000 she obtained aDiploma in Civil Engineering atTshwane North College (Soshangu-ve Campus) up to N5, but she couldnot finish the diploma for financialreasons.

But why a career in driving? "Icame into the SANDF with my learn-er's driving license after I finished myCorps training in Kroonstad; a few ofus were selected to do a driving andmaintenance course. I did the Samil 20,50 and 100 Driving Course. Eventhough it was very tough, I was deter-mined to succeed," said Spr Letswalo.

Asked how she felt the day she wascalled by Brig Gen Nobanda for an

G

Up close witha female driver

interview, she said: "I was nervousbecause he had such a high rank and Idid not know him. I only saw himwhen he was addressing us inKroonstad and Lohatlha, so you canimagine how I was feeling that day,and as they say the rest is history," saidSpr Letswalo.

She has been the driver of Brig GenNobanda for the past two yearsand has not been involved in any acci-dent, because she reckons that womenare better drivers than men. "Ourtempers do not just flare. We can bemore patient than men. Althoughwe become nervous sometimes, itonly makes us more careful," saidSpr Letswalo.

To confirm her statement, SASoldier spoke to Brig Gen Nobanda."She is a very disciplined and intelli-gent young lady and with her attitude

Spr Mmapaseka Letswalo, the driver of the General Officer Commanding of

SA Army Engineering Formation.

she will be an asset to the SANDF. Alot of people were very sceptical whenshe started here, but I think she hasproved them wrong. This proves thatwomen are capable of doing what mencan do," said Brig Gen Nobanda.

As far as her future plans are con-cerned, Spr Letswalo still wants tocontinue with her studies. "I want tofinish my N6 diploma and after I haveserved my time in this post as a driverI want to venture into construction,especially quantity surveying, so thatin the future I can be utilised for sur-veying in the SANDF," she said.

If she is not on duty, Spr Letswaloprefers to hang out with friends andlisten to music or watch DVDs.

Her future

plans are to

venture into

construction,

especially

quantity

surveying.

focus on youth

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Article and photo by Sea J.G. Grant,

Int Com BPRO Simon's Town

eaman Myolisi "Boxer" Xayo, whohas received sporting awards forboxing, soccer and athletics is

excelling well in these sports and isleaving a legend for youngsters whostill want to join the SANDF as part ofthe programme to rejuvenate theDefence Force. While still at school,Xayo quickly realised the importance ofeducation and excelled at hisSecondary School in Centane in theTranskei. His keen sense of right andwrong pushed him in the direction ofvarious sports. Xayo joined the SANavy in 2006. Although he had heardof many people joining the SA Army,the idea of a life of adventure at seaappealed to him more. Though he hadlittle knowledge of the Navy, hebelieved in himself and knew that hecould make a positive contribution to

the organisation. He is now working atCole Point in Simon's Town where he isqualified to protect Government build-ings and other assets. This 22 year oldwants to make a career in the SANDF,but is also very serious about his sportstraining. On the days that he is off duty

he travels to Wynberg and sweats it outfor his dreams. This champion in thelightweight division is rated 2nd in theSANDF boxing ranks. He wants to be aprofessional boxer in future, and speakspassionately about boxing. He says thatwhen you're in the ring it's all aboutyou, and the crowd knows this, so whenthey cheer it's not for a team, but solelyfor him as an individual. When askedwhat advice he had for other young-sters, he said that they should knowwhat they want and believe in them-selves. They should also try and associ-ate themselves with the right kind offriends who will keep them motivatedbecause there will come a time when

A boxing legend begins

S

By Lt L. Perumaul,

Environmental Officer

t Lorraine Perumaul was born andbrought up in Durban and lived herentire life there until the SA Army

happened. After school she studiedcomputers and administration at OvalInternational Computer Collegebecause of the boom in the computerindustry at that time. She graduatedwith a diploma, but her passion fornature and the environment kept burn-ing. In fact, it grew stronger. Thereafter,she studied at the University ofKwaZulu-Natal and completed her BAdegree in Environment andDevelopment. Lt Perumaul graduatedin 2004 and joined the SA Armythrough the 2005 Military SkillsDevelopment System (MSDS) intake.

A new chapter unfolded in January2005 in Lt Perumauls' life from themoment she boarded the bus to 3 SAInfantry Battalion for basic training. "Adecision that will have an impact on mylife like never before - basic training -something you hear stories about, butonly experience the reality of it whenyou are part of it!" she says.

July 2006 saw the start of her career

in the SANDF when she was appointedas an environmental officer at ArmySupport Base Potchefstroom. She wasquite fortunate to have attended theISO 14001 Environmental ManagementSystems and Auditing Course, whichwas presented to key role players in theunit. She also attended theEnvironmental Law for EnvironmentalManagers and the Environmental RiskAssessment and Management in 2006at the Centre for EnvironmentalManagement, which is part ofPotchefstroom University.

MSDS member cares for our environment

L

Seaman "Boxer" Xayo.

their morale is low and then they willneed someone to keep them from tem-porarily abandoning their dreams.Seaman Xayo, who was a member of theMasonwabe Choral Society, is also apoet and has entertained and impressedaudiences up to the highest rank level.

One of the highlights of her careerthus far was being part of theEnvironmental Considerations teamduring Military Operations (ECOps)for EXERCISE SEBOKA, which pro-vided her with valuable insight andinformation on how military activitiesimpact on the environment and howthis can all be minimised by utilisingmitigating measures. For her, it wasquite remarkable seeing soldiers doingtheir part and caring for the environ-ment. Another highlight was attendingEcological Management Level I at theDOD Log School, a course packed withinvaluable information necessary tothe execution of daily environmentalactivities.

"I always had an avid love fornature and hope that one day everyperson realises the importance of itand that, 'we need nature, nature does-n't need us!' Being an environmentalofficer, especially in the DOD whereyour core business is military trainingand being combat ready, reallyrequires a lot of hard work, commit-ment and dedication, but my passionand love for nature and the environ-ment make it all very rewarding at theend of the day."

Lt Lorraine Perumaul.

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The sky is no more the limit

By F Sgt Ethel Lemmetjies,

Siyandiza Co-ordinator

AFB Bloemspruit

Photo: WO2 Alex Henning

oaring with eagles becomescommon sense for the AFBBloemspruit Falcons. Foreight of these youngsters adream came true when theyhad the opportunity to touchthe sky during the World

Grand Prix Gliding Qualifier and theSouth African Gliding Championships.These youngsters had the opportunityto fly in a glider and work hand in handwith the gliding pilots.

These two weeks added quality and

value to their lives that nobody canever take away from them. Theseyoung Falcons realise that destiny isnot a matter of chance, but a matter ofchoice. It is not a thing to be waitedfor. It is a thing to be achieved.Knowledge is essential to conquest.Only according to our ignorance arewe helpless.

Through the Siyandiza Programmethe SA Air Force adds value to thelives of so many underprivilegedyouth, some of whom have never seenan aircraft and know nothing aboutthe SA Air Force. It is able to give themhope for a brighter tomorrow. Theprogramme provides them with onevery important key to success, namely

self-confidence. Preparation helps inthis regard. Complete mental andphysical preparation needs to do withsacrifice and self-discipline, and thatcomes from within, by setting modestgoals which are meaningful, butattainable.

For the Free State Falcons it is allabout passion for aviation and flying;about striving for the ultimate dream.For three of them that dream is aboutto come true. As Jaco Kok, a seniorFalcon, said: "At the end of my life, Ijust want to be able to look back andsay that I felt what it feels like to befree. I have touched the sky. I haveflown on eagles wings and I have beenwhere the eagles soar."

S

Senior Falcons, fltr: Jethro Pretorius, Valencia Simmons, Branigan Galela, Bevanique Alexander,

(F Sgt Ethel Lemmetjies, Siyandiza Coordinator AFB Bloemspruit), Sello Setlai, Corrie Oberholzer, Wesley Beukes

and Vuyo Ndzume. These eight Falcons had the opportunity to fly in a glider during the South African Gliding

Championships. (Front: Kerryn Ockhuis.)

focus on youth

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By CO Frans Pale, Ad Astra

irman Nombulelo Tshaka (19) con-tinues to excel in her studies as thebest student in the Command and

Control Ab Initio Course at Air ForceCommand and Control School at AFBHoedspruit.

Having been voted the best overallstudent at the SA Air Force Gymna-sium on 12 April 2007, Airman Tshakais currently climbing yet another lad-der of success at the Air ForceCommand and Control School as sherecently achieved 90% in her first testof abbreviations and definitions.

"I believe I can do much better. Ialways aim for higher marks. The timeand pressure placed on us at the AirForce Command and Control School isa challenge that encourages me towork harder to achieve my goals," shetold Ad Astra in a recent interview.

Asked what attracted her to the SAAir Force, Airman Tshaka simply says:"Love of the blue uniform and disci-pline. I just love this blue uniform very

much. I feel proud and dignified when Iput it on. Everything I do is based ondiscipline. The discipline I find in the SAAir Force is part of my life."

Upon the successful completion ofher studies, Airman Tshaka will becomea qualified air traffic controller in the SAAir Force. "I see myself going far in theSA Air Force. I want to make a differ-

ence in the area of air traffic control. AllI need now is to get the necessary tech-nical background through my studies,"she says.

Airman Tshaka's message to theyouth of South Africa is that theyshould strive to make life worth living."For you to succeed, you have to makeit for yourself. You will not succeed ifyou do not work hard. Think carefullybefore you do anything. Ensure thatyou take the right decisions becausethey will affect the rest of your life," shesays. Asked about her family and whatmotivates her in life, Airman Tshakareveals her nostalgic feelings as shetalks about her family who live in EastLondon. "I miss my parents and broth-er, Kuhle, very much. I used to have lotsof fights with my brother, but sinceleaving home we have grown muchcloser to each other. My mother alwaystells me that nothing must get medown, while my father usually says tome: 'You are my first-born and I believein you my girl,'" says the ever smilingAirman Tshaka.

Young woman to become air traffic controller

A

By Lt R.J. Damons, Adjutant

35 Engineer Support Regiment

or Sapper Madimetja Lucas Ma-senya, the third born of Ms JohannaMasenya and the late Mr Solomon

Masenya, it was an awesome experi-ence to deploy to Mozambique andmake a difference in the lives of peoplethere.

This 25-year-old young man from arural village near Mokopane in theLimpopo Province underwent basicmilitary training at 3 SA InfantryBattalion in 2003. He also completedhis core training at the School ofEngineers. His current home unit is 35Engineer Support Regiment. His firstdeployment was from November 2004to April 2005 in the DemocraticRepublic of Congo (DRC). Accordingto Sapper Masenya this deploymentwas very demanding, as it took himthousands of kilometers away from hishome, but it was also a good experi-ence to see how his fellow Africanbrothers and sisters were living.

He was deployed again in 2007again shortly after the Zambezi Riverflooded the Cahora Bassa Dam inMozambique and left the residents flee-ing for their lives. I had the fortunatepleasure of interviewing SapperMasenya about his experiences inMozambique and, according to thisyoung soldier, it was the highlight ofhis career to deploy to Mozambique

basic things. He was especially senti-mental about the little children who hadto endure such realities. I asked himwhether he would one day like to livethere, and he replied: "Yes and no.Yes, because the crime rate there is verylow; and definitely no, because themosquitoes there are too much; andI still love South Africa with all itsproblems.

Young sapper made a difference in Mozambique

F

Airman Nombulelo Tshaka wants to

make a difference in the area of air

traffic control.

and assist the locals by supply-ing fresh water. He also metsome of these and made friendswith a man only known to himas John, because according toSapper Masenya John was theonly one that he met that couldspeak English. John showedhim the conditions in whichmany of the Mozambicansfound themselves.

Sapper Masenya said that tosee people without the basicnecessities, such as fresh water,food and shelter made himrealise how privileged people inSouth Africa were to have such

Sapper Madimetja Masenya.

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Article and photo by

Seaman A.T. Tshabalala, Int Com

BPRO Simon's Town

ble Seaman Daniel Moeng joinedthe SA Navy in 2005 and completed

his Basic Military Training in SAS SAL-DANHA the same year. From an earlyage Able Seaman Moeng showed akeen interest in sport.

While he was still in primary schoolhe realised that his interest in sportwas mostly in athletics. It was not easyfor him initially because of the highcost of sports equipment. That, howev-er, was not enough to stop him as hewas determined to achieve his dreams."Encouragement and support from myparents and teachers helped me con-nect and find within myself what Ireally wanted to achieve," said AbleSeaman Moeng. This support and pas-sion led to a love for athletics; he there-fore withdrew from other sports thathe was participating in at the time.

While in high school he qualifiedfor the Northern Free State athleticsteam. Soon after he earned himself

membership of the esteemed Bloem-fontein Athletics Club. To his disap-pointment the sponsors and the organis-ers said he was too young to participateat that level of athletics. He then decidedto concentrate on body-building.

In 2005 SAS SALDANHA hosted asports day, and for this young man itbrought back the motivation and thepassion he once had for running. TheSANDF Athletics Championships tookplace, but unfortunately, because of the

demanding Military Skills Dev-elopment System (MSDS) pro-gramme, he could not participate.However, he told himself that inthe future there would be morechampionships that he could par-ticipate in. Nothing was to stand inhis way, as he knew that athleticswas where his love and enjoymentlay.

In 2006 he participated in theSANDF Championships. He ranthe 400m, 200m, 100m and 4 x 400mrelay. He was awarded a GoldMedal in the 200m and 100m finalsand a Bronze Medal in the 4 x 400m

Lightning speed

A

By LS V.D. Maleka, Naval PR

Photo: AB I.K. Sehloho

sk around Naval Mess in Pretoriaand everyone will confirm that

Leading Seaman Krestinah Jevan isfriendly, talkative and humorous. Sheis always joking and laughing and, be-lieve me, the talking part never stops... When her uncle suggested she join theSA Navy, she just laughed out loud,picturing herself looking serious in uni-form. After being persuaded she decid-ed to give it a try.

She joined the SA Navy in 1999.Since then she has worked in theProtection Force and has also complet-ed the Guard Dog Handlers Course,and Martin, her very first dog. "Dogsare like babies, they need attention.They need to be loved and nurtured.They are lots of fun and, after all, theyare a man's best friend," she said.

In 2003 when her inter-branchtransfer came through, she joined the

catering branch as a chef. After herCatering Part 1 Course she was draftedto SAS IMMORTELLE at the NavalMess in Pretoria. She really loves cook-ing: "Cooking is interesting. It's like artand just like an experiment, but with

Sailor bursting with energy

A

Able Seaman Daniel Moeng.

relay. Sadly, the doctor demandedthat he withdraw from the 400m finalsafter he incurred an injury to his ankle.Able Seaman Moeng was awarded atrophy for being the Best Senior Manby breaking the 200m record and com-pleting the race in 22 seconds flat.

The SA Navy awarded AbleSeaman Moeng an opportunity and astepping-stone to prove himself and toprosper in athletics. He now wears hisWestern Province Colours with pride.

food". She continued: "Cooking aloneis not enough, you have to put a littlebit of love into it. Oops, now you knowmy secret," she smiled.

Leading Seaman Jevan is an abso-lute sports fanatic. She is an athletewho started running in primary schooland was always one of the top threefinishers. The highlight of her sportingcareer was when she represented herschool in athletics for GautengProvince, then known as NorthernTransvaal, which earned her provin-cial colours. Today she is the onlyfemale member of the walking team ofSAS IMMORTELLE. She was the bestathlete at school and recently she wasthe fittest woman during the fitnesstests at SAS IMMORTELLE.

Growing up, she always wanted tobe a social worker and, to realise herchildhood dream, she is currentlystudying psychology. With her per-sonality no one is more suited and wewish her success with her studies.

Leading Seaman Krestinah Jevan.

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Fltr: Lt Monique Badenhorst, Lt Alicia Ria, Lt Nikki Delport and Lt Samantha Maquena after

receiving their MB ChB degrees. (Lt Verna de Vos was absent when the photo was taken.)

Five young military doctors graduated

By Lt Col Derek Jacobs (SO1 Med)

and Lt John Sverdloff (Editor Milmed)

Photo: Capt Bongani Sibande

ive proud doctors from theSAMHS graduated from theUniversity of Pretoria on 12April 2007 after having beenincluded in the MilitaryStudents Programme (MildentScheme), which annually

affords ten students the opportunity tostudy medicine through the SANDFfor their later utilisation as medicaldoctors in the South African MilitaryHealth Service (SAMHS). Annual entryto this programme is through theMilitary Skills Development System(MSDS).

Five students are enrolled at theUniversity of Limpopo (previouslyknown as the Medical University ofSouthern Africa/Medunsa) and the

Flatter at the University of Pretoria.

Besides studying medicine, Mil-dents are able to enter the fields ofBiokinetics, Biomedical Technology,Clinical Technology, Dietetics, Occu-pational Therapy, Orthotistry/ Pros-thetistry, Physiotherapy, Radiography,Speech Therapy and/or Audiology.

Selection is done in accordance withthe country's demographics. Studentshave to comply with strict entry criteriabased on good Grade 12 results - theemphasis being on at least four matricsubjects passed on the Higher Grade(HG) level. The minimum entryrequirement for any medical school inSouth Africa is a "C" in both Maths (HG)and Science (HG).

Grade 12 results are used to calcu-late an M-score. The M-score isobtained by adding the points allocatedto each of the best symbols obtained insix subjects in the Grade 12 exams. An

A symbol obtained for a subject in thehigher grade (HG) = 5 points, a B sym-bol in HG = 4 points, a C = 3 points, aD = 2 points and an E = 1 point. Thelowest M-score that will be consideredfor admission to a medical course is 18,and the minimum entry requirementfor any medical school in South Africais a "C" in both Maths (HG) and Science(HG). A standard grade (SG) symbolcannot be converted to higher gradeexcept if the subject is rewritten inthe HG.

If a member does not satisfy the setrequirements, he can improve hisGrade 12 results through a YouthFoundation programme, which isafforded by the DOD and by most uni-versities. Alternatively those studentswho have an university entrance, butdo not qualify to be selected formedicine or one of the other courses,can enrol for a three-year BSc degree at

own expense to improvetheir chances for selec-tion. It has to be borne inmind that the cut-off agefor MSDS entry is 23;therefore this BSc degreehas to be completed by22 years of age.

MSDS recruits un-dergo basic militarytraining for three monthsat SA Army CombatTraining Centre inLohatlha, after whichthey are streamed intodifferent disciplines oftraining. Prospectivemedical Mildents aretrained to become opera-tional emergency careorderlies (OECPs). Fol-lowing successful train-ing and application as anOECP, a member can

J U N E 2 0 0 7 S A S O L D I E R

35

then apply in his second year of MSDSfor entry to the Mildent Scheme the fol-lowing year.

Applicants have to pass an officers'selection too. Successful MSDS mem-bers have to sign a contract with theDOD according to which they agree toserve the SAMHS as Medical Officersfor a period equal to the amount ofyears in training (currently six years) atthe allocated Medical School(University). This period commenceson completion of the internship train-ing period, which is two years. Years intraining are seven to eight years,depending on the university attended.

Experiences are shared …Completing her internship at 1

Military Hospital an upbeat LtMonique Badenhorst said that themany years of studying hard had final-ly paid off, and that her parents' wordsstill rang true: "Obtaining a qualifica-tion is something that nobody can takeaway from you".

She added that qualifying as a doc-tor was such a part of who she was, andhaving an impact on her patients'recovery, so fulfilling. Lt Badenhorstthanked the SAMHS for affording herthe opportunity to study medicine andthat she was extremely proud to be adoctor in the SAMHS.

Lt Nikki Delport explained thatduring her last few years at high schoolshe had developed a keen interest inpsychology, but soon changed whenshe discovered how interestingmedicine was. "My period of study wasextremely rewarding in that so much

knowledge was acquired. Pharmacologyproved to be rather difficult, but bybelieving in one's own abilities and withthe support of fellow students and fami-ly, one rises above the difficult times.

"My first day as a doctor at 1 MilitaryHospital was one of apprehension, butalso of excitement. I was now practisingmedicine after so many years of studyingand soon realised after attending to sev-eral patients that the calibre of trainingreceived at the University of Pretoria hadbeen of a very high standard. I can hon-estly say that it has been a privilege tohave studied through this institution."

Completing her internship at 2Military Hospital in the Western Cape, LtAlicia Ria said that the cross-over fromfinishing school to join the military hadbeen a big step. Her one-year basic train-ing in the SAMHS prior to beginning herstudies was enjoyable and challenging,and had a positive impact as far as char-acter building was concerned.

"I was filled with elation on gradua-tion day. So many years of hard studyhad come to an end and I was to receivemy degree in medicine. My thoughtswere that I would do it all over again asit had been so rewarding. I am living thedream - working as a doctor at a won-derful hospital, doing what I enjoymost!" said Lt Ria.

Reminiscing, she added: "I saw myfirst patient on New Year's Day in theCasualty Department. The patient hadsuffered a myocardial infarction (heartattack). I resuscitated the patient andrealised how valuable my years of train-ing had been and that the applicationthereof was second nature to me."

Lt Samantha Maquena has alwayshad a very disciplined approach to herstudies and found the one-year basictraining in the SAMHS of great value.It taught her accountability and helpedher adjust to the military environmentwhere she now works.

"As part of my internship I amworking in the Casualty Departmentat 1 Military Hospital. This I havefound to be challenging but alsorewarding in that so many differenttypes of medical cases are seen. I enjoythe interaction and answering ofpatients' questions as well as the suc-cessful prognoses of their illnesses. Iknow beyond a shadow of doubt that Ihave chosen the right career," said LtMaquena.

Having just completed internalmedicine and now busy with psychia-try and family medicine at 3 MilitaryHospital, Lt Verna de Vos emphasisedthat to have received a bursarythrough the SAMHS to study medicinewas a privilege for which he wasextremely grateful.

"I have always wanted to workwith people and the career I have cho-sen not only allows me to interact withpatients, but also allows me to addvalue to their lives from a health per-spective, and I could not have chosen abetter institution to work for. I willcontinue to work in the SAMHS for aslong as possible, eventually specialis-ing in Psychiatry."

Members in the other Services whoare interested in studying medicine areencouraged to request a transfer to theSAMHS.

Nursing is a very promising career for our youth

By Lt John Sverdloff and

Lt Sello Segone (Milmed)

Photos: Courtesy SAMHS Nursing

College

he SAMHS Nursing Collegewas established in 1985, and isa unique establishment afford-ing young soldiers the oppor-tunity to obtain nursing train-ing within the military envi-ronment and a very promising

career in the SANDF under theSAMHS. It also aims at providingworld-class military training for learn-ers to qualify as registered nurses, mid-wives, enrolled nurses and specialisedclinical practitioners, and thus to meetthe nursing needs of the SANDF.

The main campus of the SAMHSNursing College is situated in Pretoriaand has two satellite campuses at 2Military Hospital in Cape Town and 3Military Hospital in Bloemfontein,

which are affiliated to the Universityof South Africa.

Lt Col Anita Theron, First andSecond Stage Manager at the SAMHSNursing College, said that the SAMHSNursing College took part in therecruitment of potential nurses byplacing representatives from theSAMHS Nursing College on the selec-tion panel. The selection requirementfor nurses is that such candidatesT>> on page 36

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S A S O L D I E R J U N E 2 0 0 7

36

should be in possession of a Grade 12certificate with at least two subjects inthe higher grade. English, PhysicalScience, Mathematics and Biology arethe recommended subjects.

Candidates should also bedeclared psychologically and medi-cally fit for service as officers in theSANDF, be 18 to 22 years of age, withan M-score of 14. Candidates with anM-score of 14 and above are consid-ered for the four-year diploma andthose who score between 12 and 14are considered for the two-year diplo-ma. These requirements are in accor-dance with prescribed standardsand are on a par with their civiliancounterparts.

The first six months prior to thecommencement of nursing studies aredevoted to military training. Thecourses include basic military skills,the basic ambulance course and driv-ing and maintenance. Further studyopportunities include battlefieldadvanced trauma life support(BATLS) and battlefield advancedresuscitation techniques and skills

(BARTS), primary health care,medicine management, aviation nurs-ing, emergency nursing care and inten-sive nursing care.

Lt Col Theron also mentioned thatmany of the students were unaware ofthe advantages and disadvantages thatcame with nursing and hence some-times found it difficult to deal withsuch issues as having to work over-time, during weekends, the implica-tion of contracts, working back timeand the purchasing of own study mate-rial. An example is that contractual

obligations includethe signing of astudy agreement bythe member withthe DOD. It entailsthe member servingin the SANDF afterobtaining his quali-fication for a periodof six months foreach individualyear of study orpart thereof.

However, sheemphasised that theSAMHS NursingCollege had anopen door policywith regard totraining and nurs-ing related queries.

Learners undergoing instruction at the SAMHS Nursing College.

The nurses' lamp.

Crest of the SAMHS Nursing

College.

>> from page 35

J U N E 2 0 0 7 S A S O L D I E R

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Article and photo by

LS V.D. Maleka, Naval PR

rom Protection Force to ActingOfficer in Command SASIMMORTELLE Gymnasium to an

Occupational Health and Safety(OHASA) representative and again thedaily Military Skills DevelopmentSystem (MSDS) duty driver. These arethe contributions of Able SeamanDonald Muthapuli at SASIMMORTELLE.

Able Seaman Muthapuli startedworking at SAS IMMORTELLE in 2002as a Protection Force member. In 2003,when the SAS IMMORTELLEGymnasium was left without anOfficer in Command, he volunteered totake charge of the gym, which he man-aged without any prior training. Whileworking there he enrolled and com-pleted the OHASA Level 1 Course, andsoon after the gym acquired a replace-ment he joined the OHASA Sectionand has since been working there.

As an OHASA representative he is

responsible for inspecting and maintain-ing the safety of the building for its per-sonnel. He administers and attends toall complaints with regard to health andsafety. He is also a First Aid representa-tive for certain floors in the building andis responsible for ensuring the availabil-ity of first aid material in the building.

How did he become the MSDS driv-er? Well, when the new MSDS traineesjoined Navy Office they had a shortage

of drivers. Once again, ourAble Seaman Muthapuliwas approached to assist asa driver for the MSDStrainees and without hesita-tion he obliged. On a dailybasis he ensures that themembers arrive at work ontime and after work he con-veys them back to theirrespective messes.

He believes that oneshould take every day as itcomes and always be posi-tive. He said: "We as youngpeople must learn as much

Jack of all trades

F

Article and photo by

A.T. Tshabalala,

Int Com BPRO Simon's Town

urviving in a man's world canprove to be difficult for a woman -at least that is what most women

and men believe. A man's world is saidto be hard and women have constantlyto be on their toes to prove their capa-bilities. To some, however, facing whatmost people think is difficult is just away of life.

Seaman Beuran Mackay is one suchwoman thriving on facing challenges.She is a versatile player who appreci-ates and looks forward to the chal-lenges that hockey and soccer, espe-cially, have to offer.

She started playing soccer withboys in her neighbourhood in Malvern,Johannesburg. This is where she devel-oped the desire to play soccer, whichgrew into a dream to be the best. Sheprogressed and eventually playedthroughout her school days, and

became committed as her passion forthe sport grew.

On completion of her basic trainingin SAS SALDANHA she was selectedfor the SA Navy Soccer Team. She con-tinued to play in the SANDF

counterparts. "To achieve something,no matter how big or small, one has toput one's mind into its 'zone', and youknow anything that can be achieved ispossible," was her advice to the youthin the DOD.

Soccer player thrives on challenges

S

Able Seaman Donald Muthapuli.

as possible while we still can and thatbeing young means that you haveevery opportunity to explore andexperiment with everything thatcomes your way." He also emphasisedthat although we might be at a pointwhere the DOD is advantageous tothe youth, we must not forget torespect all our seniors and to have dis-cipline as it is the cornerstone of greatsuccess.

Championships where she wascrowned Female Player of theTournament and Top GoalScorer. Next she was selectedfor the SANDF Women'sSoccer team. In February 2006she played for the SANDFteam and was awarded theSANDF Shield as the best pro-gressing female soccer player.

In October 2006 she partici-pated in the SA NavyChampionships where she wasagain named Best Player of theTournament and received herWest Coast Colours.

Seaman Mackay hasproved herself in a male domi-nated sport and shows asmuch potential as her male

Seaman Beuran Mackay.

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S A S O L D I E R J U N E 2 0 0 7

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Greenie making historyBy Cdr Adri Liebenberg, Acting

SSO Environmental Services

t was the first time in the history ofany South African deploymentthat an environmental officerformed part of the deploymentteam.

Lt Renier van Wyk was instru-mental in launching the most

important environmental initiative inthe recent history of the DOD. Thisyoung SA Air Force officer was thefirst environmental member to bedeployed on a foreign mission, namelyin OPERATION TRITON IV, as part ofthe African Mission in Support ofElections in the Comoros (AMISEC) in2006. During this peace support opera-tion the DOD acted as the leadingnation in this African Union (AU) mis-sion by providing peace support dur-ing the first democratic elections in theUnion of the Comoros.

As the leading defence force theDOD was obligated to ensure that alldeployed members adhered to allinternational, national and local(Comoros) environmental legislationapplicable to the mission as well as toensure that all environmental practicesand policies were adhered to.Therefore, in order to adhere to thisobligation Joint Operations requestedthe services of an environmental mem-

Iin 1996 and was appointed as theEnvironmental Assistant at Air ForceBase Overberg (previously Test Flightand Development Centre) in 1996. In1998 he was appointed as theEnvironmental Manager at AFBOverberg and attended the officers' for-mative training at the SA Air ForceCollege in 2004. After successful comple-tion of the course he was promoted toLieutenant.

At this base, Lt van Wyk is responsi-ble for managing and maintaining theEnvironmental Management System(EMS) in accordance with the Inter-national Standards Organisations' Stand-ard for Environmental Management, ISO14001 for continued South AfricanBureau of Standards (SABS) accredita-tion. This accreditation is necessary forthe base to maintain its status as centre ofexcellence in national and internationalflight-testing. He is therefore welltrained in all aspects of environmentalmanagement, including ISO 14001. In2006 he also qualified as an ISO 14001auditor.

During the deployment to theComoros Lt Van Wyk was responsiblefor ensuring that all members on deploy-ment (including members from othernations) were made aware of their envi-ronmental responsibility by ensuringtotal integration with the deploymentteam. Furthermore, he had to ensure that

the assistance, co-operation and backingfrom top management were obtained inorder to ensure that all environmentalpolicies, strategies and procedures wereimplemented successfully and adheredto down to the lowest level. It wasimperative that Lt Van Wyk participat-ed in the planning phase to ensure thatall environmental planning, proceduresand strategies could be communicatedand incorporated into the mission priorto the deployment.

Through this initiative Lt Van Wykpaved the way for future deploymentsof environmental personnel andachieved awareness with regard to envi-ronmental responsibility, adherence tobest environmental practices andobtained environmental equipment foruse in future deployments and exercis-es. In addition, the local community wastaught ways and means of preservingtheir environment in a sustainable wayfor tourism, which is the only source ofincome for the islanders. Furthermore,he ensured that the AMISEC mission(particularly iro the RSA) could andwould not be held responsible for anynegative influences on the natural envi-ronment utilised in the Comoros, butwould rather have a positive outputwith regard to the sustainable manage-ment of military impacts on the envi-ronment, and that this would be com-municated to the media and public.

For this achievement Lt Van Wykwas awarded the 2006 ConservamusFloating Trophy for EnvironmentalServices in the DOD at the award func-tion that was presented at AFBYsterplaat on 7 June 2007. For his contri-bution to the maintenance of the EMS atAFB Overberg the unit was also award-ed the 2006 SA National Parks FloatingTrophy for Integrated EnvironmentalManagement Systems (IEMS) in theDOD.

* The deployment of environmental per-sonnel is in compliance with theEnvironmental Considerations duringMilitary Operations programme, which wasfeatured in the April 2007 edition of SASoldier.

Lt Renier van Wyk was deployed as the

Environmental Officer in the Comoros in 2006.

ber for the planning andexecution of environmen-tal issues to be consideredduring this mission. "Itwas the first time in thehistory of any SouthAfrican deployment thatan environmental officerformed part of the deploy-ment team, and not onlyfor regular inspectionaudits," says Lt Van Wyk.

Renier van Wyk wasborn in 1977 in the Strandnear Cape Town. Aftercompleting his matricwith exemption in 1995,he joined the SA Air Force

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Article and photo by LS V.D.

Maleka, Naval PR

oft-spoken, welcoming and alwaysready to assist - this is Able Seaman

Marlene Labuschagne, otherwiseknown as ever-smiling "Linkie" to allthe members at SAS IMMORTELLE.

While growing up she often fanta-sised about working on a cruise shipand, after trying countless times to joinone, she finally lost hope. Thingsturned around when she heard of theSA Navy and how one only needed tohave passed matric with good marks inmathematics and physical science tojoin. She immediately applied and wasecstatic when she was accepted.

Though she does not work at sea,she is grateful to work in an environ-ment that she has always loved. She iscurrently the Writer to WO1 K.P.Naidoo, the Master at Arms (MAA) ofSAS IMMORTELLE. She has beenworking at this office for more thantwo years and manages the MAA'sadministration, giving special attentionto the compilation of daily orders,sports orders and the administration ofthe Standby Allowance of SASIMMORTELLE's duty personnel. Withher exceptional organisational skillsshe is always the preferred choice to bethe Officer Commanding of SAS

Proud sailor of the first Military SkillsDevelopment Programme

S

IMMORTELLE when thePersonal Assistant is absent.

She is part of the firstMilitary Skills DevelopmentSystem (MSDS) group in theSA Navy and feels very proudto have been involved in thefirst programme of transfor-mation and transition in theDOD.

She said: "Being young

Able Seaman Linkie Labuschagne.

means that you are at the peak ofyour life with the future still wayahead of you, which leaves manyopportunities to be explored. At alltimes remember education is impor-tant, and attend as many courses aspossible to empower yourselves in-tellectually. We are the future ofthe DOD, so let us arm ourselveswith any knowledge and experiencepresented to us."

career development

S A S O L D I E R J U N E 2 0 0 7

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Improve your readingspeed

By Mr M.D. Phaaka,

Senior Personnel Officer

Photo: Lt John Sverdloff

he Directorate CareerManagement (DCM) forPublic Service Act Personnel(PSAP) is responsible for ren-dering a career developmentservice to all employees inthe DOD. DCM (PSAP) man-

ages a Career Resources Centre withvarious electronic and non-electronicresources that could assist employeesto plan and develop their careers. Onesuch resource is the EYE ReadProgramme.

WHAT IS THE EYE READ PROGRAMME ABOUT?

The ability to read is the key tointellectual development and success.

Therefore with the EYE ReadProgramme you will not only copebetter with the information explosion,but you will also grow and develop.

It is a programme suitablydesigned for use by adults, teenagersand children from the age of nine. Theprogramme contains a series of eyeexercises that are intended to dramati-cally improve your reading speed.

THE PROGRAMME OBJECTIVES

To increase study performance.To improve concentration, understanding and recall.To increase self-confidence in yourability to read and study.To maximise the brain's potential.

TARGET GROUPEvery DOD official is encouraged

to use the programme. An appeal ismade to all readers of this article toconvey this message to others.

DCM (PSAP) CAREER CENTRESPretoria: Poynton's Building

Mr M.D. Phaaka on (012) 392 2489(SSN: 813 2489)

Durban: Battery Beach Military BaseMs P. Moodley on (031) 369 1133(SSN: 830 1133)

Simon's Town: OSVLO BuildingMr E.J.C. Selk on (021) 787 3776(SSN: 850 3776)

WHAT TO DO?To ensure the programme is used,

it is recommended that readers contactpersonnel at the nearest Career

T

Mr Phillip Tsoari, a personnel practitioner, holding a copy of the EYE Read Programme.

Resource Centreto make arrange-ments. Make surethat you obtainyour supervisor'spermission.

* Enquiriescan be directed toMr M.D. Phaakaon tel no: (012)392 2489 (SSN:813 2489) or faxno: (012) 392 2506or email: dcd-psap@

mweb.co.za

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Article and photo by Seaman J.G.

Grant, Int Com BPRO Simon's Town

ble Seaman Kariem Steyn, a fire-fighter working at SAS SIMONS-BERG, can be found hard at work at

any time of the day. This vivacious 22-year-old has enjoyed many sports, eghockey, squash and rugby. She is anall-rounder because, in addition tobeing athletic, she holds many academ-ic certificates.

She is Fire-Fighter Part I and IIqualified and has completed herHazardous Material Awareness andOperational Course. She is also a qual-ified Basic Administrative Assistant.Able Seaman Steyn is in her secondyear of volunteering her free time tothe False Bay Emergency MedicalServices.

This well-motivated fire-fighterwas born in Pretoria and grew up withher twin brother in Polokwane. Aftermatriculating at Piet Retief HighSchool, they both applied for and didtheir military basic training at SASSALDANHA. Not only has she founddoing these courses enjoyable and

pleasant, but it has also empowered herto save the lives of the average personand prevent loss of life or damage toequipment.

The fireman course is imperative forthe SA Navy fire fighters because itequips them with the necessary skills tocombat potentially devastating damage(fire and other hazards) to key units andinstallations. The SA Navy is there tofight at sea, to win at sea and to beunchallenged at sea. To realise this mis-sion and vision, the Navy requires com-

petent sailors ashore whowill ensure the safety ofland-based units so thatthere is still a place for thesailors to return to.

Able Seaman Steynjoined the SA Navy in 2004and has since then alsobecome a junior leader. Herstudies and resulting qualifi-cations have taken her tomany places over the years.A very memorable experi-ence for her was her voyageto the UK during which sheserved as an extra hand.

A fire-fighter to be reckoned with

A

Able Seaman Kariem Steyn.

Though she enjoys these learningopportunities, it comes at a price. Sheoften misses the simple pleasures andcomforts of her own flat.

She can be found on various daysperforming her 24 hour, round-the-clock duties, throughout the year. Shebelieves that in order to gain some-thing, she has got to be willing to sac-rifice something. In this case it is hertime. It is a great comfort to know thatour safety at work is in such capablehands.

By Capt J.J. Snyman,

Designer COLET

he Military Skills Develop-ment System (MSDS) allowsyoung South African adults,mainly school leavers, toundergo military trainingand utilisation, and providesthem with an opportunity to

develop personally and professionallythrough exposure to a variety of mili-tary working environments. Beforelong MSDS trainees have a host oftraining and work experiences, givingthem new knowledge and skills, which

T

Career Portfolios forMSDS Trainees

makes them more valuable as potential-ly productive SA citizens. To keep trackof this frenetic period of personal andprofessional development, MSDStrainees need a frame of reference, or atool and some guidelines, to managetheir career history and evidence ofachievements.

A career portfolio (CP) offers a sim-ple and rewarding tool for managingpersonal career achievements and infor-mation. It develops valuable skills andcan be a helpful marketing tool in fur-ther military - or alternative career choic-es. More importantly, the task of portfo-lio creation, which should be a life-long

one, offers trainees the precious oppor-tunity to know themselves better andto realise that learning never stops.Those who take the trouble to keep anaccurate, concise, logical and visuallyappealing portfolio of evidence as areflection of their experiences andachievements (POE being a term wellfamiliar to the current younger genera-tion exposed to outcomes based educa-tion), may have a decided advantage infuture career endeavours because theyoffer hard evidence of work perfor-mance and skills mastery - not onlyfancy words, unsubstantiated claims orimaginative embellishments.

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The article's intention is not to over-complicate the issue by undertaking anin-depth analysis of the pros and cons,nature, uses and rationale for keepingCPs. But in order to convince the moresceptical readers, some of these mattersdo receive mention in passing. Themain aim is to provide a model and/orsystem that will help MSDS traineescompile simple, appealing, custom-made and useful CPs.

CAREER PORTFOLIO? So what is a career portfolio and

why take the trouble to complete one?The word portfolio derives from theroots port - which is to move, and folio- which refers to papers or artefacts.Therefore, a career portfolio is aportable assemblage of papers or arte-facts that attests to someone's career.But what exactly do these artefacts looklike? The following list, as adaptedfrom Martin Kimeldorf's website, con-tains some useful examples of types ofevidence to consider when building acareer portfolio. Make sure you consid-er all these kinds of artefacts (informa-tion and records) when building yourcareer portfolio:

ARTEFACTS PERTAINING TOFORMAL AND INFORMAL EDU-CATION AND TRAINING

Lists of competencies mastered Samples from classes (papers, pro-jects, reports, displays, video orcomputer samples) Samples from personal studies(notes, binders, products) Syllabi or course descriptions forclasses and workshops Standardised or formalised tests Instructor, lecturer and/or teacherevaluationsTranscripts, report cards and simi-lar artefactsBrochures describing trainingevents, retreats, workshops, clinics,lecture series and so forthCertificate of mastery or completion Charts or lists showing hours ortime completed in various areas ofstudyEvidence of participation in voca-tional competitions Scholarships, grants and loanssecured for schooling Licenses

ARTEFACTSDEMONSTRATINGGENERAL WORK PERFORMANCE

Military records, awards,badgesAttendance records Community service projects Descriptive material about theorganisation (annual reports,brochures, newsletters, articles) Job descriptions Logs, lists or charts showing gener-al effort (phone calls received, extrahours worked, overtime, volume ofemails, case load, transactions completed, sales volumes)Employer evaluations or reviews Examples of problem solving Letters of reference Organisation charts showing personnel, procedures, or resources Products showing your leadershipqualities (mission statements, agen-das, networks) Records showing how your stu-dents, clients, or patients did afterreceiving your services (evidenceshowing your impact on the livesand performance of others, such astest scores, performance improve-ment data or employment andpromotion)RésumésSamples from (or lists showing) participation inprofessional organisations,committees, work teamsSurveys showing satisfaction bycustomers, clients, students, patients, etc. Invitations to share yourexpertise (letters or agree-ments asking you to train,mentor, or counsel others, invi-tations to present at conferencesor professional gatherings) Documentation of experience asa consultant (thank-you letters,products, proposals)

ARTEFACTS ABOUT SKILLSUSING DATA

Data (graphs, charts, tables youhelped to produce, testing results)Communication pieces (memos,reports, or documents, a public ser-vice announcement)

An example of a career portfolio.>> on page 44

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Writing abilities as demonstratedin actual samples of your writing(articles, proposals, scripts, train-ing materials)Evidence of public speaking (mem-bership in Toastmasters, photo-graph of you at podium, speechoutline, brochure for your presen-tation, speaker's badge orbrochure, blurb from the confer-ence). Also posters, photos andreviews of actual performances(dance, drama, music, story telling)Display or performance materials(actual objects, or illustrations, orposters from displays)Computer related artefacts (data-base designed, desktop publishingdocuments, samples from usingthe Internet, computer videoscreen pictures or manuals cover-ing illustrative programmes youuse)Formal and technical documents asin project proposals, grant or loanapplications (including proposalcover sheet, award letter or even atechnical manual)

ARTEFACTS PERTAINING TOPEOPLE SKILLS

People and leadership skills (pro-jects or committees you share, pro-jects you initiated, photos of youwith important people, mentoringprogramme, proposals, documentsor strategies related to negotiation) Planning samples (summary ofsteps, instruments used, such assurveys or focus groups) Problem solving illustrated withvarious artefacts. Use figures orpictures showing improvements inproducts, services, profits, safety,quality, or time. Include forms andother paper products used to solveproblemsEmployee training packets, inter-view sheets, motivational activitiesand so on

ARTEFACTS ABOUT SKILLS,THINGS, TOOLS, EQUIPMENT(Any artefact that shows technical skills,equipment, or specialised procedures usedin your work)

Paper documents or replicas ofactual items, including: forms,

charts, printouts (such as medi-cal chart, financial state-ment or budgets, reports,emergency preparednessplan, marketing plan, cus-tomer satisfaction plan,inspection or evaluation sheet,financial or budget plans,spreadsheets, charts and officialdocuments)Performance records (keyboardtiming scores, safety records,phone logs, complaint logs, pay stubwith hours worked highlighted, anyrecord showing volume, amount,total time, response time, turnaroundtime, sales figures, size of customerdatabase, organisation chart showingpeople supervised) Technical directions, manuals, proce-dure sheets for specialised work, useof equipment, and detailed processes(this could include: sample pagesfrom manuals, illustrations, technicaldrawings, blueprints or schematics,photos from the workplace, schemat-ics or directions for tools or equip-ment, operation or procedure sheet)Photos, video, slide show, or mul-timedia presentation showingprocess or equipment Actual item that can be handledin various ways: displayed inperson one at a time or part ofa display you set up

From the preceding list ofartefacts it is clear that a CP is anintensely personal thing. The CP reflectsthe considered final product ofsomeone's career sense of self.So where do you start?

Get Organised. The firsttask, before rushing headlonginto portfolio building, is to col-lect relevant information andrecords, ie evidence. This includesinformation needed to complete, forexample, your CV and records, suchas certificates, confidential reportsand letters of reference, personal per-formance appraisals, work samples, etc.All these artefacts are needed to compilea meaningful and complete reflection ofwho you are as an aspiring useful mem-ber to society - a true citizen.

Archive each artefact by giving it ashort description, indicating why it wassourced as well as what it represents. An example of a career portfolio.

>> from page 43

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Each artefact may be classified or cate-gorised in more than one way, depend-ing on the format and/or the themesthat will be used to organise the intend-ed CP, eg chronologically, by job func-tion or skills, etc. It is also necessary tocollect as many artefacts as possible,regardless of whether they seem usefulat the time. By going through a rigorousarchiving process, as described above, itwill be easy to collect appropriate evi-dence for a purpose specific CP.

Remember that building CPs is anongoing process. However, at somepoint it becomes necessary to build a"final" portfolio, whether to get clarityon your own career direction, assemblea record of work performance for eval-uation purposes or to showcase yourtalents, abilities and achievements dur-ing an interview. All the evidence maybe organised into functional, thematicor even chronological order, dependingon the preferred impact and prospec-tive target audience.

Reflect a Little. Once the relevantinformation and records are togetherand organised, carefully read throughall of it and reflect on your characterstrengths and weaknesses. Also decidewhat your goals in life are; what youstand for and believe to be important.An accurate picture of yourself in yourown mind (or for the electronic genera-tion, a movie with sound, lights andpyrotechnics) will help you to be confi-dent when explaining your life's philos-ophy (including work life), aspirations,short and longer-term goals, strengthsand weaknesses during an interview.The reflection process will also help theCP builder write a more directed intro-duction and/or closing statement, aswell as give shape to decisions on theformat, layout, sequencing and selec-tion of appropriate evidence.

Identify the Target Audience.Through identifying the target audi-ence it becomes possible to predict, to atleast some measure, what the intendedrecipient would expect or like to see inthe CP. A little research on the prospec-tive client/ employer/financier/educa-tion or training institution/etc shouldprovide information on what theseaudiences regard as important; whatthe current trends in their fields are,how they perceive their role/rank in aparticular sector of society, what the

major skills requirements are (technical,legal, financial, soft skills, etc) and soforth. A list of such information andassociated artefacts can help identifycommon criteria. The evidence should beappropriate for the target audience.

Select and Sequence Evidence. Afterapplying the target audience selectioncriteria to select appropriate evidence, itonly remains to choose the actual arte-facts and decide on the CP arrangementor sequence. Once again the CP ownerneeds to choose which sequencing tech-nique will best suite the evidencearrangement, for example a functional,chronological or job skills approach.

Choose a Format and Layout. Theoverall layout of the CP should also havea logical flow and therefore it is advis-able to include elements such as a coverpage, an introduction, table of contentsand even a closing statement. The arte-facts themselves need accompanyingexplanations to make the sequencingtechnique more visible and also to pro-vide insightful, concise yet descriptiveinformation that reveals the CP owner'sattributes.

Choosing the correct format is impor-tant because it may help to show specificskills mastery relevant to a particular job,contract or application. For example, atangible example of original artistic cre-ativeness, such as a drawing, sculptureor music composition, shows mastery ofartistic technique. Another exampleincludes a well-designed and user-friendly electronic web page for theinformation technology field. The varietyof formats is only limited by the portfoliobuilder's imagination and can includeanything from a multimedia presenta-tion to a simple four-page brochure. Theformat the evidence is presented in maybe just as convincing as the evidenceitself, but as long as the evidence is wellpresented to the best of the availablemeans the CP should achieve its pur-pose. Sometimes it will also be necessaryto explain the information or contents ofyour CP to a target audience. To prepareyourself for this it is good to familiariseyourself with - and rehearse the sequenceand contents of your CP.

Rehearse Presenting the CP. Not allpeople have the same oral or publicspeaking ability and it is therefore advis-able to practise the actual CP presenta-tion and anticipate possible questions

and answers in advance. The adviceand aid of an expert in the field or anexperienced orator or public speakingcoach can be very helpful in developingeloquence and instilling confidence.Nevertheless, simply rehearsing thepresentation unaided will also help tofamiliarise the content, reconsider thesequence, re-evaluate the content andprepare for possible target audiencequestions.

Conclusion. In today's world ofever increasing job market competition,temporary or probationary employ-ment is becoming more prevalent.Therefore the serious job applicant hasto find novel and convincing ways tosecure work and make the employer'sdecision easier. The career portfoliooffers flexibility and an opportunity toreflect, analyse, express and give con-crete evidence of work ability and skillsmastery.

The steps outlined above are simpleto follow and can be applied repeatedlyfor different needs and, as a career pro-gresses, cause the portfolio buildingprocess to be a never ending learningand development experience. A careerportfolio is a helpful means to organisecareer history and achievements, deter-mine which path to consider in alterna-tive or career development choices,showcase abilities, convince prospec-tive employers and make their decisioneasier to choose you, ahead of the nextcandidate.

See the example of a purpose specific CPfor an interview of a SA Air Force memberwho wishes to become a pilot on pages 43amd 44 (righthand side).

SOURCESInternet Websites http://www.aag.org/Careers/UW/Pro

fportfolios.html - The American Geogra-pher's Association offering tips and 'basics'of portfolio building

http://www.amby.com/kimeldorf/portfolio/ - Author of Portfolio Power, MartinKimeldorf, sharing knowledge, insight andexperience on portfolio related matters

http://www.biz.colostate.edu/career/portfolio.htm - Colorado State UniversityBusiness College's Career Services Depart-ment offering advice on portfolio building

http://careerservices.uvic.ca/tutori-als/career-portfolio.html# - University ofVictoria's Career Services Manager, Jenni-fer Margison, provides a comprehensivetutorial on the career portfolio

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By Thabang Bapela, Ad Astra

n its effort to nurture young talentin music among the youth of SouthAfrica, the SA Air Force Band hasroped in Airman Peter van derPoel. As the youngest member ofthe Band he is obviously excited atthe opportunity accorded him and

he is looking forward to honing hisskills on the trumpet.

Born in Pretoria North on 11November 1987 Peter's career in musicstarted when he was studying the sub-ject at Waterkloof High School. Hislove for the subject grew strongerwhen he listened to the SA Air ForceBand for the first time.

Airman Van der Poel asked to beallowed to become a member of the SA

Young talent in our Air Force Band

IAir Force Band, whereupon he wascalled for auditioning and he dulypassed. This led him to apply to the SAAir Force to become a member aftergoing through Basic Military Trainingat the Air Force Gymnasium inOctober 2006.

"I am very excited to be part of theBand and I feel there are lots of oppor-tunities in the SA Air Force Band. Ilook forward to learning more aboutmusic in the coming years," saidAirman Van der Poel.

The thought of being in a militaryenvironment in the SA Air Force is anadded advantage to him because hewould like to live a disciplined life. Heis looking forward to being a memberof the SA Air Force Band for the nextfive years. "I am proud to do what I am

The youngest member of the SA Air Force Band - Airman Peter van der Poel.

currently doing. I play the trumpetbecause I really like the sound of thebrass."

When asked if June 16 had any sig-nificance for him, he replied: "For meand other young people like me it is areminder of what rights we have andwhat our country went through to get towhere it is today".

He feels that on this day the youth ofSouth Africa should rejoice, but stillkeep the thought in mind that with therights they have there is still the respon-sibility of setting an example for the nextgeneration.

His message to the youth is: Followyour heart and do what you want to do.Do not be discouraged by anyone or anysituation. "The work you put in equalsthe results you will get," he said.

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