Current AVBOB News
You must lift the bar every day: Frik Rademan - August 2018
Nelson Mandela would have turned 100 this year. AVBOB CEO Frik Rademan reflects on “Madiba” as a guiding force as the insurer celebrates its own centenary. Click here to read the full article published in CEO Magazine
AVBOB declares R3.5 Billion centennial benefit to members - August 2018
AVBOB Mutual Assurance Society has been standing strong for 100 years. To celebrate this momentous milestone AVBOB announced on Wednesday, 15 August 2018, their plans to allocate R 3,5 billion to their members through a new and exciting member benefit known as the AVBOB Reward Account (ARA).
According to Frik Rademan, AVBOB Chief Executive Officer, “this year marks AVBOB’s 100th year in business. The R 3,5 billion benefit allocation provides AVBOB members the opportunity to share in the long-term success of the Group. As a mutual society, AVBOB does not have shareholders who expect to receive dividends. We are able to share our profits with our members in the form of special bonuses and enhanced benefits – without the member incurring additional expense. This year, as part of our centenary celebrations, we decided to do something extra special for our members.”
Rademan explains that the ARA is a unique benefit that AVBOB’s members will be entitled to claim in cash after the main insured person reaches the age of 65, subject to the policy having been in force for at least 10 years*. “Every qualifying member will receive their share of the R 3,5 billion, that will be credited to their ARA. In the unfortunate event that the main insured person passes away prior to age 65, the full ARA balance will be paid out. Members therefore benefit from the ARA on either survival or death – which is as it should be for a member of our family,” he says.
Over the years AVBOB has increased the cover of their policyholders and members through special bonus declarations and introduced free member benefits that include a free basic funeral, free transportation of the deceased and an upfront payment of R2 500 to be spent as the families require. Money has also been allocated to create a six-month premium holiday for members should they become retrenched. These benefits are over and above the cover amount and are provided at no additional expense to members.
“Turning 100 is a significant achievement that not many companies can attest to achieving and we are extremely proud to have reached this milestone. We look forward to providing our members with many more years of care and service,” Rademan concluded.
According to Frik Rademan, AVBOB Chief Executive Officer, “this year marks AVBOB’s 100th year in business. The R 3,5 billion benefit allocation provides AVBOB members the opportunity to share in the long-term success of the Group. As a mutual society, AVBOB does not have shareholders who expect to receive dividends. We are able to share our profits with our members in the form of special bonuses and enhanced benefits – without the member incurring additional expense. This year, as part of our centenary celebrations, we decided to do something extra special for our members.”
Rademan explains that the ARA is a unique benefit that AVBOB’s members will be entitled to claim in cash after the main insured person reaches the age of 65, subject to the policy having been in force for at least 10 years*. “Every qualifying member will receive their share of the R 3,5 billion, that will be credited to their ARA. In the unfortunate event that the main insured person passes away prior to age 65, the full ARA balance will be paid out. Members therefore benefit from the ARA on either survival or death – which is as it should be for a member of our family,” he says.
Over the years AVBOB has increased the cover of their policyholders and members through special bonus declarations and introduced free member benefits that include a free basic funeral, free transportation of the deceased and an upfront payment of R2 500 to be spent as the families require. Money has also been allocated to create a six-month premium holiday for members should they become retrenched. These benefits are over and above the cover amount and are provided at no additional expense to members.
“Turning 100 is a significant achievement that not many companies can attest to achieving and we are extremely proud to have reached this milestone. We look forward to providing our members with many more years of care and service,” Rademan concluded.
AVBOB verklaar R3.5 Miljard eeufeesvoordeel aan lede - Augustus 2018
AVBOB Onderlinge Versekeringsgenootskap staan reeds 100 jaar lank sterk. Om hierdie belangrike mylpaal te vier, het AVBOB op Woensdag, 15 Augustus 2018, hul planne aangekondig om R 3.5 miljard aan lede toe te wys deur ‘n nuwe en opwindende ledevoordeel genaamd die AVBOB Beloningsrekening (ABR).
Volgens Frik Rademan, AVBOB se uitvoerende hoof, “is 2018 AVBOB se 100ste jaar in die bedryf. Die R 3.5 milard voordeeltoewysing bied aan AVBOB-lede die geleentheid om in die langtermyn sukses van die Groep te deel. As ‘n onderlinge genootskap het AVBOB nie aandeelhouers wat verwag om dividende te ontvang nie. Ons is in staat om ons opbrengste met ons lede te deel in die vorm van spesiale bonusse en verbeterde begrafnisvoordele – sonder enige addisionele onkoste vir die lid. Vanjaar, as deel van ons eeufeesviering, het ons besluit om iets ekstra spesiaals vir ons lede te doen.”
Rademan verduidelik dat die ABR ‘n unieke voordeel is wat AVBOB-lede in kontant kan eis nadat die hoof- versekerde persoon die ouderdom van 65 bereik het, mits die polis minstens 10 jaar van krag is*. “Elke kwalifiserende lid sal hul deel van die R 3.5 miljard ontvang wat aan hul ABR gekrediteer sal word. Sou dit gebeur dat die hoof- versekerde persoon voor die ouderdom van 65 te sterwe kom, sal die volle ABR-saldo uitbetaal word. Lede trek dus voordeel uit die ABR òf met oorlewing òf met afsterwe – soos wat dit behoort te wees vir ‘n lid van ons familie,” sê hy.
Oor die jare het AVBOB die dekking van hul polishouers en lede verhoog deur spesiale bonusverklarings en die bekendstelling van gratis ledevoordele, insluitend ‘n gratis basiese begrafnis, gratis vervoer van die oorledene en ‘n kontantvoorskot van R2 500 wat die familie na goeddunke kan bestee. ‘n Bedrag geld is ook bewillig vir die skepping van ‘n ses maande premievakansie vir lede in geval van aflegging. Hierdie voordele is afgesien van die dekkingsbedrag en word teen geen addisionele koste aan lede voorsien.
“Om 100 te word, is ‘n beduidende prestasie waarop nie baie maatskappye aanspraak kan maak nie, en ons is baie trots daarop dat ons hierdie mylpaal bereik het. Ons sien uit daarna om nog baie jare lank ons lede van uitsonderlike sorg en diens te voorsien,” is Rademan se slotsom.
Volgens Frik Rademan, AVBOB se uitvoerende hoof, “is 2018 AVBOB se 100ste jaar in die bedryf. Die R 3.5 milard voordeeltoewysing bied aan AVBOB-lede die geleentheid om in die langtermyn sukses van die Groep te deel. As ‘n onderlinge genootskap het AVBOB nie aandeelhouers wat verwag om dividende te ontvang nie. Ons is in staat om ons opbrengste met ons lede te deel in die vorm van spesiale bonusse en verbeterde begrafnisvoordele – sonder enige addisionele onkoste vir die lid. Vanjaar, as deel van ons eeufeesviering, het ons besluit om iets ekstra spesiaals vir ons lede te doen.”
Rademan verduidelik dat die ABR ‘n unieke voordeel is wat AVBOB-lede in kontant kan eis nadat die hoof- versekerde persoon die ouderdom van 65 bereik het, mits die polis minstens 10 jaar van krag is*. “Elke kwalifiserende lid sal hul deel van die R 3.5 miljard ontvang wat aan hul ABR gekrediteer sal word. Sou dit gebeur dat die hoof- versekerde persoon voor die ouderdom van 65 te sterwe kom, sal die volle ABR-saldo uitbetaal word. Lede trek dus voordeel uit die ABR òf met oorlewing òf met afsterwe – soos wat dit behoort te wees vir ‘n lid van ons familie,” sê hy.
Oor die jare het AVBOB die dekking van hul polishouers en lede verhoog deur spesiale bonusverklarings en die bekendstelling van gratis ledevoordele, insluitend ‘n gratis basiese begrafnis, gratis vervoer van die oorledene en ‘n kontantvoorskot van R2 500 wat die familie na goeddunke kan bestee. ‘n Bedrag geld is ook bewillig vir die skepping van ‘n ses maande premievakansie vir lede in geval van aflegging. Hierdie voordele is afgesien van die dekkingsbedrag en word teen geen addisionele koste aan lede voorsien.
“Om 100 te word, is ‘n beduidende prestasie waarop nie baie maatskappye aanspraak kan maak nie, en ons is baie trots daarop dat ons hierdie mylpaal bereik het. Ons sien uit daarna om nog baie jare lank ons lede van uitsonderlike sorg en diens te voorsien,” is Rademan se slotsom.
Celebrating 100 years of service by sharing our success - August 2018
Who is AVBOB? Our name stands for funerals and funeral insurance in South Africa. But we are so much more than this: yes, we are that sympathetic voice on the other end of the line, a shoulder to cry on, a steady partner to rely on… but we are also a champion of literacy, the builder of schools and libraries, a sponsor of poetry and song. 100 years old. And 100 years strong.
It all began with a singular vision. In the darkness and death following the First World War, returning soldiers brought the deadly Spanish Flu with them in 1918. Deaths increased to the extent that more people passed away in a single day than would normally die in a month. The South African landscape was littered with the makeshift mass graves of those devastated by disease and poverty. In the midst of this devastation, a partially-blind schoolmaster, HH van Rooijen, took it upon himself to create a burial society – a stokvel, if you will. The idea was simple: each human being is entitled to a dignified funeral, at an affordable price. One hundred years later, that principle still holds true for AVBOB.
On 15 August 1918, AVBOB was formally founded out of an informal grouping which had been founded in 1915 to provide mutual support to its members. This small beginning would grow to become a household name at the southernmost tip of Africa.
Van Rooijen’s approach was to put people first. The money, he believed, was secondary, and would somehow always follow.
And his policy to ‘put people first’ paid off, and the society grew steadily. In 1922, AVBOB purchased its first motor vehicle, transported by train to Bloemfontein. Gone were the horsedrawn hearses. In March that year, AVBOB conducted its first state funeral for the late General Christiaan de Wet.
By 1928, AVBOB was in a position to make its own hearses, and was finding ways to support local suppliers in response to growing demand.
With the outbreak of the Second World War in 1939, AVBOB faced a crisis. Previously, all the raw materials needed for funeral ware were imported, and they were now unavailable. So AVBOB began to manufacture all funeral goods locally. With the scarcity of sheet metal at the time, tin cans were fashioned into exquisite, hand-painted wreaths. AVBOB was upcycling and was ‘proudly South African’ long before these terms even existed!
AVBOB is everywhere
As the organisation continued to grow, the slogan, appropriately, was ‘AVBOB is everywhere’. And AVBOB was for everyone. In late 1947, AVBOB became the first organisation to sell funeral policies to all racial groups.
AVBOB outgrew the small hamlet of Bloemfontein, and needed specialised legal, actuarial and medical underwriting services. So, in the mid-50s, AVBOB set up its head office in Pretoria. And in the mid-60s, the first AVBOB branch opened in Namibia.
Throughout of the ‘70s, AVBOB stood strong and provided funerals to all South Africans, regardless of race, colour or creed, covering the spectrum from the legendary Ciskei chief, General Magoma to the Reverend Petrus John Masango, Archbishop of the St. John Apostolic Church of South Africa.
It was a dark day when, in 1995, AVBOB conducted the mass funeral of 104 mineworkers tragically killed in the Orkney mining disaster. It is because of these lived experiences that AVBOB sees itself not only as a family, but as a blueprint for how the total South African population should be served. It’s for this reason that, on 5 December 2013, AVBOB was selected to lay our beloved Madiba to rest.
On 15 August 1918, AVBOB was formally founded out of an informal grouping which had been founded in 1915 to provide mutual support to its members. This small beginning would grow to become a household name at the southernmost tip of Africa.
Van Rooijen’s approach was to put people first. The money, he believed, was secondary, and would somehow always follow.
And his policy to ‘put people first’ paid off, and the society grew steadily. In 1922, AVBOB purchased its first motor vehicle, transported by train to Bloemfontein. Gone were the horsedrawn hearses. In March that year, AVBOB conducted its first state funeral for the late General Christiaan de Wet.
By 1928, AVBOB was in a position to make its own hearses, and was finding ways to support local suppliers in response to growing demand.
With the outbreak of the Second World War in 1939, AVBOB faced a crisis. Previously, all the raw materials needed for funeral ware were imported, and they were now unavailable. So AVBOB began to manufacture all funeral goods locally. With the scarcity of sheet metal at the time, tin cans were fashioned into exquisite, hand-painted wreaths. AVBOB was upcycling and was ‘proudly South African’ long before these terms even existed!
AVBOB is everywhere
As the organisation continued to grow, the slogan, appropriately, was ‘AVBOB is everywhere’. And AVBOB was for everyone. In late 1947, AVBOB became the first organisation to sell funeral policies to all racial groups.
AVBOB outgrew the small hamlet of Bloemfontein, and needed specialised legal, actuarial and medical underwriting services. So, in the mid-50s, AVBOB set up its head office in Pretoria. And in the mid-60s, the first AVBOB branch opened in Namibia.
Throughout of the ‘70s, AVBOB stood strong and provided funerals to all South Africans, regardless of race, colour or creed, covering the spectrum from the legendary Ciskei chief, General Magoma to the Reverend Petrus John Masango, Archbishop of the St. John Apostolic Church of South Africa.
It was a dark day when, in 1995, AVBOB conducted the mass funeral of 104 mineworkers tragically killed in the Orkney mining disaster. It is because of these lived experiences that AVBOB sees itself not only as a family, but as a blueprint for how the total South African population should be served. It’s for this reason that, on 5 December 2013, AVBOB was selected to lay our beloved Madiba to rest.
Once again, this is due to the fact that AVBOB is a philanthropic brand that believes in serving the needs of our nation, needs that extend beyond our core purpose as a provider of funerals and funeral insurance. It’s why AVBOB became a mutual assurance society in 1951, and why it has fought to remain so to this day.
As a mutual, AVBOB has no external shareholders who receive dividends. Over the years, AVBOB has allocated billions of rands to our members in the form of special bonuses and free funeral benefits. On 15 August 2018, in our centenary year, we have allocated the single largest special bonus of R3.5 billion to our members. This demonstrates the ability that AVBOB has to empower our members and provide access to economic participation.
In July 2017, in a truly unorthodox move, AVBOB announced a nationwide poetry competition in all 11 official languages, and open to all South Africans, with usage payments awarded to all poems published on the competition website. A cash prize of R10 000 plus a book prize of R2 500 was awarded to the first-prize poems in all 11 language categories, at a prestigious gala evening held in June 2018.
"A 100-poem print anthology was created from the website entries, including specially commissioned poems from SA’s top poets. The 100th poem, fittingly, was delivered in the Khoisan language, Nǀuu, from the words of Ouma Katriena Esau, one of the last four surviving speakers of this dialect."
AVBOB has always believed in the importance of the arts in society, as a form of social upliftment. That’s why AVBOB has been a proud sponsor of the Mzansi Youth Choir since 2013. The MYC choristers, drawn from Soweto and the greater Johannesburg area, have performed on stages worldwide.
It’s rare to find an organisation that has weathered change so successfully, and yet has managed to remain true to its core identity. AVBOB is 100 years’ young, and is determined to remain relevant and responsive to change and transformation.
That’s why our workforce, from the top down, is a diverse, inclusive community subscribing to our deep commitment to caring for all – not one privileged group at the expense of the others.
In our commitment to youth empowerment and entrepreneurship, AVBOB adopted a group of aspiring young people – the Diepsloot Kasi Hive – and provided them with the resources to reach their goals. We demonstrate our commitment further by empowering local township entrepreneurs to run their own undertaking enterprises.
We have stood proudly in the service of South African families for a century. This is our story, told over time, with a narrative thread that runs all the way back to that post-war world of devastation, and forwards to the future. AVBOB has grown from saving a people, to serving a nation. And like the ancient baobab tree that was chosen as AVBOB’s centenary symbol, AVBOB intends to stand strong for our people – our family – for the next 100 years. Because, with AVBOB, family comes first. Always.
Ons vier 'n 100 jaar van diens deur ons sukses te deel - Augustus 2018
Wie is AVBOB? Ons naam staan vir begrafnisse en begrafnisversekering. Maar ons is ook baie meer: ons is daardie simpatieke stem wat jy hoor wanneer ‘n geliefde te sterwe kom, ‘n skouer om op te huil, jou vertroueling deur dik en dun… maar ons is ook ‘n kampvegter vir geletterdheid, ‘n oprigter van skole en biblioteke, ‘n borg van die digkuns en sang. 100 jaar oud. En 100 jaar sterk.
Mense eerste
En dit alles het begin met ‘n sonderlinge visie. In die donker nadraai van die Eerste Wêreldoorlog het Suid-Afrikaanse soldate die dodelike Spaanse Griep saam met hulle teruggebring. Uiteindelik het meer mense op een dag gesterf as wat gewoonlik in ‘n maand die geval sou wees. Die Suid-Afrikaanse landskap was besaai met massagrafte van die tallose slagoffers van siekte en armoede. Te midde van hierdie verwoesting, het ‘n bykans blinde onderwyser, HH van Rooijen, homself daarmee getaak om ‘n begrafnisvereniging – amper ‘n soort stokvel – te stig. Dit was sy oortuiging dat elke mens geregtig is op ‘n waardige begrafnis teen ‘n bekostigbare prys. Een honderd jaar later staan daardie beginsel sterker as ooit vir AVBOB.
Op 15 Augustus 1918 het AVBOB formeel tot stand gekom uit ‘n informele groepering wat in 1915 gestig is om onderlinge steun aan sy lede te bied. Hierdie klein begin sou groei tot een van die sterkste huishoudelike name aan die suidelikste punt van Afrika.
Van Rooijen se benadering was om mense eerste te plaas. Die geld, het hy geglo, was sekondêr, en sou op een of ander manier altyd volg. Sy beleid om ‘mense eerste te plaas’ was ‘n reusesukses, en die vereniging het stadig maar seker gegroei. In 1922 het AVBOB sy eerste voertuig gekoop wat per trein na Bloemfontein vervoer is. Die dae van lykswaens wat deur perde getrek is, was skielik iets van die verlede. In Maart van dieselfde jaar het AVBOB sy eerste staatsbegrafnis, dié van wyle Generaal Christiaan de Wet, behartig.
Teen 1928 was AVBOB in ‘n posisie om sy eie lykswaens te vervaardig en het boonop maniere gevind om in die proses plaaslike verskaffers te ondersteun. Met die uitbreek van die Tweede Wêreldoorlog in 1939 het AVBOB voor ‘n krisis te staan gekom. Al die roumateriale vir begrafnisware is voorheen ingevoer, maar was nou onverkrygbaar. Teen hierdie agtergrond het AVBOB begin om begrafnisgoedere plaaslik te vervaardig. Die groeiende tekort aan plaatmetaal het daartoe gelei dat konfytblikke herwin en omskep is in pragtige handgeverfde kranse. So was AVBOB ‘trots Suid-Afrikaans’ dekades voordat hierdie uitdrukking ontstaan het!
Ons is hier vir jou
Ons handelsmerkbelofte, ‘Ons is hier vir jou’, was nog altyd vir ons baie meer as net woorde; dit is ‘n sprekende demonstrasie van wie ons is. Ons belê in gemeenskappe regoor Suid-Afrika deur ons ondersteuning van geletterdheid en opvoeding. Op Mandeldag 2017 het AVBOB, in samewerking met die Departement van Basiese Onderwys, ‘n belegging van R150 miljoen deur die AVBOB Skoleinfrastruktuurprojek aangekondig. Die doel van hierdie inisiatief is die opgradering van nege minderbevoorregte skole.
Die rede hiervoor is weereens dat AVBOB ‘n mensliewende handelsmerk is wat daaraan glo om te voorsien in ons mense se behoeftes. Dit is behoeftes wat verder strek as ons kernrol as verskaffer van begrafnisse en begrafnisversekering.
Dit is waarom AVBOB in 1951 ‘n onderlinge vereniging geword het en waarom ons steeds met trots hierdie status handhaaf.
As ‘n onderlinge vereniging het AVBOB geen eksterne aandeelhouers wat dividende
En dit alles het begin met ‘n sonderlinge visie. In die donker nadraai van die Eerste Wêreldoorlog het Suid-Afrikaanse soldate die dodelike Spaanse Griep saam met hulle teruggebring. Uiteindelik het meer mense op een dag gesterf as wat gewoonlik in ‘n maand die geval sou wees. Die Suid-Afrikaanse landskap was besaai met massagrafte van die tallose slagoffers van siekte en armoede. Te midde van hierdie verwoesting, het ‘n bykans blinde onderwyser, HH van Rooijen, homself daarmee getaak om ‘n begrafnisvereniging – amper ‘n soort stokvel – te stig. Dit was sy oortuiging dat elke mens geregtig is op ‘n waardige begrafnis teen ‘n bekostigbare prys. Een honderd jaar later staan daardie beginsel sterker as ooit vir AVBOB.
Op 15 Augustus 1918 het AVBOB formeel tot stand gekom uit ‘n informele groepering wat in 1915 gestig is om onderlinge steun aan sy lede te bied. Hierdie klein begin sou groei tot een van die sterkste huishoudelike name aan die suidelikste punt van Afrika.
Van Rooijen se benadering was om mense eerste te plaas. Die geld, het hy geglo, was sekondêr, en sou op een of ander manier altyd volg. Sy beleid om ‘mense eerste te plaas’ was ‘n reusesukses, en die vereniging het stadig maar seker gegroei. In 1922 het AVBOB sy eerste voertuig gekoop wat per trein na Bloemfontein vervoer is. Die dae van lykswaens wat deur perde getrek is, was skielik iets van die verlede. In Maart van dieselfde jaar het AVBOB sy eerste staatsbegrafnis, dié van wyle Generaal Christiaan de Wet, behartig.
Teen 1928 was AVBOB in ‘n posisie om sy eie lykswaens te vervaardig en het boonop maniere gevind om in die proses plaaslike verskaffers te ondersteun. Met die uitbreek van die Tweede Wêreldoorlog in 1939 het AVBOB voor ‘n krisis te staan gekom. Al die roumateriale vir begrafnisware is voorheen ingevoer, maar was nou onverkrygbaar. Teen hierdie agtergrond het AVBOB begin om begrafnisgoedere plaaslik te vervaardig. Die groeiende tekort aan plaatmetaal het daartoe gelei dat konfytblikke herwin en omskep is in pragtige handgeverfde kranse. So was AVBOB ‘trots Suid-Afrikaans’ dekades voordat hierdie uitdrukking ontstaan het!
Ons is hier vir jou
Ons handelsmerkbelofte, ‘Ons is hier vir jou’, was nog altyd vir ons baie meer as net woorde; dit is ‘n sprekende demonstrasie van wie ons is. Ons belê in gemeenskappe regoor Suid-Afrika deur ons ondersteuning van geletterdheid en opvoeding. Op Mandeldag 2017 het AVBOB, in samewerking met die Departement van Basiese Onderwys, ‘n belegging van R150 miljoen deur die AVBOB Skoleinfrastruktuurprojek aangekondig. Die doel van hierdie inisiatief is die opgradering van nege minderbevoorregte skole.
Die rede hiervoor is weereens dat AVBOB ‘n mensliewende handelsmerk is wat daaraan glo om te voorsien in ons mense se behoeftes. Dit is behoeftes wat verder strek as ons kernrol as verskaffer van begrafnisse en begrafnisversekering.
Dit is waarom AVBOB in 1951 ‘n onderlinge vereniging geword het en waarom ons steeds met trots hierdie status handhaaf.
As ‘n onderlinge vereniging het AVBOB geen eksterne aandeelhouers wat dividende
onvang nie. Oor die jare het ons miljarde rande aan ons lede toegewys in van spesiale bonusse en gratis begrafnisvoordele. Op 15 Augustus 2018, in ons eeufeesjaar, wys ons die enkel- grootste bonus van R3.5 miljard aan ons lede toe, wat weer eens dui op ons vermoë om ons lede te bemagtig en toegang tot ekonomiese deelname te bewerkstellig.
In Julie 2017 het AVBOB nog ‘n unieke inisiatief aangekondig: ons borgskap van ‘n landwye poësiekompetisie in al 11 ampstale, oop vir alle Suid-Afrikaners, met gebruiksregbetalings vir alle gedigte wat op die kompetisiewebwerf (www.avbobpoetry.co.za) gepubliseer word. ‘n Kontantprys van R10 000 plus ‘n boekprys van R2 500 is toegeken aan die topgedig in elke taalkategorie tydens ‘n glansgeleentheid in Junie 2018.
‘n Gedrukte bloemlesing bestaande uit 100 gedigte is saamgestel uit die webwerfinskrywings, insluitend gedigte wat Suid-Afrika se topdigters in opdrag van AVBOB geskryf het. Die 100ste gedig is in die Khoisan-taal, N|uu, in die woorde van Ouma Katriena Esau, een van die laaste vier oorlewende sprekers van hierdie dialek.
"AVBOB het nog altyd geglo in die belangrike rol wat kunste in die sosiale opheffing van ‘n samelewing speel. Daarom is ons reeds sedert 2013 ‘n trotse borg van die Mzansi Youth Choir. Die MYC-koorlede, wat almal uit agtergeblewe gebiede in Soweto en die groter Johannesburg-area kom, het al wêreldwyd op verhoë verskyn."
Organisasies wat verandering oor dekades heen suksesvol hanteer en terselfdertyd getrou bly aan hul kernidentiteit, is seldsaam. AVBOB is 100 jaar jonk, en ons is vasberade om nie net relevant te bly nie, maar ook 100% ontvanklik vir verandering en transformasie.
Juis daarom is ons werksmag ‘n diverse, inklusiewe gemeenskap wat getrou bly aan ons verbintenis tot diepe deernis en sorgsaamheid teenoor al ons kliënte – nie een bevoorregte groep ten koste van ‘n ander nie.
As deel van ons toewydding tot die bemagting van die jeug en die bevordering van entrepreneurskap, het AVBOB ‘n groep ambisieuse en belowende jongmense – die Diepsloot Kasi Hive – onder hul vlerk geneem en hulle voorsien van die nodige hulpbronne om hul doelwitte te verwesenlik. Ons voer hierdie verbintenis verder deur plaaslike township-entrepreneurs te bemagtig om hul eie begrafnisondermings te begin en te bestuur.
Ons staan reeds ‘n eeu lank trots in die diens van Suid-Afrikaanse families. Dit is ons verhaal wat oor dekades heen strek, met ‘n draad wat loop van die na-oorlogse wêreld van verwoesting tot waar ons ons vandag bevind: op die drumpel van ‘n nuwe toekoms. AVBOB het gegroei uit een man se poging om mense te red en ‘n nasie te dien. En soos die oeroue kremetartboom wat as ons eeuvieringsimbool dien, is ons voorneme om ook vir die volgende 100 jaar sterk te staan vir ons mense; ons familie. Want by AVBOB kom familie eerste. Altyd.
Sigubha iminyaka yesevisi eyi 100 ngokwabelana ngempumelelo yethu - Agasti 2018
Imelelani i-AVBOB? Igama lethu laziwa kakhulu kwezemingcwabo nemishwalense yokungcwaba lapha eNingizimu Afrika. Kodwa empeleni kukhulu kakhulu esikwenzayo: yebo, siyilelo zwi elizwelana nawe ocingweni, umuntu okhalela kuyena, nongamethemba uma kunzima… kanti futhi siyiqhawe nakwezokufunda, umakhi wezikole nemitapo yezincwadi, umgqumgquzeli wezinkondlo nengoma. Obudala bakhe buyiminyaka eyi 100. Namandla abonisa ikhulu leminyaka.
Ukuhlonipha abantu
Kwaqala ngombono owodwa. Ebumnyameni nokufa okwalandela Impi Yezwe Yokuqala lapho amasosha abuya empini eza Nomkhuhlane Wesibhadalala (i-Spanish Flu) ngo 1918. Abantu babefa ubuthaphu-thaphu kangangokuthi babebaningi ababefa ngosuku olulodwa ukwedlula ababevame ukufa ngenyanga. Izwe lase Ningizimu Afrika lagcwala imigodi emikhulu yamathuna enhlanganyelo abazimbele wona labo ababenqotshwa yisifo nobuphofu. Kuleso sibhicongo, kwavela uthisha-nhloko owayengasaboni kahle, u-HH van Rooijen, wazimisela ukuqalisa umfelandawonye kamasingcwabisane – esingathi yistokfela, ngamanye amagama. Umcabango wakhe wawulula: omunye nomunye umuntu ufanelwe wukungcwatshwa ngesizotha, ngenani elingafinyeleleka. Eminyakeni eyi 100 kamuva, usenjalo umcabango we-AVBOB.
Mhla ka 15 August 1918, i-AVBOB yamiswa ngokomthetho ivela eqenjini elalihlangene ngo 1915 njengo mfelandawonye wokusekelana kwamalungu alo. Lokhu kwaba yisiqalo esincane segama elalizogcina lingundaba mlonyeni lapha echosheni elisemzansi impela we Afrika.
Indlela ka Van Rooijen kwaku wukubeka abantu phambili. Wayekholelwa wukuthi, imali iza kamuva, futhi yayihlala ilandela ngandlela thize.
Futhi lenqubo ‘yokubeka abantu phambili’ yaba nemiphumela emihle, kancane kancane yakhula lenhlangano. Kwathi ngo 1922, i-AVBOB yathenga imoto yayo yokuqala, yathwalwa ngesitimela yalethwa e-Bloemfontein. Kwaba awaphindanga athwalwa ngezinqola zamahhashi amabhokisi omngcwabo. Ngo March walowo nyaka, i-AVBOB yaqhuba umngcwabo wayo wokuqala kahulumeni lapho iyobeka ongasekho uGeneral Christiaan de Wet.
Ngo 1928, i-AVBOB yayi sesimweni sokuzenzela izimoto zayo zomngcwabo, futhi yathola nezindlela zokusekela abakhiqizi basekhaya njengoba isidingo siya sikhula.
Kuthe lapho kugqashuka Impi Yezwe Yesibili ngo 1939, i-AVBOB yazithola isenkingeni. Ngaphambilini, yonke imikhiqizo yokungcwaba yayivela emazweni angaphandle, futhi manje yayi ngasatholakali. Ngakho i-AVBOB yaqala ukuzenzela lapha ekhaya yonke imikhiqizo ephathelene nokungcwaba. Kuthe ngenxa yokusweleka kwensimbi engamashidi, kwasetshenziswa amathini kwenziwa ezinhle izimbali zomngcwabo ezipendwe ngesandla.
I-AVBOB yasebenzisa okwase kulahliwe yaba ‘neqholo lokusebenzisa okwase Ningizimu Afrika’
singakaziwa nokwaziwa leso siqubulo!
I-AVBOB ikhona yonke indawo
Njengoba lenhlangano iya ikhula, kwavela, isiqubulo esasifanele, esithi ‘I-AVBOB ikuyo yonke indawo’. Futhi i-AVBOB kwakungeka wonke wonke. Ngasekupheleni kuka 1947, i-AVBOB yaba yinkampani yokuqala yokuthengisela zonke izinhlanga umshwalense wokungcwaba.
Kamuva i-AVBOB yakhula yaphumela ngaphandle komzana wase Bloemfontein, kwadingeka ithole ongoti bezomthetho, ochwepheshe bokubala izimali nabezokwelapha ukuqinisekisa umshwalense. Ngakho-ke, phakathi neminyaka yawo 1950, i-AVBOB yamisa ikomkhulu layo e-Pretoria. Kanti phakathi neminyaka yawo 1960, kwavulwa igatsha lokuqala le AVBOB e-Namibia.
Kuyo yonke iminyaka yawo 1970, i-AVBOB yaqhubeka iba namandla iqhuba imingcwabo yabo bonke abase Ningizimu Afrika, kungakhathaliseki uhlanga, umbala noma isizinda, yabangcwaba bonke kusukela kwinkosi eyayaziwa kakhulu e-Ciskei, uGeneral Magoma kuze kufike kuMfundisi uPetrus John Masango, uMbhishobhi omkhulu we St. John Apostolic Church of South Africa.
Isiqubulo sethu esithi, ‘Sihlala silindele ukukusiza’, asikaze sibe ukuzisholo nje kithina, kodwa sisho lokho esiyikho ngempela. Sisekela yonke imiphakathi lapha eNingizimu Afrika ngohlelo lwethu olusekela imfundo nokufunda. Ngosuku lwe Mandela Day 2017, i-AVBOB, isebenzisana noMnyango Wemfundo Eyisisekelo, bamemezela utshalo mali lwe R150 million ohlelweni lwe AVBOB Schools Infrastructure Project, lokwenzangcono izikole zamazinga aphansi eziyisishiya galolunye ezintulayo.
Kwaqala ngombono owodwa. Ebumnyameni nokufa okwalandela Impi Yezwe Yokuqala lapho amasosha abuya empini eza Nomkhuhlane Wesibhadalala (i-Spanish Flu) ngo 1918. Abantu babefa ubuthaphu-thaphu kangangokuthi babebaningi ababefa ngosuku olulodwa ukwedlula ababevame ukufa ngenyanga. Izwe lase Ningizimu Afrika lagcwala imigodi emikhulu yamathuna enhlanganyelo abazimbele wona labo ababenqotshwa yisifo nobuphofu. Kuleso sibhicongo, kwavela uthisha-nhloko owayengasaboni kahle, u-HH van Rooijen, wazimisela ukuqalisa umfelandawonye kamasingcwabisane – esingathi yistokfela, ngamanye amagama. Umcabango wakhe wawulula: omunye nomunye umuntu ufanelwe wukungcwatshwa ngesizotha, ngenani elingafinyeleleka. Eminyakeni eyi 100 kamuva, usenjalo umcabango we-AVBOB.
Mhla ka 15 August 1918, i-AVBOB yamiswa ngokomthetho ivela eqenjini elalihlangene ngo 1915 njengo mfelandawonye wokusekelana kwamalungu alo. Lokhu kwaba yisiqalo esincane segama elalizogcina lingundaba mlonyeni lapha echosheni elisemzansi impela we Afrika.
Indlela ka Van Rooijen kwaku wukubeka abantu phambili. Wayekholelwa wukuthi, imali iza kamuva, futhi yayihlala ilandela ngandlela thize.
Futhi lenqubo ‘yokubeka abantu phambili’ yaba nemiphumela emihle, kancane kancane yakhula lenhlangano. Kwathi ngo 1922, i-AVBOB yathenga imoto yayo yokuqala, yathwalwa ngesitimela yalethwa e-Bloemfontein. Kwaba awaphindanga athwalwa ngezinqola zamahhashi amabhokisi omngcwabo. Ngo March walowo nyaka, i-AVBOB yaqhuba umngcwabo wayo wokuqala kahulumeni lapho iyobeka ongasekho uGeneral Christiaan de Wet.
Ngo 1928, i-AVBOB yayi sesimweni sokuzenzela izimoto zayo zomngcwabo, futhi yathola nezindlela zokusekela abakhiqizi basekhaya njengoba isidingo siya sikhula.
Kuthe lapho kugqashuka Impi Yezwe Yesibili ngo 1939, i-AVBOB yazithola isenkingeni. Ngaphambilini, yonke imikhiqizo yokungcwaba yayivela emazweni angaphandle, futhi manje yayi ngasatholakali. Ngakho i-AVBOB yaqala ukuzenzela lapha ekhaya yonke imikhiqizo ephathelene nokungcwaba. Kuthe ngenxa yokusweleka kwensimbi engamashidi, kwasetshenziswa amathini kwenziwa ezinhle izimbali zomngcwabo ezipendwe ngesandla.
I-AVBOB yasebenzisa okwase kulahliwe yaba ‘neqholo lokusebenzisa okwase Ningizimu Afrika’
singakaziwa nokwaziwa leso siqubulo!
I-AVBOB ikhona yonke indawo
Njengoba lenhlangano iya ikhula, kwavela, isiqubulo esasifanele, esithi ‘I-AVBOB ikuyo yonke indawo’. Futhi i-AVBOB kwakungeka wonke wonke. Ngasekupheleni kuka 1947, i-AVBOB yaba yinkampani yokuqala yokuthengisela zonke izinhlanga umshwalense wokungcwaba.
Kamuva i-AVBOB yakhula yaphumela ngaphandle komzana wase Bloemfontein, kwadingeka ithole ongoti bezomthetho, ochwepheshe bokubala izimali nabezokwelapha ukuqinisekisa umshwalense. Ngakho-ke, phakathi neminyaka yawo 1950, i-AVBOB yamisa ikomkhulu layo e-Pretoria. Kanti phakathi neminyaka yawo 1960, kwavulwa igatsha lokuqala le AVBOB e-Namibia.
Kuyo yonke iminyaka yawo 1970, i-AVBOB yaqhubeka iba namandla iqhuba imingcwabo yabo bonke abase Ningizimu Afrika, kungakhathaliseki uhlanga, umbala noma isizinda, yabangcwaba bonke kusukela kwinkosi eyayaziwa kakhulu e-Ciskei, uGeneral Magoma kuze kufike kuMfundisi uPetrus John Masango, uMbhishobhi omkhulu we St. John Apostolic Church of South Africa.
Isiqubulo sethu esithi, ‘Sihlala silindele ukukusiza’, asikaze sibe ukuzisholo nje kithina, kodwa sisho lokho esiyikho ngempela. Sisekela yonke imiphakathi lapha eNingizimu Afrika ngohlelo lwethu olusekela imfundo nokufunda. Ngosuku lwe Mandela Day 2017, i-AVBOB, isebenzisana noMnyango Wemfundo Eyisisekelo, bamemezela utshalo mali lwe R150 million ohlelweni lwe AVBOB Schools Infrastructure Project, lokwenzangcono izikole zamazinga aphansi eziyisishiya galolunye ezintulayo.
Kuyacaca futhi, ukuthi lokhu kungenxa yokuthi i-AVBOB iyinkampani yemisebenzi yomusa ebantwini ekholelwa wukubhekela izidingo zesizwe sakithi, izidingo ezingale kwenjongo yethu yokuhlinzeka ngokungcwaba nomshwalense wokungcwaba. Yilokho okwabangela i-AVBOB ukuba ibe yinhlangano yomshwalense womunye nomunye (mutual assurance) ngo 1951, nokuthi kungani ibilokhu ilwela ukuba yinhlangano enjalo kuze kube yilolu suku.
Njengoba siyinhlangano eyi mutual, i-AVBOB ayinabo abanikazi bamasheya abangaphandle abamukela izabelo. Eminyakeni edlule, i-AVBOB yabelene ngezigidi zamarandi kumalungu ayo ngamabhonasi akhethekile nezinzuzo zokungcwaba zamahhala. Mhlaka 15 August 2018, kulonyaka wethu wekhulu, sabelane namalungu ethu ngeyona eyake yankulukazi ibhonasi ekhethekile engu R3.5 billion. Lokhu kubonisa amandla i-AVBOB enawo okuphakamisa amalungu ethu ebuphofini nokuwanikeza indlela yokubamba iqhaza kwezomnotho.
Ngo July 2017, ngendlela ebingalindelwe, i-AVBOB yamemezela umncintiswano kazwelonke wezinkondlo ngezilimi ezisemthethweni ezingu 11 zakuleli, futhi lomncintiswano uvulekele bonke abase Ningizimu Afrika, nezinkondlo ezibhalwayo zithola inkokhelo uma zisakazwa engosini yomncintiswano. Izinkondlo ezathola umklomelo wokuqala zathola imali engu R10 000 kanye nomklomelo wencwadi ongu R2 500 kuyo yonke imikhakha ngazo zonke izilimi ezingu 11, emcimbini wezinga eliphezulu wakusihlwa owawenziwe ngo June 2018.
"Kwashicilelwa nomqulu wezinkondlo eziyi 100 ngezinkondlo ezazibhalelwe leyo ngosi, ezazihlanganisa nezinkondlo zekhethelo zabahayi bezinkondlo abaphambili balapha e-Ningizimu Afrika. Inkondlo ye 100, ngokufanelekile, yahaywa ngolimi lwesi Khoisani, isi Nǀuu, okwakungamazwi ka Ouma Katriena Esau, ongomunye kwabane abasasele abakhuluma lolu limi."
I-AVBOB ibilokhu ikholelwa ekutheni ezobuciko yinto ebalulekile emphakathini, njengendlela yokuphucula ezenhlalo. Yingakho i-AVBOB ibilokhu ingumxhasi oneqholo we Mzansi Youth Choir kusukela ngo 2013. Abaculi be MYC, abavela e-Soweto nasezindaweni zase Johannesburg namaphethelo, bacula emashashalazini omhlaba.
Akujwayelekile ngempela ukuthola inkampani ekwazi ukuhambisana noshintsho ngempumelelo kanjena, futhi ibe ilokhu iqhubeka nenjongo yayo. I-AVBOB ineminyaka nje eyi 100 ikhona, futhi izimisele ukuqhubeka ihambisana noshintsho noguquko. Yingakho abasebenzi bethu, kusukela kophezulu kuze kufike kophansi, bengumphakathi oxubile njengokulandela ukuzibophezela kwethu ekunakekeleni bonke abantu – kungabikhona isigejana sabanamalungelo abanye benganawo.
Ngenxa yokuzimisela kwethu ukusimamisa intsha nokukhuthaza osomabhizinisi, i-AVBOB izibophezele ekusebenzisaneni neqembu lentsha elizifisela okukhulu – eliku Diepsloot Kasi Hive – yalihlinzeka ngezidingo zokufinyelela imigomo yalo. Siphinde sibonise ukuzimisela kwethu ngokusiza osomabhizinisi baselokishini basimame baqhube amabhizinisi abo okungcwaba.
Besilokhu sisebenzela imindeni yase Ningizimu Afrika ngeqholo iminyaka eyikhulu. Lena yindaba yethu, esixoxwe isikhathi eside, kusukela kulesiya sikhathi sezwe lokucindezeleka elalandela isikhathi sempi, sibheke phambili esikhathini esizayo. I-AVBOB ithuthuke kusukela ekusindiseni abantu, yaze yafinyelela ekukhonzeni isizwe. Futh njengesihlala somkhomo sasemandulo esikhethwe njengophawu lwe AVBOB lweminyaka eyikhulu, i-AVBOB izimisele ukuqhubeka inamandla okusekela abantu bethu – umndeni wethu – eminye iminyaka eyi 100 ezayo. Ngoba, e-AVBOB, umndeni uza kuqala. Njalo nje.
The AVBOB Poetry Prize: in praise of the poets – and people – of South Africa - June 2018
On 1 August 2017, a remarkable and unorthodox event took place in the social media space: the launch of a poetry competition in all 11 official languages to serve South Africans as a source of comfort and catharsis.
Sponsored by AVBOB Mutual Assurance Society and funeral service provider, a competition of this reach was unprecedented in South Africa. And while a modest 5 000 poems were anticipated, 20 774 were finally entered. Of these, 3 108 were published on www.avbobpoetry.co.za. From there, three poems in each language category were selected, and at a gracious gala evening on 20 June 2018, the AVBOB Poetry Prize was presented to the first-placed poets.
The winning poems covered the totemic themes of Love, Hope, Birth and Death, and were drawn from that pool of over 20 000 poetic voices, each bravely articulating the inner life of countless amateur poets across South Africa. Poets as young as 10 and as old as 97 submitted their poems for approval on the website. While Gauteng proved to be the poetic heartland of SA, poems were submitted from Cape Town to Kuruman, from Bhisho to Bela Bela and beyond.
And while English is definitely the poetic lingua franca of our country, the beauty of this project lay in the convergence of all the voices of our land, forming a poetic patchwork quilt in isiXhosa, Sepedi, Tshivenḓa, Xitsonga, isiZulu, Setswana, isiNdebele, Afrikaans, Sesotho and Siswati.
We learnt, in Jeremy Cronin’s words, ‘how to speak with the voices of this land’, but finally it came down to the most powerfully crafted poems in each mother tongue. And the range of poems – and the poets behind them – are both a celebration of the richness of South Africa and a collective praise poem of hope and healing.
In alphabetical order of language category, they are:
Sponsored by AVBOB Mutual Assurance Society and funeral service provider, a competition of this reach was unprecedented in South Africa. And while a modest 5 000 poems were anticipated, 20 774 were finally entered. Of these, 3 108 were published on www.avbobpoetry.co.za. From there, three poems in each language category were selected, and at a gracious gala evening on 20 June 2018, the AVBOB Poetry Prize was presented to the first-placed poets.
The winning poems covered the totemic themes of Love, Hope, Birth and Death, and were drawn from that pool of over 20 000 poetic voices, each bravely articulating the inner life of countless amateur poets across South Africa. Poets as young as 10 and as old as 97 submitted their poems for approval on the website. While Gauteng proved to be the poetic heartland of SA, poems were submitted from Cape Town to Kuruman, from Bhisho to Bela Bela and beyond.
And while English is definitely the poetic lingua franca of our country, the beauty of this project lay in the convergence of all the voices of our land, forming a poetic patchwork quilt in isiXhosa, Sepedi, Tshivenḓa, Xitsonga, isiZulu, Setswana, isiNdebele, Afrikaans, Sesotho and Siswati.
We learnt, in Jeremy Cronin’s words, ‘how to speak with the voices of this land’, but finally it came down to the most powerfully crafted poems in each mother tongue. And the range of poems – and the poets behind them – are both a celebration of the richness of South Africa and a collective praise poem of hope and healing.
In alphabetical order of language category, they are:
| LANGUAGE CATEGORY: Afrikaans WINNER: Lynthia Julius POEM: Vir Al Jarreau |
| 2nd place | 3rd place |
| Susan Smith Poem: passaat |
Herman Lategan Poem: vir ‘n bidsprinkaan |
| LANGUAGE CATEGORY: English WINNER: Caroline F Archer POEM: Puppet master |
| 2nd place | 3rd place |
| Helen Moffett Poem: Brain MRI |
Mfundo Mthombeni Poem: It's been too long |
| LANGUAGE CATEGORY: isiNdebele WINNER: Queen Mahlangu POEM: Litjhingile |
| 2nd place | 3rd place |
| Nurse Nonhlanhla Mbonani Poem: Khetha Yena |
Thabi Mahamba Poem: Ngiyathokoza ngokungikhulisa |
LANGUAGE CATEGORY: isiXhosa WINNER: Nolusindiso Penxa POEM: Akwaba ndandithethile |
| 2nd place | 3rd place |
| Sihle Ndamane Poem: Ndicela ningandilileli |
Simphiwe Nolusthungu Poem: Ndiye ndalibala |
| LANGUAGE CATEGORY: isiZulu WINNER: Kutsi Emmanuel Lindinkosi Mpanza POEM: Wangishiya ngokuzuma |
| 2nd place | 3rd place |
| Lungile Chamane Poem: Siwile isihlahla |
SOZ Mkhize Poem: Kuzofa ukufa |
LANGUAGE CATEGORY: Sesotho WINNER: Tieho Mkhendane POEM: Ntjapedi |
| 2nd place | 3rd place |
| Deo Mogoera Poem: Sefofane |
Themba Motete Poem: Nako jwale e fihlile |
LANGUAGE CATEGORY: Setswana WINNER: Nthabiseng Cujane POEM: Go siame |
| 2nd place | 3rd place |
| Keabetswe Ramatlo Poem: Mma o re siile |
Fikile Moilwa Poem: Se itlhoboge |
LANGUAGE CATEGORY: Sepedi WINNER: Mosima Phakane POEM: Khutša |
| 2nd place | 3rd place |
| Moses Seletisha Poem: Mahlodi |
Mokgaetji Glory Tladi Poem: Ditebogo di kae? |
LANGUAGE CATEGORY: Siswati WINNER: Thembi Gwebu POEM: Tinyembeti |
| 2nd place | 3rd place |
| Obed Hearthstones Poem: Kumtsatsile |
Ncobile Madonsela Poem: Kufa |
LANGUAGE CATEGORY: Tshivenḓa WINNER: Ngwedzeni Tshovhota POEM: U bebwa ha lutshetshe |
| 2nd place | 3rd place |
| Domina Napoleon Munzhelele Poem: Ndi nwana wau |
Ndivhuyafhi Godfrey Musubi Poem: Maduvha a kalakataho |
LANGUAGE CATEGORY: Xitsonga WINNER: Mashimbye Owners Hluvukani POEM: Xihlamariso |
| 2nd place | 3rd place |
| Musa Aubrey Baloyi Poem: U rhukane swikwembu |
Ximbani Eric Mabaso Poem: Maxangu na nhlomulo |
PROFILES: AVBOB POETRY PRIZEWINNERS
Each of the 11 first-place winners of the AVBOB Poetry Prize received a R10 000 cash prize and a R2 500 book voucher, sponsored by AVBOB. They came to the competition for various reasons, in search of something beyond the ordinary, and gave us poems that comfort, provoke and challenge.
How does one begin to sing their praises? Theirs, and each and every poet who penned a poem and submitted their work for appraisal. The winners, says AVBOB CEO, Frik Rademan, “represent the best, the bravest and most talented of our rainbow nation. What moves me to the core is that each of these poets had the courage to dig deep into their own vulnerability to find the words to not only express their pain, but to help others on their road to healing.”
Lynthia Julius grew up in Kimberley, and is a postgraduate student of philosophy at the University of the Free State. As a child, her mother read her sister and her a bedtime poem to fuel their dreams. The competition offered her a therapeutic space in which to unpack unresolved emotions.
Caroline F Archer grew up on a Free State farm but is now based in Pretoria as an editor, translator, poet and author. She began writing poetry as a school girl and simply never stopped. She found the competition’s online format a brilliant tool to disseminate poetry in an environment where it is poorly supported.
Queen Mahlangu grew up in Mpumalanga, is a Soshanguve resident and a student of paralegal studies at TUT. At just 19 years old, she’s the youngest of the first-prize winners. She entered the competition – her very first! – in the hope of healing others with her words, and as a nod to the poets who have inspired her.
Nolusindiso Penxa is an admin clerk for the Department of Justice in Port Elizabeth. During her high school years, she compiled a book of poems which she wrote herself. Although she says she loves poetry, as a working mother of four children she doesn’t give herself much time to sit and write. She entered the competition after being motivated by a friend who passed away.
Kutsi Emmanuel Lindinkosi Mpanza is a freelance artist living in Cosmo City who grew up surrounded by community-minded sisters who organised gatherings where drama, poetry, dance and music were celebrated. The competition allowed him to write in his mother tongue and the competition’s archetypal themes resonated richly with him.
Tieho Mkhendane grew up in Ficksburg and now lives in Komati, Mpumalanga. At age seven, a tribute poem to his late grandmother launched his career as a professional praise poet at community functions. He entered the competition to share his own gifts with others and to learn from them in turn.
Nthabiseng Cujane grew up in the village of Verdwaal in North West. After the loss of her father in 2014, she began to write poetry in earnest. But lack of funds forced her out of her studies, and poetry was pushed aside for a time. The competition revived her love of the form, and reinforced her belief in its transformative power.
Mosima Phakane grew up in a village in Limpopo and is currently studying civil engineering at Wits. Encouraged by a school teacher, she wrote her first poem in 2010 and has never looked back. She saw the competition as an opportunity to grow as a poet, and to revisit her mother tongue as a medium.
Thembi Gwebu was born and bred in Tsakane township in Ekurhuleni, and now works as a labour relations practitioner and youth care worker. What attracted her to the competition was the open-ended theme, "I wish I'd said…”, and the fact that it gave everyone the opportunity to write in their own language of origin.
Ngwedzeni Tshovhota grew up in Thohoyandou in Limpopo, and is now a team leader for a major insurer in the region. He was a latecomer to poetry in 2014, but published a collection of poems the following year under the title, Mutshakavhili (Eclipse). The competition offered him the chance to refine his craft.
At just 22, Mashimbye Owners Hluvukani has already packed poetry, teaching and a commerce degree into his short life. A resident of Thohoyandou, he is furthering his career in account management at a major utility, and says poetry offers him a place to express his emotions and serves as a remedy to life’s ills.
THE AVBOB POETRY GALA
The AVBOB Poetry Gala evening on 20 June in Pretoria signalled a celebration of the human spirit, and of the power of poetry to heal and transform.
And that power is captured in a print anthology* – published by Naledi – under the competition tagline, “I Wish I’d said…”. The two winning poems in each language category will now live on alongside the work of seven accomplished South African poets, each commissioned to write a poem in each language category for the anthology. And, in the spirit of inclusivity, the 100th poem in the collection is written in Khoisan.
Why 100 poems? Because in this, AVBOB’s centenary year, they wanted to give back to South Africa in a deeply symbolic way.
But what inspired it all?
The inspiration for the AVBOB Poetry Project took form at the funeral of a two-year-old boy, who had died from a common childhood cancer. At his funeral, so great was his grandfather’s sense of loss, that he could barely speak. He managed to muster these two words: ‘Ta ta, kiewiet.’ ‘Goodbye, little plover, little bird.’
This loss of words in the face of the loss of a loved one is something AVBOB sees daily. It is a very human moment in which the mind, in the throes of a great sorrow, struggles to find the right words to articulate grief. The words used daily will not do. They come across as mere platitudes, empty phrases that cannot match the emotions at play.
“AVBOB asked, ‘how can we provide all our policyholders, all our people, with a way to give voice to their grief?’,” explains AVBOB CEO, Frik Rademan. “At AVBOB, we make a promise: ‘We’re here for you.’ We wanted to demonstrate this, to provide people with comfort when they are most vulnerable. And we found that, in times of great emotional stress, people often turn to verse to find a way forward. They look to psalms, songs and poems for consolation.”
This is how the AVBOB Poetry Project was born. The competition would serve a dual purpose: firstly, it would provide a safe place of catharsis. Here, ordinary South Africans could weave words about their own wounds. It could be a place for them to unburden, to share stories of their own loss. But it had to be more than this. For while AVBOB deals in death daily, they see themselves as traders in hope.
And so, the competition gave South Africans the gentlest, most inclusive form of bereavement counselling. And that was, indeed, the second aim of the competition: to create an online anthology of original poems that mourners could access and make use of, for funeral pamphlets or for personal consolation.
“The success of the competition suggests that poetry is alive and thriving in SA,” adds Mr Rademan. “If the social media response is anything to go by, there is a profound need for this sort of platform. And so, it is with great delight that AVBOB announces the launch of the 2018 AVBOB Poetry Competition, which will run from 1 August to 30 November 2018.”
In the words of the great English poet, TS Eliot: “For last year's words belong to last year's language. And next year's words await another voice. And to make an end is to make a beginning.”
And so, it begins again. AVBOB encourages all those who were touched by the 2017 competition to spread the word and sow the seeds for the next season, and to bring the beauty of poetry back to its people once more.
Please visit the AVBOB online poetry anthology, which is freely available on www.avbobpoetry.co.za. For what was produced for AVBOB’s customers and policyholders, for poets across South Africa, and for all the bereaved across this nation, is a resource of beauty and solace that will endure for generations. In this, AVBOB’s centenary year, this competition marks a profound demonstration of AVBOB’s commitment to the communities in which they operate, of their willingness to give more, and of their ability to provide emotional and intellectual upliftment for all South Africans.
*The anthology can be ordered at www.naledi.online or 078 648 8616, and is available from most good bookstores. Alternatively, SMS the word ‘poem’ to 41199 (at a standard cost of R1.50 per SMS) to have it posted to you at a total cost of R200.
KZN High Court grants AVBOB relief from NAFUPA SA
Since November 2017, the National Funeral Practitioners Association of South Africa (NAFUPA SA) has threatened to ban all so-called “White- and Indian-owned” funeral businesses from rural areas and townships in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).
These threats have been backed up with violent actions against AVBOB staff and a relentless media campaign of misinformation. This compelled AVBOB to introduce drastic measures to ensure that we can continue with our normal business activities and to fulfil our contractual obligation to our members and customers.
AVBOB obtained an interdict on 29 January 2018, barring NAFUPA SA from unlawfully interfering with its normal business activities, but NAFUPA SA simply ignored the ruling and continued to threaten AVBOB’s staff and clients. In order to protect our assets, staff and clients, we engaged the services of a private security company to escort staff and clients into the affected areas.
NAFUPA SA’s contemptuous conduct compelled AVBOB to approach the Court again in an attempt to put a stop to these criminal activities. On 20 February 2018, AVBOB brought a second urgent application in the High Court, KwaZulu-Natal Local Division in Durban, against NAFUPA SA and its president, Mr Hlengwa, for various violations of the interim court order that was granted by Judge Chetty on 29 January 2018. NAFUPA SA representatives were disrupting court proceedings, but after Judge Moodley awarded her ruling in favour of AVBOB, they cried foul and argued that they had no legal representation. Judge Moodley gave NAFUPA SA and Mr Hlengwa until 6 March 2018 to show good cause why he should not be committed to prison. Judge Moodley further stated that should NAFUPA SA, Mr Hlengwa or any of its members be in contravention of the interim order made on 29 January 2018, AVBOB shall have the right to approach the Court within 24 hours, requesting the imprisonment of Mr Hlengwa.
The matter was heard on 6 March 2018 before Judge Nkosi. Members of NAFUPA SA and Mrs Hlengwa (Mr Hlengwa's wife) were in attendance.
Mrs Hlengwa made submissions to the Court that Mr Hlengwa is unwell and could not attend court. The Judge noted that Mr Hlengwa has a case to answer and should not avoid coming to court as he has had ample opportunity to submit an affidavit to state his case. AVBOB asked the Court to confirm both the interim orders for the interdict and contempt of court. AVBOB further asked the Court to suspend the imprisonment of Mr Hlengwa for a period of six months on condition that the members of NAFUPA SA and Mr Hlengwa comply with the final and confirmed court order. Should NAFUPA SA and Mr Hlengwa contravene the court order, AVBOB will be entitled to approach the Court on 24 hours’ notice and request the immediate imprisonment of Mr Hlengwa. The Judge agreed with AVBOB's submissions on the terms of the court order, and explained the terms of the court order to Mrs Hlengwa who agreed to the suspended imprisonment of Mr Hlengwa. The Court granted the order on the above terms, and also awarded legal costs in respect of both court orders, to AVBOB.
AVBOB has always been willing to engage NAFUPA SA in meaningful discussions to find an amicable solution to their concerns, but their demands are completely unrealistic and irrational. Amongst other things, NAFUPA SA demanded that AVBOB pays them 30% of AVBOB’s annual profits to shut down their campaign, and to set up and pay for fully functional funeral parlours for NAFUPA SA. We have therefore done whatever is deemed necessary, and reasonably possible, to protect our staff and clients against intimidation and violence. We will not allow the benefits due to our members to be plundered by violent minorities with narrow agendas of personal enrichment. We will continue to stand steadfast in our promise to be there for our members.
These threats have been backed up with violent actions against AVBOB staff and a relentless media campaign of misinformation. This compelled AVBOB to introduce drastic measures to ensure that we can continue with our normal business activities and to fulfil our contractual obligation to our members and customers.
AVBOB obtained an interdict on 29 January 2018, barring NAFUPA SA from unlawfully interfering with its normal business activities, but NAFUPA SA simply ignored the ruling and continued to threaten AVBOB’s staff and clients. In order to protect our assets, staff and clients, we engaged the services of a private security company to escort staff and clients into the affected areas.
NAFUPA SA’s contemptuous conduct compelled AVBOB to approach the Court again in an attempt to put a stop to these criminal activities. On 20 February 2018, AVBOB brought a second urgent application in the High Court, KwaZulu-Natal Local Division in Durban, against NAFUPA SA and its president, Mr Hlengwa, for various violations of the interim court order that was granted by Judge Chetty on 29 January 2018. NAFUPA SA representatives were disrupting court proceedings, but after Judge Moodley awarded her ruling in favour of AVBOB, they cried foul and argued that they had no legal representation. Judge Moodley gave NAFUPA SA and Mr Hlengwa until 6 March 2018 to show good cause why he should not be committed to prison. Judge Moodley further stated that should NAFUPA SA, Mr Hlengwa or any of its members be in contravention of the interim order made on 29 January 2018, AVBOB shall have the right to approach the Court within 24 hours, requesting the imprisonment of Mr Hlengwa.
The matter was heard on 6 March 2018 before Judge Nkosi. Members of NAFUPA SA and Mrs Hlengwa (Mr Hlengwa's wife) were in attendance.
Mrs Hlengwa made submissions to the Court that Mr Hlengwa is unwell and could not attend court. The Judge noted that Mr Hlengwa has a case to answer and should not avoid coming to court as he has had ample opportunity to submit an affidavit to state his case. AVBOB asked the Court to confirm both the interim orders for the interdict and contempt of court. AVBOB further asked the Court to suspend the imprisonment of Mr Hlengwa for a period of six months on condition that the members of NAFUPA SA and Mr Hlengwa comply with the final and confirmed court order. Should NAFUPA SA and Mr Hlengwa contravene the court order, AVBOB will be entitled to approach the Court on 24 hours’ notice and request the immediate imprisonment of Mr Hlengwa. The Judge agreed with AVBOB's submissions on the terms of the court order, and explained the terms of the court order to Mrs Hlengwa who agreed to the suspended imprisonment of Mr Hlengwa. The Court granted the order on the above terms, and also awarded legal costs in respect of both court orders, to AVBOB.
AVBOB has always been willing to engage NAFUPA SA in meaningful discussions to find an amicable solution to their concerns, but their demands are completely unrealistic and irrational. Amongst other things, NAFUPA SA demanded that AVBOB pays them 30% of AVBOB’s annual profits to shut down their campaign, and to set up and pay for fully functional funeral parlours for NAFUPA SA. We have therefore done whatever is deemed necessary, and reasonably possible, to protect our staff and clients against intimidation and violence. We will not allow the benefits due to our members to be plundered by violent minorities with narrow agendas of personal enrichment. We will continue to stand steadfast in our promise to be there for our members.
AVBOB introduces drastic measures to fulfil its brand promise - February 2018
Since December 2017, the National Funeral Practitioners Association of South Africa (NAFUPA SA) has threatened to ban all so-called “white and Indian owned” funeral businesses from rural areas and townships in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). This compelled certain companies to introduce drastic measures to ensure that they can continue with their normal business activities and to fulfil a contractual obligation to their customers.
NAFUPA SA has been driving this campaign primarily in and around townships and rural areas surrounding Durban in KZN. The association went as far as threatening to burn their competitors’ business premises, vehicles and equipment and have justified their crusade as a means to bring about “radical economic transformation”.
One of the affected targets of NAFUPA SA’s action against what they perceive as a “white owned business” is AVBOB Mutual Assurance Society, an organisation which became a household name in both white and non-white communities since it was established in 1918. AVBOB has responded strongly in the media about NAFUPA SA’s threats and statements and even obtained an interdict against the latter to restrain it from unlawfully preventing AVBOB’s agents from conducting its normal business activities.
AVBOB’s stance is emphatic that it is not “owned by whites” but as a mutual assurance society, its assets belong to policyholders of whom 80% are black. Speaking to AVBOB CEO, Frik Rademan, he explained that AVBOB’s status as a mutual assurance society enables the organisation to allocate surplus profits to its members in the form of free funeral benefits and special bonuses. “AVBOB has no external shareholders that can demand dividends,” Rademan said. “AVBOB’s policyholders benefit directly from our successes which are evident from the R8 billion which has been allocated to policyholders in the form of free funeral benefits and special bonuses over the past nine years,” he continued.
Rademan said one of their biggest concerns about NAFUPA SA’s threats is that the free funeral benefits, which their members have accrued over the years and which are subject to the condition that AVBOB Funeral Service Ltd. is used to do the funeral when a claim against the policy is made, will be lost. He explained that these free funeral benefits, which are currently valued at almost R15 000, will be forfeited if the policyholder is forced or convinced not to use AVBOB for the funeral. “NAFUPA SA has gone so far as to “advise” policyholders to cancel their policies or to submit cash claims and if this happens, the family will only receive the proceeds of the policy,” he said. According to him it will be a tragedy if NAFUPA SA succeeds to intimidate bereaved families to such an extent that they can no longer exercise freedom of choice when it comes to selecting a funeral service provider. “Effectively, NAFUPA SA, who hides behind the populist notion of radical economic transformation, wants to rob ordinary citizens of their money during a time when they are at their most vulnerable. Only NAFUPA SA and its members stand to benefit from this campaign. They are promoting their own selfish business objectives and interests at the expense of the people living in these communities,” he said.
When asked how AVBOB will counter NAFUPA SA’s endeavours should they continue to threaten the organisation and its clients Rademan explained that AVBOB has no intention of withdrawing from townships and the rural areas. He said AVBOB has an obligation to deliver on its brand promise “We’re here for you”. “AVBOB has opened branches in townships and rural areas to make it convenient for our clients to receive the services we promised to render when they joined us. That is why we continuously open new branches so that we can get closer to our policyholders, and other clients, to render a service right where they live. In the meantime we have obtained an interdict barring NAFUPA SA from interfering with our normal business activities and we went as far as contracting a private security company to escort our staff and clients into the affected areas. We will do whatever is deemed necessary, and reasonably possible, to protect our staff and clients against intimidation and violence.”
NAFUPA SA has been driving this campaign primarily in and around townships and rural areas surrounding Durban in KZN. The association went as far as threatening to burn their competitors’ business premises, vehicles and equipment and have justified their crusade as a means to bring about “radical economic transformation”.
One of the affected targets of NAFUPA SA’s action against what they perceive as a “white owned business” is AVBOB Mutual Assurance Society, an organisation which became a household name in both white and non-white communities since it was established in 1918. AVBOB has responded strongly in the media about NAFUPA SA’s threats and statements and even obtained an interdict against the latter to restrain it from unlawfully preventing AVBOB’s agents from conducting its normal business activities.
AVBOB’s stance is emphatic that it is not “owned by whites” but as a mutual assurance society, its assets belong to policyholders of whom 80% are black. Speaking to AVBOB CEO, Frik Rademan, he explained that AVBOB’s status as a mutual assurance society enables the organisation to allocate surplus profits to its members in the form of free funeral benefits and special bonuses. “AVBOB has no external shareholders that can demand dividends,” Rademan said. “AVBOB’s policyholders benefit directly from our successes which are evident from the R8 billion which has been allocated to policyholders in the form of free funeral benefits and special bonuses over the past nine years,” he continued.
Rademan said one of their biggest concerns about NAFUPA SA’s threats is that the free funeral benefits, which their members have accrued over the years and which are subject to the condition that AVBOB Funeral Service Ltd. is used to do the funeral when a claim against the policy is made, will be lost. He explained that these free funeral benefits, which are currently valued at almost R15 000, will be forfeited if the policyholder is forced or convinced not to use AVBOB for the funeral. “NAFUPA SA has gone so far as to “advise” policyholders to cancel their policies or to submit cash claims and if this happens, the family will only receive the proceeds of the policy,” he said. According to him it will be a tragedy if NAFUPA SA succeeds to intimidate bereaved families to such an extent that they can no longer exercise freedom of choice when it comes to selecting a funeral service provider. “Effectively, NAFUPA SA, who hides behind the populist notion of radical economic transformation, wants to rob ordinary citizens of their money during a time when they are at their most vulnerable. Only NAFUPA SA and its members stand to benefit from this campaign. They are promoting their own selfish business objectives and interests at the expense of the people living in these communities,” he said.
When asked how AVBOB will counter NAFUPA SA’s endeavours should they continue to threaten the organisation and its clients Rademan explained that AVBOB has no intention of withdrawing from townships and the rural areas. He said AVBOB has an obligation to deliver on its brand promise “We’re here for you”. “AVBOB has opened branches in townships and rural areas to make it convenient for our clients to receive the services we promised to render when they joined us. That is why we continuously open new branches so that we can get closer to our policyholders, and other clients, to render a service right where they live. In the meantime we have obtained an interdict barring NAFUPA SA from interfering with our normal business activities and we went as far as contracting a private security company to escort our staff and clients into the affected areas. We will do whatever is deemed necessary, and reasonably possible, to protect our staff and clients against intimidation and violence.”
AVBOB Press Release - January 2018
- In response to the various threats of violence and the interference with its business operations, AVBOB resolved to approach the judiciary for assistance in preventing the unlawful conduct threatened by NAFUPA SA and its affiliated members.
- The concerning conduct was in the form of a campaign, which was to commence on 1 February 2018, and was threatened to include:
- the prevention of AVBOB from operating in so-called “black townships”;
- the use of petrol bombs to burn and destroy hearses belonging to Indian, white and coloured funeral companies;
- the blocking of roads to prevent all Indian, white and coloured funeral companies from entering the so-called black areas;
- the burning of hearses belonging to all Indian, white and coloured funeral companies, together with the bodies of the deceased people being transported;
- the confiscation of all funeral equipment such as tents, lowering devices and grave matts that are used and owned by Indian, white and coloured funeral companies;
- the hiring of “assassins” to target employees of Indian, white and coloured funeral companies.
- AVBOB successfully obtained an interim interdict inter alia ordering that NAFUPA SA be interdicted and restrained from:
- Conducting any unlawful protest and/or gathering at any of the branch offices of AVBOB, preventing access to such offices by members of the general public and/or employees or associated agents or service providers of AVBOB;
- Unlawfully preventing AVBOB, including its associated agents and employees, from conducting its normal business in Durban and/or other areas in which AVBOB or its agents conduct business;
- Disrupting the business of AVBOB and its associated agents or interfering with the business relationship that AVBOB has with its customers, in any of the so-called black areas;
- Making threats against AVBOB, its associated agents and employees, contributing to and/or inciting violence and/or anarchy, the purpose of which being to-
- deter AVBOB and its franchisees from conducting its normal business in the Durban area and all other areas where AVBOB and its agencies have branches;
- cause damage to the property of AVBOB and its associated agencies, including intimidating, threatening and harassing or harming any employees of the applicants;
- create an untenable environment for the normal operations of AVBOB and/or its franchisees;
- interfere with the normal business operations of AVBOB and its agents;
- interfere in the business relationship between AVBOB and its clients/policy holders.
- This order also provides that, should NAFUPA SA and/or its members fail to comply with its terms, the members of the SAPS are authorised and directed to take any steps or measures necessary to ensure compliance with this order and to maintain law and order by-
- preventing unlawful gatherings at any of AVBOB’s branches;
- preventing NAFUPA SA, including its members, from blocking any access roads to so-called black townships when AVBOB and/or its associated agents are conducting funeral services;
- preventing any damage to property and/or vandalising of AVBOB’s property during the conduct of funeral services in the so-called Black townships.
- The aforesaid provisions of the order are immediately enforceable and the courts have afforded NAFUPA SA until 6 March 2018 to show cause as to why the order should not be made final.
- We invite NAFUPA SA to place their position formally on record and indicate why they believe their conduct is lawful. As always, AVBOB’s management is available to engage NAFUPA SA regarding the resolution of this matter.
Communities will suffer if White and Indian funeral undertakers are forbidden - January 2018
If Mr Nkosentsha Shezi, General Secretary of the National Funeral Practitioners Association of South Africa (NAFUPA SA) has his way, no White- or Indian-owned funeral business will be allowed to conduct funerals in Black townships or villages from 1 February onwards.
AVBOB is perceived to be one of those so-called “white-owned” businesses which has been targeted by Mr Shezi’s reckless statements and comments and we would like to respond as follows:
First and foremost, we believe that the picture painted by Mr Shezi and his organisation is not only dangerously oversimplified, but ultimately incorrect on a number of fronts.
Not only would this take away freedom of choice from the consumer but, if this illegal action is not stopped, it will have far-reaching and detrimental effects at both the micro- and macro-economic level. The facts are as follows:
AVBOB is a mutual society, which means it does not have shareholders who receive dividends. The Society is owned by its policyholders, of whom 80% are Black, and these policyholders share directly in the company’s success through the allocation of surplus profits. Over the past nine years, AVBOB has allocated R8 billion of surplus profits to its policyholders (owners) in the form of special bonuses and free funeral benefits, over and above the value of their policies.
These ground-breaking benefits will be lost should policyholders claim cash up front or cancel their policies and follow the NAFUPA SA way.
Secondly, AVBOB’s business model empowers and supports the development of Black entrepreneurs by providing infrastructure, resources and training. This enables them to operate the funeral agency on a semi-franchise basis. They employ their own staff, recruited from the local community. Furthermore, they acquire on behalf of their clients products and services such as family cars, house tents, catering products and services, etc. from local suppliers and service providers from the community. NAFUPA SA’s threats place the livelihood of these entrepreneurs, their staff and suppliers at risk.
AVBOB’s commitment to uplifting disadvantaged communities does not stop at the entrepreneurial or mutual level. Our CSI contribution is equally considerable. AVBOB recently announced another project that will set the tone for Corporate Social Investment in South Africa. The schools infrastructure project, whereby AVBOB will invest R150 million in the upgrading of schools in rural and disadvantaged communities in all nine provinces, was announced in 2017. This initiative follows on the 50 container libraries that AVBOB has donated to schools in these areas since 2014. Apart from these community projects, AVBOB regularly provides assistance to families who cannot afford a funeral, by doing the funeral for free or at a much-reduced cost.
Considering what AVBOB has been contributing to these communities over the decades, it will be nothing less than a disaster for every man, woman and child in every township and village in this country if we were forced to move out.
We believe there are two ways to approach transformation in South Africa: the first is out of a sense of duty, of obligation or mere compliance. But there is another way, something deeper, stronger, rooted in fundamental values, that is a heartfelt, truly performative act of purpose and intention. AVBOB is driven by our desire to serve our policyholders (owners) and the communities in which we operate.
AVBOB is a B-BBEE level 2 contributor. As an employer, AVBOB is committed to empowerment and to being an exemplary corporate citizen. We want to make a substantive difference in the lives of all South Africans.
In closing, we believe that action speaks louder than words, and that commitment to true transformation is not only skin-deep; it is the passion at the heart of the organisation. This is demonstrated by everything AVBOB does towards the socio-economic wellbeing and upliftment of all South Africans. The initiatives that the group has undertaken thus far – and continues to undertake – exemplify our slogan, “We are here for you”.
AVBOB is perceived to be one of those so-called “white-owned” businesses which has been targeted by Mr Shezi’s reckless statements and comments and we would like to respond as follows:
First and foremost, we believe that the picture painted by Mr Shezi and his organisation is not only dangerously oversimplified, but ultimately incorrect on a number of fronts.
Not only would this take away freedom of choice from the consumer but, if this illegal action is not stopped, it will have far-reaching and detrimental effects at both the micro- and macro-economic level. The facts are as follows:
AVBOB is a mutual society, which means it does not have shareholders who receive dividends. The Society is owned by its policyholders, of whom 80% are Black, and these policyholders share directly in the company’s success through the allocation of surplus profits. Over the past nine years, AVBOB has allocated R8 billion of surplus profits to its policyholders (owners) in the form of special bonuses and free funeral benefits, over and above the value of their policies.
These ground-breaking benefits will be lost should policyholders claim cash up front or cancel their policies and follow the NAFUPA SA way.
Secondly, AVBOB’s business model empowers and supports the development of Black entrepreneurs by providing infrastructure, resources and training. This enables them to operate the funeral agency on a semi-franchise basis. They employ their own staff, recruited from the local community. Furthermore, they acquire on behalf of their clients products and services such as family cars, house tents, catering products and services, etc. from local suppliers and service providers from the community. NAFUPA SA’s threats place the livelihood of these entrepreneurs, their staff and suppliers at risk.
AVBOB’s commitment to uplifting disadvantaged communities does not stop at the entrepreneurial or mutual level. Our CSI contribution is equally considerable. AVBOB recently announced another project that will set the tone for Corporate Social Investment in South Africa. The schools infrastructure project, whereby AVBOB will invest R150 million in the upgrading of schools in rural and disadvantaged communities in all nine provinces, was announced in 2017. This initiative follows on the 50 container libraries that AVBOB has donated to schools in these areas since 2014. Apart from these community projects, AVBOB regularly provides assistance to families who cannot afford a funeral, by doing the funeral for free or at a much-reduced cost.
Considering what AVBOB has been contributing to these communities over the decades, it will be nothing less than a disaster for every man, woman and child in every township and village in this country if we were forced to move out.
We believe there are two ways to approach transformation in South Africa: the first is out of a sense of duty, of obligation or mere compliance. But there is another way, something deeper, stronger, rooted in fundamental values, that is a heartfelt, truly performative act of purpose and intention. AVBOB is driven by our desire to serve our policyholders (owners) and the communities in which we operate.
AVBOB is a B-BBEE level 2 contributor. As an employer, AVBOB is committed to empowerment and to being an exemplary corporate citizen. We want to make a substantive difference in the lives of all South Africans.
In closing, we believe that action speaks louder than words, and that commitment to true transformation is not only skin-deep; it is the passion at the heart of the organisation. This is demonstrated by everything AVBOB does towards the socio-economic wellbeing and upliftment of all South Africans. The initiatives that the group has undertaken thus far – and continues to undertake – exemplify our slogan, “We are here for you”.
AVBOB Featured in @EnterpriseAfri1 Issue 65, pages 26 – 31 - December 2017
SABC News: Motshekga announces partnership to refurbish SA schools - July 2017
Mandela Day - July 2017
Classrooms for needy pupils - July 2017
AVBOB CEO Frik Rademan (left) signs a memorandum of understanding with Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga
Published in the Daily Sun (Free State/Northern Cape) on 25 July 2017
By Nobathembu Zibi
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga has launched a groundbreaking school infrastructure partnership with AVBOB.
She said at Joe Solomon Primary School in Heidedal, Mangaung, that the company donated R150 million for renovations and the building of new schools across the country.
“This is the single largest investment in the school infrastructure programme by a company since I became minister of basic education,” she said.
“It is important to note that needy pupils and communities in all nine provinces will benefit from this contribution.
“The announcement by the company’s board of this investment came as no surprise to me. Our partnership with them has flourished from strength to strength.
“The work we are doing together is changing lives and shaping the future generation. The company has become a strategic partner and a dependable ally in the delivery of quality public schooling.
“Our strategic partnership with them started in earnest after we made a loud and clear call to all social partners for an increased investment in the library service.
“We aim to launch 1 000 school libraries each year.
“AVBOB is the single largest contributor of fully functional container libraries to primary schools.
“We are very excited to be where we are, and we agreed we would work together to move education forward. We are doing so daily.”
AVBOB chief executive Frik Rademan said: “We want to help provide quality education and make a positive difference in pupils’ lives.
“Joe Solomon Primary School, will get 23 new classrooms, a computer lab, a library and a kitchen.”
By Nobathembu Zibi
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga has launched a groundbreaking school infrastructure partnership with AVBOB.
She said at Joe Solomon Primary School in Heidedal, Mangaung, that the company donated R150 million for renovations and the building of new schools across the country.
“This is the single largest investment in the school infrastructure programme by a company since I became minister of basic education,” she said.
“It is important to note that needy pupils and communities in all nine provinces will benefit from this contribution.
“The announcement by the company’s board of this investment came as no surprise to me. Our partnership with them has flourished from strength to strength.
“The work we are doing together is changing lives and shaping the future generation. The company has become a strategic partner and a dependable ally in the delivery of quality public schooling.
“Our strategic partnership with them started in earnest after we made a loud and clear call to all social partners for an increased investment in the library service.
“We aim to launch 1 000 school libraries each year.
“AVBOB is the single largest contributor of fully functional container libraries to primary schools.
“We are very excited to be where we are, and we agreed we would work together to move education forward. We are doing so daily.”
AVBOB chief executive Frik Rademan said: “We want to help provide quality education and make a positive difference in pupils’ lives.
“Joe Solomon Primary School, will get 23 new classrooms, a computer lab, a library and a kitchen.”
Motshekga refused unearned riches - July 2017
Published in Free State Sun on 21 July 2017
By Nthabiseng Lisele
Minister of Basic Education Angie Motshekga spend her 67 minutes of celebrating Mandela day in the Free State.
Minister together with the AVBOB were in partnership as they launched a ground-breaking multimillion rand school infrastructure partnership. AVBOB Board donated R150 million for the renovation, refurbishment and building of schools across the country.
During her speech, Minister Motshekga said, “we appeal to the political gods to remind us every day that State resources exist primarily to serve the people. Some of us in the positions of responsibility are merely servants of the people and quite rightly so our occupation of political office comes with insecurity of tenure”.
Motshekga emphasized that they shall serve not expecting any glory or unearned riches. According to her, there is no reason to applaud a fish for swimming.
“Madiba taught us that to lead is a lifelong service to the people. He also taught us that you can achieve the status of being referred to as a world statesman without having to exhibit the traits of a demigod”, said minister.
According to her, stealing from the public purse goes against the essence of humanity and service to the people. She stated that they must rebel against those who have launched a relentless assault to brazen theft of the public resources for no other reason other than personal gain, fame and fortune.
“We must rebel against the veil of secrecy when evidence of looting of State resources hides in plain sight yet no action is forthcoming. We must refuse to complicit in the snatching of dreams of a better life for the future generation of our people either by act or omission”, said Motshekga.
She added that, “we have a responsibility not to betray the memory of President Mandela. His legacy cannot die while we live. Therefore we do owe Madiba indeed, and his generation of freedom fighters a debt of gratitude for the work they did at the great personal costs to themselves with no expectation of recognition, high office and material gain”.
Concluding, Minister said that “our partnership with AVBOB is one that has flourished from strength to strength and the work we are doing together is truly changing lives and shaping future generations. They have become truly a strategic partner and dependable ally in the delivery of quality public schooling”.
By Nthabiseng Lisele
Minister of Basic Education Angie Motshekga spend her 67 minutes of celebrating Mandela day in the Free State.
Minister together with the AVBOB were in partnership as they launched a ground-breaking multimillion rand school infrastructure partnership. AVBOB Board donated R150 million for the renovation, refurbishment and building of schools across the country.
During her speech, Minister Motshekga said, “we appeal to the political gods to remind us every day that State resources exist primarily to serve the people. Some of us in the positions of responsibility are merely servants of the people and quite rightly so our occupation of political office comes with insecurity of tenure”.
Motshekga emphasized that they shall serve not expecting any glory or unearned riches. According to her, there is no reason to applaud a fish for swimming.
“Madiba taught us that to lead is a lifelong service to the people. He also taught us that you can achieve the status of being referred to as a world statesman without having to exhibit the traits of a demigod”, said minister.
According to her, stealing from the public purse goes against the essence of humanity and service to the people. She stated that they must rebel against those who have launched a relentless assault to brazen theft of the public resources for no other reason other than personal gain, fame and fortune.
“We must rebel against the veil of secrecy when evidence of looting of State resources hides in plain sight yet no action is forthcoming. We must refuse to complicit in the snatching of dreams of a better life for the future generation of our people either by act or omission”, said Motshekga.
She added that, “we have a responsibility not to betray the memory of President Mandela. His legacy cannot die while we live. Therefore we do owe Madiba indeed, and his generation of freedom fighters a debt of gratitude for the work they did at the great personal costs to themselves with no expectation of recognition, high office and material gain”.
Concluding, Minister said that “our partnership with AVBOB is one that has flourished from strength to strength and the work we are doing together is truly changing lives and shaping future generations. They have become truly a strategic partner and dependable ally in the delivery of quality public schooling”.
Frik Rademan CEO of AVBOB and Minister of Basic Education Angie Motshekga signed the agreement at Clive Solomon school
Mandela Day – AVBOB are launching their much anticipated Poetry Campaign - July 2017
Published in Soweto Urban Orlando on 21 July 2017
Now is the time for us, as a nation, to take up the pen and not the sword. This is when we should focus on what unites, rather than divides us. And the AVBOB poetry project strives to do exactly that.
Facts about the campaign:
Now is the time for us, as a nation, to take up the pen and not the sword. This is when we should focus on what unites, rather than divides us. And the AVBOB poetry project strives to do exactly that.
Facts about the campaign:
- To bring this poetry project to life, AVBOB are launching a website – www.avbobpoetry.co.za – on 18 July 2017, on Mandela Day
- Open to all South Africans in 11 official languages
- As a token of our appreciation, an incentive of R300 will be paid to each person who’s poem is selected for our library on the website
- The winners in each language category will be awarded at a prestigious event in March 2018 and will receive a cash prize
When grief has rendered us mute, poetry enables us to capture the legacy of our loved ones for all eternity, and to express our loss in a meaningful way.
From left – Johann de Lange, editor-in-chief for the AVBOB poetry project, Mr Frik Rademan, CEO of AVBOB, Dr Mantoa Motinyane-Masoko, senior lecturer and head of African Languages and Literatures at UCT and Prof Stanley Madonsela, Directorate: African Languages, University of South Africa and Daniel Hugo, Afrikaans editor for the AVBOB poetry project.
From left – Johann de Lange, editor-in-chief for the AVBOB poetry project, Mr Frik Rademan, CEO of AVBOB, Dr Mantoa Motinyane-Masoko, senior lecturer and head of African Languages and Literatures at UCT and Prof Stanley Madonsela, Directorate: African Languages, University of South Africa and Daniel Hugo, Afrikaans editor for the AVBOB poetry project.
AVBOB launches competition to inspire nation’s poets - July 2017
Published in The Citizen (Johannesburg Edition) on 20 July 2017
By Nhlawulo Chauke
Mutual assurance society AVBOB has started a poetry project and competition that is open to all South Africans in all 11 official languages to celebrate the richness and diversity of all the voices of our land.
According to AVBOB chief executive Frik Rademan, the poetry project will become a vehicle for people to finally express those unspoken whispers of the heart.
He added that the competition would give entrants the opportunity to “cath hold of a moment and lift it out of the ordinary”.
The company has launched a Facebook page that is devoted to poetry and plans to launch a dedicated website.
Rademan said the main features of the website would be to publish as many quality new poems as possible in all 11 South African official languages.
He also stated that the website would form the platform from which they would launch a nationwide poetry competition.
Rademan added that every language is richly layered with nuances that could only be fully understood by someone who speaks, thinks and dreams in that language.
“For this reason, we’ve appointed a reputable editor in every one of our official languages to evaluate the entries fairly,” he said.
R300 will be paid for every poem that is approved by the relevant editor and the poem will feature alongside other poems on the AVBOB poetry website, where it would become part of a library to provide words of beauty and comfort to the people of South Africa.
Rademan added that all entrants of approved poems will be in line for the Poetry Prize, in the specific language categories and that the respective prizes would bring cash rewards.
“We will announce the winners towards the end of March 2018 and will roll out the red carpet for them at an awards ceremony.”
Rademan stated that when grief has rendered us mute, poetry enables us to capture the legacy of our loved ones for all eternity, and to express our loss in a meaningful way.
By Nhlawulo Chauke
Mutual assurance society AVBOB has started a poetry project and competition that is open to all South Africans in all 11 official languages to celebrate the richness and diversity of all the voices of our land.
According to AVBOB chief executive Frik Rademan, the poetry project will become a vehicle for people to finally express those unspoken whispers of the heart.
He added that the competition would give entrants the opportunity to “cath hold of a moment and lift it out of the ordinary”.
The company has launched a Facebook page that is devoted to poetry and plans to launch a dedicated website.
Rademan said the main features of the website would be to publish as many quality new poems as possible in all 11 South African official languages.
He also stated that the website would form the platform from which they would launch a nationwide poetry competition.
Rademan added that every language is richly layered with nuances that could only be fully understood by someone who speaks, thinks and dreams in that language.
“For this reason, we’ve appointed a reputable editor in every one of our official languages to evaluate the entries fairly,” he said.
R300 will be paid for every poem that is approved by the relevant editor and the poem will feature alongside other poems on the AVBOB poetry website, where it would become part of a library to provide words of beauty and comfort to the people of South Africa.
Rademan added that all entrants of approved poems will be in line for the Poetry Prize, in the specific language categories and that the respective prizes would bring cash rewards.
“We will announce the winners towards the end of March 2018 and will roll out the red carpet for them at an awards ceremony.”
Rademan stated that when grief has rendered us mute, poetry enables us to capture the legacy of our loved ones for all eternity, and to express our loss in a meaningful way.
Uyimbongi? - July 2017
Published in Isolezwe LesiXhosa on 20 July 2017
Faka umbongo wakho kukhuphiswano lokubhala imibongo labangcwabi!
Faka umbongo wakho kukhuphiswano lokubhala imibongo labangcwabi!
- Abakwa AVBOB bamisele iwebsite ethi www.avbobpoetry.co.za
- Ivuleleke kubantu boMzantsi elinanye.
- Isixa mali samakhulu amathathu erandi siyakunikwa abaphumeleleyo.
- Abaphumeleleyo kulwimi ngalunye bayakuwongwa kumsitho oyakuba ngenyanga yoKwindla ngo2018, bayakufumana khona isipho semali.
Motshekga’s solemn appeal to SA - July 2017
Published in the Bloemfontein Courant Voice on 19 July 2017
Minister of the Basic Education, Angie Motshekga, reminded politicians and government officials alike that state resources exist primarily to serve the people.
Motshekga made her appeal at the launch of an R160 million school infrastructure project of the Department of Basic Education in partnership with AVBOB at the Joe Solomon Primary School in Heidedal on Tuesday morning.
“Some of us in positions of responsibility are merely servants of the people. We shall not serve to expect any glory or unearned riches. There is no reason to applaud a fish for swimming,” she said sternly.
As the event coincided with International Mandela Day, Motshekga pertinently illustrated to those in attendance how Mandela provided a lifelong service with humility and meekness to the people of South Africa.
“The essence of our humanity is found in our humbleness, thrift, courage, self-control and self-commitment to justice,” she added.
Motshekga went on to say that it is every South African’s duty to rebel against thieves who use state resources for nothing other than fame and fortune. Motshekga warned that Mandela’s legacy cannot die while we are living.
“Therefore, we do indeed owe to President Mandela and his generation of freedom fighters a debt of gratitude for the work they did at personal cost to themselves, with no expectation of recognition, high office and/or material gain,” she said.
She further added that she does not think the late Nobel Peace Prize winner would be happy with the state our country is finding itself in with regards to reports of corruption and looting of state resources.
Minister of the Basic Education, Angie Motshekga, reminded politicians and government officials alike that state resources exist primarily to serve the people.
Motshekga made her appeal at the launch of an R160 million school infrastructure project of the Department of Basic Education in partnership with AVBOB at the Joe Solomon Primary School in Heidedal on Tuesday morning.
“Some of us in positions of responsibility are merely servants of the people. We shall not serve to expect any glory or unearned riches. There is no reason to applaud a fish for swimming,” she said sternly.
As the event coincided with International Mandela Day, Motshekga pertinently illustrated to those in attendance how Mandela provided a lifelong service with humility and meekness to the people of South Africa.
“The essence of our humanity is found in our humbleness, thrift, courage, self-control and self-commitment to justice,” she added.
Motshekga went on to say that it is every South African’s duty to rebel against thieves who use state resources for nothing other than fame and fortune. Motshekga warned that Mandela’s legacy cannot die while we are living.
“Therefore, we do indeed owe to President Mandela and his generation of freedom fighters a debt of gratitude for the work they did at personal cost to themselves, with no expectation of recognition, high office and/or material gain,” she said.
She further added that she does not think the late Nobel Peace Prize winner would be happy with the state our country is finding itself in with regards to reports of corruption and looting of state resources.
AVBOB’s poetic legacy of Madiba - July 2017
Published in Pretoria News on 19 July 2017
By Nokuthula Zwane
In celebrating Mandela Day, AVBOB has found an unorthodox way to encourage South Africans to give back to the community through poetry writing.
As the country celebrates the birthday of Madiba, AVBOB launched the I’d Wish I’d Said poetry project to be used as a tool to carry on his legacy of Ubuntu.
AVBOB chief executive Frik Rademan said: “Poetry brings us closer to those we love and binds us to the universe in which we abide.
“Perhaps most importantly of all, poetry brings us closer to our truest selves and reaches chords within us that cannot otherwise be touched. This unique competition is AVBOB’s way of catching hold of a moment and lifting it out of it’s the ordinary.
“Our sponsorship is aimed at providing a platform for poets, both unknown and lauded, to offer words for comfort through their craft.
“We want to publish as many quality new poems as possible in all 11 of the official South African languages and the website will form the platform which we will launch a nationwide poetry competition.”
One of the contributors to the AVBOB poetry project, Coenie de Villiers, said it was the first he had heard of a sponsor that put major funds into poetry as such funds usually go into sports. “ The most beautiful and authentic voices you have ever heard in any language across the world is poetry,” De Villiers said.
“People think that using poetry is a little bit unorthodox, but it really isn’t unorthodox. We listen to poetry all day.
“If you put on the radio there is Khuli Chana. AKA and rappers who do some of the most exciting poetry that we have in the world today. The target market is for all South Africans with a though, hope and aspiration and the words to articulate. Enter and let’s see what happens – even if it’s just for the joy of writing.
“I love poetry. I grew up in the previous era in South Africa and one of the only ways where I could really understand what was happening to us was by reading the Struggle poetry of the time – hearing the voices that we weren’t allowed to hear then and in that sense, I am also proud of this project because we live in a country where we have freedom of speech and whoever you are, wherever you might be, if you have a voice, write it.”
Yesterday marked 99 years of AVBOB’s existence and was on the same day as Madiba’s birthday.
It was also on this day that AVBOB poetry project came to life on their website.
The competition is expected to run from August 1 to November.
For more information on the competition prizes, entry dates and terms and conditions visit www.avbobpoetry.co.za.
“Now is the time for us as a nation to take up the pen and not the sword,” De Villiers said.
By Nokuthula Zwane
In celebrating Mandela Day, AVBOB has found an unorthodox way to encourage South Africans to give back to the community through poetry writing.
As the country celebrates the birthday of Madiba, AVBOB launched the I’d Wish I’d Said poetry project to be used as a tool to carry on his legacy of Ubuntu.
AVBOB chief executive Frik Rademan said: “Poetry brings us closer to those we love and binds us to the universe in which we abide.
“Perhaps most importantly of all, poetry brings us closer to our truest selves and reaches chords within us that cannot otherwise be touched. This unique competition is AVBOB’s way of catching hold of a moment and lifting it out of it’s the ordinary.
“Our sponsorship is aimed at providing a platform for poets, both unknown and lauded, to offer words for comfort through their craft.
“We want to publish as many quality new poems as possible in all 11 of the official South African languages and the website will form the platform which we will launch a nationwide poetry competition.”
One of the contributors to the AVBOB poetry project, Coenie de Villiers, said it was the first he had heard of a sponsor that put major funds into poetry as such funds usually go into sports. “ The most beautiful and authentic voices you have ever heard in any language across the world is poetry,” De Villiers said.
“People think that using poetry is a little bit unorthodox, but it really isn’t unorthodox. We listen to poetry all day.
“If you put on the radio there is Khuli Chana. AKA and rappers who do some of the most exciting poetry that we have in the world today. The target market is for all South Africans with a though, hope and aspiration and the words to articulate. Enter and let’s see what happens – even if it’s just for the joy of writing.
“I love poetry. I grew up in the previous era in South Africa and one of the only ways where I could really understand what was happening to us was by reading the Struggle poetry of the time – hearing the voices that we weren’t allowed to hear then and in that sense, I am also proud of this project because we live in a country where we have freedom of speech and whoever you are, wherever you might be, if you have a voice, write it.”
Yesterday marked 99 years of AVBOB’s existence and was on the same day as Madiba’s birthday.
It was also on this day that AVBOB poetry project came to life on their website.
The competition is expected to run from August 1 to November.
For more information on the competition prizes, entry dates and terms and conditions visit www.avbobpoetry.co.za.
“Now is the time for us as a nation to take up the pen and not the sword,” De Villiers said.
Besweer pyn met poësie – AVBOB Kompetisie - Julie 2017
Gepubliseer in Die Burger (Kaap), Kuns en Vermaak of 19 Julie 2017
‘n Aktiewe webtuiste en ‘n bundle wat herinneringe aan geliefde afgestorwenes onsterflik sal maak, word in samewerking met AVBOB beplan.
Totius sous y hande geklap het oor ‘n hele bundle met lykdigte. Sy gedig “O die pyngedagte” sou seker die pryswenner gewees het, sou die bundle in sy leeftyd verskyn het.
Die begrafnisondernemer AVBOB gaan volgende jaar ter viering van sy 100ste bestaansjaar die bundle uitgee na ‘n poësiekompetisie vanjaar. Enigiemand wat gevoelens oor die dood van ‘n geliefde of vriend wil neerpen, kan die gedigte inskryf.
Via (DStv-kanaal 147) het in samewerking met AVBOB gisteraan om 20:30 vir kykers ‘n spesiale dokumentêr, Ek wou nog sê…, uitgesaai waarin meer bekend gemaak is. Die kokkie handel oor die krag van poësie en word in gespreksvorm deur Coenie de Villiers aangebied. Hy gesels met bekroonde digters soos Antjie Krog, Vincent Oliphant, Joan Hambidge en Johann de Lange oor poësie se vermoë om dit te verwoord wat ‘n mens nie altyd kan nie.
Vir die poësiekompetisie kan in enige van die amptelike landstale gedig word. Bydraes kan tussen 1 Augustus en einde van November ingestuur word. Daar sal ‘n wenner in elke landstaal wees en die prys sal bekend staan as die AVBOB-prys vir poësie.
Elke landstaal sal nege gedigte hê in sowel die oorspronklike taal as ‘n Engelse vertaling. 80% present van die gedigte sal aangevra word en 20% sal uit die kompetisie se bestes gekies word.
Hiermee sal jonger digters die geleentheid kry om naas bekende, gevestigde name gepubliseer te word.
Daar sal ook ‘n nuwe webtuiste vir poësie wees (www.avbobpoetry.co.za). Dit sal voortdurend bygewerk word.
Die sal ‘n aktiewe ruimte wees waar gedigte geplaas word sodat alle rouklaers gedigte sal kan lees (en aflaai) wat tot hulle spreek.
In ‘n mediaverklaring word gesê: “Gesien teen die agtergrond van koerante se ‘In memoriam’ en doodsberigte, is hierdie webruimte en wedstryd uiters relevant. Poësie artikuleer pyn, onsekerheid, en wanneer ons getref word deur die dood, word dit vertroosting.”
“Letterkunde – en du sook hierdie projek – verwoord wat mense voel,” se De Villiers oor die dokumentêr.
“Letterkunde – dit wil sê die mag van die woord en hoe goed ons dit kan ontsluit – vertel ons stories en maak sin van dit wat ons mens maak.”
In die dokkie praat woordmense soos Amanda Stydom, Pieter-Dirk Uys, Francois van Coke, Brandon October en jong digters soos Bibi Slippers en Fourie Botha oor hul liefde vir en verintenis met woordkuns.
Totius sous y hande geklap het oor ‘n hele bundle met lykdigte. Sy gedig “O die pyngedagte” sou seker die pryswenner gewees het, sou die bundle in sy leeftyd verskyn het.
Die begrafnisondernemer AVBOB gaan volgende jaar ter viering van sy 100ste bestaansjaar die bundle uitgee na ‘n poësiekompetisie vanjaar. Enigiemand wat gevoelens oor die dood van ‘n geliefde of vriend wil neerpen, kan die gedigte inskryf.
Via (DStv-kanaal 147) het in samewerking met AVBOB gisteraan om 20:30 vir kykers ‘n spesiale dokumentêr, Ek wou nog sê…, uitgesaai waarin meer bekend gemaak is. Die kokkie handel oor die krag van poësie en word in gespreksvorm deur Coenie de Villiers aangebied. Hy gesels met bekroonde digters soos Antjie Krog, Vincent Oliphant, Joan Hambidge en Johann de Lange oor poësie se vermoë om dit te verwoord wat ‘n mens nie altyd kan nie.
Vir die poësiekompetisie kan in enige van die amptelike landstale gedig word. Bydraes kan tussen 1 Augustus en einde van November ingestuur word. Daar sal ‘n wenner in elke landstaal wees en die prys sal bekend staan as die AVBOB-prys vir poësie.
Elke landstaal sal nege gedigte hê in sowel die oorspronklike taal as ‘n Engelse vertaling. 80% present van die gedigte sal aangevra word en 20% sal uit die kompetisie se bestes gekies word.
Hiermee sal jonger digters die geleentheid kry om naas bekende, gevestigde name gepubliseer te word.
Daar sal ook ‘n nuwe webtuiste vir poësie wees (www.avbobpoetry.co.za). Dit sal voortdurend bygewerk word.
Die sal ‘n aktiewe ruimte wees waar gedigte geplaas word sodat alle rouklaers gedigte sal kan lees (en aflaai) wat tot hulle spreek.
In ‘n mediaverklaring word gesê: “Gesien teen die agtergrond van koerante se ‘In memoriam’ en doodsberigte, is hierdie webruimte en wedstryd uiters relevant. Poësie artikuleer pyn, onsekerheid, en wanneer ons getref word deur die dood, word dit vertroosting.”
“Letterkunde – en du sook hierdie projek – verwoord wat mense voel,” se De Villiers oor die dokumentêr.
“Letterkunde – dit wil sê die mag van die woord en hoe goed ons dit kan ontsluit – vertel ons stories en maak sin van dit wat ons mens maak.”
In die dokkie praat woordmense soos Amanda Stydom, Pieter-Dirk Uys, Francois van Coke, Brandon October en jong digters soos Bibi Slippers en Fourie Botha oor hul liefde vir en verintenis met woordkuns.
R150m for school renovations - July 2017
AVBOB CEO Frik Rademan, left, signed an MoU with Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga in Bloemfontein yesterday, where they announced a schools inftrastructure partnership on Mandela Day
Published in New Age (Free State) on 19 July 2017
By Becker Semela
Basic education minister signs a R150m partnership with the AVBOB to renovate schools across the country.
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga celebrated Mandela Day in style when she signed a R150m partnership with an AVBOB Funeral Undertaker at Joe Solomon School in Bloemfontein yesterday.
Joining the millions of South Africans celebrating the world icon’s birthday yesterday. Motshekga said there was no reason to applaud a fish for swimming because the late state president Nelson Mandela taught them that to lead is a lifelong service to the people.
“He taught us that you can achieve the status of being referred to as a world icon without having to exhibit the traits of a demigod. The essence of our humanity is found in our humbleness, thrift, courage, self-control and commitment to justice,” Motshekga said after signing the deal.
She said the money would be used for the renovation of schools across the country and it was not yet confirmed how much will be allocated to Free State province.
“We have a responsibility not to betray the memory of Mandela.
“His legacy cannot die while we live hence his statement, ‘A life well lived is a life lived in the service of humanity’ and I may add for no personal gain whatsoever,” the minister said.
She said they indeed owed Mandela and his generation of freedom fighters a debt of gratitude for the work they did at the great personal costs to themselves with no expectation of recognition, high office and, or material gain.
“We gathered in the province launching a ground-breaking multimillion-rand schools infrastructure partnership with AVBOB.
“They donated R150m is for the renovation, refurbishment and building of schools across the country.”
She said the partnership was the single largest investment in the school infrastructure programme by a corporate since she became basic education minister.
“It is important to note that needy pupils and communities in all nine provinces will benefit from this contribution,” Motshekga said.
She said the announcement by the giant funeral undertaker board about the investment in school infrastructure came as no surprise to her.
“Our partnership with them is one that has gone from strength to strength and the work we are doing together is truly changing lives and shaping future generations.
“They become truly a strategic partner and dependable ally in the delivery of quality public schooling.”
The minister further said the giant undertaker takes corporate citizenship very seriously because it understands the significance of basic education in the life of a nation.
“It is often said that basic education is one of the most significant long-term investments a country can make.
“It lays the foundation for a higher quality of life, greater employment opportunities and a better-skilled workforce,” the minister said.
AVBOB CEO Frik Rademan said it was always their pleasure to work with the basic education department.
“We all know that basic education is where all our careers start, with better planning in that stage the future is bright for the children and we will have good leaders tomorrow,” he said.
By Becker Semela
Basic education minister signs a R150m partnership with the AVBOB to renovate schools across the country.
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga celebrated Mandela Day in style when she signed a R150m partnership with an AVBOB Funeral Undertaker at Joe Solomon School in Bloemfontein yesterday.
Joining the millions of South Africans celebrating the world icon’s birthday yesterday. Motshekga said there was no reason to applaud a fish for swimming because the late state president Nelson Mandela taught them that to lead is a lifelong service to the people.
“He taught us that you can achieve the status of being referred to as a world icon without having to exhibit the traits of a demigod. The essence of our humanity is found in our humbleness, thrift, courage, self-control and commitment to justice,” Motshekga said after signing the deal.
She said the money would be used for the renovation of schools across the country and it was not yet confirmed how much will be allocated to Free State province.
“We have a responsibility not to betray the memory of Mandela.
“His legacy cannot die while we live hence his statement, ‘A life well lived is a life lived in the service of humanity’ and I may add for no personal gain whatsoever,” the minister said.
She said they indeed owed Mandela and his generation of freedom fighters a debt of gratitude for the work they did at the great personal costs to themselves with no expectation of recognition, high office and, or material gain.
“We gathered in the province launching a ground-breaking multimillion-rand schools infrastructure partnership with AVBOB.
“They donated R150m is for the renovation, refurbishment and building of schools across the country.”
She said the partnership was the single largest investment in the school infrastructure programme by a corporate since she became basic education minister.
“It is important to note that needy pupils and communities in all nine provinces will benefit from this contribution,” Motshekga said.
She said the announcement by the giant funeral undertaker board about the investment in school infrastructure came as no surprise to her.
“Our partnership with them is one that has gone from strength to strength and the work we are doing together is truly changing lives and shaping future generations.
“They become truly a strategic partner and dependable ally in the delivery of quality public schooling.”
The minister further said the giant undertaker takes corporate citizenship very seriously because it understands the significance of basic education in the life of a nation.
“It is often said that basic education is one of the most significant long-term investments a country can make.
“It lays the foundation for a higher quality of life, greater employment opportunities and a better-skilled workforce,” the minister said.
AVBOB CEO Frik Rademan said it was always their pleasure to work with the basic education department.
“We all know that basic education is where all our careers start, with better planning in that stage the future is bright for the children and we will have good leaders tomorrow,” he said.
AVBOB launches poetry project to grow Ubuntu - July 2017
Published in The Star (Country Edition) on 19 July 2017
By Nokuthula Zwane
In celebrating Mandela Day, AVBOB has found an unorthodox way to encourage South Africans to give back to the community through poetry writing.
As the country celebrated the birthday of Madiba, AVBOB launched an “I Wish I’d Said” poetry project to be used as a tool to carry on his legacy of ubuntu.
AVBOB chief executive Frik Rademan, said: “Poetry brings us closer to those we love and binds us to the universe in which we abide.
“Perhaps most importantly of all, poetry brings us closer to our truest selves and reaches chords within us that cannot otherwise be touched. This unique competition is AVBOB’s way of catching hold of a moment and lifting it out of its the ordinary.
“Our sponsorship is aimed at providing a platform for poets, both unknown and lauded, to offer words for comfort through their craft.
“We want to publish as many quality new poems as possible in all 11 of the official South African languages and the website will form the platform which we will launch a nationwide poetry competition.”
One of the contributors to the AVBOB poetry project, Coenie De Villiers, said that it was the first he had heard of a sponsor that put major funds into poetry as such funds usually go into sports.
“The most beautiful and authentic voices you have ever heard in any language across the world are poetry,” De Villiers said.
“People think that using poetry is a little bit unorthodox, but it really isn’t unorthodox. We listen to poetry all day.
“If you put on the radio there is Khuli Chana, AKA and rappers who do some of the most exciting poetry that we have in the world today.
“The target market is for all South Africans with a thought, hope and aspiration and the words to articulate. Enter and let’s see what happens.
“Even if it’s just for the joy of writing.
“I love poetry. I grew up in the previous era in South Africa and one of the only ways where I could really understand what was happening to us was by reading the struggle poetry of the time.
“Hearing the voices that we weren’t allowed to hear then and in that sense, I am also proud of this project because we live in a country where we have freedom of speech and whoever you are, wherever you might be, if you have a voice, write it.”
Yesterday marked 99 years of AVBOB in existence and was on the same day as Madiba’s birthday. It was also on this day that the AVBOB poetry project came to life on their website.
“Now is the time for us, as a nation, to take up the pen and not the sword. This is when we should focus on what unites, rather than divides us. And the AVBOB poetry project strives to do exactly that,” Rademan said.
The competition is expected to run from August 1 to November.
For more information on the competition prizes, entry dates and terms and conditions, visit www.avbobpoetry.co.za.
By Nokuthula Zwane
In celebrating Mandela Day, AVBOB has found an unorthodox way to encourage South Africans to give back to the community through poetry writing.
As the country celebrated the birthday of Madiba, AVBOB launched an “I Wish I’d Said” poetry project to be used as a tool to carry on his legacy of ubuntu.
AVBOB chief executive Frik Rademan, said: “Poetry brings us closer to those we love and binds us to the universe in which we abide.
“Perhaps most importantly of all, poetry brings us closer to our truest selves and reaches chords within us that cannot otherwise be touched. This unique competition is AVBOB’s way of catching hold of a moment and lifting it out of its the ordinary.
“Our sponsorship is aimed at providing a platform for poets, both unknown and lauded, to offer words for comfort through their craft.
“We want to publish as many quality new poems as possible in all 11 of the official South African languages and the website will form the platform which we will launch a nationwide poetry competition.”
One of the contributors to the AVBOB poetry project, Coenie De Villiers, said that it was the first he had heard of a sponsor that put major funds into poetry as such funds usually go into sports.
“The most beautiful and authentic voices you have ever heard in any language across the world are poetry,” De Villiers said.
“People think that using poetry is a little bit unorthodox, but it really isn’t unorthodox. We listen to poetry all day.
“If you put on the radio there is Khuli Chana, AKA and rappers who do some of the most exciting poetry that we have in the world today.
“The target market is for all South Africans with a thought, hope and aspiration and the words to articulate. Enter and let’s see what happens.
“Even if it’s just for the joy of writing.
“I love poetry. I grew up in the previous era in South Africa and one of the only ways where I could really understand what was happening to us was by reading the struggle poetry of the time.
“Hearing the voices that we weren’t allowed to hear then and in that sense, I am also proud of this project because we live in a country where we have freedom of speech and whoever you are, wherever you might be, if you have a voice, write it.”
Yesterday marked 99 years of AVBOB in existence and was on the same day as Madiba’s birthday. It was also on this day that the AVBOB poetry project came to life on their website.
“Now is the time for us, as a nation, to take up the pen and not the sword. This is when we should focus on what unites, rather than divides us. And the AVBOB poetry project strives to do exactly that,” Rademan said.
The competition is expected to run from August 1 to November.
For more information on the competition prizes, entry dates and terms and conditions, visit www.avbobpoetry.co.za.
FOCUSED: AVBOB chief executive Frik Rademan sees poetry as a way of uniting South Africans
Long live Madiba’s loving spirit - July 2017
Published in the Cape Times (First Edition) on 18 July 2017
By Francesca Villette & Nicola Daniels
People across the world are heeding the call in honour of South Africa’s late founding president, Nelson Mandela, to volunteer 67 minutes of their time to do good for the less fortunate.
Nelson Mandela International Day, celebrated on his date of today, was launched following a unanimous decision by the UN General Assembly in 2009, inspired by a call Mandela made for the next generation to take on the mantle of leadership in addressing the world’s social injustices.
Today also marks the launch of The Elders’ new global project, Walk Together, in central Cape Town, where Mandela delivered his first address on his release from 27 years’ imprisonment for opposing apartheid.
The event will feature some of the world’s most notable political and community leaders, discussing the world’s ongoing humanitarian issues.
The Elders is the independent group of global leaders founded by Mandela a decade ago, made up of former heads of state, peace activists and human rights advocates.
Elders include Kofi Annan, Ban-ki Moon, Desmond Tutu, Graca Machel, Jimmy Carter, Hina Jilani, Mary Robinson and Ernesto Zedillo.
South Africans and people around the world are urged to open their hearts in honour of Mandela and to do good for the less fortunate, providing necessities or leaving lasting impressions in the form of libraries and care centres.
Education was also very close to Mandela’s heart. This morning Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga was due to announce that the AVBOB board donated R150 million for the renovation, refurbishment and building of schools across the country.
It was the single largest investment in a school infrastructure programme by a corporate since she stepped into office, Motshekga said.
AVBOB was among the first in the corporate sector space to partner with the department when it called on social partners to invest in it through the launch of the 1 000 School Libraries a year project, Motshekga said.
“AVBOB is the single largest contributor of fully functional container libraries to primary schools. The value of container libraries is approximately R500 000 each, given to schools all over South Africa. Each Converted Container Library comes with a whopping 2 500 books each, thus benefiting thousands of our learners.”
Last week children at Sakhile Primary School in Heidelberg received a library through the Mandela Day school library project.
It means, for the first time in 51 years, they have books to page through.
The school, which has an 82% pass rate, is aiming for 92% now that the children have the benefit of the library’s 1 000 books.
The library was donated through Old Mutual Insure.
Humanitarian organisation Gift of the Givers is implementing R10 million in projects over several days in the biggest project in partnership with Vodacom, where 50 000 food and stationery packs will be distributed to schools in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, Polokwane, Nelspruit, Bloemfontein and Port Elizabeth.
The organisation’s West Africa branch is today planting trees and donating teaching aids to the Centre for the Mother and Child in the desert city of Ma’tamoulana, Mauritania.
Gift of the Givers is currently building the centre, which is a traditional Mauritanian educational institute for women of all ages.
Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages is celebrating by preparing 1 000 sandwiches for the Saartjie Baartman Centre for Women and Children in Heideveld, the Heatherdale Children’s Home in Belgravia, Ekuphumleni Frail Care Centre in Gugulethu and Baphumelele Foundation in Khayelitsha.
In further celebration of Madiba’s spirit, Dr Beth Engelbrecht, head of health at the provincial department, and her team will host a celebratory function in thanking sponsors and donors who make it possible for 67 patients to receive life-changing hip and knee replacements, and cataract surgeries.
By Francesca Villette & Nicola Daniels
People across the world are heeding the call in honour of South Africa’s late founding president, Nelson Mandela, to volunteer 67 minutes of their time to do good for the less fortunate.
Nelson Mandela International Day, celebrated on his date of today, was launched following a unanimous decision by the UN General Assembly in 2009, inspired by a call Mandela made for the next generation to take on the mantle of leadership in addressing the world’s social injustices.
Today also marks the launch of The Elders’ new global project, Walk Together, in central Cape Town, where Mandela delivered his first address on his release from 27 years’ imprisonment for opposing apartheid.
The event will feature some of the world’s most notable political and community leaders, discussing the world’s ongoing humanitarian issues.
The Elders is the independent group of global leaders founded by Mandela a decade ago, made up of former heads of state, peace activists and human rights advocates.
Elders include Kofi Annan, Ban-ki Moon, Desmond Tutu, Graca Machel, Jimmy Carter, Hina Jilani, Mary Robinson and Ernesto Zedillo.
South Africans and people around the world are urged to open their hearts in honour of Mandela and to do good for the less fortunate, providing necessities or leaving lasting impressions in the form of libraries and care centres.
Education was also very close to Mandela’s heart. This morning Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga was due to announce that the AVBOB board donated R150 million for the renovation, refurbishment and building of schools across the country.
It was the single largest investment in a school infrastructure programme by a corporate since she stepped into office, Motshekga said.
AVBOB was among the first in the corporate sector space to partner with the department when it called on social partners to invest in it through the launch of the 1 000 School Libraries a year project, Motshekga said.
“AVBOB is the single largest contributor of fully functional container libraries to primary schools. The value of container libraries is approximately R500 000 each, given to schools all over South Africa. Each Converted Container Library comes with a whopping 2 500 books each, thus benefiting thousands of our learners.”
Last week children at Sakhile Primary School in Heidelberg received a library through the Mandela Day school library project.
It means, for the first time in 51 years, they have books to page through.
The school, which has an 82% pass rate, is aiming for 92% now that the children have the benefit of the library’s 1 000 books.
The library was donated through Old Mutual Insure.
Humanitarian organisation Gift of the Givers is implementing R10 million in projects over several days in the biggest project in partnership with Vodacom, where 50 000 food and stationery packs will be distributed to schools in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, Polokwane, Nelspruit, Bloemfontein and Port Elizabeth.
The organisation’s West Africa branch is today planting trees and donating teaching aids to the Centre for the Mother and Child in the desert city of Ma’tamoulana, Mauritania.
Gift of the Givers is currently building the centre, which is a traditional Mauritanian educational institute for women of all ages.
Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages is celebrating by preparing 1 000 sandwiches for the Saartjie Baartman Centre for Women and Children in Heideveld, the Heatherdale Children’s Home in Belgravia, Ekuphumleni Frail Care Centre in Gugulethu and Baphumelele Foundation in Khayelitsha.
In further celebration of Madiba’s spirit, Dr Beth Engelbrecht, head of health at the provincial department, and her team will host a celebratory function in thanking sponsors and donors who make it possible for 67 patients to receive life-changing hip and knee replacements, and cataract surgeries.
Leefstyl met Via - Julie 2017
Gepubliseer in Die Beeld Naweek op 15 Julie 2017
Via (DStv-kannal 147) bring op 18 Julie 2017 om 19:30 hulde aan oupres. Nelson Mandela deur eksklusief 'n spesiale dokumentêr oor die krag van poësie, Ek wou nog sê, uit te saai. In die dokumentêr gesels Coenie de Villiers met bekroonde digters soos Antjie Krog en woordmense soos Francois van Coke oor die poësie se vermoë om dit te verwoord wat ‘n mens nie altyd kan nie. Die uur lange dokumentêr raak ook die poësie se krag om wanhoop te beveg en die dood te verwerk aan. Ek wou nog sê word deur AVBOB en Et Al, die begrafnisondernemer se agentskap, aangebied. Ons het met Coenie gesels oor hierdie projek.
Hoe sal die pojek Suid-Afriakaanse letterkunde en die lewens van Suid-Afrikaanse lesers verryk?
Letterkunde – en du sook hierdie projek – verwoord wat mense voel. Ek dink soms die word “letterkunde” skep ‘n versperring by mense. Pragtige, aangrypende stories wat goed geskryf is, word inderdaad mos eintlik letterkunde, of di nou ‘n roman is wat eerlik en outentiek is, en of dit ‘n gedig is wat jou aan die hart vat. Letterkunde – dit wil sê die mag van die woord en hoe goed ons dit kan onsluit – vertel ons stories, en maak sin van die wat ons mens maak. Dis mos hoe die geskiedenis van die hart van dag tot dag en van jaar tot jaar opteken.
Hoe het jy by die projek en die dokkie betrokke geraak?
Die produksiespan het my genader en gevra of ek die program sou aanbied en die onderhoude doen. Dis min dat iemand jou vra om iets te doen waarin jy werklik kan glo, en so iets is vir my die poësie. Dis ekstra lekker dat daar ‘n borg is wat bereid is om geld te skenk om dit te bevorder. Ek het dadelik “ja” gesê en is voluit betrokke. Ek help ook so bietjie agter die skerms om van die uitvoerings en inkledings bymekaar te sit.
Is poësie ver almal? Wat is jou boodskap aan mense wat voel dit is nie?
Poësie is sonder twyfel vir almal. Dis gewoon cool. Natuurlik is alle poësie nie onmiddellik toeganklik vir almal nie, maar daar is meer as genoeg goeie werk vir almal om betekenis uit te put. En dis mos maar waarom die lewe gaan, nie waar nie? Ons prober almal sin maak van dit wat om ons en met ons gebeur – en dis waarmee poësie ons help. My boodskap is eenvoudig: moenie daarvoor skrik nie, en luister en lees sonder om te oordeel – dit sal ‘n ontkekking wees wat jou lewe verander!
Watter Afrikaanse gedig sal jou altyd diep raak?
Die gedig wat my altyd sal raak, is N.P. van Wyk Louw se “Vroegherfs”. As jongeling het ek dit gelees, en iets het in my hart verskuif. Daarna was poësie my vriend, maar heirdie gedig bly die vertrekpunt.
Wat is vir jou die kosbaarste woord in Afrikaans?
My kosbaarste woord? Deernis.
Ek wou nog sê word vir die eerste keer op Via uitgesaai en die dokumentêr se Engelse weergawe, I wish I’d Said, word op Soweto TV en KZN TV uitgesaai. Ek wou nog sê sal in die volgende tydgleuwe weer op VIA uitgesaai word:
Via (DStv-kannal 147) bring op 18 Julie 2017 om 19:30 hulde aan oupres. Nelson Mandela deur eksklusief 'n spesiale dokumentêr oor die krag van poësie, Ek wou nog sê, uit te saai. In die dokumentêr gesels Coenie de Villiers met bekroonde digters soos Antjie Krog en woordmense soos Francois van Coke oor die poësie se vermoë om dit te verwoord wat ‘n mens nie altyd kan nie. Die uur lange dokumentêr raak ook die poësie se krag om wanhoop te beveg en die dood te verwerk aan. Ek wou nog sê word deur AVBOB en Et Al, die begrafnisondernemer se agentskap, aangebied. Ons het met Coenie gesels oor hierdie projek.
Hoe sal die pojek Suid-Afriakaanse letterkunde en die lewens van Suid-Afrikaanse lesers verryk?
Letterkunde – en du sook hierdie projek – verwoord wat mense voel. Ek dink soms die word “letterkunde” skep ‘n versperring by mense. Pragtige, aangrypende stories wat goed geskryf is, word inderdaad mos eintlik letterkunde, of di nou ‘n roman is wat eerlik en outentiek is, en of dit ‘n gedig is wat jou aan die hart vat. Letterkunde – dit wil sê die mag van die woord en hoe goed ons dit kan onsluit – vertel ons stories, en maak sin van die wat ons mens maak. Dis mos hoe die geskiedenis van die hart van dag tot dag en van jaar tot jaar opteken.
Hoe het jy by die projek en die dokkie betrokke geraak?
Die produksiespan het my genader en gevra of ek die program sou aanbied en die onderhoude doen. Dis min dat iemand jou vra om iets te doen waarin jy werklik kan glo, en so iets is vir my die poësie. Dis ekstra lekker dat daar ‘n borg is wat bereid is om geld te skenk om dit te bevorder. Ek het dadelik “ja” gesê en is voluit betrokke. Ek help ook so bietjie agter die skerms om van die uitvoerings en inkledings bymekaar te sit.
Is poësie ver almal? Wat is jou boodskap aan mense wat voel dit is nie?
Poësie is sonder twyfel vir almal. Dis gewoon cool. Natuurlik is alle poësie nie onmiddellik toeganklik vir almal nie, maar daar is meer as genoeg goeie werk vir almal om betekenis uit te put. En dis mos maar waarom die lewe gaan, nie waar nie? Ons prober almal sin maak van dit wat om ons en met ons gebeur – en dis waarmee poësie ons help. My boodskap is eenvoudig: moenie daarvoor skrik nie, en luister en lees sonder om te oordeel – dit sal ‘n ontkekking wees wat jou lewe verander!
Watter Afrikaanse gedig sal jou altyd diep raak?
Die gedig wat my altyd sal raak, is N.P. van Wyk Louw se “Vroegherfs”. As jongeling het ek dit gelees, en iets het in my hart verskuif. Daarna was poësie my vriend, maar heirdie gedig bly die vertrekpunt.
Wat is vir jou die kosbaarste woord in Afrikaans?
My kosbaarste woord? Deernis.
Ek wou nog sê word vir die eerste keer op Via uitgesaai en die dokumentêr se Engelse weergawe, I wish I’d Said, word op Soweto TV en KZN TV uitgesaai. Ek wou nog sê sal in die volgende tydgleuwe weer op VIA uitgesaai word:
- 19 Julie om 01:30
- 19 Julie om 07:30
- 20 Julie om 13:30
- 22 Julie om 13:30
- 22 Julie om 15:30
- 23 Julie om 03:30
- 23 Julie om 13:00
- 24 Julie om 01:00
Coenie de Villiers is die aanbieder Ek wou nog sê op Via
Press Release: AVBOB Poetry Project - July 2017
Dear Reader
I have to confess, finding the right words for this press release is so much more difficult than I ever imagined. At first, it may sound like a fairly simple undertaking, namely the announcement that AVBOB has decided to sponsor a poetry platform, but that would be a gross over-simplification. The truth is, neither AVBOB nor any other business can actually ‘sponsor’ poetry. All we can claim is that we wish to be associated with the power of poetry – and with the beauty of the human spirit.
For a brand to associate itself with poetry is, however, a matter that has to be approached with the utmost care and caution. Poetry is more ancient and established than the world's oldest brands. In fact, it is as old as mankind itself, and has been recorded in all the languages of the world, on cave walls, in parchment rolls and within the antique pages of centuries-old manuscripts. It is alive in books, theatres, music, street sounds, and in the words of figures gathered around braaivleis fires, silhouetted against the African sky. It belongs to philosophers, scientists, clergymen, artists and all who express themselves in language. In short, poetry belongs to us; it is the property of the people.
To suggest that AVBOB can do anything meaningful for poetry would therefore be completely erroneous. Rather, it is the other way around: poetry can mean so much to AVBOB and its people, and it is with this sentiment in mind that I write this statement.
It is important to point out, though, that AVBOB is no ordinary business. It is a business with a long history of caring for people. And it is a business without any shareholders. As a mutual assurance society, we are owned by our policyholders, and this is why we plough our surplus profits back by increasing the value of our policyholders' policies with special bonuses. In the past nine years alone, we have declared R6.5 billion worth of special bonuses. Ever since its inception in 1918, AVBOB has belonged to ordinary people. Indeed, it was originally established for humanitarian reasons to help families in times of need during the difficult years after World War I, when people suffered bitterly.
Today, 99 years later, people still suffer, and despondency is becoming an ever-increasing threat to our self-preservation. Our people are generally divided and riven with uncertainty. Work is scarce, and meaningful work even scarcer.
Squatter camps shoot up like miserable concentration camps all around us. Moreover, the conversations of our time are simultaneously laced with blame and desperation; the one feeds off the other. At this point in time, loss also rears its ugly head at every opportunity.
Loss makes people vulnerable, whether it is the loss of income or the loss of a dream at the death of a loved one – a mother, a father, a child – and, consequently, we are at a loss for words to say goodbye. And if we do not have the words to send off our loved ones, the ritual of parting is muted.
AVBOB's invitation to poets to write poems with an elegiac feel in all our official languages is thus, of itself, a strategic decision, aimed at building a bridge between those who have the words (established and aspiring poets) and those who so desperately need to hear those words (the bereaved). Our sponsorship is thus aimed at providing a platform for poets, both unknown and lauded, to offer words of comfort through their craft.
For centuries, poets have been writing about the seamless cycle of life and death. In fact, it is the genre within which most poets deliver their best work. However, to write - or read - about death is not necessarily a morbid thing. Indeed, death implies life; the one simply cannot exist without the other.
To bring this poetry project to life, we are launching a website – www.avbobpoetry.co.za – on 18 July 2017, on Mandela Day, that will be completely devoted to South African poetry. The main features of the website are twofold. First, we want to publish as many quality new poems as possible, in all 11 of the official South African languages. These poems will be freely available to all lovers of this enchanting and everlasting literary form, and to all those searching for a verse to give expression to the complex and unique emotions they are experiencing.
Secondly, the website will form the platform from which we will launch a nationwide poetry competition. Again, just as AVBOB belongs to the people, so too does poetry – it knows no boundaries, and transcends all differences. For this reason, we have made a massive effort to make the competition as inclusive as possible. The competition will thus be open to all South Africans, in all 11 official languages, to celebrate the richness and diversity of all the voices of our land.
Every language is richly layered with nuances that can only be fully understood by someone who speaks, thinks and dreams in that language. For this reason, we’ve appointed a reputable editor in every one of our official languages to evaluate the entries fairly.
Should a poem be accepted by one of our editors, it will open up a world of exciting new opportunities for the entrant of the poem. First, every poem which is approved by the relevant editor will feature alongside other poems, by both published and unpublished poets, on the AVBOB poetry website, where it will become part of a library of content to provide words of beauty and comfort to the people of South Africa. As a token of our appreciation, an incentive of R300 will be paid for each poem selected.
In addition, all entrants of approved poems will be in line for the AVBOB Poetry Prize, in the specific language categories (there will be a winner in each language). The respective prizes will bring cash rewards. We will announce these winners towards the end of March 2018 and we plan on rolling out the red carpet for them at a prestigious awards ceremony.
This initiative is by no means accidental. I am extremely grateful to say that, over the years, AVBOB has been a proud supporter of the arts in our country. We have always believed that the arts provide emotional and intellectual upliftment for our people, and that it is a way to liberate them from the difficulties of daily life. It is this very sentiment that also drives our support of the Mzansi Youth Choir. It is what motivates our every initiative at the AVBOB Foundation. Ever since we first pledged to do so in 2013, the Foundation has donated 41 container libraries to underprivileged schools. To continue this legacy in a meaningful way, we are busy developing nine new schools that will be opened in 2018, in celebration of our 100th birthday. The formal announcement with regards to this initiative will be made on Mandela Day.
Essentially, this is how we show our hearts to our people. Our slogan promises “We’re here for you”, but because actions speak louder than words, we trust that efforts like these show that we sincerely care for you.
This brings me to the final opportunity that all entrants of the AVBOB poetry competition will be exposed to, and one that I am truly excited about. Every person who enters will stand an equal chance for their work to feature alongside that of some of our most accoladed poets in a 100-poem print anthology, entitled “I wish I’d said”. The anthology will be published in August 2018 – again, to coincide with our centennial. As far as we know, it will be the first time in South African history that a poetry publication will be undertaken on such a scale, in terms of its inclusion of all 11 official languages, and we are immensely grateful that it is within our means to make it possible.
The title of the anthology, “I wish I’d said”, will also be the theme for the poetry competition. This theme resonated deeply with us because all of us, at some point in our lives, have felt regret for the things we’ve left unsaid. Perhaps we wish we’d said, “I love you”, “forgive me” or “I will never forget you”.
Regardless of what this phrase means to each individual, it is our wish that the AVBOB poetry project will become a vehicle for people to finally express those unspoken whispers of the heart.
Poetry brings us closer to those we love, and binds us to the universe in which we abide. Perhaps, most importantly of all, poetry brings us closer to our truest selves, and reaches chords within us that cannot otherwise be touched. This unique competition is AVBOB’s way of “catching hold of a moment, and lifting it out of the ordinary”.
Besides the competition and the anthology that will flow from the project, we have also produced two documentaries on poetry, that are respectively titled “I wish I’d said” and “Ek wou nog sê”. We will finally be able to share this with the people of South Africa on 18 July, when these documentaries make their debut on DStv’s VIA channel, Soweto TV and KZN TV.
These documentaries tap into the psyche of some of the most acclaimed poets of our time, including Antjie Krog and Vincent Oliphant. Also featured are remarkable performances of selected poems and guest appearances by some of our country’s most loved artists, such as Brandon October, Amanda Strydom, Pieter-Dirk Uys, Francois van Coke, as well as the Mzansi Youth Choir.
“I wish I’d said” is presented by retired English professor, poet and academic researcher Tony Ulyatt, and Professor Stanley Madonsela from the Directorate of African Languages at the University of South Africa, and “Ek wou nog sê” is presented by Coenie de Villiers.
In line with the inspiration behind the entire AVBOB poetry project, the main aim of these documentaries is to remind us of this powerful art form in a time of great need, and, perhaps more importantly, to help to bring poetry back to the people on a grander scale.
This is something which I believe we need now, more than ever. Because now, in the month of July, as every South African pauses to reflect on the legacy of our beloved Madiba, we cannot help but confront this irony: all the more, we are increasingly bombarded by messages of adversity and despair.
We believe that poetry has the power to change that. Our nation may be a cauldron of cultures and languages, but we all understand the language of the heart, and poetry gives expression to that language. Poetry brings new hope in the face of hopelessness. When circumstances have blinded us to the beauty of life, poetry empowers us to rediscover that beauty.
When grief has rendered us mute, poetry enables us to capture the legacy of our loved ones for all eternity, and to express our loss in a meaningful way.
Now is the time for us, as a nation, to take up the pen and not the sword. This is when we should focus on what unites, rather than divides us. And the AVBOB poetry project strives to do exactly that.
Sincerely,
FRIK RADEMAN
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
I have to confess, finding the right words for this press release is so much more difficult than I ever imagined. At first, it may sound like a fairly simple undertaking, namely the announcement that AVBOB has decided to sponsor a poetry platform, but that would be a gross over-simplification. The truth is, neither AVBOB nor any other business can actually ‘sponsor’ poetry. All we can claim is that we wish to be associated with the power of poetry – and with the beauty of the human spirit.
For a brand to associate itself with poetry is, however, a matter that has to be approached with the utmost care and caution. Poetry is more ancient and established than the world's oldest brands. In fact, it is as old as mankind itself, and has been recorded in all the languages of the world, on cave walls, in parchment rolls and within the antique pages of centuries-old manuscripts. It is alive in books, theatres, music, street sounds, and in the words of figures gathered around braaivleis fires, silhouetted against the African sky. It belongs to philosophers, scientists, clergymen, artists and all who express themselves in language. In short, poetry belongs to us; it is the property of the people.
To suggest that AVBOB can do anything meaningful for poetry would therefore be completely erroneous. Rather, it is the other way around: poetry can mean so much to AVBOB and its people, and it is with this sentiment in mind that I write this statement.
It is important to point out, though, that AVBOB is no ordinary business. It is a business with a long history of caring for people. And it is a business without any shareholders. As a mutual assurance society, we are owned by our policyholders, and this is why we plough our surplus profits back by increasing the value of our policyholders' policies with special bonuses. In the past nine years alone, we have declared R6.5 billion worth of special bonuses. Ever since its inception in 1918, AVBOB has belonged to ordinary people. Indeed, it was originally established for humanitarian reasons to help families in times of need during the difficult years after World War I, when people suffered bitterly.
Today, 99 years later, people still suffer, and despondency is becoming an ever-increasing threat to our self-preservation. Our people are generally divided and riven with uncertainty. Work is scarce, and meaningful work even scarcer.
Squatter camps shoot up like miserable concentration camps all around us. Moreover, the conversations of our time are simultaneously laced with blame and desperation; the one feeds off the other. At this point in time, loss also rears its ugly head at every opportunity.
Loss makes people vulnerable, whether it is the loss of income or the loss of a dream at the death of a loved one – a mother, a father, a child – and, consequently, we are at a loss for words to say goodbye. And if we do not have the words to send off our loved ones, the ritual of parting is muted.
AVBOB's invitation to poets to write poems with an elegiac feel in all our official languages is thus, of itself, a strategic decision, aimed at building a bridge between those who have the words (established and aspiring poets) and those who so desperately need to hear those words (the bereaved). Our sponsorship is thus aimed at providing a platform for poets, both unknown and lauded, to offer words of comfort through their craft.
For centuries, poets have been writing about the seamless cycle of life and death. In fact, it is the genre within which most poets deliver their best work. However, to write - or read - about death is not necessarily a morbid thing. Indeed, death implies life; the one simply cannot exist without the other.
To bring this poetry project to life, we are launching a website – www.avbobpoetry.co.za – on 18 July 2017, on Mandela Day, that will be completely devoted to South African poetry. The main features of the website are twofold. First, we want to publish as many quality new poems as possible, in all 11 of the official South African languages. These poems will be freely available to all lovers of this enchanting and everlasting literary form, and to all those searching for a verse to give expression to the complex and unique emotions they are experiencing.
Secondly, the website will form the platform from which we will launch a nationwide poetry competition. Again, just as AVBOB belongs to the people, so too does poetry – it knows no boundaries, and transcends all differences. For this reason, we have made a massive effort to make the competition as inclusive as possible. The competition will thus be open to all South Africans, in all 11 official languages, to celebrate the richness and diversity of all the voices of our land.
Every language is richly layered with nuances that can only be fully understood by someone who speaks, thinks and dreams in that language. For this reason, we’ve appointed a reputable editor in every one of our official languages to evaluate the entries fairly.
Should a poem be accepted by one of our editors, it will open up a world of exciting new opportunities for the entrant of the poem. First, every poem which is approved by the relevant editor will feature alongside other poems, by both published and unpublished poets, on the AVBOB poetry website, where it will become part of a library of content to provide words of beauty and comfort to the people of South Africa. As a token of our appreciation, an incentive of R300 will be paid for each poem selected.
In addition, all entrants of approved poems will be in line for the AVBOB Poetry Prize, in the specific language categories (there will be a winner in each language). The respective prizes will bring cash rewards. We will announce these winners towards the end of March 2018 and we plan on rolling out the red carpet for them at a prestigious awards ceremony.
This initiative is by no means accidental. I am extremely grateful to say that, over the years, AVBOB has been a proud supporter of the arts in our country. We have always believed that the arts provide emotional and intellectual upliftment for our people, and that it is a way to liberate them from the difficulties of daily life. It is this very sentiment that also drives our support of the Mzansi Youth Choir. It is what motivates our every initiative at the AVBOB Foundation. Ever since we first pledged to do so in 2013, the Foundation has donated 41 container libraries to underprivileged schools. To continue this legacy in a meaningful way, we are busy developing nine new schools that will be opened in 2018, in celebration of our 100th birthday. The formal announcement with regards to this initiative will be made on Mandela Day.
Essentially, this is how we show our hearts to our people. Our slogan promises “We’re here for you”, but because actions speak louder than words, we trust that efforts like these show that we sincerely care for you.
This brings me to the final opportunity that all entrants of the AVBOB poetry competition will be exposed to, and one that I am truly excited about. Every person who enters will stand an equal chance for their work to feature alongside that of some of our most accoladed poets in a 100-poem print anthology, entitled “I wish I’d said”. The anthology will be published in August 2018 – again, to coincide with our centennial. As far as we know, it will be the first time in South African history that a poetry publication will be undertaken on such a scale, in terms of its inclusion of all 11 official languages, and we are immensely grateful that it is within our means to make it possible.
The title of the anthology, “I wish I’d said”, will also be the theme for the poetry competition. This theme resonated deeply with us because all of us, at some point in our lives, have felt regret for the things we’ve left unsaid. Perhaps we wish we’d said, “I love you”, “forgive me” or “I will never forget you”.
Regardless of what this phrase means to each individual, it is our wish that the AVBOB poetry project will become a vehicle for people to finally express those unspoken whispers of the heart.
Poetry brings us closer to those we love, and binds us to the universe in which we abide. Perhaps, most importantly of all, poetry brings us closer to our truest selves, and reaches chords within us that cannot otherwise be touched. This unique competition is AVBOB’s way of “catching hold of a moment, and lifting it out of the ordinary”.
Besides the competition and the anthology that will flow from the project, we have also produced two documentaries on poetry, that are respectively titled “I wish I’d said” and “Ek wou nog sê”. We will finally be able to share this with the people of South Africa on 18 July, when these documentaries make their debut on DStv’s VIA channel, Soweto TV and KZN TV.
These documentaries tap into the psyche of some of the most acclaimed poets of our time, including Antjie Krog and Vincent Oliphant. Also featured are remarkable performances of selected poems and guest appearances by some of our country’s most loved artists, such as Brandon October, Amanda Strydom, Pieter-Dirk Uys, Francois van Coke, as well as the Mzansi Youth Choir.
“I wish I’d said” is presented by retired English professor, poet and academic researcher Tony Ulyatt, and Professor Stanley Madonsela from the Directorate of African Languages at the University of South Africa, and “Ek wou nog sê” is presented by Coenie de Villiers.
In line with the inspiration behind the entire AVBOB poetry project, the main aim of these documentaries is to remind us of this powerful art form in a time of great need, and, perhaps more importantly, to help to bring poetry back to the people on a grander scale.
This is something which I believe we need now, more than ever. Because now, in the month of July, as every South African pauses to reflect on the legacy of our beloved Madiba, we cannot help but confront this irony: all the more, we are increasingly bombarded by messages of adversity and despair.
We believe that poetry has the power to change that. Our nation may be a cauldron of cultures and languages, but we all understand the language of the heart, and poetry gives expression to that language. Poetry brings new hope in the face of hopelessness. When circumstances have blinded us to the beauty of life, poetry empowers us to rediscover that beauty.
When grief has rendered us mute, poetry enables us to capture the legacy of our loved ones for all eternity, and to express our loss in a meaningful way.
Now is the time for us, as a nation, to take up the pen and not the sword. This is when we should focus on what unites, rather than divides us. And the AVBOB poetry project strives to do exactly that.
Sincerely,
FRIK RADEMAN
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Persvrystelling: AVBOB-poësieprojek - July 2017
Geagte Leser
Ek moet bieg, om die regte woorde vir hierdie persvrystelling te kry, was moeiliker as wat ek gedink het. Toe ek begin skryf het, het ek gedink dit gaan bloot ‘n aankondiging wees dat AVBOB besluit het om ‘n poësieplatform te borg. Wat die hart van vol is, loop die mond immers van oor. Maar so eenvoudig was en is dit helaas nie, want die waarheid is dat nie AVBOB of enige ander besigheid werklik die digkuns kan ‘borg’ nie. Al waarop ons kan aanspraak maak, is ‘n opregte begeerte om onsself te assosieer met die mag van die digkuns en die skoonheid van die menslike gees.
‘n Handelsmerk wat met poësie geassosieer wil wees, moet met die grootste omsigtigheid te werk gaan, want poësie is meer antiek, meer gevestig as die wêreld se oudste handelsmerk. Trouens, dit is so oud soos die mens self en dit is opgeteken in al die tale van die wêreld – vanaf rotswande en perkamentrolle tot diep in die bladsye van eeu-oue manuskripte. Digkuns leef in boeke, teaters en musiek. Dit vind inspirasie, en neerslag, in straatklanke en gesprekke rondom braaivleisvure, geëts teen teen die uitspansel van Afrika. Digkuns behoort aan filosowe, wetenskaplikes, geestelikes, kunstenaars en almal wat hulself in taal uitdruk. Kortom, poësie behoort aan ons almal; dit is volksbesit.
Om te suggereer dat AVBOB enigsins iets betekenisvol vir poësie kan doen, sou daarom foutief wees. Die teendeel is stellig waar: poësie kan baie vir AVBOB en sy mense beteken, en dit is met dié idee voor oë dat ek hierdie verklaring skryf.
Op hierdie punt wil ek graag daarop wys dat AVBOB nie ‘n gewone onderneming is nie. Dit is ‘n onderneming met ‘n lang geskiedenis van diepe sorgsaamheid. En dit is ‘n besigheid sonder enige aandeelhouers. As ‘n onderlinge versekeringsgenootskap word ons besit deur ons polishouers, en daarom ploeg ons ons surpluswinste terug deur die waarde van ons polishouers se polisse te verhoog. In die afgelope nege jaar alleen het ons polishouers met spesiale bonusse van R6.5 miljard beloon.
Vandag, 99 jaar later, ly mense steeds, en wanhoop word toenemend ‘n bedreiging vir ons selfbehoud. Ons mense is onder mekaar verdeel en hulle is verskeur deur onsekerheid, werk is skaars, en betekenisvolle werk nog skaarser.
Soos lang skaduwees van konsentrasiekampe skiet plakkerskampe op om elke hoek en draai. En die gesprekke wat ons hoor en voer, spreek van verwyt en vertwyfeling, in ‘n immer groeiende afwaartse spiraal. Hier, nou, is verlies ‘n werklikheid wat by elke moontlike geleentheid kop uitsteek.
Verlies maak mense kwesbaar, hetsy dit ‘n verlies aan inkomste is, die verlies van ‘n droom, of van ‘n geliefde – ‘n ma, ‘n pa, ‘n kind. En elke verlies is letterlik te tragies vir woorde – ons sukkel om die woorde te vind om totsiens te sê. En as ons nie die woorde het om afskeid van ons geliefdes te neem nie, is die ritueel van skeiding gedemp.
AVBOB se uitnodiging aan digters om elegiese gedigte in al ons ampstale te skryf, is dus in wese ‘n strategiese besluit wat daarop gemik is om ‘n brug te bou tussen dié wat die woorde het (gevestigde en aspirerende digters) en dié wat so bitter nodig het om die woorde te hoor (die agtergeblewenes). Teen hierdie agtergrond is ons borgskap daarop gemik om ‘n platform te skep vir digters, onbekend en beroemd, om woorde van vertroosting deur hul kuns te bied.
Reeds eeue lank skryf digters oor die soomlose siklus van lewe en dood. Die onderwerp, die kontras, is trouens die genre waarin die meeste digters hul beste werk lewer. Om oor dood te skryf, of daarvan te lees, is nie noodwendig morbied nie. Die teendeel is waar: dood impliseer lewe – die een kan eenvoudig nie sonder die ander bestaan nie. Die filosoof Jean-Paul Sartre stel dit só: “As daar nie dood was nie, was daar nie intensiteit van lewe nie.”
Om die poësieprojek tot stand te bring en momentum daaraan te gee, stel ons ‘n webwerf – www.avbobpoetry.co.za – op 18 Julie 2017 bekend, op Mandeladag. Dié webwerf sal 100% toegewy wees aan Suid-Afrikaanse poësie. Ons doel daarmee is tweevoudig. In die eerste plek wil ons soveel goeie nuwe gedigte as moontlik publiseer, in al 11 van Suid-Afrika se amptelike tale. Hierdie gedigte sal vryelik beskikbaar wees – nie net vir alle liefhebbers van hierdie verruklike en onsterflike literêre vorm nie, maar vir elkeen wat soek na ‘n vers om uitdrukking te gee aan die komplekse en unieke emosies wat hulle ervaar.
In die tweede plek, is die webwerf die platform waarvandaan ons ‘n landwye poësiekompetisie van stapel gaan stuur. Weer eens, net soos AVBOB aan ons mense behoort, behoort poësie aan die mense – digkuns ken geen grense nie, dit strek oor en verby alle verskille. Juis daarom het ons ‘n enorme poging aangewend om die kompetisie so inklusief as moontlik te maak. Dit sal oop wees vir alle Suid-Afrikaners, in al 11 ampstale, om die rykheid en verskeidenheid van al die stemme in ons land te vier.
Elkeen van hierdie ampstale is ryklik gevul met nuanses wat net verstaanbaar sal wees vir iemand wat in die taal praat, dink en droom. En daarom het ons ‘n vooraanstaande redakteur vir elke ampstaal aangestel om die inskrywings regverdig te evalueer. Word ‘n gedig deur een van ons redakteurs aanvaar, maak dit ‘n wêreld van opwindende nuwe geleenthede vir die inskrywer van die gedig oop. Eers sal elke gedig wat deur die relevante redakteur goedgekeur is, verskyn saam met ander gedigte deur gepubliseerde sowel as ongepubliseerde digters, op AVBOB se poësiewebwerf, waar dit deel sal word van ‘n biblioteek van inhoud om woorde van skoonheid en vertroosting te bring aan die mense van Suid-Afrika. As ‘n blyk van ons waardering, sal ‘n prestasieprys van R300 betaal word vir elke gedig wat gekies word.
Daarbenewens sal alle inskrywers van goedgekeurde gedigte kwalifiseer vir die AVBOB Poësieprys in die spesifieke taalkategorie waarvoor dit ingeskryf is (daar sal ‘n wenner in elke taal wees). Die onderskeie pryse sal kontantbelonings behels. Ons sal hierdie wenners teen die einde van Maart 2018 aankondig en ons plan is om by ‘n prestigeryke toekenningseremonie die rooi tapyt vir hulle uit te rol.
Hierdie inisiatief is nie toevallig nie. Ek deel vandag met groot dankbaarheid dat AVBOB reeds jare lank ‘n trotse ondersteuner van die kunste in ons land is. Ons het nog altyd geglo dat die kunste emosionele en intellektuele opheffing vir ons mense bied en dat dit ‘n manier is om mense tot ‘n mate van die bemoeienisse van die daaglikse lewe te bevry. Dit is juis hierdie gewaarwording wat die dryfkrag agter ons ondersteuning van die Mzansi Jeugkoor is. Dit is wat elke inisiatief van die AVBOB Stigting inspireer en motiveer. Sedert ons eerste onderneming in 2013, het die Stigting meer as 41 skeepsvraghouerbiblioteke aan minderbevoorregte skole geskenk. Om hierdie nalatenskap op ‘n betekenisvolle manier voort te sit, is ons besig om nege nuwe skole te ontwikkel wat regoor Suid-Afrika geopen sal word in 2018, ter viering van ons 100ste verjaarsdag. ‘n Formele aankondiging hieroor sal op Mandela-dag gemaak word.
Uiteindelik is dit hoe ons ons harte aan ons mense wys. Ons slagspreuk belowe, “Ons is hier vir jou”. Maar omdat dade soveel dieper en duideliker praat as woorde, vertrou ons dat pogings soos die poësieplatform sal wys dat ons opreg omgee vir jou.
Dit bring my by die finale geleentheid waaraan alle deelnemers aan die AVBOB-poësiekompetisie blootgestel sal word, en waaroor ek baie opgewonde is. Alle gedigte wat ingeskryf word, staan ‘n gelyke kans om opgeneem te word langs die werk van ons beroemdste digters in ‘n gedrukte bloemlesing bestaande uit 100 gedigte, getiteld, “I wish I’d said / Ek wou nog sê”. Die bloemlesing sal in Augustus 2018 verskyn – weer eens om met ons eeufeesviering saam te val.
Sover ons kennis strek, sal dit die eerste keer in Suid-Afrika se geskiedenis wees dat ‘n poësiepublikasie op so ‘n skaal onderneem word met betrekking tot die insluiting van al 11 ampstale. Ons is diep dankbaar dat ons by magte is om dit moontlik te maak.
Die tema van die bloemlesing, “Ek wou nog sê”, sal ook die tema vir die poësiekompetisie wees. Hierdie tema vind ten diepste weerklank by ons, want almal het in een of ander stadium van ons lewens berou gevoel oor dinge wat ons nooit gesê het nie. Miskien wens ons ons het gesê, “Ek is lief vir jou”, “vergewe my” of “ek sal jou nooit vergeet nie”. Wat hierdie frase ook al vir elke individu mag beteken, dit is ons wens dat die AVBOB-poësieprojek vir mense die geleentheid sal gee om uiteindelik uitdrukking te gee aan die onuitgesproke fluisteringe van die siel.
Poësie bring ons nader aan die mense wat ons liefhet, en dit bind ons aan die heelal waarin ons bly bestaan. En miskien, op die heel belangrikste en diepste vlak, bring digkuns ons nader aan ons ware self, deur are en snare te vind wat andersins nie geraak sou word nie. Hierdie unieke kompetisie is AVBOB se unieke manier om “die oomblik aan te gryp en dit ver bo die alledaagse te verhef”.
Afgesien van die kompetisie en die bloemlesing wat uit die projek sal spruit, het ons ook twee dokumentêre programme oor digkuns vervaardig, onderskeidelik getiteld “I wish I’d said” en “Ek wou nog sê”. Op 18 Julie sal ons uiteindelik in staat wees om dit met die mense van Suid-Afrika te deel, wanneer dié programme op DStv se VIA-kanaal, Soweto TV en KZN TV hul debuut maak.
Dié dokumentêre programme bied ‘n diepgaande blik, en insig, in die psige van ‘n spektrum van die mees erkende en geliefde digters van ons tyd, onder meer Antjie Krog en Vincent Oliphant. Daar is ook merkwaardige uitvoerings deur van ons land se mees geliefde kunstenaars, insluitend Brandon October, Amanda Strydom, Pieter-Dirk Uys en Francois van Coke, asook die Mzansi Jeugkoor.
“I wish I’d said” word aangebied deur die afgetrede Engelse professor, digter en akamediese navorser Tony Ulyatt en professor Stanley Madonsela van die direktoraat van Afrikatale aan die Universiteit van Suid-Afrika. “Ek wou nog sê” word aangebied deur Coenie de Villiers.
In tandem met die inspirasie agter die hele AVBOB-poësieprojek, is die hoofdoelwit van die dokumentêre programme om ons te herinner aan hierdie kragdadige kunsvorm in ‘n tyd van groot nood en, miskien selfs belangriker, om te help om digkuns op ‘n groter en meer grootse skaal terug te bring in mense se lewens.
Dit is iets wat ek glo ons nou, meer as ooit tevore, nodig het, want nou, in die maand van Julie, terwyl elke Suid-Afrikaner terugdink aan en nadink oor die nalatenskap van ons geliefde Madiba, moet ons noodgedwonge die ironie in die gesig staar dat ons des te meer gebombardeer word met boodskappe van wanhoop en rampspoed.
Ons glo dat poësie die mag het om dit verander. Ons volk is weliswaar ‘n kookpot van kulture en tale, maar ons almal verstaan die taal van die hart, en poësie gee bowenal uitdrukking aan hierdie taal. Poësie bring nuwe hoop te midde van wanhoop. Wanneer omstandighede ons blind maak vir die skoonheid van die lewe, gee poësie ons die krag om daardie skoonheid te herontdek. Wanneer smart ons stom laat, gee poësie ons die krag om die nalatenskap van ons geliefdes vir ewig vas te vang, en ons verlies op ‘n betekenisvolle manier uit te druk.
Die tyd het aangebreek vir ons om, as ‘n nasie, die pen op te neem, en nie die swaard nie – om te fokus op wat ons verenig eerder as dít wat ons verdeel. En dit is presies waarna die AVBOB-poësieprojek streef.
Met hartlike groete en goeie wense,
FRIK RADEMAN
HOOF UITVOERENDE BEAMPTE
Ek moet bieg, om die regte woorde vir hierdie persvrystelling te kry, was moeiliker as wat ek gedink het. Toe ek begin skryf het, het ek gedink dit gaan bloot ‘n aankondiging wees dat AVBOB besluit het om ‘n poësieplatform te borg. Wat die hart van vol is, loop die mond immers van oor. Maar so eenvoudig was en is dit helaas nie, want die waarheid is dat nie AVBOB of enige ander besigheid werklik die digkuns kan ‘borg’ nie. Al waarop ons kan aanspraak maak, is ‘n opregte begeerte om onsself te assosieer met die mag van die digkuns en die skoonheid van die menslike gees.
‘n Handelsmerk wat met poësie geassosieer wil wees, moet met die grootste omsigtigheid te werk gaan, want poësie is meer antiek, meer gevestig as die wêreld se oudste handelsmerk. Trouens, dit is so oud soos die mens self en dit is opgeteken in al die tale van die wêreld – vanaf rotswande en perkamentrolle tot diep in die bladsye van eeu-oue manuskripte. Digkuns leef in boeke, teaters en musiek. Dit vind inspirasie, en neerslag, in straatklanke en gesprekke rondom braaivleisvure, geëts teen teen die uitspansel van Afrika. Digkuns behoort aan filosowe, wetenskaplikes, geestelikes, kunstenaars en almal wat hulself in taal uitdruk. Kortom, poësie behoort aan ons almal; dit is volksbesit.
Om te suggereer dat AVBOB enigsins iets betekenisvol vir poësie kan doen, sou daarom foutief wees. Die teendeel is stellig waar: poësie kan baie vir AVBOB en sy mense beteken, en dit is met dié idee voor oë dat ek hierdie verklaring skryf.
Op hierdie punt wil ek graag daarop wys dat AVBOB nie ‘n gewone onderneming is nie. Dit is ‘n onderneming met ‘n lang geskiedenis van diepe sorgsaamheid. En dit is ‘n besigheid sonder enige aandeelhouers. As ‘n onderlinge versekeringsgenootskap word ons besit deur ons polishouers, en daarom ploeg ons ons surpluswinste terug deur die waarde van ons polishouers se polisse te verhoog. In die afgelope nege jaar alleen het ons polishouers met spesiale bonusse van R6.5 miljard beloon.
Vandag, 99 jaar later, ly mense steeds, en wanhoop word toenemend ‘n bedreiging vir ons selfbehoud. Ons mense is onder mekaar verdeel en hulle is verskeur deur onsekerheid, werk is skaars, en betekenisvolle werk nog skaarser.
Soos lang skaduwees van konsentrasiekampe skiet plakkerskampe op om elke hoek en draai. En die gesprekke wat ons hoor en voer, spreek van verwyt en vertwyfeling, in ‘n immer groeiende afwaartse spiraal. Hier, nou, is verlies ‘n werklikheid wat by elke moontlike geleentheid kop uitsteek.
Verlies maak mense kwesbaar, hetsy dit ‘n verlies aan inkomste is, die verlies van ‘n droom, of van ‘n geliefde – ‘n ma, ‘n pa, ‘n kind. En elke verlies is letterlik te tragies vir woorde – ons sukkel om die woorde te vind om totsiens te sê. En as ons nie die woorde het om afskeid van ons geliefdes te neem nie, is die ritueel van skeiding gedemp.
AVBOB se uitnodiging aan digters om elegiese gedigte in al ons ampstale te skryf, is dus in wese ‘n strategiese besluit wat daarop gemik is om ‘n brug te bou tussen dié wat die woorde het (gevestigde en aspirerende digters) en dié wat so bitter nodig het om die woorde te hoor (die agtergeblewenes). Teen hierdie agtergrond is ons borgskap daarop gemik om ‘n platform te skep vir digters, onbekend en beroemd, om woorde van vertroosting deur hul kuns te bied.
Reeds eeue lank skryf digters oor die soomlose siklus van lewe en dood. Die onderwerp, die kontras, is trouens die genre waarin die meeste digters hul beste werk lewer. Om oor dood te skryf, of daarvan te lees, is nie noodwendig morbied nie. Die teendeel is waar: dood impliseer lewe – die een kan eenvoudig nie sonder die ander bestaan nie. Die filosoof Jean-Paul Sartre stel dit só: “As daar nie dood was nie, was daar nie intensiteit van lewe nie.”
Om die poësieprojek tot stand te bring en momentum daaraan te gee, stel ons ‘n webwerf – www.avbobpoetry.co.za – op 18 Julie 2017 bekend, op Mandeladag. Dié webwerf sal 100% toegewy wees aan Suid-Afrikaanse poësie. Ons doel daarmee is tweevoudig. In die eerste plek wil ons soveel goeie nuwe gedigte as moontlik publiseer, in al 11 van Suid-Afrika se amptelike tale. Hierdie gedigte sal vryelik beskikbaar wees – nie net vir alle liefhebbers van hierdie verruklike en onsterflike literêre vorm nie, maar vir elkeen wat soek na ‘n vers om uitdrukking te gee aan die komplekse en unieke emosies wat hulle ervaar.
In die tweede plek, is die webwerf die platform waarvandaan ons ‘n landwye poësiekompetisie van stapel gaan stuur. Weer eens, net soos AVBOB aan ons mense behoort, behoort poësie aan die mense – digkuns ken geen grense nie, dit strek oor en verby alle verskille. Juis daarom het ons ‘n enorme poging aangewend om die kompetisie so inklusief as moontlik te maak. Dit sal oop wees vir alle Suid-Afrikaners, in al 11 ampstale, om die rykheid en verskeidenheid van al die stemme in ons land te vier.
Elkeen van hierdie ampstale is ryklik gevul met nuanses wat net verstaanbaar sal wees vir iemand wat in die taal praat, dink en droom. En daarom het ons ‘n vooraanstaande redakteur vir elke ampstaal aangestel om die inskrywings regverdig te evalueer. Word ‘n gedig deur een van ons redakteurs aanvaar, maak dit ‘n wêreld van opwindende nuwe geleenthede vir die inskrywer van die gedig oop. Eers sal elke gedig wat deur die relevante redakteur goedgekeur is, verskyn saam met ander gedigte deur gepubliseerde sowel as ongepubliseerde digters, op AVBOB se poësiewebwerf, waar dit deel sal word van ‘n biblioteek van inhoud om woorde van skoonheid en vertroosting te bring aan die mense van Suid-Afrika. As ‘n blyk van ons waardering, sal ‘n prestasieprys van R300 betaal word vir elke gedig wat gekies word.
Daarbenewens sal alle inskrywers van goedgekeurde gedigte kwalifiseer vir die AVBOB Poësieprys in die spesifieke taalkategorie waarvoor dit ingeskryf is (daar sal ‘n wenner in elke taal wees). Die onderskeie pryse sal kontantbelonings behels. Ons sal hierdie wenners teen die einde van Maart 2018 aankondig en ons plan is om by ‘n prestigeryke toekenningseremonie die rooi tapyt vir hulle uit te rol.
Hierdie inisiatief is nie toevallig nie. Ek deel vandag met groot dankbaarheid dat AVBOB reeds jare lank ‘n trotse ondersteuner van die kunste in ons land is. Ons het nog altyd geglo dat die kunste emosionele en intellektuele opheffing vir ons mense bied en dat dit ‘n manier is om mense tot ‘n mate van die bemoeienisse van die daaglikse lewe te bevry. Dit is juis hierdie gewaarwording wat die dryfkrag agter ons ondersteuning van die Mzansi Jeugkoor is. Dit is wat elke inisiatief van die AVBOB Stigting inspireer en motiveer. Sedert ons eerste onderneming in 2013, het die Stigting meer as 41 skeepsvraghouerbiblioteke aan minderbevoorregte skole geskenk. Om hierdie nalatenskap op ‘n betekenisvolle manier voort te sit, is ons besig om nege nuwe skole te ontwikkel wat regoor Suid-Afrika geopen sal word in 2018, ter viering van ons 100ste verjaarsdag. ‘n Formele aankondiging hieroor sal op Mandela-dag gemaak word.
Uiteindelik is dit hoe ons ons harte aan ons mense wys. Ons slagspreuk belowe, “Ons is hier vir jou”. Maar omdat dade soveel dieper en duideliker praat as woorde, vertrou ons dat pogings soos die poësieplatform sal wys dat ons opreg omgee vir jou.
Dit bring my by die finale geleentheid waaraan alle deelnemers aan die AVBOB-poësiekompetisie blootgestel sal word, en waaroor ek baie opgewonde is. Alle gedigte wat ingeskryf word, staan ‘n gelyke kans om opgeneem te word langs die werk van ons beroemdste digters in ‘n gedrukte bloemlesing bestaande uit 100 gedigte, getiteld, “I wish I’d said / Ek wou nog sê”. Die bloemlesing sal in Augustus 2018 verskyn – weer eens om met ons eeufeesviering saam te val.
Sover ons kennis strek, sal dit die eerste keer in Suid-Afrika se geskiedenis wees dat ‘n poësiepublikasie op so ‘n skaal onderneem word met betrekking tot die insluiting van al 11 ampstale. Ons is diep dankbaar dat ons by magte is om dit moontlik te maak.
Die tema van die bloemlesing, “Ek wou nog sê”, sal ook die tema vir die poësiekompetisie wees. Hierdie tema vind ten diepste weerklank by ons, want almal het in een of ander stadium van ons lewens berou gevoel oor dinge wat ons nooit gesê het nie. Miskien wens ons ons het gesê, “Ek is lief vir jou”, “vergewe my” of “ek sal jou nooit vergeet nie”. Wat hierdie frase ook al vir elke individu mag beteken, dit is ons wens dat die AVBOB-poësieprojek vir mense die geleentheid sal gee om uiteindelik uitdrukking te gee aan die onuitgesproke fluisteringe van die siel.
Poësie bring ons nader aan die mense wat ons liefhet, en dit bind ons aan die heelal waarin ons bly bestaan. En miskien, op die heel belangrikste en diepste vlak, bring digkuns ons nader aan ons ware self, deur are en snare te vind wat andersins nie geraak sou word nie. Hierdie unieke kompetisie is AVBOB se unieke manier om “die oomblik aan te gryp en dit ver bo die alledaagse te verhef”.
Afgesien van die kompetisie en die bloemlesing wat uit die projek sal spruit, het ons ook twee dokumentêre programme oor digkuns vervaardig, onderskeidelik getiteld “I wish I’d said” en “Ek wou nog sê”. Op 18 Julie sal ons uiteindelik in staat wees om dit met die mense van Suid-Afrika te deel, wanneer dié programme op DStv se VIA-kanaal, Soweto TV en KZN TV hul debuut maak.
Dié dokumentêre programme bied ‘n diepgaande blik, en insig, in die psige van ‘n spektrum van die mees erkende en geliefde digters van ons tyd, onder meer Antjie Krog en Vincent Oliphant. Daar is ook merkwaardige uitvoerings deur van ons land se mees geliefde kunstenaars, insluitend Brandon October, Amanda Strydom, Pieter-Dirk Uys en Francois van Coke, asook die Mzansi Jeugkoor.
“I wish I’d said” word aangebied deur die afgetrede Engelse professor, digter en akamediese navorser Tony Ulyatt en professor Stanley Madonsela van die direktoraat van Afrikatale aan die Universiteit van Suid-Afrika. “Ek wou nog sê” word aangebied deur Coenie de Villiers.
In tandem met die inspirasie agter die hele AVBOB-poësieprojek, is die hoofdoelwit van die dokumentêre programme om ons te herinner aan hierdie kragdadige kunsvorm in ‘n tyd van groot nood en, miskien selfs belangriker, om te help om digkuns op ‘n groter en meer grootse skaal terug te bring in mense se lewens.
Dit is iets wat ek glo ons nou, meer as ooit tevore, nodig het, want nou, in die maand van Julie, terwyl elke Suid-Afrikaner terugdink aan en nadink oor die nalatenskap van ons geliefde Madiba, moet ons noodgedwonge die ironie in die gesig staar dat ons des te meer gebombardeer word met boodskappe van wanhoop en rampspoed.
Ons glo dat poësie die mag het om dit verander. Ons volk is weliswaar ‘n kookpot van kulture en tale, maar ons almal verstaan die taal van die hart, en poësie gee bowenal uitdrukking aan hierdie taal. Poësie bring nuwe hoop te midde van wanhoop. Wanneer omstandighede ons blind maak vir die skoonheid van die lewe, gee poësie ons die krag om daardie skoonheid te herontdek. Wanneer smart ons stom laat, gee poësie ons die krag om die nalatenskap van ons geliefdes vir ewig vas te vang, en ons verlies op ‘n betekenisvolle manier uit te druk.
Die tyd het aangebreek vir ons om, as ‘n nasie, die pen op te neem, en nie die swaard nie – om te fokus op wat ons verenig eerder as dít wat ons verdeel. En dit is presies waarna die AVBOB-poësieprojek streef.
Met hartlike groete en goeie wense,
FRIK RADEMAN
HOOF UITVOERENDE BEAMPTE
AVBOB's Staff Members Inspire Half a Million Donation to the Western Cape Disaster Relief Initiative - June 2017
AVBOB, Africa’s largest mutual assurance society, has just pledged a cash donation of R500 000 towards the Western Cape disaster relief initiative. AVBOB CEO Frik Rademan explains that the decision has been inspired by the selfless efforts of some of AVBOB’s own staff members.
This occurred during the course of last week, when some of AVBOB’s employees in Pretoria, Bloemfontein and the Western Cape took the initiative to collect and deliver much-needed essentials to the disaster-stricken people. As part of the drive to support those in need, the Bloemfontein business community approached AVBOB to assist with the transportation of their donated goods. AVBOB agreed and made a large truck available to ensure that donated goods safely reach it destination.
“We are both humbled and thankful for the fact that we are able to make this contribution to alleviate the hardship that the people in the Western Cape are currently experiencing. After all, AVBOB belongs to the people, and these are our people too,” says Rademan. “In the same way that our staff has inspired us to get involved, we trust that this gesture will inspire more South African companies to do the same”.
This occurred during the course of last week, when some of AVBOB’s employees in Pretoria, Bloemfontein and the Western Cape took the initiative to collect and deliver much-needed essentials to the disaster-stricken people. As part of the drive to support those in need, the Bloemfontein business community approached AVBOB to assist with the transportation of their donated goods. AVBOB agreed and made a large truck available to ensure that donated goods safely reach it destination.
“We are both humbled and thankful for the fact that we are able to make this contribution to alleviate the hardship that the people in the Western Cape are currently experiencing. After all, AVBOB belongs to the people, and these are our people too,” says Rademan. “In the same way that our staff has inspired us to get involved, we trust that this gesture will inspire more South African companies to do the same”.
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Draaipunt Met Frik Rademan: My sake en lewensfilosofie is geskoei op harde werk - April 2016
Ek dink ook jy moet ’n visie hê en ’n rigting en as jy nie ’n visie het nie, kan jou mense jou nie volg nie – hulle kan nie inkoop by jou nie. Dis vir my belangrik dat jy ’n visie en ’n rigting het – Frik Rademan, hoof van die AVBOB
Andries van Zyl | 7 April 2016 19:30
RSG Geldsake en Investec Batebestuur bied tans ‘n weeklikse gespreksreeks aan oor besonderse draaipunte in die lewens van prominente Suid-Afrikaners. Die onderhoude word volledig as potgooie op Moneyweb se webtuiste geplaas, terwyl uittreksels van die gesprekke ook hier op RSG Geldsake uitgesaai word. Die Moneyweb webtuiste waar die volledige onderhoude gehoor kan word, die is www.moneyweb.co.za.
Vandag se gas is Frik Rademan, hoof van die AVBOB begrafnis- en versekeringsgroep wat oor die afgelope 98 jaar ‘n huishoudelike naam vir miljoene Suid-Afrikaners geword het.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: Goeiedag Frik.
FRIK RADEMAN: Goeiemiddag Andries.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: Kom ons begin die gesprek deur AVBOB se geskiedenis op te grawe by wyse van spreke – die ontstaan en ontwikkeling oor byna 10 dekades.
FRIK RADEMAN: Andries baie dankie, ja AVBOB is amper 100 jaar oud, oor twee jaar is ons 100 jaar oud, en AVBOB het begin in 1918 na die Eerste Wêreld Oorlog toe die oorlogsveterane met hulle die Spaanse-griep na Suid-Afrika gebring het. Daar het meer mense in een dag gesterf as in vergelyking met ‘n maand. Die mense kon nie ‘n begrafnis bekostig nie en ‘n paar filantrope het saamgekom en besluit hulle moet iets doen. Hulle het ook vir die liefde van die saak gewerk en die Afrikaanse Verbond is gestig. Gou het hulle agtergekom daar was wel fondse in die versekeringsgenootskap, maar hulle kon nie ‘n begrafnis uitvoer nie. So in 1921 het hulle ‘n bankrot begrafnissaak in Bloemfontein gekoop en AVBOB Begrafnisdiens is gestig, en vandaar af het AVBOB net gegroei en vandag is AVBOB nogsteeds ‘n mutual. Die mutual word beheer deur sy polishouers, so ons het geen eksterne aandeelhouers nie en al ons surplus winste word uitgekeer aan ons polishouers wat ons uniek maak. AVBOB het gegroei. Vandag sit ons met so ongeveer 250 takke in Suid-Afrika, so ongeveer 20 in Namibië en ons verseker so 1.6 miljoen polishouers, ons het 1.6 miljoen polishouers en ons verseker 4.6 miljoen lewens in Suid-Afrika, en elke lewe wat verseker word onder ‘n polis is geregtig op ‘n gratis begrafnis by AVBOB, as hulle na AVBOB kom vir die uitvoering van die begrafnisdiens.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: Frik ‘n 100 jaar, dis bykans, dis ‘n eeu. Dis ‘n geweldige lang tyd. Enkele van die hoofredes vir AVBOB se sakewelslae?
FRIK RADEMAN: Andries ek dink soos met enige besigheid moet ‘n besigheid deurlopend verander en aanpas by veranderde omstandighede, en ek dink dis wat AVBOB uniek maak en ook ons besigheidmodel as ‘n onderlinge versekeringsgenootskap. Ons is eintlik die enigste onderlinge versekeringsgenootskap in Suid-Afrika, en dit maak ons uniek want ons kan spesiale voordele aan ons polishouers gee wat dit bietjie moeilik maak vir ander mense, so ek sal sê deurlopende verandering. Oor die jare het AVBOB baie gehelp om tred te hou met die nuwe Suid-Afrika.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: Kom ons verskuif die gesprek na Frik Rademan, gebore, grootgeword?
FRIK RADEMAN: Andries ja, ek is gebore in Brakpan in Gauteng, ek het my laerskool loopbaan daar begin, Laërskool Môrewag. My pa het in die myn gewerk en toe ek in St. 1 was het die goudmyne toegemaak en my pa is verplaas na Welkom. Daar het ek my laerskool loopbaan verder gevoer en ek het gematrikuleer aan die Hoërskool Welkom Gimnasium. Na matriek het ek eers my een jaar verpligte militêre diensplig gaan doen voordat ek gaan studeer het. Ongelukkig kon my ouers dit nie bekostig om vir my studies te betaal nie, en ek het toe werk gekry by ‘n plaaslike ouditeursfirma in Welkom waar ek ingeskryf het as leerlingouditeur, en daar het ek ook begin studeer deur die Universiteit van Suid-Afrika.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: Vertel vir ons kortliks van die ontwikkeling van jou beroepsloopbaan voordat jy nou by AVBOB uitgekom het?
FRIK RADEMAN: Andries, ja nadat ek my klerkskap voltooi het en my B.Com graad gekry het, het ek by Anglo American aangesluit as ‘n senior winste-ontleder in Welkom. Ek het baie lekker daar gewerk vir 2 jaar, maar die organisasie was ‘n bietjie groot vir my, ek het gevoel soos ‘n druppel in ‘n emmer. Dit was moeilik om ‘n verskil te maak en in 1982 is ek aangestel as die finansiële bestuurder van AVBOB Nywerhede in Bloemfontein, en ek het dadelik tuis gevoel by die organisasie en ek het vir my ‘n toekoms daar gesien, maar ek het nooit in my wildste drome gedink ek gaan die hoof uitvoerende beampte van die maatskappy word nie.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: As jy nou terug kyk vandag in retrospek, wat sou jy sê het die AVBOB beroepsrigting vir jou daai tyd so aantreklik gemaak?
FRIK RADEMAN: Andries, ja, ek is in 1989 verplaas na hoofkantoor toe as hoof van finansies van die groep. Nou AVBOB was nie ‘n baie groot maatskappy op daardie stadium nie, maar wat vir my baie belangrik was – dis ‘n baie diverse maatskappy met ‘n begrafnis maatskappy, met ‘n lewensversekeringsmaatskappy, jy het beleggings wat jy doen, jy belê polishouers se fondse en goed, so daar was vir my ‘n baie goeie leerkurwe waarvan ek gehou het, en ek dink ek het oor die jare gegroei in die maatskappy en ek het saam met die maatskapy gegroei en ek het deur die verskillende stappe gegaan en ek het verskillende poste beklee. Ek het later die finansiële direkteur geword, toe later die besturende direkteur van die versekeringsmaatskappy en uiteindelik aangestel as hoof uitvoerende beampte van die maatskappy, en dis nou 34 jaar later.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: Kom ons praat oor enkele draaipunte wat ‘n besonderse verskil in jou lewe gemaak het.
FRIK RADEMAN: Andries, ja ek dink daar is draaipunte in ons almal se lewe en tot ‘n mindere en meerdere mate maak hulle verskille. Daar’s ‘n paar in my lewe wat ‘n verskil gemaak het, ek dink die eerste draaipunt in my lewe was toe ek as ‘n jong man my dienspligjaar gedoen het en ‘n gedeelte daarvan op die grens met grensdiens gespandeer het. Ek het uit ‘n baie beskermde omgewing gekom en ses maande later doen jy grensdiens. Dit was werklik vir my twee verskillende wêrelde, en ek dink dit het ‘n ou gehelp om volwasse te word. Ek dink ‘n tweede aspek wat ek baie gelukkig was in my lewe – ek het vroeg in my lewe blootstelling gehad op direksie vlak, nie-uitvoerende onafhanklike direkteure. Ek kon luister hoe hulle praat en hoe hulle dink en dit het vir my verskriklik baie gehelp. ‘n Ander aspek in my lewe wat my baie laat nadink het, in die middel negentigs het my vrou baie ernstig siek geword en ons kinders was baie klein op daardie stadium, ons het nie ‘n infrastruktuur gehad nie. Ons ouers was in die Vrystaat gewees so ek was pa, ma en ek was ‘n senior amptenaar by AVBOB wat baie tyd geverg het, en dit het my laat besef dat die lewe kan kort wees – ‘n ou moet maar elke dag die beste daarvan maak. En dan met my aanstelling as hoof uitvoerende beampte het die destydse voorsitter van die raad, en ek wil graag sy naam noem, Nols Greeff, aan my gesê ‘Frik, jy het nou die geleentheid om te verander en jou visie uit te leef’, en ek het van die geleentheid gebruik gemaak en ek dink ek het verandering in plek geplaas. Die laaste aspek wat ek miskien beskou as ‘n draaipunt in my lewe, AVBOB het ‘n paar jaar gelede begin met ‘n projek waar ons ou skeepvraghouers koop en omskep in biblioteke, en die biblioteke dan voorsien met ongeveer 4000 boeke, en dan hierdie biblioteke skenk aan minderbevoorregte skole regdeur die land. Ons het sover ongeveer 30 van hulle oorhandig aan die gemeenskappe, en met die oorhandiging van die biblioteke aan die gemeenskappe het ek tot die besef gekom watter armoede is daar in ons land. Ek dink nie ons besef dit nie, jy moet dit sien voordat jy dit besef. Die tweede aspek wat my getref het is die stryd wat die minderbevoorregte mense voer teen ontwikkeling en ongeletterdheid. Dit is iets ysliks en ek dink dit het vir my nogal, ek wil amper sê my oë oopgemaak en ek het met ‘n ander perspektief na die skole begin kyk.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: Wat sal jy sê het jou gehelp om die draaipunte te maak werk, draaipunte kan so maklik mislukkings ook word?
FRIK RADEMAN: Ja, ek dink ‘n ou besef nie dadelik dis ‘n draaipunt in jou lewe nie. Ons almal is baie besig en terwyl dit met jou gebeur besef jy dit nie, en ek dink daarna as jy bietjie gaan sit en dink dan kom jy agter dit het onbewustelik jou lewe begin verander en jy dink anders oor goed as wat jy voorheen gedink het.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: Wat is jou sakefilosofie Frik, jou lewensfilosofie?
FRIK RADEMAN: Andries, ja ek dink my sake- en lewensfilosofie is geskoei op harde werk, wat ook vir my baie belangrik is, is dissipline. Ek dink nie enige organisasie of instelling of huishouding kan funksioneer sonder dissipline nie. Dissipline is vir my baie belangrik, integriteit is vir my belangrik en ek dink dan moet mens eienaarskap neem, as jy nie eienaarskap neem nie kan dit nie werk nie. Maar ‘n ou moet ook versigtig wees, jy moet altyd die menslike faktor in ag neem. Vanuit ‘n besigheid is ‘n ou altyd geneig om besigheidsbesluite te neem, maar jy moet ook na die menslikheidsfaktor kyk, want sonder mense kan jy nie jou besigheid dryf nie. En dan dink ek wat ook belangrik is, ‘n mens moet verander. Jy kan nie net sê ek het gestudeer en ek het nou ‘n graad nie. Jy moet jou deurlopend verander, jy moet verander saam met die veranderde omstandighede, jy moet tred hou met die veranderinge – ons lewe in ‘n absoluut veranderde wêreld.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: Frik ter afsluiting, enkele woorde van advies aan mede Suid-Afrikaners wat op die uitkyk is vir geleenthede om draaipunte in hul lewens te skep?
FRIK RADEMAN: Andries ja, ek dink ‘n ou moet maar versigtig wees, jy is geneig om te oorhaastig te wees in die lewe, en ek dink as jy oorhaastig is maak ‘n ou baie foute. Ek dink ‘n man moet maar bedag daarop wees. Ek dink daar is altyd geleenthede, en dit gaan nie baie goed met die ekonomie in ons land nie, maar ek dink daar is baie geleenthede. Dan wil ek weer terug kom na die harde werk, dissipline, integriteit, menslikheid. Ek dink dis baie belangrik en ek dink ‘n ou moet passievol wees. As jy nie passievol is nie gaan dit nie werk nie, en in besigheid moet ‘n mens soms dapper en ongewilde besluite neem, en dit skep ‘n bietjie probleme by tye. Ek dink ook jy moet ‘n visie hê en ‘n rigting en as jy nie ‘n visie het nie, kan jou mense jou nie volg nie hulle kan nie inkoop by jou nie. Dis vir my belangrik dat jy ‘n visie en ‘n rigting het, en ek dink laastens moet ‘n mens maar kyk dat jy die beste mense wat jy kan aanstel waarop jy kan vertrou, jy moet met hulle konsulteer jy moet luister wat hulle sê en op die ou einde van die dag moet jy dan maar jou besluit neem op grond van die advies wat jy gekry het.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: Frik baie dankie vir jou tyd, baie dankie vir die gesprek, voorspoed met AVBOB ons sien uit daarna om oor twee jaar weer te praat wanneer AVBOB sy 100-jarige bestaan vier.
FRIK RADEMAN: Dankie Andries.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: Dit was dan Frik Rademan, hoof van die AVBOB versekeringsgroep.
Andries van Zyl | 7 April 2016 19:30
RSG Geldsake en Investec Batebestuur bied tans ‘n weeklikse gespreksreeks aan oor besonderse draaipunte in die lewens van prominente Suid-Afrikaners. Die onderhoude word volledig as potgooie op Moneyweb se webtuiste geplaas, terwyl uittreksels van die gesprekke ook hier op RSG Geldsake uitgesaai word. Die Moneyweb webtuiste waar die volledige onderhoude gehoor kan word, die is www.moneyweb.co.za.
Vandag se gas is Frik Rademan, hoof van die AVBOB begrafnis- en versekeringsgroep wat oor die afgelope 98 jaar ‘n huishoudelike naam vir miljoene Suid-Afrikaners geword het.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: Goeiedag Frik.
FRIK RADEMAN: Goeiemiddag Andries.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: Kom ons begin die gesprek deur AVBOB se geskiedenis op te grawe by wyse van spreke – die ontstaan en ontwikkeling oor byna 10 dekades.
FRIK RADEMAN: Andries baie dankie, ja AVBOB is amper 100 jaar oud, oor twee jaar is ons 100 jaar oud, en AVBOB het begin in 1918 na die Eerste Wêreld Oorlog toe die oorlogsveterane met hulle die Spaanse-griep na Suid-Afrika gebring het. Daar het meer mense in een dag gesterf as in vergelyking met ‘n maand. Die mense kon nie ‘n begrafnis bekostig nie en ‘n paar filantrope het saamgekom en besluit hulle moet iets doen. Hulle het ook vir die liefde van die saak gewerk en die Afrikaanse Verbond is gestig. Gou het hulle agtergekom daar was wel fondse in die versekeringsgenootskap, maar hulle kon nie ‘n begrafnis uitvoer nie. So in 1921 het hulle ‘n bankrot begrafnissaak in Bloemfontein gekoop en AVBOB Begrafnisdiens is gestig, en vandaar af het AVBOB net gegroei en vandag is AVBOB nogsteeds ‘n mutual. Die mutual word beheer deur sy polishouers, so ons het geen eksterne aandeelhouers nie en al ons surplus winste word uitgekeer aan ons polishouers wat ons uniek maak. AVBOB het gegroei. Vandag sit ons met so ongeveer 250 takke in Suid-Afrika, so ongeveer 20 in Namibië en ons verseker so 1.6 miljoen polishouers, ons het 1.6 miljoen polishouers en ons verseker 4.6 miljoen lewens in Suid-Afrika, en elke lewe wat verseker word onder ‘n polis is geregtig op ‘n gratis begrafnis by AVBOB, as hulle na AVBOB kom vir die uitvoering van die begrafnisdiens.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: Frik ‘n 100 jaar, dis bykans, dis ‘n eeu. Dis ‘n geweldige lang tyd. Enkele van die hoofredes vir AVBOB se sakewelslae?
FRIK RADEMAN: Andries ek dink soos met enige besigheid moet ‘n besigheid deurlopend verander en aanpas by veranderde omstandighede, en ek dink dis wat AVBOB uniek maak en ook ons besigheidmodel as ‘n onderlinge versekeringsgenootskap. Ons is eintlik die enigste onderlinge versekeringsgenootskap in Suid-Afrika, en dit maak ons uniek want ons kan spesiale voordele aan ons polishouers gee wat dit bietjie moeilik maak vir ander mense, so ek sal sê deurlopende verandering. Oor die jare het AVBOB baie gehelp om tred te hou met die nuwe Suid-Afrika.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: Kom ons verskuif die gesprek na Frik Rademan, gebore, grootgeword?
FRIK RADEMAN: Andries ja, ek is gebore in Brakpan in Gauteng, ek het my laerskool loopbaan daar begin, Laërskool Môrewag. My pa het in die myn gewerk en toe ek in St. 1 was het die goudmyne toegemaak en my pa is verplaas na Welkom. Daar het ek my laerskool loopbaan verder gevoer en ek het gematrikuleer aan die Hoërskool Welkom Gimnasium. Na matriek het ek eers my een jaar verpligte militêre diensplig gaan doen voordat ek gaan studeer het. Ongelukkig kon my ouers dit nie bekostig om vir my studies te betaal nie, en ek het toe werk gekry by ‘n plaaslike ouditeursfirma in Welkom waar ek ingeskryf het as leerlingouditeur, en daar het ek ook begin studeer deur die Universiteit van Suid-Afrika.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: Vertel vir ons kortliks van die ontwikkeling van jou beroepsloopbaan voordat jy nou by AVBOB uitgekom het?
FRIK RADEMAN: Andries, ja nadat ek my klerkskap voltooi het en my B.Com graad gekry het, het ek by Anglo American aangesluit as ‘n senior winste-ontleder in Welkom. Ek het baie lekker daar gewerk vir 2 jaar, maar die organisasie was ‘n bietjie groot vir my, ek het gevoel soos ‘n druppel in ‘n emmer. Dit was moeilik om ‘n verskil te maak en in 1982 is ek aangestel as die finansiële bestuurder van AVBOB Nywerhede in Bloemfontein, en ek het dadelik tuis gevoel by die organisasie en ek het vir my ‘n toekoms daar gesien, maar ek het nooit in my wildste drome gedink ek gaan die hoof uitvoerende beampte van die maatskappy word nie.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: As jy nou terug kyk vandag in retrospek, wat sou jy sê het die AVBOB beroepsrigting vir jou daai tyd so aantreklik gemaak?
FRIK RADEMAN: Andries, ja, ek is in 1989 verplaas na hoofkantoor toe as hoof van finansies van die groep. Nou AVBOB was nie ‘n baie groot maatskappy op daardie stadium nie, maar wat vir my baie belangrik was – dis ‘n baie diverse maatskappy met ‘n begrafnis maatskappy, met ‘n lewensversekeringsmaatskappy, jy het beleggings wat jy doen, jy belê polishouers se fondse en goed, so daar was vir my ‘n baie goeie leerkurwe waarvan ek gehou het, en ek dink ek het oor die jare gegroei in die maatskappy en ek het saam met die maatskapy gegroei en ek het deur die verskillende stappe gegaan en ek het verskillende poste beklee. Ek het later die finansiële direkteur geword, toe later die besturende direkteur van die versekeringsmaatskappy en uiteindelik aangestel as hoof uitvoerende beampte van die maatskappy, en dis nou 34 jaar later.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: Kom ons praat oor enkele draaipunte wat ‘n besonderse verskil in jou lewe gemaak het.
FRIK RADEMAN: Andries, ja ek dink daar is draaipunte in ons almal se lewe en tot ‘n mindere en meerdere mate maak hulle verskille. Daar’s ‘n paar in my lewe wat ‘n verskil gemaak het, ek dink die eerste draaipunt in my lewe was toe ek as ‘n jong man my dienspligjaar gedoen het en ‘n gedeelte daarvan op die grens met grensdiens gespandeer het. Ek het uit ‘n baie beskermde omgewing gekom en ses maande later doen jy grensdiens. Dit was werklik vir my twee verskillende wêrelde, en ek dink dit het ‘n ou gehelp om volwasse te word. Ek dink ‘n tweede aspek wat ek baie gelukkig was in my lewe – ek het vroeg in my lewe blootstelling gehad op direksie vlak, nie-uitvoerende onafhanklike direkteure. Ek kon luister hoe hulle praat en hoe hulle dink en dit het vir my verskriklik baie gehelp. ‘n Ander aspek in my lewe wat my baie laat nadink het, in die middel negentigs het my vrou baie ernstig siek geword en ons kinders was baie klein op daardie stadium, ons het nie ‘n infrastruktuur gehad nie. Ons ouers was in die Vrystaat gewees so ek was pa, ma en ek was ‘n senior amptenaar by AVBOB wat baie tyd geverg het, en dit het my laat besef dat die lewe kan kort wees – ‘n ou moet maar elke dag die beste daarvan maak. En dan met my aanstelling as hoof uitvoerende beampte het die destydse voorsitter van die raad, en ek wil graag sy naam noem, Nols Greeff, aan my gesê ‘Frik, jy het nou die geleentheid om te verander en jou visie uit te leef’, en ek het van die geleentheid gebruik gemaak en ek dink ek het verandering in plek geplaas. Die laaste aspek wat ek miskien beskou as ‘n draaipunt in my lewe, AVBOB het ‘n paar jaar gelede begin met ‘n projek waar ons ou skeepvraghouers koop en omskep in biblioteke, en die biblioteke dan voorsien met ongeveer 4000 boeke, en dan hierdie biblioteke skenk aan minderbevoorregte skole regdeur die land. Ons het sover ongeveer 30 van hulle oorhandig aan die gemeenskappe, en met die oorhandiging van die biblioteke aan die gemeenskappe het ek tot die besef gekom watter armoede is daar in ons land. Ek dink nie ons besef dit nie, jy moet dit sien voordat jy dit besef. Die tweede aspek wat my getref het is die stryd wat die minderbevoorregte mense voer teen ontwikkeling en ongeletterdheid. Dit is iets ysliks en ek dink dit het vir my nogal, ek wil amper sê my oë oopgemaak en ek het met ‘n ander perspektief na die skole begin kyk.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: Wat sal jy sê het jou gehelp om die draaipunte te maak werk, draaipunte kan so maklik mislukkings ook word?
FRIK RADEMAN: Ja, ek dink ‘n ou besef nie dadelik dis ‘n draaipunt in jou lewe nie. Ons almal is baie besig en terwyl dit met jou gebeur besef jy dit nie, en ek dink daarna as jy bietjie gaan sit en dink dan kom jy agter dit het onbewustelik jou lewe begin verander en jy dink anders oor goed as wat jy voorheen gedink het.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: Wat is jou sakefilosofie Frik, jou lewensfilosofie?
FRIK RADEMAN: Andries, ja ek dink my sake- en lewensfilosofie is geskoei op harde werk, wat ook vir my baie belangrik is, is dissipline. Ek dink nie enige organisasie of instelling of huishouding kan funksioneer sonder dissipline nie. Dissipline is vir my baie belangrik, integriteit is vir my belangrik en ek dink dan moet mens eienaarskap neem, as jy nie eienaarskap neem nie kan dit nie werk nie. Maar ‘n ou moet ook versigtig wees, jy moet altyd die menslike faktor in ag neem. Vanuit ‘n besigheid is ‘n ou altyd geneig om besigheidsbesluite te neem, maar jy moet ook na die menslikheidsfaktor kyk, want sonder mense kan jy nie jou besigheid dryf nie. En dan dink ek wat ook belangrik is, ‘n mens moet verander. Jy kan nie net sê ek het gestudeer en ek het nou ‘n graad nie. Jy moet jou deurlopend verander, jy moet verander saam met die veranderde omstandighede, jy moet tred hou met die veranderinge – ons lewe in ‘n absoluut veranderde wêreld.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: Frik ter afsluiting, enkele woorde van advies aan mede Suid-Afrikaners wat op die uitkyk is vir geleenthede om draaipunte in hul lewens te skep?
FRIK RADEMAN: Andries ja, ek dink ‘n ou moet maar versigtig wees, jy is geneig om te oorhaastig te wees in die lewe, en ek dink as jy oorhaastig is maak ‘n ou baie foute. Ek dink ‘n man moet maar bedag daarop wees. Ek dink daar is altyd geleenthede, en dit gaan nie baie goed met die ekonomie in ons land nie, maar ek dink daar is baie geleenthede. Dan wil ek weer terug kom na die harde werk, dissipline, integriteit, menslikheid. Ek dink dis baie belangrik en ek dink ‘n ou moet passievol wees. As jy nie passievol is nie gaan dit nie werk nie, en in besigheid moet ‘n mens soms dapper en ongewilde besluite neem, en dit skep ‘n bietjie probleme by tye. Ek dink ook jy moet ‘n visie hê en ‘n rigting en as jy nie ‘n visie het nie, kan jou mense jou nie volg nie hulle kan nie inkoop by jou nie. Dis vir my belangrik dat jy ‘n visie en ‘n rigting het, en ek dink laastens moet ‘n mens maar kyk dat jy die beste mense wat jy kan aanstel waarop jy kan vertrou, jy moet met hulle konsulteer jy moet luister wat hulle sê en op die ou einde van die dag moet jy dan maar jou besluit neem op grond van die advies wat jy gekry het.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: Frik baie dankie vir jou tyd, baie dankie vir die gesprek, voorspoed met AVBOB ons sien uit daarna om oor twee jaar weer te praat wanneer AVBOB sy 100-jarige bestaan vier.
FRIK RADEMAN: Dankie Andries.
ANDRIES VAN ZYL: Dit was dan Frik Rademan, hoof van die AVBOB versekeringsgroep.
AVBOB rewards policyholders again with R 1,0 Billion - November 2015
AVBOB Group CEO Announcement 2014 - November 2014
Press Release AVBOB rewards policyholders with big benefits - November 2014
AVBOB Mutual Assurance Society held their Annual General Meeting on 19 November 2014 at their Head Office in Pretoria. The Society announced that it has reserved R 1,5 billion to increase policyholder value which will further improve policyholder benefits thus increasing the total allocation to policyholders over the past seven years to R4,0 billion.
The Society achieved exceptional financial results for the 2013/2014 financial year. Group CEO, Mr Frik Rademan announced a net income of R 2,2 billion before tax and the improvement of policyholder benefits. According to Rademan the Society’s mutual status enables it to distribute all profits to policyholders. “We have once again demonstrated the enormous benefits to be gained from our mutual status. As one of the few remaining mutual societies in South Africa, we are able to offer benefits to our policyholders that our competitors cannot match.”
Rademan emphasized that as from 1 July 2014 the AVBOB policyholders qualify for a free basic funeral in addition to the free transportation of the deceased within the borders of South Africa, provided the burial is performed through their network of funeral parlours and the insured enjoyed cover for at least two years. “I do not believe that this benefit can easily be equalled in South Africa.”
He went on to say that the achievements have been remarkable given today’s world which is filled with uncertainty. “The year was characterised by sluggish economic growth, large scale labour unrest, rising regulated prices, corruption, unemployment and increasing regulatory requirements.”
“Results such as ours are only achieved by teams of strong people working together with passion to deliver on commitments made to the AVBOB family.”
The Group recently became a member of the International Cooperative and Mutual Insurance Federation (ICMIF) which exists to promote and work with mutual insurers in order to further strengthen this section of the insurance industry. This section has outperformed the rest of the insurance sector since the economic crisis which began in 2007/2008.
The Society achieved exceptional financial results for the 2013/2014 financial year. Group CEO, Mr Frik Rademan announced a net income of R 2,2 billion before tax and the improvement of policyholder benefits. According to Rademan the Society’s mutual status enables it to distribute all profits to policyholders. “We have once again demonstrated the enormous benefits to be gained from our mutual status. As one of the few remaining mutual societies in South Africa, we are able to offer benefits to our policyholders that our competitors cannot match.”
Rademan emphasized that as from 1 July 2014 the AVBOB policyholders qualify for a free basic funeral in addition to the free transportation of the deceased within the borders of South Africa, provided the burial is performed through their network of funeral parlours and the insured enjoyed cover for at least two years. “I do not believe that this benefit can easily be equalled in South Africa.”
He went on to say that the achievements have been remarkable given today’s world which is filled with uncertainty. “The year was characterised by sluggish economic growth, large scale labour unrest, rising regulated prices, corruption, unemployment and increasing regulatory requirements.”
“Results such as ours are only achieved by teams of strong people working together with passion to deliver on commitments made to the AVBOB family.”
The Group recently became a member of the International Cooperative and Mutual Insurance Federation (ICMIF) which exists to promote and work with mutual insurers in order to further strengthen this section of the insurance industry. This section has outperformed the rest of the insurance sector since the economic crisis which began in 2007/2008.
Advertorial AVBOB rewards policyholders with R 1,5 Billion - November 2014
AVBOB rewards policyholders with R 1,0 Billion - November 2013
AVBOB rewards policyholders with R 1,0 Billion - November 2013
21 November 2013. AVBOB Mutual Assurance Society yesterday announced that a further R 1,0 billion will be declared to increase policyholder value in the form of special bonuses and improved funeral benefits, following the Society's exceptional results for the 2012/2013 financial year.
This announcement was made during the Society's Annual General Meeting where Mr Frik Rademan, the Group CEO, announced a net income of R 1,6 billion before tax and the improvement of policyholder benefits.
Rademan accentuated the Society's mutual status, which enables it to distribute profits to policyholders. "AVBOB has no external shareholders and the more than 3,5 million lives insured benefit directly from our successess," he said.
According to the Chairman, Prof. Piet Delport, AVBOB has consistently distributed profits to its policyholders in the form of special bonuses and improved funeral benefits in recent years. "The latest declaration now brings the aggregate over the past six years to R 2,5 billion. Simply put, this means that an AVBOB policy consistently appreciates in value and with the Society's improved funeral benefits and ever-expanding national footprint, our mission is to offer a professional one-stop service and great value for money - something we have been known for since 1918".
The improved free funeral benefits for policyholders - when AVBOB does the funeral - include a discount of up to R4000 on the funeral cost and free transportation of the deceased to anywhere within the borders of South Africa.
This announcement was made during the Society's Annual General Meeting where Mr Frik Rademan, the Group CEO, announced a net income of R 1,6 billion before tax and the improvement of policyholder benefits.
Rademan accentuated the Society's mutual status, which enables it to distribute profits to policyholders. "AVBOB has no external shareholders and the more than 3,5 million lives insured benefit directly from our successess," he said.
According to the Chairman, Prof. Piet Delport, AVBOB has consistently distributed profits to its policyholders in the form of special bonuses and improved funeral benefits in recent years. "The latest declaration now brings the aggregate over the past six years to R 2,5 billion. Simply put, this means that an AVBOB policy consistently appreciates in value and with the Society's improved funeral benefits and ever-expanding national footprint, our mission is to offer a professional one-stop service and great value for money - something we have been known for since 1918".
The improved free funeral benefits for policyholders - when AVBOB does the funeral - include a discount of up to R4000 on the funeral cost and free transportation of the deceased to anywhere within the borders of South Africa.
AVBOB beloon polishouers met R1,0 miljard - November 2013
21 November 2013. AVBOB Onderlinge Versekeringsgenootskap het aangekondig dat ? verdure R 1,0 miljard toegeken gaan word om polishouerwaarde te verhoog in die vorm van spesiale bonusse en verbeterde gratis begrafnisvoordele, as gevolg van die Genootskap se uitnemende resultate vir die 2012 /2013-finansiële jaar.
Hierdie aankondiging is gemaak tydens die Genootskap se Algemene Jaarvergadering op 20 November 2013 waar mnr. Frik Rademan, AVBOB se Groep HUB, ? netto inkomste van R 1,6 miljard voor belasting aangekondig het, asook die verbetering van polishouervoordele.
Die toekenning van R 1,0 miljard sal vanaf Mei vanjaar onder polishouers verdeel word in die vorm van spesiale bonusse wat die waarde van die polis sal vergroot sonder dat enige gepaardgaande premieverhoging. Spesiale bonusse is slegs betaalbaar by afsterwe van die versekerde of wanneer die polis uitgekeer word.
Rademan het nadruk gelê op die Genootskap se onderlinge status, wat dit in staat stel om winste aan polishouers toe te deel. “AVBOB as ‘n onderlinge versekeringsgenootskap het geen eksterne aandeelhouers nie en die meer as 3,7 miljoen versekerde lewens put regstreeks voordeel uit ons welslae,” het hy gesê.
Volgens die Voorsitter, prof. Piet Delport, het AVBOB die afgelope paar jaar op volgehoue basis winste in die vorm van spesiale bonusse en verbeterde gratis begrafnisvoordele aan sy polishouers toegedeel. “Met die jongste toedeling kom die totaal oor die afgelope ses jaar op R 2,5 miljard te staan. Eenvoudig gestel, beteken dit dat ? AVBOB-polis voortdurend in waarde toeneem. Met die Genootskap se verbeterde gratis begrafnisvoordele en steeds toenemende nasionale teenwoordigheid is dit ons missie om ? professionele eenstopdiens en goeie waarde vir geld te bied – iets waarvoor ons reeds sedert 1918 bekend is.”
Die verhoogde gratis begrafnisvoordele vir polishouers – wanneer AVBOB Begrafnisdiens die begrafnis hanteer – sluit ? afslag in van tot soveel soos R4000 op die begrafniskoste, asook gratis vervoer van die oorledene vanaf en na enige plek binne die grense van Suid-Afrika. Bepalings en voorwaardes geld. Wanneer AVBOB aangestel word om 'n begrafnis uit te voer, tree die verbeterde gratis begrafnisvoordele vir polishouers in werking. Dit behels 'n afslag van tot R4000 op die begrafniskoste, asook gratis vervoer van die oorledene na enige bestemming binne die landsgrense van Suid-Afrika.
Hierdie aankondiging is gemaak tydens die Genootskap se Algemene Jaarvergadering op 20 November 2013 waar mnr. Frik Rademan, AVBOB se Groep HUB, ? netto inkomste van R 1,6 miljard voor belasting aangekondig het, asook die verbetering van polishouervoordele.
Die toekenning van R 1,0 miljard sal vanaf Mei vanjaar onder polishouers verdeel word in die vorm van spesiale bonusse wat die waarde van die polis sal vergroot sonder dat enige gepaardgaande premieverhoging. Spesiale bonusse is slegs betaalbaar by afsterwe van die versekerde of wanneer die polis uitgekeer word.
Rademan het nadruk gelê op die Genootskap se onderlinge status, wat dit in staat stel om winste aan polishouers toe te deel. “AVBOB as ‘n onderlinge versekeringsgenootskap het geen eksterne aandeelhouers nie en die meer as 3,7 miljoen versekerde lewens put regstreeks voordeel uit ons welslae,” het hy gesê.
Volgens die Voorsitter, prof. Piet Delport, het AVBOB die afgelope paar jaar op volgehoue basis winste in die vorm van spesiale bonusse en verbeterde gratis begrafnisvoordele aan sy polishouers toegedeel. “Met die jongste toedeling kom die totaal oor die afgelope ses jaar op R 2,5 miljard te staan. Eenvoudig gestel, beteken dit dat ? AVBOB-polis voortdurend in waarde toeneem. Met die Genootskap se verbeterde gratis begrafnisvoordele en steeds toenemende nasionale teenwoordigheid is dit ons missie om ? professionele eenstopdiens en goeie waarde vir geld te bied – iets waarvoor ons reeds sedert 1918 bekend is.”
Die verhoogde gratis begrafnisvoordele vir polishouers – wanneer AVBOB Begrafnisdiens die begrafnis hanteer – sluit ? afslag in van tot soveel soos R4000 op die begrafniskoste, asook gratis vervoer van die oorledene vanaf en na enige plek binne die grense van Suid-Afrika. Bepalings en voorwaardes geld. Wanneer AVBOB aangestel word om 'n begrafnis uit te voer, tree die verbeterde gratis begrafnisvoordele vir polishouers in werking. Dit behels 'n afslag van tot R4000 op die begrafniskoste, asook gratis vervoer van die oorledene na enige bestemming binne die landsgrense van Suid-Afrika.
AVBOB rewards policyholder with R1,0 Billion - November 2013
AVBOB Mutual Assurance Society yesterday announced that a further R1,0 billion will be declared to increase policyholder value in the form of special bonuses and improved funeral benefits, following the Society's exceptional results for the 2012/2013 financial year. This announcement was made during the Society's Annual General Meeting where Mr Frik Rademan, the Group CEO, announced a net income of R 1,6 billion before tax and the improvement of policyholder benefits.
AVBOB Mutual Assurance Society announced that a further R 1,0 billion will be allocated to increase policyholder value in the form of special bonuses and enhanced free funeral benefits, following the Society’s exceptional results for the 2012/2013 financial year.
This announcement was made during the Society’s Annual General Meeting on 20 November 2013 where Mr Frik Rademan, AVBOB Group CEO, announced a net income of R 1,6 billion before tax and the improvement of policyholder benefits.
The R 1,0 billion allocation will be distributed amongst policyholders from May this year in the form of special bonuses which will increase the value of the policy without incurring a premium increase. Special bonuses are only payable on death of the insured or on maturity of the policy.
Rademan emphasized the Society’s mutual status, which enables it to distribute profits to policyholders. “AVBOB, as a mutual assurance society has no external shareholders and the more than 3,7 million lives insured benefit directly from its successes.” he said.
According to the Chairman, Prof. Piet Delport, AVBOB has consistently allocated profits to its policyholders in the form of special bonuses and enhanced free funeral benefits in recent years. “The latest allocation now brings the aggregate over the past six years to R 2,5 billion. Simply put, this means that an AVBOB policy consistently appreciates in value and with the Society’s enhanced free funeral benefits and ever-expanding national footprint, our mission is to offer a professional one-stop service and great value for money – something we have been known for since 1918.”
The enhanced free funeral benefits for policyholders – when AVBOB Funeral Service does the funeral – includes a discount of up to R 4 000 on the funeral cost and free transportation of the deceased anywhere within the borders of South Africa. Terms and conditions apply.
AVBOB beloon polishouers met R1,0 Miljard - November 2013
Die Onderlinge Versekeringsgenootskap, AVBOB, het gister aangekondig dat 'n verdere R 1,0 miljard verklaar word ter verbetering van polishouerwaarde in die vorm van spesiale bonusse en verbeterde begrafnisvoordele as gevolg van die Genootskap se uitstekende resultate vir die 2012/2013 finansiele jaar. Hierdie aankondiging is gemaak tydens die Genootskap se Algemene Jaarvergadering waartydens mnr. Frik Rademan, Groep Hoof Uitvoerende Beampte 'n netto inkomste van R1,6 miljard voor belasting en die verbetering van polishouervoordele aangekondig het.
Rademan het sterk klem gele op die Genootskap se status as 'n onderlinge genootskap wat dit moontlik maak om winste na polishouers oor te dra. "AVBOB het geen eksterne aandeelhouers nie en die meer as 3,5 miljoen versekerde lewens baat direk by ons suksesse," aldus Rademan.Prof. Piet Delport, Voorsitter van die Raad, was dit met Rademan eens dat AVBOB se polishouers die afgelope paar jaar gereeld voordeel getrek het uit winste wat in die vorm van spesiale bonusse en verbeterde begrafnisvoordele na hulle oorgedra is. "Die jongste verklaring," se prof. Delport, "kom neer op 'n totale bedrag van R2,5 miljard wat oor die afgelope ses jaar veklaar is. Eenvoudig gestel, beteken dit dat 'n AVBOB-polis deurlopend in waarde toeneem en met AVBOB se verbeterde begrafnisvoordele en groeiende nasionale bedieningsnetwerk, is dit ons missie om 'n professionele een-stopdiens en goeie waarde vir geld aan ons kliente te bied. Dit is immers waarvoor ons reeds sedert 1918 bekend is."
Wanneer AVBOB aangestel word om 'n begrafnis uit te voer, tree die verbeterde gratis begrafnisvoordele vir polishouers in werking. Dit behels 'n afslag van tot R 4000 op die begrafniskoste, asook gratis vervoer van die oorledene na enige bestemming binne die landsgrense van Suid-Afrika.
AVBOB Foundation is helping build leaders of tomorrow - October 2013
Ezindlovini Primary School in rural Kwa Zulu Natal were the proud recipients of a brand new, fully stocked mobile library courtesy of the AVBOB Foundation. The official handover took place at the school on 10 October 2013. This is the 6th mobile school library donation this year and forms part of the AVBOB Foundation’s promise to uplift and empower 30 schools over a three year period.
The hosts, Ezindlovini Primary School teachers, learners and community members warmly welcomed the delegation from AVBOB and the Department of Education and commemorated the special day by proudly singing the National Anthem and performing traditional dances.
Literacy at South African schools is a huge concern especially considering that only 8% of public schools have functional libraries. The road that AVBOB have decided to travel with their library projects will go a long way in bridging the literacy gap.
Mr Frik Rademan, the CEO of AVBOB is committed to the library campaign and empowering the lives of the learners. He believes that the libraries will go a long way in unleashing the potential that is inherent in each and every young learner. This will help level the disparity found in rural schools and help give learners a head start.
The partnership between the sponsor AVBOB, the NGO Touch Africa and the Department of Education will see a further 24 libraries being donated over the next three years.
Dedication and commitment in developing literacy in our schools is not only the responsibility of partners and sponsors but more importantly it rests with the worthy recipients of these prized libraries.
In these tough economic times, it is vital that sponsors are ensuring that their charitable donations are both measurable and sustainable. In the case of a library, the ‘measurable’ should relate to a direct increase in literacy levels and interest in reading. The onus falling on the school to “maintain and develop” the library and also to introduce the learners to new books on a regular basis.
In previous schools where library donations have taken place, an increase in attendance and a migration from other nearby schools has been noticed. Learners seeking a spot in these respective schools came as a direct result of their newly acquired facility.
Rotary International and their Humanitarian Distribution Centre of Southern Africa in Bedfordview, donated 300 books. An additional 300 books were purchased from BIBLIONEF and they in return donated the same amount. AVBOB Foundation purchased the remainder of books from a supplier in Port Elizabeth.
For further information please contact:
AVBOB
Marius du Plessis
Group Communication Manager
Tel: 012 303 1010
Cell: 083 625 3971
Email: dmarius@avbob.co.za
Touch Africa
Mike Glover
Cell: 083 601 3287
If you would like to assist this project by donating books aimed at young readers, contact Mike on 083 601 3287, or mike@touchafrica.info
The hosts, Ezindlovini Primary School teachers, learners and community members warmly welcomed the delegation from AVBOB and the Department of Education and commemorated the special day by proudly singing the National Anthem and performing traditional dances.
Literacy at South African schools is a huge concern especially considering that only 8% of public schools have functional libraries. The road that AVBOB have decided to travel with their library projects will go a long way in bridging the literacy gap.
Mr Frik Rademan, the CEO of AVBOB is committed to the library campaign and empowering the lives of the learners. He believes that the libraries will go a long way in unleashing the potential that is inherent in each and every young learner. This will help level the disparity found in rural schools and help give learners a head start.
The partnership between the sponsor AVBOB, the NGO Touch Africa and the Department of Education will see a further 24 libraries being donated over the next three years.
Dedication and commitment in developing literacy in our schools is not only the responsibility of partners and sponsors but more importantly it rests with the worthy recipients of these prized libraries.
- Reviewing the history of the school.
- An evaluation of the leadership team.
- What sponsorships the school has received previously.
- Establishing the school’s needs and how these will be assessed in the future.
In these tough economic times, it is vital that sponsors are ensuring that their charitable donations are both measurable and sustainable. In the case of a library, the ‘measurable’ should relate to a direct increase in literacy levels and interest in reading. The onus falling on the school to “maintain and develop” the library and also to introduce the learners to new books on a regular basis.
In previous schools where library donations have taken place, an increase in attendance and a migration from other nearby schools has been noticed. Learners seeking a spot in these respective schools came as a direct result of their newly acquired facility.
Rotary International and their Humanitarian Distribution Centre of Southern Africa in Bedfordview, donated 300 books. An additional 300 books were purchased from BIBLIONEF and they in return donated the same amount. AVBOB Foundation purchased the remainder of books from a supplier in Port Elizabeth.
For further information please contact:
AVBOB
Marius du Plessis
Group Communication Manager
Tel: 012 303 1010
Cell: 083 625 3971
Email: dmarius@avbob.co.za
Touch Africa
Mike Glover
Cell: 083 601 3287
If you would like to assist this project by donating books aimed at young readers, contact Mike on 083 601 3287, or mike@touchafrica.info
Brand new mobile library for Kwelerana Junior Secondary School - September 2013
On the 19th of September 2013, Kwelerana Junior Secondary School in Mthatha, Eastern Cape was the grateful recipients of the 6th mobile school library courtesy of the AVBOBFoundation
Literacy at schools remains a concern and considering that only 8% of public schools in South Africa have functional libraries, the road that AVBOB have decided to travel with their library projects will go a long way in bridging the literacy gap.
Mr Frik Rademan, the CEO of AVBOB certainly leads by example and his commitment to the library campaign is evident. At each of the library handover events, he continues to emphasize that “We at AVBOB have embarked on this journey in order to contribute to the unleashing of potential inherent in each and every one of the young learners whose lives we will be touching over the next three years”. The partnership between the sponsor AVBOB, the charity Touch Africa and the Department of Education will see a further 24 libraries being donated over the next three years.
Dedication and commitment in developing literacy in our schools is not only the responsibility of partners and sponsors but more importantly it rests with the worthy recipients of these prized libraries.
The criterion for the selection of the school rests with Touch Africa, the appointed NGO for AVBOB, who follow a strict due diligence practice of:
In previous schools where library donations have taken place, an increase in attendance and a migration from other nearby schools has been noticed. Learners seeking a spot in these respective schools came as a direct result of their newly acquired facility.
Approximately 300 books were purchased from BIBLIONEF and they in return donated the same amount. The remainder of the books were purchased from Bargain Books Greenacres, PE.
Mr Frik Rademan, the CEO of AVBOB was delightfully engrossed in this worthy event and took pleasure in handing out gifts and treats to the learners. He also did the honours of cutting the ribbon and declaring the well-equipped library open.
If you would like to assist this project by donating books aimed at young readers, contact Mike on 083 601 3287, or mike@touchafrica.info
Literacy at schools remains a concern and considering that only 8% of public schools in South Africa have functional libraries, the road that AVBOB have decided to travel with their library projects will go a long way in bridging the literacy gap.
Mr Frik Rademan, the CEO of AVBOB certainly leads by example and his commitment to the library campaign is evident. At each of the library handover events, he continues to emphasize that “We at AVBOB have embarked on this journey in order to contribute to the unleashing of potential inherent in each and every one of the young learners whose lives we will be touching over the next three years”. The partnership between the sponsor AVBOB, the charity Touch Africa and the Department of Education will see a further 24 libraries being donated over the next three years.
Dedication and commitment in developing literacy in our schools is not only the responsibility of partners and sponsors but more importantly it rests with the worthy recipients of these prized libraries.
The criterion for the selection of the school rests with Touch Africa, the appointed NGO for AVBOB, who follow a strict due diligence practice of:
- Reviewing the history of the school.
- An evaluation of the leadership team.
- What sponsorships the school has received previously.
- Establishing the school’s needs and how these will be assessed in the future.
In previous schools where library donations have taken place, an increase in attendance and a migration from other nearby schools has been noticed. Learners seeking a spot in these respective schools came as a direct result of their newly acquired facility.
Approximately 300 books were purchased from BIBLIONEF and they in return donated the same amount. The remainder of the books were purchased from Bargain Books Greenacres, PE.
Mr Frik Rademan, the CEO of AVBOB was delightfully engrossed in this worthy event and took pleasure in handing out gifts and treats to the learners. He also did the honours of cutting the ribbon and declaring the well-equipped library open.
If you would like to assist this project by donating books aimed at young readers, contact Mike on 083 601 3287, or mike@touchafrica.info
Batho Primary School gets a brand new library - July 2013
There was a buzz of excitement on Wednesday 24th July as Batho Primary School in Bloemfontein received a brand new container library courtesy of AVBOB.
Literacy at schools is a major concern and considering that only 8% of public schools in South Africa have functional libraries, the road that AVBOB have decided to travel with their library projects will go a long way to bridging the literacy gap.
Mr Frik Rademan, the CEO of AVBOB certainly leads by example and his commitment to the library campaign is evident. At each of the library handover events, he continues to emphasize that “We at AVBOB have embarked on this journey in order to contribute to the unleashing of potential inherent in each and every one of the young learners whose lives we will be touching over the next three years”. The partnership between the sponsor AVBOB, the charity Touch Africa and the Dept. of Education will see a further 26 libraries being donated over the next three years.
Dedication and commitment to the developing literacy in our schools is not only that of partners and sponsors but more importantly it rests with the worthy recipients of these prized libraries. The criterion for the selection of the school rests with Touch Africa, the appointed NGO for AVBOB, who follow a strict due diligence practice of:
In these tough economic times, it is vital that sponsors are ensuring that their charitable donations are both measurable and sustainable. In the case of a library, the measurable should relate to a direct increase in literacy levels. The onus will be on the school to “maintain and develop” the library by introducing new books.
In previous schools that have received libraries, an increase in attendance and migration from other nearby schools seeking a spot in these respective schools came as a direct result of their newly acquired facility.
Once again, Rotary South Africa and Mr Tom Borrill supported this worthy cause and ensured that we had a good compliment of books. The balance was purchased from Readers Warehouse.
Mr Frik Rademan, the CEO of AVBOB was once again delightfully engrossed in this worthy event and took pleasure in handing out gifts and treats to the kids. He also did the honours of cutting the ribbon and declaring the well-equipped library open.
Literacy at schools is a major concern and considering that only 8% of public schools in South Africa have functional libraries, the road that AVBOB have decided to travel with their library projects will go a long way to bridging the literacy gap.
Mr Frik Rademan, the CEO of AVBOB certainly leads by example and his commitment to the library campaign is evident. At each of the library handover events, he continues to emphasize that “We at AVBOB have embarked on this journey in order to contribute to the unleashing of potential inherent in each and every one of the young learners whose lives we will be touching over the next three years”. The partnership between the sponsor AVBOB, the charity Touch Africa and the Dept. of Education will see a further 26 libraries being donated over the next three years.
Dedication and commitment to the developing literacy in our schools is not only that of partners and sponsors but more importantly it rests with the worthy recipients of these prized libraries. The criterion for the selection of the school rests with Touch Africa, the appointed NGO for AVBOB, who follow a strict due diligence practice of:
- Reviewing the history of the school.
- An evaluation of the leadership team.
- What sponsorships the school has received previously.
- What are the needs and how will it be measured moving forward.
In these tough economic times, it is vital that sponsors are ensuring that their charitable donations are both measurable and sustainable. In the case of a library, the measurable should relate to a direct increase in literacy levels. The onus will be on the school to “maintain and develop” the library by introducing new books.
In previous schools that have received libraries, an increase in attendance and migration from other nearby schools seeking a spot in these respective schools came as a direct result of their newly acquired facility.
Once again, Rotary South Africa and Mr Tom Borrill supported this worthy cause and ensured that we had a good compliment of books. The balance was purchased from Readers Warehouse.
Mr Frik Rademan, the CEO of AVBOB was once again delightfully engrossed in this worthy event and took pleasure in handing out gifts and treats to the kids. He also did the honours of cutting the ribbon and declaring the well-equipped library open.
AVBOB reassures policyholders following SABC allegations - November 2012
PRETORIA (28 November 2012) – Specialist funeral insurance and burial service provider AVBOB would like to respond to allegations which were made during several national news broadcasts on the evening of Tuesday 27 November 2012. The allegations suggest that AVBOB’s business practices are in question following an incident in which a fraudulent claim was lodged on a policy. The impression created is that AVBOB, as a licensed Financial Services Provider, should be investigated and held accountable for misconduct.
AVBOB would like to state categorically that at no stage was the company aware that the claim was fraudulent. It also refutes the innuendo of possible collusion with the party posing as the client. Group Communication Manager, Mr. Marius du Plessis, who was quoted in the programme, points out that all due process were followed in paying out the claim, including scrutiny of all necessary documentation.
“We take issue with the allegations that were made in the SABC programme and would like to reassure our loyal policyholders that we administer their insurance policies in a professional manner at all times,” said Du Plessis. “As a licensed Financial Services Provider we are subject to all relevant legislation and regulations and directives issued by the Financial Services Board. We also adhere to the best practice recommendations and sound governance principles of King III.”
Du Plessis said it is no secret that identity theft is on the increase in South Africa, adding that although AVBOB uses the services of external specialists to assist in combating fraud and corruption, in addition to its own internal control mechanisms, the level of sophistication has reached a point where fraud is often difficult to detect. AVBOB was under the impression that it was assisting in a general investigation into identity theft when it agreed to take part in the SABC programme.
Du Plessis pointed out that the affected policy has been reinstated. “We value our policyholders and they can rest assured that they will not be negatively affected by any fraud committed against us,” he stated.
The fraud case is currently the subject of a South African Police Service (SAPS) investigation. Du Plessis added that, contrary to some reports, AVBOB is unaware of any investigation being conducted by the Financial Services Board against AVBOB in this regard.
For further information, please contact
Marius Du Plessis
Group Communication Manager
Tel: (012) 303 1010
Cell: 083 625 3971
E-mail:dmarius@avbob.co.za
AVBOB would like to state categorically that at no stage was the company aware that the claim was fraudulent. It also refutes the innuendo of possible collusion with the party posing as the client. Group Communication Manager, Mr. Marius du Plessis, who was quoted in the programme, points out that all due process were followed in paying out the claim, including scrutiny of all necessary documentation.
“We take issue with the allegations that were made in the SABC programme and would like to reassure our loyal policyholders that we administer their insurance policies in a professional manner at all times,” said Du Plessis. “As a licensed Financial Services Provider we are subject to all relevant legislation and regulations and directives issued by the Financial Services Board. We also adhere to the best practice recommendations and sound governance principles of King III.”
Du Plessis said it is no secret that identity theft is on the increase in South Africa, adding that although AVBOB uses the services of external specialists to assist in combating fraud and corruption, in addition to its own internal control mechanisms, the level of sophistication has reached a point where fraud is often difficult to detect. AVBOB was under the impression that it was assisting in a general investigation into identity theft when it agreed to take part in the SABC programme.
Du Plessis pointed out that the affected policy has been reinstated. “We value our policyholders and they can rest assured that they will not be negatively affected by any fraud committed against us,” he stated.
The fraud case is currently the subject of a South African Police Service (SAPS) investigation. Du Plessis added that, contrary to some reports, AVBOB is unaware of any investigation being conducted by the Financial Services Board against AVBOB in this regard.
For further information, please contact
Marius Du Plessis
Group Communication Manager
Tel: (012) 303 1010
Cell: 083 625 3971
E-mail:dmarius@avbob.co.za
AVBOB takes top award at Sunday Times Top Brands Awards - August 2012
Mr Frik Rademan
AVBOB was voted the 3rd best known brand in the Business Category (Long-term Insurance) at this year’s Sunday Times Top Brands award ceremony, held in Johannesburg on 2 August.
More than 45 leading South African brands are surveyed annually by AVUSA Media’s research partner, TNS Research which culminates in the subsequent acknowledgement and awarding of the title of “Top Brand” in their respective category.
Approximately 3 500 South Africans over the age of 18 are surveyed to determine each brands penetration in the market. Various criteria are used to determine brand strength in the market, including, familiarity, brand rating and the strength amongst its users, experience of the brand as well as public perception.
In response to this year’s results, AVBOB’s Group CEO, Frik Rademan responded by saying “our success in the market can be attributed to a combination of factors.” According to him, one of the most important factors is that they have provided specialist funeral insurance and funeral services to the South African public for the past ninety two years. He added “we are a mutual assurance society which means that our policyholders and not external shareholders own the company and benefit directly from our successes”. He said policyholders have received special bonuses of more than R1.4 billion over the past five years. These bonuses are over and above normal bonuses and the many free funeral benefits they received over the same period.
“It is imperative that companies work smarter to deliver superior products, services and value propositions on a continuous basis and demonstrate their commitment to company values” Rademan said.
Over the past few years AVBOB has managed to grow net new business by 15% per annum. Current policy-holder’s total 1.3 million with approximately 3.3 million lives insured. The Society’s premium income has doubled from R738 million in 2007 to R1.5 billion in 2012. Total assets now stand at R7 billion.
When asked how important the strength of the brand is in relation to AVBOB’s success in the market, Rademan replied “it is directly related to our success. Building the brand has been pivotal in the success of recent years which we have achieved through maximising our value proposition in the market place.” The key to building and maintaining their brand as a hallmark of quality is the focussed approach that AVBOB has maintained to delivering superior quality products and services on an on-going basis.
He added that he felt all accolades should go to their loyal and talented staff whose blend of hard work, perseverance and commitment to live their brand promise “We’re here for you” has allowed them to become leaders in the industry. Rademan said this work ethic, which has been built on uncompromising business ethics and organisational integrity, has instilled consumer confidence and trust which is the cornerstone of their sustainability and enabled them to stand out as leaders in the industry.
More than 45 leading South African brands are surveyed annually by AVUSA Media’s research partner, TNS Research which culminates in the subsequent acknowledgement and awarding of the title of “Top Brand” in their respective category.
Approximately 3 500 South Africans over the age of 18 are surveyed to determine each brands penetration in the market. Various criteria are used to determine brand strength in the market, including, familiarity, brand rating and the strength amongst its users, experience of the brand as well as public perception.
In response to this year’s results, AVBOB’s Group CEO, Frik Rademan responded by saying “our success in the market can be attributed to a combination of factors.” According to him, one of the most important factors is that they have provided specialist funeral insurance and funeral services to the South African public for the past ninety two years. He added “we are a mutual assurance society which means that our policyholders and not external shareholders own the company and benefit directly from our successes”. He said policyholders have received special bonuses of more than R1.4 billion over the past five years. These bonuses are over and above normal bonuses and the many free funeral benefits they received over the same period.
“It is imperative that companies work smarter to deliver superior products, services and value propositions on a continuous basis and demonstrate their commitment to company values” Rademan said.
Over the past few years AVBOB has managed to grow net new business by 15% per annum. Current policy-holder’s total 1.3 million with approximately 3.3 million lives insured. The Society’s premium income has doubled from R738 million in 2007 to R1.5 billion in 2012. Total assets now stand at R7 billion.
When asked how important the strength of the brand is in relation to AVBOB’s success in the market, Rademan replied “it is directly related to our success. Building the brand has been pivotal in the success of recent years which we have achieved through maximising our value proposition in the market place.” The key to building and maintaining their brand as a hallmark of quality is the focussed approach that AVBOB has maintained to delivering superior quality products and services on an on-going basis.
He added that he felt all accolades should go to their loyal and talented staff whose blend of hard work, perseverance and commitment to live their brand promise “We’re here for you” has allowed them to become leaders in the industry. Rademan said this work ethic, which has been built on uncompromising business ethics and organisational integrity, has instilled consumer confidence and trust which is the cornerstone of their sustainability and enabled them to stand out as leaders in the industry.
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