P H AT S I M O – 1

C O M M U N I T I ES I N K R O O N STA D AC K N OW L E D G E T H E G O O D T H AT D I A M O N D S D O

Voorspoed Mine received several letters of appreciation for their tireless ef for ts, dedication and contributions to assist communities.

Stories that inspire our Values ISSUE 4 JULY 2016

IN THIS

ISSUE

Employees and their families enjoy a fun day at Voorspoed Mine.

8

2

Congratulations to Mojabeng Ophelia Pinkoane for her achievement in obtaining a BA Degree in Communication Science from the University of South Africa (Unisa). She received her certificate at a graduation ceremony held in Bloemfontein on 13 May 2016.

Mojabeng started working for De Beers Voorspoed Mine in 2008 as part of the Disability Employment Equity Project (DEEP). At the time, her highest qualification was a matric certificate. In 2010, she became a permanent employee as a Public and Corporate Affairs Assistant. Mojabeng enrolled with Unisa in 2011 and completed her degree in 2015.

“I owe all my achievements to my mother and daughter who supported me and disciplined me to be focussed at home. “I would also like to thank my colleagues – past and present – who pushed me beyond my limits while encouraging me not to quit, especially when I had challenges with finding the balance between work and studies. It was not an easy road but it makes me happy to realise that it made both my family and colleagues proud of me. I would like to say that it goes beyond a doubt that disability does not mean that a person is incapable of setting goals and achieving them, “commented Mojabeng.

T H E S K Y I S T H E L I M I T

6

Pieter starts up his own business with the support from De Beers Zimele Fund.

Colourful hairdo in support of CANSA Shavathon.

Ngwathe Local

Municipality

On behalf of Ngwathe Local

Municipality, allow me to

express our sincerest gratitude

to your institution for

supporting our development

programmes, which are

always aimed at improving

the lives of our less privileged

communities. Cllr MJ

Mochela, Mayor, Ngwathe

Local Municipality

Emerging Farmers Training initiative

We are humbled by efforts of your institution to amend the quality of lives particularly in the disadvantaged communities. We are a commercial crop and animal producing company. Our focus is not only on maximum production and profits but we are also looking forward to formalise our company’s (Rietfontein Agri Partners) relationship with your company on communities socio-economic development programmes.

Vredefort Youth Forum

Voorspoed Mine visit

On behalf of Vredefort Youth

Forum we would like to thank

you for giving the young people

of Vredefort the opportunity to

witness the Mine environment.

We can assure you it has left

young people inspired and we are

looking forward to be part of the

great inspiring family of De Beers

Voorspoed Mine in the future.

Regards, Vredefort Youth forum,

George Rooi

Southern African Youth Movement (SAYM)

Southern African Youth Movement (SAYM) is a non-partisan, non-political organisation which has a regional office based in the Free State (Rammulotsi). The organisation is supported by donors, government and private sector. It is for this reason and more that we would like to state our gratitude and satisfaction of the support that De Beers Voorspoed Mine provided to our organisation in 2015. Yours sincerely, Benedict Mphukhe, Project Manager

Mojabeng Pinkoane from Voorspoed Mine Corporate Affairs Department is partially blind but successfully completed her BA Degree in Communication Science.

2 – P H AT S I M O

C O M M U N I T Y I N V EST M E N T

WAT E R S U P P L I ES FO R A L L DAYS As part of De Beers Venetia Mine’s Social and Labour Plan, the Mine is committed to the Blouberg Local Municipality’s ‘Community Water Project’ which aims to create constant and reliable water provision for the people of Alldays.

Venetia Mine has invested R1.5 million to allow for the outfitting of two boreholes, the repair of two booster pumps, the installation of an additional water reservoir as well as the automation of the water supply system. The project was completed at the end of March 2016 and the result is a significant improvement in the supply of water to Alldays from a meagre 40% to a comfortable 95%.

In addition to the Community Water Project, De Beers also received a request from the youth of Alldays to assist Alldays Primary School with access to water. After the full assessment was done at the school, De Beers facilitated the purchase and installation of the necessary borehole equipment, the connection of the system to a water tank, as well as the elevation of the water tank to ensure a reliable water supply.

3000 members of Alldays and 300 grateful learners now have access to running water.

De Beers sponsored the automation of the water supply system and a additional water reservoir for Alldays.

L I G H T I N G A CA N D L E I N M E M O RY O F LOV E D O N ES

The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial, coordinated by the Global Network of People living with HIV, is one of the world’s oldest and largest grassroots mobilisation campaigns for HIV awareness in the world. Started in 1983, the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial takes place every third Sunday in May and is led by a coalition of some 1 200 community organisations in 115 countries.

The Taaibosch event began with a 4 km fun walk, thereafter candles were lit and a moment of silence observed for those affected. Corporate Affairs Manager for De Beers Venetia Mine, Josephine Pieters, touched on the importance of on-going efforts to combat the disease – particularly in rural areas, “It is essential that we engage, educate and empower our communities to combat the HIV/AIDS pandemic. Only by working together with government and promoting knowledge paired with meaningful action can we reach our national target of ZERO AIDS related deaths.”

Almost 300 members of the Taaibosch community gathered in May 2016 to commemorate those who lost their lives to HIV and AIDS as well as people infected and affected by the disease. The Capricorn District Municipality, Blouberg Local Municipality, De Beers and the Mamadi Advice Centre partnered to host the event with the theme ‘Engage, Educate, Empower’.

HAVING FUN IN SUPPORT OF A GOOD CAUSE

773 employees and contracting partners donated a total of R23 194.00 by having their hair shaved or sprayed for a good cause. The amount raised by employee volunteers was matched by De Beers. The resulting R46 388.00 will be used towards mobile cancer testing units which will service the rural areas of Limpopo as well as for cancer education and awareness in the area.

Susan Nortje, Senior Project Planner at Venetia Mine and a passionate cancer survivor who also lost both her parents to the disease, took a moment to thank CANSA for their exceptional work, particularly in assisting those members of the community who do not have access to medical aid.Venetia Mine handed over a cheque to the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) in

Polokwane.Welma Cellier and Meagan Alexander go M.A.D. (Make a difference) for CANSA.

SMMEs Supported

Women Owned SMMEs Supported

Youth Owned SMMEs Supported

Number of Jobs (new and Existing)

Loans Approved (ZAR)

5 0 4 0 % 3 0 % 6 5 1 R 1 1 9 5 2 8 1 8

P H AT S I M O – 3

In this issue of the newsletter we celebrate many successes and milestones achieved in the business and with employees.

Education is a key focus area for De Beers and the organisation continues to invest in educational initiatives that support our Social Labour Plan, learning and development of our employees and funding for students via the De Beers Bursar and Graduate Trainee Programmes. As our great leader Nelson Mandela once said, ‘Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world’.

It is most encouraging to see our fellow colleague Mojabeng Pinkoane from Voorspoed Mine Corporate Affairs department, who is partially blind, complete her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication Science from the University of South Africa (Unisa). Just reading Mojabeng’s story made me realise that having a disability should not be a stumbling block to achieving one’s goal. Mojabeng is a true example of how we can live our lives – the sky is the limit and nothing should hold us back.

We also recognise other colleagues who completed their studies and graduated; and read about the De Beers Bursar and Graduate Trainee Programme which is featured on page 5. Most recently, De Beers contributed R6 million towards the Renaissance Secondary School as a result of a progressive partnership between the Limpopo Department of Education and De Beers, through the Rural School Development Programme.

I would also like to congratulate both Wandi Nongodlwana and AJ Coetzee who completed the Comrades Marathon this year, read more about them on page 11.

Your feedback is important and I would like to hear your views on Phatsimo and welcome any suggestions that you may have. You can send your comments, questions or articles either via SMS on 30996 or email CHQ.InternalCommunication@debeersgroup.com.

Winter is upon us with shorter days and longer nights, I hope you keep warm and be safe.

Regards

Priya Maharaj

E D I TO R ’S

N OT E

C O M M U N I T Y S P E N D I N L I M P O P O 2 0 1 3 – 2 0 1 5

De Beers Venetia Mine is fully committed and will continue to make a lasting positive contribution to the communities of Blouberg and Musina; this is made possible through our support of community projects and programmes.

Based on our Socio-Economic Development Programme criteria, our focus areas include local economic development, education and infrastructure development.

De Beers through its various investment platforms has invested a total of R72 466 280 million into communities in Limpopo.

2013

R24 907 3602014

R26 743 532 2015

R20 815 388

D I ST R I B U T I O N P E R F U N D I N G S O U R C E 2 0 1 3 – 2 0 1 5

▪ VENETIA MINE: R42 768 222 (59%)

▪ LOCAL AREA COMMITTEE: R389 289 (1 %)

▪ DE BEERS FUND: R26 999 535 (37%)

▪ PONAHALO COMMUNITY TRUST: R 2 309 234 (3%)

TOTAL: R 7 2 4 6 6 2 8 0

59%

3%

37%

1%

BLOUBERG

R27 999 212

MUSINA

R37 469 668

BLOUBERG/ MUSINA

R6 660 395

LIMPOPO

R337 005

D I ST R I B U T I O N O F F U N D S P E R R EG I O N 2 0 1 3 – 2 0 1 5

R 7 2 4 6 6 2 8 0 M I L L I O N

TOTAL: R 7 2 4 6 6 2 8 0

D E B E E RS V E N E T I A M I N E Z I M E L E F U N D

SMMEs Supported

Women Owned SMMEs Supported

Youth Owned SMMEs Supported

Number of Jobs (new and Existing)

Loans Approved (ZAR)

5 0 4 0 % 3 0 % 6 5 1 R 1 1 9 5 2 8 1 8

D E B E E RS V E N E T I A M I N E C O N T R ACTO RS C O M M U N I T Y S P E N D 2 0 1 4 - 2 0 1 6 ( JA N - M AY )

2014R4 313 128

2015R9 739 248

2016 YTDR562 514

(Jan-May)

C O M M U N I T Y I N V EST M E N T

SHAPING THE FUTURE THROUGH COMMUNITY UPLIFTMENT INITIATIVES

4 – P H AT S I M O

Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world… Nelson Mandela

M U S I N A YO U T H R EC E I V E N E W C L ASS R O O M S

De Beers together with the Limpopo MEC for Education, Mr Ishmael Kgetjepe, officially opened the extension of the Renaissance Secondary School in Musina.

The extension included the construction of 12 classrooms,

the renovation of another four classrooms, a newly-built ablution facility and an administration block. This infrastructure development is the result of a progressive partnership between the Limpopo Department of Education and De Beers, through

the Rural School Development Programme. Each partner contributed R6 million towards the expansion of the school which allowed the inclusion of a Grade 12 class for the first time.

Through the Rural School Development Programme,

implemented by the Limpopo Department of Education Development Trust, De Beers has thus far constructed 12 schools in Limpopo, including Ratanang Special School in Senwabarwana, Saint Martin de Porres in Musina and Malenkwane Primary School in Wegdraai Village in the Blouberg area.

“Through our Social and Labour Plan (SLP), Venetia Mine has invested R29 million in infrastructure development initiatives since the commencement of the Limpopo Rural Schools Project in 2006.

De Beers together with the Department of Mineral Resources (DMR) and local government are making transformation a reality for thousands of South Africans, not just employees, but also communities and local suppliers,” commented Ludi von Maltitz, General Manager of De Beers Venetia Mine in Limpopo.

Learners celebrate their bigger and better school in Musina.

Top students from rural Limpopo schools attended the National Career Expo held at the Gordon Institute of Business Science on Saturday, 14 May 2016.

Top students from rural Limpopo schools attended the National Career Expo held at the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) in May. The Career Expo is an initiative to facilitate the exposure of learners to a wide variety of possible careers, bursaries and opportunities offered by exhibiting companies, as well as study opportunities offered by different educational institutions. It allows learners direct interaction with companies, educational institutions and role models in various careers.

Learners who attended the Expo were selected on merit. Each school was represented by the top learner in Grades 11 and 12 as well as career guidance teachers from ten schools in the Mine’s labour providing areas of Musina and Blouberg. The participating schools were Alldays High School, Eric Louw High School, Mabotha Secondary School,

Mahadikana Secondary School,

Masoka Secondary School, Mathipa

Makgato Secondary School, Musina

High School, Nakedi Secondary School, Renaissance High School and Thokampe Secondary School. The three day trip was fully sponsored by the Mine and each learner was expected to report on their

experiences when they return to their schools.

When asked about his experience, Ragumba Maseala from Thokampe Secondary School responded: “The Career Expo exceeded all my expectations. I now know what the requirements are for the courses I am interested in, I know what the

requirements are for funding and I

can make informed decisions about my

future.”

“This trip was truly life changing,”

Kura Vansia from Eric Louw High

School said. “I will never forget this

experience and the way in which

Venetia Mine made it all possible.”

CA R E E RS O F YO U R C H O I C E

E D U CAT I O N

P H AT S I M O – 5

S C H O O L G OV E R N I N G B O D I ES V I S I T D E B E E RS V E N E T I A M I N EBeneficiaries of the De Beers Teacher

Subvention Programme visited Venetia

Mine in April. The Teacher Subvention

Programme funds 56 additional educators and

administrators for three local schools in Musina

(Messina Primary School, Musina High School

and Eric Louw High School).

De Beers invested R3.3 million into the

programme last year, which included school fee

subsidies for disadvantaged learners in the two

fee-paying schools.

School Governing Bodies (SGB’s) were treated

to a tour of the open-pit viewpoint and the

ore processing plant at South Africa’s largest

diamond mine.

“De Beers recognises that the School Governing

Bodies are an important element in the

successful management of our local schools.

As one of our social partners, it is important

for schools to understand our business and

the inherent opportunities for employment,

development and community investment

that exist within the mining industry,” says

Corporate Affairs Manager, Josephine Pieters.Vice Principal Alta Coetzee with an Eric Louw Alumni Sibongile Ndlovu who is now a Metallurgist in training at Venetia Mine.

I N V EST I N G I N T H E F U T U R E – D E B E E RS B U RSA R A N D G R A D UAT E T R A I N E E P R O G R A M M E

Talent and informed management are important pillars within any organisation, ensuring effective succession planning and growth. Over the years, De Beers has implemented various initiatives to ensure a consistent flow of talent into the organisation. Two of these initiatives are the De Beers Bursary Scheme and the Graduate Trainee Programme.

These initiatives target four key areas, namely: Geology, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Metallurgy and Mining. These four target areas are indicative of the direction pursued by the Mining Charter.

Over the years, the Employment Equity profiles of the initiatives have evolved to reflect a strong emphasis on HDSA and females, with particular emphasis on Women in Mining.

When recruiting for these programmes, De Beers searches for young professionals with drive, commitment and dedication, and those who strive to succeed.

The bursars and graduate trainees are encouraged to uphold the De Beers values of Be Passionate; Pull Together; Build Trust; Show we Care and Shape the Future.

The primary focus for De Beers’ bursars is to ensure that they succeed at university. Bursaries are based on merit and top academic achievement. The bursary team makes regular contact with each bursar in order to provide any mentoring and coaching required, in turn equipping bursars to cope with the daily pressures at university. Vacation work is essential for each of the bursars, and is completed at the end of each year in order to develop an understanding of the theory learned at university, and to provide the necessary practical experience.

De Beers selects, educates, prepares and develops the most talented individuals from local communities in order to help pave their way for success within the company.

De Beers 2016 Training Mining Engineers based at the Anglo American Development Centre in Rustenburg with Abel Ntini (far left) and Sue Van Zyl from De Beers (second from right).

E D U CAT I O N

6 – P H AT S I M O

E N T E R P R I S E D E V E LO P M E N T D E B E E RS Z I M E L E

A C RYSTA L C L E A R F U T U R E FO R A D E T E R M I N E D YO U N G E N T R E P R E N EU R

As a young lad tending gardens every day after school and selling sweets to his friends at Makusha Primary and later Musina High School for extra money, Pieter Singo was like many children from his township of Nancefield. But the inspiring words of a man who later became his mentor and a helping hand from De Beers, Zimele turned his life around for the better. Here is Pieter’s story.

As Pieter drives up proudly in his new Chevrolet Corsa Utility bakkie neatly packed with all the tools needed for his Pool Service Business (IJP Trading), he brings with him a sense of pride and accomplishment. As a registered vendor with a 3-year De Beers contract, Pieter has every reason to be proud. Six months ago, he was a small local entrepreneur with a handful of private clients whose pools he would service daily by commuting on his bicycle. Residents of Musina are accustomed to seeing Pieter pedalling from one side of town to the other with his pool gear balanced on his shoulders and large drums of chlorine and acid hanging from the handle bars.

This all changed when Pieter responded to an advertisement placed by Venetia Mine sourcing local

service providers able to provide pool maintenance. As a result of the mine’s enterprise development initiative, Pieter was awarded a contract for the care and maintenance of all Venetia Mine’s accommodation complexes and vacant houses. He now services more than 30 pools daily, in addition to his existing private clients.

Using his trusted bicycle, Pieter was at his post come rain or shine and Contract Manager, Bennie Fourie, soon experienced first-hand why Pieter’s references described him as devoted, reliable and trustworthy. Through business mentorship, advice and analysis the De Beers Zimele Business Hub identified Pieter’s potential for growth as well as his pressing need for a vehicle. Pieter was awarded a low interest business loan by Zimele to the value of R117 000.

This loan has made a significant difference to his business – improving his productivity with up to seven hours each day. “Pieter’s story comes as a result of concerted efforts from Venetia Mine to source opportunities for local suppliers. The pool maintenance contract was previously incorporated into a larger housing and maintenance contract. However, we soon realised

that Pieter had the potential to do the job – he only needed the capacity which is essentially what our Zimele Business Hub and Supplier Development teams have provided. We look forward to working with Pieter and young, passionate local entrepreneurs like him, as we shape the future of Venetia Mine,” says Lesiba Lamola, Lead for Supplier Development at De Beers Consolidated Mines.

Pieter’s business, IJP Trading, is named after his late mentor Isaac Johannes

Pretorius. Pieter’s mother worked in Mr Pretorius’s kitchen and as a youngster Pieter worked in the garden for pocket money. He would often be invited to join in on fishing trips. “The old man was always telling me, you must work for yourself, Pieter. Don’t be a fool – use your potential and make money. He taught me everything I know about building and taking care of swimming pools and if it wasn’t for his support and encouragement, I would not be where I am today,” says Pieter.

Pieter trades in his trusted bicycle for a Chevrolet Corsa Utility Bakkie thanks to his low interest business loan with the De Beers Zimele Venetia Business Hub. Far left, business owner Pieter Singo, Hub Manager, Stanley Boloko with Lead for Supplier Development DBCM, Lesiba Lamola, and Town Services Foreman, Bennie Fourie.

A S U C C ESS STO RY I N T H E M A K I N G

They always say that when you don’t know your limitations, you surprise yourself. The only limitations a person has are those that are self-imposed. This is a story of Blue Motion General Construction Company. On Wednesday, 25 May 2016 the company proudly and gratefully received a 20ton Excavator and Backhoe Loader (TLB). The two machines were purchased through funding from Voorspoed Zimele Business Support Hub.

Since its inception in 2011, Blue Motion has struggled to secure business until Voorspoed Zimele Hub recognised the potential and undying entrepreneurial spirit of the team and awarded it with a three year Ore Plant Cleaning Contract in January 2016. With unwavering support from the management of both De Beers and Anglo American, Blue Motion has gone from strength to strength.

Blue Motion General Construction CC (Close Corporation) is a registered legal business entity. It was registered in 2011 with CIPC. It consists of four directors, namely Mokgethi Morake

(General Manager), Ishmael Molefe (Marketing Manager), Palesa Monyake (Human Resources Manager) and Victor Nelwamondo (Technical Manager).

Blue Motion received a discount of over R790 000 from Barloworld Equipment through the assistance of their supplier Development Department.

They did not only receive financial assistance but will also be part of Voorspoed’s mentorship and as well as supplier development programmes for contractors and Zimele clients.

To date, Blue Motion created employment for 15 individuals, seven from Steynsrus and six were absorbed from the previous contractor. “We have already developed three of our employees in Skid steer (Bobcat) and Backhoe Loader (TLB), said the Technical Manager, Victor Nelwamondo. “We would like to thank Rebotile Kgaka, Tsepo Monaledi, Lesiba Lamola and Genious Moloi as well as Voorspoed Mine Management for giving us the opportunity,” commented Mokgethi Morake, Blue Motion General Manager.

Proud day – from left Sydney Mathe, Thabo Mofokeng (Blue motion), Quinten Cotzee, David Mashinini (Barloworld), Palesa Monyake, Victor Nelwamondo, Brandon Diedericks and Moses Kgasago (Blue Motion) receiving the new machines

P H AT S I M O – 7

GENTLE GIANTS TAKING ROOT

E N V I R O N M E N T

Venetia Mine and it’s surrounding areas are home to the beautiful baobab tree, a bushveld succulent scientifically known as the Adansonia digitata. These trees are indigenous to the area and classified as a protected species. This follows an ecosystems-based management system, aimed at ensuring that the impacts of mining are managed in a responsible way. The team at Venetia Mine go to unusual lengths to prevent disturbing baobabs and other protected trees onsite. Where this is not possible, their environmental team have pioneered a technique of transplanting fully grown baobab trees with a 100% success rate.

Since 2008, Venetia Mine has successfully relocated a total of 110 baobab trees. This is a complex

process that requires written permission from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF). Because of the sheer size of some of these specimens, the relocation of a single tree generally requires the use of an excavator, dozer, low bed truck, crane and a water bowser. Interestingly, a huge contributing factor in the successful relocation of a baobab tree is the direction in which they are planted. These gentle giants will only take root in their new home if their trunks are planted facing precisely the same direction as their original home. As a result, Environmental Officers make sure to mark the north facing side of the tree before transportation so that they can ensure that the tree is correctly relocated.

As a company known for its conservation efforts and commitment to environmental stewardship, Venetia Mine was recently called upon to assist the Musina Local Municipality and construction company Terra Viva in the relocation of a medium-sized, 28 ton baobab tree. It was moved from the main parking area of the new Musina Mall to a traffic circle 200m from the entrance of the new shopping complex. As a result, the Venetia Environmental Team provided technical expertise in performing an environmental assessment, conducting a risk assessment, relocation and monitoring of the identified specimen. This tree is now flourishing at the entrance of this major construction project and is clearly visible upon exiting the bustling border town of Musina.

Baobab tree being uprooted. Baobab tree in transit to its new home.

VM Diamond employees celebrate their safety milestone.

V M D I A M O N D C E L E B R AT ES 2 5 M I L L I O N LT I - F R E E K I LO M E T R ES

Venetia Mine’s Contracting Partner, VM Diamond recently celebrated 10 million Lost Time Injury (LTI)-free kilometres. This contracting partner has not had a single LTI since 2013 when a VM Diamond employee suffered a burn whilst conducting a technical task. Even more impressive is that VM Diamond, a locally based contracting partner registered in Musina, has travelled almost 25 million kilometres with ZERO LTIs as a result of the transportation of people for the duration of their 9 year contract with De Beers. This achievement is unprecedented at the South African Bus Operators Association (SABOA).

Pierre Akeroyd, Depot Manager at Venetia Mine, credits this achievement to the exceptionally trained drivers on his team who spend every shift ensuring that people get to work and back home safely. “VM Diamond has proven that safe and reliable transport is achievable through simple non-negotiable standards. There is no reason for anyone working on our mine to be injured on our roads if we continue our focussed, non-negotiable approach to safety.”

SA F E T Y

8 – P H AT S I M O

O U R D I A M O N D P EO P L E

COLOURFUL FUN IN THE SUN

It has been two years and counting – the DBSSSA colour run proves to be a kaleidoscope of colour and fun for colleagues, friends and the whole family. 77 happy adults and children arrived at De Beers’ Benfontein Farm for the 3km colour run in April.

The colour run organised by the Wellness Committee has become an annual event to promote health and happiness by bringing everyone together to enjoy some outdoor fun.

At every station runners were doused with powder paint from head to toe. Some going to “war with each other” and having the time of their lives.

The 3km run left all the participants plastered in coloured paint, quite a different picture from when they were sent off at the starting line; all sparkling and clean. Back at base camp, runners were treated to eats and drinks and lucky draws took place. Marshalls who manned the stations were also recognised for their participation and assistance at the event.

The before and aftermath of the colour run, a kaleidoscope of colour and smiles as bright as the rainbow

VOORSPOED MINE HOSTS FAMILY DAY

Voorspoed Mine held a Family Day on the mine in April. Family members of employees, including contractors, were invited and given a rare opportunity to witness and experience first- hand the types of machinery and tools their loved ones use on a daily basis; and also the safety measures that are put in place to ensure that they always arrive safely back home. The theme of the event was: “Show we care for the families of our employees”, touching hearts and minds of employees.

The objective of the event was to highlight the Company’s values towards achieving Zero Harm and the type of support that families provide to their loved ones. Family members play a key role in assisting employees to be safe at work by ensuring that they get enough sleep and relaxation at home in order for them to be able to be more focussed and less stressed at work.

The day started at Landbou where all the visitors assembled; eagerly waiting for what was the first trip to Voorspoed Mine for many. Mr Benford Mokoatle, General Manager of Voorspoed Mine, welcomed the visitors. After the Safety and Security induction by the Chief Fire Officer and Senior Safety Officer, JP Hamel, four buses left for the mine. At the mine, the Security, Mining and Plant teams were waiting to give the visitors an unforgettable mine tour. The tour focused mainly on three areas namely; waste rock dump, the plant and the open-pit viewpoint.

At the waste rock dump and the open-pit viewpoint, visitors were given an opportunity to get off the bus so that they could interact and take pictures of the front-end loader 992 and 785 trucks and the open-pit. “I have never seen such a big truck in my life,” said one visitor. “Are these trucks driven by women as well?” asked one of the ladies. More questions followed such as the cost of the machinery, the size of the tyres, if the truck is easy to operate like a normal car, etc.

At the open-pit viewpoint, visitors learnt about the pit operations, different type of rocks, drilling, survey, slope failures and the equipment to detect them, blasting, benches, etc. Thereafter, visitors were treated to a light lunch before their loved ones collected them. It was indeed a memorable day for our employees’ and their families.

Darryl Botha from Mining talks to some of the visitors.

Families enjoying their time at Voorspoed Mine.

P H AT S I M O – 9

H E A LT H A N D W E L L N ESS

COMMON CHRONIC CONDITIONS

IN MEN:

• Hypertension

• Diabetes Mellitus

• Ischaemic Heart Disease

• HIV• High Risk Tolerance

(deaths due to accidents)

O U T A N D A B O U T

In the centre, Simangele Soni, Metallurgy Lead for DBCM, was the guest speaker at the Vaal University of Technology, Chemical and Mechanical graduation ceremony held in April.

Far left, Innocent Mabusela, Head: Corporate Affairs, formed part of the University Council for the Vaal University of Technology graduation ceremony.

MEN’S HEALTH COPING WITH STRESS DURING TIMES OF CHANGE

DE BEERS SUPPORT THROUGH THE

EAP (ICAS)• Confidential support service.

• 24/7 for 365 days personal support line.

• Free (no cost).

• Multilingual.

• For you and your family.

• Practical and emotional support.

• Personal and work-related challenges.

STEPS TOWARDS COPING WITH STRESS:

• Think about the long term consequences of current lifestyle habits.• Re-think priorities – will your family always be there?• Don’t sweat the small stuff – differentiate that which is truly important from that which is not.• Find your true meaning and purpose in life and keep your eye on it.• Know when enough is enough – (money, status, toys).• Do a cost-benefit analysis for your own life – what do you lose when you think you win?• Importance of enhanced resilience.

COMBATING STRESS:

• Create a strong social support network.

• Pay attention to your eating and sleeping habits.

• Keep physically active.

• Use positive thoughts and sayings.

• Stay balanced through opposite action –

hobbies and recreation.

• Don’t forget humour.

• Stay in the present.

• Importance of enhanced resilience.

You can contact ICAS toll-free on: 0800 222 846 or dial *134*905# to request a call back

MOTHER’S DAY MOMENT

The Diamond Social Club (DSC) honoured all the DBSSSA social club moms by hosting a breakfast at the Kimberley Anne restaurant. Mother’s Day is a celebration honouring the mother of the family, as well as motherhood, maternal bonds and the influence of mothers in society.

O U R D I A M O N D P EO P L E

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After a number of years as a diamond polisher and time spent as part of the Velani Hive initiative, Ms Thoko Zwane established her own diamond cutting and polishing company in 2008. Although originally Ms Zwane was sole owner, she has now been joined by her son, Mr Zipho Dlamini, who has a 50% shareholding. The company has grown consistently over the years and has included the development of jewellery manufacturing.

B E N E F I C I AT I O N

NEW PROJECT AIDS DISADVANTAGED ‘BENEFICIATORS’A R3 million (US$190 000) project to boost the diamond cutting and polishing industry in South Africa has been launched by market leader De Beers.

From left: Mpumi Zikalala, Munirah Desai (African Diamonds), Thoko Zwane (Thoko’s Diamonds), Zipho Dlamini (Thoko’s Diamonds), Phillip Barton (DBCM CEO), Kealeboga Pule (Nungu Diamond Trading), Jo Mathole (Kwame Diamonds) and Molefi Letsiki (Molefi Letsiki Trading).

The aim of the project is the sustainable development of businesses owned by ‘historically disadvantaged South Africans’ in the hope that one or more of the five companies chosen for support will be in a position to achieve De Beers Sightholder status by 2021.

Sightholders are customers who, by demonstrating sufficient demand for De Beers’ rough diamonds, qualify for term contracts to buy diamonds at one of 10 ‘Sights’ a year.

The support should enable the companies, known as ‘beneficiators’, to develop comprehensive business plans, giving access to external development

funding for procuring rough diamonds and capital expenditure.

Beneficiators are companies in the cutting and polishing sector aided as part of De Beers’ commitment to work with its diamond-producing country partners to help them meet their economic and social objectives. Those in South Africa tend not to have the same level of experience or business maturity as potential competitors in other countries.

Project Manager Frank Auger said: “The success of the project will ultimately be determined by the ability of the beneficiators to identify and create markets for their polished diamonds. The new

development model will take a holistic approach to the beneficiators’ business, not just focussing on one area as it was in the past.”

The five chosen companies identified by development specialists Raizcorp are Thoko’s Diamonds, Molefi Letsiki Diamond Holdings, Nungu Diamonds, Kwame Diamonds and Diamonds Africa.

Raizcorp will provide a three-year programme incorporating mentorship in business strategy, finance, sales, marketing and personal development.

Here’s a brief introduction to the five businesses in the project:

Ms Munirah Desai undertook a diamond polishing course at the Harry Oppenheimer Diamond Training School and a diamond graduate course run by the Gemmological Institute of America before setting up her cutting and polishing business. She is passionate about the industry and is keen to explore new markets for South African polished diamonds.

Mr Kealeboga Pule, a law graduate, is a young diamantaire and owner and managing director of Nungu Diamonds, set up in 2007 while he was in his second year at university. He is co-founder and Vice-President of the South African Young Diamond Beneficiators Guild.

After a career in the financial trading industry, Ms Musibudi Jo Mathole began the journey of owning her own diamond business. Whilst establishing her business, she managed Shrenuj’s South African diamond manufacturing factory, the first such operation to be headed by a black woman.

Mr Molefi Letsiki launched his diamond cutting and polishing business in 2006. Mr Letsiki is co-founder and President of the South African Young Diamond Beneficiators Guild and executive committee member of the South African Diamond Dealers Club, which is a member of the World Federation of Diamond Bourses.

MOLEFI LETSIKI DIAMOND HOLDINGSKWAME DIAMONDSNUNGU DIAMONDSDIAMONDS AFRICATHOKO’S DIAMONDS

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C E L E B R AT I N G S U C C ESS ES

In keeping with maritime tradition, the second of two vessels destined to support De Beers’ offshore diamond mining operations has been officially named Aogatoa. The vessel was built by Damen Shipyards Cape Town for specialist marine solutions provider SMIT Amandla Marine. The Aogatoa will join her sister vessel, the Aukwatowa, in the next few weeks. The supply vessels are based at Port Nolloth on the Northern Cape west coast and operate on contract to the Ports Supply Chain Centre of De Beers Group Services.

Congratulations to Innocent Mabusela, Head: Corporate Affairs and Jewellery Council of South Africa board member, who recently completed his Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the North West University and graduated in May.

Congratulations to Nomsa Thosa from Venetia Mine Corporate Affairs department who recently completed her Bachelor in Commerce Marketing Degree from Unisa and graduated in May.

Left: Congratulations to Wandisile Nongodlwana from De Beers IM Exploration for completing his 9th Comrades Marathon this year. Wandi achieved his best time this year, finishing the race in 6 hours, 50 minutes and 3 seconds. “I pray a lot on the route. The Comrades Marathon requires a lot of hard work, discipline, determination and perseverance. Every second year, I run Comrades to raise funds for the needy. I am planning to do the same next year, running for a cause, as I will be running my 10th race,” commented Wandi.

Congratulations to AJ Coetzee from Venetia Mine who completed his first Comrades Marathon within 8 hours and 47 minutes. “Living in Musina does not make it easy preparing for the Comrades. Races and running partners are few and far between and the climate is not ideal. I realised that I needed help and Willie Meintjies (7 times silver medallist) agreed to help me achieve my goals. Running the Comrades made me discover a lot about myself and that I had so much endurance. Supporters, companionship of fellow runners, the acts of kindness and selfless giving encouraged me incredibly during the race. My Heavenly Father carried me through when I wanted to stop and give up,” added Coetzee.

ONE PAGE AT A TIME Nhlanhla Molatana, Senior MRM Systems Engineer and Analyst at De Beers Group and Pastor, celebrated the launch of his 4th book titled “What Did You Mean Jesus Christ?” Nhlanhla published his first book in 2014, followed by 2 books in 2015 and then his latest book this year. “I hope my readers will attain a deeper understanding on the day to day things we take for granted because of how we judge. How many of us have declared in our lives that we are not good enough and therefore limit ourselves in what we can achieve in life. My Father God spoke wise words with me one day; and said ‘my son, one page at a time’. I would like to encourage my brothers and sisters to allow the juices of writing to flow and do not be limited by what people say or how they view their lives,” concluded Nhlanhla.

Nhlanhla Molatana launched his 4th book this year titled, “What Did You Mean Jesus Christ?”

COMRADES MARATHON WINNERS

NEW VESSEL FOR DE BEERS

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR COLLEAGUES

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E D I T O R Priya Maharaj

A S S I S TA N T E D I T O R

Lynn Berowsky

C O N T R I B U T O R S : Lisa Brugmann, Tarryn Genis, Funanani Netshitomboni, Cynthia Khoali and Adri Nelson

S E N D Y O U R S T O R I E S T O

email:

CHQ.InternalCommunication@ debeersgroup.com

F O L L O W U S Twitter:

www.twitter.com/debeersgroup and www.twitter.com/AngloAmerican

YouTube:

www.youtube.com/user/TDBGoC

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/ de-beers

Facebook: www.facebook.com/DeBeers GroupOfCompanies

Web

www.debeersgroup.com

Venetia Mine opens in South Africa

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ITEM DATE

DBSSSA Nelson Mandela Initiative 8 July

Diamond Beneficiation Project Launch 13 July

DBSSSA Chairman and CEO visit 15 July

Reach for a Dream Slipper Day 5 August

DBSSSA Women’s Day event 9 August

Casual Day 2 September

Secretaries Day 3 September

Jewellex Africa 25-27 September

Global Safety Day 6 October

Oppenheimer and De Beers Research Conference 18 – 19 October

DBSSSA Long Service Awards 10 November

World AIDS Day 1 December

DATES TO DIARISE

D I D YO U K N OW ?

In the year….

A year after Botswana gains its independence. De Beers prospectors discover what would become the Orapa

kimberlite pipe

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De Beers joins with Botswana to establish

Debswana, a 50:50 partnership with the Government to mine Botswana’s diamonds

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Jwaneng Mine opens in Botswana

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Orapa Mine opens in Botswana

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In our centenary year, De Beers unveils the Centenary diamond

LO N G S E RV I C E

LONG SERVICE AWARDS –25 YEARS

VENETIA M I N E Tony Green

Hendrik Nyate

Albert Mulelo

Samuel Rammutla

Reuben Utonga

Dries van Der Walt

Solomon Nengome

Johannes Semata

Jonas Moraba

Thomas Nefolobodwe

Elias Seroba

Richard Mokokwana

Piet Neethling

Jabulani Sithole

Francisco Mulaudzi

Mecro Siko

Simon Ramalahla

David Matshinge

Thomas Mahuma

Tony Fortuin

Johan Viljoen

EXPLORATIONWelcha Minnie

Andrew MacDonald

Lynette Ward

DEBMARINE Rory McGuire

Shannon Petersen

Gerhard de Vries

Nelson Mtintsilana

DBSSSA Belinda Burger