Are you conquering your work week?
“Never again will that to-do list go unchecked – all you need is a few small changes to take control of your career and conquer your week.”
AI-powered corporate governance: Technology’s trailblazing role
“As a qualified lawyer and the Head of Business Development at a technology company specialising in AI-powered legal tech solutions, I have witnessed first-hand how technology has influenced this aspect of business. “
Miskyah Toth, CEO, Business Directive Contract Services
“Your greatest achievements often align with your greatest challenges.” BDCS is your all-in-one workforce management partner, specialising in the supply chain and logistics sector. We provide efficient, cost-effective staffing solutions, powered by innovative technology and a people-first approach. From recruiting and training top talent to handling payroll, HR, and statutory requirements, BDCS ensures that operations run smoothly. With a focus on streamlining operations, reducing costs, and boosting efficiency, we help businesses access pre-vetted workers on demand while staying compliant with labour regulations. Our mobile app empowers the workforce by offering easy access to pay slips, leave management, and payroll queries, allowing companies to scale confidently and adjust to changing demands. Miskyah Toth founded Business Directive Development Group (Pty) Ltd in 2012; eight years later an opportunity arose to purchase a contract with a leading South African online retailer. At that stage, more than 250 people were employed by the company. Business Directive Development Group (Pty) Ltd purchased the contract and Miskyah then created Business Directive Contract Services (Pty) Ltd (BDCS) to manage the contract of BDCS’s functions as a separate entity, under the auspices of Business Directive Development Group (Pty) Ltd. To put things into perspective, the outbreak of COVID-19 began in Wuhan, China in December 2019 – so the purchase of this contract was made at the beginning of the global pandemic.“I was, however, very comfortable with my decision. It allowed me to think outside the box and it allowed me to think bigger. We’ve since expanded our services, providing more tailored solutions, and empowering businesses and job seekers through comprehensive, personalised recruitment and career management strategies,” – Miskyah Toth. We asked Miskyah to share with us what it takes to be a game changer in the HR realm: Iron in silk After years of dedication and sacrifice, I have earned recognition on a global stage. In 2024, CIO Views named me one of Africa’s 10 Most Empowering Businesswomen. I was awarded Female Entrepreneur Coach of the Year in South Africa by MEA Markets and honoured as the Top Global Business Leader by the International Association of Top Professionals. Additionally, I was chosen as The Women Leader of the Year in Human Resource Management by the Asian-African Chamber of Commerce and Industry and selected as 1 of the 100 Most Influential Women in South Africa. As described, ‘Iron in Silk’ – is “strength enveloped by beauty and grace”. These accolades are a testament to overcoming significant challenges, including managing over 500% growth in just four years and navigating the complexities of running a large company as the sole female owner. Maintaining my health and balance amidst these responsibilities has also been a crucial challenge. What is your ‘why”? My “why” is simple – to empower people. Whether it’s helping someone land their dream job, supporting businesses with their recruitment needs, or mentoring young entrepreneurs, my purpose is to uplift others. This message stems from my own life experiences, including the challenges I faced as a businesswoman and single mother. I’ve always believed that with the right support, anyone can overcome obstacles and achieve success. I founded BDCS to create opportunities and provide that support to others, particularly in South Africa, where high unemployment rates make empowerment through job creation so crucial. Miskyah.com Miskyah.com is a platform that showcases my journey, insights, and expertise as a leader and entrepreneur. It is a space where I can share my thoughts on business, empowerment, and personal growth. Through this platform, I also aim to connect with aspiring entrepreneurs, business leaders, and anyone looking for inspiration or guidance. Miskyah.com offers a blend of personal stories, business tips, and reflections on leadership. It’s also a place where I promote my autobiography Iron in Silk, which delves deeper into my experiences and the lessons I’ve learned throughout my life and career. Through this platform, I provide aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools and guidance they need to succeed. My “Let’s Talk Business” series is designed to share real-world insights, helping individuals turn their ideas into thriving businesses. Additionally, my “Women for Change” initiative is a space where women can find inspiration, mentorship, and community support to pursue their dreams. I am passionate about coaching and developing entrepreneurs, equipping them with the strategies and confidence to navigate their entrepreneurial journey with resilience and success. The most important game-changing trends in HR? Technology, particularly AI, is revolutionising HR. AI-driven recruitment tools streamline hiring, ensuring faster and more precise candidate matching. Additionally, hybrid work models are here to stay, with flexibility becoming a key factor in employee satisfaction. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives are also transforming the workplace, emphasising the importance of creating inclusive environments where all employees can thrive. Lastly, mental health and well-being are taking center stage as companies recognise the need to support employees beyond their professional roles. HR leaders must adapt to these trends to stay competitive and cultivate thriving future-ready workplaces. What does securing the naming rights for the Future of HR Conference and Awards mean to you and your company? Securing the naming rights for The Future of HR Conference and Awards is a significant milestone for BDCS. It reflects our dedication to driving innovation in HR and our commitment to being at the forefront of industry trends. This partnership allows us to showcase our leadership in HR recruitment, while also contributing to the ongoing conversation about the future of work. It’s an opportunity to highlight our values – empowerment, technology integration, and talent development – on a larger scale, while also creating meaningful connections with other industry leaders who share our vision for the future of HR. Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs My biggest piece of advice is to stay resilient. Entrepreneurship is a journey filled with highs and lows, and success often comes from how well you handle challenges. Always be willing to learn and adapt because the business world is constantly evolving. Surround yourself with people who inspire and support you, but don’t be afraid to make tough decisions
Understanding employer rights in South Africa
By Jessie Taylor The South African labour law ensures that employers and employees clearly understand their rights and responsibilities in the workplace. While much attention is often given to employee rights, it is equally important to acknowledge the rights of employers. These rights are designed to create a balanced, fair, and legally compliant work environment. Employer rights are outlined in South Africa’s labour legislation, which maps out how employers can protect their interests while complying with labour laws. Employers in South Africa are entitled to specific rights that help maintain workplace order and productivity. These include expecting employees to render agreed services during designated working hours and enforcing workplace rules and performance standards. Employers can also expect employees to follow lawful and reasonable instructions and maintain a disciplined and professional work environment. Employers can also expect employees to act in good faith and with loyalty to the employer, and are allowed to hold employees accountable for product specifications and quality standards. There are several other key rights that employers enjoy: 1. Employer’s right to determine job roles One of the fundamental rights of an employer is the ability to define job roles and responsibilities. Employers have the right to determine the criteria for hiring employees, provided that they do not engage in discriminatory practices based on age, race, gender, disability, or other protected characteristics. Additionally, employers are entitled to establish the specific responsibilities associated with each role and set performance expectations. This helps to ensure that employees understand their duties and can be held accountable for their work performance. 2. Right to establish workplace policies and procedures Employers have the right to create and enforce workplace policies and procedures that govern employee conduct and business operations. These policies may cover a wide range of areas, including: By clearly outlining expectations, employers can maintain a structured and professional work environment. However, these policies must be fair, reasonable, and in line with labour laws. 3. Right to provide and monitor work equipment When employees are provided with company-owned equipment, such as laptops, mobile phones, or other tools necessary for their job, the employer retains ownership of these assets. Employers have the right to monitor how these resources are used, ensuring they are being used strictly for business purposes. Employers may also implement policies that regulate internet usage on company networks, restrict access to certain websites, and track browsing history. These measures help protect company data and ensure productivity. 4. Right to expect honesty and commitment to business objectives Employers have the right to expect employees to act with integrity and work towards achieving business objectives. Employees should conduct themselves ethically, remain transparent in their tasks, and contribute positively to the company’s overall success. Employees who engage in dishonest behaviour, including fraud or theft, breach their employment contract and may face legal consequences. Employers should implement clear policies outlining expectations regarding honesty and ethical behaviour. 5. Right to maintain proper employment records Employers have the right—and responsibility—to maintain comprehensive employment records. These records may include: Keeping accurate records helps employers demonstrate compliance with labour laws, resolve disputes effectively, and manage employee performance in an informed manner. Although the legal system does not currently recognise unfair labour practices against employers in the same way it does for employees, there are several strategies employers can implement to safeguard their rights: While South African labour laws primarily focus on employee rights, employers also have critical rights that enable them to manage their businesses effectively. Understanding and exercising these rights within the framework of labour laws ensures that employers can operate fairly while maintaining compliance. Employers can navigate workplace challenges effectively and foster a balanced, legally compliant work environment by implementing strategic policies, training management teams, and staying informed about labour regulations. Sources: Labour Guide | SME South Africa
The customer is always right… right?
By Louise Botha – Recruitment Specialist Customer satisfaction is the ultimate success in business. A happy customer is a returning customer. You will get repeat business, good reviews, and recommendations which all grow your reputation and brand your company to the world. Is the customer always right? To them, they need to feel that they are – or treated with respect when not. That means that they need your guidance and opinion on the expertise within the field of what they hired you to do. So, how do we keep them happy if or when they are not always right in our professional opinion? You need to adapt your style and approach that you use to communicate with each of your customers as they are all different. You need to nurture and build on your customer relationships in order for them to last. Apart from building long-lasting relationships, there are many other benefits: Ways to keep your clients happy Listen – To build any strong relationship -personal, business, social – you need to listen. Give the other party the time to share their thoughts and needs. You need to listen carefully to understand them. Avoid being overpowering with words and use your listening skills to identify where and how you need to respond to make an impression. Regular updates and communication – Just because you have established the relationship with your customer now, does not mean that you just leave them and wait for them to approach you when they need you. They might need you, even when they don’t know it yet. Maintain your relationship with regular updates and checking in by communicating effectively. Be an expert – Always do your homework! Research! You don’t want to be left with no words or answers when you approach or communicate with a client. You will save time for you and your client if you already know their background and idea of their requirements as well as what is happening in their sector. Leave them impressed. It will show your expertise and make them feel that they are in good hands. Do not rely on the client to provide you with all the info, ask questions and cover what you were not able to find. Manage expectations – Never overpromise and underdeliver. Be open to your client on what are reasonable expectations. Many clients can be demanding, and you can be tempted to give in to that and promise results before you know you can attain them. Explain to the client why it will take longer, if so, and that it will ultimately improve the service you offer to them to make them feel secure that you can commit to the deadline. Personalise your approach – Not all clients are the same, so you will have to personalise the needs of each one. Where you identify the way you work with one, can help you to handle the next. This will make the client feel worthy and that you are not just offering a service, but a partnership and interest in their business. Feedback – Do not underestimate the need for you to get a client’s feedback. You might be moving forward. But when you have the relationship, it opens a door where there can be transparency and feedback on your performance and service can be shared with ease. Knowing where you can identify and work on areas will improve your service and allow you to be better than the best! In the end, it’s all about regular communication – the long term benefits will surprise you.
Africa’s tech revolution needs you – come forge connections, influence policy and accelerate growth
From AI-driven healthcare to blockchain-powered financial inclusion, the continent is rewriting its narrative as a global tech powerhouse. But to sustain this momentum, collaboration, innovation, and strategic dialogue are non-negotiable. Sentech Africa Tech Week 2025, taking place from 3–4 June, at the Century City Convention Centre in Cape Town, is where Africa’s brightest tech minds converge to shape the future. This isn’t just another conference, it’s a catalyst for growth, a platform for disruptive ideas, and a launchpad for partnerships that will redefine the continent’s digital landscape. Why your company can’t afford to miss this 1. Tackle Africa’s most pressing tech challenges: 2. Unlock cutting-edge opportunities: 3. Network with decision-makers and disruptors: Rub shoulders with ministers, CIOs, global cloud leaders, and rising startups. Forge alliances in the “Global Alliances, Local Impact” session, where cross-border partnerships are redefining Africa’s digital economy. 4. Position your brand as a leader: Think your startup is the next big thing? Then the Pitching Den is for you. Sessions that will redefine your strategy Why sponsor, exhibit, or attend? Sponsors: Gain unparalleled visibility. Position your brand as a pillar of Africa’s tech ecosystem Act now—Africa’s future won’t wait. The clock is ticking. Secure your spot at the forefront of Africa’s digital revolution. Register now: https://qkt.io/MCKP8m
How do we define leadership in a competitive world?
By Daniel Makoni, Managing Director of wCyber There is little doubt in anyone’s mind that the market today is challenging. Companies are looking for the competitive advantage, customers are trying to get more for less, and growth continues to be slow. It’s a tough landscape, but it is one that business leaders can navigate strategically by taking the right steps in the right directions. These are the times that define leadership, and can allow for entrepreneurs and executives to reshape their companies and the ways in which they do business. And these are the questions that you should be asking to help you refine your business and your approaches: 1. Is my product or service genuinely adding value to the customer? This is the most important question. Is this work, this solution, this service actually solving a real problem? Is it relevant and necessary? A business that can answer this question clearly is defining its market and its target. Once you have a clear understanding of what needs to be done, the how gets much easier. 2. Do I have the right people in the right roles? You need the right people doing the right job if you want to fulfil the needs of your customers. Customer service expectations only grow as the relationship grows and this is rapidly becoming a key differentiator, regardless of market. To serve your customers the quality they expect, the motivation of your people is key. Focus on building your internal relationships as much as your external ones. 3. How am I using the technology at my disposal? With the right technology, you can either cut costs or increase revenue. With the right tools, you can take advantage of opportunities that may have previously slipped past, and you can add an edge to your efficiencies and productivity. There are many examples of companies taking tech to the next level – from Amazon using drones to a sole trader adopting a point-of-sale system that helps them better serve their customers. Getting the right tech and using it properly will give any business a boost. 4. Is the business model viable? There isn’t much value in running a business that isn’t sustainable, and sustainable means financial and impact-based returns. Always check if the operations of your business are achieving what they set out to accomplish and have a finger on the pulse of your financial health. Ensure that financials, operations and systems are healthy to maintain a sustainable and successful business. 5. Should I pivot or stay the course? This is, of course, the million rand question, and one of the toughest decisions to make for a business. It needs to be based on both empirical and intuitive evidence and with an agile mindset. Agile is not just a concept, it is an understanding and merging of all considerations. The ability to constantly adapt the business is something that every leader should be able to do. Assess the market, stay abreast of the events taking place, and learn as many lessons as possible from the pandemic. Take lessons from those who succeeded – AirBnB introducing experience tours – and those who failed – companies that refused to go digital. And sometimes, just recognise that timing, planning, people and technology are good enough to ensure that your business can stay the course to success.
How HR can make strategic decisions for your organisation
By Liquid Thought Despite seeing it in company values and website pages, how many businesses can clearly define what it means to be people-focused? Sustainable innovation can be defined as optimising a business at a people level and to achieve it requires a spark of ambition from leaders. This article unlocks smart insights that spotlight HR as a vehicle for sustainable innovation and how creative agencies are leading the way for corporations to follow in this regard. As you navigate, you’ll discover; Knowledge, action, and direction: Leaders who pioneer Human-centred leadership is defined as “leadership that values people.” But how does this manifest itself on a daily basis? We’re seeing how the concept shapes communication, and perspective, and unlocks a sense of trust. It modifies how we approach problems and find progress. “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” We’ve seen how a setup encourages collaboration and an environment has the potential to stimulate employees to be the best version of themselves, but a convenient and comfortable workplace requires one to champion the basics first, then infuse them into your results. Resourceful spaces and personalised experiences are built by transparent and inclusive leaders who constantly steer a balanced ratio between their people, the work they produce and how that evolves their company’s reputation. To be more inclusive and authentic with the employees you serve, let’s take a look at three insights you might want to jump onboard with: We can easily camouflage ourselves in the digital world, but on the other side, there will always be people. Although the notion of humans as a resource – hence “HR” – has prevailed for too long, the realisation that people are more than a resource to be exploited, and rather an asset to be nurtured, is fast gaining traction amongst the savvier companies. Supervising purpose to accelerate growth: A mission statement generated by people HR has emerged as the compass for modelling attitudes and establishing a rich workplace filled with various personalities. To achieve this, HR leaders are diving deeper into data to further understand an employee’s experience. Being authentic in today’s world is more crucial than ever, and one way to do this is by having a purpose based on an ethos, unique to the brand, vital to all stakeholders, and aligned with values. Knowing someone’s triggers as well as their strengths improves communication and helps to build a motivated team; it is at this point that the ‘why’ begins to take shape and a purpose starts to spark. Employee pride, value-based decision-making, behaviour, goal-setting, and a sense of purpose all provide meaning to the work being done, which helps workers get through late nights, tight deadlines, and personality conflicts, or simply go that extra mile when they have the potential. To get a headstart, it’s essential to determine each coworker’s unique style in order to influence and connect with them on a deeper level. After that, tweak your behaviour and adapt the corporate behaviour in response to get the best out of each person. Enhancing your business IQ: Great teams don’t hide from mistakes, they embrace them. An HR specialist can open doors and create synergies with the workflows they design. They have what it takes to champion people to deliver with skill and commitment. Removing outdated methods and replacing them with an iterative-learning path that broadens their skill-set while boosting their self-assurance and helping you achieve mastery. Instead of continually nurturing from the top down, high-performing organisations and well-oiled teams do so in reverse, from the bottom up, as a means of creating transferable skills. Workplaces such as this are driven by innovation and in order to do so, depend on their employees, and their success is contingent on how they treat the people who deliver the results. A cultural lens must constantly be used in HR practice when deciding how to alter one’s tone and internal mechanics. It involves being flexible and agile in how people work, as well as experimenting and testing to the point where lessons from mistakes are used in future efforts to improve performance. It’s the concept of a fertile environment that is constantly under construction, and in a highly competitive market, this can only distinguish your product from the rest. To conclude How you make holistic wellness a key component in your workplace is what creates an environment that thrives with happy people. Happy people are more productive, create stronger, and more cohesive teams, and the minute you begin checking the pulses of employees is the minute you start accelerating the desire to work for your company. HR’s integral role in all of this comes from optimising a business at the level of people and in doing so achieving so much value for an organisation. HR’s involvement in strategic decision-making means wearing the leadership hat and in doing so, can accomplish: Liquid Thought is a collective of Engineers, Creatives, Makers and Marketers – curious, talented and agile humans on a mission to unlock clients’ digital potential. The agency has been working on a range of leading corporates and impactful start-ups for over 21 years.
Ergonomics at home and work: Setting up a pain-free workspace
By Sue Ramauthar, Physiotherapist Let’s face it—most of us weren’t thinking about ergonomics when we hastily set up our home or office workspace when COVID hit. But as the backaches, neck stiffness, and wrist pain creep in, it’s clear that poor workstation design is taking its toll. The good news? You don’t need an expensive chair or a fancy sit-stand desk to fix it. Small, smart changes can go a long way in creating a comfortable, pain-free workspace—whether you’re in a high-rise office or working from the kitchen table. 1. Your chair setup Bad habit: Slouching or sinking into your chair like a sack of potatoes. Quick fix: Sit back in your chair with your lower back supported—if your chair lacks lumbar support, roll up a towel and place it at your lower back curve. Your feet should be flat on the floor (or on a box if needed), and your knees level with or slightly below your hips. 2. Adjusting your work surface Bad habit: Hunching over a desk, and reaching forward to type. Quick fix: Your elbows should be at a 90-degree angle when typing, on an armrest, with wrists in a neutral (straight) position. If your desk is too high, raise your chair and use a footrest. Too low? Prop your laptop or monitor up with books. And consider using a separate keyboard. 3. Screen strain – Finding the perfect view Bad habit: Peering down at your screen causing pressure into your neck. Quick fix: The top of your screen should be at eye level to prevent neck strain. Use a laptop stand (or a stack of books) to elevate your screen and pair it with an external keyboard and mouse for better posture. 4. Mouse & keyboard – Hand position matters Bad habit: Reaching too far for your mouse or keyboard. Quick fix: Keep them close—your upper arms should be relaxed at your sides. Consider a wrist rest or use a folded towel to keep your wrists in a neutral position and avoid awkward bends. 5. The standing and movement breaks Bad habit: Sitting for hours oblivious to the impact on your body. Quick fix: Set a reminder to stand, stretch, and move every 30–45 minutes. Try the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce eye strain. 6. Lighting & glare: Save your eyes Bad habit: Squinting at a screen like you’re reading fine print in dim light. Quick fix: Position your screen to avoid glare, use task lighting, and adjust brightness to reduce strain. Bonus tip: Blink often and stay hydrated—your eyes will thank you. 7. The “Phone Cradle” problem: Stop the shoulder squeeze Bad habit: Pinning your phone between your ear and shoulder when taking calls. Quick fix: Use a headset or speakerphone instead—your neck muscles aren’t built for multitasking like that! The bottom line Ergonomics doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. By making these small tweaks, you can dramatically reduce your risk of work-related aches and pains. And remember—keep moving throughout the day! Sue Ramauthar is a corporate wellness practitioner and physiotherapist at SuedeWellness
Innovation meets opportunity: Apply now for the 2025 Sentech Africa Tech Week Pitching Den
By Topco Marketing Calling all visionary African tech entrepreneurs! If you’re ready to showcase your innovation, connect with top investors, and win life-changing opportunities for your startup, Sentech Africa Tech Week 2025 is your stage. The Pitching Den is back, bigger and bolder, and we’re inviting you to step into the spotlight. You will have the opportunity to share your idea and battle it out against some of Africa’s brightest minds in tech, with a powerhouse investor panel and an audience filled with key decision-makers in the sector. Finalists will pitch their ideas live at the Sentech Africa Tech Week Conference in Cape Town, one of the continent’s great incubators for start-ups. Finalists will have access to mentorship, pitch training and have a platform to make connections that could redefine your startup’s trajectory. On offer is a grand prize worth R295 000 and the winner will also receive a 12-month high-value media package, a speaking slot at the 2026 conference, a guest slot on Topco Media’s Business Unusual podcast, and three HAVAÍC consulting courses which could supercharge your growth. The Pitching Den isn’t just a competition—it’s a launchpad. Past finalists have landed funding, partnerships, and media buzz that propelled them to new heights. Whether you’re revolutionising fintech, healthtech, edtech, or green energy, this is your moment to shine. There are three simple requirements: Get your tickets for Sentech Africa Tech Week 2025 The simple four step process Don’t let this opportunity slip away. Sharpen your pitch, polish your MVP, and submit your application today. The road to Cape Town—and to scaling your startup—starts now. Apply now: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ATW2025 Got questions? Reach out to marketing@africatechweek.co.za or marketing@topco.co.za for support. Listen to what 2024’s winner had to say on the Business Unusual Podcast Key dates: (Note: Finalists must cover their own travel costs to Cape Town. Apply only if you can commit to attending the live event on 3-4 June 2025.)