Uplifting the Women of South Africa

A great day for craft in Ekherleni

2007-10-23T17:41:00.000+02:00

Rugby World Cup 2007

2007-10-22T16:48:00.000+02:00

Understanding the universe

2007-10-10T12:31:00.000+02:00

Lessons of my own life has taught and showed me, that no matter where you get to in life, you are constantly searching.

Searching for answers, meanings
Searching for love, kindness, friendship
Searching for success, wealth
Searching for happiness, health

I have been practising the mind power techquines for well on 3 months, sometimes everyday, and others as and when, but the one thing that I have learnt so far is that I have to keep my mind focused on the real things that I am searching for.

As discussed in these learnings, we easily forget what we have achieved or where we have come from in our paths to find the things we are searching for.

Within my own life and that of Tangerine's so far, where we were a year ago we never would have imagined the journey, but if I look back a year ago and remember my thinking then of course we are where we are now.

Now as I see Tangerine and myself progress to another level, I am aware of the thinking that has got me to this point.

So no matter what you are searching for ensure that you are a 100% sure of what it is, because what you think you become.

Changes again

2007-10-09T12:34:00.000+02:00

Lets try again

The rain is still going, its been non stop since Friday, a beautiful site, the land is clean and fresh, the grass is green, the plants and trees are alive.

That is the same about Tangerine, coming from a humble begining a year ago, Tangerine is now entering its second phase of business growth.

As I look at the amazing opportunities availing themselves to us, the growth is I suppose a mirror reflection of my own growth.

When Tangerine started I needed to be uplifted, now that I am feeling the confidence in side of myself, I see confidence from the market.

With local government now coming on board, and leaders asking us to pass on learnings this is an amazing recognition of where we have come from and even more where we are going.

Taking a stand about our individual rights

2007-10-01T19:35:00.000+02:00

Lately I have been practising mind power techniques, willing to look at how I can make my life better.

I am now starting to see the return of this thinking and now know that anything I you set your mind to can be achieved.

Now that I understand this thinking I am now ready to start pushing my mind thinking.

It is this kind of thinking that I believe can set the pace for a new opportunities.

Children from an early age should be taught this as part of a school subject

Craft Samples

2007-10-01T13:59:00.000+02:00

Feeling a bit guilty for not doing my blog every night like I have been doing - but just to give some feedback where we are.

We have now got our feet into three of the major retailers in South Africa, the problem though with this is that it takes so long because every time we need to produce samples.

To try and overcome the cost factor involved in this I have been in discussion with the Ekwuleni Muncipality East Rand Johannesburg, in principal they have agreed to set up training programmes which offer a return or measurement.

This means that 4 times a year we can work with retailers to produce products based on their brief and allow up to 300 women at one time work opportunities.

The concept is that this will mushroom.

Well obviously I'll keep you informed

How do we educate the women of the rural communities of South Africa

2007-09-26T19:42:00.000+02:00

Gosh it seems like forever since I made contact, with the public holiday on Monday, yesterday just never gave me two minutes.

What I would like to touch on, is the dire situation of the women in the rural areas of South Africa. With so much development and forward growth in getting the message out about HIV/Aids, why then are our women dying and being infected with this disease.

Last night watching a South African programme on SABC 3 "Special Assignment" it became very obvious how bad the real situation is with these women.

Dying like flies, these women still don't seem to understand that they need to be part of the system, they need birth certificates for their children, ID Books and all other papers that prove that they are in fact alive.

What I don't understand, surely these people have to be registered somewhere, these children that are being born need to be registered.

So how do we make it easier to educate these people, one thought is (which is mine) is that Home Affairs offices need to be set up in the rural areas, education programmes at the school need to be put in place, more root development.

Im not sure of the answer to this solution, but what is sure they are not being educated, they are not getting the necessary assistance, and they are definately not getting to be part of the growth and the development of South Africa.

A real glimpse into the lives of the rural South Africans

2007-09-20T13:11:00.000+02:00

Sixteen documents required

Rejane Woodroffe

19 September 2007 11:59

Rural poverty is being exacerbated by bureaucratic inefficiency. (Photograph: Tracy Lee Stark)
Although I work as an economist and portfolio manager in the finance sector, I live in a remote rural area where my husband has, together with the local community, built a backpackers’ lodge.

This is in the most remote village in the poorest district in South Africa (according to Statistics SA). The village has no running water, no toilets, no road, no clinic, no functioning school and no electricity or government services of any kind.

Most of the community members are illiterate and speak little or no English. Because we have made this our home and are considered part of the community, we are often asked to help sort out problems, one of the most common being to help retired mineworkers or their widows access their pension funds.

The problem is a good example of the disparity between our first and second economies. The best way for me to describe the extent of the difficulties of the poorest in our society in accessing their pension funds, is to use an actual example.

In 2004 a respected member of our community passed away. He had worked for many years at Anglo Platinum’s Amandelbult mine in Rustenberg. The tragedy of his death was magnified by his family’s inability to access any of the money from the provident fund that he diligently put aside to care for them and to which they were entitled.

His wife, Nothembile (not her real name), a good friend of ours, lives in a mud hut. She’s had to remove her children from school because she can’t pay school fees, she doesn’t have enough money for food and she suffers from chronic epilepsy.

Why has she not received the money owed to her by the provident fund? The answer to this lies in the disempowering reality of abject poverty and illiteracy.

After her husband’s death, Nothembile took what papers she had (various payslips and so on) and went to the labour department in Mthatha. There she was given a cheque late last year, which she couldn’t read. She tried to deposit the cheque and was told by the teller that it had “expired”.

The teller kept the cheque. We have not been able to find out where this cheque was from: possibly the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) or some funeral benefit. She doesn’t know the value of the cheque. The UIF says it has no record of any cheque being paid.

She was advised on how to go about applying for the money. Three certified photocopies of the following documents were required:

The deceased’s ID, which she had, so no problem;

The death certificate -- this involved regular visits to home affairs in Mthatha and Elliotdale (a journey that takes five hours each way and costs R100);

Her ID, which she had;

Her marriage certificate. Traditional marriages are not registered and she has to get affidavits from various traditional leaders (four hours’ walk away) -- a tedious process;

Birth certificates for her eight children. All of them were born in her hut and have no birth certificates. With the authorities keen to avoid social grant fraud, it is a difficult process to get birth certificates;

Proof of school attendance. This was relatively easy to get, but the kids have since had to drop out;

A letter confirming physical and postal address. This again requires a long walk to the chief;

A bank account. With the new Fica rules it is difficult to open a bank account if you live where there are no roads and thus no addresses. This requires numerous trips to Mthatha and the chief. She did this, but it turned out to be a savings account instead of an ACB type bank account -- even us city-types don’t understand what that’s about. Now she needs to get an ACB account statement -- not a savings account statement; and finally

An added complication is that the deceased had two wives, which is not uncommon in traditional areas. The second wife also needs to supply documents before either can access the provident fund.

This process is difficult for someone with no money, but it is almost impossible for someone who’s illiterate. Nothembile wandered around Mthatha for days trying to get copies made and then not understanding that every copy had to be certified.

The police are often busy and refuse to certify on demand: she requires as many as 60 documents certified. Even when she has all the documents, she doesn’t know who to phone and she doesn’t have money to make phone calls. She doesn’t know what “registered mail” is and she will believe pretty much anything anyone in authority tells her.

If someone from Anglo Platinum said, “Sorry, you’ve taken too long to apply for the provident fund,” she would sadly accept it. It would be the easiest thing in the world to defraud her -- which might be what happened when her cheque was rejected at the bank last year.

Even when Nothembile gets these papers, she can’t read them and won’t know when she has all of them; she’ll probably end up sending the originals too, which will no doubt get lost in the post; she’ll have to phone for the postal address, but she doesn’t know the phone number and can’t write and has no money to phone anyway.

She’ll almost certainly send only some of the documents and not others, and then no one will be able to contact her to tell her that there are documents outstanding.

She and many other people in the same position do not understand that they have a right to this money. Nothembile has given up trying to access the money now.

The solution to her problem is simple: it has to be legislated that all pension and provident funds must get all the required documents from employees while they are still healthy. This should be included as a term in the employee’s employment contract and the fund’s adherence to this rule should be monitored by the Financial Services Board.

Additionally, Anglo Platinum and other companies that benefit from the migrant labour system need to be proactive when their employees die. Surely someone must have noticed that this money has been sitting unclaimed for three years?

This is just a glimpse of the gulf between South Africa’s sophisticated first economy and the underdeveloped second economy. If we want to build a bridge between these two, as government has proposed, we need to recognise the extent of this problem and find creative and practical solutions.

Réjane Woodroffe is an economist and head of international portfolio management at Metropolitan Asset Managers and director of the Bulungula Incubator

Women Abuse

2007-09-19T19:40:00.000+02:00

When will this ever stop, having experienced this twice in my life, why is it that men believe that they own you.

Today one of the women in the projects admitted to me her home situation, she lives with an abusive husband, she can't get him out the house, she doesn't have the money to leave, he drinks, hits her, takes it out on the children, and refuses to contribute to the household - and on top of it, he earns a decent living.

She now has to sit in court for a whole day, get no where because of the queues, takes time of work, gets into trouble because she is not there to deliver - and the cycle goes on.

So to all the policies and processes in place, it still doesn't work towards getting the support women like her need.

I pray that through the relationships I have I can find some way out for her and her family

Inspirational Women

2007-09-18T16:17:00.000+02:00

I am so glad to be back online, for the last few days I have not been able to connect.

Today I would like to dedicate this blog to all the inspirational women and men in South Africa who are making a difference.

Every day I come across a story that just proves that there is just so much good going on in our country, and I am now determined to only share our good news stories.

Its time for the world to real take notice and see that we are not just about hand outs, its about proving that all the attention and belief in South Africa is now paying of.

Look at ourselves, Tangerine we are close on assisting directly and indirectly over a 1000 people predominately women - but now we are opening the doors and our hearts to working with the youth of our country.

Keeping them of the streets and helping them find opportunities.

South Africa "Our time has come"

Good week for Tangerine

2007-09-13T20:38:00.000+02:00

So the weekend is back upon us, I hope your week as been a successful one. I'm back into the swing of finding business again. After the show and getting sick, it has taken me a while to get back to being fully motivated.

But after this week definately back up there - requests for pricing for orders are starting to increase again and some new opportunities opening themselves up.

Also a new project maybe in Limpopo, waiting to see what comes out of it, and within my own camp in Etwatwa some surprises with the womens groups.

Kenny the young man who I have taken under my wing is starting to shine and I am so happy that he'll being earning some money from the end of the month - I though need to spend some quality time with him.

With a great weekend in front of us, so much to be grateful for - have a good one!!

South Africa Crafting Celebration

2007-09-12T20:31:00.000+02:00

Today we had the members of the Timken foundation visit the Impumelelo Project at the John Wesley Centre out at Etwatwa.

Timken have agreed to fund the building of the new art and craft manufacturing centre, shop and admin offices out at the centre.

It was really great meeting everybody and it is days like today that make it all worth it.

Every day I see the people out at the centre take a bigger positive role in the growth of their own lifes.

Craft and art development play a major fundamental role in the long term growth opportunities for our country.

Pushing crafters into the corporate market

2007-09-11T18:49:00.000+02:00

Well I couldn't get into the blog last night for some unknown reason.

Tangerine has now been going over a year, and were pretty much up there with getting into the retail space.

Now we have our eyes on the corporate market, and like every thing it takes time to break in.

Our marketing message is so different, I am now thinking of adding a whole new section onto the web site that shows businesses the kind of products and what we can do for companies.

The whole playing field changes, and companies make decisions so differently, my concern is do we push the development part or do we push more the product.

I suppose time will tell

Crafting in South Africa

2007-09-06T21:23:00.000+02:00

Tomorrow I present more samples to potential new buyers, partners and possible long term initiatives.

Each time we produce these samples, it allows me to think of new product opportunities, already I now have an idea for a new bag which I believe I also have the right buyer for.

The opportunity for South African crafters is to produce products that are worldly but also show the true South African flair.

On the ceramic side, I present on Tuesday a way forward to set up a commercial venture I am awaiting to get their approval on the product type and to get my good old friend Lloyd up to Johannesburg to work on producing master and working moulds.

I am also going to get him to produce artist drawings on 3 tier product range that I have in mind leading up to the 2010 world cup socceer that is happening in South Africa.

See you tomorrow - sorry about the spelling and grammer, but my blog is constantly opening in an error mode and it doesn't allow me the opportunity to check my spelling so please don't judge. - thanks goodnight

Respectful Attitude

2007-09-05T21:07:00.000+02:00

I need to get of my frustration, so please bear with me.

If there is one thing that gets up my nose is the manner in which a person believes they have the right to treat another person, especially when that manner is disrepectful.

Today one of my collagues send me this stern email all in capitals, this is not the first time it has happened. Like I always do I kept quite just to keep the peace, why should I keep quite, its is there issue and I can refuse to be treated in this manner.

In the same breath by keeping the peace is not really keeping the peace because it means you have to accept what that person has done or is doing to you, so our you at peace - not at all in reality you now carry the burdon of what was put on you.

So I have decided that politely from now on I will be as confrontational as possible to ensure that I know longer carry somebody elses issues.

Ok got it of my chest, but the lesson is only you can make the decision on what you allow yourself to take on, remember you always have to be number one otherwise how can you give to anybody else.

With that - love yourself - goodnight

Tough day - South Africa Craft Industry

2007-09-04T21:49:00.000+02:00

Well today was one of those days, where just so much needed to be done, and just not enough time in the day.

We are busy moving into a bigger room on top of it, don't get me wrong I love the pressure.

I have to get three sample to a buyer by Friday, this is exciting could be the possibility of a new partnership forming.

And on top of it which is really exciting the beginings of our new design agency is starting to emerge.

I'm now starting to creep my way into the corporate maket place with the first batch of the campaign getting out and the response though slow is starting to emerge.

I am meeting with one of the bigger Advertising agencys in South Africa and I am putting to them that they must use us as a direct supplier for as many projects as possible.

Also I have secured a meeting to discuss the region and the possibility of working to develop a branded product range for Gauteng.

Lots and lots, looking forward to the money coming now.

See you all tomorrow.

Going to start working on the keywords, pushing to get as much traffic to the www.tangerinemarketing.com site.

Committed to Promoting Crafters in South Africa

2007-09-03T21:39:00.000+02:00

Good evening from a warm Johannesburg, South Africa. Winter is finally starting to leave us for the warmer weather of Spring.

It always amazes me, like clockwork, the seasons change, no level of grasping will ever take this amazing happening from blowing me away season after season.

Another thing that constantly amazes me is the level of workmanship that is produced in South Africa. Why is it that the Indonisans have such a great name for their craftmanship. Why do we battle to create our place in the global world.

I am working now on a few projects that will hopefully play a role in creating a market place for a commercial level of craft both locally here in South Africa and internationally.

So with only a few lines tonight, where ever you are - back tomorrow

Craft manufacturers

2007-08-30T22:12:00.000+02:00

Met this morning with a potential new crafting group, like all the groups that I have been in contact with, they find themselves in the same situation of not creating a sustainable market place.

After pondering about this and why is it that craft projects don't do any pre work before setting up led me to one answer - these projects are always well nearly always started our of a passion to make the lives of those less fortunate better.

What seems to be forgotton is that at the end of day, they are manufacturers and they need to earn a living, so once the romantic illusion is put into a box especially when not enough comes in, the reality sets in that it needs to make money to survive.

This is also why when these projects are set up no thought goes into what the market is after and what the project can deliver on the needs of the market.

More and more Tangerine is playing a role of assessing the needs and finding manufacturers and giving them specific briefs on what to make.

Slowly and surely a fully fledge marketing agency is being formed that is starting to offer a full service offering from designing their logos to creating products for them to produce.

Tangerine's campaign

2007-08-29T20:32:00.000+02:00

Finally our email campaign is going out, 3 months later than I proposed but I suppose better late than never.

Well this will be the first of many, I think by creating a database of potential clients allows us to start building a name for ourselves, and building a reputation about the company we are.

My next action to complete for the web is the newsletter which will be finished Friday and will go live I would say about a week later latest.

After that is to update the products take off the products that have been sold and replace with new photos.

I suppose eventually having a web site becomes a full time job, I need to find out how we can update it ourselves.

Well I'm waffling, good night I'm having a early one tonight

Tangerine's Journery

2007-08-28T22:35:00.000+02:00

I've just come back from dinner with a very old friend of mine that I havn't seen for a very long time.

It was so good and felt so good giving her the journey of Tangerine, and it made me think that maybe it was a good time to reflect on why I set up Tangerine with Gordon.

I suppose it makes sense to go right back, after I walked out on Jacques with R13.00 in my pocket, I was at the lowest of lowest, personally I never though I had the strength to make it through the next hour never mind the next day. But I had to think of my daughter and knowing how unsettled this must have made her, internally made it all worse.

But as they say the show must go on, one hour became one day, became one month, became two years and here we are now.

I will never forget the pain of walking away, I will never forget the pain of realising how much hurt he put onto my daughter, I will never forget the internal humilation of getting to the lowest possible place within yourself.

I don't use these memories to drive me, I think that would drive me crazy, I use these memories as lesson, lessons never to be learnt again. Lessons that have opened up my world to looking for only positive initatives and changes that I can bring upon myself and other.

Yes Tangerine's journey has been an intense one, but the journey has been a positive one, each day I meet or bump into people who just reiterate this.

Tangerine Marketing

2007-08-27T20:20:00.000+02:00

A world of opportunities are sitting for our picking, the hard work of putting this business together is now finally starting to pay of.

I have finally got my head around being open to making the money needed to fulfill on all the goals and dreams that I have personally and for the business. Thank goodness for my friend and business partner - Gordon, he is such an inspiration most times - he is constantly pusing me to grow as an individual.

I see everytime I overcome a situation, he opens up more to me and shares and trusts me more with his thinking about business.

So its time now to look at each one from a financial viability and strategic opportunity to Tangerine for now and future business opportunities.

John Wesley Centre

2007-08-23T21:22:00.000+02:00

Today it felt so good to spend time with the women at the John Wesley Centre in Etwatwa, the last few weeks just put so much pressure on all of us to deliver, that I believe we all lost a bit of why we are doing what were doing. Yes, we know the more money we make the better the lives of many - but what going out to the centre just brought home, was the level of love and commitment to fellow people just really lifted my spirits.

Hopefully this is the last time in my life I try so hard to please everybody, its time that I finally got it into this head of mine that its not all about me and how I think, but its about having fun, and enjoying what were about and spreading this load amongst us all.

I truly thank God for brining these beautiful women into my life, who through all that life has thrown at them just see the brightness of the dawn of every and each new day. THANK YOU

Developments in Tangerine

2007-08-22T21:42:00.001+02:00

This week, basically because I have really been sick as made me homeward bound, and due to the fact I haven't had much energy its has made me become very internally focused. Obviously this has made me take a long hard look at where we are and where we need to go.

At the same time, remaining clear in my thoughts of what we have achieved to date, and I think I need to just mention our achievements to date.

Firstly we entered a market that we knew nothing about, we have already reached the capacity of the small South African retail market, gosh I had no idea how small this market really is.

Secondly, our name is pretty much known locally and I know not everybody likes us, but we have secured a position quickly.

Now though comes the time to enter new markets, like virgin territory, it just takes a big shove to jump and get going, well that's where I am now, the universe is shoving me whether I like it or not and I am jumping.

Lastly we have really figured out how most operators operate and to be quite honestly its the one's you expect the most have let us down, but I suppose that is how life is in general.

So now I am feeling strong and ready to go roaring out again in the next chapter, I go out with an insight that I did not have before. As Merle said you will only receive wealth when you are ready to handle it, each chapter is a new learning working towards being ready for that achievement.

Africa's time is here

2007-08-21T21:39:00.000+02:00

Today I had traces of the me I know not this sick person who is driving me crazy, today I realised how the doors that started Tangerine are now closing and I see new doors opening.

What the show has taught me or showed to me is that I am confident enough to now start creating a Tangerine range of products, that is developed and produced under the Tangerine brand.

A range of products that promotes the African tribal nation not just in South Africa but accros the total southern africa, especially leading up to the 2010 socceer world cup that is being held in South Africa.

Last week South Africa launch Africa's time is here, I think all South Africans should rise and take advantage of this great opportunity

Making a difference

2007-08-19T10:54:00.001+02:00

I have started doing the visulazation tools that John Kehoe preaches, and it has made me realise that life is not about how much money you make, it is about what you do with the money you make.

Everyone of us has a choice in our lives about how we live, do we live for ourselves only and our own worth, or do we live to make a difference no matter how small.

Tonight I watched a TV programme on our local SABC 3, in which we spoke about bone marrow and I like many who I am sure believed to donate your marrow was a very painful experience, only to find out that there is nothing to it.

I wonder how many people will rise to the occassion, and of those that do rise I wonder what kind of people they are.

I am going to rise to the occassion, I have learnt that life is the most precious thing to have, to do deeds for others is the most rewarding aspect of life.

I live my life the way I want other people to see me, a very powerful thing to do and that is the words of Ghandi.

I vow to use the money I make to make a difference in the lives of others, no matter how big or small.

Links to the past

2007-08-19T10:54:00.000+02:00

Last week was definately a week of making contact with people I have not spoken to or been in contact for a very long time, the amazing thing about the three people who have come back into my life, when speaking with them it felt like they had never left my life.

Also I have learnt a valuable lesson about myself this week, every time I get sick which is never often, but when I do I am man down, it is because of the unbalance lifestyle I live. It is an ongoing growth of neglect and the only way balance gets back into my life is by making me sick.

So the lesson finaly learnt no matter how I am tempted to give to much to one aspect of my life over the other, no more because in the long run I will achieve better quicker properly.

There is a saying in the bible about where you sew your seeds, well that is what the lesson is all about, every time I push for these quick fixes guess what eventually I end up putting in more work in the long term than I needed originally.

The more confident I get about myself, Tangerine and the women I am working with, the more sure I am of standing my ground and not just accepting what is put to me.

So this week, now that I am no longer going to Durban (just to sick)I am going to take everything that is around me and work through everything personal, business, emotional and anything else that comes out of this period.

Getting back to normal

2007-08-16T20:46:00.000+02:00

I am slowly getting my life back to normal, this show really took it out of me, in more ways than one. I think I just put so much pressure on myself to deliver and to finally start showing a return on Gordon's investment in to the Tangerine dream.

But after the two meetings I had today, I look closely at myself and realised it is not so much about Gordon but working through this abandment issue I have about people in my life, and how I usually start pushing people to eventually walk away from me.

Every time I am at a point in my life when it should turn I pressuraise myself into believing that I have to deliver more than what is expected, and when that dosen't happen because it can never happen I believe that the people I have let down will walk away. This is the first time I have finally realise and seen myself in the situation.

Actually it is a breath of light that I am so aware of this and it has made me make a decision to just slow down my pace and to spend some quality time documenting all the projects that are around me and to put actions against them all with time lines and targets, financially and emotionally.

Yesterday was also an unbelievable day I bumped into Darren a guy that I use to work with, somebody who I called a friend and due to circumstances which i can't even remember we havn't spoken in nearly 10 years, and the amazing thing was, was this it felt like yesterday, it really blew me away.

I honstly end the day truely believing in my success as a human being and feeling so proud of the person I am becoming and knowing deep within me the journery of Tangerine is still a long and very enjoyable one that will bring great achievements to all who I come into contact with

Show a thing of the past

2007-08-14T20:23:00.000+02:00

Well I can't believe that the show is over, and a whole week of my life feels like it just never existed, but I KNOW it did, I got really sick. My body telling me to take care of itself - I promised myself a few days of in Durban next week, but I just don't want to loose the momentum formed at the show.

So what happened at the One of a Kind, firstly our stand was amazing, I felt though that the international buyers weren't researched enough to cover the needs of the majority of crafters at the show. The buyers and contacts that I did meet look very promising.

Other lesson learnt is only attend the show with new stock, buyers and customers are looking for new stuff.

I am also thinking that maybe we should be looking a sponsoring an award versus taking stock to the show.

Show up and going

2007-08-08T20:32:00.000+02:00

First day of the One of a Kind behind me now I can concentrate on the show, no real hiccups and in general most things ran quite smoothly.

Not as much sales as I imagined but I positive about tomorrow - lots of good interest shown in the stand and the products that we are marketing.

Next few days are going to be a bit of a blur for me, but already just the few contacts will make it all worthwhile.

Until tomorrow and when the show is finished I will only being doing for small entries to keep everybody abreast of what is happening.

Finally Here

2007-08-07T22:59:00.000+02:00

Well the stand is up, the products are on the shelves, everything is in place with only one hiccup our tags never arrived, but we have made a plan.

I have been informed that the new web site is up trying to get into it but cant.

All of this means one thing we are ready to enter into the market place and we ready for the market place.

I know this is short and sweet but I am extremelly tired, so ready for my bed and for the day tomorrow.

Petrol to keep us going

2007-08-03T18:46:00.000+02:00

Today I experienced the thought and feeling of what happens when you can't get the resource you need to be able to function in the normality of life.

After going to at least 20 petrol stations with my car on empty to I thought how was I suppose to move on without petrol.

Presently South Africa is gripped with yet another strike, this one as the potential to cause a real problem for every South African but the biggest fear is how our officials who need to save lives and catch the criminals function.

By 2pm today there was just no more petrol left in any of the petrol stations.

So I hope that by Monday we could be in a bit of a situation as the people who never got to put petrol in their cars will be in no position to move, and those who have petrol like me will have a few days maximum.

So come on guys I know we need to get decent livings but not at the expense of everybody else.

Back on track

2007-08-02T20:44:00.000+02:00

Nearly fell back into a mindset of not being able to achieve this, not having enough faith, and as I was falling into this I could see myself doing it - first time ever, bless Philip that he felt he needed to tell me to take it easy and I had already figured it out.

So I took myself out of the situation came home to work, couldn't get a signal to send emails, couldn't get my phone charged so it made me just focus and get back on track, the moment I felt at peace and fired up again guess what everything worked again.

One of the most stressful things I believe a new business undertakes is moving from the small micro business to a professional looking and thinking business, I think this move is really miss understood and I am so glad that I am aware of this, has this will help me in helping the many different groups that are showing themselves to me right now.

So back to being the driver again tomorrow, I thank the Lord for surrounding me with the most beautiful people, and yes unfortunately there are always one or two that fall away but in general a team that is there to see this all happen

Every day is a new opportunity

2007-08-01T19:59:00.000+02:00

Today my day started of with chaos, and I found myself thinking that I wouldn't make it through the day, I snapped at a member of our team and I suppose had a slight panic attack of what is coming our way.

Once I had managed to sort myself out and calm down I realised it wasn't as hectic as I thought. I realised how amazing it is that already we are so busy, yes were not making the money we need yet to be sustainable but every month its just getting better and better.

Driving by from Johannesburg today, the stand designer phoned to give me a final budget, only double what he had initially quoted us, have you ever had that feeling when you are going to jump of the cliff, you know the rope is going to hold you, but the fear inside you overwhelms you, well that's how I felt.

So I slowed my thinking down looking at all the positives and negatives and realised that the only negatives were based on our present cash flow, the positives are that the market place will recognise us as the professional business we want to be known as - so it was agreed to do, must admit did need to bounce this one of my partners both of them - God and Gordon. Just need to get his message first though before I picked up the phone to call Gordon - yes he gave me the message as soon as I spoke to people around me.

So yes the rope saved me when I jumped of the cliff today, it will be an amazing success in more ways than my wildest dreams can imagine.

So before saying goodnight, Tangerine Marketing is in the Star newspaper tomorrow, reporter interviewed me over the phone, I am feeling a bit insecure of how I came across I just get so passionate about what I am doing and why.

The Road Travelled

2007-07-31T21:41:00.000+02:00

Nobody said starting your own business is an easy thing, I would probably say it is one of the hardest things to do - its not so much the work flow but it all boils down to the cash flow thing.

Like all new Businesses Tangerine faces the same struggles, I just thank my lord every night that I have him watching over me. He has given me so much to be thankful for over the last few months.

Finally I am at a place in my own life where I know I am doing the right thing, there is not a moment that goes by that I am not excited about what is happening. On top of that I am surrounded by people who really believe in what I am doing as much as I do.

I suppose what all this is about - through no matter what life throws at you if you are doing for God nothing can get in your way.

If anybody can tell you about the experiences of banging your head against the same brick wall over and over again and never getting the lessons, its me, but thankfully sometimes it just takes one thing and its like a light switch and everything just makes sense. Well thats where I am in my own life.

To anybody out there who can seem to find the peace with in believe me it is there

Sold out

2007-07-30T12:38:00.000+02:00

Have to share what happened today, my daughter and I were suppose to do the market on Saturday it was so cold that everybody packed up, hence we couldn't do the market. This really meant that we didn't make any cash, cash I wanted to pay one of our new ladies.

So what do you think happened today, 15 beautiful American students, 3 teachers visited the John Wesley Centre and bought nearly everything we had - and guess what I have more than I envisaged and I also paid one of our ladies.

Again I just can't get over what is happening everything we need and more just keeps coming our way.

Let me say again - Thank you so much My Lord

Weekend is here

2007-07-27T22:28:00.000+02:00

Another week has gone by, my Daughter and I are doing our first market day tomorrow, and the weather is turning for the worse. But no fear I am positive that we will still have a good day, like all things it takes a bit of time.

With 2 minor changes my very first email campaign hits the airwaves on Monday, gosh we have come along way.

Its also great that my business partner is heading up to Johannesburg on Monday.

Well I know this is a short one, just wanted to close of the week.

You know what they say "Do you want to be a Superstar - well guess what you are"

Ceramics began today

2007-07-26T20:39:00.000+02:00

Finally we are there, the ceramic project kicked of today, we had great interest from the local community, on top of it the supplier GW Base has donated nearly 6 tons of slip powder which is an equivalent to nearly 2 years worth of material for us to use.

All I say is thank you LORD.

Today we also met to discus the new building, men some times are really weird, they ask you to comment on your needs but then they tell you it is not feasible, instead of giving you the options before hand, they same women are the ones who are weird - time for them to start looking in the mirror.

Tonight I am having an early night it has just been go go go since I can remember, in just over a week I am at the One of Kind show at Gallagher Estate, Johannesburg and then straight afterwards I'm of to Durban by the sea - and then a small break - probably going to take a few days to see my friends and catch up.

Well have a great one

Good morning

2007-07-26T07:51:00.000+02:00

Good morning from a sunny South Africa, it looks like winter is finally coming to an end, I even woke up earlier due to the warmth in the air.

Couldn't get online last night and I must admit I missed closing down my day with my blog. But I can now really say that all the new art material is a done thing and within hours I believe it will be visable - wow can't wait to see it all in action.

Yesterday afternoon I got caught in a very bad traffic due to a horrible accident on one of our main freeways (5 cars and a truck) and it made me just think internally to who I am and why I am doing what I am doing.

The peace I felt from just tuching my own soul with these thoughs were are amazing, never before have a been so sure of what I am doing.

Also how grateful I am to have a partner like Gordon, a man with such a big heart who I know I drive crazy sometimes.

So again I just want to thank my Lord for putting me in this place so that I can find my own peace and to be fortunate enough to assist so many people in their own lives.

So with that have a beautiful day, live it to the best and dream of all your dreams to come.

Tangerine a buzz of excitment

2007-07-24T21:39:00.000+02:00

Wow what a day, just go go go, took Nox to meet Bronwyn from Out of Alex, her concept is really refreshing, clean and easy to transform.

I am looking forward to seeing this on the shelves in the big retailers. I come across the concern raised by Bronwyn moving from a small initiative to going into the main stream of business. This is not just a community upliftment focus but in all start up operations - it all boils down to the mind set, the belief in ones ability to take it to the next level, also really understanding what you want in your own life and accepting some times that you might never be the person who is going to make or take it to the next level.

I do though believe Bronwyn's concept is going to fly and she will fully embrace where this is all going to.

We spoke really indepth how important it is for all of us to understand our own responsibilities in the work that we are doing, and by believing in our faith to follow the vision we see before us.

South Africa's Inspiration

2007-07-23T22:30:00.000+02:00

I have lived most of my life in South Africa, since a young girl I have always been inspired by how many people really do want to see South Africa succeed in achieving on the most wonderful opportunities.

Today Nox from Dreambuilders came out to visit with me at Etwatwa, Nox is the person that I have got to know working on another project and must admit we have a very strong relationship. She is up here to work on a school project that Mr Price is funding, the project is to help young adults last 3 years of school plan their future.

Every where you go in our country you find so many different people, and or groups really committed, it makes me so proud to be doing what I am and to be part of a group that is committed to making South Africa great.

Tangerine Marketing - a successful Week

2007-07-20T19:37:00.000+02:00

Well can you believe it the week is over, and Tangerine Marketing has had another successful week, yes I know we still havn't finalised the look and feel but I know the wait will be worth it.

Yes I know the kiln is not coming on Monday and there has to be a reason and I am trying to understand what the message is about and why this is just not coming together, everything is ready we just can't get anybody to deliver the kiln for us.

Well next week Nox is up to visit the two groups that I am working with and to get a feel of the projects.

Its also paperwork week and I am committed to signing of the look and feel for this email campaign on Monday I know its going to happen

Well I hope its a good weekend for everybody, I am presenting my products to the committee for Northfest and my daughter is at the market again, trying to get rid of old stock - need to clear the cupboards were running out of space.

Also I am going to look into employing somebody 1 day a week to start of with to help me with my paper work.

Tangerine Marketin marching on its way to fame

2007-07-19T20:53:00.001+02:00

Well its official we are on our way, orders are coming in on a regular basis, market place is starting to recognise us, we have a great team of suppliers working with us to make it all happen.

We work with great projects and project leaders, we market great products and now we are days away from hitting the corporate market with our new look campaign. Everybody loves the new look.

The kiln is finally being delivered tomorrow, the ceramic project will start on Monday, the art classes will follow, and Kenny has done his second day learning design.

I am now ready to sort of breath and accept that Tangerine Marketing is definitely on its way. I am fully behind what you believe and think is what happens, gosh I am proof of that, to think I walked out with R13 in my pocket and no idea of what was next.

Lisa, Linde, Pauline and Gordon you guys have never stopped believing in me,, my daughter Jessica she has been through so much with me and through it all it has made us closer.

It has taught me to love my parents and respect everybody's point of view, Philip you are a darling always willing to go the extra mile to make my life out in Etwatwa as pleasant as possible.

Hold on to your seats, lift off has begun

Ceramic hassels

2007-07-18T18:15:00.000+02:00

Well I missed writing to you yesterday, spent time typing out about my day, and I lost the signal and couldn't get back online, got withdrawal symptoms.

So fill you in, yesterday met with the stand designer for the One of a Kind Show being held in August at Gallagher estate Johannesburg. Decided to go the whole way, have the stand done professionally, with the knowledge that it will increase our presence to the trade and buyers at the trade show.

With regard to the ceramic project, we keep getting let down with the movers who keep promising to move the kiln, nearly 3 weeks behind schedule now, and again the movers have said that they will come tomorrow, so lets just put it out there so it will happen.

The mind power book says you must visualise that it is happening or how will happen, so everybody please visualise them moving the kiln for me.

Lastly the ladies from Impumelelo finished the bags before their due date, well done ladies, so proud of all of you

So to all of you out there keep supporting the beautiful women of South Africa

Beautiful Women

2007-07-16T15:01:00.000+02:00

Had to write, because I am so proud of the women from the Impumelelo projet, they worked right through the night to finish the bags for the Hillcrest Aids Centre, for a conference - I feel really bad because I did doubt we were going to finish on time, now we have finished earlier than the due date.

I could see how they actually thrived on their achievement - I love the fact that these women are growing in confidence and that they are really beautiful women, committed to making this business of theirs a success.

I am so glad that I am a part of it, I really feel part of something special

Women committed to making a difference

2007-07-14T21:24:00.000+02:00

Saturday 14 July 2007, 9.30pm

Worked the whole day cutting material to assist the group of women who are making conference bags for the Hillcrest Aids Centre.

I could see that they were really tired, but their dedication to achieving and to become something was so obvious that it made me so proud to be associated with them.

It will for eternity uplift me when I work with these women, most of these women live in shacks in the informal settlement, they always have a smile on their faces, always signing, always ready to go the extra mile and always willing to work and trust their fellow human beings.

The western world could learn so much from understanding this fellowship, learning that everything is never just black and white, and that every person is part of something bigger. That is what I am learning by working out in the township on a daily basis.

To the women I am proud to be able to work with, I say thank you so much.

2010 madness

2007-07-13T21:55:00.000+02:00

Good evening, Friday 10pm, time to reflect on my day, - honestly I have had a mad day, rushing around.

I did though manage to fit in one really exciting meeting, which is linked to the 2010 soccer world cup - well the lead up to it anyway.

If this materialises it will be amazing for all crafters, designers and even maybe jewelers.

Just so many opportunities, I love the fact that everything is just falling into place and on top of it all, I find out that one of my parents oldest friends works for a company that I need to meet with to get the material for the ceramics - another one of those miracles.

Well tonights a short sharing of events, never slept last night far to excited after seeing the proposed email campaign, were running a bit late but it will hit the net next week.

Well have a good one....

Conference Bags

2007-07-12T21:00:00.000+02:00

Thursday evening 9pm Johannesburg South Africa

Why do I keep starting my daily account putting the date and time etc, easy I can't get the blog to record the time that's shown on my computer, it is fixed in an American time - so I wanted you all to know my time.

Well the Impumelelo project is racing against time to finish order of conference bags by the 19th, and I must admit we are running a tad behind, now we have to finish 13 day, compared to 10, if we have to sleep there we will, this is their first biggest order within a set time period, and there is no ways we are going to mess it up.

Definitely a major learning curve, once we get producing for the larger retails which looks promising we are going to be faced with this on an ongoing basis.

When you initially start these projects, everybody has to know everything, eventually you have dedicated people who only do certain things, which definitely pick the speed up.

Well wish us well, I know i'll be reporting that we did it.

For the next few weeks definitely got my work cut out, 2 shows plus a major corporate drive, can't wait to see what it looks like

Tangerine counting the days to our new identity

2007-07-11T19:37:00.000+02:00

Wednesday 7.38pm Johannesburg South Africa

So new feel a done thing, this time next week the web and all our marketing material will display the new polished look of Tangerine.

It is though with mixed feelings, the present design was something that was put together with limited understanding of where we were venturing, and where we are now is not the concept we started with.

I really hope the market likes it, I hope it will give everybody confidence which in return will allow more products to be sold, which mean more women make money.

Spent most the morning going through PR opportunities planned for the next few weeks, plus the frame work for the email campaign - all the things I have planned for so many companies over the many years, now they are being planned for my business.

I truly believe you need to employ the services of professionals if you serious about your business, you always look at your business different than experts who look at it from a market point of view - well time will tell - but I am very confident that this campaign is going to be very successful.

Must admit I'm starting to get the hang of the blogging thing, its sort of a slow down to the day, after you rush around all day - it allows you to wind down and digest whats happening.

Well I think thats me, I am bushed today, I off to have a good hot bath and an early night, every night for many now I have been working till the very late hours of the evening, my battries are now flat.

Over the weekend I'm going to start bringing in pictures and playing around with the format, I've seen some really groovey looking blogs.

Goodnight

Miracles do happen daily

2007-07-10T21:39:00.000+02:00

Time 21.40 Tuesday evening freezing cold Johannesburg South Africa

Need to share on my experiences lately, I need to say right out - I have never seen myself as much of a religious person, but I have always believed in Jesus and God. Usually when things happen I put it down to a coincidence - but lately there have just been toooo many.

Tangerine Marketing decided to set up office in the Etwatwa Township on the East Rand in Johannesburg, at the John Wesley Centre, an outreach programme of the Northfield Methodist Church Benoni.

Since operating from there my belief and vision for Tangerine has never been so grounded, like its a really clear picture of what needs to be done. So let me share some of things that have been happening.

About a month ago my laptop finally bombed I thought for good, well thats what the repair guy told me after having him fix it for the 3rd time.

So like I do everyday, I don't pray I just seem to have a good old conversation with Jesus and the Lord, telling them about whats happening, well this time I said, cash flow is a bit tight, trying to build up stock, do you think somebody from the church could hep me to find the finance to buy a new lap top.

2 days later, my dear friend Philip (runs the centre) came to me and said that would I mind if he takes my laptop to the company that he works with for his computers - first I said it is a waste of time, eventually he convinced me that I have nothing to loose.

At the end of the week I get back my lap top which is working top class, and Philip tells me, that he wants me to know that he has paid to get the lap top fixed, it was something he knew he had to do. (Number 1)

Around the same time I have been just visualising setting up a ceramic project in parallel with other things going on at the centre, the person who I thought would help me decided that he no longer could help me. The very same day I get a message on my phone from Lorraine from the Anglican Church with a name and contact details of William who is very keen to help set up a ceramic project. William starts the project this Monday (Number 2)

At the beginning of June at the Aids Conference in Durban, I woke up with a clear thought that we need to implement an art and design academy at the centre in Etwatwa, when I got back to JHB the idea just never left, so I mentioned to the Design Company that is producing our new branding material, long story short the design element kicks of tomorrow (Number 3)

And to day, this just blew my head away and made me realise that these aren't coincidences, Johannes an African gentlemen (believe it or not) who lives across the road from the centre, why now came in, he is an artist and he wants to work with me to setting up art lessons for the youth (Number 4)

All I know is that this vision for Tangerine is fully in the hands of being directed to deliver greater good for many women and communities, and I need to just say Thank you God

craft research: New Craft Blogs

2007-07-09T20:22:00.000+02:00

craft research: New Craft Blogs

Tangerine's Designs

2007-07-09T18:09:00.000+02:00

Monday 6.09pm Johannesburg

Well saw the new look and feel for Tangerine today, another major milestone, with a few changes, we will be launching a powerful feel for the brand.

I've been saying for along time now, need to sell the power of achievement in everything we do, showing how a seed can create a major lifetime of opportunities.

I hope you like the feel, my money is on the fact that you will.

Must say my head is racing with creative ideas for new products and concepts - just really so exciting.

Well until tomorrow

Powerful thoughts

2007-07-08T18:35:00.001+02:00

Sunday evening 6.38pm Cold Johannesburg South Africa, wanted to share what my daughter wrote, blew me away how deep her thinking is!

They wont hold you back or judge you, keep them near they respect your gear. Life is full of unknown items, thoughts thrown in your head, loud noises taking over your mind, whats the point of being scared, they just there to warn you of whats to come for your life, the friends you make, the girls that dislike you, leading you to have guy friends who protect you from harm, teaching you to be street wise in case something happens when they not around to protect you from those harmful beings who take you down. Why do people rule our lives with fear when they not even near, how do they take over our minds with thoughts that can’t be described, of blood and death, rape and violence, why do they take over our minds? Why? Why is their a spirit watching over you? That can only be seen by the corner of your eye? That protects and warns when something bad is going to happen, and how does it warn you when you can’t even hear it? What is the purpose of life if you can’t even prove how Adam and eve where created, because you revolve your life around a bible that tells us stories that make us believe in god. Who is god? Is he even real or is he just something we can’t see and have been brought up to believe in something to stop us from doing evil? Which doesn’t work because each year crime gets worse and lives get less? How do you predict that you will be here tomorrow or even next week, do you just make plans and hope for your life to carry on? You might not be here tomorrow or even next week, why do people plan their lives? Do you just not think about death? How you might die? Don’t deny it you do think about death, everyone does, why do you think people have life insurance and medical aid and all those kind of things, you know its going to happen one day, so why wait? Have you ever thought of killing your self, just because life is a waist of your time? Why? Don’t you think you are stronger to live? To face those fears and hard days to come? That’s what we are here for, to make a difference with our lives, to say no to drugs, to stop our friends from crime, to help those in need and to live until our purpose has come to an end. We don’t know when that will happen, but don’t live in fear of death until it does come to you. Until your end has come!!!

2007
Jessica Reed. (17)

Beautiful Day

2007-07-06T17:40:00.000+02:00

Wow what a day to day, I really have to thank my blessings, I really need to thank my Lord for putting this vision in place.

Today many opportunities availed themselves to allow women from South Africa to make a truly sustainable living.

To Nox and the team really excited to hear what is happening
To Merle and the team from Blackrock thank you for your inspiration
To Tasja and her creative team can't wait to see the design material on Monday

To everybody keep your faith and amazing things can happen

Poverty no more

2007-07-05T17:54:00.000+02:00

Well from a freezing cold Johannesburg, South Africa, the whole day I've wanted to get my thinking down.

Recently there have been quite a few articles about Bono from U2 stating that its time to sell Africa fashionable - I am so behind that, its time to stop writing about the poverty and its time to start talking about the amazing culture and happenings that are happening in Africa - South Africa.

Women of South Africa are making a real difference - there is a saying from IBM in Africa "Africa is not for sissy's" well believe me the women of South Africa are definitely not sissy - the vibe these women have is the most uplifting feeling you can encounter.

The vibe you feel in everything that they make, whether its a beautiful product that can be used for a gift or for a corporate give away - when you purchase one of their products you take their vibe and passion with you.

Living each day to its fullest

2007-07-04T21:54:00.000+02:00

Well, ive just come home from my baby brothers birthday, got there to find my dad in bed really sick - it always worries me when you see members of your family ill. Always a wake up call about how short life really is, and in the real big picture we only have so much time to make the most of life.

That is what I am doing now, working with these women have shown me the true facts about life, now being based in the Etwatwa township, and seeing how everyday life is a real blessing to all of them no mater how dreary the day is.

So to all of you out there live your life, don't wake up and find yourself old and realise how much of life you still have to live.

Follow your dreams it makes it all worth it.

Impumeleo is growing

2007-07-03T16:37:00.000+02:00

Just come from a meeting at the Methodist Church in Benoni, to give feedback on our partnerships between Tangerine and the John Wesley Centre.

It is really encouraging to know how committed they are to our partnership and their determination to make a difference to the Etwatwa community.

Impumelelo is growing, firstly it was just the sewing side, now we have an element of beading, we are about to start ceramics, next were bringing in art for the younger generation - really so exciting - testimony to the fact that everything starts from a seed.

Ceramics on the way

2007-07-02T19:39:00.000+02:00

What a day, rushed out to the John Wesley Centre today Etwatwa to meet William, you know the person I mentioned that is going to set up the ceramic project.

We found out that we can't use recycle glass, but what we are going to do is contact glass manufacturers such as window makers to gather their off cuts etc.

The project will start no later than 2 weeks from today, with 3 people, William will come out to the centre once a week on Mondays for the whole day initally. Once the inital team start to get comfortable with what they are making, I'll take the concept to the market.

Its a pitty we won't be ready for the One of a Kind show, but next time.

Beautifully Made Philosophy redefines Beauty

2007-06-30T19:34:00.000+02:00

Johannesburg, South Africa -'Beautifully Made' - a superior range of handmade African gifts - is making a statement on the international market with its approach to women and beauty. Says Sharon, "The Beautifully Made philosophy reflects each woman who participates in the conception, creation, use and recycling of our products. Beautifully Made is a statement about African women in the 21st century." By purchasing a Beautifully Made product, companies contribute toward rural development programmes in a small way that makes a big difference," says Sharon Reed, co-founder of Tangerine Marketing. All Beautifully Made gifts are custom-designed for clients, sewn by rural women and produced from natural fibres and recycled materials. Due to the growing demand for superior quality South African gifts, Tangerine's market growing internationally. Already, it has 29 international buyers from countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Switzerland, Japan and Iceland. Tangerine also produces gifts for special events, conferences, staff awards, theme days and Christmas gifts for staff and customers. Its range includes keyrings, scarves, conference bags, mirrors, greeting cards, wall murals and loads of funky arts and crafts for the retail and corporate market. The superior quality, durability and superior packaging of Tangerine's products recently earned it a place in the Tourism Enterprise Programme of the Department of Trade and Industry. Tangerine also innovates existing local products such as the original Vuvuzela(tm) soccer horn that it offers with beadwork and wire-art options for tourist gifts and special brand promotions. Beautifully Made can be viewed at the One of a Kind exhibition at Gallagher Estate during 8 - 13 August 2007. For further information, kindly contact Sharon Reed on 082 578 5077.

Opportunity

2007-06-30T19:07:00.000+02:00

The Anglican Church in Benoni, the East Rand of Johannesburg South Africa is about to start their bead project. You know it is amazing how things work and I suppose thats why I trust in the Lord's vision in what I am doing.

Just over a week ago I met with Carolina who wants to set up a project that makes jewellery, already making beautiful products, wants to push this on a bigger scale. The morning that I was leaving to meet with Carolina, I got an email from Lorraine from the Anglican Church to say that they are ready to push a bead project using 10 ladies and would I be up to working with them.

Well what can I say, of course I have said yes, I have just sent an email to Lorraine and I really look forward to starting this new project with them.

Freezing Cold

2007-06-29T17:56:00.000+02:00

Can you believe it woke up Wednesday morning to snow, a thick blanket of snow. Initally my first response was that this looks beautiful, but then immediately I felt guilty. Guilty knowing how many people last night must have suffered through the cold.

The sad amazing thing about all our lives no matter where in the world you live, the poor just seem to get poorer.

Is it right that we feel guilty for the warmth of day to day luxuries such as a bed and blankets whilst there are so many people out there who do not have these.

Is it fair that whilst some of us succeed others never seem to get any breaks in life, is it fair that some of us get many breaks and never appreciate these breaks until far to late in life, again whilst some of us never get breaks.

Women are not Victims

2007-06-25T15:10:00.000+02:00

"Women are not victims. Their vulnerability does not stem from inherent or physical or psychological weaknesses. Their resilience in the face of hardship and difficulty must be recognised and strengthened." UNAIDS

In South Africa, death rates from natural causes for women aged 25-34 years increased five-fold between 1997-2004 and for males aged 30-44 it more than doubled.

Women of South Africa are vulnerable largely because of the behaviours of others, through their limited autonomy and external factors, including social and economic inequities beyond their control.

These women are the mothers of our children, the same children who will become a generation of orphans as the pandemic of AIDS and poverty stretches into the first three decades of the 21st century.

These orphans, the vast majority of whom will be/are HIV negative, are at enormous risk of growing up without adequate health care, food, education or emotional support.

According to The World Bank, education of children and youth merits the highest priority in a world afflicted by HIV/AIDS.

Economic prosperity and the reduction of global poverty cannot be accomplished unless all children in all countries have access to, and can complete, a primary education of adequate quality.

To participate in knowledge-driven development, South Africa needs to build its human capital especially the abilities of the women of South Africa.

The daunting vision of over a quarter of the population dying within the next 2 - 6 years is terrifying, the experience of resource-poor communities indicates that the time period between HIV diagnosis and death, in an impoverished area, can be as little as two years.

As HIV/AIDS affects the lives of million of people in South Africa, especially women, a growing sense of urgency has developed about the need to respond to the epidemic.

As former President Mandela said "AIDS IS NO LONGER A HEALTH ISSUE; IT IS A HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUE. IT IS A HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUE IF PEOPLE WHO NEED TREATMENT CANNOT GET IT BECAUSE THEY CANNOT AFFORD THE TAXI FARE TO GET TO THE TREATMENT SITE. IT IS A HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUE IF BABIES ARE BORN WITH HIV WHEN IT COULD HAVE BEEN PREVENTED OR ARE NOT PROPERLY FOLLOWED UP AND TREATED. IT IS A HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUE WHEN PEOPLE DIE BECAUSE THEY ARE POOR. IT IS A HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUE, WHEN WOMEN AND CHILDREN GET INFECTED WITH HIV AS A RESULT OF RAPE, BAD BEHAVIOUR OF OTHERS AND GENDER BASED VIOLENCE"

Support the initiative of Tangerine by uplifting the women of South Africa

Exiciting Day

2007-06-22T07:42:00.000+02:00

Wow what an exciting day yesterday, early on in the morning I met with Proudly South African, they are really fired up and love the work that we are doing - I see lots of great things coming out of this relationship. Signing up to be a member straight away.

And then, meeting with William and Stella, guys thank you so much for coming out to the centre it was really great to meet you - It is just so amazing how things work. William is going to set up our ceramic project using recycle glass initally - this opens up such opportunities to get the community to collect glass for us and to come up with something really unique - can't wait.

The ceramic project is being kicked off on the 2nd July,

Sitting at the airport

2007-06-20T11:41:00.000+02:00

Goodmorning, just landed in Durban and sitting at the airport, meeting with the trend planner for one of the biggest retail chains in South Africa at the airport. Met with her to show her a range of products that we have produced that I know will work.

It is so exciting, for the first time since we have started working with women from the townships and rural communities we have had a designer work with us to create a range. Believe me it makes such a difference.

When I landed this morning I had butterflies in my stomach, can you believe it.

Well I will keep you posted as to the outcome of the meeting.

Yesterday I had our PR agency and their design team come out to the Etwatwa Township, I think it was the first time some of these people have been in to the township. I felt so proud to be able to show them around and introduce them to the women who are working to make a difference to their lives.

It really amazes me how many people who live in South Africa have no understanding of the different lifestyles.

This morning when I was on the plane I sat next to a black women 35 years old, who has no understanding of the real township life - scary stuff. Everybody wants to move out of the townships, I believe we should be making the townships a place where everybody can work and make a decent living , bringing the townships alive with economy.

Well thats enough of my soap box today, I would love to hear from people out there about what their up to and just to become part of our new community.

Till next time

Finally live

2007-06-18T16:00:00.000+02:00

Well, this has definately been an exciting road to get to where we are today. If I was asked at the begining of last year where I saw myself, I would never have dreamt it would be where I am today.

Well let me introduce myself, I like to call myself a mature woman, definately in age, sometimes wonder about mind. Just over 2 years ago I walked out of an enviroment with R13.00 in my pocket with a 14 year old daughter, without the slightest idea of what was next.

You can say that is was probably the hardest thing I had to do, and believe me in my life I have endured many hardships, some my fault and many not.

But there is nothing more scarier than not knowing how you are going to feed your child or protect her.

I suppose there must be angels out there who are brought into your life by the trust of our almighty, because the road to now as been an amazing one.

Without boring you all too much Tangerine Marketing was developed from a passion to survive and to work with less fortunate women to bring passion into their own lives.

Finally after nearly a year of hard work the web site is live and we are well on are way to making Tangerine a viabile business that brings the necessary economic support through the on selling of products made either in townships or rural communities across South Africa.

Women of South Africa the true leaders of tomorrow

2007-01-16T16:23:00.000+02:00

Sharon Reed, the founder of Tangerine Marketing states that women are truly only able to make a positive contribution to their future once they achieve financial independence.

Based on her own struggles and life experiences, she is committed to working with women groups through skill development and mentoirship.

Sharon states "so much is expected from the rural and poverty stricken women of South Africa, but the road these women travel is so filled with obstacles that it is amazing how they survive indeed."

It is only through proper guidance and trust forming that you can achieve new thinking.

South Africa truly is sitting on a gold mine when it come to the talent that is available, women of South Africa are the real entrepreneurs, everyday the women of the rural and poverty stricken communities make and sell their products. It only makes sense that with the right guidance amazing business opportunities can be fostered using correct business practises.

This is where Tangerine Marketing comes in, by playing a co-ordinating role it establishes the business need and then finds the produces, a definite win, win situation.

With the growing number of HIV infected people in South Africa, especially women, women need all the emotional support to become independent, therefore living a longer life, not just for themselves, but for their children - our next generation.

To find out more about Sharon Reed and her journey and the services of Tangerine Marketing email her on sharon@tangerinemarketing.com