Shedding light on Solar Energy

Yeah yeah… whilst I’m on the green train – thought I’d share a bit info on solar energy, particularly since we’re blessed with the beautiful African sun and yes, I’m a solar energy advocate.

Solar energy is all about generating electricity using the power of sun, and it does this through the use of a solar panel, fixed or portable. The panel has what is known as Photovoltaic cells (or PV cells) which absorbs energy from the sun and converts it into electricity. That electricity is then stored in a battery, for use whenever you need. So no, the sun does not absolutely have to be shining in order for you to have electricity- that’s where the battery comes in.

In South Africa, as yet, we do not have the technology to manufacture our own PV cells. We’re getting there though. What we can do is manufacture our own panels by shipping in the PV cells and putting them together locally. And then there’s the vital difference between solar panels for electricity and solar panels for water heating- which is not the same thing. Panels for water heating basically uses tubes and not PV cells. So yay! the good news is we can make these right here.

Solar energy, even though its been around for ages, is now fast becoming rather popular as a reliable, alternate source of energy. Already you see power lights along our roads using solar panels and water heating systems on roofs. And with our powerful African sun, I believe the opportunities are endless.

Germany!!... yes Germany!! is one of the world’s biggest supporters and manufacturers of solar energy technology…. and they even have a solar utility!!! Hint hint people of the Southern Hemisphere. So… back in SA, not only does solar energy have the potential to be the preferred alternate energy source, it also has the power to light up lives the traditional electricity grid has missed. I’m sorry, I cant resist… “power to the people!!”

(Pic: http://is.gd/gvUJG)

Your foot and you

By now… if you haven’t heard about carbon footprint… you simply need to get out more dude! When you switch on that light, boil the kettle, drive to work – you have an impact on the environment…. you emit caaaaarbon/greenhouse gasses that create your very own carbon footprint. Say it…. “my caaaarbon footprint”. So- the hoohaa is to do as much as we can to reduce this footprint.

In a nutshell - our natural resources just cannot replenish itself fast enough to keep up with our increasing energy demands. You want this… you want that… go here…go there- they all require energy. And thus the hype of alternate/renewable energy sources, like solar, hydro and wind power, to slowly shift our reliance from dirty fossil fuels …. yes baby! I’m talking about coal. And so we’re clear on things, er.. nuclear is not a renewable energy source.

However, in our little transition phase, we’re not quite ready to be entirely dependant upon alternate energy sources and for now have to settle for a bit of both. And in circumstances where it may be difficult to reduce your energy consumption or reliance on fossil fuels, it helps to off-set by planting a tree or recycling for example. See??... there’s always something you can do.

We’re at a stage where changing what and how we’ve been doing things is absolutely necessary. Already it has been forecast that from 2011 Cape Town will once again be battling with supply and demand issues similar to that of 2008. Candlelight dinners… here we come!

So next time you turn on that light or drive to work, think about something you can do, however small it may seem, on a daily basis towards reducing your carbon emissions. When more of us start doing those little things differently, the gross impact can only be beautiful. I for one, have started using a bit of solar energy and am sure to switch off my plugs before leaving home.

Aaaaand – don’t blame ‘the other’ please - its not just the big corporations that should be doing something – its you… its me … and our combined little efforts that make aaaaall the difference. My parting little thought, imagine a world where we generate our own electricity…. and its free. Bye bye Mr Carbon Footprint.

(Pic: http://is.gd/gvU4U)

My favorite Cat in the Hat book is Hooray for Diffendoofer Day!

…. because… it’s a celebration and encouragement for the out-of-the-box in us.

Diffendoofer is a school in Dinkerville where the kids learn things not taught in usual schools. There’s no maths, languages or sciences, but subjects on listening, smelling, laughing, yelling- tying knots and distinguishing between a cactus and a cow. Miss Bonkers is a favourite and to kids it seems she teaches everything, fondly described as being “different-er than the rest”.

Diffendoofer is a far cry from neighbouring Flobbertown, where everyone dresses in one style, sings one song and march in single file. In Flobbertown, even the dogs are afraid to bark. The celebration of Diffendoofer Day comes about when the school is in danger of closing down if they cannot prove kids are learning what they’re suppose to learn. With the kids all passing the special test and saving Diffendoofer from closing down, the headmaster declares a holiday to celebrate Diffendoofer Day.

In Hooray for Diffendoofer Day we learn the value of and celebrate creative thinking and individuality. It paints and dull and boring picture of the mediocre and conforming to socially accepted standards. In this book we learn that contradictions, inconsistencies and paradoxes are perfectly acceptable… being different-er than the rest is more than perfectly OK.

(Pic: http://is.gd/gw6uN)

The Green Revolution

My work with a renewable energy business has certainly opened my eyes to the Green Revolution that seems to be sweeping around the world. What makes me rather happy is to see the increased attention, information and awareness out there on greener lifestyles.

Increasingly we find eco- attached to almost everything, with awareness being created by businesses and celebrities alike. Heck, even the Parlotones have embarked on a Carbon-Free campaign.

At the same time, one has to be really careful when buying into the green as amongst these offerings are also the wanna-be’s… attaching a green stamp to what might not necessarily be a green offering. If I may contradict myself a bit here, it is also important to note that being truly green and organic is virtually impossible. Just about everything has a carbon footprint attached to it. The product, for example, may be produced of 100% organic materials, but transporting it from A to B incurred a carbon footprint. And here’s where off-setting our emissions may come in handy.
So before you go out and buy that green product, be sure to do some homework on how green it really is. Things to consider are:

* Where it’s manufactured?
* What materials its made of?
* What makes it organic and green?
* Does the business off-set their emissions in any other way?

In our transition phase from fossil to renewable and alternate energy sources, increasingly we’ll be seeing new green products and service offerings out on the market. When you do find something that’s really helpful and green – share your experience with others. With the Green Revolution now sweeping across SA too, spare a thought for that eco-revolutionary in you.

(Pic: http://is.gd/gvTw7)

Why I have conversations

Whether small talk, debate or banter – conversations for me are absolutely necessary to connect with others and my world. Through conversations I am able to not only share my ideas, opinions, experiences and dreams, but also learn from the insights and experiences of others.

People just love to talk…. express themselves and thus, of course, want to be listened to. Bet you’ve come across that someone who just couldn’t stop… er maybe that person may even be you. Thing is, through our conversations, we connect with each other, we engage, we interact and build relationships. And relationships are the stuff that makes our world go round…. whether work or personal… heck even with the self. Yes, we even have conversations with ourselves…. some aloud… others not, don’t even try to deny it.

In the course of our conversations we share, debate and exchange the things of our world… philosophy, art, poetry, love, scandal and the weather. And what is most awesome with social networks of today, not even barriers of time and space can stop our conversations.

(Pic: http://is.gd/gwaPc)

My bucket list

There are many things I would love to do and experience within my life… here’s a sneak preview of my bucket list:

1. Write a book
2. Learn to surf
3. Learn Tai Chi
4. Learn to play golf
5. Learn conversational Spanish
6. Learn conversational Mandarin
7. Visit a Buddhist Temple in an Asian country
8. Learn to play guitar
9. Belly dance
10. Go bunjee jumping
11. Visit the Egyptian Museum in Cairo
12. Learn calligraphy
13. Sponsor at least one person through tertiary education
14. Travel to all the countries of my big fat BIG dream
15. Own a beach house
16. Visit Tibet
17. Spend a week at a silent retreat in India
18. Successfully market and grow the business
19. Get a masters degree
20. Sleep under the stars
21. Visit Machu Pichu in Peru
22. Eat sushi in Tokyo (not the one in Kloof Street:)
23. See the Northern Lights
24. Visit Malawi
25. Visit Timbuktu
26. Learn to live every moment in the now

(Pic: http://is.gd/gv5g0)

My big fat BIG dream

…. is to travel… travel… travel and travel some more.

Top of my list is South East Asia- far and wide….Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, China, South Korea and India. Then Brazil, Argentina and Peru for a touch of the South American side of life. Then it’s the Carribean… yeah baby yeah!... Cuba, Jamaica, Barbados, Puerto Rico.

Travelling opens a world of adventure, fun and discovery…. I’m particularly interested in those hoekies and crannies not sold for the tourist. Why? Because people are super super interesting! My dream is to explore and gain some understanding of other peoples’ way of life, their culture… their background… what makes them happy. Of course then too, the amazing landscapes and gifts of nature that abound.

With all our differences from around the world, there are many striking similarities too. We all want love, to prosper and a fulfilling life. We all just go about things in a different way. Travelling to me is like opening a box filled with surprises…. and I do love surprises.

I truly believe no amount of possessions, status or carefully built estates can beat an enriching life filled with experiences.

(Pic: http://is.gd/gv0kB)

Conventional is a good fallback position isn’t it?

Well of course it is. Its safe, secure, comforting and highly accepted by society. You just know you cannot go wrong. Thing is, how far will it get you in an ever changing world?

For many people, its just way more comforting than living outside of accepted standards and norms. Do what is expected of you and keeping others happy. And I suppose it takes all sorts to keep our world going round…. so, if you find it works for you… great! Little thing, don’t complain when you feel nothing ever changes in your life and you find yourself in cycles same-o same-o. Bitching and moaning about the same problems year in year out could very well be the sign that only you have been resisting change.

Change can be scary and risky yes, opening yourself up to the great unknown. Yet by opening that little door of change, so the unknown becomes the known. Life becomes that adventure you’ve been dreaming about and you reach heights you thought impossible.

So- dip your toe into the ocean of the strange, you may just find that the boogie man under the bed was all in your head.

(Pic: http://is.gd/guMbq)

Radiohead: Just

Now if ever I found a music video intriguing – its gotta be Radiohead’s Just Lyrics.

My quick rundown: In the video, this dude, for some reason, just decides to go and lie down on the pavement in the middle of the day. Everyone passing either steps over or around him. Some stranger nearly trips over him and immediately tries to assist, thinking he is perhaps ill and in need of medical attention. The hopeless guy refuses all help and instead requests that the stranger just leave him alone. The stranger, feeling obliged to help or know the reason for the dude just lying there, insists the man tell him what’s wrong. The hopeless man in turn insists that he cannot tell. This continues for some time till eventually a crowd is gathered. Finally, the man on the ground gives in and tells everyone why he is lying on the ground… and the next thing you know, everyone who heard his words has followed suit.

Check it out http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jufT3v1roaU&feature=related

So, question is… what could he possibly have said that’s powerful enough to cause this reaction?

I think its got something to do with guilt and the power it has to strip you of your passion for life. Guilt can play on your conscience and hold you hostage to society’s standards of right and wrong. You either deal with it or start living some double life. Here I recall too Bob Marley’s lyrics of Guiltiness when he says “guiltiness … rest on their conscience… and they live their lives… of false pretence everyday…”.

So- I think- the dude on the pavement, gripped by his guilt, is simply sick of this “false pretence everyday”. And Radiohead reminds us… “you do it to yourself”.

(Pic: http://www.lunaea.com/gallery/guilt.jpg)

Designer PR

It frustrates me just a tad when I come across a businessperson who doesn’t quite get PR or even worse, writes it off as marketing. Then commences my passionate lecture on the value of PR and difference between marketing and advertising which everyone is so familiar with. Of course, my frustration will not be detected and you wouldn’t even know you received a lecture.

In essence, public relations is about managing perceptions… establishing mutually beneficial relationships between an organisation on the one hand, and specific people on the other. This managing of perceptions and building of relationships can only happen through communication. It is here that the science of PR meets the art. PR’s most valuable contribution to an organisation’s success lies in its ability to create and innovate.

Sorry dudes, but marketing and advertising on its own is so yesterday. These days anyone can not only smell an ad miles away, but are prone to ignoring it. People want to express, want to be listened to, want to engage in what is being offered. And with social networks evolving our communication platforms like never before, we find connection in unprecedented ways. Gone are the days of “business as usual”.

Designer PR calls for the taking of risks, authenticity, adaptability, innovation and creation… the very stuff that keeps us moving forward. Can the business of today really afford to miss this boat?

(Pic: http://is.gd/gur4R)

Die before you die

You know how some people have some message at the end of their emails? Either something about considering the environment before printing or an inspirational quote of some sort. Well, recently I received an email and at the end the sender had “Die before you die”. I couldn’t help but stare at these words for some time.

It made me think of moments somehow. How every past experience we recall was a moment of that time. Some good … some bad… but ultimately just a moment. For me, happiness and love are the stuff of moments.

One thing I know about happiness is that it is not something that can be planned. We often think that when I achieve this or have that… at some point in future … I’ll be happy. Yet nothing ever turns out precisely as planned.

What I’ve also learnt about happiness is that it is not something that cannot be planned. Rather, it’s the recollection of a moment that brought happiness. It just seems to happen along the journey. For me, money and possessions are not the stuff that brings happiness and love. Rather, again, its those precious moments.

I ultimately translated these words as a message of love and the encouragement to live without fear. For when you “die before you die” you learn to really live every single moment and even love what you once feared.

(Pic: http://is.gd/gtStI)

Nothing is more dangerous than an idea , when you only have one

Our whole world is based on ideas… a reflection of a history of ideas in fact. It is the birth of all successes and fortunes. When solving a problem, a single idea could be all you really need to get the job done. When it comes to creativity and innovation however, just one little idea could be rather limiting.

In an age where just about everything has been done, our ability to be creative and innovative is what keeps us moving forward. That new and improved product or service offering… that additional convenience that has never been available before.

This very innovation would not be possible without innovative people. And innovative people would not be successful with just one little idea.

The process of innovation is often a journey filled with errors and blunders. That extra idea could then be the difference between success and failure. As James Yorke puts it… “the most successful people are those who are good at plan B”.

(Pic: http://is.gd/gtOVw)

Life before social media

Elated is about the best word I can think of how I felt today after receiving a postcard from a friend from halfway across the world! Handwritten with stamp and all! Now if that ain’t special – heck I don’t know what is.

It really got me thinking of life before social media and even though its boosted our abilities to communicate at rapid speeds, transcending vast spaces, I think there’re still some things it simply cannot beat. I’m certainly not bombing social media, especially since its facilitated chats with this very same friend, yet some things about the past I just feel are irreplaceable.

So what is it that I miss about life before social media?

• That handwritten, or better yet, homemade birthday card for sure.
• Uninterrupted conversations where people aren’t reaching for their phones every 5 minutes
• Developing pictures for the photo album that creeks when you turn the pages
• Not being that easily contactable and traceable
• Phone calls to simply know you doing and what you been up to

Is there anything you miss about life before social media?

(Pic: http://is.gd/gslJB)

Have you figured out the second head fake?

It’s always a bit of a hurry and scurry isn’t it? Life. I’m soooo busy. I have no time. How are you doing today?…. Busy. We brag about the long hours we worked, the midnight oil we burnt. We talk on our cellphones whilst doing almost everything. The thing is- we want to look busy and reflect our busyness to others at every opportunity. Why?

Is it not perhaps time to relook at our busyness and think again about what it really says? Could your busyness not be a sign of taking on too much?... overwhelming yourself to please others??? that you have no method in place of effectively dealing with it all. Is your busyness not perhaps a sign of weakness? Or is the scurrying helping you to achieve your dreams and goals faster?

Scurrying around headless does not necessarily mean you’re accomplishing things… in fact – the more I think of it- quite the opposite is true.

In Randy Pausch’s Last Lecture, and as a parting gift to the world before his own departure I think, this truly inspirational being attempts to point the way for us . “This lecture is not about how to achieve your dreams, it’s about how to lead your life. If you lead your life the right way, the karma will take care of itself, the dreams will come to you.”

Is your busyness not perhaps a sign that your life is not yours anymore? So, have you figured out your second head fake?

Instead of the hurry and scurry chasing those dreams… maybe its time we truly give thought to the journey.

Pic: http://is.gd/grsp2)

Work is love made visible

Yeah yeah- it may sound corny and overoptimistic, but how many times don’t we complain or listen to others’ complaints about their work and jobs.

No- I won’t make it worse by reminding you how grateful you should be to have a job either. I’m more on about the contention that work is a curse and labour a misfortune. That dreaded extra task you’ve kindly been asked to complete or that extra hour you had to put in.

Unfortunately yes- and granted… not all of us are in fulfilling positions where we get to do what we love doing. For many though it’s just about that paycheque and doing what needs to be done. Yet with a slight change in perspective, I think we can learn to love what we do… whatever that task may be. For however small and menial it may seem to you… it still forms a part of the bigger picture we’re all connected to. When we work with a curse and hatred for what we do, we poison the fruit of those labours.

A simple example, I’ve been going to this particular car wash for years- besides the fact that they do a brilliant job- I love watching Peter in action and am always amazed at the effort and pride he takes in his work, taking care with every little detail. It’s as if every car he washes might well have been his own.

I too, I confess, get discouraged from time to time and the words of one of my favorite authors remind me of the value in every little thing I do. From the all time classic, The Prophet, Kahlil Gibran advises… “Work is love made visible. And if you cannot work with love but only with distaste, it is better that you should leave your work and sit at the gate of the temple and take alms of those who work with joy”.

Everything you do makes a difference.

(Pic: http://is.gd/gqZdy)

How hard is it to follow instructions?

A little while ago I had the task of writing product inserts for the business I represent. I neatly set out all the how to’s of the various products in the range, specifications, warnings etc. When all done, I wondered… who really reads these little product manuals – heavens- I know I don’t!

For me, the best method of finding my way around something new is just to delve into it. Of course this means mistakes are many- and that is when it really sticks…. “Ahaaaa… so that’s what I shouldn’t do”. The problem- sometimes you just cannot afford these little mistakes.

I think people just simply don’t like being told what or how to do things and thus ignore carefully set out, and often helpful, instructions.

If you have to give instructions – I’d say use a diagram or, better yet, show them the how to. And here the use of 2-minute videos are probably way more helpful than reading your way through lengthy instructions.

Though it may not always be fun to follow– instructions are there for a reason and can often save you much hassle or prevent some costly balls-up. Using salt instead of sugar – you’re guaranteed that cake fail.

(Pic: http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1156/884915949_6aef1cae7e.jpg)

Exhibition Gear

No- not what you’ll be wearing at your stand, but those little magic things that help you keep it all together.

For me, an event toolkit is theeeeee most amazing set of titbits that you shouldn’t even think of ignoring. They’re the odds and ends that often result in that special touch of a seemingly flawless stand and the lifesavers of the unexpected.

In my unconventional wisdom at our recent outdoor exhibition, I decided to remove the string from my event toolkit on the last day of the exhibition. Didn’t’ need you for day 1 or 2… what are the chances I would need you for day 3. Of course, day 3 had to be the day Murphy decided to punish me. So the wind picks up a bit and banner decides it’s a good time to lean like the Tower of Pisa. Not cool at all. The back-up plan took about 15 minutes, yet I couldn’t help cursing the string I now didn’t have.

So here’s my list of magic titbits which I consider exhibition lifesavers:

* String
* Prestik
* Cellotape
* Pins
* Pegs
* Scissor
* Elastic bands
* Bull-clips
* Paper clips
* Two-point plug / multi-plug
* …and oh! …did I mention string?

(Pic: http://199.115.57.9/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/toolkit1.jpg)

Your 15 minutes of fame

We live in an age where it seems impossible is becoming something of a myth. In the 60’s Andy Warhol predicted that “In the future everybody will be famous for fifteen minutes”. You can’t choose the 15 minutes, but why or how would you become world famous.

My first thought when pondering Warhol’s statement was our list of reality shows today. I mean really- is there anything that doesn’t have a reality show these days. Booming with Big Brother, soon followed Idols, Survivor, So You Think You Can Dance, Top Model, Top Chef….. er- I could probably go on forever.

I suppose what makes these shows so popular is that they feature the ordinary guy out there and not the well-trained actor or actress. And, ultimately, supposed to be a reflection of reality. Whether the content is in fact that real is another question. Exotic locations and bizarre events seem more to me like modified reality than anything else. Be that as it may – so comes the ordinary guy’s moment in the sun, his 15 minutes of fame.

I think Warhol could see it coming way back then – that at some point, becoming famous would be much easier and not restricted to the types of celebrities we’ve been used to up until recently.

In addition, and reality shows aside, with new media these days, becoming famous is truly within just about anybody’s reach. As easy as posting a video about your special talents, blogging ferociously on your subject of choice, podcasts, participating on forums and discussion lists on your area of specialty…. & boom…. so comes your moment in the sun.

I don’t think everybody out there wants to be famous, but of those of you who have that secret desire, your 15 minutes of fame is not Mission Impossible.

(Pic: http://bighollywood.breitbart.com/files/2009/06/untitled2.jpg)

My 2c on exhibitions

With three successful exhibitions under my belt – I’m beginning to slowly feel like a little exhibition pro. Each expo though it seems comes with its very own set of valuable little lessons.

Working with a small biz for just over a year now, and of the marketing tools employed thus far, I have high praises for exhibitions.

Flippin hard work though, there’s (1) the planning and preparation phase: deciding on specific objectives, stand design, promotional material, staff etc. (2) your implementation phase: 3 days of utter madness… set-up preparations, long hours, those weird and wonderful questions, blabbering non-stop. (3) the after: lead handling, networks … those valuable contacts.

I firmly believe exhibitions, if appropriately matched with the event, carefully planned, and flexibly run – are invaluable for the brand and business concerned. As the old saying goes – absolutely nothing can replace the face-to-face. Even with today’s technological age, social media etc. … that face-to-face just cannot be beaten.

Despite each event being different – with its unique set of visitors carefully targeted by event organizers- I have noticed a usual trend. Day 1 is always super slow – your “strollers” or “browsers”… where a few business contacts is what would make it worthwhile. Day 2 is traffic traffic traffic and, if you’re selling a product, a sale or two. Day 3… the remainder of the world descends on your stand and is guaranteed to be your busiest day and best day for sales. I’ve concluded that the reason for last day scurry is simply cos its that precious last and thus- it helps to be a little extra prepared.

One important little note though – exhibitions are not the place if your sole objective is to make sales. Exhibitions are more about those intangible benefits – getting your brand out there, interacting with your market and learning more about them… what they like …what they don’t like, making valuable contacts and leads.

It can be a little costly to pull off – but for a small business- exhibitions are a fantastic marketing tool.

(Pic: http://www.events.in/events/images/tradefair.jpg)

A skill set called leadership

There seems to be an array of information out there on leadership. Are they born? Are they made? What skills and qualities do they posses? How to become an effective leader? You could probably read yourself blue on all the theories and explanations of what constitutes great leadership.

When I think of great leaders like Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Marcus Garvey, Richard Branson, Wangari Maathai, Martin Luther King – it seems to me that these almost mythological beings did not exactly set out on their journey with the thought of “Oh I will be a great leader one day”. Instead… I think it rather went something like “Oh I wish to make a difference”.

These and other great leaders possess a great vision … a vision that is not based on gain for the personal self, but a vision about having an impact on the “bigger picture” of their world or times, having a positive impact on peoples lives. With the commitment to this strong vision in mind, they set to work with the belief of making it happen, no matter what the challenges, cost or risks at stake.

Following on some of their journeys, a common thread is that the journey towards achieving their dream is certainly not an easy one, encountering and experiencing hardships some of us can only imagine. It seems, the bigger the dream, the bigger the risks and challenges.

To me, leadership is a status given to exemplary individuals and is not something that can be taken. So how can you or anyone go about becoming a great leader?

Dream. Dream big! In fact - dream bigger than BIG. Then, with your every breath, thought and action, set out to make it happen. When your dream and actions inspire others to dream and act too, then you would know, yet another great leader is born.

(Pic: http://www.drmartinlutherkingjr.com/i-have-a-dream.jpg)

Was it Writer’s Block?

I sit, I stare, attempted a start – but not much happened. Feeling an extra need to get something done- I’d actually write … but not feel good about the result. Abort mission.

Was it laziness, fear, procrastination, distraction, the need for perfection … what? … a combination of these?

I haven’t blogged for some time and as more time past and as deadlines approach – I try to figure out this stumbling block. Could it be possible that creativity takes a holiday now and then? Some people have this fancy name for it….writer’s block – which some claim is very real and can result due to just about anything. Then, there are others who say it’s all in your head dude!.... ain’t no such thing as writer’s block.

I’d really like to blame it on a good friend who has dubbed herself my muse and claims she’s been outta it for some time... but the little voice told me I won’t get far with this contention.

If anything, trying to figure out its causes is a pointless waste of energy and time I eventually decide. What to do about it is the question. And for me, simply getting down to it seems to work.

I may not have a hit with my first attempt- but messing around certainly helps. Often I found I’d started out with a particular idea and the end result is something super far from that initial stroke of genius. And- when stuck in the middle of things – I get up do something entirely different - and just get back to it.

I have firmly decided that this thing called writer’s block is simply fear of a horrible result. I have also decided that to conquer this fear, I simply have to do something. So, my final decision?? - action produces inspiration and not the other way round.

(Pic: http://www.iainclaridge.co.uk/blog/wp-content/uploads/inspiration_can.jpg )

“Rock Journalism is people who can’t write interviewing people who can’t talk for people who can’t read” – Frank Zappa

… well, someone’s gotta cater for the needs of the perceivably deranged … and who better than the deranged themselves.

Although my knowledge and interest in rock is a bit limited, I’ve always admired and respected these artists for their boldness in not having to follow the socially correct bunch, often expressing a part of society that people don’t really want expressed. Now- imagine the rock journalist’s tasks, trying to make sense of the nonsensical and then relaying that information to gain attention…. for a subject, a person or simply an idea.

We live in a world where the problem is not the lack of information, but the abundance of it. Journalists have the task of gaining people’s attention around relevant information, finding meaning amidst the info jungle. And now, with blogging and new age media platforms, even Joe Soap can profess to be a journalist.

So- just about anybody can write, share and express… but can you gain people’s attention? To my mind, and no matter what the beat, that is the mark of a truly successful journalist.


(Pic: http://www.magazine.ucla.edu/depts/lifesigns/pay-attention.jpg)

Google and the privacy myth

It’s one thing to Google your name and find all sorts of links of your online activity. It’s quite another when it seems your most personal details can just as easily be found online.

I was recently introduced to Google Earth which happened to send shock waves through my fragile little system. “WTF!! … but that’s my flat!” I couldn’t quite understand my friend’s raves about the application until I saw it myself. What could be so scary about an online street map anyway?

Then, of course, after checking it out myself- my friend’s little picture became rather clear. There - in full picture view - was a too close up picture of my flat, and a view of the parking area revealed my little car. Any closer and you could have me with my morning coffee. The scary thing really is that this information is available online through the Google Earth application.... as in for the whole world to see. It really brings new meaning to the phrase that “you are never alone”.

The pics are apparently taken – periodically I assume- using satellite imagery, aerial photography and by the dude in the annexed pic I was lucky enough to snap whilst strolling around town, minding my business of course.

So- there happens to be a little bottom line here- is privacy seriously something of the past? Already our emails and telephone calls can be recorded and traced (I’m still hoping only used when actually necessary). Google Earth just seemed to be more than the cherry. At the lack of finding a better description- it just feels like one’s privacy is raped. For me, home is supposed to be my haven, safe and secure little spot from the big bad world. I don’t quite like the idea of my haven being available online. It’s something like being spied on permanently.

I’m not sure how everyone else feels- maybe it could be a good thing for finding direction when you need- but does it really have to include images with people or one’s private residence as a consequence? So what next? A live feed of you watering the garden?

Can you say Big Brother – 1984?


Pics: by Special Agent Muneera :-)

My top 200 achievements

Since language is so broad and can be interpreted differently – you need to know that I consider an achievement anything that made me do the happy dance after some work or effort. Here goes – in random order ….

1. Made it through school without failing a single year
2. Passed my drivers first time – and no … I didn’t pay anyone or wasn’t wearing a mini
3. Acted in a school theatre play – Oliver Twist actually – played two roles
4. Sang for the school choir – soprano nogal
5. Learnt to swim – although I could improve here quite honestly
6. Learned to play djembe – discovered a great passion in life
7. Performed for audiences – a number of times and still get nervous….we do little gigs… private drum circles and performances… although my gig days are certainly slowing down these days
8. My name printed in a publication – happy danced for hours the first time
9. Graduated with a national diploma in PR – what a high!
10. Organised a youth day arts festival at V&A – blood sweat and tears went into this one- I had no budget & managed to get 13 organisations and artists together to pull off a most stunning event – happy danced for days
11. Organised an exhibition at CTICC from scratch – stand conceptualization…design…. promotional material. Exhibitions = flippin hard work as I’d come to discover
12. Designed a brochure – that’s been reprinted a coupla times and still considered one of the business’ major promotional tools
13. Learnt how to maintain and update a website
14. Designed a website too, but sadly was only live for a few months
15. Explored Amsterdam – the place where warm and friendly people abound - I’m still happy dancing! – what a place! …definitely the highlight of my trip.
16. Learnt how teach English as a foreign language and got TEFL certified
17. Taught English classes to non-locals. South African idioms class by far my favourite
18. Strategically instilled in my nieces the love of books – “library run” and storytelling has become some of our favourite pastimes.
19. Got press and radio coverage for a small business.
20. Conceptualized a few business plans that received funding for the businesses concerned.

For the sake of my not being able to think of all my happy dances right now and for sake of leaving room for many more happy dances to come– this post is “to be continued”.

(Pic: http://www.writersua.com/articles/two-click/images/12happydance.gif)