Villa Carlotta conserva e valorizza un patrimonio storico-artistico e botanico unico sul Lago di Como e lo offre come realtà da vivere per tutto il territorio. Costruita alla fine del Seicento dai marchesi Clerici di Milano, la Villa racconta oltre trecento anni di grande collezionismo e ogni anno apre le porte di un affascinante giardino botanico a migliaia di visitatori da tutto il mondo. LA NOSTRA MISSION: Conservare e valorizzare con competenza il patrimonio storico-artistico e botanico di Villa Carlotta. Vogliamo accogliere ed emozionare ogni ospite attraverso un’esperienza di qualità, unica e personalizzabile nello scenario del Lago di Como. Villa Carlotta è una realtà da vivere per tutto il territorio. Villa Carlotta preserves and enhances a unique historical-artistic and botanical heritage on Lake Como and offers it as a reality to be experienced for the whole territory. Built at the end of the seventeenth century by the Marquis Clerici of Milan, the Villa recounts over three hundred years of great collecting and every year opens the doors of a fascinating botanical garden to thousands of visitors from all over the world. OUR MISSION: Competently preserve and enhance the historical, artistic and botanical heritage of Villa Carlotta. We want to welcome and excite every guest through a quality, unique and customizable experience in the scenery of Lake Como. Villa Carlotta is a reality to be experienced for the whole territory.

“Un bel giardino non ha bisogno di essere grande, ma deve essere la realizzazione del vostro sogno anche se è largo un paio di metri quadrati e si trova su un balcone”. Così spiegava il Capitano Neil Mc Eacharn a cui dobbiamo la nascita di questi meravigliosi giardini. Tra le piante presenti alcune delle quali uniche in Europa ed acclimatate dopo lungo lavoro, sono state disposte con senso d’arte in una cornice di bellezza, fra lago e monti. Nel lontano 1931, infatti, il Capitano Scozzese decise di acquistare la proprietà dalla Marchesa di Sant’Elia per trasformarla in un esemplare giardino all’inglese, ubicato in un lembo d' Italia che, pur con maggior morbidezza e ricchezza di toni, poteva ricordargli la nativa Scozia. Quest’opera doveva conciliare due esigenze fondamentali: estetiche e botaniche. Esigenze botaniche, in quanto le varie vegetazioni dovevano trovare condizioni di terreno e di clima il più possibile ideali. Le tappe della creazione dei nuovi giardini videro diverse fasi lavorative, sino alla loro ultimazione nel 1940. Molte migliaia di piante, importate da ogni parte del mondo costituiscono collezioni rarissime. Tra le opere più significative possiamo nominare: la “Valletta”, realizzata dopo imponenti lavori di scavo; l’impianto d’irrigazione, la cui acqua viene pompata direttamente dal lago in un capace serbatoio e quindi irradiata in ogni angolo della proprietà; i “Giardini terrazzati”, con le loro cascatelle, piscina, vasche per ninfee e fior di loto; il “Giardino d’inverno” ed il “Giardino palustre”; fontane ornamentali e giochi d’acqua. Realizzato così il “suo” giardino, che chiamò Villa Taranto, in memoria di un suo antenato, il Maresciallo McDonald, nominato Duca di Taranto da Napoleone, il Capitano volle che il significato dell’opera gentile e poderosa venisse proiettato nel tempo e, con un esempio di squisita generosità, donò la proprietà allo Stato Italiano esprimendo il desiderio che la sua opera avesse continuità nel futuro. Oggi il patrimonio botanico dei Giardini di Villa Taranto è vastissimo: comprende circa 1.000 piante non autoctone e circa 20.000 varietà e specie di particolare valenza botanica. La Villa non è visitabile, in quanto è adibita a sede della Prefettura della nuova Provincia del Verbano - Cusio - Ossola. Dal 1952 i Giardini sono aperti al pubblico, da Aprile ad Ottobre, e l’afflusso dei visitatori supera ormai le 150.000 unità per anno. Dall’Australia, dalle Americhe, dall’Europa, da ogni parte, numerosi gruppi di studiosi e di appassionati, raggiungono Villa Taranto, attirati dall’interessante raccolta botanica, dalla perfetta organizzazione e dalla cortesissima ospitalità. Al Cap. Neil Mc Eacharn, morto il 18 aprile 1964, e le cui spoglie mortali riposano ora - unitamente a quelle della famiglia del suo Amministratore dott. Antonio Cappelletto - in una Cappella - Mausoleo appositamente costruita nei giardini, è subentrato, nell’onerosa opera di manutenzione del compendio, l’Ente Giardini Botanici Villa Taranto “Cap. Neil Mc Eacharn”, col preciso scopo di conservare all’Italia e a tutto il mondo questo impareggiabile gioiello di botanica e di bellezze naturali. Visitando i Giardini, ognuno ritroverà intimi scenari e figurazioni di fantasia celate in trasparenze d’acqua, o nelle distese dei misteriosi fiori, sacri alla mitologia egizia. Dalla romantica Valletta alla distesa delle Eriche, dalle serre con la “Victoria cruziana” ai viali di Azalee, Aceri, Rododendri e Camelie, dai giardini delle Dalie, con oltre 300 varietà, ai mille colori delle fioriture autunnali, sullo sfondo dei Giardini all’Italiana, o nel dorato velario autunnale, VILLA TARANTO ci regala altrettante indimenticabili immagini della sua sempre rinnovata bellezza. "A beautiful garden does not need to be large, but it must be the realization of your dream even if it is a couple of square meters wide and is located on a balcony". Thus explained Captain Neil Mc Eacharn to whom we owe the birth of these wonderful gardens. Among the plants present, some of which are unique in Europe and acclimatized after long work, have been arranged with a sense of art in a setting of beauty, between lake and mountains. In fact, back in 1931, the Scottish Captain decided to buy the property from the Marquise of Sant'Elia to transform it into an exemplary English garden, located in a strip of Italy which, albeit with greater softness and richness of tones, could remind him the native Scotland. This work had to reconcile two fundamental needs: aesthetic and botanical. Botanical needs, as the various vegetation had to find soil and climate conditions as ideal as possible. The stages of the creation of the new gardens saw different work phases, until their completion in 1940. Many thousands of plants imported from all over the world make up very rare collections. Among the most significant works we can name: the "Valletta", built after massive excavation works; the irrigation system, whose water is pumped directly from the lake into a large reservoir and then radiated to every corner of the property; the “terraced gardens”, with their waterfalls, swimming pools, pools for water lilies and lotus flowers; the "Winter Garden" and the "Marsh Garden"; ornamental fountains and water features. Thus created "his" garden, which he called Villa Taranto, in memory of his ancestor, Marshal McDonald, appointed Duke of Taranto by Napoleon, the Captain wanted the meaning of the gentle and powerful work to be projected over time and, with an example of exquisite generosity, Today the botanical heritage of the Gardens of Villa Taranto is vast: it includes about 1,000 non-native plants and about 20,000 varieties and species of particular botanical value. The Villa cannot be visited, as it is used as the seat of the Prefecture of the new Province of Verbano - Cusio - Ossola. Since 1952 the Gardens have been open to the public, from April to October, and the influx of visitors now exceeds 150,000 units per year. From Australia, the Americas, Europe, from all over, numerous groups of scholars and enthusiasts reach Villa Taranto, attracted by the interesting botanical collection, by the perfect organization and by the very courteous hospitality. To Cap. Neil Mc Eacharn, who died on April 18, 1964, and whose mortal remains now rest - together with those of the family of his Administrator Dr. Antonio Cappelletto - in a chapel - Mausoleum purposely built in the gardens, the onerous maintenance work of the compendium took over the Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens Authority “Cap. Neil Mc Eacharn ”, with the specific aim of preserving this incomparable jewel of botany and natural beauty for Italy and the whole world. Visiting the Gardens, everyone will find intimate scenarios and fantasy figures hidden in transparencies of water, or in the expanses of mysterious flowers, sacred to Egyptian mythology. From the romantic Valletta to the expanse of heather, from the greenhouses with the "Victoria cruziana" to the avenues of Azaleas, Maples, Rhododendrons and Camellias, from the gardens of the Dahlias, with over 300 varieties, to the thousand colors of autumn blooms, against the backdrop of the Italian, or in the golden autumn veil, VILLA TARANTO gives us as many unforgettable images of its ever-renewed beauty.

Anne Gibson, The Micro Gardener. Anne wants you to feel the satisfaction and enjoy the rewards of growing, cooking and eating life-giving, healing foods. Why learn with Anne? You’ll discover: Quick, easy solutions for growing your own nutrient-dense food garden. How to save time, money and energy. How to work with nature to maximise your harvest and minimise work. Simple steps you can take to improve the health of your soil, plants and body. Sustainable, low-cost solutions to tread lighter on the planet and your wallet. Anne's passion is to help YOU live a healthier life. She join-the-dots between healthy soil, nutrient-dense food and healthy people. Her goal is to make a small difference in the world. To help people grow good health – one garden and kitchen at a time.” Learn how to grow good health with an abundant organic edible garden in small spaces. Dig into educational resources online for easy DIY tutorials and consulting services to grow your healing, nutrient-dense Kitchen Garden.

Planet Natural has been providing quality natural and organic products for the home, lawn and garden since 1991. Over that time, we’ve grown right along with the booming interest in organic and natural gardening and today have tens-of-thousands of satisfied customers. Check out our vast selection. We carry everything from organic fertilizers and natural pest control products — including beneficial insects — to compost bins and natural cleaning products for your home. Many of our products are approved for organic use by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) and all are from the finest, most-trusted producers. Our catalog features one of the most comprehensive selections of indoor gardening supplies available… and there’s even more — of everything — online! All of our products are top quality and we’re constantly on the look-out for new, proven items that will make your gardening experiences easier, healthier and more rewarding. At Planet Natural, we believe that the more you know, the better you grow. Our expert staff has in-depth experience helping other gardeners and first-hand knowledge of our products. Looking to set up an all-inclusive indoor growing set up? Our experts can help you match components and put together a system expressly suited to your needs. Having problems with a particular pest in your lawn and garden? Our staff can help you find the best and safest solution. At Planet Natural, we not only know our products, we’ve used them. Planet Natural’s website is more than an online catalog. It’s a resource with how-tos and in-depth information on composting, growing vegetables, maintaining healthy lawns and a score of other gardening subjects. And watch our Gardening Blog for discussions of the latest trends and issues in organics and natural growing techniques (or follow us on Facebook). At Planet Natural, we’re more than just a place to meet all your growing and home-care needs. We’re a committed community of gardeners, landscapers, small farmers and health-conscious families who, like you, want to do what’s best for our homes, our gardens, our loved-ones and our planet. Planet Natural!

Established in 2006, Urban Harvest is South Africa’s pioneer edible garden service. We have installed and maintained over 350 unique, beautiful and highly productive food gardens which provide healthy food and beautiful spaces to people from all walks of life. We are invested in every garden we grow, taking care to design and create beautiful spaces and only use the highest quality resources. Through careful attention to detail, and ongoing communication, our dedicated team will ensure you are happy with your garden’s progress, and will always greet you with a smile. Ben Getz, Founder, believes that by working with people and nature to create an abundance of healthy, organic and locally grown food in our communities, we can reawaken traditional values, a deeper reverence for the earth and practically reestablish a healthier balance in our lives.

Born in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo and I am currently living in South Africa at Cape Town for seven years. I am single from now and busy shaping my programming skills and IT knowledge at Cape Peninsula university of technology (CPUT). I am a software developer, I am always keen to discover and learn about new technology and invention in IT world, I have a good understanding of programming languages, internet cloud services and Desktop support CompTIA A+. I am a self-motivated person, reliable, determined, very skilful in communication, fast learner with an open mind to expose myself into new world and concept. Live is a journey about challenges and discovering that’s why I am always ready to face new challenge in technology and software world. I really like to play guitar and read books about science and others because knowledge for me is one of the keys to open doors, make a difference and discovering new area in live.

My name is Noxolo Femele and I'm 42 years old and I have 2 kids both are girls age 17 and 13 years of age. I worked for 43 Air School as a Receptionist for the past 5 year and while I was there I used to help out at the Admin area and at Marketing department, and that had lead me on having the ambition to become 1 of the Managers but unfortunately we got retrenched. Then I went and work at Lendcor group as a Sales consultant for 1 year 6 months same we got retrenched. That's where I decided to start my small business just to put food on the table until now but things are not doing well due to Covid-19.

In periodi bui penso che solo la natura con il risveglio della primavera possa indicare la strada per un nuovo inizio. In questa ottica nasce Webgarden. L’idea è quella di consentire a tutti di visitare virtualmente i meravigliosi giardini d’Italia. Il successo che ha avuto Web Garden mi ha stimolata ad ampliare la sua visione. Ambisco ad un progetto culturale volto ad approfondire il legame tra natura e arte: un viaggio senza tempo tra luci, colori e fragranze. Desidero esplorare non solo l’arte dei giardini ma anche l’arte nei giardini, l’armonica fusione di splendidi contesti naturali, non sempre accessibili a tutti, con le opere di artisti, crea infatti un dialogo ricco e culturalmente intenso. Per tale ragione vorrei organizzare mostre di autori italiani e stranieri, eventi dal vivo nelle varie espressioni artistiche, in giardini dalle cornici magiche e che ispirino emozioni e creatività ai maestri con i quali entrano in contatto, in modo da realizzare uno splendido connubio. Web Garden ha anche l’obiettivo di diventare con il tempo un magazine online di riferimento culturale, per fare conoscere il prezioso intreccio dell’arte della natura con l’arte dell’uomo che ne subisce il fascino. In dark times I think that only nature with the awakening of spring can show the way to a new beginning. With this in mind, Web Garden was born. The idea is to allow everyone to virtually visit the wonderful gardens of Italy. Web Garden is a cultural project aimed at deepening the link between nature and art. I aspire to a cultural project aimed at deepening the link between nature and art: a timeless journey between lights, colors and fragrances. Web Garden wishes to explore not only the art of gardens but also the art of gardens, the harmonious fusion of splendid natural contexts, not always accessible to all, with the works of artists, in fact creates a rich and culturally intense dialogue. For this reason I would like to organize exhibitions of Italian and foreign authors, live events in various artistic expressions, in gardens with magical frames that inspire emotions and creativity to the masters with whom they come into contact, in order to create a splendid combination. Web Garden also aims to become an online magazine of cultural reference over time, to make known the precious intertwining of the art of nature with the art of man who is fascinated by it. Web Garden would like to propose monthly food for thought and both naturalistic and artistic insights with an open breath to the world. This project also wants to involve young people in order to bring them closer to the beauty of Nature: I would like that through educational paths the children really understand how wonderful they are already surrounded, and that they become aware of the treasures they already possess to the point of being then stimulated to take them. treatment. Therefore I imagine a path that involves them through every school age, with exhibitions and projects that engage children and young people of all ages and lead them to interact both with nature and with the artists who are inspired by it.

I am a God fearing individual, and I’m also a father to two beautiful kids, a boy and a girl. I worked for Tekkie Town as a Sales Assistant and I was chosen as the best Sales person for the entire Mpumalanga province. I also worked for the Department of agriculture as a Data capture. I have a passion for sports, football is one of my favourites and one day I wish I can own a soccer team. While I was in high school, I always wanted to be a lawyer but due to financial constraints I could not become one. My interest in the justice system came when I realised that the late former president Mr Nelson Mandela was also a lawyer representing his people. I wish one day I could give back to my community and its people because my community gave us the likes of the late Steve Bantu Biko, one of the BCM Members who fought for the people of South Africa. My community is one of the underdeveloped communities of this country, but I know that one day all of this will change because I know that with education anything is possible. When a child is educated communities will change for the better and if one community changes, then our country will change for the better as well and poverty will be no more. Education topped with one’s perseverance is the key to a bright future for all. With this pandemic people have lost their jobs and in some households you find that no one is working and people resort to drugs and alcohol, some get depressed to a point of taking their own lives. If we can start developing jobs for people, our continent would become a better place for us all. Being part of an initiative that supports the empowerment of those less privileged is one of my greatest wishes. I will be glad if all my wishes do come through because nothing is as important as education and hard work, and an educated country means a better world for us all.

I am Elnet Girly Ndlovu. I am 29 years old. I was born and raised in Mpumalanga, South Africa. I graduated from high school in the year 2012 and am currently studying for a higher certificate in economics and management sciences through the university of South Africa. I have also obtained a certificate in business administration and Computer literacy of which I seek to study further to do entrepreneurship. I began my career as a customer service representative in 2014. Naturally, I have a growth mindset that enables me to grow and to help me by learning from mistakes to improve myself continually. I am kind, loving, caring and a person who is full of empathy often. I am a go-getter, positive, bubbly person who loves a positive fun filled environment. I am self-motivated and also enjoy motivating my team members. I work well in a team or individually. I am passionate about education, uplifting others, entrepreneurship and making a better society for the future generation to come while walking the journey of self-discovery I have more than four years experience in customer service and administration combined with a demonstrated history of working in the information technology and services industry. Skilled in Administrative Assistance, Meeting Scheduling, Executive Support. I have excellent interpersonal skills, I am also a fast learner and adapt quickly to a new environment My hobbies are reading books, listening to music, walking and learning new things.

My name is Glorymar Hernandez, but I prefer to be called “Glory”. I was born in the capital of Venezuela, Caracas, and grew up amid the crowds of the city, the tranquility of the Andean mountains and the joy of the Caribbean coast. A mixture that has taught me to enjoy wherever I am, that aroused my curiosity to know the world, and that has helped me to adapt, with relative ease, to changes. I have a degree in Philosophy, my research works are in Philosophy of Language. Since 2019 I have been working as a Spanish teacher. I decided to start teaching my mother tongue thanks to my experience learning other languages. I had the opportunity to live for a year in Ireland, where I went to learn English and, currently, I am in Italy, where I have had the opportunity to learn Italian. These experiences allowed me to realize that, although seeking perfection when trying to “speak like a native” is the ideal, what really matters is being able to communicate, make ourselves understood and be open to the experience of knowing other cultures and understand that there are many different points of view. Professionally, I have had the opportunity to work in different contexts such as banking, outsourcing consular procedures, and teaching at university level. The biggest lesson I learned from these experiences is that I am not an office person. I prefer to own my time and have the freedom to work wherever I am. For this reason, I have decided to dedicate myself to teaching Spanish online and to enter the digital world. I consider myself a very curious and versatile person, that is why in my free time I enjoy handcrafting (such as sewing or knitting), volunteering, being in contact with nature, and trying to learn new things, like playing the guitar. Regarding my geographical preferences, the beach and the mountains are my main refuges, because I can escape from the noise of the city and connect with myself. That is why I would like to be able to live with my husband on a mountain, not far from the sea.

Taking our past into the future with Carolina Reviglio! Carolina enjoyed a carefree childhood in the Piedmont countryside. With many cousins and friends, the passion for culture was instilled from an early age. Surrounded by beauty and art in the family mansion Cimena, expertly curated by her grandmother namesake, Carolina. On the paternal side of the family, her Venetian grandmother was equally influential. The unique character and rich culture of Venice, epitomizes Carolina. While travelling often, she feels most at home, in the isles of Venice. Schooled in Italy and the United States, lived in provinces throughout the length of Italy, Carolina considers herself truly Italian, with an international vision. “My country is rich in heritage, but poor in the pocket to keep it so. It saddens me to see so many buildings in a state of disrepair.” She has honed the skills of renovation and interiors of historic buildings, since 1987. Learning by trial and error, spurned on by failure and ultimate success, Carolina has grown and prospered. Now is the time to give back. Helping artisans of all disciplines to find work and ply their trade with pride. Matching projects to professionals and vice versa. As Heritage Doyenne, Carolina’s primary contribution to this unique initiative, is to encourage the participation of Heritage Ambassadors. This cause is yet another open avenue, to take our past into the future. By intertwining culture and heritage, to create more synergy. “Only once we fully understand where we come from… and truly appreciate our heritage… can we imagine a fabulous future filled with the richness of our past. Life is ours to design!” ~ Carolina Reviglio

Ivana Zanella, a land-lady for all her life, is an incredible, strong and smiling woman. Her family is from the island of Sant'Erasmo, and she's lived there since she was born. She inherited her father's farm in an astounding position, surrounded by the water of the lagoon of Venice. She grows vegetables, flowers, the famous purple artichokes and fruits. She is very much loved by everyone on the island and shares her precious secrets for growing such beautiful gardens.

L'orto di Elena Bermond si trova a 1700 metri, in Val di Susa su un monte sempre esposto al sole. Possiamo dire che Elena sia figlia d'arte, la sua famiglia ha tramandato il duro lavoro dei monti e tutte le attenzioni piene di saggezza che si devono alla natura affinchè produca per noi il sostentamento e il surplus. Elena gestisce l'Agriturismo e si occupa dell'orto e dei fiori coloratissimi appesi alle finestre dlle loro baite di montagna. Durante l'estate fuori dal casottino dove tiene le verdure appena raccolte, c'è sempre la coda, una coda gentile perchè le persone sono attorniate dai fiori dei vasi e perchè nel frattempo può ammirare la vista e le galline che razzolano libere nel prato. E' un duro lavoro quello dell'orto, ma i risultati sono eccellenti. Le verdure saporitissime durano a lungo. Le patate di montagna sono speciali e chi abita in città se ne porta via sacconi di 10 o 20 kg per l'inverno. Molti prodotti vanno all'agriturismo dove si consumano anche i formaggi, il burro, lo yogurt ed il latte di suo fratello Daniele che si occupa degli animali. Elena Bermond's vegetable garden is located at 1700 meters, in Val di Susa on a mountain that is always exposed to the sun. We can say that Elena is a daughter of art, her family has handed down the hard work of the mountains and all the attentions full of wisdom that are due to nature so that it can produce sustenance and surplus for us. Elena manages the Agriturismo and takes care of the vegetable garden and the colorful flowers hanging from the windows of their mountain huts. During the summer outside the shed where she keeps the freshly picked vegetables, there is always a queue, a gentle queue because people are surrounded by the flowers of the pots and because in the meantime she can admire the view and the hens scratching free in the meadow. Gardening is hard work, but the results are excellent. Tasty vegetables last a long time. Mountain potatoes are special and those who live in the city takes away big bags of 10 or 20 kg for the winter. Many products go to the farm where the cheeses, butter, yogurt and milk of his brother Daniele who takes care of the animals are also consumed.

I’m Toni-Leigh, born and bred in the Mother City of Cape Town. My fiancé and I, are parents to a lively 2-year-old girl who arrived 5 years after losing our 3-year-old son to a rare genetic disease. I love learning new things. Growing up, I was a voracious reader, reading anything and everything (even the classifieds and property ads) and with the advancement of technology over the years, I can have information at the tip of my fingers, so I’m always eager to learn new things and I’m a fast learner. I’ve always had an interest in Information Technology and was the go-to person in my office before my colleagues would go to the IT office, and now I’m looking into further studies so that I can develop my knowledge and skills. In 2005, I graduated from Varsity College with a Diploma in Travel and Tourism with aspirations of travelling worldwide in my profession. Things didn’t quite work out that way, having worked in retail and a company assisting young people to live and work in the UK. In the last decade or so, I’ve been in the tourism industry behind the scenes, working for an online holiday accommodation booking agency and more recently a company that does tours and safaris in Southern Africa. I also do freelance work remotely, such as, captioning for a speech-to-text service and social media evaluation. I am an introvert but enjoy working with and being in the company of others, while also enjoying being on my own. In the past I used to view being an introvert as a weakness because those higher up in the ranks of the companies I worked for were extroverted but in recent times I realised how much of a strength it is being an introvert as I also have a strong sense of empathy, which I believe is key in Customer Service and building interpersonal relationships with colleagues and clients. I’m passionate about customer service and going the extra mile and l love that feeling of knowing that I’ve made a difference in someone’s day, whether big or small. People tend to describe me as hardworking, punctual, efficient, dependable and trustworthy. Covid-19 affected the tourism industry drastically, however, I still want to travel anywhere I can, just soaking up the different cultures and experiences. The last year has been both challenging and rewarding and it has made me see things in a different light and so it has been somewhat of a new beginning for me. I am motivated now more than ever to seek out new passions and adventures and to get out of my comfort zone.

Wamkelekile (‘Welcome’ in isiXhosa) to one and all! My name is Iman Martin – ‘Iman’ having both Arabic and African meanings for ‘faith’. Just like my name, I come from a multicultural background: my mom has Indian and Malaysian origins, while my dad is from the Griqua people/clan in South Africa. In the same vein, I am a Muslim and have Christian relatives, with who I am very close. It is because of my diverse background that I feel I was raised to be both tolerant and respectful towards those that are of a different culture, religion, or ethnicity. Cape Town has been the only home I know, and I’ve never ventured far out of it. I do however envision myself travelling to different parts of the world a few years from now. I am passionate about women’s empowerment and women having the choice to choose for themselves! I have recently graduated from the University of Cape Town, with a Bachelor of Social Work (Psychology Major) and placed on the Dean’s Merit List, awarded for consistent academic achievement. Through hard work and perseverance, I was fortunate to have received a scholarship from the Department of Social Development for three of my four years of study. My mini-thesis explored the experiences and challenges of 1st-year students at UCT adjusting to university. Studying social work has not only allowed me to better understand those around me and their thought processes but also, to better understand myself and the possible reasons why I am the way I am. As part of my course requirements, I had to complete field practicals – by putting the theory that I was learning in class to practice in a real-world environment. My field practice experience ranged along a spectrum: from providing social work services to underprivileged youth in a primary school in Bonteheuwel, to interning in the more affluent area of Upper Wynberg, at an international school. This experience further fostered my innate empathy and non-judgemental outlook for those around me. I am someone who is not afraid to get my hands dirty, work hard and help out where I can: currently job hunting, I have occasionally been helping my father with renovations to his property that include painting, plastering, applying putty, etc. This has taught me many practical things that I hope to apply when I own my own house one day. A few months before now, I worked as a Personal Assistant to a therapist and social worker. This was a remote job that taught me valuable organisation and time-management skills. In my early years of study, I found myself working a sales assistant job at the Robben Island Museum Gateway store, and found that my favourite part of the job was interacting with the different tourists that happened upon our humble store and hearing their stories – where they were from and why they decided to visit SA, etc. I love reading, and since a young age, I’ve been considered a bookworm. I mainly enjoy supernatural and sci-fi novels and webcomics, as well as other forms of content such as newspaper and magazine articles (need to know what’s happening in the world around me). English was also my favourite subject at school, and I think this was also encouraged by my English-teacher mother, who was quick to correct any incorrect grammar and pronunciation when my siblings and I spoke incorrectly. I often assisted her in marking her learners’ English examination scripts and as a result, am quick to pick up on spelling or grammatical errors. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, long walks with my dog Ninja, and photography. This has led me to submit a piece that is currently being exhibited at the Zeits Mocca Art Museum, in their long-running ‘Home is Where The Art Is’ exhibition. Furthermore, my faith has given me strength through the darkest times and taught me to be tolerant and understanding of those around me. I am still very much figuring life and myself out as I go along and am always open to learning from those around me.

“Fall down seven times, stand up eight.” A Japanese proverb close to my heart. It has helped me persevere in so many situations in life and those situations have molded me into the woman I am today. Here’s a brief introduction to who I am. I am a new mommy to an adorable baby boy. A jack of all trades. I’m an artist at heart, fitness enthusiast, avid reader, and quite academic. I was born on the 9th of August in the year 1996 in Elim, a small village in the Limpopo Province. I grew up in Johannesburg and later moved to Pretoria in 2006 when I was in Grade 4, where I completed the rest of my school career. I have always been one to participate in almost every extra-mural activity since my primary school years, I played softball, hockey, and cricket. I took part in cross-country and district athletics to name a few. My love for sports made me gravitate towards what I currently do part-time, I train on a regular basis, and I am a wellness coach and a distributor for a prominent nutrition brand. A large part of what I do involves helping people correct their nutrition and learn more about the benefits of healthy eating so that they can lead a healthier lifestyle and feel great while they are at it. I have been involved in various projects that involved giving back to those in need. I have been involved with an initiative called Feed a Homeless Homie, where we made food for the homeless and distributed it at least one weekend a month, I also helped a friend of mine with a pads drive for less fortunate girls, I also give clothes to homeless shelters for women and children whenever I can and I worked with an NGO known as Keep That Gold Shining (KTG) where we tutored young kids in high schools in the townships. I am a philanthropist at heart and believe that even the smallest contribution goes a long way. As mentioned, I am also an artist, mostly self-taught. I do painting on commission as well as pencil sketching. I do not have a specific style as yet, but most of my work features women from different walks of life. I would like to collaborate with more artists in the future and have exhibitions. I try to read at least one book a month. My favorite writers have always been James Patterson and Dan Brown however I recently branched out to other genres besides suspense and thrillers. Some of my latest reads are: • Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki • Atomic Habits by James Clear • The Alchemist by Paolo Coelho • Half of a yellow sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie • No Longer At Ease by Chinua Achebe I can speak at least 6 of the 11 official languages, I am fairly tech-savvy. I am a quick learner, always willing to pick up a new skill. Life has thrown several curveballs at me and I never backed down. I strongly believe in working hard and not giving up on anything I do. My name means ‘Be Strong’, that is who I am!

Greetings to one and all. I am a child of the universe and I want to share that every day is a beautiful day. True, our emotions fluctuate but at some point during each day we will recognise that the day is a gift we have received and if we be true to ourselves we will smile and this will create feel good energy. We should practice this feel good energy and build on it so that each day it comes easier and earlier in the day, like a muscle it will grow. Become more evident and gather momentum and we will BE better for it. I believe in kindness and forgiveness towards others and myself. In a couple of months, I will begin the first year of my seventh decade on planet Earth. I feel privileged to have lived long enough to grow. Twenty years ago I was facing a life-threatening illness and not doing too well, I am a miracle. I believe we are all miracles. Some would differ. It can be a topic for discussion. I have extensive administrative experience - getting things organised, getting things done. With a stable track record, I am able to diversify within different industries. As part of a team, I have a strong focus to resolve challenges and enjoy leaving any tasks I am busy with in a user-friendly state (do unto others). I pride myself on my attention to detail & due diligence, going the extra mile in terms of improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness. With strong English (both written and verbal) I am confident to communicate, in English, on all levels of an organisation, company or institution, with a strong emphasis on service delivery. My good communication skills help towards problem-solving & interpersonal relationships. I enjoy taking on responsibility, it adds to my sense of well-being & purpose. I did a one-year secretarial course in 1980 and my working life began from there. Living and learning life then became what I did, marriage, babies, etc. I guess I was lazy to further my qualifications, in hindsight I think I would have made a damn good surgeon LOL. Seriously, I have good eye, hand coordination, a good touch, and, consciously, I have become better at threading the needle. I believe strongly in being true to myself and honesty means much to me, honesty within and with others. And now, I am ready to start that next chapter in my career. I am blessed. I have over the years done various short courses including a deep tissue massage course, so I am a certified masseuse however I only massage family and friends as I am no longer physically (strength and stamina) up to doing a job I am comfortable to charge for. Thought that was worth mentioning, as it brings me pleasure to help others breathe and take time out. I have always worked in administrative support positions from Girl Friday to Executive PA and everything in between and in many different industries. My last couple of jobs have been from home (virtual) and in a new field, namely customer service. This shift was challenging and I am proud to say I managed it pretty well. Working from home is what is necessary at this time given my current living circumstances. This change and the challenge that came with it reminded me that I have strong determination, which is a very good thing. I am concerned for my granddaughter’s generation and what life will be like for them as adults, especially the environment they will find themselves in physically, mentally, emotionally. And, I would love to see the curricula in our educational systems adapting to educating our children to be more self-aware, mindful, engaging their senses, like an involuntary muscle, in the present moment and, to be able to guide their minds when it comes to EQ. I am an advocate for sports at a young age as this definitely develops our grit and stick-ability which comes in handy as we journey down the road with our name on it. I was a junior champion in both swimming and tennis, representing Zambia in both. Easy does it.

My name is Jean-Mark Lufuluabo, born on 25 of November 1990 in mbuji-mayi, D.R. Congo. And I am the firstborn of a family of 8 children. I attended high school in the same city, majoring in biology and chemistry. By the age of 20 I was a manager in a family business, combining it with college. Where I studied commercial and financial sciences in ISC(Institute Superieur de Commerce) this time in another city called Lubumbashi. I speak 5 languages: English, French, Swahili, Lindale and Tshiluba. I am also Skilled in HTML, CSS, JAVASCRIPT and J query. I moved to South Africa in 2015,loved the adventure so far. In South Africa I attended a fire training with Pulse Training Academy, then after worked as fire Marshall in Harbour dry dock at Cape Town’s port. I have worked also for Tessara (ex Grapetech) in Epping Cape Town, And currently working as delivery partner with Picup and UberEats. As a person, I love sports, hiking, reading. I would like to fly if I had the means to do so. Above all, I am an open-minded person, who seeks to improve each and every day.

Hello, I’m Deborah! I was born in Congo RDC and came to Cape Town, South Africa in October 2012 to study at university. I have a National diploma in Financial accounting and a diploma in Financial information system. I am an ambitious young lady and I love to be surrounded by positive people. I’m a dedicated and conscientious team player with the ability to provide support and advice to people, customers, or co-workers and make a difference. I am organized, responsible, very loyal, focused and I can have the work done on time and meet deadlines. While doing my National diploma, I was also working as a part-time customer service sales representative. I became a full time agent right after I graduated from university. I am a customer relation professional with more than six years of experience in customer service work, inbound and outbound calls, emails and social media. I have excellent verbal skills with the ability to communicate my thoughts and information in a clear and easy to understand manner. I am confident that the experience, the capabilities I have, make me ready for any opportunity. I speak French, English, Swahili, and Lingala I love singing and dancing, reading, and my favorites animals are dogs and cats. Looking forward to be part of Zagenie family! Thank you!