“Ambition is the determination and endurance that you have to exhibit in order to realise your dream, and your goal is the articulation of that dream. For instance, if you want to be a pilot, there are certain things you must do in order to get there. But the most important thing is to know in your heart of hearts that you are cut out to be a pilot. Because if you become a pilot nd discover that’s not what you really wanted, you’ll have wasted time. If you have an ill-defined goal and you haven’t really articulated your dreams clearly, your ambition will be wasted.” – Quote from PostNet founder, Ian Lourens, taken from the book, “Conversations with JSE AltX Entrepreneurs”, which was written by Siyabonga Mapoko. I’ve just read the extract of the book and can’t wait to buy the complete copy. It seems to be a great read for anyone considering/starting/operating a new business.

Siya himself is quite an inspiration. I was blown away by the simplicity and impact of his website: www.icaptivegroup.co.za. It’s so cool to see success in action:)

I attended an interesting presentation about the Copenhagen conference by Stefan Raubenheimer this morning, which was hosted by Webber Wentzel. Some key and interesting points that he mentioned were:

- the complete disarray that overshadowed any possibility of success, for example, one entrance for 45,000 delegates (would love to know who the events management company was, if any);
- Copenhagen represented a major political shift in the world – fundamental realignment of players in the game;
- the lead role that South Africa took in committing itself to concrete targets by 2020 and 2025; and the fact that it is included in the Group of 20 leading, and a few other, countries that helped draft and sign an Accord;
- SA will release its Green Paper – Climate Change Strategy Paper - in May 2010 outlining how it intends achieving the -34% reduction in emissions – this will be followed by a period of extensive public participation;
- with SA’s current development path, we will not achieve the desired reductions – the future should exclude the use of coal as an energy source and include only renewable and nuclear energy; 
- (one of the slides referred to) Copenhagen being viewed as “Brokenhagen” – no breakthrough, nothing binding, etc./Tokenhagen – all a sham/“Hopenhagen” – new world order configuration, real foundation on which to build;  
- “Taking Action on Climate Change” is a new book, authored by Harold Winkler, which will be released this following day; and
- there are several business opportunities and not only challenges that exist as a result of Climate Change, for example, solar heating.

Eventhough one doesn’t necessarily understand every point that is mentioned, it is such a privilege to be able to listen to someone who is so close to trying to advance the work being done to save our planet. If only people felt more empowered to do their bit and if only government could incentivise small business to offer green solutions, for example, privatise refuse collection and have companies providing bins with pull-out compartments for glass, paper and other waste. Currently, going green in a big way is still too expensive for the common household. Maybe there should be a hefty tax rebate for home alterations (for example, installation of solar heating) and other purchases that improves environmental sustainability!

I can’t believe that a giant like Toyota could behave so irresponsibly and thereby destroy the reputation that it has built over so many years. This is a classic case in point – and I have experienced it first-hand – where top executives place all their trust in their lawyers and accountants and other “highly qualified” professionals instead of their media advisors. After all, they think, what intelligence, knowledge and insight do you need to understand the media, public opinion and communications?

Understandably, for most PR consultants it’s still largely the “babes with balloons” but for strategic communications its about strategy, strategy and strategy!

When-ever something negative has occured, the best approach is to communicate honestly – win support by taking stakeholders into your confidence and engaging with them openly and transparently. Respond, Repent, Rectify/Repay/Replace and Report.

The crazy thing about owning and operating your own business is that you work non-stop and somehow you actually don’t mind! When I was in corporate – a multi-national tobacco company – I came home after 9 hours feeling completely drained. Now, I just love the fact that I am fully in control of my own diary, my own time and don’t have to report to anyone. Ok, except my husband who is wondering when the money is going to start materialising. Well, did I say it was all bliss? With employment you at least have that stable salary. However, when the money does start rolling in it will be smiles all the way to the bank:))

Ok, so it took me 3,5 hours to produce my first video for YouTube – even tho’ it was, initially, a spontaneous decision using my video cam on my office laptop. Shew! I thought I would never get it done and that the entire afternoon would be a waste.
All I was thinking is that this could potentially be seen by strangers from different parts of the world. I say “potentially” because it may not be picked up my anyone, as has been the case with my first blog on wordpress! Thank you world! An excellent boost for my confidence!!!

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