October 7, 2021
October 2021 News from KVV
Dear Client
Recently the world sat in awe as we watched athletes from across the world compete in the Olympics. One thing that always stands out for me is that the principle that I was taught in primary school when running a 400m race is still practiced by the worlds’ elite athletes. The principle that our coaches taught was that when you run a 400m race you run with your whole heart but it is in the last 100 meters where you need to throw all caution to the wind, dig deep and lay it all out in the field. The last 100m of the race is where the race is won, where we see the type of grit and glory that inspires us. It’s that last 100m that captures the imagination of the world and draws millions of people worldwide to watch these races on the edge of their seats.
To me, the coming of October month has always been the start of the last 100m for any given year. Three quarters of the year lies behind us. When October starts I always find my mind drifting to the three quarters of the year that has passed. I take stock of the things I learned and experienced, the unmerited blessings I received, the hurts and losses I experienced. My mind wanders through the year, the lows sharply contrasted by the highs and I always stop to make room for the impact of all these events to shape me as a person, to let it matter, to let it sink in.
This year was no exception to this process and I think for many people this was a year in which uncertainty reigned and the losses suffered were devastating. 2021 has not been the fairest or most palatable year for most people I speak to. But 2021 is not yet over, it is the coming quarter, the last 100m, that defines the race, defines the players that run in the race, that shows the guts and the glory that inspires nations and brings people together. So let’s dig deeper than we ever have before, push through the sore muscles, look past the sweat stinging our eyes and let’s finish this year like the elite athletes we are.
Regards
Ianthe Biggs | Conveyancer
September 7, 2021
KVV | A Note from our Director
Dear Client
Writing something inspiring in the beginning of September should be easy. There is so much to take positive inspiration from – we just ended Womens Month in August, it is the start of Spring and nature is waking up with blooms and blossoms wherever you look, and we are celebrating heritage month in our lovely country South Africa this month.
But the truth of the matter is, this is not a normal Spring season. Instead of walking around with smiles on our faces, smelling the roses as we go, we have to wear facemasks when out in public. Instead of attending spring festivals and planning holidays with loved ones, we are forced to social distance and nobody is sure when we will be able to gather in large numbers again. We are waking up every day to more news of loved ones being tested positive, and even the devastating heart-breaking news of loved ones passing on, not surviving the virus. People are scared and confused – vaxxers and anti-vaxxers are criticising each other on social media. No one knows what is lying ahead for us in the months and years to come. One thing that is sure though, is that nothing will ever be the same again.
Having said all that, I am still going to refer you to a story from nature. My grandmother had an Amaryllis flower, which flowered so well over the years that all of our family members have been fortunate enough to receive a bulb. Each year we would announce to each other “ouma is blooming”, when the pink flowers start to blossom.
My “ouma” plant sadly was eaten by worms this year – within the midst of everyday live and tragedy I saw too late that the leaves were turning brown. An early sign of worms eating at the bulb of the plant. I gave the necessary pesticide, but sadly it seemed to be too late as all the leaves of the plant died away.
Over the past weekend, I looked at my “ouma” plant and to my surprise I saw the green of a flower sprouting out of the bulb! The plant has no leaves, has been eaten rotten by worms, but not only is it not dead, it still has the energy to produce a flower!!
Sometimes looking at nature makes me feel small and even a little embarrassed. Through all the turmoil we face in our daily lives, we as humans many times feel like we cannot go on. Like the “worms” of our existence have eaten away at everything that could ever be considered as beautiful in our lives. May you, like me, take inspiration from the lesson learned from this little Amaryllis plant. May we stand proud through our storms – and not only survive them, but still find the energy to produce a beautiful flower!
July 2, 2021
KVV | A Note from our Director
Dear Client
Are you wearing enough PPE to protect your income?
All over the world, the fear, worry, sadness and loss, that are spread with the virus are unprecedented.
Together we are fiercely trying to combat the virus, by following the COVID-19 protocols, whether we are at home or work, whether we are buying groceries or picking up our children from school.
For the COVID protocols to achieve their purpose, each one of us needs to take up the responsibility of abiding by the safety rules personally, regardless of what lockdown level we are in.
But not only is our health at risk, so is our businesses, our income, our salaries, our bread and butter on the table. Just as important as our lives and health are, so is our healthcare system and keeping a roof over our heads. And someone needs to pay for that… and that someone is the salary earner.
This begs the question what PPE are we wearing to protect our income?
Yes, we do not have control over the job losses and businesses closing on a global scale, but don’t let the fear of the uncontrollable make you underestimate your worth in contributing to the economy, by “earning your salary”.
Food needs to be packed to reach our tables, Insurance companies needs profitable companies to invest with to pay out, income tax needs to be generated to fund hospitals. Every individual contributes on a larger scale, more than you and I realise.
As you sit behind your desk at work, or in isolation at home behind your desktop, with your kids playing around your feet – take hold of your commitment and responsibility to keep whatever business you are in going.
Protect your company`s productivity by not letting your emotional state get the better of you. For the sake of our economy, stay strong and focus on how you influence those around you. That is a difference that only you, have the power to make.
Franklin D. Roosevelt said:
“Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the assessment that something else is more important than fear”.
In time we will look back on what we’ve overcame and be grateful for the effort we’ve made to keep as much standing as possible, even when the world caves down around us. You are making a contribution. Focus on how you influence those around you. Be a difference maker!
Kind Regards
Diaan Van Wyk | Director
April 20, 2021
KVV | A Note from our Director
By now almost everyone has heard or encountered phrases such as “the new normal” or even more hectic concepts like “VUCA” (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity). No doubt the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic threw the world, as we know it, into a tailspin. Suddenly we found ourselves in the world of uncertainty. We started having discussions we never had before regarding our reality and its volatility. Many became alive to what is important and began to appreciate even the insignificant. A colloquial “walk in the park” was yearned for. Just to make a point.
Our reality may have been bended by a pandemic. However, I submit that it is equally true that humans have experienced worse. Imagine a pandemic in an age where there is no advanced communication, medical devices and advanced science to treat or manage the pandemic. Without digressing I wish to make a point that the human journey is that of resilience.
There have been instances in history where cities were levelled by war, people left hopeless by unexpected life events like the emergence of a pandemic. However, through it all, what has proved to be consistent in every encounter is human resilience. Levelled cities were raised more majestic and what was a novel organism became old and understood.
Like most people, at the peak of the pandemic, when all was but bleak I subscribed to the notion of the “new normal”. But recently, perhaps controversially so I have stated that all I see is return to the “normal” and the “new normal” appears to be dissipating. Perhaps I am experiencing and observing the effects of resilience. Where things inevitably normalize. This is my personal opinion.
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to ravage lifes and livelihoods. The cost is too much. The best we can do, I would argue, is to sustain each other while the storm withers. We can do so by extending a helping hand where we can. Protect others by complying to established protocols to curb the spread and be generous where circumstances permit.
I agree with the view that many of the challenges we are facing e.g., economic challenges, existed before the pandemic and were elevated by the advent of COVID-19. Perhaps this is an opportunity for a different perspective on all old challenges and I do not propose a solution. I am however convinced that like many challenges faced before the resilience of humanity will prevail. Despite the costs that we shall count, some recoverable and some, such as the precious human life, not recoverable, the resilience of humanity will prevail.
I am reminded of the brilliance of Walt Whitman as he expresses the passing of a leader just when victory is achieved and laments “O Captain! My Captain!”. Even though there are casualties in this crisis, humanity will prevail. A “new” story will be written and the future will read it when things are “normal”. The human journey is that of resilience.
Though disasters may befall humanity, humanity has a future. At this point allow me to borrow from an age-old wisdom – Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you – this is the LORD’s declaration – plans for your welfare, not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope – I therefore conclude that the human resilience is ordained and divine.
Kind Regards
Joseph Leotlela | Director
January 13, 2021
A Note from our Director
Dear Client
I trust you have had time to reflect on 2020 and spend quality time with loved ones over the festive period.
What can we expect from the property market This year? Although 2020 has taught us that we should not try and predict the future, let’s look at a short overview of where we are at the moment.
As a result of the low-interest rates, the lowest in 50 years, a great opportunity developed for South Africans to enter the property market or even purchase investments properties. Tenants and first time home buyers are now able to afford to buy properties. People can afford bigger houses, with the prospects of working from home also becoming a reality. Although the stats indicate that millennials are still hesitant to purchase, the average age of buyers is younger. The forecast is that the interest rate will remain stable for the rest of the year.
The additional stress that COVID-19 has caused in the economy, like unemployment, has filtered down to the household, not just financially but also personally. The result has been an increase in property sales caused by forced sales and even unfortunate events like divorces. We could also expect an increase in distressed property to enter the market, leading to more competitive house prices. I recommend that you use expert agents and mortgage originators to assist with finding accurate market-related property prices and finance options.
Compliments for 2021, remember the lessons learned from 2020. To not plan too far ahead, be adaptable and agile this year! Let us hold on to our faith, celebrate our small daily “wins” and control the controllable’s.
Finally let us remember to have some fun every now and then!
Regards
Diaan Van Wyk | Director
December 17, 2020
A Note from our Director | December 2020
Dear Client
We are almost through 2020. What a year it has been. I have learnt that life happens on its own despite our own planning or expectations. How we respond to the unexpected is what determines the real outcome.
I have been in a wheelchair for eight years now. My wife has a photo of us dancing at a wedding in the November just before the accident. Little did we know that was the last dance we would have had. As the song goes save the last dance for me. The lesson for me now in 2020 is to have that last dance, because tomorrow may not come. Enjoy the moment and be present in the moment. Time is precious and all of us have the same minutes per day. Make them count. Make the call, go on the date, write the book, and do whatever it is you dream of. If not today when? Tomorrow might change, or worse, it may never come.
I wish you all a very merry Christmas and prosperous new year. My wish for you is to be present in the moment and live life to its fullest. We all have the time and ourselves to give and dedicate to others. Let’s make it a better world for you and me and the entire human race.
2020 gave us a world of opportunities to do just that. Let us continue with it into 2021.
Kind Regards
Roy Kapp | Director
August 19, 2020
A Note from our Directors | August 2020
August is Women’s Month and at KVV Inc we decided to celebrate this month in true KVV style, taking into account the difficult economic circumstances our country is facing at the moment due to the Covid 19 situation. Big events and festivities are sadly out of the question – not only because budgets are tight and Lock Down rules only allows 50 people to gather at a time, but more importantly because we all want to adhere to the rules of Social Distancing to keep each other safe.
One of the biggest impacts of the pandemic is not necessarily economic, but the emotional and psychological toll that the “new normal” has on the citizens of the world. Not only are people losing their jobs and their income, but they are deprived of the support of something as simple but emotionally important as a hug from a friend, a family member, a colleague.
Therefore, we decided that in this Women’s Month it is up to us women to build each other up and motivate each other to create a wave of positive thoughts and inspiration to lift each other up. As Donna Karan said: “I believe in the Power of Women. As nurturers, we have a unique ability to care and share and make the world a better place. Women who inspire are women who are making a difference”.
In difficult times like these one must stand together as a family. At KVV we regard our staff, clients, business partners, friends and colleagues all as part of the KVV Family, and in this Women’s Month more specifically as part of the “Women of KVV”.
The Women of KVV are Kind, Visionary and Victorious. They are an inspiration to each other. They keep each other motivated and uplifted during difficult times and like true sisters they are there for each other through thick and thin.
Follow our “Women of KVV” campaign on our website and on our social media this August and meet the amazing and inspirational women who are all part of our amazing family.
February 20, 2020
A Note from our Director
The year is now in full swing. Allow me to confront you with a simple and obvious question at this stage, one which you may not be keen to hear, particularly if you have been slack on the subject. But perhaps this is the question that we all need to hear. Lest I digress too far, here is my question: have you had the first piece? Borrowing from another popular adage the question can be posed differently with the same meaning by saying: have you taken the first single step? In case I have lost you by now, you have all heard the metaphorical question “how do you eat an elephant”. We are all familiar with the answer that an elephant is eaten one piece at a time. We are equally familiar with the saying that “a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step”.
The question I ask seeks to instigate taking stock of the most critical part of your goals i.e. the start. I believe there is no perfect time to do that or to simply remind ourselves of our goals and why we have them. My colleagues and I have at one point or another referred to the goals that we set for ourselves as individuals, organizations and businesses. In most instances we set goals without fail in the form of New Year resolutions, performance objectives etc. I am certain that most people have set goals for themselves.
I have observed the difference between two types of mindsets, which can be explained in descriptive terms by using the analogy of a pest problem. I am sure that many people will relate to my observation. When confronted with a pest problem the one mindset will react by reaching for a pesticide and deal with the problem. The other mindset will investigate the source of the pests including the behavior of the pests and use the information as a point of departure in dealing with the problem. Quite frankly I prefer the pesticide mindset. However, the latter approach reflects prudence as it is based on the understanding of what you are dealing with.
It is important to understand why we set goals. Maybe before we even embark on them. Perhaps we have come to accept that when you aim at nothing, you will hit it every time. Therefore, we must aim at something. The aim being a means to our goal. Sometimes we need not ponder on past failures which discourages us. Sometimes all we need is to understand the value of setting a goal (I do not trivialize the importance of earnest efforts to achieve goals I am merely emphasizing the point of having goals). The words “vision” and “objectives” amongst others, may not technically be synonyms for “goal” and one may breach the rules by using them interchangeably, but they equally describe the many forms that the important exercise of looking forward to something takes. I believe that goals are a “compass”, they take you somewhere!
Many people would be wary to become part of something which aims at nothing. Hence it has become, at least in my view, a standard for leadership in business and any other formation to have goals. The same should be true at an individual level. You must be wary to follow yourself if you do not have a vision (goal).
Perhaps I should refrain from entering what could be the preserve of esteemed philosophers and get back to my question and the moral of my story. Your goals may be the size of an elephant or a journey before you may be of a thousand miles. Bite the first piece. Take the first step. Do not underestimate the importance of small beginnings. If I may give advice, the trick is never to stop. If you have endured the first piece of the elephant and have taken the first single step of the journey, never stop. It is the small beginnings which lead to the destination. For the remainder of the period of your goals do not stop.
Kind Regards
Joseph Leotlela | Director
January 15, 2020
KVV | January 2020 Directors Note
Most of the country has had an opportunity to settle into the new year and reflect on what 2019 
taught us. Now that January is well on its way, we can do some cross-checking regarding readiness for 2020.
I am sure that we are strapped in and that the launch signal has been given. Are we skilled enough to not only survive 2020 but to thrive in abundance?
According to Forbes, there are a handful of critical skills that are non-negotiable if we want to set ourselves apart from the rest of the pack.
These skills are:
- DATA LITERACY
- CRITICAL THINKING
- TECH SAVVINESS
- ADAPTABILITY AND FLEXIBILITY
- CREATIVITY
- EQ
- CULTURAL INTELLIGENCE AND DIVERSITY
- LEADERSHIP SKILLS
- JUDGEMENT AND COMPLEX DECISION MAKING
- COLLABORATION
At KVV, we are very intentional regarding what we focus on and how we spend our time. Hence, we believe that by developing and equipping ourselves with skills that matter, we will create the most value, for our clients and business partners. These skills and competencies will create even more capacity to thrive, be utterly successful and to deliver brilliant, constant service to all our stakeholders.
Uncharted territories await us, with heart, minds and hands filled with the appropriate and necessary skills, we will ensure that we are ready to blaze the new trails.
Let’s embrace our partnerships and conquer 2020!
Have a blessed 2020!
Kind Regards
Diaan Van Wyk | Director
December 19, 2019
KVV | December 2019 Directors Note
The year 2019 has reached its inevitable end. It gets me every year how fast time flies. Before long we will welcome the year 2020. It seems not too long ago when we were facing the year 2000 and everyone was spreading doom and gloom stories about the new millennium.
Now, 20 years down the line, we are privileged to look back on the first 5th of this millennium and be thankful that despite all the difficulties it did bring, it certainly did not bring doom and gloom. We as humans tend to always expect the worst and focus on the negative. The only thing that we know for certain about the New Year and the next 20 years of this millennium is that we do not know anything for sure. Will the world end? Will we live to see the year 2040? Nobody knows.
However what we do know is that the choice is up to us how we are going to walk into this new era. We also know that time is not guaranteed to any of us – time is precious and only we ourselves can decide how we are going to spend the time we have in the lives we live. Are we going to spend it wisely, positively, building up and leaving a legacy? Or are we going to just arrive at the end of every year with nothing to show but yet another year’s time wasted.
My wish for you this Christmas is that you spend your time wisely. Fill your cup with love and laughter whilst spending time with your loved ones. Rest if you can and take time to take care of yourself. And in the year 2020, walk into this next phase of life with courage and conviction on the path that will make each day of your life worth living.
Merry Christmas!
Kind Regards
Mariëtte van Zyl | Director