Freedom Day

It is impossible to reflect back on 27 April 1994 without reminiscing about the legend that is former President Nelson Mandela.

Read Mandela`s statement after voting in South Africa`s First Democratic Election here: http://www.anc.org.za/show.php?id=3657

A few of our all-time favourite quotes:

“Many people have been sceptical of our capacity to realise the ideal of a rainbow nation. It is true that South Africa was often brought to the brink of destruction because of differences. But let us re-affirm this one thing here today: it is not our diversity which divides us, it is not our ethnicity, or religion or culture that divides us. Since we have achieved our freedom, there can only be one division amongst us: between those who cherish democracy and those who do not!” Nelson Mandela, speech on receiving The Freedom of Durban, Durban, South Africa, 16 April 1999

“The very fact that racism degrades both the perpetrator and the victim commands that, if we are true to our commitment to protect human dignity, we fight on until victory is achieved.” Nelson Mandela, address to The United Nations General Assembly, New York, USA, 3 October 1994

“… we know that peace is the most powerful weapon that any community or nation can have for development. As we rebuild our country, we should remain vigilant against the enemies of development and democracy, even if they come from within our own ranks. Violence will not bring us closer to our objectives. All of us should ask ourselves the question: Have I done everything in my power to bring about lasting peace and prosperity in my city and my country?” Nelson Mandela, speech on receiving The Freedom of Durban, Durban, South Africa, 16 April 1999

We wish you a cheerful Freedom Day 2016.

Yours faithfully,

Legal Hero.

Hero of the Month: Miss Mabaso

Not all Heroes wear capes. Although we tend to think Miss Mabaso should! After being awarded a certificate of excellence as a top KZN educator, we simply had to catch up with the woman who believes in, and takes daily strides towards, a better tomorrow…

Thando: Please tell us about yourself - where did you grow up, where did you go to school and why did you start teaching?

Miss Mabaso: I'm a woman who believes in herself. I have a clear vision and passion for life. I always strive for excellence. I run the extra mile in my career. I try to always do more than what is expected of me. I am a very dedicated person and a good motivator. 

I grew up in Estcourt, Ntabamhlophe Location. I started Primary Education at Sakhile Primary School, Sobabili High School and Estcourt Senior Secondary School

I am a Teacher by profession. I did my Bachelor's Degree in Education from Durban University of Technology and hold an Honours Degree in Education from UNISA. I started teaching in 2007. In 2013 I was promoted to be a Head Of Department. In 2016 I was again promoted to be Deputy Principal where also I got a special opportunity to act as Principal.

A happy Miss Mabaso at the KZN Department of Education 2016 Awards Ceremony.

T: What inspires you to strive for such greatness?

M: As an innovative person, I always want to turn things around. Teaching is my calling. I like transformation. Changing the lives of African children is my vision, this is what inspires me. It gives me a reason to wake up in the morning and speak life to these young girls and boys. I am a visionary leader. Changing the lives of South African children inspires me to never stop doing what I do.

T: You must be their hero. Question is, who is your favourite superhero and why?

M: My favourite superhero is my former Grade 12 accounting educator, Dr. ATM Gwala. He managed to identify a talent and a special skill in me. He advised me to further my studies because of the potential he saw in me. He taught me so many things other than accounting. He is my mentor and life coach. He taught me the skills of being a good leader.

T: What is your vision for South Africa?

M: My vision for South Africa is seeing people who were previously disadvantaged changing their lives for good. I would love to see all citizens being able to read, write and be computer literate. This will enable them to try and do things on their own and not always depend on government.Seeing an old African woman or child reading a book in a train or taxi would make me happy. Every home should have a book to read! Every South African should be able to enforce their rights to education.

Assistance with your home loan application

Exciting new benefit announcement!

All Legal Hero policyholders now enjoy assistance with their home loan/ bond application process. Contact 0861 22 99 22 (option 4) or e-mail bond@legalhero.co.za. We want to see you and your family thrive.

When it comes to property (movable and immovable), your Legal Hero benefits include purchase and sale agreements, advice on agreements before you sign, consumer protection, lease agreements, bond application assistance and discount on transfer and registration fees.

Keeping you informed: Have you heard of FLISP?

What is it? The Finance Linked Individual Subsidy Program (FLISP) was developed by the Department of Human Settlements and is a form of subsidy.

What does it do? FLISP helps successful applicants to purchase his/ her first property in a formal town by way of a once-off subsidy in the region of R10 000 - R87 000.

Do I qualify? If you are a first time home buyer, a South African citizen over 18 years, have never benefited from a Government Housing Subsidy Scheme (such as an RDP house, for example) and earn between R3 501 and R15 000 per month, you are eligible to apply. Your potential FLISP subsidy depends on your household's combined monthly income.

Contact details: NHFC 0860 011 011 or flisp@nhf.co.za. Visit www.nhfc.co.za for more information.