“It is important that you live within your financial means and not beyond your financial means”. These are the words by Mr Mlungisi Mashinini of IEMAS during the Personal Financial Management and Stress Management workshop which was organised for UNIVEN employees by Human Resources Directorate. The workshop which aimed at the financial well-being and employee wellness programme, was held at the University’s Research Conference Centre on Wednesday, 12 June 2019.
Mr Mashinini advised employees to buy only when there is a need and not a want. He indicated that it is important to exercise discipline in terms of finances. In his talk Mashinini gave reasons why most of the people are financially failing, which is mainly due to lack of knowledge on financial management. He mentioned that today people want to have everything without having plans and goals.
As he continued with his presentation, Mr Mashinini advised employees to save in order to have peace of mind and that savings can lead to improved spending patterns. He encouraged people to buy houses than cars which quickly depreciate. Mr Mashinini also talked about the power of a signature and advised that before signing anything or a contract, people should first understand or seek help. He also touched on the importance of insurance and pointed that it is better to protect those whom you would leave behind and the assets that you worked so hard for.
In his conclusion, he made mentioned of the importance of having a will in place whilst still alive. Mr Mashinini advised people to get a professional Financial Advisor in order to make informed decisions.
Mr Mlungisi Mashinini was accompanied by his colleague, Mr Jacob Shipalana.
Ms Ntsundeni Mulaudzi from Careways spoke comprehensively about the Stress Management. She explained different types of stresses and how to manage stress.
Ms Mulaudzi explained stress as the body’s method of reacting to a condition such as a threat, challenge or physical and psychological barrier. She indicated that stress is dangerous and can lead to depression. Most of the people are in denial and they do not seek help, as a result, they end up losing their lives. She advised people to seek help before it is too late.
She further explained the concept of stress management, which is a wide spectrum of techniques and psychotherapies aimed at controlling a person’s level of stress, especially chronic stress, usually for improving everyday functioning. Stress produces numerous physical and mental symptoms which vary according to an individual’s situational factors such as financial problems, career, relationship problems, academic schedule, health problems and personal habits.
She concluded her presentation by outlining the stress management techniques which include time management, personal responsibility, thinking positively, having faith, setting goals, effective communication, solving problems and staying physically and mentally healthy. She told the audience that stress has a way of destroying people’s organs inside and can also bring illnesses some of which can be chronic.
When welcoming the audience, the Director Human Resources, Mrs Uanda Ndou stated that be the best version of yourself as this makes an impact to the next person. She highlighted that the best version of ourselves make productivity to go up. She indicated that this kind of sessions are organised to help employees to understand that money is working for them. She encouraged employees to attend such workshops as they are designed to help them in managing their financial well-being and wellness.
Mr Lufuno Netshifhefhe, Head: Quality Assurance, proposed a vote of thanks while Ms Nkhangweleni Mudau, Employees Health and Wellness practitioner facilitated the programme.
Issued by:
Department of Communications & Marketing
University of Venda
Tel: (015) 962 8525
Date: 14 June 2019
