Looking back to look forward
Despite the difficulties we experienced during 2021, KDZA did manage to achieve growth over prior year. I’d like to thank every partner and customer that contributed in us achieving this result. Coming together in these tough times, which has tested us, has set a good foundation going into 2022.
A difficulty that we are still facing is the availability of hardware, as well as the escalating freight costs due to the COVID impact. We continue to work with KDE to secure product to fulfil the growing demand.
Among the challenges of 2021, the scale and severity of the looting and protests in KwaZulu-Natal and parts of Gauteng in July, were one of the darkest periods of the year.
During this period of uncertainty, it is the duty of leaders to create a culture in which employees look forward to coming to work, one that is both enjoyable and professional.
Companies must continually evolve to stay relevant, innovative, and competitive and the words “accelerate” and “evolve” form the cornerstone of our survive and thrive approach, especially since the world is a long way from the end of the pandemic.
On a personal note, the last year has taught me that life is short, and friends and family should be prioritised. When we were allowed to travel interprovincially, I managed to visit friends in a few towns, proving that it is always possible to catch up and stay connected. I am hoping that we can maintain or even improve the work-life balance we have been able to develop over this time.
The future will continue to be full of opportunities and challenges. At KDZA we will keep people at the heart of everything we do, ensuring that we can always connect to each other and the purpose of our organisation.
Here is wishing you a safe, healthy and happy festive season and a magnificent New Year.
Werner Engelbrecht - General Manager - KYOCERA Document Solutions South Africa
