Latest news with #Isabella
IOL News
16 hours ago
- Business
- IOL News
From challenges to triumph: The story of Isabella Kobela and her daughter in the jewellery industry
In the vibrant world of jewellery making, Isabella Jewellers and Refiners stands out not only for its exquisite craftsmanship but also for its commitment to nurturing the next generation of artisans. Headed by Meiki Ncengeni, aged 35, and her mother Isabella Kobela, who is 63, this family-run business is paving a new path in an industry challenged by a skills shortage and market access barriers. Image: Supplied. In the vibrant world of South African jewellery production, Isabella Kobela (63) stands as a beacon of resilience and innovation. Trained as a goldsmith and a rough diamond evaluator, she embarked on her entrepreneurial journey in 2008 with just R2,000. What began as a small-scale jewellery manufacturing venture has since flourished into Isabella Jewellers and Refiners, a multifaceted enterprise that not only creates exquisite custom pieces but also pipes raw materials to wholesalers while engaging in eco-conscious refining and recycling operations. Isabella's journey resonates profoundly within a nation where economic opportunities for black female entrepreneurs are historically limited. 'I faced numerous challenges, from acquiring licenses to ensuring a steady supply of metals and gems,' Isabella said. Yet, with determination and creative problem-solving, she identified ways to refine her own materials, transforming obstacles into stepping stones. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading The entrepreneurship gene runs strong in the family, as Isabella was inspired to step into the sector by her father, who was a shoe repair man. In 2012, Isabella's daughter, Meiki Ngcengeni (35), joined the firm after earning her degree in Transport and Supply Chain Management. This marked the beginning of a powerful new chapter, with mother and daughter complementing each other's strengths: Isabella focuses on jewellery design while Meiki steers the company as CEO, overseeing finances and overall operations. One of the pieces created by the business. Image: Supplied. Their collaboration exemplifies a visionary blend of experience and youthful perspective, as Meiki builds upon the legacy her mother has crafted. The company stands out not only for its exquisite craftsmanship but also for its commitment to nurturing the next generation of artisans. Both women are ardent believers in continuous learning and improvement, seeking mentorship within the industry to diversify their skill sets. Their dedication has borne fruit through the De Beers Enterprise Development programme, which has empowered them with practical business tools, networking opportunities, and access to previously unattainable markets. 'This programme has been pivotal for our growth, helping us learn the intricacies of diamond buying, cutting, and polishing,' Meiki said. This knowledge isn't just enhancing their business operations; it is also facilitating job creation. Today, Isabella Jewellers and Refiners employs six individuals, three of whom are women, and has recently welcomed six students into a promising learnership programme aimed at cultivating the next generation of jewellery artisans. Over six months to a year, students will receive hands-on training covering the entire value chain of jewellery making, from traditional handmade techniques to advanced methods like Computer-Aided Design (CAD), setting, and casting. Entry into this programme is competitive. The selection process involves telephonic and in-person interviews to vet students, ensuring a diverse cohort dedicated to mastering their craft. This approach not only prepares graduates for employment but also empowers them to potentially launch their own start-ups in the industry. Some of the pieces created by the business. Image: Supplied. Despite these efforts, Isabella Jewellers faces significant challenges. One of the primary issues is access to the market. However, being strategically positioned in the O.R. Tambo Jewellery Manufacturing Precinct has enhanced their visibility and fostered connections with new clients. "Participating in initiatives like the De Beers Enterprise and Supplier Development programmes has opened doors to larger retailers and invaluable platforms such as exhibitions and trade shows," explains Meiki. Another challenge is the shortage of skilled artisans. To address this gap, Isabella Jewellers provides mentorship and business guidance alongside their training programmes. Drawing from their own experiences as beneficiaries of structured mentorship programmes, Meiki highlights their significant impact on sustainable growth. The tumultuous period of the Covid-19 pandemic underscored the importance of sustainability in business operations. For Isabella Jewellers, it prompted a reevaluation of their systems and financial accountability. By streamlining operations and automating certain processes, they have become more efficient and environmentally conscious. The incorporation of ethical production practices reflects their commitment to reducing environmental impact, demonstrating that growth doesn't have to come at a harm to the planet. As they continue to navigate the dynamic landscape of the jewellery industry, the Kobela duo stands ready to inspire others. Their journey exemplifies not just the triumph of entrepreneurship, but also the profound impact of women in business. 'We are laying the groundwork for future generations. We want to show that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible,' Meiki said. BUSINESS REPORT
Economic Times
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Economic Times
Indian businessman gifts a custom pink Rolls-Royce to his 1-year-old daughter. Internet says, ‘We are not impressed'
On Father's Day, Dubai-based Indian businessman Satish Sanpal gifted his one-year-old daughter a custom-built pink Rolls-Royce, complete with monogrammed seats and a personalized nameplate. While meant to celebrate fatherhood in grand style, the gesture left the internet divided. Critics called it excessive and tone-deaf, questioning the need for such luxury for a child too young to drive. Satish Sanpal's lavish Father's Day gift to his toddler daughter—a pink Rolls-Royce—has gone viral. Though meant as a heartfelt gesture, many netizens called it 'flashy,' 'tacky,' and impractical. (Screenshots: Instagram/ lovindubai ) Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Also Read: Chennai IT company employees get surprise Creta SUVs as gifts as it marks 10th anniversary A Dubai dad moment; or a viral misfire? Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Luxury or lunacy? In a world where over-the-top gestures are increasingly the norm on social media, Indian businessman Satish Sanpal may have just redefined extravagance. Celebrating Father's Day in Dubai , Sanpal stunned the internet by gifting his one-year-old daughter, Isabella, a custom-built pink Rolls-Royce—complete with monogrammed interiors, a personalized note, and a 'Congratulations, Isabella' video, originally posted on Instagram , features the founder of ANAX Developments arriving at the luxury showroom with his wife Tabinda and toddler in tow. What follows is a scene straight out of a luxury lifestyle reel: pink balloons, music, dancing, and a glittering car unveiled for a child who, quite literally, can't even drive it for another 17 this wasn't Isabella's first brush with grandeur. In February, her first birthday party was a jaw-dropping spectacle held at Atlantis The Royal, one of Dubai's most opulent hotels. The venue was transformed into a winter wonderland with artificial snow, icy chandeliers, and white trees, all topped off with appearances by Bollywood stars like Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Tamannaah Bhatia, Atif Aslam, and Nora Fatehi. Isabella made her entrance in a princess carriage wearing a ball gown that might've made Cinderella the Instagram caption praised Sanpal's lavish gesture as the ultimate 'Dubai Dad' moment, not everyone on the internet was ranged from sarcastic to critical. One user noted, 'Must be a really nice feeling when you get gifted something so special, knowing you cannot use it for the next 17 years.' Another quipped, 'It's a tacky and flashy display of wealth and just proves that money does not buy class.' Others pointed out the absurdity of giving a toddler a high-end car when 'small kids are the happiest with empty containers and boxes.' Given the flashy nature of Instagram post, a commentor wrote, "Another show off, we are not impressed sorry."While gifting luxury cars isn't unheard of in the world of billionaires and Instagram influencers, the gesture has sparked broader conversations around parenting, wealth display, and whether such ostentatious acts make meaningful memories or just a country like India, where millions of children grow up without basic amenities, such gestures inevitably invite scrutiny—especially when shared online with cinematic flair. While Sanpal might see it as a father's way of showing boundless love, the jury of the internet seems divided between awe and now, baby Isabella has a Rolls-Royce she can't drive, a designer wardrobe she'll outgrow in months, and a social media footprint most adults would envy. As for the rest of us? We're still debating whether this was a parenting flex or just another tone-deaf showcase in the age of viral opulence.
Time of India
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Indian businessman gifts a custom pink Rolls-Royce to his 1-year-old daughter. Internet says, ‘We are not impressed'
In a world where over-the-top gestures are increasingly the norm on social media, Indian businessman Satish Sanpal may have just redefined extravagance. Celebrating Father's Day in Dubai , Sanpal stunned the internet by gifting his one-year-old daughter, Isabella, a custom-built pink Rolls-Royce—complete with monogrammed interiors, a personalized note, and a 'Congratulations, Isabella' nameplate. The video, originally posted on Instagram , features the founder of ANAX Developments arriving at the luxury showroom with his wife Tabinda and toddler in tow. What follows is a scene straight out of a luxury lifestyle reel: pink balloons, music, dancing, and a glittering car unveiled for a child who, quite literally, can't even drive it for another 17 years. But this wasn't Isabella's first brush with grandeur. In February, her first birthday party was a jaw-dropping spectacle held at Atlantis The Royal, one of Dubai's most opulent hotels. The venue was transformed into a winter wonderland with artificial snow, icy chandeliers, and white trees, all topped off with appearances by Bollywood stars like Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Tamannaah Bhatia, Atif Aslam, and Nora Fatehi. Isabella made her entrance in a princess carriage wearing a ball gown that might've made Cinderella blush. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like The UK's Best-Selling Relief Shoe Has Just Been Named The 2025 Test Winner. Daily Buzz Report Undo View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lovin Dubai | لوڤن دبي (@lovindubai) A Dubai dad moment; or a viral misfire? While the Instagram caption praised Sanpal's lavish gesture as the ultimate 'Dubai Dad' moment, not everyone on the internet was swooning. Comments ranged from sarcastic to critical. One user noted, 'Must be a really nice feeling when you get gifted something so special, knowing you cannot use it for the next 17 years.' Another quipped, 'It's a tacky and flashy display of wealth and just proves that money does not buy class.' Others pointed out the absurdity of giving a toddler a high-end car when 'small kids are the happiest with empty containers and boxes.' Given the flashy nature of Instagram post, a commentor wrote, "Another show off, we are not impressed sorry." You Might Also Like: Chennai IT company employees get surprise Creta SUVs as gifts as it marks 10th anniversary Luxury or lunacy? While gifting luxury cars isn't unheard of in the world of billionaires and Instagram influencers, the gesture has sparked broader conversations around parenting, wealth display, and whether such ostentatious acts make meaningful memories or just eye-rolls. In a country like India, where millions of children grow up without basic amenities, such gestures inevitably invite scrutiny—especially when shared online with cinematic flair. While Sanpal might see it as a father's way of showing boundless love, the jury of the internet seems divided between awe and exhaustion. For now, baby Isabella has a Rolls-Royce she can't drive, a designer wardrobe she'll outgrow in months, and a social media footprint most adults would envy. As for the rest of us? We're still debating whether this was a parenting flex or just another tone-deaf showcase in the age of viral opulence. You Might Also Like: Did Zerodha's Nithin Kamath gift 'BMWs, Audis, Mercedes' to top employees as bonuses?
BBC News
2 days ago
- Science
- BBC News
National Star students take part in 24-hour wildlife survey
Students at a special educational needs college have teamed up with ecologists to find and identify the species found on their 80-acre Star College near Cheltenham in Gloucestershire took part in this week's "BioBlitz" with Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust to assess biodiversity on are now working on strategies to support nature and try to boost the numbers of vulnerable student said she had learned how small changes can make a big difference to wildlife. The students found that hedgehogs, rabbits, deer and foxes call the college's grounds home, as well as a huge variety of insects, including many Adamou, a community action officer with the wildlife trust, said the event aimed to give students autonomy to decide how best to help the species they found."My mission in Gloucester is to make sure everyone has the opportunity to do something for nature - to build a relationship, to take meaningful action, to do something that makes nature more important for them and therefore protect it," she said. "It's so easy to just say 'this habitat needs this, this is what needs to happen' - there's no co-ownership."Students spent the weeks leading up to the event learning to identify different species and also considering ways to help them, such as building hedgehog student, Isabella, said: "Hedgehogs are vulnerable to extinction and we need to look after them, but small changes can make a big difference."Elaine Hodgin, the college's sustainability lead, said staff and students were working to reduce the site's carbon footprint. "It's also about educating the learners about what they can do with regards to climate change," she Star now plans to hold the event annually.
The Herald Scotland
15-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
TV reviews: Finally, Who Do You Think You Are? hits the mark again
Now I know WDYTYA has been a bit boring lately - frankly, some of the 'celebrities' have been human sleeping tablets - but come on, wasn't this a case of TV eating itself? As Morgan said: 'I never thought in a million years you'd actually ask me to be on it.' Bolton born and bred and now living in Bloomsbury (nice), Morgan had three aims: to learn more about her Aunty Ginny's fiance, Albert Dugdale, who died in the First World War; to trace her Scottish roots in Dumfries; and to find out the identity of 'German Charlie', the stuff of family legend. As she suspected, Morgan's journey was far from glam. She travelled on buses and suburban trains to small town libraries. There was a lot of weaving in her background. German Charlie's story was part of that history and wasn't terribly interesting unless you were into chimneys. Aunty Ginny, Morgan discovered, lived near the rest of the family in Bolton, as many of her generation did. That didn't set the heather on fire either. But Dumfries and Morgan's four times great-grandmother Isabella? Now you're talking. Isabella turned out to have had five children to four different fathers. History could relate this because she had taken all the absent fathers to court for child support. As a result, a record of her existence existed - a rarity for a woman, even more so someone who was working class. Between the lines there was obvious sadness. One record said Isabella had been known to the local lads as 'an improper character'. 'I thought you were going to tell me I was related to Robert the Bruce or Robert Burns, one of the Roberts,' said Morgan. 'Instead my great, great, great grandmother was a bit of a hussy.' For fear of spoilers I won't say what happened next in Dumfries, or how Morgan got on tracing Albert Dugdale's family to give them the 'death penny' that had been kept safe in her family. If you haven't seen the show yet you are in for a treat on iPlayer. Morgan's WDYTYA probably isn't destined for the hall of fame. But the very ordinariness of the people we learned about was what made them special. They weren't kings or queens or captains of industry or explorers, they did dull jobs and lived in terraced houses, but they were here once, and their lives mattered. Whoever decided Diane Morgan would be a good pick for WDYTYA should be given a pay rise. This could have been a disaster; instead it was a triumph. The same cannot be said for Genius Game (STV, Wednesday), which reached its finale this week. A test of intelligence rather than general knowledge, Genius Game has been a hit in its home country of South Korea. Here, it struggled from episode one. Where to start? The games were ridiculously complicated and poorly explained. The contestants lacked sparkle. But nothing fell on its backside as much as David Tennant's hosting. It was up to him to bring the party, and he didn't. Given the grand title of 'The Creator', his part in proceedings was limited to sitting in another room, isolated from the contestants, chipping in the odd comment now and then. Tennant can usually do that kind of thing in his sleep; here he seemed to be between naps. After grinding on for eight weeks we finally had a winner. Everyone still watching should have been given a share of the £44,000 prize just for getting to the end of the series (Why £44,000? Who knows?). Still in his attic, Tennant readied himself for the big finish, such as it was. 'What a ride!' he said. 'For now, I shall bid you farewell!' For now? What a ride? I don't know what quiz show he was watching, but if he expects a second series of Genius Game he may have a very long wait. Defying all advice about returning to the scene of a crime, Neil Forsyth was back with The Gold (BBC1, Sunday-Tuesday), a follow-up to his 2023 hit about the Brink's-Mat robbery. In the hands of another writer this might have been a sequel too far. Fortunately, the creator of Bob Servant and Guilt expertly blew the bloody doors off the tale again. At the end of the first series it was revealed only half the gold had been found. Some £13 million was still out there, together with mountains of dirty cash waiting to be laundered. So it was back on the chain gang again for gentleman copper Brian Boyce (Hugh Bonneville), and side-kicks Tony and Nicki (Emun Elliot and Charlotte Spencer; worth a spin-off series on their own). Following the money was never going to be as exciting as watching the original heist, and so it proved. It was episode three before anyone even broke into a run (the whole series is on iPlayer now). Forsyth made up for this lack of action by adding layers to existing characters and creating new ones. Of the latter, Joshua McGuire was a standout as Douglas Baxter, Oxbridge graduate and lawyer fallen on hard times on the Isle of Man. Baxter was a terrible snob but highly amusing with it. 'The Isle of Man doesn't offer much,' he said. 'I once ordered a martini in a pub and the landlord came at me with a poker.' At times, Forsyth's villains seemed a touch too clever and eloquent. While this made for some great dialogue - there's an old lag's speech later on that's one for the ages - it didn't always ring true. But this, after all, was a drama about Brink's-Mat, not a documentary. Forsyth brought the threads of the story together with deceptive ease, righting a key wrong of the first series along the way. Kenneth Noye (an excellent Jack Lowden), made out to be a charismatic Robin Hood-type in early episodes, was shown in his truly grisly colours. 'The gold' remained a fascinating character in its own right, a siren luring men to their doom. Who, in the end, profited? Where did all the money go? As one villain said, 'Loads of people got rich from that job, but it weren't the six blokes in the van.' David Tennant was the host of Genius Game (Image: ITV1) More villainy was at work in the new historical drama Shardlake (STV, Monday). I say 'new' but admirers of CJ Sansom's novels will know this period murder mystery had been this way before. It first aired on Disney+ in 2024, but after four episodes the show wasn't renewed. Never mind Tudor England, it's a tough old world out there in streaming land. Young Matthew Shardlake (Arthur Hughes) was a lawyer/detective for hire. He was also disabled, which made him an outsider in a society that saw difference as a curse. We knew what Shardlake thought about that, and much else, because he had a handy habit of talking out loud to himself. 'Ready Matthew, ready for what this day might bring?' he asked his reflection in the window. The day brought a summons from Thomas Cromwell (Sean Bean) no less. One of his commissioners had been murdered in a distant monastery. Cromwell appointed Shardlake to head the investigation. Mark Rylance made Cromwell his own in Wolf Hall, so all power to Bean's elbow for taking on the gig. His Cromwell was more swaggering than quietly sinister, but he more than passed muster. The drama's treatment of disability, the attempts at witty asides, the hero's empathy, turned Shardlake into a modern affair, presumably to widen its appeal. But the more talk, less action approach also made the hour seem as slow as a week in the Tower. Shardlake also wanted to have its period cake and eat it, which meant lots of gloomy scenes where you could barely make out what was going on. When times got tough, there was always that man Bean to liven things up, even if you did half expect him to start banging on about a certain brand of tea. Mark Rylance didn't have that problem.
