Workplace harassment is a critical issue in South Africa, with far-reaching effects on employee wellness and business/workplace health. The Code of Good Practice on the Prevention and Elimination of Harassment in the Workplace (the Code), which came into effect in March 2022, provides a robust framework for addressing this pervasive problem. By expanding the definition of harassment and setting out clear obligations for employers, the Code aims to foster safer, more respectful workplaces across the country. Understanding Harassment under the Code The Code adopts a broad and inclusive definition of harassment, moving beyond the traditional focus on sexual harassment to encompass a wide range of behaviours. These include: Physical, verbal, and psychological abuse Bullying and cyberbullying Gender-based violence Discrimination based on race, sex, sexual orientation, disability, religion, or other protected characteristics. This comprehensive approach recognises that harassment can manifest in many forms and that all employees deserve protection from such conduct. Psychological and Emotional Impact Victims of workplace harassment often experience severe psychological distress. The Code acknowledges that harassment can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, depression, and diminished self-esteem. These emotional consequences not only harm individuals but also disrupt team cohesion and morale, undermining the overall stability of the workplace. Physical Health Consequences The mind-body connection means that persistent harassment can have tangible effects on physical health. Employees may suffer from sleep disorders, headaches, weakened immune systems, and digestive issues-all of which contribute to increased absenteeism and reduced productivity. The Code emphasises the employer’s responsibility to mitigate these risks through proactive policies and support mechanisms. Reduced Job Satisfaction and Engagement Harassment erodes the psychological contract between employer and employee. The resulting decrease in job satisfaction, engagement, and loyalty often leads to higher turnover rates. The Code requires employers to create environments where employees feel valued, respected, and safe, thereby improving retention and workplace performance. Deterioration of Workplace Culture Unchecked harassment fosters a toxic work environment, characterised by fear, mistrust, and poor collaboration. The Code mandates a zero-tolerance stance, encouraging employers to take decisive action against harassment and to promote a culture of respect and inclusion. Financial Implications The financial costs of workplace harassment are substantial. These include increased healthcare expenses, legal fees, and the loss of skilled staff. The Code highlights that preventing harassment is not just an ethical obligation but a strategic imperative for business sustainability. The Code’s Requirements for Employers The Code sets out detailed obligations for employers, including: Risk Assessment:  Employers must identify and assess the risk of harassment in the workplace, considering both historical and current risks. Comprehensive Policy:  Businesses are required to develop or update harassment policies that clearly state a zero-tolerance approach, outline reporting procedures, and guarantee protection against victimisation. Reporting and Grievance Procedures:  The Code prescribes both informal and formal processes for handling complaints, ensuring confidentiality and support for victims. If internal processes fail, employees may escalate matters to the CCMA or Labour Court. Training and Awareness:  Employers must provide ongoing training and ensure that all staff and external parties are aware of the business’s stance on harassment. Support and Counselling:  Victims and perpetrators should have access to counselling, treatment, and support services. Disciplinary Action:  Clear disciplinary procedures must be in place, up to and including dismissal for serious offences. Legal Remedies and Compliance Employees who experience harassment have access to multiple remedies: Internal grievance and disciplinary processes Referral to the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) or Labour Court for unresolved cases Compensation, reinstatement, or policy changes ordered by the courts. Compliance with the Code is crucial, as non-compliance can result in legal consequences and jeopardise a business's ability to secure government contracts. The Code of Good Practice on the Prevention and Elimination of Harassment in the Workplace marks a significant step forward for South African workplaces. By recognising the profound impact of harassment on staff wellness and business outcomes, and by setting out clear obligations and remedies, the Code empowers employers and employees alike to create safer, more inclusive environments. Addressing workplace harassment is not only a legal and ethical duty-it is essential for the sustained health, productivity, and reputation of any business in South Africa. For any further information or enquiries please contact the EOHCB representative in your area by clicking HERE . EOHCB Contact Details Web: www.eohcb.co.za | YouTube: www.youtube.com/@eohcbsa7855 Facebook : www.facebook.com/eohcb | Twitter: twitter.com/eohcbsa Instagram: www.instagram.com/eohcbsa

A contemporary ode to Asian Beauty With his unmistakable artistic sensibility, Christian Ríos  unveils the NOSSHOKY   collection—a creation born from the dialogue between tradition and innovation, between the timeless serenity of Japanese art and the disruptive energy of modern color. This proposal transcends aesthetics to become a sensory experience that pays homage to Asian culture through the bold lens of contemporary styling. Inspired by the poetic nuances of silk kimonos, the delicacy of cherry blossoms, and the meditative contemplation of Asian landscapes, the collection reveals a color palette that balances the ephemeral and the eternal. Powdery tones, pearlescent pinks, mossy greens, and deep blues are interwoven with metallic accents and vivid flashes, creating contrasts that are as refined as they are striking. The shapes draw from geometric minimalism: structured cuts, clean lines, and precise volumes that evoke Zen harmony and contemporary Japanese design. Each hairstyle becomes a living sculpture, where technical precision and artistic inspiration coexist with effortless fluidity. Hair: Christian Ríos @ artisticteam.bychristianrios Christian Ríos Hair Couture @ christianriossalon Photographer & Retouche:  Esteban Roca @esteban_roca_photo MUA & Stylist:  Christian Ríso Models:  @shockmodels

SEASON’S GREETINGS The Council management and staff extend warm holiday greetings and best wishes for a safe, joyful season and prosperity and success in 2026.   Council Office Closure in December & January Please note that the Council’s Offices will close at 12h30 on Tuesday, 23 December 2025 and will re-open on Monday, 5 January 2026.   Collective Agreements: Extension Of Periods of Operation The periods of operation of the Main Collective Agreement (as amended) and the Agency Shop Agreement have been extended from 1 January 2026 to 30 April 2026. The parties are currently finalising Amending Agreements, which will become effective from next year. The Agreements will be published on the Council’s website once finalised.   Reminders: Exemptions currently in place for the 2025 calendar year will automatically expire on 31 December 2025. If no application has been made or if an exemption has not been granted for the 2026 calendar year, invoices will be raised and allocated in accordance with the Collective Agreement. Establishments are reminded to submit a remittance advice/written document to the Council when making payment to the Council, indicating the employees for whom the payment is made, the beneficiary, the amount to be allocated to each beneficiary and the time period for which the payment is made.   Wishing You Peace & Joy!

Professional Technique for Controlled Highlights with Complete Toning Step by step by Sonia Jiménez Cambronero Achieving truly perfect highlights is an art that combines technique, knowledge, and sensitivity. Every section, every transparency, and every tone builds a colour full of light, movement, and harmony. The goal is not only to lighten the hair, but to transform it while respecting its structure and enhancing its natural beauty. In this process, every step matters and every detail makes the difference. “For me, perfect highlights are not about speed, but about precision. The key is to listen to the hair, work calmly, and trust the process. When technique aligns with intention, the result is always extraordinary.” — Sonia Jiménez Cambronero This procedure describes a technical highlight service using fine weaves (babylights and controlled sections), aimed at achieving an even lift, progressive luminosity, and a polished final finish through root toning and global toning. It is organised so professionals can clearly identify each phase, following the order of the process photos. Photo 1 – Start of Application: Fine Highlights in the Lower Section Objective Create a soft, even lightened base starting at the nape area. Essential procedure Create a horizontal section at the lower nape. Elevate the section to a 90° angle from the scalp. Select fine highlights using a precision tail comb, leaving uniform see-through sections. Place thermal foil and apply lightener to mid-lengths and ends. Ensure proper saturation and seal the foil securely. Photos 2–3 – General Foil Placement Objective Build a balanced pattern for harmonious and progressive lightening. Distribution Lower and mid sections:  Full panels with thermal foils for controlled lift. Sides:  Diagonal-back sections to create a soft, natural contour. Top section:  Fine babylights to blend the roots without harsh lines. Key point Combine full sections with babylights, maintaining clean saturation and precise alignment to achieve an even lift. Photos 4–5 – Lightening Control Phase Objective Monitor and balance the lightening process to prevent banding or uneven results. Technical control Gently open the foil to assess the underlying pigment (ideal level: pale yellow, level 9–10). Lightly massage the product through mid-lengths and ends to reactivate processing and improve uniformity. Check every 5–10 minutes, depending on hair type and developer strength. Photo 6 – Post-Lightening and Treatment Technical wash Cleanse with an acidic pH shampoo to neutralise alkaline residues and help close the cuticle. Reconstructive treatment Apply a nourishing formula rich in amino acids, hydrolysed proteins, and hydrating agents. Work section by section, from mid-lengths to ends, and leave on for 5–10 minutes. Photo 7 – Root Toner / Root Shadow Objective Create a smooth transition between the natural root and the lightened areas, adding depth and a professional finish. Application On damp hair, apply an acidic colour to the root area. Blend into the mid-lengths using fingers or a comb to create a seamless gradient. Processing time: 10–15 minutes, depending on desired pigment intensity. Result A softened root with added depth and perfect integration with the rest of the colour. Photo 8 – Global Toning on Mid-Lengths and Ends Objective Neutralise remaining yellow or warm tones and unify the overall colour. Procedure Apply an acidic or demi-permanent colour (mixing ratio 1:2 with a gentle activator). Distribute evenly from mid-lengths to ends, massaging for full saturation. Process for 5–10 minutes, visually monitoring the tone. Function Neutralises unwanted undertones, enhances shine and colour harmony, and helps seal the cuticle after the lightening process. Credits Hair & Photography:  Sonia Jiménez Cambronero Instagram:  @soniacambronero

Blonde and bold, never looked so good with this incredible finish from Stephane Chrizelda Burger from Fox and Davidson Hair Design. Click the image below to see the Instagram post. Stylist: Stephane Chrizelda Burger Salon: Fox and Davidson Hair Design Follow Stephane on Instagram @stephane_stylist @ fox_davidsonhairdesign We'd love to feature your work! To get your styles, looks or colour formulas featured in Hairnews, send them either to brad@hairnews.co.za or DM them directly to our Hairnews Instagram page.

As the festive season sparkles into view, it’s time to turn up the glamour and give your clients the gift of unforgettable hair. Whether it’s a sleek soirée look, voluminous waves for a holiday bash, or playful texture for a summer celebration, the  milk_shake® Lifestyling   range is your secret weapon to create styles that shine as brightly as the season itself.   Why Lifestyling?   Crafted with naturally-sourced ingredients and active botanicals, the Lifestyling collection offers versatile, high-performance formulas that condition, protect, and shape—without weighing hair down. From the feather-light  Styling Potion  to the humidity-defying  Strong Hold Hairspray , each product is designed to enhance beauty while respecting the hair’s integrity.   Festive Styling Inspiration:   •  Sculpted Waves : Use  Lifestyling Styling Potion  to prep and smooth, then finish with  Texturizing Spritz  for touchable hold and movement.   •  Glossy Updos : Apply  Let It Shine  for radiant polish and finish with  Strong Hold Hairspray  to lock in elegance.   •  Playful Texture : Combine  Curl Shaper  with  Dry Shampoo  for effortless volume and bounce—perfect for those spontaneous holiday selfies.   Pro Tip : Mix and layer products to customize hold, shine, and texture. The Lifestyling  range is designed to be as creative and flexible as you are.   This season, let your artistry shine and your clients glow. With  milk_shake® Lifestyling , every style becomes a celebration! Contact milk_shake® on: Email : marku@z-one.co.za  or georg@z-one.co.za www.z-oneconcept.com/en   | Facebook   | Twitter   | Instagram

As the festive season sparkles into view, it’s time to turn up the glamour and give your clients the gift of unforgettable hair. Whether it’s a sleek soirée look, voluminous waves for a holiday bash, or playful texture for a summer celebration, the  milk_shake® Lifestyling   range is your secret weapon to create styles that shine as brightly as the season itself.   Why Lifestyling?   Crafted with naturally-sourced ingredients and active botanicals, the Lifestyling collection offers versatile, high-performance formulas that condition, protect, and shape—without weighing hair down. From the feather-light  Styling Potion  to the humidity-defying  Strong Hold Hairspray , each product is designed to enhance beauty while respecting the hair’s integrity.   Festive Styling Inspiration:   •  Sculpted Waves : Use  Lifestyling Styling Potion  to prep and smooth, then finish with  Texturizing Spritz  for touchable hold and movement.   •  Glossy Updos : Apply  Let It Shine  for radiant polish and finish with  Strong Hold Hairspray  to lock in elegance.   •  Playful Texture : Combine  Curl Shaper  with  Dry Shampoo  for effortless volume and bounce—perfect for those spontaneous holiday selfies.   Pro Tip : Mix and layer products to customize hold, shine, and texture. The Lifestyling  range is designed to be as creative and flexible as you are.   This season, let your artistry shine and your clients glow. With  milk_shake® Lifestyling , every style becomes a celebration!   Contact milk_shake® on: Email : marku@z-one.co.za  or georg@z-one.co.za www.z-oneconcept.com/en   | Facebook   | Twitter   | Instagram

Tracey Ann Smith, Creative Director at MOOD  “The 2026 Pantone Colour of the Year, Cloud Dancer, is a beautiful clean, white tone with a slight grey/neutral tone to give it balance. It’s a shade that has a very calming and peaceful appearance and that signifies a fresh start – perfect as we enter a new year. Regarding hair, this is a beautiful shade for the winter season – almost snow like. It’s bold yet chic, and a great choice for those who are already blonde. Those with darker hair may need significant lightening to achieve this hue and to keep it looking clean and free of brassiness. When achieving this shade on clients, I would use MOOD Level 7 Bleach to pre lighten the hair to a clean base then tone using MOOD Demi Doubles for the perfect ice white. I would then recommend the MOOD Silver Specific Shampoo and Conditioner once every couple of weeks for my clients to use at home to keep the hair fresh and neutral without any yellow tones, switching between this and the MOOD Ultra Care Shampoo and Conditioner which is created specifically for bleached hair and helps to repair even the most badly damaged hair.” Suzie McGill, Artistic Director at Rainbow Room International “Cloud Dancer is a beautiful soft, vanilla whipped, fluffy-esque shade of white. This is a perfect choice for blondes who prefer a lighter, creamier, slightly ashy hue and don’t like their blonde to be too warm or golden toned. For those who like to stand out from the crowd, I love to pair a short, quirky, pixie cut with a clean toned ice white shade to really make a statement.  As this colour requires bleaching, ensuring the hair is kept in its optimal condition through the bleaching process is so important. I would use Fibreplex to protect the hair from damage during the colour process and keep the hair strong and healthy. I would then use Schwarzkopf Professional BlondMe 2% to create a beautiful platinum base, toning it down using 9,5-1 Vibrance to create an ashy, almost grey tone with no signs of brassiness in sight. If the client is looking for a bolder, more fashion-forward result, colour blocking can add that extra edge. Because it’s such a pure tone, I love contrasting it with blocks of brunette or black to create more drama in the hair. To enhance the colour even further, I pair it with sleek styling, which helps the shade appear more vibrant. The Schwarzkopf OSiS Smooth & Shine Serum is the perfect finishing product to make the colour truly pop and shine.” Seung Ki Baek, Creative Colour Expert at RUSH Hair “Within RUSH we love nothing more than a colour trend and ‘Cloud Dancer’ is a welcome addition as the Pantone Colour of the Year. This shade is a step away from your typical platinum blonde shade – traditionally being perceived as a cool, almost-white hue with blend of vanilla and cream ribbons to create a multi-dimensional finish. In recent months we have noticed a rise in clients opting for icier, cooler blondes – it’s dreamy, soft appearance makes it the perfect colour for showcasing the hair’s health and natural shine. ‘Cloud Dancer’ gives us colourists a blank canvas to experiment with minimalism, partnering different variations of depth, dimension, and tones to create our own interpretation of this colour trend for clients in the salon.”

Root colour touch-up with a toner through the lengths from the team at Illustrious Hair Salon in Benoni. Click the image below to see the Instagram post. Salon: Illustrious Hair Salon, Benoni, JHB Follow Illustrious Hair on Instagram @illustrious_hair We'd love to feature your work! To get your styles, looks or colour formulas featured in Hairnews, send them either to brad@hairnews.co.za or DM them directly to our Hairnews Instagram page.

The current workplace is a melting pot of generational diversity, with individuals from Baby Boomers to Generation Z collaborating and working in shared spaces. Each generation brings unique perspectives, values, and expectations, particularly concerning work-life balance. For South African businesses navigating this dynamic environment, understanding these generational differences is key to fostering productivity and employee satisfaction. Let’s explore how different generations perceive work-life balance and discover practical strategies for business owners to adapt their operations. 1. Generational Profiles and Work-Life Balance Perspectives Baby Boomers (Born 1946–1964) Baby Boomers are nearing retirement but remain a significant part of the workforce. Known for their loyalty and strong work ethic, they often prioritise job security and financial stability over personal pursuits. For Boomers, work is primarily a means of providing for their families, and they tend to separate work from personal life. While they may not demand extensive workplace support for work-life balance, they benefit from initiatives that promote wellness and flexibility as they transition into retirement. Generation X (Born 1965–1980) Gen X employees value flexibility and autonomy in their work schedules. Unlike Baby Boomers, they see work as a tool for achieving personal and family goals rather than solely financial gain. They are often sceptical of authority figures and prefer self-reliance. Businesses can support Gen X by offering flexible working arrangements and empowering them to make independent decisions. Millennials (Born 1981–2000) Millennials have reshaped workplace expectations with their emphasis on work-life balance. They seek jobs that allow them to pursue personal interests alongside professional goals. Millennials are driving trends such as flexible working schedules and conditions, wellness programmes, and increased vacation time. Employers who provide flexible schedules and conditions, and prioritise employee well-being are more likely to attract and retain millennial talent. Generation Z (Born 2001–2020) As the youngest cohort entering the workforce, Generation Z values fluidity between work and personal life. They are drawn to roles that align with their passions and mental well-being. Gen Z employees expect workplaces to foster collaboration, inclusivity, and purpose-driven environments. Supporting their preferences requires creating a culture of community and offering opportunities for growth. 2. Challenges in South Africa’s Multigenerational Workforce South Africa’s workforce is uniquely diverse due to its multicultural composition shaped by historical socio-political changes post-1994. Generational differences are further influenced by racial and gender dynamics under Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) principles. Younger generations raised in democratic South Africa often have vastly different motivations compared to older cohorts who experienced apartheid-era challenges. Additionally, the ageing workforce presents challenges as Baby Boomers retire, leaving gaps in institutional knowledge that younger employees must fill. 3. Strategies for Business Owners To thrive amidst generational diversity, South African business owners must adopt tailored approaches that address the needs of each generation while fostering collaboration. 1. Promote Flexibility Offer hybrid or remote working options to accommodate Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z preferences. Implement flexible schedules that allow employees to balance family commitments with professional responsibilities. 2. Invest in Wellness Programmes Provide mental health support and wellness initiatives that resonate particularly with Millennials and Gen Z. Encourage Baby Boomers to participate in wellness activities as they transition into retirement. 3. Foster Inclusivity Create platforms for intergenerational collaboration where employees can share knowledge across age groups. Recognise the multicultural nature of South Africa’s workforce by embracing diverse perspectives. 4. Leverage Technology Equip younger generations with digital tools that align with their tech-savvy nature. Train older employees on technological advancements to ensure seamless integration across teams. 5. Offer Career Development Opportunities Provide reskilling programmes for Gen X employees looking to adapt to new roles. Support Millennials’ aspirations for leadership positions through mentorship initiatives. Engage Gen Z with purpose-driven projects that align with their values. 4. Practical Resources for Managing Generational Needs Business owners can utilise various tools to manage generational diversity effectively: Employee Surveys:  Regularly assess employee satisfaction across age groups. Diversity Training:  Equip managers with skills to navigate generational differences. Collaboration Platforms:  Implement tools like a WhatsApp group or dedicated monthly staff social to encourage communication across generations. Performance Management Systems:  Use systems tailored to individual goals rather than one-size-fits-all metrics. South Africa’s multigenerational workforce presents both challenges and opportunities for business owners. By understanding generational perspectives on work-life balance—ranging from Baby Boomers’ traditional values to Gen Z’s fluid approach—employers can create inclusive environments that cater to diverse needs while driving business success. Adaptation strategies such as flexibility, wellness programmes, inclusivity initiatives, technological integration, and career development will ensure businesses remain competitive in an evolving landscape. For any further information or enquiries please contact the EOHCB representative in your area by clicking HERE . EOHCB Contact Details Web: www.eohcb.co.za | YouTube: www.youtube.com/@eohcbsa7855 Facebook : www.facebook.com/eohcb | Twitter: twitter.com/eohcbsa Instagram: www.instagram.com/eohcbsa

Start every day with speed, power and style, without the rush. The new AURO No-Rush Dryer , brought to you by mhb, delivers premium performance at an accessible price. It gives you smooth, shiny, beautiful hair in less time. AURO is proudly premium and created for confident, stylish and independent South African women.   South African women have some of the most diverse hair types in the world, from 4C coils to poker-straight strands. Yet most high-tech hair tools are not built with this diversity in mind. Many traditional dryers rely on intense heat and harsh airflow that cause frizz, dryness and static. In our climate, the results are often unpredictable.     AURO changes everything. Its Neutral Ion Technology® delivers controlled smoothing power that adapts to every hair type. It creates a polished, static-free, salon-quality finish on dense, coily, or straight hair. One tool. Any texture. Beautiful hair. Faster.   Efficient Airflow Engineering speeds up drying by breaking down large water droplets into micro-droplets that evaporate quickly. This cuts drying time dramatically, reduces heat exposure and eliminates frizz. You get a faster finish and healthier-looking hair.     Stylish and ergonomic, the AURO No-Rush Dryer is lightweight, powerful and easy to use. It comes in two colours, Pearl White and Space Grey, and includes three high-performance attachments: Smoothing Nozzle:  For quick all-over drying, smoothing flyaways while brushing, and adding a sleek, polished look to straight or wavy hair. Diffuser:  For defining curls or waves without disrupting their shape, adding volume to Afro-textured hair while maintaining its natural pattern, and boosting volume at the roots. Styling Concentrator: For detailed styling such as creating volume at the roots or flicks at the ends, for thick, coarse hair that needs more power to smooth, and for blow-drying in sections for a salon finish.   AURO is designed to make life easier and hair more beautiful, faster.   SPECIAL LAUNCH DEALS FOR SALONS To stock the AURO No-Rush Dryer in Pearl White or Space Grey, contact your mhb sales consultant. New clients can call mhb Telesales on 0860 104 109  and a consultant will be in touch.   Follow AURO Instagram Facebook Website   Follow mhb Instagram Facebook Website

“Icon Her is a celebration of modern femininity and the power of hair to express identity. Each image captures a woman who feels iconic in her own way not through fame, but through confidence, presence and individuality.” Carol Ritchie   Hair  by Carol Ritchie at Carol Ritchie Hair, Southsea @carolritchiebespokehair Assisted by Darrel Starkey, Sasha Perks, Markus Martinez Make-up:  Saffy Burton @saffycolour_ Stylist:  Lewis Robert Cameron @lfcfashionstylist Photographs:  Desmond Murray @desmondmurrayphotography