It was wet, windy, and pretty hectic. Our thoughts are with everyone who has suffered damage to their farms, homes, or businesses during this time. We’re hopeful that things will improve as the year goes on.
As we move forward, let’s remember that after every storm comes a rainbow. May that give us the hope we need as we prepare for the new season. On the bright side, our dams are full, and we can be truly thankful for that.
In between the storms, we still managed to host our annual Management Day, which turned out to be a real highlight once again. Have a look below to read more about the activities, projects, and courses the centre has been busy with. There are some great courses coming up—including a few new ones—so don’t miss out!
MANAGEMENT DAY 2026
Our annual Management Day was once again a great success and the positive feedback confirms the value of the day's content and discussions. The evaluation shows excellent satisfaction levels among participants:
Dr. Ilse Eigelaar-Meets emphasised that economic growth is not possible without the development of people and human interaction. Trish du Toit reminded participants that Employment Equity does not have to be complicated, but is about the deliberate development of people. The day was concluded by Mike Boon with the question: “Do you lead to empower?”
He challenged managers to think differently, ask difficult questions and lead with vision for change.
Feedback from Managers:
“Very insightful, a different way to develop workers.”
“Fantastic! Inspiring as always.”
“I wish all managers could attend today. The seed has been planted - let's hope that action will be taken.”
“Very good practical take me home. Well done!"
The day inspired managers to lead with greater vision, human dignity and action. The seed has been planted, now the impact lies in the change that will grow from it.
From left to right: Jeanette Clark, Trish du Toit, Edna Nigrini, Dr. Ilse Eigelaar-Meets and Mike Boon
MUSIC TRAINING PROVIDES VALUABLE SKILLS
On Saturday, 25 April 2026, 39 learners and 6 facilitators received recorder training. The students made good progress by learning five new songs, mastering new notes and using their right hand for the first time. This has significantly strengthened their confidence and playing abilities.
In addition to musical growth, the group also developed valuable skills such as discipline, teamwork and creative expression. It was a meaningful day of learning, growing and making music.
BIG SMILES AT THE BRIGHT STAR TRAINING - SCATEC NQF 1 LEARNERSHIP
THE MEN LEARN A LOT AT THE TRACTOR OPERATOR COURSE
TODDLER PROGRAM - READ, LEARN, PLAY, CUT AND PASTE
ORCHARD TO PACKHOUSE - YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS THIS ONE!
On June 4th, KBOS will host an innovative morning discussion on possible ways to address the bridge gap between the orchard systems and the packinghouse needs. It will take place at the TOGRYERS MUSEUM ON CERES. The program is as follows:
Introductory speakers: Joy van Biljon, Louis Gilliomee (CORE), Izak Groenewald (Lakenvlei), Aubrey November and Mzwamadoda Khobeni (Bronaar), Georgina Hewitt (Verdun), Magdel Smit (Dutoit) and Hendrik Claasen (BellaFrutta). Information from Naledi Rampone (KBOS) and Ronald Hand (DeKeur) will also be shared.
Discussion points: Most effective communication between QC and pickers/drivers; the relationship/information/meaning balance; visits to packinghouses and challenges with the concept of quality.
The morning assumes that no one has “the answer” and that thinking together will inspire us all. This is aimed at both orchard and packhouse/marketing managers. It will be extremely practical. See A3 in the KBOS catalogue.
Contact Euria at euria@kbos.co.za or book on the website.
VISUAL PERCEPTION AND POTENTIAL DETERMINATION TESTS
Visual Perception: The Invisible Key to Success in the Agricultural Industry
When hiring or promoting new employees, certain characteristics such as motivation, attitude, reliability are difficult to measure.
👉 But visual perception can be measured - and it plays a critical role.
Poor visual perception often leads to errors, damage, slower work speeds and false impressions of negligence. Even diligent and loyal workers can struggle if they do not correctly interpret or correctly perceive their environment.
Why is it important in Agriculture?
Visual perception is crucial to almost every action in agriculture. It determines how well a worker:
Sorts fruit by size, ripeness or damage
Spots diseases, mold or pests on plants
Plants or works in straight lines without damaging crops
Handles spray equipment or tools accurately
Quickly notices changes in the environment (e.g. leaks, broken wires)
Without good perception, even simple tasks can be a challenge. Poor perception is not always noticed, but it costs productivity, time and quality. Results from practice Over the past 14 years, more than 1500 workers in agriculture have been tested. Approximately 25% have good perceptual abilities so that they can accurately perceive the environment.
That is why it is so important to measure what we can, so that good appointments can be made, informed decisions can be made, adjustments can be made and the right people can be developed.
The Potential Assessment Tests offered by KBOS measure the following:
Mental Clarity (Measurement of Trainability)
Leadership (Measurement of Natural Leadership Traits such as: Speaking, Listening, Taking the Lead, Participation, Conflict Management, Creativity and Motivation
Visual Perception
Arte Nathan said: “You can’t teach employees to smile. They have to smile before you hire them”. You can’t teach your employees to look straight. They have to look straight before you hire or develop them.
“People are not your most important asset. The right people are.” – Jim Collins
With the message that went out at the Management Day, these tests are great tools that can be used to use to develop talent!!
Book your place at euria@kbos.co.za
CREATIVE ARTS - 13 JUNE 2026
Give yourself the chance to discover something new and explore your creative side, regardless of your experience. This workshop is designed for anyone who is willing to learn, experiment and challenge themselves in a relaxed and supportive environment. You will learn the basics of drawing with pencil, while gradually opening up your creative mind.
Come discover your inner artist, experience the tranquility of creating and experience how therapeutic it can be to just get quiet and draw.
Cost: R80 per person.
Only pencil sketches are done.
Register now at landi@kbos.co.za
HR STUDY GROUP - REGISTER NOW! SEE THEMES BELOW.
UPCOMING COURSES:
Orchard to Packhouse - 4 June: Ceres Museum
Safety and Health Representatives Afrikaans - 9+10 June: Ceres Museum
