Fibre - Vox

Crunching the Business Numbers: Big Five, Big Four and Now Big Three

Posted on 24 February 202624 February 2026 by Vivienne Fouche

Why connectivity isn’t just a line – it’s the backbone of your business

Connectivity today is no longer just a simple line to the internet – it’s a robust network to ensure that daily operations run smoothly.

What’s in a number? What do we think of when we hear the phrases ‘Big Five’, ‘Big Four’ and ‘Big Three’? And what does ‘Big Three’ have to do with the successful running of your business?

The first answer is easy, at least for South Africans. Just say ‘Big Five’ and visions of lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo appear – some of Africa’s most iconic and dangerous wildlife species. We regard them so highly here in South Africa that they all live on our bank notes!

As for the term ‘Big Four’, we generally think about SA’s traditional four biggest banks. (Although do watch out for the competitor snapping at your heels – we all know the names.)

But what about the ‘Big Three’? What does that have to do with your business, and what does your modern business need to run effectively?

The Utilities Needed Today

From a purely utilities perspective, modern businesses have always required access to electricity and water as baseline conditions, which are necessary in the background for them to run effectively and be positioned for growth.

Today, these two important utilities must also include a third one, namely internet connectivity as well. Not only that, but a company’s connectivity must be both fast and stable – the days of ADSL lines are arguably now the dinosaur days, at least at the enterprise level.

Super-fast and stable connectivity is now a necessity, not a ‘nice to have’ – and it could arguably also have become the most important of the new ‘Big Three’ for your business.

Consider this:

No electricity for hours or days at a time? It’s always extremely inconvenient and annoying, but alternative power sources do exist, as businesses across South Africa discovered during the dark days of Eskom (pun intended). Certainly, sometimes the high cost of alternative power sources (generators, for example) definitely ate into the profits, but staying connected was the literal price of a company’s survival, when many company owners had to settle simply for staying in business until better days returned.
No water? It’s also deeply inconvenient, but again, plans can arguably be made for non-industrial businesses at ad hoc moments, for example enabling a remote work force where possible, and buying water for those left on-site as required.
No fast and stable internet? This is more complicated. Connectivity is the backbone of modern business, functioning as a foundational asset that links people, systems and data. When it’s not stable or fast enough, growth is made more challenging.

In short, we can argue that connectivity is the backbone of your business, and it’s critical for growth.

Simply Inconceivable Without Lightning-Fast Connectivity

Connectivity today is no longer just a simple line to the internet – it’s a robust network to ensure that daily operations run smoothly.

Business-grade connectivity requires a robust network to ensure that daily operations are seamless, from enabling real-time collaboration to Voice over Internet Protocol (VOiP) technology for your company’s internal and external communications, to processing payments… and the list goes on.

As outlined previously, enterprise-level companies also require significant speed.

We look at some of the reasons why business-grade connectivity is the new player in the utilities team.

Connectivity: The Backbone of your Business

Connectivity is the foundation for operational continuity: it prevents downtime, and provides ‘always-on’ infrastructure, which allows uninterrupted access to Cloud-based tools and applications, which are essential for modern business operations.

A properly set up network enables backup and redundant paths, as well as enhanced security measures (for example encryption and firewalls) which protect against costly downtime and cyber threats (see here for Vox’s cybersecurity solutions).

In addition, modern connectivity also enables digital transformation, including maximising the power of AI and the Internet of Things (IoT) for automation, real-time data analysis and proactive maintenance. Moving operations to the Cloud requires high-speed, low-latency connections to ensure data is accessible and secure. In addition, investing in high-speed, scalable connectivity such as Fibre ensures that your infrastructure can grow as your business expands.

Modern connectivity enables productivity and collaboration by allowing for remote / hybrid work, while also ensuring that departments can remain connected for seamless collaboration on projects and data.

And finally, from the perspective of the customer, fast, secure and stable connections ensure that websites and e-commerce platforms operate smoothly, preventing lost sales due to slow load times or downtime.

Reliable connectivity also allows for immediate customer service, such as live chats and social media support, which can improve satisfaction and loyalty, while high-speed, secure connections provide real-time access to customer data, enabling targeted and personalised marketing.

In today’s digital-first world, a strong internet connection isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. Robust connectivity allows your entire organisation to communicate and function effectively. Whether you’re running a small local office or managing a distributed remote team, your ability to stay connected determines how effectively you can serve clients, collaborate and see business growth.

Contact Vox for Business Fibre that will help you grow your business.

One Final Note

There are many reasons why Internet networks fail, including congestion, physical damage to the Fibre, area outages, planned or emergency maintenance, router issues, DDoS attacks, malware on devices, outdated software on customer equipment, and more.

Did you know that Vox offers state-of-the-art failover solutions, to ensure that your business connectivity is always on? Failover options keep your services running when faults or outages happen.

Vox offers passive-active as well as active-active failover options – click here to find out more. It’s just the Vox way of ensuring that our role in your business’s ‘Big Three’ utilities doesn’t ever need to go down!

Easing Into 2026 Gently with Vox

Posted on 7 January 20262 February 2026 by Vivienne Fouche

Switching back into work mode, after weeks of not looking at computer screens or checking messages regularly, is usually tough for most people. So be kind to yourself – with Vox as your partner – as you continue making the transition into 2026.

SA’s energy has shifted from sun-and-fun mode into normal gear again – otherwise known as ‘The Great Back-to-Work Depression’! As holidaymakers everywhere started going home, and the road and air traffic got moving in earnest, there was a sense of new beginnings but also some simultaneous low morale.

And with the December bonuses long spent, ‘Janu-worry’ (and now even ‘Febru-worry!‘) became a reality for most of us; a bit like the Springbok Bomb Squad sent in to take charge of the game: basically unstoppable, oh dear… The good news is that there are still practical ways that we can all use to regain focus and build positive momentum in these early weeks of 2026.

And so, whether you’re turning on your digital screens or closing them again at the end of the day, Vox is here to help you make the most of this still-new year.

Staying Mentally Balanced as You Re-Embrace Work

Here are some ways to embrace normality and make life easier for yourself once more.

Hint: None of it is really rocket science, but common sense is all about being like the Nike ads and just doing it!

Prepare in advance: Whether you’re working remotely or going into the office physically, it’s always useful to organise your calendar, plan meals or your work outfit, and make sure you get enough sleep.
Organise your workspace: Especially when you’re returning to your tasks and responsibilities, a clean, structured environment – both physical and digital – can calm your mind and boost your productivity.
Block out time: Try to stop your days from being swallowed up by too many meetings by ensuring that you have some time set aside to do or plan important tasks.
Decide what truly matters: Not every email will require immediate action, so you could create a priority list to take control of your workload. Ask yourself: right now is it truly urgent, or less important? This useful method, which uses the Urgent vs Important matrix methodology, might help you decide how to prioritise getting stuff done.

Ensuring Your Connectivity

So much for your mental strategies – let’s take a look at the practical side of today’s technology, which means being connected wherever you are.

Your urban home connectivity is always sorted with Vox, whether you choose Fibre to the Home, LTE/5G offerings, or Fixed Wireless solutions. And at any given moment, we’re sure to be running a great special to sweeten the deal further. Oh, and have you heard about Vox Rewards for our Fibre to the Home customers? It’s pretty unique in the South African ISP landscape, so check it out here!

With Vox, whichever technology works for your area, your connectivity is covered: for the beginning of your working day when you need to work remotely, and at the end of it, when you and your family embrace some down-time for streaming entertainment, gaming, online shopping and so on.

So why not ease yourself into 2026 gently with Vox as your partner, for your back-to-work hours as well as your down time?

May your early 2026 moments be as smooth as the natural Greek yoghurt that’s currently still a big part of your eating plan – and good luck with that too!

‘The new year stands before us, like a chapter in a book, waiting to be written.’ – Melody Beattie, self-help author

FAQs

How can I ease back to work after the holidays?
Prepare the evening before, organise your workspace, block focused time, and prioritise tasks using an Urgent vs Important method.

Which Vox product is best for working from home?
Fibre to the Home is ideal for consistent upload/download speeds; LTE/5G offers mobility and Fixed Wireless helps where fibre isn’t available.

Will Vox’s Fibre to the Home handle video conferencing and cloud apps?
Yes, Vox Fibre offers symmetrical speeds and low contention suitable for video calls, cloud storage and collaboration tools.

Are there backup options if my home fibre goes down?
Vox offers alternative connectivity options like LTE/5G and Fixed Wireless to keep you connected when needed.

What is Vox Rewards and who qualifies?
Vox Rewards is a loyalty programme for qualifying Vox Fibre to the Home customers offering exclusive perks.

How can I contact Vox for help choosing a plan?
Visit vox.co.za or Contact Vox Support for personalised advice and plan comparisons.

New Vox Partner Programme for ISPs: Expand Without the Heavy Lifting

Posted on 15 December 202515 December 2025 by Andre Eksteen

By Andre Eksteen, Senior Product Manager – FTTB at Vox

While niche internet service providers (ISPs) play a crucial role in bringing connectivity to underserved areas, they are often held back by the huge capital investment requirements. In response, Vox, one of South Africa’s leading internet and communications companies, has launched a partner programme that allows ISPs to benefit from our extensive network infrastructure, peering agreements, technical expertise, and more – while they can focus on delivering exceptional service to their customers.

These ISPs deliver reliable broadband and voice services in areas that larger providers often overlook. However, they lack the economies of scale, sizable infrastructure investments, and long-standing vendor relationships with vendors – challenges that create high barriers to entry for newcomers and mid-tier players alike.

ISPs have to source high quality network equipment as well as Business Support Systems (BSS) and Operations Support Systems (OSS) at competitive prices, and build a skilled technical team to manage complex networks.

They also have to deal with high interconnect costs, and negotiate peering and caching agreements with technology majors such as Apple, Google, Microsoft and Netflix; some of these ecosystem partners demand minimum capacity thresholds, making it economically unviable for ISPs not serving large customer bases.

These ISPs face significant hurdles in winning deals. Coverage gaps, limited network availability, and restricted access to premium networks put them at a disadvantage. On top of that, customers now expect a complete solution: multiple access technologies like fibre, wireless, and satellite, integrated with voice and PBX functionality, and delivered with speed.

Meeting these demands is not just challenging, it’s often impossible for niche players, which is why competing, let alone thriving, in this market remains such a struggle.

Expand without the heavy lifting

In an effort to address these challenges, Vox’s new Partner Programme will allow ISPs to leverage the company’s extensive experience in building and managing network infrastructure, delivering broadband and voice services to hundreds of thousands of customers countrywide; and technical and commercial partnerships with a wide array of access providers.

The Partner Programme provides the following benefits to small and mid-sized ISPs:

Seamless integration with flexible topologies: In order to ensure minimum disruption, Vox adapts to the ISPs setup, allowing them to choose from a range of options through which to connect their network, including point-to-point, ring or mesh configurations.
Premium infrastructure and expertise: ISPs gain cost-effective access to carrier-grade routers, switches, and skilled technicians – all without having to overpay for scale that they don’t need, and leaving the service provider with the task of customer acquisition and service excellence.
Ecosystem partnerships: ISPs can leverage Vox’s commercial agreements to get unmatched coverage across 10 fibre-to-the-business (FTTB) networks, 18 fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) networks, and 6 wireless-to-the-business (WTTB) networks. They can also bypass daunting minimum requirements and secure peering and caching with global leaders such as Google and Netflix at volumes that make sense for a connectivity provider of their size.
Tailored services: Modular and scalable offerings, from wholesale bandwidth to advanced voice solutions and beyond, mean that Vox gives ISPs the flexibility to grow at their own pace, while providing customers with low-latency, high-uptime performance.

Our new partner programme is tailored specifically for emerging and mid-sized ISPs that are ready to expand without the heavy lifting. The high fixed costs, building and maintaining complex networks, upstream relationships, and more are taken care of, leaving ISPs to focus on their unique selling proposition. This is not just about scale, but about enabling smart, sustainable growth that ISPs can tap into.

Become a Vox Partner and unlock new opportunities. ISPs need an ECS Licence, billing and network management systems, Teraco presence, CPE installation capability, and first-line support. For national and international core network capacity, use your own infrastructure or leverage Vox’s world-class backbone to deliver exceptional service.

Ready to supercharge your network? Visit our Partner Programme page today.

FAQs

What is the Vox Partner Programme for ISPs?

It’s a partner offering that allows small and mid-sized ISPs to use Vox’s network, peering agreements, equipment and operational expertise to scale services without needing large capital investments.

Who is eligible to join the programme?

Emerging and mid-sized ISPs in South Africa with basic operational capabilities (ECS licence, billing and network management systems, CPE installation and first-line support) are the intended participants.

Can I use my own core network or must I use Vox’s backbone?

You can use your own national/international core capacity or opt to leverage Vox’s world-class backbone; the programme supports both models.

How does Vox help with peering and caching with platforms like Google and Netflix?

Vox’s commercial agreements and peering relationships allow partner ISPs to access caching and peering at volumes that make sense for smaller providers, removing minimum-capacity barriers.

What services can partners resell or access?

Modular options include wholesale bandwidth, advanced voice/PBX solutions, routing and switching, and multi-access topologies (FTTB, FTTH, WTTB).

Will I need to change my existing topology to join?

No, Vox adapts to your setup and supports point-to-point, ring or mesh connections to minimise disruption.

Are there pricing or contract minimums?

Commercial terms vary by partner needs and service selection. Speak to Vox for a tailored quote and contract options aligned to your growth strategy.

Which Vox Internet Option is Best for You this Holiday Season?

Posted on 8 December 20259 December 2025 by Vivienne Fouche

Staying connected as end-of-year down-time arrives

Our summer stories are starting to happen and the end of the year is really here! But even when we’ve packed our suitcases and made sure the pets are taken care of while we move into down-time, we still want (and need) to stay connected this holiday season.

Summer in South Africa means more streaming, online shopping and banking, video calls with family and online gaming – so choosing the right home Internet, and being aware of Internet options offered by your holiday location, can have an impact on your festive connectivity.

The good news is that, just as we all want a variety of ice cream options at the beach, so Vox has a connectivity option – and speed – to suit every home this holiday season. And in the spirit of the holiday season, we’re running some current and ongoing promotions to sweeten the deal even further.

Vox offers a mix of Fibre, Fixed Wireless, LTE/5G and Satellite options, with each option suited to different needs. So here’s a guide to help you pick the best option for your home, do your research on your holiday Connectivity options, and also make the most of current Vox promotions.

Let’s take a look.

Fibre To the Home: Best for Top Speed and Reliability

Fibre to the Home delivers high-speed, low-latency Internet directly into your home (or holiday home).

Benefits include very fast symmetrical speeds, which is excellent for 4K streaming, multiple devices and video calls. Uncapped options are available and performance is consistent.

It’s ideal for large households, heavy streamers, gamers, households with multiple remote workers (if you must work during the holidays! or when the holiday season is over…).
Availability depends on Fibre rollout in your neighbourhood. Installation may take time in new areas.

Current promotions linked to Vox Fibre to the Home include Vox Rewards and Fibre Frenzy!

Vox Rewards is our super-exciting, recently-launched loyalty programme for qualifying Vox customers, offering perks and rewards for staying connected with Vox through home fibre connections. Depending on the tier that you qualify for, you could enjoy a variety of discounts and savings on groceries, fashion, takeaways, tech, travel and more! See vox.co.za/vox-rewards for eligibility and benefits.
Fibre Frenzy is a limited-time campaign on Vox’s Home Fibre packages so do check vox.co.za for current Fibre Frenzy deals and exact terms – you can also click on this link for more information.
For landlords providing Connectivity to guests, check out our Guest Wi-Fi hospitality bundle.

LTE / 5G Mobile Broadband: Flexible and Quick to Set Up

LTE / 5G uses mobile networks (LTE or 5G) to deliver Internet to a home router or portable device.

Benefits include fast setup and mobile flexibility. This option is suitable for temporary needs or where Fibre isn’t available yet. 5G can offer very high speeds in covered areas.

It’s ideal for urban areas with strong 4G/5G coverage as well as short-term stays and holiday homes.
Speed and latency depend on mobile network coverage and local congestion; fairness policies may apply depending on the package.
Vox and Telkom are currently running our Uncapped LTE promotion, starting from R589 per month, and including a pocket router as a R199 once-off – check it out.

Fixed Wireless (Licensed or Unlicensed Spectrum): Dependable Rural and Suburban Option

Fixed Wireless using microwave signals provides a point-to-point or point-to-multipoint radio link between a home-mounted antenna and a local tower. Its benefits include good speeds and stable connections where Fibre isn’t laid, but line-of-sight to a tower exists. It is often faster and provides a lower latency than Satellite.

It’s ideal for suburbs, small towns and rural areas with a Vox radio site nearby.
Fixed Wireless requires a professional site survey and performance depends on line-of-sight availability and network capacity.
You can find out more on Vox Fixed Wireless to the Home.

Satellite: Providing Coverage where Nothing Else Reaches

Internet delivered via Satellite dishes is ideal for remote or rural properties beyond terrestrial networks. Its benefits include coverage that is available almost anywhere, making it perfect for some coastal areas, farms and remote homes, including holiday rentals.

It’s ideal for houses outside Fibre and mobile coverage areas, where connectivity is otherwise unavailable.
Higher latency means that it’s not ideal for competitive gaming. In addition, weather can affect reliability, and costs/data policies may be higher than terrestrial options.
Find out more on Satellite connectivity.

Considerations for the Holidays (and Beyond)

A few factors should be considered as you think about your Connectivity options for the holiday season and even next year, if you want to take advantage of our Vox Rewards programme.

If you stream 4K, game and have many users, Fibre is your best bet.
If you need a quick setup or a temporary solution, LTE/5G works well.
If you’re in a small town or on the fringe of Fibre rollout, Fixed Wireless often gives the best compromise of speed and reliability.
If you’re remote and need coverage regardless of location, Satellite is the reliable fallback.

Practical Tips Before You Switch

Vox usually runs localised or seasonal promotions (discounted installation, bonus data or limited-time bundle savings). Check the Vox website regularly, including the promotions pages, for the most up-to-date specials and Ts and Cs. Here are some tips:

Check coverage: Use the coverage tool on vox.co.za to see what’s available at your address.
Match package to use requirements: Choose speeds that suit your household’s peak usage.
Ask about promos: Promotions can change monthly, so ask a Vox consultant about current offers and how long they run, and you can also check here.

Check coverage and current Fibre Frenzy or Vox Rewards offers at vox.co.za or on the latest deals page, or call Vox Consumer Support on 087 805 0530 for a personalised recommendation.

South Africans work hard and they play hard also, and never more than during our end-of-year summer holiday season! Stay connected with Vox – we have a solution for your location and your needs, no matter what time of year it is.

ice cream 2202605 640 | Vox | Which Vox Internet Option is Best for You this Holiday Season? — You always have choices – and sweet deals! – with Vox!

FAQs

Which Vox option is best for streaming and gaming during the holidays?
Fibre is best for low-latency, high-speed needs like 4K streaming and gaming. If Fibre isn’t available, 5G or fixed Wireless are the next-best options.

What is Vox Rewards and how do I join?
Vox Rewards is a loyalty programme for qualifying customers. Visit vox.co.za/vox-rewards to see eligibility and benefits.

What is Fibre Frenzy?
Fibre Frenzy is Vox’s limited-time promotion on selected Fibre packages. Check the Vox website for exact bundles and promotional periods.

How do I know if Fibre is available at my home?
Use the coverage checker on vox.co.za or contact Vox support to confirm availability for your address.

Is Satellite Internet good for a holiday home?
Yes, Satellite brings connectivity to remote holiday homes, though latency and weather impact should be considered.

Can I use LTE/5G as a permanent home solution?
Yes, in areas with strong coverage LTE/5G can be a permanent solution, especially where Fibre isn’t available, but check data fairness policies.

How long does installation take for Fibre or fixed Wireless?
Installation times vary by location and demand — ask Vox for a projected install date when you sign up.

Can I switch between Vox services if I move or change needs?
Yes. Vox offers different home connectivity products and can advise on switching based on coverage and your new address.

Now launched – Vox Rewards!

Posted on 26 November 20253 December 2025 by Vivienne Fouche

Everyone Loves Getting Cash Back…

The good news is out – the Vox Rewards programme for our loyal clients has been officially launched! As household budgets continue to take strain for millions of South Africans, we’ve designed our Vox Rewards programme – available since the 17^th of November – to help our customers with a variety of ways to get through the month.

We’re proud that our loyalty programme sets us apart from our competitors by offering extra value to our clients, through the provision of carefully chosen lifestyle benefits. By signing up with Vox Rewards, customers are given access to thousands of Rands in monthly savings, through discounts and coupons from some of South Africa’s favourite brands.

Vox customers, both new and existing, will be rewarded with retail choices, fast food options, travel discounts, reduced prices on tech and gadgets, access to lower costs for online education options, online retail and stationery purchases, and up to R1,250 in grocery rewards every month (Silver Tier only).

Simply by signing up with Vox Rewards, Vox customers get help with their budgeting and planning, across a number of different categories.

Calling all fashionistas: Update your wardrobe with up to 10% off retail gift cards from Edgars, Legit, Style and Beaver Canoe OR get 10% off online purchases at BRANDZ.
Enjoy takeaways: Treat your tastebuds with discount coupons from KFC, Steers, Debonairs Pizza and Hungry Lion.
Enjoy travel deals: With partners including FlySafair, Citiliner, Intercape and Luxliner.
Tech and gadgets: Keep up to date with Dress Your Tech, and enjoy up to 25% off (minimum spend of R500 online), as well as up to 8% off ASUS.
Online learning: Empower yourself through access to online learning through IT Upskill.
Online Stationery: Enjoy 10% off all your online stationery purchases at Statesman Stationery.
Groceries (Silver Tier only): Save up to R1,250 on groceries every month by using your Shoprite & Checkers coupons.

As you can see, the Vox Rewards are designed to help our customers with financial assistance in a holistic way.

Why not register today to start enjoying the benefits available to you through Vox Rewards? Visit our website at https://benefits.voxrewards.co.za – the process of signing up and participating in the programme is simple!

We look forward to signing up our new and existing customers and helping you to put real cash value back into your wallet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Vox Rewards programme?
Vox Rewards is a loyalty programme for qualifying Vox customers that provides discounts, coupons and monthly savings across retail, food, travel, tech, online learning and groceries.

When did Vox Rewards launch?
Vox Rewards officially launched on 17 November 2025.

How do I sign up for Vox Rewards?
Register at https://benefits.voxrewards.co.za and follow the on‑screen steps to join.

How much can I save on groceries?
Silver Tier members can save up to R1,250 per month using Shoprite & Checkers grocery coupons.

Which partners and discounts are included?
Partners include Edgars, Legit, BRANDZ, KFC, Steers, Debonairs, FlySafair, Dress Your Tech, ASUS, IT Upskill and Statesman Stationery, among others.

Where can I find full terms and more information?
Visit https://benefits.voxrewards.co.za/terms or the Vox Rewards sign‑up page for full terms and conditions.

Working to Identify and Protect SA’s Heritage Resources

Posted on 11 November 202511 November 2025 by Natalie van der Merwe

Vox partnered with the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) to deliver an integrated programme of connectivity, voice and network security, demonstrating how SAHRA connectivity and SD‑WAN for heritage sites can safeguard archives, improve communication and reduce costs. SAHRA requires a modern, secure and resilient IT environment to protect national heritage records and support remote working.

Planning SAHRA’s Connectivity and SD-WAN for SA’s Heritage Sites

The South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) is an agency of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture – formerly known until 2000 as the National Monuments Council – which is tasked with an overall legislative mandate to identify, assess, manage, protect and promote heritage resources in South Africa, and to protect them for future generations.

National heritage sites need to be protected and safeguarded from damage or alteration, and it’s important to prevent development that could endanger their existence. As a national agency with additional provincial authorities, SAHRA works with local communities to identify heritage resources and record their oral and living histories, as well as increase public involvement in the preservation of heritage resources.

“South Africa has a very rich heritage,” says Stephen Muller, SAHRA ICT Manager, “and SAHRA works across a number of business units – including Heritage Properties, Burial Grounds and Graves, the Built Environment and Heritage Protection – to identify and protect heritage resources in South Africa.

“We have a very valuable registry in the form of our internal archives, encompassing a vast amount of heritage documents including old papers, plans, maps, information about graves…. information from the past that it’s important to protect and preserve.

“Overall, our outlook for the future is to become significantly more digitalised, including with our registry and archives, and also as an organisation overall. The work done by SAHRA is valuable and it’s important that it’s assisted in the digital realm, to protect South Africa’s Heritage Sites in the physical realm.”

South Africa has eight World Heritage Sites, as follows: Robben Island (Western Cape), iSimangaliso Wetland Park (formerly known as the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park in Kwa-Zulu/Natal); the Cradle of Humankind (Gauteng), Maloti Drakensberg Park (Kwa-Zulu/Natal), Mapungubwe Heritage Site (in Limpopo province, located at the border of South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana), the Cape Floral Kingdom (Western Cape), the Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape (in the Northern Cape, along the Orange River border with Namibia) and the Vredefort Dome (Free State).

In addition, there are also several heritage sites declared by SAHRA, which include the Castle of Good Hope, the Bushmanskloof Rock Painting Landscape, the Daljosafat Cultural Landscape, the SS Mendi Memorial, the South African Astronomical Observatory, Liliesleaf Farm and the West Coast Fossil Park, among others.

4 1080 5 1080x720 1 | Vox | Working to Identify and Protect SA's Heritage Resources — SS Mendi Memorial

The Business Challenge

“It’s our intention to have a proper electronic document records management system in place so that we can get all our information, including our records and administrative systems, more digital,” explains Muller.

“We are moving forward in this regard; for example we have a YouTube channel and we use it to broadcast on pertinent issues, including a webinar in September – which is Heritage Month in South Africa – which is geared towards allowing the public to share in the conversation. I like to say that even though we’re a heritage organisation, it doesn’t mean that our technology or infrastructure needs to be heritage as well!”

In the quest to keep SAHRA’s digital processes and communications systems modern and not ‘vintage’, the organisation has carried out a significant number of implementations or upgrades in the past 10 years or so. These include such important technology elements as:

Business Fibre connectivity;
Voice and Telephony solutions;
Backup of data;
Foundational network security; and
The implementation of an SD-WAN solution.

Some of these implementations have been carried out at SAHRA’s head office in the Western Cape, and others have been at regional offices. SAHRA operates across four sites around the country. Muller clarifies that there have been some challenges previously with getting all the sites connected with fast connectivity, including the use of a slow ADSL line at one of the regional offices.

“Our concerns were around data security and service continuity, as well as site integrations that were required to interlink all our colleagues and allow them to interact and integrate with our existing systems and offices. Vox was able to address these requirements through well detailed bids,” he explains.

The Business Solution

As a government entity, SAHRA is required to follow strict bidding / tender procedures each time a new project or upgrade over a particular Rand value is required. Muller explains: “Being a government entity, we have to follow a formal public procurement process and that’s always done by a means of competitive bidding. SAHRA’s relationship with Vox began when we had to shift our existing voice solution, and then we also added in the Internet connectivity as well. Later on, we found the need to include managed firewall services and most recently we have had a requirement for an SD-WAN solution.

“On each of these occasions, Vox has submitted separate tender documentation in response to the advertised tenders. In summary, Vox has helped SAHRA to improve on our operational efficiency, including the enhancement of our remote working capabilities. Additionally, Vox has helped us to strengthen our cybersecurity posture, while also reducing infrastructure costs over time.”

Vox was the successful winner of a number of tender processes for SAHRA in recent years, as follows:

2018/2019: Hosted Digital Communication System

Fibre connectivity
Verto Hosted PBX and Yealink handsets
Uncapped Voice
Communications Manager (TMS)
Network Cabling
Chrome Air (Voice over LTE)
Number porting

2020: Poly Studio VC Solution

2021: Veeam Backup & Replication Enterprise Plus

2022: Connectivity and Voice and Network security

Primary and failover connectivity at five sites
- Consists of fibre, wireless and LTE
Moved from Verto Supreme to 3CX Cloud for PBX, Unified Communication and mobility services
Uncapped Voice
Fortigate Firewall at five sites

2024: Connectivity and Voice and Network security / SD-WAN

Provision of two stand-alone internet links at four sites
- Consists of fibre, wireless and LTE
Moved from Verto Supreme to 3CX Cloud for PBX, Unified Communication and mobility services
Uncapped Voice
Fortigate Firewall at five sites with SD-WAN for WAN resiliency

René Minnie, Key Account Manager at Vox, clarifies that the most recent 2024 upgrades are of particular interest and significance for SAHRA, involving upgrades to the entity’s connectivity, voice and network security. She says: “When we look at the migration from Verto Supreme to 3CX Cloud, we see that Vox is providing SAHRA with a solution that is future-proof and rich in functionality, and which allows more control. With regards to the implementation of an SD-WAN solution, it is important to note that Vox has provisioned for the ability to use both links at each site.

“As for the benefits of SD-WAN, it’s a modern networking solution that simplifies the management and operation of a wide area network (WAN) by decoupling the network hardware from its control mechanism, with key benefits including improved network performance, cost efficiency, enhanced security, simplified management, and scalability and flexibility.”

More details on the benefits of SD-WAN are as follows:

Improved Performance: SD-WAN intelligently routes traffic across the most efficient paths, reducing latency and improving application performance, especially for cloud-based services.
Cost Efficiency: SD-WAN allows businesses to use lower-cost internet connections (like broadband) alongside or instead of expensive MPLS links, significantly reducing WAN costs.
Enhanced Security: Built-in encryption, firewall capabilities and centralised security policies help protect data across all network endpoints.
Simplified Management: Centralised control makes it easier to configure, monitor and manage the network, reducing the need for manual intervention and on-site IT support.
Scalability and Flexibility: SD-WAN supports rapid deployment across multiple locations and adapts easily to changing business needs, making it ideal for growing organisations.

A Strategic Partner Towards the SAHRA IT Unit

Muller says he has been very happy with both the service and the products received from Vox overall, and enjoys an extremely positive relationship with Vox. He clarifies: “The service levels have always been consistently high, and in fact have always exceeded what we at SAHRA have requested. We also very much appreciate the scalability of the available offerings.

“You could say that Vox has essentially become a strategic partner towards the SAHRA IT unit, and as a company, its employees and divisions are very good at communicating the available offerings, both for a present requirement as well as for future possibilities and planning – I find Vox to be well-structured and transparent.”

Muller also praises the quality of Vox’s tender documents, which, he says, are unfailingly of a high quality and provide all the information – and sometimes more – than actually required.

“Usually, we look to see that the potential service providers are able to meet or even exceed our minimum requirements,” he explains. “Then we look at proven reliability and uptime, scalability, security and compliance. Cost-effectiveness plays a vital role as well, and we also look at strong support and after-sales service.

“Vox scores consistently highly across all these categories, including with excellent service and competitive pricing across all its products. The type of bid received from Vox overall is always excellent. No matter big or small, there’s always enough information. If it’s a specific brand or model mentioned, there will be a specification sheet that paints a clear picture.”

Minnie adds that the interactions with Muller and the rest of his team at SAHRA have always been most pleasant: “As a company, people across a number of divisions at Vox appreciate SAHRA’s business relationship, which is based on mutual politeness and respect. Our two companies work extremely well together, and we look forward to continuing to be of assistance to SAHRA for many years into the future,” she says.

“I believe that in Vox, SAHRA has found an excellent partner and over the years, we have met regularly and enjoyed smooth operations overall. And so if I could sum it up, Vox’s offerings are a clear commitment to a partnership with long-term value overall, because of the scalability and expansions that are offered by Vox,” concludes Muller.

Download Case Study

FAQs

What is SD‑WAN and why is it important for heritage institutions?
SD‑WAN is a modern WAN architecture that intelligently routes traffic across multiple links. It improves performance, resilience and security, which is critical for institutions needing reliable access to cloud archives and remote collaboration.

Which Vox products were implemented at SAHRA?
Vox implemented Business Fibre, voice platforms (Verto Hosted PBX historically and migration to 3CX Cloud), Yealink handsets, Fortigate firewalls, Veeam backup and Poly Studio VC, plus wireless/LTE failover.

How does SD‑WAN improve security?
SD‑WAN supports centralised security policies, encryption of WAN links and integration with managed firewalls, reducing exposure for distributed sites and sensitive data.

Can SD‑WAN reduce costs for government agencies?
Yes. By enabling the use of lower‑cost broadband and LTE alongside fibre, SD‑WAN can lower WAN expenses while maintaining performance and resilience.

How did Vox ensure compliance with SAHRA’s procurement rules?
All implementations were awarded through formal competitive tenders, with Vox submitting detailed, compliant bid documents for each procurement phase.

Will SD‑WAN help with disaster recovery and backups?
SD‑WAN improves connectivity resilience which supports replication and backup workflows. Combined with solutions like Veeam, it strengthens overall data protection and recovery capabilities.

Is 3CX Cloud suitable for public sector organisations?
3CX Cloud provides unified communications, mobility and scalability, making it suitable for public sector needs when paired with secure network infrastructure and managed services.

How can heritage organisations begin modernising their IT?
Start with a connectivity assessment, define continuity and security requirements, and procure resilient links, firewall protection and a future‑proof voice platform. Consider a phased tendered approach similar to SAHRA’s.

Hot Promotions

Vox re-enters the security arena with global leader Sophos

Posted on 29 October 202530 October 2025 by Audrey Vadival

By Audrey Vadival, Head of Division: Security and Value-added Services

Vox is pleased to announce the launch of its new cybersecurity division in partnership with global cybersecurity leader, Sophos.

The Vox-Sophos cybersecurity partnership expands Vox’s long-standing position as a trusted ISP into a full-service digital guardian, offering South African companies an integrated portfolio of connectivity, communication and protection solutions.

Key highlights:

Comprehensive protection: Firewalls, endpoint security, MDR, XDR and Phish Threat solutions all integrated within Vox’s managed security offering.
AI-powered defence: Proactive threat hunting, deep learning analysis, and automated response capabilities.
Integrated simplicity: Unified Sophos Central dashboard consolidates all alerts and data across third-party tools with the XDR and MDR offerings.
Security awareness training: Automated phishing simulations and targeted education to turn employees into first-line defenders.
Accessible pricing: Vox pricing and fibre/firewall bundles for South African customers

The move is a response to a growing need in the market. Cyberattacks are growing more sophisticated and frequent in South Africa, with the country remaining one of Africa’s most targeted for cybercrime.

According to the BDO Global Risk Landscape Report 2025 and Allianz Risk Barometer, companies have faced an average of 2,114 cyberattacks per company per week in 2025 – a year-on-year increase of 14%. The Sophos State of Ransomware in South Africa 2025 report put a price tag on the threat – the median ransomware demand rose from R2.8 million in 2024 to R18 million in 2025 while the median payment nearly tripled to R8.3 million.

Vox’s partnership with Sophos brings enterprise-grade cybersecurity within reach for local companies of all sizes. Small to medium enterprises (SMEs) through to corporates can benefit from a portfolio of solutions designed to combine proactive threat hunting with round-the-clock monitoring and simplified management.

We’re connecting and protecting companies. Our partnership with Sophos gives us the ability to create world-class security solutions which leverage next-generation protection capabilities like AI within a local, managed services model that makes high-end protection both accessible and affordable.

Vox’s new cybersecurity arm forms part of our broader strategy to evolve from a pure connectivity and communications provider into a holistic managed service and security partner. The focus is simple – secure the connection, secure the data, protect customers – and it builds on the foundation of trust Vox has already built with our growing customer base.

Our customers already trust us with their communications and connectivity, and it makes sense to extend that trust into cybersecurity. Sophos has a robust and relevant solution portfolio that ensures we can deliver a synchronised security stack that protects every part of the digital journey, from the connection to the user.

The value proposition within the partnership rests in Vox’s ability to combine advanced technology with real-world simplicity. One dashboard, one licence and one provider, with multiple solutions integrated smoothly through Sophos Central. Companies can monitor and respond to threats rapidly with a single, unified view.

Vox will be offering a suite of five Sophos products which are designed to work together to prevent, detect and respond to modern threats.

The Sophos XGS Series firewall, launched earlier this year, offers AI-powered threat prevention and zero-day defence, while Sophos Intercept X combines deep learning AI and anti-ransomware for rapid threat detection and defence.

Sophos MDR delivers 24/7 expert-led security as a service with proactive threat hunting and rapid incident response. Sophos XDR provides visibility across all critical attack surfaces, including third party tools, while Sophos Phish Threat helps you stay ahead and prevent expensive mistakes by proactively educating your workforce

According to Pieter Nel, Sales Director SADC at Sophos South Africa: “The threat landscape in South Africa continues to intensify, and organisations are looking for a partner that can simplify cybersecurity while still delivering enterprise-grade protection.

“Our partnership with Vox brings the full strength of Sophos’ MDR, XDR and AI-driven technologies directly into a locally managed service model, making advanced cyber defence accessible to businesses of all sizes. Together, we are ensuring South African organisations can detect and stop ransomware and other cyberattacks before they cause disruption or financial damage.”

Vox, a Gold Partner for Sophos, offers highly competitive pricing and flexible security bundles which combine fibre and firewall protection in one accessible package. Starting from October 2025 with the ‘Securing Your Connectivity’ promotion, Vox is making enterprise-level security affordable to South African companies while providing local support and expertise.

Businesses are dealing with complicated threats and sophisticated attacks and are at constant risk, so our mission is making their lives easier. You don’t need a large team or multiple IT vendors, just one partner with the right security tools, and that’s us.

To learn how the Vox Sophos cybersecurity partnership can protect your business, contact Vox for a tailored security assessment and a quote for managed security services and fibre/firewall bundles.

Recommended next steps for businesses

Assess current exposure: Identify critical assets and where detection blind spots exist.
Consider a managed approach: If you lack in-house security resource, managed XDR/MDR can significantly reduce risk.
Combine connectivity and security: Explore Vox’s firewall and fibre bundles for simplified billing and integrated support.
Train staff: Add security awareness training to reduce phishing and social engineering risk.

FAQs

What is the Vox Sophos cybersecurity partnership?
The Vox Sophos cybersecurity partnership is a local managed security service combining Vox connectivity with Sophos enterprise-grade tools (XGS firewall, Intercept X, MDR, XDR and Phish Threat) to protect South African businesses.

What cybersecurity solutions are included in Vox’s offering?
Vox offers Sophos XGS firewalls, Intercept X endpoint protection, Sophos MDR (24/7 monitoring & response), Sophos XDR (cross-surface visibility) and Phish Threat security awareness training, all managed via the Sophos Central dashboard.

Who should consider Vox managed security services?
SMEs through to large corporates that want simplified, enterprise-grade protection—organisations without large in‑house security teams, or those seeking 24/7 threat hunting, AI-driven detection and consolidated management.

How do I get started or request a quote?
Contact Vox’s security team for a tailored security assessment and pricing. Vox offers competitive fibre and firewall bundles (including the “Securing Your Connectivity” promotion from October 2025) with local support and implementation.

The Real Cost of a Data Breach for Individuals

Posted on 20 October 202524 October 2025 by Suhail Dinat

Another day, another data breach.

It seems like every other week that some big company announces they’ve been hacked (seriously, hospitals – heard of a firewall?). Entire databases of private, confidential information are sent into the digital wild more frequently than Trump changes his mind. And, the sad part is, the individuals who’ve been compromised often suffer as much as the entities who let it happen.

A good PR campaign and said company can get back on their feet. Know who can’t? The affected parties who now must recover financially, emotionally, and socially.

Financial Impact: Immediate and Hidden Costs

When people think about breaches, the first implication they consider is financial – rightfully so, as the immediate effect is usually on your pocket.

Fraud, loans and damaged credit:

Criminals don’t even need actual money to run wild – just your card details are enough of a launching pad. How so? Here are some ways:

They may start fraudulently purchasing gift items, electronics, or crypto before you’re even aware of it.
Many criminals take out excessive loans linked to another account using stolen identities. The victim only finds out once collection is due.
On a smaller scale, quick cash-outs via e-wallet, ride sharing, and even food delivery accounts are also small ways victims have been hit.

Think it’s not relevant? Let’s look at the history:

An Equifax breach exposed the personal information of 147 MILLION people in 2017. Most of these victims later reported fake loan approvals and fraudulent credit card applications within a matter of days. And, even if the matter is eventually resolved, you can’t put a price on the stress, hours lost waiting on hold, or any residual damage to your credit score.

Identity theft — a long‑term risk:

Unlike a wallet, you can’t just “get a new” digital identity. Once your data is compromised, criminals can use it for decades. Think credit fraud, tax fraud, or even medical identity theft for prescription drugs.

The knock-on effect of these breaches is immense. They can impact on your ability to rent, apply for loans, and in some cases even find jobs.

The human cost — stress, relationships and reputation:

Everyone talks about Data breaches numerically, but what the victims go through is often overlooked. Many victims have to live with the daunting reality of:

Mounting anxiety as they log in and out of their banking app. Repeatedly.
The uncertainty of not knowing whether your info has been stolen.
The pain of repeatedly explaining your situation to strangers.

Think sleepless nights, relationship stress, and a never-ending daunting feeling. Cybercrime steals more than data – it takes away peace of mind.

Privacy harms that money can’t fix:

Many breaches expose extremely sensitive information. Think dating apps, health records, or your browser history (shudder).

And, unlike credit cards, your bank can’t (eventually) undo this one.

Ever heard of Ashley Madison? They were Tinder before Tinder. Until, one day, users were blackmailed with threats to expose their private activity. You can imagine how this went down.
Or spare a second to think about health-related breaches – and how stigmatised patients can feel when their conditions become public.

Some impacts transcend monetary value – they can damage reputations, careers, respect and relationships.

The problem with a breach is often the delayed effect. Cybercrime has a long tail, and slow burning effect. Once your Data is sold on the dark web, it stays there. In fact, it can even be resold, and repeat issues emerge for multiple years.

What to do right now if your data’s been breached

But enough fearmongering, what can we do if we find ourselves compromised? Here’s an easy guide:

Change your passwords. Immediately. ALL of them.
Enable your multifactor authentication (MFA).
Verify whether your email has also been leaked (use sites like “have I been pwnd” – you can even do it now).
Monitor your bank accounts (and notify your bank).
Temporarily freeze your credit file.
Double-check any calls, emails, or texts asking for information.

You can’t simply measure the true cost of a Data breach via a spreadsheet. The price you pay is intangible, and how do you quantify a lifetime of looking over your shoulder?

Act now – protect your data

Companies can move on – but victims carry the burden even once the headlines fade. This is why taking your cybersecurity seriously is no longer optional. It’s necessary. Because, in today’s digital world, your bank account isn’t your most valuable asset – your data is.

You can’t undo every breach, but you can limit the damage. Change passwords, enable MFA, keep an eye on your accounts and use reputable security tools. Treat data protection as essential because your information is often more valuable than the cash in your account.

Get immediate protection with Norton from Vox.

FAQs

What immediate steps should I take after a breach?
Change passwords, enable MFA, check Have I Been Pwned, notify your bank, and consider freezing your credit.

How long can identity theft affect me?
It can last years. Stolen data can be resold and reused, so ongoing monitoring is essential.

Will my bank always refund fraud losses?
Not always. Many banks will help, but you still face time spent on disputes and potential credit impacts. Report fraud immediately.

Can consumer security software really help?
Yes. Reputable suites (like Norton 360 offered through Vox) reduce your risk of phishing, smishing and device compromise and include privacy tools and 24/7 support.

Secure Your Connectivity with our Fibre Plus Firewall Bundle October Special

Posted on 14 October 202521 October 2025 by Audrey Vadival

Secure connectivity is about speed and protection.

South African networks face multiple threats on a daily basis. Recent reporting shows that Interpol detected roughly 230 million cyber threats in South Africa, which is a clear signal that homes and businesses must harden their borders.

Secure connectivity prevents unauthorised access, data loss and downtime, helping you to keep operations and productivity running smoothly within your business.

Sophos Firewalls with Vox

Vox has partnered with Sophos to offer next-generation firewalls to help you better protect your network, quickly and efficiently.

With Sophos firewalls from Vox, you can enjoy no hidden costs – just great security, and you will find that it’s easy to use, even if you’re not technical.

The advanced threat protection blocks viruses, ransomware and hackers, leaving you with peace of mind. You can also block websites and non-work apps so that your employees’ efficiency is boosted, allowing you to boost security and productivity at the same time.

The solution is designed to promote a fast and secure network that continues running at high speed, which serves as another productivity value-add.

Why A Fibre Plus Firewall Bundle Is Crucial

Vox’s Fibre Plus Firewall bundle gives you both speed AND protection.

Our October 2025 special offer combines resilient Vox Fibre with next‑gen Sophos Firewall protection, allowing you to protect your devices, data and productivity with a single, easy solution.

Firewalls: Your First Line of Defence

A Firewall monitors and filters incoming and outgoing traffic based on set rules, creating a perimeter between your trusted network and the internet. Modern, next‑generation Firewalls also:

Detect and block intrusions and malware (IDS/IPS).
Support VPNs for secure remote access.
Log activity for rapid incident response.
Block malicious websites and non‑work apps to protect users and increase productivity.

Why Pairing Fibre with a Firewall is a Great Idea

Fibre delivers fast, symmetrical bandwidth essential for cloud apps, video conferencing and backups. Pairing that connectivity with a dedicated Firewall ensures high performance isn’t offset by exposure to threats. The Fibre plus Firewall bundle gives you:

Speed and security in one purchase.
Simpler billing and deployment with Vox.
Managed support to keep both connectivity and protection performing.

Sophos Firewalls with Vox: What You Get

The key benefits include the following:

Advanced threat protection against viruses, ransomware and hackers.
VPN support for secure remote workers and branch offices.
Centralised logging and reporting for faster incident handling.
Options to block websites and non‑work apps to boost staff productivity.
Backed by Vox 24/7 support and clear pricing with no hidden costs.

October special: Fibre plus Firewall bundle

This October, Vox is running a limited‑time Fibre plus Firewall bundle special. It’s an ideal time to:

Move to faster Fibre connectivity;
Add enterprise‑grade Sophos Firewall protection; and
Consolidate services and simplify billing.

Enquire early to reserve bundle availability and special pricing.

How To Get Started

Assess your needs in terms of the required bandwidth, number of users and remote access requirements. Then:

Choose a Vox Fibre package and Sophos Firewall level.
Book installation and configuration with Vox support.
Activate monitoring and policies with assistance from Vox 24/7 support.

Protect Your Network with Vox and Sophos

By protecting your sensitive data, devices and systems from threats like malware, hackers, denial of service attacks and malicious software, firewalls are a fundamental component of any network security strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Fibre plus Firewall bundle?

A Fibre plus Firewall bundle combines Vox Fibre internet connectivity with a managed next‑generation Sophos Firewall, to deliver both high performance and network security in a single package.

Why should I buy a Firewall if I already have Fibre?

Fibre gives you speed; a Firewall protects that connection. Without a Firewall, your fast connection can make attacks more damaging. A combined solution ensures both performance and protection.

What protection do Sophos Firewalls provide?

Sophos Firewalls include intrusion detection and prevention, anti‑malware and ransomware protection, VPN support, web and app control, and central logging for incident response.

Who is the Fibre plus Firewall bundle suitable for?

The bundle is ideal for small businesses and larger organisations that need reliable Fibre speeds with enterprise‑grade security and managed support.

When is the Vox October special available?

Vox will run the Fibre plus Firewall bundle special in October 2025 – contact us to confirm availability, exact pricing and terms.

Can Vox manage the Firewall for me?

Yes. Vox offers managed services and 24/7 support to help configure, monitor and maintain your Firewall and connectivity.

Will a Firewall slow down my Fibre connection?

Properly configured next‑gen Firewalls are designed to protect without significant performance impact. Vox matches Firewall capacity to your Fibre speed to preserve throughput.

How do I enquire about the October bundle?

Click here on the Vox website to request details and a tailored quote.

Who You Gonna Call?

Posted on 22 July 202522 July 2025 by Vivienne Fouche

People of Vox: Spotlight on Greg Gyngell

If there’s something strange

In your neighbourhood

Who you gonna call?

Greg Gyngell!

If there’s something weird

And it don’t look good

Who you gonna call?

Greg Gyngell!

Right, well with apologies to the Ghost Busters franchise (do you have an ear-worm now?), it’s time for another peek into the life and times of another of our green-blooded Voxies. In this episode, we shine the spotlight on a man who is normally the MC within the training environment, and so he’s actually used to turning the spotlight on everyone else…but he agreed to be interviewed without too much of a fuss.

And a good thing too, because he’s got some really interesting stories to tell!

“I’m Greg and I look after the Training Department,” says Vox’s well-known and well-loved Soft Skills Trainer. “I’ve been at Vox for about 13 years now and together with my team, I do anything and everything that is related to training, including some video production work.

“I’m always available to do anything else that might be asked of me, and wherever I can assist, I’m happy to step in. No day is ever the same, and that’s exactly how I like it!”

Greg leads a team of four Trainers across the country and reports directly to Head of Human Resources, Pam McLeod. Let’s take a look at how he champions the cause of training throughout the company – another great example of how life and a career at Vox never has to be linear.

Starting Out in Film and Entertainment

“When I left school I had only two real passions,” explains Greg. “I wanted to be a pilot – I was one of those kids who built little aeroplanes and hung them off the ceiling – and in my teenage years I got very involved in movies.

“Flight school was unfortunately just too expensive, so when I realised that flying wasn’t a career option, I went into the local film industry. I was involved in making some incredible movies in South Africa and was able to meet some amazing people.

Greg learned his craft from the ground up and thoroughly enjoyed being in the movie world, but it wasn’t to be forever.

He clarifies: “The industry in South Africa went through a phase in which international big budget films were being shot here, but the production houses were bringing over their own crews. I went freelance for a while but realised quite quickly that it was unfortunately time to leave the movie industry in the quest simply to earn a living.

“I also dabbled in radio, and DJ-ing at clubs, both of which were obviously great fun. Eventually I landed up at a large cellular company and became entrenched in the mobile phone arena. After some time with this enterprise, my intuitive knowledge and understanding of gadgets and technology, together with my ability to explain things and talk to people, collided in a fortuitous manner and I ended up in my first training position with them, where I stayed for quite some time – over a decade, in fact.”

The end result was a man who understood the value of entertainment, technology and training, as well as being flexible in his outlook on life – not to mention the importance of having fun! The stage was set for Greg to come to Vox.

‘You’d better call…’

We can thank a retrenchment exercise that took place at his previous employer for Greg’s eventual arrival at Vox. He explains: “In the wake of being unfortunately retrenched, one of my former work colleagues phoned me and told me that that @lantic – one of the businesses that was later to be merged into the group of companies under the Vox umbrella – was planning to set up a training department, and they were interested in talking to me. And so I had an interview and was offered a six-month contract.”

At that stage, Greg and his wife Claire were actually planning to emigrate to New Zealand, but in the light of this new development, they decided to stay for a while longer.

Greg continues: “At the end of the six months, I was then offered a permanent position, because my previous background in the film industry, and how I could use it within the training division to create videos when required, was seen to be advantageous. My technical outlook, combined with my training soft skills plus the film experience, all merged neatly into a new position within Vox. And so the rest, as they say, is history!

“I like to tell people that my love for Vox as a company meant that, even though we’d been accepted into New Zealand, we stayed in South Africa and have never looked back since. Everything came together at the right time and I’ve now been at Vox for about 13 years. My passion is training, but at Vox, as I mentioned, I’m able to look after a number of other things as well.”

A Strong Team of Trainers

As far as the Vox Training is concerned, Greg coordinates with his four Trainers every day. “We all work remotely,” he explains. ”Alex McDonald is the Systems Trainer and looks after all systems-related training, including for our partners, while Victor Kemp is in charge of our Technical Training, including our Mikrotik router training; our e-learning system and ‘Friday Bytes Live’. Our other two team members are Ryan Varga, our Sales Trainer, who also takes care of our leadership and mentoring system; and Craig Jewell, who looks after Soft Skills, presenting courses that include themes around customer service, time management and adaptability.”

“One of the Training Department’s innovative initiatives is the ‘Friday Bytes Live’, when Voxies come together every Friday morning to hear and learn about different areas of the company using a fun, interactive quiz approach. Victor runs with this every week, and we have prizes up for grabs to incentivise everyone further.”

Greg clarifies that the Training department is in charge of the general training needs of around two and a half thousand people, as well as the monthly Induction training for all new Vox employees.

“I’m the main person at the helm of the induction training,” he says, “and here I run training over a few days at the beginning of every month, when every department in the company sends a representative to introduce the different aspects of Vox to all our new employees. Induction training takes place in person at our Johannesburg head office, and we also facilitate online participation.

“One of the primary elements of Induction is simply chatting! I’m like the MC, if you like, and I try to make new people feel comfortable while I also liaise with the presenters. I’ve always been a big fan of comedy, and so we inject humour into these training days as much as possible. Another large element of Induction training – besides putting the programme together in advance and running with the required logistics – is to keep the sessions on track from a time perspective.”

It’s certainly a mixed bag, bringing a significant variety to Greg’s working days and weeks, which he appreciates. Over and above that, he says: “Another thing that I really enjoy about my job is that, while training is my first love, I am also able to get involved in so many other different things.

“For example, I’ve been able to assist with elements of our recruitment system as well as working on study skills. And funny enough, I love doing the mandatory stuff – the admin challenges that most other people dislike. For example, I really enjoy organising and setting up the meetings required to kickstart a training session.”

‘If there’s something weird…’

Greg Background 2 resized | Vox | Who You Gonna Call? — Greg’s home office reflects his creative approach to life and training

To balance out his day-to-day organisational requirements, Greg’s creative side once again comes to the fore with his off-duty interests. A speed freak, he doesn’t own a car but instead rides a motor bike, and is also a huge Formula 1 fan, as seen in his office space, where the roof is painted with black and white checkered squares to look like an F1 flag – something that any Voxie who’s ever been on a Teams call with him will recognise instantly!

Staying in Greg’s home office, there are shelves filled with Lego versions of Formula 1 cars and drivers, as well as Funko Pop and Skylander collectable figurines, reflecting his taste in music, movies (think James Bond and The Matrix!) and video games. Other interests and hobbies include sports shooting, cooking and coffee – Greg intends to roast significant quantities of his own coffee beans in the future. As a self-confessed coffee snob, he limits himself to just two coffee cups per day, which is just enough to help him keep up with his busy pet Border Collies (just one more daily cup of coffee wouldn’t be fair on the dog…).

Add in his wife of 20 years, Claire, and his two teenage children, and it’s a busy and enjoyable life, he says gratefully.

“For me, there is always something different to do at work. I’ve been exposed to working on new projects because of my line manager, Pam, as well as our CEO, Jacques du Toit – something that I appreciate enormously, and which speaks to the organisation’s culture of being innovative and flexible.

“This, I think, is what sets Vox apart from the other ISPs, together with the passion and heart for the business that our senior executives always display. There is a significant number of people within the company ‘who live and breathe green’, and I am passionately one of them,” he concludes.

And anyone who has a training need of any kind within Vox knows exactly who to call – Greg Gyngell!

Hot Promotions

Available in your area