Flow prides itself on its versatility and ability to produce websites for any client – from large organisations (think South African Tourism) to individuals seeking to express themselves, such as Sibusiso Buthelezi.
Buthelezi (aka Sbu), who grew up in Soweto during the struggle against apartheid, is a former head of department of the Gauteng Department of Housing, and the Gauteng Department of Public Transport, Roads and Works. He has a long list of credentials working in government. “I spent a good part of the past 20 years in public service in one form or another,” he says.
Websites can serve a variety of purposes. Sbu’s site, www.thesbu.com, is a personal blog, which he uses, among other things, to tell his side of the story and clear up any misconceptions following his controversial departure from the Gauteng Department of Public Transport, Roads and Works.
“My intention is to tell my side of the story with regard to the investigations that tarnished my name in the public domain. Hence the subtitle to my blog, ‘Nothing but the truth’.
“I would also like to use the website to put the little I know about public policy in the public domain, as well as to engage in ANC political debates using my firm grounding in ANC policy.”
These days, Sbu is focusing on his interests as a self-employed businessman.
His views of Flow are only positive. “My impression of Flow is extremely good,” he says. “A highly competent, resourceful, yet easygoing team.
“Flow is always on hand to provide all the support I need. It is impossible to quantify my appreciation and sense of belonging to the Flow family.”
He’s also quick to praise Flow subeditor Keith Nicholls, who has worked with him on many of his posts. “Keith does a good job of always reminding me of acknowledging my sources.”
Until 2013, Sbu will focus on ANC policy leading up to the 53rd national conference in Mangaung, whereafter he will look at public policy works (and anything investigation-related, should it pop up).