DCASA recently held its first branch meeting in several years in the Eastern Cape.
The regional branch is having a resurgence under the guidance of the new Eastern Cape DCASA representative, Casper le Grange who is known from his successful and long standing debt counselling practice DCGsa. The event began at 10:30 am and officially after 3pm with lots of follow up discussions and networking.
Who Was There?
The meeting was held on February 9, and attending were 17 local registered debt review practices, four attorney firms including an Advocate, two of the major banks’ senior debt review representatives, a microfinance company, two collection agents, one major insurance company, and a payment distribution agent (PDA) representative.
The Speakers & Presentations
The agenda for the day included a presentation from Patrick Nendouvhada represented WesBank and FRB, providing a comprehensive overview of debt review application trends over the past four years. He shared that WesBank want to build good personal relationships with Debt Counsellors.
Eddie Greeff (who was joined by DCCP Sales and Relationship Manager for Cape Province, Carel du Preez) provided insights into the establishment of DC Credit Protect, their offering Credit Life and other insurance-related services and how these benefit clients and reward Debt Counsellors appropriately.
Eddie also discussed the in-house Policy Administration System, which is tested and approved by African Unity Life, as well as their entire product range, from Credit Life, to Funeral, Accidental Death, Income Protector, and Life Conversion.
Next, it was time to hear from Chantell Rousseau who presented the business overview and operations of Consumer Friend (with Jenna Freeguard to answer any questions). Chantell encouraged Debt Counsellors to use the DREX Portal not only for ease for themselves but also for their consumers.
Jaco van der Merwe of ABSA shared valuable insights on how they see the debt review process. He emphasised the importance of clear communication and adherence to granted orders, including the cascade.
Gerda-Mari Pentz, representing DC Partner PDA, congratulated Casper on the success of his first branch meeting as the EC Representative for DCASA.
Casper le Grange, finished up the day by expressed gratitude to his team (at DCGsa) and to DCASA. Casper acknowledged the challenges of hosting the event, considering previous years’ attendance. He extended a heartfelt thank you to the headline sponsor, DC Credit Protect, whose generous support played a pivotal role in making the event possible.
Casper also expressed gratitude to Consumer Friend and applauded the willingness of key industry players like Jaco and Patrick, who actively engaged with Debt Counsellors during the meeting. Looking forward, Casper expressed hope for even greater attendance at the next meeting and announced a competition to encourage people to attend.
Want To Join The Action Next Time?
The next meeting, in the region is scheduled for 10th May. You can contact DCASA to book your attendance at the next branch meeting there or in your area.