Conflict tends to arise where there’s a group of people with different views and ideas. Even though a stokvel may consist of people who share common goals, members could still have arguments and disagreements. A director of Stokvel Voice Media, Andile Fulane, says it’s mainly because members are nowadays committed to chasing bigger numbers. “Even if there are challenges, those committed will find a way to resolve them and make things work,” Andile says.
SHARING COMMON INTEREST IN YOUR STOKVEL
According to Andile, a successful stokvel is made up of a community, people with common interests.The expert says it’s better to focus on getting a few members who want the same things as you. He says when you are looking to appoint a committee, it’s important to appoint people according to their strengths. He also advises that all members share responsibilities and not letting a few people do everything. “You need to use the right criteria in appointing people to take on leadership positions. For instance, the founder cannot be the chairperson because they started the stokvel, the position will have to go to someone who is more capable to do the job,” Andile advises.
WHAT’S CAUSING ALL THE FIGHTING?
Members belonging to the same club often fight over money; attendance and personality clashes. Andile says stokvel groups can avoid some of the drama using a modern technological application. He shares that there’s a new app called Stokfella, and it allows you to keep a record of all your finances. He says that way; your stokvel will have proof of every cent going in and out of the bank account.
WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR STOKVEL
Draw up a constitution: You need a constitution, which everyone has accepted as a guiding principle to govern the stokvel.
Get proper administration: Keeping track of your finances makes things easier to correct when an issue arises.
Adopt financial literacy skills: Andile says, “Lacking financial literacy may drive you to look for get rich quick methods, which should be avoided.”
Have a succession plan: It’s advisable that you develop younger people who have the energy and ideas to grow your club and get it to operate better.
