Opinion
Top employee’s defense of Swvl puts basic rights in jeopardy
The Egyptian social media circus is in full power since last week. It all started when few Swvl employees accused their employer of terminating their contracts unjustly.
The magnitude of these Facebook posts wasn’t small, but at the same time, it wasn’t big enough to cause any huge embarrassment to Swvl. It was going to fade away in a matter of days.
In Egypt, it happens a lot when employees take it to social media to accuse their employers of unfair treatment or unlawful acts. It happens, but it fades away at the end. It is not a professional sign, though, but it still happens.
It also –likely– affects the accuser negatively and makes other companies think twice before hiring them, fearing they might be attacked publicly too in case of any misunderstanding between the company and these employees.
What happened?
What is new this time is the aggressive response made by the digital marketing manager of Swvl. He took it upon himself to defend his company, took his phone, and started a 20 minutes video rant.
Smearing the terminated employees and mocking their work ethics. Swvl didn’t respond –until now– to deny or confirm what was said in his video, which is a sign that it may be accepted from the company’s side.
After posting this video, the social media scene was raging; enormous volumes of posts were grilling, searing, and steaming Swvl’s digital marketing manager and his employer.
Apparently, he removed the video, but it resurfaced on a different Facebook group; someone saved it and posted it back after removing it.
Swvl’s Digital Marketing Manager wrote another post after that trying to ease the effect of his video. Yet, he did not apologize about it and continued to mock those against his narrative.
So what work ethics did he rant about in this video?
You might be expecting it was about bad performance or unethical ways of dealing with work-related matters. Well, no, it was about coffee breaks, lunchtime, and working eight hours per day. But, yes, from his point of view, this is bad ethics that earned them contract termination.
He gave examples of other Swvl “good employees” who are workaholics, go to work with sleeping bags, and perform with very unrealistic deadlines and budgets.
He was ranting –or bullying– in such a self-righteous tone those who the company fired. This, again, indicates that this is why they were fired in the first place. We were expecting a clear public official clarification from Swvl. But the silence from Swvl’s officials was deafening!
Why is this so alarming, and why this gigantic movement against Swvl?
1- This is the first time a company prides itself on unrealistic deadlines and extreme working hours.
I would be lying if I said all companies work 9 to 5 all the time, especially in the ICT sector. It is well known that employees can stay late in some cases and certain circumstances.
Companies are expected to ask their employees “gently” to stay after working hours if needed or to show respect for those staying more without asking.
Yes, I know this happens, but it is insane if a company would pride itself on working non-stop, unrealistic deadlines and brag about firing employees who refuse to work under these circumstances.
If this behavior slips to other companies in Egypt, it will become a repulsive market.
I’m quoting this piece from a Forbes article that sums this up, constantly working extra hours is not productive.
“They don’t know any better and believe that the more they do, the more productive they are. People addicted to busyness have no systems in place that help them automate processes, and they have a team that relies on their constant guidance and presence. They believe that being busy is inevitable and actually a good thing. They don’t know how to manage their time efficiently, delegate roles or responsibilities or use systems that create freedom for them to work on important things and have a life.”
2- Employee rights are a thick fat red line; mocking these rights in such a public way is a first in the Egyptian market.
Again, we all heard a manager approaching us to stay late to deliver a certain task or project. Normally this manager is asking either politely or apologetically. This was the culture!
Sometimes a certain reward scheme is agreed upon in case of such repetitive requests, or at least, your manager would give you extra days off later. Or they might offer you extremely flexible working hours if you want later.
But, this is the first time, ever, a company is requesting that arrogantly, publicly, bullying and mocking those who want to work normal working hours.
It is the first time a company is defaming employees and overlooking employee rights in public self-righteous anger.
Richard Branson, the founder of Virgin Group, once said
“Clients do not come first. Employees come first. If you take care of your employees, they will take care of the clients.” Virgin group owns more than 400 companies, and Branson’s net worth is more than 4.9 billion dollars. He also said “Train your people well enough so they can leave. Treat them well enough so they don’t want to”.
It’s how successful businesses think of their people because they plan for the long term, not for today only.
3- If no one disagreed with what was said in the video, it would happen again, and it will spread into the whole sector
Imagine there was no response to what the Digital Marketing Manager said. It will encourage other managers and companies to do the same.
Actually, this point is self-explanatory.
4- The ICT sector in Egypt is booming; such acts will affect the whole sector and bounce investors away
It is well known that the Egyptian ICT sector is a substantial and competitive market.
We all are witnessing that many skilled candidates are leaving the country. This is happening for many reasons; we do not want to add another reason to drive talents away.
This will not only affect Swvl, but it will also affect the whole sector.
The bread and butter of the industry are the employees. One factor that defines a great ICT sector in any country and attracts investors is employee rights.
Bragging publicly and priding yourself that you do not care about employee rights will affect everyone.
You don’t believe that the ICT sector in Egypt is that strong? Then, please check that article on TechCrunch, “Egyptian technology startups stand on the shoulders of giants.”
This article gives you a glimpse of how great this sector began in Egypt and how we should keep it the same as great as it began.
Some sympathize with the Digital Marketing Manager’s message by saying this is normal and healthy and should give a lesson to low-quality employees who want to work normal working hours.
I won’t debate a lot about this point. Instead, I will rest my case by this fresh article on Inc – which was published a few days ago, titled “Elon Musk Sent an Email to Employees at 1:20 in the Morning, and It Just May Signal the End of Tesla”.
Please let me quote here part of the Inc. article
“While it’s likely that Musk truly believes his own rhetoric, what he’s trying to achieve–namely, getting people to buy into the mission of “saving the world” by working themselves to the bone–simply isn’t sustainable. And it’s hurting Tesla employees in the process.
In contrast, the most effective mission-driven organizations encourage balance and taking care of oneself. They realize that anything other than that is foolish and will hurt the cause in the end, in the form of damaged workers and, subsequently, damaged culture.
Yes, the best organizations use their messaging to inspire their people and reach them on an emotional level. But they do so while keeping their individual needs in mind.
The best organizations encourage their people to get enough sleep by not sending emails at 1:00 in the morning.”
And until now, Swvl did not deny what was said and went viral by their Digital Marketing Manager about its internal culture, intense working hours, and the alleged reasons behind firing their employees. We are still waiting.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in the “Opinion” section are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the position of the Digital Boom.
Creative Work
5 Best Cameras for Filmmakers in 2023
If you’re ready to take your filmmaking to the next level, it’s time to invest in a top-notch camera that will capture your creative vision in stunning detail. Whether you’re a budding director, a passionate documentarian, or a visual storyteller, we’ve scoured the market to bring you the crème de la crème of cameras. Get your director’s chair ready as we unveil the best cameras for digital filmmakers.
1. Sony A7 III
The Sony A7 III is a powerhouse camera that combines exceptional image quality, superb low-light performance, and incredible dynamic range. With its 24.2-megapixel full-frame sensor, 4K video capabilities, and impressive autofocus system, this camera is now a favorite amongst vloggers and serious filmmakers.
Price: $1,998.
2. Canon EOS R5
This beast of a camera boasts a 45-megapixel full-frame sensor, 8K video recording, and advanced image stabilization. With its lightning-fast autofocus and superb color reproduction, it’s a dream come true for filmmakers seeking unrivaled quality.
Price: $3,899.
3. Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K
This compact camera punches well above its weight class. With its Super 35mm sensor, 6K resolution, and wide dynamic range, it delivers breathtaking footage that will make your audience sit up and take notice. The camera’s versatility and robust color-grading capabilities make it a top choice for filmmakers on a budget. For the size, it’s superb.
Price: $1,995.
4. Panasonic Lumix GH5
The Panasonic Lumix GH5 is a mirrorless camera that packs a punch. With its 20.3-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor, 4K video at 60fps, and impressive image stabilization, it’s a reliable companion for filmmakers on the go. The camera’s rugged build and extensive video features make it a favorite among adventurous filmmakers.
Price: $1,497.95.
5. RED Komodo 6K
Ready to make a blockbuster? The RED Komodo 6K is a professional cinema camera that delivers stunning image quality and flexibility. With its compact form factor, global shutter, and 6K resolution, it’s a favorite among filmmakers aiming for cinematic perfection. While it comes with a higher price tag, its capabilities make it a worthwhile investment for severe digital filmmakers.
Price: $6,000.
With these top cameras in your arsenal, you’ll be ready to bring your cinematic visions to life. From Sony’s excellence to Canon’s innovation and Blackmagic’s affordability to RED’s unmatched quality, there’s a camera for every budget and filmmaking style. So, grab your director’s chair, gather your crew, and let your creative genius shine on the silver screen.
[Note: Prices mentioned here are approximate and subject to change. Please refer to the manufacturer’s websites for the most up-to-date pricing information.]
News
Threads: Unravelling the Spectacular Launch of the Hottest Social Media Platform
There’s been a disturbance in the force. In a world of constantly evolving social media platforms, a new contender has burst onto the scene, capturing the attention of millions and leaving a trail of excitement in its wake.
Threads, Meta’s Twitter rival, has taken the digital realm by storm, offering a refreshing and dynamic experience for users growing weary of Muskian meddling and looking for a unique social media adventure.
Let’s delve into the exhilarating launch of Threads, explore the number of users who have flocked to the platform, and discover the types of individuals we think it might attract.
A Diverse User Base Flocks to Threads
Threads has become the talk of the town. Since its much-anticipated launch, the platform has amassed 30+ million registered users worldwide, 5m reportedly arriving in the first 4 hours of operation. Industry experts predict his rapid growth will position Threads as a significant player in the digital realm, rivaling established giants such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Threads: A Haven for Digital Mavericks and Creatives
One of the most intriguing aspects of Threads is its potential to attract a diverse range of users. The platform’s unique features and captivating interface appeal to people of all ages, interests, and backgrounds. From Gen Z trendsetters to seasoned professionals seeking a fresh networking platform, Threads offers something for everyone.
Threads will quickly become a haven for digital mavericks who yearn for a distinct online experience. These early adopters thrive on innovation, eagerly embracing new technologies and platforms. Their active presence on Threads will result in a vibrant and cutting-edge community that in turn will attract more thrill seekers.
The platform will also be a magnet for creatives, drawing in artists, designers, photographers, and writers. The platform’s visually immersive nature allows users to showcase their talents and connect with like-minded individuals. We guess. Threads will become a hub of inspiration and collaboration for global artists.
Threads: The Go-To Platform for Networking Professionals
For professionals searching for fresh networking and career growth avenues, Threads will emerge as the go-to platform. Its interactive and intuitive interface enables users to build meaningful connections, exchange ideas, and explore job opportunities. The platform’s focus on fostering professional relationships differentiates it from traditional social media networks.
Amplifying Voices and Effecting Positive Change on Threads
Threads is not just about self-expression; it will also attract passionate individuals who want to make a difference. Users dedicated to social causes and activism can find a home on the platform, utilizing its extensive reach to raise awareness and mobilize communities. Threads will prove a powerful platform for amplifying voices and effecting positive change.
Setting Threads Apart: Seamlessness, User Experience, and Privacy Measures
What sets Threads apart from its competitors? Its appeal lies in combining seamless functionality with a seductive user experience. The platform’s innovative features, including dynamic threads, immersive multimedia integration, and intelligent algorithms that tailor content to individual interests, have proved a real draw. Moreover, Threads’ commitment to user privacy and data security has provided a real draw. Threads app offers fresh air in an era of data breaches and privacy concerns by prioritizing transparency and implementing robust privacy measures.
The Impact of Threads: A Force to be Reckoned With
Threads has unquestionably ignited the social media landscape. With its explosive launch, staggering user numbers, and diverse user base, the platform has proven it will be a force to be reckoned with. Whether you’re a digital maverick, creative connoisseur, networking ninja, or cause champion, Threads promises to be the reactive social media platform of choice, and its impact on the digital landscape is only set to grow. Stand by for a new world order, one connected by threads.
Opinion
What’s happening with Swvl?
Swvl, an Egyptian ridesharing company, has seen a significant decline in value due to financial struggles, resulting in a 99% drop in stock price year-to-date (YTD), hovering around $0.10 and a market capitalization of less than $15 million. Reported Bloomberg.
Swvl was founded in Egypt in April 2017, by Mostafa Kandil and two of his school friends, Ahmed Sabbah and Mahmoud Nouh.
The company was initially funded with $30,000 from the founders. Four months later, Swvl received an additional $500,000 in funding from the ridesharing company Careem. Originally, the company developed an app to address traffic congestion in Cairo but later shifted its focus to creating a platform for booking affordable bus trips in the city.
In 2018, Swvl completed two rounds of funding: a Series A game that raised $8 million and a Series B round between $25-35 million.
The company was valued at around $100 million during these funding rounds, which were co-led by BECO Capital, DiGAME, and Silicon Badia.
Why is Swvl falling?
Since its inception, Swvl has operated by renting buses with drivers for a monthly fee and then using them to run on fixed routes. Unlike the Uber model, which relies on marketing as it offers a marketplace to match drivers who own the cars to users who use the mobile app – they make a profit by getting a cut from the ride.
On the contrary, Swvl’s model owns the entire operation (renting the bus in advance, drivers’ salaries, and marketing for the app). This puts more cost on the company while its revenues are fixed or, most of the time, less because no bus will go complete all day, all routes.
Without going through the exact numbers, it’s evident that Swvl cannot profit with the current business model, and it’s a matter of time before the company’s cash dries out.
How can Swvl recover? Tell us in the comments below.
Inspired by: a Linkedin post by Zubair Naem.
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