lonehill

Karabo Molokomme • November 3, 2023

Staff Enrichment Day: Strengthening Bonds and Boosting Teamwork


Following a hectic yet fulfilling 3rd term, our dedicated staff members gathered for the traditional Staff Enrichment Day. This delightful afternoon was brimming with laughter, camaraderie, and friendly competition.


In a lively "Minute to Win It" challenge, we not only shared hearty laughs but also saw the competitive spirit of some among us. Engaging in team-building activities like this provides valuable insights into each other's strengths and weaknesses.


Understanding these aspects fosters a deeper bond among employees and enhances teamwork, which is fundamental for any organisation. Such activities not only create a positive working atmosphere but also promote unity and collaboration among colleagues.


A woman is taking a picture of a group of people dancing
A woman in a green columbia shirt is dancing in front of a group of people

Splashing into Confidence: Our Jelly Babies' First Swim Lesson


Just before the end of Term 3, our youngest learners, the Jelly Babies, had their inaugural swimming lesson at school. With the water temperature at a comfortable 27°, the children immersed themselves in a world of fun, splashing, blowing bubbles, and engaging in delightful exercises like the choo-choo train along the poolside.


Beyond the joy, these swimming sessions hold immense developmental value. Confidence in water not only aids emotional growth but also enhances cognitive and physical development in early childhood. Regular swimming experiences help children navigate various sensory inputs, contributing significantly to their overall development. Moreover, these sessions effectively work and strengthen their muscles, promoting physical fitness and resilience.


In addition to its numerous benefits, swimming is undeniably a source of sheer delight for our young learners, making it a cherished part of their educational journey.


A group of children are sitting on the edge of a swimming pool.
Little girl sitting in front of fence

Open Cricket boys

Our Open Cricket boys' team showcased their talent at the Inter Crawford Cricket Tournament in Durban, hosted by Crawford North Coast. Under the watchful eye of Michael Johnson, Head of Sports, the boys displayed commendable skills, improving steadily throughout the tournament.


The event, named after Mr Owen Kuyper, a former Crawford Principal, was not just a competition but a chance for aspiring cricketers to shine. Mr Kuyper, deeply engaged, interacted with the young players, inspiring them with his presence.


Crawford Lonehill Prep secured an impressive 3rd place among 8 competitive teams. The accompanying photos capture our team's sporty spirit, donned in their sponsored Travel.co.za kit. The success of our Proteas over the weekend added to the tournament's excitement, creating a vibrant atmosphere of sportsmanship and camaraderie.


Cricket is not merely physical activity; it's a game of strategy. Our team's performance exemplifies the power of teamwork at Crawford International Lonehill, showcasing the spirit of collaboration and determination. Well done, team!


A group of young boys wearing blue shirts and hats are posing for a picture.
A group of people are playing a game of cricket on a field.

Grade 3s Delight in Scrumptious Crumpet Day


The delightful aroma of freshly made crumpets filled the air as our creative Grade 3s embarked on a culinary adventure. In a hands-on session, they delved into the world of measurements, following recipes, and understanding the transformation of raw ingredients into delectable treats.


This activity served as a perfect blend of education and fun, teaching the young chefs the nuances of baking techniques and the appropriate use of kitchen appliances. Beyond the delightful taste, the session honed problem-solving skills, encouraging attentive listening and thoughtful responses to questions.


More than just a cooking lesson, this experience provided valuable insights into the precision and expertise required in baking. As these young chefs crafted their crumpets, they gained a deeper appreciation for the art of culinary preparation. It's evident; we have some budding chefs in the making, ready to whip up delicious creations and perhaps even inspire future culinary masterpieces. Keep up the great work, Grade 3s!


A boy and a girl are making pancakes in a classroom.
A young boy is sitting at a table with a bowl of food and a carton of milk.

College

Crawford International Lonehill College Art and Design Collaboration


Our talented Art and Design students at Crawford International Lonehill College embarked on an extraordinary journey, joining forces with the incredible team at "The Daily Coffee" in Lonehill Shopping Centre for an awe-inspiring collaboration.


This venture transcended the realms of mere artistry; it was a transformation of learned skills into real-world enchantment.

With unwavering determination, they navigated the intricate design process, mastering the art of problem-solving and time management. Translating the client's vision into a vivid, jaw-dropping reality, they aimed to leave everyone in sheer awe.


However, this collaboration was not just about artistic brilliance; it was a heartfelt endeavour to give back and strengthen our bond with the vibrant community that surrounds us. A massive shout-out and heartfelt thanks to The Daily Coffee Lonehill for this exhilarating opportunity. Be prepared for more astounding creations from our exceptionally talented students, the best is yet to come.


A group of young girls are sitting around a table painting.
A group of young girls are posing for a picture in front of a restaurant.

Valediction 2023: A Night of Honour and Inspiration


Crawford International Lonehill College recently bid a magnificent farewell to the remarkable Class of 2023 during an emotional valediction and candle lighting ceremony. The evening was a poignant tribute to our students, honouring their achievements, unwavering dedication, and loyalty exhibited throughout their college journey.


To the Class of 2023, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for the indelible mark you have left on CCL over the years. A special thank you goes out to our dedicated teachers, whose passion for teaching transcends the boundaries of textbooks, shaping the minds of many. Your influence resonates far beyond the confines of the classroom.


This memorable evening was made possible through the relentless efforts of our staff, including the Grade Tutors, Mr. Smith, and Ms. Vieren, whose meticulous planning ensured the event's success. As a cherished tradition, we welcomed an esteemed Alumni guest speaker, Dr Langa Twala, from the Class of 2013. His powerful address centred on three guiding principles that have moulded him into the exceptional person he is today.


Thank you, Dr Twala, for your inspiring words, reminding our students that the journey ahead is shaped by resilience, determination, and a commitment to excellence. Your message will undoubtedly resonate in the hearts of our graduates, guiding them towards a future filled with promise and endless possibilities.


A table with trophies and candles on it in a room.
A group of young men in suits and ties are posing for a picture.

CRAWFORD CARES LONEHILL


In the heart of our college, a compassionate team, led by execs Kayden Eckert, Tshiamo Monama, and Heldana Mamo, is making a significant impact through our community outreach efforts. Every Tuesday and Friday, they spearhead a sandwich drive, ensuring no one goes hungry. Their commitment extends to Saturdays, where they engage in activities that truly make a difference.


Recently, on 21 October 2023, this dedicated team spent a meaningful morning at Husky Rescue in Farmall. Alongside 26 enthusiastic young individuals, they played with and cared for the dogs, providing them with much-needed attention and affection.


Moreover, this caring spirit doesn't stop here. The team is currently immersed in an appreciation drive, collecting items to celebrate our support staff at year-end. It's truly heartening to work with students who consistently go above and beyond in their efforts to make the world a better place. Thank you, CCL Cares team, for your outstanding dedication and compassion.


A group of people posing for a picture in front of a bus
A husky dog is standing next to a yellow pool of water.
May 22, 2026
When Rafie Mehrji Manshadi walked out of Crawford International College Sandton in 2018 with seven distinctions and his Student Prefect badge, he had no conventional road map for what came next. Today, he is a certified AI specialist, enterprise consultant, and co-founder of Angel Enterprise - a multi-division business ecosystem spanning AI consulting, creative design, hospitality, promotions, and education. His journey has been anything but linear. After matriculating at Crawford, Rafie pursued a Bachelor of Optometry at the University of Johannesburg, completing his degree in 2023. But throughout those four years, one thing never left him: a deep fascination with technology and artificial intelligence. Where others saw a completed degree as a destination, Rafie saw a crossroads. He made the bold decision to step away from optometry entirely and pursue the field that had always captivated him most. "It was a challenge to deal with the fact that I spent four years studying and then completely changed direction," he reflects. "But I was never happy with the conventional path - study, get a degree, get a job. I knew I didn't want to be an employee. I wanted to build something." And build he did. At the heart of Angel Enterprise sits Angel Intelligence, Rafie's primary focus - helping organisations move from AI experimentation to genuine, measurable impact through consulting, workflow automation, and AI system engineering. Beyond that, the broader ecosystem delivers branding, hospitality staffing, promotional services, and structured AI education programmes, all operating under one cohesive vision. Holding certifications from the Dubai Centre for AI, IBM, Anthropic, and Yale University, Rafie brings rare technical depth to a field reshaping every industry. His Crawford years, he says, gave him something no curriculum can fully teach. "Crawford showed me how to be myself - and that if I don't see a path for me, I should create my own." That instinct - to build rather than follow - is precisely what Crawford has always nurtured. And in Rafie Mehrji Manshadi, Sandton College has an alumnus who embodies it completely.
May 8, 2026
With 15 years at Crawford International Sandton Pre-Primary and a career dedicated to supporting young students who need a little extra encouragement, Ms Goldberg brings patience and deep professional expertise to her role as a Learning Support Teacher. For the children in her care, her classroom is a place where it is safe to try and safe to grow. The Road to Teaching Ms Goldberg has spent her entire teaching career at Crawford International Sandton, where she has built a reputation as a trusted and deeply committed member of the learning support team. Over 15 years, she has worked closely with Grade 0 students, focusing on small-group intervention that meets children where they are and gently guides them forward. Her passion for supporting students who find certain areas of learning more challenging has been a consistent thread throughout her time at Crawford, shaping both her approach in the classroom and the relationships she builds with the children and families she serves. Qualifications and Expertise Ms Goldberg's qualifications focus on early childhood and inclusive education. She holds a Higher Diploma in Pre-Primary and Junior Primary Education, which laid a strong foundation in understanding how young children develop and learn. She furthered her expertise with a B. Ed Honours degree in Learning Support, equipping her with the specialist knowledge required to identify and address the diverse needs of students in the foundation phase. This combination of early years training and focused learning support expertise has proven to be one of her uniqueness in the classroom, providing targeted intervention for the youngest members of our Crawford community. Teaching Philosophy At the core of Ms Goldberg's practice is a belief that every child is capable, plus that the environment in which they learn makes all the difference. She is guided by patience and a deep respect for the fact that no two children learn in exactly the same way. Creating a space where students feel genuinely safe, safe enough to take risks, make mistakes and keep going, is not incidental to her teaching. It is the foundation of it. For Ms Goldberg, building academic skills and building self-belief are not separate goals. They grow together, and both deserve equal attention and care. "My teaching philosophy is centred on patience, encouragement and understanding that every child learns differently. I believe in creating a safe and supportive environment where students feel confident to try, make mistakes and grow. My goal is to help each child build both their skills and their self-belief." What Ms Goldberg Values About Crawford For Ms Goldberg, Crawford International Sandton is more than a place of work. It is a community she has been part of for over a decade and a half. "My colleagues are like family, and we share a very close and supportive environment. Being part of such a strong team makes my work even more meaningful." This sense of belonging and shared purpose is something she carries into her classroom, creating the same spirit of care and mutual support for the students in her groups that she herself experiences among her peers. Beyond the Classroom Outside of school, Ms Goldberg is a proud mom to three teenage boys, a full and lively household by any measure. She finds balance and energy through regular gym sessions, long walks with her dogs and a well-deserved cup of coffee. These small, grounding rituals reminds us of the same intentionality and warmth she brings to her professional life. Quick Facts: 15 years at Crawford International Sandton Role: Learning Support Teacher, Grade 0 (small group intervention) Qualifications: Higher Diploma in Pre-Primary and Junior Primary Education and B.Ed Honours in Learning Support Passionate about building confidence and self-belief in young students Mom to three teenage boys Enjoys coffee, the gym and walking her dogs
Crawford International text on white background: “Choosing the Right Private School in South Africa”
April 17, 2026
A practical guide for parents on choosing the right private school in South Africa, from academics and culture to costs and location.
March 27, 2026
Meet Natasha Pillay: Nurturing Potential at Crawford International Fourways With nearly three decades in education and 14 years at Crawford International, Ms Pillay brings a unique blend of academic rigour, lived experience and heartfelt purpose to every classroom. Guided by a belief that every child can thrive when they feel truly valued, she continues to inspire students through inclusion and genuine care. The Road to Teaching Ms Pillay's teaching career spanning close to 30 years began in 1998 with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, before extending internationally with a stint in the United Kingdom. This breadth of experience has shaped a grounded, versatile approach to education that draws on both local and global perspectives. The foundation was laid at Springfield Teaching College, where a first-principles approach to teaching was instilled, one that continues to inform her classroom practice today. Since joining Crawford International on 28 May 2012, Ms Pillay has become a trusted and valued member of the community, approaching the end of her 14th year at the school. Qualifications and Subjects Taught A commitment to lifelong learning is evident in Ms Pillay's impressive academic record. Alongside the foundational diploma from Springfield Teaching College, her qualifications include a B Comm degree majoring in Financial Management, completed in 2006, and a B Ed Honours degree majoring in Inclusive Education, completed in 2012. The focus on inclusive education speaks directly to a deeply held belief in the right of every student to access meaningful, supportive learning. Teaching Philosophy At the heart of Ms Pillay's approach is a simple but powerful conviction: that every child can reach their full potential when they feel supported and valued. "I aim to create a safe, inclusive space where students feel confident to take risks and explore new concepts. Seeing my students grow, take initiative and discover their strengths motivates me every day as a teacher." This philosophy is not merely aspirational. It is lived out in the daily rhythms of the classroom, where safety is treated as a prerequisite for academic growth and where each student is encouraged to believe in their own ability. What Ms Pillay Values About Teaching at Crawford The curiosity and unique perspectives of Crawford's students are what make each day inspiring. Whether asking unexpected questions, approaching problems from fresh angles, or challenging themselves to grow, these students bring energy and authenticity to the learning environment. Working within the framework of the IB philosophy has deepened Ms Pillay's own practice as a teacher and reinforced a commitment to continued learning alongside her students. Crawford International is seen not simply as a place of employment, but as a community of shared values and shared growth. Beyond the Classroom Outside of school, Ms Pillay finds joy in cooking hearty meals for a son currently studying Engineering at university. Weekends often include hiking trails at Hennops, where the outdoors offers space for reflection and renewal. In recent years, a personal journey toward greater spiritual awareness has also taken shape, through reading, visiting places of spiritual significance and the practice of meditation. It is a pursuit that speaks to the same values she brings into the classroom each day: intentionality, openness and a desire to keep growing. Quick facts Joined Crawford International on 28 May 2012, completing 14 years at the end of May 2026 Teaching career began in 1998 with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education Also taught in the United Kingdom Qualifications: Springfield Teaching College Diploma · B Comm in Financial Management (2006) · B Ed Honours in Inclusive Education (2012) Enjoys hiking at Hennops, cooking and spiritual development through reading and meditation Proud parent of a son studying Engineering at university
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March 20, 2026
Explore the science behind play-based learning and how it shapes children's cognitive development — from memory and attention to creativity and executive function.
March 13, 2026
Ms van Straaten is a passionate early years teacher who believes the foundation for a child’s lifelong love of learning is built in the earliest stages of schooling. Recently stepping into her role as a Grade 0 teacher at Crawford International Bryanston, she brings warmth, insight and experience to her classroom, creating an environment where young students feel safe, valued and ready to explore. The Road to Teaching Ms van Straaten holds a BEd degree in Psychology and Human Resource Management, as well as a PGCE in the Foundation Phase. Her background in psychology informs her understanding of child development and emotional well-being. She began her teaching career as a Grade 000 teacher, where she spent three years helping young children build strong early foundations. During this time, she developed a deep appreciation for the importance of play, secure relationships and responsive teaching in the formative years. Her move into Grade 0 marks an exciting next step as she continues guiding students through important developmental milestones. Subjects and Focus As a Grade 0 teacher within an IB framework, Ms van Straaten supports learning through a play based, inquiry driven approach aligned with the Primary Years Programme. She guides students through early literacy and numeracy development while also supporting their social, emotional and creative growth. Through carefully planned learning experiences, she encourages curiosity, independence and holistic development. Teaching Philosophy Ms van Straaten takes a holistic approach to learning. She believes emotional wellbeing is central to academic progress and prioritises creating a classroom where children feel secure, understood and confident to take risks. “In the early years, children are developing far more than academic skills. They are building confidence, learning how to express themselves and beginning to understand the world around them. At Crawford International Bryanston, I believe it is important that every child feels safe, supported and encouraged to explore. When students feel emotionally secure, they are more open to learning, collaboration and growth,” shares Ms van Straaten. What She Values About Teaching Ms van Straaten finds great fulfilment in witnessing the transformation that happens during the early years, from developing confidence and independence to celebrating meaningful developmental milestones. Working with young children continues to inspire her daily and she remains committed to nurturing not only their academic readiness, but also their emotional and social development within the Crawford community.
March 6, 2026
In a significant recognition of its leadership in sustainable education, ADvTECH - Africa's leading private education provider - has been honoured for exceptional environmental stewardship at the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) Centenary Awards. Celebrating a century of inspiring environmental action, education, and advocacy under the motto “People Caring for the Earth”, WESSA acknowledged ADvTECH's deep integration of the Eco-Schools South Africa programme for its unparalleled scale and impact. “As WESSA marks 100 years of environmental leadership, partnerships like the one we share with ADvTECH remind us why environmental education remains one of the most powerful tools for long-term change,” says WESSA CEO Cindy-Lee Cloete.  “When 42 schools within a single education group commit to environmental stewardship, the ripple effect extends far beyond the classroom into homes, communities and ultimately into the future leadership of this country.” At the awards ceremony on February 27, 37 ADvTECH schools received Silver Awards status, which celebrates two years of WESSA collaboration, and the schools below have shown their lasting dedication by participating in environmental initiatives and raising awareness. Trinityhouse, Little Falls: Gold status (4 yrs.) Crawford International School, Sandton: Platinum 2 status (7 yrs.) Tyger Valley College: Bronze Decade status (12 yrs.) Pinnacle College, Ridgeview: Green Flag Decade status (13 yrs.) Pecanwood College: Platinum Decade 2 status (17 yrs.) Additionally, also recognised for submitting the most eco-snippets All of the ADvTECH participating schools achieved full assessment letters for their submitted portfolios of evidence, with scores ranging from 70% - 98%. Top achieving schools were: Crawford International School, La Lucia Maragon Olympus, Faerie Glen Crawford International School, Sandton Crawford International School, Lonehill Abbots College, Northcliff Additionally, ADvTECH received a Partnership Award in recognition of its outstanding and unique contribution to environmental stewardship. “It has been another incredible year working closely with the WESSA champions at our schools, as well as the dedicated WESSA team. Throughout 2025, we witnessed some of the most inspiring and comprehensive portfolios of evidence ever submitted, reflecting not only commitment but also genuine passion for environmental stewardship and sustainability. The quality, creativity, and consistency demonstrated by our champions have set a remarkable standard and continue to inspire positive change within their school communities,” says Krystal Munian, Academic Advisor and WESSA Lead. “We extend our sincere gratitude to every champion and the school teams for their phenomenal hard work, perseverance, and dedication to advancing the project’s goals. And we are excited about the year ahead and look forward to building on this momentum through new activities, innovative initiatives, collaborative projects, and continued growth across all participating schools.”
February 27, 2026
Melvyn, a 2023 Crawford International School graduate, left Crawford in pursuit of excellence in the field of business and hospitality in Switzerland. Two years in, he continues to represent not just Crawford but all of Africa as a student-ambassador in Europe. He has gotten work experiences in Switzerland’s top hotels (including the The Dolder Grand - Ranked 1st in Switzerland in 2024 and The Chedi Andermatt - a five-star superior hotel) which are equipping him with valuable skills from the best of the best alongside his education at a renowned Swiss Institution. Whilst at Crawford, Melvyn was exceptional academically as well as in extra curriculars and sports. He completed his IGCSE’s with: 4 A*s, 2 A’s and 2 B’s before completing his O and A Levels. Whilst at school, he also received several distinctions and achievements including: Game Jam 2022 winner ( LINK ) Best in Business & Global Perspectives 2021 Commendation in Leadership Award 2022 Most Promising Football Player 2019 The Top in Languages Award 2021 The Good Fellowship Award 2021 Now in Switzerland, Melvyn is pursuing a degree in Business and Hospitality at the prestigious Business & Hotel Management School (B.H.M.S), where he continues to uphold the same standard of excellence that defined his time at Crawford Tatu. Alongside his academic journey, he is an active member of the school football team, balancing elite sport with the demands of a rigorous programme. His commitment to performance has earned him multiple GPA-based scholarships, recognising his consistent academic achievement. At the same time, he is gaining hands-on industry experience within Switzerland’s world-class hospitality sector, allowing him to seamlessly integrate theory with practice. Through his dedication both in the classroom and in the workplace, Melvyn continues to grow as a well-rounded leader, proudly representing Crawford and Africa on an international stage.
February 20, 2026
Going to boarding school is a thrilling journey, but it can also feel a little overwhelming at first, and it is perfectly natural to feel both these emotions! For parents, the thought of their child living away from home may be both comforting and hard. It’s heartening to know that your child is becoming more independent while still being cared for, but it can also be hard to get used to. Our boarding facilities at Crawford International North Coast welcome students from as young as Grade 6 and are meant to feel like a home away from home.  From the first day, each student has their own room, which gives them a private space they can make their own. Every space starts off as a blank canvas, ready for students to add their own touches that show who they are and make them feel at home. Having a place to go that feels safe and pleasant after a packed day of lessons, sports, and other activities makes a big difference. Our highly experienced team encourages students to bring personal items from home that are familiar and make them feel at home. A Bluetooth speaker, a scented diffuser with a scent familiar to home, or framed family photos can make the room feel more like their own right away. There are a lot of ways boarders can make their rooms feel like a cozy refuge. To create a room, warm that is warm and stylish, students can think about adding fairy lights, soft throw blankets, colourful cushions, Polaroid photo walls, indoor plants, motivating books, or a plush rug. These small details make the room more than simply a place to sleep; they make it a place to recharge and show off their creativity. These things make a plain room feel like their own, motivating, and intimate. At Crawford International North Coast, boarding is more than just a place to stay. It's a time of independence, privacy, and community when every student thrives!. Our boarding ensures comfort and connection while our campus offers safety and serenity for our 100 boarders. Located just 10 minutes from Durban’s King Shaka International Airport, we are conveniently located for all our students travelling to Durban by air
February 13, 2026
At Crawford International Tatu City in Kenya, Mr Kizito Wafula Okumu has been part of the journey from the very beginning. As a pioneer teacher who joined the campus in 2018, he has helped shape both the academic and co-curricular identity of the school during its formative years. Mr Okumu teaches French from Primary through to A Level, bringing more than 16 years of experience in the subject. His path into teaching began with a simple yet influential note written in his Form 2 French book by his own teacher, encouraging him not to abandon the language because it would open doors. That advice proved decisive. He went on to complete a Bachelor of Education in French at Kenyatta University, further improving his proficiency through certification with Alliance Française and continued engagement with native speakers. Teaching for Global Perspectives For Mr Okumu, language is more than curriculum content. It is access to culture, connection and global opportunity. When visiting his classroom, one experiences this belief in action, encouraging students to see French not simply as a subject, but as a gateway to the world. Beyond the classroom, Mr Okumu serves as Deputy in charge of Sports and Outreach. A former competitive hockey player who won three national trophies during his school career, he understands the discipline and resilience that sport demands. He continues to be actively involved in the sporting community and brings that same commitment to Crawford International Tatu City, with a clear ambition to strengthen the school’s sporting profile. Equally important is his dedication to community outreach. Under his leadership, students participate in initiatives that extend beyond charitable giving. They are encouraged to take ownership of projects, to understand the realities faced by others and to develop empathy alongside leadership. It is an approach that reflects the Crawford commitment to educating the whole student. Teaching Philosophy Each morning, Mr Okumu greets students as they arrive on campus, energised by their curiosity and ambition. His philosophy is grounded in balance, “a sound body supports focus, perseverance and joy in learning. A sound mind brings purpose, strategy and sportsmanship to physical endeavours” he shares. Inside the School Day  When asked what inspires his energy and love for teaching, he shares, “I’m inspired every morning by the joyful smiles of our students arriving excited for the day ahead. Standing at the foyer meet-and-greet, I get to witness their aspirations firsthand and embrace the privilege of helping shape these bright young global leaders alongside our incredible team." Interesting facts about Mr Okumu: Pioneer teacher at Crawford International Tatu City since 2018 Deputy in charge of Sports and Outreach Proud husband and father of two sons Enjoys nature, camping and off roading Former competitive hockey player with three national titles As Crawford International continues to shape global leaders across Africa, teachers such as Mr Okumu embody the shared values that connect our campuses. High standards. Global outlook. And a belief in developing students who are prepared not only for exams, but for life beyond school.
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