Meet our 2025 Top 40

Linda Sewnarain is the founder and managing director of Five Star BEE Compliance, “We were founded in 2015, so we’re ten years old this year,” says Linda. “It’s a huge milestone for us.” The company specialises in Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) verifications, a field while often described as a ‘grudge purchase’, is essential for any company seeking success in the South African market.

Lesedi Metsoamere serves as the regional executive for Private Wealth Banking at Absa Group, overseeing both the KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga provinces. Her professional career in banking began when she was just 19 years old, while still completing her studies. Reflecting on her beginnings, she said, “There was a financial institution recruiting from our university, looking for students to join and work. That’s when I started working.” From the outset, Lesedi was drawn to the world of finance.

Shelley Ainsworth is a conveyancer and attorney who, fourteen years ago, made the bold decision to leave the security of full-time employment to start her own practice, Ainsworth Attorneys. Based in KwaZulu-Natal, her firm has grown from a small home office into a thriving boutique conveyancing and property law practice with three branches, eight qualified attorneys, several candidate attorneys, and dedicated support staff. Reflecting on her journey, Shelley shares, “In those early days, I was the messenger, the tea lady, the receptionist, the bookkeeper, and the attorney. As time went on, I was fortunate that we grew into the position we are in today.”

Lorraine Dyer is the managing director for Bata South Africa, part of a multinational company that has become synonymous with quality footwear and community commitment. Bata operates in almost 70 countries now and has about 5,800 stores globally. In South Africa, its operations are both large and deeply rooted. Lorraine explains, “We have a factory in Loskop, Drakensberg that employs about 420 people. Then we have a distribution centre where we employ 60 people, and in our head office in La Lucia, we have around 82 people. It’s a strong team of employees.”

Samantha Swanepoel, the financial director of Boiler Craft Africa, is helping to power industries through bespoke boiler and steam solutions. Based in KwaZulu-Natal, the company is dedicated to delivering sustainable, safe, and reliable steam systems that enable industries to operate efficiently while advancing towards a greener future. Under Samantha’s financial leadership, Boiler Craft Africa has strengthened its foundations to support growth, reinvest in its people, and foster a culture that places quality and service excellence at its core

Carla da Silva Caires is the head of client relations and business development at Insite Towers, a leading national telecommunications infrastructure developer and owner. In this role, she plays a pivotal part in expanding the company’s footprint by driving improved connectivity across KwaZulu-Natal.

Rashika Reddy, manager of Coastal Farmers Eshowe, has built a remarkable 21 year career in the agricultural sector, a journey defined by perseverance, leadership and a passion for empowering others. Coastal Farmers, a proudly established agricultural cooperative, will celebrate its 80th anniversary next year, marking eight decades of dedication, growth and service to the farming community.

Cerisha Naicker, the director of DigitalProductions and producer of the Get Real Talk Show, has built her career around one clear purpose: to tell stories that move people. Digital Productions is a vibrant video and photography company that specialises in the wedding industry and corporate events. The Get Real Talk is a proudly KZN show where extraordinary individuals and celebrities share their inspiring stories.

Janice Chetty has always been driven by a sense of purpose and a belief in the power of self-determination. “When I was six years old, I was playing Monopoly outside, throwing the money in the air, and saying, ‘I’m going to be my own boss,’” she laughs. “My dad still has that video. That dream never left me.” Today, Janice is the owner of Dynamic Outlook, a training and recruitment agency, and the founder of Billing for Doctors, a medical billing company. She also runs Miriam’s Mission, a non-profit organisation founded in memory of her grandmother, which focuses on empowering young people through skills development.

Wendy Dhlomo is a gynaecologist and the founder and co-owner of Femiclinix. Situated in the Upper
Highway area of Hillcrest, Femiclinix is a pioneering women’s health clinic that merges comfort, compassion
and clinical excellence. Wendy describes Femiclinix as ‘a home away from home’ kind of clinic. Expectant mothers can experience childbirth in a relaxed, family-centred setting while retaining the assurance of medical safety. Her vision stems from the belief that pregnancy is a natural process rather than a medical condition.

Masha Padayachi is the chief executive officer of FT Engineering, a company that has shaped the
telecommunications landscape for three decades. “We do telecommunication work for MTN, Cell C, Vodacom, and ATC, which is an American based company and we are also into construction,” she explains with pride. Her success is rooted in determination, resilience, and a steadfast belief that women can achieve anything they set their minds to.“I started from very humble beginnings,” says Masha.

Minenhle Dlamini, managing director of Gagasi FM, leads one of KwaZulu Natal’s most vibrant regional com
mercial radio stations. Her journey to the top of the commercial broadcasting world has been one of
persistence, reinvention, and a deep love for media. “My journey to being an MD started in 2009,” she recalled. “I started as a radio presenter, presenting on weekends. Monday to Friday I’d have a nine-to-five, then Saturday and Sunday I would be on air.”

Emily Elliott is chief executive officer of Imperial Armour, a globally recognised manufacturer of high-performance body armour serving both local and international markets. This year marks the company’s twenty-fifth anniversary, a milestone that reflects dedication and resilience. At just twenty-nine years old, Emily’s journey has been one intertwined with family legacy and personal conviction.

Veetha Sewkuran, president of the KwaZulu Natal Blind and Deaf Society, has always been driven by transformation. Her greatest dream has been to see the Society grow into a fully inclusive, self-sustaining centre of empowerment. Veetha expanded, “A place where blind and deaf individuals are not just supported, but educated, trained, and employed, allowing them to live independent and dignified lives.” Under her guidance, this vision is steadily becoming a reality. Veetha, although she holds the post of president as an unpaid volunteer, has revitalised the century-old organisation, guiding it from turbulence to renewed purpose and stability. Her inspiration, she explains, has come from the people she serves. “My inspiration has always come from the blind and deaf individuals whose courage, resilience, and determination remind me every day why I do this work,” she shares warmly.

Karen Hammond says that family is the heartbeat of everything she does. “I’m married to a wonderful husband, Trevor, and we have two incredible children,” she reflects, her voice warm and full of affection. “They are my anchor, my joy, and my constant inspiration.” Today, Karen serves as Group Head of People at the Meridian Group, a company she describes with pride and conviction. “Meridian is more than a business,” she explains. “We exist to make brands thrive, to nurture our people, and to give back to our communities.

Sonali Menon Govender, managing attorney at Maynard Menon Govender Incorporated, has always had inspiration close at hand. Her earliest memories are rooted in the courtroom. “I grew up following my dad everywhere,” she recalls with a smile. “ I would sit at the back of the courtroom watching him work, completely fascinated by what he did.”After completing her legal studies, Sonali joined her father’s firm, served her articles and began to carve out her own place within the legal world, blending her love of law with an eye for innovation. “Once I identified the niche area of the company that I truly enjoyed, I began managing that department,” she explains. “From there, I moved into innovation and strategy within the firm.

Heather McDade is the managing director of Modena Design Centres Durban. The company operates in the design solutions space, offering advanced software and technology services to industries across Africa. Heather explained, “We are the only Autodesk Platinum Partner in Africa. Autodesk is the largest computer-aided design (CAD) software development company in the world. We sell software solutions to architects and engineers, we train, we implement the software, and we do a lot of reality capture, including 3D scanning and underground scanning.”

Noeline Rajbally is the director and co-founder of African Sugar Logistics. She has spent the past 17 years building this successful business alongside her husband, while simultaneously uplifting the communities around her. She explained, “When we went into business, it was a leap of faith for Rajesh and I.It was about giving our kids a better life and a shot at a brighter future. But that soon evolved into why did we take this leap of faith? And that came with the very purposeful intentions of growing people, a staff first approach, reaching out to disadvantaged communities and schools, and doing greater purposeful work.”

In the fast-paced world of telecommunications, few leaders embody the spirit of resilience, empathy, and transformative vision quite like Busisiwe ‘Busi’ Dlamini.

Anuka Brown is the quality and technical manager at Packaging World, a leading manufacturer of flexible packaging based in Pinetown. “From Woolworths’ chips packets and snack wrappers to coffee pouches and washing powder bags, Packaging World’s products are part of everyday life,” explains Anuka.

Seshni Moodley, the founder and director of Seshni Moodley Attorneys Incorporated, dream of opening her own law firm began long before she even understood what the law entailed. “My journey started straight after Matric,” she reflects. “I had a deep desire. I wanted to do law. I wanted to be an attorney.”

Shaleen Govender leads the KwaZulu-Natal division of SW360, South Africa’s leading provider of compliance and data intelligence solutions. “Through our trusted platforms, SearchWorks and VOCA, we empower businesses to reduce risk, embrace transparency and make confident decisions in a rapidly evolving world,” she explains. Beyond her corporate role, she is the founder of LIPT, a brand that began as a home patisserie and has grown into a franchise concept. LIPT now includes mobile food trucks serving artisanal creations at fairs and events. “Most importantly, I am a wife, mother of two, and chairperson
of my children’s school governing body.

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Susan Abro is a seasoned attorney with a career spanning over 35 years. In 1995, she founded her own legal practice, Susan Abro Attorney, specialising in family law. Reflecting on the evolution of her field, Susan said, “It’s been a very interesting progression. For example, we only joined the Hague Convention on the Abduction of Children in 1994. Family law changes quickly because of issues such as surrogacy and same-sex marriage. As life and science change, so family law has to change.” Her work covers a range of matters. “Basically, I deal with issues from cradle to grave,” she said. “I do a lot of divorce work, but that includes financial issues and children, that’s my passion – looking after children. I’ve also been involved in protecting women from domestic violence and assisting them to protect themselves."

Linah Marijeni is a dedicated professional, a wife, and a proud mother of three boys. She serves as a realtor and is one of the directors of Tyson Properties Richards Bay, where she and her team specialise in the selling and leasing of both residential and commercial properties. Linah’s career in real estate began in 2010. “My real estate journey started with another agency,” she recalls. “After receiving a call from the principal asking me to join his team, my quickest response was, ‘I would like to ask my husband first and I’ll get back to you’.”

Nontetho Smith was born in Nquthu, a rural town in northern KwaZulu-Natal. She later moved with her family to Durban. Today, she is the founder and managing director of Uthingo Mills, a successful agri-processing company producing one of South Africa’s most essential staple foods. Alongside this, she also runs a non-profit organisation, Look Up Ark, which supports people battling with addiction and alcoholism by helping them find recovery. In addition, she manages a small record label dedicated to South African gospel music, nurturing a few artists.

Lea Wimble is the owner and founder of Wimble Attorneys, a conveyancing firm based on the north coast of KwaZulu-Natal. The firm, which celebrates its sixth anniversary in 2025 has built a reputation for professionalism, compassion and community impact. Reflecting on her journey, Lea explained that entrepreneurship was never part of her initial plan. However, she said life had other ideas. “By circumstances, the same year I had my third baby, I also found myself in a position where I had to start a business.

Nhlanhla Litabe is the founder and chief executive officer of Your Pass to Travel, a company that has become a trusted name in travel management since its establishment in 2021. With 14 years in the industry and the personal experience of visiting more than 60 countries, Nhlanhla is a travel professional who embodies the company’s slogan, “Access the World.”

Rachael Gillespie is the major shareholder of Rotacon Engineering, a proudly South African mechanical engineering business specialising in fabrication and machining. “Basically, we make components,” she explained. “Anything from small parts up to 16 tons. Our computer numerical control (CNC) machinery capacity is what has really put us out there, so we are able to supply any industry in Africa and beyond."

Thusie Pather is the owner and founder of Golf Course Boutique Guest House, she says with a smile that carries both pride and gratitude. Situated in the tranquil suburb of Mount Edgecombe, the guest house is just a short walk from the Mount Edgecombe Country Club and driving range. With thirteen beautifully appointed bedrooms, the guest house is a haven for both business and leisure travellers.Thusie’s journey into hospitality is deeply personal and inspired by her love for people and travel. “I love travelling, and I love staying in hotels and guest houses,” she explains. “I decided to open my own guest house because I love being around people. It felt like a natural step for me."

Beverley Ebrahim is the managing director and shareholder of Rising Sun Printers. Established in 1999, the company is a proudly South African enterprise with offices in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, and Bloemfontein. “Since joining the business in 2006, I have worked across various roles, from administration to operations, and in 2017 I was honoured to be promoted to managing director,” she explains.

Ashika Sewduth plays a pivotal role in one of South Africa’s most significant infrastructure portfolios. Speaking with energy and conviction, she reflects on her journey and on the transformation currently underway at Transnet SOC Ltd.

Firdose Abdool Razak-Moola is the founder and director of KZN Advisory Centre and the face of the organisation. “We provide counselling, support, assessments and therapy to all ages, genders and groups,” she explains warmly. “As a mental health practitioner, social worker in private practice, play therapist, family therapist and life coach, Firdose has made it her mission to create a safe and professional space for individuals and families to find balance, understanding and growth. She explains, “We aim to support people wherever they are in their life journey.”

Philisiwe Gumede is the general manager of The Oyster Box Hotel and her story begins in Umlazi, Durban, where a simple career day at her high school opened her eyes to a world of possibilities. “When I was in high school, we were just fortunate around the nineties to have a career day. I got to see opportunities that had not been tapped into growing up in the black community,” she recalls. “That’s when I realised there are actually opportunities to travel and to work in different spheres, not just to become a teacher or a nurse or a policeman.”

Mandisa Mazibuko is the managing director of Envelop Empowerment Group and director of Gilnokie Socks.
“Envelop Empowerment Group is built on principles to develop, support, and empower, particularly women
entrepreneurs,” she explains. “We equip them with practical skills and tools that allow them to succeed in business.” Through Envelop Empowerment Group, Mandisa has created a company that is as values-driven as it is commercially successful.

Seshmi Holloway, the managing director of JRS Solutions leads a company that specialises in electronic security solutions, offering services in access control, CCTV, information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure, and port automation. With over 16 years of experience in the industry, JRS Solutions has become a prominent player, representing an internationally recognised company at the ports of Durban and Port Elizabeth.

Tracey McLennan is the founder and chief executive officer of BConsult and Rightside Media. She is a passionate advocate for education that transforms both people and organisations. BConsult is an accredited skills development company that provides learnerships and qualifications to employed
and unemployed people. Right Side Media complements this by creating the content for training, specialising in animation, both 2D and 3D, as well as whiteboard animation and digital formats for inductions and standard operating procedures. “We take traditional training content and make it engaging,” says Tracey. “The idea is to make learning accessible, fun, and effective."

Stacey Norman, a drive host on East Coast Radio, KZN’s number one hit music station, has been captivating audiences for over 20 years. With a career that began in her teenage years, she has grown into a figure that embodies the essence of KwaZulu-Natal. Stacey’s entry into the world of radio is one of those serendipitous moments that shaped her career. Stacey’s entry into the world of radio is one of those serendipitous moments that shaped her career. She recalls, “I won a talent competition at KFM when I was 15, but I didn’t want to participate.

Revona Naidoo, director at LexisNexis South Africa, non-executive director at Reed Exhibitions and head of Sales Tools and Governance for Central Europe, Middle East and Africa, is a woman who has carved her path with grit, grace, and an unwavering belief in possibility. Her journey to leadership has been anything but conventional. “There were lots of ups and downs,” she reflects. “But persistency and perseverance drove me to success."

Teresa Davie-Rossouw, sales manager at Mobi Ventures, is part of a team that has redefined what emergency response means in South Africa. The company is dedicated to delivering comprehensive emergency and safety solutions through a suite of integrated brands that include Mobi Claw911,
Mobi Response911, Mobi Detect911, Mobi Trak911, and Mobi AmboPLAN. Each brand plays a vital role in ensuring that individuals, businesses, and communities are protected through advanced technology, real-time communication, and reliable response networks. With 20 years of experience in the emergency services industry, nine of them with Mobi Ventures, Teresa was instrumental in launching the company’s flagship brand, Mobi Claw911. “Being part of a mission-driven team that makes a tangible difference every day has been both professionally rewarding and personally meaningful,” she reflects.