Palesa Phili Next Previous Palesa Phili is the chief executive officer of the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry Palesa Phili is the chief executive officer of the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry, a role she has held for the past six years. In this capacity, she has overseen significant developments and challenges, working to improve the business environment in Durban and the broader KwaZulu-Natal region. Palesa has a life story marked by both challenges and resilience. She shares with a touch of humour, “I was born quite a while ago − my kids like to joke that I was born in the year BC! So, I’ll leave you guessing about my exact age, as a lady never reveals it.” Palesa’s childhood was far from easy. She recalls, “My mother became ill when I was around nine years old, and I lost my father at a young age as well. I was raised by various family members, and by the time I was 18, my mother had been sick for about ten years before she unfortunately passed away.” Despite these hardships, her mother instilled in her the values of hard work and humility – principles that have guided Palesa throughout her journey. In terms of education, Palesa holds a diploma in business information systems, an advanced business management programme certificate, and a master’s in business administration from the University of Johannesburg. TRUE CALLING Palesa says that her first formal job was with Epsidon Technologies, now known as Forst Technology. Her role was technical, and she recalls, “My role involved assembling the PCs, loading software, and troubleshooting before they were sold to dealers.” However, she soon realised that the technical field might not be her true calling. Within a few months, her boss observed her potential and suggested a transition into sales. Palesa embraced this opportunity and moved into a sales role, where she thrived. This marked the beginning of her journey in the business world, leading to her role as CEO of the Durban Chamber. Reflecting on her journey, she notes, “If you look at my background, it’s all out there on LinkedIn. I’ve worked for different corporates and companies, but I always felt that something was missing.” She explains, “In a corporate environment, the focus is on the company’s objectives − chasing numbers and managing teams with a specific business emphasis. However, I’ve always felt the need to do something that could have a more significant impact on society.” “When the Chamber approached me to become their CEO, I was both humbled and excited,” Palesa says. She saw the opportunity to make the meaningful difference she had always aspired to, creating a lasting impact. SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENTS Palesa Phili is proud of both her personal and professional achievements. On a personal level, she expresses gratitude for her family, stating, “I’m incredibly proud of being a mother, wife, aunt, daughter-in-law, and sister. I’m grateful to God for my family and the life we share, and I’m excited about the future we’re building together.” Professionally, she takes pride in the progress the Durban Chamber has made under her leadership. “Today, the Chamber has become the only one in the country with a direct working relationship with the Presidency. Palesa highlights this as a significant achievement, adding, “Recently, we met with the president of the country for the third time, addressing the challenges facing our city and province. The establishment of a presidential working group is something I believe will help us address the key issues and revitalise our city.” Palesa reflects on the best advice she’s received, which came during a course on emotional intelligence at Hewlett-Packard. At the time, she was beginning to manage people and was given a piece of advice by a psychologist, Eva Hurley: “You can’t control what others do or say, but you can control how you respond.” This advice has been invaluable in both her personal and professional life, helping her navigate various challenges and interactions. ADVICE AND SUPPORT Challenges are a constant in Palesa’s life, both professionally and personally. “Just recently, I dealt with a major concern from one of our members, which required me to liaise with provincial law enforcement to reassure our members,” she says. On a personal level, she finds motherhood, particularly raising teenagers, to be incredibly challenging. To overcome these personal challenges, she seeks advice and support from other mothers who have gone through similar experiences. Motivating a team in the face of conflicts and obstacles is a significant part of Palesa’s role. She acknowledges, “It’s very challenging, especially considering the daily issues we face that affect the business community and us directly.” Despite these challenges, Palesa is blessed with a committed team that shares her passion for ensuring businesses thrive. She believes that trust and communication are key to maintaining team motivation. “I believe in trusting my team and giving them the autonomy to do their jobs,” she says. Palesa also maintains a clear management system where she meets with each team member one-on-one every week. These meetings are not only to check on their professional progress but also to connect on a personal level. “This approach helps me stay connected with my team and ensures we’re all aligned in our goals,” she explains. BALANCED AND PRINCIPLED Palesa draws inspiration from success and the positive achievements of others. She explains, “I am deeply inspired by success. When someone comes to me and shares that they’ve started a company or achieved something significant, it absolutely excites and inspires me.” She finds humility in these moments, saying, “These are the kind of things that really humble me, but they also inspire me. It’s incredible to see people out there who are doing good, wanting to do more good things, and improving themselves. That’s what drives my inspiration in everything I see and do.” Palesa lives by the principles of honesty, integrity, and humility which she asserts are three non- negotiable things that she lives by to lead a balanced and principled life. Palesa is also teaching her children that these are important things you need to live by. Additionally, her Christian faith play a significant role in guiding her life and decisions. Previous Next

The Oyster Box Up Home Up Latest News The Oyster Box Philisiwe Gumede WHERE LUXURY FEELS PERSONAL Under the leadership of General Manager Philisiwe Gumede, The Oyster Box remains one of South Africa’s most iconic hotels, renowned for its panoramic coastal views, gracious hospitality and timeless elegance. Where the Indian Ocean meets uMhlanga’s landmark lighthouse, the hotel offers direct beach access and serves as a gateway to everything the city of Durban has to offer. Surrounded by tropical gardens, tranquil ponds, and lush lawns, it’s a destination full of character and charm. It was at The Oyster Box, decades ago, that Red Carnation founders Stanley and Beatrice Tollman shared their first date, marking the beginning of a lifelong love story and a legacy that continues today through their family-run collection. What truly sets The Oyster Box apart is its warm, welcoming team. Many staff members have been with the hotel for decades, offering service defined by intuition and genuine care. Guests are not just remembered that they are understood. Every stay is uniquely tailored, every detail thoughtfully anticipated. Blending old-world glamour with modern luxury, The Oyster Box is a year-round retreat for families, couples, honeymooners, and wedding celebrations. Guests enjoy exceptional cuisine, a world-class spa, two swimming pools, a private cinema room and wine cellar. The Oyster Box is a place where memories are made, adorned with an original art collection and rich in character, guests return time and again, drawn by its enduring legacy of warmth and luxury. TIMELESS HERITAGE Built in 1863 as a navigational beacon known as The Oyster Lodge, the property has long been a landmark on the uMhlanga coastline. In 1952, it was transformed into a tea garden and later a hotel. In 2006, the property was put up for sale, and Stanley and Bea Tollman, Red Carnation’s founders, who had shared their first date together at The Oyster Box decades earlier,fulfilled a lifelong dream by acquiring it. Following a meticulous restoration, the hotel reopened in 2009 as part of The Red Carnation Hotel Collection and today, remains proudly family-run by the Tollman family. The Oyster Box enjoys a prime beachfront location just 15 minutes from King Shaka International Airport and close to Durban’s vibrant heart. The hotel offers easy access to the city’s colourful street markets, historic temples, and buzzing cultural scene. Guests can explore the dramatic Drakensberg Mountains, historic battlefields, and renowned Big Five game reserves. ROOMS & SUITES Each of the 86 rooms, suites, and villas at The Oyster 208 Box are individually designed to reflect the charm and character of its coastal surroundings. From garden facing retreats to sea-facing sanctuaries, interiors are adorned with original artworks, luxurious linens, and handpicked furnishings that speak to the hotel’s rich South African heritage. Many offer private terraces or balconies with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean. The pet friendly Superior Garden Villas are set within the hotel’s lush tropical gardens, featuring plunge pools. From the duplex Presidential Suite, ideal for enter taining in style, to seafacing family rooms and an accessible room, every need is thoughtfully considered. A dedicated Family Manager ensures younger guests are entertained, with expert knowledge on multi-generational experiences. A warm welcome is also extended to four-legged companions, making the hotel a flexible and inviting choice for luxury modern travellers. SPA & WELLNESS The hotel’s Secret Garden Spa features six treatment rooms with treatments inspired by ancient African traditions, alongside the Environ, Elemis and Esse products using native plant extracts. Facilities include a traditional hammam, plunge pool, tranquil lounge and fully equipped fitness centre, alongside a curated healthy café menu. A RESPONSIBLE APPROACH TO LUXURY In partnership with EarthCheck, The Oyster Box is on a journey to net-zero emissions. From trusted local suppliers and thriving kitchen gardens to community led and dedicated guest Impact Experiences, every step reflects care for people and place. With AI powered food waste reduction, targeted carbon goals, and biodiversity initiatives, we show that true luxury is a promise to the planet and to future generations. RESTAURANTS & BARS The Grill Room – Fine dining restaurant perfect for celebrations with an adjacent award-winning vinoteque The Ocean Terrace – Alfresco dining with bistro- style plates and renowned curry buffet The Palm Court – High tea served to the sounds of a resident pianist The Lighthouse Bar – Rooftop setting for coastline views and sundowners The Chukka Bar – Smoking bar steeped in old world sophistication The Oyster Bar – Chic cocktail and seafood bar Wine Cellar – Offering unique private dining hosted by the hotel’s expert sommelier WEDDINGS & EVENTS The Oyster Box features five elegant event spaces, hosting up to 120 seated guests for weddings and 200 standing for other celebrations. Weddings are held in the Pearl Room, Shell Room, or romantic Garden Gazebo, with expert planning by the in house coordinator. For corporate events and private gatherings, options include the intimate Clock Library and grand banqueting halls. Each venue blends flexibility with refined design to suit any occasion. CONTACT DETAILS Physical Address: 02 Lighthouse Road, Umhlanga Rocks, Durban 4319 Tel: +27 (0)31 514 5000 E-mail: generalmanager@oysterbox.co.za Website: www.oysterboxhotel.com BRANCHES Please visit: www.redcarnationhotels.com Leaders Profile Latest News Company News Blog Keep up with the latest trends and insights. Check out our blog today! Read More Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

If you know who you are internally, the power that you have will motivate you to get going and succeed < Back Nozuko Basson Regional Manager for Communities and Corporate Affairs Tronox South Africa Nozuko Basson’s role at Tronox, which is based in northern KZN, entails making sure that the mining company honours its responsibility of creating value for its stakeholders, of which, communities take centre stage. The most significant event in Nozuko’s life is, she says, when she became a mother. “I had my daughter when I was fairly young and from the moment she arrived in this world, I knew that the game had changed. It’s an ambition of mine, that when my daughter is asked who your role model is, she mentions my name.” In ensuring that she is an inspiration to her daughter, Nozuko constantly evaluates how she behaves, how she practices professionalism in the workplace, and how she treats other people. Nozuko believes that she has got to where she is today through hard work, dedication, a lot of praying and the support from many people who have crossed her path. “I’m somebody who is focused on her religion. I’m a Christian and I’ve always believed that everything that I do is enabled by my faith. I started my career as a journalist, but I realised that was not the life that I wanted to live. I’m not a social and out-there type of person, so I moved into public relations. I was fortunate to work for an agency where I had an amazing mentor who helped me in building the capability to understand how media relations works.” From there, Nozuko moved onto one of South Africa’s largest medical insurance organisations, Discovery. Here, Nozuko said, she had mentors who helped guide her through her career. “I’ve been fortunate that I had other people lifting me, guiding me, and making sure that I stayed on the right track. My journey has been difficult; it’s always good to be reminded by those who are ahead of you how to remain positive and confident in what you are doing.” Having courage Nozuko says that her decision to move to KwaZulu-Natal has been an amazing journey that has required her to really stretch herself. This meant going into areas where she thought she would never be able to venture. She added, “Just having the courage to really push myself and push the boundaries for my team members so that we all work towards one single vision. This requires that we stay close to the cause and really live our own personal values, as well as the values of the organisation in which I work right now.” In commenting on the challenges that she has faced, Nozuko says that as a young female professional, the first challenge that she would like to focus on, is the “pull her down syndrome”. “When you, as a female, start rising in your career there are times when other females do everything in their power to pull you down. I have a strong view that if one of us rise, we all rise. It’s hard enough being a young female, let alone being black in the workplace; we need to hold each other up and motivate each other.” The second challenge she has faced is working in the mining industry, which is a male dominated sector. Over that, working within the community, which is also a male led environment that still subscribes to traditional practices has brought a great deal of learning, that has come with its own difficulties. Currently, the third challenge has been dealing with unconventional community issues, that pose a serious risk to Tronox’s public reputation. “This is where the company’s values, procedures and policies need to guide you to deal with the challenges in a manner that does not compromise your role or its reputation,” said Nozuko. “Lastly, I have often found myself feeling not quite welcome around the ‘table’, as if I am a token BEE candidate,” says Nozuko. “I’ve learnt that I shouldn’t wait for somebody to offer me a seat at the table. If there’s no seat for a female in the workplace or in this industry, you bring your own, and that’s something that I have really started being vocal about.” Leaving behind a legacy In the future, Nozuko wants to leave behind a legacy that says, “When Nozuko Basson was in that community or was working in that organisation, she made a positive difference.” In terms of her career, she sees herself growing from strength to strength. Right now, she is focused on her work in South Africa, but soon, she wants to share her knowledge and skills with the rest of the world. Nozuko added that she is fortunate to work for an organisation that has the platform that will allow her to do so when the time is right. On the personal side, Nozuko wants to travel the world. “I want to touch other lives in my own personal space. I want to live my best life and it’s something that I’m making a deliberate effort in doing and I know that I’m on the right track.” In advising others, she says, “It’s important not to be side-tracked by other people’s opinions. It’s important to remain true to yourself. It’s important that when you venture out, you understand that not everybody will be cheering for you, so learn to be your own cheerleader and as you’re cheering yourself, cheer those around you because they may not know the power that they have within themselves.” Nozuko believes one needs to put their heart into everything that they do. “I always say to people, if you’re not going to give it your all, rather don’t start. I believe in dazzling people. One of Tronox’s values speaks to doing the right work, the right way in every aspect of our business and that’s really what I subscribe to. I don’t take short cuts; it’s about doing something right all the time. It’s behaving in an ethical way and ensuring that everything I touch, doesn’t only represent organisational integrity, but also my own personal integrity.”

Essa Suleman Next Previous Essa Ebrahim Suleman is the chief executive officer of the Woodford Group Essa Ebrahim Suleman serves as the chief executive officer of the Woodford Group, a position that places him at the forefront of one of South Africa’s most prominent vehicle rental and mobility solution providers. Leading the company he joined at an early age, Essa plays an essential role in shaping the Woodford Group’s future and expanding its reach within southern Africa and beyond. His journey in both education and career started with a unique path. “After matriculating, I studied toward and attained my Private Pilot Licence (PPL), before joining Woodford,” he explains. His journey continued with advanced studies; in 2013, Essa completed an MBA at Wits Business School. This combination of hands-on industry experience and academic pursuit helped equip Essa with the skills to guide and grow the company. Essa began his career at the first Woodford Car Hire branch in Woodford Grove in Durban. Recalling his first role, he says, “My first job was as a rental agent, and I was trained on the front desk by Mr. Zufer Khan – an employee who is still with the company today.” Starting at the grassroots level of Woodford Car Hire gave Essa a firsthand understanding of the customer experience and the daily operations of a car hire business. His foundational experience at the front desk has remained a core element of his leadership style as CEO, giving him insights into every aspect of the customer experience and operations. Commenting on his purpose Essa says, “My purpose is very much similar to that of the company – I want to provide value to every person that I come into contact with through our business,” he says. Essa’s philosophy is grounded in creating positive impacts not only for customers but also for his team and business partners. “Whether it’s our people, our customers, or our suppliers – everything we come across, touch, or feel, we’ve got to make this world better than it was before we got here. We have not lived if we have not added value,” he shares passionately. Among many achievements, Essa highlights a significant milestone with pride: “I feel that becoming a partner of Enterprise (the world’s largest car rental company) in southern Africa was a momentous achievement in our history.” This partnership with a global industry leader represents the Woodford Group’s commitment to excellence and its reputation within the car rental industry. However, Essa’s vision of accomplishment goes beyond accolades and partnerships. He says, “What would make me feel the most proud and the most accomplished would be when every single customer and employee is completely satisfied with our business.” BE HUMBLE Reflecting on words of wisdom that have guided him, Essa shares a profound piece of advice from his late brother, the former CEO of Woodford. “One of the pieces of advice was, ‘Be humble. Take a moment and be grateful for what you have,’” he recalls. Essa believes that gratitude is often overlooked in the fast-paced world of business. “The further and faster a journey goes, the easier it is to forget gratitude,” he notes. “We tend to only think in terms of what we don’t have and what we still need to achieve. Stopping every once in a while to be grateful is something that, I hope, grounds me and reminds me to be humble,” Essa adds. In the ever-evolving business world, challenges are constant, and Essa’s journey has been no exception. Reflecting on his approach to adversity, Essa says, “We have new challenges every single day. It’s often the case where every new challenge feels like it’s the greatest one we’ve faced up to that point.” For Essa, facing obstacles is about resilience and a determined mindset. He shares his strategy: “I don’t know which was my greatest, but I do know that I’m not the type to rest until we’ve put the challenge to bed. We pray, we prepare, and we then face each one head-on. The minute you believe that you can do something is the moment you’ve solved half of it.” Essa’s approach to overcoming challenges has enabled the Woodford Group to navigate difficult situations and to grow. FORWARD THINKING Essa emphasises the importance of resilience and optimism when motivating his team, especially in challenging times. “We are a resilient bunch that appreciates everything we have rather than looking back at what we could have had,” he explains. This outlook helps his team stay focused and energised, even when facing conflicts or obstacles. Essa believes that forward-thinking and positivity are key to keeping morale high. “Everything around us looks positive, despite the scenario,” he adds. Essa finds inspiration in results, a driving factor that influences his leadership and decision- making. “I’m a results-driven person, so I’m very much inspired by results. Good or bad, exceeded or missed targets, success or failure; the results inspire the efforts and decisions required,” he says. He also draws inspiration from nature, describing how, “the vastness of it brings things back into perspective and makes it all seem so small. It helps me try to do even more and take on more.” As a CEO of a KwaZulu-Natal born company, Essa is deeply committed to contributing to the province’s growth and development over the next five years. He explains Woodford’s goal: “Our vision at Woodford is to bring mobility solutions to all.” Essa hopes to expand the company’s footprint across KZN, offering mobility solutions to enable people to “move, grow, and thrive through our services and footprint.” Essa lives by the motto: “A winner is a dreamer that never gives up.” This saying encapsulates his journey, reflecting the resilience and determination that have defined his leadership at Woodford. With a focus gratitude and relentless pursuit of his dreams, Essa is poised to lead the Woodford Group to new heights. Previous Next

Susan Abro Next Previous Sole proprietor of Susan Abro Attorney Susan Abro is the sole proprietor of Susan Abro Attorney, a specialist family law practice based in KwaZulu-Natal. With a legal career spanning more than three decades, her work has been grounded in a commitment to people, justice, and community. Her practice focuses on family law, a field she describes as dealing with life “from cradle to grave”. Susan Abro Attorney handles a broad spectrum of family law matters. These include disputes relating to children, divorce, financial consequences of separation, domestic violence protection orders, maintenance court proceedings, and complex international matters such as cross-border child abduction under the Hague Conventions. As Susan explains, “Family law is about the most intimate aspects of people’s lives. You are dealing with their children, their finances, their safety, and their dignity. You have to take all of that seriously.” At the heart of Susan’s work lies a clear purpose: to help people, particularly those navigating crisis and vulnerability. She says, “I’ve been involved with genderbased violence and the promotion of women since the very beginning of my career.” While her practice does not exclusively represent women, she has become known for her ability to support women facing severe emotional, financial, or physical hardship. “By the time clients leave me,” she reflects, “they are strong enough to continue on their own. Seeing that transformation is what gives me the greatest satisfaction.” STRONG WORK ETHIC Susan grew up in Melmoth, a small town in Zululand, where the absence of a local high school meant she had to attend boarding school. She was educated at St Anne’s Diocesan College, where lifelong friendships were formed. She went on to study at the then University of Natal in Pietermaritzburg, completing a Bachelor of Arts degree, followed by Bachelor of Laws (LLB) at the University of Natal’s Durban campus.Alongside her formal legal education, she pursued additional qualifications in business management through Damelin and undertook numerous specialist courses in family law, mediation, and arbitration. Her strong work ethic emerged early. Susan’s first job came at the age of 12, when she worked as a cashier in a Melmoth supermarket during school holidays. This early experience left a lasting impression. “You learn very quickly how to deal with people,” she recalls, “and that skill stays with you for life.” Susan’s professional journey was marked by both challenges and opportunities. She completed her articles at L.J. Paola Wright and Wilkinson during a period of transition, when the firm was taken over and women were no longer welcomed by the new management. Undeterred, she accepted an offer from Woodhead, Bigby and Irving, where she spent five formative years. “I’ve always believed you don’t burn bridges,” she says. “Those relationships matter, especially when you go out on your own.” MUTUAL RESPECT In 1995, Susan made the decision to enter private practice in association with Betsy Rowe of Sylvia Oversby and Partners, a firm they later purchased. The transition from being a partner in a large Durban firm to starting afresh was daunting. “I literally had nothing,” she admits. “But in those days, you just did it.” She credits her success to strong mentorship, loyal clients, and a professional network built on mutual respect. Many of her clients have remained with her throughout her career, evolving into trusted friends. Among Susan’s achievements, one stands out as particularly meaningful: her service as an acting judge of the High Court and later as a judge of the Electoral Court. She served two terms on the Electoral Court alongside the late Supreme Court of Appeal Judge President K.K. Mthiyane. “That was incredibly exciting,” she says. “When I first knew K.K., he was an advocate I briefed. We became very close over the years; even went to each other’s birthday parties.” Susan attributes much of her professional composure to a piece of advice she received early in her career. “My principal once told me that if you receive a letter that makes you angry, put it in a drawer,” she recalls. “If you take it out a day later and it still makes you angry, put it back. Never respond in anger. You need a clear head and collegiality – a concept many youngsters today don’t understand,” she says. “But without that, the system doesn’t work.” HUMAN CONNECTION One of the significant personal challenges Susan has faced is the progressive loss of her vision. However, she has adapted with determination and pragmatism. “Technology has made a huge difference. My phone talks to me, my computer talks to me, and I have incredible staff who support me.” She acknowledges that facing this challenge later in life, once her practice was established, made adaptation more manageable. Susan leads a small, close-knit team and places emphasis on wellbeing and human connection. “We do things together that aren’t work-related. We exercise in the boardroom, we try to eat healthily, and we spend time together socially.” She believes the nature of family law itself is motivating. “You see what people go through,” she explains. “It reminds you why the work matters.” Inspiration for Susan comes primarily from people. She speaks warmly of South Africans and their resilience, kindness, and sense of community. She draws inspiration from strong women who remain active and committed well into later life. These include 86 year old Mathabo Kunene who carries on the legacy of her husband, the late poet laureate, Mazisi Kunene, and does incredible work for the community. In addition, her own mother, also aged of 86 who has just retired is a role model. “They show you how strong you can be,” she says. “They are always giving back.” Looking ahead, Susan is optimistic about KwaZulu- Natal. “I really hope we can move forward doing business properly,” she says, “with honesty and integrity, and by helping one another. KZN is the best province in this country.” Susan firm’s logo reads, “We have a heart for family law,” a sentiment that reflects her life’s work. “When I’m gone. I want people to say that I lived a good life, that I looked after my community, and that I was honest.” For Susan Abro, leadership is service, integrity, and leaving people stronger than when she found them.” Previous Next

Merrill says that she lives her life to the absolute fullest and states, "If you are not living on the edge you are taking up too much space." She is an avid sportsperson and enjoys spending time in the gym, paddling or running to stay fit and 'to ensure a flow of endorphinsMerrill KingMerrill says that she lives her life to the absolute fullest and states, "If you are not living on the edge you are taking up too much space." She is an avid sportsperson and enjoys spending time in the gym, paddling or running to stay fit and 'to ensure a flow of endorphinsMERRILL KING, joint managing director of Capitol Caterers, has had a 36-year career in the food industry. "I wake up every day and I am really excited to go to work. Every day is full of challenges, deadlines and new experiences," she says. Merrill qualified as a chef through the trainee programme at the Royal Hotel in Durban. This culinary background has served her well, providing Merrill with a thorough knowledge of food preparation and service. Pursuing her passion for excellence on the plate, Merrill founded Blue Strawberry, a high-end catering service to corporate and private clients in Durban. On relocating to the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands in 1992, Merrill sold Blue Strawberry and it continues to operate with an impeccable reputation to this day. Merrill served as group executive chef for a period of twenty years at Capitol Caterers and was appointed joint managing director in 2017. Headquartered in Pietermaritzburg, Capitol Caterers was founded in 1992 by her husband Giles who as chairman, plays an active role in the business. The industrial catering company is currently entering its 27th year of service and caters for over 100 clients in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Western Cape, Free State, Gauteng as well as in Eswatini. Capitol Caterers core business is providing contract catering services to the education, healthcare, commercial and retirement sectors. Valuing relationships Merrill says that much of her time is spent travelling to the regional offices to ensure that these operations are well supported. In addition, she values the relationships that she has developed with her staff and she strives to understand their needs and ensure that they are happy. "My life has changed from being hands on and working in all our kitchens, to managing people and the business side of Capitol Caterers' daily operations," she explained. "I am inspired and humbled every day by the women on our staff. Many of them need to be at work by 6am and before leaving home they first tend to their family needs and then walk and catch buses to get to work and still serve our clients with a smile! They are the face of the company." However, in assessing the role of women in business, Merrill says that she thinks that women's roles are often undermined. "As much as one constantly strives for equality, discrimination is still alive and well. It has been, and still is, a tough struggle for women to be taken seriously, even though huge strides have been made in this area." Consequently, Merrill believes that much of her professional journey can be attributed to the support of the women in Capitol Caterers. "I believe that I am a successful woman in business because of all the women that I work with. We employ 1496 staff and of that 74% are women with 82% of our management positions being held by women. This shows that women aren't there just to wash the pots, clean the floors and make the odd salad. Women are the reason why catering companies such as ours are successful in South Africa." Merrill added that because women often rely on the support and strength of other women, they have become collaborative in the workplace. "A collaborative style of leadership is how I work at Capitol Caterers, ensuring input from all divisions when decisions are to be made, which generally results in ownership and buy in from everyone." Striving for excellence Capitol Caterers not only keeps up with food trends but ensures that all the food that is prepared in their kitchens is nutritious, fulfils a wide range of dietary needs while being beautifully presented and within budget. In order to ensure that the staff are skilled, Capitol Caterers has registered Midlands Hospitality Academy (MHA), which is accredited by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) and CATHSSETA. "We used to believe that we needed to be the best that we can be. However nowadays, it is more important to ensure that our staff are upskilled and supported enough to ensure they are the best that they can be, and better than me," explained Merrill. "The success of a person should not be on how good you are but on how good your staff are at getting the job done. This approach ensures that the business can run effectively when you are not there to supervise." Life balance Merrill says that she lives her life to the absolute fullest and states, "If you are not living on the edge you are taking up too much space." She is an avid sportsperson and enjoys spending time in the gym, paddling or running to stay fit and 'to ensure a flow of endorphins.' A competitive canoeist, Merrill has won several agecategory gold medals in the Dusi and Fish River Marathons as well as a silver medal with partner, Sonja Bohnsack, at the World Marathon Canoeing Championships in Pietermaritzburg in 2017. She hopes to complete her 16th Dusi in 2020. Merrill has also competed in running events including two Comrades Marathons and five Two Oceans ultra-marathons. Merrill was the first woman to hold the position of president of Canoeing South Africa, which she occupied from 2008-2010. She is a long-serving board member of the South African Confederation of Sport and Olympic Committee (SASCOC). Whenever possible, Merrill enjoys relaxing with her husband, their three children and grandson. Cheryl Govender CHERYL GOVENDER is the founder and owner of The Cake House in Pietermaritzburg. She is a qualified chef and professional cake artist. The Cake House has become a leading provider of designer cakes including engineered life-size cakes. Cheryl's exceptional cakes, each a masterpiece, have been featured in magazines and on television, and The Cake House is recognised as a leader in new age sugarcraft. Cheryl is inspired by successful bakeries and cake artists. She explains, "This is a tough industry and requires not only talent, but a business mind, people skills, market insight, tenacity, and continuous learning and growth." One of her biggest inspirations is Buddy Valastro, an American baker who is the star of the reality television series 'Cake Boss'. Be clear about what must be achieved Cheryl believes she got to where she is now and reached her goals by being clear about what she needed to achieve and why she needed to achieve them. She says her career started when she was fourteen when she was handed down decorating tools that her sister no longer needed. "Although I was a real tomboy, beating the boys at their own games in the streets, I did girly stuff when I went home, like playing with cake decorating tools and my dolls," she laughed. Cheryl learned about sugar art by reading books from the municipal library and often left the kitchen in a mess after experimenting. Her Consumer Studies teacher recognised Cheryl's talent; arranged for her to attend a cake decorating course, and gave her a toolset, which she treasures to this day. This teacher, now a retired school principal, adopted Cheryl as a daughter, helped her to believe in herself, and became her mentor to this day. Cheryl won a Consumer Studies Inter School Award in matric due to her passion for cake decorating, but at that time she considered it a hobby, not a career. After a year at college, Cheryl married and became a mother. She joined the corporate world but kept on making decorated cakes as a hobby to supplement her income. When her son was two years old, Cheryl entered and won the Pietermaritzburg Royal Show sugarcraft competition. This led to her teaching sugarcraft on a part-time basis at the now FET College in Northdale, something she continued passionately for 25 years. This Cheryl said, was fulfilling: "empowering women has always been close to my heart". Focus on one thing and do it well Cheryl gained wide experience in the corporate world, including ten years in shipping and international travel, before she started her own export business. This business crashed during the worldwide financial crisis of 2008 and she "fell back on her hands", starting a food catering business that also provided cakes. Cheryl made a few designer cakes assuming there was little market for these due to the high prices, but word of her quality and expertise spread and orders increased. A traumatic divorce, the demands of being involved in catering, wedding décor, training and making cakes at the same time, made her realise that she needed to streamline her activities. In 2012 she decided to focus on one thing only and do it well and opened The Cake House. Cheryl, a single mom had herself, her mother's assistance, two children, and a house. As she had lost her vehicle, Cheryl went everywhere in running shoes while carrying cake ingredients and other items in a backpack. Nothing was handed to her; she had no money and could not get a bank loan. Cheryl understood the risks involved but her faith and trust in God helped her. She managed to buy all her industrial baking equipment from a helpful appliance store on a three-month cash basis. Her business remains debt-free to this day. Business skills are unrelated to gender In Cheryl's view, women and men need the same business approach, as the skills required for a successful business are unrelated to gender. "Tenacity, hard work, honesty, patience and endurance are equally required from men and women." She does, however, concede that women face more challenges. She has had to face abuse, being a mother, and a divorce. Achieving a work-life balance boils down to discipline for Cheryl. "It is necessary to make time for your family and yourself, and also to rest, but not working can be scary for a business owner with much to do," she says. "I've had to learn to set boundaries, say no, and cut myself off from work when it's time to relax and unwind." Gardening, time with her family and puppies, and doing things outside of the business help create a balance. Brand ambassador Cheryl is happy with what she has accomplished thus far and readily give others credit. Without her mother, she could not have set up The Cake House. Without the help of her husband Alan, her family, and staff members, she would not have been able to grow the business. She feels honoured having recently being appointed a brand ambassador with royal status, for Rolkem Colours, one of the world's largest food colourant providers. While Cheryl is satisfied with the place she has reached, she is not comfortable about remaining there. Cheryl dreams of making the province proud of The Cake House as a tourism attraction. With a growing support structure in place, she is prepared to take risks within her means and take the business to the next level. Back

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