By ‘peeling the onion’ layer by layer, you realise that our hearts beat the sameCaptain Londy Ngcobo < Back Captain Londy Ngcobo Managing Director, Womaritime Experts and Founder, Global Maritime Youth Captain Londy Ngcobo, is by profession, a ship navigational officer and notably is Africa’s first female dredge master. Londy is managing director of Womaritime Experts, a company that does consulting in the oceans economy, offers training, special projects as well as manning and recruitment. She is also the founder of Global Maritime Youth, which facilitates skills supply and demand globally of youth seeking a career in the ocean industry. Londy’s career choice was simply a progression of her love for the ocean where she felt she belonged. As a young girl, Londy felt a pure connection with the ocean, and commented with a laugh, “As a teenager, it didn’t help that I loved horoscopes, and my sign was Pisces.” She went on to study maritime studies and began working on container ships for Maersk Shipping Lines where she started as an officer and worked her way up the ranks to third officer. Londy then moved to Africa where she worked on dredges and became Africa’s first female dredge master. Over this time Londy noticed the many challenges within this industry and felt that she needed to be the ‘voice of the change she wanted to see’. And so, her company, Womaritime Experts, was born. A man’s world Being a woman in the maritime industry is still unusual today, where there is only 2% female participation globally. This is the reason why her company was derived from women in maritime, to edify women within their maritime professions, and through the work her consultancy does, to multiply the number of women within the maritime industry. In this challenging, yet exciting industry, Londy shares that she has been motivated by a lot of different people. But, what has made her stay within the industry, is the authentic feel of the ocean and knowing that this is where she belongs. Londy’s business means that she is now land-based most of the time. However, that she still gets to go on board ships when required as part of the services offered by her consultancy. Londy’s peers around her have, over the years, motivated her to move from one vessel to another and to climb the ranks. Many of the men within her industry have inspired her through their passion and dedication. These are men who leave their families for months at a time yet stay connected with their wives and children. Men have also seen her fit to go behind the wheel, rise in the ranks, and to represent women in this industry. “I know that it’s cliché,” says Londy, “that although it’s very small in number, but men, to some degree, are very supportive, and I’ve been inspired by a few captains within my industry.” Facing challenges Londy believes that the challenges she has experienced in her industry, are common to what most women experience in a predominantly male environment, such as feeling excluded and unwanted. However, many women are now coming out to talk about and address these issues. “When I started my career, I was a very young teenager of only 18 years of age, and being away from home, I was homesick. To chase a dream and miss out on life, was a challenge,” shared Londy. “However, with time, you realise that it’s all worth it.” For Londy, remaining grounded in how she was raised, who she was, and keeping rooted and focused on why she was doing what she was, helped her overcome the challenge of being homesick. The tangible reward for Londy was coming back to Africa and being a first in her industry, which made the dream visible and fulfilling. She added that she got to realise that as much as she felt different most of the time on board the ships, that people experienced the same challenges. “Although time on board the ships was challenging,I came to realise that by ‘peeling the onion’ layer by layer, the layer of colour, or of gender, you realise that our hearts beat the same, and you begin to see people as people.” Londy would like to see the industry being more balanced and inclusive. “Diversity is a numbers game where the current 2% stats can rise to 50-50 tomorrow, but inclusion is cultivated,” she says. Londy’s wish is to get into rooms where men are for women in the workplace and walk alongside them. Ocean opportunities Her future goal for tomorrow’s youth is that their eyes will be opened to the vast number of careers available on the ocean and that they are ‘beautifully blended with the land’. A range of careers such as a makeup artist, a DJ, a mechanical engineer, an electrician, a diver, a singer, and many more, are well accommodated on board ships and within the ocean's economy. “Interestingly, kids call me the black mermaid and I find it so intriguing that they want to be like Captain Londy. Which is why waking up and showing up for the young girls who want to be like me, even on social media, has become a mission for me,” says Londy. Londy chuckles, “A joke that we still listen to is that a black man can’t swim.” She added, “We’re cultivating a pure love for the ocean so that the youth can know very early that should they get to their grade 12, there is more options than the land provides.” We see you Londy misses the silence of the ocean. So to unwind and relax, she focuses on quietening the noise experienced on land, through meditation and journaling, and little moments of silence, and reminds herself why she shows up every single morning. “The KZN Top Business initiative means everything to me as a woman entrepreneur, who is navigating unchartered waters. Amidst the noise we often question ourselves. So, for me, this nomination is a validation that says, we see you. This anchors me in many ways,” concluded Londy

88e27ad3-960c-4933-b383-b01dc8affef0 < Back Dylan Naidoo Multimedia Field Journalist Multimedia Field Journalist for KZN Top Business, Dylan plays a vital role in capturing and sharing the stories that shape our region Previous Next

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I learned not to fear the unknown, but to explore opportunities...Usha Jivan < Back Usha Jivan Managing Director BEESCORE Pty Ltd Usha Jivan is a 61-year-old single mum with two children – a son, aged 35, and a daughter of 33. She says that raising her children, though filled with many challenges as a single parent, has been her greatest achievement to date. Usha’s son has gone on to become an investment banker and venture capitalist across Africa, while her daughter is a counselling psychologist practicing in Johannesburg. Usha studied law and, after completing her articles of clerkship, was in legal practice for four years. In 1994, she was offered a lecturing position at the University of Durban-Westville where she lectured on various subjects, including criminal law, civil procedure, and family law. Usha obtained her master’s degree in law in 1997. In early 2007, an opportunity was presented to Usha, with three others, to start the business currently known as BEESCORE Pty Ltd. She commented, “Today I am the sole shareholder and managing director of BEESCORE, a company which verifies Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) compliance of businesses nationally. Our all-star black, female-managed business has gone on to become the BEE verification partner of choice for large organisations such as SAICA, Aramex SA, Colgate-Palmolive, Mr Price Group, BP SA, The Interwaste Group, and the Euro Steel Group.” The initial challenge Usha faced was to build a credible business amidst constantly evolving laws and regulations. “Since the entire industry was emerging, we were all ‘figuring it out as we went along,” she explained. “The next challenge we faced was to educate potential clients and industry stakeholders about the benefits of these new laws. BEE was a grudge purchase during the initial years of the legislation. My passion for transformation, and training was reignited by this opportunity to apply these skills in a new environment.” More recently, Usha presented at webinars held by the BEE Chamber SA together with the SA Chamber UK. She was also a speaker at an Enterprise and Supplier Development Summit held at the ICC in July 2023 presenting on Transformational vs Transactional BEE. Usha has always been passionate about contributing to a world in which women and other oppressed/minority groups were granted equal rights, and where family laws that empower women and children were upheld. This passion fuelled her decision to become a lawyer and encouraged her to spend time on pro bono cases focusing on women empowerment and in family/divorce mediation cases. Usha has published in “Street Law” manuals for learners and educators. Street Law is a tool used to improve the lives of communities. These strategies give the children opportunities to practice their speaking skills, improve their literacy, and give teachers the confidence to delve into some controversial topics. She has delivered a paper at the Commonwealth Legal Conference in Sri Lanka on “The Legal Recognition of Same- Sex Marriages” and contributed extensively to community projects, providing pro bono legal assistance to help fight for such causes. During the initial phase of the business, Usha’s encourage- ment came from the co-founder (a chartered accountant) who initiated the first meeting. “He educated me on policy making, and together we built our management systems and developed a policy manual collectively. I drew from his expertise and knowledge,” she explained. Usha added that her principal, with whom she served her articles of clerkship, is a woman who demonstrates power and resilience. “She has followed my journey to where I am today. She was a great teacher to me, became my mentor, and still inspires me to this day. She started practising as an attorney in 1964; is in her late 80s and still goes to her office daily. I can see myself following in her footsteps in this regard, to keep my mind active as I age.” Finally, added Usha her son and daughter are her greatest inspiration. The biggest obstacle she has had to overcome is becoming increasingly relevant in an era of constant change and the need to continuously upskill or reskill to meet business demands. “The lesson I learned was not to fear the unknown, but to explore opportunities which might have a positive impact on my future. This helped me get to where I am today.” Usha says that she has been personally involved in all areas of the business since 2015. “Working on my business has resulted in effective handover of many of my tasks to my efficient managers and administrators, which has had a positive impact on my accomplishments in the recent years.” A vision that Usha and her team share is that they are committed to playing their part in actively promoting the intended spirit of the BEE codes to support the businesses and communities that will ultimately drive inclusive economic growth in South Africa. On a more personal level, she looks forward to contributing to the further development of the incredible women who run BEESCORE so that one day they can say that they have successfully taken the business to greater heights. As a service business, human capital says Usha is her greatest asset. “I am equally excited to play an active role in the lives of my children and in helping nurture the next generation of activists, leaders and changemakers.” Usha has much advice for young women who are following in her path. This includes the importance of: Facing problems head-on Learning as an investment in oneself Making time for the people you love Embracing change She added that challenges are the steppingstones to success. “Embrace them with courage, and you will carve your path to greatness. Life presents us with challenges that test our resilience and courage. By confronting challenges, you build resilience and adaptability, qualities that are crucial in a rapidly changing world.” Lastly, it is important to have a work-life balance and to take care of your minds and your bodies. Usha has invested in herself physically and spiritually. She eats healthy food, practising yoga and meditation as well as enjoys walking and jogging.

In order to truly achieve, one has to understand and know your environmentMandy Rootman < Back Mandy Rootman Owner, Maraschino Marketing Collective Mandy Rootman is the owner of Maraschino Marketing Collective, based in Ballito, KZN. Maraschino offers comprehensive marketing services including the likes of strategic marketing planning, brand development, social media, graphic design, photographic and video services, and website creation among others. “My journey in the realm of marketing, being entrusted with the needs of various businesses, has been one of continuous adaptation and growth,” says Mandy. Maraschino has over the last 29 years, grown its client base across the country, across all industries. Beyond business, Mandy is a dedicated wife, mother, and ‘glammy’ to four cherished grandchildren. Achieving within community “In order to truly achieve, one has to understand and know your environment,” says Mandy. She believes that what they have achieved, has not been achieved alone, but as part of an incredible network of people and individuals. She and her team focus on goals that extend beyond their business to encompass that of clients and communities within their local spheres. Their concerted efforts kindle a spirit of participation for initiatives, events, fundraisers, and more, fostering symbiotic relationships that uplift both business and community alike. One such initiative was born when the Covid pandemic hit in 2020 where Mandy together with a friend, were facing their own business setbacks. However, armed with a media license, they joined forces with family and friends to create “The Vuvuzela”, where they crafted a website, established social media channels, and collaborated with local businesses in need. They captured 5 to 10-minute video clips showcasing resilience amidst challenges, while also spotlighting charities, food drives, and community initiatives that sought assistance. These clips, shot for free and placed online, totaling around 150 in over 18 months, not only gained traction locally but resonated worldwide, offering invaluable support. Expanding their efforts, they introduced Ballito TV, featuring live morning shows via their website and YouTube, spotlighting their region, businesses, and community projects. Most of this endeavour was self-funded, bolstered by the support of local business allies who recognised their dedication to their community and beyond. Amid the KZN riots, they rallied support for those safeguarding their neighbourhoods. Utilising restaurants that couldn’t operate, soup and food stations were set up, necessary resources secured, and sponsorship garnered from their nationwide network. This backing enabled them to extend their aid; providing sustenance to struggling families and organising drives for essential products. Mandy is very involved in her wider community, and using combined networks, her business assists where needed. “My motivation has always been to live each day to its full potential,” she says. Taking action Mandy attributes where she is today, to her unwavering passion, resolute determination and being able to pivot quickly regardless of the situation. “No” is not an option in her vocabulary; she actively seeks solutions instead of dwelling on challenges or their potential negativity. Her approach is to immerse herself in the company of kindred spirits, individuals who mirror her mindset – authentic, action-driven, and true to their word. Mandy says, “I admire those who don’t merely observe but step up to the plate, refusing to be bystanders – these are the people who inspire and motivate me.” On a personal level, her husband’s strength and drive to survive at all costs, through eight major surgeries over a six -year cancer journey, inspires her daily to be the best version of herself and to use every moment to make a difference and to pass it forward in some way or another. In the early stages of her business, Mandy found that the main challenge was educating people about the importance of marketing for business growth. The emergence of social media added a new challenge, as businesses initially saw it as a personal tool, not a business asset, leading to a lack of engagement with their target audience. Return on investment (ROI) was often prioritised over branding and exposure. Overcoming these challenges involved effective communication about the significance of marketing, demonstrating tangible ROI results, staying ahead of industry trends, and positioning the business for sustainable growth in the changing marketing landscape. Another challenge experienced amid the turbulence of Covid was that most businesses curtailed marketing due to financial constraints. Despite financial strains, Maraschino continued refining clients’ marketing strategies without charge. Remarkably, every client re-engaged as full-paying customers once restrictions eased. Maraschino itself took a hit as the majority of their clients operated in the hospitality and lifestyle sectors. However, since then, they have cultivated a robust client base spanning various industry, securing greater financial stability for the business. Looking to the future Mandy is passionate about serving local and national small to medium businesses because when growing them, she essentially grows herself. Her goal is to broaden their client base to have a global footprint while evolving to where the business operates seamlessly without her constant engagement. The Maraschino team currently boasts six young women, who are making their mark on life and in their chosen careers. Her advice has consistently revolved around embracing one’s authentic self, pursuing passions and aspirations, and not allowing anyone to deter them from turning their passions into profitable ventures. Mandy actively encourages young women to explore diverse avenues of income beyond their routine work commitments. This empowers them to potentially generate supplementary income from alternative endeavours, ensuring that if one opportunity closes, another is always waiting to be seized. Relaxing and unwinding To relax, Mandy loves spending time with her family, grandchildren and friends. She and her husband also grab every opportunity to get away for a long weekend and explore beautiful places.