< Back Rotoroy Nexus VISIT WEBSITE About Year Establised: 2016 B-BBEE Level Level 4 Industry Marketing & Media Tertiary Category Advertising Secondary Category paragraph Company Description KZN Business Sense is the strategic mouthpiece and premier newsroom for the KwaZulu-Natal regional economy. Far more than a standard publication, it is meticulously curated as a living document and a collector’s item that captures the vibrant pulse of local commerce. Driven by a resolute "Good News" marketing philosophy, the platform is built on the core principle that success breeds success. By prioritizing human-centric branding, Business Sense goes beyond corporate logos to actively put a face to the brand, profiling the dynamic leaders and innovators driving the province forward. It serves as a vital bridge within the B2B ecosystem, seamlessly connecting tens of thousands of decision-makers while celebrating operational excellence, infrastructure growth, and enduring regional achievements. Whether accessed digitally or in its premium physical format, it provides compelling perspectives that elevate regional enterprises, foster community trust, and position KwaZulu-Natal as a premier destination for global investment and long-term economic opportunity. Core Products Corporate Storytelling & Brand Profiling, publishing, Corporate Events, Digital Media & Visibility Services,B2B Networking Key Awards / Achievements paragraph CONTACT DETAILS Title Mr Name Surname Grant Adlam Designation / Job Title CEO Email Address adlam@icon.co.za Mobile Number 0832629529 Office Number 0832629529 Address N/A Reviews READ REVIEWS CEO DETAILS CEO B Phone MANAGEMENT TEAM Company Registration No paragraph paragraph Phone SOCIAL MEDIA Previous Next

< Back Natalie Keegan

As the Editor-in-Chief of KZN Top Business, Gayle Adlam provides the editorial vision for the KZN Top Business Women initiative. Her work focuses on storytelling as a means of empowerment, transforming traditional business recognition into a platform for celebrating the unique journeys of women leaders KZN Top Business Leaders Editors NOTE Gayle Adlam Next > < Back Through the KZN Top Business Leaders Portfolio, we proudly honour the out standing business leaders who contribute to KwaZulu-Natal’s economy. The KZN Leaders Portfolio is a natural evolution of the KZN Top Business Portfolio, which has been published since 1989. When reflecting on the success stories featured in the KZN Top Business Portfolio, one factor stands out: effective leadership. KwaZulu-Natal is filled with individuals who deserve recognition for their contributions, and this coffee table book celebrates their remarkable achievements and inspiring journeys. The KZN Leaders Portfolio delves into the driving forces behind these leaders’ purpose and passion, highlighting their vision, commitment, and impact, which are central to the province’s progress. Discovering the stories behind these leaders is an enriching experience. Their narratives go beyond business; they reveal the human side of leadership including resilience, innovation, and adaptability. Each leader brings unique expertise and insights, with stories of overcoming setbacks and driving progress. What unites them is a commitment to a purpose that reaches far beyond their everyday roles. They are motivated not just to achieve in business but to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. Pran Shree KZN Top Business Leaders - Grant Adlam Pran Shree KZN Top Business Leaders - Grant Adlam Brendan Bromfield KZN Top Business Photographer & Visual Specialist Captain Salvatore Sarno, Chairman of MSC South Africa, with KZN Top Business Publisher Gra Captain Salvatore Sarno, Chairman of MSC South Africa, with KZN Top Business Publisher Grant Adlam We interviewed each leader where possible and these conversations are available on the KZN Top Business YouTube channel. The questions asked aimed to uncover their professional achievements and personal motivations, covering: Where did your education/career begin? What was your first job? What is your current position in your business? What is your ‘why’ in your current role, both for yourself and your company? What accomplishment makes you the proudest? What is the best advice you’ve ever received, and how has it influenced your journey? What was the biggest challenge you faced, and how did you overcome it? How do you keep your team motivated despite conflicts and obstacles? Who or what inspires you? What is your vision for business in KZN over the next five years? Do you have a motto to live by? Ultimately, this collection is about more than titles and achievements; it’s about leadership that truly matters. By understanding how these leaders tackle challenges, inspire their teams, and drive progress, we gain valuable lessons that resonate across industries. Their experiences can motivate emerging leaders to act with purpose, embrace ethical practices, and drive positive change. Notably, today’s leaders are redefining success to encompass not only financial growth but also social and environmental impact. Their stories encourage us to look beyond profits and focus on building sustainable solutions that make a real difference. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the leaders who participated and generously shared their time for interviews and photographs. Without your contributions, this book would not have been possible. As we celebrate these leaders, we are reminded that KwaZulu-Natal’s growth depends on individuals who do more than just get things done but have a vision for a brighter future. Through this Portfolio, we aim to recognise their contributions and share their hopes for the future of the province. We believe that with so much commitment to finding purpose for the benefit of all, the future is bright Contact Our business landscape thrives on genuine success stories, purposeful innovation, and dynamic leadership. I am constantly searching for compelling contributions and exciting opportunities that shine a spotlight on economic growth and enterprise excellence. If you have an inspiring story, insight, or development to share that adds real value to our readers, please get in touch—let’s connect and shape the conversation together. gayle@kzntopbusiness.com

Ebrahim Patel Next Previous Ebrahim Patel is the managing director of Magellan Investment Management and director at SiyaXoxa Technologies Ebrahim Patel, managing director of Magellan Investment Management and director at SiyaXoxa Technologies, exemplifies dynamic leadership and innovation. Born, raised, and educated in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, Ebrahim’s journey began with an early exposure to the business world as a shop assistant at a fashion house during school holidays. “That experience ignited my passion for business,” Ebrahim reflects. This formative exposure instilled a deep appreciation for business dynamics and customer relationships, shaping his career trajectory. Ebrahim initially pursued a degree in computer sciences at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. However, recognising that this field did not align with his career aspirations, he transitioned to property management, quickly becoming South Africa’s youngest qualified commercial broker. This role afforded him the opportunity to engage with leading property developers and industry professionals nationwide, enriching his expertise and perspective. A pivotal moment occurred in 1994 during a chance encounter with the CEO of a major clothing manufacturer in a Hong Kong hotel lobby. Ebrahim was inspired by the company’s outsourcing model, which operated efficiently without owning extensive facilities. This experience reinforced his belief that success does not necessarily hinge on scale, and it profoundly influenced his business strategy to emphasise outsourcing as a means to create opportunities and share success. The post-apartheid era in South Africa presented a wealth of new opportunities. Encouraged by his peers, Ebrahim founded Magellan Investment Management and expanded into facilities management and investment management. His significant contributions in the industry were acknowledged when he became the first non-white chair of the South African Facilities Managers Association. Driven by a passion for technology, Ebrahim is involved with SiyaXoxa Technologies with a mission to democratise access to technology and information, particularly in underserved areas and small businesses. “My goal has always been to make technology accessible to everyone,” Ebrahim asserts. For him, technology is not just a tool for innovation but a catalyst for enhancing business processes and fostering economic growth. A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE Reflecting on his accomplishments, Ebrahim finds his greatest pride in his children. “I’m deeply proud of their growth,” he says, attributing this personal satisfaction to the values instilled in him from a young age, which he now sees mirrored in his children. Professionally, Ebrahim values the opportunity to engage with individuals across diverse industries, which has provided him with a comprehensive global perspective. Another significant achievement is his role as the founder and past president of the Minara Chamber of Commerce, where he played a key role in driving economic development and creating new opportunities in the province. He has built strong relations with The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries and was appointed as the Honorary Consul of Indonesia in KwaZulu-Natal in recognition of his efforts. Ebrahim treasures the advice he received from a former Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, who served as his mentor. The counsel to “take things slowly and build on strong foundations” has been instrumental in shaping Ebrahim’s business philosophy and personal approach. This guidance has encouraged him to address challenges thoughtfully and move forward with confidence, fostering a steady and reflective approach to goal achievement. NAVIGATING CHALLENGES AND INSPIRING MOTIVATION Ebrahim acknowledges that challenges are an inherent part of business, whether they involve financial issues, industry shifts, or changing consumer behaviours. “An entrepreneurial mindset must be adaptable, finding opportunities within challenges,” he explains. He views overcoming setbacks, such as business failures or rejected proposals, as crucial to achieving long-term success. Ebrahim believes that perseverance, rather than succumbing to negativity, is key to advancing in business. He finds inspiration in both his team and himself. “My team often motivates me because they rely on the vision I provide,” he shares. To keep his team energised, Ebrahim promotes a positive outlook and focuses on the opportunities present in the country. “Understanding that opportunities exist helps us remain motivated,” he notes. Ebrahim also encourages his team with his personal mantra: “Every sunrise signals a new contract with life,” underscoring that each day offers a new chance to make a meaningful impact. Ebrahim draws inspiration from individuals like Grant Adlam, whom he admires for recognising and celebrating excellence within the business community, thereby motivating others to strive for greatness. ENVISIONING A BRIGHT FUTURE Ebrahim is optimistic about KwaZulu-Natal’s future, noting its significant potential in sectors such as the port, manufacturing, and tourism. Despite challenges such as Covid-19, the 2021 riots, and the 2022 natural disasters, he believes the province’s resilience has only grown stronger. He observes increasing confidence and investment interest and envisions opportunities for greater inclusivity and economic advancement. Ebrahim is particularly enthusiastic about KwaZulu- Natal’s export potential, especially through the African Continental Free Trade Agreement. He believes that by focusing on this potential, the province can emerge as one of the continent’s leading economies within five years. His unwavering commitment to excellence drives his efforts, although he acknowledges that his perfectionist tendencies can sometimes pose challenges. “My motto has always been to give of my best,” he concludes. Ebrahim continues to embody visionary leader- ship, dedicated to advancing progress and creating opportunities across South Africa. Previous Next

Heather Flack Next Previous Heather Flack is the impassioned business leader of Flair Accounting Heather Flack is the impassioned business leader of Flair Accounting, a boutique accounting practice based in Morningside, Durban. Heather grew up in Vereeniging in the Vaal Triangle. When she matriculated in 1997, she was unexpectedly offered a full bursary to study any form of art, which Heather says was quite unheard of. “However, I was blessed with the wisdom to know that while art was my passion, it’s a subjective field. I could end up in jail for beating somebody up when they said they didn’t like what I had made!” she explains with a chuckle. Preferring the structured nature of accounting and realising the impact sound financial decision making could have for businesses, she started her articles after school and studied at night at the then Potchefstroom University. After working in a practice for a few years, Heather realised that the traditional accounting model was never going to work for her. Heather explains, “My heart was always in a space to really help business owners in the full sense of what finance can give to a business owner – not just their tax structure.” Heather then joined a business in Durban in 1999 and after three years, on her 23rd birthday, started Flair Accounting, which has now been serving clients for 21 years. “I am blessed to lead a wonderful team. We have always said that we want to change the world one business at a time because life is about people, not about numbers, titles, or accolades. Finance has an amazing ability to empower people to make decisions to change their businesses to affect the economy, and to positively affect the country.” Flair Accounting’s mission statement is “to be the most loved accounting practice in Durban.”“We love the work we do and seeing the impact it makes.We want the businesses and clients that we serve to love working with us because ultimately relationships are what empower us to make that difference in their lives.” THRIVING FOR 21 YEARS The accomplishment that makes Heather the proudest is not just surviving for 21 years but thriving. “I’m very proud of our legacy of impact, which was not my intention when I started, but which has been the outcome of the last 21 years of focusing on relationships whilst providing incredible accounting solutions. This means the world to me.” She is proud of the many people who have worked for Flair Accounting, who believed in her ethos of breaking the traditional accounting practice mould. The grounding gained has seen them go on to work for companies such as Unilever, Derivco and the PKFs of the world. Heather says, “Our success is really due to each individual who has served with us.” The best advice Heather has received was from George Ross, the first client that she took on when she started her business. He said that the definition of a leader is somebody that people WILLINGLY follow, which shaped Heather’s approach to engaging with staff, clients, community and stakeholders. “If you are not a leader that people will willingly follow, you’re just a dictator. Understanding that defined my entire company culture and how I interact with every single person in my life,” explains Heather. Heather has faced two major challenges in her business. The first she has resolved by getting older because the immediate challenge that she faced was her youthful age when she started Flair Accounting. “Firstly, to get anybody to have the confidence that I had the ability to do what I said I was going to do was quite difficult. Developing trust in my abilities took many years and sometimes meant that I offered to do the work for free. If the clients were happy afterwards, they could pay me, which worked. One client even paid me double!” she explains. The second challenge, which took a little bit longer for Heather to resolve, was realising that when it comes to hiring people to join the practice that you can’t just hire anybody – you need to find the right body. “I overcame that by developing a meaningful hiring process whereby we can discover who you are before you work with us, because who you are we can’t change. What you know we can change; we can teach you and you can learn. I’m immensely proud of our hiring process and how we go about finding those right people.” LIVE YOUR WHY In addition, Heather says that although businesses will always encounter obstacles and workforces will always have conflicts, the best way to resolve these is to be clear about what your culture is and to live your why. “There’s a wonderful book by Simon Sinek called Leaders Eat Last and that ethos I’d like to think we model here. When the times are tough, I will be the first one to join the team and do the hard yards. I have always found that when I climb in the trenches with the staff there’s nothing that we can’t achieve.” Heather is inspired by ethical people who are not afraid to stand up for what they believe in. She adds, “Not because they have to, but because it’s the right thing and that has always been a wonderful affirmation for me.” An example of a leader she follows is Thuli Madonsela, because in a male dominated world and in an incredibly challenging environment, she has had the strength of her convictions. Heather’s vision for her business in the next five to ten years is that, although they’ve grown exponentially over the last years, she would like to see even more impact being had on the economy by empowering people with brilliant financial information. The motto that Heather lives by is “life is about people” which is the superpower driving her company culture. “If we always remember that, whether it’s a tax return I’m dealing with or a financial statement or a forensic audit or estate planning. I’m doing it with numbers, but I’m doing it for people,” she concludes. Previous Next

Dr Shaun Groenink Next Previous Dr Shaun Groenink i Dr Shaun Groenink is the founder and managing director of Greenhill Laboratories, a testing and consulting laboratory based in Hilton, outside Pietermaritzburg. Greenhill Laboratories services a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, veterinary science, food manufacturing, meat importation, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare. The laboratory holds ISO 17025 accreditation, a Good Manufacturing Practice GMP) licence from the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority, employs a veterinarian registered with the South African Veterinary Council, and maintains multiple approvals from various directorates within the Department of Agriculture. While compliance is non-negotiable, Shaun is clear that regulation does not have to mean rigidity of thinking. “We work in a very regulated space, and there are certain boxes we have to work in,” he says. “But we want to work in those boxes differently to how it is being done elsewhere.” That philosophy has shaped Greenhill Laboratories from the outset and continues to guide its growth. Two core pillars underpin the business. The first is turnaround time. Shaun describes this as an area of focus, recognising that delays in testing can have serious commercial and safety implications for clients. The second pillar is communication. “Despite the fact that we deal with businesses, we still deal with individuals,” he explains. “It is about personal relationships between our staff and the people at the companies we serve.” “We often deal with clients who do not have all the background knowledge as to what we are doing, why we are doing it, and why they have to do it,” Shaun says. “Communication is very important for us.” At the heart of this ethos is consumer protection. Much of the testing Greenhill Laboratories conducts is legislated. “Our clients need to ensure that what they put out to market is safe for consumers,” he says. “At the end of the day, this work really does save lives. BUILDING A BUSINESS Shaun’s academic journey laid a solid foundation for his career. He studied for eleven years at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in Pietermaritzburg, completing an honours degree in biochemistry a master’s degree in animal science and a PhD in biochemistry. His first taste of professional laboratory work was in his third year of study, when he worked as an intern and laboratory assistant at a pharmaceutical laboratory. “After lectures or practice had finished, I would go up to the lab and help out with whatever needed to be done,” he recalls. Today, as managing director, Shaun sees his role as far more than overseeing operations. “My purpose for Greenhill Laboratories, and personally, is creating a company that contributes back to society,” he says. “It is also about creating opportunities for our people to give their best, to grow and to develop, and either contribute back to the company or spread their wings and go elsewhere. HALLENGES AND SETBACKS The best advice Shaun ever received came during his PhD. One of his supervisors told him that a doctorate is not earned because of the final thesis, but because of all the challenges and setbacks you have to get through,” Shaun says. That lesson has stayed with him. “Every setback is something to work through, learn from and grow.” This mindset has been tested repeatedly. Beyond Covid-19, outbreaks of animal diseases such as foot and mouth disease and avian influenza have posed serious continuity challenges. Through diversification and teamwork, the business has adapted. “With our team, we have managed to get through and find different industries to serve,” Shaun notes. Keeping people motivated in a high-pressure envi ronment is not easy. Shaun is candid about this. “We work with very demanding clients, and it can be difficult to keep everyone motivated, including myself,” he says. “It is about reminding everyone why we do this testing and the importance of protecting consumers and guaranteeing product quality.” Inspiration, for Shaun, is close to home. “My wife inspires me,” he says. “She tackles anything she sets her mind to with grit and determination.” Shaun is equally inspired by his colleagues. Seeing team members take ownership, often without being asked, reinforces his belief in shared leadership. “When people want to contribute and develop themselves and the company, that makes me smile,” he says GROUNDED IN ACTION Looking beyond Greenhill Laboratories, Shaun’s vision for business in KwaZulu-Natal is one of self sufficiency. He believes the province has ample capacity and expertise to meet its own needs. “There is often no reason for work to be sent elsewhere,” he says. “KZN has more than enough ability to service its own industries.” Shaun lives by a simple motto. “Never complain,” he says. “If you raise an issue, come up with a solution.” This is a philosophy grounded in action rather than frustration. Underpinning it all is a shared belief within the company that their work matters. “What we do here does save lives,” Shaun concludes. “We are one of the front lines of consumer safety, and that is something we never lose sight of.” Previous Next

< Back Next > Karen Howard Founder, ASI KZN Karen Howard founded ASI KZN in December 2023. She explained, “It’s in the financial services sector, where I work as a specialist healthcare consultant. However, she says first and foremost, she is a mum to three children, consisting of a 29-year-old son teaching in Hong Kong and two daughters aged 23 and 21. Raised in East London on the Wild Coast, Karen fondly recalls, “It’s the most beautiful place in the world, my therapy. My sister still lives there, so we visit as often as we can.” Her career took her from East London to Johannesburg, where she studied, ventured into marketing, and then zigzagged between education and corporate roles. Karen joined the first Montessori primary school in the country, but when the school faced financial difficulties, she joined the corporate world. Karen’s teaching experience led her to a role with a medical scheme administrator, where she initially looked after corporate clients. She then moved to another medical scheme and was eventually headhunted by a financial services company. “I absolutely hated it,” she admits. “I started my own company because I felt there were gaps in the services provided. The executives were being catered for, but nobody was helping the people on the shop floor, who were left to figure everything out on their own.” Her path to entrepreneurship was not without challenges. “I’ve made some fundamentally terrible business decisions along the way,” Karen confesses, “but I’ve learned from them. It’s cost a small fortune, but that’s how you grow. I was fortunate to meet ASI Financial Services about two years ago, and we joined forces. I became the first female partner at ASI, but I certainly won’t be the last.” Navigating Medical Aids ASI KZN specialises in healthcare consulting. “We assist members by sitting down with them to choose the right option for their medical needs and financial situations,” Karen explains. “Medical schemes can be complex, with options such as income-based plans, hospital plans, and new-generation products that come with savings accounts, thresholds, and above-threshold benefits. Most people don’t fully understand how these plans work and often end up on the most expensive option for years, which is a complete waste of money.” Her personal experiences have profoundly shaped her professional approach. “I learned the hard way when my daughter was born with an undiagnosed birth defect; congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH),” she shares. “She was rushed into ICU and required life-saving surgery. It was a challenging time, but it made me a more compassionate consultant. I can look people in the eye and say, ‘You never know what’s around the corner. You could face a serious illness or a major accident, so make sure you’re covered for the unexpected as best you can.’ I’m blessed to have my daughter, and she’s a constant reminder of the importance of having the right medical cover.” Karen shared how a woman named Dawn Ireland had been a significant source of motivation for her. Dawn founded Cherubs, a support group for parents of children with CDH, after losing her own son to the condition. Despite this loss, she has dedicated her life to raising funds for research and training doctors worldwide on how to care for CDH babies. Karen admires Dawn’s resilience, saying, “When you’re put in a really difficult position, you have two choices: sink or swim. Like her, I’ve chosen to swim—and I put my heart into it.” Challenges and Triumphs Running a business has not been easy. “I’ve gone into business in all the wrong ways, been far too trusting, and partnered with the wrong people, without performing due diligence or protecting myself legally,” Karen admits. “I receive great support from two remarkable women, Nicole Raats and Patricia Nzimande, who have been invaluable.” ASI KZN’s services and partnerships extend beyond medical aid to include financial planning, employee benefits, wealth creation, short-term insurance and even non-financial services such as fibre solutions and solar power. “We’re not just another financial services company,” Karen asserts. “Most firms in this industry treat you as a number, but we genuinely care. I’ve had clients call me at all hours, sometimes in the middle of the night, because they need urgent help.” Karen is determined to use her platform to create opportunities. “We’re actively seeking interns and mentor young people to grow within the business. Our company has been a leader in promoting diversity, being the first black economic empowered financial services company in the country. We’re a family, and it doesn’t matter where you come from or what language you speak. We’re all working together for the benefit of our members.” Her passion extends to helping other women achieve financial independence. “I’ve been a single mum for 14 years without any external support, I’ve had no choice but to make it work. It’s crucial for women, particularly those who have gone through divorce, to build wealth and move forward with dignity and confidence,” she says. “Our company’s motto is ‘Build Wealth and Change Lives’, and I want to ensure that motto resonates with women who have faced adversity.” Karen’s future goals are clear: “I want to grow ASI KZN to become the leading financial services company in KwaZulu-Natal.” Living the Dream Reflecting on her journey, Karen says, “For young women following my path, I’d say, find a mentor. It’s much better to learn from someone else’s experiences than your own mistakes. You also need grit and determination to succeed in business, especially as a woman. Don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself, never stop learning and always maintain your financial independence.” For Karen, life is not all about work. “It’s important to find balance, especially in the corporate world, where the pressure can be intense,” she explains. “If you don’t take time for yourself, it will affect your health.” She enjoys painting, riding horses, and supporting her children’s sporting activities. “I’m a country girl at heart,” she says. “We live in the countryside, and a walk in nature always recharges my soul.” < Previous Next >

< Back Zululand Chamber of Commerce & Industry 2 hours Assesment About While the Zululand Chamber of Commerce & Industry is autonomous to the Zululand Chamber of Business Foundation, the Foundation community park continues to provide a home for its associated organisations. The Zululand Chamber of Commerce & Industry continues to enjoy a close relationship with the Foundation while Business Against Crime no longer reports to the Foundation. The Zululand Chamber of Commerce & Industry continues to grow with increased membership and during 2009 the Chamber Executive Committee had 19 sub committees reporting to it.At the Executive Committee meeting held on the 8th August 2007 under the chairmanship of Mr Garth McCartney, the Chamber took the decision to become affiliated with SACCI (South African Chamber of Commerce & Industry, formally known as SACOB). Previous Next

Prasheen Maharaj Next Previous Prasheen Maharaj is the chief executive officer and owner of Sandock Austral Shipyards Prasheen Maharaj, the chief executive officer and owner of Sandock Austral Shipyards, leads the largest shipyard in southern Africa. In addition, Prasheen serves as the president of the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry and South Africa’s Maritime Industry Development Network, reflecting his broader influence in the business and maritime sectors. Prasheen’s upbringing was shaped by the realities of Apartheid-era South Africa. He grew up in a formerly Indian suburb, where he attended Pollock Primary School and later, New West Secondary for high school. Despite the challenging circumstances, he was determined to pursue higher education. “Coming from an extremely disadvantaged back- ground, up until the age of 16, I grew up in a house with over 40 people, one bathroom, and two outside toilets. I know the struggle of poverty,” Prasheen reflects. He went on to study at the University of Natal, where he earned a BCom degree. Recognising the value of continuous learning, he later completed an MBA. When the Covid-19 pandemic hit, Prasheen used the opportunity to further his education, earning a master’s degree in supply chain management from the University of London and another in strategy from the University of Portsmouth. CONSCIOUS CAPITALISM Prasheen’s career began modestly, with his first job at 12 years old, handing out pamphlets. After completing his university education in 1996, he landed a two-year internship in merchant and investment banking through a Black graduate management development programme. This pro- gramme was part of South Africa’s efforts to integrate previously disadvantaged people into the mainstream economy, particularly in sectors like financial services, merchant banking, and asset management. Over the years, Prasheen climbed the corporate ladder, driven by a philosophy he describes as “conscious capitalism.” He explains, “In business, everything I do is about doing it for the greater good. The driving force is to ensure that our country, graduates, and employees have hope, and to align ourselves with the economic development goals of the country.” His leadership is characterised by a commitment to addressing unemployment, inequality, and poverty, and by striving to make South Africa a manufacturing nation. One of Prasheen’s proudest accomplishments is his role as the sole shareholder, alongside the Workers Empowerment Trust, of Sandock Austral Shipyards. Under his leadership, the shipyard has achieved remarkable feats, including building the largest and most complex hydrographic vessel in the world. “We’re the only company on the African continent to have ever refitted a modern navy frigate,” he says proudly. Prasheen’s contributions to the maritime industry have not gone unnoticed. Two years ago, he was honoured with the inaugural Blue Oceans Economy Champion award, recognising his impact on South Africa’s maritime economy. On a personal level, Prasheen takes immense pride in his family, particularly in providing his children with opportunities he never had. “For me, to raise a happy, healthy family and to be able to give my children and my wife the best opportunities in the world, that makes me very proud,” he shares. Speaking of his mentors, Prasheen says that he has had numerous sources of inspiration over the years. However, he believes the best advice he received was from his late business partner Don Mkhwanazi who told him, ‘Don’t associate yourself with mediocrity’. “From that day, in all that I do, whether it’s in business or whether it’s in personal or whether it’s my philanthropic endeavours, I always strive for excellence because when you do I think the result is always good. I will treasure that bit of advice.” Prasheen’s journey has not been without challenges. He cites overcoming the “poverty mindset” as one of his personal hurdles. “You have to convince yourself you are good enough to go to university and earn this degree. Even today, I still don’t truly believe I be- long where I am,” he admits. However, this mindset keeps him grounded and grateful. “Every day I ex- press gratitude in the naivest fashion possible. I think when the universe feels my gratitude, it gives more.” In business, one of his toughest challenges came during the state capture years in South Africa. “The Guptas wanted a slice of every state contract, and we refused to participate. It was soul-destroying, but in the end, I can still hold my head high in society and say, despite that biggest challenge, despite not paying the bribes, we survived, and we prospered,” Prasheen recalls with pride. TEAM MOTIVATION Prasheen motivates his team with a realistic and resilient approach to business. He often reminds them that business, like life, is a roller coaster with ups and downs. He emphasises the company’s values acronym, SPEAR: Safety, Perseverance, Excellence, Achievement, and Reward. “I remind them that our good days are coming, so you need to persevere and don’t give up,” he advises. He draws inspiration from Warren Buffett, who built his business slowly and steadily, without taking unnecessary risks. “He just used common business sense. And let the compounding effect make him extremely wealthy. I take great inspiration from that kind of business philosophy. I want to ensure the sustainability of my business so I can preserve and create more jobs.” Prasheen’s vision extends beyond his business. He believes in the potential of partnerships to address the challenges facing KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa. “My vision is to create a genuine co- operative and collaborative partnership between the private sector and government at the local and provincial levels to work together as a patriotic team,” he asserts. He emphasizes the importance of the Zulu concept of Ubuntu – “I am because you are” – as a guiding principle for fostering mutual support. Prasheen is committed to ensuring that Sandock Austral Shipyards and other businesses contribute positively to society while remaining globally competitive. In conclusion he says, “The biggest thing in life is that people give up. They go to 90% there and they don’t see through the last 10% because they think they won’t make it. My motto is ‘In the end, everything is OK. If it’s not OK, it’s not the end’.” Previous Next