The Nic Carroll 2021 Collection Thobeka Dlongolo Managing Director Biza iAfrica Consultants If you have the passion and the focus, and if you have the dream; you can take yourself to a better level and independence Thobeka Dlongolo

< Back Samantha Croft

< Back Manicure $48.00 45 minutes Book Now About This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. Want to view and manage all your collections? Click on the Content Manager button in the Add panel on the left. Here, you can make changes to your content, add new fields, create dynamic pages and more. Previous Next

Mark Bielovich Next Previous Mark Bielovich is the group chief executive officer of BMS Foods Mark Bielovich is the group chief executive officer of BMS Foods, a business born from family ties, that has grown over the decades through astute business acumen, unwavering vision and hard work. This KwaZulu-Natal based company is a leader in the processing and retail of meat products. As CEO, Mark manages the three arms that make up BMS Foods. BMS Properties manages the company’s property assets. Gen4Foods specialises in meat processing and supplies supermarkets nationally with high-quality products including polony and viennas. The retail division, Bluff Meat Supply, is made up of 26 stores across KZN. Mark says that a business is only as strong as its weakest link, stating that he is grateful for the commitment and hard work of his partners. The humble beginnings of this company stem back over one hundred years. In 1916, Mark’s grandfather Joe Bielovich, traveled by boat from Croatia to South Africa where he started a small butchery in Brakpan. The family subsequently moved to Durban in the mid-1950s.. In 1960 Joe opened a butchery on the Bluff, which was the start of the present-day Bluff Meat Supply. He retired shortly afterwards and was succeeded by Mark’s father, Marco, who ran the business until the mid-1970s. This business became part of a bigger company, Wholesome Meats, who were the leading meat company in KZN at that time. In 1980 Mark joined Wholesome Meats as an apprentice butcher. He was sent abroad to train as a master butcher in the Stuttgart area of Germany. The two years that he spent overseas had a profound effect on his work ethic and overall business outlook. Mark explained, “I worked for Henrich Mack, a German master butcher. He was a strict man who always sought perfection. We worked hard and had long hours – 90 hours a week. He watched everything closely including overheads like the cost of energy. As a young apprentice, the high standards and sound business practices rubbed off on me. I continue to try instill those same values in my partners and in our employees at work.” In early 1984, Mark and his twin brother Bruce started a small butchery in Pinetown called Mndeni Meats. In 1986 the brothers purchased Bluff Meat Supply back from Wholesome Meats. Later that year, Tony Robinson joined the business as a partner. Under Bruce, Mark and Tony’s leader- ship, the business grew. Unfortunately, in 1991 Bruce sadly passed away in a motor vehicle accident. Mark and Tony continued to lead by example working long hours and to the highest standard. At this time, each butchery store operated as a separate entity that made up the larger company. The success of each store was thus largely dependent on the leadership of the branch managers who were incentivised by being made partners in the business. In 2000 the company purchased their first factory to expand into processed meats. In 2007 an additional factory was built in Springfield Park with another larger factory following in 2012. That same year the company took on an equity partner, RMB Ventures, which proved to be successful for both parties. STRIVING FOR EXCELLENCE Speaking of his successes, Mark says that he is driven by striving for excellence in all spheres of business. “It gives me great pleasure when I walk into a store and everything is laid out neatly, counters correctly packed and staff correctly dressed. That is a win and that’s what we as a business are striving for – to always better the customer shopping experience – and to consider all aspects of the service offered. That is what I call accomplishment.” While the business has grown over the years, this has not been without challenges. Currently, says Mark, finding appropriately trained and highly skilled store management is difficult. The business has thus sought to identify people with potential and train them internally. Mark added that the looting that occurred in KZN in 2021 had a large impact on their company with eight stores damaged, one store burnt, and a large factory burnt down. “This was probably the single biggest catastrophe in our business’s history. But as with most South Africans, we too are resilient. Most effected stores were back up and running within a few days. The last one had to be rebuilt, which took a year. The factory took five months to restore, which was an excellent accomplishment,” elaborates Mark. THE HARD YARDS Speaking of advice to people entering into business, Mark highlights the importance of doing ‘the hard yards’. “I have found that many young people today don’t fully grasp the commitment required for success, you need to be persistent, success doesn’t come overnight.” Mark’s father has always been a source of inspiration for him. “My father wasn’t flashy and he valued hard work, loyalty, honesty and family. I had the benefit of sitting around the supper table and speaking about business in general with him. My own son has joined our business and through his commitment I see that I have passed on the same values and business outlook.” In terms of factors that influence success, Mark commented that managing expenditure is important. “I call the business the ‘golden goose’. That’s what’s going to make your wealth, not the Porsche in your garage. Get your business on a good footing and pay off all your debts. In the beginning, if we couldn’t pay cash for a luxury, we didn’t buy it.” He added, “You’ve got to be passionate about what you’re doing. You need to conduct your business ethically and honestly. I aspire to ensure that the business’s brand is loved, successful and one that people look up to.” Mark explains the overall management of a business is what is responsible for creating a successful business. “Life is about choices – a great deal of it is up to you. You need to make the best possible decisions and hopefully they are the right decisions.” Mark’s key motto is: “There’s no bad business, only bad management.” Living by example, Mark is proof that this motto holds true. Previous Next

Nkosinathi Myataza Next Previous Nkosinathi Myataza Nkosinathi Myataza is the Regional General Manager for KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape at Airports Company South Africa (ACSA). His leadership journey was shaped long before his professional career began. Born into a family rooted in faith and service, Nkosinathi grew up as the second born son of an Anglican priest in the former Transkei in the Eastern Cape. “My early education began in the Eastern Cape across several towns,” he recalls. “Those early experiences instilled adaptability, discipline, and a deep sense of service.” Nkosinathi matriculated at St John’s College in Mthatha, where he spent three years as a boarding student from 1980 to 1982. “They were beautiful years, tough years, and profoundly character building academically, socially, and personally,” he says. Following matric, Nkosinathi enrolled for an Electrical Engineering degree at the then University of Natal in Durban. Like many black students at the time, his registration was provisional while awaiting study permits required under apartheid legislation. Accommodation was off campus in Wentworth due to the Group Areas Act. “Despite the political and social constraints, the academic programme was enriching and produced many outstanding professionals and leaders of society,” he reflects. Political instability, however, disrupted many student journeys, including his own. Nkosinathi later completed his engineering studies at what is now the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, earning a National Higher Diploma in Mechanical Engineering. Studying while working, he went on to obtain a Government Certificate of Competency factories, a BSc through UNISA, postgraduate qualifications in Risk Management, Project Management, executive leadership and governance, and an MSc in Operational Research. Alongside academic achievement, professional accountability has been central to his development. Nkosinathi holds registration as a Professional Certificated Engineer with the Engineering Council of South Africa, is a Certified Risk Management Practitioner with The Institute of Risk Management South Africa, and a Certified Director with the Institute of Directors in South Africa. “All these experiences shaped not only my career, but my worldview,” he says. “While my ambition from high school was to become an engineer, the journey sharpened me far beyond technical skill, giving me a deep appreciation for people, systems, resilience, and purpose.” DISCIPLINE, RISK AND RESPONSIBILITY Nkosinathi’s first paid role set the tone for the discipline that would define his career. He joined Eskom’s Koeberg Nuclear Power Station as a Nuclear Technician, following in service training that included placement at the Caltex Refinery in Cape Town. He explains, “My role at Koeberg involved operating complex machinery and safety critical systems where outcomes were expected to be exact, predictable, and without surprises. That early exposure to discipline, accountability, and risk consciousness has stayed with me throughout my career.” As Regional General Manager for KZN and the Eastern Cape at ACSA, his responsibilities span three airports, including King Shaka International Airport. His role includes the oversight of operations, engineering, safety, security, regional integration and stakeholder engagement. Nkosinathi also contributes at executive management and board related governance levels, supporting strategy, risk oversight and long-term sustainability. His sense of purpose is grounded in both service and legacy. “Professionally, I am committed to ensuring that airports are safe, efficient, resilient, and enabling platforms for economic growth,” he says. “Airports are not just infrastructure. They connect people, places, opportunities and dreams.” Personally, Nkosinathi is deeply invested in developing women and youth leaders, advancing transformation, and contributing to South Africa’s growth and Africa’s broader development agenda. “I want to leave behind a generation of well trained, ethical, and fully rounded aviation professionals who can take the industry forward with confidence and integrity.” One professional accomplishment stands out above the rest. “Leading the engineering integration within the operational readiness of King Shaka Airport remains one of my proudest achievements,” he says. Delivering a complex, multi billion rand airport to international standards in time for the 2010 FIFA World Cup demanded exceptional collaboration, trust and fortitude. On a personal level, his pride is firmly rooted in family. “I am proud of my children, who continue to show up in their lives with purpose and character,” he says. Nkosinathi added, “That cannot be possible without my siblings, as we are a tight knit collective.” VALUES DRIVEN LEADERSHIP The principles that guide Nkosinathi’s leadership were shaped by his upbringing within an African and Christian value system. “Love yourself, love your neighbour, and treat others as you would want to be treated,” he says. “That principle reminds me that leadership is not about power, but about service, integrity, and how one shows up for others.” Those values were tested during the Covid-19 pandemic, one of the most challenging periods in aviation history. With airports at a near standstill, leadership demanded resilience and compassion. “Leading through that period required clarity of purpose and a deliberate balance between saving lives and livelihoods,” he reflects. “Staying grounded in purpose and values made it possible to navigate uncertainty.” Motivating teams through conflict and pressure, he believes, comes down to hearing different perspectives, treating people with dignity, and ensuring decisions are well explained. Nkosinathi says, “When people feel respected and included, difficult moments become opportunities for growth.” Inspiration comes from both public figures and personal sources. He cites Oliver Tambo as a model of principled leadership. His greatest inspiration, however, was his late mother, MaZulu, who raised seven children after being widowed at 40, rebuilding her family life with faith and dignity. He also honours his late father, Rhadebe, whose unwavering commitment to principle cost him his life at 44. Looking ahead, Nkosinathi’s vision for business in KZN is ‘inclusive, transformed, and sustainable growth’. He sees the province as a powerful logistics, tourism and trade gateway for the continent, provided collaboration between government, civil society, public entities and the private sector deepens. “Transformation must be meaningful,” he adds. “We must create a future that is not only economically strong, but socially just and worthy of the generations that follow.” This is a vision neatly captured in the motto Nkosinathi lives by: “Lead with integrity, decide with courage, and serve with purpose. Previous Next

< Back Mavis Naidoo

Frikkie Brooks Next Previous Frikkie Brooks is the owner and managing director of Brooks Facilitation Services Frikkie Brooks is the owner and manging director of Brooks Facilitation Services. Frikkie grew up on a farm near Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal. He went to school in Newcastle up to grade 10, and as his family relocated, completed his schooling in Pretoria, “I always joke and say I had to go there to meet my wife. I have been married to Anita for 44 years and met her on the very first day that I got to my new school.” Commencing in 1979, Frikkie’s first job was as a geography teacher and he taught for ten years. Although he thoroughly enjoyed teaching geography, his further studies, in development planning, took him into various other fields. After leaving teaching in 1989, Frikkie joined the then Department of Constitutional Development and Planning and has since been involved in development and the facilitation of various catalytic projects. Following a long career in government, Brooks Facilitation Services was established when Frikkie retired. “When you’re 65, your sell by date arrives and you move on to greener pastures,” he explained. BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS Frikkie said that he has realised that being a geographer is about bringing concepts and people together. He says his ‘why’ is building constructive relationships and facilitating engagement between people as well as enabling processes. Having been involved in various capacities in government for a period of 40 years, Frikkie was fortunate to have built an extensive network. “For me it was logical that I should try to keep the network intact for as long as possible. In the last five years I’ve been able to establish wonderful new relationships as well as bring some of the old networks together and merge them from a new perspective to collaborate and produce wonderful things.” Frikkie started working in government pre-1994 and he successfully navigated the transition post-1994. He has worked under three different political parties and served under 26 political principals including nine premiers in the province of KwaZulu-Natal. He explains that his career was possible because as a technocrat nobody saw him as a threat. “I’m a geographer, and I present the facts as I see them. I’d say unashamedly that I’ve never carried a political card in my life. Regardless of what my political views might be, they remain in my back pocket.” Lately, Frikkie has come to realise that he has been able to manage the transition from government to the private sector quite seamlessly. He commented,” It has been a wonderful experience to be able to do that and I actually feel very privileged and honoured.” The best advice Frikkie has received is to be driven by your values and principles and not by emotions. “I think that advice has guided me on a journey where I’ve been able to navigate quite difficult times in my life.” For Frikkie, his greatest accomplishment has been an unblemished integrity record. “The biggest compliment I’ve ever got is that I was never approached for any underhanded dealings of any sort. I think whoever would have approached me would have known upfront what the response would have been.” ADRENALINE JUNKIE The biggest challenge Frikkie has experienced is that of the rapid change in the environment over his career. “Initially change generated anxiety and uncertainty. However, with the amount of change that I’ve had to manage in my life, I’ve now become a little bit of an adrenaline junkie. I love a change. I love the energy that change brings about. It releases new thinking; it forces you to renew your own perspectives. I’ve learned to embrace and to manage change.” Frikkie believes one of his strengths is that he can work with people with whom has established relationships because these are always built on respect and integrity. He prides himself on ensuring that he treats everybody like they would want to be treated. He also believes that over time, he has earned the right to work with people he likes and trusts, and only on the projects where he believes he can make a difference. “I think what’s also been helpful is that one has to think across cultural lines and beliefs and to recognise and embrace the strengths that diversity brings in any of the processes that we encounter.” “I’m a firm believer that if it was easy, somebody else would have done it by now. Don’t shy away from the difficult things in life because that’s where you are able to make a difference. If you’re going to do the things that everybody else has already done, then there’s absolutely no challenge for you.” NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE Frikkie believes in the power of positive thinking and understanding what works for him. He also draws his inspiration from the Springboks. “How special is the message that the Boks bring to all of us. That strength is found in diversity. The fact that nothing is impossible. The guys can dig deep enough to be able to get it done. That really inspires me and makes me believe that if they can do that for our country, then I need to play a role in the environment that I am in to create that same ‘Bok’ spirit amongst the teams that I work with because if we do that, we are unstoppable.” In the future businesses in KwaZulu-Natal need to look for the opportunities and specifically to find partnerships and focus on the areas where government is not able to perform for whatever reason says Frikkie. His major drive is to get the infrastructure of this province working again. He believes that correctly operating ports, airlines, roads, and rail would provide the catalyst for the province to thrive. Frikkie’s motto is ‘If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing properly’. “Don’t do things half-baked because you’re going to have to do them over again. You’re going to embarrass yourself in the process.” Previous Next

While we may not have much control over the things around us, the good news is that we can still take care of ourselves < 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.”

Dr Paul Kariuki Next Previous Dr Paul Kariuki is the executive director of the Democracy Development Program Dr Paul Kariuki is the executive director of the Democracy Development Program which is based in Durban. Their work spans across South Africa and extends into the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, reaching about 16 countries through a variety of programs. Paul’s story began in 2001 when he relocated from Kenya, his home country, to South Africa to pursue postgraduate studies. Since then, he has had the privilege of working in academia, with stints at the universities of Natal, Pretoria and Stellenbosch, before returning to Durban. In 2013, he joined the Democracy Development Program as a program manager, progressing to become the executive director, the second in the organisation’s 30-year history to hold this role. Paul explained, “Our focus is on fostering democracy, governance, and active citizenship. We aim to empower citizens to hold leaders accountable, engage meaningfully in political discourse, and articulate their aspirations with confidence to help co-create a hopeful country.” Paul’s first job was as a youth assistant with the South African Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) in Durban. At the time, he was an undergraduate student and felt a desire to volunteer at a youth-led organisation. He recalls walking through the city one afternoon during a university break and seeing a flyer for the YMCA. He explained, “Something told me to walk in. I spoke to the CEO and offered to volunteer my skills, primarily research and writing at the time. To my surprise, he asked me to start the following Monday. I began as a receptionist, despite my ambitions. But I gladly accepted the role because I wanted to immerse myself in society and explore the challenges inner city youth faced. Working there gave me the opportunity to explore how theoretical knowledge from my university lectures, particularly in development studies and economic policy, translated to real-world solutions.” Paul served the YMCA for seven years, steadily growing in roles while completing postgraduate studies. Reflecting on his career Paul said that a philosophy that stuck with him early on was, ‘Don’t do anything about us, without us’. This philosophy taught him that true change comes when communities are part of their own transformation. He added, “The reason I do what I do is simple, I care deeply about our nation, our society, and its future. Our democracy must be defended. Upholding constitutionalism and promoting active citizenship should be a way of life.” “For me, democracy is not just about governance; it’s a lived experience. It’s the daily actions we take together to overcome challenges and create a better future. Our democracy was hard-won, and it’s our collective duty to ensure it thrives for generations to come. There is hope in every citizen and there is power in every citizen to change lives, and that’s what makes wakes me up every day with hope,” emphasises Paul. COLLECTIVE EFFORT Commenting on his accomplishments Paul says, “I’m most proud of seeing the influence of our organisation. Mobilising citizens across different races, socio-economic backgrounds, and regions to engage in political discourse and hold leaders accountable has been incredibly fulfilling. When citizens confidently voice their concerns, with a heart full of service, and remain committed to doing the right thing despite challenges, I see hope for our nation. For me, that’s the essence of co-creating a society full of possibility. It’s a collective effort where every sector and individual plays a role.” His role is not without significant challenges especially when having to translate complex ideas like democracy into actionable concepts that resonate with citizens. “For many, democracy feels intangible, I often hear questions like, ‘Can I eat democracy? Will it send my children to school?” he explains. Paul expanded that his response is usually that democracy is a lived experience, it’s what we do daily together. He added, “Our program’s work involves keeping these conversations alive, encouraging accountability, and helping citizens understand the power they have to take action to transform their own environments. This is an ongoing challenge because our society is dynamic.” Significantly, transformation happens when talks lead to actions that are guided by mutual accountability, ensuring progress and enabling change in communities and in the nation. CARE AND CONNECTION Speaking of the best advice he has ever received, Paul says that this came from a mentor who told him, ‘You don’t need a title to lead. Serve people, care for them, and they will willingly choose you to lead them’. This advice has stayed with Paul and shaped how he approaches his role not just as a leader, but as someone committed to making a difference in people’s lives.” Keeping his team motivated requires care and connection. Paul strives to understand his team’s personal and professional worlds while coaching and mentoring them to be mindful of why they have dedicated themselves to this work. “I show them the tangible impact of their efforts, whether it’s empowering communities or influencing policy. Our organisational values of empathy, honesty, accountability, and passion for transformative change guide us. By focusing on the big picture of co-creating a South Africa full of hope, I help my team stay energised and committed.” He added, “My greatest inspiration comes from the leaders I’ve worked with throughout my journey. One of my mentors said, ‘As you rise, lift others.’ This wisdom keeps me grounded and focused on the larger picture. It’s not about me; it’s about the communities we serve and the legacy we leave for the next generation.” Paul’s vision is for a thriving KwaZulu-Natal, a province where citizens actively engage in shaping their future and where opportunities are created for everyone. He says, “Over the next five years, I see transformative partnerships across sectors driving meaningful change. By fostering dialogue, encouraging account- ability, and co-creating solutions, I envision a province that’s prosperous, hopeful, and a model of what South Africa can achieve.” In conclusion Paul says, “My motto is ‘Leadership is about serving others, not oneself’. That principle guides everything I do.” Previous Next

It is very important that you’re passionate about your career choice because if you do something that you are passionate about you are bound to 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.”