I am dedicated to providing great service to my clients. I have really found that I can do this best by getting a holistic view of the business I am assisting < 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.”

< Back Palesa Phili Next DCCI represents the business community. As CEO, Palesa oversees the organisation, ensuring good governance and that the Chamber fulfils its mandate which is to look after its members, who are mostly from the business community of the Durban region PALESA PHILI became the CEO of the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) after a very successful corporate career. This included being in an executive role with a computer company looking after the organisation's services in the southern, eastern and central regions of Africa, being the executive head for Vodacom Business in KZN and then the regional head for MTN. DCCI represents the business community. As CEO, Palesa oversees the organisation, ensuring good governance and that the Chamber fulfils its mandate which is to look after its members, who are mostly from the business community of the Durban region. The Durban Chamber identifies government policy relevant to organised business in Durban by amplifying core issues that impact on business with short, medium - and long-term perspectives. At the heart of this unit are industry-specific forums and area forums (Western, Northern, Southern, and Central) that engage on a monthly or bi-quarterly base. "Our forums provide the coal face of interaction between our members and the Durban Chamber. This is where we get city officials and provincial policy makers to interact with our members in terms of any plans that are being put in place as well as business opportunities that are available," says Palesa. Advocacy is central to the role the Chamber plays and partnership approaches to complex and problematic issues affecting business are promoted. The Chamber's extensive networks also connect members both with local and international organisations. Success is inspirational Palesa attributes her success and where she is today to her Christian faith, hard work, and dedication. Numerous people assisted her along the way and she has had a number of different mentors for different aspects of her career and life who have helped her. Success inspires Palesa. She adds, "One does not want to be around something that is negative or does not work." Successful people across the country and across the world attract her attention; what they are doing attracts and inspires her. "I try to see what I can do personally, in my own way, to add to the betterment of my city, my province, my country, and the world at large." Keep your eye on the ball, the rules for women are different "Women definitely need to approach business differently to men," says Palesa. And thinks the existence of "The Boy's Club out there" cannot be denied and that women cannot fit into the club. "As a woman, typically, as you grow in your career, as you go higher, you become more of a loner as there are very few women up there." Palesa adds that males are still in the majority at the top of the corporate world and that the rules for women are very different. "As a woman, you need to be clear about your objectives, why you are where you are and what it is that you want to achieve." Palesa says one of her mentors told her that one is at work to do work, not to make friends, and you need to make sure the job gets done. Her advice to women is, "When you encounter corporate politics, it is important to keep your eye on the ball, understand the rules are different for you as a woman, and then you should be fine." As she is a wife and the mother of two boys, achieving a work life balance is not easy for Palesa. She says she is too busy to attend social gatherings like "breakfasts for moms" and is too busy for tasks like personally dropping her boys off at school. This results in her not knowing many of the moms, but Palesa is fortunate that her husband helps with most of the parental tasks. Her support structure is important to her. "Without their assistance, I would not be able to do everything I need to do and achieve a work-life balance," she adds. Looking back at herself when she was younger, Palesa would advise herself not to take things at face value but to analyse these and ensure that she makes the right decisions. She explains that she would react spontaneously when she was young so she would tell herself to listen more before making decisions. There is much more to achieve Compared to what she would still like to accomplish, Palesa does not think that she has achieved much. If she looks back at her corporate background, Palesa says what she did was mostly target driven to make profits for an organisation. Her involvement with the Chamber does, however, give her a greater purpose and this enables her to achieve more of what she wants to achieve. It enables her to make a difference and impact on many people. Palesa explains, "I always had a thing in me, even when growing up, to give back. In everything I do I try and give back in my own small way. I would like to look back in five years from now and say this is the number of jobs I helped to create, and this is the number of entrepreneurs I have assisted to grow and get where they are." She adds she would like to see measurable growth, and only once she gets there would she be happy with what she has achieved. Previous Next

Terry Rosenberg Next Previous Terry Rosenberg is the Chairman of Oakbrook Investments and Oakbrook Holdings Terry Rosenberg is a long-time resident of Durban, with a wealth of experience in the business world. Originally from Johannesburg, he received his education at Marist Brothers and at the University of the Witwatersrand. Terry’s career began in computer consulting, where he joined a firm that he remained with for 16 years, ultimately becoming its leader. Following this time, he embarked on a leveraged buyout with a colleague, taking a company off the Stock Exchange and working to revitalise it. After successfully restoring the company, they merged with McCarthy’s, the largest car retailer in southern Africa. In the year 2000 Terry went into a family office, where he has worked ever since. Now in his 50th year in business, Terry remains enthusiastic about his work. “As long as I am spared, I’ll still be doing business because I really enjoy it,” he stated. His joy comes not only from the work itself but also from engaging with people and witnessing their growth. WORKING TIRELESSLY Among his achievements, Terry is particularly proud of his role in establishing Durban as a key convention hub in southern Africa. He reflected on an initiative that began about 23 years ago, alongside the late Gordon Hibbert and fellow businessman Andrzej Kiepiela. They envisioned making Durban the convention centre of southern Africa and worked tirelessly to bring this vision to life. In order to make this vision a reality, a private public partnership called Operation Jumpstart was established. “After four years of ups and downs, we managed to install the convention centre in Durban,” Terry said. The project was initially nerve-wracking, with uncertainty over whether conferences would come. However, their efforts paid off, and today, the Durban International Convention Centre is firmly established, having over time, brought an estimated R30 billion into the city. Terry’s strong connection to KwaZulu-Natal continues and he is optimistic about the province’s future development. He believes that as improvements become evident, confidence will naturally return. Speaking from his vantage point at the Umhlanga Arch, a prominent building with a 360° view of Durban, he marvelled at the natural beauty of the region. He emphasises the region’s strengths, particularly its beautiful weather and diverse attractions, from the North Coast to the Midlands and beyond. “Wherever I can put in my two cents worth,” he explained, “I get involved in various things where hopefully we can help the business community really build this province into the place that it should be.” He noted that the business community is working closely with the government to address key areas of concern, including water, sewage, electricity, and the port. Despite past leadership challenges, Terry sees progress and is encouraged by the strong cooperation between the business community and local authorities. He remains committed to contributing towards making KwaZulu-Natal one of South Africa’s leading provinces. “I’m very enthusiastic. As long as we’ve got plans and people are working honestly towards those plans, it brings hope.” NEVER GIVE UP Terry finds immense joy in collaborating with his team, particularly in understanding the diverse personalities and motivations of his key executives. “People are very different, and it’s difficult to get everyone singing from the same sheet,” he explained. Success, for Terry, lies in knowing what makes each team member tick. He also highlighted the importance of knowing who he is dealing with around the board table. “You may have five people sitting there, all from different backgrounds with different views on life,” he said. Terry emphasised the importance of defining any problems clearly. “It’s up to you as a leader to take out of them what their problem is, rather than what they think their problem is.” By fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose, Terry ensures that his team works together effectively, much like a rugby team where each player has a unique but essential role. In addition, he explained, “So many times, people in negotiations or complex situations attack the symptoms rather than the root of the issue.” One example from his own career involved a business division that was underperforming. Initially, the discussion centred on operations, but the real issue turned out to be the limited availability of transport that brought many of their customers to the store. “Once we knew what the problem was, we were able to make plans to fix it,” he said. While Terry does not have a specific motto, his attitude towards life is to never give up. “So many times when problems hit, people stand back and say, ‘This will never work.’ I’m very much against that,” he stated. For Terry, perseverance is key, especially when there is still hope in a situation. His approach is to keep trying different solutions, leveraging his network, and staying committed to the task at hand. SUPPORT AND GROWTH While Terry’s steadiness has ensured that most of his endeavours have been ‘smooth sailing’ he has also experienced some setbacks. In such circumstances, Terry’s faith has helped him rise above the disappointments. His favourite scripture reads: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Terry shared that the greatest personal challenge he has faced was the sudden loss of a child. He and his wife, Carol, were profoundly affected by the tragedy. “It really knocked us for a long period of time,” he admitted, adding that they eventually managed to move forward. This experience led to deeper connections with others who had faced similar losses, providing opportunities for mutual support and growth. “It’s not something I would recommend to anyone if they’re wanting to grow,” Terry remarked, reflecting on the difficulty of the situation. In summary, Terry is a steadfast and deeply motivated individual, driven by his passion for business, his faith, and his desire to see growth and success both in his personal life and in the community around him. Previous Next

< Back Next > Farah Goolam Investment Marketing, Invest Durban Farah Goolam, a professional in investment promotion, plays a pivotal role at Invest Durban, the business arm of the eThekwini Municipality. Her work focuses on attracting sustainable investments that can benefit all of Durban’s residents. “My business is business,” she says with conviction. “I give Durban a business face, and it’s a call to action.” Farah is passionate about contributing to the city’s long-term goals, which include the 2030 vision to make Durban the best place to live in Africa. Farah feels her path was always destined for something significant. “My parents named me after a Persian princess,” she reveals. “And I feel a certain duty to live up to that name.” Beyond her professional achievements, she is a proud mother of nine-year-old twin girls and a devoted wife. “I’ve known my husband for half my life,” she shares. “He has always supported my goals and ambitions, and for that, I’m grateful.” Farah’s journey in public service began two decades ago with an internship at the municipality. “I was one of three people chosen from over fifty applicants,” she recalls. “I delivered mail in heels and a pencil skirt, doing everything I could to stand out.” In the initial stages of her career, Farah was like a “sponge,” soaking up knowledge and being reactive to opportunities. Over time, she grew more proactive, seeking out opportunities for growth and learning. She became adept at navigating political environments, understanding ethics and corruption, mastering communication skills, and learning the importance of protocol and etiquette. Her determination drove her to complete a marketing degree and participate in internationally recognised investment promotion and facilitation programmes. Power of Collaboration At Invest Durban, Farah’s focus is on enhancing visibility and communication. “When you’re visible, it’s easier for people and organisations to reach out and have confidence in you,” she explains. “We are the first stop for businesses and potential investors looking at Durban.” Farah has participated in efforts to reach international markets through outbound missions, conferences, and other initiatives, creating a more attractive business landscape for the city. Reflecting on her career, Farah expresses appreciation that after twenty years of service she is trusted to represent the city on global stages. One particular moment of gratitude stands out for her: standing in 303 West Street, gazing out at the harbour and the city below. “You realise that you’re making a positive difference, and it’s a moment to step back and say thank you to the Almighty,” she reflects. Farah views her accomplishments as proof that ‘teamwork truly makes the dream work’. She believes in the power of collaboration and sees it as essential for achieving greater outcomes together. Throughout her career, Farah has witnessed both the growth and setbacks of Durban. “Durban’s trajectory is always in flux,” she acknowledges. “Globally, that’s how life is. What goes down must come up, and I believe we just have to have faith in that.” Despite challenges, she remains optimistic, believing in the city’s potential to thrive. One of her key goals is to build civic pride and encourage collective responsibility. “You wouldn’t burn down your own home,” she reasons. “Let’s join forces to shape a positive narrative for the city, as it belongs to all of us.” Her vision for Durban is a sustainable and thriving economy that not only prospers today but lays a strong foundation for future generations. Better Versions Farah’s inspiration comes from various sources. “I’m inspired by the people around me,” she says, “because they encourage us to strive to be better versions of ourselves.” She also finds motivation in South Africa’s history and the sacrifices made by past leaders. “We don’t take enough time to acknowledge those sacrifices and the benefits we enjoy today,” she asserts. Even meaningful sayings or memes, resonate with her. “The struggles you feel are not isolated; others have faced them and emerged stronger.” For Farah, self-care is not just an afterthought but a necessity, especially when dealing with the various personalities and challenges in her profession. “You can’t change the person or the project,” she advises. “You can only adapt yourself and your approach.” Her grandmother’s wisdom has always been a guiding light for her. “My gran was a farm lady who always took time for herself at 3 p.m. with a piece of sponge cake and a cup of tea, no matter what was happening around her,” she reminisces. This lesson became especially significant during a time when Farah experienced burnout. “It’s like the safety instructions on an aeroplane: put on your mask before helping others,” she explains. “You cannot pour from an empty cup.” To recharge and find her balance, Farah enjoys simple pleasures like cooking, listening to the sound of rain, reading, spending time with her family, and visiting the beach. “I’ve never put pressure on myself to have one big dream,” she explains. “I sustain myself with smaller dreams that are easier to achieve, and in catching these smaller dreams, I find better fulfilment.” This approach helps her maintain a more balanced life, appreciating the blessings that already exist around her. “You realise that you need not go hunting; you are already blessed,” she reflects. Focus on Your Goals In advising young women, Farah encourages them to “stand up, stand tall, and build sustainability in everything you do.” She believes in the importance of staying true to oneself amid the world’s many opinions. “Focus on your goals without being swayed,” she advises. She also warns against self-doubt, believing that it is often the biggest barrier to success. “We are our own biggest enemies,” she says. “Once we get this out the way, we need to place blinkers on and focus ahead.” Reflecting on her journey, she concludes, “Without discipline, drive, and accountability, you risk running in circles.” She often shares her personal motto: “Close your circle,” meaning to finish what you start with pride and integrity. “It’s been quite a journey and it’s not over yet.” < Previous Next >

It’s critical and pivotal that if you want to grow and aspire into leadership roles to have a fully rounded education and knowledge around critical aspects < 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.”

Shabir Tayob Next Previous Shabir Tayob is the chief executive officer of the Supertech Group Shabir Tayob is the chief executive officer of the Supertech Group, KwaZulu Natal’s largest BMW dealership group. For Shabir, leading the group is about far more than selling cars, it is about creating meaningful connections and unforgettable experiences for every customer who engages with the brand. Shabir’s journey in the BMW world began in 2007 when he purchased a modest 8.5% share in the then Supertech Durban dealership. With a clear vision for growth and innovation, he acquired 100% ownership in 2012. Over the next three years, he transformed the group, expanding it from one dealership to six and growing the workforce to over 500 people across Durban, Pinetown, Pietermaritzburg, Newcastle, Shelly Beach, and East London. REMARKABLE GROWTH This remarkable growth has always been more than just numbers. For Shabir, it is about building a legacy rooted in community and customer satisfaction. “Our purpose is to deliver not just cars, but exceptional experiences,” Shabir explains. “Every interaction with the Supertech Group should leave a lasting impression. It’s about passion, world-class service, and crafting moments our customers will treasure.” Born in Pietermaritzburg to a family that owned a transport business, Shabir grew up with values of humility and respect, these are principles that continue to guide his leadership today. From a young age, Shabir displayed a natural entrepreneurial spirit. “I started working at 15, holding a part-time job at my father’s transport company,” he recalls. “I saved my money, bought an arcade machine, and struck a deal with a local store to split the profits.” This venture quickly grew into a network of 20 arcade machines, each generating income. These early experiences laid the foundation for Shabir’s sharp business acumen and innovative thinking. AN EVER-GROWING LEGACY Shabir’s entry into the automotive industry was as unexpected as it was transformative. “In 2007, I attended a BMW X5 launch at the Supertech dealership. While sharing a Coke with the owner, Mr. Dada, I was asked if I wanted to buy a share,” Shabir recounts. “I jokingly said, ‘Why not?’ The next day, Mr. Dada called to see if I was serious.” That casual conversation turned into the first step of an ever-growing legacy. As part of a six-person group purchasing 49% of the dealership, Shabir began his journey in the automotive industry. By 2012, he had taken full ownership, marking the start of a transformation that would redefine Supertech’s place in the market. Under Shabir’s leadership, the Supertech Group has set new standards in the automotive industry. From one of the first green star rated dealerships in Durban to the innovative MINI dealership in Pinetown, each location reflects a commitment to cutting-edge technology, customer-first service, and the essence of the BMW experience. Key to this success is Shabir’s son, Ubaid Tayob, who serves as the group’s managing director. Ubaid has been instrumental in driving the company forward, aligning operational excellence with the group’s purpose and vision. From introducing the MySupertechWorld app, which transcends automotive expectancies and enhances customer engagement, to curating the Supertech Lifestyle, Ubaid is leading the group into a future of innovation and visionary strategy. “Ubaid is taking Supertech to new heights,” Shabir says proudly. “His dedication, business acumen, and humility are setting the stage for the next generation of Supertech.” ENHANCING LIVES At the heart of the Supertech Group is an unwavering commitment to its customers. Shabir’s guiding philosophy is simple yet profound: “Our customers are at the heart of what we do. Every experience we facilitate, every service we provide, is about enhancing their lives.” This dedication to customer satisfaction is evident in initiatives like Supertech Torque events, which celebrate the BMW M community and foster a sense of belonging among customers. For the Supertech Group, the journey is about more than delivering luxury vehicles, it’s about creating a lifestyle that customers are proud to be part of. Shabir attributes his success to the values instilled by his father, who served as his mentor during 20 years in the family’s transport business. “My dad taught me that in order to be successful, I needed to be passionate, motivated, and dedicated. These qualities make a successful man, not money,” Shabir shares. For Shabir, leadership is a responsibility that extends beyond business growth. It’s about supporting the families employed by Supertech and ensuring that the legacy being built will endure for generations. “Leaving a lasting impact is what defines true leadership,” he says. As the Supertech Group continues its remarkable journey, it remains steadfast in its purpose: delivering experiences that inspire, excite, and connect. Under the leadership of Shabir and Ubaid Tayob, Supertech is not just a dealership group, it’s a movement, a lifestyle, and a family. Together, they are crafting a legacy that will resonate for generations to come. Previous Next

David Warmback Next Previous David Warmback is an equity partner at Shepstone & Wylie Attorneys David Warmback, an equity partner at Shepstone & Wylie Attorneys, was born in Durban and grew up in Kloof. “I went to Kloof Junior School and then Kloof Senior Primary School,” he recalls. “We then moved to Westville, and I completed my high school at Westville Boys’ High from 1972 to 1978.” After high school, David attended the then University of Natal, where he initially enrolled for a bachelor of arts in subjects with a focus on a teaching degree. However, towards the end of his BA, David felt teaching was not for him. “I had a teaching loan, which was useful, but I realised I could pay it back by working and could use that to sponsor legal studies instead,” he explains. He decided to pursue a bachelor of laws. “Because I hadn’t done any law credits in my BA, I had to enrol in a three-year LLB programme, on top of the two years already completed. "His final years at university were marked by personal tragedy. “My dad died unexpectedly at the age of 50,” he shares, “which put quite a strain on the family.” However, David managed to finish his studies in five years, and after national service, he began looking for a position in law. However, David’s first job wasn’t in law. “If you’re looking at informal jobs, my first job was at age 16 as a cashier at Checkers in Overport City,” he re- counts, “I was keen to start earning some pocket money.” He did this job, which he said was quite hard work, for some time before moving into his formal legal career. David began his career at Shepstone & Wylie in 1987. “I started as what was then called an articled clerk,” he explains. Over time, David progressed through the ranks and is now one of the two senior equity partners in the corporate and commercial department. “We have a team of eleven professionals, including one who practises remotely in Johannesburg.” A FULFILLING ROLE David describes his current role as providing corporate and commercial legal services to the firm’s clients. “I give advice, seek solutions, negotiate and draft various commercial agreements,” he explains. These include mergers and acquisitions, sales and lease agreements, shareholder agreements, property sales, joint ventures, and more. “My specialty is property-related commercial work,” he notes, adding that he spent about 12 years in the firm’s property services and conveyancing department before moving to the commercial department in 1999. His responsibilities also include providing leadership input, marketing, and training for junior staff. “It’s a varied role, but one that I find very fulfilling,” he says. David’s proudest accomplishment is not directly related to his legal career, although he has been involved in several notable projects during his 37 years in law. He was appointed as the Honorary British Consul for KwaZulu-Natal 13 years ago, a position that he has held alongside his legal work, which he has found rewarding. “At the end of last year, I was featured in King Charles III 2024 New Year’s Honours list and awarded an MBE for my services assisting British nationals in South Africa. Receiving the honour was definitely a highlight,” he says. He is still to receive the award formally, having been given a few dates during the coming winter season, but is waiting to receive further dates for Spring and Summer of 2025 for the investiture. “It is quite exciting,” he adds. David believes the best advice he has ever received is to ‘never stop learning’. He emphasises that this is particularly important in his profession. “The law is always changing, not just through new legislation, but through court judgments that create new legal precedents,” he advises. “You have to keep up with these changes and also learn about the business of different clients to properly draft commercial agreements.” He stresses the importance of learning about people and how to interact with them effectively. “You’re always learning about human nature and relationships,” he says. David is inspired by Roger Federer. “He is a fabulous sportsman with an unbelievably long career, an incredible record of achievements, a great work ethic, and a role model to so many,” he says. “And, above all, he is a really nice person.” POSITIVE FEEDBACK David reflects on the challenges he has faced, noting that no specific event stands out, but he identifies time management as one of the most difficult aspects of his profession including making provision for home time. “In a busy legal practice, you’re dealing with many clients and many matters at once. There are often tight deadlines, large transactions that need to be closed quickly, and multiple parties involved.” He acknowledges that managing client expectations and workflow is an ongoing challenge. “It’s not something you can fully overcome; it’s just an ongoing problem not only in the legal field but in any business,” he says. David believes in recognising performance and providing positive feedback to keep his team motivated. “Communication is key,” he asserts. “You need to encourage teamwork and ensure that everyone is working towards common goals.” He emphasises the importance of promoting well- performing staff and continuously looking for new opportunities. “We are always targeting new clients and maintaining our marketing efforts,” he adds. TAKE SMALL STEPS David acknowledges the tough times that businesses in KwaZulu-Natal have faced over the past few years. “We’ve had Covid-19, floods, political unrest, infrastructure challenges, and low growth rates,” he says. However, he remains hopeful. “Following the recent election, there is hope that political will can create a business- and investor- friendly environment in the country, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal.” He thinks that addressing these challenges can help the business environment to become more positive, enabling the economy to recover and creating the jobs that are so needed. “For most people, things don’t happen overnight,” he says. “You’ve got to keep going, keep pushing, and over time, with perseverance, you will achieve your goals and dreams.” Previous Next

< Back Next > Jessica Govender Owner, 3@1 Business Centre Richards Bay Jessica Govender, the owner of the 3@1 Business Centre Richards Bay, is a determined entrepreneur who has carved a niche for her business in a competitive market. “We specialise in a range of secretarial services,” she explains, listing photocopying, printing, laminating, and bookbinding among the many offerings. “We also cater to personalised needs with mug and T-shirt printing, as well as international and national courier services.” The business is part of a franchise network, with 3@1 Richards Bay being one of 85 stores across South Africa. “It’s a competitive landscape,” Jessica acknowledges, “and we have to constantly bring something new to the table to stay in the game.” The journey to this point wasn’t straightforward. Jessica’s story begins in Brackenham, where she grew up and attended Richards Bay Secondary School before furthering her studies at Umfolozi College. She shared, “Growing up wasn’t easy, and life had its share of struggles. But I’m grateful for the hard work that has brought me here.” Her initial ambition was to venture into the engineering field, but she found herself drawn to the world of printing and copying. “I’m a creative person, and this industry has allowed me to channel that creativity in ways I hadn’t expected,” she explains. “It’s been a rewarding experience.” Before embarking on her entrepreneurial journey, Jessica gained valuable experience working for 12 years, including a position at Bell Equipment, a well-known local company. “I enjoyed my time there, but I reached a point where I needed a change,” she recalls. “The idea of starting my own business had always been at the back of my mind.” It wasn’t a decision she made lightly, as she weighed the risks of launching a new venture. However, with her husband’s support, she decided to take the plunge. “He’s been a huge motivator throughout this journey,” she says. “His encouragement helped me push forward and take that leap of faith.” Keep Pushing Forward Family has always been a cornerstone of Jessica’s life, providing both inspiration and motivation. “My family has played a big role in getting me to where I am today,” she reflects. “My late brother Kelvin, my parents, Annie my aunt, and especially my husband have been incredibly supportive. They inspired me to keep pushing forward, even when things got tough.” “My kids are my biggest inspiration,” she added. “I want them to see that, despite the challenges, their mum didn’t give up. I want them to look back one day and say, ‘Mum did it, and she did it well’.” Running a business in a competitive field like printing has its challenges, especially in today’s digital age. “It’s difficult sometimes to convince people of the value of printed products when digital alternatives are so readily available,” Jessica admits. “Everyone has laptops and smartphones, and it’s easy to overlook the personal touch that print offers.” She believes in the enduring appeal of tangible keepsakes, like printed photo books. “A photo book isn’t just a collection of images; it’s a curated memory that you can hold, share, and pass down through generations,” she explains. “It’s different from having hundreds of photos on your phone that no one ever really looks at.” The business offers large-format printing, which is in high demand for projects such as building plans. “Richards Bay is an area that’s constantly developing, with new construction projects underway all the time,” Jessica says. “We’ve had to adapt by providing competitive pricing and expanding our range of services to meet the needs of the community.” Despite the competition, Jessica’s approach to the business remains one of continuous innovation and customer-focused strategies. “We have to keep introducing new services and finding ways to make things easier for our customers,” she adds. A Positive Impact Jessica is committed to making a positive impact on her community. “Owning a business gives me the financial means to help others, and that’s something I’ve always wanted to do,” she says. “Whether it’s supporting local charities or simply offering my services to individuals who need a hand, I want to make a difference.” Although her business is still in its early stages, she is optimistic about its potential for growth so that she can make an even bigger impact on the lives of those around them. The path to success has not been without its hurdles. “There have been plenty of ups and downs,” Jessica admits. “The exchange rate can be unpredictable, which affects our courier services, and we’re constantly up against larger competitors.” Yet she sees these obstacles as opportunities for growth. “Failure is definitely a stepping stone to success,” she says. “It’s a way to find your own greatness. You can’t let setbacks define you. Instead, you have to learn from them and keep pushing forward.” Jessica has a special message for young women who dream of becoming business owners: “Don’t give up on yourself,” she urges. “Dreams do come true, but you have to be willing to put in the hard work to make them a reality.” As for the future, Jessica has big plans for her business. “I want to take 3@1 Richards Bay to greater heights,” she says. “I hope to open more stores and continue expanding our services.” Jessica believes that the time she spends with her family helps her maintain a sense of balance and fulfilment in her life. “Family time is a priority, and we treasure those moments together. My daughter is 10, and my son is 13. It feels like just yesterday they were toddlers. We try to make the most of times with them because time flies, and before we know it, they’ll be moving on to the next chapter of their lives. Shopping is a bit of a guilty pleasure,” she adds with a laugh. Jessica concludes, “The journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s definitely been worth it.” < Previous Next >

< Back Tanya Price-Carr Next After five years at The Clothing Bank, it was time to get out of her comfort zone again. Tanya sees herself as a changemaker, and she's designed her new venture, Interconnection SA, to help people change their lives in a different way TANYA PRICE-CARR has a simple philosophy, "It's hard to grow in your career when you're settled in your comfort zone." So whenever she gets too comfortable, it's time for a change. Tanya's ability to capitalise on change has given her a broad perspective and allowed her to seek out new experiences where she can continue her growth path. With this approach, it's no surprise Tanya has had a varied career. Growing up in circumstances where role models were few and far between, Tanya discovered softball and fell in love. It was the sport that gave her a sense of fulfilment and purpose and, at last, role models who showed her that hard work reaps rewards, a lesson she credits with her respect for commitment to goals and good, old-fashioned hard work. Straight out of school, she went into sales, rapidly turning to promotional sports gear - because it seemed a good place to start earning the money she needed to buy herself a car! When she decided it was time for her to travel, softball paved the way, allowing her to spend six years based in the United Kingdom, coaching, competing and travelling the world. In typical style, she aimed for the top, and represented Great Britain in the pre-Olympic Test Event in Athens, Greece before making another change, and coming home to South Africa, and settling in Cape Town. But it was in event planning that she discovered her next career. Organising a spectacular Freedom Day fundraising event that ran concurrently in five South African cities, Tanya began to see opportunities to change lives for the better, in this case by raising funds for the Red Cross Children's Hospital and Operation Bobbi Bear. Next came a transfer to Durban - not just for a new business challenge, but also a major life change, as she came to join her now-husband. She stayed in event planning for another two years, but her charity project had left a profound impression, and three years later she joined The Clothing Bank a social enterprise development NPO, heading up the Durban branch that helps people chart a way out of poverty. Leading the way After five years at The Clothing Bank, it was time to get out of her comfort zone again. Tanya sees herself as a changemaker, and she's designed her new venture, Interconnection SA, to help people change their lives in a different way. "There is so much to be done in South Africa", she says, "and the disconnection between people means we aren't aligned and we aren't reaching our potential as individuals and as a country." "Interconnection SA helps people take the next step in their lives, to connect with their strength and potential to realise their goals, to understand what they can achieve," she explains. The organisation also works with businesses to connect function and leadership with the goals as aspirations of the people they lead. "When your people see that their personal goals align with corporate goals, it creates a common purpose and delivers growth," says Tanya. Tanya takes a servant-leadership approach to running an organisation. She is a firm believer in sharing her experience and allowing her team to grow authentically. "You can get the best out of people if you give them space to grow." Facing challenges Tanya dismisses the idea that women need to take a different approach to men to achieve success. "Whether you're a man or a woman, you need to be professional," she says. "I am who I am. I know I can be emotional, but I have to make decisions based on fact, not emotion. And when things go against you, you can't take it personally." With a husband and two daughters, Tanya's life is certainly not all about work. She finds time to chauffeur her teenage daughter, also a talented sportswoman, to her training and games, and has discovered that lift clubs are useful way to keep in touch with what's going on with her daughter's life - and get to know her friends. She also has a special needs five year old daughter who she loves to spend time with and grounds her to the simple things in life. "Work-life balance isn't easy," she says. "You have good days and bad days, and good weeks and bad weeks - but you do need to make time for what's important." Tanya points out that you might block out time in your diary, but things can happen at work that demand your attention. "You need to appreciate the good weeks and focus on being present and mindful, and make your family time quality time, not necessarily quantity time." Tanya is also still involved with softball. "Softball gave so much to me as a child - it kept me focused and gave me a sense of purpose - and I get great satisfaction in being able to give back." One simple piece of advice Tanya has a strong action orientation and looks to the future, but says that if she was starting out again, she'd do one thing differently. "I'd buy property early," she says. "It's a great investment and you really reap the rewards later." Previous Next

< Back Natasha Naidoo Next As CEO of Azisa Consulting, Natasha Naidoo leads a busy life. Asked about her journey, she is candid. "I got this far through hard work, long hours and being prepared to make sacrifices in my personal life As CEO of Azisa Consulting, Natasha Naidoo leads a busy life. Asked about her journey, she is candid. "I got this far through hard work, long hours and being prepared to make sacrifices in my personal life. When you want something badly enough, and you're prepared to fight for it, you'll find a way to make it happen." Things haven't come easily to Natasha. Brought up by a single mother, she says she knows what it's like to go without. "My mother is an inspiration. She's always had to fight to keep her head above water, and it's her strength that made me who I am today. We grew up knowing what it's like to not to have lights and water, and sometimes even food." As a schoolgirl, she dreamed of being a lawyer, but there was no chance of studying after school. While her brother left school early to help support the family, she was lucky enough to complete matric. Natasha was only recently able to study safety management and construction. "Life doesn't always work out exactly as you'd hoped but that doesn't mean you can't achieve great things - if you're prepared to put in the effort." When Natasha finished school there wasn't money to learn to drive. "I need to renew my driver's licence for the very first time this month," she smiles. "I only got my first licence five years ago!" It's harder for women Today, as CEO of her own business, things have changed considerably. Competing in diverse business sectors, her focus is on construction safety consulting, safety management and telecommunications. She's responsible for marketing and business development, and spends much of her time with clients. She loves the operational side of the business and can be found on site two or three days a week, often presenting training courses on construction safety. "The construction industry is tough, and I believe it's harder for women in this industry. We constantly must prove our expertise, and that can be disheartening. But for me, that makes me try harder. I'm a firm believer in the importance of customer service, and I think that's helped greatly." Natasha's head office is based in Durban but, after only five years in business, the company has extended operations to Johannesburg. "I planned to expand into other regions, but I had to put that on hold for a while." Natasha's brother was murdered in 2017, and for almost two years her priority was the fight to get justice for him. "The two men who killed my brother were convicted in August, and now we have closure. Hopefully I can put this behind me and focus on my business and begin the expansion project." Natasha's business has grown dramatically from her beginnings. Her move into construction safety and telecommunications has borne fruit, but making the leap from salaried employee to entrepreneur is always a risk. A year of planning "I was clear that I wanted my own business but I knew that there were no guarantees that I'd generate an income immediately. It took a year of planning and I was terrified. We have two children, and I wouldn't jeopardise their security, so I saved almost my entire salary for several months before resigning. This gave me a cushion and covered essential expenses until I could draw a salary from my business." Asked about her support structures, Natasha says her husband is the foundation she stands on. Highlighting the truth that most successful business people achieve success despite failures along the way, she notes that if you want success, you can't give up when things get tough. "Whenever I fail, he picks me up and dusts me off, so I can start again." Natasha is very grateful to her mother. Admitting that she has no real work-life balance, working long hours most days, she is fortunate to have her mother's help daily. "My mother is up and active at 6am, and I rely on her for a home-cooked dinner most nights too. I couldn't do what I do without her support and I'm lucky to have someone who loves my children, helps me take care of them, and is a big part of their lives." An understanding partner But the long hours aren't relentless, and Natasha does enjoy precious time with her family. "I do steal time to fetch the children from school and spend a few hours with them. I can't do it every day, but I love that time." She also points out that it helps to have an understanding partner. "It takes a great man to support his wife unconditionally, and not every husband is willing to bath kids and feed them. If you don't have a good support system, it must be exhausting trying to do it on your own." Asked what advice she'd give her younger self, she responds instantly: "Fight harder, be stronger, be better." When it's suggested that she's a bit hard on herself she's quick to explain. "I don't ever want to have to go without again, so I fight harder. I want to be heard." She admits to one legacy of the hard times. "I tend to over-buy. It might be a bit paranoid, but I want to make sure I have the things I need. But I'm proof that you can change your life. You may need to make some sacrifices, but if you're prepared to fight for what you want, nothing is impossible." Previous Next