As long as we are having a fun lifestyle with lots of memories and being happy as a family, that’s all we really want < Back Tracy Harker Founder of Funky Pants Tracy Harker is Funky Pants. Tracy grew up in Johannesburg; once she finished school, she did some travelling and ended up in Durban where she met her husband, Billy. Tracy says that Funky Pants was not a planned venture, but that she was inspired by her husband to start the business. “When we first started making pants, they were only for paddlers, and we use to get someone to make them. They were awful, they were like grandpa pants – long, baggy, and hanging. So, I started adjusting the pattern and made them so that when Billy and myself wore the pants, we were comfortable while wearing them. We both have got different bodies and we want the best and that’s what we worked on until we were happy. We were wearing them, and we were trying them out and we were adjusting them to what we wanted – fully lined mid-thigh length, paddling tights. So, it’s our comfort, it’s our product that we want to wear at races,” explained Tracy. The pants turned into Tracy’s funky pants, which turned into Funky Pants. First in the world Tracy and Billy used to organise surf ski paddling races and gave away ‘Funky Pants’ as prizes to the paddlers. They were soon asked to bring the ‘Funky Pants’ to events. The first time the Harkers took them to an event, they were supposed to take twenty pairs, however they took two hundred pairs, which much to Tracy’s shock, were all sold out at the first registration party. “That’s the first time we realised that this is the direction in which we should go. In 2004, when we started bringing out the Funky Pants in bright colours, we just happened to be one of the first in the world to come to the table with the bright funky, ridiculously comfy funky pants,” says Tracy. The Funky Pants brand has since grown into catering for other sporting disciplines. These include cycling, running, trail running, gym, and yoga. The brand has also expanded into manufacturing swimming costumes. Have your own paths Being in business with her husband has been a challenge that Tracy has had to overcome. “We went through a whole process in the beginning especially. We had to figure out a way to work together. You’re in each other’s space all day. You eat together, sleep together, play together, you do everything together, so you need to have your own paths. Billy does his job and I do my job and we don’t interfere with each other and as long as it stays like that, then it’s a happy place. He’s got his good qualities, which we need and my qualities, which we also need; that’s how we run the business.” In addition, says Tracy, “I have always been sporty and I’m very capable at doing anything, I think. My husband and I are always challenging each other, and I do have to say that I am beating him at a lot of things…” In order to get the business started, Tracy and Billy needed to do the long haul and went to every sporting event they could. “We’ve sat there, we’ve done everything ourselves,” said Tracy. “Billy and I are a ‘mom and pop’ business operating from our garage in Durban North. If anyone comes to us with any problem, we will do our best to sort it out. We will handle it personally and I don’t think that you can get that service at most places. My dad helps us, and we’ve only recently increased our staff complement and got some lovely girls to work with us. We’re a little family, but we’ve always being hands-on, and it really does make a difference.” Constantly growing The Harker’s have a library of designs and colours that clients can select from for their pants choice, which is constantly growing and is possibly the largest selection in the whole world. Personalised designs for all types of clubs, schools, and teams are available. In addition, Funky Pants are sold internationally. The company has twenty-five agents throughout the world and manufactures kits for international teams and clubs as well. Funky Pants is locally based; the fabric is printed, and the pants are manufactured, in Durban. Funky Pants does like to get involved in different fund raisers and where they can, the Harker’s strive to make a difference. They started by getting involved with the SPCA in Durban and then progressed to the East London SPCA. “We basically make up a print, or they make up a print, and then we manufacture the Funky Pants. We give SPCA R50 for every pair that we sell and it’s just a continuous thing, We like to support them. Funky Pants have also been involved with The Sabrina Love Fund for a few years now and they’ve sold many shorts and received money, which is helping them,” says Tracy. Being happy The future goal for Funky Pants is just to sell more Funky Pants. “As long as we are having a fun lifestyle with lots of memories and being happy as a family, that’s all we really want. We don’t want to turn Funky Pants into a huge empire. What drives me is the kind of things that I enjoy in life and that’s what keeps me going. We’ve got four children, Henry is twelve, Eddie and Lucy are twins, they are nine, and we’ve got the little monster, Charlie, he is seven. They all do many types of sports. Obviously, I am the mom, so to me they are my brilliant little replicas, and they’ve all achieved so much. The kids have been a big part of Funky Pants, they are our little mascots, and they wear Funky Pants non-stop!”

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< Back Teresa Davie-Rossouw Sales Manager at Mobi Ventures Teresa Davie-Rossouw, sales manager at Mobi Ventures, is part of a team that has redefined what emergency response means in South Africa. The company is dedicated to delivering comprehensive emergency and safety solutions through a suite of integrated brands that include Mobi Claw911, Mobi Response911, Mobi Detect911, Mobi Trak911, and Mobi AmboPLAN. Each brand plays a vital role in ensuring that individuals, businesses, and communities are protected through advanced technology, real-time communication, and reliable response networks. With 20 years of experience in the emergency services industry, nine of them with Mobi Ventures, Teresa was instrumental in launching the company’s flagship brand, Mobi Claw911. “Being part of a mission-driven team that makes a tangible difference every day has been both professionally rewarding and personally meaningful,” she reflects. Her work has helped safeguard thousands of people across South Africa, creating a legacy of safety and trust in a sector where every second counts. Her path into emergency services began with a deeply personal experience. “Facing a crisis firsthand made me understand what it means to be truly vulnerable,” Teresa shares. “That moment inspired a deep commitment to helping others in their most critical moments.” Teresa believes that leadership is rooted in empathy, integrity, and a constant awareness of the human lives behind every call for help. Her calm and caring approach has earned her respect within her team and the broader industry. BUILDING A LEGACY OF IMPACT For Teresa, success is about creating a life that balances purpose and personal fulfilment. “I want to build a career focused on saving lives while enjoying a meaningful personal life with my husband, Willem, who also works in emergency medical management.” She describes success as harmony between work, love, and service, believing that making a real impact while living each day with gratitude and a clear sense of purpose is the true measure of achievement. Teresa’s motivation is drawn from the people she serves. “My greatest inspiration comes from real people and real stories. Families impacted by crime, individuals facing emergencies, and the communities we serve,” she says. “Their experiences fuel my ongoing commitment to drive meaningful change.” She speaks with admiration of the first responders who form the backbone of the industry. “I am continually motivated by the courage and dedication of first responders,” she says. “Their work reminds me daily of the importance of what we do.” On a personal level, she credits her family for grounding her. “They instilled in me the values of resilience, compassion, and integrity.” Teresa’s role at Mobi Ventures has allowed her to make a tangible impact on both the business and its people. “Professionally, one of my proudest achievements has been helping to establish Mobi Ventures’ life-saving services and building lasting trust with our clients,” she notes. She is also deeply committed to mentorship. “Watching my team grow into confident, capable professionals who share the same passion for helping others is one of my proudest achievements.” She expanded, “Personally, my greatest accomplishment has been rebuilding a life grounded in love and support, alongside a remarkable husband, a caring family, and loyal friends who give every challenge meaning and perspective.” OVERCOMING CHALLENGES The journey to success has not been without obstacles. Teresa recalls the difficulties of launching Mobi Claw911. “Earning trust for a completely new concept took persistence, consistent communication, and unwavering belief in our mission,” she explains. “We had to help people understand that not all emergency apps are created equal. The real difference lies in who takes the call, who responds, and how effective that response is.” Communicating value has also required sensitivity. “We position ourselves as insurance for your life, not just another service,” Teresa says. “It is vital to ensure clients keep their apps updated, test them regularly, and feel confident using them in a real emergency.” Despite the hurdles, she remains proud of what the company has accomplished. “The lives we have saved and the trust we have earned remain the strongest proof of our success.” KNOW YOUR WORTH Teresa is passionate about empowering women to lead boldly. “To all young women, never underestimate your voice, your vision, or your value,” she says with conviction. “Believe in your ideas. Do not wait for permission, trust your instincts and speak up. Keep learning because knowledge builds confidence. Face fear head-on, as growth often lives just on the other side of fear.” She emphasises the importance of connection and perseverance. “Build your network wisely. Surround yourself with people who challenge, support, and uplift you. Know your worth and never let anyone tell you what you can or cannot do. If you are willing to work hard, you will get there. Persistence is power.” Her closing words of encouragement are particularly striking. “Dream big. Live big. Never settle. You will know you are a leader when your presence helps others rise. Lead boldly, but always with empathy.” Teresa’s goals are ambitious yet grounded. “My focus is on growth, impact, and legacy,” she says. Her plans include expanding Mobi Ventures’ national and international presence, launching safety awareness campaigns, and strengthening community training initiatives. “We want to promote a culture of proactive safety,” she adds. “Ultimately, my dream is to establish Mobi Ventures as a brand known not only for saving lives but for transforming them through innovation, compassion, and lasting community impact.” Finding balance in such a demanding field is an ongoing effort. “Balance is a journey, especially in a fast-paced environment like ours,” she acknowledges. “I prioritise self-care, set clear boundaries, and practice mindfulness.” Physical activity also plays an important role. “Hiking, running, and cycling with my husband help me recharge,” she says. “Spending quality time with family and friends keeps me grounded and centred.” Her love for her work is evident. “I love what I do. It never feels like work,” she smiles. “Each day brings new challenges, and beyond saving lives, this work keeps me alive in spirit." Previous Next