< Back Jennifer Reddy

< Back Next > Sorisha Naidoo Owner, Umhlanga Laser and Aesthetic Spa Sorisha Naidoo is the owner of Umhlanga Laser and Aesthetic Spa, as well as a frequency healing room. “I’m also involved in export and import,” she said, describing her diverse professional pursuits. Reflecting on her early years, Sorisha recalled, “I studied journalism at Rhodes University a long time ago, which sparked my interest in television and radio. But somehow, I found myself gravitating towards the beauty industry, opening salons, and importing products, it just happened naturally.” She explained that her journey in the beauty industry began 16 years ago when she recognised a gap in the market. “I’ve never stopped since then, and it remains my passion. It’s funny how you study one thing, but your flair for something else takes charge.” The transition into beauty came naturally during her time in radio and acting. “After working at a local radio station in KwaZulu-Natal, I moved to a Johannesburg radio station and dipped into acting. As an actress, I realised there was a constant need to look my best, which sparked an interest in anti-ageing and skincare,” she said. “I started exploring natural treatments and was drawn into the beauty industry.” Sorisha described her current dream as championing alternative healing through her frequency healing technology. “I want to establish this alternative healing approach in South Africa, allowing people to heal without the involvement of too many pharmaceutical companies,” she asserted. “It’s about offering a different way for people to look after themselves.” First Role Models Reflecting on her entrepreneurial drive, Sorisha credited her family’s influence. “My parents were businesspeople and my first role models. I worked in their store from a young age, learning the value of independence,” she said. “Even though I worked in corporate for a while, I always aspired to be my own boss and not work nine to five.” She also credited her husband, Vivian Reddy, as a significant source of inspiration. “His work ethic is exceptional, and he has always encouraged me to push myself, to never say no, and to keep improving. He inspires me to be my best,” Sorisha revealed. Her dedication to excellence is evident in her approach to managing her business. “I pay attention to every detail in my spa, from the way it smells when you walk in, down to the minutest detail in the treatment room,” she explained. “I believe you’re only as strong as your last treatment, so I ensure that every client’s experience is memorable from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave. For me that’s an important strategy.” When asked about her achievements, Sorisha high- lighted a few key moments. “Earning my journalism degree was a big accomplishment for me. I also took part in Miss India South Africa about 24 years ago, which was quite a surprise because I never saw myself as a pageant type,” she said. “Winning that competition, as a self-described tomboy, was a shocker for me.” However, Sorisha regards her role as a mother as her greatest achievement. “It might sound crazy, but being a mom and raising my kids is the most fulfilling job I’ve ever had,” she stated. “Watching them grow, develop their own interests, and embark on different career paths has been an epic journey.” Sorisha’s compassion extends beyond her business ventures to charity, especially animal welfare. “I’m a big supporter of the SPCA and Pug Rescue,” she said. “I currently have five pugs, and they are formidable pets. Many people adopt animals for the good times but aren’t prepared for the full journey, including the difficult moments when they get older.” Importance of Kindness Navigating the public eye, Sorisha acknowledged, comes with its challenges. “Being in the industry means facing scrutiny and criticism as well as backlash for certain judgements or opinions,” she said. “I’ve found that I’ve needed to have a very thick skin over the years to understand that everyone has a right to an opinion and for me to not get entangled. Importantly, nobody’s opinion of you matters except your own.” Offering advice to young women, Sorisha emphasised the importance of kindness. “In today’s age of social media, kindness is often undervalued,” she observed. “The essence of being a woman is humility and kindness, and if you can spread that in the world, we’d have fewer problems than we do have right now.” Looking ahead, Sorisha’s focus is on continual growth. “I’m constantly working on being a better mum, especially as my children grow into adulthood,” she said. “I want to ensure they have good values when they step out into the world. Being a better mother, sister, daughter, and businesswoman is an ongoing challenge, but one I welcome.” She also acknowledged that juggling multiple responsibilities can lead to burnout. “Women often spread themselves too thin, trying to keep up in a male- dominated world,” she noted. “It’s essential to take breaks, find balance, and stay true to yourself.” Her participation in “The Real Housewives of Durban” has been an unexpected source of growth. “We’re about to start our fifth season, and navigating the dynamics of the show is always interesting,” she explained. “The reason I keep going back is that I want to find out how you get to a balance when you’re in a contentious situation and be able to come out the other side unscathed. It’s a mental challenge that keeps me on my toes and helps me release pent-up emotions.” For Sorisha, balance is achieved through yoga, high- intensity training, and quality time with her family and pets. “I’m passionate about yoga and exercise; it’s my release,” she said. “And of course, lots of green tea — it’s my go-to for calming down.” Sorisha Naidoo’s journey is one of continuous evolution and an unwavering pursuit of her passions. “I don’t think there’s a limit to what we can achieve,” she concluded. “Dreams evolve, and I’m always ready for the next one.” < Previous Next >

The KZN Top Business Nexus is a three-tiered digital ecosystem designed to build regional authority and networking for businesses in KwaZulu-Natal. The 2026 rates and membership structure are focused on providing a foundational presence for all local businesses while offering high-impact upgrades for more active members. KZN Top Business NEXUS Media Kit < Back KZN Top Business Membership KZN Business Ecosystem The Nexus is a structured three-tier digital ecosystem designed to foster a closed-loop economy within the KwaZulu-Natal business community. From foundational visibility to elite strategic networking, we provide a transactional engine for every stage of growth. Membership Tiers At-A-Glance Tier Level Level 1: The List Level 2: Connectors Club Level 3: Platinum Club Investment R500 / annum FREE UNTIL JAN 1, 2027 R8,500 / annum LAUNCH SPECIAL: R5,500* By Invitation Only Primary Benefit Foundational Digital Presence & NAP Active Marketplace & Coupon Engine Elite Strategic Networking The KZN Top Business Nexus ecosystem Level 1: The List – Digital Foundation The essential entry point into the Nexus ecosystem. Get recognized and found in the regional directory. Core NAP Details: Verified Name, Address, and Phone number syndication. Primary Contact Info: Standardized digital contact points for direct discovery. Risk-Free Trial: Register now and enjoy full Level 1 benefits with no charges applied until January 1, 2027 Level 2: Connectors Club – Active Marketplace Transactional Coupon Engine: Load and manage digital vouchers for B2B, B2C, and C2C transactions. Transactional Coupon Engine: Load and manage digital vouchers for B2B, B2C, and C2C transactions Barnacle SEO: Leverage Nexus domain authority to dominate local KZN search results. Full Digital Integration: Social media handles, click-to-call buttons, and precise geo-tagging. ROI Analytics: Performance tracking comparing Nexus value against traditional Google PPC spend. Level 3: Platinum Club – Strategic Elite Exclusive Status : Membership is strictly by invitation only. The highest tier of participation reserved for leaders seeking maximum regional influence and strategic collaboration. • Direct Consultation : Enrollment requires a scheduled appointment with the KZN Top Business team. How to Join : Appointment requests can be submitted via the official website or through direct coordination with the team. Join the List The KZN Top Business Nexus Press Room AI Unlocked at The Oyster Box Explores the Future of Smarter Business in KwaZulu-Natal KZN Top Business in Partnership with Vodacom: AI Unlocked at The Oyster Box Explores the Future of Smarter Business in KwaZulu-Natal GROW YOUR VISIBILITY THROUGH THE NEXUS GROW YOUR VISIBILITY THROUGH THE NEXUS KZN Top Business Nexus-Digital Liberation KZN Top Business Nexus-Digital Liberation Transforming KZN Market Dynamics with the Benjamin Franklin Close KZN Market Dynamics with the Benjamin Franklin Close The KZN Top Business Nexus - Early Bird officially closed The KZN Top Business Nexus - Early Bird officially closed The Simplicity of the Struggle Why the KZN Top Business Nexus is What We’ve All Been Waiting For They say that if something looks simple, it’s because someone else did the hard work. I’ve spent decades in the KZN business world. I’ve seen the cycles of growth, the shifts in the economy, and I’ve put in the "buckets of blood" required to build a network that actually means something. For years, I’ve been looking for a way to distill all that complexity—the thousands of introductions, the high-level strategi KZN Top Business Nexus: KZN Top Business Nexus: The Digital Handshake: Why the "Warm Feel" is Your Business's Secret Weapon KZN Top Business Nexus Beyond the Buzzword: The AI Briefing The AI Briefing Shifting the Axis of KZN Business Stop Drifting, Start Dominating At KZN Top Business, we propose a different strategy: Stop fighting the current and join the ecosystem. With the launch of the KZN Top Business Nexus on May 13th

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< Back Next > Nadeera Ramharakh Founder and Director, Pinetown Diff and Gearbox Nadeera Ramharakh is the founder and director of Pinetown Diff and Gearbox, which remanufactures and repairs gearboxes and differentials of most makes and models of cars and bakkies. Nadeera grew up in Phoenix, a town where her passion for cars and mechanics was born. As the eldest of five siblings, she embraced a hands-on approach to life, something that would define her career. Recalling her early years, Nadeera shared, “On Sundays, my dad would tinker with the cars after breakfast. There was nothing to fix, but he’d still be there, adjusting something. I’d be the spanner girl passing him tools, asking questions. That’s when I realised how much I enjoyed cars.” Despite her love for cars, Nadeera initially pursued a more traditional career path, studying law for two years. “Mum wanted me to be a professional, but I quickly realised it wasn’t me. I wasn’t the type to sit behind books.” Life’s journey led her to corporate work at Mercedes-Benz, where her passion for trucks and cars truly flourished. “That’s where I found my calling,” she explained. The desire to work with her hands, to fix things, was always there — whether it was plumbing at home or repairing cars — and this passion fuelled her dream to own a workshop one day. Building a Dream Business Nadeera’s path to founding her company wasn’t a straightforward one. After years of working in a toxic work environment, she decided to take a bold step. “I was backed into a corner at work, and one day, I just woke up and said, ‘I’m doing it’.” Without much planning, Nadeera started Pinetown Diff and Gearbox 14 months ago, turning her vision into reality. “It was literally an overnight decision. I took my savings, bought the necessary equipment, and started in a shared garage.” Pinetown Diff and Gearbox has grown into a five-star graded workshop, RMI approved and proudly woman- run. Nadeera beams with pride as she reflects on the journey: “We now have seven staff members, four of whom are qualified mechanics. It’s been a whirlwind, but we’re thriving.” Despite the challenges, Nadeera’s drive and determination have been unwavering. “I cried every day at my old job, but now I wake up excited to work on my own terms.” Her leadership style is one of empowerment and flexibility. “I handpicked my staff, and I believe in staff loyalty and uplifting people. If their task for the day is done, I encourage them to go home and spend time with family. It’s important to create a happy work environment where people want to come to work, not dread it.” Overcoming Challenges While the growth of her business has been rapid, Nadeera is no stranger to the challenges that come with entrepreneurship. “Every day brings something new — whether it’s clients not having the funds for repairs or dealing with complex gearbox issues. It’s never easy, but that’s part of the process.” Another hurdle has been competition. “Competitors often try to undermine us by questioning our credentials or spreading doubt among clients,” Nadeera admits. “But I’ve learned to handle these situations with integrity. We do damage control, explain our values, and assure clients of our quality.” Nadeera’s ultimate goal is to see Pinetown Diff and Gearbox expand further, potentially into a franchise. “We’d like to be affiliated with a brand like Bosch or E-Car. It’s a long road, but I believe we’ll get there,” she says confidently. In addition, she dreams of one day opening a multi-brand dealership, where her team can service all types of vehicles. “It might seem far-fetched, but I’m sure it’s something we can achieve in the future. We are striving to be the number one woman run workshop in KwaZulu-Natal.” Balancing Work and Family Nadeera’s children, Ashay and Sanjana, have been her biggest motivation throughout her career. “As a single mum, I always wanted to give them everything I couldn’t have. It wasn’t always possible, but today, when I look at where we are, I tell them, ‘We’ve made it.’ My drive was always to make sure they had a bright future.” The journey hasn’t been without its hardships. Nadeera faced the loss of her mother just four months after starting her business. “That was one of the hardest challenges I’ve faced. But I knew I had to keep going, not just for myself but for my kids.” Looking back on her journey, Nadeera is proud of what she has achieved. “I’ve had to start my life over three times, and each time, it wasn’t easy. Everything I’ve accomplished, I’ve done with the support of my family and sheer determination.” Nadeera’s story is one of resilience, especially for women looking to break into male-dominated industries. “To young women following in my footsteps, I’d say don’t be afraid to start over. I’ve sold chips and cooldrinks from my office desk just to make ends meet, and today, I own a business.” She encourages women to embrace every opportunity, no matter how daunting it may seem. She says, “Take the leap, because you can achieve anything if you believe in yourself.” Nadeera’s passion for cars extends beyond the workshop. She loves fast cars, car modifications, and attending car shows. “It’s not just about the mechanics; it’s about understanding the full potential of a vehicle and the engineering behind it,” she explains. Though her workshop currently focuses on modifications like installing diff locks, she hopes to explore engine modifications in the future. Beyond her work, Nadeera has found ways to balance her personal and professional life. One of her favourite weekend activities is selling vegetables at the local flea market. “For me, it’s therapy. I’m out there with my kids, in the fresh air, surrounded by nature. It’s humbling, and it’s our family time together,” she shares. With her eyes set on new opportunities, Nadeera is determined to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. “I’m proud of what we’ve built, but we’re just getting started. The future holds so much more.” < Previous Next >

< Back Marcina Majid

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< Back Next > Nontokozo Londiwe Dludla Founder and Director, Mcebowethu Projects Nontokozo Londiwe Dludla, alongside Percy Phakathi, is the founder and director of Mcebowethu Projects, a company established in 2015. Based in Richards Bay within the King Cetshwayo District, she has built the business from the ground up, focusing on skills development in the construction industry. “The company is accredited by the Construction Seta and offers various short courses, including health and safety, first aid, and contracting skills,” Nontokozo explains. “We cater to different levels, from NQF Level 2 for contracting to NQF Level 3 for health and safety.” Her educational background has been a significant asset to her career. After matriculating from Ndesheni High School, she pursued a BA in Information Science at university. She also completed several short courses in fields such as health and safety, financial management, business management, and supervision of construction processes (civil). “Initially, I wasn’t interested in studying further, but once I joined the business world, I saw the need to understand the industry better,” Nontokozo shares. “So, I committed to learning more about the business I was running.” Inspired by Mentorship Nontokozo’s entrepreneurial journey was sparked by a mentor who instilled in her the value of running a business rather than working for someone else. “My spiritual mentor often spoke about the importance of owning a business,” she says. “He was a strong influence and a key factor in helping me get to where I am today.” With the support of a trusted business partner, she began to pursue her ambitions in the business world. Her research into different industries led her to the construction sector, where she saw an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. “I have a passion for business, and I wanted to use my educational background to teach others,” Nontokozo explains. “We offer short courses to help people gain skills, even if they haven’t matriculated.” Her company’s mission is to provide accessible learning opportunities, enabling individuals to improve their prospects. “From July to November, we trained more than 100 people in various short courses,” she adds. “We’ve expanded to offer online classes as well, to reach those outside of Richards Bay.” Overcoming Challenges Nontokozo’s determination and dedication have not gone unnoticed. “Last year, I was nominated for the Outstanding Women Leadership Award in India, and this June, I received the award,” she proudly shares. “I was also a nominee for the Women in Africa initiative, the JAMII Femmes programme, funded by Coca-Cola, which recognises women in business.” Her achievements continued when she won a global award in August and was later nominated for the Sebenza Women Awards in the construction industry. “The Sebenza Awards are happening November, and I’m hoping to win,” she says excitedly. “Now, I’m part the KZN Top Business Women Collection 2024, which is a significant event for me.” However, Nontokozo’s path has not been without difficulties. One of the major challenges she has faced is securing financial support. “Finances can be a significant hurdle,” she admits. “We often apply for funding but don’t always get it, which makes it hard to keep the business moving forward.” Nonetheless, her persistence has paid off. “In 2020, Mcebowethu Projects received funding from the Construction Seta, and in 2021, we secured additional support from the government,” she recalls. Despite these challenges, Nontokozo remains steadfast in her belief that perseverance is key to success. “My advice to young women is simple: you are young, so be useful,” she says. “If you’re passionate about something, put all your energy into it, regardless of what obstacles come your way.” A Vision for the Future Looking ahead, Nontokozo has ambitious plans for Mcebowethu Projects. “My goal is to establish a skills academy under the Mcebowethu name,” she says. Currently, the company trains in government institutions that provide the space and facilities for their programmes. “But my dream is to have our own academy where we can offer training directly through our facilities.” In addition to growing her business, Nontokozo also emphasises the importance of personal balance. “To maintain a clear mind and make sound business decisions, I practise meditation regularly,” she shares. “It helps me stay calm, think clearly, and reflect on what I want to achieve in my business and life in general.” She finds meditation to be a crucial tool for grounding herself amidst the demands of entrepreneurship. Close your Circle For Nontokozo, success is not just about personal accolades but about representing the company’s brand with integrity. “It’s not about me; it’s about the brand I represent,” she says. “Mcebowethu Projects stands for empowerment, education, and the opportunity for a better future.” Her personal motto, “Close your circle”, encapsulates her approach to business and life: “Finish what you start with pride and integrity,” she explains. As Nontokozo continues her journey, she remains committed to uplifting others through skills development and creating a lasting impact in the construction industry. Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, especially young women, to pursue their goals with passion, resilience, and a clear vision for the future. “It’s been a challenging but rewarding journey,” she concludes. “And I’m only just getting started.” < Previous Next >

The Nic Carroll 2021 Collection Laura Kelly Partner Cox Yeats Attorneys 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 Laura Kelly