< Back Next > Rashmee Ramdeen Chief Executive Officer, Zilon Bulk Bags Rashmee Ramdeen, CEO of Zilon Bulk Bags, is a shining example of entrepreneurial success in South Africa. With her background in finance and a vision for building a legacy for her children, she has transformed a small business that started in her garage into a thriving manufacturing company. Zilon Bulk Bags now produces thousands of FIBC (Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container) bags monthly, used in transport and storage, and catering to a wide range of industries. Rashmee’s journey is marked by her determination, passion, and commitment to empowering others. From Finance to Manufacturing Before becoming a business leader, Rashmee worked at major financial institutions, including Standard Bank and Absa Bank. She holds a degree in banking management, which equipped her with valuable skills in finance and customer service. Reflecting on her career shift, she said, “I’ve been in finance throughout my career, and customer service as well, so it’s good to have that background for the business itself.” Her decision to start Zilon Bulk Bags came from her desire to build something meaningful for her family. “My biggest dream is to build this company and leave a legacy for my family, especially my kids,” Rashmee shared. With three children, she wanted to ensure they would have something to inherit and continue. Her business, which started in her garage with two sewing machines, has currently grown to employ 18 staff members and now operates with three lines of sewing machines, producing between 500 to 1000 bags a day. “From two staff members, we now have 18, and in a month, we produce at least 15,000 bags, if not more,” she proudly explained. Rashmee credits much of her entrepreneurial drive to her mother, who remains a key influence in her life. “My mum has been working all her life, and when she retired, she didn’t stop working,” Rashmee said. Her mother, an ardent entrepreneur, continues to run a business selling Indian outfits, and it was from her that Rashmee learned the value of hard work and determination. “My mum’s entrepreneurial spirit inspired me to follow my path,” she remarked. Rashmee’s background in banking also helped her develop strong marketing and people skills, which she has successfully applied to growing her business. “Instead of marketing for the bank, I decided to market my own business,” she noted. Her approach has been deeply rooted in personal connections and networking. “What I enjoy most is meeting new people. I think I’m a people’s person, and that’s how the business grows — just by talking to other people.” Empowering Others Rashmee is not just focused on building a successful business; she is also dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of those around her, particularly the youth. “I try to inspire the youth to achieve more in their everyday lives,” she said. Rashmee believes in multi- skilling her employees and equipping them with life skills beyond the workplace. Her own daughter has taken on a marketing role, inspired by her mother’s determination and drive. “My daughter is becoming a marketer herself. She’s a teacher, but in her spare time, I see she’s now trying to sell and be like a salesperson to earn extra pocket money.” Rashmee is also committed to giving back to her community. She supports local schools through sponsor- ships and donations, ensuring that disadvantaged students can participate in activities such as excursions and sports. “I’ve helped schools with sponsorships and funding for excursions. We also sponsor party packs for school sports days,” she shared. However, Rashmee’s journey has not been without its challenges. One of the most significant hurdles her business faces is South Africa’s ongoing load shedding crisis. “Load shedding in our business is a big no-no because we run our machines with electricity,” she said. To keep operations running during power outages, the company has had to invest in two large generators, which comes at an exorbitant cost. “The cost of running on diesel was really draining for the business.” Despite these challenges, Rashmee’s advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women, is to persevere. “Follow your heart, always be a go-getter, and try to achieve more every day,” she advised. She believes in the motto “each one teach one,” and is a part of the Graça Machel Women Creating Wealth initiative, which encourages collaboration and networking among women entrepreneurs. “There’s always someone out there who can connect with what you have to offer. The world is so big, and there’s a slice for everybody.” “Business is very challenging, but you have to wake up each day with your mind set on achieving your goals. It’s important to stay focused on the end goal,” she advises. Rashmee is particularly enthusiastic about the potential of women in business. “Women these days have so much to offer,” she states. “By inspiring each other, we can truly grow. Everyone has a story to tell, and you can find inspiration in each one.” A Source of Pride Rashmee’s vision for the future is clear: she wants to leave a lasting legacy for her children. “My future goal is to leave a legacy for my kids. My son is now my production and sales manager, and he’s growing with the business,” she shared. Her family’s involvement in Zilon Bulk Bags is a source of pride for her, and she is confident that they will continue to grow the business in the future. “At the moment, Zilon Bulk Bags is making a name for itself. I am the only female-owned bulk bag manufacturing business in South Africa, and we are making headway in the market.” In addition to her professional goals, Rashmee finds solace and balance in her personal life. “What I find relaxing is going for walks with my husband on the weekends. It’s our bonding time, and it usually ends with breakfast,” she said with a smile. Meditation and yoga also play a vital role in helping her maintain her calm and focus. < Previous Next >

Moses Tembe Next Previous Moses Tembe is the chairman of Bellamont Investments Moses Tembe, chairman of Bellamont Investments, attributes much of his success to a belief in the power of community impact and a sincere dedication to God, family, and his fellow citizens. In a world often dominated by profit-driven motives, Moses stands out as an entrepreneur guided by the principles of service and giving back. Moses’s career journey is rooted in humble beginnings. After matriculating from Menzi High School in Umlazi in 1979, he pursued a bachelor’s in public administration and political science at the University of South Africa, followed by a course in financial management, which was managed by the University of Cape Town. Whilst studying, Moses worked as a Clerk of the Court from 1980 to 1983. He then moved to the KwaZulu Development Corporation and became the chief credit controller. DIVERSIFIED APPROACH In 1990, Moses took the leap into full-time entrepreneurship, a decision that would eventually lead him to found Bellamont Investments and the Bellamont Group of Companies. This group, built on six pillars – Property Development and Construction (Afrostructures), Industrial Holdings includes Geochem brand and IFS facilities management, Energy and Telecommunications, Mining, Gaming, and Asset Management – has managed to thrive even in tough economic times. Moses’s diversified approach with Bellamont has allowed his businesses to weather economic downturns and industry-specific challenges. However, he reflects on this approach with mixed feelings. “I sometimes regret that I never had the courage and ambition to focus on one industry and make a big name of it,” he admits. With this hindsight, he now advises young entrepreneurs to stay committed to their mission and to avoid becoming overly distracted by diversification. He added that it is important to have the courage and belief to pursue big dreams. He says, “Accept no limits and maintain a forward-thinking mentality, hard work, service to mankind and godliness constitute a bedrock upon which sustainable success must be built.” In addition, Moses acknowledges that the path he has chosen is not without its challenges, particularly the balancing act of being a capitalist “without real capital”. He notes, “One would have accomplished more if financial institutions focused more on the opportunity and its viability and less on balance sheets and equity.” For Moses, access to finance and capital is a challenge that emerging entrepreneurs continue to face, as these remain a significant barrier in South Africa. Moses believes passionately that a change in the financial landscape is critical for budding entrepreneurs to achieve their potential. GIVING BACK Throughout his career, Moses has prioritised giving back to his community, practising what he calls his “80/20 principle” – 80% work and 20% time invested in improving the environment in which he operates. His extensive record of pro-bono service is a testament to this commitment. Moses has served in numerous roles, including secretary general of KwaZulu-Natal NAFCOC, president of the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and board member of the South African Chamber of Commerce United Kingdom and of the KZN National Business Initiative. Additionally, he currently co-chairs the KZN Growth Coalition, a partnership dedicated to fostering economic growth and development in the region. Further, his contributions to initiatives like the Durban Infrastructure Development Trust and the eThekwini Greater Foundation reflect a commitment to not only growing businesses but also nurturing communities. This is especially relevant in KwaZulu- Natal, the province to which he is personally committed. Moses envisions a KwaZulu-Natal that is “all-round successful”, and he is determined to work with various stakeholders to see this vision realised. INSPIRING OTHERS Moses’s approach is undoubtedly shaped by his faith, which he regards as an essential component of his personal and professional philosophy. “Proverbs and Psalms remain the major inspirational sword I use to conquer,” he says, finding solace and strength in the teachings that emphasise hard work, humility, and kindness. For Moses, success is not simply about wealth or recognition but about building a legacy rooted in values that inspire others to uplift themselves and their communities. His message to fellow entrepreneurs and leaders is profound. He says, “The more you make service to people your primary business, the more likely you will be noticed, and opportunities will come to you.” This belief is embedded in his core values, evident in the ways he has managed his businesses, approached new opportunities, and interacted with the communities he serves. It is a philosophy that recognises the importance of each individual’s role in contributing to the larger society, a vision that Moses has diligently worked toward through his many leadership roles and business ventures. This philosophy has also opened numerous doors for him and allowed him to build lasting relationships across industries. In the past, he has had the opportunity of serving on listed companies in the capacity of chairperson of Phumelela Gaming and as board member for KZN Tsogo Sun, Mr Price and Santova Logistics. In summary, Moses exemplifies a form of entrepreneurship that is seldom seen but greatly needed. By leveraging his resources and net- works, he continues to make a difference in KZN and beyond. He remains steadfast in his pursuit of a prosperous and equitable South Africa, setting an example for future generations. His story reminds us that when business and service intersect, not only does an entrepreneur thrive, but so too does the community around him. Previous Next

Premi Subramany Next Previous Premi Subramany is the founder and managing director of Chemsol (SA) Adhesives Premi Subramany, founder and managing director of Chemsol (SA) Adhesives (Pty) Ltd, has dedicated her career to building a successful manufacturing business in KwaZulu-Natal. Chemsol SA Adhesives specialises in the production of adhesives for the paper and packaging industries. Premi’s journey from humble beginnings in Shaka’s Kraal, a small town on the North Coast of Durban, to leading a company that has thrived for 20 years, is a testament to her resilience, determination, and forward-thinking approach. Premi’s early education took place at Shaka’s Kraal Primary School, and she later matriculated at Stanger Secondary School. Her professional journey began in 1990 with her first job as a typist, a position she held while pursuing further education at UNISA (University of South Africa). Reflecting on these early years, she says, “I started as a typist in 1990, and a month later, I registered for my education. That was my first job, and it laid the foundation for everything that followed.” Her qualifications as a professional accountant and analytical chemist assist her to make good business decisions on a daily basis. Premi, together with the companies under her leadership flag, have obtained many accolades and awards over the years. Twenty years ago, in November 2004, Premi left the corporate world to venture into manufacturing, launching Chemsol (SA) Adhesives. Despite the challenges of entrepreneurship, she found excite- ment and a sense of purpose in her new role. “I left corporate thinking that being an entrepreneur is easy. It wasn’t an easy journey, but I’m proud of where I stand today,” she notes. Over the years, Premi has focused on growing the company and preparing the younger generation for the future, currently she is particularly interested in understanding the integration of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies into business. PROFESSIONAL PRIDE For Premi, personal pride comes from her resilience as an entrepreneur, having successfully navigated numerous challenges. “It makes me proud to say with all the challenges we’ve had in KwaZulu-Natal, I’m still standing strong, and the company is still standing strong,” she asserts. She credits much of this success to her dedicated staff, who have been trained and developed over the years to contribute significantly to the company’s achievements. “I owe a lot to my staff and the way they’ve been developed over the past few years. That’s what makes me proud,” she says. “We can achieve much by training and developing.” One piece of advice has remained central to Premi’s life and career: “Never give up.” This mantra, passed down by her late mother, has been a guiding force in her journey. “My late mom always said, ‘Never give up. There’s always room for improvement, and you can make a difference’. This advice has influenced her to continuously learn and grow, never stopping in her pursuit of knowledge and excellence. “I never stop learning and I never stop reading. That’s what makes me the great person who I am today, and I’m proud of that,” she reflects. OVERCOMING CHALLENGES Like many in business, Premi has faced her share of challenges. She believes that the key to overcoming these obstacles lies in how one embraces them. “There are so many challenges, especially in KwaZulu-Natal and our economy at the moment. But it’s about going every day and saying we can be better at what we do,” she explains. Premi’s approach to challenges is straightforward: “Just be straight with it, be true to yourself, and take what is there head-on. Every day is about unpacking what we have to do and achieving a result.” Keeping herself and her team motivated is one of Premi’s daily missions. She believes in encouraging her team with positivity and recognition, even when things don’t go perfectly. “Every day is different, so every day I just go out there, smile at them, and say, ‘Yes, you are right, and you are wrong, but there is a way forward, so you choose how we are going to work it forward’,” she shares. This approach fosters a dynamic and supportive work environment where employees feel valued and motivated to improve continuously. SOURCES OF INSPIRATION Premi draws inspiration from the people around her and the outcomes of their collective efforts. “Results are important, seeing the outcome every day in what we do, whether it’s in our staff, our customers, or whoever’s around us, makes me more confident every day and just achieving what we’re there for,” she explains. This inspiration fuels her drive to continue pushing the business forward, despite any obstacles that may arise. Looking ahead, Premi is excited about the future of the group Chemsol (SA) Adhesives, particularly in the area of sustainability. The company is currently engaged in several projects, with sustainability being a key focus. “Our new development is under the brand of BioP Technology, a sustainable product in the plastic industry. That’s where we see our project being seen in the market over the next five years,” she says with enthusiasm. Premi is committed to ensuring that the company not only thrives but also contributes positively to the environment and the broader community. MOTTO TO LIVE BY Premi’s life motto is simple yet profound: “Live simply and enjoy it. Enjoy every moment.” This philosophy reflects her approach to both life and business – embracing simplicity, finding joy in the present, and maintaining a positive outlook no matter the circumstances. In summary, Premi Subramany’s journey from a typist to managing director of Chemsol (SA) Adhesives is one of perseverance, adaptability, and continuous growth. Her story is a powerful reminder of the impact of resilience and the importance of fostering a supportive and motivated team. With a clear vision for the future and a strong commitment to sustainability, Premi is leading her company towards a bright and promising future. Previous Next

David White Next Previous David White is the founder and chief executive within the DRG Group David White is the founder and chief executive within the DRG Group, which comprises DRG Outsourcing, DRG Siyaya, and BusinessFit SA. David shared that his formal qualifications are in marketing and business administration. He says, as a young person he was diagnosed as having an extreme form of dyslexia. He could not read, write or spell, and was advised by a child psychologist at the time that his dyslexia was so extensive that he would likely be unable to complete school. The psychologist told David’s parents and teachers that they should recognise David’s neurological challenge and should prepare themselves for him not getting past Standard 8 (Grade 10). David’s dyslexia kept him from advancing a year at school, but he says, he learned two important traits from his dyslexic journey. The first being listening skills as he could not read the work himself, and the second, an appreciation of his natural abilities in imagination, communication and reasoning. David till today is a weak reader. However, he has surprised himself and others by becoming a regular business, leadership, governance, and sustainability author in local and international publications. David says it is his passion for the subjects that he writes about that allows the flow of inspiration in his writing. The best advice David received for his life’s journey was from his parents, who said that “as long as he was doing his best, it was good enough for them, and that doing his best in all likelihood will be good enough for our Creator too.” David said this helped him to focus more on the journey of his life, rather than on the outcome of his work. David says, “I undoubtably had less personal, peer, and family pressure to excel in achieving career milestones and goals than many other people had… as just finishing school was a celebrated achievement.” Dyslexia never held David back, and although his marks at school were not good, he found that it was easy for him to apply his mind and focus on topics and subjects that he liked learning about. Business administration and people development became his big passion, and as they say… the rest is history. David’s first job was at Shell, where he worked in their retail division for eight years. In this time, he learned about business administration and organisational leadership, much of which he still applies within his businesses today. His role was to help Shell Service Station dealers maintain Shell franchise standards, as well as grow and develop their businesses. He commented, “The Shell Service Station dealers were exposed to a well thought out quality assurance process, some of which we have used in the creation of the BusinessFit SA quality assurance framework and development methodology for SMEs.” SINGLE-MINDED APPROACH David feels his greatest accomplishment in business is his single-minded approach in keeping the business dream alive. “My vision for DRG and BusinessFit SA goes back to 1996, when there was great demand in the economy for professional HR and business support partners, to help guide entrepreneurs and business leaders through tough economic and sustainability challenges.” Both DRG and BusinessFit SA continue to thrive in the market today. David’s businesses, DRG Outsourcing and BusinessFit SA provide services to companies across the globe. In a recent trip to the UK, David (and his colleague Andrew Kruger) were invited by Northumbria University to lecture business students on the BusinessFit SME development methodology. Further the Northumbria University offered to create an application for BusinessFit’s Blueprint model, and the Commonwealth Secretariat Assistant Secretary General asked that the application be made available to SMEs across all 56 Commonwealth countries. The greatest business challenge says David, was in the beginning, when his business grew very quickly. Two years after starting, DRG joined a group of companies listing on the JSE. David was not ready for such a leadership challenge, and 24 months after listing, the companies unbundled. “DRG was on target to meet its anticipated financial goals, and so the delisting was not financially motivated, but rather a value perception challenge created by the dot com era. David says that this experience taught him his most valuable lessons about life, business and himself. DRG and BusinessFit SA have “highly engaged work forces, where staff understand how the business works, and take self-inspired actions to meet customer expectations and business imperatives,” says David. The DRG / BusinessFit SA culture and values encourage staff to work in teams, make decisions, and to ensure the timeous outcomes of engagements and interventions. AN EFFECTIVE BUSINESS ECOSYSTEM David is inspired by people who are honest, caring, and capable in their work. DRG and BusinessFit SA products and services are largely compliance and structure based, requiring attention to detail – and a mindset from staff of really wanting to help our clients meet their reporting and administrative responsibilities. “The DRG and BusinessFit SA staff work closely together to meet client requirements and expectations, and it is inspiring to watch high quality outcomes being achieved day by day by each company’s staff and teams.” He said, “DRG’s vision going forward is to continue growing its national and international client bases through providing ongoing professional and reliable HR services. BusinessFit SA’s vision is to support the development of an effective business ecosystems within KZN and SA. The motto David lives by, is an adaption from the scriptures. It states, ‘Tomorrow is taken care of by our kindness, care, and purpose invested today’. “In a world where nothing is certain… we at least have these words of wisdom and comfort which tell us that tomorrow will be fine for us, as long as we invest such traits in our work and people interactions today,” he said. Previous Next

Virosh Singh Next Previous CEO and founder of Construction for Africa Previous Next

Terry Flack Next Previous Terry Flack is the Business Success Leader of Cannect Digital Terry Flack is the Business Success Leader of Cannect Digital, a Performance Marketing company based in Morningside, Durban. As the business enters its 11th year, Terry speaks with pride about what has been built, which is rooted in commercial success, and in the culture, longevity and shared purpose that underpin the company. Although his formal title could easily be managing director or CEO, Terry has chosen something different. “We have been very intentional about giving ourselves meaningful titles,” he explains. “My title is Business Success Leader, because my role is about enabling success across the business, not just managing it.” This distinction reflects his leadership philosophy, one that prioritises people, clarity and collaboration over hierarchy. EARLY LESSONS Terry’s educational and career journey began with a defining conversation at home. His father, whom he describes as one of his greatest inspirations, offered guidance that was both humorous and profound. “He said to me, you have three choices. You can make it, you can sell it, or you can account for it. I have seen your woodwork, please do not make it. I have seen your maths, please don’t do an accounting degree. So marketing and sales is the way forward for you, my son.” That advice set Terry on a clear path. He studied at Technikon Natal during the 1990s, spending three years studying full time and working full time in sales. Life then took him further afield. Travels through the United Kingdom, Europe and Asia led him to Australia, where a personal relationship gave him a reason to stay. “I met a girl and had to find a reason to remain in Australia,” he says with a smile. That reason became academic, as he completed a Master’s Degree in International Marketing at the University of Technology Sydney. The degree remains, the girl, not. When asked about his first job, Terry goes back further than most. At the age of 11, as a freshly qualified Scout, he entered a flower bulb selling competition. the support from his wife, Heather. “That experience taught me two things. Do not put all your eggs in one basket, and relationships matter. On the strength of relationships, you can overcome so much adversity.” The prize was a Swiss Army knife, but the real reward was learning how to connect with people. “I walked the posh suburbs of Kloof, knocked on doors, selling f lower bulbs,” he recalls. “That experience taught me how to target my audience, engage, relate and sell. Unbeknownst, this taught me targeting, marketing and solution selling.” These early lessons in showing up, speaking to people and following through would later define his leadership style and entrepreneurial resilience. AFRICA IMPACT Terry is thoughtful when speaking about purpose. “I have explored purpose for many years, and I still do not have a clear definition of it,” he admits. For him, purpose is practical and local before it is grand. At Cannect Digital, this is expressed through a philosophy called Africa Impact. “The pebble in the pond starts in our little place in Morningside, then moves to Durban, to KZN, to South Africa and to Africa,” he says. “If there is a purpose for me, it is to make a meaningful difference to the growth and acceleration of businesses. Ultimately, I want to see the success of this country and I want my children to always have a profound connection to this beautiful country and continent of ours.” One of Terry’s proudest accomplishments comes from outside the boardroom. In 2013, through what he describes as “pure Irish luck and just showing up,” (as well as a lot of training) he qualified to represent South Africa at the ITU World Championships in Triathlon in London. He commented, “Even though I didn’t place anywhere of significance, it was a phenomenal experience and something I will always treasure.” The biggest challenge of his career, however, was far more sobering. Terry once held the licence for a major automotive clothing brand, only to have it abruptly terminated. “We had six weeks to move or destroy stock worth millions,” he says. “It took me about a decade to recover financially.” What carried him through was the strength of his relationships and the support from his wife, Heather. “That experience taught me two things. Do not put all your eggs in one basket, and relationships matter. On the strength of relationships, you can overcome so much adversity.” LEADING THE CANNECT CREW At Cannect Digital, Terry supports his two leaders, Carmin and Nabell (who is now a director and soon to be shareholder of Cannect). They in turn lead the team to deliver results at the highest level. Each team member has three functions, designed to keep them focused on their own path to mastery and growth. “My three core functions, are very clear: relationships (team, clients, suppliers and community), culture (nurturing our exceptional crew to fulfil their true potentiality) and strategy (for both clients and our businesses).” Continuous learning is embedded in the business, with structured learning objectives and incentives. “We are all in it together,” Terry says. “Learning is rewarded, encouraged and shared.” Alongside this, we laugh a lot. We bring our quirks. That is why, along with creating a “Circle of Safety”, we retain such incredible people for the long term. And I am proud of that as it means we are making a difference in the lives of our crew.” Looking ahead, Terry is deeply optimistic about KwaZulu-Natal. Having lived abroad for over a decade, he chose to return because of his deep love for South Africa and his brimming optimism for the province’s potential. My vision for the next five years is that we’re going to see exponential growth and we want to be part of enabling, supporting and driving this growth.” His personal motto captures his philosophy simply. “How do I spend each moment?!” Terry says, “The question is are we spending each moment, moments that we will never get back, by harnessing them for the greatness that is our lives? This doesn’t mean playing full out, all the time. Are we resting consciously, are we spending precious moments with our loved ones, are we nurturing our beings and are we giving our very best to our path to success? Previous Next

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

< Back Natalie Keegan

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

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