< Back Victoria Ngwenya

< Back Lucrisha Polton Next As owner and director of AfriCrafters, Lucrisha Polton says her days are as varied as fingerprints. "I do what whatever it takes to get the job done." Drawing on skills from finance to design, and from sourcing materials to tracking down exceptional rural crafters, Lucrisha is a true all-rounder As owner and director of AfriCrafters, Lucrisha Polton says her days are as varied as fingerprints. "I do what whatever it takes to get the job done." Drawing on skills from finance to design, and from sourcing materials to tracking down exceptional rural crafters, Lucrisha is a true all-rounder. Exposed to business from an early age, Lucrisha travelled around South Africa with her family, as her father's work took him to small towns and rural villages across the country. "He always believed the best education comes from personal experiences, and the travelling gave me a sense of freedom." Having seen the impact of apartheid on black South Africans for herself, she was acutely aware of the hardships they faced on a daily basis. She was also deeply inspired by the spirit, warmth and the talent of people she met on her trips. "Images of artists selling their work on the side of the road stayed with me for most of my life, and I hoped that one day I'd be able to play a role in showing them off to the world." Even at school, Lucrisha realised she wanted to help people. "My desire to empower people grew, and today I still look for opportunities to assist people, and serve with no expectations. My motto is Pass the favour on and this approach has created the most incredible ripple effect." After school, Lucrisha's journey took her through various jobs and business ventures. She joined her family's business supplying fresh cut potato fries and vegetables to fast food chains including Nando's and Spur. "I was a buyer, sales person and quality control," she laughs. She also travelled with her father, advising rural farmers, helping them develop their crops and improve yields. Once she'd completed her studies, she travelled abroad, landing an exciting position at a media company in Scotland. But South Africa was always home, and eventually Lucrisha returned and started her first entrepreneurial venture, a bistro in Cape Town. A second restaurant followed shortly, but two years later she sold them, moved back to KwaZulu-Natal, and took time out to be a wife and mum. Bringing Africa to the world She soon realised that it was time to follow her passion for humanitarian causes and in 2017 she founded AfriCrafters. "The seed for this had been planted in my childhood. We link artists with the global supply chain, giving our artists a foot in the international market, and creating a sustainable living for them. Artists are so often exploited but I believe they should earn an income equal to their talent and creativity." "Every step I've taken has led me to where I am today," she says. Crediting her grandmother and parents for instilling in her a sense of confidence and tenacity, Lucrisha points out that AfriCrafters is driven by her love for people and watching them develop. "I see inspiration everywhere, in people, animals, nature, my children and life itself. I love telling stories and couldn't think of a better way than to do it than through arts and crafts. Each artwork is unique and made from recycled material, and each piece tells a story." "Culture is a big factor in my industry," she says. "My crafters come from a diversity of communities and I need to understand that a woman is treated differently in some cultures. I have to be mindful of this, particularly when dealing with men of a patriarchal culture." While this is a significant factor in her approach to business, Lucrisha doesn't believe it has held her back. "If anything, my respect for cultural differences has allowed me to create stronger, better business relationships." Despite this, she feels strongly that women should not shy away or hide their abilities when dealing with men. "It's your expertise in your industry, and your confidence that will set you apart, not just as a businesswoman but as a businessperson. And we are the nurturers, building a base on which future generations of women will succeed. We should never lose sight of this, and the way we can inspire other women." Taking Africa to the world Lucrisha is deeply grateful for her accomplishments. "It is my mission to take Africa to the world, and I've achieved far more than I ever thought possible in such a short time. I planted a seed and let the universe water it and nourish it. There's still a lot to do, and I'll continue to live my mission and vision, and I'm confident we'll progress steadily, one goal at a time." Believing in work-life harmony rather than work-life balance, Lucrisha explains that there is always an ebb and flow to obligations to family, business, friends and community. "And to myself." she adds. "I set aside time for my family and friends just as I do for business, and I make sure I have me-time to do the things I love too. After all, one must nourish to flourish. Time-management is key to getting it right, and you have to know your limits." Asked what advice she'd give her younger self, Lucrisha points out that we are taught to train our bodies and value our intellect, but we need to learn to regulate our emotions and deal with our sensitivities and sensibilities. "Trust your intuition, dream big, and create your reality. Choose love. Choose inner peace. Choose joy. Choose you!" Previous Next

The Shalom Interiors Up Home Up Latest News The Shalom Interiors Leaders Profile Latest News Company News Blog Keep up with the latest trends and insights. Check out our blog today! Read More Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back Next > Shannice Mahadeo Group Pharmacy Manager, Pharmaclin Group of Pharmacies Shannice Mahadeo is the group pharmacy manager for the Pharmaclin Group of Pharmacies. She speaks passionately about her journey in healthcare, community involvement and her aspirations. “Our business comprises 12 pharmacies surrounding Durban,” she says. “We cover areas from down south, including Doonside, all the way up to Overport and inland towards the Kloof/Gillitts area.” Reflecting on her educational background, Shannice shares, “I went to Merebank Secondary School and later pursued a BPharm Honours degree at UKZN, qualifying in 2015. My internship came up in 2018, and I entered the world of pharmacy.” She adds, “I started my career with the Gulf Drug Company, working in quality assurance and regulatory affairs, but I also gained experience in community and hospital pharmacy. When someone told me I didn’t have enough experience for a permanent position, I was determined to prove them wrong. I locumed every day from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. until I gained enough experience.” Her perseverance paid off, and after working with Lenmed, Shannice was offered a position at Pharmaclin. Shannice describes the opportunity as the realisation of a lifelong dream. “My biggest dream growing up was always to do something in healthcare, to help other people,” she explains. Initially, like many, she envisioned a career in medicine. However, after being accepted into pharmacy, she intended to use it as a stepping stone but found herself captivated by the field. “I loved it so much that I decided to stay. It was absolutely amazing.” When asked about her inspiration, Shannice doesn’t mention celebrities but instead pays tribute to her late grandfather. “He was one of the most caring people I’ve ever known. As a healthcare professional himself, he valued education and hard work. He always said, ‘You should be half an hour early for work, the first one in and the last one out.’ That work ethic has carried me extremely far,” she reflects. Joining the business about a year and a half ago, Shannice has made a significant impact, particularly in community involvement. “When I started, we launched a health information initiative on TikTok. We created content on medication awareness, hosted live streams and encouraged patients to come forward and ask questions. We also taught them how to do blood pressure and glucose testing,” she explains. “Eventually, we expanded our efforts to go directly into the communities.” Her role also includes being part of the compliance team, ensuring the pharmacies maintain their pharmaceutical compliance and grading statuses. “There’s a lot to manage daily, but I love every bit of it,” Shannice says. “If you love what you do, you don’t work a day in your life.” Community Involvement Over the past six months, Shannice has witnessed extensive community involvement. “We’ve supported numerous initiatives around the location of our pharmacies,” she notes. “For example, we’ve been involved with the Lotus Angels in Isipingo and the MVG Mavericks Pool Club, where we contribute monthly. We also donated first aid kits to a sports club in Sydenham and sponsored the cricketer Sugehnee Naidoo’s trip for the ICC T20.” Shannice elaborates on their active role in events, saying, “Aside from sponsoring, we participate in events ourselves. We sponsored R10,000 for the Miss Wentworth pageant and also served as judges. Even now, we’re collaborating with the contestants to help with our health awareness efforts.” Her involvement extends beyond corporate sponsor- ships to tangible community support. “We have an event where we’re providing books, crayons, and stationery packs to Uthongathi Primary School in Hambanathi, which was affected by the floods. They reached out for assistance, and we’re stepping in to help,” she says with a sense of responsibility. October shaped up to be a busy month for Shannice, who was preparing for a cancer awareness campaign. “I’m taking part in the ‘I Love Boobies’ campaign for breast cancer awareness,” she shared. “I’ll be doing a 42.2 km run. We’ve got a lot of initiatives planned for the month, and it’s exciting to be part of these projects.” Her efforts extend to at least 13 different community projects, all of which she speaks about with pride. “It’s important not just to support these causes financially but to be actively involved. We want to highlight the organisations we partner with so they can receive recognition and possibly attract more sponsorship.” Confidence is Key Managing a network of pharmacies comes with its own set of challenges, particularly given Shannice’s tiny build, young age and relatively recent entry into a leadership role. “It’s difficult sometimes dealing with people who are older and more set in their ways,” she admitted. “They’re not always receptive to change.” Fortunately, she has had solid support along the way. “Our CEO helps me out a lot. He’s an amazing businessman who has been guiding me along the way wherever I seem to stumble a little,” explained Shannice. Despite these hurdles, Shannice remains committed to making an impact in her field. To young women aspiring to enter the healthcare field, she advises, “You need to be confident and caring. Confidence is key. It’s not just about the money — you need to truly want to show up and make a difference. That’s how you make the biggest impact.” Looking ahead, Shannice has big plans both professionally and academically. “We’re aiming to open more pharmacies in the future,” she reveals. “I’m studying towards a post- graduate diploma in Public Health at the University of Pretoria, and I intend to continue furthering my studies.” Balancing her career with personal interests, Shannice has recently discovered a love for adventure sports. “I’ve become a bit of an adrenaline junkie,” she admits. “When I get a break, I enjoy activities like shark cage diving, rock climbing, and abseiling. I’ve tried them all recently and absolutely enjoyed the experiences.” Shannice Mahadeo’s journey is one of determination and as she says, “It’s about showing up, putting in the effort, and genuinely wanting to make a difference.” < Previous Next >

Captain Salvatore Sarno Next Previous Captain Salvatore Sarno is the chairman of Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) Captain Salvatore Sarno, the chairman of Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) in South Africa, was born in a small village in southern Italy. “Everybody calls me Captain Sarno because I was a captain,” he says. Reflecting on his youth, Captain Sarno said that as child, he dreamed of becoming a ship’s captain, though the mountains surrounding his village obscured the sea. During school holidays, he would climb to the top of the mountains. “I used to sit there, looking at that little triangle of blue and dreaming of when I’d be working at sea,” he recalled. In 1965, Captain Sarno began his journey in the Italian Navy. However, he found the rigid structure stifling and left after two years to join the merchant navy, where he worked on tankers as a cadet. “That’s the life I was looking for,” he said. By the age of 26, he achieved his dream of becoming a ship’s captain, one of the youngest in the Italian merchant fleet. A SIGNIFICANT TURN His career took a significant turn when he met Gianluigi Aponte, who, alongside his wife Rafaela, had recently founded MSC. Aponte offered Captain Sarno a position aboard a 4,000-tonne vessel, one of MSC’s first ships, and together they set out to establish MSC’s inaugural shipping line around Africa. In those early days, they operated with limited resources, often carrying cargo other lines had refused. Captain Sarno recalls, “We succeeded because of our passion. That energy motivated the crew, and we showed them what was possible.” At the age of 30, Captain Sarno left the sea to join Aponte in Brussels, assisting in the management of MSC’s growing fleet, which then comprised only five ships. Together, they dreamed of making MSC the world’s largest shipping company. Captain Sarno moved with his family – his wife Sandra and his two sons – into a small office where each team member took on multiple roles, with spouses contributing as well. MSC’s reputation grew, and soon, the company relocated to Geneva to enhance its professional image. Despite periods of financial hardship and cycles of near-bankruptcy, MSC persevered, acquiring second-hand ships and using them to maximum advantage. “People called us the second-hand ship owners,” he said, “but we knew how to make the most of them.” A major milestone for MSC came when BMW South Africa awarded them a contract, provided they could offer a weekly service between Europe and South Africa. Captain Sarno, aged 40, took on the challenge, relocating to South Africa with a two-year commitment to establish MSC’s presence. Those two years transformed into a much longer tenure, as he built MSC South Africa into the country’s largest shipping organisation with the help of Sandra, who managed sixteen container depots, and his son Rosario, who eventually became the managing director, overseeing more than 2,000 employees. Captain Sarno insisted on maintaining a personal touch in client relations, avoiding call centres to ensure customers interacted with staff they trusted. UNITED IN PURPOSE In 1992, Captain Sarno co-founded the Container Lines Operator Forum (CLOF) with the late Dave Rennies, forming a network of top shipping executives who advised Transnet’s leaders on optimising port and container terminal operations. Six years later, in 1998, he was appointed President of the South African Branch of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers. Captain Sarno’s success led him to unexpected meetings, including an encounter with President Nelson Mandela. Inspired by Mandela’s vision for South Africa, Captain Sarno collaborated with the South African Navy in 1999 to establish Izivunguvungu, the MSC Foundation, an innovative youth initiative located in Simon’s Town to support disadvantaged South Africans. In the mid-2000s, another opportunity arose when South Africa prepared for its ten-year democracy anniversary. Captain Sarno spearheaded a campaign to create a South African team for the America’s Cup, the world’s most prestigious sailing competition. With support from President Mandela and a diverse team of sailors, Captain Sarno‘s campaign gained international attention. “The message was clear: after ten years of democracy, South Africa could compete on a global stage, united in purpose.” Captain Sarno faced obstacles as the leader of Shosholoza, the state-of-the-art yacht that was built in South Africa. Funding was limited, but he persevered, rallying support from friends, shipping industry contacts, and even Archbishop Desmond Tutu, who became one of Shosholoza’s biggest supporters. He also become close friends with Thabo Mbeki and Andrew Mlangeni who recognised in Shosholoza the true spirit of the new South Africa. Reflecting on his achievements, Captain Sarno says, that while the Shosholoza team did not win the American Cup, the team went on to win the most important awards of the competition. In 2018, together with his son Rosario, Captain Sarno founded the Shosholoza Academy, where thousands of young South Africans have been trained to work on MSC’s passenger ships, contributing to employment and skill-building within the country. A SIGN OF HOPE Captain Sarno’s contributions were acknowledged when he was awarded an Italian Republic Knight- hood by President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi in 2005. Four years later, in 2009, he was appointed as an Official of the Knighthood Order by President Giorgio Napolitano. Today, Captain Sarno looks towards the future of South Africa’s ports with optimism. He believes the nation has the right leaders to drive change and restore the country’s infrastructure, pointing to recent progress as a sign of hope. Captain Sarno’s involvement in discussions with government officials reflects his commitment to helping South Africa reach its potential. Captain Sarno’s ambitions have always been largely self-driven. “No one ever told me I’d be a captain. It was just always inside me.” However, Captain Sarno’s love for cinema, sparked by watching films with his father who worked as a projectionist, also shaped his perspective. “Movies were my window to the world,” he says, noting how this early exposure broadened his knowledge compared to his peers. Today, Captain Sarno continues to serve as MSC’s chairman, advocating for South Africa’s development and maintaining a vision for its future as a world leader. Previous Next

JRS Sales and Consulting t/a JRS Solutionshttps://www.kzntopbusinesswomen.com/team/seshmi-holloway Up Home Up Latest News JRS Sales and Consulting t/a JRS Solutions VISION To be a globally recognised leader in integrated security and electronics automation, delivering innovative, reliable, and sustainable solutions that empower communities and businesses − while expanding nationally and internationally through credibility, proven performance, and long-term client relationships. MISSION To deliver reliable, high-quality solutions that grow JRS Solutions into a focused, profitable business − built on consistent service, a loyal customer base, and a strong, trusted presence in the marketplace. CEO: Seshme Holloway TD: Irwin Holloway ADVANCED INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY JRS Solutions is a dynamic and innovative South African technology company specialising in advanced security, automation, and information and communications technology (ICT) solutions. Based in Durban, the business has established itself as a trusted provider of tailored surveillance, access control and networking and for residential, commercial and industrial clients. JRS Solutions are also specialists in port automation and terminal solutions. As a 100% Black female-owned enterprise, JRS Solutions strongly represents transformation, entrepreneurship and technical excellence within the South African technology sector. Founded on a vision of integrating cutting-edge technology with practical security and automation solutions, JRS Solutions combines deep technical expertise with a passion for service excellence. Over more than a decade of operation, the company has built an extensive portfolio of projects and longstanding client partnerships. It provides customised, state-of-the-art systems that enhance asset protection, operational efficiency, and peace of mind for organisations and individuals alike. Core Values JRS Solutions is guided by a commitment to innovation, reliability, and social impact. Its core values emphasise: Client-centred design − delivering tailored solutions that directly meet specific operational and security requirements. Technology leadership − utilising the latest advances in AI-driven surveillance and automated control systems. Operational excellence − ensuring quality and reliability across all phases of design, supply, installation, and maintenance. Empowerment & transformation − driving meaningful economic impact as a Black female-owned business in a competitive technology market. The company envisions a future where advanced security and ICT systems are accessible and sustainable, enabling smarter, safer communities throughout South Africa and beyond. Service Portfolio JRS Solutions offers a comprehensive suite of services that span the full technology lifecycle − from consulting and solution design through to installation and support. Major areas of expertise include: Tailored CCTV Solutions JRS Solutions designs and implements customised CCTV systems for residential, commercial, and industrial properties. These systems are built using high-quality cameras and advanced analytics to provide reliable monitoring and real-time visibility. Access Control Systems The company delivers a wide range of access control technologies, including biometric scanners, card readers, facial recognition, tag readers, turnstiles, and gate automation. These solutions are designed to secure access points, streamline traffic flow, and enhance overall site security. Networking Solutions Beyond security, JRS Solutions provides structured networking services for homes and businesses, including network design, installation, and manage-ment. These services ensure robust communication infrastructure that supports both daily operations and future growth. Port Automation A standout component of the company’s portfolio is its involvement in port automation. Since 2018, JRS Solutions has worked with Camco Technologies to install and maintain advanced automation equipment at major South African container terminals, including Transnet Durban Container Terminals and the port of Ngqura. This work positions the business at the forefront of industrial technological integration in logistics. Strategic Growth & Development The journey of JRS Solutions has been marked by strategic growth and resilience. In 2019, the company secured support from the Action ESD Fund − specialist enterprise and supplier development initiative focused on empowering high-potential Blackowned businesses. With this backing, JRS Solutions gained access to working capital, mentorship, and operational coaching, enabling it to overcome growth constraints and scale to meet national demand. Over the following years, the company expanded its workforce, enhanced internal systems, and secured high-value contracts with major clients, including Transnet, ABSA, Standard Bank, and Life Healthcare. After successfully exiting the Action ESD Fund, JRS Solutions is accelerating its expansion into cloud-based security and renewable energy solutions. With a continued focus on innovation and African market growth, the company acknowledges Incuvest’s critical grant support in enabling its progress. Leadership The leadership team at JRS Solutions brings togeth- er entrepreneurial vision and technical expertise. Seshme Holloway, the managing director, is a dynamic leader whose passion for technology and empowerment drives the company’s growth and social impact. Under her guidance, JRS Solutions has achieved significant milestones and cultivated a reputation for excellence and integrity. Headed by Irwin Holloway, technical direction is provided by seasoned professionals who ensure that clients receive solutions that are not only technically advanced but also aligned with real-world needs. Corporate Social Responsibility Aligned with its foundational values, JRS Solutions places a strong emphasis on social impact. As a Black female-owned business, it actively contributes to economic transformation by creating jobs, developing technical skills within its workforce, and supporting national objectives related to empowerment and inclusive growth. Client Relationships & Market Reach JRS Solutions stands out as a forward-thinking technology company that blends innovation, quality, and customer focus to deliver impactful solutions. Through continued investment in people, systems and partnerships, JRS Solutions exemplifies resilience, adaptability and excellence in a rapidly evolving technology landscape. www.jrssolutions.co.za CONTACT DETAILS Physical Address: Unit 7, 20 Moreland Drive, Redhill, 4051 Tel: +27 (0)31 811 2738 E-mail: seshme@jrssolutions.co.za Website: www.jrssolutions.co.za BRANCHES Port Elizabeth Leaders Profile Latest News Company News Blog Keep up with the latest trends and insights. Check out our blog today! Read More Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back Margie Whitten Next With a strong focus on growth, her prime role is business development, but she is also involved with business consulting and scoping customer requirements. "We're experts in what we do and we understand our solutions very well," says Margie MARGIE WHITTEN, even as a child was interested in business, perhaps from force of circumstance. Her parents placed a high value on education, and chose to make real sacrifices to send her to a private boarding school. But it was a financial stretch, and Margie didn't have many of the "necessities" the other girls took for granted. Undaunted by this, she realised she didn't have to go without. "I've always been very determined," she says, "and I was an entrepreneur before I was 16." Margie set up several small businesses while she was at school, her favourites being an after-hours tuckshop and her second-hand clothing business. A lucky break started Margie on her path to director of IDU KZN. She was invited to an interview by an IT company, and got the job - and this launched her career. Here too she connected with the developers of the IDU software that powers her business. But it takes more than a lucky break to make a career. "It was more of a natural progression," she says, pointing out that a huge amount of hard work was required to build her career. IDU KZN helps medium to larger corporates in KZN and into Africa with budgeting and financial reporting systems that simplify financial management. As Margie puts it, "We make it easier for our clients to make sound business decisions based on accurate financial information, without having to spend hours crunching numbers." With a strong focus on growth, her prime role is business development, but she is also involved with business consulting and scoping customer requirements. "We're experts in what we do and we understand our solutions very well," says Margie, "but we also need to really understand our clients' business needs too, so we can marry the two knowledge pools together to implement the right solutions to each client's needs." Women don't face the same challenges as they did years ago Over the years, Margie has had many role models, but right now she singles out Michelle Obama as an inspiration. "She's a strong, competent woman, with a transparent commitment to her husband, her marriage, her family and she does incredible work for the community. She's such a real person and she hasn't been swallowed up by her husband's power and success." Margie is adamant that there's an even playing field in the IT world today. "Things have definitely changed. We don't face challenges that men don't have to deal with, at least in our industry, and I see this similarity in my clients' companies too," says Margie. "I believe it's a level playing field, but we have to play our part too. The right mindset is vital. We have equal opportunities in business and we need to make the most of them." She does acknowledge, however, that women probably take on more responsibilities than men, when it comes to domestic duties, and that can add stress and present time challenges. "But we do have more resources to support us in being wives and mothers as well as business people." "I'm lucky to have the support of an incredible husband who's happy to share the load at home. You can plan ahead as much as you like, but we support our clients through critical reporting timelines and our work is often driven by factors out of our control." Margie admits that she doesn't have a work-life balance. "I'm not even sure it's a real thing," she laughs. "I've tried, but when your customers need you, they tend to come first - that's what makes our business." On the bright side, Margie points out, when she stopped stressing about work-life balance, somehow things fell into place. "It works for us. Though recently, my son does seem to love piling on the guilt about me being a working mom." Planning ahead If Margie had the chance to do it all again, she wouldn't change much, but she says she would take a longer term approach to her goals. "I've always had short and medium term goals, but I'd plan better for the life I wanted at the end, and set out to achieve that. I was a late starter when it came to motherhood, with a miracle baby when I was 40, and having a child made me realise I needed to have long-term plans in place. So I changed by mindset and it's working for me." "I'm happy with what I've accomplished," says Margie, "but I'm not happy that I'm heading to the end of my career. There's still so much I want to achieve - and it's not just about me." Margie points out that she certainly didn't achieve her success on her own, and her team has been invaluable in growing the business and delivering value to their clients. "One of my core goals right now is to help my team create a secure financial future for themselves." Previous Next

< Back Cherry Armstrong

You keep finding out new things about people, about yourself and about your team; it’s just about applying that to everyday life < 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 Candice Padayachee Next CANDICE PADAYACHEE is the forensic director for KPMG. She maintains primary responsibility and oversight of the Forensic Division in the Durban region, leading a multi-disciplinary team and engaging the firm's key clients. CANDICE PADAYACHEE is the forensic director for KPMG. She maintains primary responsibility and oversight of the Forensic Division in the Durban region, leading a multi-disciplinary team and engaging the firm's key clients. Candice is an admitted attorney of the High Court, and holds a master's degree in Advanced Labour Law (Cum Laude) from the University of KwaZulu- Natal (Pietermaritzburg). She was raised in Pietermaritzburg and began her career as an associate at a leading KwaZulu-Natal law firm, but was soon drawn to forensics. This interest was fuelled primarily by her passion for seeking justice and ensuring that as a country and as a community, ethics and right practice remain in place. Her view is that "fraud, bribery and corruption severely impact peoples' lives." She added, "It is so rewarding that the work KPMG Forensic does, actively infiltrates these economic crimes." Candice particularly specialises in fraud risk management, forensic investigations, compliance management, and litigation support. "I am fully competent in the investigation process throughout the phases of preliminary considerations, planning, and gathering of information, analysis, reporting and closing. This includes the concept of embedding forensic technology in investigations." She provides holistic management solutions to clients in the public and private sectors. Candice has a proven track record with business development and an established client portfolio, having assisted various organisations in a manner consistent with regulatory requirements and the organisation's business needs. A passion for seeking the truth Getting to where Candice is in her career involved a combination of things inside as well as outside her control. She remarks, "Clichéd as it may sound, my career required lots of hard work and sacrifices, both on my part and that of my family." Candice says that she has benefitted from the support of people around her, especially from her husband and two children, her parents, wider family and friends who have been the biggest supporters in her career progression. She adds that 'tremendous colleagues and mentors at KPMG' encouraged her to pursue her dreams, and they also gave her the feedback she needed to develop her strengths and focus on the things that are important to her. Candice recognises the contribution of her team in achieving positive results. She believes that success in forensic requires a passion for seeking the truth and an objective mind to get the relevant facts. An inspired leader Candice feels inspired by many people. Firstly, her grandmother, a professional nurse who made many personal sacrifices to assist those around her. She illustrated that, in the end, there was great reward in one's dedication to willingly assist others. This encouraged Candice's passion and desire to study further and in her wanting to assist people for the greater good. Secondly, Candice is inspired by her female professional colleagues, especially the former director of Forensic at KPMG, who became her mentor. She demonstrated the place and need for a strong female leader, according to Candice. "She could lead with strength and fierceness, but also with kindness and compassion. She was dedicated to the growth of young leaders." And this, in turn, inspires Candice to help develop young leaders. She says that women often need a different approach to men to be successful in business, as they have different dynamics and relations to deal with. "As a woman you need to work hard, focus on the contribution you bring to the table, make sure you raise your voice when you need to be heard. Being a woman, being a mother and being a wife bring different challenges in business." Work-life balance requires structures Achieving a work-life balance is interesting for Candice. "It has become a buzz word in a busy world, yet means different things to different people", she remarks. For her, to achieve such balance requires a conscientious focus on structure. Together with her husband, they have set boundaries for family time. Her two young children require her attention after her workday and have a full homework schedule. She says it is important to set hours aside for her family and make sure that she is fully present during that time. Family holidays are important and help create good memories that are essential for the children to have. Candice is proud that her children know her as a working mother, and she hopes that her example will help them believe that they can aspire to be anything that they are passionate about. Live to fulfil a purpose If she could, Candice would advise her younger self to believe more in her own abilities and "tune out the self-doubt". She would also assure herself that, "You already have everything you need in you", and that God is with her and ready to take her on journeys she could not even imagine. Candice is pleased by her accomplishments but admits that she looks back with some disbelief at times. She wants to continue to live in a motivated way that fulfils her purpose in life. At a personal level she wants to grow her leadership abilities, grow in the firm, and grow as a person in every way. "I feel that I am still young, that most of my journey still lies ahead and there are exciting things to come," she concludes. Previous Next