KZN Women Leaders KZN Inspirational Women Leaders CELEBRATING INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN LEADERS Here is what makes it unique: 1. Focus on Storytelling, Not Just Stats The initiative is built around the idea that "businesses need to tell good stories." Instead of just receiving a trophy, each of the 40 selected women undergoes a comprehensive media process: Professional Photoshoots: High-end branding photography. Video Interviews: Shared on social media to humanize their brand. Webinars: Nominees participate in a series of live discussions to share their wisdom and challenges. 2. The "Coffee Table Book" Legacy A defining feature of the initiative is the publication of a high-quality commemorative coffee table book. This book collates the profiles, portraits, and success stories of the 40 featured women, serving as a permanent record of their contribution to the KwaZulu-Natal economy and providing them with a prestigious marketing tool. 3. Inclusivity Across Business Sizes Unlike awards that require multi-million rand turnovers (such as the national Standard Bank Top Women Awards), the KZN-specific initiative is highly inclusive. It celebrates: Sole Proprietors and SMEs. Corporate Executives. NGO Leaders and Social Change-Makers. The criteria focus on impact, resilience, and community transformation rather than just the size of the balance sheet. 4. Symbolic Branding The initiative uses distinct symbolism to create a sense of community: The Purple Theme: Symbolizes strength and a stance against gender-based violence. The "Crown": Often used in their branding to represent women "owning their space" in the professional world. 5. A Networking Ecosystem The "awards" are a year-long process that culminates in a gala dinner. Throughout the year, the 40 women are integrated into a networking community designed to foster collaboration over competition, leading to real-world business partnerships between the participants. Our mission includes inspiring future generations of women, promoting gender equity within KZN industries, and showcasing women's contributions to regional economic and social development. With the support of partners Absa and Women of Africa Group, WOA Group and DRG Outsoursing we are committed to driving positive change and empowering women to excel in their professional and social endeavors.

Ithala is the second largest property portfolio holder in KZN with over one million square metres of industrial and commercial space and a pioneer in the development of commercial centres and industrial estates in rural areasIthala Development Finance Corporation LTDPearl BenguSMMEs must be empowered to tackle the country’s triple challenges of unemployment, poverty and inequality. So says the Ithala Development Finance Corporation (Ithala), KwaZulu-Nata’s provincial development agency, which is intent on contributing to government’s current objective to promote radical economic transformation. The National Development Plan's vision by 2030 is to achieve long-term accelerated economic growth whilst also reducing unemployment and inequality and helping to create a more inclusive society. Hence, the ever-increasing role of state-owned development finance institutions (DFIs) in promoting job creation, shared economic growth and expansion of infrastructure as outlined in SA’s Growth Path Framework is imperative. DFI’s help to enhance government’s development policy in three areas: • Investing in under-served project types and settings (SMMEs, agribusiness) • Investing in undercapitalisation sectors, (specialisation in financial services, energy, infrastructure etc.) • Mobilising of investors (through knowledge sharing, setting standards, etc.) As a development finance institution, Ithala has an obligation to create an environment conducive to growing small businesses and to ensure knowledge and skills transfer in the interests of business sustainability. SMMEs have a high labour-absorptive capacity and hold the key to unlocking local economic development. Hence, the state, corporate and private sectors must collectively share the responsibility of building a solid foundation for SMMEs to thrive. In the past three years, Ithala has funded 684 business. The organisation disbursed R875 million, creating 7917 jobs. Women-owned enterprises comprise 28% of Ithala’s loan book while youth businesses are 39%. Flagship programmes Three flagship programmes spearheaded by Ithala are aimed at improving the long-term sustainability of SMMEs in KZN. The Inkunz isematholeni Youth in Business competition attracts youth from all over KZN with innovative and sustainable business concepts, providing incubation and start-up support in their journey to becoming seasoned entrepreneurs. Since 2014, over 300 participants have been reached. Intensive incubation programmes are in progress with 20 candidates. ‘Imbokodo Iyazenzela’ or ‘Women doing it for themselves’ is an outreach programme that has enhanced the knowledge and skills of over 2400 women in 16 towns of the province in collaboration with several strategic partners. ‘Siyasebenza’ which means ‘We are working’ is a business development programme aimed at educating existing and emerging entrepreneurs on ways to build and grow sustainable businesses. Over 2000 SMMEs in all 11 districts of KZN have been reached. Ithala was declared a finalist in the Vision 2030 Awards in the Industrial Action Plan Award category in recognition of the organisation's commitment and significant contributions to moving the nation forward, as a leader in the sector and as a proponent of the National Development Plan. Property Portfolio Holder Ithala is the second largest property portfolio holder in KZN with over one million square metres of industrial and commercial space and a pioneer in the development of commercial centres and industrial estates in rural areas. Isithebe, Ezakheni and Madadeni Industrial Estates are owned by Ithala and operate across a myriad of industries. Collectively, the estates have created over 40 000 jobs, affording up to an estimated 300 000 people in regional areas a livelihood. "Our capacity-building programmes combine both financial and non-financial support which we believe are crucial to spurring economic development. We therefore, take seriously our role to impact the lives of the people of KZN." Ithala SOC Limited Ithala SOC Limited - a 100% owned subsidiary of Ithala, has received overwhelming government support to achieve state bank status. This is in line with government's strategy to transform the financial sector, empower communities and accelerate radical economic transformation. Ithala SOC Limited is well on its way to obtaining a full banking licence during 2017 and becoming a fully-fledged bank. Full Name of Company: Ithala Development Finance Corporation Limited Nature of Business: Business Finance, Industrial and Commercial Property Development and Management, Retail Banking Services, Home Loan Products, Insurance Services Subsidiaries: Ithala Limited; Ubuciko Twines and Fabrics (Pty) Ltd Auditors: Auditor General VISION To be the catalyst for growth, economic development and empowerment. MISSION To drive economic development and empowerment, whilst remaining financially sustainable. KEY PERSONNEL CEO: Pearl Bengu CONTACT DETAILS Ithala Corporate Services Centre Physical Address: 29 Canal Quay Road, Point Waterfront, Durban, 4001 Postal Address: PO Box 2801, Durban, 4000 Tel: +27 (0)31 907 8911 Website: www.ithala.co.za Ithala Limited Head Office Physical Address: 303 Dr Pixley KaSeme Street, 15th Floor, Old Mutual Building, Durban, 4001 Postal Address: PO Box 2588, Durban, 4001 Tel: +27 (0)31 366 2500 Call Centre: +27 (0)80 133 1130 E-mail: Customerservice@ithala.co.za Ubuciko Twines and Fabrics (Pty) Ltd Tel: +27 (0)33 846 3200 Pearl Bengu The development partner of choice SMMEs must be empowered to tackle the country’s triple challenges of unemployment, poverty and inequality. So says the Ithala Development Finance Corporation (Ithala), KwaZulu-Nata’s provincial development agency, which is intent on contributing to government’s current objective to promote radical economic transformation. The National Development Plan's vision by 2030 is to achieve long-term accelerated economic growth whilst also reducing unemployment and inequality and helping to create a more inclusive society. Hence, the ever-increasing role of state-owned development finance institutions (DFIs) in promoting job creation, shared economic growth and expansion of infrastructure as outlined in SA’s Growth Path Framework is imperative. DFI’s help to enhance government’s development policy in three areas: • Investing in under-served project types and settings (SMMEs, agribusiness) • Investing in undercapitalisation sectors, (specialisation in financial services, energy, infrastructure etc.) • Mobilising of investors (through knowledge sharing, setting standards, etc.) As a development finance institution, Ithala has an obligation to create an environment conducive to growing small businesses and to ensure knowledge and skills transfer in the interests of business sustainability. SMMEs have a high labour-absorptive capacity and hold the key to unlocking local economic development. Hence, the state, corporate and private sectors must collectively share the responsibility of building a solid foundation for SMMEs to thrive. In the past three years, Ithala has funded 684 business. The organisation disbursed R875 million, creating 7917 jobs. Women-owned enterprises comprise 28% of Ithala’s loan book while youth businesses are 39%. Flagship programmes Three flagship programmes spearheaded by Ithala are aimed at improving the long-term sustainability of SMMEs in KZN. The Inkunz isematholeni Youth in Business competition attracts youth from all over KZN with innovative and sustainable business concepts, providing incubation and start-up support in their journey to becoming seasoned entrepreneurs. Since 2014, over 300 participants have been reached. Intensive incubation programmes are in progress with 20 candidates. ‘Imbokodo Iyazenzela’ or ‘Women doing it for themselves’ is an outreach programme that has enhanced the knowledge and skills of over 2400 women in 16 towns of the province in collaboration with several strategic partners. ‘Siyasebenza’ which means ‘We are working’ is a business development programme aimed at educating existing and emerging entrepreneurs on ways to build and grow sustainable businesses. Over 2000 SMMEs in all 11 districts of KZN have been reached. Ithala was declared a finalist in the Vision 2030 Awards in the Industrial Action Plan Award category in recognition of the organisation's commitment and significant contributions to moving the nation forward, as a leader in the sector and as a proponent of the National Development Plan. Property Portfolio Holder Ithala is the second largest property portfolio holder in KZN with over one million square metres of industrial and commercial space and a pioneer in the development of commercial centres and industrial estates in rural areas. Isithebe, Ezakheni and Madadeni Industrial Estates are owned by Ithala and operate across a myriad of industries. Collectively, the estates have created over 40 000 jobs, affording up to an estimated 300 000 people in regional areas a livelihood. "Our capacity-building programmes combine both financial and non-financial support which we believe are crucial to spurring economic development. We therefore, take seriously our role to impact the lives of the people of KZN." Ithala SOC Limited Ithala SOC Limited - a 100% owned subsidiary of Ithala, has received overwhelming government support to achieve state bank status. This is in line with government's strategy to transform the financial sector, empower communities and accelerate radical economic transformation. Ithala SOC Limited is well on its way to obtaining a full banking licence during 2017 and becoming a fully-fledged bank. Full Name of Company: Ithala Development Finance Corporation Limited Nature of Business: Business Finance, Industrial and Commercial Property Development and Management, Retail Banking Services, Home Loan Products, Insurance Services Subsidiaries: Ithala Limited; Ubuciko Twines and Fabrics (Pty) Ltd Auditors: Auditor General VISION To be the catalyst for growth, economic development and empowerment. MISSION To drive economic development and empowerment, whilst remaining financially sustainable. KEY PERSONNEL CEO: Pearl Bengu CONTACT DETAILS Ithala Corporate Services Centre Physical Address: 29 Canal Quay Road, Point Waterfront, Durban, 4001 Postal Address: PO Box 2801, Durban, 4000 Tel: +27 (0)31 907 8911 Website: www.ithala.co.za Ithala Limited Head Office Physical Address: 303 Dr Pixley KaSeme Street, 15th Floor, Old Mutual Building, Durban, 4001 Postal Address: PO Box 2588, Durban, 4001 Tel: +27 (0)31 366 2500 Call Centre: +27 (0)80 133 1130 E-mail: Customerservice@ithala.co.za Ubuciko Twines and Fabrics (Pty) Ltd Tel: +27 (0)33 846 3200 Ithala Development Finance Corporation LTD Ithala is the second largest property portfolio holder in KZN with over one million square metres of industrial and commercial space and a pioneer in the development of commercial centres and industrial estates in rural areas

One of the beauties about life is that if your passion and your heart are focused on something, somehow the universe brings it to you < Back Nomfundo Xaba Broadcaster and Change Agent Nomfundo Xaba, aka Mfundo Dazzling, describes herself as a broadcaster, a mom, a wife, a lover of life, and most importantly a lover of development. Although born in Port Shepstone, Nomfundo was raised in the small town of Mtubatuba in KwaZulu-Natal. While her radio career spans just six years, Nomfundo has proven talent and versatility. She has hosted radio shows, business shows, and an award-winning gospel show. Nomfundo has also hosted live music shows, summits and seminars, gala dinners, business dinners, corporate team buildings, wellness workshops and personal development sessions. She says that she did not plan her career path. “One of the beauties about life is that if your passion and your heart are focused on something, somehow the universe brings it to you,” she explained. A love for story telling In sharing about her journey in radio, Nomfundo says that she was a fan of the radio station that she currently broadcasts on as a university student. “I used to daydream about one day meeting the broadcasters and telling them how great of a job they were doing on air,” she remembers. When Nomfundo eventually was provided an opportunity to audition for radio, the intent was to meet the people that she had admired so much. And she says that it is remarkable that she ended up winning a competition, getting into broadcasting, and learning so much about it. “I fell in love with telling stories. This evolved to wanting to make people feel that we are part of their lives and having them appreciate what is going on in their own lives and identifying what was going in society around them. That love for story telling got me starting campaigns and initiatives that spoke to life in general and how the everyday person was affected.” Nomfundo’s biggest inspiration, is the fact that she gets to work with the people that influenced her career choice each day. While there were a number of broadcasters that she grew up listening to, one person comes to mind. “The voice of the people – Alex Mthiyane. I consider him to be a wonderful inclusion in the media space – having asked the questions the people at home want to ask.” Another thing that inspires her in this space is not just the professionals but the ordinary people. In particular Nomfundo feels that we do not spend enough time listening to our older people – to hear them and have that transfer of knowledge happening. “What has always inspired me is to learn from the best, hear their stories, and look at how we can bring that knowledge forward, as we look ahead, as we think and as we shape the now,” she added. Creating opportunities There have been moments in her life when Nomfundo thinks she should have given herself permission to succeed in communities where men are leaders. Thinking back on how she was raised by a mother who was a widow within a community and who was able to raise her children and afford them opportunities and schooling, she considers to be incredible leadership. “It took me many years to appreciate that it is not a lack of capacity that we have as women, but it is just opportunity. Opportunity doesn’t come because you scream and shout for it, but it comes because you say, ‘Yes, I am ready, and I am creating this opportunity for myself ’,” says Nomfundo. Another challenge was balancing her love for the media space as a driver of stories and influencer with the responsibility of reflecting what greater society is really like. “I think that this responsibility has influenced a lot of the initiatives that I do. I am a person, and I am ambitious. I want to be known as someone who respected her craft. I also want to be known as somebody who wasn’t afraid to speak up and address inequalities. I want to be remembered as a person who created campaigns and initiatives that spoke directly to challenges and problems that society is facing. And beyond just addressing or highlighting a problem, bringing solutions. I am also observing moments in which I can share my knowledge with others and especially the younger generation.” Nomfundo says that her family is her absolute centre. “My children and my husband centre me. To relax I spend time with my kiddies – but truly this calms my mind. They stop me and remind me that life needs you to be present. We have goals and dreams, but they are for nothing if we can’t appreciate the simplicity of life… I also enjoy good music, movies, and series. And yes, I chill!” Do extraordinary things One thing that Nomfundo has learnt over the years is that life is difficult and that is one thing that we shouldn’t forget. She explains, “The journey is a difficult journey, but it is worth it. If your why is strong enough, the why is the one thing that picks you up. On days where you have been faced with a lot of ‘No’s’, your why will get you up and say I am one step closer to the ‘Yes’. The reason why this is important is that we are living in a country that requires innovators to rise up. The tide is against you, but that is how worlds and nations were transformed and economies were grown. It is just ordinary people who said that they would be extraordinary and do extraordinary things.” In conclusion, in advising others Nomfundo says, “Give yourself permission to dream, give yourself permission to do and know that you are what the world’s been waiting for to change, transform and build.”

Richards Bay was eventually selected as the most suitable site for a port because of the size of the lagoon, the ease of dredging and linking with the existing railway network, as well as the availability of sufficient fresh water together with an adjacent town to stimulate initial developmentNational Ports Authority- Port of Richards BayAs with so much of South Africa’s coastline, the first visitors to Richards Bay were the Portuguese in the 14th Century, who christened it Rio-dos Peixes (river of many fish). But it was not until 1879 that Richards Bay got its present name, when Rear-Admiral Sir Frederick William Richards arrived in his ship, “HMS Forester” with a small force to assist in the relief of Eshowe and to survey this part of the Natal coastline in the search for an alternative port to Durban. His map is the earliest to show the uMhlatuze lagoon as Richards Bay. Richards Bay was eventually selected as the most suitable site for a port because of the size of the lagoon, the ease of dredging and linking with the existing railway network, as well as the availability of sufficient fresh water together with an adjacent town to stimulate initial development. In 1965 it was announced that a port was to be built at Richards Bay. In May 1972 Parliament authorized construction of the new harbour, based on an agreement with the Transvaal Coal Owners Association to export 26 million tonnes of coal over the next ten years. Initially built to export coal, Richards Bay has since developed rapidly and diversified to take other cargoes. Currently, the port handles in excess of 80 million tonnes per annum, representing around 51 percent of South Africa’s seaborne cargo, and making it one of the country’s leading port in terms of volumes handled. In 2005 Richards Bay Port handled 89 million tonnes of cargo. A far cry from the unimpressed view expressed by Commissioner Henry Cloete in 1843, when he surveyed the Mhlatuze estuary and declared it to have little or no potential as a future harbour. In 2006 the port is handling an increasing variety of bulk and neo bulk cargo in addition to breakbulk. Much of the general cargo has migrated away from Durban in recent years. Exports remain the main activity of the port. Nature of Business: Port of Richards Bay - Port regulator, authority and maritime services and landlord. Services: Provision and maintenance of port infrastructure and provision of marine services. Holding Company: Transnet Ltd Date Established: 1979 Customer Base: Importers and exporters CONTACT DETAILS Physical Address: Ventura Road, Port of Richards Bay. Postal Address: PO Box 181, Richards Bay, 3900. Tel: + 27 (0)35 905 3440 Fax: + 27 (0)35 905 3333 E-mail: mariar@npa.co.za Website: https://www.transnetnationalportsauthority.net/OurPorts/RichardsBay/Pages/Overview.aspx MISSION To facilitate economic growth in South Africa by providing and sustaining port systems that are amongst the best in the world The Premier Bulk Port As with so much of South Africa’s coastline, the first visitors to Richards Bay were the Portuguese in the 14th Century, who christened it Rio-dos Peixes (river of many fish). But it was not until 1879 that Richards Bay got its present name, when Rear-Admiral Sir Frederick William Richards arrived in his ship, “HMS Forester” with a small force to assist in the relief of Eshowe and to survey this part of the Natal coastline in the search for an alternative port to Durban. His map is the earliest to show the uMhlatuze lagoon as Richards Bay. Richards Bay was eventually selected as the most suitable site for a port because of the size of the lagoon, the ease of dredging and linking with the existing railway network, as well as the availability of sufficient fresh water together with an adjacent town to stimulate initial development. In 1965 it was announced that a port was to be built at Richards Bay. In May 1972 Parliament authorized construction of the new harbour, based on an agreement with the Transvaal Coal Owners Association to export 26 million tonnes of coal over the next ten years. Initially built to export coal, Richards Bay has since developed rapidly and diversified to take other cargoes. Currently, the port handles in excess of 80 million tonnes per annum, representing around 51 percent of South Africa’s seaborne cargo, and making it one of the country’s leading port in terms of volumes handled. In 2005 Richards Bay Port handled 89 million tonnes of cargo. A far cry from the unimpressed view expressed by Commissioner Henry Cloete in 1843, when he surveyed the Mhlatuze estuary and declared it to have little or no potential as a future harbour. In 2006 the port is handling an increasing variety of bulk and neo bulk cargo in addition to breakbulk. Much of the general cargo has migrated away from Durban in recent years. Exports remain the main activity of the port. Nature of Business: Port of Richards Bay - Port regulator, authority and maritime services and landlord. Services: Provision and maintenance of port infrastructure and provision of marine services. Holding Company: Transnet Ltd Date Established: 1979 Customer Base: Importers and exporters CONTACT DETAILS Physical Address: Ventura Road, Port of Richards Bay. Postal Address: PO Box 181, Richards Bay, 3900. Tel: + 27 (0)35 905 3440 Fax: + 27 (0)35 905 3333 E-mail: mariar@npa.co.za Website: https://www.transnetnationalportsauthority.net/OurPorts/RichardsBay/Pages/Overview.aspx MISSION To facilitate economic growth in South Africa by providing and sustaining port systems that are amongst the best in the world National Ports Authority- Port of Richards Bay Richards Bay was eventually selected as the most suitable site for a port because of the size of the lagoon, the ease of dredging and linking with the existing railway network, as well as the availability of sufficient fresh water together with an adjacent town to stimulate initial development

The Nic Carroll 2021 Collection Fée Halsted Founder of Ardmore and Creative Director of Ardmore Ceramics Studio Together everyone achieves more. Don’t be afraid to give someone responsibility, more often than not, they rise to their position Fée Halsted

"Beyond the Buzzword" is an AI-focused business briefing hosted by KZN Top Business in partnership with Vodacom KZN, scheduled for May 13, 2026, at The Oyster Box Hotel. The event aims to provide practical insights into integrating AI for growth while addressing cybersecurity, featuring expert speakers from the business community. SCROLL DOWN KZN Top Business is delighted to invite business leaders and IT heads to an exclusive morning of insight and engagement, focused on unlocking the real value of Artificial Intelligence in today’s fast-evolving business landscape. Moving beyond the hype, this session brings together industry experts who will unpack how AI can be strategically applied to drive efficiency, strengthen security, and accelerate sustainable growth. Attendees will gain practical knowledge, real-world perspectives, and actionable strategies to confidently integrate AI into their organisations. Event Details Date: 13 May 2026 Time: 08:30 – 11:30 Venue: The Oyster Box Hotel, 2 Lighthouse Road, Umhlanga Rocks Why Attend? Gain clarity on AI’s role in modern business strategy Understand key security considerations in an AI-driven environment Explore opportunities for growth and innovation Network with fellow business leaders and technology decision-makers Join us for a focused and engaging session designed to equip you with the knowledge and tools to harness AI for meaningful business acceleration. Seats are limited. Secure your place today. Save your Seat and Save the Date First name Last name Email Phone Company name Position IT Professional Joining Name Last Name Email Address Phone Submit VIP Invite Only and Not Transferable RSVP by 24 April 2026 Home

Established in 2007 as one of the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) provincial government’s key strategic initiatives to accelerate Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE), job creation and economic growth in the Province, KZN Growth Fund (KGFT) was structured as a unique public-private partnership venture to finance medium to large private sector projectsKZN Growth FundAubrey ShabaneAn Inspired Initiative Established in 2007 as one of the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) provincial government’s key strategic initiatives to accelerate Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE), job creation and economic growth in the Province, KZN Growth Fund (KGFT) was structured as a unique public-private partnership venture to finance medium to large private sector projects. This unique initiative focuses on catalytic investments and economic sectors as dictated by its mandate and investment policy. In the past seven years, KGFT has committed and disbursed almost R1 billion to ten projects in the healthcare, manufacturing, telecommunication and logistics sectors and has created over 14,000 job opportunities. The KGFT is further currently appraising various potential investment leads that has the potential to create a further 20,000 job opportunities. Inspired Growth In line with its strategy to further grow its asset base and increase its positive impact on job creation and B-BBEE as well as reduce social and economic inequalities, KGFT is setting up a limited liability Equity Fund Partnership to manage third-party funds. This is the first provincial governmentled initiative, through one of its entities, to establish a fund of this nature that uniquely possesses a developmental impact. KGFT embarked on an extensive fund-raising exercise during the financial year, to raise an additional R700m that will see its equity fund capitalised to the tune of R1 billion (currently R300 million). Inspired Investing KGFT’s Equity Fund has the potential to unlock more than R3 billion of investments with the commercial banks providing the required debt financing. The organisation is constantly striving to forge a better future in which businesses are more profitable, people are employed and the economy grows. KGFT has revised its investment policy to better align and deliver on the national imperative of radical economic transformation that seeks to fundamentally change the structure of the South African economy. Going forward, as an entity of government, we have placed reindustrialisation at the apex of our list of priorities to grow the economy and create employment. This, in our view, entails a robust shift to an economy that will benefit all including the marginalised groups of the society such as youth, women, and people with disabilities. The key features of the KGFT’s current portfolio of projects evidences the Fund’s commitment to addressing the challenges of industrialisation, increasing local content, value addition or beneficiation, infrastructure development, skills development and entrepreneurship development. Currently, the organisation boasts a very attractive pipeline of projects throughout the Province that are undergoing initial appraisal and detailed due diligence, some of which will be disbursed soon. The recipients of the KGFT’s lending and investing practices benefit two-fold. Firstly, through the sharing of the risk of starting a new business with the KGFT and secondly, they in turn have created a more sustainable socio-economic environment in which to operate in. This is done by the inclusion of designated groups, job creation and stimulating economic activity. The KGFT can proudly state its involvement in truly national companies contributed significantly to the GDP of South Africa when those entities were just starting out in need of funding. Inspired Successes The KGFT has played a pivotal role in the participation of the national initiative of the promotion of black industrialists led by the Department of Trade and Industry (dti). The dti has formulated a national policy in respect of the Black Industrialist Scheme (BIS). The policy and framework was approved by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) in consultation with the dti, which led to the signing of a memorandum of understanding between EDTEA and the dti. KGFT is a key stakeholder in the implementation of BIS as was evidenced by the dti's recognition of a KGFT funded project, Microfinish, during the recent launch at the programme in National Parliament. The KGFT fully supports the initiative, whose principles are deeply aligned with the mandate of the KGFT. The KGFT's successful engagement with the dti has resulted in three of its projects receiving approval, resulting in approximate R65 million of assistance from dti to these entities. Further applications of other projects are currently being appraised by the dti. The KGFT is proud to boast that it is not only a self-sustaining entity (no operating grants received from Government) but also has been able to maintain a high level of governance and control as evidenced by its 'Clean Audit' status for the past five consecutive years. The KGFT is also very proud of its achievement in winning the Top Government Entity award category in the 2016 KZN Top Business Awards. Feeling Inspired.... Qualifying projects must satisfy the essential elements of job creation and B-BBEE whilst being commercially viable. The product offering includes debt as well as equity finance. The ticket size of the KGFT's investment per project ranges from R30 million to R200 million for debt and R20 million to R100 million for equity. KGFT continues to finance projects from the following priority sectors: • Transport and logistics • Manufacturing • Telecommunications • Power and energy • Health and Education • Mining and mineral beneficiation • Agro-processing and tourism KGFT believes that it takes bold people, bold action and bold investment to transform the future - a future the organisation is inspired to invest in, whole-heartedly. KGFT continues to be flexible in structuring deals that meets the specific requirements of its clients. With an efficient turn-around time and close working relationships with its clients, KGFT remains ahead of its competitors in a forever changing development and commercial financing landscape. KGFT funded projects has created more than of 14 000 job opportunities, and is currently appraising projects that will be able to create a further 20 000 job opportunities. With such a significant social and economic impact, over such a short period, it is understandable why KGFT is fast becoming a compelling force to contend with in the space of development and commercial financing. Full Name of the Organisation: KZN Growth Fund Trust Industry Sector: Finance Nature of Business: Debt and Equity Finance VISION To be KZN's leading Development Financier and Impact Investor. MISSION To provide competitive and innovative financing solutions to private sector investments that propel socio-economic growth for a better future. KEY PERSONNEL Aubrey Shabane - CEO Dumisani Dlamini - CFO Acting Chief Investment Officer - Bruce Ndidi Acting CRO - Urvashi Ojageer CONTACT DETAILS Physical Address: 28th Floor, Delta Towers, 303 Dr Pixley Ka Seme Street, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal Tel: +27 (0)31 372 3720 Fax: +27 (0)31 306 2547 E-mail: info@kzngrowthfund.co.za Website: www.kzngrowthfund.co.za Aubrey Shabane Creating legacies through inspired investing An Inspired Initiative Established in 2007 as one of the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) provincial government’s key strategic initiatives to accelerate Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE), job creation and economic growth in the Province, KZN Growth Fund (KGFT) was structured as a unique public-private partnership venture to finance medium to large private sector projects. This unique initiative focuses on catalytic investments and economic sectors as dictated by its mandate and investment policy. In the past seven years, KGFT has committed and disbursed almost R1 billion to ten projects in the healthcare, manufacturing, telecommunication and logistics sectors and has created over 14,000 job opportunities. The KGFT is further currently appraising various potential investment leads that has the potential to create a further 20,000 job opportunities. Inspired Growth In line with its strategy to further grow its asset base and increase its positive impact on job creation and B-BBEE as well as reduce social and economic inequalities, KGFT is setting up a limited liability Equity Fund Partnership to manage third-party funds. This is the first provincial governmentled initiative, through one of its entities, to establish a fund of this nature that uniquely possesses a developmental impact. KGFT embarked on an extensive fund-raising exercise during the financial year, to raise an additional R700m that will see its equity fund capitalised to the tune of R1 billion (currently R300 million). Inspired Investing KGFT’s Equity Fund has the potential to unlock more than R3 billion of investments with the commercial banks providing the required debt financing. The organisation is constantly striving to forge a better future in which businesses are more profitable, people are employed and the economy grows. KGFT has revised its investment policy to better align and deliver on the national imperative of radical economic transformation that seeks to fundamentally change the structure of the South African economy. Going forward, as an entity of government, we have placed reindustrialisation at the apex of our list of priorities to grow the economy and create employment. This, in our view, entails a robust shift to an economy that will benefit all including the marginalised groups of the society such as youth, women, and people with disabilities. The key features of the KGFT’s current portfolio of projects evidences the Fund’s commitment to addressing the challenges of industrialisation, increasing local content, value addition or beneficiation, infrastructure development, skills development and entrepreneurship development. Currently, the organisation boasts a very attractive pipeline of projects throughout the Province that are undergoing initial appraisal and detailed due diligence, some of which will be disbursed soon. The recipients of the KGFT’s lending and investing practices benefit two-fold. Firstly, through the sharing of the risk of starting a new business with the KGFT and secondly, they in turn have created a more sustainable socio-economic environment in which to operate in. This is done by the inclusion of designated groups, job creation and stimulating economic activity. The KGFT can proudly state its involvement in truly national companies contributed significantly to the GDP of South Africa when those entities were just starting out in need of funding. Inspired Successes The KGFT has played a pivotal role in the participation of the national initiative of the promotion of black industrialists led by the Department of Trade and Industry (dti). The dti has formulated a national policy in respect of the Black Industrialist Scheme (BIS). The policy and framework was approved by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) in consultation with the dti, which led to the signing of a memorandum of understanding between EDTEA and the dti. KGFT is a key stakeholder in the implementation of BIS as was evidenced by the dti's recognition of a KGFT funded project, Microfinish, during the recent launch at the programme in National Parliament. The KGFT fully supports the initiative, whose principles are deeply aligned with the mandate of the KGFT. The KGFT's successful engagement with the dti has resulted in three of its projects receiving approval, resulting in approximate R65 million of assistance from dti to these entities. Further applications of other projects are currently being appraised by the dti. The KGFT is proud to boast that it is not only a self-sustaining entity (no operating grants received from Government) but also has been able to maintain a high level of governance and control as evidenced by its 'Clean Audit' status for the past five consecutive years. The KGFT is also very proud of its achievement in winning the Top Government Entity award category in the 2016 KZN Top Business Awards. Feeling Inspired.... Qualifying projects must satisfy the essential elements of job creation and B-BBEE whilst being commercially viable. The product offering includes debt as well as equity finance. The ticket size of the KGFT's investment per project ranges from R30 million to R200 million for debt and R20 million to R100 million for equity. KGFT continues to finance projects from the following priority sectors: • Transport and logistics • Manufacturing • Telecommunications • Power and energy • Health and Education • Mining and mineral beneficiation • Agro-processing and tourism KGFT believes that it takes bold people, bold action and bold investment to transform the future - a future the organisation is inspired to invest in, whole-heartedly. KGFT continues to be flexible in structuring deals that meets the specific requirements of its clients. With an efficient turn-around time and close working relationships with its clients, KGFT remains ahead of its competitors in a forever changing development and commercial financing landscape. KGFT funded projects has created more than of 14 000 job opportunities, and is currently appraising projects that will be able to create a further 20 000 job opportunities. With such a significant social and economic impact, over such a short period, it is understandable why KGFT is fast becoming a compelling force to contend with in the space of development and commercial financing. Full Name of the Organisation: KZN Growth Fund Trust Industry Sector: Finance Nature of Business: Debt and Equity Finance VISION To be KZN's leading Development Financier and Impact Investor. MISSION To provide competitive and innovative financing solutions to private sector investments that propel socio-economic growth for a better future. KEY PERSONNEL Aubrey Shabane - CEO Dumisani Dlamini - CFO Acting Chief Investment Officer - Bruce Ndidi Acting CRO - Urvashi Ojageer CONTACT DETAILS Physical Address: 28th Floor, Delta Towers, 303 Dr Pixley Ka Seme Street, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal Tel: +27 (0)31 372 3720 Fax: +27 (0)31 306 2547 E-mail: info@kzngrowthfund.co.za Website: www.kzngrowthfund.co.za KZN Growth Fund Established in 2007 as one of the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) provincial government’s key strategic initiatives to accelerate Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE), job creation and economic growth in the Province, KZN Growth Fund (KGFT) was structured as a unique public-private partnership venture to finance medium to large private sector projects