< Back Sinqobile Khuluse

< Back Next > Hlengiwe Koza Chief Operations Officer, Total Serve Facilities Management Hlengiwe Koza is the chief operations officer of Total Serve Facilities Management, a company operating within the built environment sector, specialising in facilities management (FM). Their services cover everything from cleaning and hygiene to land- scaping, horticulture, and to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning maintenance. Hlengiwe’s path to the built environment was not a straightforward one as she initially did not set out to work in property or facilities management. “I found myself in this industry more by chance than by choice,” she says. “I was never particularly interested in buildings, but I became fascinated by the property sector as a whole and how we utilise the spaces around us.” Unsurprisingly, Hlengiwe’s educational background is diverse, which she credits as a factor in her ability to adapt and learn. After attending school in Pinetown and Crawford La Lucia, she pursued higher education at the University of KwaZulu-Natal before obtaining her BBA from IMM Graduate School. “I haven’t stopped learning since then,” she notes, listing additional qualifications such as becoming a safety officer, a certification in pest control, and credentials in facilities, construction, and project management. Total Serve’s services go beyond standard maintenance, reflecting the growing needs of the FM industry, especially post-Covid. Hlengiwe observes, “The pandemic has made us more people-centred and aware of how important it is not only to maintain buildings but also to ensure they are safe and healthy environments for the people who use them. We are changing the focal points by adding a soft element to the spaces we manage. A cleaner, better environment enables people to think better and function more effectively.” The journey has not been without its challenges, especially given that facilities management is a male- dominated field. “Being a woman in this field means you often have to work twice as hard just to be taken seriously,” she says. “When you walk into a room, you must know your story inside out. It’s not enough just to be present — you have to be ten steps ahead of the person next to you.” Changing perceptions has been a significant part of her journey. “It’s about proving that we can deliver high- quality work that speaks for itself. But we also have to quantify our results and ensure that we are continually educating ourselves to stay ahead in the industry.” Every day is different—you could be dealing with an engineer one day and something entirely different the next. I continuously push myself to learn more, especially when I come across something I don’t understand,” she says. “It’s frustrating not to understand something, and that frustration drives me to seek knowledge.” Hlengiwe’s pursuit of continuous education aligns with her vision of expanding their services into construction and project management. “We’re shifting our focus as we want to be involved in the construction side of things and understand what that entails.” “The built environment sector is very technical and often does not incorporate softer elements into its thinking. It’s usually very structured, with architects and engineers designing things purely for functionality,” she explains. “But are we considering how these spaces will be used, and how they can serve their purpose long-term; these are questions we need to ask.” A Partnership Hlengiwe does not run Total Serve alone, the CEO and founder of the company is Thandeka Mngomezulu. “It’s not a solo journey; it’s a working relationship,” Hlengiwe says. “Thandeka is an accountant by profession, which complements my less structured, more artistic approach. Together, we bring balance to the business.” The relationship is built on mutual support and a shared vision. “We often talk about the importance of women supporting each other in business,” Hlengiwe shares. “It’s not always about competition. We’ve shown that women can build something significant together.” She credits Mngomezulu and other women mentors for shaping her career. “I’ve been shaped by many remarkable women who have taught me valuable lessons in business and life.” The growth of Total Serve over the past 11 years is a significant milestone. “Being under 35 and leading a business of this magnitude is no small feat. We don’t always stop to appreciate how far we’ve come,” she says. Hlengiwe emphasises that her Total Serve’s success is not just about financial growth but also about the lives it has touched. “The silent prayers of those we have helped keep us going,” she says.“ “We’ve touched many lives through our projects and our foundation, Ink Foundation,” she says. The foundation focuses on social impact initiatives and giving back to the community. “Some people ask for nothing in return, and that makes it all the more meaningful. Knowing that someone is grateful for you because you’ve made a difference in their life is a blessing.” Tackling Challenges Hlengiwe’s advice to young women entering the industry is to avoid self-imposed limitations. “Don’t limit yourself or your thinking. Often, we carry the weight of the world on our shoulders and forget to prioritise ourselves,” she says. “I spent a lot of time trying to prove myself to the world. Now, I affirm myself instead of seeking validation from others.” She stresses the importance of switching off external noise and focusing on self-affirmation. “Tell yourself you’re enough. Give yourself the thankyou’s, the recognition, and the yeses that you seek from the world.” Despite her busy schedule, Hlengiwe prioritises rest. “My life is quite structured. If I’m not at work, I’m at home resting and sleeping,” she says. “Sleep is something we don’t give ourselves enough credit for, but it’s essential for maintaining balance.” For Hlengiwe, the future is about pushing boundaries and setting new goals. “I don’t think small. I’m always looking at how we can compete with the giants in the industry,” she says. “Life is ever evolving, and so am I.” < Previous Next >

< Back Quix Coffeee Quix Coffee Pty (LTD) VISIT WEBSITE About Year Establised: N/A B-BBEE Level N/A Industry Retail Tertiary Category paragraph Secondary Category paragraph Company Description Quix Coffeee is the brainchild of visionary founder John Coffeee, a place where the pursuit of bold ideas meets the art of exceptional brewing. More than a café, it is a cultural hub designed for thinkers, dreamers, and innovators who crave both inspiration and flavor. The space itself is warm and modern, with walls adorned by local art and corners that invite quiet reflection. Communal tables encourage conversation, while soft lighting and curated playlists create an atmosphere that feels both energizing and comforting. At the heart of Quix Coffeee is a philosophy that treats every cup as a canvas. Beans are sourced from small, ethical farms, roasted with precision, and brewed to highlight unique flavor notes. Guests can expect timeless classics alongside daring experimental blends. The signature Quix Blend embodies John Coffeee’s belief that coffee should surprise and inspire, balancing unexpected flavors in perfect harmony. Beyond the coffee, Quix Coffeee serves as a stage for local musicians, writers, and innovators. It is a place where culture and community thrive, where caffeine fuels creativity, and where every sip carries the spirit of possibility. Quix Coffeee isn’t just about coffee—it’s about connection, imagination, and the joy of discovery. Core Products Coffeee making Key Awards / Achievements paragraph CONTACT DETAILS Title N/A Name Surname John (Dylan Naidoo) Coffeee Designation / Job Title Managing Director, CEO, Entrepreneur, Visionary, Coffee Connoisseur, Email Address dcnaidoo20@gmail.com Mobile Number 0711265075 Office Number 0310000000 Address 4 Wedge Rd, Dawncliffe, Westville, 3629, South Africa Reviews READ REVIEWS CEO DETAILS CEO B Phone MANAGEMENT TEAM Company Registration No paragraph paragraph Phone SOCIAL MEDIA Previous Next

Esay Reddy Next Previous Esayvanie (Esay) Reddy is the group chief executive at the RR Group Esayvanie (Esay) Reddy group chief executive at the RR Group is an accomplished business woman with 30 plus years of experience in the petroleum, quick service restaurant, healthcare manufacturing, telecommunications, and distribution industry. The group comprises KZN Oils and KZN Oils Transport, JD Telecoms, Kolay Home of Chicken, Ko-Lay, Champion Health Care and KVK Property Development. As a qualified business executive, Esay oversees the general business management, growth, and profitability as well as marketing initiatives from large, medium to small within the RR Group. Esay and Rajen Reddy, her late husband, begun their business journey in 1983 with a Shell Service Station located in Briardene. Commenting on their many business successes Esay explains, “We got to where we are today through lots of hard work and sacrifice. Both of us had the same goals, which was a better life for our three children. I started working with Rajen when my youngest child was one year old; I had to leave him with the helper to start cashing up and look after the finances in the service station. We worked basically 24/7 in the early days and had to forego holidays.” Due to the huge amount of time required Rajen decided to sell the service station and move into the stationery business. This opportunity came about when 23 black economic empowerment companies were started at the Port of Durban. The venture was very challenging as Esay and Rajen knew nothing about stationery. However, from that initiative an opportunity to supply fuel and lubrication to the port emerged. “After a lot of challenges, we got our first order and that is how KZN Oils was born with the story of that one barrel of oil. KZN Oils, the ‘mothership’ of the group, was established in 2001, from her all the other companies were born,” explains Esay. LIFE CHALLENGES Esay is the mother to three children Kerushin, Venisha and Kreeshan who work in the business. Being a mom, a wife and working within the business has always been a challenge for Esay. Her method of balancing her life was to separate the different aspects. “Once I was at work, it was just about work and while I was on my way home, I thought about what I had to cook, what the kids needed, and what I had to do when I got home. It also was planning. I found separating, organising, having people to assist helped me along the way enabled me to balance growing up kids that are adults now, running a business that has become very successful, and to stay married for 37 years.” Esay reflected that her greatest life challenge has been losing her husband Rajen, she says, has left large footsteps for her to follow. However, she has a good knowledge of all the plans, the blueprint, that he had in mind for the group of companies. Another challenge for her has been the step up into the role of CEO. “We have over 200 staff that rely on us and after Rajen passed, the most important thing was to continue with his legacy and honour his memory. I know that is what kept my three children and myself going. With him not here now we have no choice but to step up to the plate and do exactly what he has done. It’s the least that we can do to say thank you for all the work that he has done all these years.” A PEOPLE-FIRST-FOCUS Throughout Esay’s years of experience, she always maintained a people-first focus. In particular, Esay is passionate about empowering women and the RR Group has an 80% taskforce of women in its companies. “My advice to younger women is to believe in everything that you think and that you know that you can do, because as women we can accomplish anything. I am the walking example of that.” She says that one of the most important things about being a female in business is ensuring that you are happy. The RR Group focuses on ensuring their employees wellbeing is taken care of through a strong human resources department and initiatives such as flexible working hours for mothers. A significant achievement for Esay is the establishment of the Rajen Reddy Foundation, which she said came about because she thought of the things that Rajen wouldn’t be around to do – the things that he was so passionate about doing. Commenting on the RR Foundation, Esay explained, “Whatever I try to do is always to honour Rajen and the legacy that he has created and to ensure that his memory and the things that he has done in our province continue to get done. Our goal is to continue to help the people in our province first – I always believe start at home – and then take it out further.” The RR Reddy Foundation has three pillars; these are education, mental health (philosophical psychology) and physical health. She added, “I believe that the group of companies needs to work hard in order to uplift communities. I don’t believe in giving grocery parcels because you can only do so for a limited amount of time.” In conclusion Esay said, ““I have found that determination and a strong mindset can get you anywhere you want to go. We as women are very special. We have so many challenges from the time that we are born until we pass on and we accomplish them with grace, with a lot of stamina and with a lot of empathy. And if we can continue with that you can get whatever you want in what you set your mind and heart to do.” Previous Next

The Nic Carroll 2021 Collection Catherine Clark Owner and Founder of The Harvest Table While we may not have much control over the things around us, the good news is that we can still take care of ourselves Catherine Clark

Prin Mudaly Next Previous Prin Mudaly, Group CEO of the Drakewoods Group, is committed to protecting and strengthening a legacy built over more than six decades, while guiding the company into a new phase of growth. Drakewoods is a tool wholesale and retail business that specialises in supplying specialised engineering tools, machinery and consumables to sectors such as manufacturing, construction and engineering. Over the years Drakewoods has built a reputation as a trusted link between global manufacturers and local users who depend on reliable equipment. With the company now more than 65 years old, Prin’s focus is on expanding its reach while remaining true to the principles that have defined it for decades. COMMITMENT AND RESILIENCE Prin’s path into the company was shaped by circumstances that demanded both commitment and resilience. After completing a BCom degree at the then University of Durban Westville, he had anticipated pursuing a conventional career. Instead, his father’s illness changed the direction of his life. “My father fell ill 35 years ago and I had no choice but to get involved in the business,” Prin recalls. “He semi-retired at that point and I’ve been here ever since.” Although he did not have an engineering quali fication, Prin quickly immersed himself in the technical environment of the industry. “There is a huge technical aspect to what we do,” he explains. “Over the past 35 years we have learned a lot from our customers, from our client base and from the technical schools, that we have worked with.” Of note supporting technical schools is a Drakewoods’ passion. Prin commented, “The education of our youth is very important and we take that very seriously.” He often works with suppliers and manufacturers to help make tools and equipment more affordable for these institutions. Like many students, Prin’s earliest working experiences were modest. “My very first job was at Drakewoods,” he says. “But while I was at university, I also did the odd job. I was a waiter. Everybody starts somewhere.” When he officially joined the business, Drakewoods was operating in a very different era. Systems were manual and administration was limited. “My father was a trader,” Prin explains. “He knew how to buy and sell, but the administration side of the business was lacking. When I came in, we had to put processes in place to refine the business,” he says. “Back then computers were unheard of. We used invoice books. My value add was bringing in computer systems, putting our stock onto the system and creating a database of our clients. From there we grew.” LEADERSHIP, SACRIFICE AND INSPIRATION Despite his leadership position, Prin is quick to emphasise that Drakewoods’ success has never been the result of one individual. “I don’t like speaking about myself,” he commented. “This has been a joint effort. There has been a lot of sacrifice as a family to get where we are today.” Prin runs the business alongside his brother, Thaven, who serves as chief operating officer. “My father entrusted his legacy to my brother and I,” he says. “That is something we take very seriously.” Equally important is the responsibility the leadership team feels toward their employees. Many employees have spent decades with the business, something Prin believes reflects the culture built within the organisation. “When you look at the collective service of our staff, it is well over 200 years.” “My father was very clear that there could only be one boss,” Prin explains. “That discipline is still very much part of how we run the business today.” He added, “My parents played a huge role in shaping us. The values and the work ethic we live by come from them. We try to live our lives by doing good and being good.” One of the most difficult challenges along the journey has been financial discipline. “We have not come from wealth,” he says. “We’ve created our own wealth.” For a tool distribution business, holding sufficient inventory is essential but costly. “Banks don’t fund stock, and in our industry, stock is crucial,” Prin explains. “If you don’t have stock, you don’t sell.” Building the inventory base the company now holds required years of careful planning and sacrifice. Beyond business, Prin draws inspiration from the people closest to him. His late wife, Kesh, played a profound role in his life and the company’s growth. “When my journey began, I met Kesh,” he says. “She has been my rock. Together we built what you see today,” he says. “She provided an energy that very few people experience.” VISION FOR DRAKEWOODS Operating a business in KwaZulu-Natal presents its own set of challenges, however Prin remains deeply committed to growing Drakewoods locally. The strategy involves creating two distinct divisions within the company. One will supply quality branded product to the manufacturing sector, construction industry and engineering companies and the second will focus on retail customers. A key part of this strategy is bringing products closer to customers. “In the past we mainly operated through trade counters,” he says. “Now we want customers to be able to walk into a store, touch the products and understand the brands.” This includes plans to open a large retail outlet in Durban. The company has also expanded into new retail segments, including outdoor power equipment. “We expanded our Stihl store brand and opened a new store on Bluff Road in August 2025,” he explains. “We also plan to open two more stores on the north coast.” For Prin, his goal is simple. “We are a volume-driven business and we are passionate about bringing cost savings to industry and to retail,” he explains. Despite the scale of the company’s ambitions, Prin continues to live by a straightforward philosophy. “The motto we live by is simple,” he says. “To do good and be good. We don’t always know what people are going through,” he reflects. “When you are kind and offer a helping hand, people remember that. And that is very important Previous Next

< Back Next Theuns Pelser Prof Theuns Pelser is the executive director at the Toyota Wessels Institute for Manufacturing Studies (TWIMS) Previous Next

< Back Next Themba Mpofu Themba Mpofu is the general manager at Radisson Blu Hotel Durban Umhlanga Previous Next