< Back Benita Ardenbaum

< Back Standard Bank KZN Top Business Awards Free consultancy 30 minutes Book Now About Standard Bank KZN Top Business 2022 Jun 08, 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM Online KZN Top Business Awards The popular Standard Bank KwaZulu-Natal Top Business Awards are now in their sixteenth year of existence. As business plays a crucial role in the growth of Africa, Standard Bank has been the proud sponsor of this event for several years. Family Business Open to businesses where the majority ownership remains within a family (or multi-family) structure, and where more than one generation contributes to the success of the business. Businesses entering this award will need to specify the current family members leading the business and their roles Judges will want to know why you’re a stand-out family business and how being a family business has helped you to succeed. Save your Spot Employee Wellbeing This award is for businesses that go the extra mile to engage their staff members and what difference this makes to the business. This may be through in-house training, flexible working, personal development, workplace wellbeing activity and teambuilding. You may have been steered in this activity by the pandemic, if so: how? Business Innovation Open to businesses that can demonstrate an innovative approach to products, or processes, which has contributed to the success of the business. We are also interested to hear from businesses who have pivoted their operations as a result of the pandemic Judges will want to see the results of innovation – how has innovation contributed to your success? Community and Social Responsibility This award is open to businesses or social enterprises that have made a significant positive impact on the community and region they operate in. This could include: Covid-19 response, reducing carbon footprint, charitable efforts, or developing your local community. The motivation should be to make KZN a better place to live and work. Please explain the impact your activities have made on the community selected. Digital/System Implementation The winner of this award will be implementing in the digital sector to provide results that have real impact. This award is for those businesses that employ digital thinking and technologies. Demonstrate how the digital thinking has been implemented and the positive impact it has made. KZN Top Brand The top homegrown brand in KwaZulu-Natal is awarded based only on the results of a public poll. In 2021 these results will be managed through a SMS voting system. Small Business Start-up This award recognises start-up businesses in 2020 that have translated an idea into a successful business venture in response to Covid 19. The judges want to see to see evidence of achievements to date, where the opportunities lie and how you’re managing your challenges, especially given the circumstances of 2020. Entrepreneur Resilience This award is aimed at young business leaders between the ages of 18 and 35 who have shown exceptional leadership and exhibited entrepreneurial flair. Demonstrate what success you have had in your role over the past year. Highlights Package 2021 The annual awards, which are now in their fifteenth years of existence, celebrate business excellence and recognise the successful businesspeople who drive these achievements, across a range of categories. In his welcome address, Imraan Noorbhai, Standard Bank Head Consumer Client Coverage, KwaZulu-Natal emphasised the bank’s commitment to growing the economy. He said, “At Standard Bank our purpose is defined by ‘Africa is our home we drive her growth’. We aim to make life better for our fellow Africans by doing the right business the right way, contributing to the financial wellbeing of our clients, and supporting sustainable and job creating growth of the economies in which we operate. We are more than a bank; we are an integrated financial services operation and deeply rooted in Africa. In these uncertain times we are committed to doing everything that we can to support our people, our clients and our communities.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q2039_MVzEk Family Business Open to businesses where the majority ownership remains within a family (or multi-family) structure, and where more than one generation contributes to the success of the business. Businesses entering this award will need to specify the current family members leading the business and their roles Judges will want to know why you’re a stand-out family business and how being a family business has helped you to succeed. Employee Wellbeing This award is for businesses that go the extra mile to engage their staff members and what difference this makes to the business. This may be through in-house training, flexible working, personal development, workplace wellbeing activity and teambuilding. You may have been steered in this activity by the pandemic, if so: how? Business Innovation Open to businesses that can demonstrate an innovative approach to products, or processes, which has contributed to the success of the business. We are also interested to hear from businesses who have pivoted their operations as a result of the pandemic Judges will want to see the results of innovation – how has innovation contributed to your success? Community and Social Responsibility This award is open to businesses or social enterprises that have made a significant positive impact on the community and region they operate in. This could include: Covid-19 response, reducing carbon footprint, charitable efforts, or developing your local community. The motivation should be to make KZN a better place to live and work. Please explain the impact your activities have made on the community selected. Digital/System Implementation The winner of this award will be implementing in the digital sector to provide results that have real impact. This award is for those businesses that employ digital thinking and technologies. Demonstrate how the digital thinking has been implemented and the positive impact it has made. KZN Top Brand The top homegrown brand in KwaZulu-Natal is awarded based only on the results of a public poll. In 2021 these results will be managed through a SMS voting system. Small Business Start-up This award recognises start-up businesses in 2020 that have translated an idea into a successful business venture in response to Covid 19. The judges want to see to see evidence of achievements to date, where the opportunities lie and how you’re managing your challenges, especially given the circumstances of 2020. Entrepreneur Resilience This award is aimed at young business leaders between the ages of 18 and 35 who have shown exceptional leadership and exhibited entrepreneurial flair. Demonstrate what success you have had in your role over the past year. Previous Next

< Back Next > Annelene Govender Owner, SA Water Products Annelene Govender, the proud owner of SA Water Products, located in Richards Bay, embodies resilience, ambition, and an unwavering commitment to giving back to her local community. “I’ve always believed that whatever you put your mind to, you can achieve, as long as you believe in yourself,” she says, a philosophy that has driven her impressive career. Born on a beautiful farm in Nonoti, Annelene’s early life was grounded in rural simplicity. “I studied at Stanger Secondary before my family relocated to Richards Bay, where I completed my matric at Richards Bay Secondary,” she recalls. She wasted no time in launching her career, starting work immediately after school. “Four years into my career, I joined Amanzi Ichweba, where I began in internal sales and worked my way up to sales manager, and eventually, sales director." During her 14-year tenure at Amanzi Ichweba, Annelene gained invaluable experience in the water products industry. She credits her former employers for shaping her business acumen. “They’ve left a remarkable impression on me. I’m grateful for their guidance, which has influenced how I run my business today.” When the company closed its doors, Annelene seized the opportunity to start her own venture. “That was my moment. I had the skills, the experience, and the passion, and I knew it was time to take the leap.” In 2018, SA Water Products was born. The business has flourished ever since. “We’ve received immense support from the local community and surrounding areas, and I couldn’t be more thankful.” Annelene attributes her success to hard work, dedication, and the unwavering support of her partner, whom she describes as her rock. “He always pushes me to strive for excellence,” she says. Over 21 years in the industry, she has built solid relationships, which have also played a crucial role in her growth. A Passion for Giving Back For Annelene, success goes beyond financial gain. “People often focus on pay cheques and achievements, but to me, success is about doing something that makes a difference in someone else’s life,” she explains. While her business reflects her professional accomplishments, Annelene’s heart lies in her desire to give back to the community. “My biggest dream is to open an orphanage and an old age home, where the younger generation can care for the elderly,” she shares. This vision is deeply personal for her. “I’ve always had a soft spot for the elderly. Many children don’t take care of their parents when they get older, and that’s something I want to change. The orphanage and old age home would be a place where both generations can support and care for each other.” Her goal is to fund the project independently. “I’m working towards making this a reality, and I hope the local community will support me in achieving this dream,” she says with determination. This desire to help others isn’t just a dream for the future; it’s an ethos that Annelene lives by every day. “I believe you’ve never truly lived until you’ve done something for someone who can never pay you back,” she says, a statement that reflects the selflessness that drives her. She also acknowledges the importance of giving, stating, “I know where my blessings come from, and that motivates me to give without expecting anything in return.” Building a Legacy Annelene’s success is not just the result of hard work, but also her ability to overcome adversity. “Being a woman in our industry, especially in a place like Richards Bay, is not easy,” she admits. “I’m the only woman in my field, but I stay focused on my goals. Every challenge I face is a stepping stone that helps me grow.” Her resilience is a trait developed early in life, having grown up in a humble home. “We came from very poor beginnings, but I was determined to change that. I wanted to be the one in my family to make a difference,” she recalls. Through sheer hard work, dedication, and a strong belief in herself, she rose to the top. “I’m the only one in my family who owns a business, and I’m successful because I’ve always believed in my ability to achieve my dreams.” Annelene’s father remains a significant influence on her journey. “My dad raised five children on a single income, and he did it selflessly. He’ll always be my hero,” she says with pride. Family is central to her life. She is a proud mother to her four-year-old son, Sian, and finds constant strength in her husband Selvan. Empowering Others Despite her success, Annelene always remains grounded. “I come from humble beginnings, and I never want to lose that sense of humility. It’s important to stay grounded and to always look for ways to improve and help others.” Consequently, Annelene’s role extends far beyond being an entrepreneur. She is also a mentor and an inspiration to many. “I always try to motivate my staff to strive for excellence, to push themselves beyond their limits,” she says. Her leadership is rooted in her own experiences of overcoming obstacles. “I’ve built my confidence over the years, and now I try to pass that on to others. I tell them, ‘Believe in yourself, and you can achieve anything’.” Her advice to young women is clear and powerful: “The world is your oyster. Go conquer it. Be a go-getter, pursue your dreams, and trust that with faith and determination, you can achieve anything.” Looking to the future, Annelene has ambitious plans for SA Water Products. “I want to expand the business beyond Richards Bay, to broaden its footprint and make a bigger impact,” she says with confidence. In everything she does, Annelene exemplifies resilience, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. Her journey is a testament to the power of belief, hard work, and the desire to leave a lasting legacy. “I know I can do it,” she says with quiet confidence, “because I’m a go-getter, and I believe in myself.” < Previous Next >

The Nic Carroll 2021 Collection Gayle Adlam Editor, KwaZulu-Natal Top Business Women 2021 Editor’s Note Gayle Adlam

< Back Carol Coetzee

Ekhamanzi Springs (Pty) Ltd t/a aQuelle Up Home Up Latest News Ekhamanzi Springs (Pty) Ltd t/a aQuelle Nico Bosman UPLIFTING PEOPLE In 1998, aQuellé was born from a discovery of a pure, natural water source, a gift from God. The refreshing taste and purity was too good to keep to themselves, so they bottled it and named it aQuellé, blending the Latin word for water “aqua” with the German word for spring “Quelle”. For over 27 years, aQuellé has delighted South Africans, delivering refreshing joy in every bottle of natural spring water and flavoured drinks. History aQuellé is based on KwaSizabantu Mission which was established in 1970. The founder of the mission, Reverend Erlo Stegen, dedicated his life to preaching the gospel, helping and uplifting people and bringing them hope. aQuellé is one of the projects he started to support the missionary work and to be able to make a difference in people’s lives. He initiated the bottling of water at a time where the idea seemed farfetched and nigh impossible for the South African market. But the Lord blessed his faith and the aQuellé brand has grown phenomenally over the years to become South Africa’s favourite water brand. Initially offering exceptional natural spring water, the brand expanded to include a range of four typically South African-flavoured drinks – Marula, Naartjie, Litchi and Honey Melon. Six more flavours and other ranges were added over the years to cater for every South African’s taste and need! The first factory was a mere 360m 2 . Due to the incredible increase in the demand for aQuellé, by God’s grace, it has been necessary to continuously expand the bottling plant and transport facilities, and the original plant has expanded to over 18 000m 2 to date. In 2016 a second bottling plant was acquired in scenic Franschhoek. As with the main bottling plant in KwaZulu-Natal, the Franschhoek natural spring water is of exceptional quality and taste. The product bottled at this facility is mainly distributed to the Western Cape area, reducing aQuellé’s carbon footprint significantly and providing upliftment to the area. In March 2020 construction commenced on Kwa-Sizabantu Mission for a third facility of over 23 000m 2 . The brand-new facility was completed by mid-December, an astounding nine months later, despite the ongoing challenges of Covid-19 and the related national lockdowns. The plant was planned and machinery purchased with the aim of being as energy efficient and environmentally friendly as possible. The aQuellé ViV sports and power drinks range was launched in 2021 and within a year of its release had won the Gold Pack award for best in beverages and best in plastic, as well as an international award for the best new brand. A Brand for People The positive impact that aQuellé’s growth has on South Africans is thrilling. This is the heart of aQuellé. As a Christian, community-based organisation, with its very reason for existence being to uplift people, aQuellé lives out its brand values every day. The company is involved in a broad spectrum of projects such as the distribution of water to needy communities, cleanup initiatives, support during pandemics and natural disasters, awareness campaigns for diabetes and local feeding schemes. aQuellé actively supports outdoor events all over the country every year. Through this participation, aQuellé promotes a fun, wholesome lifestyle. With its three bottling plants and the increase of job opportunities created by aQuellé, families are sustained, livelihoods are improved, and children are given better prospects. Looking Forward Beyond its own rural home, aQuellé looks forward to refreshing South Africa with its pristine quality, affordable and delicious refreshment in every bottle produced. The company echoes the prayer of its founder, Reverend Erlo Stegen: “Lord, thank you for what You are doing. You have made the impossible possible. We praise Your holy name.” CONTACT DETAILS Physical Address: Silverstream Farm, Kranskop, South Africa Postal Address: Private Bag 260, Kranskop, 3268, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa Tel: +27 (0)32 492 0500 Email: mail@aquelle.co.za Website: www.aquelle.co.za 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 > Inanda Bezuidenhout Franchise Principal, Consult by Momentum Peak Sure Inanda Bezuidenhout is the franchise principal at Consult by Momentum Peak Sure, specialising in asset protection and risk management within the short-term insurance sector. They create tailored solutions that help both individuals and businesses to safeguard their assets. Additionally, the company offers referral models for third- party professionals in the insurance industry, making it easier for them to support their clients’ insurance needs. She explains, “Our model allows them to ring-fence their clients and offer short-term insurance solutions without the hassle of administrative tasks or complex products.” Reflecting on her achievements, Inanda shared, “Our partnership with Consult is only two years old in October, however, we launched our business as a Momentum agency on 27 March 2020 — the day lockdown was announced. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, we managed to grow and assist clients restructure their short- term policies enabling them to maintain crucial life and investment opportunities.” In just two years, their business achieved third place nationally in Momentum’s short-term division, and Inanda was honoured with second place in the Top Female Advisory category. Part of a Solution Commenting on her journey, Inanda describes it as one of continuous learning, community support, and self- awareness. “My dreams have evolved over the years,” she says. “As a child, they were one thing, but as an adult, they have changed. I’m always busy and my dreams can change daily. Right now, my biggest dream is still in progress; I want to help others understand risk management and make informed decisions.” Her career was influenced by her upbringing and her initial experiences in law. “Growing up I wanted to pursue a career in law. I worked in the debt collection department of a local law firm but realised I preferred proactive planning and being part of a solution.” This shift led her to financial services. “I was fortunate enough to join my father’s team as a personal assistant, taking every opportunity to learn and by the age of 21, I became a financial planner myself.” Inanda soon discovered her strength in risk management and chose to specialise in short-term insurance. “I’m risk- averse,” she explains. “I prefer to mitigate risks rather than take them, which led me to asset protection and risk management.” Her career took a turn in 2013 when she joined Robsons Insurance Brokers. “My mentors there taught me resilience and integrity within the business space. They showed me that achieving professional goals while making a meaningful impact in the community is possible.” Her community involvement is an essential aspect of her life. Inanda is a member of KZN Women in Business, supporting sustainable growth and community projects, as well as the Financial Intermediary Association. “My faith keeps me grounded,” she added, “I actively participate in my Seventh-Day Adventist church, and staying connected to both my faith and community helps me maintain balance.” Inanda’s participation in the cleanup efforts following the KZN riots reinforced her belief in the power of collaboration. “Seeing everyone come together to support each other in a time of need was a powerful reminder of the impact we can have when we work together,” she says. This sense of community drives her to inspire the youth. “I want to show them that no matter where they come from, there are opportunities out there. Mentorship can truly shape lives, and I’m committed to guiding the next generation in business, sports, and life.” Inanda’s passion for netball is another way she engages with her community. Having played for the Natal Action Netball Mixed Team, she now coaches at a local school, inspiring young people through sport. Continuous Learning Like many business leaders, Inanda has faced challenges. “Five years ago, I decided to pursue my dream of owning my own business,” she recounts. “At the same time, I was going through a difficult divorce, which was emotionally taxing. Fortunately, I found strength in my supportive family, friends, and colleagues.” Starting a business in a competitive industry wasn’t easy, either. “Navigating the complexities of the insurance sector, especially in an ‘old boys’ club,’ when you don’t play golf forced me to focus on my strengths and what makes my company unique. Building personal connections with clients has been crucial to our success.” Inanda emphasises continuous learning. “Knowledge is power. To be the best, we need to stay informed and continuously improve. Learning comes in many forms, through reading, listening, and connecting with professionals in our field. You’re never too old or too young to grow.” She also champions empowerment within her team. “I believe in giving people opportunities, even if they don’t have formal degrees. My assistant, Samantha, was a stay-at-home mum who joined our team and is now an indispensable part of our business.” Looking ahead, Inanda draws inspiration from her grandmother and mother, who encouraged her to aim for the impossible to achieve the best possible. “I’m content with what I’ve achieved so far, and committed to giving my son the best future, but my competitive nature pushes me to aim higher,” she says. “I’m passionate about our industry and I want to help communities better understand risk management and improve service delivery in our field.” Ultimately, Inanda’s goal is to be part of a legacy of empowerment and education in the insurance industry. “I want to make a meaningful impact not just by teaching people about proper risk management, but by improving service delivery in our country,” she says. “Our industry is known for its challenges, but I believe we can make a difference, and I want to be part of that change.” For young women following in her footsteps, Inanda offers this advice: “Your journey may be rocky and winding, like the beautiful farming landscapes painted by South African artist Portchie. There will be twists and turns but never give up on your goals. Take the time to understand who you are and where your strengths lie, as this knowledge will help you achieve your dreams. The journey may be long, but every opportunity to learn and grow is valuable.” < Previous Next >

< Back Nureshka Viranna

Pran Shree Next Previous Pran Shree is the founder and chief executive officer of Shree Property Holdings Pran Shree, is the founder and chief executive officer of Shree Property Holdings. Pran’s odyssey from a butcher’s boy to a global business leader is closely tied to pivotal moments in his life. His journey started as a butcher’s boy in his father’s business, beginning when he was in grade seven. However, his path changed after he married. “I got married at 20 and when I had my first son, I realised I needed more than just working as a blockman in my father’s butcher shop,” he explains. This realisation led Pran to open his own butchery. Within a few years, he purchased his first truck to handle his business. “As soon as I had my own truck, other people wanted to use our services, so I started meat wholesaling. That’s how I grew the business,” he says. A further opportunity arose when mad cow disease hit South Africa. “We faced a meat shortage. That’s when we started importing from places like Australia, South America, Northen Canada and even Ireland,” he recalls. When the Fanny Mae crash took place in the United States in 2008, there was a global halt on trade. Consequently, as he was unable to move stock, his need for warehouses outstripped his supply, so he began purchasing warehouses. “We went from three warehouses to ten in a single year,” Pran notes. With each new obstacle, Pran adapted by expanding his offerings and, in turn, his business. He also saw an opening to expand into property. “We couldn’t find food-grade warehouses that met our standards, so we decided to build our own,” he explains. “I made the decision to purchase old buildings, demolish them, and rebuild them as what people now call “Pran Shree Buildings”– specifically desig Over the years, this decision transformed into a massive enterprise, with Shree Property Holdings now managing nearly three million square metres of warehousing space worldwide. STRONG SYNERGY In addition, Pran has created a strong synergy within the business, operating successfully year-round. The company has a busy five months for citrus, followed by another five months preparing for Easter. “So, when you and your grandchildren enjoy Easter eggs each year, they’ve been safely stored in our food- grade warehouses. That’s how I ensure my people have year-round employment. Previously, due to the seasonal nature of the business, I had to lay them off for six months each year,” he explained. Pran’s purpose is deeply rooted in his values and upbringing. He reflects on his mother’s generosity as a butcher, recalling how she gave meat to those in need during Christmas. “I used to ask her why she did it when people didn’t even thank her,” he remembers. “This ethos of giving and community drives Pran’s purpose. “If we can employ two people, they can feed six,” he says, adding that their warehouses on the North Coast indirectly support about 24,000 people. “That’s what drives me – knowing that we’re helping people lead better lives.” For Pran, his greatest accomplishment lies in the legacy he leaves behind. “A building is like a signature on the earth,” he says. He takes pride in the structures he has created, but even more so in the values he passes on to his family. “I have five grandchildren with a sixth on the way, and I want them to grow up humble, with their feet on the ground, and caring towards others. I’m still working on that accomplishment but it’s my life’s greatest ambition,” he shares. ACCOUNTABILITY AND GROWTH The 2021 riots in Durban, Pran says, were a low point in his life. “We were devastated, but there was no time to dwell on it,” he recounts. While he was away, his team and the local community banded together to protect their properties. “The way people stood together, from the local security companies to our own staff, was incredible.” Pran believes this experience showcased the resilience and unity of Durbanites, a spirit that has continued to inspire him and his team. Pran’s approach to motivating his team is one of accountability and growth. “I tell them that everyone makes mistakes, but we can’t make the same one twice,” he says. “We’ll get to the bottom of any problem,” he adds. “We’ll assist, we’ll educate. But I give only one chance for each person to look at themselves and decide, ‘Do you want to do this or not?’ This approach keeps everyone on their toes.” He added with a laugh, “I also have cameras everywhere.” Pran finds much inspiration in those people he has admired since he was young. “As a boy, I’d go with my dad on Saturdays to buy lamb from Nicos Criticos at Chester Meats on Point Road,” he recalls. Today, Nicos remains close, and he has continued to support Pran. Looking forward, Pran envisions significant improvements in KwaZulu-Natal’s infrastructure and tourism. “Transnet and PRASA need to come in strong,” he notes, emphasising the need for a reliable rail and port system. Pran also believes that security and peace of mind are vital to reviving the region’s tourist appeal. “Imagine being able to walk from Suncoast to the Point without looking over your shoulder,” he says, convinced that a safe, bustling tourism sector will bring economic growth. “If we can get that back, KZN has a bright future.” In conclusion, Pran’s motto is simple: “Happy wife, happy life”. He attributes much of his success to the harmony he maintains in his home. “If your household is in order, everything else falls into place,” he explains. Having worked alongside his wife and children for over 40 years, Pran knows the importance of a supportive family. “It’s not just another job for us; it’s our life,” he says. Pran Shree’s journey is a story of adaptation, resilience, and purpose. With each challenge, he has expanded his impact, building a legacy that he hopes will serve his community and family long after he is gone. Previous Next