< 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 PLEASE COMPLETE PART ONE & PART TWO Entries Close 12 June 2026 First Name Last Name Email Phone Company CATEGORIES Date established No of employees Name of account/ auditor Bank CEO Managing Director Marketing Director Financial Manager Other Street Address City Region/State/Province Postal / Zip code Company web address ENTRY COMPLETED BY Your Position Email (directl) Code Phone PART TWO: ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS (The total word count should not exceed 3000 words) Question 1. a) Provide an overview of the company/organisation’s products and services in KZN b) How does company contribute to the KZN economy? Question 2: Leadership a) Explain the management/ governing body structure b) How does leadership take responsibility for the company’s performance, culture and impact? c) What policies and systems are in place to ensure compliance with laws, regulations and industry standards? Question 3: Ethical culture Explain how your organisation defines and promotes ethical behaviour across all levels of the business? Question 4: Good performance and value creation Please provide the latest annual report if applicable (public company) or provide a letter from your accountant stating that your finances are sound. Question 5 Trust, good reputation, legitimacy Explain how the company communicates and interacts with all its stakeholders – internally and externally to ensure its relationships are effectively managed. Question 6 Explain why your company should win a KZN Top Business award in the category selected. Provide evidence for your success/impact? (Project completion, financial success, report, photos, testimonials from clients, employees, beneficiaries etc. Send or wetransfer PART TWO to Gayle@mweb.co.za Data Privacy Consent I acknowledge that my personal information is important and will be processed by Standard Bank and necessary third parties in line with the applicable data protection laws and the Privacy Statement. I have understood the contents of the Privacy Statement Marketing Consent I agree or decline to have my personal information used for marketing purposes as follows: 1. Data sharing within our The Standard Bank Group 2. Data sharing with Third Parties 3. Data sharing across borders within our Group 4. Telesales 5. Email Marketing 6. SMS Marketing I acknowledge and consent to the sharing of my information Consent & Rights I understand that I have the right to update or withdraw my consent at any time by: Visiting a Standard Bank branch. Contacting my Relationship Manager. Calling 0860 123 000. Emailing information@standardbank.co.za. Logging into the Standard Bank online channels. I acknowledge and consent to the sharing of my information SUBMIT

THINK is a registered non-profit organisation dedicated to making a difference in the lives of people suffering from tuberculosis (TB) and HIVKristina WallengrenTHINK is a registered non-profit organisation dedicated to making a difference in the lives of people suffering from tuberculosis (TB) and HIVTHINK is a registered non-profit organisation dedicated to making a difference in the lives of people suffering from tuberculosis (TB) and HIV. Consequently, THINK undertakes clinical research, training and health systems improvement with impact both locally and globally. Kristina declares, "As the director of THINK, I often say that I am the cheerleader. We are a big team of people working together to achieve results. My job is to support my team's effective functioning. For example, obtain funding for our work, write grant applications, meet with stakeholders, conduct site visits, as well as establish systems in the organisation to make sure we are able to reach the desired impact." A career change THINK's story starts with Kristina's desire to make a difference in the world and the thought that she was doing that too slowly. "My background is as a scientist in molecular biology, and I felt that I was saving the world one dust-particle at a time." The road from these beginnings to establishing THINK was long winded with a lot of interludes. "After working for ten years as a basic scientist, I had a career change. I wanted to see more impact in the work that I was doing, so I went back to school and studied international health - specifically epidemiology and public health. This enabled me to move to South Africa, and eventually to start THINK seven years ago," she explained. Kristina says that she has been inspired by many people along her life journey. After completing her PHD in molecular biology, Kristina's supervisor, world-renowned Professor Hans Rosling, encouraged her to study at Harvard and truly inspired her to make a difference in the public health field through data. Kristina had saved up money to go sailing for six months from Panama across the Pacific Ocean and her acceptance to Harvard arrived while she was in the Galapagos Islands. However, Kristina said, "I wasn't ready at that time to stop the adventure that I had started." She postponed taking up the offer at Harvard, a prospect which was also nerve wrecking, as she was concerned about how she was going to finance her studies. "However, I was able earn money through sailing a yacht from New Zealand to Alaska, which paid $100 a day that I could mostly save towards financing my studies. The sailing journey was really important in my career and became one of the most interesting door-openers to give me opportunities that I wouldn't have had otherwise." Working in Africa One of Kristina's supervisors at Harvard, Professor Megan Murray, really inspired her career further. "She sent me to work in Africa and gave me the opportunity to set up research at a hospital in Pietermaritzburg and to go for it all on my own. The trust and confidence, from her, was amazing and something that I try to replicate in my dealings with other people." THINK started its first clinical trial in 2013 at Durban Medical Centre with a small research team providing treatment to 12 patients. Since then, THINK has created over 300 job opportunities and provided care for over 140 000 patients in eThekwini. Three new TB drugs, the first since the 1950s, have been developed and THINK is contributing to establishing their best use and bringing them to the market. Furthermore, THINK has conducted research to improve care for drug resistant TB by reducing treatment duration from two years to nine months, which has now been adopted as standard of care in South Africa. THINK isn't resting on its laurels but is working on reducing it even further to six months. "I am amazed at what has been accomplished by THINK as a team, and thankful for the part that I have played. I find it very difficult to take credit for myself. I could never have thought about the things that we are doing at THINK on my own. There has been an organic growth of the organisation and the individuals within have made it into what it is." Purpose finds you The advice that Kristina would give to people is to follow your interests, and your passion will develop itself. "When you follow your interest, you develop a flair and move into a space where you are able to thrive and shine. Through that way, purpose finds you and you are able to make a difference." In reflecting on the role of women in business, Kristina says that she does not think that women need to have a different approach to business to men. "I think that every individual needs to have an approach to business that is reflective of themselves and should be authentic. We need to all strive to learn more. To experiment more, to develop ourselves more. There is not one formula that fits all. We are all different. The most important thing to me is being authentic and true to yourself. When you bring yourself with you into every space you go, there is hardly any energy expense because you don't have to play different characters." Continue to do more good In the future Kristina would love to take her children sailing for an extended period of time to let them experience the awe of the world, and allow self-reflection being removed from the business of our daily lives. She would also want to see THINK sustainable and continue to make an impact in people's lives with the ethos that it was founded on. "I would like for THINK to be a place where people can be their best selves and generate more of the good stuff that we are already doing," she concluded. Cheryl Govender CHERYL GOVENDER is the founder and owner of The Cake House in Pietermaritzburg. She is a qualified chef and professional cake artist. The Cake House has become a leading provider of designer cakes including engineered life-size cakes. Cheryl's exceptional cakes, each a masterpiece, have been featured in magazines and on television, and The Cake House is recognised as a leader in new age sugarcraft. Cheryl is inspired by successful bakeries and cake artists. She explains, "This is a tough industry and requires not only talent, but a business mind, people skills, market insight, tenacity, and continuous learning and growth." One of her biggest inspirations is Buddy Valastro, an American baker who is the star of the reality television series 'Cake Boss'. Be clear about what must be achieved Cheryl believes she got to where she is now and reached her goals by being clear about what she needed to achieve and why she needed to achieve them. She says her career started when she was fourteen when she was handed down decorating tools that her sister no longer needed. "Although I was a real tomboy, beating the boys at their own games in the streets, I did girly stuff when I went home, like playing with cake decorating tools and my dolls," she laughed. Cheryl learned about sugar art by reading books from the municipal library and often left the kitchen in a mess after experimenting. Her Consumer Studies teacher recognised Cheryl's talent; arranged for her to attend a cake decorating course, and gave her a toolset, which she treasures to this day. This teacher, now a retired school principal, adopted Cheryl as a daughter, helped her to believe in herself, and became her mentor to this day. Cheryl won a Consumer Studies Inter School Award in matric due to her passion for cake decorating, but at that time she considered it a hobby, not a career. After a year at college, Cheryl married and became a mother. She joined the corporate world but kept on making decorated cakes as a hobby to supplement her income. When her son was two years old, Cheryl entered and won the Pietermaritzburg Royal Show sugarcraft competition. This led to her teaching sugarcraft on a part-time basis at the now FET College in Northdale, something she continued passionately for 25 years. This Cheryl said, was fulfilling: "empowering women has always been close to my heart". Focus on one thing and do it well Cheryl gained wide experience in the corporate world, including ten years in shipping and international travel, before she started her own export business. This business crashed during the worldwide financial crisis of 2008 and she "fell back on her hands", starting a food catering business that also provided cakes. Cheryl made a few designer cakes assuming there was little market for these due to the high prices, but word of her quality and expertise spread and orders increased. A traumatic divorce, the demands of being involved in catering, wedding décor, training and making cakes at the same time, made her realise that she needed to streamline her activities. In 2012 she decided to focus on one thing only and do it well and opened The Cake House. Cheryl, a single mom had herself, her mother's assistance, two children, and a house. As she had lost her vehicle, Cheryl went everywhere in running shoes while carrying cake ingredients and other items in a backpack. Nothing was handed to her; she had no money and could not get a bank loan. Cheryl understood the risks involved but her faith and trust in God helped her. She managed to buy all her industrial baking equipment from a helpful appliance store on a three-month cash basis. Her business remains debt-free to this day. Business skills are unrelated to gender In Cheryl's view, women and men need the same business approach, as the skills required for a successful business are unrelated to gender. "Tenacity, hard work, honesty, patience and endurance are equally required from men and women." She does, however, concede that women face more challenges. She has had to face abuse, being a mother, and a divorce. Achieving a work-life balance boils down to discipline for Cheryl. "It is necessary to make time for your family and yourself, and also to rest, but not working can be scary for a business owner with much to do," she says. "I've had to learn to set boundaries, say no, and cut myself off from work when it's time to relax and unwind." Gardening, time with her family and puppies, and doing things outside of the business help create a balance. Brand ambassador Cheryl is happy with what she has accomplished thus far and readily give others credit. Without her mother, she could not have set up The Cake House. Without the help of her husband Alan, her family, and staff members, she would not have been able to grow the business. She feels honoured having recently being appointed a brand ambassador with royal status, for Rolkem Colours, one of the world's largest food colourant providers. While Cheryl is satisfied with the place she has reached, she is not comfortable about remaining there. Cheryl dreams of making the province proud of The Cake House as a tourism attraction. With a growing support structure in place, she is prepared to take risks within her means and take the business to the next level. Back

MAIMOONA SALIM is the provincial executive of the Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator. An NGO that helps the unemployed youth adopt necessary life skills, and assists with job placementsMaimoona SalimMAIMOONA SALIM is the provincial executive of the Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator. An NGO that helps the unemployed youth adopt necessary life skills, and assists with job placementsMAIMOONA SALIM is the provincial executive of the Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator. An NGO that helps the unemployed youth adopt necessary life skills, and assists with job placements. She oversees all strategic business operations, including managing clients, working with candidates, and maintaining the vision and mission of the organisation. Born and schooled in Durban, Maimoona relocated to Johannesburg in the late 90s, where she completed her studies and worked in various industries for over a decade. Her first job was as a casual worker at a retail store, and she worked her way up to be a specialist and later was promoted to senior management positions within the retail sector. Because of Maimoona's drive and ambition, she regularly looked for business opportunities. After noticing a skills gap amongst the unemployed youth, she decided to start a business to address this issue. So, in 2005, without any financial backing, she became an entrepreneur. She made pamphlets, offering people training, and development skills, that would help them find jobs. Only a few people were expected for training, but 98 candidates came on the first day. Shocked by the massive attendance, Maimoona managed to accommodate the candidates, taught them the required retail skills, and got them all employed by various retail stores. Encouraged by the success of the programme, she then registered a recruitment company, and started doing recruitment for various chain stores. She later became accredited and provided training for a major retail group store with which she landed a contract. Focus on the end goal Satisfied with the success she achieved in Johannesburg, Maimoona headed back to Durban, to seek a new venture. Her passion for food steered her to start a catering company which served small to medium size companies, for staff and client functions. Her company grew rapidly until it had a substantial staff complement...and that she says it what fulfilled her. Being able to employ people, mentoring, coaching, and helping them grow as individuals. Having achieved what she has, in the short space of time, Maimoona has proved to herself that: "You don't need money for business, you just need to apply your mind and execute your plan. Focus on the end goal and make yourself work towards it. Success does not come from luck; it comes from hard work and determination." Her journey has been a difficult one, as she came from a very challenging background. Though, that has not stopped her from persevering and achieving her dreams. Maimoona was privileged to have had good mentors along the way, that assisted with her career success. "People around you can push you to achieve your goals, encourage you not to give up, and help to take you to the next level." Working smart Maimoona believes, it is about "what inspires" rather than "who inspires" people. In addition, "People need to start by understanding themselves first, because when you learn to understand yourself, you then start understanding other people." The motivation and direction her parents provided, especially from her father, has driven her to grow as an individual, and that is what got her to where she is today. One of the strongest family values she lives by is, "work hard and be determined to succeed". "As we all have the same minds, women don't need a different approach to men to be successful in business. We all think strategically, we are all educated, however the trick is about working smart. It is all about you pushing yourself and reaching your objectives; making sure that you focus on attaining your goals. That, is your ticket to success." Maimoona is content with what she accomplished in her 20 plus years of being a career woman. She explains that to her, "accomplish" means "to do and achieve what you value, to make a difference and understand the input that you are giving." She says it is not about the bottom-line all the time. "Being at Harambee made me understand that it is all about giving back to the community, giving back to individual people and giving hope to people, especially the unemployed youth." A point I will keep re-iterating, even though it's been said over a million times, but truth be told: the youth are our future leaders." Doing what she does at Harambee, she feels, is an accomplishment on its own. Maimoona says, "Once you have found that you are giving back and making a difference, you can be content." It is not work, it is life When Maimoona was young, it was difficult for her to achieve a work-life balance, because she was so ambitious, and her career was all-important. Now that she is older and wiser, she asks herself if what she is doing now is a job or part of her life. Smiling, she says that it almost feels like she has retired because she enjoys what she does so much as it fulfils her as a human being. She has found herself and what resonates with her. "When people question my decision to work for a non-profit organisation, I reply that it is not work, it is life." The advice she would give to her younger self is, "Realise life is not always what it seems. Things are always going to change. Listen to your parents' advice." She would also advise herself to appreciate life and appreciate time. "Use it wisely, and make every day count towards something beneficial for others." Cheryl Govender CHERYL GOVENDER is the founder and owner of The Cake House in Pietermaritzburg. She is a qualified chef and professional cake artist. The Cake House has become a leading provider of designer cakes including engineered life-size cakes. Cheryl's exceptional cakes, each a masterpiece, have been featured in magazines and on television, and The Cake House is recognised as a leader in new age sugarcraft. Cheryl is inspired by successful bakeries and cake artists. She explains, "This is a tough industry and requires not only talent, but a business mind, people skills, market insight, tenacity, and continuous learning and growth." One of her biggest inspirations is Buddy Valastro, an American baker who is the star of the reality television series 'Cake Boss'. Be clear about what must be achieved Cheryl believes she got to where she is now and reached her goals by being clear about what she needed to achieve and why she needed to achieve them. She says her career started when she was fourteen when she was handed down decorating tools that her sister no longer needed. "Although I was a real tomboy, beating the boys at their own games in the streets, I did girly stuff when I went home, like playing with cake decorating tools and my dolls," she laughed. Cheryl learned about sugar art by reading books from the municipal library and often left the kitchen in a mess after experimenting. Her Consumer Studies teacher recognised Cheryl's talent; arranged for her to attend a cake decorating course, and gave her a toolset, which she treasures to this day. This teacher, now a retired school principal, adopted Cheryl as a daughter, helped her to believe in herself, and became her mentor to this day. Cheryl won a Consumer Studies Inter School Award in matric due to her passion for cake decorating, but at that time she considered it a hobby, not a career. After a year at college, Cheryl married and became a mother. She joined the corporate world but kept on making decorated cakes as a hobby to supplement her income. When her son was two years old, Cheryl entered and won the Pietermaritzburg Royal Show sugarcraft competition. This led to her teaching sugarcraft on a part-time basis at the now FET College in Northdale, something she continued passionately for 25 years. This Cheryl said, was fulfilling: "empowering women has always been close to my heart". Focus on one thing and do it well Cheryl gained wide experience in the corporate world, including ten years in shipping and international travel, before she started her own export business. This business crashed during the worldwide financial crisis of 2008 and she "fell back on her hands", starting a food catering business that also provided cakes. Cheryl made a few designer cakes assuming there was little market for these due to the high prices, but word of her quality and expertise spread and orders increased. A traumatic divorce, the demands of being involved in catering, wedding décor, training and making cakes at the same time, made her realise that she needed to streamline her activities. In 2012 she decided to focus on one thing only and do it well and opened The Cake House. Cheryl, a single mom had herself, her mother's assistance, two children, and a house. As she had lost her vehicle, Cheryl went everywhere in running shoes while carrying cake ingredients and other items in a backpack. Nothing was handed to her; she had no money and could not get a bank loan. Cheryl understood the risks involved but her faith and trust in God helped her. She managed to buy all her industrial baking equipment from a helpful appliance store on a three-month cash basis. Her business remains debt-free to this day. Business skills are unrelated to gender In Cheryl's view, women and men need the same business approach, as the skills required for a successful business are unrelated to gender. "Tenacity, hard work, honesty, patience and endurance are equally required from men and women." She does, however, concede that women face more challenges. She has had to face abuse, being a mother, and a divorce. Achieving a work-life balance boils down to discipline for Cheryl. "It is necessary to make time for your family and yourself, and also to rest, but not working can be scary for a business owner with much to do," she says. "I've had to learn to set boundaries, say no, and cut myself off from work when it's time to relax and unwind." Gardening, time with her family and puppies, and doing things outside of the business help create a balance. Brand ambassador Cheryl is happy with what she has accomplished thus far and readily give others credit. Without her mother, she could not have set up The Cake House. Without the help of her husband Alan, her family, and staff members, she would not have been able to grow the business. She feels honoured having recently being appointed a brand ambassador with royal status, for Rolkem Colours, one of the world's largest food colourant providers. While Cheryl is satisfied with the place she has reached, she is not comfortable about remaining there. Cheryl dreams of making the province proud of The Cake House as a tourism attraction. With a growing support structure in place, she is prepared to take risks within her means and take the business to the next level. Back