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< Back Karen Hammond Group Head of People at the Meridian Group Karen Hammond says that family is the heartbeat of everything she does. “I’m married to a wonderful husband, Trevor, and we have two incredible children,” she reflects, her voice warm and full of affection. “They are my anchor, my joy, and my constant inspiration.” Today, Karen serves as Group Head of People at the Meridian Group, a company she describes with pride and conviction. “Meridian is more than a business,” she explains. “We exist to make brands thrive, to nurture our people, and to give back to our communities. We provide services like merchandising, sales, data analytics, and in-store execution to help Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMC) brands thrive and increase sales. When a customer walks into a store and finds exactly what they need, that’s not just business, that is the human touch behind every shelf and every smile. That is what makes our work meaningful.” Her role, she says, is more than a career, it is a calling. “This aligns so deeply with who I am and what I value,” Karen reflects. “At Meridian, we are not just building a company; we are cultivating a culture where people feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.” She lights up when speaking of her team. “Our merchandisers are extraordinary,” she says with pride. “When you next visit a store, look for Meridian. They are the absolute best in the business.” A JOURNEY WOVEN WITH GROWTH AND GRATITUDE Karen’s career spans over 25 years in human resources, with 15 of those in senior leadership. “I was headhunted for this position, it felt like a blessing,” she recalls.Her professional path has been rich and diverse, beginning at Durban International Convention Centre (ICC), University of KwaZulu-Natal, PwC, Nedbank, moving to Dimension Data, then Sun International, and now into Meridian, each step reinforcing her belief that people are at the heart of every great organisation. Her philosophy is simple yet powerful: “If you treat your people well, they will take care of your business.” It is this people-first approach that has earned her admiration across industries and shaped her leadership philosophy. Interestingly, human resources was not her original plan. “I dreamed of becoming a nurse,” she says with a laugh, “but I quickly realised I could not handle the sight of blood. My love for people guided me into human resources instead, and I have never looked back.” A HEART FOR COMMUNITY Karen’s vision extends far beyond boardrooms and business meetings. She dreams of one day opening a centre for the homeless, a haven offering warm meals, safe beds, and skills development opportunities. “I want to give people the tools to create opportunities for themselves,” she says with quiet determination. “Cooking, sewing, basic computer skills, these are simple things that can change a life. I believe I will achieve this one day.” Her spirit of empowerment is already reflected in Meridian Group’s community partnerships, including initiatives with the Restory Foundation and eDeaf Empower and Employ. “Through these programmes, we provide learnerships and practical experience to young people, many of whom have now become permanent members of the Meridian family. It is something I am deeply proud of.” FAITH, FAMILY, AND MENTORSHIP Faith and family remain Karen’s anchors. “My inspiration comes from God, from my husband, children and extended family and friends. They remind me daily to give my best in everything I do.” She also pays tribute to the mentors who shaped her journey, particularly Vangeli Chiliza, former human resources director at the Durban ICC. “He believed in me when I was still very new to human resources,” she reflects. “His guidance and belief in my potential changed the trajectory of my career. I carry that gratitude with me always." TURNING CHALLENGES INTO TRIUMPHS Karen’s life has not been without its challenges. In 2019, she was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, a moment that tested every ounce of her resilience. “Hearing the word cancer changes everything,” she says softly. “But I realised that if I allowed fear to control me, I couldn’t continue uplifting others the way I wanted to.” With courage, faith, and optimism, she faced the battle head-on and won. “I focused on healing and on positivity,” she says. “Today, I am a survivor. I am living proof that challenges can become triumphs, you can overcome them, and I did.” A LEGACY OF EMPOWERMENT Recognition has followed her throughout her career, including the ‘Natural Born Winner’ Award at Nedbank for transforming people strategy and boosting morale, yet humility defines her approach. “Accolades are wonderful, but for me, the real reward is seeing people grow,” she says. “When someone finds their confidence, lands their dream job, or discovers their purpose, that’s what truly fulfills me.” To young women building their careers, Karen offers timeless advice: “Do not let anyone else define who you are. You define yourself. Let your beauty shine from within. Be fearless. Be unstoppable.” LOOKING AHEAD As she looks toward the future, Karen’s dreams are rooted in simplicity and purpose. “I want to continue making a difference, but also to spend time with my family, travel, and enjoy the simple things,” she says. “The sea restores me. Long walks on the beach and time with loved ones, that is what nourishes my soul. Those are life’s true treasures.” With a soft smile, she reflects on her journey, one shaped by purpose, faith, and a genuine love for people. “My life has been guided by those three things,” she says. “And that, to me, is everything.” Previous Next

< Back Noeline Rajbally Director and Co-founder of African Sugar Logistics Noeline Rajbally is the director and co-founder of African Sugar Logistics. She has spent the past 17 years building this successful business alongside her husband, while simultaneously uplifting the communities around her. She explained, “When we went into business, it was a leap of faith for Rajesh and I. It was about giving our kids a better life and a shot at a brighter future. But that soon evolved into why did we take this leap of faith? And that came with the very purposeful intentions of growing people, a staff first approach, reaching out to disadvantaged communities and schools, and doing greater purposeful work.” As such the Mindfulness Academy is one of Noeline’s proudest achievements. It is a platform she established a few years ago with the goal to ‘elevate, educate and empower women and children’. It serves as the corporate social investment arm of African Sugar Logistics. Through this platform, she has helped countless individuals find confidence and direction and has enriched many lives. Noeline’s work extends beyond business. She is the co-founder of Her Story Circle, a women’s group that creates space for women to share their journeys and inspire one another, as well as creates a space for cross generational conversations. The Her Story Circle motto is: ‘You will always have a seat at our table’. Recently, she and her husband launched Unalome, a bespoke wedding and functions venue on KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast. The name Unalome translates to ‘the path to enlightenment’, a phrase that reflects her approach to life and leadership. DETERMINATION AND COURAGE For Noeline, success has not been an easy road. “Success can be defined in many ways, but it did not come without struggle,” she reflects. “I think that my faith in God and belief in myself changed a lot of narratives.” She has always dreamed of living in a world that is inclusive and full of opportunity, not only for herself but for future generations. “Although I might not live to see that in this lifetime, I have faith that it’s one step at a time. I do my part in making the world a better place through the initiatives that I run and through the various public platforms that I’m involved in as a public figure.” Her leadership philosophy is centred on people. “I think being a people-focused business is what’s important to us. We lead with integrity and we strive for excellence.” Investing in her team has always been a top priority in running a successful business. She added that leading by example and teaching people soft skills, such as to be empathetic and kind and to reach out to those around them to make a difference is critical, especially in the fast evolving world that we live in. A SOURCE OF PURPOSE Her achievements extend beyond the boardroom. In 2023, she entered Mrs South Africa and was placed as the First Princess, a title that brought her into the national spotlight. The following year, she represented the country at the Mrs Globe International competition, where she placed in the Top 20 and walked away with the Motivator of the Year and Mountain Top awards. Yet, she insists that her greatest achievement is her family. “I have three lovely kids. I love being a wife and I love taking care of my two fur babies. That gives me more satisfaction when it comes to achievement.” Noeline’s journey, however, has not been without hardship. In 2023, she faced one of her most difficult challenges when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. “It was obviously shock and horror. And there’s never a convenient time to hear those words,” she recalls. The diagnosis arrived just two weeks before the Mrs South Africa finals. “Everything was very overwhelming because the spotlight was on me. But I had a great medical team. Support is so important from your family and the people around you and I feel that without my faith and that support it would have been a very different experience for me." Rather than viewing her illness as a setback, Noeline transformed it into a source of purpose. “It has given me leverage to create a platform where I am an advocate for early detection of cancer. I’ve spoken on many platforms internationally and locally.” Her resilience and positivity continue to inspire many. When asked what advice she would give to young women, her response is both profound and practical. “Like Simon Sinek would say, find your why. It’s your guiding compass and that North Star.” She encourages women to dream boldly. “As a young woman, I recall myself dreaming the grandest dreams. And it’s okay to dream those dreams because when I look back and if I told people that I dreamed this dream, I think I would be laughed at because at that stage it would seem impossible. But young women with dreams become women with vision. So never stop dreaming.”Her philosophy on failure is equally inspiring. “Failure happens all the time. It is not a full stop. It can be a pause, but it should be your jet fuel for your comeback.” THE POWER OF GRATITUDE Today, Noeline pursues her purpose with humility and gratitude. “I want to leave a legacy that is iconic that is worth every generation that comes after me saying, ‘I’m proud of that woman’. For her, legacy is not about wealth or awards. “It’s about being a kind and trusting human being who’s been compassionate, especially in this day and age, where sometimes it is difficult.” Noeline concludes with advice that defines her approach to life: “Concentrating on your health, your mindset and your well-being should be on top of your list. I’m such a big advocate for self-development, self love and self-care. When that mindset is achieved, it just makes life better, more enjoyable and more peaceful.” Previous Next

< Back Rachael Gillespie Major Shareholder of Rotacon Engineering Rachael Gillespie is the major shareholder of Rotacon Engineering, a proudly South African mechanical engineering business specialising in fabrication and machining. “Basically, we make components,” she explained. “Anything from small parts up to 16 tons. Our computer numerical control (CNC) machinery capacity is what has really put us out there, so we are able to supply any industry in Africa and beyond.” FROM RECEPTIONIST TO SHAREHOLDER Rachael’s journey with Rotacon began almost three decades ago, in 1996, though her connection to the company runs even deeper. “I finished matric in 1994 and started at Rotacon in 1996,” she recalled. “My father actually worked for the business, and my twin sister Leah was the receptionist at the time. She accepted another job at the sister company just so that I could have an opening at Rotacon.” What began as an administrative role soon grew into a lifelong calling. “I started off as a receptionist in 1996, and in 2002, I became a shareholder,” she said proudly. “From there, I learned more about the business and built myself up. In 2024, I became the major shareholder, holding 87 percent shares in Rotacon.” Her rise through the company was not fuelled by formal engineering qualifications but by determination and an unyielding commitment to excellence. “I do not hold a degree in engineering, so what I know today has come from working for 29 years in the business, learning the trade, and having a strong team around me,” she explained. Rachael credits her achievements to ‘hard work, dedication, and the blessings of God’. She shared sincerely. “We are nothing without Him, so all glory belongs to Him.” THE POWER OF PEOPLE For Rachael, family has always been at the centre of everything. “My biggest dream has always been to make a difference in someone’s life,” she said. “I love people, and I have always been passionate about mentoring and upliftment. Through the success of the business, we are able to enrich the lives of others, and that is one of my dreams that has been fulfilled.” When speaking of her inspiration, Rachael’s gratitude shines through. “I cannot say it is one person, because there are so many people around me who have inspired me,” she reflected. “My husband has given me the opportunity to take the business to the next level for the future. My family has also played a big part. My parents sacrificed a lot in their lives to give us an education. My father has passed away, but my mother is still living and she has been a pillar of strength.” Her siblings and extended family continue to motivate her. “They have always believed in me,” she said. “Sometimes you think you cannot do the things you want to do, but they have encouraged me along the way. I am very involved in my church, and my church family has been a huge encouragement, always giving me guidance.” This love for people extends beyond her family and congregation into the professional world. “Because I love people, I have built close relationships with our customers and suppliers,” she explained. “Through that trust, we receive a lot of support, and that has really helped the business.” Rotacon’s growth has been complemented by Rachael’s leadership and the company’s strong commitment to transformation. “Since becoming the majority shareholder, we have achieved level one B-BBEE status, which has helped the business tremendously,” she said. “We do work for government, and with the current policies, that compliance is essential. Being a woman has also been an advantage in that space.” EMPOWERING WOMEN As a woman leading an engineering company, Rachael is acutely aware of the challenges that come with working in a traditionally male-dominated environment. “When you interact with men in this industry, they sometimes tend to look down on you, as if you do not know what you are talking about,” she admitted. “But I have always remained professional and just been myself. The results speak for themselves. It has proven that women can succeed in a maledominated industry.” Under her leadership, Rotacon has made a deliberate effort to employ women in key roles. “I want women to know that they can succeed in this industry,” Rachael emphasised. “My success in the business has proven that, and I hope it inspires others. I love empowering people, and that has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my journey.” Her advice to young women is simple but powerful. “Believe in yourself,” she urged. “Do not let the world define who you are. Especially now, in the age we are living in with technology, women often feel they have to live up to a certain standard. My advice is just to be yourself. Believe in yourself and know that you can do anything you put your mind to.” Looking ahead, Rachael has clear goals for both her company and her personal mission. “The aim is for the business to diversify and to keep growing,” she said. “Through the business being financially successful, we are able to uplift people who are less fortunate. That is my dream, to use the company as a platform to empower people.” For Rachael, the heart of any organisation lies in its people. “I believe that people are the biggest asset in any business,” she said firmly. “Without our employees, the business would not be where it is today.” FINDING BALANCE Despite her busy schedule, Rachael makes time for the things that keep her grounded. “I love the outdoors,” she said with a smile. “I am a drone enthusiast, so I fly my drone in my spare time. I spend a lot of time with family and friends, and I am very involved in my church. I try not to take the business home, especially because my husband is also in the business. We leave work at work and home is home." Previous Next

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< Back Heather McDade Managing Director of Modena Design Centres Durban Heather McDade is the managing director of Modena Design Centres Durban. The company operates in the design solutions space, offering advanced software and technology services to industries across Africa. Heather explained, “We are the only Autodesk Platinum Partner in Africa. Autodesk is the largest computer-aided design (CAD) software development company in the world. We sell software solutions to architects and engineers, we train, we implement the software, and we do a lot of reality capture, including 3D scanning and underground scanning.” A CAREER SHAPED BY INNOVATION Heather’s career began in the 1970s as an electrical draughtsman with the electricity department. She recalled, “In those days we were all very much on the drawing board, using pens and traditional drafting tools. As technology started to gain momentum, we began working with AutoCAD, which was the first piece of design software that Autodesk developed.” Over time, Heather moved into companies that were digitising paper drawings, and she witnessed the shift from two-dimensional design to a world rich with data-driven modelling. Heather expanded, “Now a line no longer just represents a wall. You can actually draw a wall that has content and data attached to it. Building Information Modelling, or BIM, is incredible. It is an aggregator that allows all disciplines in the design process to work in a coordinated way. Everything is coordinated in a 3D model, so all the clash detection and technical information is resolved before you break ground. The amounts of efficiency and cost saving just by using the proper software and working in a coordinated environment are huge.” For Heather, people remain at the heart of her business. “My biggest dream is people. People are my passion, and I want them to succeed,” she said. Modena employs a team of thirty-four staff members, including architects and engineers with real industry experience. Heather values the culture of care and accountability within the organisation. “They call me Mama Modena at the office. I’m the nurturer. I make sure everyone is happy and feels acknowledged, but people are still accountable. I’m not a pushover, everyone is expected to work hard and take accountability, and we hold them to that. It is about balance. I have a wonderful business partner, Clive, who is the sales director and he makes sure everyone conforms.” Heather added that they have an human resources consultant who works closely with them, and she often uses Clive and her as an example of balance in leadership, because they really complement each other. BUILDING FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS Heather started the business in her own lounge with just one salesperson. She reflected, “Slowly we took an office, then a bigger office, and the staff grew. Now we have just bought a beautiful property. Looking back, the journey has been my greatest achievement. I have been very blessed to have people to walk that journey with me.” Like many in the software industry, Modena has faced challenges, particularly with currency fluctuations. “We buy our software in dollars, so there have always been challenges in balancing financial realities with people’s needs. But the hard work pays off. It is about tenacity, holding down and taking one day at a time.” She added, “While I’ve got a wonderful staff, we’ve had challenges with staff, and I think that’s the reality in business. It’s nothing new.” A PASSION FOR EDUCATION Education is one of Heather’s strongest commitments. She explained, “I am very passionate about education. We work with engineering graphics and design colleges and universities, training students on the technology. Many graduates come out of tertiary education with technical knowledge but not the technological skills to back it up. We help bridge that gap.” Modena has collaborated with institutions such as the Sasol Foundation to expand training opportunities and support the next generation of industry professionals. SUPPORTIVE NETWORK When asked what advice she would give to others, Heather highlights the importance of a supportive network. “You cannot do it alone. I have an external network of beautiful friends who I share with often. It is not always easy but lean on those who can help and support you, and in doing so, you support them as well.” Her growth as a leader has also been shaped by personal resilience. “I am a single mum, and I have been for 36 years. That has inspired me to make sure I am always giving back, because in hard times people came into my life to support me. It is about giving that back.”She added, “I am also a Christian, and God is very important in our business. He has blessed us enormously and sits at the forefront of our business.” Although retirement is on the horizon, Heather is not slowing down. “I have just opened a branch in Zambia, which is a big and exciting challenge. My focus is on making sure the business is stable so that when I step out one day, I leave behind a legacy for the future.”Beyond business, Heather has been very intentional about finding balance in her life and has cultivated a passion for painting. She explained, “I go on beautiful oil painting workshops in the mountains, and I love the oil medium. I also enjoy live shows and being out and about. I am intentional about not sitting at home. I am a busy lady.” LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP Heather’s journey is a story of persistence, innovation and care. She has built a thriving business that supports industries with cutting-edge solutions while remaining firmly rooted in her belief in people. As she put it, “The way I have made an impact in business is through nurturing. I want people to feel acknowledged and empowered, and I have been blessed to have an incredible team walk this journey with me." Previous Next