Kerri Adlam Art and Creative Director

"We pride ourselves in continually striving for excellence and in ensuring that our food is interesting, local and relevant, but most importantly, being steadfastly mindful of our footprint on the environment by adhering to strict QMS and ISO practices. Subscribe Home KZN Leaders Up Up Merrill King "We pride ourselves in continually striving for excellence and in ensuring that our food is interesting, local and relevant, but most importantly, being steadfastly mindful of our footprint on the environment by adhering to strict QMS and ISO practices. Collaborating for success MERRILL KING, joint MD of Capitol Caterers, has had a 36-year career in the food industry. King, when having to decide on a career path, followed in her brother's footsteps who was working in the hospitality industry, and was lured by the 'romance' of working in the kitchen. She qualified as a chef through the trainee programme at the Royal Hotel in Durban. This culinary background has served her well, providing King with a thorough knowledge of food preparation and service. She has served as Group Executive Chef for a period of ten years at Capitol Caterers. However, together with joint MD Russell Nzimande, King now focuses on the business side of managing Capitol Caterers' daily operations. Headquartered in Pietermaritzburg, Capitol Caterers was founded in 1993 by her husband Giles who in the current role as chairman, still plays an active role in the business. The company is currently entering its 26th year of service and caters for clients in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Western Cape, Free State, Gauteng as well as in Eswatini. King says that much of her time is spent travelling to the regional offices to ensure that these operations are well supported. In addition, she values the relationships that she has developed with her staff and she strives to understand their needs and ensure that they are happy. "We favour a collaborative style of leadership and obtain input from all divisions when decisions are to be made. Within the catering environment, all of our staff play important roles. While wages may motivate some staff members, supporting our staff so that they are happy means that all our clients are happy too," commented King. Capitol Caterers has over 100 clients in different sectors. These range from the education and health sectors, to the commercial and the retirement sectors. "The catering business is hard work. In order to meet these varied sector needs, a standardised approach or menu is not possible. We have to ensure that our menus are within our clients' vastly different needs and budgets." In addition, Capitol Caterers not only keeps up with food trends but ensures that all the food that is prepared in their kitchens is nutritious and fulfils a wide range of dietary needs while being beautifully presented. "We pride ourselves in continually striving for excellence and in ensuring that our food is interesting, local and relevant, but most importantly, being steadfastly mindful of our footprint on the environment by adhering to strict QMS and ISO practices."In order to ensure that the staff are skilled, Capitol Caterers has registered Midlands Hospitality Academy (MHA), which is accredited by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) and CATHSSETA. Staff empowerment has been promoted through the company's Workers Trust. In an empowerment deal initiated in 2003, the beneficiaries have grown to 570 and now boast a 49% share in Capitol Caterers. King commented that in addition to empowering staff, the company needed to continually make its presence known in the marketplace through active marketing campaigns. In order to obtain some life balance, King enjoys spending time in the gym, paddling or running to stay fit and 'to ensure a flow of endorphins'. She is a competitive canoeist who has won several age-category gold medals in the Dusi and Fish River Marathons as well as a silver medal with partner, Sonja Bohnsack, at the World Marathon Canoeing Championships in Pietermaritzburg in 2017. She hopes to complete her 16th Dusi in 2020. King has also competed in running events including two Comrades Marathons and five Two Oceans ultra-marathons. King was the first woman to hold the position of president of Canoeing South Africa, which she occupied from 2008-2010. She is a long-serving board member of the South African Confederation of Sport and Olympic Committee (SASCOC). Whenever possible, King enjoys relaxing with her husband, their three children and grandson.

This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. Want to view and manage all your collections? Click on the Content Manager button in the Add panel on the left. Here, you can make changes to your content, add new fields, create dynamic pages and more.Professional Makeup Consultation KZN Top Business Subscribe < Back Zululand Chamber of Commerce & Industry Book Now About Zululand Chamber of Commerce & Industry Previous Next

Ashok Sewnarain is the owner of South Africa’s first privately owned safe deposit vaults, IBV International Bank Vaults which is located in Durban’s Gateway Mall and in Sandton, Johannesburg. Subscribe Home KZN Leaders Up Up Ashok Sewnarain Ashok Sewnarain is the owner of South Africa’s first privately owned safe deposit vaults, IBV International Bank Vaults which is located in Durban’s Gateway Mall and in Sandton, Johannesburg. “Humbleness takes you everywhere. Arrogance will take you nowhere.” Ashok Sewnarain is the owner of South Africa's first privately owned safe deposit vaults, IBV International Bank Vaults which is located in Durban's Gateway Mall and in Sandton, Johannesburg. Sewnarain was born in Mayville, an Indian designated area in apartheid South Africa. His father ran a small, often struggling, estate agency and taught his son to never give up. When Sewnarain took over the family business, he injected new ideas into it, expanding into the hotel and hospitality industry as the barriers put up by apartheid were dismantled. "It was around 2004 when I overheard a bank teller saying that there is a long waiting list of people who wanted to put their valuables in the bank's vault. I jokingly said that I will open my own vault," Sewnarain says with a wry smile. Sewnarain began to seriously think about opening a vault. He did extensive research, which took him to other countries to look at how the vaults are constructed, the finance involved, security features and a host of other things. He found that there is substantial demand for such sophisticated facilities. In May 2005, Sewnarain opened the first private vault, in Umhlanga's Gateway Mall. "We choose the best malls and prime spots for our vaults. Our first site was selected because of its proximity to significant business and residential developments in KwaZulu-Natal. Also, the layout of the Gateway complex facilitates International Bank Vaults' strict security standards." "It's a risk to have a safe at home because many people have access to your home. We offer a solution, and peace of mind. We add value to the country in a sense that people can safely keep their gold and other assets in the country instead of sending them offshore." International Bank Vaults offers safety deposit boxes in modern-day fortresses. The vaults are built to international standards and specifications, complete with steel-reinforced concrete and protected by a sophisticated, multitiered security system. They are monitored by trained professionals and open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Sewnarain subscribes to the philosophy that says one should persevere and be determined to pursue his dreams in whatever business that one chooses. He says, "Business is full of risk and challenges that we must confront on a daily basis." He added that he had had many failures in his business career, but all had made him more knowledgeable and humble. However, Sewnarain says, "You must be bold and have courage to launch business ventures with honesty and respect for staff, customers, suppliers and service providers." " Life is about dreaming big. Dream to make a million dollars, rather than a million rand. The most successful people in the world dream big. It's free. It has no boundaries and borders," he explained. International Bank Vaults' customers have special, reserved parking close to the facilities and many of them drive exotic cars. The IBV Supercar Club has spun off from the vault business; has a membership of more than 700 super-rich car owners and is recognised as one of the world's leading supercar clubs. Sewnarain is its founder, leading patron and chairman. The members of the club often raise funds for charity. In 2014, they won the Guinness world record for raising R1 million for Child Welfare of South Africa in record time. The club has also partnered with the United Nations Children's Fund Unicef in raising money for charity. Sewnarain commented that he tries to create a balance between good business and profit through providing community and social support. This balance is achieved by promoting a spirit of social entrepreneurship, which he believes is an important aspect that every business leader should adopt in their own enterprises. He concluded, "The more that you give the more that you get."

VIP Invitation The Launch KZN Top Business Leaders And The Grand Opening of The IBV Privé The Launch IBV Privé and KZN Top Business are thrilled to invite you to a remarkable evening for the launch of the eagerly awaited KZN Top Business Leaders' Coffee Table Book. This book honors the remarkable accomplishments and inspiring narratives of KwaZulu-Natal's lively business community. Additionally, we will be introducing the exquisite IBV Privé, a unique venue that redefines elegance and exclusivity. Black tie dress code Date: Wednesday, 27 November Time: 6:00 p.m. Venue: IBV Privé, 13 Twilight Dr, Umhlanga Ridge, Umhlanga Get ready for a night of incredible entertainment, delectable food, and unmatched networking opportunities with KZN's top business icons. We can't wait to share this special occasion with you! RSVP First name* Last name* Email* Company name* Guest - name and surname Phone Register

"I am inspired by making a difference. When you finance businesses and can see the growth in these entities, it gives a great sense of accomplishment Subscribe Home KZN Leaders Up Up Pat Moodley "I am inspired by making a difference. When you finance businesses and can see the growth in these entities, it gives a great sense of accomplishment I am inspired by making a difference PAT MOODLEY has been in the financial sector for over 30 years, where the desire to promote sustainable business development and economic growth has shaped his career. After completing his initial university degree, Moodley obtained a position in the banking sector focusing on financing of SMMEs and corporates. This experience, as well as working for other finance institutions, resulted in a position at the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) where he has worked for the past 19 years. Moodley says, "Working for IDC is not only a job, but it is also a calling." He explained that he is driven by the desire to grow viable and sustainable businesses that have social impact; especially businesses that create jobs to counter the high rate of unemployment. Moodley says that he is motivated daily by the fact that once he reaches retirement age, he will be able to reflect on his achievements and the difference that he has contributed to enhance the business sector in KZN under his leadership at the IDC. "I am inspired by making a difference. When you finance businesses and can see the growth in these entities, it gives a great sense of accomplishment. He added that when you finance a business that creates jobs, then families can enhance their lives and secure a better future for their children. By creating jobs, we are creating a sustainable country that ensures our future. Young and upcoming university graduates have a likelihood of being employed locally rather than moving out of the country." The commitment to his multifaceted role is apparent in the long and demanding hours that Moodley puts in to ensure that his clients' needs are met. He says, "Working at the IDC is not a standard eight to five job."Moodley describes himself as being very people oriented and has an open-door policy to both his employees and clients to discuss any issue relating to business and the work they do. "Dealing with people is not always easy and it takes exceptional skills, especially where finances are involved. Part of my role is educating my team on how to manage client's expectations." The IDC KZN team is very passionate about development and constantly work to empower sustainable business entities. "We are customer focused and ensure that we provide a high level of service, our clients are extremely important as they are the foundation for the growth of our economy. Servicing clients may include identifying gaps in their business model that require attention or providing mentorship to assist their businesses to grow." The KwaZulu-Natal regional office's success has also grown out of the relationships it has forged with the public and private sectors, other development finance institutions, as well as commercial banks. In addition, Moodley says that although he and his team need to be very empathetic, they also need to be firm on the occasions that the IDC is unable to assist with applications for funding. He added that if a project is not sustainable there are valid reasons, and these are explained to the client in detail. We finance businesses that are sustainable and economically viable." Moodley's advice to anyone entering the finance industry is that they would need to have integrity and honesty. Although Moodley is very comfortable with his current achievements, he intends to ensure that the IDC continues to have an impact on the lives of people who require support. He believes that the KwaZulu-Natal province has many opportunities and it's vital to tap into these. Moodley is married with one son. During the weekends, he enjoys relaxing at home and often spends time cooking to unwind. When possible, he and his family enjoy travel to ensure that they spend quality time together.

< Back Lea Wimble Owner and Founder of Wimble Attorneys Lea Wimble is the owner and founder of Wimble Attorneys, a conveyancing firm based on the north coast of KwaZulu-Natal. The firm, which celebrates its sixth anniversary in 2025 has built a reputation for professionalism, compassion and community impact. Reflecting on her journey, Lea explained that entrepreneurship was never part of her initial plan. However, she said life had other ideas. “By circumstances, the same year I had my third baby, I also found myself in a position where I had to start a business. It was quite a scary time. I always talk about it as the year I had two babies, a real-life baby and a business baby, and the business baby was the one who kept me up at night.” Once she embraced the change, Lea recognised that this challenge was also an opportunity. “I thought, there must be a reason why I was chosen to have this business. What good can come from it?” THE BIRTH OF THE GIFTED PROJECT From that reflection, the Gifted Project was born. “We asked ourselves, ‘What makes us different from any other conveyancing law firm?’,” Lea explained. “I always say to my staff, if our business were to shut its doors tomorrow, would the community actually miss us?” The firm decided that for every property transfer completed, a percentage of the fee would go into a Gifted Fund. These funds are used to purchase and donate homes to families in need. “Our big goal is to gift one home a year,” Lea said proudly. “Just a month ago, we registered and transferred our second home into someone’s name. We’re doing some renovations, and soon her family will move in with their own title deed.” At the heart of Wimble Attorneys lies a simple yet profound motto: How can we help? Lea explained, “We start by asking how we can help our clients. We ask our employees what they need to do a good job, to live a fulfilled life and then, how can we help our community." The Gifted Project has already changed lives in tangible ways. The first recipient was a domestic worker who now rents out the home she received, effectively doubling her income. The second project benefitted a single mother with a child with special needs. “We’re creating a space where she can live in one part and rent out another to supplement her income,” Lea said. Lea described the experience as deeply moving. “It’s very fulfilling and very humbling.” She added, “There’s such power in storytelling, just to sit with someone, listen to their story and understand what life is like in their shoes. It’s such a blessing to be part of their journey.” Lea is careful to ensure that the home becomes an asset. “We never want the gift to be a burden to someone,” she emphasised. “We help and guide the recipients so it becomes something that helps them step up in life.” INSPIRED BY FAMILY AND VALUES Lea attributes much of her drive and compassion to her mother, who was Kimberley’s first female pharmacist business owner in the 1970s. “My mum owned Kimberley Pharmacy,” Lea shared. “She was a trailblazer. Later, she became a volunteer for the Cancer Association of South Africa and raised over a million rand for cancer patients.” This spirit of service left a lasting impression. “What was modelled to us as children was to work hard, believe in what you do, and always ask, what can I do to make someone else’s life better?” Before starting her legal practice, Lea taught law at the University of the Free State and holds three law degrees: a Bachelor of Commerce in Law, a Bachelor of Laws and a Master’s in Law.Her move into conveyancing came later. “After years of lecturing, I decided to complete my conveyancing exam and return to practice. That’s been the last ten years of my life.” She said, “I love being in a specialised field where I can give clients solid advice." Transitioning from academia to business was also influenced by her husband. “He was always the business guru,” she explained. “When he got an opportunity in Durban, we moved, and that opened the door for me. What started as supporting his dream became me discovering my own purpose.” CHALLENGES AND GROWTH Lea acknowledges that growing a business has challenges. “When you do good work, your business grows which is wonderful, but it also means you have to grow too,” she said. “At first, I did everything – director, tea girl, typist, cleaner. My clients loved that personal touch. When the firm grew and I hired staff, I had to assure clients that the same quality of service would continue. I also had to evolve from being a conveyancer to being a business owner and manager of people.” Lea encourages young women entering the legal profession or starting their own ventures to be authentic. “Be true to yourself,” she advised. “People have an idea of how a lawyer should look or act. I’ve been told, ‘You’re so gentle – how can you be a lawyer?’. But I’ve learned that my gentleness is my strength.” She added, “If you’re going to do something for the rest of your life, you have to love it. You have to wake up excited to do it.” LOOKING AHEAD Lea’s vision for the future is centred on growth and impact. “I’d love to see the Gifted Project grow into a fully-fledged non-profit organisation that donates homes and creates employment opportunities. My husband jokes that I’m a professional gift buyer who funds it by running a law firm – and he’s not wrong.” Outside of work, Lea finds balance through running and reading. “My midlife crisis was long-distance running,” she laughed. “I run most days and read a lot. I have three children and we’re a very close family. My happiest days are the ordinary ones, spent with my husband and kids. That’s what I love most." Previous Next

< Back Veetha Sewkuran President of the KwaZulu-Natal Blind and Deaf Society Veetha Sewkuran, president of the KwaZulu Natal Blind and Deaf Society, has always been driven by transformation. Her greatest dream has been to see the Society grow into a fully inclusive, self-sustaining centre of empowerment. Veetha expanded, “A place where blind and deaf individuals are not just supported, but educated, trained, and employed, allowing them to live independent and dignified lives.” Under her guidance, this vision is steadily becoming a reality. Veetha, although she holds the post of president as an unpaid volunteer, has revitalised the century-old organisation, guiding it from turbulence to renewed purpose and stability. Her inspiration, she explains, has come from the people she serves. “My inspiration has always come from the blind and deaf individuals whose courage, resilience, and determination remind me every day why I do this work,” she shares warmly. “It also comes from my colleagues and volunteers at the Society, who give selflessly to uplift others. My inspiration, in essence, comes from seeing lives change, from turning challenges into possibilities, and from the belief that every person, regardless of ability, deserves to take their rightful place in society.” GUIDING WITH PURPOSE AND PERSEVERANCE When Veetha assumed leadership of the KwaZulu-Natal Blind and Deaf Society, she inherited an organisation facing immense challenges. “I walked into a time of deep crisis,” she recalls. “A forensic audit revealed significant financial irregularities, which led to criminal and civil proceedings as well as a Labour Court case. It was one of the most testing periods of my professional life.” At the time, the Society was struggling to maintain public trust, donor support, and staff morale. Yet Veetha remained steadfast. “Whilst dealing with the legal and structural issues, I had to ensure that essential services to the blind and deaf community continued uninterrupted,” she explains. “That meant protecting jobs, managing limited funds, and restoring confidence among stakeholders." Her approach was rooted in transparency, ethical leadership, and teamwork. “In an NGO, you have to work together with your colleagues, staff, and volunteers,” she reflects. “To be inspired, one has to inspire. Your staff and volunteers must feel motivated to work with passion and pride. Only then can you create a supportive and unified environment.” Through clear communication and unwavering resolve, Veetha led the organisation out of turmoil. “These experiences tested every facet of my leadership,” she admits. “But they also defined it. I learned that true leadership is not about comfort or convenience, but about standing firm in adversity, making courageous decisions, and leading with integrity even when the odds are against you.” Her efforts bore fruit. The Society regained its footing and began to flourish once more. Under her leadership, it has launched accredited skills development programmes, including SETA-accredited computer literacy and sewing courses for blind and deaf youth. “Seeing our youth gain confidence through training and find work is incredibly fulfilling,” she says. “It proves that ability is not limited by disability.” Beyond education, the Society has introduced life skills training, such as culinary programmes for the blind, and expanded its Adult Literacy and Training Centre. Veetha’s focus on partnership has also been instrumental in growth. “We have built strong collaborations with corporate sponsors, government departments, and community networks,” she explains. “Together, we are creating opportunities that empower individuals and strengthen our collective mission.” Flagship events like the Eye Can Walk, Talk Sign, and Blind Navigator Rally have helped the Society raise vital funds. “These initiatives do more than sustain the organisation financially,” says Veetha. “They bring people together. They remind society that inclusion is everyone’s responsibility.” A MESSAGE OF HOPE AND RESILIENCE For Veetha, success is measured not only in programmes but in people. “My greatest achievement lies in witnessing transformation,” she says with conviction. “It is in seeing a once timid learner become a confident graduate or a once dependent adult now employed and thriving. Those moments show the true impact of compassion and service." Her leadership philosophy rests on three core values: choice, chance, and change. “I always tell young women to believe in themselves even when others do not,” she says. “Educate yourself, because education is your key to the world. Serve with purpose and remain resilient. I live by the three Cs: you have to make a choice, to take a chance, to make a change.” Her words carry weight, not just as advice but as a reflection of her own journey. Leading as a woman in a male-dominated environment came with its own set of challenges. “There were moments when my decisions and authority were questioned,” she recalls. “But I refused to be discouraged. I knew why I was here and who I was serving.”Through persistence and unwavering faith, Veetha has cultivated a culture of compassion, teamwork, and excellence at the KwaZulu-Natal Blind and Deaf Society. “We have built an organisation where every person, whether blind, deaf, or sighted, feels valued, respected, and empowered to make a difference,” she says. Finding balance amidst her demanding role has been essential to sustaining her energy and focus. “Leading the Society is deeply rewarding but also demanding,” she reflects. “I make a conscious effort to balance service with self-care. My strength comes from faith, family, and gratitude. I take time to pause, reflect, and stay grounded. Sometimes that means quiet prayer, sometimes time with loved ones. These moments keep me centred and remind me why I do what I do.” For Veetha, true balance is also about being fully present in each moment: “Giving my best to my work, my family, and myself.” THE ROAD AHEAD As she looks to the future, Veetha remains steadfast in her mission to expand the Society’s reach and impact. “We are building a Society where no one is left behind,” she says proudly. “Where blind and deaf individuals are recognised for their potential. Every challenge,” she says, “is an opportunity to make a difference. And when you serve with heart, the difference you make can last a lifetime." Previous Next