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As long as we are having a fun lifestyle with lots of memories and being happy as a family, that’s all we really want < Back Nozuko Basson Regional Manager for Communities and Corporate Affairs Tronox South Africa Nozuko Basson’s role at Tronox, which is based in northern KZN, entails making sure that the mining company honours its responsibility of creating value for its stakeholders, of which, communities take centre stage. The most significant event in Nozuko’s life is, she says, when she became a mother. “I had my daughter when I was fairly young and from the moment she arrived in this world, I knew that the game had changed. It’s an ambition of mine, that when my daughter is asked who your role model is, she mentions my name.” In ensuring that she is an inspiration to her daughter, Nozuko constantly evaluates how she behaves, how she practices professionalism in the workplace, and how she treats other people. Nozuko believes that she has got to where she is today through hard work, dedication, a lot of praying and the support from many people who have crossed her path. “I’m somebody who is focused on her religion. I’m a Christian and I’ve always believed that everything that I do is enabled by my faith. I started my career as a journalist, but I realised that was not the life that I wanted to live. I’m not a social and out-there type of person, so I moved into public relations. I was fortunate to work for an agency where I had an amazing mentor who helped me in building the capability to understand how media relations works.” From there, Nozuko moved onto one of South Africa’s largest medical insurance organisations, Discovery. Here, Nozuko said, she had mentors who helped guide her through her career. “I’ve been fortunate that I had other people lifting me, guiding me, and making sure that I stayed on the right track. My journey has been difficult; it’s always good to be reminded by those who are ahead of you how to remain positive and confident in what you are doing.” Having courage Nozuko says that her decision to move to KwaZulu-Natal has been an amazing journey that has required her to really stretch herself. This meant going into areas where she thought she would never be able to venture. She added, “Just having the courage to really push myself and push the boundaries for my team members so that we all work towards one single vision. This requires that we stay close to the cause and really live our own personal values, as well as the values of the organisation in which I work right now.” In commenting on the challenges that she has faced, Nozuko says that as a young female professional, the first challenge that she would like to focus on, is the “pull her down syndrome”. “When you, as a female, start rising in your career there are times when other females do everything in their power to pull you down. I have a strong view that if one of us rise, we all rise. It’s hard enough being a young female, let alone being black in the workplace; we need to hold each other up and motivate each other.” The second challenge she has faced is working in the mining industry, which is a male dominated sector. Over that, working within the community, which is also a male led environment that still subscribes to traditional practices has brought a great deal of learning, that has come with its own difficulties. Currently, the third challenge has been dealing with unconventional community issues, that pose a serious risk to Tronox’s public reputation. “This is where the company’s values, procedures and policies need to guide you to deal with the challenges in a manner that does not compromise your role or its reputation,” said Nozuko. “Lastly, I have often found myself feeling not quite welcome around the ‘table’, as if I am a token BEE candidate,” says Nozuko. “I’ve learnt that I shouldn’t wait for somebody to offer me a seat at the table. If there’s no seat for a female in the workplace or in this industry, you bring your own, and that’s something that I have really started being vocal about.” Leaving behind a legacy In the future, Nozuko wants to leave behind a legacy that says, “When Nozuko Basson was in that community or was working in that organisation, she made a positive difference.” In terms of her career, she sees herself growing from strength to strength. Right now, she is focused on her work in South Africa, but soon, she wants to share her knowledge and skills with the rest of the world. Nozuko added that she is fortunate to work for an organisation that has the platform that will allow her to do so when the time is right. On the personal side, Nozuko wants to travel the world. “I want to touch other lives in my own personal space. I want to live my best life and it’s something that I’m making a deliberate effort in doing and I know that I’m on the right track.” In advising others, she says, “It’s important not to be side-tracked by other people’s opinions. It’s important to remain true to yourself. It’s important that when you venture out, you understand that not everybody will be cheering for you, so learn to be your own cheerleader and as you’re cheering yourself, cheer those around you because they may not know the power that they have within themselves.” Nozuko believes one needs to put their heart into everything that they do. “I always say to people, if you’re not going to give it your all, rather don’t start. I believe in dazzling people. One of Tronox’s values speaks to doing the right work, the right way in every aspect of our business and that’s really what I subscribe to. I don’t take short cuts; it’s about doing something right all the time. It’s behaving in an ethical way and ensuring that everything I touch, doesn’t only represent organisational integrity, but also my own personal integrity.”

< Back Next > Thirusha Govender Chief Executive Officer, ControlPro Thirusha Govender is the CEO and founder of ControlPro (Pty) Ltd, a business development firm specialising in business advisory, internal audit and compliance, risk management and taxation. Often referred to as a “business doctor”, ControlPro specialises in business services, tailored to the needs of each client. Thirusha’s comprehensive approach centres on con- ducting gap analyses to evaluate business operations. “My goal is to maximise profits and minimise losses,” she notes. Drawing on skills and experience in internal audit and risk management, she identifies areas of concern within entities, such as the under utilisation of resources, inefficient systems and/or processes and then finds cost- efficient solutions to streamline operations in both, the private and public sectors. Her academic journey includes a Bachelor of Accounting Science and a postgraduate BCom degree in auditing, as well as studies in management accounting, taxation and risk. She chose a career in internal audit to “add value from the inside.” This is what gave birth to ControlPro: “The desire to assist businesses develop their core from which there can be growth and sustainability. A lack of financial expertise, especially when establishing a business, has led to the failure of many businesses which were otherwise completely viable. We seek to partner with businesses to minimise this risk.” Thirusha is a firm believer that “knowledge is power” and is passionate about offering practical training to not only improve businesses but to upskill and empower people. Reflecting on her early experiences, Thirusha states, “I believe serving my (SAICA) articles was an education in itself, it was a valuable learning ground where I developed essential soft skills and learned how to interact with clients. Not to mention the ability to apply theory to real life situations. I have always been curious and keen to learn, seeking to find the ‘why’ in all things. I listen and observe more than I talk and I learn from my mistakes and the mistakes of others.” Realising Dreams Thirusha is driven to ensure that CEOs are well-supported. “Business owners excel in operations, but challenges often arise during expansion,” she explains. “You can’t run a business solely from your head! Well-trained staff and tools like standard operating procedures are essential for growth and sustainability. Your business should create a legacy of wealth, whether you want to sell it or pass it down through generations.” “Have fun with your business,” she advises. “It can be exciting if you manage the details effectively through systems. This way, you can work on the business instead of in it, enjoying the luxuries of ownership, like flexibility and realising your dreams.” When discussing her dreams, Thirusha states, “I’m family- oriented, my biggest dream was to find my dream partner, build my family and to be able to take care of my parents and travel the world. The latter is still a work in progress!” Thirusha’s upbringing was filled with love, which she credits as a source of inspiration. “We didn’t have the highest income, but quality time was prioritised. My parents’ sacrifices instilled a deep appreciation for hard work.” She explained that they had provided strong role models for lifelong learning and adaptability. “Knowing that I come from such a solid background gives me the security to grow.” As her family expanded, she noted, “We remain close-knit, and that unity motivates me to believe that life is worth fighting for. We can choose happiness.” At the heart of Thirusha’s business philosophy is a commitment to excellence, collaboration, and practical solutions. She believes that success is not just about individual achievements but about lifting others as you climb. This philosophy is evident in her approach to business, where she emphasises teamwork and mutual growth. Attention to Detail The proof of Thirusha’s success lies in her long-term client relationships and referrals, her business growth into its tenth year; professional memberships to the Institute of Internal Auditors, SA Institute of Taxation and the Chartered Institute of Business Accountants and the directorships held in non-profit organisations as her way of giving back. Reflecting on her personal journey, Thirusha shared that she encountered numerous challenges, including trauma and health issues, when starting her business in 2015. “Initially, I could only work a few hours a week, but I accepted that this gradual pace was essential for my recovery.” She recalls celebrating the day she could manage six hours of work: “That was a significant accomplishment for me! Overcoming these obstacles has allowed me to build my brand and business.” Thirusha considers herself a trauma survivor, stating, “I am a product of love and endless support from my husband, immediate family, and best friend. My husband and daughter are my biggest fans. My husband is always supportive, empowering and a great leader. This, together with Christ, are the foundation from which I rise.” Looking ahead, she encourages young women to, “Do what you are passionate about and do it to a level of excellence. Be curious, be willing to try and fail. Learn how to leverage failure as stepping stones to success. As you start your journey, be like a mega sponge and absorb as much knowledge and know-how as you possibly can. You are a diamond in the rough, you have all the potential in you to dazzle the world, but it is your responsibility to acknowledge that and shine bright.” Thirusha’s future goals include leaving a legacy for her daughter and future generations — one that embodies courage and compassion. “I want to support other entrepreneurs, as that’s how jobs are created, which empowers families,” she explains. Ultimately, she believes that when employees and their families thrive, society benefits. “No matter the adversity, there’s always something to smile about. It’s essential to focus on the positives.” In her personal life, Thirusha aspires to find balance. “I find serenity in nature— particularly sunrises, sunsets, and the ocean waves. Appreciating the beauty of creation reminds me of God’s power and the interconnectedness of all things. This uplifts me, and that joy is truly priceless.” < Previous Next >

I just embrace life and live each day and take it as an opportunity to make things right, to empower others with my own life’s journey < Back Nozuko Basson Regional Manager for Communities and Corporate Affairs Tronox South Africa Nozuko Basson’s role at Tronox, which is based in northern KZN, entails making sure that the mining company honours its responsibility of creating value for its stakeholders, of which, communities take centre stage. The most significant event in Nozuko’s life is, she says, when she became a mother. “I had my daughter when I was fairly young and from the moment she arrived in this world, I knew that the game had changed. It’s an ambition of mine, that when my daughter is asked who your role model is, she mentions my name.” In ensuring that she is an inspiration to her daughter, Nozuko constantly evaluates how she behaves, how she practices professionalism in the workplace, and how she treats other people. Nozuko believes that she has got to where she is today through hard work, dedication, a lot of praying and the support from many people who have crossed her path. “I’m somebody who is focused on her religion. I’m a Christian and I’ve always believed that everything that I do is enabled by my faith. I started my career as a journalist, but I realised that was not the life that I wanted to live. I’m not a social and out-there type of person, so I moved into public relations. I was fortunate to work for an agency where I had an amazing mentor who helped me in building the capability to understand how media relations works.” From there, Nozuko moved onto one of South Africa’s largest medical insurance organisations, Discovery. Here, Nozuko said, she had mentors who helped guide her through her career. “I’ve been fortunate that I had other people lifting me, guiding me, and making sure that I stayed on the right track. My journey has been difficult; it’s always good to be reminded by those who are ahead of you how to remain positive and confident in what you are doing.” Having courage Nozuko says that her decision to move to KwaZulu-Natal has been an amazing journey that has required her to really stretch herself. This meant going into areas where she thought she would never be able to venture. She added, “Just having the courage to really push myself and push the boundaries for my team members so that we all work towards one single vision. This requires that we stay close to the cause and really live our own personal values, as well as the values of the organisation in which I work right now.” In commenting on the challenges that she has faced, Nozuko says that as a young female professional, the first challenge that she would like to focus on, is the “pull her down syndrome”. “When you, as a female, start rising in your career there are times when other females do everything in their power to pull you down. I have a strong view that if one of us rise, we all rise. It’s hard enough being a young female, let alone being black in the workplace; we need to hold each other up and motivate each other.” The second challenge she has faced is working in the mining industry, which is a male dominated sector. Over that, working within the community, which is also a male led environment that still subscribes to traditional practices has brought a great deal of learning, that has come with its own difficulties. Currently, the third challenge has been dealing with unconventional community issues, that pose a serious risk to Tronox’s public reputation. “This is where the company’s values, procedures and policies need to guide you to deal with the challenges in a manner that does not compromise your role or its reputation,” said Nozuko. “Lastly, I have often found myself feeling not quite welcome around the ‘table’, as if I am a token BEE candidate,” says Nozuko. “I’ve learnt that I shouldn’t wait for somebody to offer me a seat at the table. If there’s no seat for a female in the workplace or in this industry, you bring your own, and that’s something that I have really started being vocal about.” Leaving behind a legacy In the future, Nozuko wants to leave behind a legacy that says, “When Nozuko Basson was in that community or was working in that organisation, she made a positive difference.” In terms of her career, she sees herself growing from strength to strength. Right now, she is focused on her work in South Africa, but soon, she wants to share her knowledge and skills with the rest of the world. Nozuko added that she is fortunate to work for an organisation that has the platform that will allow her to do so when the time is right. On the personal side, Nozuko wants to travel the world. “I want to touch other lives in my own personal space. I want to live my best life and it’s something that I’m making a deliberate effort in doing and I know that I’m on the right track.” In advising others, she says, “It’s important not to be side-tracked by other people’s opinions. It’s important to remain true to yourself. It’s important that when you venture out, you understand that not everybody will be cheering for you, so learn to be your own cheerleader and as you’re cheering yourself, cheer those around you because they may not know the power that they have within themselves.” Nozuko believes one needs to put their heart into everything that they do. “I always say to people, if you’re not going to give it your all, rather don’t start. I believe in dazzling people. One of Tronox’s values speaks to doing the right work, the right way in every aspect of our business and that’s really what I subscribe to. I don’t take short cuts; it’s about doing something right all the time. It’s behaving in an ethical way and ensuring that everything I touch, doesn’t only represent organisational integrity, but also my own personal integrity.”

Logie Naidoo Next Previous A former deputy mayor and speaker of the house of the eThekwini Municipality, and now a board member of Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Logie Naidoo’s story is one of resilience, service and transformation. A former deputy mayor and speaker of the house of the eThekwini Municipality, and now a board member of Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, Logie has spent decades helping shape the province’s economic and sociallandscape. His leadership journey reflects a deep commitment to community upliftment, ethical governance and sustainable development, values that continue to define his work today. Logie’s roots are firmly planted in the small sugar town of Tongaat, where generations of his family built their lives after arriving in South Africa from India. After leaving high school, Logie became politically active while balancing work and private studies. At the time, many political organisations were banned, and Logie joined the Natal Indian Congress (NIC). Founded by Mahatma Gandhi, the organisation carried historical significance within the liberation movement. He describes his teenage years as ‘quite colourful – activist by day and party animal by night’. Logie entered the working world during a period of significant technological and political change in South Africa. His first job was with Mercedes-Benz, then Daimler-Benz of Africa, where he worked in a vast warehouse managing spare parts logistics at a time when computers were only beginning to enter the workplace. From there, he joined the La Mercy Beach Hotel Group as an accountant, eventually rising to company director. Although trained in finance, he soon found himself overseeing construction projects and hotel operations, experiences that would broaden his understanding of business management and leadership. The hospitality industry offered him a comfortable and successful career, something he admits he was reluctant to leave behind. “I had this wonderful job. I could drive in at 9 am, staff would bring my coffee, and I could sit and watch the dolphins in the surf,” he says with a laugh. “Why would you want to leave that to go into a city with all the stress and pressures that come from that?” Yet in 1996, encouraged by members of his community, Logie stood for local government elections and won his ward in Tongaat. It was a decision that would alter the course of his life. BUILDING DURBAN Logie entered local government during a defining period in South Africa’s democratic development. By 2000, the newly formed Durban Metropolitan Council was consolidating municipalities into a single uni-city structure, requiring leaders capable of navigating complex transformation. He was eventually appointed deputy mayor and chair of economic development, roles in which he helped oversee some of Durban’s most ambitious infrastructure projects. Among the projects closest to his heart are the Moses Mabhida Stadium, King Shaka International Airport and uShaka Marine World. Logie also takes pride in smaller innovations that transformed Durban’s public spaces. One example is the iconic Whalebone Pier in Umhlanga, inspired by a creative engineering solution to disguise stormwater infrastructure. Yet despite the large-scale developments associated with his tenure, his most meaningful moment was granting the Freedom of the Town of Tongaat to Nelson Mandela who had a strong historical link to the town. “Mandela came to Tongaat numerous times when he was still underground and hid from the police at Gopallal Hurban’s sugar cane farm in Esenembe,” explained Logie. “For me, conferring the Freedom of the Town on this international statesman, a man with such an incredible aura and inspirational presence, remains one of the proudest and most memorable moments of my life.” Logie credits much of his leadership philosophy to struggle veteran Billy Nair, who spent 20 years imprisoned on Robben Island. “He always said to me, ‘Whenever in doubt, think about what is in the best interests of the people.’” That principle became central to Logie’s public service approach. “When I left the city, I left with just a pension,” he says. “I did some of the biggest projects, but I made sure that all the deals were neat and clean. Today I walk proudly in the streets of Durban.” A VISION FOR THE FUTURE Logie now serves as chair of commercial services at Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, where he is helping lead efforts to restore tourism infrastructure damaged by Covid-19, social unrest and severe storms. “Our task is to ensure that we restore the infrastructure and facilities to a global standard,” he explains. “We are currently embarking on a programme to upgrade all of our resorts, keeping in mind that we attract a lot of overseas visitors who love wildlife.” The conservation authority oversees many of KwaZulu-Natal’s most important biodiversity assets, including the internationally renowned Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park, home to one of the world’s largest populations of black and white rhino. Beyond conservation, however, Logie remains deeply concerned about the broader future of KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa’s metropolitan centres. He believes the province has all the ingredients necessary to reclaim its position as South Africa’s second-largest economy. “We have two beautiful ports, Durban and Richards Bay. We have some of the best climate in the world. We have diversity of people and skills,” he says. “We need to rebuild this economy and restore confidence.” For Logie, economic growth depends on stability, efficient infrastructure and ethical leadership. “Business people want stability. They want good infrastructure. They want efficient government services,” he says. “If we get that recipe right, KZN can grow and really become number two again.” He is equally passionate about restoring dignity and effective service delivery within local government. “We must adopt the policy of back to basics,” he says. “Focus on water, electricity, sanitation and refuse removal.” Despite the challenges facing South Africa, Logie remains inspired by leaders who dedicated their lives to service, especially Nelson Mandela. “We learnt so much from Mandela,” he says. “He was brilliant in his simplicity.” His own personal philosophy is summed up in a simple but powerful motto that he encountered years ago. “Love all, serve all,” he says. “Simple words, but profoundly meaningful.” For Logie, leadership has never been about titles or prestige. It has been about building communities, creating opportunities and leaving institutions stronger than he found them. Across decades of public life, that commitment to service has remained unchanged. Previous Next

Brian Howarth Next Previous Brian Howarth is the chairman of the Magnet Group Brian Howarth is the chairman of the Magnet Group. An electrical engineer by profession, Brian pursued a diploma in electrical engineering in the 1970s at Durban Technicon, followed by an electrical government certificate. Brian spent the initial decade of his career at the Durban Electricity Department. “They offered me a bursary, and I had to commit to a ten-year contract,” he explains. “When that was up, my father, who had started a business called Magnet Industrial Supplies, asked if I wanted to join.” His father, eager to retire and enjoy life, saw this as a prime opportunity to transition the family business, now Magnet Group, to the next generation. “It happened just like that,” Brian notes. “I’ve been at Magnet now for 38 years.” Over nearly four decades, Brian has watched the business adapt and grow. “Today, we’re focused on servicing the industrial sector in KZN,” he says, listing a client base that includes multinational companies in food and beverage, steel, aluminium, pulp and paper, and sugar industries. Magnet, a specialist electrical engineering firm with a trading arm, is one of Schneider Electric’s major partners in South Africa. “We’ve been working with Schneider since we started, selling their electrical switch- gear and control components,” he shares. When Eskom’s electricity supply began struggling to meet demand, Brian saw an opportunity. “We put together a team of engineers and proposed energy-saving solutions to our clients,” he explains. Eskom, through their Demand Side Management programme, supported these initiatives, funding upgrades like LED lighting and motor efficiency improvements. Brian recalls, “For five years, we worked on hundreds of projects with Eskom and won several energy efficiency awards.” This shift marked Magnet’s evolution from a component supplier to a solutions- based enterprise, now encompassing a trading company and an engineering company with a team of twelve engineers and five project managers. “We audit, engineer, and implement electrical and lighting solutions,” Brian added that Magnet’s work has expanded to solar PV projects as more clients pursue off-grid solutions. He feels pride in the impact Magnet is making, especially as industries transition toward greener energy solutions. PASSION FOR INNOVATION Brian’s passion for innovation and engineering drives his curiosity and eagerness to explore new challenges. “I love technology,” Brian admits with a grin. “A lot of my friends call me the gadget man.” He’s quick to point out, however, that his focus is essential in business. “It’s about understanding clients’ needs, not just pushing what excites you,” he says. Brian also appreciates the transition to digitisation, finding joy in brainstorming with his team and developing solutions together. Reflecting on his journey, Brian is proud of Magnet’s growth and the team of 140 people he has built. “Our staff is everything,” he emphasises. “Seeing our employees grow and thrive is incredibly rewarding,” he says, proudly sharing that all staff now have medical aid with access to private healthcare. The company celebrates achievements together, with outings and team-building activities. “We took everyone on an MSC cruise once,” he recalls with a smile. However, Brian recognises that young employees today have different expectations. “They want instant success,” he notes, requiring Magnet to adapt its approach to career development. “Success inspires me,” Brian states simply. He is motivated by seeing Magnet’s positive impact on employees, clients, and the environment. “I hate losing,” he admits. Magnet has even taken cues from the Springboks’ strategic approach, analysing competitors and devising well-rounded game plans to improve their chances of success. In the future, Brian envisions Magnet as a top solutions provider in the electrical engineering space. “We’ve set clear goals for the next five years,” he says, adding that quarterly town hall meetings ensure everyone stays aligned with this vision. “We work hard to provide our team with a clear roadmap for growth,” Brian explains. However, government regulations can create obstacles, he notes, especially when trying to bring in highly skilled foreign specialists. For Brian, managing cash flow as a privately owned business has also been an ongoing challenge. “You always need enough in the bank to cover salaries and creditors,” he shares. During periods of financial strain or when significant clients faced difficulty, the pressure was intense. Magnet learned to diversify its client base, ensuring no single account comprises more than 15% of revenue. His daughter’s MBA research has guided them to focus on a narrow band of core strengths, resisting the “death by opportunity” approach of spreading too thin. A CONSCIOUS CHOICE Brian’s decision to step back as managing director was a conscious choice to prioritise family, health, and enjoyment. He speaks of balancing his “triangle” – money, time, and health. “When you’re younger, time doesn’t feel as limited,” he muses. But now, at 67, he aims to make the most of each day, embracing both business and personal pursuits. “I’m proud that I’ve kept my family close throughout my career,” he says. Married for over 40 years, Brian values this achievement as much as any professional success. Brian draws inspiration from his family as well. “Seeing my daughters succeed inspires me,” he says, His daughter Nicole now plays a vital role in the company, reflecting the family’s continuity in Magnet’s leadership. Speaking of his father, Brian says that he was his greatest influence. Describing him as “a gregarious character” who always viewed the glass as half-full, Brian adopted his father’s optimism and resilience. “He taught me to hang in there and face challenges head-on.” Brian has also looked to influential global leaders for inspiration, including Richard Branson. “It’s been quite lonely at the top,” he admits, “but I’ve tried to emulate the qualities of successful leaders.” Brian’s personal motto is to “live every day and never miss an opportunity.” Whether in business, health, or family life, he strives to embrace each moment fully. “I take on challenges, brush off the bad days, and try to live a fulfilling life,” he concludes, grateful for a career that allows him to combine passion, family, and purpose. Previous Next

< Back Tanya Bailey

Promote your brand through KZN Top Business. Through our partner programmes we provide a platform to market products and/or services. Say Hello MEET THE KZN TOP BUSINESS TEAM We're an INNOVATIVE communications company dedicated to positively impacting people's lives through a network of inspired, motivated and innovative individuals and organisations with a vision for a better world Phone 031 267-1977 Email info@kzntopbusiness.com Social Media First Name Last Name Email Message Send Thanks for submitting! Back