Martin Swanepoel Next Previous Martin Swanepoel is the co-founder and managing director of BoilerCraft Africa. With more than two decades of experience in the boiler industry, Martin has built a reputation for technical expertise, resilience and an unwavering belief in local manufacturing. Martin’s journey began in Johannesburg, where he was born and bred. “I went to a local school and lived a very humble life in a very tight family unit,” he recalls. “My first job was in retail. I managed a small store in Centurion that sold knives and hunting equipment.” At that time, his circumstances were challenging. “I did not have anywhere to stay, so I sometimes slept on the shop floor. That was where everything started for me. It taught me to be self-sufficient and to learn from hard knocks.” Those experiences shaped the work ethic and determination that would come to define his career. “I believe I am self-made. Coming into this industry and building a name for myself has been a journey I am proud of.” PASSION FOR ENGINEERING After his time in retail, Martin explored several career paths. He worked briefly in facilitation and training through a business run by his father before taking on an administrative management role. During his time in the banking sector Martin began to develop business skills and obtained a national diploma in business management. However, Martin felt that something was missing. The turning point came when he joined the family boiler business. “My uncle started the boiler business in the early 1970s and made a huge success of it. I worked there for 20 years and I learned everything I could,” he says. “I worked across the entire business, from stores and sales to quality control and management. I found a passion for building things. It is not just the manufacturing. It is the entire process, from the first conversation with the client to selling the product, installing it and finally hearing the customer say that you have produced something amazing.” starting a completely new brand when I already had an established reputation.” After 20 years in the family business, Martin decided to take a bold step and start his own company. BoilerCraft Africa was established to fill a significant gap in the South African engineering sector. The company manufactures hot water and steam boilers, autoclaves and calorifiers, while also providing installation and servicing. “We offer a full turnkey product for our clients,” Martin explains. One of the company’s defining characteristics is its commitment to local manufacturing. “We are proudly South African,” he says, “and everything from the plate that we receive is in its raw form; we manufacture the finished product you see today. We are one of the few South African manufacturers that design and produce our own branded boilers locally.” ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS BoilerCraft’s product range spans a wide spectrum of industrial applications. “Our boilers range from a small 235 kg unit up to a 10 ton boiler,” Martin says. “We are currently working on designs for 11,16 and 20 ton boilers, which will make massive strides in the market because importing equipment of that size becomes extremely expensive.” BoilerCraft Africa’s products play a crucial role in a wide range of industries. “A boiler takes water and increases the temperature until it produces steam, which is a vital component in many industrial processes,” explains Martin. “You will find our boilers in sectors ranging from the tyre industry to the medical and automotive industries.” BoilerCraft also manufactures autoclaves, which are a specialised piece of equipment that few companies can produce locally. “Importing them is extremely expensive because the shipping costs alone can equal the price of the vessel.” Although Martin built his reputation in Gauteng, he saw a unique opportunity to establish a manufacturing presence in KwaZulu-Natal. The move required courage and commitment. “I had to ask myself whether it was worth moving my entire family from Johannesburg to KwaZulu-Natal and Perseverance proved to be the key. “The best advice I have ever received is to persevere through both the good and the bad,” he says. “If I did not persevere there were times when I might have given up.” The company’s growth since its launch reflects that determination. “We started in a 300m2 factory,” Martin explains. “Then we moved to a 500m2 facility, and now we are operating from a 1000m2. Within the next few months, we plan to expand to a 1500m2 factory.” LEADING THROUGH PEOPLE AND CULTURE For Martin, leadership is about people as much as it is about engineering. “I keep my team motivated with an open-door policy, respect and mutual understanding,” he says. “Every morning I greet each staff member personally because we spend most of our day together. The only way to have productive staff members is if they are happy staff members,” he explains. Martin describes the company culture as one rooted in shared values. “We try to create an environment of Ubuntu where we sit together, discuss problems and find solutions.” Throughout his career, Martin credits his family as his greatest source of inspiration. “Without my family BoilerCraft would never exist,” he says. “They supported me through every career decision I have made. My father followed his passion. That inspired me to find my own.” Today Martin sees his work as something larger than personal success. “I am doing this for my family and for my staff’s families,” he says. “Their futures are what inspire me every day.” Martin has ambitious plans for BoilerCraft Africa. “Within the next five years I want our company to be a household name,” he says. “Our goal is to expand across the SADC region and ultimately into international markets.” For Martin, success means pushing your limits. “Comfort zones are not where excellence is achieved,” he says. “Excellence comes when you challenge yourself to build something greater. Previous Next

< Back Next > Pria Hassan Founder and Group Executive Chairperson, Women of Africa Pria Hassan is the founder and group executive chairperson of Women of Africa. She sits as an advocate on various Johannesburg Stock Exchange listed entities and on numerous boards. Founded in 2003, Women of Africa spans sectors such as energy, logistics, automotive, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, technology, and construction. Pria hails from Overport in KwaZulu-Natal and grew up in a household where her father, an entrepreneur, and her mother, a traditional woman with strong values and discipline, set the stage for her ambitions. She recalls, “My upbringing was influenced by living with my grandmother and uncle in Reservoir Hills, which I believe is where I developed my militant behaviour. I’m a tough leader, and my schooling at Howard College Law School, followed by further education at the University of Pretoria, played a role in shaping that.” Over time, Pria’s aspirations have evolved. “I began with dreams of becoming a high-powered lawyer, then shifted towards wanting to be a Bollywood or Hollywood actress,” she admits with a chuckle. “However, my path led me to focus on transforming business and revolutionising sectors, particularly in energy. It wasn’t just about profitability; it was about breaking down barriers and transferring my skillset to women eager to enter industries from which we’ve been traditionally marginalised.” She is proud of her efforts to challenge stereotypes, using her platform to inspire other women and leave a lasting legacy. “The common belief is that women have arrived, given the special laws that grant us entry into the market, but the truth is we are still waiting at the door for a seat at the table. I want to teach women to build their own tables,” she asserts. Pria encourages young women to believe in themselves, celebrate their uniqueness, and take risks. “Each failure is just a new opportunity,” she advises. Bringing Heart Pria’s journey has taken her across South Africa and beyond. “I lived in Johannesburg, working as chief legal counsel for a major organisation. But after a traumatic incident where my home was broken into and my nanny murdered, I reached rock bottom,” she shares. “I realised then that despite the adrenaline rush of Johannesburg, KwaZulu-Natal was where my heart lay. I needed to come home, not only to be nurtured by my family but to establish a brand that would resonate with my roots.” This realisation led to the birth of Women of Africa, which began as an investment in logistics and energy and later expanded into multiple sectors. Her mother played a crucial role in motivating her during tough times. “When you hit rock bottom, no one can pick you up like your mother. She gives you that push that really shakes you and makes you get your act together,” Pria says. Her inspirations extend to international figures, particularly Indra Nooyi. “I admire Indra because she’s pragmatic, empathetic, and brings heart into business. She resonates with me, and she’s taught me to be a confident leader who uses influence to impact the lives of others,” she adds. Under Pria’s leadership, the Women of Africa group has evolved but has remained true to its core values. “We’ve changed in terms of the sectors we operate in, but I’ve stuck to the principle of adding intrinsic value,” she explains. “I don’t just look at the chaos in the market; I focus on how I can add value in my sphere, with a long-term vision that spans decades rather than just seeking quick returns.” Navigating the oil and petroleum industry as a woman has been no easy feat. “The glass ceiling is tough, with alpha male stereotypes that limit entry,” Pria explains. “But with the support of male leaders who believed in transformation, I managed to overcome those early challenges.” Leadership issues persist, particularly in an environment as culturally diverse as KwaZulu-Natal. “We have a certain ego that influences how we operate, but I’ve worked to restructure that, welcoming more women into executive roles. The resilience of the team has been key,” she says. “Maintaining a healthy balance sheet in the midst of chaos is an achievement I’m proud of, and I owe it to a great team of women,” Pria says. The group’s recognition as trailblazers, including winning the Platts Global Energy Women of the Year award and the Bharat Gaurav Award for Women CEOs making a difference, are testaments to their efforts. “I’m proud of how we’ve accelerated in our business and fostered good governance practices, transparency, and a culture of mentorship for other women entrepreneurs,” she remarks. Change the Mindset Community involvement is another pillar of Pria’s ethos. “We’re engaged in various projects, especially in sports like soccer, netball, and volleyball, supporting children who lack the resources to showcase their talents,” she says. “Our focus extends to teaching women not just to seek funding but to uplift their communities. As part of the Midlands Entrepreneurship School, we aimed to change the mindset of young people towards entrepreneurship. Changing the economic landscape of KwaZulu-Natal is a priority for me,” she adds. Reflecting on South Africa’s challenges, including natural disasters, she urges others to invest in personal well-being and education. “I’m in my 50s, but I’m not ready to retire. Instead, I’ve launched a foundation dedicated to supporting communities affected by disasters, as well as advocating for gender-based violence awareness,” she shares. Pria’s philanthropic vision extends to addressing broader issues. “I want to focus on male empowerment, particularly concerning mental health and suicide rates, and support young boys. Creating an ethos of future philanthropy is my goal,” she says. Plans to write an autobiography and embrace her new role as a grandmother are also on the horizon. Pria’s focus now is on continuous learning and self- improvement, with an emphasis on mindfulness and self-care. “It took therapy and coaching to give myself permission to relax. As a woman in business, there’s no time to pause, but now I meditate for mental clarity, read, and travel. I enjoy simple pleasures like walking and spending time with my husband,” Pria concludes. < Previous Next >

< Back Benita Ardenbaum

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

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

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

< Back Carol Coetzee

< Back Next > Inanda Bezuidenhout Franchise Principal, Consult by Momentum Peak Sure Inanda Bezuidenhout is the franchise principal at Consult by Momentum Peak Sure, specialising in asset protection and risk management within the short-term insurance sector. They create tailored solutions that help both individuals and businesses to safeguard their assets. Additionally, the company offers referral models for third- party professionals in the insurance industry, making it easier for them to support their clients’ insurance needs. She explains, “Our model allows them to ring-fence their clients and offer short-term insurance solutions without the hassle of administrative tasks or complex products.” Reflecting on her achievements, Inanda shared, “Our partnership with Consult is only two years old in October, however, we launched our business as a Momentum agency on 27 March 2020 — the day lockdown was announced. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, we managed to grow and assist clients restructure their short- term policies enabling them to maintain crucial life and investment opportunities.” In just two years, their business achieved third place nationally in Momentum’s short-term division, and Inanda was honoured with second place in the Top Female Advisory category. Part of a Solution Commenting on her journey, Inanda describes it as one of continuous learning, community support, and self- awareness. “My dreams have evolved over the years,” she says. “As a child, they were one thing, but as an adult, they have changed. I’m always busy and my dreams can change daily. Right now, my biggest dream is still in progress; I want to help others understand risk management and make informed decisions.” Her career was influenced by her upbringing and her initial experiences in law. “Growing up I wanted to pursue a career in law. I worked in the debt collection department of a local law firm but realised I preferred proactive planning and being part of a solution.” This shift led her to financial services. “I was fortunate enough to join my father’s team as a personal assistant, taking every opportunity to learn and by the age of 21, I became a financial planner myself.” Inanda soon discovered her strength in risk management and chose to specialise in short-term insurance. “I’m risk- averse,” she explains. “I prefer to mitigate risks rather than take them, which led me to asset protection and risk management.” Her career took a turn in 2013 when she joined Robsons Insurance Brokers. “My mentors there taught me resilience and integrity within the business space. They showed me that achieving professional goals while making a meaningful impact in the community is possible.” Her community involvement is an essential aspect of her life. Inanda is a member of KZN Women in Business, supporting sustainable growth and community projects, as well as the Financial Intermediary Association. “My faith keeps me grounded,” she added, “I actively participate in my Seventh-Day Adventist church, and staying connected to both my faith and community helps me maintain balance.” Inanda’s participation in the cleanup efforts following the KZN riots reinforced her belief in the power of collaboration. “Seeing everyone come together to support each other in a time of need was a powerful reminder of the impact we can have when we work together,” she says. This sense of community drives her to inspire the youth. “I want to show them that no matter where they come from, there are opportunities out there. Mentorship can truly shape lives, and I’m committed to guiding the next generation in business, sports, and life.” Inanda’s passion for netball is another way she engages with her community. Having played for the Natal Action Netball Mixed Team, she now coaches at a local school, inspiring young people through sport. Continuous Learning Like many business leaders, Inanda has faced challenges. “Five years ago, I decided to pursue my dream of owning my own business,” she recounts. “At the same time, I was going through a difficult divorce, which was emotionally taxing. Fortunately, I found strength in my supportive family, friends, and colleagues.” Starting a business in a competitive industry wasn’t easy, either. “Navigating the complexities of the insurance sector, especially in an ‘old boys’ club,’ when you don’t play golf forced me to focus on my strengths and what makes my company unique. Building personal connections with clients has been crucial to our success.” Inanda emphasises continuous learning. “Knowledge is power. To be the best, we need to stay informed and continuously improve. Learning comes in many forms, through reading, listening, and connecting with professionals in our field. You’re never too old or too young to grow.” She also champions empowerment within her team. “I believe in giving people opportunities, even if they don’t have formal degrees. My assistant, Samantha, was a stay-at-home mum who joined our team and is now an indispensable part of our business.” Looking ahead, Inanda draws inspiration from her grandmother and mother, who encouraged her to aim for the impossible to achieve the best possible. “I’m content with what I’ve achieved so far, and committed to giving my son the best future, but my competitive nature pushes me to aim higher,” she says. “I’m passionate about our industry and I want to help communities better understand risk management and improve service delivery in our field.” Ultimately, Inanda’s goal is to be part of a legacy of empowerment and education in the insurance industry. “I want to make a meaningful impact not just by teaching people about proper risk management, but by improving service delivery in our country,” she says. “Our industry is known for its challenges, but I believe we can make a difference, and I want to be part of that change.” For young women following in her footsteps, Inanda offers this advice: “Your journey may be rocky and winding, like the beautiful farming landscapes painted by South African artist Portchie. There will be twists and turns but never give up on your goals. Take the time to understand who you are and where your strengths lie, as this knowledge will help you achieve your dreams. The journey may be long, but every opportunity to learn and grow is valuable.” < Previous Next >

< Back Nureshka Viranna