Shaaz Moosa Next Previous Shaaz Moosa is the chief executive officer and chief financial officer of Supahot Geysers and MS Group Holdings Shaaz Moosa is the chief executive officer and chief financial officer of Supahot Geysers and MS Group Holdings. His business career has been motivated by his family who have all operated business enterprises. Straight after finishing matric, and with their support, Shaaz started his own business journey in the insurance industry. This experience taught him a lot about communicating with people, about how money works as well as the finance industry. He quickly decided to become an independent insurance broker and applied for his license. By the age of 19 he had multiple contracts. However, Shaaz commented that he realised that the insurance industry did not offer the long-term business growth, which would enable him to reach his goals. Consequently, he started dabbling in a variety of businesses including the property market. In 2006 Shaaz’s father tragically passed away and his entire world changed as Shaaz was now required to be the family leader and take care of everyone. HARD WORK While looking for other business opportunities, Shaaz got involved with the Scooters’ pizza brand, opening up Halaal stores. He explained, “Over three years, we opened up multiple stores and I soon realised that this is very hard work as the effort to financial reward did not make sense. I found that it was better for me to open up stores and sell them off. Whilst doing that I was buying one/two- bedroom apartments, as at that time the avenue to credit was quite easy.” As the values of properties was going up, when Shaaz sold these properties off, he was able to build an asset base. “I realised unintentionally, that I’d become a serial businessman. At the time FNB invited myself and a close friend of mine, who has passed away, to do a mini-MBA. He convinced me to do this mini- MBA with him, which we completed in just over a year.” Shaaz said the course was self-empowering and due to his practical business experience, he understood finances better, and he was able to enhance himself. Shaaz mentioned that he has always had good teams and support structures. His mom, wife, as well as his family, and ‘phenomenal’ friends are always willing to assist. He explained, “It’s not about finance, it’s about hearing you, guiding you, motivating you, and being able to learn from people and what they’ve done over the years. I think that experience is the basis for the success of who I am today.” GIVE FROM WHAT YOU HAVE In commenting on his motivation to succeed, Shaaz said, “I strongly believe that if you do the right things, the Almighty opens up the doors for you. If you assist the community, your people, family, etc, then the Almighty will give you more. That is the advice that I give to every young person today. Don’t wait until you have money, give from what you have, and the Almighty is going to give you more. And if you’re doing right, with the right moral compass, the Almighty will certainly make sure that he gives you that responsibility.” “You have to give back into your communities. You have to give back to your family, whether it’s in time or money. You have to include people and by doing that, success is automatic. We must understand that success is not just measured in finances, there’s no point in having lots of money if you’re not a person that one can sit and talk to.” “The rule that I would advise to anybody who wants to do anything, is to give 5% more. Because that 5% more is what allows you to be better than the rest. I use an analogy of boiling water, and it’s a 5% rule. I’m in the geyser business, so I can be more technical about it,” he said with a smile. “Water boils at 100°C. At 100° C what that process can do is limitless. You can create power, and from that power you can create electricity, steam trains, etc. At 95°C what can you do? Have a cup of tea and that’s all. That 5% extra is what unlocks the multitude of other things that you can do, and to achieve that you’ve just got to persevere, be consistent and disciplined.” In addition to the 5% rule, Shaaz said that if you look at the top 100 companies in the world and their CEOs and founders, they have the quality of starting early. “When I say starting early, I’m talking about the 4:00 am rule. One should start work early and that allows you to work hard.” Shaaz’s career has not been without challenges, which in his early days included a lack of credit facilities due to his young age. This challenge forced him to be more creative and to look at out- of-the-box solutions. One solution was to develop business partnerships, and Shaaz now has multiple partners in a range of businesses and projects. In commenting on his leadership style, Shaaz says he prefers working with inclusion rather than in an authoritative style. “I’m surrounded by a phenomenal team, and I prefer having the buy in and understanding from our key staff. We set up our plan and our mission for what we’re wanting to achieve. Including our staff in this process has led to the success of our business.” Shaaz started the Supahot geyser journey in 2018 and the company has now become the third geyser manufacturer in the country. He explained that their success is due to keeping their expenses low and to the relationships that they have built. To relax Shaaz enjoys time with his family. “I think with my busy schedule and timelines, I find joy in spending time with my family. As I have achieved much because of the support, the blessings, and prayers of my mum, I try as much as possible to be there for her. I’ve got a wonderful spouse who’s very supportive of me, and I’ve actually grown quite a bit because of her support.” In conclusion, the motto th Previous Next

Dr Kenny Naidoo Next Previous Dr Kamalanathan (Kenny) Naidoo is the President of the Verulam Child Welfare Society Dr Kamalanathan (Kenny) Naidoo, the President of the Verulam Child Welfare Society, began his professional career as a high school mathematics teacher, teaching up to grade 12 at various schools across KwaZulu-Natal. Over time, he was promoted to the position of head of department for mathematics and eventually rose to become a principal and later, a superintendent of education. At the time of his retirement, he was overseeing 66 schools in the Pinetown district. In terms of educational qualifications, Dr Naidoo’s journey is both extensive and impressive. He began with a teachers’ diploma before pursuing a BCom degree at the University of South Africa. He furthered his education by obtaining a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.), and later, a specialised Bachelor of Education in Educational Management. Not stopping there, in 2000, he enrolled for an MBA at the University of Durban-Westville, which he successfully completed. Dr Naidoo then went on to achieve a PhD in Education. While serving as a Superintendent of Education, he also completed a senior management course at Level 13. At the age of 64, he was nominated by the department to undertake a course in forensic investigation, which he also completed. Dr Naidoo dedicated 45 years to education before retiring in September 2020, at the age of 65. However, his contributions to society extend beyond education. While still working in education, in 2001, he was elected President of the Verulam Child Welfare Society. Reflecting on his purpose, Dr Naidoo explains that whether in education or welfare, his aim has always been to implement the policies of the organisation and give effect to its constitution. In his current role, he is focused on enforcing the Children’s Act (Act 38 of 2005) and, together with colleagues, maintaining tight financial controls within the organisation. This is critical as the society operates with a significant financial deficit, receiving a limited subsidy from the Department of Social Development. Dr Naidoo recalls the moment he learned that the organisation’s subsidy would be cut by 22,000 Rand per month due to budgetary constraints. This increased their operational deficit to around 122,000 Rand per month. Despite the economic downturn and reduced donations, the society has managed to navigate these challenges through the influence and support of its members, who come from various professional backgrounds, including the business community. PROACTIVE APPROACH One of the society’s proudest accomplishments is the development and implementation of the “Platinum, Gold and Silver sponsorship” programme, which encourages companies to donate to the organisation by providing them with a Section 18A certificate for tax benefits. Dr Naidoo credits his colleague, Mr Pat Moodley, for initiating this programme. Through this initiative, and the Spring Ball (initiated by the Nankhoo Family), the society has secured several sponsors, partially covering their deficit. Dr Naidoo credits the success of the Verulam Child Welfare Society to its proactive approach and innovative projects designed during strategic planning sessions, which have enabled the organisation to sustain itself despite operating with a significant financial shortfall. He hopes that by sharing the organisation’s story, more businesses will recognise the opportunity to support NGOs like theirs, especially given the potential tax benefits and the vital role these organisations play in complementing government efforts. Dr Naidoo shares that the best advice he has received on his journey is to avoid procrastination. “Procrastination is a thief of time,” he says, emphasising the importance of meeting deadlines and tackling tasks immediately. He believes in living each day as if it were his last and attributes his success to this philosophy. By prioritising prompt action, especially in tasks like writing letters to sponsors, Dr Naidoo ensures that the organisation stays ahead of the competition and maintains a proactive approach to fundraising. When asked about his personal motivation, Dr Naidoo states that passion is key. In his words, “If you’re not passionate about what you’re doing, especially in the voluntary sector, you won’t be able to fulfil the objectives.” He notes that volunteerism in the community is declining and stresses the importance of being motivated by others. Dr Naidoo draws strength from figures like Mr KN Rajoo, who served as President of the Verulam Child Welfare Society for 23 years and remained with the organisation for 50 years. Rajoo’s dedication and leadership have been invaluable, providing mentorship and guidance to Dr Naidoo and others on the board. Mr Rajoo was also the architect, of the popular Charity Fair, a concept that is used by most NGOs today. Dr Naidoo believes that experiential knowledge is far more valuable than theoretical knowledge and credits his success to the wisdom shared by senior colleagues like Mr Rajoo. POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT To keep his team motivated amidst these obstacles, Dr Naidoo emphasises the importance of positive reinforcement and emotional intelligence. He recognises that understanding body language and providing timely support to staff are crucial in maintaining a productive and content workforce. Additionally, the organisation is committed to fostering public awareness of children’s rights and conducts work- shops for educators to equip them with knowledge about the Children’s Act and related matters. These initiatives have proven beneficial in addressing and preventing child abuse and neglect in the community. Looking ahead, Dr Naidoo envisions a future where networking plays a critical role in overcoming challenges faced by non-profit organisations. He sees potential in connecting with businesses and international organisations that might offer funding and support to child welfare initiatives. For instance, through networking, the Verulam Child Welfare Society recently learned of an opportunity with the “Million Dollar Club” and received a generous donation of 4,000 USD, which provided significant financial relief. DEEP COMMITMENT In conclusion, Dr Naidoo’s life and career are characterised by a deep commitment to service. Whether in education or child welfare, his dedication to implementing policies, promoting positive change, and sustaining organisations is unwavering. His motto, developed by the society, “Your care strengthens our care in child and family welfare,” encapsulates his approach to leadership and service, driven by passion, persistence, and a belief in the power of collective effort. Previous Next

The EThekwini Maritime Cluster (EMC) is a non-profit company with the mandate to support and promote the maritime industry within Durban although at times it has a reach to other areas of KwaZulu-NatalEThekwini Maritime Cluster (EMC)Zenzile Gwamanda Acting Managing Director EThekwini Maritime ClusterThe EThekwini Maritime Cluster (EMC) is a non-profit company with the mandate to support and promote the maritime industry within Durban although at times it has a reach to other areas of KwaZulu-Natal. EMC champions and advocates for the maritime industry through bridging the gap between industrial policy from government and the private sector, thereby unleashing the economic growth in the maritime industry. Since its inception EMC has continued to respond to international best practice within clustering models within the maritime industry and has created sub clusters along the value chain. The concept of clustering is widely used across the world to unleash economic growth that assists in job creation and enterprise development. The objectives of EMC are to: • Spearhead economic transformation through maritime enterprise development initiatives • Promote the maritime industry locally, nationally and globally • Contribute to an inclusive maritime training and skills development that will afford equal opportunity to all • Facilitate marine manufacturing by promoting local shipbuilding, ship repair and boat building to increase employment and economic growth • Contribute towards the promotion of marine and coastal tourism • Promote research capacity in the above programmes for the maritime sector PROGRAMMES OF THE ETHEKWINI MARITIME CLUSTER EMC has four programmes but is currently looking at incorporating Marine and Coastal Tourism as the fifth programme and they are: 1. ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT This programme is positioned to spearhead economic transformation in the maritime sector through Enterprise Development initiatives, by identifying projects and business opportunities that can benefit small businesses, which include youth and women businesses, assisting the transformation agenda in the maritime industry. In 2015 EMC established the incubator and business accelerator programmes to assist small businesses to enter the maritime industry. Candidates on these projects are receiving training and mentoring to develop their business skills and ensure sound enterprise practises. The project Entrepreneur Me, was initiated which addresses the needs of unemployed graduates. Unemployed engineering graduates have since set up their own enterprises and EMC is assisting with their incubation as well as market access. 2. INDUSTRY PROMOTION This programme is positioning Durban as a Smart Port City, which will optimise the port-city territories and the constant cargo flows passing through Durban. Further to this EMC hosts workshops, conferences, and events to provide networking opportunities to facilitate knowledge and port information sharing through collaborative engagements. Collaborative working among stakeholders in the maritime industry was one of the key messages in this year’s annual EMC Women in Maritime webinar. The webinar was themed ‘Women Charting a Course Towards Collaboration’. This prestigious event was held in August and was broadcasted live on the EMC Facebook page. 3. TRAINING AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT The Training & Skills Development programme facilitates capacity building within the sector by providing the necessary intervention to position Durban as a Centre of Maritime Education. This will contribute to inclusive Maritime Training and Skills that will afford equal opportunity that will unleash and improve the capacity building. A key deliverable of this programme is to develop the City as a centre of excellence in maritime education. We have set projects to achieve this by assisting at High School Level as well as working with Tertiary Institutions in KwaZulu-Natal to position and market the offering world-wide. We also have a graduate placement programme that is active in assisting graduates to obtain experience in and of the maritime industry and we do our best to retain such skill within the Maritime Sector. EMC, in partnership with the Department of Education, UKZN, DUT, Transnet Maritime School of Excellence, South African Association of Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR) facilitate educator’s workshops, as an intervention to capacitate maritime educators. This is in line with EMC’s mandate to improve education and training for the maritime industry and to enable talented people to enter the industry, starting with High School level. EMC continues to facilitate a collaborative engagement of relevant stakeholders, even global stakeholders in order to advance skills development in the maritime sector. As EMC we believe we can do more in the future with the industry’s support and efforts in cohesive collaboration. 4. MARINE MANUFACTURING The objective of this programme is to factor the development and growth of the boat and ship building and ship repair sectors which offer good opportunities for employment creation. EMC is currently working on setting up a Boat Building Park in Durban closer to mooring and launching facilities, which will position our boat builders as world class competitors. INNOVATION EMC also intends to contribute immensely in bringing innovation to the forefront of doing business at the port in this industry as we are moving towards the fourth industrial revolution. The Cluster encourages every young innovative thinker within the sector of expertise to be an ambassador of change and to be part of spearheading the innovations for a sustainable blue oceans economy. In doing so, EMC has partnered with Innovate Durban for an annual challenge where young innovators collaborate in solving real maritime operations related issues. The significant of this development and innovative initiative is to encourage maritime research and provide problem solving for a sustainable economic growth of this industry. Full Name of Company: EThekwini Maritime Cluster Nature of Business: Non-profit company Services / Products: Maritime industry development platform Date Established: 4 June 2008 Customer Base: Businesses within the maritime industry Memberships: Durban Chamber; AIVP B-BBEE Status: Socio-Economic Development 100% / Enterprise and Supplier Development 100% VISION To be the knowledge and innovation hub for the South African Maritime sector, globally. MISSION To be the centre of knowledge and innovation that fosters collaborative economic growth through world class programmes for the Maritime sector. KEY PERSONNEL Acting Managing Director: Zenzile Gwamanda Financial Manager: Ubucule Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors Inc. CONTACT DETAILS Address: 1601 The Marine, 22 Dorothy Nyembe Street, Durban, 4000 Tel: +27 (0)31 301 0950/09 E-mail: info@maritimecluster.co.za Website: www.maritimecluster.co.za Zenzile Gwamanda Acting Managing Director EThekwini Maritime Cluster A Champion For The Maritime Industry The EThekwini Maritime Cluster (EMC) is a non-profit company with the mandate to support and promote the maritime industry within Durban although at times it has a reach to other areas of KwaZulu-Natal. EMC champions and advocates for the maritime industry through bridging the gap between industrial policy from government and the private sector, thereby unleashing the economic growth in the maritime industry. Since its inception EMC has continued to respond to international best practice within clustering models within the maritime industry and has created sub clusters along the value chain. The concept of clustering is widely used across the world to unleash economic growth that assists in job creation and enterprise development. The objectives of EMC are to: • Spearhead economic transformation through maritime enterprise development initiatives • Promote the maritime industry locally, nationally and globally • Contribute to an inclusive maritime training and skills development that will afford equal opportunity to all • Facilitate marine manufacturing by promoting local shipbuilding, ship repair and boat building to increase employment and economic growth • Contribute towards the promotion of marine and coastal tourism • Promote research capacity in the above programmes for the maritime sector PROGRAMMES OF THE ETHEKWINI MARITIME CLUSTER EMC has four programmes but is currently looking at incorporating Marine and Coastal Tourism as the fifth programme and they are: 1. ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT This programme is positioned to spearhead economic transformation in the maritime sector through Enterprise Development initiatives, by identifying projects and business opportunities that can benefit small businesses, which include youth and women businesses, assisting the transformation agenda in the maritime industry. In 2015 EMC established the incubator and business accelerator programmes to assist small businesses to enter the maritime industry. Candidates on these projects are receiving training and mentoring to develop their business skills and ensure sound enterprise practises. The project Entrepreneur Me, was initiated which addresses the needs of unemployed graduates. Unemployed engineering graduates have since set up their own enterprises and EMC is assisting with their incubation as well as market access. 2. INDUSTRY PROMOTION This programme is positioning Durban as a Smart Port City, which will optimise the port-city territories and the constant cargo flows passing through Durban. Further to this EMC hosts workshops, conferences, and events to provide networking opportunities to facilitate knowledge and port information sharing through collaborative engagements. Collaborative working among stakeholders in the maritime industry was one of the key messages in this year’s annual EMC Women in Maritime webinar. The webinar was themed ‘Women Charting a Course Towards Collaboration’. This prestigious event was held in August and was broadcasted live on the EMC Facebook page. 3. TRAINING AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT The Training & Skills Development programme facilitates capacity building within the sector by providing the necessary intervention to position Durban as a Centre of Maritime Education. This will contribute to inclusive Maritime Training and Skills that will afford equal opportunity that will unleash and improve the capacity building. A key deliverable of this programme is to develop the City as a centre of excellence in maritime education. We have set projects to achieve this by assisting at High School Level as well as working with Tertiary Institutions in KwaZulu-Natal to position and market the offering world-wide. We also have a graduate placement programme that is active in assisting graduates to obtain experience in and of the maritime industry and we do our best to retain such skill within the Maritime Sector. EMC, in partnership with the Department of Education, UKZN, DUT, Transnet Maritime School of Excellence, South African Association of Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR) facilitate educator’s workshops, as an intervention to capacitate maritime educators. This is in line with EMC’s mandate to improve education and training for the maritime industry and to enable talented people to enter the industry, starting with High School level. EMC continues to facilitate a collaborative engagement of relevant stakeholders, even global stakeholders in order to advance skills development in the maritime sector. As EMC we believe we can do more in the future with the industry’s support and efforts in cohesive collaboration. 4. MARINE MANUFACTURING The objective of this programme is to factor the development and growth of the boat and ship building and ship repair sectors which offer good opportunities for employment creation. EMC is currently working on setting up a Boat Building Park in Durban closer to mooring and launching facilities, which will position our boat builders as world class competitors. INNOVATION EMC also intends to contribute immensely in bringing innovation to the forefront of doing business at the port in this industry as we are moving towards the fourth industrial revolution. The Cluster encourages every young innovative thinker within the sector of expertise to be an ambassador of change and to be part of spearheading the innovations for a sustainable blue oceans economy. In doing so, EMC has partnered with Innovate Durban for an annual challenge where young innovators collaborate in solving real maritime operations related issues. The significant of this development and innovative initiative is to encourage maritime research and provide problem solving for a sustainable economic growth of this industry. Full Name of Company: EThekwini Maritime Cluster Nature of Business: Non-profit company Services / Products: Maritime industry development platform Date Established: 4 June 2008 Customer Base: Businesses within the maritime industry Memberships: Durban Chamber; AIVP B-BBEE Status: Socio-Economic Development 100% / Enterprise and Supplier Development 100% VISION To be the knowledge and innovation hub for the South African Maritime sector, globally. MISSION To be the centre of knowledge and innovation that fosters collaborative economic growth through world class programmes for the Maritime sector. KEY PERSONNEL Acting Managing Director: Zenzile Gwamanda Financial Manager: Ubucule Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors Inc. CONTACT DETAILS Address: 1601 The Marine, 22 Dorothy Nyembe Street, Durban, 4000 Tel: +27 (0)31 301 0950/09 E-mail: info@maritimecluster.co.za Website: www.maritimecluster.co.za EThekwini Maritime Cluster (EMC) The EThekwini Maritime Cluster (EMC) is a non-profit company with the mandate to support and promote the maritime industry within Durban although at times it has a reach to other areas of KwaZulu-Natal

Up Home Up Anele Msweli In 2017 Anele started the brand as passion project while she was living in China. The niche brand has developed into a full-time business with growing demand for its products. Anele and her three sisters were raised by their mother in Montclair, where she attended Mowat Park High. She then attended Rhodes University, where she completed a Bachelor of Earth Sciences degree. The name ‘Mare & Itis’ has its origins in Anele’s student days at Rhodes. She explains, ‘Mare’ is word students at Rhodes use to meaning a fun time. ‘Itis’ is used to describe that sleepy feeling one gets after eating a large meal; “magie vol, ogies toe”. I decided to put these two concepts together to create something that is quint essentially me. I love a good time and I love food.” After completing her degree, Anele volunteered for Greenpeace Africa. She says, ‘The most memorable part of this journey was on board the Rainbow Warrior: I learnt so much from sailing with an eclectic and multinational crew.” ALL NATURAL INGREDIENTS In 2016 Anele moved to Harbin, one of the most northerly cities in China, which as it is situated near Siberia has long and freezing winters. The temperature can reach a very low -40 degrees centigrade. During this time, Anele was using Chinese products for her skin and hair care until she developed allergic reactions to these including her hair starting to fall out. In addition, Anele found it difficult to find suitable cleaning products especially as she was unable to read the labels on the products she was using. This is when, Anele explained, she decided to make her own cleaning products using all natural ingredients. The first product was the prototype for the popular Zesty Kitchen cleaner, which she made from vinegar and lemon. The small business grew from there with requests from friends to make additional products. Countless hours of research led her to a love for essential oils and natural products. Anele then moved to Wuqing, a small district in Tianjin, where she worked long hours as a Montessori English teacher and training coordinator. However, the demand for her products grew and she started selling them in a local market as well as online. ALL OR NOTHING In 2020 Anele’s visit to South Africa for a wedding – with one suitcase – coincided with outbreak of Covid which meant that she was unable to return to China. This also mean that she needed to focus on her fledgling business in order to earn an income. “The year 2020 will always remain a significant year for me and for the brand. It was all or nothing, and I have learnt so much about entrepreneurship and resilience,” explained Anele. The online business has now grown into a range of 45 products including essential oils, linen, and room sprays without alcohol as well as candles and diffusers. Mare & Itis Shoppe is inspired by everything natural. “The products are non-toxic, eco-conscious as well as cruelty-free. I use plant-based ingredients which are biodegradable.” In order to be sustainable all products are supplied in glass bottles, which are reused when returned to her. As a ‘garage’ business Anele is responsible for all aspects of the day to day running. She formulates and tests all products, does the packaging, runs accounts as well as handles all logistics and social media marketing. Apart from her online store, Anele has a number of instore stockists around the country. JUST DO YOUR BEST In speaking of who inspires her Anele says that she loves listening to podcasts including those by Oprah and interior decorator Karin Bohn. She added that she is inspired by her partner who is also an entrepreneur. Anele commented, “However it’s the day-to-day people that are trying to just make things work, the people who just do their best who inspire me the most.” A major challenge in her entrepreneurial journey is that she has not had any funding and has had to rely on her own resources. Other challenges included, “Surviving through Covid which was a major challenge especially as being a non-essential business I experienced shortages in packaging. The rand price and the economy are a constant challenge!” However, she believes that her success has been based on her perseverance as well as being consistent. “It’s important to keep up the same pace no matter what ’waves’ you face,” said Anele. FOLLOW THE DREAM Looking to the future, Anele has set huge goals for herself. As she is really proud of her products and would like to showcase them in the UAE, Anele has obtained an export/ import licence. However, in order to follow her dream, she would have to increase the production of her products substantially. Her advice to young people considering an entrepreneurial journey would be to ‘just start’. “You can learn as you go and figure things out. But you need to set goals for yourself. I am constantly pushing myself to achieve and set new goals at the beginning of each year and again every three months.” In her free time, Anele makes sure to keep both her brain and her hands busy. She enjoys listening to podcasts and reading and loves to sew, knit as well as spends time at the gym and enjoys a regular 5km walk on the Durban promenade every Sunday.

< Back Next > Iris Naidoo Partnership Manager, Do More Foundation Iris Naidoo is the partnership manager for the Do More Foundation, a non-profit organisation established by RCL Foods. “I have always been passionate about people and connecting with them,” she reflects. “So it felt natural to pursue public relations and communication science,” she explains. “After my studies, I entered the non-profit sector, which aligned perfectly with my desire to connect with people and make a tangible difference.” Growing up in a family dedicated to community work, Iris feels her personal and professional lives are deeply intertwined. “Community work is part of who I am,” she says. Her early experience placed her at a non-profit where she learned the fundamentals of community development and the challenges faced by impoverished areas. From there, she transitioned into corporate social investment roles, ensuring her focus remained steadfast: making a positive impact wherever she served. “I always believe we should leave a place better than we found it, and that’s been my driving force for over 22 years,” Iris adds. Iris attributes much of her motivation and inspiration to her faith and family. “My family is my moral compass. My faith teaches me to do good, even when no one’s watching, and that truly drives me forward.” This personal ethos guides her work, where she strives to empower and inspire others to perform small acts of kindness. Iris shares, “I live by the principle of doing good, even when no one is watching.” Consequently, Iris has spent her career focused on building brighter futures for young children, specifically those aged 0 to 5. “Our goal is to provide these children with the best possible start to life through various initiatives that focus on early childhood development. These programmes are designed to support vulnerable children, particularly in underserved communities, ensuring they have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.” The Power of Relationships For Iris, her greatest professional achievement is not a single project or accolade, but the relationships she has built and sustained over the years. “Forging strong relationships and keeping them is something I’m incredibly proud of,” she notes. “Whether it’s with municipalities, government bodies, or the non-profit sector, relationships are the backbone of any successful initiative.” Iris added that she believes that the key to success, whether in the corporate or non-profit world, lies in building strong, meaningful connections. “It’s through these relationships that we can deliver the work we aim to do in communities,” she explains. “Maintaining these relationships over time has been essential to making a long-lasting impact.” However, the challenges of the work can often be overwhelming, especially when faced with the vast needs in the communities she serves. “The need in our country is immense,” Iris admits. “It can be daunting at times, and people often ask how I’ve managed to do this for 22 years. But for me, it’s about knowing that every little bit counts.” She draws strength from the metaphor of the ‘one starfish at a time’ story, reminding herself that even small acts of kindness can make a difference. “Yes, the need is overwhelming, but if we each do our part, even if it’s just one act of kindness, we can make an impact.” The inequalities in South Africa, particularly the lack of access to quality education, are barriers that Iris is determined to address. “Poverty creates such stark lines of inequality,” she says. “But we persevere, doing what we can, knowing that even the smallest actions count towards a bigger goal.” Inspiring Others Looking ahead, Iris remains focused on inspiring others to do good, both in their personal lives and through their organisations. “My goal is to continue motivating people to look within themselves and ask how they can do more— how they can inspire others to do small acts of kindness,” she says. “If each one of us does one small act, this world will be a better place.” At the Do More Foundation, Iris is especially proud of two flagship programmes that embody her commitment to empowerment and inclusivity. The first is the Township Economy Programme, which supports young women in business from impoverished communities. “This programme helps these women professionalise their businesses, grow, employ more people, and most importantly, realise their own value,” she explains. The initiative not only empowers individual women but also strengthens township economies, which Iris describes as “the lifeblood of our society.” The second programme, Do More Play, focuses on inclusivity by training disabled youth to make wooden toys for young children’s cognitive development. “This is such an amazing programme,” Iris says with pride. “It provides disabled youth with an income, but more than that, it gives them a skill and a sense of purpose. We’ve heard so often from the participants how much this has changed their lives.” Balancing Work and Life Despite her demanding role, Iris ensures she takes time for herself and her family. “When I have time off, I love to cook and spend time with my family,” she shares. “Fun and family are my two big passions.” As a mother of two, family is a constant source of strength and energy for her. “My family fuels me, and cooking is one of the ways I relax and connect with them.” Iris also offers advice to young women entering the non- profit or corporate sectors. “Let’s not compete with one another,” she urges. “It’s easy to fall into competition, especially when recognition and affirmation are limited in our space. But instead, we should support each other.” She thinks that there is room for everyone to succeed, a belief she sums up with a simple yet powerful motto: “There’s always room for one more at the table.” Iris’s message is clear: by empowering others, supporting one another, and doing small acts of kindness, we can all contribute to making the world a better place. “That’s what I stand for,” she concludes. “Empowering and inspiring people to do good, no matter how small the act may seem.” < Previous Next >

Melanie Veness Next Previous Melanie Veness is the chief executive officer of the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business Melanie Veness, chief executive officer of the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business, has a deep-rooted passion for South Africa, shaped by her early years spent in Hluhluwe Umfolozi Game Reserve. Reflecting on this time, she says she is passionate about Africa. “Her smells, her sounds, everything about the Bush. It’s deeper than my soul, and I love her passionately.” Her family moved to East London, where Melanie began her education at Stirling Primary School followed by Beaconhurst Primêre Skool. She attended Hudson Park High School before relocating to Durban and then to Pietermaritzburg, where she completed her schooling at Carter High School. Afterwards, Melanie entered the workforce and later pursued a BCom in industrial and organisational psychology from UNISA. Melanie remarked that her first job was as a clerk at the Receiver of Revenue, at the time when everything was processed manually. “That will tell you that it was a while back,” she laughed. Today, as CEO of the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business, Melanie believes that she is privileged to serve as a voice for the business community. “From a Chamber perspective, my why is really to give voice to the issues that business face and to try to help through advocacy to create a more conducive environment for them to operate in,” she explains. Melanie’s mission aligns with her personal goal of contributing positively to society by addressing issues related to inequality and access to opportunities. She is cause-driven by a desire to leave a positive mark on the world. PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENTS When asked about her proudest accomplishments, Melanie highlights the cumulative impact of several key moments rather than a single event. On a personal level, she takes pride in raising two well-adjusted, happy young adults, describing this as “probably the greatest thing I’ve done on a personal level.” Professionally, Melanie is proud of her ability to stand up and voice difficult truths on behalf of the business community, even when challenging. “I guess having the guts to be able to stand up and say some of the stuff that needs to be said on behalf of business, it’s not always easy to do that,” she shares. Another accomplishment is the Chamber’s Global Export Accelerator Programme. Each success in this programme represents the tangible outcome of Melanie and her team’s efforts to foster economic growth. She reflects, “Cumulatively, that’s meaningful work. When each of those businesses has a measure of success…all of those are celebrations.” Melanie has relied on two key pieces of advice throughout her career. The first came from her mother, who taught her that reacting dramatically to a situation won’t change the outcome. “You can throw yourself on the floor, you can have a tantrum… but when you get up, it’s going to be exactly the same. So, you can decide whether or not it’s worth the effort,” Melanie explains. The second piece of advice came from a mentor who encouraged Melanie to enter situations of potential conflict fully prepared to be convinced of the other person’s point of view. “Go in being 100% prepared to be convinced of the other person’s point of view,” she recalls. If she remains unconvinced, she should then prepare to present her own case persuasively. One of the most significant challenges Melanie has faced was during the July 2021 riots in KwaZulu- Natal. During this time, she felt completely helpless as she was unable to secure help for her Chamber members. “I’m a fixer…when I get a call, I find a way,” she explains. But during the riots, there was no help available, and the devastation she witnessed was deeply unsettling. Standing amidst the debris and destruction, Melanie grappled with the harsh reality that those people who incited the violence did so for selfish motives, fully aware of the harm they would cause to people’s livelihoods and lives. “I don’t think that it’s something that I’ve gotten over, and I don’t think that I will until there is some justice,” she reflects. MOTIVATING A TEAM Despite the challenges, Melanie manages to keep her team, composed mostly of women, motivated. They have been with her for a long time and have developed a close-knit bond. To keep team spirit high, Melanie incorporates fun activities into their routine, from adventure outings to spa days. Moreover, the work they do is inherently rewarding, which contributes to the team’s motivation. “Every time one of our entrepreneurs has a win, that’s cause for celebration, that’s the really meaningful stuff,” Melanie explains. Melanie draws inspiration from questioners, people who seek new understanding and are willing to challenge their own beliefs. She admires individuals who speak truth to power and advocate for positive change without personal agendas. She acknowledges the influence of mentors in her life, particularly Moeletsi Mbeki, who has shaped her approach to leadership. Additionally, Melanie, says with a smile, she is a fan of Tannie Evita, whose candidness inspires her. FUTURE VISION Looking ahead, Melanie envisions a future where businesses in South Africa can operate in an environment conducive to their success. She dreams of an economy where most of the population is economically active, and she is committed to advocating for policies that can help achieve this vision. However, she acknowledges that much depends on the political leadership that emerges following the 2024 elections. Two issues are close to her heart. First, she is passionate about the promise of an integrated society made in 1994, which she feels has not been adequately pursued. “There has not been any intentional action to ensure that happens,” she notes. Secondly, is the current government procurement system which Melanie believes fosters opportunism rather than developing sustainable businesses. She advocates for a system that builds competencies and supports the growth of SMEs into medium-sized enterprises capable of servicing both government and private sectors. Melanie’s overarching philosophy in life and work is to continue adding value as long as it brings joy and fulfillment. “You’ve got to ensure that what you’re doing is adding value and is fun. Otherwise, what’s the point?” she concludes. Previous Next

< Back Next > Sasha Pather Founder, Sasha Talia Counselling Sasha Talia Pather, the founder of Sasha Talia Counselling, runs a private mental health practice based in Durban. Her services are provided through online platforms as well as in-person consultations, making mental health support accessible to a wide range of clients. “It’s not just about counselling,” she explains, “it’s about meeting people where they are and providing the help they need.” With a background rich in both education and volunteer work, Sasha’s experience extends beyond the typical counselling environment. She holds degrees in psychology, social work, and theology, which have shaped her holistic approach to mental health. “My involvement in ministry has definitely influenced my practice,” she acknowledges, “because I believe that healing should address the mind, body, and spirit.” Sasha’s exposure to community work began at the age of nineteen. She was involved with local organisations and government bodies, working at the grassroots level to provide services in communities facing mental health challenges. “I grew up in these communities,” she explains, “so I know first-hand the struggles that people face and the impact that mental health issues can have.” From an early age, Sasha took initiative by founding a community-based organisation to deliver essential services. “I started by going into communities to feed, clothe, and provide mental health support to those who couldn’t afford it,” she says. Her efforts quickly expanded as she connected with others who shared her vision for community empowerment. “It just made sense to me to make this my career,” she adds, “so I took that step and officially launched my private practice.” One of the primary goals for Sasha is to shift how people perceive mental health. “Mental health is often seen as a luxury especially in different cultural contexts or among people who have not been exposed to the idea that mental well-being is as crucial as physical health.” She believes that addressing mental health problems can have an impact on other social issues, such as crime and safety. “If you solve a mental health issue,” she insists, “you’re not just helping one person; you’re contributing to the well-being of an entire community.” “People are sometimes hesitant to discuss mental health because it’s still considered a foreign concept or taboo in many areas. My aim is to normalise these conversations. We need to make it OK to talk about mental health, to seek help, and to believe that things can get better.” Sasha has gained recognition through various media platforms such as SABC’s Lotus FM, and her work has been featured in major publications. “People noticed my work because the need for mental health services is so great,” she states. “Being invited onto platforms like radio and TV wasn’t something I pursued; it happened because people saw the impact of what we were doing.” Despite these achievements, Sasha remains focused on the mission rather than the accolades. “The recognition is nice,” she concedes, “but what really matters are the changes we’re able to make in people’s lives.” Overcoming Adversity Sasha’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. “I’ve faced rejection, financial struggles, and doors shutting in my face,” she admits. “As a woman, I’ve also dealt with violations and discrimination.” However, she attributes her resilience to the strength of the women who raised her. “I was brought up by my grandmother and two aunts,” she shares, “and all I saw was women making things happen, even without a male figure around. They showed me that you could stand on your own, have a voice, and achieve what you set your mind to.” Sasha believes in the power of self-definition. “You don’t have to let your circumstances decide who you are,” she says. “If you’re called a victim, you don’t have to accept that label. You can choose how you define yourself.” This mindset has guided her through the adversity she’s encountered. “Whenever there was no door, I just created one,” she adds. “If there was no table, I built one.” The importance of resilience is a key message Sasha shares, especially with young women. “I tell them to figure out who they are,” she says. “If you know your worth, you won’t need external validation or seek it in the wrong places. As long as you’re following your purpose and doing what makes you happy, that’s what truly matters.” Sasha’s dream is to expand her impact even further. “I want to open a mental health centre in Durban,” she reveals, “focusing on wellness, addiction recovery, abuse support, and women’s empowerment.” The envisioned centre would be staffed by a team of counsellors dedicated to addressing the various needs of the community. “We want to be known for changing lives,” she states, “for being a place where people can come, regardless of their problems, and find hope.” Nature and Well-Being Outside of her counselling work, Sasha finds solace in nature. “I love the outdoors,” she says. “Being in natural settings is calming and therapeutic for me.” She also enjoys spending time with loved ones, whether it’s relaxing at home or enjoying a day at the mall. “It’s important to find activities that relax and ground you,” she adds. “For me, it’s all about balance and ensuring that I’m taking care of myself while taking care of others.” Sasha acknowledges the ongoing nature of her mission. “Mental health is not something you solve overnight,” she asserts. “It’s an ongoing process of creating awareness, breaking down barriers, and supporting people through their healing. The biggest achievements aren’t the awards or recognitions,” she concludes. “They’re the moments when someone tells you, ‘You helped me save my life.’ Those are priceless.” In her view, the work of normalising mental health must continue. “We can all play a part,” she says, “whether it’s through professional practice or simply by being open to discussing mental health.” Sasha’s commitment is clear: “It starts with all of us, recognising the importance of mental well-being and making it a priority. < Previous Next >

Ashley Bell Next Previous Ashley Bell is the chief executive officer of Bell Equipment Ashley Bell is the chief executive officer of Bell Equipment, which is based in Richards Bay, South Africa. Ashley was born and raised in Empangeni. At the very young age of six he was sent to boarding school in Pietermaritzburg where he attended Cordwalles Preparatory. He finished high school at Hilton College. Following his schooling, Ashley completed a commercial pilot’s license and a BCom degree in marketing in Durban. “My very first job was as a helicopter pilot tracking stolen vehicles at all times of the day and night, which was a different, but good working environment,” he explained. Bell Equipment celebrates their 70th anniversary in 2024. As the business is family-owned, Bell Equipment has always played a significant part of Ashley’s life. “I have stayed close to the business. The subject around the dinner table has always been the company and what’s going on, including some of the new projects and challenges,” he explained. The origins of Bell Equipment date back to 1954 when Ashley’s grandfather, Irvine Bell developed a self-loading sugar cane trailer, which became well known in the sugar industry. This trailer was followed by the sugar cane loader, which was the first mechanical loader in the industry. In the 1970s, the involvement of the second generation – Irvine’s sons Gary, Paul and Pete – as well as two cousins, Mike and Dave Campbell saw the business grow into a global player. New heavy equipment machinery was added to the production line, as well as additional distribution channels established to market their products. Bell Equipment’s core product now is the articulated dump truck, which is sold in 80 countries around the world. “Bell should never have achieved what they have in the global market considering it is a company based at the southern tip of Africa and faced with numerous challenges,” said Ashley. A POSITIVE IMPACT Over the last eight years, Ashley served on the company’s main board until his appointment as CEO in 2024. In his current position Ashley sees his purpose being: “To create an environment which sustainably makes a positive impact for all stakeholders in our company.” He added that his goal is to create an environment where team members can grow and thrive and where they can contribute to both the success of their customers and the business. In terms of his business career, the accomplishment that makes Ashley proudest is the start-up original equipment manufacturer (OEM) that he and his brother founded in 2009. They established a company called Matriarch Equipment that focused on designing, manufacturing and distributing niche products for the sugar and forestry industries. Ashely commented, “We learned a great deal from conceptualising to designing the machine, establishing the supply of components, manufacturing and then marketing and selling as well as supporting the product.” In 2019 Matriarch Equipment was sold to Bell Equipment. POWER WITHIN YOU Commenting on the best advice that he has ever received and how that has impacted on his life, Ashley said that his journey had taught him that if you’re unhappy or you don’t like something, change it. He explained, “Often the power to make a change lies within you as an individual, and the sooner you act, the better.” He added that this approach has helped him to be more decisive in his own life and in business. Reflecting on how he faces challenges in the workplace, Ashley said that one of his passions is trail running. One of the toughest events he participated in was a 100-kilometre run through the Drakensberg. “I had to dig really deep mentally and physically to get through it and I’ll probably be crazy enough to do it again someday. I think it’s important to remember that pain is temporary and no matter how difficult the situation is at the time, one day you’ll look back and you will have survived, and it’s all good in the end.” Ashley added that there will always be conflicts and obstacles within teams, but he thinks that consistency in how you approach these is key to motivation. “I’m very big on consistently communicating with the team my thoughts and challenges and getting their thoughts.” In addition, Ashley says he continuously reminds people of their longer-term vision and goals. “What we are setting out to achieve as a team – with an understanding that there will be bumps along the way. A finger on the pulse is essential, so having a close team is important.” FIGHTING SPIRIT Bell Equipment has a professional management team with many Bell family members working within the business, all with their respective areas of expertise. Ashley commented that, “While we do experience conflicts at times, we’re fortunate in the sense that everyone is able to pull along in the same direction. Heritage has been a huge part of the organisation’s culture. That never give up fighting spirit is what we’ve had to rely on over the years to get through some tough times.” Ashley has a keen interest in seeing South African companies growing from entrepreneurial businesses into successful and sustainable companies. Their stories provide a lot of inspiration for his own journey. Currently, Bell Equipment has a number of exciting new products and initiatives underway to create a more diversified and sustainable business going forward and to grow and evolve as a manufacturer on the global stage. A new initiative at the Richards Bay factory is to establish themselves as a contract manufacturer for products beyond the yellow metal world. In conclusion, says Ashley, “Nothing worth having comes easy. There are always times where you’ll think you’ve got too much on your plate and you honestly don’t know how you will get through it all, but you just put your head down and get on with it.” Previous Next

Andrew Kruger Next Previous Andrew Kruger is a director at DRG Outsourcing Andrew Kruger is currently a director at DRG Outsourcing and plays a significant role in BusinessFit, a company within the DRG Group. He elaborated, “BusinessFit is focused on helping and mentoring entrepreneurs through a scientific approach to business.” This dual role allows Andrew to leverage his expertise to support the growth and success of other businesses. “I’m very involved with entrepreneurs, assisting them in their journeys and helping them become successful,” he noted. Reflecting on his early years, he shared, “I was born in Port Elizabeth, and I grew up there until I was 12, attending Grey Junior School.” His family’s move to Durban came when his father received a promotion. “At 12, we moved to Durban, and I continued my education at Westville Boys’ High School,” he recalled. This change marked a significant chapter in his upbringing and education. For his higher education, Andrew attended the University of KwaZulu-Natal, which was both close to home and his university of choice. “I pursued my BCom and then completed my honours to qualify as a chartered accountant,” he explained. This laid the foundation for his career in finance and business. After qualifying, Andrew stepped straight into the practical world through his articles, securing a position with Deloitte. Starting as a first-year clerk, Andrew embraced the responsibilities of entry- level tasks. “I did all the menial activities that first- year clerks do and gradually moved up through the ranks,” he shared. By his third year, he was responsible for leading audits. “Once my articles were completed, I officially qualified as a chartered accountant,” he said. STRATEGIC GUIDANCE Andrew’s motivation is rooted in both financial and strategic purposes. “Finance is important to me as a chartered accountant,” he explained. His main priority is ensuring the financial health of his business. “If a business is not doing well financially, it’s not sustainable,” he asserted. To him, the sustainability of a business means it can contribute positively to society and support its employees. He also expressed his passion for assisting small and medium enterprises: “I enjoy helping small businesses understand the difference between profit and cash flow.” By guiding them, he enables entrepreneurs to achieve greater financial and strategic stability. “I find joy in seeing businesses grow and succeed through strategic guidance and sound financial practices,” he said. Andrew is optimistic about the future of business in KwaZulu-Natal. “KZN is unique, especially after what we’ve been through in the past two years,” he noted, referring to the community’s resilience. He believes that the collaborative spirit in KZN will fuel growth. “The community here is very close- knit, and this collaboration is key to business success,” he explained. With a focus on attracting local and foreign investment, Andrew sees KZN flourishing. “I am excited to be part of that growth,” he said, noting the enthusiasm and determination of local entrepreneurs. Motivating a team, according to Andrew, involves ensuring that everyone understands their role and its significance. “If staff know how their work contributes to the business as a whole, they’re more motivated,” he explained. Encouraging pride in their contributions is key: “I want them to be proud of their work and ensure that when it’s passed on, it’s in the best condition possible.” Additionally, he believes in empowering his team by allowing them to make decisions and learn from their experiences. “Even if they make the wrong decision, it’s a learning opportunity that prepares them for the future,” he said. AN INCREDIBLE ACHIEVEMENT When asked about his proudest achievement, Andrew didn’t focus on career accolades but instead on family. “My biggest accomplishment is my family. I have a wonderful wife and three beautiful daughters,” he stated with pride. “Just watching them grow and develop into independent individuals is an incredible achievement for me.” His eldest daughter’s successful transition to university life is a particular point of pride: “Seeing her leave home, manage her own life, and thrive is immensely rewarding.” Reflecting on his greatest personal challenge, Andrew shared, “The biggest challenge I faced was when my eldest daughter was diagnosed with a serious heart condition when she was a nine-year- old.” He described the difficulty of being unable to take direct action during her treatment: “There was nothing I could do. She was in the hands of the doctors, and I had to learn to rely on faith.” This period tested his resilience and taught him valuable lessons about acceptance and trust. “The hardest part was recognising that some things are out of your control,” he said. Andrew finds inspiration in a timeless piece of advice: “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” He explained, “Sometimes, when facing a daunting task, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But starting with that single step makes all the difference.” This approach has shaped his life, helping him tackle challenges methodically. “Once you’ve taken that first step, the path ahead becomes clearer,” he said. This advice has encouraged him to push through challenges without being paralysed by the enormity of tasks. Andrew credits much of his inspiration to his parents and a high school teacher. “I grew up in a stable home with parents who were always supportive,” he recalled. Their involvement and encouragement were invaluable. “My parents have been married for over 50 years, which is inspirational on its own,” he added. He also mentioned his high school accountancy teacher. “He inspired many students to pursue accountancy and made a significant impact,” Andrew said. Andrew says that his guiding principle comes from scripture. “When I was a boy, I had a verse on my wall from Proverbs 3:6: ‘In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will guide your paths,’” he shared. This verse has been a cornerstone of his life and a message he has passed on to his children. “It’s important to me to use God as my guide and mentor, and I truly believe He has led my path,” Andrew concluded. Previous Next

Hantie Plomp Next Previous Hantie Plomp is the founder and director of Triplo4 Sustainable Solutions Hantie Plomp is the founder and director of Triplo4 Sustainable Solutions. Hantie’s professional studies began at the University of Pretoria, where she completed Bachelor of Science degree in microbiology and physiology. Her first employment was in AngloGold Ashanti’s chemical laboratory. During that time, she completed a National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry on a part-time basis. In 1996, an opportunity arose for her to move to the environmental sector of AngloGold Ashanti. After two weeks, Hantie realised that environmental management was where she wanted to work for the rest of her life. She then graduated cum laude from the University of the Orange Free State with a Master’s degree in Environmental Management. After working through the ranks of AngloGold Ashanti, Hantie relocated to KwaZulu-Natal in 2007 to start up an environmental division of an engineering company. In 2010 she founded her own company, Triplo4 Sustainable Solutions. CARING ABOUT PEOPLE However, Hantie added that another part to her life is caring about people. Throughout her working life she has studied theology as well as natural health and has assisted people with their well-being through counselling, healing sessions and prayers. “Triplo4 really brings together my passion for the environment as well as my passion for people. And this is why this company assists me to live my potential and also my divine purpose,” Hantie explains. Triplo4 Sustainable Solutions’ purpose is to solve environ- mental challenges and to help companies to improve their environmental performance in a sustainable way. “We look at all issues or challenges that there can be to try and help people find an approach where the components of social, economic, and environmental matters are balanced. We help those individuals or companies to find a solution that is sustainable and profitable without impacting on future generations.” While Hantie has had many accomplishments, she is particularly proud of winning the National Business Awards Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2019. “I was really proud of that award because it honoured the effort that I have made throughout the years. The recognition also acknowledged what my team has done for Triplo4 Sustainable Solutions as well as the role my parents played, “says Hantie. “My career aspirations began early, between the age of three and five years. Often when driving with my mother between the towns of Orkney and Klerksdorp, she would want to know what I wanted to be when I grew up. I replied with a child’s dream and ambition: to own a cafe so that I can eat as many chocolates as I wanted. I believe that my entrepreneurial spirit recognised that ownership would present the ability to make decisions and influence direction.” Consequently, throughout her career, Hantie has worked towards opportunities for entrepreneurship. She added that her parents had shown her the importance of working hard and undoubtedly influenced her to be an entrepreneur. “I do believe that my parents played a significant role in my life because the first job that I had was working for them. They had a mini golf putting course which my dad had built, and we worked there over weekends and holidays. From early on we learned that you need to be creative, go the extra mile, and we worked hard.” Working at the course taught Hantie how to engage with people and to care about their needs. “We learnt to understand what’s important for people, it was not just looking after yourself and what you would like to have as a child. This is the reason I care about people and am passionate about entrepreneurship.” STAND TOGETHER Speaking of who inspires her, Hantie first turns to God. In terms of Triplo4, she feels inspired by her employees as they stand together and go through challenging times as a team. She added that her husband has always been there for her. “Together with God, my parents, my husband, and the team, I’m always inspired to do my best for Triplo4 Sustainable Solutions.” In line with obtaining inspiration from her team, Hantie believes in keeping the members well motivated. “One needs to set an example; one needs to do your best and show your team how to work in a positive and a constructive way to find solutions,” she said. Hantie also guides her team through training and development while encouraging them to be creative, show initiative and help themselves in terms of their careers. The best advice that Hantie has received was from a previous manager who said that not all people will think or feel the same as you do, and that they don’t necessarily share the same values or ethics. This has helped her in the environmental field as she often deals with stakeholders who have different requirements, needs and agendas. The biggest challenge that Hantie has faced was when she felt that both her competence as well as her ethics were challenged during a major project. “Keep in mind that when I started my career, I said this is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I have dedicated 30 years of my career towards environmental management and the profession,” explained Hantie. DO THE RIGHT THINGS Hantie’s vision for KwaZulu-Natal is that considering we have the infrastructure in terms of ports and airports as well an environment that provides open spaces to support conservation, we should become a powerhouse in the country. “My vision is that we will strive towards sustainable development and excellence where there’s no corruption and every person and municipality is empowered to deliver the best for their community.” The motto that Hantie lives by is that you should ‘do the right things right’. Hantie has tried to live by this motto her whole life. She recently found a new aspect to add when she read that one should ‘do the right things right at the right time’. In conclusion, Hantie says that there’s another motto that she lives by in terms of Triplo4. This is that a leader is only as good as the team and the team is only as good as the leader. “Together, the two need to work together to make the best of the opportunities and the value that can be created.” Previous Next