The definitive ecosystem for KwaZulu-Natal industry. Home to the KZN Top Business Awards, Women in Business, and the Nexus networking hub. Empowering the province through KZN Business Sense news and strategic connectivity.

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

Essa Suleman Next Previous Essa Ebrahim Suleman is the chief executive officer of the Woodford Group Essa Ebrahim Suleman serves as the chief executive officer of the Woodford Group, a position that places him at the forefront of one of South Africa’s most prominent vehicle rental and mobility solution providers. Leading the company he joined at an early age, Essa plays an essential role in shaping the Woodford Group’s future and expanding its reach within southern Africa and beyond. His journey in both education and career started with a unique path. “After matriculating, I studied toward and attained my Private Pilot Licence (PPL), before joining Woodford,” he explains. His journey continued with advanced studies; in 2013, Essa completed an MBA at Wits Business School. This combination of hands-on industry experience and academic pursuit helped equip Essa with the skills to guide and grow the company. Essa began his career at the first Woodford Car Hire branch in Woodford Grove in Durban. Recalling his first role, he says, “My first job was as a rental agent, and I was trained on the front desk by Mr. Zufer Khan – an employee who is still with the company today.” Starting at the grassroots level of Woodford Car Hire gave Essa a firsthand understanding of the customer experience and the daily operations of a car hire business. His foundational experience at the front desk has remained a core element of his leadership style as CEO, giving him insights into every aspect of the customer experience and operations. Commenting on his purpose Essa says, “My purpose is very much similar to that of the company – I want to provide value to every person that I come into contact with through our business,” he says. Essa’s philosophy is grounded in creating positive impacts not only for customers but also for his team and business partners. “Whether it’s our people, our customers, or our suppliers – everything we come across, touch, or feel, we’ve got to make this world better than it was before we got here. We have not lived if we have not added value,” he shares passionately. Among many achievements, Essa highlights a significant milestone with pride: “I feel that becoming a partner of Enterprise (the world’s largest car rental company) in southern Africa was a momentous achievement in our history.” This partnership with a global industry leader represents the Woodford Group’s commitment to excellence and its reputation within the car rental industry. However, Essa’s vision of accomplishment goes beyond accolades and partnerships. He says, “What would make me feel the most proud and the most accomplished would be when every single customer and employee is completely satisfied with our business.” BE HUMBLE Reflecting on words of wisdom that have guided him, Essa shares a profound piece of advice from his late brother, the former CEO of Woodford. “One of the pieces of advice was, ‘Be humble. Take a moment and be grateful for what you have,’” he recalls. Essa believes that gratitude is often overlooked in the fast-paced world of business. “The further and faster a journey goes, the easier it is to forget gratitude,” he notes. “We tend to only think in terms of what we don’t have and what we still need to achieve. Stopping every once in a while to be grateful is something that, I hope, grounds me and reminds me to be humble,” Essa adds. In the ever-evolving business world, challenges are constant, and Essa’s journey has been no exception. Reflecting on his approach to adversity, Essa says, “We have new challenges every single day. It’s often the case where every new challenge feels like it’s the greatest one we’ve faced up to that point.” For Essa, facing obstacles is about resilience and a determined mindset. He shares his strategy: “I don’t know which was my greatest, but I do know that I’m not the type to rest until we’ve put the challenge to bed. We pray, we prepare, and we then face each one head-on. The minute you believe that you can do something is the moment you’ve solved half of it.” Essa’s approach to overcoming challenges has enabled the Woodford Group to navigate difficult situations and to grow. FORWARD THINKING Essa emphasises the importance of resilience and optimism when motivating his team, especially in challenging times. “We are a resilient bunch that appreciates everything we have rather than looking back at what we could have had,” he explains. This outlook helps his team stay focused and energised, even when facing conflicts or obstacles. Essa believes that forward-thinking and positivity are key to keeping morale high. “Everything around us looks positive, despite the scenario,” he adds. Essa finds inspiration in results, a driving factor that influences his leadership and decision- making. “I’m a results-driven person, so I’m very much inspired by results. Good or bad, exceeded or missed targets, success or failure; the results inspire the efforts and decisions required,” he says. He also draws inspiration from nature, describing how, “the vastness of it brings things back into perspective and makes it all seem so small. It helps me try to do even more and take on more.” As a CEO of a KwaZulu-Natal born company, Essa is deeply committed to contributing to the province’s growth and development over the next five years. He explains Woodford’s goal: “Our vision at Woodford is to bring mobility solutions to all.” Essa hopes to expand the company’s footprint across KZN, offering mobility solutions to enable people to “move, grow, and thrive through our services and footprint.” Essa lives by the motto: “A winner is a dreamer that never gives up.” This saying encapsulates his journey, reflecting the resilience and determination that have defined his leadership at Woodford. With a focus gratitude and relentless pursuit of his dreams, Essa is poised to lead the Woodford Group to new heights. Previous Next

Susan Abro Next Previous Sole proprietor of Susan Abro Attorney Susan Abro is the sole proprietor of Susan Abro Attorney, a specialist family law practice based in KwaZulu-Natal. With a legal career spanning more than three decades, her work has been grounded in a commitment to people, justice, and community. Her practice focuses on family law, a field she describes as dealing with life “from cradle to grave”. Susan Abro Attorney handles a broad spectrum of family law matters. These include disputes relating to children, divorce, financial consequences of separation, domestic violence protection orders, maintenance court proceedings, and complex international matters such as cross-border child abduction under the Hague Conventions. As Susan explains, “Family law is about the most intimate aspects of people’s lives. You are dealing with their children, their finances, their safety, and their dignity. You have to take all of that seriously.” At the heart of Susan’s work lies a clear purpose: to help people, particularly those navigating crisis and vulnerability. She says, “I’ve been involved with genderbased violence and the promotion of women since the very beginning of my career.” While her practice does not exclusively represent women, she has become known for her ability to support women facing severe emotional, financial, or physical hardship. “By the time clients leave me,” she reflects, “they are strong enough to continue on their own. Seeing that transformation is what gives me the greatest satisfaction.” STRONG WORK ETHIC Susan grew up in Melmoth, a small town in Zululand, where the absence of a local high school meant she had to attend boarding school. She was educated at St Anne’s Diocesan College, where lifelong friendships were formed. She went on to study at the then University of Natal in Pietermaritzburg, completing a Bachelor of Arts degree, followed by Bachelor of Laws (LLB) at the University of Natal’s Durban campus.Alongside her formal legal education, she pursued additional qualifications in business management through Damelin and undertook numerous specialist courses in family law, mediation, and arbitration. Her strong work ethic emerged early. Susan’s first job came at the age of 12, when she worked as a cashier in a Melmoth supermarket during school holidays. This early experience left a lasting impression. “You learn very quickly how to deal with people,” she recalls, “and that skill stays with you for life.” Susan’s professional journey was marked by both challenges and opportunities. She completed her articles at L.J. Paola Wright and Wilkinson during a period of transition, when the firm was taken over and women were no longer welcomed by the new management. Undeterred, she accepted an offer from Woodhead, Bigby and Irving, where she spent five formative years. “I’ve always believed you don’t burn bridges,” she says. “Those relationships matter, especially when you go out on your own.” MUTUAL RESPECT In 1995, Susan made the decision to enter private practice in association with Betsy Rowe of Sylvia Oversby and Partners, a firm they later purchased. The transition from being a partner in a large Durban firm to starting afresh was daunting. “I literally had nothing,” she admits. “But in those days, you just did it.” She credits her success to strong mentorship, loyal clients, and a professional network built on mutual respect. Many of her clients have remained with her throughout her career, evolving into trusted friends. Among Susan’s achievements, one stands out as particularly meaningful: her service as an acting judge of the High Court and later as a judge of the Electoral Court. She served two terms on the Electoral Court alongside the late Supreme Court of Appeal Judge President K.K. Mthiyane. “That was incredibly exciting,” she says. “When I first knew K.K., he was an advocate I briefed. We became very close over the years; even went to each other’s birthday parties.” Susan attributes much of her professional composure to a piece of advice she received early in her career. “My principal once told me that if you receive a letter that makes you angry, put it in a drawer,” she recalls. “If you take it out a day later and it still makes you angry, put it back. Never respond in anger. You need a clear head and collegiality – a concept many youngsters today don’t understand,” she says. “But without that, the system doesn’t work.” HUMAN CONNECTION One of the significant personal challenges Susan has faced is the progressive loss of her vision. However, she has adapted with determination and pragmatism. “Technology has made a huge difference. My phone talks to me, my computer talks to me, and I have incredible staff who support me.” She acknowledges that facing this challenge later in life, once her practice was established, made adaptation more manageable. Susan leads a small, close-knit team and places emphasis on wellbeing and human connection. “We do things together that aren’t work-related. We exercise in the boardroom, we try to eat healthily, and we spend time together socially.” She believes the nature of family law itself is motivating. “You see what people go through,” she explains. “It reminds you why the work matters.” Inspiration for Susan comes primarily from people. She speaks warmly of South Africans and their resilience, kindness, and sense of community. She draws inspiration from strong women who remain active and committed well into later life. These include 86 year old Mathabo Kunene who carries on the legacy of her husband, the late poet laureate, Mazisi Kunene, and does incredible work for the community. In addition, her own mother, also aged of 86 who has just retired is a role model. “They show you how strong you can be,” she says. “They are always giving back.” Looking ahead, Susan is optimistic about KwaZulu- Natal. “I really hope we can move forward doing business properly,” she says, “with honesty and integrity, and by helping one another. KZN is the best province in this country.” Susan firm’s logo reads, “We have a heart for family law,” a sentiment that reflects her life’s work. “When I’m gone. I want people to say that I lived a good life, that I looked after my community, and that I was honest.” For Susan Abro, leadership is service, integrity, and leaving people stronger than when she found them.” Previous Next

< Back Philisiwe Gumede General Manager of The Oyster Box Hotel Philisiwe Gumede is the general manager of The Oyster Box Hotel and her story begins in Umlazi, Durban, where a simple career day at her high school opened her eyes to a world of possibilities. “When I was in high school, we were just fortunate around the nineties to have a career day. I got to see opportunities that had not been tapped into growing up in the black community,” she recalls. “That’s when I realised there are actually opportunities to travel and to work in different spheres, not just to become a teacher or a nurse or a policeman.” After completing her matric in 1994, Philisiwe pursued studies in travel and tourism but soon discovered her true calling in hospitality. By 1997, she was enrolled in the International Hotel School, completing a three year hospitality management diploma that launched a remarkable career spanning more than two decades. Her first job came in 2000 with the Three Cities Group, opening the Gold Reef City Casino in Johannesburg. Later that year, Philisiwe joined the opening team at Sandton Convention Centre as operations floor manager. “I happened to be a woman spearheading the operations floor,” she says with pride. “I ran all the events that came through, meeting some of the most iconic industry leaders. That was an introduction to where I got to today.” FROM UMLAZI TO THE WORLD In 2003, Philisiwe’s lifelong dream of travelling became reality. Her first international role was in Abu Dhabi, managing an elegant beach resort. “I was in charge of the front office, housekeeping – everything in the rooms’ division.” After two years, she moved to Dubai to further her career, immersing herself in the global hospitality scene. By 2009, she was ready to return home. “I came back and joined South African Tourism within the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa,” Philisiwe explains. Based in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape, she was responsible for ensuring the credibility of the country’s accommodation sector. “It was all about putting stars where they belong,” she says. “We did that through the World Cup, ensuring our properties were graded and ready for the global stage.” Afterwards, Philisiwe joined Sun International, where she spent eight years managing casino operations before taking an unexpected turn into hospital management. “I ran a hospital for two years,” she notes. “Then in 2022, I was headhunted again by Peermont to oversee a casino as general manager in Limpopo.” Her latest career move came, as she puts it, “from a nice little note on LinkedIn.” The message offered an opportunity at the Oyster Box in Durban. “I said, yes!” she laughs. “The Oyster Box is so iconic. It’s known throughout South Africa for its exceptional service, its view, its history, its heritage. To be part of this story is truly special.” THE POWER OF PURPOSE Returning to Durban has been both a professional milestone and a personal homecoming for Philisiwe. “Growing up in Umlazi, the dream was simple: to study, get a job and live a good life,” she reflects. “When you achieve that dream, you shift your dream for more. My dream now is to leave a legacy.” She speaks passionately about her interest in mental health and her long-term vision. “I would love to have a wellness and rehabilitation centre one day,” she shares. “Something that contributes to people’s wellbeing and leaves something meaningful for my family.” For Philisiwe, impact goes far beyond technical skill. “My impact is through passion, discipline and authenticity,” she says. “One of my directors once told me, ‘How are we going to find somebody who’s passionate, with business instinct, who’s a mother and everything in one?’ That resonated with me because we, as women, often try to fit into a male space. But it’s okay to bring motherly love into business – it works. ”Her achievements are many, but two moments stand out. “Being the first black African female to take over the Oyster Box and for the Red Carnation Hotel Collection is a huge achievement,” she says. “It tells every black child that it’s possible.” Philisiwe also fondly recalls meeting the late United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan at the World Summit on Sustainable Development in 2002. “He issued me with a service excellence award. That was an iconic moment that helped shape the person I have become.” OVERCOMING BARRIERS Philisiwe’s path, though successful, has not been without challenges. “This industry is still predominantly male-driven,” she admits. “Sometimes you feel like you are not heard, like there is no space for you. But I never allowed that to control me. I stayed focused on my goal.”Her advice to young women is: “Believe in yourself. Stay focused, even when people tell you that you won’t make it. Success doesn’t happen overnight. It is built through perseverance, authenticity and self-belief. And most importantly, support and build other women along the way.” Balancing her demanding career with family life is another source of joy. “I was blessed very late with this bundle of joy,” she says, smiling. “She is five years old and keeps me on my toes. Coming back to Durban has been a ‘cherry on top’ because I am close to my big family again. After work, I can just go back and enjoy being with them.” Philisiwe credits her professional success to the support of the Red Carnation family. “I want to thank my leaders, Jonathan Raggett, the CEO, and Michael Nel, the managing director, for entrusting me with such a huge role,” she says. “They have been open to change and transition within the company, and I’m proud to carry forward the legacy of the Tollman family, who take such pride in the industry and care deeply for their people.”For Philisiwe, leadership is not about titles or accolades but about nurturing others and honouring heritage. “Take care of your staff,” she concludes, “and they will take care of your guests. That is the secret to great hospitality – and to a lasting legacy." Previous Next

As Head of Finance for the KZN Retail and Business Banking division in Standard Bank, Thabisa Nkanzela is part of the provincial executive leadership team and is directly responsible for providing financial management support at a strategic and operational levelThabisa NkanzelaAs Head of Finance for the KZN Retail and Business Banking division in Standard Bank, Thabisa Nkanzela is part of the provincial executive leadership team and is directly responsible for providing financial management support at a strategic and operational levelAs Head of Finance for the KZN Retail and Business Banking division in Standard Bank, Thabisa Nkanzela is part of the provincial executive leadership team and is directly responsible for providing financial management support at a strategic and operational level. This means that Thabisa and her finance team have a responsibility to ensure that the business operates within budget parameters and adheres to financial and governance requirements. Embrace every opportunity Thabisa attributes her career success thus far, firstly to the grace of God and secondly, to a combination of opportunity and hard work. Throughout the various stages of her career, she has been blessed to have been afforded opportunities to show up. "We all need both exposure and opportunity so we can demonstrate what we're really capable of," she says, "and I've constantly challenged myself to give of my best in every task or project allocated to me and embrace every opportunity." But Thabisa is also adamant about the importance of having a dream and working hard to pursue it. "I'm blessed to be entrusted with various positions of influence in the community and at work today. But I grew up in a rural village near Flagstaff and as a young girl, I always had big dreams about myself and my surroundings. I am only realising now that the environment around me was neither conducive nor enabling for these dreams to become a reality, but I dreamt anyway." "Your dreams, aspirations and imagination keep you open to opportunities and to something bigger than yourself. You can only do the best you can with what you have, but if you have a dream, you have something to work towards." Inspired to make an impact As she grew up, Thabisa began to see more potential for her future, and says that she's inspired to make an impact. "We can all make a difference wherever we are, and I always strive to leave things in better shape than I found them. This forces me to bring my A - game, and to be the best possible version of myself wherever I am." Thabisa points out that women naturally have a different approach to business than men, and that contributes to their success. "Ability and skills can be taught, but we women have an innate ability to bring our whole selves to everything that we do, and that can be very powerful in business. However, most importantly we are all unique beings offering diverse thinking, perspectives and abilities, and each person should be recognised for what they have to offer, regardless of their gender." Thabisa is extremely grateful and humbled by her journey and accomplishments to date. But she also points out that she still has a lot to offer - not just on the work front, but also to her family, her community and her generation at large. "I was raised by a strong and highly accomplished mother, who continues to positively influence her family and her community at large through the various leadership roles that she assumes. It is through observing her that I know how important it is to use whatever influence and success you may achieve for the enrichment of those around you." "I also consider myself to be a highly teachable person, so I'm always open to learning new things. Continuous development has been one of the biggest and most important contributors to my progress thus far, both on a personal and professional level, and I strive to continue with that journey of growth." Build a strong support system When asked whether she manages to achieve a work-life balance, Thabisa answers that she always tries to live life to the fullest in every way, including pursuing a rewarding professional career. "But it's not easy,' she points out, "and it certainly requires a lot of trade-offs, but it is possible. For me, it means identifying what I'm passionate about outside of work, then being deliberate about investing time in those things." Thabisa points out that you can't do it all on your own. Building a strong support system around yourself makes all the difference. Thabisa also has some advice for her younger self, and for other young businesspeople setting out to make their mark on the world. "Ask more questions. It's okay to ask, and you gain greater insights. You don't always have to figure everything out for yourself. Secondly, you have a lot to learn, but equally so you have a lot to offer this world. In everything you do, strive to learn and to create at the same time, then you'll find fulfilment. Lastly, and very importantly, don't define yourself by what you have today. Circumstances around you may seem limiting right now, but keep dreaming, keep imagining. Never close yourself off to opportunities." Cheryl Govender CHERYL GOVENDER is the founder and owner of The Cake House in Pietermaritzburg. She is a qualified chef and professional cake artist. The Cake House has become a leading provider of designer cakes including engineered life-size cakes. Cheryl's exceptional cakes, each a masterpiece, have been featured in magazines and on television, and The Cake House is recognised as a leader in new age sugarcraft. Cheryl is inspired by successful bakeries and cake artists. She explains, "This is a tough industry and requires not only talent, but a business mind, people skills, market insight, tenacity, and continuous learning and growth." One of her biggest inspirations is Buddy Valastro, an American baker who is the star of the reality television series 'Cake Boss'. Be clear about what must be achieved Cheryl believes she got to where she is now and reached her goals by being clear about what she needed to achieve and why she needed to achieve them. She says her career started when she was fourteen when she was handed down decorating tools that her sister no longer needed. "Although I was a real tomboy, beating the boys at their own games in the streets, I did girly stuff when I went home, like playing with cake decorating tools and my dolls," she laughed. Cheryl learned about sugar art by reading books from the municipal library and often left the kitchen in a mess after experimenting. Her Consumer Studies teacher recognised Cheryl's talent; arranged for her to attend a cake decorating course, and gave her a toolset, which she treasures to this day. This teacher, now a retired school principal, adopted Cheryl as a daughter, helped her to believe in herself, and became her mentor to this day. Cheryl won a Consumer Studies Inter School Award in matric due to her passion for cake decorating, but at that time she considered it a hobby, not a career. After a year at college, Cheryl married and became a mother. She joined the corporate world but kept on making decorated cakes as a hobby to supplement her income. When her son was two years old, Cheryl entered and won the Pietermaritzburg Royal Show sugarcraft competition. This led to her teaching sugarcraft on a part-time basis at the now FET College in Northdale, something she continued passionately for 25 years. This Cheryl said, was fulfilling: "empowering women has always been close to my heart". Focus on one thing and do it well Cheryl gained wide experience in the corporate world, including ten years in shipping and international travel, before she started her own export business. This business crashed during the worldwide financial crisis of 2008 and she "fell back on her hands", starting a food catering business that also provided cakes. Cheryl made a few designer cakes assuming there was little market for these due to the high prices, but word of her quality and expertise spread and orders increased. A traumatic divorce, the demands of being involved in catering, wedding décor, training and making cakes at the same time, made her realise that she needed to streamline her activities. In 2012 she decided to focus on one thing only and do it well and opened The Cake House. Cheryl, a single mom had herself, her mother's assistance, two children, and a house. As she had lost her vehicle, Cheryl went everywhere in running shoes while carrying cake ingredients and other items in a backpack. Nothing was handed to her; she had no money and could not get a bank loan. Cheryl understood the risks involved but her faith and trust in God helped her. She managed to buy all her industrial baking equipment from a helpful appliance store on a three-month cash basis. Her business remains debt-free to this day. Business skills are unrelated to gender In Cheryl's view, women and men need the same business approach, as the skills required for a successful business are unrelated to gender. "Tenacity, hard work, honesty, patience and endurance are equally required from men and women." She does, however, concede that women face more challenges. She has had to face abuse, being a mother, and a divorce. Achieving a work-life balance boils down to discipline for Cheryl. "It is necessary to make time for your family and yourself, and also to rest, but not working can be scary for a business owner with much to do," she says. "I've had to learn to set boundaries, say no, and cut myself off from work when it's time to relax and unwind." Gardening, time with her family and puppies, and doing things outside of the business help create a balance. Brand ambassador Cheryl is happy with what she has accomplished thus far and readily give others credit. Without her mother, she could not have set up The Cake House. Without the help of her husband Alan, her family, and staff members, she would not have been able to grow the business. She feels honoured having recently being appointed a brand ambassador with royal status, for Rolkem Colours, one of the world's largest food colourant providers. While Cheryl is satisfied with the place she has reached, she is not comfortable about remaining there. Cheryl dreams of making the province proud of The Cake House as a tourism attraction. With a growing support structure in place, she is prepared to take risks within her means and take the business to the next level. Back

< Back Cerisha Naicker Director of Digital Productions and Producer of the Get Real Talk Show Cerisha Naicker, the director of DigitalProductions and producer of the Get Real Talk Show, has built her career around one clear purpose: to tell stories that move people. Digital Productions is a vibrant video and photography company that specialises in the wedding industry and corporate events. The Get Real Talk is a proudly KZN show where extraordinary individuals and celebrities share their inspiring stories. As the creative force behind Digital Productions, Cerisha has spent more than 13 years perfecting the art of visual storytelling. The company, founded in 2011 by her husband, became her professional home a year later. “I joined in 2012 in the belief that every company has a compelling story waiting to be told,” she explained. For Cerisha, creativity and purpose have always gone hand in hand. “We partner with many ambitious companies to produce high-impact video content that they can use to showcase their brands and unique skills to their clients.” Six years into Digital Productions, Cerisha had the opportunity to produce the Get Real Talk Show. Through this platform, she has met remarkable personalities whose experiences have shaped her outlook on life and business. “Every episode of the Get Real Talk Show reminds me why I do what I do,” she shared. “It allows us to highlight inspiring people, from entrepreneurs to artists, who make an impact in their communities. It’s not just entertainment; it’s about empowerment and storytelling.” BUILDING A VISION Cerisha’s ambitions have evolved with time and experience. “If I had to define the word dream, it kept changing as I grew up,” she reflected. “But as I got older, I realised how this world works and that we each must have a goal set up for ourselves. I was a very bright student in school and I just wanted to be successful and financially independent.” Her love for film has also influenced her creative direction. “I have to say watching Bollywood films helped inspire me to create cinematic videos for our bridal couples and for corporate events as well. The rich colours, emotions, and storytelling style really shaped my approach to videography.” But her greatest inspiration comes from her partner in both life and business. “My husband has inspired me a lot. He motivates me,” she said sincerely. “Whenever there is an event taking place and I am a bit stressed, he is just there to motivate me and get me back to being me. His belief in me pushes me to be better every day.” OVERCOMING CHALLENGES Cerisha’s rise in the industry was not without challenges. As a young woman entering a field, she had to work hard to earn credibility and respect. “When I first joined this company, I was much younger,” she recalled. “When couples came to meet me, I sometimes felt they thought I was too young. That was a bit of a challenge.” “At that time, it was very male dominated,” Cerisha said. “I used to go to functions where there were 200 to 300 guests, and people would look at me and think, ‘Is she really going to be behind the camera?’ Those looks made me feel a bit awkward, but I got stronger with time. Now I can accept any challenge.” Cerisha’s success today is the result of dedication and hands-on leadership. “I would say I’m very good at multi- tasking,” she said proudly. “I am personally at the weddings, at our shoots, and at our interviews. If you happen to come to a function, you will see me with a camera or a gimbal in my hand creating these cinematic videos.” She approaches every project with a personal touch. “I do a lot of networking, and we keep up to date with the latest skills and equipment that help us get to where we are today,” she said. “I personally meet with clients, and I try to build trust between us. I am the face of the company, and I work very hard to do that.” Her commitment has not gone unnoticed. “A few achievements that stand out for me include winning the Margaret Hirsch Women in Business Award for the Umhlanga region,” Cerisha said with pride. “Last year, I was nominated for the Influential Woman Award as well. INSPIRING FUTURE GENERATIONS Cerisha’s advice to young women entering business is to: “Never stop chasing your dreams.” She said, “Many young women these days are just interested in doing a career or having a business that brings in an income, but that’s not the case. If you have a passion, go for it, because if you love what you are doing, that will bring income to you.” She emphasised the timeless values that have guided her success. “Work hard, put in 100%, as my mom used to always say, never say you can’t. And being kind costs nothing, but it changes everything. It is so hard to find nice people whether you are in a shopping mall, in business, or anywhere else. Just be the best person you can always be.” Looking ahead, Cerisha has clear ambitions for the future. “My goals are to grow Digital Productions and expand it as much as I can,” she said. “I want to keep finding innovative ways to make us more unique and to push creative boundaries. There is always something new to learn and explore in this field.” Despite her demanding schedule, Cerisha makes sure to prioritise balance and family. “I love walking along the promenade and spending time with my husband. I truly love spending time with my niece and nephew. They help to de-stress me and play such an important part in my life. They remind me of the simple joys that keep me grounded.” Cerisha’s journey is a testament to what resilience and self-belief can achieve. “You have to show up, even when people doubt you,” she said. “Over the years, I’ve learnt that confidence is built by doing what you love every single day, regardless of the challenges.” Previous Next