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  • Captain Salvatore Sarno | KZN Top Business

    < Back Next Captain Salvatore Sarno Captain Salvatore Sarno is the chairman of Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) Captain Salvatore Sarno, the chairman of Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) in South Africa, was born in a small village in southern Italy. “Everybody calls me Captain Sarno because I was a captain,” he says. Reflecting on his youth, Captain Sarno said that as child, he dreamed of becoming a ship’s captain, though the mountains surrounding his village obscured the sea. During school holidays, he would climb to the top of the mountains. “I used to sit there, looking at that little triangle of blue and dreaming of when I’d be working at sea,” he recalled. In 1965, Captain Sarno began his journey in the Italian Navy. However, he found the rigid structure stifling and left after two years to join the merchant navy, where he worked on tankers as a cadet. “That’s the life I was looking for,” he said. By the age of 26, he achieved his dream of becoming a ship’s captain, one of the youngest in the Italian merchant fleet. A SIGNIFICANT TURN His career took a significant turn when he met Gianluigi Aponte, who, alongside his wife Rafaela, had recently founded MSC. Aponte offered Captain Sarno a position aboard a 4,000-tonne vessel, one of MSC’s first ships, and together they set out to establish MSC’s inaugural shipping line around Africa. In those early days, they operated with limited resources, often carrying cargo other lines had refused. Captain Sarno recalls, “We succeeded because of our passion. That energy motivated the crew, and we showed them what was possible.” At the age of 30, Captain Sarno left the sea to join Aponte in Brussels, assisting in the management of MSC’s growing fleet, which then comprised only five ships. Together, they dreamed of making MSC the world’s largest shipping company. Captain Sarno moved with his family – his wife Sandra and his two sons – into a small office where each team member took on multiple roles, with spouses contributing as well. MSC’s reputation grew, and soon, the company relocated to Geneva to enhance its professional image. Despite periods of financial hardship and cycles of near-bankruptcy, MSC persevered, acquiring second-hand ships and using them to maximum advantage. “People called us the second-hand ship owners,” he said, “but we knew how to make the most of them.” A major milestone for MSC came when BMW South Africa awarded them a contract, provided they could offer a weekly service between Europe and South Africa. Captain Sarno, aged 40, took on the challenge, relocating to South Africa with a two-year commitment to establish MSC’s presence. Those two years transformed into a much longer tenure, as he built MSC South Africa into the country’s largest shipping organisation with the help of Sandra, who managed sixteen container depots, and his son Rosario, who eventually became the managing director, overseeing more than 2,000 employees. Captain Sarno insisted on maintaining a personal touch in client relations, avoiding call centres to ensure customers interacted with staff they trusted. UNITED IN PURPOSE In 1992, Captain Sarno co-founded the Container Lines Operator Forum (CLOF) with the late Dave Rennies, forming a network of top shipping executives who advised Transnet’s leaders on optimising port and container terminal operations. Six years later, in 1998, he was appointed President of the South African Branch of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers. Captain Sarno’s success led him to unexpected meetings, including an encounter with President Nelson Mandela. Inspired by Mandela’s vision for South Africa, Captain Sarno collaborated with the South African Navy in 1999 to establish Izivunguvungu, the MSC Foundation, an innovative youth initiative located in Simon’s Town to support disadvantaged South Africans. In the mid-2000s, another opportunity arose when South Africa prepared for its ten-year democracy anniversary. Captain Sarno spearheaded a campaign to create a South African team for the America’s Cup, the world’s most prestigious sailing competition. With support from President Mandela and a diverse team of sailors, Captain Sarno‘s campaign gained international attention. “The message was clear: after ten years of democracy, South Africa could compete on a global stage, united in purpose.” Captain Sarno faced obstacles as the leader of Shosholoza, the state-of-the-art yacht that was built in South Africa. Funding was limited, but he persevered, rallying support from friends, shipping industry contacts, and even Archbishop Desmond Tutu, who became one of Shosholoza’s biggest supporters. He also become close friends with Thabo Mbeki and Andrew Mlangeni who recognised in Shosholoza the true spirit of the new South Africa. Reflecting on his achievements, Captain Sarno says, that while the Shosholoza team did not win the American Cup, the team went on to win the most important awards of the competition. In 2018, together with his son Rosario, Captain Sarno founded the Shosholoza Academy, where thousands of young South Africans have been trained to work on MSC’s passenger ships, contributing to employment and skill-building within the country. A SIGN OF HOPE Captain Sarno’s contributions were acknowledged when he was awarded an Italian Republic Knight- hood by President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi in 2005. Four years later, in 2009, he was appointed as an Official of the Knighthood Order by President Giorgio Napolitano. Today, Captain Sarno looks towards the future of South Africa’s ports with optimism. He believes the nation has the right leaders to drive change and restore the country’s infrastructure, pointing to recent progress as a sign of hope. Captain Sarno’s involvement in discussions with government officials reflects his commitment to helping South Africa reach its potential. Captain Sarno’s ambitions have always been largely self-driven. “No one ever told me I’d be a captain. It was just always inside me.” However, Captain Sarno’s love for cinema, sparked by watching films with his father who worked as a projectionist, also shaped his perspective. “Movies were my window to the world,” he says, noting how this early exposure broadened his knowledge compared to his peers. Today, Captain Sarno continues to serve as MSC’s chairman, advocating for South Africa’s development and maintaining a vision for its future as a world leader. Previous Next

  • Umkhanyakude District Municipality

    Mayor: Cllr T S Mkhombo KZN Top Business Subscribe Umkhanyakude District Municipality Umkhanyakude District Municipality is situated in the north-eastern region of KwaZulu-Natal. The district extends from Mtubatuba (St Lucia) in the south to Kosi Bay in the north, across to the Lubombo Mountains in the west Wildlife and Conservation Umkhanyakude District Municipality is situated in the north-eastern region of KwaZulu-Natal. The district extends from Mtubatuba (St Lucia) in the south to Kosi Bay in the north, across to the Lubombo Mountains in the west. The district is strategically linked to the provincial markets of KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga and to the neighbouring market of Swaziland. Umkhanyakude District Municipality consists of the local municipalities of: Jozini, Mtubatuba, uMhlabuyalingana and Big 5 Hlabisa. Rich and Diverse Tourism The Big 5 Hlabisa Municipality is in one of the world’s richest tourism areas. Renowned game and nature reserves such as St Lucia, Hluhluwe/iMfolozi and Mkuze are located here. Easily accessible off the N2 National Route, it incorporates part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and is the starting point of the Lubombo Spatial Development Initiative corridor, which links Hluhluwe to Mozambique. The town of Hluhluwe, which contains major shopping and light servicing facilities, as well as the municipal offices, services the municipality. The Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve, located 280km north of Durban is the oldest proclaimed park in Africa. The reserve consists of 960km² of hilly topography in central Zululand and is known for its wildlife conservation efforts. The north eastern parts of the municipality are occupied by densely settled rural traditional communities. Natural Beauty The Jozini Municipality borders Swaziland and Mozambique. The Lebombo Mountains and Makhatini Flats provide a beautiful terrain, which includes water features and fossil sites. Both Ndumo and Mkuze Game Reserves can be found straddling the borders of the municipality. Jozini town is the access point for northern Maputaland. The business centre is situated close to the Pongolapoort Dam, better known as the Jozini Dam, one of the largest in South Africa. The dam draws its water from the Pongolo River, which is the principal river of Maputaland. The Pongola River, in its path to the sea, supports a large population of fish, crocodiles and hippos, as well as the people of the area, it is an integral part of the economy of the region. Tourism has been prioritised as the major economic development opportunity and its success is dependent on local community initiatives. Administrative Centre Mtubatuba Municipality is situated along the northern coastal belt of KwaZulu-Natal and is the most urbanised local municipality. Mtubatuba town and St Lucia are the main towns within the district. Mtubatuba town is a strong sub regional commercial, service, transport, and administrative centre for the entire north eastern Zululand region. District Management Area Umhlabuyalingana Municipality comprises several District Management Areas that fall under the municipal jurisdiction of the district as well as the urban settlements of Manguzi, Mbazwana, Mseleni, Sikhamelele and Mboza. Umhlabuyalingana. Tourism is increasingly contributing to the local economy. The entire coastal strip is administered by the greater iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority. CONTACT DETAILS Physical Address: Harlingen No. 13433, Kingfisher Road, Mkuze, KwaZulu-Natal Postal Address: P.O. Box 449 Mkuze, 3965 Tel: +27 (0)35 573 8600 E-mail: communications@ukdm.gov.za Website: www.ukdm.gov.za Back

  • Camilla Jones

    This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. < Back Camilla Jones Content Manager This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. Want to view and manage all your collections? Click on the Content Manager button in the Add panel on the left. Here, you can make changes to your content, add new fields, create dynamic pages and more. Your collection is already set up for you with fields and content. Add your own content or import it from a CSV file. Add fields for any type of content you want to display, such as rich text, images, and videos. Be sure to click Sync after making changes in a collection, so visitors can see your newest content on your live site. info@mysite.com 123-456-7890

  • Applications | KZN Top Business

    Effective communication is an essential part of every business and directly affects the amount of success a company or organisation achieves. Top Business has established itself as a leading full service communications, information and marketing management company. It is our vision to be the indispensable partner to organisations, businesses and government departments in the provision of communication and information-driven services to South African Business KZN Top Business Listing - Application - "The List" Company name First name* Last name* Position Email* Phone Address Business Website * Company Profile* An introduction to your company that highlights its mission, goals, and strengths, as well as its products or services . “What makes a business successful,” Link to A company profile /LinkedIn Apply Frequently asked questions KZN Top Business List : FAQs 1. Why is KZN Top Business a great marketing platform? The KwaZulu-Natal Top Business Portfolio’s ongoing success has been achieved through the use of a number of methods including a comprehensive and well ranked multimedia website which is well optimised on a variety of search engines, an A5 hard copy handbook as well as a digital version, social media tools and a growing series of videos. 2. What type of companies does the KZN Top Business List comprise? The KZN Top Business List consists of successful companies that are headquartered or have an office in KwaZulu- Natal and that are making a sustained and positive contribution to the KZN economy. 3. Why should your company be on the KZN Top Business List The Top Business Portfolio provides a unique to opportunity to both emphasize your contribution to the province’s economy and market your company We assist in driving the visibility of brands, including growing relationships and improving client retention through targeted content marketing campaigns. 4. What services does KZN Top Business offer? Through our extensive pressroom services any general articles/news supplied by or produced by you will also be carried on our various web pages and social media platforms. These articles are archived and searchable on the internet as well as benefit from search engine optimisation. The articles are published, republished and widely circulated. There is no limit to the number of additional articles supplied. We highlight news, developments and opportunities through regular e-mails that are sent to an established and extensive subscribed database consisting of over 55,000 business executives 5. What criteria are considered important for participation in the KZN Top Business List? In accordance with the King IV report, companies should subscribe to the four governance outcomes which are: · An ethical culture – The entity is seen as a responsible business contributing to society as a whole – people, community, and environment. · Good performance and value creation – A focus on profitability as well as sustained employee wellbeing and the creation of customer and stakeholder value · Effective control and trust - Effective management and leadership is apparent along with the transfer knowledge and skills · Good reputation and legitimacy – Good internal and external communication and the distinct brand value of products/ services 6. How many companies are listed? The KZN Top Business List comprises a maximum of 100 companies which are updated regularly. 7. How do you get your company registered on the KZN Top Business List? Apply to ensure that the Top Business criteria are met. Apply here

  • Arvind Magan | KZN Top Business

    < Back Next Arvind Magan Arvind Magan is the chief executive officer of Arvind Magan and Associates Arvind Magan is the chief executive officer of Arvind Magan and Associates incorporated, a firm of accountants, auditors, tax advisors, and business consultants based in Umhlanga, Durban. Arvind’s journey began in Durban, South Africa, where he was born and raised. As a first-generation South African, Arvind was brought up in significant hardship. “My dad was part of the last tranche of individuals who came over from India,” Arvind explains. “We lived in a communal home which housed five families.” His father’s initial work involved collecting and delivering laundry on a bicycle, a job that highlighted the sacrifices his parents made to provide for the family. “They always believed that education was a priority in our community. I saw firsthand the struggles and the resilience it took for my parents to give us a better life,” he recalls. Despite these challenges, Arvind was fortunate to attend Gandhi Desai High School in the central business district of Durban. “After completing Grade 12, I went on to the then University of Durban-Westville, where I obtained a bachelor of accounting degree,” Arvind recounts. He continued his education part-time, completing his honours degree at UNISA while starting his first job. In 1992, Arvind qualified as a chartered accountant and auditor, marking the beginning of his professional career. “Those early experiences instilled in me the importance of perseverance and education as tools for empowerment,” he adds. Arvind’s first job was as a trainee accountant at Ernst & Whinney (now EY) in Durban. “The starting salary for a trainee accountant back then was R374 a month,” Arvind recalls with a smile. “It was a modest start, but it laid the groundwork for everything that followed,” he reflects. Arvind proudly highlights the growth of his firm over the years. “From starting with a single client, we’ve expanded our services and now serve some of KwaZulu-Natal’s largest and leading companies,” he adds. CREATING A LEGACY OF TRUST Arvind holds personal and professional ethics in high regard. “We’ve embraced and upheld high standards of professional ethics, honesty, and integrity, with a commitment to excellence,” he explains. For Arvind, this is not just a corporate mission but a personal one as well. “This should permeate our society,” he believes. “Our purpose is about creating a legacy of trust and excellence that extends beyond our immediate business,” Arvind says. Starting Arvind Magan and Associates 21 years ago with just one client stands out as one of Arvind’s proudest achievements. “When I began, I only had one client,” Arvind shares. Over the years, through dedication and hard work, the firm has grown significantly. “Today, we count some of KwaZulu-Natal’s largest and leading companies among our clients,” Arvind says, reflecting on the progress made since those early days. “This journey has taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of building strong relationships,” he adds. The best advice Arvind received came from his father: “Always maintain a standard of integrity. Whatever you do, maintain a good name.” This advice has been a guiding principle throughout Arvind’s professional journey. “It’s so important to have a good reputation,” Arvind says, noting that this has helped him build trust and credibility with clients, colleagues, and his team. “Your name is your most valuable asset,” he reflects. Starting and growing his own business was the biggest challenge Arvind faced. “Stepping out from a working environment and into your own business is daunting,” he admits. The key to overcoming this challenge was staying focused, diligent, and maintaining a high standard of integrity. “I made a decision to remain focused and uphold a good reputation,” Arvind explains. This commitment has been instrumental in the success and growth of his business. “It’s been a journey of constant learning and adapting,” he adds, noting that challenges have only strengthened his resolve. Arvind recognises the importance of valuing both clients and employees. “We ensure that we foster open communication, recognise efforts, and provide continuous professional development opportunities,” he says. Arvind’s approach to leadership is more about mentorship than management. “My door is always open for discussion,” he emphasises. Understanding and supporting his team, especially during challenging times, is crucial. “Engagement is critical because sometimes we don’t know what our team is going through,” Arvind notes. By being empathetic and offering guidance, Arvind helps his team navigate obstacles and remain motivated. “A supportive environment leads to greater success for everyone involved,” he believes. Arvind’s vision for KwaZulu-Natal is a thriving economy driven by innovation, sustainability, and job creation. “Small businesses are vital for any economic growth,” Arvind asserts. He is passionate about fostering entrepreneurship and plays an active role in this area as the chairman of the Joseph Business School in Durban. “Our goal is to raise up entrepreneurs because they are key to South Africa’s economic future,” he says. Arvind is committed to supporting and nurturing the next generation of business leaders in the region. “In five years, I see KwaZulu-Natal as a hub of innovation and opportunity,” he envisions. A HIGHER PURPOSE Arvind finds inspiration in his faith, which gives him a sense of higher purpose. “Faith motivates me to strive for more than just financial success,” he explains. For Arvind, it’s about making a positive impact in the community and society at large. This belief drives him to use his success to benefit others and contribute to the greater good. Arvind’s motto is: “Have faith in God in all areas of my life.” This belief has been his guiding light through the years and will continue to do so in the years to come. “Faith is the foundation upon which everything else is built,” he concludes. Previous Next

  • Sports, Arts and Culture

    The mission of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Arts and Culture is to provide world-class services in arts and culture for the people of KwaZulu-Natal by developing and promoting arts and culture and mainstreaming its role in social development; developing and promoting previously marginalised languages and enhancing linguistic diversity; collecting, managing and preserving archival, museum and other forms of information resources; and integrating and providing seamless art and culture services to the communities.  Subscribe Subscribe Sports, Arts and Culture MEC: Amanda Bani-Mapena Contact details Physical: 222 Jabu Ndlovu Street, Pietermaritzburg, 3200 Postal: Private Bag X9140, Pietermaritzburg, 3200 Tel: 033 264 3400 Fax: 033 394 2237 Web: www.kzndac.gov.za The mission of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Arts and Culture is to provide world-class services in arts and culture for the people of KwaZulu-Natal by developing and promoting arts and culture and mainstreaming its role in social development; developing and promoting previously marginalised languages and enhancing linguistic diversity; collecting, managing and preserving archival, museum and other forms of information resources; and integrating and providing seamless art and culture services to the communities. Back to government departments

  • Brian Howarth | KZN Top Business

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

  • Samantha WattSamantha WattFounder and Owner of Say WattStruggles are a stepping stone to your next place. When you have gone through the struggle, the prize feels all the more sweeterStruggles are a stepping stone to your next place. When you have gone through the struggle, the prize feels all the more sweeter

    Struggles are a stepping stone to your next place. When you have gone through the struggle, the prize feels all the more sweeter < 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.”

  • Awards Entry Form | KZN Top Business

    Back to awards PLEASE COMPLETE Entries Close 13 June 2025 First Name Last Name Email Phone Company CATEGORIES Date established No of employees Name of account/ auditor Bank CEO Managing Director Marketing Director Financial Manager Other Street Address City Region/State/Province Postal / Zip code Company web address ENTRY COMPLETED BY Your Position Email (directl) Code Phone Download the entrance form below and send or wetransfer your entry and any supporting information to gayle@mweb.co.za I have sent my supporting documents and sent my entry form. I have sent my supporting documents Data Privacy Consent I acknowledge that my personal information is important and will be processed by Standard Bank and necessary third parties in line with the applicable data protection laws and the Privacy Statement. I have understood the contents of the Privacy Statement Marketing Consent I agree or decline to have my personal information used for marketing purposes as follows: 1. Data sharing within our Group 2. Data sharing with Third Parties 3. Data sharing across borders within our Group 4. Telesales 5. Email Marketing 6. SMS Marketing I acknowledge and consent to the sharing of my information Consent & Rights I understand that I have the right to update or withdraw my consent at any time by: Visiting a Standard Bank branch. Contacting my Relationship Manager. Calling 0860 123 000. Emailing information@standardbank.co.za. Logging into the Standard Bank online channels. I acknowledge and consent to the sharing of my information Apply

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