Search Results

MIKE SAUNDERS’ love of technology and a heart for people have been the fuel behind his entrepreneurial journey Subscribe Home KZN Leaders Up Up Mike Saunders MIKE SAUNDERS’ love of technology and a heart for people have been the fuel behind his entrepreneurial journey Unlock potential, nurture trust and develop narrative MIKE SAUNDERS’ love of technology and a heart for people have been the fuel behind his entrepreneurial journey. An international keynote speaker, digital thought leader and author, Mike has a unique ability to lead business with a crystal-clear leadership philosophy that encompasses ‘unlocking potential’, ‘nurturing trust’ and ‘developing narrative’. Mike was recognised on the list of ‘Top Global Digital Marketing Experts & Influencers in 2019 You Should be Following’. He was acknowledged by his peers in 2012, as one of the Top 20 South Africans to follow on Twitter. Mike was awarded Special Honours at the New Generation Awards for his contribution to the industry. Over the last few years, Mike has won the respect of business by his determined approach to helping people navigate a diverse and complicated world of digital business. As an international keynote speaker, Mike is able to engage his audience in an interactive, personal and energising manner by drawing on his life experiences and personal stories. Mike speaks with authority from over ten years’ experience in the digital industry. He leaves delegates captivated and inspired about the potential in both technology and people. He has had the privilege of working with some of the most prestigious organisations in the world including Vodafone, Bidvest, Santam, IBM, Toyota, Norton Rose and Exxaro. Mike delivers customised presentations around the following themes: • Fourth Industrial Revolution • Digital • Marketing Brand and Innovation • Entrepreneurship • The Millennial Generation • Motivation Entrepreneurial Journey Mike believes technology helps innovate a new future, accelerates growth potential and scales business. According to Mike, “Technology unlocks our future and is a fundamental driver of our success.” It’s his belief in technology and people that spurred him to founding Digitlab. Digitlab has grown to be one of South Africa’s premier digital marketing agencies and was voted one of South Africa’s best digital agencies in 2012. Digitlab provides services in social media, SEO, advertising, digital research, mobile apps and web development. The agency is proud to include a variety of national and international brands on their client list including KPMG, Nedbank, Alexander Forbes, Beiersdorf and City Lodge Hotel Group. In 2015, Mike launched The Digitlab Academy to educate marketers and support the academic industry with sound digital strategy education material. A powerful partnership with Vega, School of Branding, saw over 150 people run through the academy in its first quarter. Today, the Digitlab Academy educates over 1000 people a year. Digital Swarm, a nationwide digital community that fuels the growth of the digital marketing industry is another brainchild of Mike’s. The swarm hosts quarterly events in Durban and JHB and has attracted speakers from South Africa’s top brands like KFC, AXE and Google. Author In 2016, Mike released his first book The Five Year Mark. The Five Year Mark imparts the lessons he has learnt while establishing his businesses and is an inspirational, clear and practical template for entrepreneurs looking for success. In 2019, Mike published his second book Renowned. Your guide to building a powerful personal brand online. His latest book, Humancentric, unpacks how to do business in a Fourth Industrial Revolution.

< Back Next > Amanda Swana Managing Director and Founder, Powerpoint Lifestyle Amanda Swana, Managing Director and Founder of Powerpoint Lifestyles, reflects on her remarkable journey from childhood in the Eastern Cape to business leadership, entrepreneurship, and personal growth. Born in the Eastern Cape, Amanda recounts the pivotal decision her mother made when Amanda was just eight years old. “My mother made the hard decision to relocate us to KwaZulu-Natal for schooling purposes,” she says. This move was driven by the belief that the educational opportunities in the Eastern Cape at that time were not suitable for the family. Amanda completed her high school education at Durban Academy, located on the Bluff in Durban. She then pursued her tertiary studies, obtaining a Bachelor of Social Science from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Her academic journey did not end there, as she went on to complete her master’s degree at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. “It was during this time that I also pursued business and entrepreneurship,” Amanda shares. During her high school and university years, Amanda did a lot of promotional work. She was the type of person who could sell anything—even a simple tea bag—and make you believe it was the best tea you’d ever taste. “I never thought of myself as a salesperson,” she explains, “but if I believed in what I was offering, I wanted you to believe in it too.” After working in promotions, Amanda branched into the beauty industry, becoming a nail technician while still in university. Eventually, she found a passion for events management, an area she continues to work in today. She owns an events management company, although she doesn’t consider it work. “That’s where I find rest and creativity,” she says. “There’s something deeply fulfilling about taking a client’s concept, designing it, and seeing it come to life at the event.” Despite her achievements, Amanda remains committed to lifelong learning. One of her biggest dreams is to complete her PhD. “I’m quite the dreamer,” she admits. “I’ve been working on this for some time, and I’m feeling the urge to finish it. Not because I’m running out of time, but because commitments keep piling up.” Amanda’s PhD thesis will expand on her master’s research, exploring career development and the challenges of changing careers mid-life. She reflects on individuals who, like a medical doctor she once encountered, radically shifted careers: “He said to me, ‘I want to be a musician,’ and I realised that many people don’t take that step because they’re paralysed by fear.” Reflecting on her leadership philosophy, Amanda reveals a deep commitment to serving others. “Business is servanthood; leadership is servanthood,” she asserts. This perspective has shaped how she approaches her role as a business leader. “You’re constantly serving, whether it’s a client’s vision or a client’s dream. You’re always in the position of pursuing the ability to serve.” In addition, Amanda’s approach to leadership is not one of management but of guidance and vision. “I don’t believe in micromanaging people,” she states. Instead, she focuses on enabling her team to grow and develop within the organisation. “We foster an environment where team members are gently nudged to do better, whether through further studies or professional development.” This leadership approach extends to how she engages with her team. Meetings at Powerpoint Lifestyles are not hierarchical; instead, they are opportunities for everyone to contribute. “We don’t just report back in meetings. It’s about discussion, brainstorming, and consultation. Everyone adds value, regardless of their role,” she explains. Amanda places a strong emphasis on human relations and the power of connections in both business and personal life. “There is so much value in human relations,” she stresses. “You nurture those relationships that are valuable to you, and you draw strength from them.” In her view, fostering these connections is essential not only in business but also in personal growth. “If you’re going into business, you must value the relationships you build along the way,” she often says. “Don’t take them for granted.” *Personal Reflections and Future Goals* Amanda’s journey has been one of continuous learning, unlearning, and transformation. “It’s not about reaching a destination,” she reflects. “I used to think that once I achieved a certain goal, I would feel fulfilled. But I came to realise that it’s the journey of becoming that matters.” For Amanda, becoming is about transforming how she sees life and being open to the lessons each moment offers. “Who I am today will not be who I am next year, and that’s the beauty of it,” she says. Her faith plays a central role in her life. “It’s definitely the mercy of God that has brought me this far,” Amanda admits. She recognises that much of her success has come not from following a strict formula but from trusting in her faith and constantly conversing with herself. “The biggest enemy is the mind,” she acknowledges. “We are often our own worst critics, and the first step to success is believing that you can.” Looking to the future, Amanda has clear goals both personally and for her business. Alongside her academic ambitions, she is also working on publishing her first book, which will expand on the research she has conducted on career development. From a business perspective, Powerpoint Lifestyles is looking to expand its operations across various provinces and diversify its skill offering. “We’re testing the market to see where there is potential for growth,” she says. Despite her busy schedule, Amanda still finds time to relax. “I love reading, especially at the beach,” she shares. She also enjoys working out, finding that a gym session can do wonders for both her body and mind. “Balance is key,” she emphasises. In all aspects of her life—whether personal, professional, or spiritual—Amanda Swana remains focused on growth, empowerment, and becoming the best version of herself. Her journey serves as an inspiration to many, particularly those looking to make bold career changes or pursue their dreams against the odds. < Previous Next >

The mission of the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Department of Treasury is to ensure equitable resource allocations for the province of KwaZulu-Natal, analyse and monitor government (provincial and local, including their public entities) revenue and expenditure, and instil prudent financial management and good governance. The Department's goals are to create a spatially-based allocative framework for a balance between basic service delivery and growth of provincial economy, with the objectives of stimulating economic growth and employment creation through funding of strategic investment initiatives, and funding social needs in line with national norms and standards; develop a framework that will create opportunities for the participation of PDIs in the economy, with the objectives of providing funding instruments, and creating an enabling environment for government procurement to enhance opportunities for PDIs; ensure optimum financial and fiscal management, with the objectives of providing appropriate financial management systems, and maximising own revenue; promote good governance, with the objectives of providing a credible risk profile, auditing service delivery performance of spending agencies, and promoting a culture of zero tolerance for fraud and corruption; and optimise human resource development in the Department, with the objectives of providing effective and integrated administrative support to the MEC and the HOD, and providing efficient and effective legal, financial, logistics and IT support services to the Department. Subscribe Subscribe KZN Provincial Treasury MEC: Peggy Neliswa Nkonyeni Physical: 145 Chief Albert Luthuli Street, Pietermaritzburg Postal: PO Box 3613, Pietermaritzburg, 3200 Tel: 033 897 4200/4547 Fax: 033 342 2486 Web: www.kzntreasury.gov.za The mission of the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Department of Treasury is to ensure equitable resource allocations for the province of KwaZulu-Natal, analyse and monitor government (provincial and local, including their public entities) revenue and expenditure, and instil prudent financial management and good governance. The Department's goals are to create a spatially-based allocative framework for a balance between basic service delivery and growth of provincial economy, with the objectives of stimulating economic growth and employment creation through funding of strategic investment initiatives, and funding social needs in line with national norms and standards; develop a framework that will create opportunities for the participation of PDIs in the economy, with the objectives of providing funding instruments, and creating an enabling environment for government procurement to enhance opportunities for PDIs; ensure optimum financial and fiscal management, with the objectives of providing appropriate financial management systems, and maximising own revenue; promote good governance, with the objectives of providing a credible risk profile, auditing service delivery performance of spending agencies, and promoting a culture of zero tolerance for fraud and corruption; and optimise human resource development in the Department, with the objectives of providing effective and integrated administrative support to the MEC and the HOD, and providing efficient and effective legal, financial, logistics and IT support services to the Department. Back to government departments

< Back Next > Michelle Isaac Founder and Director, MGM HR Services Michelle Isaac, founder and director of MGM HR Services, has built a successful career in human resources and compliance, specialising in B-BBEE (Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment), employment equity, and skills development. From retail to ICT, construction to manufacturing, MGM HR Services operates across diverse sectors, making an impact in KwaZulu-Natal and beyond. Through her business, Michelle has facilitated large-scale initiatives in skills development and small medium and micro enterprise support, helping companies meet their compliance targets while uplifting individuals and communities. While Michelle’s biggest dream was to have a career, be independent and have financial stability, her path to success wasn’t without challenges. From a university dropout to an entrepreneur, Michelle’s story is one of perseverance, adaptation, and the pursuit of growth. Michelle’s journey began with uncertainty. After matriculating in 2000, she struggled to find her footing in university, dropping out after two years due to a lack of focus. “I just couldn’t discipline myself to study,” she reflects. Feeling lost, she took a retail job that quickly made her realise it wasn’t where she wanted to be. “It took just one year for me to realise that wasn’t the life I wanted.” With her family’s support, Michelle returned to her studies, enrolling in human resources (HR) at Durban University of Technology. Determined to succeed, she juggled day and night classes, completing her diploma and a BTech in HR Management. This decision set the foundation for her success, landing her an internship at the Spar Distribution Centre in KwaZulu-Natal. It was here that her human resources career began. “I started as an HR intern at Spar Distribution Centre and through that opportunity I was able to move on to other companies working my way up to HR officer, case management officer, HR business partner, and eventually HR manager,” she recalls. The experience was invaluable, though not without its difficulties. “It was tough seeing people get fired and handling disciplinary hearings, but I learned to manage it. That’s the nature of HR—policy, procedure, and following the rules.” After several years as an HR manager, Michelle found herself at a crossroads. “I was no longer enjoying what I was doing, and I needed a change. Luckily, with my husband’s support, we agreed that I could try consulting.” Significant Risk It wasn’t a planned move, she admits. “I always thought I’d be employed by someone, but I didn’t realise my perfect employer would be myself!” Starting her consultancy was a significant risk. “I had no contacts, nothing. I resigned, took a few steps back, and started from scratch.” Despite the challenges, Michelle discovered her passion for being in business, serving clients, and building an effective team. “Once I started hiring staff, the business took off. It’s been an amazing journey. What I really enjoy now is providing excellent service to clients and seeing my team grow and develop.” With Michelle at the helm, MGM HR Services has grown rapidly. Her background in HR, payroll, and labour relations has been a valuable asset in providing value- added services to clients, many of whom have come to rely on her expertise and dedication. Michelle added, “There’s always something changing in B-BBEE, skills development and equity. It’s a constantly shifting environment. We partner with the right people and build good relationships so that we’re able to help each other which is something I find comfort in — being able to create a close network.” Michelle’s achievements are numerous, but she remains grounded, always striving for more. “Since 2017, we’ve grown exponentially without needing to advertise. It’s all been word-of-mouth; thanks to the service we provide. In Michelle’s words, “We’ve facilitated R343 million in skills development expenditure and directed R69 million towards small businesses. We’ve placed over 4,800 learners into learnership programmes and 197 youth into the Yes Youth programme, helping them gain the work experience they need to start their careers. We’ve been able to direct R25 million towards causes like school fees, bursaries, crèches and rural development to help previously disadvantaged individuals.” MGM HR Services ensures that their clients meet their objectives, and that expenditure is safeguarded in terms of compliance. Michelle’s commitment to personal growth is reflected in how she approaches her business. “I’ve always been focused on building processes and systems, which has made it easier to manage the workload as the business grew. My team appreciates that everything is streamlined, which allows us to provide top-tier service to our clients.” Michelle also credits her success to business figures such as Margaret Hirsch and Vivian Reddy, who have inspired her with their straightforward approaches and willingness to share their knowledge. “I love learning about the experiences of successful people. It helps me when I’m struggling. I think back to how they overcame their challenges.” When asked about the advice she would give to young women, Michelle stresses the importance of self- investment and perseverance. “If you don’t know what you want to do, at least know what you don’t want to do, and start there. Invest in yourself — your education, your skills. That investment will bring you many rewards.” Looking to the Future While Michelle has achieved much, she remains open to whatever the future holds. “I never planned to be in business, so now I just wake up, show up, and do my best. I support my team, and I stay open to new opportunities and challenges.” For Michelle, growth never stops. “I always remind myself not to get stuck in a comfort zone. Comfort kills growth, so I’m always pushing myself and my team to do better.” In her spare time, Michelle finds balance by spending time at the beach with her husband and son or relaxing at home. “We’re homebodies, but we love the beach. I also enjoy reading, yoga and walking to stay active. Health is important to me,” she concludes. < Previous Next >

This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. < Back Ashley Amerson Anele Msweli info@mysite.com 123-456-7890

< Back Vegan Chocolate Mousse Prep Time: 30 Minutes Cook Time: 10 Minutes Serves: 4 Servings Level: Beginner About the Recipe 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. Ingredients ingredient 1 ingredient 2 ingredient 3 ingredient 4 ingredient 5 ingredient 6 ingredient 7 ingredient 8 Preparation Step 1 This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. To manage all your collections, click on the Content Manager button in the Add panel on the left. Step 2 This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. To manage all your collections, click on the Content Manager button in the Add panel on the left. Step 3 This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. To manage all your collections, click on the Content Manager button in the Add panel on the left. Step 4 This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. To manage all your collections, click on the Content Manager button in the Add panel on the left. Previous Next

Maryke Dickinson Manager of Business Development and Online Content Driven by strategy and inspired by creativity, I bring your brand’s voice to life with content that connects and performs. I make sure your online presence does more than just look good—it works for your business. From tailored social media strategies to engaging content and dependable admin support, I’m here to help you tell your story, grow your brand, and thrive in the digital space. maryke@kzntopbusiness.com 0828777906

Defy Home "The Blog" Defy Defy launches solar-powered off-grid range Defy Apr 24, 2024 1 min read Historic milestone for DEFY Defy Feb 16, 2024 2 min read Defy Appliances marks historic milestone with participation in AfCFTA Trade Agreement Launch Defy Feb 6, 2024 2 min read Arçelik tops DHP Household Durables industry in S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment Defy Nov 29, 2023 2 min read R288M Defy Investment to Support Business Continuity in KwaZulu-Natal Defy Nov 22, 2023 1 min read Defy’s solar-operated appliances a game changer for the environment Defy Oct 4, 2023 2 min read Defy to start producing solar-powered fridges, freezers from January Defy Oct 2, 2023 1 min read

< Back Skin Product Consultation $60.00 15 minutes Book Now About 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. Previous Next

< 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 >