I have found that determination and a strong mindset can get you anywhere you want to go < 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.”

Standard Bank KZN Top Business Women 2021 Dawn Dunn Rugby Commentator and Businesswoman < Back Dawn Dunn Dawn Dunn has worn many caps over the years and is a powerhouse of a businesswoman. She is a well-known and loved rugby personality who over the last eight years has interacted with many of the rugby fraternity. Her technical knowledge, together with her eclectic, vivacious nature brings a fresh take on the rugby commentator. In addition, Dawn has successfully run events, marketing campaigns and a PR business since 2003 and is responsible for innovative events around South Africa. With the advent of the Covid-19 pandemic, she has diversified into the online space proving that there are always opportunities in any situation. Consequently, Dawn has branched into broadcasting, webinars, photography, and story writing. An incredible story Dawn’s story is an incredible one. She is a previously disadvantaged black female who grew up during apartheid in a township. “We only got electricity when I was eight years old, and I didn’t have to read by candlelight any more. I only found out that toilets weren’t outside in a long drop, when we got a ‘proper’ house. I didn’t know that we were deprived in any way because I was a happy child.” Significantly, the support of her family has ensured she has not allowed herself to be limited in her career choices. Dawn explains, “I do think that your childhood plays a big part in your person, in your personality and in your strengths. I have always been a bit of a round in a square or a square in a round and I really had a lot of support from my father and a bit later assistance from my sister and the rest of the family. I was always that girl who did things differently. Having the family’s acceptance and acknowledgement, even though half the time they didn’t know what I was talking about was really wonderful. I think that came through especially when I was a bit older, and I was challenging the norms. It was really wonderful to have that background, that grounding and that certainty of self.” Dawn commented that she has always found business to be easy especially as she has worked with incredible people who have had vision. “We have been able to work together to really produce beautiful work that has inspired me.” On the rugby side, Dawn has found the challenges to be more multi-layered. Men found having a female voice in a male dominated environment very challenging. She explains that there was a bit of controlling involved as far as that was concerned and which she does not do well, so she pushed back. “I haven’t grown up with rugby or business in my life, so I believe that you can break the mould. I think that it is important not to judge the person by the outer cover. A lot of people thought I was blond with big boobs,” she explains. Finding your voice “For me the biggest challenge was that at some point I did lose my voice and when you are surrounded by quite a bit of negativity, especially by the boys you love, you do tend to retreat. I think that it is important to every day reconnect with who you are. Reconnect with what is it that you want to do and sometimes it means removing yourself from the situation, finding the quiet place inside you so that you can be authentic again, be strong again, and find your voice again.” It is not uncommon for women in business to be challenged on the business level and for them to lose their voices because they are trying to be flexible and trying to adjust to the demands of the situation. Dawn feels that her one piece of advice to other women would be to find your voice. “And if you do lose your voice because you will; life happens – it is important to go back to your default button and start again. Be kind to yourself, it’s important to always find that happy voice inside you that makes you joyful and makes you want to get up and do what you love. If you’re connected with your inner voice, you will be fine. Trust that voice more.” Future goals Dawn says that turning fifty this year has been amazing for her. Her birthday has given her clarity of vision, which has caused her to shift her goals slightly and she has fresh energy. One of her recent projects is her ongoing podcasts with co-host Lauren Terras, which feature the achievements of women in sports. She explains, “I want to focus a lot more on story telling with women in sport. I really find them completely inspirational. For me doing the podcasts around the Olympians, focusing on ladies in sport was a game changer because the story telling involved, inspired and energised me and created a beautiful new baby.” In addition, Dawn would like to travel a lot more in sport and be able to tell the stories of the Olympians and of our ‘beautiful’ Springbok players. She added that the initiative is about making us as South Africans remember just how incredible we are, as well as bridging the gap between the sportsperson and the public. Dawn would also like to see women in business supporting each other more for business execution on all levels. She concludes, “Let’s look at changing the narrative from a gender-based violence perspective, from a business perspective and from a women’s perspective. I do hope that in my way I can inspire little girls to dream bigger, to want more and to try and get more.”

Embrace change as an opportunity to learn, to improve, to make a difference in others’ lives as well as in your own and to grow < 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.”

No Cost < Back Real estate No Cost 30 minutes Previous Next

< Back Lea Wimble Owner and Founder of Wimble Attorneys Lea Wimble is the owner and founder of Wimble Attorneys, a conveyancing firm based on the north coast of KwaZulu-Natal. The firm, which celebrates its sixth anniversary in 2025 has built a reputation for professionalism, compassion and community impact. Reflecting on her journey, Lea explained that entrepreneurship was never part of her initial plan. However, she said life had other ideas. “By circumstances, the same year I had my third baby, I also found myself in a position where I had to start a business. It was quite a scary time. I always talk about it as the year I had two babies, a real-life baby and a business baby, and the business baby was the one who kept me up at night.” Once she embraced the change, Lea recognised that this challenge was also an opportunity. “I thought, there must be a reason why I was chosen to have this business. What good can come from it?” THE BIRTH OF THE GIFTED PROJECT From that reflection, the Gifted Project was born. “We asked ourselves, ‘What makes us different from any other conveyancing law firm?’,” Lea explained. “I always say to my staff, if our business were to shut its doors tomorrow, would the community actually miss us?” The firm decided that for every property transfer completed, a percentage of the fee would go into a Gifted Fund. These funds are used to purchase and donate homes to families in need. “Our big goal is to gift one home a year,” Lea said proudly. “Just a month ago, we registered and transferred our second home into someone’s name. We’re doing some renovations, and soon her family will move in with their own title deed.” At the heart of Wimble Attorneys lies a simple yet profound motto: How can we help? Lea explained, “We start by asking how we can help our clients. We ask our employees what they need to do a good job, to live a fulfilled life and then, how can we help our community." The Gifted Project has already changed lives in tangible ways. The first recipient was a domestic worker who now rents out the home she received, effectively doubling her income. The second project benefitted a single mother with a child with special needs. “We’re creating a space where she can live in one part and rent out another to supplement her income,” Lea said. Lea described the experience as deeply moving. “It’s very fulfilling and very humbling.” She added, “There’s such power in storytelling, just to sit with someone, listen to their story and understand what life is like in their shoes. It’s such a blessing to be part of their journey.” Lea is careful to ensure that the home becomes an asset. “We never want the gift to be a burden to someone,” she emphasised. “We help and guide the recipients so it becomes something that helps them step up in life.” INSPIRED BY FAMILY AND VALUES Lea attributes much of her drive and compassion to her mother, who was Kimberley’s first female pharmacist business owner in the 1970s. “My mum owned Kimberley Pharmacy,” Lea shared. “She was a trailblazer. Later, she became a volunteer for the Cancer Association of South Africa and raised over a million rand for cancer patients.” This spirit of service left a lasting impression. “What was modelled to us as children was to work hard, believe in what you do, and always ask, what can I do to make someone else’s life better?” Before starting her legal practice, Lea taught law at the University of the Free State and holds three law degrees: a Bachelor of Commerce in Law, a Bachelor of Laws and a Master’s in Law.Her move into conveyancing came later. “After years of lecturing, I decided to complete my conveyancing exam and return to practice. That’s been the last ten years of my life.” She said, “I love being in a specialised field where I can give clients solid advice." Transitioning from academia to business was also influenced by her husband. “He was always the business guru,” she explained. “When he got an opportunity in Durban, we moved, and that opened the door for me. What started as supporting his dream became me discovering my own purpose.” CHALLENGES AND GROWTH Lea acknowledges that growing a business has challenges. “When you do good work, your business grows which is wonderful, but it also means you have to grow too,” she said. “At first, I did everything – director, tea girl, typist, cleaner. My clients loved that personal touch. When the firm grew and I hired staff, I had to assure clients that the same quality of service would continue. I also had to evolve from being a conveyancer to being a business owner and manager of people.” Lea encourages young women entering the legal profession or starting their own ventures to be authentic. “Be true to yourself,” she advised. “People have an idea of how a lawyer should look or act. I’ve been told, ‘You’re so gentle – how can you be a lawyer?’. But I’ve learned that my gentleness is my strength.” She added, “If you’re going to do something for the rest of your life, you have to love it. You have to wake up excited to do it.” LOOKING AHEAD Lea’s vision for the future is centred on growth and impact. “I’d love to see the Gifted Project grow into a fully-fledged non-profit organisation that donates homes and creates employment opportunities. My husband jokes that I’m a professional gift buyer who funds it by running a law firm – and he’s not wrong.” Outside of work, Lea finds balance through running and reading. “My midlife crisis was long-distance running,” she laughed. “I run most days and read a lot. I have three children and we’re a very close family. My happiest days are the ordinary ones, spent with my husband and kids. That’s what I love most." Previous Next

MEGAN KAHN is the owner of Plan Ahead Events and Décor, a company she started 17 years ago, and manager of Cheers Hiring. Plan Ahead Events and Décor manages events for big corporates and individuals alike as well as weddings and other functionsMegan KahnMEGAN KAHN is the owner of Plan Ahead Events and Décor, a company she started 17 years ago, and manager of Cheers Hiring. Plan Ahead Events and Décor manages events for big corporates and individuals alike as well as weddings and other functionsMEGAN KAHN is the owner of Plan Ahead Events and Décor, a company she started 17 years ago, and manager of Cheers Hiring. Plan Ahead Events and Décor manages events for big corporates and individuals alike as well as weddings and other functions. Arrangements cover the entire event spectrum including invitations, catering, DJs, tables and chairs, and crockery. Themed décor, small details or big props, are a specialty. Plan Ahead is fortunate to have developed a partnership with Cheers Hiring, a company which has earned an enviable reputation in the functions and hiring environment, becoming one of South Africa's biggest in this field. After finishing school, Megan started her working career by joining the old Seaboard Hotel. She became interested in the hospitality industry; realising it was where she wanted to be and grow. Megan says she was fortunate to have supportive managers who allowed her to attend training courses. She says, "When you have passion for doing something, you want to grow and improve." This is the reason why she has never stopped learning. Jill of all trades Megan moved to Johannesburg when her husband was transferred there by his employer. After having her first child, she wanted to spend time being a mother rather than working in hotels and hospitality. She started "Plan Ahead" with only a computer, printer and fax machine. The company initially operated as a tour operating business, managing inbound tours of South Africa for overseas tourists. Four years later, when she fell pregnant again, Megan returned to Durban. As business in Durban was smaller and attracted fewer tours, she reinvented Plan Ahead to deal with events, conferences, functions, and activations. Working alone, Megan initially had to manage all aspects of the business and carry out everything that needed to be done, becoming a "Jill of all trades". The corporate and private functions business performed outstandingly for Plan Ahead until a recession about five years ago. With the slowdown in big functions, Megan realised that décor hiring for companies and people who did not want the "total event package" was taking off and more storage space was required to store equipment. As a result, about two years ago, the collaboration between Plan Ahead and Cheers Hiring started, and they now operate from the same warehouse. Commenting on what inspires her, Megan says that she is inspired by social media as well as chatting and socialising with different people. "Everyone's requirements are different, but I have always loved following David Tutera International Stylist to the famous. We like to pride ourselves in trying never to create the same look and feel for every client." Driven to become bigger and better Sometimes, especially after big, successful events, it is hard for Megan to believe that she has managed to arrange everything. "Once the event is over and you sit back and look and say to yourself wow, we did that and the client is happy - this keeps me motivated - I love a challenge." Every year she sets new goals for big events involving up to 2500 people but also for small ones. Although content with what she has reached, Megan is still driven to become bigger and better, growing both businesses, expanding nationally and into Africa. According to Megan, the requirements for women to be successful in her industry are no different from what they are for men. Her business used to be women-driven, but creative men are entering the industry, giving women good competition. "You need to work hard and be passionate about the business regardless of your gender, it is about you as person. You need to believe in yourself and do everything, including physical work." She laughs, saying that men are amazed when she picks up heavy things. "In our industry and life in general, what you put in is what you get out." You get up and move forward Megan credits her mother for supporting her and inspiring her to get where she is. She was a single mother who raised three children and fought cancer for ten years. She says her mother made her a stronger woman and she aspires to be like her. Her mother's motto was "No matter what happens, you get up and move forward." Megan strives to apply this to life and business. Balancing work with life is important. Megan has a teenage daughter and son who have grown up with their mom doing what she does. She says she supports them, but they also support and inspire her. This is important as her industry is not an easy one to be in, involving late nights and early mornings. She works hard during the festive season, but when it is not busy, she spends quality time with her family. She summarises her policy: "The laptop is off when I get home, so it does not interfere with what I do with my family." The advice that Megan would give her younger self is, "Believe more in yourself, believe that you can achieve things". She would add that it's okay to fail sometimes. Things don't always run smoothly, especially if you have your own business. "If you fall down, what matters is how you pick yourself up, move forward and to learn from failures." She would also advise socialising with more people who uplift and encourage you, who share the same passion as you; the earlier you can learn that, the easier it would become to run your own business. 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

As Wealth Head for Standard Bank Group in KwaZulu-Natal, Mano Singh is accountable for four business units that contribute over R600 million to the provincial revenueMano SinghAs Wealth Head for Standard Bank Group in KwaZulu-Natal, Mano Singh is accountable for four business units that contribute over R600 million to the provincial revenueAs Wealth Head for Standard Bank Group in KwaZulu-Natal, Mano Singh is accountable for four business units that contribute over R600 million to the provincial revenue. "When I started out, the corporate culture was steeped in race," she recalls. "And I had to work hard to get permission to even participate, where you were consciously and deliberately side-lined even if you were the best candidate. I quickly learned that if I were to grow and succeed in that environment, formal education was key to validating me as a person firstly, while also keeping my mind focused on the future. Education gave me the confidence that I could take on new challenges as they arose. It also allowed me to quickly walk away from any situation that questioned my self-worth." Looking to beacons of hope Mano has always been inspired by the people who were beacons of hope. "There were so many people who were simply born in the wrong era and forced into serving when they really should have been leading." Her father was a big influence on her life, and she learnt from a young age that education was vital. "He taught me that education was the golden key to unlocking any door, and as long as I kept my mind active and learning, that would be the gift that would give me the hope and courage I'd need on my journey in the workspace." But education alone was not enough. He also taught her the value of humility and respect for all, and that when it came to integrity there was no room for compromise. Her mother was also a driving force in her life, bringing another dimension. "My mother was bold, audacious and confident and she made sure I learned that I should never give up, no matter the circumstances." Mano is also very grateful for the support she gets from her husband, and he too has helped define her character. "I'm blessed to be married to a wonderful man who inspires me to remain patient and calm, even when storms are brewing, and he has inspired me to take the lead and fulfil my life's ambition." Declaring work-life balance to be a myth, Mano admits that her journey has not always been easy. "I've had to juggle, trying to balance family and work responsibilities. I've also studied almost continually my whole life while climbing the ladder. I've relocated to further my career and often been pushed out of my comfort zone." Her willingness to take on challenges has been part of her growth, but it hasn't fostered balance. Women should invest in their networks Taking a somewhat controversial stand, she says that women have much to learn from men. "I'm not saying we need to do business in the same way as men," she says. "But leadership can be lonely, and I admire the tenacity with which men form networks that create a structure to carry them through their journey. This helps them maximise their success. As women we're not that good at investing in our networks. But this takes time, and there's no doubt we have greater demands on our time." Being driven and a perfectionist, Mano still looks to the future. "I have so much I still want to achieve," she says, "and I still have a lot to contribute. On a daily basis I see people struggling to navigate their life journey and career path, struggling to make decisions about the way forward, and the trade-offs they may need to make to achieve the success they want." Mano wants to make a contribution here and mentions that altruism gives one purpose in life. And as she relishes the opportunity to mentor a new generation of leaders, she thinks back on her early career. Asked what advice she would give her younger self, Mano is succinct: Be assertive. It's not always easy to stand up for your rights, but don't walk away from challenging situations. Never sacrifice your personal principles; be true to yourself and you will earn respect. Mano points out that when she was starting out, society schooled people to be submissive to partisan bosses. "But had I been more assertive, particularly when I felt that I was deliberately overlooked for senior positions, my journey would have been catalysed in different conditions." Knowledge and education are self-empowering "When I started, I was hungry to learn about leadership and strategy, and I read voraciously. I would buy a leadership book every single month when I was paid. Later on, while I was doing my MBA, I realised that everything I was searching for was encapsulated in my MBA syllabus. I just wish someone had taken me aside early on and pointed me in the right direction - it might have made a big difference in my choices and the trajectory of my career." She acknowledges that each adversity she faced prepared her for her personal journey, and takes pride in never compromising her principles and the respect she has earned in the industry. "And when times were tough, I studied harder. My father's voice in my head kept reminding me that the reward of knowledge and education is self-empowering." 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

Pravina Coombs Next Previous Pravina Coombs is the managing member of ThoughtFIRE Pravina Coombs, the managing member of ThoughtFIRE, an event company, describes her story as starting “a very long time ago”. Growing up in Durban, she faced the challenges of a divorced family – something that was considered “absolutely taboo” within the Indian community. She attended Durban Indian Girls High, but financial constraints prevented her from pursuing further studies, and at that time, there were few options for degrees or diplomas in her desired field. Despite these obstacles, Pravina persevered, opting for public relations courses since event management programmes were limited. Growing up in a financially constrained environment, she acknowledged, shaped her work ethic. “I made a pact with myself: I never wanted to be poor again. This wasn’t about being materialistic; it was about challenging myself to do better.” After finishing school, she married at an early age and found her first proper job at Sparkport Pharmacy in Overport. “It was a good starting point,” she believes. “I’m a firm believer that all jobs need public relations (PR). Whether you’re a doctor, a lawyer, or an accountant, PR sets the tone for what we do.” When asked about her purpose, Pravina stated, “Providing the best service to my existing client base is paramount. Event planning can be daunting for many; however, I don’t focus on personal events like parties or weddings. I’ve found my niche in international and national conferences, for corporates and non-governmental organisations, which allows me to make a meaningful impact.” Her passion for creating concepts and bringing them to life is evident in her work. She continues, “I strive to be indispensable to my clients; they rely on me, and their returning business is a testament to the trust we’ve built.” This loyalty reflects the quality of her events and her commitment to client satisfaction. “I ensure that our clients can concentrate on their product and service while we think outside the box for them.” For Pravina, delivering a successful event is akin to creating a masterpiece. “The client gets their return on investment, and that’s crucial for me.” PROUD ACCOMPLISHMENTS Pravina has organised high-profile events throughout her career, which she considers significant achievements. “Knowing that clients return to me after many years speaks volumes about the quality of my work. I’ve had the privilege of organising events for King Goodwill Zwelithini and Nelson Mandela. I’ve also worked with Chief Buthelezi and collaborated with the AIDS Foundation, which included celebrities like Santana and Samuel L. Jackson. These experiences are remarkable milestones for me.” Reflecting on the best piece of advice she has received, Pravina shares, “In everything that you attempt, do it to the best of your ability, or do not do it at all.” This principle has guided her throughout her career. Additionally, she believes in seizing the day: “Do today what you can do. Don’t leave things for tomorrow because you never know what tomorrow will bring. This rings particularly true in our industry, where no two days are the same. The excitement keeps me going.” Pravina has encountered numerous challenges throughout her career. “One of the biggest is when clients don’t take us seriously or fail to appreciate our worth. Many people view event management as glamorous, overlooking the hard work involved. “Everything is deadline driven. An event can’t be postponed,” she stresses. “When clients don’t understand that or provide necessary resources, it can be quite stressful. We manage multiple events simultaneously, which adds to the complexity.” She noted the rapid changes in technology and industry trends, emphasising the need to adapt. “Covid was another challenge we’d rather forget, but it forced me to rethink my business model. The restructuring helped me streamline operations and work smarter, which has positively impacted my focus and productivity. I’m still able to deliver what I deliver, not only in South Africa but internationally,” she notes proudly. COLLABORATION IS ESSENTIAL Creating a positive work environment is crucial for Pravina and she emphasises effective communication. Event planning is stressful; a survey once identified event management as one of the most stressful jobs, alongside air traffic control and trauma surgery. “I think it takes guts, nerve and steel to deliver. Despite this stress, we try to maintain a sense of fun,” she commented. Finding a dedicated team is a challenge that Pravina faces regularly. “It’s hard to come by,” she admits. “We need to make our industry sexy again, so people want to do it.” She expresses concern about the future of event management as experienced professionals retire and new talent struggles to enter the field. Inspiration plays a crucial role in Pravina’s life. “I love learning and creating, and I’m surrounded by driven and successful individuals. Listening to their stories and understanding their journeys motivates me. I think it’s crucial to reach out for advice; just hearing another perspective can reaffirm what you already know,” she said. “Being surrounded by incredible people makes my life easier and better.” Pravina also emphasised the importance of empowering women in business. "I love networking and helping women find opportunities. Collaboration is essential, especially among women. We should be sharing our knowledge and skills instead of holding on to everything for ourselves. The misjudging of people is so unfair,” she reflects, highlighting the importance of understanding the challenges that others face. VISION FOR THE FUTURE Looking ahead, Pravina has a clear vision for business in KwaZulu-Natal over the next five years. “I think there’s so much potential," she observes. Her personal goal is to continue providing exceptional service to her existing clients while maintaining her business’s reputation for reliability. “Most importantly, I aim to find balance after many years in this demanding field. I work smart and play hard, and I believe that’s the key to a fulfilling career.” Recognising the importance of enjoyment alongside demanding work, she has made a pact with herself: “You’re going to work hard, but you will enjoy your life.” Pravina concluded with her guiding principles: “Keep our industry alive and well, empower the youth, and remain honest and true to myself.” Previous Next