< Back Zanele Luvuno

Next Back to Team Next Gayle Adlam Editor-in-Chief In her capacity as Editor-in-Chief, Gayle plays a foundational role in shaping the company’s editorial direction and spotlighting business success within the region. Her responsibilities include: Editorial Leadership: Overseeing the publication of business success stories and managing the editorial integrity of the KZN Top Business portfolio. Initiative Management: Acting as a lead figure for the KZN Top Business Women initiative, a multimedia project dedicated to celebrating the achievements, leadership, and societal contributions of women in KwaZulu-Natal. Stakeholder Engagement: Serving as a primary point of contact for the company’s awards and business initiatives, facilitating communication between nominees, judges, and the broader business community. Strategic Communication: Ensuring that the organization's "Good News" marketing philosophy—which focuses on sharing stories of successful people and companies to inspire others—is consistently applied across all media platforms. Mail gayle@kzntopbusiness.com Phone +27 836530465

Vinesh Moodley Next Previous Vinesh Moodley EY South Africa KwaZulu-Natal Regional Managing Partner Previous Next

Portfolio

HENK VAN BEMMELEN, CEO of Blue Security says, "I fell in love with the security business from an early age - it is in my blood. I can't remember ever waking up and not wanting to go to work. If you have a passion for your business, then you can't go wrong." Subscribe Home KZN Leaders Up Up Henk van Bemmelen HENK VAN BEMMELEN, CEO of Blue Security says, "I fell in love with the security business from an early age - it is in my blood. I can't remember ever waking up and not wanting to go to work. If you have a passion for your business, then you can't go wrong." Love what you do and do what you love HENK VAN BEMMELEN, CEO of Blue Security says, "I fell in love with the security business from an early age - it is in my blood. I can't remember ever waking up and not wanting to go to work. If you have a passion for your business, then you can't go wrong." After the completion of his two year South African defence force call up period, Van Bemmelen's experiences motivated him to join a security company. He started as a reaction officer and enjoyed the work involved, as combatting crime has always been an overall concern in South Africa. Over the past 29 years, Van Bemmelen has worked his way up through the divisions and ranks of the security business. Eight years ago, he relocated from Johannesburg to Durban, to take up the position as operations director at Blue Security. Since then he has been promoted to managing director and then in October 2018 to his current position as CEO. He says that his journey through the ranks of the security industry has been enabled by having good mentors. "Having a mentor is a top priority for anyone want to progress in their career. My mentors have become friends and people that I have learnt from beyond the on-the-job experience. A mentor will also push you harder than you do yourself." Van Bemmelen commented that the experience of having a mentor had prompted him to focus on providing mentorship to other employees within the company. "The reality of this job is that it is people driven and it is often hardcore; you really get tested, so support is required," he explained. The main challenges of his role as CEO are firstly to ensure that the Blue Security 'ship' is pointing in the right direction, and secondly to ensure that the company is keeping up with the technological innovations that are driving the security business. Van Bemmelen explained that his leadership style needed to fit the people and their job descriptions. "I like to empower people to make decisions. It is not in my style to micro manage employees, I allow them the space to deliver the goods. I can connect with people and be flexible as I am aware of the different responsibilities of their jobs' demands. However, there are times when I have to be stern." In addition, said Van Bemmelen, the younger generation does things differently. "Consequently, within Blue Security, we have to keep a balance between the younger employees who are pushing boundaries all the time and the senior employees who need to keep up to date with trends such as new communication channels." A major challenge of the security industry is to keep up with change. "The world is constantly evolving; we have to keep up with innovations and we need to ensure that we meet the expectations of our clients. The security business is a disruptive industry, which is not the same as 20 years ago and we cannot stay in our comfort zone but continually need to adapt." Blue Security has invested heavily in research and development to implement top end technologies to improve the security for its residential and business customers. "The business runs 24 hours a day - crime does not wait - and we want to make a difference in the communities we serve," he explained. When not at work, Van Bemmelen spends much time at the gym as he says that staying fit and healthy keeps his mind clear. He is a family man who enjoys the strong support of his family, who understand his passion for his work. Another of Van Bemmelen's loves is his motorbike on which he and his wife have toured South Africa. They have covered many thousands of kilometres together and are currently planning a trip to Lesotho, and on to the Eastern and Western Cape as well as Namibia.

Up Home Up Carol Coetzee Many people won’t necessarily know what the implications of these policies have been. However, one of them was the development of Operation Sukuma Sakhe, which then became a policy directive for the entire country. The goal of this directive was to bring government departments together at community level. If a family, for example, needed to access a grant but did not have identity documents, the relevant documents would be brought together to provide a holistic solution to the household rather than having to go to 3-4 different government buildings, which is unaffordable for many rural communities. “That was a great initiative and we have seen the impact in terms of addressing some of the societal issues at a ward level including improved integrated planning across the different spheres of government” says Carol. The Provincial Treasury, as it needs to be accountable for public funding, has also implemented several initiatives to ensure that there is good governance. Carol added, “With our support initiatives, we’ve seen an improvement in the audit outcomes of the provincial departments and the public entities that we guide and support which reflects an enhancement of governance in the public sector.” Carol commented that she most enjoys socio-economic development achievements, where they reach out to communities and measurable impact can be seen. “During FIFA 2010 World Cup, we made sure we had public viewing areas, so people out in the far-flung areas were able to enjoy the hype and watch the soccer on big screens and all come together. The other achievements are the creches that we have been able to help. They were in shocking conditions, they had pit latrines, and we are talking about little ones from 0 – 5 years old, without educational toys to play with. I thoroughly enjoyed going into those communities and seeing the change in terms of giving those little ones a head-start with proper facilities and providing teachers with a formal setting to build a good foundation for these future generations.” Truly Inspirational Reflecting on who has inspired her, Carol said that she was privileged to meet Grant Oosthuizen who is an incredible young man. He is severely handicapped (though he would not like me saying that) and can only manage to control the movement of one organ of his body and that’s a toe. However, he charges around in his wheelchair, is a graphic designer, plays bowles for South Africa, and does ballroom dancing and anything his heart desires. “There is nothing that stops Grant,” explains Carol. “He is the most happy, respectful person I have ever meet. He does not let anyone stop him; he is amazing. He started an NGO called Get Inspired, where other disabled people are taught to make arts and crafts so they can earn an income and lead dignified lives. Whenever, I have a bad day, I think of him, this is someone that is truly inspirational as he has overcome substantial hurdles in this life with a smile on his face.” A Bumpy Road Carol said that over the last 30 years she has had a bumpy road including both personal and work challenges. “On a personal side, I had major back surgery, which required me to be out of the office for two – three months. That really humbled me as well. It made me realise that mental health is important because at the time I was in hospital, they couldn’t diagnose the underlying cause of my health challenges post the major operation of fusing 9 vertebra. I was frustrated and humiliated by the way I had to be washed in bed, and I was in a very dark space. I was visited by a psychiatrist to talk to me, which was the first time I realised how crucial mental health is for anyone. I still to this day if I am facing a challenge seek professional help. Making sure I stay healthy and fit is important given my pressurised job.” When it comes to her career, Carol has had to make tough decisions while working with hard-core leaders. She says, “I think what is important is to be able to say no at the right time and to give alternative solutions rather than being viewed as obstructing. There have been a lot of difficult decisions to be made. I think as long as you ensure your integrity is intact, and you and your values and ethics, even difficult people will see that what you are saying is correct and they will respect you for it.” Changing Perceptions Carol says that she probably has about ten years left in the public sector before she retires. In this time, she would really like to change the way that government is perceived. She says that she wants to change this perception by tackling the issue of corruption through putting proper systems in place, holding people accountable through empowerment, and ensuring that there is consequence management. She added that she wants to professionalise the public sector. “I try and encourage young graduates to join the public sector and to change how government is perceived. It’s a privilege to be a government official and we are here to serve the public. It’s not only the right thing to do, but we have a mammoth responsibility to change the lives of our communities. Seize Opportunities Being a female still has several challenges, says Carol, irrespective of what sector you enter. Young women must seize opportunities, don’t be afraid to take on something you have never done before. In advising others she says that each challenge is different, you need to understand that you will be learning every day. “I went into the film industry as a CEO of a brand new entity, with no knowledge of the sector, it was an amazing experience, so be open to new experiences.” “You need to be passionate and have empathy for your team. That’s what I have learnt over the years, spend time and create a better relationship with your staff. You need to be respectful of who you are working with and be professional because you will not and cannot succeed on your own. I always say, don’t be on time, be early. Being a chartered accountant, sets that foundation, you have certain ethics and values that you will always have in place by the nature of the training and the profession. Carol says that when she does have time to relax, she loves the outdoors, going for a hike in the berg, or a long walk along the beach. She added, “I love game parks, I read quite a bit, I love photography and I go to Splashy Fen every year, which is my time to thoroughly unwind and enjoy local music.”

Airports Company South Africa Limited (ACSA)COLIN NAIDOO's long career in the airport industry has spanned 25 years. Soon after joining Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), Naidoo realised that he had found his professional calling and enjoyed the airport environment. Over the years, he has moved up the corporate ladder to reach the position of Senior Manager for Corporate Affairs of King Shaka International Airport (KSIA). Naidoo says that his position includes a multitude of tasks with a focus on mainly managing external stakeholder relationships, although his responsibilities does extend to internal stakeholders. He also deals with media reporting and queries. In addition, he is responsible for managing the King Shaka International Airport brand, which he is passionate about growing. Regarded as one of the best airports in the world, passenger numbers and flights have been on the increase since KSIA opened nine years ago. From its inception in 2010, KSIA has garnered many accolades over this period. KSIA is a major economic catalyst for investment and growth in the region and celebrated a major milestone in 2019 of reaching almost six million passengers by the end on the 2018/19 financial year. "The airport is more than just the physical buildings, we don't take stakeholder engagements for granted and we keep on working on them. ACSA's been around for 26 years, and we wouldn't have been one of the most successful state-owned enterprises if we didn't invest in our stakeholder partnerships. The political, economic and financial climate changes constantly and we have had to adapt." Due to this approach, another major accolade was the commencement in October 2018 of three flights a week, by British Airways, directly from London to Durban with B787 900 aircraft. This was achieved through the collaboration of the KZN Route Development Committee now called DURBAN DIRECT (involving the city, province, ACSA, Dube TradePort, Tourism KZN, Trade & Investment KZN) and other stakeholders. The relationships that he has built with people have contributed to his success, said Naidoo. He added that he is inspired by the people that he meets every day. "Each time I walk through the airport, I feel the vibe of the space. I meet external people as well as those from the different levels of the operation itself. Over the years, I have built deep-rooted relationships based on mutual respect, which I keep on renewing." He added, "I have also built solid partnerships with the business, tourist and airport related sectors. The spirit of the airport and the industry never changes and that keeps me going and grounded." However, the one thing that stands out for him in his daily tasks, and which is the motto that he lives by, is the importance of 'service first'. He uses this motto to shape his response to any challenges that he confronts and says that this outlook is what drives him daily. He added that he is always ready to help other people, both at the airport and outside of it, whenever required. Naidoo's years of experience in the airport industry has prompted him to want to leave a legacy and share this wisdom with others. "With all my years at the airport it is of no use to me to keep all this knowledge. As part of my legacy, I would like to find ten people and before I retire, pass on all that I have learnt about this industry." Each of Naidoo's days at the airport is demanding. He says that as he has a long drive to work and back each day, he enjoys listening to 'good soul music' to switch off (and switch on). On the weekends, he says that he likes to dress down, so that people don't recognise him as he enjoys keeping his family life private, and visits flea markets as often as he can to unwind. Up Home Up Latest News Airports Company South Africa Limited (ACSA) Nkosinathi Myataza ACSA owns and manages the Republic of South Africa's nine key airports, which include the three major international gateways in Gauteng (O.R. Tambo International Airport), Western Cape (Cape Town International Airport), and KwaZulu-Natal (King Shaka International Airport). With a mandate to run, develop and grow the footprint of its network of nine airports. ACSA also participates in the provision of advisory and technical services to local airport operators (municipal, provincial, and privately owned) as well as foreign airport operators. This includes investment in other airports and/ or airport operators through concessions and other investment instruments in pursuant of Vision 2030, as the best-run smart airport network in Africa, offering the most diverse, sought-after services and experience. Within ACSA's strategy of regional integration, King Shaka International Airport (KSIA) is at the forefront of integration within the network of local and provincial airports in the region. KSIA plays a crucial role in enhancing this network so as to get more people flying, and to facilitate trade through air cargo. KSIA is a major economic catalyst for investment and growth in the KwaZulu-Natal region. As the third busiest airport in South Africa and the most award winning airport in Africa, KSIA handled over 6.1 million passengers annually (pre-Covid-19), serviced by 14 airlines. The airport has the capacity to accommodate 7.5 million passengers per year, and its 3.7 km runway is capable of handling large aircraft, including the Airbus A380. KSIA was the first greenfield project undertaken by ACSA using its build-manage-operate model. As it was greenfield-built, the airport has introduced energy efficiencies as well as water and waste infrastructure to minimise the airport's impact on the surrounding environment and communities. Environmental compliance and management remain top of the airport's agenda. KSIA is a strategic member of the KZN Route Development Committee, which encompasses local and regional tourism bodies, economic development agencies, trade, and industry. The Committee sets out to stimulate air travel demand in Durban, as it is essential to improve air connectivity through more direct domestic and international routes. At the same time promoting the province's rich tourism offerings - warm beaches, wildlife, and the mountain ranges. Enhancing airport infrastructure, and positioning KZN as a key business and events destination will also drive demand and create sustainable growth in passenger volumes. The airport's recovery of air traffic is continuously building both passenger and increasing cargo trade exchange. This is further boosted by the unique features of the airport precinct, which include the airport's strategic location within a special economic zone, situated 30km from the Port of Durban as well as an intermodal interchange into the region and into the continent. ACSA recognises people and society as a key indicator of progress, and investment in Socio-Economic Development (SED) is therefore a vital response to South Africa's socio-economic imperatives. KSIA, as part of the ACSA network, advances this mandate through initiatives that drive inclusive growth, community empowerment and sustainable development in KwaZulu-Natal. KSIA's focus areas include quality education with emphasis on early childhood development, skills development for youth, women and persons with disabilities, health and well-being through improved food and nutrition, environmental sustainability with a focus on biodiversity, sustainable food security via food gardens, and entrepreneurial support to foster economic participation. These commitments have yielded real impact. KSIA has supported the training of practitioners from 40 Early Childhood Development centres, strengthening the foundation of early learning. In addition, a food garden programme equipped 30 young people with gardening and nutrition-linked skills, promoting both livelihoods and food security. Guided by community research, KSIA's priorities remain centred on sustainable skills development, job creation and innovation, ensuring that socio-economic development becomes a shared pathway to inclusive growth. Recent Awards KSIA accolades reflect over a decade of growth and achievements. The airport has been recognised for numerous international and national awards, recently including, 2025 Airport Council lnternational's (ACl's) Public Health & Safety accreditation 2025 Skytrax Awards - Best Regional Airport in Africa, Best Airport in Africa, Best Airport Staff in Africa AIRPORTS COMPANY SOUTH AFRICA HEAD OFFICE Physical Address: Western Precinct, Aviation Park, O.R. Tambo International Airport, 1 Jones Road, Kempton Park, Gauteng, South Africa, 1632 KING SHAKA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Physical Address: King Shaka Dr, La Mercy, 4407 Tel: +27 (0)32 436 6585 Website: www.airports.co.za I www.acsa.co.za Leaders Profile Latest News Company News Blog Keep up with the latest trends and insights. Check out our blog today! Read More Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Mhlathuze Water is one of the leading water utilities in South Africa today, providing a world-class service to its customers. The organisation is committed to providing safe and dependable water servicesMhlathuze WaterMthokozisi DuzeMhlathuze Water is one of the leading water utilities in South Africa today, providing a world-class service to its customers. The organisation is committed to providing safe and dependable water services. Based in KwaZulu-Natal, its area of supply covers 37 000km² stretching from the from the uThukela River in the south and up the east coast to the Mozambique and Swaziland borders, around Vryheid and back to the uThukela River. Within this region, Mhlathuze Water has built and operates an inter- basin transfer, major water treatment plants, an offshore wastewater disposal pipeline and it operates and treatment and sewerage plants on an agency basis for local municipalities. The Nsezi Water Treatment plant is the company’s flagship installation. Situated on the banks of Lake Nsezi, the consumers of the Nsezi Water Treatment Plant are the city of uMhlathuze and Mondi Paper. Mhlathuze Municipality covers Richards Bay, Empangeni and Foskor. Mondi Paper requires water of a superior quality to drinking water. The Nsezi Water Treatment Plant produces clarified water and Mondi Quality Water (superior to portable water). Two pumps pump water to the uMhlathuze Municipality (27 000m³ per day) straight to a reservoir. There are smaller pumps for domestic use. Approximately 18m³ (18 million litres) is pumped from the three megalitre reservoir to the town of Empangeni daily via a 12.1km pipeline. Each pump moves 1100m³ of water per hour. At this stage, there is a re-dose of sodium hypochlorite as an extra precaution for the bacterial quality. The water tank is backwashed and the water returns into the system via the clarifier. The Nsezi upgrade increased the treatment plant capacity from 84m³ per day to 205m³ per day. The upgrade was valued at approximately R210 million. The expansion is in line with the expected growth in demand for the upcoming years. Foskor will be expanding its production, leading to the doubling of water demands; a request for an additional allocation of water has been received and accepted by Mhlathuze Water to this affect. Mondi Paper will be doubling plant capacity, which will increase its water demand. Also anticipated is the growth of water demands in Mhlathuze Municipality. The towns and cities within the Nsezi Water Treatment Plant area of supply are also expected to expand, resulting in an expected increase in total water demand. The plant supplies a backup to the city of uMhlathuze for the Richards Bay area, daily water supply for Empangeni and for Foskor, through the City of uMhlathuze System. Mondi paper draws up to 85m³/day directly from the Nsezi Water Treatment Plant. The new works comprises the following: • Construction of a new pumpstation building of 750m² and 6m deep below existing ground level; • Installation of new pumps capable of 757 litres per second supply of potable water to an existing 800mm diameter pipeline, including associated electrical and mechanical equipment within the new pump-station building; • Installation of new 1200mm, 900mm, 800mm and 6000mm diameter pipelines totalling 50m in length to supply potable water from an existing 6000m³ reservoir to an existing 800mm diameter pipeline; • Refurbishment of valve chambers along the existing 800mm diameter pipeline within existing pipeline servitude for maintenance purposes; and • Installation of a 250mm diameter drainage pipe 300m in length to return ground water beneath the proposed building to an existing detention dam at the Nsezi Water Treatment Works. The total cost of the new pump station is R97 million and has to date provided over 150 job opportunities. As part of developing SMMEs, Mhlathuze Water has endeavoured to engage small companies in the implementation of its projects. Testing and Monitoring The Scientific Services department has one of the top water laboratories in the country and is the only ISO 17025 accredited water laboratory in the region with a wide scope of analyses. Sampling and analyses of water and wastewater are carried out daily, and a similar service is offered to local and international customers. The modern laboratory facility has recently spent more than R1.5m acquiring new instrumentation to increase capacity and capability to ensure that it continues to provide a “world class” service to its customers. Water Demand Management The organisation is involved in catchment management services, water demand management and conservation, while playing a role in the Working for Water programme initiated by the Department of Water and Environment Affairs. Earlier this year the organization was awarded a further R3.8m for the period up to March 2010, in this job creation initiative by the Department to remove aliens in the Goedertrouw Dam area. Microbial, chemical and euthophication water quality monitoring and water studies are also undertaken on behalf of various institutions and the Department. Environmental Management Mhlathuze Water has achieved the ISO 14001 certification and continues upgrading and maintaining the system to retain this international standard. Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) are conducted for all relevant projects to ensure minimum impact on the environment during the development of water schemes and similar projects. Scientific Services researches possible areas of improvement in the operations and regular analyses are carried out to identify potential environmental impacts. Social Responsibility The organisation participates in the regional forum for sustainable development and works in partnership with industry to create platforms to heighten awareness, particularly of learners, on a wide range of topics. Apart from job creation addressed to some extent in the alien plant removal programmes, Mhlathuze Water is sensitive to other major issues such as education, disability, and women empowerment. The organization also recognises its role in the challenges related to safe water provision and works with the communities to assist them to gain experience in managing supplies within their communities. Training and Skills Development Mhlathuze Water is registered with the ESETA (Energy SETA) to which it submits the workplace skills development plan. Competency profiling in the organisation has formed a data base of competencies which assist with job descriptions, recruitment and skills development. Training includes induction programmes and compliance training for employees for legislative requirements such as OHASA and environment and skills-based training. Partnerships The organisation has developed unique and significant partnerships with government and industry in northern KwaZulu-Natal and beyond to assist as implementing agent and water services provider on numerous community and commercial projects. • A project to supply the drought stricken region partly bordering the world famous Hluhluwe / uMfolozi Game Park on behalf of the district municipality has commenced. Water from this project will be sourced from the Phongola Dam in northern KwaZulu-Natal adjacent to the border of Swaziland. • Appointed the implementing agent with the Department of Local Government and Traditional Affairs on a bulk water supply programme north of the town of Jozini. A sum of R81 million was approved in March for this programme and a memorandum of understanding signed with the Department to roll out service provision to these local communities. A total of 40 boreholes will be constructed as a remedial water supply while this project is underway. • A schools water and sanitation programme where 324 schools in the five districts in northern KwaZulu-Natal province will be supplied with either sanitation, water or both. This project initiated by the Departments of Education and Water and Environment Affairs, will be managed in two phases and is expected to be completed by December this year. Mhlathuze Water is handing over completed projects to the school governing bodies and principals, and is running hygiene programmes at the schools. • A community water supply project is being developed close to the Mozambique border at a cost of R102 million. The complete date is 2012 and will provide 57 000 people with potable water. • For 12 years the organisation has been constructing water supply systems in four phases in the Hluhluwe area. The project is due for completion in 2012 at a total cost of R290 million a n d will provide water to 150 000 people. • A regional bulk water and wastewater master plan to provide a possible future bulk services for participating water service authorities in the organisations area of operation. • The organisation is doubling up the supply of treated water to the town of Empangeni to provide water for the growth in that area. • The organisation operates and manages water and wastewater installations on behalf of the water services authorities. • Mhlathuze Water on behalf of the Department of Water and Environment Affairs operates and maintains the uThukela Transfer Scheme in the area west of Eshowe towards Kranskop. The scheme transfers 1200 litres of water per second at full capacity, from the uThukela River into the Goedertrouw Dam as part of the yield to the industries in Richards Bay. In addition, bulk raw water is also supplied to the communities where it is treated for domestic consumption. Full Name of Company: Mhlathuze Water Industry Sector: Utility Nature of Business: Mhlathuze Water manages raw water sources, design, optimise, install, extend, operate, and maintain the required infrastructure to meet the bulk water services requirements and related services to customers. Accreditations: • 18001 Occupational Health and Safety System • 14001 Environmental Management System • 9001 Quality Management System • 17025 Laboratory Management Systems B-BBEE Status: Level 2 VISION To be the water service provider of choice for all stakeholders in the water value chain MISSION To provide and expand affordable, sustainable, quality and reliable water services to stakeholders, to improve quality of life and to contribute to development KEY PERSONNEL Chief Executive Officer: Mr Mthokozisi Duze CONTACT DETAILS Physical Address: Corner South Central Arterial and Battery Bank, Alton Industrial Area. Richards Bay. Postal Address: Private Bag X1047, Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, 3900 Tel: +27 (0)35 902 1000 Fax: +27 (0)35 902 1111 E-mail: mw_info@mhlathuze.co.za Website: www.mhlathuze.co.za Mthokozisi Duze Water for the future Mhlathuze Water is one of the leading water utilities in South Africa today, providing a world-class service to its customers. The organisation is committed to providing safe and dependable water services. Based in KwaZulu-Natal, its area of supply covers 37 000km² stretching from the from the uThukela River in the south and up the east coast to the Mozambique and Swaziland borders, around Vryheid and back to the uThukela River. Within this region, Mhlathuze Water has built and operates an inter- basin transfer, major water treatment plants, an offshore wastewater disposal pipeline and it operates and treatment and sewerage plants on an agency basis for local municipalities. The Nsezi Water Treatment plant is the company’s flagship installation. Situated on the banks of Lake Nsezi, the consumers of the Nsezi Water Treatment Plant are the city of uMhlathuze and Mondi Paper. Mhlathuze Municipality covers Richards Bay, Empangeni and Foskor. Mondi Paper requires water of a superior quality to drinking water. The Nsezi Water Treatment Plant produces clarified water and Mondi Quality Water (superior to portable water). Two pumps pump water to the uMhlathuze Municipality (27 000m³ per day) straight to a reservoir. There are smaller pumps for domestic use. Approximately 18m³ (18 million litres) is pumped from the three megalitre reservoir to the town of Empangeni daily via a 12.1km pipeline. Each pump moves 1100m³ of water per hour. At this stage, there is a re-dose of sodium hypochlorite as an extra precaution for the bacterial quality. The water tank is backwashed and the water returns into the system via the clarifier. The Nsezi upgrade increased the treatment plant capacity from 84m³ per day to 205m³ per day. The upgrade was valued at approximately R210 million. The expansion is in line with the expected growth in demand for the upcoming years. Foskor will be expanding its production, leading to the doubling of water demands; a request for an additional allocation of water has been received and accepted by Mhlathuze Water to this affect. Mondi Paper will be doubling plant capacity, which will increase its water demand. Also anticipated is the growth of water demands in Mhlathuze Municipality. The towns and cities within the Nsezi Water Treatment Plant area of supply are also expected to expand, resulting in an expected increase in total water demand. The plant supplies a backup to the city of uMhlathuze for the Richards Bay area, daily water supply for Empangeni and for Foskor, through the City of uMhlathuze System. Mondi paper draws up to 85m³/day directly from the Nsezi Water Treatment Plant. The new works comprises the following: • Construction of a new pumpstation building of 750m² and 6m deep below existing ground level; • Installation of new pumps capable of 757 litres per second supply of potable water to an existing 800mm diameter pipeline, including associated electrical and mechanical equipment within the new pump-station building; • Installation of new 1200mm, 900mm, 800mm and 6000mm diameter pipelines totalling 50m in length to supply potable water from an existing 6000m³ reservoir to an existing 800mm diameter pipeline; • Refurbishment of valve chambers along the existing 800mm diameter pipeline within existing pipeline servitude for maintenance purposes; and • Installation of a 250mm diameter drainage pipe 300m in length to return ground water beneath the proposed building to an existing detention dam at the Nsezi Water Treatment Works. The total cost of the new pump station is R97 million and has to date provided over 150 job opportunities. As part of developing SMMEs, Mhlathuze Water has endeavoured to engage small companies in the implementation of its projects. Testing and Monitoring The Scientific Services department has one of the top water laboratories in the country and is the only ISO 17025 accredited water laboratory in the region with a wide scope of analyses. Sampling and analyses of water and wastewater are carried out daily, and a similar service is offered to local and international customers. The modern laboratory facility has recently spent more than R1.5m acquiring new instrumentation to increase capacity and capability to ensure that it continues to provide a “world class” service to its customers. Water Demand Management The organisation is involved in catchment management services, water demand management and conservation, while playing a role in the Working for Water programme initiated by the Department of Water and Environment Affairs. Earlier this year the organization was awarded a further R3.8m for the period up to March 2010, in this job creation initiative by the Department to remove aliens in the Goedertrouw Dam area. Microbial, chemical and euthophication water quality monitoring and water studies are also undertaken on behalf of various institutions and the Department. Environmental Management Mhlathuze Water has achieved the ISO 14001 certification and continues upgrading and maintaining the system to retain this international standard. Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) are conducted for all relevant projects to ensure minimum impact on the environment during the development of water schemes and similar projects. Scientific Services researches possible areas of improvement in the operations and regular analyses are carried out to identify potential environmental impacts. Social Responsibility The organisation participates in the regional forum for sustainable development and works in partnership with industry to create platforms to heighten awareness, particularly of learners, on a wide range of topics. Apart from job creation addressed to some extent in the alien plant removal programmes, Mhlathuze Water is sensitive to other major issues such as education, disability, and women empowerment. The organization also recognises its role in the challenges related to safe water provision and works with the communities to assist them to gain experience in managing supplies within their communities. Training and Skills Development Mhlathuze Water is registered with the ESETA (Energy SETA) to which it submits the workplace skills development plan. Competency profiling in the organisation has formed a data base of competencies which assist with job descriptions, recruitment and skills development. Training includes induction programmes and compliance training for employees for legislative requirements such as OHASA and environment and skills-based training. Partnerships The organisation has developed unique and significant partnerships with government and industry in northern KwaZulu-Natal and beyond to assist as implementing agent and water services provider on numerous community and commercial projects. • A project to supply the drought stricken region partly bordering the world famous Hluhluwe / uMfolozi Game Park on behalf of the district municipality has commenced. Water from this project will be sourced from the Phongola Dam in northern KwaZulu-Natal adjacent to the border of Swaziland. • Appointed the implementing agent with the Department of Local Government and Traditional Affairs on a bulk water supply programme north of the town of Jozini. A sum of R81 million was approved in March for this programme and a memorandum of understanding signed with the Department to roll out service provision to these local communities. A total of 40 boreholes will be constructed as a remedial water supply while this project is underway. • A schools water and sanitation programme where 324 schools in the five districts in northern KwaZulu-Natal province will be supplied with either sanitation, water or both. This project initiated by the Departments of Education and Water and Environment Affairs, will be managed in two phases and is expected to be completed by December this year. Mhlathuze Water is handing over completed projects to the school governing bodies and principals, and is running hygiene programmes at the schools. • A community water supply project is being developed close to the Mozambique border at a cost of R102 million. The complete date is 2012 and will provide 57 000 people with potable water. • For 12 years the organisation has been constructing water supply systems in four phases in the Hluhluwe area. The project is due for completion in 2012 at a total cost of R290 million a n d will provide water to 150 000 people. • A regional bulk water and wastewater master plan to provide a possible future bulk services for participating water service authorities in the organisations area of operation. • The organisation is doubling up the supply of treated water to the town of Empangeni to provide water for the growth in that area. • The organisation operates and manages water and wastewater installations on behalf of the water services authorities. • Mhlathuze Water on behalf of the Department of Water and Environment Affairs operates and maintains the uThukela Transfer Scheme in the area west of Eshowe towards Kranskop. The scheme transfers 1200 litres of water per second at full capacity, from the uThukela River into the Goedertrouw Dam as part of the yield to the industries in Richards Bay. In addition, bulk raw water is also supplied to the communities where it is treated for domestic consumption. Full Name of Company: Mhlathuze Water Industry Sector: Utility Nature of Business: Mhlathuze Water manages raw water sources, design, optimise, install, extend, operate, and maintain the required infrastructure to meet the bulk water services requirements and related services to customers. Accreditations: • 18001 Occupational Health and Safety System • 14001 Environmental Management System • 9001 Quality Management System • 17025 Laboratory Management Systems B-BBEE Status: Level 2 VISION To be the water service provider of choice for all stakeholders in the water value chain MISSION To provide and expand affordable, sustainable, quality and reliable water services to stakeholders, to improve quality of life and to contribute to development KEY PERSONNEL Chief Executive Officer: Mr Mthokozisi Duze CONTACT DETAILS Physical Address: Corner South Central Arterial and Battery Bank, Alton Industrial Area. Richards Bay. Postal Address: Private Bag X1047, Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, 3900 Tel: +27 (0)35 902 1000 Fax: +27 (0)35 902 1111 E-mail: mw_info@mhlathuze.co.za Website: www.mhlathuze.co.za Mhlathuze Water Mhlathuze Water is one of the leading water utilities in South Africa today, providing a world-class service to its customers. The organisation is committed to providing safe and dependable water services

Up Home Up Nerusha Maharaj NERUSHA MAHARAJ’s company is called Visual Network SA, which is a one stop production store in KwaZulu-Natal. The company’s services include movie productions, with locations, accommodation, catering and transport crew – anything that one would need to shoot films in KZN. Nerusha is also the city producer of the 48 hour film project, which is an exciting short film competition. The competition has been around for the past 21 years in 130 cities around the globe. She runs the KZN chapter. Her company together with the KZN Film Commission, is also developing 20 digital entrepreneurs. This project is for youth or for anyone that has a YouTube channel or a digital platform with the goal of taking them to the next level. Visual Network SA assists corporate clients with brand placements. They’ve assisted over 50 movie productions so far, from telenovelas to short films, television commercials, Nollywood block busters that are on Netflix, to the recent win of The Woman King. A BIG WIN In business, the Visual Network SA has been nominated by Sentech as a finalist in the Start-up category for a tech start-up for the 48 hour project and for its other social development projects. “We encourage mobile filming, we teach youth how to use their mobile phones, to make content, share content and monetise it, so that was quite a big win for us,” said Nerusha. The company was also a second runner up in the Durban Tourism Awards 2022 in the Film & TV sector. In addition, Visual Network SA was selected as a finalist in the Standard Bank KZN Top Business Awards in the small business category. Nerusha was selected by The Women of Wonder Awards as one of the top 50 influential women in South Africa by the Eastern Eye Magazine. She commented, “We’ve had a lot of wins but for me, the biggest win would be going into informal settlements and rural areas where we are able to develop and uplift the community. We get kids and aged people involved with the camera, to be in front of the camera, to be extras, and we source crew from an area where we are filming.” Nerusha’s other achievements include being the brand ambassador for the late King Goodwill Zwelithini’s Royal brand of wine, textile, and coffee, the Bayede brand. PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES Nerusha says that she is inspired by her clients; their feedback, hearing thank you Nerusha, the location was amazing, I loved the crew, or the caterer was excellent. She says, “The feedback from clients keeps me motivated, as well as the ability to help bring people into the industry: providing opportunities for them, for me, that is really motivating and inspiring.” She is further inspired by the participants in the 48 hour platform as the project gives an opportunity to people to enter the industry. “Because we have workshops beforehand, we take them through the whole process of film making. They get to make a short film in one weekend, thereafter they see the results on a big screen and there’s a whole awards’ ceremony. Seeing people who know nothing about the industry enter it, and the excitement in them, is what drives me and inspires me.” INDUSTRY CHALLENGES Some of the challenges Nerusha has experienced would be with finding locations. “People in KZN aren’t aware that the movie industry is booming here. It has been a challenge to convince people that we are a legitimate company, and that production and filming does take place and we would love to use your home,” explained Nerusha. Another challenge is language barriers and hierarchy in rural areas. If there is an induna or a chief, the company always employs a local, who knows the area and they then do all the negotiations as they know the process. Nerusha would love to support every film maker that needs assistance to participate in the 48 hour film project. “I have been reaching out to organisations and corporates to support film makers.” They will be getting brand exposure in cinemas as well as internationally, through supporting a young film maker, you never know what their future holds.” GOALS FOR THE FUTURE Another goal would be to host the 48 hour international competition in KZN. That is where the 130 cities around the world compete for the top 10 films, which get screened at the Cannes Film Festival. “It’s never been done on African soil, so that is definitely on my short-term goals for the next two to three years.” Her overall goal for the company is to be the leading media production service company and agency in South Africa. GO AFTER WHAT YOU WANT Nerusha says that her advice to younger women would be to not be afraid to go after what you want. Hard work always pays off and helping somebody else, always comes back to you. She adds, “Something that I’ve noticed, don’t feel shy to ask. We always get intimidated, or we feel we are not allowed to ask somebody for help. But you will be surprised at how people are willing to help you, hold your hand and take you up.” Commenting on her personal life Nerusha says that she wishes that she had more time. “I would spend more time painting in my personal time, I love painting, just walking, taking hikes with my sons and my husband, spending family quality time together, that obviously just relaxes me and that’s my me time. Also, what helps me a lot is going for a walk, putting on my earphones and listening to something motivational and inspirational or listening to leaders and CEOs, that is very therapeutic to me.”

You know what you want. Don’t give up on your goals.Monica Jorgensen < Back Monica Jorgensen Owner of the Mozambik Morningside Monica Jorgenson is the owner of the Mozambik Morningside in Durban, which opened on 5 August 2022. Monica was raised in a small district in Greenwood Park, Durban, where she spent many Saturday mornings at the Morning Market, shopping with her grandmother. She would tag along learning how to select fresh vegetables while breathing in the smells of fresh coriander and mint leaves. This she says is where her love for preparing great food began. Establishing a restaurant, Monica explained, has always been her biggest dream. “I’ve been in hospitality, which has always been in my blood, for 25 years in South Africa and in the United Kingdom. My heart’s desire was to open my own restaurant. I chose to be part of the Mozambik Group because it is such a great franchise. I love what the brand stands for; I love the food, and I love the Portuguese culture. So, it was just right up my alley.” Monica comes from a previously disadvantaged back- ground and from a very young age she had great responsibility. However, she believes that through hard work and dedication anything can be achieved. “I matriculated in the year 1992 in Durban. My desire was to study hospitality, unfortunately due to financial constraints I was unable to further my studies. I did not let the financial situation get me down. I knew I needed to work to help take care of my family. My sister was still in high school, and my baby brother was just born. My mum was retrenched from her job and was unemployed, and my father was diagnosed with colon cancer.” Monica worked in many places and excelled at every job, but she yearned for more. One afternoon she decided to make copies of her CV, which she then dropped off at every hotel in the Durban area. The City Lodge Hotel group soon hired her as a hotel receptionist at The Road Lodge Durban. The City Lodge Hotel group paid for her studies in hospitality, which allowed her the opportunity to work and study at the same time. A decision to work in the United Kingdom resulted in Monica working at The Swan Hotel in Bibury as a front office manager for two years. Monica commented that the knowledge and experience she gained in the United Kingdom, which she brought back to South Africa, helped her tremendously in furthering her career. Upon returning to South Africa, she worked as the front office manager at The City Lodge Durban. After 15 years of working there she decided that she needed something more. “In the beginning I thought I would never get there, but I have a great husband. In January 2008 I met the man of my dreams, and we were married eight months later. Mikael is my biggest supporter. He supports me and all my ideas, and he’s also living my dream right now. He’s a marine engineer but he’s working with me. So, I am here because he’s also pushed me in a way.” In addition, says Moncia, the Mozambik family have been a great help. “The franchisor, Brett Michelin, is an absolutely amazing guy. He’s been by my side supporting me all the way and it’s been a great journey.”’ In opening her business, Monica has faced many challenges and ups and downs. She says, “I overcome all obstacles because of my determination and self confidence in everything I do.” Her challenges she says include the poor economy, which in common with many other businesses, has hurt her own business. Monica has tried try to overcome this challenge by utilising more social media advertising and by having more entertainment in her restaurant to get more feet through the door. In addition, she says that as crime has risen, people are afraid to go out at night. Consequently, she has had to up security to make staff and customers feel safer. Monica’s future goals are to make her current restaurant a great success. And she says, with a smile, “To open a new Mozambik by the year 2024; with Brett Michelin’s assistance, of course.” To young women, Monica says believe in yourself. “Always be confident in everything that you do. Strive to be the best that you can. Don’t let anybody tell you anything different. You know who you are. You know what you want. Don’t give up on your goals.” Monica strongly believes in giving back to the community and empowering women through skills development. Through her restaurant she has provided jobs to 14 staff members, most of whom are single mothers from previously disadvantaged backgrounds. She has also empowered her staff, including a cleaner who is now the head waitress, by continuous on the job training. Monica has joined a non-profit organisation called Expose Women that takes care of women who are in the sex industry. “The forgotten people,” she explains, “None of these women, during career day in high school, put up their hand and said I want to be a sex worker. Many of these women in our Morningside area are victims of human trafficking. We aim to build long lasting relations with these ladies, so that one day when they decide to get out of the industry, we are there to assist them.” Monica Jorgenson is the owner of the Mozambik Morningside in Durban, which opened on 5 August 2022. Monica was raised in a small district in Greenwood Park, Durban, where she spent many Saturday mornings at the Morning Market, shopping with her grandmother. She would tag along learning how to select fresh vegetables while breathing in the smells of fresh coriander and mint leaves. This she says is where her love for preparing great food began. Establishing a restaurant, Monica explained, has always been her biggest dream. “I’ve been in hospitality, which has always been in my blood, for 25 years in South Africa and in the United Kingdom. My heart’s desire was to open my own restaurant. I chose to be part of the Mozambik Group because it is such a great franchise. I love what the brand stands for; I love the food, and I love the Portuguese culture. So, it was just right up my alley.” Monica comes from a previously disadvantaged back- ground and from a very young age she had great responsibility. However, she believes that through hard work and dedication anything can be achieved. “I matriculated in the year 1992 in Durban. My desire was to study hospitality, unfortunately due to financial constraints I was unable to further my studies. I did not let the financial situation get me down. I knew I needed to work to help take care of my family. My sister was still in high school, and my baby brother was just born. My mum was retrenched from her job and was unemployed, and my father was diagnosed with colon cancer.” Monica worked in many places and excelled at every job, but she yearned for more. One afternoon she decided to make copies of her CV, which she then dropped off at every hotel in the Durban area. The City Lodge Hotel group soon hired her as a hotel receptionist at The Road Lodge Durban. The City Lodge Hotel group paid for her studies in hospitality, which allowed her the opportunity to work and study at the same time. A decision to work in the United Kingdom resulted in Monica working at The Swan Hotel in Bibury as a front office manager for two years. Monica commented that the knowledge and experience she gained in the United Kingdom, which she brought back to South Africa, helped her tremendously in furthering her career. Upon returning to South Africa, she worked as the front office manager at The City Lodge Durban. After 15 years of working there she decided that she needed something more. “In the beginning I thought I would never get there, but I have a great husband. In January 2008 I met the man of my dreams, and we were married eight months later. Mikael is my biggest supporter. He supports me and all my ideas, and he’s also living my dream right now. He’s a marine engineer but he’s working with me. So, I am here because he’s also pushed me in a way.” In addition, says Moncia, the Mozambik family have been a great help. “The franchisor, Brett Michelin, is an absolutely amazing guy. He’s been by my side supporting me all the way and it’s been a great journey.”’ In opening her business, Monica has faced many challenges and ups and downs. She says, “I overcome all obstacles because of my determination and self confidence in everything I do.” Her challenges she says include the poor economy, which in common with many other businesses, has hurt her own business. Monica has tried try to overcome this challenge by utilising more social media advertising and by having more entertainment in her restaurant to get more feet through the door. In addition, she says that as crime has risen, people are afraid to go out at night. Consequently, she has had to up security to make staff and customers feel safer. Monica’s future goals are to make her current restaurant a great success. And she says, with a smile, “To open a new Mozambik by the year 2024; with Brett Michelin’s assistance, of course.” To young women, Monica says believe in yourself. “Always be confident in everything that you do. Strive to be the best that you can. Don’t let anybody tell you anything different. You know who you are. You know what you want. Don’t give up on your goals.” Monica strongly believes in giving back to the community and empowering women through skills development. Through her restaurant she has provided jobs to 14 staff members, most of whom are single mothers from previously disadvantaged backgrounds. She has also empowered her staff, including a cleaner who is now the head waitress, by continuous on the job training. Monica has joined a non-profit organisation called Expose Women that takes care of women who are in the sex industry. “The forgotten people,” she explains, “None of these women, during career day in high school, put up their hand and said I want to be a sex worker. Many of these women in our Morningside area are victims of human trafficking. We aim to build long lasting relations with these ladies, so that one day when they decide to get out of the industry, we are there to assist them.” In addition, Monica sponsors meal vouchers at the Berea Primary School and St Martins Home For Children. Monica and her staff also prepared lunch and dinner meals for the children at Lakehaven Children’s Home. Monica explains that in her off time she tries to get home as soon as possible to spend time with her two fur babies. “I love my dogs and I look forward to spending time with them around the pool, with a glass of gin and tonic.” Monica also has a passion for gardening and has many succulent plants in her garden, which are her favourite. “I’m honoured to be part of the KZN Top Business Women 2023. I wouldn’t be here without the support of the Mozambik Group because they’ve nominated me. I’m proud to be here today. I think I’ve worked really hard, and everybody sees that in me. They’re confident in me and I’m very confident in myself.” In addition, Monica sponsors meal vouchers at the Berea Primary School and St Martins Home For Children. Monica and her staff also prepared lunch and dinner meals for the children at Lakehaven Children’s Home. Monica explains that in her off time she tries to get home as soon as possible to spend time with her two fur babies. “I love my dogs and I look forward to spending time with them around the pool, with a glass of gin and tonic.” Monica also has a passion for gardening and has many succulent plants in her garden, which are her favourite. “I’m honoured to be part of the KZN Top Business Women 2023. I wouldn’t be here without the support of the Mozambik Group because they’ve nominated me. I’m proud to be here today. I think I’ve worked really hard, and everybody sees that in me. They’re confident in me and I’m very confident in myself.”