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As an influencer my team and I create content or co-create content to support brands, endorse product and services with the intent to increase brand awareness and drive sales. Marketing & NetworkingGrant AdlamGrant Adlam has had over 35 years in the communication sector. Much of this time has been involved in promoting the businesses, brands and people of the province of KwaZulu-Natal. He is the CEO of KZN Top Business and the driving force behind KZN Top business Portfolio, KZN leaders, KZN Brand DNA, KZN Women in Business and KZN Business Sense. Up Up Marketing & Networking Price No Cost Duration 30 minutes Assessment < Back EXPLORE FURTHER The overall vision is to network successful people with successful people and ultimately encouraging other people to become successful through their stories. Learning about some of the various factors that have motivated these men and women, and driven their careers, has been a very rewarding undertaking. Your Business Guru Grant Adlam As an influencer my team and I create content or co-create content to support brands, endorse product and services with the intent to increase brand awareness and drive sales. Grant's News Blog & Articles “a brilliant read” Grant Adlam's Articles

< Back Jacquie Bhana Jacquie Bhana has spent 30 years working in successful jobs at both local and international companies. Recently, she decided to leave the corporate world to focus on what she loves: helping people develop their skills and grow professionally. Throughout her career, Jacquie has held important roles in marketing and human resources, which means she’s been involved in how companies promote their products and manage their employees. She has experience in many different industries, such as farming, banking, engineering, car manufacturing, and retail. This diverse background gives her a wide range of knowledge, helping her understand different challenges and opportunities in various work environments. In summary, Jacquie is now dedicated to supporting others in their personal and professional journeys, drawing from her rich experience in many fields. Jacquie Bhana The BLOG Read all about it READ MORE

KZN Top Business Grant Adlam Back Grant Adlam PUBLISHER OF THE KZN TOP BUSINESS PORTFOLIO YEARS OF SHOWCASING SUCCESS IN KWAZULU-NATAL First published in 1999, the Portfolio was designed to offer potential national and international investors a concise yet comprehensive view of KwaZulu-Natal’s economic landscape. Over the past quarter of a century, we have consistently showcased the province’s business sector successes to a wide range of stakeholders. Every business has a story to tell, and KZN Top Business has been at the forefront of sharing good news and product information with the public. In today’s business environment, effective communication with stakeholders and entities is crucial, and we have emphasised the importance of creating robust channels for engagement. KZN Top Business has evolved significantly over the years, now offering an annual membership programme that provides substantial benefits to the businesses we feature. These value-added services include hard copies, ebooks, blogs, newsletters, press releases, email campaigns, a YouTube channel, social media networks, international connections, pressroom services, webinars, and more. Our multifaceted approach to content management has been instrumental in our success as a leading publisher. The printed version of the publication remains highly sought after for its ease of distribution, while our electronic flipbook is widely accessed and utilised globally. The ongoing success of the Portfolio is supported by a comprehensive, optimised multimedia website. We encourage you to visit www.kzntopbusiness.com to explore ‘The List’ of participating clients, which is frequently updated to meet current demands. We are also delighted to share news and articles across various social media platforms, all integrated to maximise exposure for our clients. In addition, our valued partner programmes offer platforms to market products and services, build brand recognition, and facilitate connections between successful brands for mutual benefit. At KZN Top Business, we believe that our Portfolio serves as a launchpad for the future of business in KwaZulu-Natal. Through collaboration and continued innovation, we are confident that great things will continue to happen. Finally, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all who have contributed information, as well as those who played a part in producing this edition of the KZN Top Business Portfolio. As I always say ‘Success breeds success’. Let's Get Social

Radisson Blu Hotel Home "The Blog" Radisson Blu Hotel International Women's Day High Tea The Radisson Radisson Blu Hotel, Durban Umhlanga Feb 21, 2024 1 min read Radisson Hotel Group opens its 14th South African Hotel in Durban KZN Business Sense Jul 14, 2022 3 min read Radisson Blu Hotel, Durban Umhlanga, wins prestigious mayoral achievement award KZN Business Sense Jul 14, 2022 2 min read Radisson Hotel Group opens its 14th South African hotel in Durban Radisson Blu Hotel, Durban Umhlanga Jun 8, 2022 5 min read

Elan Property Group Home "The Blog" Elan Property Group Minenhle Dlamini's Journey to Gagasi FM Managing Director KZN Business Sense 2 days ago 1 min read DURBAN AND CHINA CEMENT GROWING ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP KZN Business Sense Nov 13 2 min read Investment Pledges at the KwaZulu-Natal Conference KZN Business Sense Nov 11 2 min read Empowering KZN's Business Community: The Role of KZN Business Sense KZN Business Sense Nov 5 1 min read INFLUX OF CHEAP IMPORTS AND COUNTERFEIT GOODS KZN Business Sense Nov 3 2 min read DURBAN ANNOUNCED AS AFRICAN HUB FOR ALIBABA’S EXPANSION KZN Business Sense Oct 23 1 min read A good week for Michelle Phillips KZN Business Sense Oct 21 2 min read October Business Masterclass: Energy, Focus & the Future of Digital Growth - Limited Seats Left! KZN Business Sense Oct 20 2 min read AFRISAM CONCRETE SUPPORTS COMPLEX WATER TOWER PROJECT IN GAUTENG KZN Business Sense Oct 20 2 min read A SCIENTIFIC APPROACH TO BUILDING BETTER BUSINESSES KZN Business Sense Oct 16 5 min read MAKING HISTORY: FIRST PERSON FROM AFRICA ELECTED PRESIDENT IN 100 YEARS KZN Business Sense Oct 16 2 min read DURABLE CANVAS TENTS FOR EVERY NEED KZN Business Sense Oct 16 2 min read NAVIGATING CHANGE: INSIGHTS FROM THE KPMG FAMILY BUSINESS CONFERENCE KZN Business Sense Oct 16 4 min read ‘THE GOLF COAST’ SHOWS POTENTIAL IN KZN KZN Business Sense Oct 16 3 min read THE AWARDS FINALISTS ARE ANNOUNCED IN MINARA’S 25TH MILESTONE YEAR KZN Business Sense Oct 16 2 min read HYUNDAI SANTA FE HYBRID TICKS THE BOXES KZN Business Sense Oct 16 2 min read 20 VISION STATEMENTS THAT ACTUALLY INSPIRE (AND HOW YOURS CAN TOO) KZN Business Sense Oct 16 3 min read CASH-IN-TRANSIT HEISTS, HOW KZN BECAME GROUND ZERO KZN Business Sense Oct 16 2 min read THE OUT-SOURCED IN-HOUSE ACCOUNTANT KZN Business Sense Oct 16 4 min read ELAVATING WOMEN IN KWAZULU-NATAL KZN Business Sense Oct 16 3 min read ‘BEYOND THE NOISE’ THEME EXPLORED AT THE KZN TOP BUSINESS LAUNCH KZN Business Sense Oct 16 1 min read CITY’S INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES SHOWCASED INTERNATIONALLY KZN Business Sense Oct 16 3 min read HOW HR CAN SAFEGUARD YOUR ORGANISATION AGAINST FIC VIOLATIONS KZN Business Sense Oct 16 2 min read POWERING FINANCIAL AGILITY AND GROWTH ACROSS KWAZULU-NATAL KZN Business Sense Oct 16 2 min read REFORMING SOUTH AFRICA’S FAILING WATER INFRASTRUCTURE KZN Business Sense Oct 16 3 min read NO TIME LIKE THE PRESENT WHEN CAN CONSULTANTS CHARGE TIME-BASED FEES? KZN Business Sense Oct 16 3 min read UNFAIR DISMISSAL IN SOUTH AFRICA: LEGAL PROCESSES AND PRACTICAL TIPS KZN Business Sense Oct 16 5 min read LEADING WITH IMPACT AND PURPOSE KZN Business Sense Oct 16 4 min read MARKING MILESTONES, SHAPING THE FUTURE KZN Business Sense Oct 16 2 min read INGWE Property : Understanding What Matters Most When Buying a Home KZN Business Sense Aug 28 1 min read Meet the Women of Avemel Logistics ! KZN Business Sense Aug 28 1 min read THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MISCONDUCT AND PERFORMANCE KZN Business Sense Aug 22 5 min read A DECADE OF VISION, RESILIENCE, AND GROWTH KZN Business Sense Aug 22 2 min read WORKING ‘ON’ VS ‘IN’ YOUR BUSINESS KZN Business Sense Aug 22 3 min read MEDICAL EMERGENCIES IN THE WORKPLACE: THE GOLDEN HOUR KZN Business Sense Aug 22 3 min read WHY HIRE A SOUTH AFRICAN MEDIA TEAM OVERSEAS? KZN Business Sense Aug 22 3 min read TRUST TERMINATION: WHY IT’S TIME TO ACT KZN Business Sense Aug 22 3 min read MORE THAN JUST SARS: THE FOUR FINANCIAL PILLARS OF BUSINESS KZN Business Sense Aug 22 4 min read NOMINATIONS OPEN KZN Business Sense Aug 22 2 min read TOURISM ON THE RISE: DURBAN’S PRESIDENTIAL WORKING GROUP FUELS GROWTH KZN Business Sense Aug 22 4 min read FOSTERING A CULTURE OF EXCELLENCE KZN Business Sense Aug 22 3 min read DRIVING TRANSFORMATION THROUGH TRUST, TECHNOLOGY, AND TALENT KZN Business Sense Aug 22 2 min read LEADING WITH PURPOSE: THE WOMEN DRIVING TRANSFORMATION KZN Business Sense Aug 22 2 min read RISK MITIGATION IN LABOUR LAW: HOW PROACTIVE CONSULTANCY SAVES YOU MONEY KZN Business Sense Aug 22 4 min read UNVEILING COMING SOON KZN Business Sense Aug 22 3 min read CELEBRATING KZN VISION, LEADERSHIP, AND BUSINESSES KZN Business Sense Aug 22 2 min read DEDICATION IS HIS SECRET INGREDIENT TO SUCCESS KZN Business Sense Aug 21 4 min read Austral Accounting Flies the Flag for KZN at the Xero Awards South Africa 2025 KZN Business Sense Aug 21 2 min read Celebrating Vision, Leadership, and KZN Businesses KZN Business Sense Aug 21 2 min read Join Us for the “Eye Can Walk” 2025! KZN Business Sense Aug 18 2 min read

MARK TAYLOR believes that his career has been characterised by 'thinking big' and having the perseverance to ensure that his plans, which are often innovative, reach fruition Subscribe Home KZN Leaders Up Up Mark Taylor MARK TAYLOR believes that his career has been characterised by 'thinking big' and having the perseverance to ensure that his plans, which are often innovative, reach fruition Success is dependent on the team that you build around you MARK TAYLOR believes that his career has been characterised by 'thinking big' and having the perseverance to ensure that his plans, which are often innovative, reach fruition. He has spent the last 30 years in the property development industry; starting off small in the residential sector and then progressing to catalytic type developments like Simbithi Eco Estate in Ballito. The eLan Property Group was founded in 1997 and has become a leader in real estate marketing and sales, sales of hospitality investment projects and more recently has diversified into other investment opportunities. Zululand Tree Lodge in Hluhluwe, the first venture undertaken, was a R12 million development. Taylor's desire to innovate was apparent in the Riverside Hotel, which became a sectional title hotel. This was a first for South Africa and has been the country's most profitable sectional title hotel and a true eLan success story. Taylor commented, "The pioneering and innovative approach does not always pay off, staying ahead of the curve is not always clever, as one is constantly meeting new obstacles, which have not been dealt with before." His determination to 'make a difference by doing things differently' is very apparent in the Blythedale Coastal Estate. An important part of this project has been in obtaining community buy-in, which has well illustrated Taylor's perseverance. "This development has taken 19 years of planning and community negotiation to come to fruition and is now going from strength to strength and will be a great success story." Our success is based on not just selling off pieces of land but we have created a concept for family living. Blythedale Coastal Estate is the most forward-thinking development in South Africa. "The emphasis is on fibre connectivity, frictionless access, green technology solutions, and most importantly, it is a community-based development." Taylor added that creating jobs and promoting small businesses is in important in driving his projects. "We aim to contribute significantly to the local population groups." Taylor commented, "Success is dependent on the team that you build around you. Each individual is often better than you at what they do, and it is important to give them the responsibility and freedom as well as the authority to do what they do best." His current mission is to grow the eLan Property Group brand. He says, "Exciting things are happening. I intend to work smarter not harder and use the experiences that I have had to be more productive and proactive." He added that the commencement of deals and putting everything together is something that he has continually enjoyed and that he is currently exploring opportunities for development in Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Mauritius. Through the efforts of the eLan Group in exploring the potential overseas property investment market, and in particular the UK, South African Properties Overseas Marketing Association (SAPOMA) has become a reality. SAPOMA is administered and coordinated by eLan Marketing, and through its overseas division, eLan International, the Association will represent those developers and allied professional organisations who have the vision and urge to become part of the world global trading scene. Taylor says that his family have been crucial to him throughout his career and provide him a lot of support. This support has allowed him to continue in his various endeavours, while often facing stress and dealing with the challenges that accompany property development projects. "If you persevere through all the issues, you will be successful." Although works takes a lot of his time, he does try to include time for travel with his family and opportunities where he can relax by spending time skiing or fishing.

< Back Barbara Njapha

how you have connect with people, will ultimately determine your successDr Parushinee Naidoo < Back Dr Parushinee Naidoo Founder of Skin Solutions Aesthetic Clinic Dr Parushinee Naidoo is the founder of Skin Solutions Aesthetic Clinic which has practices in Umhlanga and Ballito. Skin Solutions is renowned for bringing internationally acclaimed medical grade treatments to the shores of KwaZulu-Natal. They have introduced and found ways to combine African botanicals with the highest quality in medical aesthetics. In 2020, Parushinee developed her own skin care brand that combines African pharmaceuticals and botanicals with medical grade ingredients, focusing specifically on South African skin. Parushinee also considers her clinics a hub of education and skin solutions as they offer mentorship programmes and education for doctors and therapists. The aim is to not only upscale their skill but improve the overall level of service in South Africa when it comes to the skin care industry. Passion for connecting Commenting on her journey, Parushinee says that founding Skin Solutions is based on her teenage years and being a young adult. She explained, “I struggled with debilitating acne growing up and I never felt comfortable in my own skin. I always had a passion for connecting with people and for helping people live their fullest lives. I think that studying medicine was marrying those two passions together.” Although she added that becoming a mother is what made her take that step to opening her first Skin Solutions clinic. “I felt that I could not be encouraging my children to follow their dreams if I was not living my truth in following my own,” she explained. Parushinee says that she takes inspiration from everywhere – including her kids, her mom, and from the girls that are a part of her clinic. “Everybody has something to share that can help you elevate yourself. I find that every day someone will inspire you in some way.” Over the years, Parushinee’s journey has not been without both personal and professional challenges. She explained that from a professional point of view, being a young brown female in an industry where she was definitely the minority was extremely challenging. Parushinee struggled to figure out how she was going to make her mark in the aesthetic industry. However, she said, “It all came down to embracing what made me unique. I focused on finding ways to make myself relatable to my community and my patients.” In addition, Parushinee focuses on providing quality service and the safest and most effective treatments. She strives to keep herself and her business authentic and real. From a personal point of view, Parushinee says the challenges she has had are the same as every woman out there. For her, that’s how to juggle all the roles of being a mom, an entrepreneur, a wife, a sister, and a mentor – something she is still working on. In order to meet these challenges Parushinee focuses on her time management skills, completing one task at a time and giving it 100%, which has helped her. She added that she has also learned to delegate, which not only empowers the people around her, but makes time for the things that she can truly impact on. Goal Driven Parushinee says that she is very goal driven, and the recently opening of her clinic in Ballito has been exciting and positive. She added that the reception that that clinic has received has made her consider opening more clinics in the future. “We have a massive following on social media and a lot of our followers are not in KZN so there are thoughts of going bigger or nationally with regards to our education platforms.” Parushinee would like to offer more mentorship programmes to grow her brand and to elevate the quality of the industry. In guiding young people. she would say that there is no success without passion. “If you love what you do and you do it well, the rewards will just follow.” The other thing she recommends is to see the value of connecting with people, of building relationships and not just with people that you think can help you, but also with people that you are influencing and who you inspire. Parushinee added, ‘Irrespective of what industry you are in, how you have connected with people and how you make them feel will ultimately determine your success.” In addition, she stressed the importance of embracing technology within your industry to stay ahead of the curve and actually make an impact. Skin Solutions is proud to have achieved just that – combining African roots with international grade equipment and technologies to bring South African patients the best quality skin care. Social Development Skin Solutions is not only a local based skin care range, but they use the proceeds of the skin care range to partake in multiple social development projects. One of these, is that they participate in monthly drives to collect sanitary towels from their clients. In addition, a portion of proceeds from the Skin Solutions’ skin care range is used to purchase pads every month, all of which are distributed to different schools over the term. “I think that if you can get young girls to attend school on a regular basis, it will vastly impact the level of education,” said Parushinee. “On a regular basis, we are very involved in the breast cancer awareness campaign, and we also support smaller initiatives in communities that are trying to uplift women and children.” “I take the mentorship programmes very seriously,” commented Parushinee. “Because I feel if you are able to pay it forward in some way, you are elevating the whole community in which we are actually doing business.” Parushinee said she was extremely surprised to be nominated as a KZN Top Business Women 2023 and humbled and honoured to know the work that she is doing is being recognised. “I really want to use the platform that this has created for me to build on the initiatives that I am doing personally, like the woman empowerment and mentorship. It’s so amazing.”

< Back Next > Mandisa Pepeta Founder, Qhakaza Africa Consulting Mandisa Pepeta, founder of Qhakaza Africa Consulting, shares her journey into the world of architecture and property development. Her company provides architectural services and property development solutions, catering to a range of clients, including individual homeowners, property developers, government entities, and corporates. Mandisa explains, “Part of our service involves taking a brief from a client who wants to build a particular facility. We assess the site’s suitability, consider the zoning constraints according to the municipality, and ensure that the site is appropriate for their intended project.” Once the feasibility is established, Qhakaza Africa Consulting designs the project, submits it for municipal approval, and remains involved in the construction management process. Mandisa adds, “We ensure that whatever is planned and designed is built to quality, within budget, and on time. We are always on the client’s side, making sure the builder constructs the facility according to the plans.” Originally from Bizana in the Eastern Cape, Mandisa pursued her schooling there before attending the former ML Sultan Technikon, where she qualified in architecture. She admits that architecture was not her initial career choice, explaining, “I initially wanted to study drama, but I wasn’t audible enough, and my English wasn’t very good, so I couldn’t get in. It was a blessing in disguise, as it led me to architecture.” She had been uncertain about her career path after the setback in drama and even considered studying computers before friends suggested architecture or town planning due to her artistic flair. “In the first weeks of studying architecture, we had orientation to understand what the field was about, and I was hooked from then on,” she recalls. Mandisa’s interest in drama was driven by the influence she associated with being on TV, but she found a different form of influence through her work in architecture. “Although I didn’t end up in the media space, I’ve achieved the influence I sought because architecture is also about impacting people’s lives,” she reflects. Working Independently After qualifying, Mandisa worked for various architects, primarily serving higher-income clients, but noticed a gap in services for low-income and township communities. “Some clients would approach me after hours and on weekends for services that my employer did not provide,” she explains. Faced with a decision to stay employed or be in business on her own, Mandisa chose to pursue her business. “I wasn’t exposed to the full spectrum of architectural services in my employed role, but working independently allowed me to offer much more.” It was a bold step, she admits: “When I ventured out on my own, I didn’t tell my mother or friends, as I wasn’t ready for anyone to discourage me. I had no experience running a business and was taking a risk, but it has paid off.” In terms of professional inspiration, Mandisa draws motivation from those who pursue quality. “I have met many people who approach their work with competence and excellence. That always inspires me to do my best,” she says. A significant part of Mandisa’s work involves educating clients about architectural processes. “Most people aren’t familiar with architectural services. They may not understand how their homes came to be or what is required for other projects,” she explains. She often educates clients about environmental factors, zoning regulations, and site limitations, such as floodplains or areas where building a crèche is prohibited due to traffic and noise concerns. “The educational aspect of my work is what I enjoy the most,” she adds. Mandisa is a strong advocate for addressing injustices in the industry, representing those without a seat at the table. Her advocacy work has led her to become involved in various professional bodies, including the architectural community within the eThekwini region and the South African Council for the Architectural Profession, where she serves as a board member. “I got there because of my advocacy,” she says. “There are many people who don’t get the same opportunities, and I aim to be the voice for them.” She recognises that individuals from certain backgrounds may feel timid in professional settings, and she is committed to amplifying their voices. Competence Brings Confidence Reflecting on her challenges, Mandisa recounts her struggle with language as a Xhosa speaker entering an English-dominated field. “I could write English but struggled to speak it. I had to read a lot, watch TV, and practice. There was a time when my children asked why I didn’t speak much Xhosa with them. I felt guilty, but I told them it was because I was busy learning English,” she explains. Running a business was another challenge, as she had architectural training but no formal business skills. “I had to learn about the financial side of business through training, workshops, and mentorships,” she says. The support from more experienced professionals was crucial to overcoming these hurdles. For young women starting out, Mandisa advises, “You must learn continuously and seek out mentors — people who have walked the path before you. Competence brings confidence, the more you know, the more confident you become in your work.” She stresses the importance of refining skills and maintaining a commitment to learning. Looking ahead, Mandisa’s aspirations are centred around influence within the architectural and property development sectors. “I’ve realised that the people who can make significant changes are those in decision- making positions. I am always seeking opportunities to have a seat at the table,” she states. Her goal is to be more involved in decision-making processes, particularly those that can address industry challenges. Outside of her professional life, Mandisa is a mother. “I spend a lot of time with my children, which helps me relax. I used to work long hours, but now I make sure to reserve time for my family,” she says. She enjoys playing tennis and jogging when possible, prioritising a balanced life. Mandisa’s story is one of determination, with a focus on education, advocacy, and continuous growth. Her journey illustrates the power of taking risks, embracing learning, and striving for excellence in every endeavour. < Previous Next >

Top Business Women 2022