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

At Hulamin each and every day we “think future, think aluminium, think Hulamin”HulaminAt Hulamin each and every day we “think future, think aluminium, think Hulamin”Hulamin is a leading, mid-stream aluminium semifabricator and fabricator of aluminium products located in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. The company purchases primary aluminium and supplies a range of high value, niche rolled products, aluminium containers and complex extrusions to anufacturers of finished products in South Africa and over 50 countries around the world. Hulamin’s largest activity is aluminium rolling which contributes around 80% of its revenue, with the balance comprising extruded products and aluminium food containers. Although a portion of rolled products are exported to regions such as Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia, the South African market is their priority and proudly showing a significant growth within the business. Hulamin is committed to the growth of the regional southern African aluminium industry through their rolled and extruded products business units. The company aims to make a meaningful contribution to sustainable development in Southern Africa. They are also committed to responsible business leadership and good governance, and to making a positive impact on the economy, environment and communities in which they operate. Hulamin’s operations significantly bolster the KZN economy through job creation, skills development, and local procurement. The company employs a substantial number of individuals across various skill levels, providing stable and well-paying jobs that support local families and communities. This investment in employee training and development ensures that their workforce remains competitive and capable of driving the region’s industrial growth. Furthermore, Hulamin prioritises local suppliers, thereby stimulating economic activity within the province. Their supply chain strategy not only supports local businesses but also fosters entrepreneurship and innovation within the KZN community. By sourcing raw materials and services locally, they contribute to the sustainability and growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are crucial for the economic health of the region. Hulamin views the implementation of good corporate governance practices as integral to success and recognise that a business should be conducted with openness, integrity and accountability. They apply the principles of the King IV code and the majority of the recommended practices. The company’s board’s primary objective is to provide responsible business leadership and strategic direction to the group with due regard to the interests of all stakeholders. The board has delegated, through formal terms of reference, specific matters to a number of committees whose members and chairman are appointed by the board. There is full disclosure of matters handled by the committees to the board. The committees play an important role in enhancing high standards of governance and achieving increased effectiveness within the group. The board has an Audit Committee, a Risk and Safety, Health and Environment Committee, Remuneration and Nomination Committee and a Transformation, Social and Ethics Committee. Hulamin’s business performance is constantly measured and regularly reported on ensuring alignment and effective implementation of approved strategies. Their corporate responsibilities include ensuring management, controls and governance incorporating IT and risk management are effective. Hulamin’s ability to achieve long-term strategic objectives is closely linked to their commitment to sustainable development. The company’s executives believe that they have a responsibility to respond to the ever-increasing challenges in the economic, social and environmental spheres in which they operate. This understanding motivates their commitment to respond in a number of key areas with specific and timebased action plans. ABOUT ALUMINIUM: Aluminium is a modern metal which today is very much a metal of the future. Look around and you will see aluminium used in a wide range of forms and in an enormous range of products: - in buildings, boats, planes, trains, trucks, cars, household appliances, packaging, computers, cell phones, solar farms, electrical transformers, overhead power lines, tamper proof packaging for medicines, containers for food and beverages. The basic characteristics which make aluminium such a versatile metal is: ƒ Low density (Its famous ‘lightweight’ attribute) ƒ High strength to weight ratio ƒ Corrosion resistance ƒ Electrical conductivity ƒ Thermal conductivity ƒ Attractive surface finish ƒ Ease of forming On top of this aluminium is also: ƒ Non-toxic ƒ Non-magnetic ƒ Highly reflective ƒ Can be welded, glued, screwed, riveted, clipped bent, etc. ƒ Infinitely and cost-effectively recycled. Aluminium inspires technologists, industrial designers, engineers and architects to solve everyday problems. While well established in a number of industries for decades now, new applications and designs keep aluminium at the forefront of new product design. Aluminium inspires all at Hulamin to think future, think aluminium.HEAD OFFICE Physical Address: Moses Mabhida Road, Pietermaritzburg Postal Address: P.O. Box 74, Pietermaritzburg, 3200, SA Tel: +27 (0)33 395 6911 E-mail: hulamin@hulamin.co.za Website: www.hulamin.comHEAD OFFICE Physical Address: Moses Mabhida Road, Pietermaritzburg Postal Address: P.O. Box 74, Pietermaritzburg, 3200, SA Tel: +27 (0)33 395 6911 E-mail: hulamin@hulamin.co.za Website: www.hulamin.com Up Home Up Hulamin Latest News Mark Gounder. Chief Executive Officer Pravashni Nirghin Leaders Profile Hulamin is a leading, mid-stream aluminium semifabricator and fabricator of aluminium products located in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. The company purchases primary aluminium and supplies a range of high value, niche rolled products, aluminium containers and complex extrusions to anufacturers of finished products in South Africa and over 50 countries around the world. Hulamin’s largest activity is aluminium rolling which contributes around 80% of its revenue, with the balance comprising extruded products and aluminium food containers. Although a portion of rolled products are exported to regions such as Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia, the South African market is their priority and proudly showing a significant growth within the business. Hulamin is committed to the growth of the regional southern African aluminium industry through their rolled and extruded products business units. The company aims to make a meaningful contribution to sustainable development in Southern Africa. They are also committed to responsible business leadership and good governance, and to making a positive impact on the economy, environment and communities in which they operate. Hulamin’s operations significantly bolster the KZN economy through job creation, skills development, and local procurement. The company employs a substantial number of individuals across various skill levels, providing stable and well-paying jobs that support local families and communities. This investment in employee training and development ensures that their workforce remains competitive and capable of driving the region’s industrial growth. Furthermore, Hulamin prioritises local suppliers, thereby stimulating economic activity within the province. Their supply chain strategy not only supports local businesses but also fosters entrepreneurship and innovation within the KZN community. By sourcing raw materials and services locally, they contribute to the sustainability and growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are crucial for the economic health of the region. Hulamin views the implementation of good corporate governance practices as integral to success and recognise that a business should be conducted with openness, integrity and accountability. They apply the principles of the King IV code and the majority of the recommended practices. The company’s board’s primary objective is to provide responsible business leadership and strategic direction to the group with due regard to the interests of all stakeholders. The board has delegated, through formal terms of reference, specific matters to a number of committees whose members and chairman are appointed by the board. There is full disclosure of matters handled by the committees to the board. The committees play an important role in enhancing high standards of governance and achieving increased effectiveness within the group. The board has an Audit Committee, a Risk and Safety, Health and Environment Committee, Remuneration and Nomination Committee and a Transformation, Social and Ethics Committee. Hulamin’s business performance is constantly measured and regularly reported on ensuring alignment and effective implementation of approved strategies. Their corporate responsibilities include ensuring management, controls and governance incorporating IT and risk management are effective. Hulamin’s ability to achieve long-term strategic objectives is closely linked to their commitment to sustainable development. The company’s executives believe that they have a responsibility to respond to the ever-increasing challenges in the economic, social and environmental spheres in which they operate. This understanding motivates their commitment to respond in a number of key areas with specific and timebased action plans. ABOUT ALUMINIUM: Aluminium is a modern metal which today is very much a metal of the future. Look around and you will see aluminium used in a wide range of forms and in an enormous range of products: - in buildings, boats, planes, trains, trucks, cars, household appliances, packaging, computers, cell phones, solar farms, electrical transformers, overhead power lines, tamper proof packaging for medicines, containers for food and beverages. The basic characteristics which make aluminium such a versatile metal is: ƒ Low density (Its famous ‘lightweight’ attribute) ƒ High strength to weight ratio ƒ Corrosion resistance ƒ Electrical conductivity ƒ Thermal conductivity ƒ Attractive surface finish ƒ Ease of forming On top of this aluminium is also: ƒ Non-toxic ƒ Non-magnetic ƒ Highly reflective ƒ Can be welded, glued, screwed, riveted, clipped bent, etc. ƒ Infinitely and cost-effectively recycled. Aluminium inspires technologists, industrial designers, engineers and architects to solve everyday problems. While well established in a number of industries for decades now, new applications and designs keep aluminium at the forefront of new product design. Aluminium inspires all at Hulamin to think future, think aluminium. HEAD OFFICE Physical Address: Moses Mabhida Road, Pietermaritzburg Postal Address: P.O. Box 74, Pietermaritzburg, 3200, SA Tel: +27 (0)33 395 6911 E-mail: hulamin@hulamin.co.za Website: www.hulamin.com Latest News Company News Blog Keep up with the latest trends and insights. Check out our blog today! Read More Home Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back Franchise Principal, Consult by Momentum Peak Sure I want to show them that no matter where they come from, there are opportunities out there. Mentorship can truly shape lives. Inanda Bezuidenhout is the franchise principal at Consult by Momentum Peak Sure, specialising in asset protection and risk management within the short-term insurance sector. They create tailored solutions that help both individuals and businesses to safeguard their assets. Additionally, the company offers referral models for third- party professionals in the insurance industry, making it easier for them to support their clients’ insurance needs. She explains, “Our model allows them to ring-fence their clients and offer short-term insurance solutions without the hassle of administrative tasks or complex products.” Reflecting on her achievements, Inanda shared, “Our partnership with Consult is only two years old in October, however, we launched our business as a Momentum agency on 27 March 2020 — the day lockdown was announced. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, we managed to grow and assist clients restructure their short- term policies enabling them to maintain crucial life and investment opportunities.” In just two years, their business achieved third place nationally in Momentum’s short-term division, and Inanda was honoured with second place in the Top Female Advisory category. Part of a Solution Commenting on her journey, Inanda describes it as one of continuous learning, community support, and self- awareness. “My dreams have evolved over the years,” she says. “As a child, they were one thing, but as an adult, they have changed. I’m always busy and my dreams can change daily. Right now, my biggest dream is still in progress; I want to help others understand risk management and make informed decisions.” Her career was influenced by her upbringing and her initial experiences in law. “Growing up I wanted to pursue a career in law. I worked in the debt collection department of a local law firm but realised I preferred proactive planning and being part of a solution.” This shift led her to financial services. “I was fortunate enough to join my father’s team as a personal assistant, taking every opportunity to learn and by the age of 21, I became a financial planner myself.” Inanda soon discovered her strength in risk management and chose to specialise in short-term insurance. “I’m risk- averse,” she explains. “I prefer to mitigate risks rather than take them, which led me to asset protection and risk management.” Her career took a turn in 2013 when she joined Robsons Insurance Brokers. “My mentors there taught me resilience and integrity within the business space. They showed me that achieving professional goals while making a meaningful impact in the community is possible.” Her community involvement is an essential aspect of her life. Inanda is a member of KZN Women in Business, supporting sustainable growth and community projects, as well as the Financial Intermediary Association. “My faith keeps me grounded,” she added, “I actively participate in my Seventh-Day Adventist church, and staying connected to both my faith and community helps me maintain balance.” Inanda’s participation in the cleanup efforts following the KZN riots reinforced her belief in the power of collaboration. “Seeing everyone come together to support each other in a time of need was a powerful reminder of the impact we can have when we work together,” she says. This sense of community drives her to inspire the youth. “I want to show them that no matter where they come from, there are opportunities out there. Mentorship can truly shape lives, and I’m committed to guiding the next generation in business, sports, and life.” Inanda’s passion for netball is another way she engages with her community. Having played for the Natal Action Netball Mixed Team, she now coaches at a local school, inspiring young people through sport. Continuous Learning Like many business leaders, Inanda has faced challenges. “Five years ago, I decided to pursue my dream of owning my own business,” she recounts. “At the same time, I was going through a difficult divorce, which was emotionally taxing. Fortunately, I found strength in my supportive family, friends, and colleagues.” Starting a business in a competitive industry wasn’t easy, either. “Navigating the complexities of the insurance sector, especially in an ‘old boys’ club,’ when you don’t play golf forced me to focus on my strengths and what makes my company unique. Building personal connections with clients has been crucial to our success.” Inanda emphasises continuous learning. “Knowledge is power. To be the best, we need to stay informed and continuously improve. Learning comes in many forms, through reading, listening, and connecting with professionals in our field. You’re never too old or too young to grow.” She also champions empowerment within her team. “I believe in giving people opportunities, even if they don’t have formal degrees. My assistant, Samantha, was a stay-at-home mum who joined our team and is now an indispensable part of our business.” Looking ahead, Inanda draws inspiration from her grandmother and mother, who encouraged her to aim for the impossible to achieve the best possible. “I’m content with what I’ve achieved so far, and committed to giving my son the best future, but my competitive nature pushes me to aim higher,” she says. “I’m passionate about our industry and I want to help communities better understand risk management and improve service delivery in our field.” Ultimately, Inanda’s goal is to be part of a legacy of empowerment and education in the insurance industry. “I want to make a meaningful impact not just by teaching people about proper risk management, but by improving service delivery in our country,” she says. “Our industry is known for its challenges, but I believe we can make a difference, and I want to be part of that change.” For young women following in her footsteps, Inanda offers this advice: “Your journey may be rocky and winding, like the beautiful farming landscapes painted by South African artist Portchie. There will be twists and turns, but never give up on your goals. Take the time to understand who you are and where your strengths lie, as this knowledge will help you achieve your dreams. The journey may be long, but every opportunity to learn and grow is valuable.” Previous Next

Up Home Up Jeanine Topping JEANINE TOPPING says her purpose in business is to grow people, and she drives this through two different companies. Firstly, Jeanine owns JT&A, a SETA Accreditation business that serves clients in the training industry. “We help our clients grow their businesses and thrive,” says Jeanine. “Through our coaching and mentoring programmes, we help them achieve accreditation and once they have this, they have a licence to train and award SAQA points for their courses. This means they’re more competitive than non-accredited training programmes, and more likely to get funding for their businesses.” Secondly, Jeanine is a director of Wealth and Progress Training. She explains: “Through Wealth and Progress Training, we empower people with various leadership and entrepreneurial programmes. We work with both employed and unemployed people to help them realise their potential.” Jeanine’s passion in this company is facilitating the Flip The Switch course, which involves her helping groups find their Inner Cheerleader. Jeanine is a qualified Rapid Transformation Therapist (RTT) and helps corporates with their Employee Assistance Programme through running this course and conducting one on one RTT Sessions. INSPIRED BY HER COACHES A firm believer in coaching, Jeanine has worked with two business coaches over the years and gives them credit for helping her build her business. “Marlene my most recent business coach taught me tenacity. She helped me see that when things go wrong, which they inevitably do, you can’t go down the rabbit hole. All you have to do is put one foot in front of the other, and deal with the issues step by step.” Jeanine points out that her training as an RTT Therapist has played a huge role in having a calming and supportive influence, which has helped her deal with the very real challenges presented by the pandemic. PIVOTING TO MEET CHALLENGES Jeanine counts surviving Covid and still being in business and keeping six people fully employed throughout as her major achievements. “Lockdown was a rollercoaster,” she says. “We’ve had to pivot, adapt, and make big changes time and time again. We moved offices four times over the last three years.” This was disruptive and time consuming, but JT&A is now settled in our bright new offices in Pinetown.” Unsurprisingly in a people business, staff issues have also been a challenge over the past few years. Jeanine points out that every person has been facing their own challenges, even in the aftermath of Covid. “It’s not enough to discipline staff who aren’t delivering, you have to find out the reasons why, and see what you can do to help them achieve their targets by way of counselling and support them, often on a personal level. Over the years I’ve learnt that if I take this approach, I see the benefits – for my staff members, our team, and the whole organisation.” But while things have settled in some ways, the challenges continue. There have been substantial changes in the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) accreditation sector, including the introduction of accreditation with QCTO instead of the 21 SETAs, and there are new processes and systems. Jeanine and her team need to continually adapt. New skills programmes have also been introduced into South Africa, and new curricula from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), and JT&A must get to grips with all this change. “We have to know about all the new SAQA programmes and their curricula so we can support our clients,” says Jeanine. Typically, however, she focuses on the positive. “With all this change comes new opportunities,” she points out. “There are some amazing new qualifications, and our clients need us to guide them through and help them adapt, formulate their training programmes, and get them accredited. There’s so much we can do to help.” GROWTH IN 2023 Jeanine has big plans for 2023 for JT&A and is launching a recruitment division. “We’re very excited about this because there’s a real need among our existing client base for good training administrative staff.” There are also opportunities for Wealth and Progress Training. The company currently offers a Trainers and Developers Practitioner Qualification, and Jeanine sees great potential for growth here. The company is about to introduce a new initiative whereby they actively recruit unemployed people with a background in training administration and source funding to train them in this practitioner qualification. This will grow the Wealth and Progress Training business while providing the industry with much needed training and development co-ordinators. Jeanine points out that their JT&A clients also need these skills in their businesses, so this initiative also dovetails seamlessly with the JT&A recruitment division. Asked to share her wisdom with up-and-coming businesswomen, Jeanine is specific. “To succeed you need to believe in yourself, your goals and your passion and don’t listen to people who tell you, you can’t do it.” She also points out that you can’t always rely on advice. “Be careful who you listen to. Are they qualified to give you advice? If they aren’t successful themselves, can you trust what they have to tell you?” LAST WORD Jeanine and her partner Trevor – my BFF – share six adult children between the ages of 28 and 42, so she’s probably as well qualified to advise you on family matters as she is on business growth! “We also have a new miniature Maltese poodle who has captured my heart,” says Jeanine. “And Trevor and I love to travel. We’ve just been to Mauritius and before that it was a 10-day trip to the Cape. Of course, we had to juggle work to cope, but I have an amazing team to keep the business running while I’m away.” “If you’re running a business, and it has survived the last three years, you’re a winner. And in terms of KZN Top Business Women, I’d like to wish all the participants the very best. Everyone in this group is a winner.”

377f6eba-fea7-4784-8230-e87ca01898c6 < Back Maryke Dickinson Chief Digital Strategist & Operations Lead Driven by strategy and inspired by creativity, I bring your brand’s voice to life with content that connects and performs. I make sure your online presence does more than just look good—it works for your business. From tailored social media strategies to engaging content and dependable admin support, I’m here to help you tell your story, grow your brand, and thrive in the digital space. Previous Next

< Back Kim Atkins

< Back Next Moses Tembe Moses Tembe is the chairman of Bellamont Investments Moses Tembe, chairman of Bellamont Investments, attributes much of his success to a belief in the power of community impact and a sincere dedication to God, family, and his fellow citizens. In a world often dominated by profit-driven motives, Moses stands out as an entrepreneur guided by the principles of service and giving back. Moses’s career journey is rooted in humble beginnings. After matriculating from Menzi High School in Umlazi in 1979, he pursued a bachelor’s in public administration and political science at the University of South Africa, followed by a course in financial management, which was managed by the University of Cape Town. Whilst studying, Moses worked as a Clerk of the Court from 1980 to 1983. He then moved to the KwaZulu Development Corporation and became the chief credit controller. DIVERSIFIED APPROACH In 1990, Moses took the leap into full-time entrepreneurship, a decision that would eventually lead him to found Bellamont Investments and the Bellamont Group of Companies. This group, built on six pillars – Property Development and Construction (Afrostructures), Industrial Holdings includes Geochem brand and IFS facilities management, Energy and Telecommunications, Mining, Gaming, and Asset Management – has managed to thrive even in tough economic times. Moses’s diversified approach with Bellamont has allowed his businesses to weather economic downturns and industry-specific challenges. However, he reflects on this approach with mixed feelings. “I sometimes regret that I never had the courage and ambition to focus on one industry and make a big name of it,” he admits. With this hindsight, he now advises young entrepreneurs to stay committed to their mission and to avoid becoming overly distracted by diversification. He added that it is important to have the courage and belief to pursue big dreams. He says, “Accept no limits and maintain a forward-thinking mentality, hard work, service to mankind and godliness constitute a bedrock upon which sustainable success must be built.” In addition, Moses acknowledges that the path he has chosen is not without its challenges, particularly the balancing act of being a capitalist “without real capital”. He notes, “One would have accomplished more if financial institutions focused more on the opportunity and its viability and less on balance sheets and equity.” For Moses, access to finance and capital is a challenge that emerging entrepreneurs continue to face, as these remain a significant barrier in South Africa. Moses believes passionately that a change in the financial landscape is critical for budding entrepreneurs to achieve their potential. GIVING BACK Throughout his career, Moses has prioritised giving back to his community, practising what he calls his “80/20 principle” – 80% work and 20% time invested in improving the environment in which he operates. His extensive record of pro-bono service is a testament to this commitment. Moses has served in numerous roles, including secretary general of KwaZulu-Natal NAFCOC, president of the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and board member of the South African Chamber of Commerce United Kingdom and of the KZN National Business Initiative. Additionally, he currently co-chairs the KZN Growth Coalition, a partnership dedicated to fostering economic growth and development in the region. Further, his contributions to initiatives like the Durban Infrastructure Development Trust and the eThekwini Greater Foundation reflect a commitment to not only growing businesses but also nurturing communities. This is especially relevant in KwaZulu- Natal, the province to which he is personally committed. Moses envisions a KwaZulu-Natal that is “all-round successful”, and he is determined to work with various stakeholders to see this vision realised. INSPIRING OTHERS Moses’s approach is undoubtedly shaped by his faith, which he regards as an essential component of his personal and professional philosophy. “Proverbs and Psalms remain the major inspirational sword I use to conquer,” he says, finding solace and strength in the teachings that emphasise hard work, humility, and kindness. For Moses, success is not simply about wealth or recognition but about building a legacy rooted in values that inspire others to uplift themselves and their communities. His message to fellow entrepreneurs and leaders is profound. He says, “The more you make service to people your primary business, the more likely you will be noticed, and opportunities will come to you.” This belief is embedded in his core values, evident in the ways he has managed his businesses, approached new opportunities, and interacted with the communities he serves. It is a philosophy that recognises the importance of each individual’s role in contributing to the larger society, a vision that Moses has diligently worked toward through his many leadership roles and business ventures. This philosophy has also opened numerous doors for him and allowed him to build lasting relationships across industries. In the past, he has had the opportunity of serving on listed companies in the capacity of chairperson of Phumelela Gaming and as board member for KZN Tsogo Sun, Mr Price and Santova Logistics. In summary, Moses exemplifies a form of entrepreneurship that is seldom seen but greatly needed. By leveraging his resources and net- works, he continues to make a difference in KZN and beyond. He remains steadfast in his pursuit of a prosperous and equitable South Africa, setting an example for future generations. His story reminds us that when business and service intersect, not only does an entrepreneur thrive, but so too does the community around him. Previous Next

< Back Next Dr Paul Kariuki Dr Paul Kariuki is the executive director of the Democracy Development Program Dr Paul Kariuki is the executive director of the Democracy Development Program which is based in Durban. Their work spans across South Africa and extends into the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, reaching about 16 countries through a variety of programs. Paul’s story began in 2001 when he relocated from Kenya, his home country, to South Africa to pursue postgraduate studies. Since then, he has had the privilege of working in academia, with stints at the universities of Natal, Pretoria and Stellenbosch, before returning to Durban. In 2013, he joined the Democracy Development Program as a program manager, progressing to become the executive director, the second in the organisation’s 30-year history to hold this role. Paul explained, “Our focus is on fostering democracy, governance, and active citizenship. We aim to empower citizens to hold leaders accountable, engage meaningfully in political discourse, and articulate their aspirations with confidence to help co-create a hopeful country.” Paul’s first job was as a youth assistant with the South African Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) in Durban. At the time, he was an undergraduate student and felt a desire to volunteer at a youth-led organisation. He recalls walking through the city one afternoon during a university break and seeing a flyer for the YMCA. He explained, “Something told me to walk in. I spoke to the CEO and offered to volunteer my skills, primarily research and writing at the time. To my surprise, he asked me to start the following Monday. I began as a receptionist, despite my ambitions. But I gladly accepted the role because I wanted to immerse myself in society and explore the challenges inner city youth faced. Working there gave me the opportunity to explore how theoretical knowledge from my university lectures, particularly in development studies and economic policy, translated to real-world solutions.” Paul served the YMCA for seven years, steadily growing in roles while completing postgraduate studies. Reflecting on his career Paul said that a philosophy that stuck with him early on was, ‘Don’t do anything about us, without us’. This philosophy taught him that true change comes when communities are part of their own transformation. He added, “The reason I do what I do is simple, I care deeply about our nation, our society, and its future. Our democracy must be defended. Upholding constitutionalism and promoting active citizenship should be a way of life.” “For me, democracy is not just about governance; it’s a lived experience. It’s the daily actions we take together to overcome challenges and create a better future. Our democracy was hard-won, and it’s our collective duty to ensure it thrives for generations to come. There is hope in every citizen and there is power in every citizen to change lives, and that’s what makes wakes me up every day with hope,” emphasises Paul. COLLECTIVE EFFORT Commenting on his accomplishments Paul says, “I’m most proud of seeing the influence of our organisation. Mobilising citizens across different races, socio-economic backgrounds, and regions to engage in political discourse and hold leaders accountable has been incredibly fulfilling. When citizens confidently voice their concerns, with a heart full of service, and remain committed to doing the right thing despite challenges, I see hope for our nation. For me, that’s the essence of co-creating a society full of possibility. It’s a collective effort where every sector and individual plays a role.” His role is not without significant challenges especially when having to translate complex ideas like democracy into actionable concepts that resonate with citizens. “For many, democracy feels intangible, I often hear questions like, ‘Can I eat democracy? Will it send my children to school?” he explains. Paul expanded that his response is usually that democracy is a lived experience, it’s what we do daily together. He added, “Our program’s work involves keeping these conversations alive, encouraging accountability, and helping citizens understand the power they have to take action to transform their own environments. This is an ongoing challenge because our society is dynamic.” Significantly, transformation happens when talks lead to actions that are guided by mutual accountability, ensuring progress and enabling change in communities and in the nation. CARE AND CONNECTION Speaking of the best advice he has ever received, Paul says that this came from a mentor who told him, ‘You don’t need a title to lead. Serve people, care for them, and they will willingly choose you to lead them’. This advice has stayed with Paul and shaped how he approaches his role not just as a leader, but as someone committed to making a difference in people’s lives.” Keeping his team motivated requires care and connection. Paul strives to understand his team’s personal and professional worlds while coaching and mentoring them to be mindful of why they have dedicated themselves to this work. “I show them the tangible impact of their efforts, whether it’s empowering communities or influencing policy. Our organisational values of empathy, honesty, accountability, and passion for transformative change guide us. By focusing on the big picture of co-creating a South Africa full of hope, I help my team stay energised and committed.” He added, “My greatest inspiration comes from the leaders I’ve worked with throughout my journey. One of my mentors said, ‘As you rise, lift others.’ This wisdom keeps me grounded and focused on the larger picture. It’s not about me; it’s about the communities we serve and the legacy we leave for the next generation.” Paul’s vision is for a thriving KwaZulu-Natal, a province where citizens actively engage in shaping their future and where opportunities are created for everyone. He says, “Over the next five years, I see transformative partnerships across sectors driving meaningful change. By fostering dialogue, encouraging account- ability, and co-creating solutions, I envision a province that’s prosperous, hopeful, and a model of what South Africa can achieve.” In conclusion Paul says, “My motto is ‘Leadership is about serving others, not oneself’. That principle guides everything I do.” Previous Next

< Back Youshi Naidoo