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< Back Next Damian Bradley Damian Bradley is the manager director of B-Active Events Damian Bradley, the manager director of B-Active Events, has carved out a significant space for himself in the sports marketing industry. Reflecting on his journey, he shared, “I’ve been involved in the sports marketing business for many years now. My path started shortly after finishing school at Michaelhouse, when I pursued sports management at Damelin and Varsity College.” After entering the world of sports marketing through a series of part-time jobs, he discovered his genuine enjoyment for managing sporting events. However, Damian’s entry into the professional world began in the corporate sector, a time he remembers vividly. “My first and only job working for someone else was at Bromor Foods which was later acquired by Cadbury’s. I served as the regional marketing coordinator for Energade and Game, along with a few other brands.” His involvement extended beyond marketing duties. “We engaged with sponsorships for sporting events, which aligned perfectly with what I wanted to pursue. We also did a lot of community involvement, and I travelled extensively, contributing to projects nationally alongside other regions,” Damian added. This formative period, which lasted four years, laid the groundwork for him to venture into his own business. A HOLISTIC APPROACH Damian’s current role at B-Active Events focuses on strategic growth and innovation. "The purpose of my position is to oversee the expansion of our events and seek out new opportunities – whether that means forming partnerships, securing sponsors, or finding the perfect venues across the country,” he said. His approach is holistic, looking at how the business can run smoother and more efficiently. “It’s a high-level view, ensuring that each part of the operation contributes to making the events better,” he noted. Reflecting on his career milestones, Damian’s pride shines through as he talks about one standout achievement: “One of my proudest moments was organising one of the first sporting events in South Africa post-Covid. The pandemic had brought mass participation events to a standstill, but we managed to host the first triathlon at Sun City – the Sun City Ultra Triathlon. It was an enormous feat, given that governments and municipalities were hesitant to allow events to proceed,” he recalled. This event, in partnership with the Professional Triathletes Organisation (PTO), drew international attention. “Seeing athletes, who hadn’t competed for a year and a half, come to South Africa to race was really rewarding and exciting,” Damian said. The event demonstrated not only resilience but also the willingness of the international sporting community to re-engage, marking a pivotal moment for B-Active Events. When asked about the best advice he has received, Damian shared insights that emphasise his practical approach to challenges. “I wouldn’t say it’s advice I was given directly, but rather a philosophy I’ve adopted which is: Never give up,” he revealed. “In the world of sporting events, you rely on countless variables to align – from logistics to weather to participant availability. It’s never straightforward. But the key is not to stare at the problem and wonder why it’s there; it’s to find a solution and make it happen,” Damian emphasised. EFFORT AND STRATEGY Balancing work and personal life is a challenge many professionals face, and Damian is no exception. “Being a father of two – my kids are 10 and 13 – makes it tough. Sporting events always happen over the weekends, so I miss out on a lot of family time,” he said. To compensate, Damian and his team work from an office at his home, allowing him to be present during the week. However, he admits, “It’s not the same as having that dedicated time.” The industry itself comes with its own set of difficulties. “One of the major challenges we face is finding suitable venues. As our population grows and issues like water pollution become more pronounced, it’s harder to secure places for events,” he noted. He cited recent examples, such as the delays in triathlon events at the Olympics due to water pollution, to highlight the seriousness of the issue. Maintaining team spirit amidst these challenges requires effort and strategy. “I’m lucky to have a self-motivated team,” Damian stated. “To keep them motivated, I focus on keeping the atmosphere positive. There’s always going to be rough times, but I believe in having a sense of humour about it all. Life doesn’t always hand you peaches; sometimes you get lemons, and it’s about finding the best solution.” POSITIVE OUTLOOK For Damian, inspiration comes from those he serves: the athletes. “It might sound clichéd, but the athletes who participate in our events inspire me,” he said. He recounted a recent event, a Tinman Triathlon, and how parents he once raced with now bring their children to compete. “It’s so encouraging, seeing kids as young as eight getting involved and really enjoying the sport is incredible. Triathlon isn’t a school sport, so it takes extra effort to introduce them to it. Watching newcomers, both young and older athletes, training hard and seeing their dedication paying off is immensely motivating,” Damian shared. Despite recent challenges in KwaZulu-Natal, Damian is optimistic about the potential for growth. “KZN is unique with its rich natural resources – the Drakensberg, the coast, Zululand, and the battlefields. Everything is close, making it a prime location for events,” he noted. His goal for the next five years is to develop creative and exciting new events that challenge and inspire participants. “We want to think outside the box and give the people of KZN something they want to do and that will be rewarding,” he said. While not bound by a single motto, Damian holds a positive outlook as his guiding principle. “I always tell my kids, ‘If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.’ But in a broader sense, my mantra is to stay positive,” he stated. “There’s enough negativity in the world.” He concluded, “The past is done, and it’s up to us to keep our heads up and focus on the difference we can make in the world.” Previous Next

< Back Next > Thabisile Madondo Owner and Founder, Tabby M. Wellness Boutique Thabisile (Tabby) Madondo, the owner of Tabby M. Wellness Boutique based in Port Shepstone, draws her inspiration from a deep sense of purpose to uplift others. She is the second-born in a family of four siblings, has been happily married for 17 years and is blessed with three boys. “Family is at the heart of everything I do,” she says, adding that her upbringing shaped her journey in life and business. Thabisile’s business specialises in skincare, massages, and weight management. As a trained somatologist and certified life coach, she integrates her coaching skills into her services. “When clients come in for a massage, they often find themselves sharing their stories with me. It becomes a form of therapy for them, and as a life coach, I can be a good listener,” she explains. Her holistic approach to wellness ensures that the physical, mental, and emotional needs of her clients are addressed. “It’s not just about working on the muscles or the skin; it’s about touching the whole person — mind, body, and soul.” Thabisile places an emphasis on self-care, self-love, and self-awareness, values she actively promotes through her business. “Many people rarely receive physical affection, even a simple hug, from their loved ones. The touch of a massage is a way for them to feel complete and connected again,” she notes. For Thabisile, the business is not just about providing services; it’s about creating a space where individuals can find healing and rediscover themselves. “I want my clients to leave not only looking better but also feeling rejuvenated and empowered.” Regain Her Independence Her journey to entrepreneurship was not straightforward. After completing her Grade 12 at Marburg Secondary School, she briefly pursued further studies before getting married. “I got married early at 25 and became a stay-at- home mum, but I always felt there was more to me than just being a housewife,” she reflects. In 2010, after years away from formal education, Thabisile decided to go back to school, studying somatology at Kloof Academy of Beauty. “I thought I’d take a short course to fit around my kids’ schedules, but once I learned about somatology, I fell in love with it. The magic behind the treatments was fascinating, and I decided to pursue a full three-year programme, including international certifications.” Her newfound career took her to various spas, where she gained experience before opening her own spa in Musgrave, Durban, in 2013. Unfortunately, the venture was short-lived due to Thabisile’s husband’s new job in Pretoria, which required them to relocate. “I had to close the spa after two years, and while in Pretoria, I fell pregnant with my last- born. I found myself at home again, feeling lost and depressed,” she recalls. Thabisile eventually expressed her desire to return to work, though it was difficult to find consistent support for her children. When the Covid-19 pandemic hit, her family moved back to Port Shepstone, and she began selling supplements to regain her independence. The pandemic gave Thabisile a chance to rediscover her passion for wellness, leading her to enrol in coaching. “I was working on myself, addressing insecurities, fears, and feelings of inferiority. Coaching helped me grow and redirected me to reopen my wellness business in 2020,” she shares. With limited resources, Thabisile started small, borrowing a massage bed from a friend. “I had a clear vision — my space would be a place for people who are seeking change, longing to step out of their current situations.” Her dedication to wellness extends beyond her business. Thabisile participates in charity events related to wellness and supports local causes in her community. She initiated an online skipping challenge to motivate women to exercise, using a WhatsApp group to encourage each other. “It’s hard to exercise alone, especially for mothers who always find excuses. So, we share our skipping videos and cheer each other on,” she says. In addition, Thabisile is enthusiastic about empowering the youth in her church. She promotes self-care, self-love, and public speaking skills, and recently introduced organic sanitary pads for young girls in rural areas. “These young women face unique challenges, and I want to make a difference in their lives, even if it’s something as simple as providing sanitary products.” Rewrite Your Story Running a business is not without its challenges. Thabisile acknowledges that managing staff turnover can be disheartening. “I invest so much in training young therapists, sharing my skills with them, only to see them leave. It’s disappointing, but I understand that they also need to grow,” she says. “I may not know everything about the business side of things, so I outsource tasks like accounting and marketing. It’s about finding the right support to keep moving forward.” Thabisile’s drive comes from her parents, who taught her the value of hard work. Her father’s entrepreneurial spirit left an impression on her. “He would wake up early in the morning to deliver bananas to sellers, and now he is a successful businessman. His determination showed me that it’s possible to start small and grow big,” she says. Her mother’s decision to go back to school and become a teacher, despite raising four children, inspired Thabisile to pursue her own education later in life. “I thought, if she could do it, so could I.” Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is: “Start wherever you are, with whatever you have. Find a mentor or a coach, and don’t be afraid to rewrite your story. If a chapter doesn’t go as planned, turn the page and keep writing. Everyone has a purpose; it’s up to us to fulfil it.” Looking ahead, Thabisile has big plans for Tabby M. Wellness Boutique. “I hope to expand globally, franchising my spa and tapping into other sectors to grow the business,” she reveals. Her journey is far from over, and she continues to find balance through family activities, such as beach outings and gym sessions with her boys. “For me, relaxation is essential — I enjoy playing music, meditating, hiking, and sometimes just getting a good night’s sleep.” < Previous Next >

Together everyone achieves more. Don’t be afraid to give someone responsibility, more often than not, they rise to their position < Back Nozuko Basson Regional Manager for Communities and Corporate Affairs Tronox South Africa Nozuko Basson’s role at Tronox, which is based in northern KZN, entails making sure that the mining company honours its responsibility of creating value for its stakeholders, of which, communities take centre stage. The most significant event in Nozuko’s life is, she says, when she became a mother. “I had my daughter when I was fairly young and from the moment she arrived in this world, I knew that the game had changed. It’s an ambition of mine, that when my daughter is asked who your role model is, she mentions my name.” In ensuring that she is an inspiration to her daughter, Nozuko constantly evaluates how she behaves, how she practices professionalism in the workplace, and how she treats other people. Nozuko believes that she has got to where she is today through hard work, dedication, a lot of praying and the support from many people who have crossed her path. “I’m somebody who is focused on her religion. I’m a Christian and I’ve always believed that everything that I do is enabled by my faith. I started my career as a journalist, but I realised that was not the life that I wanted to live. I’m not a social and out-there type of person, so I moved into public relations. I was fortunate to work for an agency where I had an amazing mentor who helped me in building the capability to understand how media relations works.” From there, Nozuko moved onto one of South Africa’s largest medical insurance organisations, Discovery. Here, Nozuko said, she had mentors who helped guide her through her career. “I’ve been fortunate that I had other people lifting me, guiding me, and making sure that I stayed on the right track. My journey has been difficult; it’s always good to be reminded by those who are ahead of you how to remain positive and confident in what you are doing.” Having courage Nozuko says that her decision to move to KwaZulu-Natal has been an amazing journey that has required her to really stretch herself. This meant going into areas where she thought she would never be able to venture. She added, “Just having the courage to really push myself and push the boundaries for my team members so that we all work towards one single vision. This requires that we stay close to the cause and really live our own personal values, as well as the values of the organisation in which I work right now.” In commenting on the challenges that she has faced, Nozuko says that as a young female professional, the first challenge that she would like to focus on, is the “pull her down syndrome”. “When you, as a female, start rising in your career there are times when other females do everything in their power to pull you down. I have a strong view that if one of us rise, we all rise. It’s hard enough being a young female, let alone being black in the workplace; we need to hold each other up and motivate each other.” The second challenge she has faced is working in the mining industry, which is a male dominated sector. Over that, working within the community, which is also a male led environment that still subscribes to traditional practices has brought a great deal of learning, that has come with its own difficulties. Currently, the third challenge has been dealing with unconventional community issues, that pose a serious risk to Tronox’s public reputation. “This is where the company’s values, procedures and policies need to guide you to deal with the challenges in a manner that does not compromise your role or its reputation,” said Nozuko. “Lastly, I have often found myself feeling not quite welcome around the ‘table’, as if I am a token BEE candidate,” says Nozuko. “I’ve learnt that I shouldn’t wait for somebody to offer me a seat at the table. If there’s no seat for a female in the workplace or in this industry, you bring your own, and that’s something that I have really started being vocal about.” Leaving behind a legacy In the future, Nozuko wants to leave behind a legacy that says, “When Nozuko Basson was in that community or was working in that organisation, she made a positive difference.” In terms of her career, she sees herself growing from strength to strength. Right now, she is focused on her work in South Africa, but soon, she wants to share her knowledge and skills with the rest of the world. Nozuko added that she is fortunate to work for an organisation that has the platform that will allow her to do so when the time is right. On the personal side, Nozuko wants to travel the world. “I want to touch other lives in my own personal space. I want to live my best life and it’s something that I’m making a deliberate effort in doing and I know that I’m on the right track.” In advising others, she says, “It’s important not to be side-tracked by other people’s opinions. It’s important to remain true to yourself. It’s important that when you venture out, you understand that not everybody will be cheering for you, so learn to be your own cheerleader and as you’re cheering yourself, cheer those around you because they may not know the power that they have within themselves.” Nozuko believes one needs to put their heart into everything that they do. “I always say to people, if you’re not going to give it your all, rather don’t start. I believe in dazzling people. One of Tronox’s values speaks to doing the right work, the right way in every aspect of our business and that’s really what I subscribe to. I don’t take short cuts; it’s about doing something right all the time. It’s behaving in an ethical way and ensuring that everything I touch, doesn’t only represent organisational integrity, but also my own personal integrity.”

< 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 >

Trumpet Basics Price $400 Duration 4 Weeks Enroll < Back About the Course 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. Your Instructor Camilla Jones This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. To manage all your collections, click on the Content Manager button in the Add panel on the left. Previous Next

< Back Next Virosha Pillay Virosha Pillay is the managing director of Avvo Labels Virosha Pillay, the managing director of Avvo Labels, purpose is deeply rooted in ensuring that the business maintains its legacy while evolving and growing to meet the challenges of the modern market. “Avvo is a family-owned business that has stood the test of time,” she notes. Established in 1985, the company has grown under the stewardship of her parents, and now, with her at the helm, it continues to flourish. Virosha has brought a unique combination of corporate experience and a personal touch to her role. “I am proud to have stepped out into the world at a young age. The wealth of experience and knowledge it afforded me was incredible,” she reflects. Virosha’s journey began in the heart of her family’s business. “I grew up in my dad’s factory,” she recalls. Her childhood was steeped in the lessons learned by observing her parents navigate the business world. “They taught me resilience and the importance of hard work,” Virosha says. Her education followed a path that kept her close to home, first attending school in Clairwood, then moving on to high school in Chatsworth. The foundation of her academic journey culminated at the University of Durban-Westville, where she earned a BSc degree majoring in biochemistry and microbiology. This background may seem a world apart from the world of printing and manufacturing, but it equipped her with analytical skills that would prove invaluable. Her first job as a chemical analyst, was a role she found to be an eye-opener. “I thought it was going to be amazing until I actually got into the grind of it,” she admits. The work itself was interesting, but the silence of the laboratory felt stifling to her. It was then that she realised she needed a career that offered more interaction and dynamism. This revelation led her to a position as a sales representative for a multinational pharmaceutical company. “It was exciting, fast-paced, and I was surrounded by a cohort of young, driven graduates,” she remembers. This corporate role was a perfect fit for her outgoing nature and laid the groundwork for the skills she would later bring to Avvo Labels. COMPREHENSIVE INVOLVEMENT As the managing director of Avvo Labels, Virosha’s role is as varied as it is demanding. “I find myself not always at my desk, which I prefer,” she shares. She is involved in every facet of the operation, from managing production to overseeing delivery timelines. “I’m very hands-on. I ensure that operations run smoothly, do a bit of marketing, a bit of finance – my fingers are literally everywhere,” she explains. This comprehensive involvement stems from her passion for the business and her desire to see it thrive. “Being so hands-on allows me to see where we can be more efficient, more innovative,” she adds. Her primary focus is on maintaining Avvo’s high standards and service delivery, which have been the foundation of its success in the FMCG sector. “My purpose currently is to ensure that Avvo Labels isn’t stagnant. I’m always looking for opportunities to grow, to innovate, and to make the company more sustainable,” she shares. This drive has seen the introduction of a digital press and machinery aimed at reducing the company’s carbon footprint. “We’re now part of a proactive movement towards sustainability, and that’s where I see us making a real difference.” Reflecting on her early career, Virosha recalls the competitive nature of her first sales job. “Winning Rep of the Year was a standout moment for me,” she says, her eyes lighting up with pride. “It reiterated to me that if you put your mind to something, you can achieve anything.” Virosha credits one piece of advice for shaping her approach to challenges: “Be careful how you respond to a challenge – think before you speak or write, because words are something you cannot take back. When I was younger, I would react quickly, sometimes too impulsively. Now, I take a moment to consider my response,” she shares. The result? Better communication and a more collaborative atmosphere. “It’s amazing how the right response can change the entire outcome of a conversation,” she notes. PEOPLE-CENTRIC Navigating her place within a male-dominated industry was one of Virosha’s greatest challenges. “Avvo Labels was successful before I took on this role, and I had to prove that I wasn’t just the boss’s daughter,” she explains. “People wondered if I was just going to come in and ‘boss’ everyone around,” she admits candidly. However, through perseverance and showing her dedication, Virosha earned the respect of her team. Her approach to leadership is people-centric. “We have a diverse team, and it’s important to encompass everyone’s ideas and feelings,” she explains. Empathy plays a crucial role in her management style. “Sometimes, in business, it’s easy to forget that people are what make the business run,” she adds. Regular meetings, open communication, and recognition are key to her strategy. “No one should feel like they’re just clocking in and out. What we do here has an impact beyond these walls.” Virosha’s inspiration comes from her parents, the founders of Avvo Labels. “I’ve watched them grow this company from nothing,” she says. Despite not having formal business training, her father made significant financial and strategic decisions that have positioned Avvo as a leader in its field. “He didn’t complete his schooling career, but his instinct for business is unmatched,” Virosha adds with admiration. Virosha’s vision for KwaZulu-Natal is one of growth and opportunity. “This is my home, and it’s where my heart is,” she shares. She believes that there is untapped potential within the region. “There’s so much we can explore, and I plan to do exactly that,” she states confidently. For Virosha, the pursuit of excellence is a continuous journey. “We want to progress, but we should never let go of perfection,” she says. “It’s about working hard, working smart, and making sure that whatever you’re doing is as close to perfect as possible,” she concludes. Previous Next

< Back Next > Noeleen Naidoo Principal and Owner, Ingwe Property Group Noeleen Naidoo, principal and owner of Ingwe Property Group, has built a career defined by hard work, perseverance, and a deep commitment to people. Leading a company that has thrived for 25 years, with its head office in Pinetown and satellite branches in Winston Park and Umhlanga, Noeleen’s vision has helped the business grow and adapt in an evolving industry. Life moved quickly for Noeleen—marriage and mother- hood came early, leaving little room to pursue personal dreams. However, she reflects that her greatest sense of fulfilment now comes not only from realising her own goals but also from helping others achieve theirs. Her entry into real estate was unplanned. After leaving school, she joined the workforce out of necessity, driven by the need to earn a living. “I spent time in the hospitality industry and financial institutions before realising my passion for people. Real estate became the platform where I could fulfil that purpose,” she explains. Noeleen has seen her business grow from serving the affordable housing market to accommodating a diverse range of clients, from first-time homeowners to high-end property investors. “Ingwe Property Group is confident in our ability to provide exceptional service,” says Noeleen. Over the years, she has mastered various aspects of the real estate business, from contracts to marketing, and from paper-based systems to the digital era. Recently, she completed an entrepreneurship course with the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), focusing on financial and business management. In line with her passion for people and mentorship, she is also pursuing life coaching and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). Reflecting on her journey, Noeleen credits her family, particularly her late mother, as her greatest inspiration. “My mother always said, ‘Hard work will never kill you,’ and she lived by that belief.” Raised by her aunts and grandfather after her mother’s early passing, Noeleen learned the value of determination and resilience. Her grandfather’s story of immigrating to South Africa as a nine-year-old boy further fuels her drive to create a legacy. “Their lives have taught me that no matter how you start, it’s what you do with the journey that counts.” Perseverance, Change, and Impact Noeleen’s likens her success to standing at the edge of the Red Sea, with no choice but to move forward. “There was no turning back. I had to persevere,” she says, adding that “Change is the only constant.” One of the most notable shifts has been the formalisation of the industry, with the introduction of qualifications like the NQF4. Noeleen views these developments positively, as they ensure that agents are well-trained and take their careers seriously. “You can’t just wing it anymore; you need to come prepared to work, learn, and grow.” Her commitment to mentorship is evident in her focus on training. “As the industry becomes more formalised, it’s essential that agents are skilled and knowledgeable. That’s why I’ve prioritised training at Ingwe Property Group. Our agents are lifelong learners, and I take responsibility for ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges they’ll face.” Noeleen has made it her mission to provide oppor- tunities for young people, especially school leavers seeking a way into the workforce. “Our company’s slogan is ‘making a difference,’ and we live by that every day,” she says proudly. Her approach to leadership is deeply relational. She fosters strong bonds within her team, encouraging open communication and mutual support. “Real estate is a tough industry,” she admits. “We spur each other on, and we grow stronger together.” Like any entrepreneur, Noeleen understands that business comes with its share of challenges as nothing is guaranteed. However, she views challenges as opportunities for growth. “Business is like riding a wave— you have ups and downs. The key is to stay resilient, adapt, and keep moving forward. It takes a thick skin and innovative thinking, but there’s always a way through.” One of the toughest periods in her career was the 2008 financial crisis. “I was on holiday when I got a call from the office saying the banks had stopped lending 90% loans; the maximum was now 80%. I remember thinking, ‘Who has a 20% deposit lying around?’” Though the industry was in turmoil, Noeleen stayed resolute. “It was a tough time, but here we are, years later. In those moments, you have to focus on the positives. Homeownership is something people should never put off if they can help it, and we encouraged our clients to keep moving forward.” Noeleen’s drive extends to her community. “We’re not just selling homes, we’re making a difference in people’s lives, and that’s reflected in how we engage with the world around us.” For her, being a business owner is about making a meaningful impact. “That’s my greatest joy and proudest achievement—knowing I’ve helped change people’s lives, whether through the homes we sell or the community work we do.” Her hands-on approach during crises, including floods, pandemics, or social unrest, reflects her belief in leadership through action. “We don’t wait for others to step in. We get out there and do what needs to be done.” With franchising on the horizon for Ingwe Property Group, Noeleen believes her company is poised for greater success. “I believe we have something special to offer,” she says. In addition, Ingwe’s licensed training academy now offers qualifications in real estate, which Noeleen hopes will attract young people and bring more diversity into the industry. She is passionate about playing a pivotal role in ensuring that change. Noeleen envisions a more dynamic real estate sector, moving away from the traditional image of it being a career for retirees. Despite her numerous commitments, Noeleen finds time for personal interests, particularly her faith and fitness. “I’m an energy bunny!” she laughs, sharing that she rises at 4 a.m. to fit in her workout routine, a testament to the vitality and enthusiasm she brings to all areas of her life. < Previous Next >

< Back Next > Sugeshnee Naidoo Managing Director, Enermous Foam Tapes and Pressure Sensitive Adhesives Sugeshnee Naidoo is managing director of Enermous Foam Tapes and Pressure Sensitive Adhesives. The company specialises in converting foam products and manufacturing pressure-sensitive adhesives used across various industries for insulation purposes. Her journey from a health crisis to becoming a thriving business woman is inspirational. “I got married at a very young age and started my family early,” Sugeshnee reflects. Juggling the responsibilities of being a wife, a mum, and a career woman working for a corporate company, she was also studying marketing. However, Sugeshnee’s life took a sharp turn when she was diagnosed with a brain tumour. “To most people, that’s scary,” she admits. “For me, it was just one of those things. You have to deal with it.” The diagnosis forced Sugeshnee to leave her job, which presented both emotional and financial challenges. With only one income to rely on, she found herself at a crossroads. “I always wanted to own a business,” she explains. “I thought to myself, what do I do now?” Instead of succumbing to her health crisis, Sugeshnee saw this as an opportunity. Despite the difficulties of starting a business while managing her health and family life, she founded her company. Not only did Sugeshnee start the business, but she went on to do a business management course studying through the University of Cape Town. “It wasn’t easy being a mum, a wife, and starting a business while dealing with my health issues,” Sugeshnee confides, but she remained steadfast in her resolve. Over the next 18 years, despite her illness, she ran her business successfully, which opened many doors for her. Much of her journey was driven by the need to show her children that “a diagnosis isn’t a death sentence” and that they could still achieve their dreams. Sugeshnee believes that her dream materialised for her and that there’s a path for all of us. She added, “I’m so passionate about my business; it’s my baby.” Building a Dream Having an entrepreneurial spirit was deeply influenced by Sugeshnee’s family, particularly her father. “He was a businessman, and he got us involved in the family business from a very young age,” she shares. “That sparked my interest in owning a business, and it grew into a dream.” While her parents played a pivotal role in her life, Sugeshnee is keen to acknowledge her own self- motivation. “I always look at the positive side of every situation,” she says. “No matter what life throws at us, we have to come out of it.” Sugeshnee views her business as more than just a commercial venture. “It’s not just a business to me; it’s personal,” she affirms. “My communication skills, leadership, and the personal touch I bring to the business have been key to its success.” In addition to leading her company, Sugeshnee is committed to making a positive impact on her community. “I’ve received numerous awards,” she says, “but the biggest achievement for me is the impact I have on employment. Knowing that I’m helping someone raise their family is what really matters.” Her commitment to social responsibility goes beyond just providing jobs. Sugeshnee partners with small businesses, donating offcuts of raw materials for them to use in their production processes and mentoring them to help them grow. “It’s not just about being socially responsible; it’s about using my experience and being active in making them a success,” she states. To young women aspiring to become business leaders, Sugeshnee offers simple yet powerful advice: “Believe in yourself. Don’t be afraid of hard work or taking risks.” Running a business comes with challenges, but Sugeshnee faced two major crises that could have ended her journey. “The hardest challenge was the July 2021 riots,” she recalls. “My entire business was burned to the ground.” After 15 years of commitment, Sugeshnee saw everything she had built reduced to ashes. “We were ready for our ISO accreditation; things were going well, and suddenly, it was all gone,” she says. Despite the devastation, Sugeshnee’s resolve remained intact. “My husband asked, ‘What are you going to do?’ and I said, ‘We don’t have an option. We’ve got people that are relying on me for a salary. And I’ve got customers that are relying on a product. We start the business again,’” she recalls. Within a week, they were back to supplying customers. Her efforts were recognised with several awards, including the Tenacity and Grit Award from the Durban Automotive Cluster and Champion Entrepreneur of the Year. As if the riots weren’t enough, Sugeshnee’s business was struck six months later by the devastating floods in KwaZulu-Natal. “The entire business was floating in water,” she shares. Yet again, she and her team managed to recover quickly and resumed operations within days. “Although it was a difficult patch, we made it, and we ended up buying our own premises. Out of all the bad that happens, there is good,” said Sugeshnee. “We had no outside assistance, so we had to rebuild everything on our own,” she explains. The experience, while challenging, strengthened her resolve. “It had a huge impact, but it’s grown us a hundredfold within ourselves and the business. We know we’re here to stay.” Looking Ahead Sugeshnee’s goals for the future are ambitious. “We have plans to double the employment levels at our factory in the near future,” she reveals. Her company is currently engaged in export programmes and is looking to expand globally. Despite her busy schedule, Sugeshnee finds ways to maintain balance in her life. “I love gardening, cooking, reading, horse riding and spending time with my family,” she says. Meditation also plays a key role in helping her manage stress and maintain focus. As Sugeshnee continues to grow her business, she remains dedicated to uplifting those around her, leaving an indelible mark on her community and the business world alike. < Previous Next >

Fyonn Kane Collection 2019 Aldine Dallas Her passion and determination is unmistakable. "So many people are wounded or completely broken; perhaps from physical or emotional abuse, neglect, or being dismissed as worthless or unimportant, often from as far back as childhood Read More Brenda Horner BRENDA HORNER, is the founder and director of the Gap Academy which provides school and university leaving students the privileged opportunity to realistically assess, discover, plan and create for their future career and life paths. Read More Busi Gumede BUSI GUMEDE is the founder and CEO of Goodlife Foods. The company provides natural kefir products, which offer probiotic and other health benefits, under the 'KePro' brand. Busi oversees the overall functioning of the company, formulates its products, manages production and marketing, and looks after customers Read More Cathie Lewis "Yes, I do sometimes take minutes," she smiles, "but it's so much more than that." 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< Back Next David Warmback David Warmback is an equity partner at Shepstone & Wylie Attorneys David Warmback, an equity partner at Shepstone & Wylie Attorneys, was born in Durban and grew up in Kloof. “I went to Kloof Junior School and then Kloof Senior Primary School,” he recalls. “We then moved to Westville, and I completed my high school at Westville Boys’ High from 1972 to 1978.” After high school, David attended the then University of Natal, where he initially enrolled for a bachelor of arts in subjects with a focus on a teaching degree. However, towards the end of his BA, David felt teaching was not for him. “I had a teaching loan, which was useful, but I realised I could pay it back by working and could use that to sponsor legal studies instead,” he explains. He decided to pursue a bachelor of laws. “Because I hadn’t done any law credits in my BA, I had to enrol in a three-year LLB programme, on top of the two years already completed. "His final years at university were marked by personal tragedy. “My dad died unexpectedly at the age of 50,” he shares, “which put quite a strain on the family.” However, David managed to finish his studies in five years, and after national service, he began looking for a position in law. However, David’s first job wasn’t in law. “If you’re looking at informal jobs, my first job was at age 16 as a cashier at Checkers in Overport City,” he re- counts, “I was keen to start earning some pocket money.” He did this job, which he said was quite hard work, for some time before moving into his formal legal career. David began his career at Shepstone & Wylie in 1987. “I started as what was then called an articled clerk,” he explains. Over time, David progressed through the ranks and is now one of the two senior equity partners in the corporate and commercial department. “We have a team of eleven professionals, including one who practises remotely in Johannesburg.” A FULFILLING ROLE David describes his current role as providing corporate and commercial legal services to the firm’s clients. “I give advice, seek solutions, negotiate and draft various commercial agreements,” he explains. These include mergers and acquisitions, sales and lease agreements, shareholder agreements, property sales, joint ventures, and more. “My specialty is property-related commercial work,” he notes, adding that he spent about 12 years in the firm’s property services and conveyancing department before moving to the commercial department in 1999. His responsibilities also include providing leadership input, marketing, and training for junior staff. “It’s a varied role, but one that I find very fulfilling,” he says. David’s proudest accomplishment is not directly related to his legal career, although he has been involved in several notable projects during his 37 years in law. He was appointed as the Honorary British Consul for KwaZulu-Natal 13 years ago, a position that he has held alongside his legal work, which he has found rewarding. “At the end of last year, I was featured in King Charles III 2024 New Year’s Honours list and awarded an MBE for my services assisting British nationals in South Africa. Receiving the honour was definitely a highlight,” he says. He is still to receive the award formally, having been given a few dates during the coming winter season, but is waiting to receive further dates for Spring and Summer of 2025 for the investiture. “It is quite exciting,” he adds. David believes the best advice he has ever received is to ‘never stop learning’. He emphasises that this is particularly important in his profession. “The law is always changing, not just through new legislation, but through court judgments that create new legal precedents,” he advises. “You have to keep up with these changes and also learn about the business of different clients to properly draft commercial agreements.” He stresses the importance of learning about people and how to interact with them effectively. “You’re always learning about human nature and relationships,” he says. David is inspired by Roger Federer. “He is a fabulous sportsman with an unbelievably long career, an incredible record of achievements, a great work ethic, and a role model to so many,” he says. “And, above all, he is a really nice person.” POSITIVE FEEDBACK David reflects on the challenges he has faced, noting that no specific event stands out, but he identifies time management as one of the most difficult aspects of his profession including making provision for home time. “In a busy legal practice, you’re dealing with many clients and many matters at once. There are often tight deadlines, large transactions that need to be closed quickly, and multiple parties involved.” He acknowledges that managing client expectations and workflow is an ongoing challenge. “It’s not something you can fully overcome; it’s just an ongoing problem not only in the legal field but in any business,” he says. David believes in recognising performance and providing positive feedback to keep his team motivated. “Communication is key,” he asserts. “You need to encourage teamwork and ensure that everyone is working towards common goals.” He emphasises the importance of promoting well- performing staff and continuously looking for new opportunities. “We are always targeting new clients and maintaining our marketing efforts,” he adds. TAKE SMALL STEPS David acknowledges the tough times that businesses in KwaZulu-Natal have faced over the past few years. “We’ve had Covid-19, floods, political unrest, infrastructure challenges, and low growth rates,” he says. However, he remains hopeful. “Following the recent election, there is hope that political will can create a business- and investor- friendly environment in the country, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal.” He thinks that addressing these challenges can help the business environment to become more positive, enabling the economy to recover and creating the jobs that are so needed. “For most people, things don’t happen overnight,” he says. “You’ve got to keep going, keep pushing, and over time, with perseverance, you will achieve your goals and dreams.” Previous Next