SA Profile Magazine - Volume 7 I 2024 by Media Xpose

VOLUME 7

■ 2024

R95.00 incl. VAT saprofilemagazine.co.za

Identifying the right

FUNDING MODEL

INSIDE:

HIGHLIGHTING

WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP

Setting

GOALS versus winging it

ideas to rebuild trust and productivity

COVER FEATURE

Sentech committed

TO ENABLING GROWTH IN THE DIGITAL SPHERE 24004

9 772616 353009

Insights for Entrepreneurial Leaders

The CSIR is committed to innovation, change and advancement in the science, engineering and technology sphere, particularly in an era where there is increasing influence and impact from the technological disruptions caused by the fourth industrial revolution. In 2019, the organisation adopted a new strategy aimed at supporting industrial development in the country; to ensure that it makes a greater impact on the building and growing of industries in South Africa and, consequently, the economy; this while continuing with its strong focus on serving the needs of the public sector and generating knowledge for public good. The CSIR has identified clusters in which it is best positioned to drive the country’s industrialisation. These have been selected based on national priorities, potential for socioeconomic impact and the fourth industrial revolution.

T H E Y IN CLUDE IN D U S T RY A N D SOC A D VA N IE T YC IN G C LUSTE SUCH R S, AS SM ART PL SMART A C E S, M O B IL IT Y, N E GENER X TAT IO N ENTER A N D IN P R IS E S S T IT U T IO N S.

Enable smarter natural resource use, environmental sustainability and smart infrastructure. FOR MORE INFORMATION

Enable South Africa to have an effective, efficient, integrated, safe and competitive transport and logistics sector. FOR MORE INFORMATION

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

INTERNET OF THINGS

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Leading for positive impact

aily we are inundated with negative stories pertaining to South Africa – and to a large extent, many are valid. However, we are fortunate to have some

truly inspirational leaders – and I am not necessarily talking about people in positions of power. Being an entrepreneur, manager or a CEO does not automatically make someone a leader. There are similarities in terms of being responsible for giving direction, however, leaders are people who inspire and empower. True leaders are visionaries and understand that when challenges arise, there are also opportunities to be tapped into. These opportunities have the potential to grow organisations, grow teams, offer solutions and ultimately make a a positive impact. Leaders inspire and unite teams, which sets the tone for sustainable growth. Leadership has no age or academic requirement, although leaders continuously learn and have remarkable agility. I was reading a report that mentioned that South Africa has one of the highest failure rates for new SMEs. Granted

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that statistic is not great, however, leaders learn from failure too and have the potential to come back stronger. While the news can seem gloomy, there is still a lot of hope because South Africa is rich in talent and has some capable leaders who are seeking to make a positive impact. Reading through this publication highlights the tenacity and vision of some really strong leaders. South Africa as a whole is a country of potential – if we unite for a common goal of growth we can be a nation that excels in all spheres.

Tashne

CONTENTS

8 Cover feature: Sentech Sentech committed to enabling growth in the digital sphere

12 2024 trends watchlist for business owners 14 Q&A: Optimi Optimi supporting every step of your learning journey 18 Profile: Cornerstone Institute A force in finance, education, and community development

20 Unlocking opportunities through coaching 22 Profile: Hesed Consulting Vumile Msweli career coach, speaker, columnist and philanthropist 23 WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP 24 Q&A: AEON Investment Management Leadership is a multi-faceted challenge 28 Profile: Universal Knowledge Software (UKS) Leading with courage 30 Profile: AIMS International Leonie Pentz O'Connor: Driving sustainable leadership at Aims International 32 Profile: Kellanova South Africa Driving meaningful impact through purposeful communication and strategic engagement 34 Leading women in the education sphere 36 Profile: FASSET Women development takes centre stage at FASSET

42 Profile: Tiger Build Group A tenacious leader 44 Breaking barriers: the changing role of women in the construction industry 47 Profile: Icebolethu Group Multi-skilled entrepreneur and community builder 48 Profile: Liberty Two Degrees The REAL approach: building extraordinary real estate 49 Profile: BlackStone Maverick The art of memory 50 Profile: NSDV NSDV – practical, inclusive & collaborative 52 Profile: Tshepa Basadi Tshepa Basadi – project, engineering, and procurement management 54 Advertorial: Probe IMT Enabling solutions for the mining industry

37 Profile: Cornerstone Institute Committed to holistic learning

56 Profile: Vezinhlanhla Mining Vezinhlanhla Mining – versatility & innovation for the long term

38 Profile: Lyra Consulting Tailored legal and investment solutions

58 Q&A: M84 Geotech Growing & building a legacy

39 Profile: Institute of Directors South Africa Championing ethical leadership

60 Profile: ZAIO Mvelo Hlope: visionary entrepreneur and driving force

40 Profile: National Empowerment Fund A torchbearer at the helm of a gem

62 Identifying the right funding model

41 Profile: Coega Development Corporation Leading in infrastructure with Gugulethu Moyo

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64 Profile: MotiMoves MotiMoves – guidance tailored to general entrepreneurial aspirations

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CONTENTS

CREDITS PUBLISHER Elroy van Heerden-Mays elroy@mediaxpose.co.za

96 82

EDITOR Tashne Singh editorial@mediaxpose.co.za SUB EDITOR Tessa O’Hara tessa.ohara@gmail.com CONTENT MANAGER Wadoeda Adams artwork@mediaxpose.co.za

66 Thinking out-of-the-box and taking risks 68 Turning a vision into a dream 70 Profile: Zarcare Zarcare: pioneering healthcare transformation in South Africa 72 A visionary female entrepreneur leading the charge for positive change 76 Profile: Sinayo Sinayo: sustainable transformation and inclusivity 77 Profile: NTIYISO Consulting Group Empowering Africa's Development 78 Impact investment in Africa – where profit meets purpose 81 Profile: Top Efforts Hospitality The transformative power of faith in action 82 Partner up for growth: the key to future-proofing a business 84 Six reason why business rescue should not be feared 86 Futureproofing for the 5IR era 88 Bringing smart city technology to your business 90 Four essential tips for business productivity 92 Five ideas to rebuild trust and productivity

CONTRIBUTORS Juanita Vorster Liezel Jonkheid Warren Munitz Ray Harraway Gorata Ogotseng Alison Weihe Pierre Romagny Dr Mark Bussin Buhle Hanise Daniela Christos Norman Kretzmer DESIGN & LAYOUT Anja Bramley artwork1@mediaxpose.co.za Shaun van Heerden-Mays artwork2@mediaxpose.co.za PROJECT MANAGER Siya Ngoni siya@mediaxpose.co.za ADVERTISING SALES Rene van Heerden rene@mediaxpose.co.za Jacqui Marsh jacqui@mediaxpose.co.za DIGITAL AND SOCIAL MEDIA Kyla van Heerden Tia Arendse Temo Mpodi ADMIN ASSISTANT Ketsia Makola ketsia@mediaxpose.co.za DISTRIBUTION & SUBSCRIPTIONS Shihaam Gyer distribution@mediaxpose.co.za MEDIA PARTNERSHIPS / EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Maurisha Niewenhuys maurisha@mediaxpose.co.za FINANCIAL DIRECTOR / ACCOUNTS Shaun van Heerden-Mays accounts@mediaxpose.co.za WEBSITE DEVELOPER/ADMINISTRATOR Justin McGregor justin@mediaxpose.co.za RECEPTIONIST Daniëlla Daniels receptionist@mediaxpose.co.za COVER PHOTOGRAPHER: Rozier van Tonder RETAIL DISTRIBUTION: On The Dot AIRPORT DISTRIBUTION: Media Support

95 Profile: Aspire Inspiring and facilitating lasting transformation 96 Navigating the waters to business success 98 Seven skills all customer experience interviewers must master 102 Freelance creatives and Vat 104 Imposter syndrome: how to stop it

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106 Setting goals versus winging it 108 Understanding yourself in 2024 110 Predictions for 2024 and beyond

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Disclaimer: The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher or its agents. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information published, the publisher does not accept responsibility for any error or omission contained herein. Consequently, no person connected with the publication of this journal will be liable for any loss or damage sustained by any reader as a result of action following statements or opinions expressed herein. The publisher will give consideration to all material submitted, but does not take responsibility for damage or its safe return.

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COVER FEATURE SENTECH

Sentech committed to

enabling growth in the digital sphere

Sentech’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Tebogo Leshope, shares his journey of transitioning from an engineering role to a management role. SA PROFILE spoke to him about setting team goals, driving team execution, and influencing overall team performance.

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

COVER FEATURE SENTECH

During your time at Sentech, what have been the major growth curves in terms of your professional development?

What are the biggest lessons you have learned that others can learn and grow from?

Transitioning from engineering role to management

attractive for the next opportunities, and that creates

role. I found it exciting to shift from a deep and focused

sustainable career impact.

environment to a broader responsibility that includes setting

I believe talent, integrity, and reputation make a professional

My advice to upcoming professionals is, “While working on

team goals, driving team execution and influencing overall

your career growth objectives, jealously guard your integrity

team performance.

and reputation.” Most career derailments are caused by

The opportunity to lead and manage diverse and

reputational destructions.

talented engineering professionals can be challenging and rewarding at the same time, particularly during paradigm shift and technology transformation waves.

As a leader, what would you say is key to driving sustainable growth? Strategy execution, creativity and innovation, an engaged

What are the benefits of longevity being at one organisation?

workforce, and good governance are key drivers for

To lead a complex technology organisation that has a day-

its commitment and should be able to regenerate its business

to-day impact on the lives of South Africans requires a good

and re-create itself to remain relevant in the market.

balance of skills, qualifications and experience. Being with Sentech and growing through the ranks

sustainable growth. Every successful business must deliver on

The workforce is vital to the success of every business, and managing the affairs of business in a manner that does not

provided me with the requisite engineering and

compromise the organistion is vital. We must lead business in

management experience. The institutional knowledge

an integrated manner, and proactively contribute to the socio-

and business context is always advantageous and allowed

economic environment within which we operate.

me to exploit business capabilities when dealing with new business opportunities and dealing with day-to-day operations.

What are the challenges? You become the go-to person in all historical cases that require background context, and sometimes this can stretch

The tech space is an ever-evolving sector. How does Sentech remain current? Continuous learning and skills development

At Sentech, we prioritise ongoing training and development programmes for our workforce, ensuring that our team stays up to date with the latest technological advancements.

Strategic partnerships

We actively seek collaboration with industry leaders to exchange knowledge, adopt best practices, and stay informed about emerging technologies.

Research and development

We allocate resources to research and development initiatives, enabling us to explore cutting-edge technologies and innovate within the broadcasting and telecommunications domain.

Agile development practices

Embracing agile methodologies, we adapt quickly to technological changes, allowing for flexible and efficient responses to evolving industry trends.

a professional beyond their primary role. Secondly, staying with one company for too long can lead to the development of monocultural teams and behaviours. This is dangerous for organisations and can breed groupthinking behaviours. I have had to manage this with the highest level of awareness to allow for the development of a multi-cultural team environment.

What has been your greatest achievement professionally? The highlight of my achievements is driving the release of a high-demand spectrum for South Africa. In 2021, I assumed the responsibility of driving the digital migration project for South Africa. At the time there had been slow progress, and I had to develop an alternative model to deliver success and had to negotiate the same with various stakeholders. Today, South Africa, like many other leading countries can leverage its high-demand spectrum for ICT development and the introduction of next-generation technologies.

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

COVER FEATURE SENTECH

Consequently, our objective is to revolutionise the company landscape by using cloud services that provide

By embracing digital streaming services, Sentech contributes to digital inclusion, allowing a broader segment of the population to access high-quality content, fostering a more connected and digitally engaged society.

advantages such as reduced expenses, increased flexibility, improved availability, enhanced protection, and other benefits. Our products will include cloud infrastructure, media solutions services, professional services, and training and certification. As an infrastructure provider, we aspire to develop community networks for smart villages employing 5G, IOT, and AI. We are looking particularly at collaborating with industries to develop these networks in the communities as part of CSI or obligations towards the community. We intend

What are some of the key initiatives that Sentech is planning to drive in 2024 and beyond? Sentech is actively engaged in launching and expanding FreevisionPlay, our innovative Over-the-Top (OTT) platform that is set to reshape the landscape of content distribution. With a multisided video streaming model, FreevisionPlay is revolutionising how South African

to synchronise programme of developing smart villages with SA Connect.

How will this impact the industry and the general public? Empowering content creators

FreevisionPlay is set to empower content creators, both large and small, by offering a platform that facilitates the distribution of their content to a wider audience, potentially transforming the dynamics of the broadcasting industry.

Enhancing viewer experience

The platform enriches the viewer experience by providing a seamless and diverse array of content accessible through various devices. It aligns with the global trend of on-demand and streaming services, offering flexibility and choice to the general public.

Digital inclusion

Economic growth

The growth of FreevisionPlay will contribute to the economic ecosystem by creating opportunities for content creators, broadcasters, and advertisers, potentially driving revenue growth and job creation in the broadcasting and content distribution sectors.

broadcasters, including community broadcasters, connect with their audience. This initiative provides a unique platform for a diverse range of broadcasters, offering them an innovative space to showcase their content to a broader and more engaged viewership. Specifically tailored for local South Africans, this free platform presents a rich variety of the country's best live and on-demand programming, all conveniently accessible on the move or at home. In the ever-evolving digital space, we are not only providing universal access through our DTT and DTH platforms, but also ensuring South Africans can access their favourite local programming on the go with FreevisionPlay, especially as the country moves towards the analogue switch-off. This collaborative effort is especially crucial for community broadcasters and their audiences, providing greater access to digital platforms in this connected era. As far as cloud services are concerned, the rapid advancement of technology has had a profound impact on both our corporate operations and society as a whole. Sentech recognises the potential to embrace and adapt to this change. One of our primary projects is the establishment of the Sentech Cloud Delivery Centre; the primary objective of which is to become the ultimate partner for allencompassing cloud solutions. We foster the adoption of digital technology and enable organisations to flourish.

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

COVER FEATURE SENTECH

Could you give us an update on the satellite project, and how this initiative will unlock opportunities?

Connect, Sentech will expand this expansive wireless

There is certainly a need to stimulate the ICT sector through

communities and households. Significant economic impacts

the development of the SA-Based Satellite project. The satellite

have been realised as a result of the current roll-out in the

project is multi-faceted and will position South Africa in the

communities of Emaxasibeni in Alfred Nzo District and

space segment, strengthen our technology capabilities, and

Phagameng in the Waterberg District.

enhance information security control. It will unlock the following

As one of the leading implementation agents for SA infrastructure to provide internet access to underserved

The current roll-out in the communities of Emaxasibeni in

opportunities in the market.

Alfred Nzo District and Phagameng in Waterberg District has

• Stimulate the manufacturing industry: South Africa

resulted in significant economic impact, including the following:

currently has a small and very niche satellite components manufacturing industry that mainly focuses on small component development for the earth observation

• Reduced data costs and expanded access to information for households. • Local ISPs have produced employment and skills in

industry. The vision for this programme is to start

communities they serve by installing devices, reselling

with locally developed and manufactured end-user

services to the end-user households, and supporting and

equipment, building up to the development of most of the components required to build the satellite in the long term. • Skills development: These are new skills that are

maintaining local infrastructure. We anticipate an exponential expansion of data usage and more localised participation in the digital economy.

ordinarily not available in the country at the moment, like engineering, mechanical and scientific skills covering the satellite development value chain.

The organisation is further poised to consolidate its digital media distribution plans into a multi-platform offering.

South Africa, according to reports, is mentioned as one of the countries on the continent to become the “Silicone Valley” of Africa. What is needed for SA to become a technological global leader, what does this look like, and how does Sentech foresee itself playing an enabling role to achieve this? Investing in technology and innovation enables economic growth and as such, Sentech will leverage its tower infrastructure and operationalising its data centres to offer broadband connectivity solutions. The organisation is further poised to consolidate its digital media distribution plans into a multi-platform offering. In

What has been the appetite to collaborate on this project from the private sector?

addition, the entity has the opportunity to collaborate with other

The market is eagerly waiting for Sentech to launch the project.

South African-owned communication satellite that will bolster

Sentech has received numerous inquiries from financial

local economic activity. This will in part enable the country to

institutions, private investors, potential customers, suppliers,

take further strides in becoming a leader in technology. ■

stakeholders, to realise the shareholder’s goal of developing a

and existing satellite operators to partner in developing the satellite.

How does Sentech plan to further enhance connectivity in remote and non-urban areas? Sentech has long operated in South Africa's remote and rural communities, transmitting content to their homes using transmitter towers. Some of these underserved locations had previously been difficult to reach via terrestrial networks, but with our satellite infrastructure, we ensured that all communities had access to multimedia content.

T 011 471 4400 E support@sentech.co.za W www.sentech.co.za SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

EDITORIAL TRENDS

2024 trends

watchlist for business owners By Juanita Vorster, Independent Business Strategist

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

As the frenzy around the star t of 2024 wears off, busin ess owners and leaders mu st ensure that their trends wat chlist for the remainder of th e year includes more than tech nological advancements.

EDITORIAL TRENDS

ocietal and behavioural trends can significantly

Insourcing

impact the operations – and ultimately the success –

Businesses that have traditionally outsourced some non-core

of any business. Small and medium businesses are

activities – often marketing, HR, and accounting services – should

especially vulnerable if they are caught unawares.

consider bringing the activities in-house with the assistance of AI. However, businesses that offer services that can now be offered to some extent by AI tools must urgently reassess their offerings in the face of the resulting insourcing trend. It is now more critical than ever for these businesses to articulate their

Business owners and leaders should avoid being seduced by opportunity into making panicked moves that might compromise long-term objectives in pursuit of short-term gains.

unique value proposition in a way that assists clients in making the outsourcing vs insourcing decision.

Knee-jerk decisions In a world driven by viral sensations, knee-jerk reactions to capitalise on the latest trends can be tempting. It is however crucial to align such decisions with the overarching purpose of the business. Business owners and leaders should avoid being seduced by opportunity into making panicked moves that might compromise long-term objectives in pursuit of short-term gains.

Awareness and acceptance of neurodiversity A notable trend gaining momentum is the increasing

Social shaming

awareness, acceptance, and accommodations for

As members of the public shine their social media spotlight

neurodiversity in the workplace.

on practices and products that were once accepted without

In 2024, business owners and leaders should challenge

question, businesses increasingly run the risk of coming under

their perceptions of neurodiversity. The focus should shift

viral fire for any negative impact caused by their raw materials,

to the potential strengths of neurodiverse employees like

manufacturing processes, working conditions, and marketing

enhanced pattern recognition, unusually quick creativity,

tactics.

blunt honesty, and other elements that are crucial to working innovatively and resourcefully. Fostering an inclusive environment that both acknowledges

With a diverse workforce and client base spanning multiple generations, it's imperative for business owners and leaders to not ban or ignore social media platforms. While the feedback

neurodiversity and adapts working conditions to the strengths

shared online might not be fully accurate, it often contains

and needs of neurodiverse individuals can become a key

elements that allude to the root cause of issues that are also on

differentiating factor for a business.

the mind of a wider client base.

Distracted employees While employers strive for increased employee engagement

Remain attuned to demographic shifts and evolving behaviours

and loyalty, the prevailing “cost of living crisis” is driving

Business owners and leaders should therefore remain attuned

employees to seek ways to generate additional income in

to any demographic shifts – and evolving behaviours – within

their spare time.

their workforce and customer base. These shifts should be met

These longer working hours often lead to exhaustion which can in turn show up as distraction, disengagement, and even burn-out in employees at their primary workplace. If businesses can’t afford to pay their employees more, adaptations to contracts and performance indicators could be considered. These adaptations could allow more transparent

with ongoing adaptation to product or service offerings and communication strategies accordingly. The business landscape in 2024 demands a holistic approach that integrates technological, societal, and behavioural considerations. By remaining aware of these trends and their potential

conversations – without fear of punishment – about the

impact, business owners can position themselves to navigate the

individual circumstances of each employee.

challenges and opportunities with more ease. ■

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

Q&A OPTIMI

Optimi

supporting every step of your learning journey Optimi provides accessible learning solutions to approximately 300 000 learners every year through its four divisions: Home, Classroom, College, and Workplace. SA PROFILE spoke to Optimi CEO, Stefan Botha, about the opportunities provided by continuous learning.

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

Q&A OPTIMI

What are your thoughts on continuous learning? Continuous learning is part of our DNA as humans. We learn until the day we die. Our brains process vast amounts of information every second. In a nutshell, learning is

In today’s ever-changing world, continuous learning is important for employees to stay relevant and contribute to business.

the process of filtering this information and making the important bits part of our long-term memory, shaping how we think, how we act, and how we make sense of the world Continuous learning is therefore part of our everyday

What role does Optimi play in helping to plug this gap?

lives as humans, and I believe that you must do your best to

We offer a range of management development programmes in

make the most of this fantastic trait. Stay curious, be open to

our College and Workplace divisions, from entry-level courses

new things, and – most importantly – surround yourself with

for individuals looking to improve their management and

opportunities to learn, be it a formal course, reading books

communication skills, to more advanced business management

or articles, discussions with others, or whatever you can find.

and leadership training.

What is the impact of continuous learning from a professional perspective?

easy for someone to learn while employed.

around us.

These courses include distance learning options, making it

which not only help you perform better in your role, but also

Do you think that the business and industry sectors are prioritising skills development sufficiently?

strengthen your career prospects.

There is a definite shift away from purely academic learning

Continuous learning has a profound impact on the workplace. As an employee, you acquire new capabilities,

In addition, the organisation benefits from a more skilled workforce, leading to better business performance, problem-solving, innovation, and ultimately more engaged

in the workplace environment, to skills-based training that is relevant to an organisation. In South Africa, we’ve seen a significant increase in

and satisfied employees. In today’s ever-changing world,

companies implementing learnerships, which are on-the-job

continuous learning is important for employees to stay

training programmes that teach prospective employees specific

relevant and contribute to business.

skills.

What is the impact of continuous learning from a personal perspective?

should be done to bridge this gap and ensure that we have a

We are, however, still facing a skills crisis, and I believe more well-trained and adaptable workforce.

Nelson Mandela said, “education is the most powerful change starts with the individual who embarks on the

What are your thoughts on skills development according to workplace needs?

journey to self-improvement through continuous learning.

Key challenges in South Africa related to workplace skills

It leads to more holistic individuals that can thrive in a

development include funding disparities, limited access to

weapon which you can use to change the world”. This

dynamic world filled with opportunities and challenges,

quality education, and a mismatch between training curricula

making a positive contribution to society.

and industry needs. High unemployment, particularly among the youth, amplify

What are some of the skills lacking in managers and leaders?

the urgency for relevant skills. Insufficient training infrastructure,

Schools tend to teach functional skills, but we need more

hinder equal opportunities.

than that to succeed and become leaders in the workplace.

disparities in educational resources, and historical inequalities Additionally, navigating the rapidly evolving skills

In order to solve complex challenges, managers need to be

requirements and technological landscape require constant

skilled at using the 4 C’s: communication, critical thinking,

adaptation. Coordinating efforts between the public and private

collaboration, and creativity.

sectors, addressing systemic issues, and fostering inclusive

In addition, there are important characteristics that make

educational policies are vital to overcoming these challenges

a good leader, including curiosity, determination, initiative,

and promoting comprehensive and sustainable workplace skills

adaptability, and social awareness.

development in South Africa.

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

Q&A OPTIMI

What are the opportunities, and how can they benefit SA holistically? The country's commitment to growth and inclusivity creates

young age, helping them shape their learning journey to their preferences as well as the needs of our economy. And lastly, we are involved in several community education

an opportunity for skills development in the workplace

projects through our Tuta-Me programmes in partnership with

environment. Collaboration between industry and educational

large corporates to provide high-school learners with extra-

institutions can bridge skill gaps, especially in emerging sectors

class tutoring in core subjects.

like technology and renewable energy.

distance learning modalities and digital platforms for remote

What are the major challenges at the basic education level, and how does this hinder potential growth?

learning enhances accessibility.

The provision of quality basic education is one of the key

Government initiatives related to skills development provide a framework for investment in workforce training. Leveraging

Encouraging entrepreneurship and vocational training

national priorities to eradicate poverty and establish a

can empower individuals and drive economic development.

prosperous and cohesive society in South Africa. Unfortunately,

Strategic partnerships, both locally and globally, offer avenues

after nearly 30 years of democracy, we are not reaching this

for knowledge exchange and capacity building, fostering a

goal.

robust ecosystem for workplace skills development in South Africa.

Many children in our country are leaving school with inadequate basic skills in literacy and numeracy, creating a major constraint for our country’s economic growth. We don’t

How can we bridge the gap between skills needed in our economy and the skills being taught in schools and at the university level?

have enough skilled teachers to address this challenge, which is exacerbated by a looming teacher shortage, with almost half of public school teachers that will retire in the next 10 years.

In South Africa, our school curriculum does not always answer to the ever-changing needs of business. Young people tend to lack many of the basic skills needed to make a meaningful contribution to the corporate environment. To bridge this gap, we should align learning in classrooms with industry needs by integrating practical workplace skills into our everyday teaching. We should strengthen partnerships between schools and business, offering internships and

Encouraging entrepreneurship and vocational training can empower individuals and drive economic development.

mentorship programmes. We should invest in teacher training to deliver relevant content and promote lifelong learning. Lastly, we should prioritise STEM education and vocational training to meet

How does Optimi help address this gap?

How can we address these challenges to empower people from an educational perspective?

We aim to broaden students’ exposure to more than just

When it comes to basic education, I believe we should be

the curriculum. To us, students must be able to critically

getting “back to basics”. Focusing on reading, verbal and written

evaluate problems and find innovative real-life solutions, and

communication, and mathematics, will provide learners with

we incorporate opportunities to strengthen these skills and

the foundational skills necessary to successfully navigate their

characteristics throughout the learning journey.

learning journey.

evolving workforce demands.

We ensure that our courses and materials are up to date

Teachers need training and support in order to incorporate

with the latest knowledge in global events, technology, and

these foundational skills into a meaningful learning environment.

market trends. Most of our offerings make use of distance or

Education is, however, not just something that happens at

online learning, which encourage discipline, determination, and

schools. As a society, we must foster a culture of learning, where

resourceful problem-solving.

we encourage and celebrate academic study and achievement.

We offer learnerships every year to help individuals learn

This starts at a young age, where parents need to read to their

basic workplace skills that will help them progress in their

small children on a daily basis to, amongst others, form critical

career. We also provide career guidance to learners from a

language skills and instil a love of reading and learning.

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

Q&A OPTIMI

What courses does Optimi offer to improve skills needed in the workplace?

How did your journey of continuous learning contribute to your career path?

Through our College and Workplace divisions, we provide

I was a very curious child who spent my time reading lots of

a range of offerings that can help someone advance their

books and asking lots of questions. This characteristic set the

career in today’s fast-changing working environment.

foundation for my lifelong learning journey.

These offerings include industry-certified courses,

I did well at school, and I was the first in my family to

accreditations, as well as short courses that help people

obtain a degree and later an MBA. However, my curiosity

gain skills in a broad range of topics such as IT, financial

didn’t stop after I obtained these qualifications. I continue to

accounting, human resource management, office

consume as much reading material and information as I can

administration, occupational health and safety, tourism,

get, looking for new ideas and insights. As a result of this,

childcare, technical qualifications, and many others.

continuous learning has been one of the cornerstones of my

These courses are available in online or distance format,

career progression, something I will never stop doing.

making it easier for people to study while they work.

In today’s business world, is an MBA still considered the golden standard?

What are some of the key lessons you have learned? The most important lesson is that you must take responsibility

This depends on what a person wants to do with their

for your own professional destiny. You should set your own

career. An MBA is a very useful qualification if your aim

goals, and only you can work to achieve these.

is to become a business owner or leader, as it teaches a

Never settle for mediocrity – one of my mottos is “good

very broad set of useful business concepts, from strategy

enough is the enemy of excellence”. Always be kind, helping

to marketing and sales, operations, finance, people

others where you can, building your support base along the

management, and others.

way.

If, however, you are more interested in a specific skill, such as a technician, IT specialist, healthcare worker, or

What makes a successful leader?

a financial administrator, an MBA would not help much

Successful leaders are those that have an exciting vision for

in furthering your career, and you will benefit more from

the future, which inspire others to help achieve this vision,

studying towards improving your specialist knowledge on

which can adapt to the changing needs of their environment,

the topic.

and that are resilient when faced with adversity.

How do short courses fare against an MBA? There are pros and cons to both: a short course is often

What are the top three skills all leaders should have?

more focused, typically more affordable, and with better

Leaders must be able to articulate their ideas in a clear and

defined outcomes that are more relevant to your immediate

simple manner to drive sustainable growth in an organisation.

needs. An MBA is a longer journey, typically more expensive, but can be very useful if people want to equip themselves with a broader and more generic set of skills for their future

At the same time, they must be able to collaborate with others, as they cannot drive growth and change on their own. Lastly, they must be skilled at strategic thinking in order to identify and capitalise on opportunities for growth. ■

career.

What are the educational trends for today’s leaders? The best leaders prioritise lifelong learning, including obtaining new information and ideas, and being open to change. They typically spend a lot of time reading, which provides them with a constant flow of information and many opportunities to learn something new. Today’s leaders embrace a wide range of learning opportunities, from microlearning and short courses, to skills programs and full qualifications.

T 087 405 2233 E info@optimi.co.za W optimi.co.za SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

PROFILE CORNERSTONE INSTITUTE

A force in finance,

education, and community development Abdul Basier Dramat, Chief Executive Officer: Cornerstone Institute, is a distinguished South African professional accountant, financial executive, and community leader, and a force in finance, education, and community development.

ramat's academic journey commenced at Symphony

18-24 claimed they did not have the financial means to pay for

Senior Secondary School in Belhar, followed by

their tuition, according to the "Higher Education and Skills in

pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the

South Africa" report released by Statistics South Africa.

University of the Western Cape (UWC). His early career rapidly progressed, honing skills at Shrand and Ekermans Chartered

According to Dramat, partnerships are crucial in bridging the education gap and creating a sustainable impact.

Accountants and later as a junior partner at HS Accounting.

The institute partners with organisations such as Garden

In addition to his professional achievements, Dramat

Cities, Rex Trueform, and Texton Property Fund, to mention a

maintains a solid commitment to community involvement,

few, providing financial assistance, valuable job placements,

holding key positions in various boards and sports governance

and career development opportunities through bursary

bodies. His dedication to Earthlife Africa, the Green Connection,

programmes.

and Darkroom Contemporary reflects a passion for sustainable community development.

The bursary programmes have specific criteria aligned with inclusivity requirements, considering race, gender,

Joining Cornerstone Institute in 2015 as Financial Manager,

and community involvement. The financial aid committee

Dramat's ascent to becoming the institute's first Chief Financial

meticulously evaluates individual applications to ensure

Officer (CFO) in 2018 showcased his exceptional management

inclusivity and reach disadvantaged groups, identifying

and financial skills. In 2021, he expanded his role as the Chief

students in need based on their financial background.

Operating Officer (COO) of Aurora University, a sister company

Approximately 4.5% of Cornerstone's full-time students

of Cornerstone Institute. Completing an MBA with MANCOSA in

receive an average of 12% financial aid towards their annual

2020 underscores his commitment to continuous learning.

tuition fee. The institute aims to reach more previously

His journey to becoming the Chief Executive Officer of Cornerstone Institute is a testament to his commitment and broad expertise, playing a pivotal role in strategic planning and operational management. Cornerstone Institute is a not-for-profit organisation

disadvantaged individuals, offering them opportunities to further their studies. Dramat invites potential sponsors and partners to join the mission to bridge educational gaps and empower students. "By partnering with us, you contribute to making a lasting

committed to providing quality education. The institution plays a

difference in the lives of individuals and communities," he says.

vital role in society by producing students who are 'Learning to

Over the last 15 years, Cornerstone Institute has had a

Change the World.'

significant educational impact, awarding 2 165 qualifications: Honours (402), PGCE (1 119), Bachelor Degrees (467) and

Partnerships are crucial in bridging the education gap

Higher Certificates (177).

Unfortunately, not every individual who is willing to study can

share our commitment to education, community development,

participate. In 2019, more than half (or 51%) of youth aged

and positive societal change," adds Dramat. ■

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

"We look forward to expanding our network of partners who

EDITORIAL COACHING

Unlocking opportunities

through coaching In the ever-changing landscape of leadership and business, growth and success hinge on the ability to adapt and evolve. This is where the power of executive coaching, particularly the unique approach of Integrative Coaching, becomes evident. By Warren Munitz, Master Coach, Author & Founder of Integrative Coaching

n this exploration, you'll discover how coaching can benefit you

How coaching benefits you as a leader

as a leader, identify common trends that might be hindering your

1. Elevating your self-awareness and emotional

growth, and understand how coaching can help address these

intelligence: As a leader, your ability to understand

challenges, empowering you to reach new heights in your leadership

and manage your emotions, as well as those of your

journey. This is how you become the leader you are meant to be, and

team, is crucial. Coaching enhances your self-awareness

how to unlock your unlimited potential and the great leader within.

and emotional intelligence; these are key ingredients for effective decision-making and building empathetic and harmonious relationships. This increased awareness allows you to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics with greater ease, understanding, and mastery. 2. Mastering stress management and resilience: The pressures of leadership can be overwhelming, leading to stress and potential burnout. Integrative Coaching equips you with stress-management techniques, including mindfulness and meditation, helping you build resilience when you need it most. This is vital for maintaining peak performance, even in high-pressure situations, and allowing you to relax and completely let go so you can recharge properly. 3. Transforming your leadership style: Coaching encourages you to move beyond traditional management methods and embrace transformational leadership. This approach not only motivates and inspires your team but also enhances team dynamics and fosters a culture of innovation, personal growth, and purpose. 4. Personalising your growth pathway: Recognising that your leadership journey is unique, Integrative Coaching offers tailored programs that align with your individual needs and aspirations. This bespoke approach ensures that your path to development is as unique as you are.

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

EDITORIAL COACHING

Identifying and overcoming executive growth challenges As you navigate your leadership journey, you might encounter several trends that can impede your growth: 1. Relying too heavily on established practices: You may find yourself sticking to familiar methods and resisting new approaches. This can limit your adaptability, hinder your growth potential, and keep you stuck in old patterns. 2. Addressing a lack of inner awareness: A lack of understanding of your true nature can create self-imposed barriers, restricting both your personal and professional growth. The importance of this cannot be emphasised enough, many people spend their entire lives without ever exploring their inner landscape. The over emphasis on the external fundamentally creates imbalance. 3. Struggling with work-life balance: Balancing your professional responsibilities with personal well-being is a common challenge. This struggle can lead to burnout or worse, affecting

Coaching as your empowerment partner

your effectiveness as a leader and your very

Empowerment is a key outcome of the coaching process. By unlocking

essential health.

your inner potential, you gain the confidence to empower others, creating

4. Building emotional resilience: In challenging times, you might find it difficult to maintain composure and make clear, rational decisions.

a culture of shared growth and success. Coaching helps you: • Cultivate empathic leadership: Developing empathy, a core component of emotional intelligence, is vital for understanding and responding to the needs of your team members, fostering an inclusive

Through a holistic and personalised approach, coaching can help you address these challenges: • Challenging conventional mindsets: Coaching will work with you to identify and question ingrained beliefs and practices, fostering an openness to innovation and new strategies.

and supportive work environment. • Enhance your decision-making abilities: With improved selfawareness, you can make more informed and effective decisions, contributing to the overall success of your teams and organisation. • Inspire innovation: Coaching encourages you to adopt a growth mindset, becoming a catalyst for innovation and inspiring your team to think creatively and embrace change.

• Facilitating inner realisation: Techniques

• Foster a culture of continuous learning: Coaching instils in you a

like meditation, inquiry and deep reflection

mindset of lifelong learning, encouraging continuous personal and

can help you gain insights into your inner self,

professional development.

fostering a shift in perspective and enhancing self-awareness. • Balancing professional and personal

Executive coaching, especially through the Integrative Coaching approach, is an invaluable tool for your leadership journey. It helps you

growth: Coaching guides you in managing

tackle common challenges, fosters empowerment and equips you with

your time and energy effectively, ensuring a

the skills and resilience needed to excel in today’s dynamic business

healthy work-life balance.

environment.

• Developing emotional resilience: Coaching

As you evolve and adapt through coaching, you are better positioned

equips you with tools to manage stress and

to lead your teams and organisations towards greater success and

develop emotional resilience, enabling you to

fulfilment. ■

navigate challenges with clarity and poise.

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

PROFILE HESED CONSULTING

Vumile Msweli

– career coach, speaker, columnist and philanthropist Vumile Msweli, Chief Executive Officer of coaching and consulting firm Hesed Consulting, has carved a niche for herself in career coaching.

umi as she is affectionately known is also the

Nation’s Ban Ki-moon Foundation and organisations such as the

Founder of the Hesed Africa Foundation a non profit

African Union and the Women’s Economic Forum. She is the host

organisation that works in the education, youth and

of “Vumi and Veuve host Women in Commerce” and writes a

women empowerment sphere. It is set to host its innaugral

regular career column in Business Day. She also features regularly

Africa Career Summit and Awards celebrating inspiring African

in a career radio slot on Botswana’s Duma FM, Nigeria’s Smooth

careers and supporting people in corporate to accelerate in their

FM and South Africa’s Kaya FM.

careers. Hesed Consulting specialises in commerce acceleration,

Qualifications and awards

career coaching, women empowerment, facilitation and training

Her qualifications are numerous: Bachelor of Commerce:

on the African continent, with a presence in Nigeria, South Africa,

Accounting Sciences (University of Pretoria); Bachelor of

Botswana, Kenya, USA, Rwanda and affiliates in Namibia, Ghana

Commerce: Finance Honours (University of Johannesburg);

and Uganda.

Masters Business Administration (University of London, United

Msweli has coached in multinationals such as Google,

Kingdom); Executive Education (New York University, United

ABSA, Investec Private Bank, Silica, FNB, Vodacom and Anglo-

States of America); Executive Education (GIBS, South Africa and

American. She has also worked for reputable multinational

GIMPA, Ghana); Teaching Certificate ( Harvard University, United

institutions such as Barclays, Investec, Nedbank, First National

States of America), and Doctorate Applied Leadership (UGSM,

Bank and Vodafone.

Switzerland currently studying).

Successfully led global teams in Africa and Europe

awards spanning many years. In the past three years she was

Msweli, as an operations, finance and strategy executive with

Development (2023); Forty under 40 Africa Awards (2023); Top 50

experience in both the telecommunications and finance sectors,

Memorable Women Awards (2022); Santam Women of the Future

has successfully led global teams in Africa and Europe. She

Award (2021); and Top Empowered Young Achiever (2021). ■

Msweli has also been the recipient of numerous prestigious awarded the Most Influential Human Resources and Personal

also services clients in executive, financial, and speaking and mentoring coaching. She is a qualified and experienced life coach, transformational coach, neuro linguistic programming practitioner, and negative emotional therapy practitioner. As an avid coach and international speaker, she has spoken at conferences, expos, and workshops around the globe on topics such as leadership, women empowerment, finance matters and conducting business in Africa. Msweli has addressed corporates such as Google; United

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

T 011 568 8003 E vumi@hesedconsulting.co.za W www.hesedconsulting.co.za

women IN LEADERSHIP

CHAMPIONING ETHICAL LEADERSHIP

LEADERSHIP IS A MULTI-FACETED CHALLENGE

LEADING IN INFRASTRUCTURE WITH GUGULETHU MOYO

Q&A AEON INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT

Leadership

is a multi-faceted challenge Tshego Dichabe is the CEO at Aeon Investment Management and serves on the board as an Executive Director. In her capacity as CEO, Dichabe’s role is focused on business strategy and management, as well as institutional business development. SA PROFILE spoke to her about leadership.

What prompted you to enter the investment sector?

space. It was at Sanlam Personal Finance that I saw the extent of

From my university days I always knew I wanted to be involved

it was a good place for exposure in terms of seeing the industry

in the financial sector.

holistically.

possibilities working in the investment management space, as

It is particularly important to me that people know I stumbled

one could have with an accounting qualification i.e., auditor or

What do you think the opportunities are for finance professionals to enter the investment field?

financial manager.

There are numerous opportunities for finance professionals

into the investment management space. Originally, born and bred in Bloemfontein in the Free State, all I knew was the future

Having parents who worked as teachers and with no

to enter the investment field. Normally, regardless of whether

extended family members who worked in finance or investment

it is locally or abroad, the coveted position is to be as directly

management related occupations, discovering this industry

involved as possible managing money on behalf of clients.

was purely incidental, instead of intentional. It was only after I

A large number of professionals in this space work to

had joined Sanlam Personal Finance, working with retail clients

become portfolio managers and investment analysts within

and being exposed to asset managers through roadshows,

various asset classes i.e., equities, fixed income, property, etc.

fund updates and reading investment related publications that

Many find it is difficult to break into these roles.

I formulated the desire to pivot to the investment management

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

However, one also finds there are ample opportunities

Q&A AEON INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT

for people with various skillsets to work in the operational,

objectives constantly. Having the right attitude, such as learning

administrative, and distribution areas of investment

to go the extra mile and adding value ahead of entitlement, has

management and experience promising careers.

helped me through my career thus far. Also, being first to admit when you have made a mistake and owning it with sincerity and

What was it like for you breaking into the investment sector as a young female?

accountability goes a long way.

Finance, where I had been for over three years looking for an

What excites you most about your current role at Aeon Investment Management?

investment management linked role, I received the opportunity

The people I get to engage with across various disciplines, the

to work at PPS Investments and moved to Cape Town – the land

diversity of our clients and being part of an organisation that is

of asset managers some may say.

passionately focused on being worthy stewards of our clients’

Honestly, from my days as a financial planner at Sanlam Personal

My time at PPS Investments allowed me to see the inner workings of distribution and client service especially for Independent Financial Advisors (IFAs) and their businesses. When it was time to decide on my next move, I knew I

capital. I have grown in unprecedented ways through the sheer variety of exposure I have received in my role at Aeon Investment Management.

wanted to serve the institutional client retirement market. It was COO, Uwais Asmal CA(SA), met me at an Association of Black

How do you juggle the two roles of CEO and Head of Business Development?

Securities and Investment Professionals (ABSIP) event in Cape

Working and managing assets for predominately institutional

Town.

clients with a boutique investment firm still growing to scale,

during this time that the then Aeon Investment Management

When we met, I shared my next career move and

my role in business development involved constant networking,

miraculously found out the firm was looking for a Business

client relationship management and being approachable.

Development Officer, and he suggested I apply. The rest is

After I became CEO, I simply transitioned to overseeing

history.

this function while working alongside our Client Relationship Manager, Regaugetswe Kgoadi and Chief Investment Officer,

What was key in helping you transition and grow into the CEO role?

Asief Mohamed.

I joined Aeon Investment Management at a time when the

opportunity to attract talent to join our distribution team, freeing

business was going through a transition, managing about

me up more to work on strategy. I am excited to see where we

R5 billion in assets. Our Chief Investment Officer and business

will be three to five years from now.

Now the growth of the business has offered us the

founder, Asief Mohamed CA(SA),CFA, needed all hands-on

the portfolio management team, investment process and

You have some experience in entrepreneurship. Tell us a bit about this, and how you see your current role enabling entrepreneurs.

performance, financial management, and client requests all the

From an early age, I have been fascinated by making money and

way to the recruitment process.

what it takes to build a good sustainable business. In my primary

deck to build to the next level. Being in a strategic role like business development meant I got to see the business in all its different areas, from

Even when it was not in my job description, I found a way to assist across the business. Then when the business had grown exponentially over a four-year period to over R13 billion in

school days, I sold milk bottles at school by ordering from my father, who was also a smallholder farmer. At university I sold health products and eventually, with a

assets under management and needed a CEO, my own growth

group of varsity friends, started a company called Genesis Africa

and understanding of the business made it possible to appoint

Home Improvement Services. The exposure I received starting

me as the successor to Asief Mohamed, who used to hold the

a company, dealing with employees, sourcing funding, learning

CEO and CIO role since founding the business.

to leverage the art of networking and overcoming the fears and challenges of running a business were a great introduction to

What characteristics were critical in helping to position yourself in a leadership role?

the world of entrepreneurship aside from just reading about it.

My approach is rooted in my revelation that leadership is a

• Best New Enterprise in the Free State Enterprise Job Creation

multi-faceted challenge, which tests your commitment and

Challenge: As one of the co-founders of Genesis Africa

Eventually the company won awards including:

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

Q&A AEON INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT

the International Labour Organisation and partners such

What are the top three highlights of your career journey?

as Microsoft, Blue Pencil, and the University of Free State

• Being at Aeon Investment Management and being part of its

Investment (Pty) Ltd, we received the award funded by

Business School in May 2013. • The MTN Seed Capital Business Incubator 2014: The

success and growth story thus far. • Secondly, being a member of the fifth Africa Leadership

company was selected as the winner of the Seed Capital

Initiative – Young Leaders fellowship for the 2023/2024 class.

Competition. We were mentored by University of the Free

This initiative’s mandate is to develop the next generation

State Economic and Management Sciences as part of the

of values-based young African leaders who are prepared to

programme award. After these experiences and the understanding gained

play a significant role in co-creating a good society. • Last year, the Association of Black Securities & Investment

working in this field, I discovered my path and that it would

Professionals (ABSIP) National held its 2023 ABSIP Financial

be best to work where an entrepreneurial flair is needed and

Services Sector Awards. I was awarded the Mxolisi Mbetse

encouraged. Here at Aeon Investment Management, I can be

Award for Outstanding Young Professional for demonstrating

an intrapreneur and focus on helping to build this business

commitment to advancing others through one’s career and

each step of the way.

leadership, including exemplifying ABSIP values. The award

My advice to entrepreneurs is to go for it and be willing

recognises an individual whose contribution to the ABSIP

to pay the cost of the dream while surrounding yourself with

Young Professionals has been outstanding within a three-

people who know your vision, so they can help it prosper.

year period and is conferred by ABSIP Young Professionals and validated by the National Adjudication Panel.

What has been your greatest challenge, and how have you overcome this? Imposter syndrome! As a relatively young female professional

Looking ahead, what do you think is critical for continuous growth?

it has felt at times certain winds, which are part and parcel of

Our vision is to be the investment manager of choice for the

operating in our space, made me feel a certain reluctance

institutional retirement market.

to take up space and own the seat at the table as a decision maker.

Right now, we are looking to continue building the business in a measured and organic manner, probing our strategies to

But with time and by navigating various key decisions, actions and tasks, I’ve found the value of my voice and clarified

ensure we remain relevant to our clients and market. We are operating in a ferociously competitive industry with

my vision for what impact I want to have made through my

varying challenges. Yet opportunities for global mandates,

career and platform.

especially with our expertise of managing equities and multiasset class portfolios, we are looking ahead with optimism and

What key lessons have you learned, and how has this shaped you into the leader you are today? The importance of networking, accountability and being willing

a keen focus to do the right thing at the right time. This is not the time to try to be everything to everyone, but to know your strengths and leverage them. On a personal note, being able to find ways to sow it back to

to ask for help when needed. In addition, the understanding

other young people coming up in the financial sector with some

that good teams help drive success.

of the opportunities I have received. ■

What drives you? A vision to become an influential business leader in the financial sector who is working on making a difference in some form. As a woman of faith, my trust in God has played a crucial role in wanting to create significance through the work I do. I am truly fortunate and blessed to work with amazing colleagues in our team, including across industry and having a mentor and sponsor, Asief Mohamed, who passionately believes in creating opportunities for young people and having the wisdom to find ways to empower young people into positions of responsibility and meaningful contribution.

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

T +27 21 204 6066/8 E info@aeonim.co.za W www.aeonim.co.za

18 YEARS OF GROWTH

Our investment philosophy, Growth at a Reasonable Price, guides our approach in navigating uncertain times. Heres to 18 years of growth and more.

W WW. A E O N I M . C O . Z A

for more information contact: info@aeonim.co.za EXPERT INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT | DISCOVER YOUR FUTURE | INVEST IN GROWTH TODAY. Aeon Investment Management is an authorised ﬁnancial services provider FSP No. 27126 Registration no: 2005/013315/07 Level One B-BBEE Contributor.

PROFILE UNIVERSAL KNOWLEDGE SOFTWARE (UKS)

Leading

with courage At the helm of Universal Knowledge Software (UKS), a leading solutions provider in the EduTech space, Neesha Ramsumar chats to SA PROFILE about her inspiring entrepreneurial journey and encouraging others to achieve their goals...

“T

he key to success is hard work and courage

Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Lesotho and Swaziland.”

– hard work is the easy part,” says Neesha

Ramsumar highlights the following as key lessons:

Ramsumar, UKS CEO.

Courage is, however, something that resonates strongly with

Ramsumar who became CEO of UKS in 2005. “I come from a humble background and growing up I did not

• “It’s critical to grow strong partnerships – at UKS we have partnered with various global companies in The Netherlands, Canada and France to mention a few." • “Client satisfaction is paramount. It’s harder to find a

have that much exposure to business people. When the CEO

new client – it’s easier to look after and nurture a strong

position became vacant, I knew I had the potential to do the job

relationship with existing clients. Rather over-deliver than

with some mentoring so I approached the Board and asked for the opportunity. “I did not think I would stand a chance, considering the

under-deliver." • “It is critical to work tightly with regional teams and partners – wherever in the world – to be able to find

demographics of the Board – predominantly white male, while

sustainable solutions to each location’s unique challenges

I am a woman of colour. Surprisingly, they came back with a

and needs. My team is globally known for being

positive answer and provided me with a mentor to help me

technically capable – we always find a solution to make

navigate my new role. “I learned a lot through a process of mentorship, and

things work for your clients." • "Individuals can’t be everything and you have to be aware

am passionate about mentoring others as a means to give

of people’s strengths and boundaries to help realise their

back. Over the years I have worked on various mentorship

potential."

programmes to encourage women to achieve their goals,” says Ramsumar.

• “I am only as good as the people around me. It is impossible to know everything so its important to continuously learn. I always look to bring in new mentors

Becoming an entrepreneur

to help my team navigate new aspects."

In 2017, Ramsumar undertook another courageous move with a successful management buy-out, thus adding the title of

Exciting projects in the pipeline

entrepreneur to her impressive business journey.

Even with all her achievements, Ramsumar shows no signs of

“Working for a JSE-listed company is very different to being

slowing down. “In my opinion, if your business is not growing,

an entrepreneur. When you are part of a listed group things are

it’s dying. We live in such a competitive world – especially

very stringent, but since the buy-out I have had more freedom to

in the tech space. At UKS we remain committed to growing

diversify the business.

in the EduTech space and are also looking at some really

“We have expanded our service offerings in the EduTech

exciting potential projects in the pipeline, such as utilising

space and pushed very hard to grow our foorprint in the African

technology to enhance healthcare diagnosis and so forth,”

market. Today UKS operates in South Africa, Malawi, Kenya,

concludes Ramsumar. ■

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

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PROFILE AIMS INTERNATIONAL

Leonie Pentz O’Connor: Driving sustainable leadership at Aims International In the competitive landscape of global executive search and talent management, Leonie Pentz O'Connor stands out as a beacon of sustainable leadership. With a dual role as the Managing Partner of AIMS South Africa and the Global Sustainability Lead for AIMS International, she strives for a harmonious blend of corporate acumen and environmental and humanitarian consciousness, reshaping the landscape of executive recruitment.

entz O'Connor's journey into the world of leadership

excellence. From her early days as a Consultant specialising

and sustainability began with a foundation rooted

in FMCG placements to her current role as Managing Partner,

in hardcore recruitment training and a passion for

Pentz O'Connor has consistently demonstrated strategic

fostering positive change. She is the proud mother of three

foresight, operational prowess, and unwavering commitment

‘amazing children’ who seem to mirror her interests; a son in

to ethical leadership and value in service. She served on the

Digital Business Systems, eldest daughter a Search Consultant

AIMS International Executive Board between 2016 and 2022,

with AIMS Switzerland, and youngest (daughter) in her final

launching the AIMS Sustainability portfolio during this tenure.

year masters in Documentary Film majoring in Environmental Journalism. Her ascent within AIMS International reflects a trajectory marked by dedication, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of

Championing sustainability in executive search management As the Global Sustainability Lead for AIMS International, Pentz O'Connor, together with her team members, spearheads initiatives aimed at embedding sustainability principles into the fabric of executive search and talent management.

Pentz O'Connor has consistently demonstrated strategic foresight, operational prowess, and unwavering commitment to ethical leadership and value in service.

Her visionary approach transcends traditional notions of corporate responsibility, advocating for a holistic integration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into recruitment and indeed business practices. Under her leadership, AIMS International has embraced sustainability as a core value, aligning its operations with the principles of environmental stewardship and social equity.

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PROFILE AIMS INTERNATIONAL

From implementing green recruitment practices to fostering

Association), a global organisation promoting Western riding

diversity and inclusion in leadership appointments, Pentz

and particularly the welfare of horses around the world.

O'Connor's initiatives have positioned AIMS as a trailblazer in

Pentz O'Connor and her husband Gavin, support many good

sustainable executive search.

causes in their community such as a pensioner’s village, youth sports competitors, and various feeding schemes.

Driving impact through thought leadership

Her ability to bridge the gap between business

Pentz O'Connor's influence extends far beyond the confines

imperatives and sustainability goals has earned her

of AIMS International, as she leverages her platform to

recognition as a trusted advisor and strategic partner, with

drive meaningful dialogue and inspire collective action on

organisations seeking her guidance on navigating the

sustainability issues.

complex landscape of sustainable leadership.

As a sought-after speaker and thought leader, she lends her expertise to global forums, industry conferences, and

Personal values and vision for the future

academic symposiums, catalysing difficult conversations

At the heart of Pentz O'Connor's leadership philosophy lies

around the intersection of leadership, sustainability, and

a deep-seated commitment to integrity, authenticity, and

corporate governance.

purpose-driven action.

Her thought leadership extends to digital platforms,

Grounded in her belief that business success and

where she engages with a diverse audience through blogs,

environmental stewardship are not mutually exclusive;

podcasts, and social media platforms, disseminating insights,

she envisions a future where sustainability is not just a

best practices, and actionable strategies for sustainable

buzzword but a fundamental guiding principle of corporate

leadership.

governance.

Fostering collaborative partnerships

improvement, she remains steadfast in her pursuit of a more

Pentz O'Connor's impact is magnified through her

sustainable and equitable future. Her unwavering dedication

collaborative partnerships with industry stakeholders,

to driving positive change serves as an inspiration to aspiring

non-profit organisations, and academic institutions. By

leaders and seasoned executives alike, epitomising the

forging strategic alliances and synergistic collaborations,

transformative power of purpose-driven leadership.

With a relentless focus on innovation and continuous

she amplifies the reach and impact of AIMS International's

Pentz O'Connor’s profile exemplifies the convergence

sustainability initiatives, fostering a culture of collective

of leadership excellence and sustainable innovation,

responsibility and shared value creation.

positioning her as a formidable force for positive change

She is a member of NRHA (National Reining Horse

within the global executive search industry and beyond. As she continues to chart new frontiers and break barriers, her legacy of sustainable leadership will endure as a testament to the transformative potential of visionary leadership. Her favourite phrase is: “Be the change you want to see in the world”. ■

T +27 21 001 0070 W www.aimsinternational.com/za SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

PROFILE KELLANOVA SOUTH AFRICA

Driving meaningful impact through purposeful communication and strategic engagement Zandile Mposelwa, Corporate Affairs Director at Kellanova South Africa, is a passionate, high-energy, innovative, focused, and purpose-driven corporate affairs leader. She is committed to driving meaningful impact through purposeful communication and strategic engagement. She has honed her skills in navigating complex stakeholder landscapes and shaping resonating narratives.

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PROFILE KELLANOVA SOUTH AFRICA

poselwa is a member of the company's South

BPSA, Woolworths, and HomeChoice. She holds an MBA from

African leadership team and leads the company's

Henley Business School.

Corporate Affairs team. . Whether it’s advocating for

fostering community partnerships, she leads with intentionality

Incredible things happen when women support each other

and believes every action should align with a greater purpose.

Mposelwa is committed to creating an inclusive world of work

She thrives on collaboration by fostering strong relationships

where every woman stands tall, unapologetically. She does

with internal teams, external partners, government, and

this by dismantling barriers, amplifying voices, and igniting

regulatory bodies; she drives alignment and creates win-win

transformation. Mposelwa leads Women of Kellanova for

solutions.

the South Africa business. Women of Kellanova is a business

sustainable practices, championing diversity and inclusion, or

employee resource group that aims to make the company an organisation where all women learn, grow, lead, and succeed. She seeks to inspire action, whether speaking at conferences,

Committed to creating an inclusive world of work where every woman stands tall, unapologetically.

engaging audiences about Purpose Leadership, or mentoring young women in navigating the corporate world. Mposelwa believes that “incredible things happen when women support each other.” For her CSI efforts, she was recognized by CSRNEWSSA as one of the 12 Leading Women in CSI for 2022/2023. She was

Mposelwa is constantly inspired by the Kellanova

also awarded as the winner of the 2024 Gender Mainstreaming

Better Days™ Promise, the company’s commitment

Positive Role Model Award for her commitment to gender

to advance sustainable and equitable access to food

advocacy in the workplace.

by actively addressing the intersection of well-being, hunger, sustainability, and equity, diversity, and

Mposelwa is a mother to a 19-year-old son and a 3-year-old daughter, who are a constant inspiration. ■

inclusion. To help deliver on its purpose of ensuring equitable access to food in South Africa, since 2014, the company has donated 58 million meals to school children through the Better Days Promise School Feeding Programme. Before this role, Mposelwa held a variety of mid to senior management positions at Kellanova and, before Kellanova, at various organisations, including Tetra Pak, Nampak,

T 011 233 6600 W www.kellanova.com

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EDITORIAL WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP

Leading women in the education sphere

Women are an integral part of any organisation. Here we profile four women leaders from the Optimi Group who share their leadership style...

Wilna Pelser HEAD: PROJECTS AT OPTIMI How would you describe your leadership style?

Willemien von Solms

I have a strong focus on well-being, and I aim to contribute to the individual and the

HEAD: PUBLICATIONS AT OPTIMI

project’s success through active collaboration.

How would you describe your leadership style?

What do you think women in leadership positions are

Mainly coaching, but I find it is important to adapt one’s

especially well-equipped to contribute to the learning

leadership style depending on the situation.

landscape? Adaptability, flexibility and providing the ability to embrace

What do you think women in leadership positions are

change in the fast-changing learning landscape.

especially well-equipped to contribute to the learning landscape?

How do you keep up with innovation and tech advances

Women may find it easier to understand how learners’

in learning?

circumstances and environment impact their learning journey,

Where possible I try to explore the functionality available on

and find ways to address these challenges.

popular learning management systems and keep tabs on their latest releases.

How do you keep up with innovation and tech advances in learning?

Being a woman in leadership, do you find that there’s an

By reading, researching and always being willing to innovate,

expectation to be less authoritative and more nurturing?

adapt, improve and change.

I believe there is still a subconscious expectation, but that a combination of softer and harder leadership traits is very

Being a woman in leadership, do you find that there’s an

effective.

expectation to be less authoritative and more nurturing? Yes, unfairly so. Empathy and nurturing in leadership are

How do you go about promoting new or unpopular

important attributes, regardless of gender.

ideas? I try to share a compelling vision of what we are trying to

How do you go about promoting new or unpopular ideas?

achieve to get the team aligned with the new objectives and

Give context and communicate, communicate, communicate.

big picture.

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EDITORIAL WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP

Natasha Sampson

Sanet Nel

HEAD: HUMAN RESOURCES AT OPTIMI

HEAD: SALES AND MARKETING AT OPTIMI COLLEGE

How would you describe your leadership style?

I would describe it as agile. No team member is the same, and

It varies depending on situations, but I am mostly on a spectrum

so it becomes important to understand that needs are different.

somewhere between democratic and transactional.

I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach, and this includes how I support stakeholders.

What do you think women in leadership positions are especially well-equipped to contribute to the learning

What do you think women in leadership positions are

landscape?

especially well-equipped to contribute to the learning

To my mind, women add great value in any working environment

landscape?

by developing others through mentoring and coaching.

There are things that women in leadership learn as they move through the ranks, which aren’t always contained in a book or

How do you keep up with innovation and tech advances in

a course. Those softer elements of leadership and personal

learning?

development are so important to impart on other young

I subscribe to forums that share relevant industry news and

professionals, so that they have the tools they need to make

insights.

their transition into more senior roles a lot smoother. Being a woman in leadership, do you find that there’s an How do you keep up with innovation and tech advances in

expectation to be less authoritative and more nurturing?

learning?

Not at all. Nurturing comes naturally to women and that enables

From a very young age I have been curious about the world

us to strike a healthy balance between caring and leading with

around me and my own development. I read constantly,

authority.

participate in forums and also attend as many webinars and talks as my schedule allows. This has allowed me to keep abreast of

How do you go about promoting new or unpopular ideas?

any developments in the learning space that could be of benefit

By presenting both the pros and cons of any idea, I encourage

to the teams I support.

buy-in by talking through the facts or information at hand to make my case.

Being a woman in leadership, do you find that there’s an expectation to be less authoritative and more nurturing? I have been lucky to find myself in environments where the unique contributions of women in leadership are not only celebrated but valued. That said, I would always encourage female leaders to be authentic leaders. We lose out on so much value when we conform to what we think is expected of us versus leading from the heart. How do you go about promoting new or unpopular ideas? I love innovation and pushing the boundaries. This has to be tempered with an awareness of where the businesses that I support are at. I always aim to know the businesses well that I service, so that my proposals are not so extreme that they don’t make sense. I also find the use of data to be an important tool when pitching something new.

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

PROFILE FASSET

FASSET CEO, Ms Ayanda Mafuleka (centre) with graduates from the Women Leadership Programme.

Women development takes centre stage at FASSET

The Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority (FASSET) has imbedded the transformation agenda within its DNA, developing programmes that bring about change. Women development programmes take precedent in the FASSET pipeline in the following ways.

Bridging the unemployment gap

with the Graca Machel Foundation: Women Creating Wealth

Internships are the doorway for entering the employment

programme. This impactful intervention is aimed at developing

pool through provision of experiential learning and FASSET

600 women led SMMEs in the financial services sector.

places priority in ensuring women are offered the same opportunity to contribute towards the sector. This focus also aligns with FASSET’s transformation agenda.

Women at the helm of leadership The representation of women at executive level remains a

In the 2022-2023 financial year, FASSET funded over 2 000

challenge in the sector and FASSET’s Executive Development

young women in various rural parts of South Africa, including

Programme focuses on enhancing the leadership skills and

KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Limpopo. Beneficiaries

business acumen of women in the sector.

within the internship programme are also provided access to digital skills training, which is value add to make them attractive candidates for permanent employment.

This supports the need for equal representation and ensuring that those with access are better prepared. The programme is facilitated through FASSET partners; Wits Business School and IWFSA who in turn have partnered with

Entrepreneurial support

Duke Corporate Education. Over 2 000 women will be enrolled

Small and medium enterprises are critical to solving the

in the programme with 109 graduates already in its first year.

poverty problem through employment, but women-owned

The programme, through IWFSA and Duke CE, also includes

businesses often face challenges in accessing finance and

one-on-one mentoring where delegates are mentored by

markets.

globally acclaimed and successful women leaders associated

Research also shows that women entrepreneurship is increasing faster in Africa than anywhere else in the world, but most of the businesses are small-scale and rarely develop into larger, more profitable businesses. FASSET addresses these challenges through a partnership

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with institutions. Through this advocacy the project of women empowerment is realized. To learn more about these and other programmes in the FASSET portfolio, visit www.fasset.org.za or contact the call centre on 087 821 2680. ■

PROFILE CORNERSTONE INSTITUTE

Committed

to holistic learning Dr Marianne Louw’s notable career in higher education spans over 19 years, marked by a commitment to holistic learning and a profound understanding of the transformative power of education. Currently serving as the Executive Dean at Cornerstone Institute, Dr Louw plays an integral part in shaping the institute's academic landscape and fostering a culture of excellence.

r Louw's academic journey began at the University of

Her dedication and expertise culminated in her current

the Free State (Bachelor of Arts in Communication),

role as Executive Dean. Dr Louw's journey reflects not only her

followed by a BA Honours in Communication.

academic prowess but also her unwavering commitment to the

Her passion for academia and Communication led her

advancement of education.

to the University of Johannesburg, where she joined the

Her role at Cornerstone Institute encompasses various

Communication Department, laying the foundation for her

responsibilities, including teaching and learning, scholarship,

scholarly endeavours. During this period, she co-authored

faculty operations, and academic quality assurance.

a groundbreaking South African textbook on interpersonal communication, showcasing her dedication to advancing the

Dr Louw says that education, particularly tertiary education, should extend beyond acquiring qualifications.

field. In the late 1990s, Dr Louw ventured into entrepreneurship,

Why choose Cornerstone Institute?

establishing her own business that provided training and

While a quality education is a standard expectation from any

coaching services to corporate clients. Balancing the demands

accredited institution, Cornerstone Institute distinguishes itself by

of business management with her academic pursuits, she

having a faculty passionate about mentoring students for active

earned a Master of Philosophy in Human Resource Management

engagement in social transformation.

(Personal, Interpersonal, and Professional Leadership) with

Cornerstone Institute started in 1970 as a Bible college on the

distinction from UJ. Her personal and professional development

Cape Flats at a time when black people couldn't attend tertiary

commitment also included completing a Certificate in Life and

institutions due to apartheid. The Institute still has a Theology

Business Coaching from The VIP Institute.

department, but has evolved to also specialise in Education,

Returning to the academic realm, Dr Louw joined Monash

Psychology, Business, Sociology, and Community Development,

South Africa, where she initially served as the section head

with more disciplines in the pipeline. Most of the programmes are

of Communication and Media Studies. Her exemplary

offered online and on campus, benefiting students worldwide.

leadership led to her appointment as the Bachelor of Social

Social justice at Cornerstone means embracing students

Sciences programme manager. Pursuing academic excellence,

from diverse backgrounds and providing access to historically

she obtained her Doctor of Literature and Philosophy in

disadvantaged individuals.

Communication, focusing on a theoretical framework for

Its focus is on developing leaders who use their knowledge

constructive interpersonal leadership relations in knowledge-

and skills to better their personal and professional communities,

based organisations.

embodying its slogan, 'Learn to change the world'.

Dr Louw assumed her role at Cornerstone Institute in early

"I firmly believe that education is a powerful tool for

2021, spearheading efforts as the Deputy Dean of Faculty

addressing societal challenges, including poverty and inequality.

Operations and Quality Assurance, and her commitment to

At Cornerstone, we are dedicated to changing the world by

academic excellence became integral to the institute's culture.

educating tomorrow's world changers!" says Dr Louw. ■

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

PROFILE LYRA CONSULTING

Tailored legal and investment solutions Alexandra Burger is a multifaceted business executive, legal counsel, board member, and entrepreneur with extensive experience both locally and internationally. Her expertise lies in providing tailored legal and investment solutions across various domains.

ith a solid background in investment banking,

Her ultimate satisfaction stems from her role in expanding the

cross-border structuring, and legal advisory,

global footprint of South African companies while facilitating the

Burger has earned a reputation for her adept

entry of international enterprises into the South African market.

handling of complex commercial and legal matters. She has

Burger firmly believes that a breadth of career experiences is

facilitated the listing of companies on international stock

indispensable in tackling complex challenges. She believes that

exchanges and managed transactions in private equity and

South Africans are champion problem solvers and their ability to

venture capital (VC).

travel and expand their businesses internationally comes from the advantages of a wider cultural background coupled with a challenging economic and political environment.

Most of all, success comes from determination and taking calculated risks.

Most of all, success comes from determination and taking calculated risks. Driven by creativity and a relentless pursuit of turning ideas into reality, Burger remains dedicated to navigating the intersection of finance, technology, and international business to create meaningful impact in the global arena.

While her roots lie in traditional banking, finance institutions,

Burger is also a painter and writer. Music and film are her

and legal advisory services, she harbours a deep-seated passion

passions and one day in the future she would love to be able to

for technology spanning from fintech and IT to cutting-edge

take these to a new level. ■

deep tech. This intersection of finance and technology fuels her entrepreneurial spirit and propels her involvement in various technology-driven ventures. As the founder of Lyra Consulting, Burger spearheads initiatives aimed at providing innovative solutions and fostering growth in both established and emerging markets. Her diverse portfolio also includes active participation in numerous technology companies, reflecting her commitment to driving technological advancements and fostering cross-border collaboration.

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

T 079 885 2626 E alexandra@lyra-consulting.co.za W www.lyra-consulting.co.za

PROFILE INSTITUTE OF DIRECTORS SOUTH AFRICA

Championing ethical leadership Meet Prof. Parmi Natesan, a woman of remarkable achievements and even greater ambitions. While her career is already adorned with numerous feathers in her cap, Natesan's sights are set higher than ever.

rof. Parmi Natesan, CA(SA), CD(SA) and CEO of

a leader, I try to motivate and inspire people to achieve more

the Institute of Directors South Africa (loDSA) is a

than they ever imagined they could, whether they are members

champion of good corporate governance and ethical

of my staff, my kids, or just other women in general."

leadership. She has a habit of achieving greatness and has

"Women don't have to choose between having a busy career

taken the loDSA to new heights with the goals that she had set

and a family; you can successfully juggle both. The key is time

for herself as a woman in business. Her transformative impact

management and preparation. I manage to juggle a lot on a

is evident through her efforts to enhance gender diversity in

daily basis due to being organised and using time wisely. In this

leadership roles and her dedication to empowering young

way, I wish to serve as an inspiration for other women."

women. Natesan's desire to expand her influence as a non-executive

Natesan's advice to young women, particularly those from diverse backgrounds, resonates with a powerful message:

director is driven by her conviction that she can continue to

"Work hard, invest the necessary blood, sweat, and tears, and

shape South Africa's business landscape. Her passion for

always give your best."

making a difference, combined with her extensive knowledge

While Natesan emphasises the importance of hard work as

and track record of success, sets her on a path to leave an

a catalyst for achieving greatness, she also underscores the

indelible mark on the corporate world.

significance of humility and staying true to oneself. Natesan

Natesan, however, places a high priority on leading a wellbalanced life that is not purely career-driven. She is actively involved in the lives of her two teenage children and strives for excellence in all areas of her life. She states that her purpose is to leave the world with

asserts. "No matter how far you climb the ladder of success, remember your values and the journey that brought you here." Natesan's journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring leaders and underscores the importance of pursuing excellence while staying true to one's core values.

good, capable people who will make a difference. As a result,

With her unwavering dedication and her drive to make a

Natesan says, "I am a very involved CEO and mother; I actively

difference, she continues to strive for greatness and shape a

participate in developing the next generation of leaders. As

brighter future for South Africa. ■

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

PROFILE NATIONAL EMPOWERMENT FUND

A torchbearer

at the helm of a gem In his opening address at the 2002 World Summit for Sustainable Development, then President of South Africa, Thabo Mbeki, declared that “a global human society, characterised by islands of wealth, surrounded by a sea of poverty, is unsustainable”, a theme often revisited by the Chairperson of the National Empowerment Fund (NEF), Dr Nthabiseng Moleko, in deepening inspiration for commitment towards the quest for inclusive growth.

NEF Chairperson, Dr Nthabiseng Moleko

financiers, founded by the Government through national

The NEF’s operational milestones since 2004 to date

legislation to drive black economic participation

Since operational inception in 2004 to date, the NEF has approved

he NEF is one of South Africa’s leading development

by providing financial and non-financial support to black

over 1 600 transactions worth more than R14 billion across the

entrepreneurs countrywide.

country. For 20 consecutive years, the NEF has achieved clean

In this context, the NEF is committed to driving inclusive

external audit opinions, which is why as a trusted partner the entity

economic growth through innovative finance to black-owned and

has leveraged more than R8 billion from the private and public

managed enterprises; job creation; the economic empowerment

sectors in supporting black entrepreneurs. Over R9.6 billion has

of black women entrepreneurs; investing in township, rural, and

been disbursed to these businesses, supporting in excess of

under-resourced areas; industrial financing as well as through

121 000 jobs countrywide.

engendering a culture of savings and investment among black people.

Through the Women Empowerment Fund the NEF has prioritised the entrepreneurial training and funding of black women in business across all sectors of the economy under the

Distinction at the pinnacle

theme Fund a Woman Fund a Nation. The NEF has been hard at

At the peak of this organisation is Dr Moleko, an economist and

work to propel the full commercialisation of the 24 strategic and

Chairperson of the Board of Trustees who has made history as the

industrial projects that have been developed in partnership with

first woman trustee to ascend the citadel. She is an academic and

local and international partners. These are valued at R12.6 billion,

a thought leader of repute. She continues to serve as a trustee

with the potential to support a further 52 000 jobs.

on the Board alongside other accomplished South Africans in the non-executive stewardship of the development financier. She

A range of products in the market

also serves as the Convenor of the Presidential B-BBEE Advisory

In contributing to inclusive growth, NEF investees have

Council as an advocate for the economic participation of those

manufactured a wide range of products, including lithium batteries

historically excluded.

for solar power, high-density polyethylene, railway components,

Dr Moleko has also served on numerous strategic advisory committees, councils and EXCOs. She holds an Honours in

industrial steel wheels and rims, aerial platforms and more. Others have built state-of-the-art hospitals, affordable housing

Business Science (Economics) from the University of Cape

units, student accommodation complexes, community-owned

Town and an MPhil in Development Finance from Stellenbosch

shopping malls, office parks, and hotels and lodges, placing them

Business School (SBS). She completed her Ph.D. in Development

at the forefront of the nation’s commitment to transformation,

Finance at SBS on pension funds and national development and

recovery, and growth. ■

is the first South African woman to be conferred a doctorate in this discipline. Her core research interests are in the areas of development finance.

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T +27 (0)11 305 8000 W www.nefcorp.co.za

PROFILE COEGA DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

Leading in

Infrastructure with Gugulethu Moyo The Coega Development Corporation (Coega), which is renowned for developing Africa’s leading Coega Special Economic Zone, has leveraged its internal expertise to provide project management services as an infrastructure implementing agent of choice. Meet one of Coega's Infrastructure Programme Directors, Gugulethu Moyo.

ith over 15 years’ experience in a largely male-dominated field, Gugulethu (Gugu) Moyo, is currently a Programme Director in

the construction industry has its fair share of challenges. “It is still a male dominated industry, but what excites me is seeing women embrace new roles.”

Coega’s Infrastructure Planning and Delivery Unit, where she is

She explains that no matter which industry you work in,

responsible for construction projects undertaken on behalf of

its about finding the right person for the job, regardless of

the Department of Health.

gender.

To date, Moyo has overseen the completion of over 70 projects, worth more than R7 billion in project value. Moyo’s leadership philosophy is defined by self-awareness

The challenges she faces as a leader in the construction industry range from delivering a quality service within the confines of legislative frameworks, to maintaining

and self-reflection. She explains that the most thrilling aspect

professionalism among peers. The most challenging aspect,

of leadership is getting to know herself to better understand

however, is keeping all eyes on the end goal.

others. “You can study all the courses available, but true leadership

“It’s important to keep everyone motivated to work collaboratively and progressively.”

comes down to identifying with the people around you and being able to connect with them on multiple levels,” says Moyo. Born and raised in Zimbabwe, Moyo has always had a deep

Women need to step up During the course of her career, Moyo has ventured into

passion for the built environment. Thanks to her stepfather, who

numerous training programmes to enhance her contribution

was a process engineer, Moyo knew she was destined for a

to the unit, including leadership development, project

career in construction. Since the age of nine, she spent many of

management, property development, contract law, and even

her weekends on construction sites.

digital transformation.

Having grown up in Harare, one of Africa’s natural landscape

“Women need to step up. We need to stand up and put

meccas, Moyo moved to South Africa to pursue her degree in

our hats in the ring. It comes down to individuals saying yes,

architecture at the University of Cape Town and has not looked

they can.”

back since. She soon went on to achieve her Master’s Degree

Moyo’s future plans include pursuing project

in Urban Infrastructure: Design and Management, which laid a

implementation through public private partnerships, as

solid foundation for her career in construction.

a means of unlocking mega infrastructure development, particularly in Southern Africa.

Being a leader in the construction industry has its fair share of challenges

infrastructure implementing agent of choice, email

Moyo admits that, as with any leadership role, being a leader in

info@coega.co.za or visit www.coega.co.za. ■

For more information about Coega’s services as an

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PROFILE TIGER BUILD GROUP

A tenacious

leader Grace Thovhakale shares her entrepreneurial journey as a tenacious leader who established a successful cement manufacturing company, Tiger Build Group, which is a 100% Black- and woman-owned company.

I want to create a platform for other women to enter the economic space by establishing business ventures, particularly the cement industry.

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PROFILE TIGER BUILD GROUP

“I

always knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur,” says

“Thus far it has been a very exciting journey – while we

Thovhakale. “My first business was actually selling

started in South Africa, we have expanded to service other

cool drinks, which paid for my tertiary education at

African countries as well. Africa’s infrastructure challenges

the University of Venda. I had studied Music and Education, and following graduation, I worked as a teacher. “However, the urge to establish my own business remained

present opportunities for our group and for communities. “It is important for us as a Group to not to just be a business but a socially responsible entity that makes a positive impact on

and in 2009, I met with a prominent cement manufacturer in

all stakeholders. One of the ways we add value to communities

Gauteng to learn a bit more about the industry and ascertain

is through establishing project-based collaborative partnerships

the feasibility of venturing into this industry,” she explains.

with locals, youth, military veterans, etc. As we grow, so too

“Between 2009 and 2012, I made some inroads in the

does communities in which we operate and invest in.”

cement industry, but I still had a lot to learn. For a period, industries, including farming, logistics, tourism, and

Developing the next generation of entrepreneurs

commodities around Louis Trichardt. This enabled me to build

“Coming from humble beginnings should not be a deterrent. It

a strong network and enhance my knowledge of running a

can serve as a motivator. I was not made an entrepreneur – I was

business,” she adds.

born an entrepreneur,” says Thovhakale.

I worked and served as an executive director in various

In 2018, Thovhakale, decided to venture into the cement industry once again. “At this stage I had a solid grasp of the industry and its

“When I look back on my journey, it was not without challenges, but there will always be challenges in any area or industry. The important thing is to have the courage to look

supporting value chain such as logistics, mining, wholesale and

ahead and seize opportunities despite hardship. These are

retail business. I then established my own cement brand, Tiger

some of the lessons I want to impart to the next generation of

Build Cement, and registered the Tiger Build Group (Pty) Ltd

entrepreneurs.

in Westonaria, Gauteng. I am not sure about now, but when I

“I have a special passion for the business industry. I am very

started the business, I was known as the only female-owned

passionate about developing women and youth in the SMME

cement company in South Africa,” she says.

environment to encourage them to tap into the country’s

“For many people it can be quite surprising that a woman would want to venture into what is considered a male-

economic mainstream. “I want to create a platform for other women to enter the

dominated industry. Not every woman wants to wake up and

economic space by establishing business ventures, particularly

get their hands dirty, but for me this was dream.

the cement industry. The vision is to create a flagship black

“Entrepreneurship is not always a smooth journey. It takes

woman-owned cement manufacturing company that will

guts, vision and a go-getter attitude – particularly in a male-

traverse South African borders and provide services to the

dominated industry.

SADC region and beyond,” concludes Thovhakale. ■

“As an entrepreneur, you always have to be on the lookout for opportunities. I knew that being a 100% Black, femaleowned company would enable opportunities from a Broad

About Tiger Build Group

Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) perspective.

Established in 2019, Tiger Build Group is a Level 1 BBBEE

However, it is not enough to just look good on a BBBEE

contributor and a 100% Black Woman Owned company

scorecard – you have to deliver to ensure sustainable growth

specialising in the cement industry. Tiger Build Group offers

and maintain good client relationships.

the following products and services:

“At Tiger Build Group we have invested heavily in

• Cement production and distribution

developing and retaining a highly qualified staff component.

• Suppliers of fly ash and bottom ash

Our team ensures that we produce high-quality cement made

• Supplier of gypsum

from environmentally friendly materials, which passes tests

• Supplier of tile cement

conducted by the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS)

• Built environment: roofing, flooring, painting, fencing,

and adheres to South African National Standards (SANS),” adds Thovhakale. “As a team, we are also open to exploring and diversifying

plumbing, brickwork, drywall partitioning, shop fitting While strategically located in Gauteng, Tiger Build Group supplies products and services nationally as well as to other

our operations. As change is constant, we are always looking at

African countries.

ways to improve and enhance our offerings.

www.tigerbuildcement.com

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EDITORIAL CONSTRUCTION

Breaking barriers:

the changing role of women in the construction industry The construction industry has long been characterised as a male-dominated field, with women historically under-represented in all aspects of this sector. However, in recent years, significant progress has been made in breaking down gender barriers and increasing the presence of women in construction. This shift has had a profound effect on the industry, leading to greater diversity, improved productivity, and a more inclusive work environment.

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EDITORIAL CONSTRUCTION

Changing the way people think about women in construction

aint-Gobain, the global

Noxolo Hlope, Trade Marketing Manager at Saint-Gobain, never initially dreamt of

industry leader in

working in the construction industry, but her love of sales and marketing has paved the

light and sustainable

way for her growing career in the company.

construction, is leading the

“After completing my B.Com Marketing Management Honours degree at the

charge in empowering women

University of Johannesburg, I started working at Saint-Gobain in 2022 as the Trade

in construction. Through their

Marketing Manager and am now National Key Account Manager for several accounts

programmes and dynamic

within the company,” explains Hlope.

approach, they are demonstrating

“I am so fortunate to work with a passionate team who truly love what they do and

to the world that women in

are eager to help impart knowledge and details that make my job so much more

construction should be an industry

enjoyable and fulfilling. We are changing the way people think about women in

norm!

construction by placing women in roles previously dominated by men!”

Traditionally, the construction industry has been seen as physically demanding and suited

Improved workplace culture

primarily for men. However, this

The integration of women into the construction workforce has also led to improved

stereotype has been gradually

workplace culture. The industry has historically been known for its rugged, often toxic,

challenged as more women have

work environments.

entered the field. Women are

The introduction of women into these spaces has encouraged a more respectful

demonstrating that they can excel

and inclusive atmosphere. With greater gender diversity, construction companies are

in various roles within construction,

more likely to foster a culture of respect and equality, which benefits all employees.

from project management and

Sales Representative at Saint-Gobain, Christie Oosthuizen, believes that to be

architecture to engineering and

successful, especially within this industry, you need to be your own best advocate.

skilled trades. By breaking these stereotypes, women are encouraging younger generations to explore

“I started working at Saint-Gobain 17 years ago and quickly realised that women were seem often seen as real amateurs within this industry. I had to really believe in myself and be as confident as I could in front of my clients ,” says Oosthuizen. “I have become really passionate about learning and equipping myself with

construction careers without

knowledge so that I can hold my own in industry conversations and let me clients know

being limited by outdated gender

that I am able to help them with what they need!”

norms. The inclusion of women in the construction industry has brought about a more diverse and

Bridging the gap

dynamic workforce.

The construction industry is currently facing a significant skills shortage, which has

A diverse workforce brings

been exacerbated by an aging workforce. The inclusion of women in the industry

different perspectives, ideas,

is one way to help bridge this gap. Encouraging more women to pursue careers

and problem-solving skills to

in construction not only provides a new pool of talent but also addresses the

the table. This diversity can

demographic challenges the industry is currently facing.

lead to enhanced creativity and

With an education in Chemical Engineering, Busisiwe Mphotwana, Production

innovation, which is crucial in an

Superintendent at Saint-Gobain, has found her journey in the construction industry

industry that constantly seeks

both challenging and rewarding.

more efficient and sustainable building practices.

“I have encountered challenges which has forced me to prove myself more than my male counterparts. I was also exposed to work environments that were less inclusive, and I had to navigate these situations by clearly communicating my ideas, concerns, and expectations. “Despite these challenges I’ve learned to be resilient, and I am proud to break down barriers for future generations of women in this field. I have also had the opportunity to contribute my skills to various projects, this has awarded me the opportunity to grow my career and reach my goals.”

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EDITORIAL CONSTRUCTION

Contributing significantly to growth

the complexities of the field. Additionally, they help instil

The construction industry plays a vital role in the global

confidence in the abilities of women to succeed in construction

economy. As women take on more prominent roles in this

careers.

sector, they are contributing significantly to its growth. By

The changing role of women in the construction industry is

increasing the workforce's size and diversifying it, women have

a transformative development that brings numerous benefits.

a direct impact on the industry's overall economic output. This

As women break stereotypes, promote diversity, improve

growth also extends to women-owned construction businesses,

workplace culture, close the skills gap, contribute to the

which are thriving in various parts of the world.

economy, advance safety, and become role models, they play

Saint-Gobain Warehouse Manager, Anna Motsai, grew up working with her father who owned a scrap yard business,

an integral part in shaping the industry's future. The construction sector has evolved from a male-dominated

which fostered her love of building and engineering.

field to a more inclusive and progressive environment, and this

After completing her studies in Metallurgical Engineering

transformation is essential for the industry's continued growth

and working in laboratories, Anna made the move to the

and success. By recognizing and celebrating the achievements

construction industry when she joined Saint-Gobain in 2017.

of women in construction, we can encourage even more

“My journey in the construction industry been a bit like a roller coaster ride, one minute you feel confident, 100% in

progress and ensure that the industry remains a welcoming place for all. ■

control and that you can take on the world and next minute it feels like the wheels are falling off fast. “However, I have learnt to embrace this, and I am enjoying the journey. As a woman, you constantly have to prove yourself in order for the men to trust you and your decisions, but I have found that by getting involved and showing that I am passionate about what I do, you can go far!” Safety is a paramount concern in construction, and women are making a valuable contribution to this aspect of the industry. Their inclusion has led to a more comprehensive approach to safety, with research suggesting that a more diverse workforce can result in fewer accidents and injuries. Women bring a strong focus on detail and communication skills, which can be instrumental in enhancing safety measures on construction sites.

Transformative development with numerous benefits The increased presence of women in the construction industry provides aspiring female professionals with role models and mentors. These mentors offer guidance and support, helping women navigate

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Women bring a strong focus on detail and communication skills, which can be instrumental in enhancing safety measures on construction sites.

PROFILE ICEBOLETHU GROUP

Multi-skilled entrepreneur & community builder

Founder and Group CEO of the Icebolethu Group, Nomfundo Mcoyi is a former educator who has become a multi-skilled entrepreneur and community builder.

he founded Icebolethu Funerals 14 years ago and

three young adults. In 2020, she released her cookbook titled

transformed a funeral parlour into a group of successful

Boardroom to the Kitchen which documents her passion

companies, the Icebolethu Group, a conglomerate

for food and gives a glimpse into the journey embarked in

comprised of 10 companies. Icebolethu Group has over 130

building the Icebolethu Group.

branches across KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, and the United

Over the past few years, Mcoyi has travelled extensively,

Kingdom. The group employs over 1 800 employees. The

both locally and internationally, to the USA, UK, Greece, UAE,

funeral division holds over 500 000 funeral policies to date,

Singapore, China, Ghana, Zimbabwe, and more, attending

making it one of the leaders in the industry.

exhibitions, seminars, and speaking at conferences. She is the Chairperson of the SA Funeral Practitioners Association in KwaZulu-Natal, a member of the Accounting Authority and Chair of the Governance Risk & Strategy

Through Icebolethu Academy she is contributing to skills development by providing training on the various industry regulations and guidelines.

Committee; and also heads up the Icebolethu Foundation. She has been the recipient of numerous awards, including the prestigious Commonwealth Business Excellence Awards held in Singapore in July 2023 for Best Organisation led by a Woman Award, Best Customer Excellence Award, and Fastest Growing Organisation led by a Woman Award. In 2023, she was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from the Mangosuthu

Mcoyi is known as one of the leading innovators in the

University of Technology (MUT). In 2022, she won the Standard

funeral business, having introduced products that have

Bank KZN Top Brand award; and in 2021, she was awarded the

transformed the industry. She has led her team in converting

Global Business Leader of the Year. ■

a funeral company into a lifestyle brand that adds value to its clients daily. She has excelled in the funeral and financial sector, which is highly regulated, and through Icebolethu Academy she is contributing to skills development by providing training on the various industry regulations and guidelines. Her business achievements have resulted in local and international awards and recognition. Mcoyi is an accomplished entrepreneur and a mother to

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PROFILE LIBERTY TWO DEGREES

The REAL approach:

building extraordinary real estate As Liberty Two Degrees (L2D) and as part of the Standard Bank Group, we embody the spirit of liberty – a testament to growth and potential. By Amelia Beattie, Chief Executive at Liberty Two Degrees

ur roots are not merely in real estate returns but in

retail is being dominated by innovations in data analytics, AI,

the rich soil of humanity. We think big, and we act

interactive displays, and state-of-the-art customer care – and

with conviction, we make tough commercial calls;

going forward, no space can be successful without innovation

but we also make a difference in our communities, embodying

that is specifically tailored to comprehending and satisfying

a softness in how we care.

visitor's needs.

L2D is a tapestry of our collective strengths, a story that

Alignment: partnering for excellence: A healthy retail

we write with every step. As the Chief Executive, I have an

ecosystem cannot exist without solid, strategic partnerships,

unwavering belief in every one of my people and in what we

hence this alignment is critical in driving transformation, staying

will achieve.

ahead of market dynamics, and enhancing the general well-being of surrounding communities

Property must encapsulate quality, continuity

Longevity: embracing sustainability and wellness: Retailers

We are proud to have been recognised by the Sunday Times

and malls must find ways to truly embrace a net-zero strategy, all

Top 100 over five years (with a positive total return and

while promoting health and wellness among visitors and staff. It’s

annual growth rate). We have remained steadfast in executing

not merely about promoting environmentally safe practices but

experiential initiatives at our malls against our strategic value

finding innovative ways in which to decrease the negative impact

drivers and building blocks which have supported us in

of retail operations on the environment and developing socially

producing market leading operational performance.

responsible practices through the entire supply chain.

As co-owners and managers of Africa's most iconic assets, must encapsulate quality and continuity and contribute to the

Focus on creating extraordinary retail experiences

local community's cultural lifestyle – it must be extraordinary.

Malls are transitioning from being purely retail destinations to

Despite the economic headwinds we face as a country,

multipurpose centres and destinations. The REAL approach

I believe that for property to be successful, and even iconic, it

there are REAL opportunities available to meet the needs

focuses on creating extraordinary retail experiences that evoke

of today’s investors and tenants. Data driven insights, the

emotions, memories, and shape identities, with the aim to leave a

innovative application of technology, a focus on sustainability

lasting legacy for the next generation. ■

practices and a commitment to social purpose, can be capitalised upon to ensure revitalised real estate and extraordinary spaces. In the retail space, this will require a REAL approach: Retailtainment: creating delightful destinations: Success in retail means developing a place for the community that contributes to the cultural life of local shoppers. Experience: understanding customer intimacy: We know

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T (+27) 11 358 9145 W www.liberty2degrees.co.za

PROFILE BLACKSTONE MAVERICK

The art

OF MEMORY

The art of perfumery – with the right oils, ingredients, and beliefs – makes it possible to create exclusively beautiful South African scents

rance is the home of some of the world’s most iconic

Our complex, multi-layered fragrances can transport you to a

scents and perfumeries. Grasse, the capital of flowers;

different time and space.

the French Riviera and its professional perfume noses;

and the heady scents of jasmine, rose and lavender define the

A proudly local brand

history and mystery of the region.

We believe in the art of memory. The smell of the soil after the

The country is famed for its unique ingredients and

rain on a hot summer’s day. The crisp cool scent of the wind

immersive culture of perfume, and the perfumers have

in the mountains. The tang of salt and citrus by the sea. We

mastered the art of blending scents and using techniques that

carefully blend our oils to create captivating scents that live in

have been passed down through the ages. It is also not the only

your memory of Africa. Our scents include lavender, charcoal,

perfume capital of the world, not anymore.

rose, orchids, and sandalwood – each one as spicy as the

Scandinavia, Argentina, California, India, Arabia, and Italy are all famous for their unique scents, each one creating something

country they embody. Our perfumes are combined, matured, bottled, and boxed

utterly original and perfectly reminiscent of their own history

here in South Africa. A proudly local brand, we have combined

and mythology. Think of the fresh, citrus scents of Brazil or the

quality ingredients, our culture, and exceptional ingredients into

heady, woodsy smells of Morocco – every country is steeped

a range of perfumes that embody timelessness and elegance.

within its perfumes. A scent of cinnamon, a whiff of sandalwood,

Our perfumes are already sought after by perfume enthusiasts

a sniff of lavender, and you are instantly transported to a souk,

around the world for their luxurious scents and meticulous

the desert, or an open field.

attention to detail.

SA the perfect place for a new perfume capital

Maverick’s scents tell a story. The ingredients and the African

South Africa, with its incredible and diverse landscapes, is the

roots are only the beginning, how the story ends is entirely up

perfect place for a new perfume capital. Here, using high-quality

to you. Discover the future of perfume with this extraordinary

oils imported from France, BlackStone Maverick is introducing

entrepreneurial brand making its mark with confidence or visit

the art of local perfumery.

our Instagram and Meta accounts to go on a journey with us. ■

Authentic, ethical, beautiful, and utterly African; BlackStone

We blend ingredients of exceptional quality with distinct aromas and complexity to capture the distinct characteristics of South Africa. Every bottle, every scent, evokes a sense of refined taste and timeless elegance with a South African edge. BlackStone Maverick adheres to the rigorous regulations and standards outlined by the French perfume industry to ensure that their commitment to excellence and attention to detail are inherent in our perfumes. We want to give South Africans exactly what they want – a luxurious, gorgeous, and velvety range of perfumes that exceed global expectations.

T 072 776 3792 W www.blackstonemaverick.co.za SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

PROFILE NSDV

NSDV –

practical, inclusive & collaborative NSDV is a specialist mining, construction, and environmental law firm based in South Africa with clients locally and in other African countries. It offers services in the mining and construction sectors and its lawyers are all specialists in their fields of practice. NSDV’s mining and environmental law team assists clients throughout the project life cycle of a mine, from exploration to construction, production, and finally mine closure.

SDV was founded five years ago and has grown

Co-founder Nupen has more than 17 years’ experience, with

in leaps and bounds together with its clients.

extensive knowledge in the environmental and mining legal

Starting with just three lawyers, NSDV has grown

regulatory arena. She was previously at Bowmans and served as

exponentially to a staff complement of 30 employees. Managing Director, Ili Nupen, says the reason for NSDV’s

a director at Malan Scholes Attorneys. “I’m passionate and have a deep understanding of the South

remarkable growth is because of its highly specialised skillsets

African mining industry having the good fortune to work on

and client-centric service delivery methodology.

numerous transactions involving both international and local

“It is because of our practical approach to client matters that our industry has recognised and backed us. We have also built a stellar reputation based on our relationships with all stakeholders

mining companies throughout South Africa and Africa,” she says. “I think a trait that sets me apart in the industry is my

in the industries we service, including but not limited to regulators

commitment to maintaining close relationships with

and unions.”

government, the private sector, and unions (all stakeholders

“NSDV is also a majority female-owned and run law firm.

in fact) – which points to the importance I always place on

We stand out in the male-dominated sectors of mining and

an ability to play well with others. It’s partly why clients value

construction, and the market appreciates the more inclusive,

working with NSDV, in addition to my practical approach to

collaborative, and empathetic way of doing business in

legal matters. It’s something I believe is critically lacking in the

challenging sectors. Call it a feminine touch!” Nupen adds.

mining sector at large.”

The NSDV team

experience and is well-versed in FIDIC, NEC, JBCC, and

NSDV consists of three departments: the Mining & Environmental

GCC standard form construction contracts in addition to his

team, the Construction team, and the Corporate & Commercial

extensive experience with bespoke construction contracts.

Cameron Staude, Co-founder, has more than 17 years’

team. The Mining & Environmental team is headed by Nupen, the

He has worked on significant mining and construction

Construction team by Cameron Staude, and the Corporate and

projects in which he has assisted with the commercial

Commercial team by Helyn Herholdt.

management of projects on a day-to-day basis as well as

In addition to its core practice areas, NSDV, on the back of significant growth of its clients’ work on the African continent, has recently started an African practice led by Methembeni Moyo.

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providing legal advice and dispute resolution via adjudication, arbitration, and High Court proceedings. Staude also advises clients on front-end negotiation and

PROFILE NSDV

drafting of commercial terms and contract data of various

“We have realised that most of our mining clients, because

construction contracts in the mining and construction sector.

of the nature of their business (highly regulated, high risk, fast-

He regularly provides training on complex construction

paced operating environment) require an accessible, less red-

contracts to various industry professionals such as engineers,

tape, and hands-on approach to doing law, and that is exactly

quantity surveyors, project managers, and contract

what NSDV provides. Furthermore, we provide practical advice

administrators. He is a sought-after industry expert when it

and solutions within the legal realm,” says Nupen.

comes to construction contracts and is usually fully booked on topics such as EPC and EPCM contracts, the FIDIC, and the

Mining companies must embrace ESG priorities

NEC suite of contracts

NSDV believes it is important for mining companies to embrace

up from month to month lecturing to clients of varying sizes

ESG priorities. “One phrase, ‘the license to mine’! A mining company that performs highly on the ESG scorecard most likely has an

NSDV's greatest commodity, in addition to its expertise, is its network.

integrated and well-rounded license to mine. A healthy license to mine in today’s context is critical, as there is a plethora of local host community issues to deal with such as illegal mining (zamazamas), the current climate crisis and violent weather changes, environmental degradation, the scourge of so-called “business forums” and a general poor economy and unemployment,” explains Nupen.

A boutique law firm servicing the industry’s needs in a more accessible way

local host communities by building and maintaining a healthy

NSDV focuses on providing practical advice and solutions within

license to mine, it is important for mining companies to embrace

the legal realm to ensure that its advice can be implemented

ESG priorities, due to ESG regulation increasingly becoming top

“on the ground” by its clients. As such, its practical approach

of mind.

In addition to the unchanging requirement to build trust with

provides clients with succinct solutions to their legal queries

“It is important for mining companies to stay ahead of the

and issues, which in turn avoids burdening its clients with

ever-growing regulatory burden. Take for example the National

unnecessarily long (and costly) and perplexing legal opinions

Environmental Management Laws Amendment Act 2 of 2022

or theoretic solutions that do not work practically within the

(NEMLA4) which came into operation on 30 June 2023,” she

business operating environment.

adds.

Importantly, NSDV understands that its mining clients operate

“Generally speaking, NEMLA4 aims to clarify numerous issues

in one of the most regulated sectors in South Africa. Due to this

in South Africa’s environmental legal regime to ensure that the

understanding, it has developed good professional working

NEMA and the SEMAs can be implemented more effectively.

relationships with regulators for nearly two decades.

NSDV ensures that all of its clients are kept up to date on such

NSDV’s general policy is to litigate against regulators only

legislative developments through our easy-to-read series called

as a last resort and would rather leverage its institutional

‘Cleaning The Air’ which addresses such amendments and

knowledge and trust it has with regulators to provide workable

provides practical examples of the implications thereof, which

business solutions for its clients, in a faster and cost-effective

we publish as free advice from lawyers on our website

manner than following the court route.

(www.nsdv.co.za) and LinkedIn,” Nupen concludes. ■

As a firm whose professionals have extensive experience and have built relationships with various public and private industry stakeholders, NSDV’s greatest commodity, in addition to its expertise, is its network. NSDV has developed a bespoke business matchmaking service whereby it matches individuals and/or organisations within the mining and construction value chains, such as financial institutions, high-net-worth individuals, technical experts, off-takers, and logistics companies for the development of various mining and infrastructure projects.

T 083 410 0075 E nupen@nsdv.co.za | staude@nsdv.co.za SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

PROFILE TSHEPA BASADI

Tshepa Basadi –

project, engineering, and procurement management Tshepa Basadi, meaning “Trust Women” in Setswana, was founded by its female leadership team in 2017 in the Kalahari (Hotazel) region. A black women-owned business, it specialises in project, engineering, and procurement management. Tshepa Basadi’s vision is to change the status quo by being a niche mining project management and technical services consulting firm, which is female-led. We strive to provide

Services offered Project Management

• Establish and manage a project management office • Develop project management methodologies • Portfolio prioritisation and management • Project and construction management resources • Project value improving practices • Project procurement and contract administration • Project quality management • Project safety management

Operational Readiness

• Develop end state operational readiness requirements • Operational readiness planning • Commissioning planning • Operational readiness and commissioning execution

Project Planning

• Project scheduling (Primavera and Microsoft Projects) • Schedule auditing • Maintenance and shutdown planning • WBS compilation • Costing • Cost management • Cost analysis • Cost reporting • Resource planning • Critical path analysis and reporting • Progress updating and reporting • Management reporting • Planning resources

Risk Management

• Risk recruitment services • Quantitative risk analysis • Qualitative risk analysis • Risk frameworks • Risk assessment workshops • Hazard and operability risk assessment • Hazard and constructability risk assessment

Engineering

• Engineering concept and detailed designs • Engineering design reviews • Tender documents and specifications • Tender evaluation and adjudication • Feasibility studies • Engineering resources

exceptional professional services to our clients by enabling them to meet their portfolio demands. Our value proposition is as follows: • We create value for our clients and help them realise full value from their projects and portfolios. • We continuously build thriving teams, the members of which are nationally and internationally accredited with the relevant project management and professional engineering bodies. • We are accountable to our clients for disciplined delivery. • We ensure a sustainable and profitable organisation. If you are struggling with the capacity and capability to execute your capital portfolio, then you could be our next client. Our expertise includes professional project managers, engineers, construction managers, planners, and other technical resources to coordinate the design, procurement, project management, risk management, construction, commissioning, and handover of your complex projects. Our current clients include Anglo American, Platinum and Kumba Iron Ore, South32, United Manganese of Kalahari, Kalagadi Manganese Mine, Assmang Khumani Mine and HATCH Africa.

W www.tshepabasadi.co.za 52

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PROBE PROBE IMTIMT OFFICES OFFICES - JOHANNESBURG - JOHANNESBURG (HQ) (HQ) www.probeimt.co.za www.probeimt.co.za NATIONAL: NATIONAL: +27+27 (0) (0) 86 111 86 3507 111 3507

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ADVERTORIAL PROBE IMT

Enabling

solutions for the mining industry

Welcome to the world of Probe Mining Group of Companies, a

of Things (IoT), big data, and cloud computing, we empower

proud member of the Probe Group. We specialise in offering a

mines to address resource challenges and environmental

comprehensive range of cutting-edge technologies tailored for

pressures. Our intelligent systems combine cutting-edge

the mining industry. Our core focus lies in providing Safety and

technology, skilled personnel, and streamlined processes to

Productivity solutions that revolutionise the mining landscape.

facilitate feedback loops, thereby defining an organisation’s

With our end-to-end Digital Mine Operation Solutions, we

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empower mines with enhanced digital design and data analysis

We collaborate closely with our customers to design and

capabilities. Our integrated offerings encompass Operation Level

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9 Collision Awareness or Collision Prevention Systems, bespoke

the mining, construction, agriculture, marine, and industrial

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alternative energy solutions, as well as specialised solutions for industrial, air, and power requirements. Additionally, we offer

INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS

auto-electrical field services, off-highway vehicle (OHV) batteries,

Under our Industrial Technologies portfolio, we drive efficient

spares, parts, and expertise in Komatsu drive systems, OEM

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solutions. Our range of screw and reciprocating piston compressors ensures optimal performance while delivering

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substantial energy-saving benefits. We offer industry-leading

Probe IMT (Integrated Mining Technology) represents our

motors, Eaton Airflex, and Nexen industrial pneumatic clutch

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and brake solutions. Partnering with a material handling

processes for the mining sector. By investing in state-of-the-art

company, we have expanded our offerings to include electrical

technologies, we deliver secure and innovative solutions such

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power transmission products, including SITI gearboxes, electric

ADVERTORIAL PROBE IMT

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Prestolite (Leece-Neville), CE Niehoff, and Horton. Our commitment to importing and distributing the latest battery technologies makes us a leading supplier in the

SUSTAINABILITY

Southern African region.

At the Probe Mining Group of Companies, we prioritise environmental sustainability and consider it a fundamental element

RENEWABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS

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goal of consolidating productivity and safety.

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PROFILE VEZINHLANHLA MINING

Vezinhlanhla Mining – versatility & innovation for the long term

Vezinhlanhla Mining is a 100% wholly Black-owned mining contractor established by Prince Vusi, which combines leading experience with the versatility and innovation required by mining to be sustainable for the long term.

stablished in 2017 as a mining contractor to service the

Our commitment

mining industry, Vezinhlanhla is an empowered turnkey

The empowerment of women, youth and disabled persons

contractor with capabilities across the underground and

should be achieved in all aspects of work. Vezinhlanhla has

opencast contract mining value chain. We provide extensive services for coal, gold, iron ore, manganese ore, chrome ore, nickel and platinum group

more women on board to strengthen the capacity of the business. Youth will also be employed by the company to pass on

metals (PGMs) producers, undertaking mining operations with

their skills to the next generation as Vezinhlanhla grows. Bursary

continuous miners, roadheaders and drill and blast applications,

schemes will then be introduced for students to further their

enabling our clients to outsource according to their unique

studies.

needs.

Vezinhlanhla has developed a culture of no discrimination

Vezinhlanhla’s commitment to safety, health, quality and environmental management standards means we work towards

against disabled persons, hence it will seek to find, train and employ disabled persons with potential and enthusiasm.

continuous improvements in risk management to better deliver project excellence.

Our community development plan

Vezinhlanhla’s Black empowerment credentials ensure

Vezinhlanhla’s objective is to train its staff and community

that our clients benefit fully in terms of the mining charter

undergraduates from universities and colleges, especially in

requirement and the contractual conditions of key minerals

engineering, safety and mining. These students will be given the

purchasers.

opportunity to further their studies in their field at Vezinhlanhla.

Our black empowerment policy Vezinhlanhla is committed to broad-based black economic

Youth will also be employed by the company to pass on their skills to the next generation as Vezinhlanhla grows.

empowerment, and it supports the government’s initiative of transformation and affirmative action policies and will continue to implement such projects where possible. Vezinhlanhla has initiated projects whereby materials and equipment are sourced from black SMMEs, thus speeding up the process of empowerment.

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PROFILE VEZINHLANHLA MINING

Vezinhlanhla Mining strives to be a leading black-owned, diversified mining contractor in Africa while ensuring participation in the discovery, exploration and beneficiation of Africa’s mineral resources. It is also Vezinhlanhla’s mission to develop and consolidate a diverse portfolio of high quality assets and services for the benefits of its stakeholders.

Our mission Vezinhlanhla Mining strives to be a leading black-owned South African company that delivers value to all its stakeholders by: understanding the needs of our stakeholders; delivering on and exceeding those needs; attracting and retaining the best talent; focussing on core assets – based on the Pareto Principle; focusing on owning and operating our own assets; embracing diversity; and ensuring sustainability, growth and good governance.

The future Vezinhlanhla’s future is bright, and we will continue to: reinforce our position in the market as a reliable and competitive independent producer and supplier; grow sales and our customer base; acquire coal, gold, iron ore, manganese ore, chrome ore, nickel and PGM assets to develop new projects; and deal with power generation as a key area of opportunity – a synergistic venture that is now indelibly written into our corporate objectives.

+27(0) 87 550 2087 info@vezinhlanhla.co.za

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Q&A M84 GEOTECH

Growing

& building a legacy M84 Geotech is a geotechnical company specialising in the supply and installation of rockfall protection and mitigation systems, mainly in the mining, construction, building maintenance and public sector. M84 Geotech CEO, Khomotso Moleke, tell us more...

Tell us a bit about M84 Geotech’s journey.

doors for us, and we are now seen as a serious player in the

The company started out of my desire to be self-employed.

field.

Because Mokopane is a mining town, the company started out as a vendor for the Anglo American Mogalakwena Mine. We started by supplying valves, and oil coolers, then safety

Doing a high risk job and maintaining a 100% safety record will always be a milestone I cherish, because safety is a priority in our company. Another milestone for us is that we completed

cones and safety signage. We supplied safety cones and

each project we got from the mine, some of which were a first

signage for the mine and Anglo American Polokwane smelters.

for us; a good record to have.

However, our ambition was always to build a sustainable and being just a supplier to a provider of geotechnical services.

What is the vision you have for M84 Geotech, and the plans going forward?

Because this is a specialised and high risk area, we had to

The shift we made from being a supplier of safety cones into a

prove ourselves as a company and grow from each opportunity

more specialised field was intentional because I wanted us to

we were offered.

do something that would allow us to specialise, scale up and

profitable business and that’s when the shift was made from

We did the necessary training required and invested in equipment to start bidding for opportunities at the

be a leader or a preferred contractor. I want the name M84 Geotech to be synonymous with

Mogalakwena Mine. One of our first projects was to do barring

rockfall protection and slope stabilisation mitigation. For

down a rocky slope, and after that more opportunities arose.

now, we might be the “new kid” on the block, and it might be

Now the company is fully focused and specialises in slope

difficult at first for some to take us seriously, but I believe we

stabilisation, rockfall protection, rockfall barriers, anchor

are slowly building a very good reputation for ourselves. We

installation and testing, barring down and slope monitoring

are delivering on each project we do, and it is just a matter

prism installation.

of time and consistency until more clients start noticing us

We have offices in Mokopane and Polokwane and we are able to service any mine or clients across the country.

and open those doors of opportunity. The more we do this, the more I realise there is so much we can learn and offer the industry.

What are some of the milestones achieved by M84 Geotech?

when it comes to keeping their open pit mines safe from

We were the first black-owned company from Mokopane to be

rockfall hazards, and to be a leading player in the geotechnical

given an opportunity to install drape mesh at one of the pits at

space, not only for the mining industry but construction and

the Mogalakwena Mine. I believe that opportunity has opened

other related industries.

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The long-term goal is for the mines to see us as their partner

Q&A M84 GEOTECH

What are the main opportunities and challenges in the geotechnical engineering field locally?

sites safe from free falling rocks. Our goal with each site is to first

The scope for geotechnical engineering is huge in South Africa

believe it’s not safe to do until we find a safe way to do it. We

and the continent, mostly in the mining and construction spaces.

give mines the assurance that they can continue their operations

Our country is blessed with minerals and to mine those minerals

with confidence once our solutions are put in place.

find the safest and most efficient way to implement the project and staying safe throughout the project. We don’t do it if we

safely, geotechnical engineering will always be needed in the

plays a huge role in ensuring slopes are monitored and proper

Tell us a bit about your journey as an entrepreneur. What are the key lessons you have learned?

support is in place for underground wall support. We install

When I was young I was not a fan of school; I enjoyed being

monitoring prisms on high walls for mine engineers to monitor

with my friends at school, rather than learning. School does

movements on the pit slopes and provide structural support

not promote making mistakes or learning from them, instead,

systems to prevent any geohazards that might cause harm if

mistakes are punished. I was one of those students who made

there was no protection.

a lot of mistakes and a got punished a lot and that contributed

In the construction space, roads and buildings must be

to me hating school. I couldn’t wait to finish school but after

constructed on well supported ground for them to be safe

completing my matric, I had no idea what to do with my life

and last a long time. Geotechnical engineering provides the

because going to university was not an option.

planning, designing, exploration and operational stages. Whether a mine is on the surface or underground, geotech

planning, testing and calculations needed for a construction

Then I started reading business magazines and motivational

project to be implemented successfully. There are also

books and that’s when the entrepreneurial spirit was awakened

opportunities in landslide prevention through erosion control,

in me. I wanted to learn more about business and for the first

using high tensile steel wire anchored mesh for reinforcement,

time in my life, I was excited about something. That excitement

gabion walls and shot creting.

led me to do something that I never thought I would, which was to do an undergraduate degree. I learnt to persevere, and deal

Over the past few years there have been major breakthroughs from a technology perspective. How has this aided in optimising operations?

with failure and doubt when I did my first degree. Although when I started I had no clue of what kind of business I would do, I just wanted to be a business owner.

The use of drones to do site assessment has proven to be

The journey as an entrepreneur has not been easy, it requires

efficient and save time when it comes to assessing a site. To

a lot of patience, resilience and the willingness to keep learning.

provide clients with the right solutions and to properly cost a

It’s exciting when you start and have big dreams, but that

project, we have to do a site assessment of the area of work and

excitement is soon replaced by a reality check, and you start

sometimes we need to install anchors for technicians to access

asking yourself if you are doing this for the right reasons.

the high wall.

But it’s important that you don’t lose the dream and the vision

With drones, this process can be shortened and save

of why you are doing what you are doing, because there will

costs. We can assess the area quicker without the need for

be times when your dream is challenged and tested. For me,

a technician. Technology has also helped in improving the

reading about other successful entrepreneurs or successful

strength of the equipment we use, such as the harnesses and

people kept me going in tough times.

ropes we use for abseiling, which means our technicians are safer when doing their job.

You have to invest time and money into the business for it to grow before it can start taking care of you. Although we are making good progress, we

M84 Geotech operates in high-risk areas. Tell us a bit about this.

still have a long way to go as

Our work is to make areas safe which are exposed to possible

potential to be a leader in what

rockfall hazards, and while doing that, we are exposing

we do. What keeps me going is

ourselves to possible risks. So, it’s very important that skilled

the possibility of building a legacy

technicians are employed to tackle each project and job risk

and creating employment. ■

a company and we have great

assessment are done to put proper measures in place for a successful project delivery. The priority we put on safety is not only the safety of our technicians, but how we implement safety measures to keep

T +27 (0)15 023 1400 | +27 (0)72 203 8405 W www.m84geotech.co.za SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

PROFILE ZAIO

Mvelo Hlophe visionary entrepreneur and driving force

Mvelo Hlophe is a visionary entrepreneur and the driving force behind Zaio, a pioneering organisation dedicated to creating high-value digital talent through innovative training programmes.

ith a mission to democratise access to

can maximise their B-BBEE benefits and elevate their overall

opportunity, Hlophe has established Zaio as a

B-BBEE status by up to two levels.

trailblazer in the field of digital transformation

and youth empowerment. Graduating with a Bachelor of Commerce in Politics,

Driving digital transformation through collaboration

Philosophy, and Economics from the University of Cape Town,

Zaio's impact extends beyond its training programmes,

Hlophe's journey as an entrepreneur began early. As an Allan

as it has forged partnerships with notable clients in the

Gray Orbis Foundation Fellow, he was recognised for his

telecommunications, automobile manufacturing and banking

exceptional leadership potential and commitment to social

sectors, amongst others. Through these collaborations, Zaio

impact. His accolades include being named the inaugural

continues to drive digital transformation within organisations

National Student Entrepreneur of the Year and winning the

while empowering youth to thrive in the digital economy.

Student Social Impact Business of the Year award.

Outside of his professional pursuits, Hlophe is an avid cyclist and runner, embodying the principles of perseverance

Empowering youth with the skills of the future

and determination. His passion for creating positive change

Since its inception in 2017, Zaio has made significant strides

is evident in every aspect of his work, and his dedication

in empowering youth with the skills of the future. Through an

to empowering youth serves as an inspiration to all who

AI-powered learning management system, Zaio provides online

encounter his visionary leadership.

training in digital skills, resulting in sustainable employment

As Founder and CEO of Zaio, Mvelo Hlophe is not only

opportunities for hundreds of students. To date, Zaio has placed

shaping the future of digital talent development but also

over 100 candidates and trained over 500 students, making a

paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable society, one

tangible impact on the lives of young people across the country.

empowered youth at a time. ■

One of Zaio's key initiatives is its skills development programme, which aims to unlock talent in underserved communities while aligning with its clients B-BBEE goals. Accredited courses, created by expert instructors, cover a range of digital skills, with the flagship Full Stack Web Development Programme leading the way. In addition to its training programmes, Zaio collaborates with organisations to enhance their B-BBEE status through the Youth Employment Service (YES) programme. By adding Zaio's skills development programme to their existing YES initiatives, clients

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T +27 71 101 0004 E mvelo@zaio.io W www.zaio.io

Financial Year End Coming Up? Our skills development digital training programs are designed to empower individuals while aligning with B-BBEE requirements. We will support you to claim the Skills Development rebates you deserve while creating an impact.

+27 71 101 0004

www.zaio.io martin@zaio.io

EDITORIAL FUNDING

Identifying the

right funding model Ask most entrepreneurs what their biggest challenge is and there’s a good chance they’ll list access to investment and funding among them. That’s particularly true in many of Africa’s biggest entrepreneurial markets too. By Gorata Ogotseng, Corporate Communications Manager, Norsad Capital

n a survey released by the Entrepreneurs' Organisation (EO) South Africa in 2023, for instance, nearly half of South African entrepreneurs said they don’t get enough funding

finance post-Covid-19. As important as improving access to that funding is, it’s almost as critical that entrepreneurs identify the funding models

from the public or private sectors. Another survey released

best suited to their business needs. The wrong funding model

by East Africa Com, meanwhile, saw 59% of East African

can, after all, mean that entrepreneurs end up over-diluting their

entrepreneurs list a lack of access to investors as a significant

equity in the business or taking on too much debt. But what do

business barrier. Similarly, a 2021EFInA report found that 70%

those funding models look like? And what advantages does

of Nigerian startups and scale-ups struggled with access to

each model offer?

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EDITORIAL FUNDING

Debt vs equity One of the first distinctions that all entrepreneurs should understand is the difference between debt and equity-based financing. Debt-based financing simply involves borrowing money, usually at interest, from lenders. For some businesses, which may mean borrowing from traditional financial institutions such as banks. Others may instead go to private lenders. Regardless of how well or badly the business performs, the lent money must be paid back. That said, it does ensure that entrepreneurs retain a greater degree of control over their businesses. Equity financing involves selling ownership shares (equity) in the company to investors, such as shareholders or venture capitalists. While it doesn’t create an obligation to repay any money, it does mean that entrepreneurs end up with a reduced stake in the business. And because they’re part owners, they may not have a full say in how the business is run. Choosing whether to take one approach or the other (or a combination of the two), largely depends on a company's financial situation, risk tolerance, and its desire to maintain control or share ownership with external investors.

Beyond the basics

Choosing the right model

Beyond those basics, most organisations that offer funding will provide a range of

Knowing what these various models

funding models. These include, but are not limited to:

entail and what they’re used for should

Senior debt finance

Senior debt is a company's highest priority debt that must

go some way to helping entrepreneurs

be repaid first during bankruptcy. This kind of financing

figure out which one is best for them.

is typically secured against some type of collateral (the

That said, it’s worth breaking it down a

company’s physical assets, for example) although it can

little further.

Unitranche finance

also be unsecured. In the event of bankruptcy or if the loan

When deciding on a model to

goes into default, the collateral of a secured senior debt

pursue, entrepreneurs should consider

facility may be sold to cover the debt. Unsecured senior debt

their capital needs, risk tolerance, how

holders can file claims against the company’s general assets.

much (if any) ownership and control

Unitranche finance combines the various forms of debt held by a business into one loan. Under this form of financing, the borrower pays a blended interest rate and has a predictable repayment schedule that can be tailored to the borrower’s needs. Unitranche financing can enable medium-sized companies to access financing that would be impossible to get from a bank.

Second lien finance

the capital, and the negotiated terms offered by the lender or investor. If the business has relatively low capital needs, for instance, a traditional bank loan or senior debt may be the best option. On the other hand, if the business is on an aggressive growth

Second lien debt is secured debt that ranks equally for

trajectory, it may be more inclined

payment with senior debt and shares the same security

to take on a more high-risk form of

package. Second-lien loans are not debt subordinated to

funding such as mezzanine finance.

first-lien loans, only on the capital pledged to secure the

Mezzanine finance

they’re willing to give up, the cost of

Fortunately, businesses aren’t on

loan. This means that in the event of bankruptcy, the second

their own when it comes to making

lien ranks behind senior debt in the receipt of proceeds from

such choices. A good lending or

shared collateral.

investment institution will work

Mezzanine finance is a hybrid form of financing that includes

with the company to figure out the

aspects of debt and equity-based funding. In addition to being used for expansion or recapitalisation, mezzanine finance can be used to acquire other businesses, for management buyouts, and to minimise dilution of equity. Companies will usually consider mezzanine financing to finance business goals when they have reached their senior debt borrowing ceiling or want to preserve future senior debt capacity.

best funding structure for it. Even with that assistance, however, it’s still important that the business undertakes a thorough financial analysis, interrogates the terms of each financing option, and makes a decision that aligns with the company’s goals and risk profile. ■

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PROFILE MOTIMOVES

MotiMoves –

guidance tailored to general entrepreneurial aspirations

The MotiMoves entrepreneurial mentorship programme is spearheaded by billionaire investor and philanthropist, Zunaid Moti.

otiMoves is a comprehensive free online

As the founder and driving force behind a diverse portfolio

business mentorship intervention that provides

of businesses, Moti has proven his ability to navigate the

participants with guidance tailored to their general

complexities of the global market. His ventures have spanned

entrepreneurial aspirations. The programme covers a wide

across sectors such as luxury vehicles, mining, finance, property

range of topics, including business strategy, financial planning,

development, real estate, and hospitality.

marketing and branding, leadership development, and more. By leveraging Zunaid Moti's vast knowledge and experience,

Moti's leadership style is characterised by a commitment to excellence and a relentless pursuit of compound growth. He has

participants gain a competitive edge and valuable practical

established a reputation for steering companies toward success

insights into the intricacies of building and scaling successful

through strategic partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions. His

businesses.

ability to identify emerging trends and capitalise on market dynamics has positioned him as a forward-thinking entrepreneur

Opportunity to win start-up funding for innovative business ideas

with a finger on the pulse of the business landscape.

Aspiring entrepreneurs have the opportunity to win start-up

billionaire business maverick and fearless entrepreneur, has

funding for their innovative business ideas, R50 000 to conduct a

announced his bold vision to empower the youth of South Africa

business feasibility study and other related business expenses, as

through entrepreneurship.

well as one month’s exclusive use of the MotiMoves Porsche 911. Likewise, talented artists and sportspeople can apply for sponsorship to realise their dreams. To date, MotiMoves has invested in groundbreaking breast

In addition to his achievements in the business realm, the

His groundbreaking online business mentorship intervention, MotiMoves, is revolutionising the entrepreneurial landscape by offering free online business webinars, as well as investing in entrepreneurs to jumpstart thriving businesses.

cancer detection technology, a live GPS child-tracking safety

Moti has pledged an awe-inspiring R30 million to fund

service for parents, a talented local singer, and a revolutionary

game-changing business ideas that align with his commercial

sleeping aid for babies, among others.

interests. ■

Zunaid Moti – entrepreneur, philanthropist, and business mentor Zunaid Moti is a highly successful entrepreneur, philanthropist, and business mentor with a proven track record of building successful multi-billion-dollar businesses across various industries. With decades of experience and a passion for empowering others, he has embarked on a mission to share his expertise and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs through MotiMoves.

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T +27 (0)11 888 8887 W www.zunaid-moti.co.za

EDITORIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Thinking

out-of-the-box and taking risks Valentia Chokoe, founder of Hunadi Malope Catering Services, and a beneficiary of Momentum Metropolitan and MyDough's incubator programme chats to SA Profile about her entrepreneurial journey.

riginally from Polokwane and growing up in a

Another thing that has drastically improved is the marketing

family that owned a spaza shop, Chokoe has

segments within my business as I was exposed to more

entrepreneurship in her blood, and cites her

marketing strategies, which will help me secure more clients

family's shop as where her love for business first developed.

and retain them. I have also learned that as a businessperson you need to

What was your impetus to start a business?

put effort into your networking as this exposes you to potential

Apart from having a business background, I was inspired by the

customers, and also makes you aware of what other businesses

thought of being able to save my clients the time and logistics

are doing to keep their businesses afloat, and how they

involved with hosting an event.

overcome challenges. It made me take note of peer-to-peer

I was also enticed by the idea of being able to create

learning when it comes to networking and associating myself

employment for others.

with business owners in the same industry.

How did being involved in the Momentum Metropolitan and MyDough incubator programme help in facilitating your journey?

What have the highlights been of your entrepreneurial journey?

It has really helped me a lot because I was able to look at my

has also allowed me to be a quick thinker. Being in business

business from a different angle and also operate in a more

comes with a lot of sacrifices and dedication. It teaches one to

professional manner.

be self-disciplined and have the willpower needed to succeed

In the past I used to struggle with financial management and

Mainly being able to think out-of-the-box and to take risks. It

and push forward.

the principles associated with that. Being on this programme

Through my journey I have learnt to always show up and

has helped me better understand this part of the business and I

know that my dreams and visions are valid, no matter how long

can now say I have more of an account of the money that goes

it takes as long as I keep on working in business.

in and out of my business.

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I also learnt that working with what I have in the interim,

EDITORIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP

whilst working towards what I'm looking for, is key and that entrepreneurship goes far beyond merely starting a business.

I have also learned the following aspects in my business: • Identifying a viable business idea: My entrepreneurial

It represents the audacious human spirit that dreams big

journey begins with an idea. This idea, born from a problem

and is brave enough to confront uncertainty in the pursuit of

I have identified, should be innovative, viable, and capable

making those dreams come true. I have learnt to be a visionary,

of filling a gap in the market. To refine your business idea,

innovator, risk-taker and, above all, a relentless pursuer of

ask yourself these questions: What problem am I solving?

opportunities.

Who is my target audience? How is my service different

This journey is not a well-trodden path with clearly marked signposts; rather, it is a thrilling voyage that is as unique as each entrepreneur. Each entrepreneur charts their own course, facing different obstacles and victories along the way. But there are common experiences — the euphoria of a breakthrough, the despair when a promising lead goes cold, the exhilaration of a

from what already exists in the market? Creativity plays a key role in this process. • Market research and understanding the competition: This step involves understanding your target audience, analysing the competition, and assessing the market’s size and potential. • Business planning: With my idea refined and market

successful pitch, and the invaluable lessons that come with

research in hand, the next step is to formulate a robust

making mistakes and sometimes failing at something.

business plan. My business plan serves as a roadmap, which will guide my business from the startup phase through establishment and business growth. This also guides my decision-making process but is also crucial in helping me secure funding for my business. The

This journey is not a well-trodden path with clearly marked signposts; rather, it is a thrilling voyage that is as unique as each entrepreneur.

business plan also guides me on how to finance my business, how to successfully assemble a team and how to further develop my service offering.

What are the most challenging and exciting parts of being an entrepreneur? The challenges have mainly been about securing funding and getting clients. The most exciting thing has to be the response from clients giving you positive feedback about the food served.

What are the key lessons you have learned as an entrepreneur? To be disciplined, hardworking and to be consistent.

What advice would you give to aspirant entrepreneurs? Start with what you have and be consistent in your craft. Always be on the lookout for big companies, such as Momentum Metropolitan, as they offer great opportunities to uplift SMMEs. ■

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EDITORIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Turning a vision into a

dream

Thabiso Mhlongo, founder of Epicure Bitez, and a beneficiary of Momentum Metropolitan and MyDough's incubator programme turned his passion into a business. He talks to SA Profile about his entrepreneurial journey…

hile searching for an apprenticeship to qualify

support me and my dreams.

as a civil engineer, Thabiso Mhlongo realised

It all started with Metropolitan when I was selected for

that food was his passion, and began dreaming

their programme, Tshwane Metropolitan Collective Shapers. It

about owning a restaurant one day.

changed my whole perspective about running a business and gave me the right tools, classes, and influence to make it and

What was the impetus to start your business?

become a Top 10 finalist in the programme where I received

It has always been about my passion for food. I was working

prize money of R50 000 to support my business.

as a chef and barista at one of the health food restaurants,

Momentum Metropolitan and MyDough played a role

Kauai, while searching for an apprenticeship to qualify as a civil

in supporting my business with exposure to the media,

engineer.

networking, marketing platforms and introducing me to

Being in that environment where I was always preparing food and beverages, helped me to understand that I could

corporate industry where my business will gain expertise, and also the opportunity to serve them my amazing meals.

actually do this on my own one day, and I started to daydream

This also taught me about networking and the value of

about a logo and the menu I would serve, until I registered my

making connections with the people we meet. It has made

business; and now here we are today.

me step up when I am in spaces with not only like-minded

Starting was not a problem because I have always had this

individuals, but people like Momentum Metropolitan and My

vision. Maintaining the business is where the challenges came,

Dough who see my potential and want to help me expand my

but we have soldiered on through the hiccups.

business.

How did being involved in the Momentum Metropolitan and MyDough incubator programme help you?

What have the highlights been of your entrepreneurial journey?

I could literally write a book about it! A simpler way to explain

better version of myself, doing something I thought was just an

it is that these programmes really came at the right time to

idea, a vision. I made it to owning a unique food establishment

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Honestly, the best highlight would have to be me becoming the

in the township that serves nothing but amazing and mouthwatering meals. My business is now recognised in places and amongst people who I never thought would be aware of what I do, let alone support me. The best is yet to come, all I can say is, “remember the name”!

What are the most challenging and exciting parts of being an entrepreneur?

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The exciting part has been doing what I love, and this is opening doors for me because it has turned into a passion.

Honestly, the best highlight would have to be me becoming the better version of myself, doing something I thought was just an idea, a vision.

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What are the key lessons you have learned as an entrepreneur? Being an entrepreneur is not for the faint-hearted. Do not be fooled by what you see online about millionaires or those entrepreneurs who are immediately successful, it's hard work to reach that stage. All it takes is dedication, a lot of sacrifice, effort, and consistency to make your business work and become successful.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs? You must have a solid team to help you reach the business’s full potential. Yes, it is all fun and games, but with a team that understands the business’s vision and goal, understanding the value proposition and how everything works, they will influence sustainable growth. Lastly, market your business as soon as possible. Clients, customers, and investors are everywhere. Social media is

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PROFILE ZARCARE

Zarcare:

pioneering healthcare transformation in South Africa Zarcare, a rising force in the healthcare sector, is actively reshaping the landscape of telemedicine in South Africa. As an innovator, Zarcare is dedicated to revolutionising healthcare accessibility through the integration of cutting-edge technology. Seamless healthcare at your fingertips Imagine a healthcare platform that transcends traditional

Educate, engage, empower with monthly health talks

norms, seamlessly blending convenience with quality while

The platform hosts regular monthly health talks, providing education,

placing patients' needs at the forefront.

information dissemination, and interactive discussions.

Empowering health through connectivity

sessions play a pivotal role in spreading awareness about preventive

Since its establishment in 2021, Zarcare's core mission is to

measures, risk factors, early detection, and management strategies.

Covering topics such as breast cancer and HIV/AIDS, these

empower individuals to take charge of their health. Functioning as an online platform, Zarcare connects

Building support networks for better health

seasoned healthcare and wellness providers with patients

Featuring medical experts, researchers, and specialists, these health

seeking non-emergency health services, eradicating the need

talks also foster community engagement, with patients as guest

for physical visits to a provider's office.

speakers sharing their experiences.

Accessible services, groundbreaking solutions

understanding of medical conditions, fostering support networks

This collaborative environment creates a space for mutual

Zarcare boasts a diverse range of services offered by top-tier healthcare providers, including nutritionists, dieticians, fitness

and encouraging collective efforts towards better health. The online sessions are open and free to all who register via any of Zarcare's digital platforms.

trainers, counsellors, and experienced medical doctors.

Top-tier healthcare at affordable costs

Your path to enhanced healthcare starts here With Zarcare, patients unlock the freedom, convenience, and

Zarcare's services are groundbreaking and, importantly,

empowerment that comes with enhanced healthcare access.

accessible, with consultations starting from an affordable

Embrace the future – your healthcare revolution starts with Zarcare. ■

R200.

Empowering every South African With a strong focus on enhancing convenience and prioritising patient needs, the platform empowers members to tap into quality healthcare services remotely. The registration process is straightforward, and once completed, patients gain access to quick, reliable, professional, and affordable care through online audio or video consultations.

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EDITORIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP

A visionary

female entrepreneur leading the charge for positive change

Meet Nicole Sherwin, a serial entrepreneur on a mission to ignite a transformative wave of positive change.

s the driving force behind Eco Diva Natural

were so remarkable and actually very quick, that it inspired

Superfood Skincare and a partner in the innovative

me to embark on the journey of formulating, manufacturing,

Danish furniture brand, SOFACOMPANY SA,

and launching a clean, non-toxic, environmentally friendly and

alongside her brother Jonno Sherwin, Nicole's remarkable

beauty without cruelty brand, Eco Diva Natural Superfood

journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to

Skincare in 2015, so that others could heal their skin too.

fostering genuine transformation.

Around the same time, my brother approached me to partner with him in launching a stylish Danish furniture brand.

Launching not just one, but two distinct businesses simultaneously must have been quite a challenge. Can you share your experience?

Despite my total lack of experience in the industry, I took up the challenge. It wasn't just about managing two vastly different businesses; there was also the challenge of starting with no capital. I had to strategise meticulously to avoid burnout.

Twelve years ago, I had just completed a two-year stint as

Expresso show. My involvement with Expresso led to the

How did you manage to launch these businesses without any startup funding?

creation of over 85 non-toxic, natural recipes for viewers to

It was undeniably tough. For SOFACOMPANY.com, we struck

replicate at home, prompting an overwhelming demand.

a deal with a Danish factory, securing a 20-foot container of

the editor of Simply Green magazine while also busy on the

I had also recently recovered from serious toxic metal

exquisite couches and armchairs with 90-day payment terms. I

poisoning caused by mixing and matching too many skincare,

worked tirelessly to ensure that we sold out of everything within

makeup, and personal care products. The poisoning was not

that timeframe.

only physically debilitating, but produced severe imbalances in

At that point, we didn't even have a website; I listed the

my skin, hosting a toxic mess of adult acne, pigmentation, and

items on Facebook and shared an office with another business,

rosacea.

adorning the walls with photocopies of our furniture range. It

With the realisation that the skin is the largest organ of the body that absorbs everything that is applied to it, I began creating recipes using 100% plant-based healing ingredients instead of synthetic ingredients. The healing and recovery

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was quite an unconventional online setup and makes me smile when I think back on the madness of it all. I began by creating a business profile page on Facebook, where I posted the furniture pieces for sale. Thankfully, we

EDITORIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP

in furniture sales. It was exhilarating, although algorithms have

With your background encompassing both the pharmaceutical industry and natural healing, it seems you lean towards the natural healing side of life. What drives this passion?

drastically evolved since then.

I've personally experienced the true healing power of

completely sold out of all the stunning SOFACOMPANY furniture, and with the profit, we reinvested in a larger 40-foot container. Back then, Facebook advertising was a burgeoning frontier; you could boost a post for a mere R200 and generate up to R100 000

With my modest salary from SOFACOMPANY, I began

nature and plant medicine, thanks to my upbringing with my

investing in the development of Eco Diva Natural products,

father. I have a keen interest in alternative medicine, reiki,

carefully planning budgets to accommodate each stage of the

reflexology, and gut health. The brain-gut alignment is vital

skincare startup methodically.

to overall health. In today's world, there's an overwhelming emphasis

What skills do you believe are essential for launching a business without startup funding?

on synthetic solutions in medicine, skincare, and personal

I think one needs to be a versatile jack-of-all-trades and be open

refined sugar, artificial additives, and inhumane treatment

to learning new skills that will push you to your limits.

of animals. This has led to a pandemic of health issues, skin

When the going gets tough, you need to have the willpower

care, as well as food filled with growth hormones, addictive

disorders, addictions, and depression.

and resilience to persevere. I had to acquire various skills,

As individuals we possess the power to reject mass

from handling business documentation, VAT, and website

consumption and take control of our well-being. I find the

development to understanding bookkeeping, accounting,

gentle, kind nature of plant healing to be so profound, so

marketing, social media management, brand development, stock

much better for one’s health and something that is incredibly

control, and import-export procedures.

sustainable for animals and the earth. It makes so much more

It helps to find unconventional ways to create brand awareness through PR, advertising, social engagement, and

sense to balance these two worlds instead of just choosing one way.

event planning; all vital. I had to oversee staff, manage monthly

My hope is to spread positive change and empower

expenses, budget effectively, and, above all, make a profit. These

people to heal themselves without harming other living

skills were entirely foreign to me at the age of 45, as my prior

beings and taking care of the earth. My co-host at the

career was focused on the entertainment industry. It required a

Gigaton Awards José María Figueres put it perfectly: “There

shift in perspective and a willingness to embrace new challenges.

is no Planet B.”

Can you tell us a bit more about Eco Diva Natural and the ethos and practices behind the business? Eco Diva Natural Superfood Skincare offers a holistic approach to skin health. With biology-smart, functional skincare, gut balance and makeup born in Africa. Every product is manufactured with impeccable organic superfood ingredients that not only create a radiant complexion, but also provide the skin with the nutrients it needs to self-heal from all skin conditions. I believe the high vitamin, antioxidant and omega count in every product is the key to skin re-balancing; necessary to heal and calm skin irritations like eczema, dermatitis,

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EDITORIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP

rosacea and psoriasis, dark marks, and pigmentation as well as acne. The prime healing factor is the powerful plant superfoods that re-balance the skin pH, creating a harmonious skin microbiome. Our daily ethos and practice is clean, kind, and ethical. Meaning kindness to people, the planet, and animals. The products are eco-friendly, organic, non-toxic, chemicalfree, paraben-free, sulphatefree, cruelty-free, vegan, Beauty Without Cruelty Certified and proudly made in South Africa.

Who is the range targeted for, are the products made in a GMP lab and what makes the range earth-friendly? The Eco Diva Natural range is gender inclusive. It’s for all skin types and all humans. It’s also super safe for pregnant women and for babies

What’s your secret to living a happy, fulfilled life?

and kids because of the

For me, at 54, it’s about being mindfully present every moment and consciously choosing joy

gentle, kind, 100% natural

and passion throughout the day.

ingredients. All products are ocean and river safe too. Our packaging is

Staying in a joy-frequency attracts more joy and I really believe it’s the answer to health and happiness. Not allowing annoyances, whether they be people, places, situations, or my own impatience to creep in and throw me off balance.

either fully biodegradable

They say, ‘what you feel you attract’ and I completely agree with that. It’s important for me

and can be thrown onto

to imagine and create the ‘feelings’ I want to feel once I’ve decided on a certain goal that I’ve

a compost heap, or

set. Then I only focus on those lovely feelings and let life take care of the details.

recyclable or upcyclable.

I try to lose the clutter, not only in my physical environment but in my head space as well.

We never test on animals,

To be free of the human ‘doing-ness’ of life and embrace a peaceful, kind human being-ness.

only on willing humans.

I also find choosing a state of gratitude to be very powerful as it focuses on the cool things in

Our ingredients are all

life instead of the lack.

impeccable in the harvesting

Living simply is one of the biggest joys in life. Tending to my own veggie garden, walking

and manufacturing of our

in nature, playing fetch with our scruffy dog Bugs, enjoying great food with friends, and most

products through our GMP,

importantly, spending quality time with the love of my life Roy and my step-kids Neve and

eco-certified laboratory

Molly. Those are happy memories being created. ■

partners.

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Supporting every step of your learning journey. We provide accessible learning solutions through our four divisions:

Home education and supplementary learning for parents, learners, and tutors.

Classroom and extra-class teaching and learning solutions for schools and other education institutions.

enquiries@optimi.co.za

Accredited qualifications and short courses for adult learners.

optimi.co.za

Workforce and community education and training for corporates and the public sector.

PROFILE SINAYO

Sinayo sustainable transformation and inclusivity

Sinayo’s mission and leadership is firmly rooted in the aspiration to foster a lasting South African legacy of sustainable transformation and inclusivity.

t the core of this mission lies our unwavering

for a profound experience of thought leadership, producing

commitment to excellence through the nurturing

market leading products and the delivery of “alpha” to our clients.

of a thriving, innovative and collective business that

provides our clients with exceptional and distinctive products,

The need for innovation

services, and tailor-made solutions.

At the heart of our strategy is the commitment to demonstrate

We firmly believe that inclusion transcends political

the need for innovation. Innovation comes when you empower

correctness; it is the cornerstone of growth and competitive

your team to push the boundaries in the pursuit of progress. Every

advantage. Diversity and inclusion, the true catalysts for

challenge is pursued by a solution, enabled by innovation and

creativity and innovation, continue to occupy the central

entrepreneurial spirit.

position in our ethos. Only through fully embracing diversity

We launched the Sinayo Project Funda in 2015, where we

will we truly unlock the vast potential of this broad spectrum of

actively identify and nurture talent in research and leadership

talent.

within the financial services sector. We believe in supporting all aspiring talent, and combined with our commitment to diversity

The collective becomes greater than the individual

and inclusivity Project Funda will be expanded in 2024 to include

Through the synergies of varied ideas and perspectives,

people.

the collective becomes greater than the individual, and the

a programme for emerging South African artists and sports Furthermore, our commitment to social responsibility shines

individual becomes great. The team excels in this environment

through our support of 180 children at the Golden Ark Care

built on the commitment towards mutual respect, engagement

Centre in Soweto. Through this initiative, Sinayo ensures that all

and the spirit of camaraderie.

young learners embark on their educational journey with full

Sinayo group was built upon a solid foundation, merging the expertise of individuals with extensive experience and a strong

stomachs, primed for learning and making the most of each day ahead. ■

entrepreneurial spirit, while also cultivating enduring and impactful client relationships. Our distinguished team comprises accomplished professionals across multi skilled disciplines. The key to our success is the sharing of common purpose and drive to reach our goal as a team. We are proud of our “best in class” research analysts, investment professionals, stockbrokers, strategists and technologists. This powerful combination of purpose and expertise, makes

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PROFILE NTIYISO CONSULTING GROUP

Empowering

Africa's development At the heart of Africa's quest for development lies Ntiyiso Consulting Group, an authentically African and globally wired management consulting firm. Founded in 2005, Ntiyiso Consulting Group's purpose is crystal clear: to empower institutions that enable Africa's development.

lex Mabunda, a visionary leader with over 22 years

Led by a partnership of seasoned professionals including

of industrialisation and management consulting

Andisa Ramavhunga, Miyelani Holeni, and Auntony Mkhwanazi,

experience, spearheads the group's development

Ntiyiso Consulting Group's leadership is committed to

and implementation of business strategies. Mabunda’s journey

building a culture of performance. With extensive local and

is marked by a profound dedication to Africa's growth, as

global experience, the partnership drives the firm's mission to

evidenced by his contributions as a thought leader and social

empower institutions and communities across Africa.

activist. Holding a BSc in Computer Science and Applied Mathematics from the University of Witwatersrand, his expertise

Truth, trust, and results

spans feasibility studies, IT strategy, strategic management,

At the core of Ntiyiso Consulting Group's operations lie

corporate governance, and thought leadership.

three fundamental principles: truth, trust, and results. With a collaborative approach, the firm offers tailor-made solutions designed to deliver tangible results. Ntiyiso Consulting Group believes in fostering a culture of trust and respect, resonating

At the core of Ntiyiso Consulting Group's operations lie three fundamental principles: truth, trust, and results.

deeply with African values. Ntiyiso Consulting Group highlights an impeccable track record of delivering projects on time. From revenue management to infrastructure planning, economic development, and strategy development, the firm's portfolio of projects showcases its unwavering commitment to delivering

A catalyst for change

tangible results. With a focus on collaboration, innovation, and

Ntiyiso Consulting Group is more than a consultancy;

excellence, Ntiyiso Consulting Group continues to be a driving

it's a catalyst for change. With a team of over 200 senior

force in Africa's journey towards prosperity. ■

professionals, the firm delivers evidence-based solutions to complex management problems, specialising in strategy, governance, organisational turnaround, revenue enhancement, and industrialization consulting. Ntiyiso Consulting Group operates through three subsidiaries: Ntiyiso Revenue Consulting, Ntiyiso Business Consulting, and Ntiyiso Industrialization Consulting. Each subsidiary offers a range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of clients, from revenue management to business process optimization and industrial project development.

T +27 (0)12 940 5435 W www.ntiyisoconsulting.co.za SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

EDITORIAL INVESTMENT

Impact investment in Africa –

where profit meets purpose

Africa is a continent of contradictions. The scars left behind by its many nations' storied histories, as well as the new wounds opened by social and economic upheavals, such as the global recession, the pandemic, climate change, and geopolitical tensions, mean that the continent continues to contend with challenges such as inequality, poverty, and other socio-economic issues. 78

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EDITORIAL INVESTMENT

Impact investments have gained traction across Africa in recent years

is emerging as the next frontier for impact investing

and organisations, impact investments can generate

– a realm where profit meets purpose, and where

measurable impact and contribute to the United

opportunities to catalyse positive change are as vast as

Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

the African savannah itself.

agenda.

et, in the midst of these challenges, a quiet revolution is underway. Africa, often overshadowed by outdated stereotypes,

Made into sustainability-themed funds, companies

As the global community increasingly seeks to align

Impact investments have gained significant

capital with compassion, Africa's diverse landscapes,

traction across the continent in recent years, given

vibrant cultures, and entrepreneurial spirit beckon to

the strong potential for investments to drive positive

those who wish to not only seek financial returns but

social and environmental impact in the region. A

also make a profound difference.

study by the Global Impact Investing Network (GIIN)

In this article, we embark on a journey through the

estimated the size of the global impact investing

dynamic landscapes of impact investing in Africa, where

market to be US$1.164 trillion in 2022, a significant

innovation, resilience, and sustainable progress are

maturation of the market since 2019 (before the

shaping a new narrative for this promising continent,

pandemic). The study also found that there was a

offering investors a chance to both enrich their

63% increase in capital injection by private credit

portfolios and empower communities.

markets since 2019, with half this capital being funnelled into Africa. Yet, this substantial injection of capital aimed at

Africa is resilient in the face of difficulty

empowering underserved communities has made

And yet, Africa is also rich in natural resources and

barely a dent in the continent’s progress to meet its

home to the fastest growing, and youngest, populations

SDGs by the 2030 deadline. In fact, even before the

in the world. The continent has also shown itself to

outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, African countries

be resilient in the face of difficulty, with those same

were making slow progress in this regard, with the

challenges acting as a catalyst to drive creative thinking

pandemic pushing the continent further off track

and facilitate the development of innovative solutions.

from eradicating poverty and addressing inequality.

This means that Africa is brimming with potential for exponential growth and development. All the continent needs to harness this potential is a steady flow of investment. “Investment is crucial to unlocking Africa’s economic

So, what is stunting the impact of impact investment in Africa? Firstly, the continent is not a monolith. Some

development as it enables sustainable job creation,

economies are much more developed than

provides access to new markets, introduces new

others with more developed countries being

technologies and injects innovation and increased

more conducive to effective impact investment,

technical expertise into the organisations and

while others contend with restrictive regulatory

economies where it is directed,” says Kuda Mukova,

environments that block the advancement of social

Norsad Capital’s Head of Impact and Sustainability.

entrepreneurship and enterprise.

More particularly, Mukova notes, investments

For example, South Africa is the single largest

that are made with the express intention of creating

market for impact capital in Southern Africa with 74%

lasting, meaningful, and quantifiable positive change,

of all impact capital disbursed in the region having

such as impact investments, will play a key role in

been injected into the country.

the transformation of Africa’s social, environmental

Meanwhile, the uncertainty and economic volatility

and economic future. Impact investors are vital

of the past few years has exacerbated challenges

in this regard as they often target sectors that

such as financial exclusion, lack of access to basic

conventional investors avoid, providing much-

services like housing, education and healthcare,

needed capital when access to funding would

rising levels of unemployment and food, water, and

usually be difficult to secure.

energy scarcity.

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EDITORIAL INVESTMENT

Most pressing challenges offer the most opportunity for investment

Opportunities that would strengthen impact investment in Africa

“The most pressing challenges, however, also offer the

Each country on the continent has its own unique

most opportunity for investment that would generate the

economic and investment landscape, and impact

greatest positive impact in the lives of both individuals and

investors who want to make the most positive impact must

communities,” observes Mukova.

learn about each country individually to form strategies

“Impact investors need to identify the most vulnerable

and solutions that are effective. However, there are some

sectors and communities wherein investment will act as

opportunities to be found across the entire region that

a powerful enabler of the innovation needed to build the

would strengthen impact investment in Africa.

solutions that will overcome these obstacles while also generating new revenue streams.” “Inside our greatest adversities lies a well of potential to

This includes an increase in pre-investment support for businesses to develop a strong pipeline of investable opportunities, an expansion on investment structures that

enable positive change at scale and empower people in new

more creatively fill needs that equity or debt financing

ways by helping to tackle complex, long-standing challenges

alone cannot. It is also crucial to ensure that you have an

in a way that propels socio-economic good forward and

on-the-ground grassroots presence in the areas within

ensures the needs of future generations are met.”

which you operate. Additionally, a targeted focus on the specific sectors in which portfolio companies operate will drive increased growth, returns and impact.

Additionally, a targeted focus on the specific sectors in which portfolio companies operate will drive increased growth, returns and impact.

“By incorporating these strategies into vulnerable priority investment areas, impact investors will not only help to find solutions to the challenges that continue to hold Africa back from the prosperous future it can achieve, but also uplift communities and build a more competitive economy that benefits all,” adds Mukova. ■

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

PROFILE TOP EFFORTS HOSPITALITY

The transformative

power of faith in action

Zimkita Phala's journey from humble beginnings in Cape Town's Langa township to becoming a trailblazing woman leader and entrepreneur is guided by her unwavering faith and commitment to making a difference. Born in 1981, Phala was raised in a household where the values of faith, resilience, and determination were instilled from an early age.

s a devout believer, her faith serves as the cornerstone

estate market. As a strong believer of restoration hope, dignity,

of her leadership philosophy and entrepreneurial

home ownership, and real estate transformation in South Africa,

endeavours. Grounded in the teachings of

she has sold more than 67 Residential Properties valued at R98

compassion, service, and humility, she approaches her work with

956 250 since 2020 to happy families and assisted landlords

a sense of purpose and a deep understanding of the importance

with their buy-to-let investment properties

of stewardship. Her commitment to serving others and making a positive impact on the world is a testament to her belief in the power of faith to inspire transformation and drive change. Phala’s leadership journey is marked by her ability to lead with

3. Top Efforts Trading Enterprise: This enterprise comprises various divisions, including: - Solar systems: Providing sustainable energy solutions to homes and businesses, contributing to environmental

grace, integrity, and compassion. From her days as a prefect in

preservation and cost savings.

high school to her current role as a beacon of hope for youth

- Airbnb management: Offering comprehensive management

and women's business empowerment in her community, she

services for Airbnb properties, ensuring a seamless and

has demonstrated unparalleled leadership qualities that inspire

enjoyable experience for both hosts and guests.

and empower those around her. Her faith not only informs her decision-making but also shapes her approach to leadership,

A catalyst for positive change

guiding her to lead by example and to always prioritize the well-

Driven by her faith and fuelled by her passion for making a

being of others.

difference, her work transcends boundaries and transforms lives.

A dynamic entrepreneur with a heart for community empowerment

promotion of gender equality, or her commitment to social

In addition to her leadership, Phala is a dynamic entrepreneur

entrepreneurship, she is a catalyst for positive change in her

with a heart for community empowerment wherever she is,

community and beyond.

currently leading more than 150 Parklands Women In Business. Armed with qualifications in business management, office management, and project management, she has successfully

Whether through her advocacy for youth development, her

Her ability to mobilize resources, build bridges, and inspire action is a testament to the transformative power of faith in action. ■

launched and managed multiple ventures: 1. Living Water Distributions: A mobile bookstore that brings literature and educational resources directly to underserved communities, promoting literacy and lifelong learning. 2. Independent Property Practitioner Contractor: Phala educates and assists property sellers, buyers, and investors, providing valuable guidance and support in navigating the real

T 073 435 1948 | 078 632 9611 W www.topefforts.co.za SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

EDITORIAL PARTNERSHIPS

Partner up for growth:

the key to futureproofing a business

From telecommunications to retail and banking, firms are under increasing pressure to expand over and above their core offerings, develop new business models, and find new customers. By Pierre Romagny, Partner, Financial Services at Oliver Wyman in South Africa

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

EDITORIAL PARTNERSHIPS

his is in part because of our era of

Eight steps to successful partnerships

exponential digital change. It’s also due to

So how can partnerships as essential enablers of new business models

the fact that many firms have reached natural

be allowed to thrive? Businesses must codify the demand for partners,

growth limits in their primary field, meaning they need

formalise engagement models, have a clear partner value proposition,

to spread both opportunity and risk across multiple

define a partner strategy, adopt a partner-ready organisational structure,

sectors to enhance stability and profitability.

embrace continuous learning, and digitise partner capabilities.

But how can they do that?

Drilling down even further, here are eight key action points that can have

One key move is building real partnerships to bring

a big impact:

in expertise at speed and scale. This is an area many businesses already know is important: Oliver Wyman interviewed more than 30 experts and executives at

Move from vendor to partner: To be effective, partnerships must move beyond a vendor-client relationship. Vendors are only

banks and ecosystem organisations across the world,

invested in your success to the extent that you keep giving them

most of which were in Africa. We asked them, from

business. Genuine partners will work with you to co-create solutions

1 to 10, to rate the importance of partnership. The

that will help you both grow.

average answer was 9.3. It’s clearly a priority! As one respondent put it, “growth via partnership

Evaluate and intentionally plan: First articulate why you need partners, then work to understand which type of partners will

is probably the single biggest agenda for both our

meet your needs, and how you would meet theirs. Then you must

consumer and wholesale business”. Another said

proactively look for these fit-for-purpose partners rather than being

that “partners are the lifeblood” of the “platform

opportunistic.

organisation”.

Ignoring partnerships is simply too much of a risk in the digital age Today, banks know they must offer customers products beyond the traditional options – whether

Formalise engagement models: Define how to manage the relationship with different types of partners – and involve the partners in these discussions. You must also put the right

capabilities in place – such as people, budgets, tech, and expertise. Have a clear, two-way value proposition: By the time you’ve selected a partner you should understand what they bring to the

that’s financial planning, insurance, consumer goods

table, yes, but have you also made it clear what your partners will

and services, content, or any of the myriad other

get out of the relationship?

options. To do so a bank could build out its own solution,

Define a broad partner strategy: Don’t approach partnerships simply as an opportunistic way to solve specific challenges – treat

sure – but that can be costly, time-consuming,

them as a strategic enabler. For instance, articulate how they will

susceptible to scope creep and ultimately failure. It

contribute to generating shareholder value, and have a plan to track

can be far more effective and cost efficient in the long

this.

run to partner with an organisation that already has established expertise, assets, access, and reach.

growth. One thing that makes properly structured partnerships so powerful is the fact the partner stands

work on cruise control; they need to be proactively managed, and your organisation needs to have the capabilities to do so – that often

Implemented properly, partnerships can be rewarding, can drive innovation, and foster

Adopt a partner-ready organisational structure: Partnerships don’t

means dedicated teams. Embrace continuous learning: When was the last time you asked for blunt feedback from partners on what you could be doing better?

to gain just as much as your business if the product

You do it with your customers, so you should also do it with your

succeeds and will also lose just as much if it fails.

partners – and often.

They’re invested. Unfortunately, far too many partnerships flounder. According to the 2020 World Fintech report, only 6%

Digitise parts of the process: There’s no sugar coating it; managing partnerships is a lot of work. Digitise all processes that you can, from scouting to onboarding, and from contracting to tracking outputs.

of partnerships between banks and their partners – whether fintechs or other members of the financial

If you look 10 years into the future, the most successful business models

services industry – deliver the expected results. So,

will be built off of successful partnerships. If you adopt a wait-and-see

given the fact there’s little evidence of success, can

approach, you’ll risk getting left behind. So, I recommend ensuring you get

partnerships ever succeed? I believe so – but only if

partnerships right now – and building up the capabilities to do so – so that

the right elements are in place.

you’re ahead of the game tomorrow. ■

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

EDITORIAL BUSINESS RESCUE

Six reasons why business rescue

should not be feared

Shareholders and directors are bound by the responsibility to act in the best interests of all affected parties of a company. This means that when a company faces solvency and liquidity challenges, as prescribed by Section 4 of the Companies Act 71 of 2008, it must undergo a rigorous assessment, writes Buhle Hanise, Chief Operating Officer of Business Restructuring at BDO South Africa.

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EDITORIAL BUSINESS RESCUE

hen a company fails the solvency and liquidity test, its Board is tasked with making critical decisions that impact creditors, shareholders, clients, and employees. In such times, business rescue is often a good option. As a tool, business rescue allows a company to continue its operations on a solvent basis with the help of

restructuring of its affairs. Many businesses however tend to view business rescue with fear and apprehension. In these cases, those who come in to help a business are seen to be working more in the interests of creditors, rather than as an extension of their team. To counter this misperception, it's essential to understand how business rescue can be a viable and constructive path for a struggling business. Here are six reasons why pursuing this path should not be feared.

Business rescue helps avoid liquidation The major benefit of business rescue is that it helps a business avoid liquidation. This in turns saves employees from losing their jobs, and creditors going unpaid. By opting for business rescue, a company can signal its commitment to recovery and streamline and restructure its operations. The process is cost-effective and keeps the doors open for a brighter future.

Assists with creditors When a business enters the independent business review stage, it signifies that there is still hope for a turnaround. Business rescue can create schemes of arrangements with creditors, helping to reduce costs and navigate industry challenges effectively. This collaborative approach can lead to mutually beneficial solutions.

Offer a holistic approach to solving problems Business restructuring/review (which included business rescue) requires a comprehensive advisory team that can provide internal support for various aspects of the restructuring plan. These advisors should be seen as an extension of the business, working to manage costs, improve profitability, and ensure shareholders receive dividends. Business rescue is not only about working solely for the interests of creditors; it's about preserving the long-term interests of the company.

Find a commercial solution Professionals experienced in turning around distressed businesses are adept at identifying commercial solutions. Business rescue practitioners take full management control of the enterprise, acting within specific mandates and timeframes. This approach ensures that the company's operations are aligned with its recovery strategy.

Turnarounds can take time In a world where instant gratification is often sought, business rescue reminds us that patience is key. Restructuring a company takes time, with most businesses showing signs of recovery only after 18 months to three years of dedicated effort. Success in business rescue is a journey that requires perseverance.

Assisted by strategic funding Business rescue in most cases would require upfront funding to sustain the company's operations during the recovery process. While it is not a guaranteed fix, securing funding can be made easier by finding a strategic partner with the necessary resources. When the right investor comes on board, it can significantly enhance the chances of success.

Business rescue should be embraced as a tool to protect interests of all stakeholders Overall, business rescue should not be feared, but rather embraced as a tool to protect the interests of all stakeholders in a financially distressed company. It can help businesses avoid liquidation, work collaboratively with creditors, and provide a holistic solution to their problems. It requires patience and upfront funding but has the potential to pave the way for a successful recovery. Business rescue is about securing the future of the company, its employees, and the broader economy, and it should be viewed as a valuable option in times of financial distress. ■

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EDITORIAL TECHNOLOGY

Futureproofing for the 5IR era As we transition into the 5th Industrial Revolution (5IR), the relationship between humans and technology grows more intricate.

ith a significant focus on harmonising humanity and tech; the 5IR provides

substantial new opportunities. However, it also comes with not-insubstantial challenges, which will require most people to take action to ensure they futureproof their careers, an education and management expert says.

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EDITORIAL TECHNOLOGY

“While 4IR was characterised by technology enhancing

“On the education front, we will see the need for systems

human capabilities, the 5th Industrial Revolution is predicted

to adapt to prepare individuals for the new world. This will

to centre on the harmonisation between humanity and

mean a greater emphasis on critical thinking, emotional

technology. This means understanding and leveraging

intelligence, and adaptability.”

technology to benefit society, focusing on well-being,

Dr Meyer says that over the next decade, boundaries

sustainability, and inclusivity,” says Dr Linda Meyer, MD of The

between tech and humanity will be redefined, creating a job

Independent Institute of Education’s Rosebank College.

landscape that is fluid and ever-changing.

She says that in the coming years, the world of work and education will see profound changes.

“Certain professions will naturally phase out as we move deeper into the 5IR era, while others will undergo significant

“We will see work being redefined as human roles evolve

transformations. In this age of flux and uncertainty that lies

with AI and robotics taking on more tasks. The emphasis will

ahead, there remain a few steps you can take to fortify your

shift from manual and repetitive jobs to positions that require

career, which will help you remain resilient regardless of your

creativity, empathy, and complex problem-solving.

specific field,” she says.

Embrace continuous learning

Embrace the tech

“Adaptability is the key to thriving throughout life, specifically

Rather than shying away from new technological tools, engage

during times of uncertainty, and at the heart of adaptability lies

with them through hands-on experience.

continuous learning. With the 5IR promising advancements in AI,

“If a new software or tool is relevant to your job, learn its

biotech, and other fields, professionals must be willing to learn

functionalities. This includes augmented and virtual reality tools

and re-learn to stay relevant,” advises Dr Meyer.

which will become commonplace in training, meetings, and

Staying on top of the game can be done by pursuing

other professional scenarios.”

online courses and certifications, attending workshops and conferences, and obtaining a new qualification in a growth

Be flexible and connect

sector.

Jobs will evolve and roles may shift. Being flexible and open to change will be an asset. This might mean moving organisational

Develop soft skills

functions, adapting to new technologies, or changing career

While technology will play a pivotal role in future, human-centric

paths. Dr Meyer says that being a team player who gets the job

skills will become invaluable. These skills include emotional

done – even if it’s a new one requiring new skills – will go a long

intelligence, critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration.

way towards futureproofing your position.

“As machines handle more tasks, human roles will focus on

“And finally, as everyone will be going through similar

management, communication, and decision-making – all of

changes and transitions across roles and industries, maintaining

which require a deep understanding of human emotions and

a robust professional network will become key – to help you

behaviours.

stay updated on industry trends, provide opportunities for

“The ability to assess situations, think critically, and devise solutions will be crucial, especially in scenarios where

collaboration, and offer potential safety nets in times of rapid change.” ■

automation falls short. And with decentralisation a critical theme, teamwork and collaboration across diverse groups and geographies will be essential.”

ABOUT DR LINDA MEYER Dr Linda Meyer is the Managing Director of the Independent

Cultivate an interdisciplinary mindset

Institute of Education’s Rosebank College. She has held

The boundaries between disciplines will blur, notes Dr Meyer. A

several Executive roles in the public and private sectors,

coder might need to understand biogenetics if they're working

is a serving member of the SAQA Board and a former

on a biotech application, or a marketer might need to dive

CCMA Commissioner. She holds several qualifications,

into AI analytics to optimise campaigns. It is, therefore, helpful

including a Doctor of Philosophy (RSA), Doctor of Business

to invest time in understanding the basics of disciplines that

Administration (USA), Master of Business Administration

intersect with yours.

(UK), Post Graduate Diploma in Management Studies (UK),

Along with new tech will come further ethical questions. Being informed about the ethical considerations in your industry

Bachelor of Business Administration, B. Com (Law) and professional certifications.

can also position you as a thought leader and decision-maker.

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EDITORIAL TECHNOLOGY

Bringing smart city technology to your business The concept of smart cities has become more prevalent over the last decade as more cities around the world adopt the Internet of Things (IoT) to increase operational efficiency, share information, and improve both infrastructure and the safety and quality of life of citizens.

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EDITORIAL TECHNOLOGY

“W

hile South African cities may not be as prepared as their global counterparts to adopt IoT into

Adopting and innovating with IoT solutions contributes to a safer work environment

the running of municipalities, the private sector is more

IoT is the connected intelligence that delivers value to those

than ready to embrace smart city technology into their

that truly tap into its potential. Taylor says that adopting and

businesses,” says Rodney Taylor, Managing Director of

innovating with IoT solutions can significantly contribute

Guardian Eye.

to creating safer work environments, improving wellness,

While many may think that smart city technology is all about connectivity, in reality, connectivity is the foundation upon which a myriad of solutions is possible. “Smart city technology is so much more than having

and fostering a culture of continuous improvement in safety practices. “The strategic integration of IoT not only transforms the way businesses operate but also contributes significantly to

high-speed wireless connections, or prepaid utilities.

bettering and adding value to our communities and cities,” he

Adopting IoT can reinvent business practices, replace and

says.

upgrade systems and operations to reduce cost, time,

When it comes to healthcare, for example, locally and

safety concerns, and efficiencies for your business, your

abroad, telemedicine is providing organisations with a solution

staff, and your customers,” Taylor says.

that bypasses many of the challenges faced by their employees regarding their healthcare and wellness requirements. Given the positive feedback already being experienced through various solutions, healthcare is expected to develop faster than most other sectors when it comes to the use of IoT. Public safety is another key capability of smart city technology that can have an immense impact on a business, with connected devices creating more secure workplaces. Whether it be cameras and IoT sensors, intelligent guarding, real-time monitoring and managing alarm and security systems, or biometric access control, the potential of IoT to enhance both public and private safety of citizens is virtually endless. This includes those working in high-risk sectors, such as heavy manufacturing, mining, and housing or construction, where real-time monitoring through trackers and sensors can greatly increase workplace safety.

IoT platforms accessible to anyone “IoT devices and platforms aren’t complicated, they’re accessible to anyone in any part of the country, and once people realise this, businesses really can be transformed,” says Taylor. According to a media report, the forecasts that the quantity of IoT devices employed in various industries globally is estimated to reach a staggering 55 billion by 2025. This is an increase from about nine billion in 2017. Furthermore, according to Statista, the projected global spend on IoT until 2023 is $1.1 trillion with an anticipated global revenue of $621 billion by 2030. The adoption of IoT in South Africa continues to gain ground as more businesses realise its affordable and available capabilities, especially when merged with and enhanced by other existing technologies and solutions. “While we live in hope that municipalities and cities locally will be able to adopt more smart city technology to improve our infrastructure, safety, and wellness in years to come, the time is now for more South African businesses to lead the way in making our workplaces, communities, and cities smarter and safer,” Taylor says. “In 2024, why not incorporate some of these changes into the way you run your organisation and bring more smart city technology into your business”. ■

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EDITORIAL PRODUCTIVITY

Four essential tips for business productivity

Systems and processes can create big productivity boosts, which in turn, can help you to drive significant improvements to your revenues and profitability. By Norman Kretzmer, Founder and CEO of Contract Understanding

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

EDITORIAL PRODUCTIVITY

Planning is everything

Centralise and digitise information

ere are four tips

In a world that feels more

a reliance on paper documents, is one of

for improving

volatile and uncertain

the biggest enemies of productivity in any

your productivity,

than ever, good strategic

business. Many businesses are keeping critical

Poorly organised information, particularly

so that your business can

and project planning is key

information such as contracts and customer

navigate the challenges and

to success. It’s important

records in filing cabinets or on employees’ local

opportunities it will face in

to have clearly defined

hard drives. Digitising this information and

the year to come.

objectives for your business,

storing it in a centralised online repository can

with actionable steps that will help you to meet your goals. Regular strategic planning will help you to reassess and adjust your business

deliver immediate productivity wins. Consider the benefits, for example, of being able to access all contracts with customers, suppliers, and service providers via a cloud-

strategy based on market trends and internal performance.

based system rather than needing to rummage

Each project should also be carefully planned, paying close

through a cabinet. Once your documents are

attention to the expected outcomes, the risks that may derail the

stored online, it also becomes easier

project, and the resources required to complete it. Break projects

for your team to share information

down into tasks, set deadlines, and ensure that there are clear lines

and collaborate, saving time for

of accountability. Strategic and project goals should be Specific,

everyone. This also enables your team

Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timed (SMART) to keep

to work remotely when appropriate.

progress on track.

Embrace automation and AI Although many businesses have adopted software to automate some processes, you’ll still find many owners and employees manually executing a range of repetitive, time-consuming tasks. Whether it’s manually tracking customer service requests, capturing financial information, or keeping track of legal contracts, the admin can be overwhelming. Today, businesses can use a range of affordable, cloud-based software tools to automate these tedious processes and free resources up to focus on growth and strategy. Such solutions help to reduce human error, improve efficiency, speed up business processes, and strengthen compliance with tax laws and other regulations.

Harness tech as an enabler, but don’t let it become a distraction Technology has completely changed how businesses operate over the past 15 years. Mobile access to apps like email, social media, and instant messaging allows us to work from nearly anywhere, be more responsive to colleagues and customers, and have access to real-time info at our fingertips. But there is also a downside, given the propensity of people to try to multitask. These technologies can distract employees from their essential tasks. Constant WhatsApp or social media notifications can be disruptive when you need to focus on doing your financials or completing a customer proposal. It can be helpful to set times aside during the day to respond to messages and turn notifications off the rest of the time. ■

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EDITORIAL PRODUCTIVITY

5 ideas to rebuild trust and productivity South Africa’s labour market is under pressure. Operating models are changing in response to changing client needs, mainly through digitisation. By Ray Harraway, Master Reward Specialist and South African Reward Association (SARA) member

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

EDITORIAL PRODUCTIVITY

his is causing an increase in demand

Pay for potential

for skills not readily available – a

Work success comes from at least two things, will and skill:

deteriorating macro environment

• will (ambition, energy, enthusiasm, resilience, focus, drive); and

combined with high volume and pace of change is increasing distractions and fraying

• skill (Knowledge, acquired through experience, exposure, training. Qualifications and Interpersonal skills).

emotional connections at work broadly. These factors drive the prospect of lower

‘Will’ is not dissimilar to ‘potential’ and we tend to undervalue it. This

productivity and weaker bottom lines. Here are

is because there is no identifiable market value, such as benchmark

five ways reward practitioners can respond to

survey data – it is not explicit like a qualification or years of

rebuild trust and productivity.

experience. We have all heard of skills-based or competency-based, or performance-based pay. But, what about potential based pay? The reason this is important is that attrition data, particularly of millennials, tells us that employees leave primarily because of lack of career progression. Is this because we prefer to see a proven track record before we promote? Potential is anything but a proven track record. Call to action: Paying for potential, such as through a ‘premature’ promotion, may well mean you are paying it forward and betting on a future outcome. But this bolder and proactive talent approach protects your talent base which one day should translate to performance.

Prioritise well-being “Productivity creates well-being, and well-being creates productivity”. But there is a paradox: • On the one hand, organisational change tends to drive adverse wellbeing consequences. • On the other, the volume and pace of effective change is necessary to remain sustainable. The point is that the emotional state of the workforce going through a transformation is critical to the success of the transformation programme. There is newfound respect for the strategic importance of wellbeing – corporate growth depends on it. Organisations have a responsibility to proactively provide wellbeing offerings for the wellbeing of the organisation. Employees must still own their own wellbeing. Call to action: Why not incentivise line managers to destigmatise

mental health and have ‘whole person’ conversations in their regular direct report one-on-ones. This can be done through an online recognition system where direct reports award virtual badges when they observe this behaviour, as one example.

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EDITORIAL PRODUCTIVITY

Strengthen communication on reward We know too well that effective reward is premised on driving behaviour and actions that achieve the strategic objectives. The LTI award might be connected to corporate performance targets, but is the employee? The LTI scheme is wasted if we don’t use it to connect employees to the strategic objectives of the organisation. Demonstrate in simple terms the probability of LTI performance vesting outcomes and how they are tied to the achievement of the targets. The retentive power of LTIs is heavily discounted if the participant is unsighted on this. After all, LTI awards should motivate them to be productive and achieve the targets as they have a stake in the company. Call to action: Engaging employees to be more productive is

Keep the fair pay conversation going

possible with better communication. Spend more time promoting

Let’s face it – effort can be disproportionately spent on

your LTI scheme and how it actually aligns interests of shareholders

refining methodologies to calculate pay differentials,

and employees.

identifying and remediating unjustified ones and governance reporting. We can do as much variable regression analysis as we like to prove no systemic bias, but unless we are transparent with employees on the

results, the work is largely wasted. Employees want to know that their pay is fair, otherwise they will believe the corridor gossip. Pay is always a relative

Demonstrate to your employees that pay is fair or what you are doing to address inequities.

game – how it stacks up to the next guy. Explaining a pay differential is an art based on science. Call to action: Demonstrate to your employees that pay is fair or what you are doing to address inequities. Sharing the results might require some courage, but if

Benefit choice

done correctly, with trained line managers, it will drive

Just like “beer is free tomorrow”, the trend of “Individualised benefits”

an inclusive culture, a sense of belonging, and higher

never seems to arrive. Imagine building your very own benefits

productivity. Knowing is always better than making

portfolio just like you can when you buy a new vehicle off the factory

assumptions because of not knowing!

floor with an online menu of choices. This requires heavy investment in data, technology and AI, much of this is beyond the reach of many organisations and is arguably still work in progress. An efficient way to achieve a similar result is to empower employees to select benefits from a range of flexible options that are pre-packaged around life stages, such as marriage, birth, death, or buying a house. No choice or too much choice can both be a value detractor. Call to action: Review the extent of choice in your benefit offering. Good examples are choice in a medical scheme, extent of group life cover, range of retirement fund contributions, and when and where you work.

Finally… This article suggests five ideas to keep the reward programme relevant. None are radical except perhaps ‘pay for potential’. Isn’t it time for radical innovation in reward design? ■

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PROFILE ASPIRE SA

Inspiring & facilitating lasting transformation Every CEO wants their company to thrive, and achieving growth requires specific outcomes. Aspire South Africa has identified the key factors crucial in the minds of almost all CEOs.

These factors include:

The six critical people & culture lenses

• A healthy culture that doesn’t waste human

In Aspire’s Strategic Alignment Journey, it facilitates the crafting

resources. • Increased customer experience through the alignment of employees' efforts. • Increased capacity for innovation. • Retention of the best employees by increasing the employee value proposition. • The multiplication of leaders and their capacity.

of a clear, compelling vision, mission, and objectives that inspire employees and motivate them in their daily activities to hit strategic goals. Aspire’s Team Engagement Journey helps teams gain unity, motivation, ownership, and accountability of team objectives and amplify productivity. Empower your employees through Aspire’s Wellbeing Experience, Expand, take ownership of their well-being, and watch how your

Neglecting any of these outcomes may lead to

company becomes a place where top talent loves to work, employees

long-term organisational failure. As challenges like

feel safe, and are intrinsically motivated.

management issues, growth stagnation, and high

Aspire’s Values Entrenchment Journey will help your company

employee turnover surface, leadership endeavours

intentionally craft your unique company values and align on how the

to address them, unfortunately, quick fixes worsen

values will be lived out and shared with new employees.

situations in the long run. Aspire stands ready to partner with its clients, acknowledging their expertise in their organisation, and offers its proficiency in the science of people and

The Leadership Pipeline assesses leaders' capacity and coaches and equips them in growth areas as they grow in their current roles and prepare for their next roles. By intentionally investing in your employee engagement, you

culture. Collaboratively, Aspire refines, aligns, and

are retaining your top talent, drawing the best future employees,

entrenches its clients’ company culture at the top,

and saving time, money, and effort on recruiting, onboarding, and

middle management, and team levels.

training. ■

The process unfolds in four steps: 1. Gain a high-level understanding of problem areas and identify the focus among the five outcomes. 2. Design a unique journey using Aspire’s six critical people & culture lenses to address root causes. 3. Facilitate a multifaceted journey comprising assessments, workshops, fun and creative learning experiences, practical tools and media initiatives 4. Integrate all initiatives into a tracking system to measure progress and impact within the company.

T +27 79 066 7725 W https://aspireza.com/ SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

EDITORIAL CUSTOMER VALUE

Navigating the waters to business success

It is said that success is no accident, and for entrepreneurs who plot the right destination and navigate their “seas” strategically, victory is sealed.

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

EDITORIAL CUSTOMER VALUE

From their early days in business with a small customer base,

ne navigation instrument that successful companies should use, is focusing on delivering

to today where many mid-sized and corporate companies trust

customer value at their core. When leaders focus

them, their focus on customer value creation, branding, and

on customer value as a core strategy, delivered across their

investment in technology for operational efficiency, contributed

products, services, operations and people, they ensure happy,

to their success.

satisfied customers. Two entrepreneurs, Warren Bonheim and Frank Mullen, the founders of Zinia, an established IT company and Managed Services Provider (MSP), have for over a decade applied their business acumen to navigate the tough waters of the South

A customer value strategy can become one of your key differentiators in a cut-throat industry.

African landscape.

Warren Bonheim, Managing Director of Zinia, shares their learnings and provides insights for leaders to navigate the choppy waters of business to long-term success.

Focus on delivering customer value

Technology empowers business

From the outset we knew that the

Branding and marketing should always be a priority

customer had to be at the heart of our

We always invest in building a

implement technology to ensure

business. How do we deliver value not

brand to match our reputation in

operational excellence, as well as future

just in terms of the product but the entire

the market. In a highly competitive

proofing the business, is critical.

value chain of the business? It is important

market, companies must find ways

We invest heavily in technology and

for businesses to enhance the intersection

to stand out from the crowd; and

systems, not only to drive efficiencies but

points between their customers and the

great branding gives an edge.

also to improve our performance and

business. How can they make it easier,

In tough times, don’t pull back

The ability of leaders to select and

delivery to customers.

faster, better when doing business with

on marketing spend, in fact we

them?

went on the offensive, to inspire

be setup with simple dashboards for

confidence in our brand; while

management to know where you are

understood the pain points of companies,

competitors are defensively

tracking on goals, and how your teams are

and tackling these issues became our

hiding in tough times, our brand is

delivering on customer expectations.

priority, and of course, delivering our

out there.

When we started in 2009, we

products and services seamlessly, simply, and quickly. A customer value strategy can become

It is key for your business systems to

We use leading technology systems

Your branding elements –

internally to manage the business as

corporate identity, marketing

well as externally to deliver services to

and sales collateral, website, and

customers.

one of your key differentiators in a cut-

digital presence – should all align

Automation has also allowed us to

throat industry.

with your purpose and becomes a

be more productive and effective when

key component of your success.

delivering IT services. Every business

In our experience, an unwavering dedication to a value proposition that puts

We focused on developing our

can take advantage of simple or more

a customer’s positive experience with your

visual brand to speak directly to

complex automation technology to

brand above all else, is the key to success.

our target customers to ensure

make their delivery more streamlined and

This approach set us apart when we

we get the message across with a

efficient.

are up against larger companies, giving us an edge and reinforcing why customers

succinct value proposition.

It is important for leaders to stay on

When you connect deeply

top of trends not just to operate more

should do business with us. Leading

with what the customer needs

efficiently but also to drive growth, and

with the customer need and creating

and align your brand to that, the

use technology to transform how they do

everything to support this is a great

customer understands what you

business, ensuring they remain competitive

business strategy.

stand for and what you do.

in a fast-changing landscape. ■

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EDITORIAL OPINION

7 skills all customer

experience interviewers must master Our feelings and emotions are intricately linked with how we make decisions. Unfortunately, too many companies fixate on NPS or CSAT scores and ignore their limitations. By Liezel Jonkheid, Director and Founder of the Consumer Psychology Lab

SA PROFILE www.saprofilemagazine.co.za

EDITORIAL OPINION

hile these scores may give us the ‘what’

experiences boost customer loyalty – they stay longer, they

and ‘how much’, they are sorely lacking the

buy more and more often, and they become powerful and

fundamental ‘why’. These scores are all about

convincing word-of-mouth advocates for the brand.

the business and performance measures, and not about the

This is where the CX survey, and how the customer’s

customer and their emotional reaction to their experience with

experience is collected and measured, matter. Customers

a brand. To truly understand customers’ experience, it’s time to

need a safe, authentic space to share their stories, rather

re-think how we measure customer experience.

than being boxed into structured surveys with simplistic

A customer’s experience (CX) of a brand interaction is

‘yes/no’ and ‘scales of 1-5’ answers. Often the number does

shaped by their mindset at the time, expectations, fears, needs,

not provide the opportunity to explain the rating. They

wants, previous experiences, and even subconscious triggers,

need to have the opportunity to weave their recollection of

which all impact the actual interaction with the brand, through

the event in their own words. The customer conversation is the opportunity to

any touchpoint. These reactions are also influenced by all the sensory

ask and unpack the impact of their experience. Having

elements customers encounter during their interaction with a

conversations with customers can provide far deeper,

brand. It contributes both to what they remember and to the

authentic insights into what drives CX, that comes straight

clarity of the memory (recall). The intricate nature of experience

from your customers' own experience, rather than being

means that it is always subjective and always carries emotive

led by pre-defined Q&A type forms that leave little room

elements – conscious or subconscious.

for hearing from a customer’s true vantage point, and typically miss the subtle cues and opportunities to delve

So why is this so important when it comes to measuring customer experience?

deeper.

To stand out in a highly competitive market environment,

possible, CX interviewers require very specific personal

customer experience has become the only true differentiator.

traits and skills. The Consumer Psychology Lab unpacks

When CX is designed, rather than left to chance, customers

the 7 critical skills that every CX Interviewer must master if

experience brands as consistent, and they are able to connect

they truly want to help businesses gather valuable insights

to the brand and the interaction emotionally. Exceptional

into what drives CX and how to improve it.

To make these fertile customer experience conversations

Important skills for CX interviewing

#1 Connect

Most direct marketing calls start with “You are speaking to x, how are you doing today?” To break from the associated invasive approach to selling products or services not required, the introduction has to be different, authentic, and transparent so the person can process the information and reason for the call right up front. From the moment the conversation starts, the customer should know they are speaking to a professional CX interviewer. Top CX interviewers establish a connection in the way: • they introduce themselves to the customer; • position the reason for a call with a real interest to hear the customer’s experience, in their own words, at its core; and • they respond intelligently and appropriately throughout the conversation by probing, listening and providing a safe space.

#2 Probe

One of the most important skills for CX interviewers is curiosity. The ability to ask questions with a natural curious approach, and the ability to reflect on a response and think about what it means, are the traits of mastery. To conduct successful experience conversations, CX interviewers should be: • familiar with a typical customer journey with the relevant brand; • clearly understand the purpose of the interview (i.e. the brand’s objective for the survey); • able to ask open-ended questions (why, how, tell me more, etc), rather than closed questions, requiring a mere yes or no response; • able to use silence effectively to encourage conversation; and • confirm understanding of the information by validating (and summarising) what was heard.

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EDITORIAL OPINION

#3 Listen actively

To get the most from a conversation about a customer experience, an interviewer must become exceptional in active listening, by: • listening attentively – this means not interrupting and consistently providing cues that they are present, i.e. following the conversation and processing the content rather than formulating the next question, by using phrases, like: mmm, I hear you…; • summarising and paraphrasing to validate the accuracy of the story’s content; and • responding appropriately by using empathy (appreciating customers’ view of the experience without judgement).

#4 Have empathy

#5 Encourage storytelling

Empathy is generally defined as the ability to sense other people’s emotions, coupled with the ability to imagine what someone else might be thinking or feeling. When CX interviewers master empathy as a technique, customers feel safe, understood, HEARD and validated. Nobel prize-winning psychologist and economist Prof Daniel Kahneman explained that the experiencing self does all the living by going through a succession of moments, but it is the remembering self that keeps the memories. When we make decisions, our remembering selves are in control. What customers remember and how that made them feel, gives us insight into their future decision-making. Every customer has his or her version of how the interaction took place. The interviewer’s role is to offer a safe space where customers can share their personal view of every touch point with the brand. They must have the skill to identify and delve into moments that really matter to each customer.

#6 Deduce the emotional impact

The story provides cues about how the customer was affected and sees the brand subsequently. CX interviewers unpack and understand the customer’s willingness to: • convince others (share their stories – advocacy); • forgive (forgiveness); • tell others (recommendation); • return or buy more (loyalty); • trust in brand/company/product/people; and • strength of the relationship.

#7 Remain neutral

Great CX interviewers exude a non-judgemental approach underpinned by empathy. Customers should feel safe enough to say it as it is, knowing that the interviewer will not take sides. The interviewer should also not come across as cold or unmoved by the stories shared. While they are not in the position to agree with the content, they can and should validate the customer’s perspective and emotions. The professionalism to never compromise the client nor make a customer feel unjustified by taking sides, hold the key to the most effective and valuable cx conversations.

Quality conversations with customers to truly understand what drives their experience

the reliable, relevant, honest and actionable feedback you want

When companies and brands are genuinely focused on fixing

organisation’s true competitive advantage. ■

moments of misery and creating more moments of magic for

and need from your customers to define and entrench your For more information visit www.consumerlab.co.za

their customers, it requires quality conversations with customers to truly understand what drives the experience. And it is all underpinned by the level of mastery of the CX interviewers whose skills and experience in this complex field will determine the quality and authenticity of the conversations and data you gather from your customers – the outcomes of which will ultimately define the design of your customer journey and – experience. Mastery of these seven critical CX interviewing skills gets you

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Great CX interviewers exude a nonjudgemental approach underpinned by empathy. Customers should feel safe enough to say it as it is, knowing that the interviewer will not take sides.

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EDITORIAL VAT

Freelance

creatives and VAT When someone says influencer, freelance designer, writer or content creator (collectively referred to as a creative freelancer) do you think VAT?

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EDITORIAL VAT

yanda Masina, Assistant Manager, and Kagiso Nonyane, Manager at BDO, point out that many creative freelancers

You need to register for VAT For tax purposes, employers withhold employees' tax (PAYE) on

don't consider taxes in their creative pursuits.

"remuneration" as defined in the Income Tax Act. If you don't fit the

It's not a topic that readily comes to mind when

"employee" and "remuneration" definitions, it's time to consider the

you're brainstorming ideas or putting the finishing

Value-Added Tax (VAT) provisions.

touches on a project. But the truth is, taxes can't

VAT is a 15% tax levied on the supply of goods or services by

be overlooked. Nonyane and Masina hare some

a vendor in the course of carrying on an enterprise. Don't let the

insights...

jargon intimidate you. In simple terms, if you're providing services or

One of the unique aspects of freelancing is the autonomy it provides. You have the freedom to

selling products, and you cross a certain income threshold (usually R1 million in a 12-month period), you need to register for VAT.

choose your projects, set your working hours, and define your rates. This is the dream, right? But with great power comes great

For creative freelancers, especially those earning over R100k monthly, VAT registration becomes a necessity. It's not just a legal obligation; it's a financial best practice

responsibility. You're not just the creative mind;

By registering for VAT, you ensure you're charging and accounting

you're also the accountant, the marketer, and

for taxes correctly. This way, you avoid the risk of penalties, interest,

the project manager. Balancing freedom with

or even criminal charges for non-compliance. Registration means

structure can be challenging, but it's essential for

you'll need to issue tax invoices and report VAT to SARS.

success.

Voluntary Disclosure Program (VDP): Your safety net

You're not just the creative mind; you're also the accountant, the marketer, and the project manager.

But what if you've missed the VAT registration deadline or realised you haven't been charging VAT when you should have been? There's a lifeline called the Voluntary Disclosure Program (VDP). This program allows you to rectify your tax situation without facing criminal prosecution.

Your financial portfolio is your responsibility to manage

Through the VDP, you can: • Avoid criminal charges for non-compliance. • Receive a waiver for administrative penalties and

Tax compliance is a legal business requirement and if not

understatement penalties.

done properly, it shouldn’t come as a surprise if you’re contacted by the South African Revenue Service (SARS)

So, even if you've made a mistake, there's a path to

due to the non-payment.

redemption.

Just as your creative portfolio is your masterpiece,

In your creative journey, don't forget to paint a clear

your financial portfolio is equally important – and your

picture of your financial obligations. Understanding

responsibility to manage. It includes your tax records,

the tax landscape, maintaining diverse portfolios (both

expenses, and income. Managing your financial portfolio

creative and financial), and knowing when VAT applies are

with as much dedication as your creative one ensures a

vital to your success.

smooth journey in the world of freelancing. As a creative freelancer, you're not just juggling creative projects; you're also juggling the complexities of the tax landscape. You need to understand terms like "Employer,"

In the end, it's all about understanding your tax responsibilities and the intricacies of your relationships with clients. Before diving headfirst into your creative projects, take

"Employee," and "Remuneration," as defined in the Income

a moment to ensure your tax ducks are in a row. It's an

Tax Act. Some research upfront can save you from financial

investment in your financial well-being and the freedom

stress down the road.

to keep focusing on what you do best – creating. ■

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EDITORIAL MENTAL HEALTH

Impostor syndrome: how to stop it Impostor syndrome is a psychological phenomenon that involves feeling like a fraud, and constantly waiting to be found out despite evidence of your achievements and competence. It can affect anyone, regardless of their profession, education, or experience.

mpostor syndrome can cause you to doubt yourself, fear failure, and avoid

challenges, thereby undermining your own success and life satisfaction. If left unchecked, it can derail you from reaching your full potential, a leadership and education expert warns. “Imposter Syndrome does not discriminate. While one might think it's a challenge faced by those struggling with self-worth, it's surprising how often the overachievers feel its weight the most,” says Dr Linda Meyer, MD of The Independent Institute of Education’s Rosebank College. “Even esteemed figures, from decorated scientists to iconic performers, have frequently confessed to feeling like frauds. They think their achievements aren't the results of their efforts but rather a fortunate alignment of circumstances or, even worse, a well-maintained charade.”

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EDITORIAL MENTAL HEALTH

The phenomenon is widespread

Seek feedback and support

Some studies suggest that as many as 70% of adults will

An additional tool is to seek feedback and support.

experience impostor syndrome at least once in their lifetime.

Speaking to a mentor, respected colleagues or managers

Although estimates vary, it is clear that the phenomenon is

is essential for your professional development and well-being.

widespread, with a great many people falling into the trap of

They can help you gain perspective, learn from others, and

believing they are an island of well-masked incompetence

improve your performance.

surrounded by a sea of professional and capable people.

Perhaps one of the most effective antidotes to ward off

“Impostor syndrome flows from self-doubt, which is an

impostor syndrome, is embracing lifelong learning and

essential part of the human psyche. It serves as a mechanism

continuing professional development, says Dr Meyer.

that ensures self-assessment and reflection, maintaining a

“Impostor syndrome can make you avoid new opportunities

balance to avoid hubris. It's when this self-doubt, instead of

and challenges, because you fear failure and rejection.

acting as a reflective tool, starts feeding on negative external

However, this can limit your learning and growth, and prevent

factors and validations, that it can morph into the all-consuming

you from reaching your full potential.

Imposter Syndrome,” says Dr Meyer. “Of course, it is quite possible that a person may indeed

“Adopting a growth mindset, the belief that your abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort, feedback, and

be out of their depth, in which case their self-doubt does not

practice, will keep you in a state of self-empowerment. A growth

translate to impostor syndrome. It is therefore important to

mindset can help you embrace challenges, overcome setbacks,

firstly recognise your feelings, and then determine whether

and persist in the face of difficulties. It can also help you value

they are based in reality,” she adds.

the process of learning, rather than the outcome of success,” she adds.

Identify and challenge negative thoughts “The first step to overcoming

Recognising and addressing Imposter Syndrome within oneself is pivotal

impostor syndrome is to identify and

Not dealing with impostor syndrome can rob an individual of

challenge the negative thoughts

years of professional satisfaction and progress, not to mention

that fuel it. Some common impostor

enjoying a fulfilling life, Dr Meyer says.

thoughts will include ideas that you

“If you suspect that you may be dealing with this issue,

don’t deserve this success; that you

recognise that you are not alone in your struggles, but that it is

got lucky this time but won’t be able

up to you to grab the bull by the horns and banish this thief of

to do it again; that you are not as smart, talented or

joy from your personal and professional life. Recognising and

skilled as others think you are, and that you are afraid of

addressing imposter syndrome within oneself is pivotal.

the penny dropping at some point and that you will be ‘found out’,” explains Dr Meyer. She adds that the best way to ward of negative self-talk, is to have objective facts in front of you.

“This initial spark of self-awareness illuminates the path forward. Accepting these feelings without judgment allows for proactive measures, setting the stage for transformative personal growth.” ■

It is therefore important to keep a record of your accomplishments. “Keeping a record of your accomplishments and

Dr Linda Meyer is the Managing Director of the Independent

reminding yourself of them regularly can assist you in

Institute of Education’s Rosebank College and has held several

acknowledging your strengths and achievements, and

Executive roles in the public and private sectors. Dr Meyer is

counteract the tendency to focus on your flaws and

a serving member of the SAQA Board and a former CCMA

failures.

Commissioner. She holds several qualifications, including a

“You can create a portfolio, a journal, or a folder where

Doctor of Philosophy (RSA), Doctor of Business Administration

you collect tangible evidence of your accomplishments,

(USA), Master of Business Administration (UK), Post Graduate

such as certificates, awards, positive feedback,

Diploma in Management Studies (UK), Bachelor of Business

testimonials, or successful projects. Review your record

Administration, B. Com (Law) and several other Diplomas and

whenever you feel insecure or doubtful and celebrate

Higher Certificates and professional certifications.

your progress and growth.”

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105

EDITORIAL GOALS

Setting goals

versus winging it In today’s world, keeping afloat daily is just about the only thing many people can manage, and mapping a life and career strategy may seem pointless, given the uncertainty that abounds. However, even under our current volatile global and local economic circumstances, a labour and career expert says there is a solid argument to be made in favour of crafting goals and sticking to the plan.

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EDITORIAL GOALS

“G

oal setting focuses your mind and provides a clear roadmap. When we set specific objectives, we gain a sense of direction.

It’s like plotting coordinates on a map before embarking on a journey. Without goals, we’re akin to wanderers without a compass. Having well-defined targets helps us channel our

Cultivating a growth mindset, where challenges are viewed as opportunities for learning, can be incredibly empowering both at work and in personal life.

efforts effectively,” says Dr Linda Meyer, MD, at The Independent Institute of Education’s Rosebank College. “In contrast, winging it lacks structure. It’s akin to navigating without a map. We might stumble upon success occasionally, but it’s often haphazard and inefficient,” she says. At its core, goal setting is about identifying what truly matters

Resilience is a critical component of successful goal setting “Of course, the path to achieving goals is seldom linear

to us, envisioning a future that excites and motivates us, and

and may be fraught with obstacles, setbacks, and detours.

laying down a roadmap to turn that vision into reality.

Resilience, therefore, becomes a critical component of

“Whether aspiring to leadership roles within your

successful goal setting. It's about developing the mental

organisation or seeking personal growth through learning a

and emotional fortitude to face challenges head-on, learn

new skill, the essence of goal setting remains the same; it's

from failures, and persist in the face of adversity. Cultivating

about creating a life by design, not by default,” explains Dr

a growth mindset, where challenges are viewed as

Meyer.

opportunities for learning, can be incredibly empowering both at work and in personal life.”

Effective strategies for setting goals

Dr Meyer says setting up support systems and

She says one of the most effective strategies for setting goals

celebrating small wins are two of the most important

is the SMART framework, which ensures that goals are Specific,

components of goal setting.

Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

“Building a supportive network of mentors, peers, and loved ones can provide the encouragement, advice, and

The SMART framework can be broken down as follows:

accountability needed to stay on track, not to mention

• Specific: Define goals clearly, considering economic

open the door to opportunities. In professional settings,

constraints and local job markets. • Measurable: Quantify progress, whether it’s mastering a new skill or securing a promotion. • Achievable: Be realistic. Set goals that fit within the economic fabric of our country. • Relevant: Align goals with broader life objectives. • Time-bound: Deadlines matter.

seeking mentors who have navigated similar paths can offer invaluable insights, while in personal endeavours, friends and family can offer the emotional support and motivation to persevere.” And the journey towards achieving goals is as important as the destination itself. “Celebrating milestones not only serves as a recognition of effort and progress but also boosts morale and

“This approach provides clarity and focus and facilitates tracking

motivation. Whether it's a professional achievement like a

progress and adjustments along the way. In the professional

successful project completion or a personal triumph like

sphere, this might mean setting a goal to lead a high-stakes

running your first marathon, acknowledging these victories

project within the next six months, while personally, it could

can fuel the drive towards bigger goals,” says Dr Meyer.

involve committing to a fitness regimen that improves health metrics by a specific date,” says Dr Meyer. She explains that for goals to be truly impactful, they must align with one's core values and long-term vision. “This alignment ensures that pursuing goals feels meaningful

“In the grand scheme of life, goal setting is more than achieving specific outcomes; it's about crafting a journey rich in growth, learning, and fulfilment. “By setting thoughtful, aligned, and challenging goals and approaching the journey with resilience, support, and

and fulfilling, unlike a hollow chase for external validation.

celebration, individuals can transcend the ordinary, both

Professionally, this means setting career goals that resonate

in their careers and personal lives. Remember, the most

with your passions and strengths, while personally, it involves

rewarding goals are not just those that are achieved but

pursuing aspirations that enhance your well-being and sense of

those that transform us in the pursuit.” ■

purpose.

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EDITORIAL WELLBEING

Understanding

yourself in 2024 Identity Intelligence Coach, Alison Weihe has helped people authentically connect with others by showing them guidelines to identity intelligence and finding their true self. She shares some insights...

e need to reflect on “who we became” last year in order to understand who we can

become in 2024. When you uncover your true self, you’ll be able to: • Heal old wounds. • Set clear boundaries every time. • Find purpose and have deeper relationships. • Feel more confident and comfortable in your own skin. • Stop apologising for who you are. Your achievements in the past mark significant milestones in your life, serving as a testament to your hard work and dedication. However, their impact goes beyond mere recognition. Let’s delve deep into why and how celebrating your achievements can deepen your identity, and how it can shape your personal growth. Instead of drawing vision boards this year, start drawing celebration boards of what you’ve achieved because it is only in celebration that we deepen the identity we have created. We deepen our WHY. It is only in celebration that we become our future selves. When we celebrate what we never realised we were capable of, it sets the tone and the frequency of our identity for the next chapter of our lives.

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EDITORIAL WELLBEING

Acknowledging progress

Inspiring others

One of the key reasons

Celebrating achievements not only benefits us individually but also inspires those

celebrating achievements is

around us. When we openly embrace and share our successes, we motivate others to

important is that it allows us to

pursue their own goals and aspirations. By serving as a role model, we create a ripple

acknowledge and appreciate our

effect that encourages others to strive for excellence. Our celebrations become a source

progress.

of inspiration, fostering a culture of achievement and growth. In a way our followers

Whether big or small, each

become our fuel, when our inspiration ignites their courage.

accomplishment contributes to our personal journey. By taking the time to celebrate, we honour

Embrace moving locations as an opportunity for a new start

the effort and dedication we

View relocation or any significant change as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery.

invested in reaching our goals.

It’s a chance to reinvent yourself and explore aspects of your identity that may have been

It serves as a reminder of our

dormant.

capabilities and motivates us to continue striving for even greater

Be graciously bold and courageous, and compassionately curious about your transition. Suspend judgment and activate curiosity and anticipation.

achievements.

Building confidence

Cultivate openness to new experiences Be open to new experiences and people in your new

Celebrating achievements plays a vital role in building self-

environment. This openness can lead to finding a community

confidence. When we recognise our accomplishments, we

that resonates with your evolving identity.

reinforce a positive self-image. Each success becomes a building block, empowering us to take on

Reflect on past lessons, but don’t dwell

new challenges with greater belief

Reflect on what you’ve learned from your past experiences,

in our abilities. By celebrating our

but don’t dwell on them. Use these lessons as stepping stones

achievements, we cultivate a sense of

towards your new journey, not as anchors holding you back.

self-assurance that extends beyond specific accomplishments. It fans out into all aspects of our lives.

Build new connections mindfully Actively seek out and nurture relationships that align with your current values and interests. These connections can

Cultivating gratitude

become a supportive network in your new path. Alignment

Gratitude is a powerful emotion that can

to your new vision is crucial for your own process of

deepen our sense of identity. When we

becoming.

celebrate our achievements, we cultivate gratitude for the opportunities, support, and resources that contributed to our

Maintain a positive outlook

success.

Keep a positive outlook on the challenges and unknowns

Expressing gratitude for the people and circumstances that played a role

you face. A positive mindset can transform challenges into opportunities for growth and new discovery.

in our achievements fosters a sense of connectedness and humility. It reminds us that our accomplishments are not solely the

Tell your story

result of our individual efforts.

Live in grace, find your voices, tell your story. Untold

In my case in particular, I live my life in

stories the world needs to hear, to take us all beyond a

“tribes”, and I am a product of the support,

single narrative into colourful narratives enriched with

collaboration and collective efforts of

diversity of life. This is how we heal some of the anguish in

others. And so, I collaborate with all the

the world, one conversation at a time, one day at a time. ■

tribes that got me “here”.

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EDITORIAL REMUNERATION

Predictions for

2024 and beyond In the rapidly evolving landscape of employee remuneration, the year 2024 marks a crucial juncture. Global dynamics are shifting, presenting both challenges and opportunities for organisations and their workforce. In this article, we alert you to what 2024 and the years to come are predicted to have in store for us. By Dr Mark Bussin, Executive Chairperson at 21st Century; and Daniela Christos, Industrial Psychologist

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EDITORIAL REMUNERATION

he remuneration climate is quickly and continuously

Current impacts of world-wide change

changing, forcibly and consistently keeping us on our

How the world is struggling to keep up with change:

toes. Just in the past decade we’ve experienced a

While the United Nations' sustainability goals outline a

seismic shift in remuneration with the increased emphasis on

vision for a better world, progress has been slower than

pay equity, remuneration for remote work, employee wellbeing,

anticipated. The impact of this stagnation on employee

pay transparency, integrating technology in remuneration

remuneration is significant as organisations are compelled

management, and scrutiny on executive remuneration, among

to align their remuneration strategies with sustainable