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4040Top 40 under 40
Welcome to the fi rst Top 40 Under 40 brought to you by the
Nelson Mandela Bay BusinessChamber, as we raise our glasses to
young achievers in business.
This list was compiled via nominations from the Business Chamber’s
membership base, our strategic partners and other stakeholders. The
end result is a showcase of talented and ambitious young businesspeo-
ple from diverse sectors in Nelson Mandela Bay.
Some of them are at the top of their game. Others are just getting start-
ed. What they all have in common is a desire to succeed, channeled
into a passion for Nelson Mandela Bay. Their nominations represent a
belief in their ability to change the face of business and drive our region
forward.
This by no means comprehensive or exhaustive list seeks to recognize
the immense potential among emerging entrepreneurs and corporate
climbers in Nelson Mandela Bay. These high-calibre nominees represent
the growing force of people under 40 who see Nelson Mandela Bay’s
own potential as a place to build a business, a career and a future.
Nominations were judged on the motivations provided, the personal
achievements of the nominees, their contributions to business in the
region, and their eff orts to raise the profi le of Nelson Mandela Bay.
The list demonstrates without a doubt that Nelson Mandela Bay has
access to a pool of talent to rival that of any region in the country. The
eff orts and achievements of the nominees on this list prove that Nelson
Mandela Bay has much to be proud of, and that business can look for-
ward to a great future.
Editorial Team
Editor and Co-ordinator
Nicole Klokow
Assistant Co-ordinator
Sandra Pow Chong
Advertising and Sales
Neil Terblanche
Photographer
Sandy Co� ey
www.sandyco� ey.com
Design and Layout
Carl Venter
Printers
Cadar Printers
4040Top 40 under 40
Thank you to Checkers for their sponsorship of the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber Top 40 Under 40 networking event
Managing Partner of KPMG in the Eastern Cape since 2006, Alan Barr’s career has been set skywards since he qualified as a CA at the end of 1998. Completing his articles at Arthur Andersen, a fourteen month se-condment in the UK saw him promoted to audit manager while still in his twenties. He managed the Arthur Andersen offices for two years on his return to the Friendly City before joining KPMG, following the merger with Arthur Andersen. Within two years after joining KPMG, he was pro-moted to partner and managed the East London office for two years. Now elected to the Board of the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber and a member of both the South African Institute of Chartered Account-ants and the Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors, Barr is closely involved in directing the strategic vision of KPMG in the Eastern Cape.“I am motivated to make a difference in the Eastern Cape by helping businesses and providing career opportunities for my staff,” says Barr, who lists golf, wine tasting, fine dining and travel as his primary interests.
Bridgette Gasa is a force to be reckoned with. In 2008, and at just 31, Gasa was unanimously nominated as the first-ever female and first-ever African President of the Chartered Institute of Building. Gasa’s intimidat-ingly impressive CV includes an appointment as a Visiting Fellow with the Nottingham Trent University in the UK, an award from the Depart-ment of Science and Technology as a Leading Woman Scientist in In-dustry, and a current focus on her studies for a PhD in Construction Management. Gasa also sits on a number of boards, most notably as Chairperson of the NMMU Business School board. She also serves on the President’s National Planning Commission as its youngest member. “I find inspiration in people who triumph over adversity,” says Gasa. To this end, her company is building schools in the rural Eastern Cape, as well as libraries in areas such as Engcobo and Lusikisiki. “Rural infrastructure development is my passion,” says Gasa, “because the impact on those dispersed areas is tangible.” The Elilox Group also funds bursaries for girls from disadvantaged communities to encourage them to follow careers in the Built Environment
Raising the Bar
Built for Success
Alan Barr, 37Managing Partner – Eastern Cape, KPMG
Bridgette Gasa, 34Managing Director and CEO, The Elilox Group
Way back in 2005, then-novice estate agent Jaco Rademeyer walked away with the Institute of Estate Agents’ award for Rookie of the Year. He’s been named Agent of the Year for the most units sold and the most commission earned, the Property Professional of SA 2010 and shows no signs of slowing down. This dynamic go-getter is motivated by personal success. “I believe I am my own biggest commodity,” says Rademeyer. With an LLB under his belt, Rademeyer’s growth in the property market included hosting a Sunday radio programme on local community radio station Bay FM, tackling property matters for listeners around the East-ern Cape. He writes weekly columns for three newspapers, and acts as a guest legal expert on a popular online property portal. Rademeyer has a variety of business interests, which he balances with community in-volvement – more than four hundred learners have benefited from the Jaco Rademeyer Training Academy, an initiative aimed at encouraging high school students to enter the real estate industry. His active involve-ment in community development has led to the sponsorship of various sports teams and events, including the Nedbank National Champion-ships for the physically disabled.
Kwezi Mzilikazi was recently appointed as a Humboldt Ambassador Sci-entist by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation. At 33, she supervises a research team of Honours, Masters and PhD students in the Zoology department at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. This girl from Dutywa – whose primary interests are in the fields of ecological and evolutionary physiology - had a PhD by the age of 27. These days, internationally-acclaimed experts in the field of hypometabolism trav-el to Port Elizabeth to collaborate with her. Mzilikazi is recognized as a leader in her field. She received the Women in Science award from the Department of Science and Technology in 2003 , and the Alexander von Humboldt postdoctoral fellowship in 2006. 2010 saw her named second runner up in the Women in Science awards in the category of Best Emerging Woman Scientist in the Life Sciences. A contributor to environmental programme 50/50 and regular presenter at the Sasol SciFest, Mzilikazi says she is motivated by strong characters. “Male and female, young and old, I look up to people who make a difference in their sphere of life,” she says. “I admire individuals who overcome great odds to achieve success.”
Special Agent
The future ofScience
Jaco Rademeyer, 29Owner / Principal, Jaco Rademeyer Estates
Dr Kwezi Mzilikazi, 33Senior Lecturer, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
Golden-voiced Buli G Ngomane is no stranger to the limelight. Over fifteen years she has supplemented regular stints on TV and radio with a seat on the board of a publishing company, and she currently holds a high-profile day job as the Marketing and Communications Manager for the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium operator. In 2011, Ngomane was listed among the Mail & Guardian’s Top 200 Young South Africans, and in 2010 was acknowledged by CEO magazine at SA’s Most Influential Women in Business and Government Awards as a Tomorrow’s Leader Award winner in the category for Telecommunications, Media, TV, Ra-dio and Press. “I am motivated by new challenges,” says Ngomane, “and being underestimated simply makes me more determined to succeed.” Ngomane currently serves as Patron of both the Raymond Mhlaba Skills Centre, and the Impact Adult Learnership Initiative, and helps Algoa FM’s listeners unwind in her Sunday night slot on the station. Ngomane anchors The Power Within on SABC 3, an uplifting women’s magazine show that sees her commuting between Johannesburg and the coast.
Johan Botha is as well known for his charity efforts off the field as he is for his bowling ability on it. This year saw him take on his fourth cycling challenge in the Chevrolet/ Johan Botha 24 hour Cycle for Charity – a gruelling twenty-four hour cycle around St. George’s Park. This year saw Botha raise over one hundred and sixty thousand Rand for Just Inspired (a campaign to assist township schools), Khanya Youth Development Agency and the Masimanye Day Care Centre, his three chosen charities. Born in Johannesburg, Botha moved to Port Elizabeth with his family as a boy, and honed his competitive cricket skills at school. He was offered a rookie contract through EP Cricket during his Matric year, and made his professional cricket debut at the end of 2000. The rest, as they say, is history. Botha is currently part of the Proteas T20 and ODI teams, and his current aim is to make it into the Test team once again. “I live by the motto that anything is possible,” says Botha. “It’s important to me that I am able to make a difference in the lives of the people around me.”
Golden Girl
Giving Back
Buli G Ngomane, 36Marketing and Communication Manager, Access Facilities and
Leisure Management
Johan Botha, 29Professional Cricketer, Chevrolet Warriors and Proteas
Mandlakazi Skefile is the woman responsible for bringing the world to Nelson Mandela Bay. She was officially appointed to the position of CEO at Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism in 2010, after serving two months as acting CEO. She has seen many successes in the short term that give her great hope for the future of tourism in the region. “The successful hosting of the FIFA 2010 World Cup was a massive coup for Nelson Man-dela Bay,” says Skefile. “Our region saw fifty-two million Rand’s worth of national exposure, climbing to two-hundred and twenty million Rand’s worth internationally.” Together with the city, the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium and the Eastern Province Rugby Union, NMBT was instrumental in securing for Port Elizabeth the IRB World Series Sevens rugby tourna-ment – the bid has been won for four years, beginning in December this year. Born and bred here, Skefile says that her position is the perfect outlet for the passion she feels for the Bay. “Being a young, female leader in an industry still grappling with transformation issues requires cour-age,” she says. “Determination plays a vital role in my success.”
At twenty-eight, JP Roodt boasts the résumé of somebody twice his age. As Head of Marketing and Stakeholder Relations at the NMMU Busi-ness School, Roodt has played an integral role in the repositioning of the NMMU Business School as a leader in executive and business education. This award-winning communication professional was named South Af-rica’s best PR in Media Liaison at the age of twenty-five, during his tenure as a Senior Associate at premier Public Relations firm, Marcus Brewster, headquartered in Cape Town. Currently working towards a Master’s de-gree, Roodt joined the NMMU Business School in 2010. “I am extremely fortunate to work at an organization that has an unwavering commit-ment to making a critical and valuable contribution to business, com-merce, industry, community, and the environment,” says Roodt. “The po-sition allows me to exercise my strategic ability and full creative capacity in promoting the NMMU Business School as a centre of excellence, and a key player in education on the African continent.”
An Ambassador for The Bay
Not Business as Usual
Mandlakazi Skefile, 36Chief Executive Officer, Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism
JP Roodt, 28Head of Marketing and Stakeholder Relations, NMMU Business
School
“I believe in the upliftment, development and training of people,” says Warren Fry, National Sales Manager at Kempston Employment Solu-tions. Fry is in the process of setting up a wellness programme to assist the group’s outsourced staff in occupational wellness and financial fit-ness – a first for staff working under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act. Motivated by recognition and the development of people, Fry’s colleagues have acknowledged and applauded his efforts and involve-ment in community projects, including Aids awareness during his ten-ure as the Director of an HIV/Aids NGO, literacy drives and drought relief. Fry’s business interests include a pony and horse stud farm that currently exports horses into Africa, and he is looking to revive an agricultural show in Port Elizabeth by 2013, integrating business, agriculture, sports and culture. “In a close knit business community like Port Elizabeth, you need to network, cross-sell and support fellow local businesses,” he says. “I be-lieve in thinking globally, but acting locally, and ensuring sustainability.”
A Belief in People
Class Act
Warren Fry, 36National Sales Manager, Kempston Group
Luvuyo Bangazi, 35Client Service Director and Partner, Boomtown Strategic Brand Agency
As the best performing Business Manager at his agency from 2006 to 2009, it was only a matter of time before Luvuyo Bangazi would rise to the top as Boomtown’s Client Service Director. Described by his peers as a class act, Bangazi is currently focused on the expansion of Boom-town’s business in the Eastern Cape and beyond. His Boomtown jour-ney began in 2004, when he was appointed as an account executive. He’s been on an upward trajectory ever since, securing prestigious, high profile accounts for the agency. Schooled in Queenstown, he attended the then-University of Port Elizabeth and served a stint as acting station manager of the campus radio station. “I think my own story could be an inspiration to many young people,” concludes Bangazi, who donates his time and energy to various CSI projects, including pro-bono speaking engagements at educational institutions. “Anything is possible if you put enough work behind your vision.”
Nada Wotshela heads up South Africa’s third largest radio station, Um-hlobo Wenene FM. She was the station’s first female and youngest ever station manager when she was appointed in 2008. Umhlobo Wenene FM commands a listenership of four million people, and during her ten-ure, Wotshela has helped the station turn a profit every year, despite the recession. This year, she re-introduced traditional music as a play-list genre. The result, says Wotshela, is a show seven hundred thousand listeners strong, two South African Traditional Music awards (SATMA’s), and a live broadcast from Washington DC in September – a first for the station. Wotshela has spearheaded a number of youth and educational campaigns through the station. “There is no better platform to launch a nation-building initiative than through radio,” she says. “Through the ‘Save Your School’ campaign, we encourage former township learners to go back and make a difference by donating resources or their time.” Wotshela is motivated by ordinary people who do extraordinary things, and is currently completing a Master’s degree in Development Studies.
Riding theAirwaves
Corporate Winner
Nada Wotshela, 37Station Manager, Umhlobo Wenene FM
Jenni Lawrence, 36Director of Operations, Grant Thornton Verification Services
Born in Port Elizabeth, much of Jenni Lawrence’s experience in admin-istration, marketing and HR was gained during her ten year stay in Lon-don, in the UK. “When my son was born, the call of home became too great to ignore,” says Lawrence, “and so we made our way back to Nelson Mandela Bay.” Lawrence joined IQuad BEE as an analyst and marketer in 2008, and was soon promoted to the position of Director of Operations in 2009. This year saw the company publish its first e-book, BEE Known. “Co-authoring the book with our MD, Wade van Rooyen, was a chal-lenging but rewarding experience,” she says. “It is a much-needed BEE guide, and has been very well received by our clients and strategic part-ners. This year has also seen us change ownership and rebrand as Grant Thornton Verification Services.” Lawrence was recognized as a top three finalist in the corporate category of the Business Women’s Association Regional Business Achiever Awards in June this year. “There is great po-tential, skill, talent and opportunity in the Bay. I am constantly surprised by what can be achieved by simply persevering.”
Ayanda Bambiso has held some high profile positions in her career – as Head of Protocol at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium during the FIFA 2010 World Cup, she was responsible for the planning and successful execution of airport and stadium operations for Heads of State, FIFA , SAFA and other foreign and local dignitaries. Her stint as Public Relations and Entertainment Manager at the Boardwalk Casino and Entertain-ment World saw her bring in millions of Rands worth of PR exposure. Now, as the Marketing Manager at Umhlobo Wenene FM, Bambiso is re-sponsible for growing the brand of the second largest public broadcast station in South Africa. “I’ve always viewed Port Elizabeth as a city full of potential and promise,” says Bambiso. “Here is where it all started for me; here is where I met the amazing people in various sectors of business who facilitate my growth and helped me to unlock my true potential. When the time comes for the captains of industry to pass on the baton, I will be ready.”
Just 31, Nxiweni – a qualified Chartered Accountant – has always stood out from the crowd. Nxiweni, as the first African Partner of KPMG in the Eastern Cape, is currently driving key KPMG advisory initiatives, as well as supporting the company’s role in assisting government in Operation Clean Audit for the Eastern Cape. His spare time is devoted to the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants’ transformation programmes, and, until recently, the part-time tutoring of students. “I find motivation in making a tangible difference to the lives of others,” says the proud Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana supporter, “being the best I can be, and recognizing the sacrifices made by my family and others to help me realize my dreams.” Nxiweni is the former CEO of Emmanuel Have, a project supporting those affected by HIV/Aids in the Motherwell com-munity, and winner of a World Leadership Awards in Health.
Look out World
Realising hisPotential
Ayanda Bambiso, 28Marketing Manager, Umhlobo Wenene FM
Gugu Nxiweni, 31Director and Partner, KPMG
Chuma Myoli is part of the team driving ur-ban regeneration in Port Elizabeth. Her role at the MBDA involves raising its profile, act-ing as spokesperson, and launching pro-jects like Route 67. Myoli has been involved in community development from a young age, and describes herself as having a pas-sion for other people. She’s served on the Nelson Mandela Bay’s Executive Mayor’s Education Development Task Team, and on her church’s Community Development Portfolio, chaired by prominent local busi-nesswoman, Bongi Siwisa.
Myoli is part of the Business Chamber’s health and wellness task team and is a trustee for the Missionvale Care Centre. A popular charity event MC, Myoli hosts the breakfast show on community radio sta-tion IFM, a role she is relishing. “I’d like the opportunity to change lives, especially those of young children who face many challenges.It’s up to all of us to ensure that the youth are encouraged and supported.” A former Miss PE, Myoli hopes one day to work for UNICEF.
Rhodes University graduate Carol Batchelor was promoted to Audit Partner at KPMG in 2008, and was the first woman to be made partner in the Port Elizabeth office. This year saw her walking away with first place in the Professional Category of the Business Women’s Associa-tion’s Regional Business Achiever Awards. “The nomination and interview process for this award were fantastic,” says Batchelor, “and it has been a personally rewarding experience.” An attitude of continuous learning and a focus on the development of her leadership skills and capabilities help Batchelor juggle her many projects and personal commitments. “I hope to set an example to the many young women now moving up in their professions,” she ex-plains. “I’ve held my current position for three years, and believe that I am making an impact in my role as a leader at KPMG with respect to our clients, staff and community.” Batchelor is a mother to two energetic young boys.
A Passion for People
Paving the Way
Chuma Myoli, 27Communications and MarketingCo-ordinator, Mandela Bay Development Agency
Carol Batchelor, 37Audit Partner and Director, KPMG
In 2009, Xabiso Sidloyi’s fledgling business was the Eastern Cape win-ner in the South African Breweries KickStart competition. More recog-nition followed, as ArchworXS was judged SEDA’s best small business success story in 2010. 2011 has been a bumper year for his company, as ArchworXS was an Eskom Business Investment national finalist, and the recipient of a Productivity SA award in the Emerging Corporate sector. In three years, Sidloyi has managed to build an impressive portfolio of projects, including the Dimbaza Magistrate’s Court, and the refurbish-ment of the Vukahambe Special School, the Forest Hill Military Base, and Jeffreys Bay Technical College. With two Master’s degrees already under his belt, Sidloyi is preparing to complete a PhD in Construction Manage-ment by the end of next year. “I am motivated by the opportunities I have to use my talents to better the lives of others” says Sidloyi, “and by the phenomenal growth in my company.” Sidloyi opened a second branch of ArchworXS in East London, and has plans to open another in Mthatha.
A SolidFoundation
Suporting Local
Xabiso Sidloyi, 29 Founder and Managing Member, ArchworXS Architects and Project
Managers
Jacques Arendt, 38Station Manager, Bay FM
Local music in Nelson Mandela Bay got a boost the day Jacques Arendt stepped into the role of station manager at community radio station, Bay FM. Broadcasting to Nelson Mandela Bay, and the Sundays River and Kouga municipalities, Bay FM aims to provide an alternative blend of English, gospel, R&B and Afrikaans music to people from a variety of different backgrounds. Arendt is a passionate supporter of local music, and has served as an MTN South African Music Awards judge for the past two years. Married with two young girls, Arendt himself hosts a show every Sunday on Bay FM. His spare time is devoted to hunting, fishing, and spending time with family and friends. “I’m passionate about my work and our community,” says Arendt, “and I believe that radio can make a difference.”
Zoe Waters has always been an entrepreneur at heart. 2002 saw her launch Sober Chauffer, which was later sold to become Good Fellas. In 2008, a love of scrapbooking led her to open up Scrapaholics, a retail space that has since morphed into a thriving online store. Recognition soon followed, as Waters was named a finalist in the Emerging Entre-preneurs category of the BWA’s Regional Business Achievers Awards in 2009. As Finance and Corporate Services Director at the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber, Waters has a large portfolio, but she relishes the challenge. “The Company Secretary role has been extremely satisfying for me,” says Waters, “especially in line with King III and the new com-panies act. Guiding the Business Chamber into a new era has been an invigorating challenge.” Waters – who says a new business venture is never far off the cards – is community-minded. In 2007 she launched a fundraising and awareness campaign for South Africans Against Drunk Driving. She raised sponsorship to climb Kilimanjaro and handed over a substantial donation cheque to the organization. “I’ve never thought I couldn’t do something,” she explains. “My driving force is the need to make a difference.” Waters serves on the Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism Board as Chair of the Finance / HR sub-committee.
Brigitte Jones is leading the charge in sustainable small office environ-ments and she’s doing it in style. Jones, a chartered accountant, is the owner of Green Bean Financial Management. She combines her love of finance and her passion for green issues at The Co-Op, a sustainable of-fice space owned by her in partnership, and home to a number of small enterprises. “I have always found offices to be very wasteful environ-ments,” says Jones, who left the corporate environment in 2010. To this end, every piece of furniture in the Co-Op’s low impact office space is recycled and repurposed in sustainable style. The effect is one of effort-less eco-chic in a space that breaks from the traditional South African office. The greened office building has no geyser and a strict recycling programme. A rainwater tank to support a vegetable garden is planned for the near future, and clients are served Fair Trade certified coffee. For Jones, it’s about making small changes to big effect. “My goal is to trans-late the big company mindset into sustainable governance for small business,” she says. “Every small business should have a handle on their finances, and a view towards sustainability in every way that counts.”
A Passion for Business
Sustainable Style
Zoe Waters, 33Finance and Corporate Services Director, Nelson Mandela Bay Busi-ness Chamber
Brigitte Jones, 38Owner, Green Bean Financial Management
Jaco Serfontein started young, and he has the will to keep going.An advocate of a healthy approach to living, 2009 saw him open up a company sourcing raw materials for use in nutritional supplements. Fast forward to early 2011, and Serfontein opened up his own supple-ment company called Nutritech Nutrition Technology. “After two years of extensive research, I have now set up a factory with a clinical labora-tory,” explains Serfontein. Stockists throughout the Eastern Cape, along the Garden Route, in Nelspruit, the Western Cape and Durban mean that Serfontein is covering a lot of ground – and fast. “Our goal is to branch out into more retailers within South Africa as well as open up a few stores in the UK in the next year or two,” he says. Already, Serfontein has aligned his company with top athletes and fitness models, bringing credence to his brand and the lifestyle it encourages. “My life, education and business are all invested in Nelson Mandela Bay,” says the young MBA candidate, “and I am more than willing to put in the effort tosucceed.”
A Healthy Future
Teamwork Works
Jaco Serfontein, 24Managing Director, Nutritech
Graeme van Zyl, 39Operations Director, Jendamark Automation
It’s team work that pulls a company through, according to Jendamark Automation’s Operations Director Graeme van Zyl. “The foundation of our company is built on a strong partnership that we can count on through every challenge,” he says. Van Zyl believes that any success he enjoys is down to the leadership he shares within Jendamark, and that as a team “we keep it simple and do it right.” His current portfolio at Jendamark Automation covers operational management, focusing on strengthening its operations internationally. Jendamark has recently supplied and installed currently the fastest assembly cell for the pro-duction of catalytic converters to the USA, an achievement of which his company is proud of. The father of two is an active sportsman, and avid supporter of local sports. “These days, I’m Player 23 to my kids’ teams too!” Van Zyl is an advocate of fairness in the workplace, who believes that level-headedness and different points of view lead to gooddecisions.
Ongama Mtimka is a young man with big dreams for himself and for Nelson Mandela Bay. Mtimka’s Master’s degree in South African Politics and Political Economy took him through the ranks at the Coega De-velopment Corporation and in to the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipal-ity, where he currently serves as the media liaison officer and acts as spokesperson. He has a couple of lecturing credits under his belt too, as he gives university classes in Political Reporting, and teaches Eco-nomics and Business Studies to matriculants. Diverse business interests keep Mtimka busy, and challenged. “I am motivated by a strong desire to bring about positive changes in my life and in the lives of other peo-ple,” says Mtimka, who believes in his own potential as a leader. “I have a genuine desire to use my time and energy to touch the lives of vulner-able people, particularly the economically oppressed.” He is currently in the planning stages of a project that could see the creation of fifty jobs in twenty-four months, as well as an initiative that will help a rural com-munity commercialise its sand mining operations.
Moving on Up
Looking Ahead
Ongama Mtimka, 28Media Liaison Officer, Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
Rosa McLaren, 38Group Marketing Manager, KFML Holdings
“Success,” says Rosa McLaren, “is not instant. It takes time, perseverance and commitment.”McLaren’s own career has followed a steady upwards trajectory – she was appointed Group Marketing Manager for KFML Holdings in 2008, and today heads up marketing for Spec-Savers, Ex-ecuspecs and Clear Vision. 2009 saw her recognized as a national finalist in the Corporate category of the Business Women’s Association Business Achievers Awards; she won the regional business achiever’s category the year before. This determined professional – who completed a year’s voluntary service at the South African Army Women’s College after ma-triculating – is currently developing sustainable social media strategies for the company, and will soon be involved in building an online sales strategy to increase turnover at store level. She is motivated by possibil-ity: “One of the biggest motivators in my life is the thought of ‘One day’,” says McLaren. “With integrity, honesty and loyalty, I aim to build lasting relationships – in business, reputation is worth more than money.”
Pumeza Bono heads up a one hundred percent black-owned, all-female legal practice, which she founded in 2004. An admitted attorney and conveyancer, Bono was appointed to the board of the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber in May this year. She currently serves on the Black Conveyancers Association as chairperson of the Eastern Cape region, and she is also the regional organizer for the South African Women Law-yers Association (SAWLA). “I want to see women taking charge of their issues,” she says, “and take justice to under-privileged women and chil-dren. SAWLA has tried to achieve this through Access to Justice week, as well as through the sixteen days of activism for no violence against women and children”. Bono’s wish is to use the resources she has at her disposal to assist the community. The firm has adopted ten underprivi-leged children from Elundini Primary school, buying them uniforms and paying their school fees. Bono believes that those with influence should use it to help others. “Young Black females have what it takes to suc-ceed,” says the married mother of three, “and I want to see them taking responsibility for the economy of South Africa.”
Sarah Dirsuwei left a high-profile position as Group Marketing Manager of a JSE-listed company in Johannesburg to move down to Port Eliza-beth with her husband Ralph and their young family. Fast-forward five years, and their new venture – a purpose-built wedding venue called The Plantation – is attracting brides from all over the country and raking in the awards. The Plantation won the 2010 / 2011 Welcome Awards from SA Tourism for exceptional customer service, and it has been vot-ed South Africa’s best wedding reception centre in the Bride’s Choice Awards for the past two consecutive years. You’ll also find the Dirsuwei’s venue listed as one of South Africa’s top five winter wedding venues, and one of the top ten restaurant wedding venues in Wedding Collec-tion magazine. It’s heady stuff, but Dirsuwei is pragmatic. “In my former corporate role, I gained invaluable experience and insight into the ins and outs of running a successful company,” she says. “Running a busi-ness requires a complete balance of skills. I am proud to be heading a fantastic team of staff, and to leave behind a string of happy couples.”
Strike a Rock
A Welcome Success
Pumeza Bono, 38Owner and Director, Pumeza Bono Incorporated
Sarah Dirsuwei, 38Co-owner and Manager, The Plantation
A commitment to making a difference in the lives of others means that Susan Potgi-eter is perfectly placed in her role as Direc-tor of LifeLine Port Elizabeth. Potgieter was appointed at the age of 30, making her the youngest director ever appointed to the organization. She is currently involved in expanding LifeLine’s award-winning youth project, VUTHA-Ignite the Fire, which tack-les emotional wellness in teens. Her focus for 2012 includes an investigation into the high rates of suicide in Eastern Cape schools, and Potgieter has completed the internationally-accredited Applied Suicide
Intervention Skills Training in preparation for this. 2009 saw Potgieter winning a Ned-bank Local Hero award, while 2010 brought her a win in the Social Entrepreneurship category of the 2010 Business Women’s Association Regional Business Achiever Awards. Potgieter is also a trustee of the Friends of Van Staden’s Bridge Trust, which raises funds for the placement of cameras on a bridge that has seen many suicide at-tempts. “I am a go-getter,” she says. “I work for what I believe in, and that’s building community heart for social change.”
Sizwe ‘Slyso’ Saliso has found a home on the East Cape airwaves. But what really gets himgoing is the chance to help others, and doing it in creative ways. His innovative Beats 4 Books project sees books collected at music events and donated to rural libraries. He’s aligned his personal brand with causes he believes in, including Kick’s In Their Shoes campaign, the South African Blood Service, and children’s HIV/Aids charities. Slyso is also an ambassador for Grassroots Soccer. His current focus is working with a partner on the Makana Entrepreneur-ship Expo, the aim of which is to provide practical solutions for scores of young business owners looking to expand their businesses. “The highlight of this project,” says Slyso, “is the invitation we received from a Canadian company doing similar work at an international level, to enter our winners into their international business plan competition. It’s a fantastic op-portunity for them.” A fan and creator of music, Slyso’s biggest motivator is people. “I want to boost the natural enthusiasm of young people,” he says, “and help them to take control of their own destinies.”
A Helping Hand
Motivated byPeople
Susan Potgieter, 37Director, LifeLine Port Elizabeth
Slyso, 38DJ, Algoa FM
Founder and Managing Director, 4ward Movement Entertainment
Shara Cape’s mission is quite simple: Find great people great jobs.Before her 30th birthday, she had a variety of successful high-profile placements under her belt: Headhunters placed the CEOs of theAmatola Water Board, the Business Women’s Association, and theNelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber, as well as the personal assis-tants to Basetsana Khumalo, Graça Machel and Josina Machel. Anentrepreneur since the age of eighteen, it was armed with a loan from her father that Cape began her first business – a communications com-pany she later sold in order to pursue opportunities in Johannesburg. This 2010 Herald Citizen of the Year Award nominee –who plans to expand her current business to include a graduate recruitment initia-tive focused on the Y-generation in the new year – is motivated by rela-tionships, and the responsibility that comes with her position. “I get to spearhead a team of five dynamic, progressive and innovative women who are all industry leaders in their own right,” says Cape. “As a team, we are passionate about the people of Port Elizabeth, and helping them to build fantastic careers in world class companies.”
The Woman for the Job
Energy Innovator
Shara Cape, 30Managing Director, Headhunters
Nick Chapman, 39Plant Engineer, Volkswagen SA
Nick Chapman is responsible for energy management at Volkswagen SA. He’s achieved a cumulative Demand Reduction of 18% in the elimi-nation of demand since 2003, and has been instrumental in instituting water saving initiatives. His work has resulted in plant water usage sav-ings of 37% for Volkswagen SA, a notable achievement highlighting the importance of industry’s water savings for the region. Chapman is cur-rently involved in infrastructure renewal projects, slated for completion in 2018. “I enjoy the challenge of a dynamic industry,” says Chapman, who has completed three half and three full Ironman SA events, and is an avid participant in the Ocean Racing Series. “Daily innovation, and sometimes just good, common sense is required to overcome obsta-cles and ensure delivery on promises.” Chapman believes that working in an environment of continuous improvement helps him to build his abilities. “I gather ideas from everywhere and everyone,” he says, “and this helps me create the necessary momentum to drive my company and the Metro to ever-increasing success.”
Warren Upton and Matthew Swarbrick began Strategy Advertising with an eye to revolutionizing the local industry. 2006 saw them joining forces and pooling their creative talents. This is the team be-hind the successful rebranding of the NMMU Business School, and it is because of them that The Herald was named the seventh most-recognized daily newspaper in the country. On graduating with a Na-tional Diploma in Graphic Design, Upton spent three years working in hospitality in London, where he was headhunted to open a bar on the banks of the Thames. Swarbrick has nine years experience in advertising, and a BTech in Graphic Design and Advertising. The guys, who served their time in local agencies before striking out their own, have added a number of high profile clients to their already bulging portfolio, and they’ve accumulated a talented and passionate staff. “We started Strategy Advertising to fight for creative freedom and to change people’s perceptions about the advertising industry in the Eastern Cape,” says Upton. Swarbrick agrees: “Sure, the established in-dustries are in the larger centres, but the rewards are far greater when you follow the road less travelled.”
Louise Liebenberg knows only too well the pressures on the print media the world over. She’s ready, though, to take on the challenge of attract-ing new and younger readers with what appears to be characteristic gusto. “We’re constantly exploring ways to keep our product interesting and relevant to our readers,” says the Weekend Post’s dynamic Assistant Editor. She recently celebrated a decade in the Avusa Media stable, join-ing the group as a senior reporter back in 2001 and serving as News Editor at the Weekend Post in her twenties. Now, she and her team – who consistently rake in awards for their news coverage – are putting considerable energy into the use of social media, the possibilities of which Liebenberg is particularly excited about. She brings her love of good food to the people of the Eastern and Southern Cape through her own blog and weekly column, The Global Table, which sees her and husband Salvelio Meyer chatting to foodie personalities, and enjoying the best that local chefs have to offer. “It’s a complete labour of love,” says Liebenberg. “Food and dining are an important aspect of Weekend Post’s popular MyWeekend lifestyle supplement, and so the blog ties in perfectly.”
Creative Duo
EditorialDynamo
Warren Upton, 32 and Matthew Swarbrick, 30Directors and Co-founders, Strategy Advertising
Louise Liebenberg, 37Assistant Editor, Weekend Post
This PE boy is a second generation employee at Tavcor, where his father started working when Andrew was just three. He worked his way up through the company and, at 36, Andrew now holds the position of Sales Manager at Tavcor Volkswagen in Port Elizabeth. His work at Tavcor began in 2001 in the Audi division, and it was in 2008 that he moved to the Volkswagen division to take up the demanding position of Sales Manager. After winning first place in the New Volkswagen Sales Man-ager Awards last year, Andrew’s current focus is the expansion of his sales team capacity at a new flagship dealership on the William Moffett Expressway. This avid reader enjoys open water swimming, and credits his team for much of the success he has enjoyed. “We’ve taken Tavcor from the 18th largest dealer in the country in 2007, to the nation’s third largest dealership in 2010, “ he says, “You don’t need any more proof than that that local companies can compete successfully for business on a national scale. ”
Sales Success
Big Ideas
Andrew Angles, 36Sales Manager, Tavcor Volkswagen
Lynn Erasmus, 31Owner, Your Money
Her publication may have only just celebrated its one year anniver-sary, but Lynn Erasmus is already attracting attention and reaping the rewards. A free publication providing financial advice, Your Money was recognized by the 2011 Vodacom Journalist of the Year awards in the regional community media category. This ambitious entrepreneurcredits the power of networking with helping to her realize her potential and expand her business. To improve the financial literacy of the man in the street, Your Money hosted a seminar directed at emerging entre-preneurs in New Brighton in August this year. November saw Erasmus raise the profile of the Eastern Cape as local celebrities raced through the region to complete various challenges for charity in Your Money’s The Power Plate Incredible Race – Eastern Cape. Erasmus says she is only just getting started. “I have a great passion for what I do, and an absolute belief in myself and my company” she says, “and I want to help others where I can. If you can dream it, you can do it.”
Wayne Kallis went down in a blaze of glory as Jon Bon Jovi. He wowed the crowds as Bono, and the critics say he even out-jacked Jack Johnson – the dynamic Cen-trestage front man and musical director is a rocking force to be reckoned with. “I’ve been involved with music and performance my whole life,” says Kallis, who had a Grade Seven in Speech and Drama from the Trinity College of London by the age of fifteen. Kallis co-wrote, self-recorded and produced “The way of the Warrior” for the Chevrolet Warriors, and it’s been heard all over the world as part of the T20 Cham-pions League. This self-taught guitarist, drummer, bassist and keyboardist is a vocal-ist in the classic rock tradition. He founded Pistola in 2010, and the musical project saw his single spend a successful thirteen weeks on the Algoa FM Top 30. It’s now his number one focus: “My aim for Pistola now is to achieve regular airplay and get exposure on a national level,” says Kallis, who is currently recording and producing the outfit’s first album.
Rock ‘n Roller
Up and Coming
On his Way
Wayne Kallis, 31Front man and Musical Director, Centrestage and Pistola
Ryan Haworth, 24Membership Consultant, Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber
William Heydenrych, 24Managing Director, Little Big Technologies
Potential is something Ryan Haworth has in spades. The Nelson Mandela Bay Busi-ness Chamber’s Membership Consultant is responsible for increasing the Chamber’s base of new members by over one hundred percent during its successful brand re-launch in early 2011. And, says Haworth, he has every reason to believe that the positive business sentiment will continue well into 2012. Haworth’s private busi-ness interests include a growing online marketing company, and this year saw him launch Change SA, a charity concept for which he has high hopes. “Change SA is a project to help businesses connect with charities online,” explains Haworth, who serves on the Business Chamber’s CSI Task Team. “The concept has been a year in the making, and since its launch, the site has seen over two hundred charities join, allow-ing them to connect easily with potential donors.” The project represents Haworth’s belief in making a positive difference in the community. “I believe that business in South Africa has the potential to help thousands of charities,” says Haworth. “As busi-nesses grow, so their contribution to the community should too.”
William Heydenrych is one to watch. A BCom graduate of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan University, Heydenrych is a new entrepreneur, though no stranger to the world of business. “Decisions affecting the family business were made around the dinner table,” says Heydenrych. “My family wired me for business.” Heydenrych is marketing Little Big Technologies - his fledgling IT services and support company – by establishing himself as a tech journalist for local publications. He believes South Africa is set to witness unprecedented growth in online retail, and is poised to move into this under-serviced area. Heydenrych is a keen sportsman - he credits some of his success to the life lessons learned through competitive sports. The Mr. South Africa 2012 finalist believes that his company provides him with the perfect vehicle through which to make a difference to business in the Bay. His big plans include the assistance of promising individuals through skills development and exposure to the world of business.
Jacques Pienaar is a senior consultant in KPMG’s Management Consulting division in Port Elizabeth. Over the past six years he has been involved in projects of varying scope and size, relating to infrastructure and economic development in the Eastern Cape. This included work for the Motherwell Urban Renewal Project, the Uitenhage Dispatch Development Initiative, ASGISA-EC, the ECDC and most recently, the de-velopment of an Integrated Public Transport System for the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. His role on this project involved work on the selection and design of appropriate business entities for potential operators of the new system. “The ulti-mate result of this project,” says Pienaar, “is intended to be a safer, more efficient and reliable transport service for the city.” With infrastructure development foreseen to be a major factor in the growth of the South African economy, Pienaar is excited to be playing his part in contributing to the development of both the region and the country. “I am motivated by projects that allow me to make a difference.”
Developing Potential
One to Watch
Investing in SMEs
Jacques Pienaar, 33Senior Consultant, KPMG
Ayanda Kheswa, 26Attorney, Joubert Galpin Searle
Stuart Keil, 34Owner and Member, 4Tech IT Solutions
During the week, you’ll find Ayanda Kheswa in the offices of Joubert Galpin Searle, a prominent firm of attorneys based in Nelson Mandela Bay, learning all she can in her quest to become a great commercial attorney. Come weekends, Kheswa takes to the airwaves as a radio presenter on community station, Kingfisher FM, where she presents the Axxess DSL 6 – 9 show which focuses on current information, world news trends and the stories of great South Africans. Kheswa has distinguished her-self as a communicator, with numerous awards for oratory and a regular gig with local presenters-for-hire, Frankly Speaking. “At present, I work as an attorney under the guiding hand and mentorship of a man I believe to be one of the greatest legal minds in South Africa, MC Botha,” says Kheswa, who is in the process of being reg-istered as a liquidator with the Association of Insolvency Practitioners of Southern Africa. She will write her Notary and Conveyancing exams early next year, and has plans to top that off with an MBA.
Entrepreneurship is in Stuart Keil’s blood. He’s leveraging his knowledge of ICT, broadcast, audio-visual management and electrical engineering and forging a path for himself as an in-demand consultant both here and abroad. The FIFA 2010 World Cup saw Keil involved in the construction and technical aspects of broadcasting around the Port Elizabeth and Cape Town stadiums. Next year will see him contract-ed to Poland and the Ukraine to work as a Commentary Manager for Euro Soccer 2012, and to assist with training. Keil invested in local IT firm 4Tech IT Solutions with the purpose of growing the SME in its target market. He also manages Fountain-Eye Music and Publishing, a recording company and publishing house focusing on Christian music and literature. Keil describes himself as a problem solver. “I am motivated by finding ways of resolving tricky business situations,” he says, “and by completing projects successfully, and coming in almost on budget!” Keil continues to investigate personal entrepreneurial opportunities, and aims, he says, “to create working environments where people can excel and grow”.
