Destiny power of 40 report

Celebrity gastronomeGordon Ramsay’s publicityagent, African app gurus and the CFO of theJohannesburg Stock Exchange – they’re allrepresented here in our annual Power of 40 report,powered proudly by Mazda.Putting this supplement together, it’s fair to say

we’ve all been in awe of the accomplishments ofthese 40 winning women aged under 40. Many of

them are drawn from diverse corners of the planet,but they’ve all managed to successfully chartbrilliant careers and businesses on home shores.Adopt some of their power principles for your

mood boards – and use their lessons to take youthrough to the festive season on a high note.SHEENA ADAMSPROJECT EDITOR In association with

COMPILEDBY THANDI SkADE, ATlEHANgRAMATHESElE, gIllIANklAwANSky, SHOkSMNISI MzOlO, lISAwITEPSkI &SHEENAADAMS

Celebrity gastronomeGordon Ramsay’s publicityagent, African app gurus and the CFO of theJohannesburg Stock Exchange – they’re allrepresented here in our annual Power of 40 report,powered proudly by Mazda.Putting this supplement together, it’s fair to say

we’ve all been in awe of the accomplishments ofthese 40 winning women aged under 40. Many of

them are drawn from diverse corners of the planet,but they’ve all managed to successfully chartbrilliant careers and businesses on home shores.Adopt some of their power principles for your

mood boards – and use their lessons to take youthrough to the festive season on a high note.SHEENA ADAMSPROJECT EDITOR In association with

COMPILEDBY THANDI SkADE, ATlEHANgRAMATHESElE, gIllIANklAwANSky, SHOkSMNISI MzOlO, lISAwITEPSkI &SHEENAADAMS

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A CLASSA CLASS

of one

Promotion

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here’s only one car like the multi-award-winning Mazda MX-5. Only one car thatcombines the true roadster elements

– an impressively high power-to-weight ratio,outstanding dynamic agility, rear-wheel drive andideal 50:50 weight distribution – with Mazda’sunique approach to car design.The original Mazda MX-5 was a pure roadster,

inspired by the philosophy of Jinba Ittai: “Riderand horse as one.”Three generations later, we’veused the same principle with the Mazda MX-5,a vehicle that seems to anticipate a driver’severy move so that they work together inperfect harmony.We took into account every bolt, wire and stitch

to produce a car that’s perfectly balanced. But theMazda MX-5 is precisely engineered to account forone more variable: you, the driver.For over two decades, the MX-5 has been defining

and redefining what a roadster’s meant to be. It’searned its iconic pioneering status through yearsof unwavering dedication and commitment tocreating a truly authentic sports car. Daring, nimbleand engineered to dominate the open road, masterevery curve and effortlessly transform instinct intoaction, the MX-5 has always been and will always bethe classic roadster.It comes as no surprise, then, that it’s been

entered three times in the Guinness World Bookof Records for the best-selling roadster of all time.Recently it was entered again for holding thelongest parade when over 600 cars converged inthe Netherlands.To truly understand why it’s so special, you need

to be in the driver’s seat. The interior of the MX-5 isengineered to be even more refined and spacious,providing more leg and head room. Operating theretractable hard top is a breeze. One button lowersthe top, another raises it and a single latch securesit – in 12 seconds flat, from the comfort of your seat.Thoroughly geared for exhilaration, the powerful

118kW 2,0-litre MZR engine utilises an electronicthrottle and electronically controlled port fuelinjected to promote a more linear response andsuperb acceleration.Top down, wind-in-your hair driving enjoyment

is what the Mazda MX-5 is known for. A power-retractable hard top, Bose audio system, Xenonheadlamps, front and side airbags, ABS withEBD and EBA, and Dynamic Stability Controlwith Traction Control are some of the featuresthat make it a timeless, classic, fun-lovingroadster that’s ideal for anyone who genuinelyenjoys driving.• TheMazda MX-5 comes standard with a four-year/60 000km service plan and a four-year/120 000km warranty.

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injected to promote a more linear response and

Top down, wind-in-your hair driving enjoymentis what the Mazda MX-5 is known for. A power-retractable hard top, Bose audio system, Xenonheadlamps, front and side airbags, ABS withEBD and EBA, and Dynamic Stability Controlwith Traction Control are some of the featuresthat make it a timeless, classic, fun-lovingroadster that’s ideal for anyone who genuinely

•TheMazda MX-5 comes standard with a four-year/60 000km service plan and a four-year/

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In association with

NONOMOFOKENG (26)DIGITAL/IT

DIGITAL ANIMATOR:LUMA ANIMATION

As one of SA’s foremost youngblack female animators,Mofokeng attributes her successto a willingness to learn, aninnate passion for what shedoes and – above all – her fearof poverty.She moved fromMafikeng

in NorthWest Province toJohannesburg in pursuit of afilm-making career, but fell intocopywriting unexpectedly.“I heard about the ImaginationLab on the radio. It was a Vegainitiative seeking to recruityoung talent and I jumped atthe opportunity, even thoughI wasn’t too sure what it wasabout,” she admits. She securedan internship atThe VideoLabas a trainee producer shortlyafter creating an advertfor Imagination Lab – anexperience which sparked herinterest in animation.Mofokeng started at Luma

Animation in 2008 and afterundergoing training, eventuallyrealised she could take onprojects of her own. Accordingly,she travelled to France to attendthe Annecy Animated FilmFestival, where she was ableto network with animationgiants like Disney and Pixar,as well as discuss the SouthAfrican industry withinternational stakeholders.She now hopes to do an MBA

and get into radio. – ARTWITTER:@nonomofokeng

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE:

“It’s not about howgoodyouare – it’s

about howgoodyouwant to be.”

ROBYNBROWN (24)SocIAL AcTIvISm

VOLUNTEER: BRIGHTSTART NPO

With a BSc in psychology, Brown was theyoungest of the 20 “Vodacom Change the World”winners given the opportunity to work with anon-profit organisation of her choice.She opted for BrightStart, an educational

support and mentorship programme in HoutBay, Cape Town, which sponsors children fromdisadvantaged backgrounds through prominentschools. She also develops and runs thecommunity outreach programme and facilitatescapacity-building and parenting workshops,in line with her aim of encouraging people toembrace education.Brown initially dreamed of becoming a

doctor or a psychologist, both professionswhich would have satisfied her philanthropicvision. “I’ve always had a scientific mind, but Ilove working and interacting with people,”she says.She previously interned at a psychology

practice and volunteered at both Forest TownSchool in Johanesburg (which caters for cerebralpalsied children) and Nazareth House, where shespent time with sick and abandoned youngsters.Brown plans to do a Master’s degree in clinical

psychology and carry on effecting positivechange. “I feel as if my destiny is bright. MaybeI’ll start my own non-profit organisation in thefuture,” she says. – ARWEBSITE:www.brightstart.org.zaTWITTER: @robyn_brown89 and@BrightStartSA


“Love, laugh and livewith no regrets.”

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ANNEKEYWORTH (37)ENTREPRENEUR

FOUNDER: FRUIT PACK ANDLICENSEE: PAUL SMITH SA

When Belgian-born Keyworth leftthe UK for SA, she discovered thather permit prevented her from findinga job. Instead of whining or goingback to Europe, this Oxford BrookesUniversity graduate set up herown shop here. That was a decadeago. Today her venture is one of themost promising enterprises in theWestern Cape.Her business, Antanna, which

started as a leather manufacturingunit in 2002, diversified to include kids’juices with the launch of Fruit Packthree years ago. “When I was travellingthrough Europe with my sister, sheshowed me a similar product. Ithought: ‘Why don’t we have that inSA too?’ That’s what got us started,”recalls Keyworth, a mother of three.Her husband and business partner inboth Antanna and Paul Smith (whichsells high-end men’s fashion) has beena constant source of inspiration.Fruit Pack – a natural fruit purée for

toddlers – is proving to be a hit. Lastyear it represented SA at a global foodindustry awards ceremony and it’snow available at many outlets aroundthe country, including Baby Cityand Dis-Chem.Keyworth’s medium-term plan is

to extend her footprint to marketsbeyond SA andMauritius and add onemore business to her portfolio.EMAIL: [email protected]

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE:“Get out there anddo things –

nobody’s going to change theworldfrom their couch.”

TERRI BROWN (37)ENTREPRENEUR

CO-FOUNDER ANDCO-DIRECTOR: ACTUATE

Brown’s entry into the industry was somewhatserendipitous: after a “lacklustre start”, she droppedout of fashion design at Wits Technikon and decidedto do a BA in communications. “It was the practicalalternative to getting a job,” she recalls.Eventually, though, she did get a job: in marketing.

“Surprisingly, I liked it – and if you enjoy something,you’ll probably be good at it. After two years, my bossand I started our own company and 12 years later, I’mstill here.”She likens this time to being on a mechanical

bull set to whiplash speed.The reason she’s beenable to adapt to changing circumstances is that sheunderstands the importance of staying relevant andtakes a pragmatic approach to both success andfailure. “You don’t always need to tackle problems:sometimes it’s just a matter of surviving them. Successis sometimes just about having one more patch thanthere are holes in your inner tube,” she says.“I’m inspired by people who fight to be individuals

in a world where it’s easy to conform and tough tostand out. I’m inspired by creativity and thinkers.” – LWEMAIL: [email protected]:www.actuate.co.za

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE:“When facedwith negativity, simplycarry onbuilding your reputation.”

CHANELLE SCHEEPERS (29)sPoRT

PROFESSIONAL TENNIS-PLAYER

Harrismith-born Scheepers first hit thetennis court at the age of five. “My momwas one of the top juniors in the countryand she got me into the sport,” she says.“She coached me until I was 13.”Now living in Florida, USA, Scheepers

admits there’ve been times when she’sbeen tempted to put down her racquet.“In my second year as a professional, Ilost 25 consecutive matches. I had todecide whether to continue playing or giveup and go to university instead. I knew I’d regret quitting, so I started over andworked extra-hard. Now I’m happy I persevered.”Her career highlights have included winning her first WTA singles title in 2011

in China and making the semi-finals of the doubles at Wimbledon this year.“I love tennis and I love to compete. I continuously try to improve because if

I’m not working on changing or improving something, I get bored very quickly,”she says.Tennis remains her future focus. “I’ll probably continue doing something

tennis-related,” says Scheepers. “I’m focusing on playing at the moment, but I’llplan the next stage of my career when the time comes.” – GKEMAIL: [email protected] TWITTER:@ChaniScheepers

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE: “Never, never, never give up.”

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In association with

HAZELMATHOORA (39)Digital/it

DIRECTOR: MEDIALEARN ANDHEADOF EDUCATION& TRANSFORMATION: DIGITALMEDIA &MARKETING

ASSOCIATION (DMMA)

Mathoora’s establishment of MediaLearn in 2012 allowed her tocombine her two passions: education and technology.MediaLearn’s traditional training programmes incorporate

aspects of technology to enhance the learning experience,combining conventional curriculummaterial with curated, self-directed studying techniques.Mathoora, a pioneer of elearning in SA’s corporate and public

sectors, explains that South Africans are generally scepticalabout digital educational mediums. “The government calls forschools to use technology, but there’s little understanding ofhow this can be done,” she says. Her solution is a system thatenables children to download free content from the Internetin a structured manner. “Children’s futures are impacted byineffective teachers and a lack of textbooks. My goal is for everystudent to be able to access a portal containing interactive,effective content aligned to the curriculum, connecting themwith best-of-breed teachers and facilitating peer collaboration.”Mathoora also serves as the Head of Education and

Transformation for the DMMA, where she focuses on educatingand transforming the digital industry in SA.EMAIL: [email protected] TWITTER:@MediaLearn

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE: “Technologyis a conduit to positive change in

education inSAandAfrica as awhole.”

BUSISIWEMADUNA (38)corporate

HEADOFMARKETING &COMMUNICATIONS: STANLIB

Maduna says she’s always been interested in“money and human behaviour” and initiallywanted to be a psychologist. “However, Iended up studying business, but didn’t enjoyaccounts or economics, so I switched tomarketing and advertising,” she says.After obtaining her Bachelor of Social

Science at the University of Natal, shecompleted several additional courses at theVega School of Global Communication andGibs, purposefully upskilling herself.“I identified opportunities where I could

learn from the greatest [like one of theworld’s most innovative business thinkers,Gary Hamel, who featured on a Gibsleadership course she completed] and

think differently.”A serious bump in the road came up

in August 2010, when she was retrenchedfrom her executive marketing positionat Glenrand MIB. However, she got bydoing freelance work for her husband’smedia company.When the Stanlib position became

available in July 2011, Maduna was raring togo. She was tasked with repositioning thebrand in the market and devised a bold, newcorporate identity for the organisation that’sraised her profile significantly.

“I’ve always been driven and ambitious.I want to become a business executive witha portfolio that’s more diversified. I don’tforesee being in marketing forever,” she says.WEBSITE:www.stanlib.com – SA

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE:“Eat, pray, love.”

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ZINHLE JIYANE (“DJ ZINHLE”) (30)arts & entertainmentDJ AND BUSINESSWOMAN

Jiyane embraces her role in a male-dominatedindustry. “My brother introduced me to theworld of house music,” she says. “At first I didit as a hobby, but I fell in love with the genre.When I got more involved, I realised there wasa major gender imbalance in the DJ industry. I

saw the opportunity and went for it.”She navigates the challenges that confront

her by having clear goals. “Nothing beats havinga plan: it guides your efforts and you progressfaster because you know exactly where you

want to go.”Her innate talent has distinguished her in

the industry. “My style of music and energy onstage set me apart,” she says. “I know how tobrand myself. I hold a Diploma in Marketing

from the University of Johannesburg, which hascome in handy.”

Aside from her music interests, Jiyane plansto capitalise on her business savvy. “I’m growingmy wristwatch brand called ERAByDJZinhleand am adding a few beautiful bracelets. I’mexcited about seeing the business grow to

empower more young women.” – GKEMAIL: [email protected]

TWITTER:@DJZinhle

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“Opportunity doesn’tcome throughluck, but throughpreparation.”

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In association with

ANDREADESFARGES (33)PR & AdVeRtising

FOUNDER: PUBLICITY SA

Desfarges always knew PR washer niche – and proved it with therunaway success of her London-based firm, Red Box PR. Over sevenyears, she grew the business into ahigh-profile enterprise specialisingin food and drinks, working withcelebrity clients like master chefGordon Ramsay.Returning to SA was a spontaneous

decision: “I decided to come homefor the birth of my son when I wassix months pregnant. But as soon asI stepped off the plane, I knew I wasstaying. It felt right,” she recalls.Initially Desfarges freelanced for

an advertising agency, but managingfragmented ideas in tandem withseveral other companies to whichan account’s been outsourced – as isthe norm in the PR industry – gaveher the incentive to do it differently.Publicity SA offers all services,from digital and design to creativemarketing, in-house.She has a uniquely proactive

approach to generating business. Ifshe has an idea and there’s a market

for it, she takes on the project herself– such as Cape Town Special, a grouprestaurant promotion to stimulatetrade that included flash mobs andon-the-street sampling, and the firstCape Town Family Farmers’ Market.“I believe in my abilities and in

taking calculated risks,” she says. – LWEMAIL: [email protected]:@AndreaDesfarges

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE:“Always seekways to benew

anddifferent.”

LEBOMADIBA (33)PR & AdVeRtising

FOUNDER ANDMD: PR POWERHOUSE

Any business owner knows that the first year ofoperation is the most difficult one – and Madibawould agree. Having established the PR Powerhousein 2012 – after nine years in the PR industry – sheheads a four-person team with clients which includeglobal pharmaceutical organisations.“It’s been a good year,” she muses, though she

admits there have been challenges. “You get to knowmany people – prospective clients – when you workfor a company and because you have its backing,you feel confident. It’s different when you’re trying toestablish a relationship without that backing. Peoplewere slow to show their support, but eventually mynetworks paid off.”Another challenge has been trying to fill all roles,

from HRmanager to accountant. “I’ve made somebad mistakes that have caused me to questionwhether I should soldier on or give up. What made iteasier was that I waited before hiring people, so therewas less risk.”Her mother’s advice – “Don’t cry before you solve

your problems” – encouraged Madiba to acceptmistakes as learning opportunities. – LWEMAIL: [email protected]:@lebonator

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MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE:“Dowork you canbeproudof andbe someone your children canbeproudof.”

10

BRIDGETTEHARTLEY (30)sPORt

SPRINT PADDLER

Winning a bronze medal in the kayaksingle women’s 500m event at the2012 London Olympics catapultedHartley into the spotlight. “It was avery emotional and exciting day forme – the best one in my career. I stillget goosebumps thinking of it.”Although she was always an

athlete, Hartley only started paddling

after matriculating in 2001. “I wasintroduced to kayaking by my dad."She’s currently living between

Pietermaritzburg, Hungary andAustria, training for the 2016 RioOlympics. “Staying motivated is reallydifficult at certain times. Having anend goal as well as smaller ones helpskeep me going when it’s tough.”Her tips for other sportswomen?

“Success doesn’t happen overnight, soit’s important to have determinationand perseverance. Don’t let anyonetell you something isn’t possible. Asexplorer Mike Horn told me: ‘If yourdream doesn’t scare you, then it’s notbig enough!’” – GKEMAIL: [email protected]:@for_bridgitte

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE:“Gowith love, not fear.”

09


12DRKGOMOTSOMATHABE (38)

Science, technology &healthcare

UROLOGIST: WITS UNIVERSITYDONALDGORDONMEDICALCENTRE, JOHANNESBURG

One of only nine female urologists inthe country, Mathabe aims to pavethe way for more women to enterthe discipline. Initially turned awayfrommedical school, she spent ayear improving her marks in orderto fulfil her dream of becominga doctor.Her perseverance led to her

becoming one of a handful of blackmedical students to graduate fromthe then Afrikaans-only University ofPretoria during SA’s post-apartheidtransitional phase. “I didn’t learnabout oxygen ions – I learnt about

suurstofione!” she laughs.Dealing predominantly with

male conditions, she occasionallyhas patients who show reluctanceat having a woman examine theirmost intimate body parts. However,she doesn’t take their “momentarypauses” personally.Her greatest joy, she says, is her

“lower-stress, less demanding” jobof raising her six-year-old son. Hersecond passion is her fascinationwith the pelvic floor. “There’s a moveamong urologists to sub-specialisein this area, which is a convergenceof urology, gynaecology and gastro-intestinal surgery. It’s still a relativelyneglected field and I want to be oneof the specialists helping developpelvic floor skills and creatingawareness of it,” she says. – TSEMAIL: [email protected]

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE: “Nothingworth havingcomeseasily – persist in all youdo.”

KERRIN TITMAS (36)Food, beverageS& hoSpitality

CEO: FANCOURTHOTEL ESTATE

In a career that’s spanned almost20 years in the hospitality industry,Titmas has risen to assume the reinsat Fancourt, an upmarket holidayspot boasting one of the world’s top10 golf resorts. The estate, spanning613ha, includes a hotel, an 18-suiteluxury house, three golf courses and470 residential properties.The timing of Titmas’s promotion

to the CEO’s seat in 2010 wasn’tideal, coming at the onset of theglobal economic recession andthe local hospitality industry price

war ignited by SA’s hosting of theFifa World Cup. To add to herchallenges, Fancourt owners beganrestructuring the estate.But then, Titmas, who holds a

MBA (cum laude) from Stellenbosch,thrives on challenges. Her careerstarted in Germany in the 1990sbefore she came to SA and worked atCape Town's Steenberg Country Cluband Victoria & Alfred Hotel.

“When the Fancourt ownersoffered me this job, they had anew brief in mind. We’ve sincetransformed into a leaner andsmarter organisation, repositioningthe business from being just a golfresort to a lifestyle destination. Andwe’ve doubled the number of visitorson a year-on-year basis.

“We want to continue buildingbrand awareness and enhance clientexperience,” she adds. – SMEMAIL: [email protected]:@kerrintitmas

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE:“Challenges are excitingopportunities to do thingsdifferently andbreak newground.”

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In association with

DRBOITUMELO SEMETE-MAKOKOTLELA (33)Science, technology & healthcare

GM, R&S AND INNOVATION: THE INNOVATIONHUB (TIH)

Having grown up in Soweto with an innate interest in genetics,Semete-Makokotlela, a doting mother, is living her dream – andloving it. “My job energises me, so I’m able to give 100% in what I do,”she says. She holds a PhD in biochemistry and has completed anAdvanced Management Programme at the Wits Business School.She honed her skills at Pretoria’s Council for Scientific and

Industrial Research in 2005, where she spent part of her tenureresearching nanotechnology, which has the potential to revolutionisethe treatment of tuberculosis. The following year she did her post-

doctoral degree in Europe. She also did a stint at McKinsey & Cobefore joining TIH this year. She’s currently in charge of ICT, greeneconomy and biotechnology and is passionate about closing the“innovation gap” through commercialisation.“A lot of technology stems from innovators who are straight out

of university, have an idea and want to set up an enterprise,” saysSemete-Makokotlela.Her advice to prospective scientists? “Find a field that you see

making a difference to the lives of those around you. Give it your alland don’t be distracted by peers who may start working earlier. Thebest time to study is when you’re still young.” – SMEMAIL: [email protected]:@tumisemete

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MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE: “Pursuea career becauseyou’re passionate

about it.”

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MAUREENMANYAMA-MATOME (36)corporate

FINANCIAL DIRECTOR: AIRPORTSCOMPANY SA (ACSA)

Growing up in the Modjadji areaof Limpopo, Manyama-Matome’sfighting spirit became clear whenshe passed matric, thanks largelyto her own discipline in studyingat home, rather than spendingtime in the classroom. “Thosecircumstances proved to me thatwhere there’s a will, there’s a way,”she says.

This philosophy served her wellthroughout a career that’s spanneddiverse industries, with highlightsincluding completing her articles atthe Office of the Auditor-General,where she also audited the UnitedNations Peacekeeping missions andheadquarters, as well as obtainingan MBA from Gibs.

Manyama-Matome occupiedposts at several of SA’s largestcorporates before her appointmentto her present position. However,she admits that the journey hasn’talways been smooth. “Whether it’sbecause of my age or gender, peoplesometimes fail to take me seriously.This is especially true whendealing with other women, whenprofessional jealousy sometimesresults in the PHD [‘pull-her-down’]syndrome. The solution is to do yourwork to the best of your ability.” – LWEMAIL: [email protected]: @mmamatome

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE:“Dedication, focus, hardworkanddiligence create a formulafor success.”

LYNETTEHUNDERMARK (36)Digital/it

HEADOF PRODUCT STRATEGY: PREZENCE

As a gadget freak, Hundermark was ecstatic when she wasapproached by www.kalahari.com to head up its new mobiledepartment. She’d already proved her pedigree in the UK, working inlarge corporates first as a programmer and then gaining insights intobusiness analysis – but, even so, the extreme newness of the mobilearena made it a challenge.

What followed was an intense time: launching the product injust nine months gave Hundermark a taste of how dynamic themobile industry is. It also gave her a head start for operating in themobile network space. The industry was still limited and lackedknowledge-sharing, but when Tim Bishop, founder of Prezence,invited Hundermark to lead a mobile app team, she was ready. Thesuccess of the company’s first apps encouraged it to set up the teamas a separate department.

Hundermark points out that although IT has an “old-fashioned”connotation, new channels such as apps belong in this realm.“Women need to be educated about the different areas of IT,” shesays. “It’s a difficult field – and it’s tough keeping up with the pace ofevolving technology – but I enjoy what I do.” – LWEMAIL: [email protected] TWITTER: @lynetteanthony

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE: “Care aboutwhat youdo.”

DR NELISWA GOGELA (36)Science, technology

& healthcareADVANCEDHEPATOLOGY ANDTRANSPLANT FELLOW: GROOTE

SCHUURHOSPITAL

Born in the Eastern Cape, Gogela defied her impoverishedcircumstances through hard work and determination tosucceed. After matriculating, she headed to the Universityof Pretoria’s medical school – from which she graduatedtop of her class.

Her interest in hepatology was sparked when sherealised there were only three hepatic specialists in thecountry. She’s now training to become the fourth.

“I looked after a young woman with liver failure causedby acute hepatitis B. I contacted a specialist, who advisedthe treatment protocol, but the prognosis was bleak. Ifollowed the protocol and she survived. I knew then thatI wanted to gain a greater understanding of liver disease,”Gogela says.

She recently received the Discovery Foundation Award,which will see her and her family spend 2014 in theUSA, studying under liver specialists at Boston’s world-renowned Massachusetts General Hospital. – TSEMAIL: [email protected]

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE: “If you’re doingsomething right, doorswill open for you.”

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yourdreamsoin us at one of our Power of 40breakfasts where Mazda andDESTINY celebrate SA’s mostexciting, dynamic and inspiringachievers under the age of 40.

The previous Mazda Power of 40 event was ahuge success, with Basani Maluleke, founder andExecutive Director of Ndiza, truly inspiring thosewho attended.Guests will be hosted by author, DESTINY

columnist and inspirational speaker TimothyMaurice Webster and the format of events will bea Q&A session with Maluleke, who was featuredin DESTINY’s Power of 40 2012 report. The eventsoffer guests valuable guidelines and insights intoachieving their ambitions, as well as a chance tonetwork with others in similar fields, fabulousgoodie bags and a truly empowering experience.

The lasTTwoevenTsofThis serieswill behosTedasfollows:

PRETORIA:Date: 31 October 2013Time: 9am registrationVenue:The Royal Elephant,Bondev House, Pretoria

CAPE TOWN:Date: 5 December 2013Time: 9am registrationVenue: Fire & Ice Hotel, Cape Town

booKyourTiCKeTPRICE: R280CONTACT: Email: [email protected] with“Mazda Power of 40” as the subject line, or callShaakirah van Rensburg on tel: 011 300 6700

J

You’re

invited

Timothymauricewebster

basanimaluleke

POWERING

DESTINYEVENT


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MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE: “Theuniverse doesn’t

promise that thingswillbe easy – just that they’ll

beworth it.”

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In association with

NAIMAMcLEAN (30)arts & entertainment

SINGER, ACTRESS AND POET

Fresh from performing her newsingle Hero at the Unite4Madibasports event and starringalongside Paul Walker inVehicle 19, McLean’s star is fastascending. Born into a musicalfamily, she always aspired to be aperformer. After working in NewYork as a producer for majorurban annual music conferenceThe Power Summit and a shortstint in the South Africancorporate world, she followedher real passions, landing jobsthat included a feature role in

the British TV series,Wild at Heart. She alsorecited her poetry on bothcorporate and festival platformssuch as Urban Voices. Afterrecording her first album, shedebuted at the Cape TownJazz Festival.As an independent artist, her

main hurdle is multi-tasking. “Idon’t have the luxury of relyingon a big record label to handlenecessities like PR and brandmanagement, so I’ve had tocompile a team under my ownlabel, while still concentratingon my art,” she says. – ARWEBSITE:www.naimaworld.comTWITTER:@naimamclean

SUZIE NKAMBULE (25)ConstruCtion &engineeringSPECIALIST IN

CONSTRUCTION ANDENGINEERING, GROWTHAND

STRATEGYOFFICE:AVENGAFRICA

Nkambule recalls with delightseeing on TV the launch ofJohannesburg’s Nelson MandelaBridge in 2003. It was thismoment which awakened herpassion for engineering.A decade later, she’s a qualifiedcivil engineer (and pursuinga Master’s degree in finance)serving in the executivemanagement at Aveng, a listedR10 billion construction titanthat built that same bridge.“The Nelson Mandela Bridge

symbolised linkages andconnections. It was a smallthing, but it made a hugedifference. That’s what civil

engineers do – improve andtransform lives,” she says.In between her daily tasks,which include clientinteraction and reviewingmarket conditions, Nkambuleresearches public-privatepartnerships in Africa to createenabling infrastructure that willfast-track sustainable economicdevelopment. She also doesmarket reviews and liaises witha range of clients.In her other role, as President

of the Association of AllanGray Fellows, Nkambule – anaccomplished public speaker– helps to identify brightyoung individuals with anentrepreneurial mindset. Herquest is to help SA unlockits potential. “We try to findvisionary people, a goodbalance between doers andthinkers,” she says. – SMEMAIL: [email protected]:@Sue_Nkambule

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE: “Infrastructure

is the backboneof economies.It underpins success.”

19

TSHEGOTSHUKUTSWANE (36)entrepreneur

FOUNDER ANDCEO: CHIC SHAPEWEAR

Ten years ago, while battling to source quality shapewear locally,Tshukutswane hit on the idea of providing such a service, whilesimultaneously creating a sustainable business model.Launched in September last year, Chic Shapewear is an online

boutique that imports top-of-the-range American shapewearbrands that include underwear, swimwear and contour-enhancing clothing.Themost challenging aspect of running a business dependent

on imports, she says, is the unpredictable rand/dollar exchangerate. It was $1/R7,80 when she launched the business, but todayhovers around the $1/R10+ mark, so she mitigates fluctuations bynegotiating bulk supplier discounts. She also opened an accountwith a freight company, with whom she negotiated a 30-daypayment agreement. This, she says, helps with cash flow andexposes her business to discounted “preferential” freight rates.A serial entrepreneur, Tshukutswane also owns Greenstone

Marketing, an integrated marketing and brand developmentfirm, as well as a 50% share in the Artjamming art studio inMelrose Arch, Johannesburg.Recently accepted into the Goldman Sachs 10 000Women

programme, Tshukutswane’s teamed up with a local designerto launch a range of shapewear specifically designed for Africanwomen’s figures. She also plans to launch a bricks-and-mortarshapewear boutique in the next five years. – TSEMAIL: [email protected] TWITTER:@chicshapewear

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE: “Lifewon’t give youmore untilyou do somethingwithwhat you have already.”

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MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE:“Gobig or gohome.”

CHARLOTTEMONAKISI (34)EntrEprEnEur

OWNER: DARKIE CAFÉ

Since closing down her first restaurant in its first year ofoperation seven years ago, Monakisi’s become a force to bereckoned with in the highly volatile and competitive foodand beverage industry.

The sole owner of Darkie Café – a name she deliberatelychose in order to be controversial and memorable – in theheart of Jo’burg’s CBD, she also owns a quarter-share ofswanky restaurant and bar lounge FTV in VillageWalk, Sandton.

Although she holds a Master’s degree in botany,Monakisi’s always been an entrepreneur at heart.

With Darkie now in its fifth year of operation, Sheplans to franchise it in areas like OR Tambo InternationalAirport and Rosebank. She’s also working on a mediaproject – Business Africa – that will provide businessopportunities for Africans around the continent and createa network of like-minded, enterprising individuals.

“Business in SA has been saturated, so – in terms ofsustainability – there’s a need to seek opportunities furtherafield and to pioneer innovation in Africa,” she says. – TSEMAIL:[email protected]

LEANNEDLAMINI (28)arts & EntErtainmEnt

SINGER

With two Samas and a Metro FMaward under her belt, Dlamini is anR&B powerhouse. She knew singingwould be her future, as she’d beenobsessed with it from a young age.“I breathed, ate and slept music,even as a little girl,” she says.

Having studied contemporarymusic at the National Schoolof the Arts, she started as a backingvocalist for Loyiso and DannyK. She then interned at CreativeKingdom, where she enjoyedwriting songs and doing sessionsfor other artists. Since recordingher own album with the samelabel, she hasn’t looked back and isnow collaborating with both localand international DJs. She’s alsobeen nominated for a SouthAfrican Achievers Award in theUK for music, as a result of hermusic being played and sold in

that country, as well as in Dubaiand Japan.

Dlamini’s currently working onher third album and credits herhusband, daughter and team asher biggest sources of supportand inspiration. – ARWEBSITE:www.iamleannemusic.comTWITTER:@iamleannemusic

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21

ZODWAVELLEMAN (38)LEGaL

DIRECTOR, LEGAL ANDCORPORATE SECURITY:

BRANDHOUSE

After matriculating from Jo’burg’sRoedean High School, Vellemanearned a BJuris, LLB and LLM. Sheinterned at the SA Human RightsCommission before joining theParliamentary Justice PortfolioCommittee. Now a married motherof two, she plans to obtain aMaster’s degree.

Last year Velleman joinedBrandhouse, a joint venturemarketing and distributing Diageo,Heineken and Namibian Breweriesproducts. This came after hertenures at British AmericanTobacco and Edward Nathan

Sonnenberg, where she qualified asan attorney, and placement at WeilGotshal &Manges.

Working for Brandhousecould raise eyebrows, given SA’shigh levels of alcoholism. “We’reaware of the abuse, but we’re notjust about the bottom line. Weput responsibility first andalways operate within the ambitof the law,” Velleman says,referring to her company’sproposals to government onresponsible drinking.

She names her parents, Headof UNWomen Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka and Liberian PresidentEllen Sirleaf Johnson as her rolemodels. Above all, she creditsperseverance for her success.

“When I left home for CapeTown, as a student, I had a one-waytrain ticket – that’s all my familycould afford. Anyone can turnstones into bread.”EMAIL: [email protected]

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE:“I candoall things throughChrist,Who strengthensme.”–Philippians4:13

23

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE:“Never let negativity blind you.”

RepoRt

In association with

DRVANESSANAIDOO (30)MEDICINE

ANAESTHETIST: DOCTORSWITHOUTBORDERS (MÉDECINSSANS FRONTIÈRES –MSF)

Naidoo’s managed to forge a career combining her two passions:medicine and people.She joined MSF two years ago, after watching disturbing

newsclips of injured people in the Libyan uprising. Her firstmission involved setting up a maternity hospital in Afghanistanand supervising the operating theatre.“The harsh realities of ongoing war are plain to see in a trauma

centre. Although we provide a high standard of healthcare,many injuries are so severe that there’s little we can do to savepatients,” she says.Her work’s taken her to Afghanistan, southern Sudan and

Syria, where she’s battled hepatitis E breakouts, malnutrition,bomb blasts, gunshot and mine explosions. Naidoo’s also hadto endure extreme temperatures, primitive accommodation,physical danger from close proximity to battle zones and “takinga bucket shower every day in the dark with bats flying above andspiders crawling below”, but says the hardships are worthwhilewhen patients smile and thank her. She debriefs after eachmission by talking to peers, but says she’s witnessed certainhorrors that she’d rather not discuss at all.In the long term, Naidoo sees herself teaching in the

public health sector while completing as many missionsas possible. – TSTWITTER:@MSF_southafrica

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE:“Leave anyplace youenter better than

you found it.”24

CHANTAL SOMBONOS (35)CORPORATE

GM, OPERATIONS AND IT: CHICKEN LICKEN

Sombonos is passionate about ChickenLicken, the fast-food brand founded by herfather, George, that’s grown to make billionsin annual revenues. The number of outlets(predominantly franchises), staffed by 5 000people, has surged from just one in 1981 toover 250 at present.She started out in the royalties department

in 2001 directly after obtaining an economicsdegree, although she’d done work for the groupfor years previously. “I grew up in the businessand am familiar with all its facets. I used tocome here for training during school holidays,”recalls Sombonos, adding that she’s passionateabout her job, despite the long hours. “The late

Apple founder Steve Jobs once said that youcan only produce great work if you love whatyou do.That’s how I feel here. I love findingsolutions to different challenges.”Despite her credentials and experience,

Sombonos still encounters sexism. “Beingyoung and female makes some menuncomfortable. Since men dominate the foodindustry, some try to push you around, butyou have to learn to overcome that attitudeand remain focused.”With the business well entrenched in most

provinces of SA, she’s now eyeing sub-SaharanAfrica as an area for expansion before takingthe brand abroad.“Follow your dream and don’t let anyone tell

you: ‘You can’t.’ Life goes on,” she says. – SMEMAIL: [email protected]:@sombonos007

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE: “If youfall, pick yourself up, learn fromyourmistakes and keepgoing.”

25

RepoRt


AARTI TAKOORDEEN (32)corporate

CHIEF FINANCIALOFFICER: JSE

Takoordeen’s entry into theaccounting profession wassomewhat unconventional.“Although I wanted to start my ownbusiness, I didn’t have the capital– so, instead, my career startedat an auditor’s firm, where I wasable to complete my articles whilestudying,” she says.As a result, she qualified far

younger than most of her peers,growing up within the workingworld and gaining a wealth ofexperience while obtaining herqualifications: Honours CTAaccounting and auditing andHonours B Compt in commerce,

as well as a CA (SA). “I moved out ofthe audit firm and into the businessenvironment, where I was drivenby innovation and the need to addvalue as a commercial partner.”Takoordeen attributes her rapid

rise to setting big goals and tacklingthem with tenacity. This approachhas given her the confidence toinnovate. “My motto is: ‘Go bigor go home’ – I refuse to toleratemediocrity,” she says. She’s also afirm believer in viewing situationsin perspective.“Ultimately, I want to make

a sustainable difference in thebusiness world, while impactingthe hearts and minds of people,”she says. – LWEMAIL: [email protected]:@Aarti_JSE

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE: “Insight and accessibilityare easier to achieve in our digital age than they’ve everbeenbefore, so use them tobe thebest you canbe.”

CARIENDUPLESSIS (39)Media

SENIOR POLITICAL REPORTER:citY preSS

“Love what you plan to do, becauseyou’ll be doing a lot of it,” DuPlessis advises young people tryingto choose a career. It’s clear thisaward-winning journalist andrespected member of SA’s Twitteratihas followed her own advice. “The

thought that what I do matterskeeps me motivated,” she says. “Istill love getting an important scoopor breaking news – even after 10years of reporting. Doing this job is aprivilege,” she says.

Although she comes from apolitically aware family and wasactive in student politics, DuPlessis never thought she’d land upreporting in that area. Yet doing sofor City Press eventually became herultimate career goal.With a BA in English and political

science, and an MA in linguistics,she also prizes education. “If I’m alittle more settled in a decade or two,I might do a doctorate in literacy,the media and politics,” she says.She also plans to take a gap year totravel after she turns 40. “I dream ofwaking up in a different city everyday, but I’m still figuring out how toget to that point.” – GKEMAIL: [email protected]:@carienduplessis

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE: “It’sall in the state of themind.”

27

26

RepoRt

In association with


“There’s a positivelesson to be

learnt fromeveryexperience –

even negative ones.”

SYLVIAGRUBER (30)EntrEprEnEur

CO-FOUNDER ANDCEO:WWW.RUBYBOX.CO.ZA

Originally from Austria, Gruberrelocated to SA in 2009 for love.Although the relationship didn’twork out, she was bitten by the

entrepreneurial bug and – havingworked for beauty giants such as P&Gand L’Oréal in Europe – drew on her

experience to launch Rubybox in 2011.“The beauty industry in SA is worthR30 billion, with an annual growth

rate of 12%. It’s also a recession-proofindustry and with my background,it made sense to provide a platformwhere women could find the rightproducts for their needs,” she says.Based on a “try, discover and buy”

model, Rubybox offers consumersmonthly customised beauty boxescontaining sample and full-sizeproducts from over 50 local and

international brands, as well as anecommerce retail store where the

products can be purchased directly,thus “closing the loop”.

In two years Gruber and herbusiness partner, Margaux Knuppe,have grown the business from threeemployees to 15 and a database of

19 000 active subscribers.Gruber was one of 17 individualsselected from 10 countries to

participate in the global EndeavourNetwork, which offers strategic

support and mentorship to high-impact entrepreneurs in developingmarkets. She plans on expanding

the business into African andEuropean markets. – TS

EMAIL: [email protected]: @rubybox

_beauty

28

RepoRt


MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE: “Find theright balancebetweenworking hard andplaying hard, and never leave anything

until the lastminute.”

TERTIA BEHARIE (30)legal

PARTNER: SPOOR & FISHER

With a rare mixture of science and legal degrees, Beharie’sright at home at Spoor & Fisher, the specialist intellectualproperty (IP) firm she joined in 2006 directly aftergraduating with a BSc Honours in chemistry from theUniversity of KwaZulu-Natal. In 2010 she obtained an LLBfrom Unisa.Working full-time and studying (with exams every

other month) was taxing, admits this attorney. However,her tenacity and focus saw her through. Having servedher articles at Spoor & Fisher and climbed the corporateladder, Beharie now aims to become a Senior Partner andan authority in IP matters.“My journey’s taught me a lot about being true to

myself,” she says. “The difficult choices and routes we takecan make all the difference. We should always stand by ourmorals and values.”Her job, she says, puts her “at the forefront of cutting-

edge technology” and entails writing drafts and filingpatent applications in the chemical, pharmaceuticaland metallurgical fields in SA and across the globe, aswell as prosecuting. – SMEMAIL: [email protected]

BARBARA BIRUNGI (27)digital/it

COUNTRY DIRECTOR:HIVE COLAB

Birungibelievestechnologyis the mostpowerful toolto combat

poverty in her own country,Uganda, as well as the rest of Africa.That's what motivated her decisionto run Hive Colab, an innovationhub, business accelerator andincubator for young East Africantechpreneurs who don’t haveaccess to resources.She spends much of her time

mentoring 50 start-up techcompanies and helping aspirantinnovators safeguard theirintellectual property from largecorporates and potential investors.

Also passionate about “closingthe gender technology gap”,Birungi foundedWomen inTechnology Uganda to encouragemore female participation in themale-dominated industry.

“We need to move from the‘tech needs more girls’ point ofview to two or three generations’time, when we’ll say: ‘Boys needto catch up to girls in tech.’ That’smy goal. If more women ownedmobile phones, there’d be moredevelopment,” she says.Currently working towards her

MBA, Birungi’s teamed up witha group to design a mobile appcalled Mama-App which sendsinformation to women aboutpregnancy care via SMS.EMAIL: [email protected]:@Barbs311 – TS

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SINDISOKHUMALO (33)FaSHiON

FASHIONDESIGNER

Khumalo’s design aesthetic isheavily influenced by “contexts andspaces” – drawn from her formalarchitectural training and tutelageunder London-based architectDavid Adjaye.“As a child, I used to think of

myself as an artist, so becoming adesigner was a natural step, as itinvolved a combination of functionand artistic fantasy,” she says.While Khumalo’s been based in

the UK for over 11 years, she hasn’tsevered ties with SA, having teamedup with Capetonian seamstressesand KwaZulu-Natal craftswomanBertina Khumalo to create“bombastic, yet minimalist” textiledesigns under the Sindiso Khumalodesign label launched in Septemberlast year.On the back of a highly acclaimed

Autumn/Winter 2013 collectionat Labotechnic in Paris, France,Khumalo launched her online retailstore in September working on a“made-to-order” model.“My goal for my label is to be

not just a fashion brand, but alsoan empowering agent, especiallyin the formerly marginalised partsof Africa. We aim to develop moresustainable practices and createvalue in my supply chain,” shesays. – TSEMAIL: [email protected] TWITTER:@sindisokhumalo

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE:“Foster genius andencouragecreative techpreneurship.”

31

MAZDAPOWERPRINCPLE:“Don’t let the noise of others’opinions drownout your own innervoice. Have the courage to followyour heart and intuition.” – SteveJobs (1955-2011), founder ofApple

RepoRt

In association with

SHILUBAMAWELA (27)social activism

CORPORATE FINANCEOFFICER:JOHANNESBURG STOCK EXCHANGE ANDCO-DIRECTOR: TRANSITIONS FOUNDATION

Johannesburg-based chartered accountant Mawelahas used her expertise to better her communitythrough the Transitions Foundation. “It was thebrainchild of the Matlwa-Mabaso family, who arepassionate about helping young people realisetheir dreams through education,” she explains.“Dr Kopano Matlwa-Mabaso, a medical

practitioner and Rhodes Scholar currently studyingfor her PhD in public health, was its founder andinvolved me as Co-director and Treasurer early lastyear, during the foundation’s infancy.“Through its ‘Young, African and Dreaming’

initiative, Transitions runs a maths and sciencesupport programme at Allanridge Secondary Schoolin Rabie Ridge, Johannesburg, where talented, butsocio-economically disadvantaged children areprovided with supervised tutoring in those subjects.”As a World Economic Forum Global Shaper,

Mawela also belongs to a network of extraordinaryyoung leaders aged from 20-30 who are committedto improving the state of the world. “I plan toincrease my engagement in social initiatives,explore my interest in development finance,complete a Master’s degree in that field and growmy entrepreneurial incubator hub to reach moresmall start-up projects,” she says. – GKEMAIL: [email protected]:@Ms_ShubiBLog: http://africaentle.wordpress.com

MAZDApowerprINCIpLe:“pursue your passions andpurposewholeheartedly. Dreambig andalways fight for yourmiracle.”

32

LoRNARUTTo (28)entrepreneur

FOUNDER ANDCEO: ECOPOST

Not afraid to get her hands dirty, Rutto’sestablished a multi-million-Kenyanshilling turnover operation by turningplastic waste into poles and fence postsin a bid to save Kenya’s forests.

“We recover any type of plastic that can go through the extrusionprocess – such as polypropylene and polyethylene, the materials usedto make carrier bags – to use for our posts,” she says.Faced with a “patriarchal social structure” and a lack of access

to funding and education – the biggest obstacles hindering female

entrepreneurs in Kenya – Rutto aims to eradicate poverty byempowering marginalised women in the country’s slums.Over the past five years she’s created 500 jobs and prevented the

chopping down of thousands of trees.She’s also received an impressive list of prestigious awards,

including the Cartier Women’s Initiative, the World Wildlife Fund’sNature Award atThe Hague, Netherlands and the SEED Award.Named as one of Africa’s 20 Youngest Power Women by Forbes,

Rutto plans to set up at least 10 more collection yards aroundKenya. – TSEMAIL: [email protected] TWITTER:@ecopostbuzz

MAZDApowerprINCIpLe: “Never be afraid of failure – thereare great lessons to be learnt from it, particularly perseverance.”

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PUMELA SALELA (36)Corporate

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS PROCESSOUTSOURCINGCONSULTANT

When Salela approached her first employer, Network Radio Services,she was told there was no work for her. “I told them I didn’t want a job;I wanted to sweep their floors,” she recalls.

This story demonstrates both her determination and fascinationwith learning, attributes which led her from working in promotions inthe media industry to being one of only 10 students in SA that year whowere awarded a Mandela Scholarship to study an MBA in the UK.

When the passionately patriotic Salela was invited to join themarketing arm of Trade & Investment SA, she didn’t hesitate. Thiswas where she was first exposed to business process outsourcing, firstmanaging investment promotions for the business process outsourcingsector and later moving on to policy, as a Director.

When the World Bank asked her to join as a Consultant inWashington DC, USA, she relished acting as a link between Africa andthe rest of the world. That position ultimately led to her appointmentas a Global Fellow in Social Innovation, the only South African toreceive this recognition.

Despite her achievements, Salela remains humble. “I'm thankful tothe Lord, Who opens and closes doors,” she says. – LWEMAIL: [email protected]

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE:“Challenges

aren’t obstacles;they’re just life’swayof telling youtomakea choice.Andwhatever

choice youmakeis always theright one.”

36

SEAPEIMAFOYANE (35)Corporate

CHIEFOPERATINGOFFICER: SHANDUKABLACK UMBRELLAS

She might be a microbiologist who holds aBSc, but Mafoyane prefers the boardroomto a laboratory. Today, armed with the MBA

she obtained despite having contracted the “swine flu” H1N1 virusduring her studies, she’s a sought-after corporate strategist.

She began her career in 2000 as a Client Services Consultant atDiscovery, where she remained for six years. She also worked forStandard Bank and SABMiller before switching to Shanduka BlackUmbrellas, which supports black start-ups. Since her arrival at theorganisation, it’s doubled the number of its incubators.

“I was hugely attracted to Shanduka because it deals withthe challenges black women face in SA,” says Mafoyane. “Whatwe’re doing is exciting and critical in entrenching a mindset ofentrepreneurship in SA. This needs to be a career choice even foryoung people beginning university or graduating from it.”

She admits being disappointed that the New SA hasn’t trulyrestored the dignity and pride of black people. “There are stillmany things to do in this country. However, the amount of workshouldn’t bog us down: one step at a time does it.” – SMEMAIL: [email protected]

ROBERTANAIDOO (40)Corporate

MD: AFRICA BUSINESS NEWS(ABN) GROUP

Naidoo’s appointment as Head of Finance atCNBC Africa in 2008 marked the beginning

of a soaring career trajectory: just two years later, she was namedGeneral Manager of the company, with a further promotion toGroup MD in 2011. Key highlights during this time includedmaintaining staff morale and helping the organisation weatherthe recession, as well as driving the growth of the ABN Group byplaying an instrumental role in its strategic planning, financingand implementation of Forbes Africa and other key business units.

In her current position, she’s also the Chair of ABN Productions,ABN Pictures, the ABN Training Institute, the ABN EducationTrust, ABN Nigeria and ABN Kenya.

“Knowing the buck stops with you can be intimidating,” Naidooadmits. “The responsibility becomes less daunting if you realisethat yours aren’t the only footsteps on the mountaintop: no matterhow innovative you are, others have been there before you andsometimes being a good leader means being humble enough toask for advice. It also requires sticking to your original vision, butbeing flexible in the tactics you use to get there.” – LWEMAIL: [email protected]:@roberta_naidoo

35

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE: “There are no traffic jamson the extramile.”

34

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE: “Don’t shy away fromdoingthings youdon’t feel quite ready to do. That’s howyougrow.”

RepoRt

In association with

37

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE: “You’veonly got one shotat life, somake themost of it. There’sno roomor time forcomplacency.”

THANDI NGWANE (37)Corporate

HEADOF STRATEGICMARKETS: ALLANGRAY

“Excellence is the best deterrent to prejudice.Whether you’re black or a woman or likely tobe prejudiced in any manner, just excel. The restwill fall into place,” says Ngwane, paraphrasingAmerican talk show queen Oprah Winfrey.

Raised by a domestic worker mother who waswidowed at a young age, Ngwane understandsthe excellence dividend. As a schoolgirl she wasa prefect, excelled in swimming, captainedsports teams, modelled and was once crownedMiss Durban.

Ngwane holds a BSocSci, LLB, LLM and anadvanced post-graduate diploma in financialplanning. She’s been with asset managementfirm Allan Gray for five years and sees herselfentering the consultancy or retailing domain atsome point.

She strongly advocates financial literacy –something she regards as a form of justice. “AllanGray is about creating wealth for our clientsover time. My job is to ensure we’re relevant innew markets, where we don’t have a footprint,whether in terms of age or colour,” she says.“It’s challenging because many people aren’twell-versed in what we’re doing. However, ourresilience and tenacity pay off."

A member of the Black Management Forum,she also serves on numerous boards andmentors students and young managers in theWestern Cape. – SMEMAIL: [email protected]: @mangwane247

RepoRt


MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE:“Do something original.”

MICHELE FOURIE (40)ENTREPRENEUR

CO-FOUNDEROFWAKABERRYFROZEN YOGHURT

Having opened the first frozen yoghurt branch ofWakaberry in Durban’s Florida Road in 2011, Fourie hassince walked a varied and profitable franchise journey.It’s not hard to see why the business has exploded, givenits focus on quality – the certified organic yoghurt issourced from a well-established dairy in KwaZulu-Natalthat has a “wakatank” reserved for it. There are currently22 Wakaberry branches around the country, with moreplanned for the near future. “The three of us [her co-founders are her husband Ken Fourie and friend DavidClark] initially didn't intend to franchise Wakaberry, sothe demand for the brand and requests for franchises tookus by surprise. We were thrilled, but had to put processesin place quite quickly and learn how to run a nationalbusiness – it's been fun, though!" she says. They hadmore than 800 applications from franchisees in 2011,an astounding response considering that one needsR1 million in start-up funds.She says one of her biggest business lessons has been

time management. “We're opening a further six storesin 2013 and plan to have 50 by the end of 2014. Althoughwe've grown so much over the past two years, we remain aclosely-knit family with exceptionally loyal and passionatepeople.” – SAEMaIL: [email protected]:@Wakaberry

NICOLA BREYTENBACH-STEINER (35)

social acTivismSUPERMODEL AND AFRICANANGEL AMBASSADOR FOR

THEDIAMONDEMPOWERMENT FUND

Although she moved to theNetherlands at the age of 14,Durban-born Breytenbach-Steineris very much a South Africansuccess story. After her mother’shairdresser convinced the teenagebeauty to see a modelling agent, acontract as an in-house model atChristian Dior quickly followed.Her ascent continued withmagazine covers and spreads,campaigns for Revlon and L’Oréal,and a contract with TrumpModels.These days, it’s her family

and charity work that keep hermotivated. Based in New York withher husband, American businesstycoon Ben Steiner and their twochildren, she’s the first African

Angel Ambassador for the DiamondEmpowerment Fund.The NPO,co-founded by American businessmagnate Russell Simmons, is aglobal fund focused on supportingeducation initiatives in diamond-producing African nations.The ambassadorship allows

her to give back. “I felt I’d finallyfound an organisation intowhich I could put my heartand enthusiasm.” – GKTWITTER:@NicBrey

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38

CAREYVANVLAANDEREN (32)

digiTal/iTCEO: ESET

Since being appointed to herpresent position in 2010, VanVlaanderen’s grown ESET intoan organisation of 25 employeesoperating in 18 African states, witha network of 3 600 partners – notbad, considering the first time shejoined 4D Digital Security in 2003,the enterprise consisted of her andthree other employees, includingfounder Justin Stanford, workingfrom a garage.After six “gruelling” months, Van

Vlaanderen took a break, rejoiningthe company in 2004. By this stage,4D Digital Security had acquiredthe distribution rights to ESETsoftware products, then known asNOD32, for southern Africa. “Wemoved into an office and for thenext five years I worked in severalpositions, aiming to streamline ouroffering and drive business andemployee growth,” she says.She admits she’s had to work

hard to prove herself in a male-dominated industry. However,she also believes her gender givesher an advantage in that femaleexecutives are more empatheticthan their male counterparts.Her leadership style is one

of making informed decisionstimeously, encouraging everyonein the organisation to share theirknowledge and hiring peoplewhose values accord with those ofthe company. – LWEMAIL: [email protected]:@ESET_SA

40

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE:“Leadership is about having theability to relate to andconnectwith people for the purposeofinspiring andempowering theirlives.” –OprahWinfrey

MAZDAPOWERPRINCIPLE:“Never take rejection personally.Believe in youself and have fun.”

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