KZN Top Business Awards 2025: All the Winners

The much-anticipated KZN Top Business Awards, brought to you by Standard Bank

and Women of Africa Group and in association with East Coast Radio took place on

the 17 July in Durban at Coastlands Musgrave Hotel.

Setting the tone for the evening, East Coast Radio host Carol Ofori led the

glamorous evening’s proceedings with her usual indomitable style, guiding business

leaders, distinguished guests, and members of the media through a memorable and

inspiring celebration.

Rishaad Webster, Provincial Head: Business Banking, KZN, Standard Bank, said

"Congratulations to all the winners and finalists of the KZN Top Business Awards.

Your achievements are a testament to the resilience and innovation that power our

province’s economy. At Standard Bank, we are proud to walk this journey with you

—supporting your ambitions, unlocking new opportunities, and amplifying business

growth through meaningful partnerships. These awards reflect the spirit of progress

we strive to enable every day."

Women of Africa (WOA) Group introduced a new award this year, which recognised

the achievements of a top businesswoman. This award was presented to Nosipho

Siwisa Damasane an accomplished leader in South Africa’s transport and logistics

sector. Siwisa Damasane currently serves as chairman of the Richards Bay Coal

Terminal and as special advisor to the Minister of Public Enterprises.

In congratulating Nosipho Siwisa Damasane, Advocate Pria Hassan, Group CEO of

the WOA Group reaffirmed a belief that has never wavered: that entrepreneurship

—especially women-led entrepreneurship — is one of the most powerful forces for

combating poverty and opening doors of opportunity for our youth and rural

communities. The Women of Africa Group, with its reach across petroleum, logistics,

and healthcare, is driven not merely by profit, but by purpose.

Hassan said, “We exist to break barriers and build bridges, so more women can walk

confidently into their futures. Tonights celebration is more than an acknowledgment

of success; it’s a reflection of the ethical and courageous leadership that South

Africa so deeply needs. Siwisa’s accomplishments — and those of every visionary

entrepreneur gathered here — embody the grit, grace, and ingenuity that continue to

drive KwaZulu-Natal forward. I live by the motto: “Leadership is not about being in

charge; its about caring for those in your charge.” And it’s deeply heartening to see

so many businesses leading with integrity, taking no shortcuts, and staying true to

their values. To each of you who stood tall tonight: may your journey ahead be bold,

your impact lasting, and your leadership a beacon for the next generation. Keep

leading—South Africa is counting on you.”

A highlight of the evening was the announcement of the prestigious KZN Top

Business Leader of the Year, which is an award recognising someone who has

demonstrated exemplary business achievement, industry influence and is a true

inspiration to others.

This year the honour went to Captain Salvatore Sarno,chairman of Mediterranean Shipping Company South Africa, a prominent figure in the South African and global shipping industry. Captain Sarno is known for his passion for the maritime industry, his advocacy for its growth, and his leadershipwithin MSC.

The 2025 category finalists are:

• Standard Bank Client of the Year – SME Category: Arena Trims

• Standard Bank Client of the Year – Larger Enterprise: Natal Joint Municipal

Pension Fund

• Manufacturing Sector: Hulamin Limited

• Transport/Logistics Sector: Avemel Logistics

• Franchising Sector: Meondo Holdings Pty Ltd

• Family-Owned and Managed Business: Siyaka

• Agriculture and Agri-Processing Sector: GreenHill Laboratories

• Business, Finance and Education Sector: Royal Tyres

• Community Upliftment and Improvement: aQuellé

• Renewable Efficiency – Green initiatives: Brahman Hills

• Employee Wellness: Beekman Group

• Partnership: Durban Direct

Top Brand Award

The greatly anticipated winner of the title of KZN Top Brand 2025, which is voted for

by public vote only, was revealed to be SA Home Loans.

In second place was Royal Tyres and in third place Beekman Group. This sought-

after accolade is fiercely competed each year with hundreds of votes cast by

employees, clients, family, and friends for their brand of choice.

Grant Adlam, CEO of KZN Top Business, shared his congratulations with all the

participants, saying, “Well done to each and every one of you. Business success

doesn’t happen by chance, it’s driven by bold, committed leaders. In chasing their

goals, these individuals and companies have opened doors for others, uplifted

communities, and helped make the world a better place. It’s amazing to see how

success truly does inspire more success and tonight proves just that!”

The evening’s proceedings will be available on YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/c/KZNTopBusiness from 19 July with the premiere starting

at 7 p.m.

All the winners and finalists were also be featured in a special supplement to be

published in The Mercury on the 23 July.