Shortlist for Business Awards Announced Standard Bank and KZN Top Business are delighted to announce the shortlisted entries in this year’s business awards. The annual Standard Bank KZN Top Business Awards celebrate and promote successful large and small companies, innovative programmes, projects, and people that have made a positive impact on the province of KwaZulu-Natal. “We want to express our sincere gratitude to all the companies that participated ... and a huge congratulations to the shortlisted candidates in each category. Getting to the shortlist is a great achievement,” commented Grant Adlam, CEO KZN Top Business. The following companies have been shortlisted in each of the twelve general categories and are in no particular order. Standard Bank Client of the Year – SME Category Entrant must have less than R100 million turn over per annum, entrant must bank with Standard Bank. ·         Signa Travel ·         Mac-Rites Panel Beaters & Spray Painters cc ·         Thusi Holdings ·         Argento Trading 117cc ·         Steelco ·         Construction for Africa ·         Black City Records   Standard Bank Client of the Year – Larger Enterprise Entrant must have more than R100 million turn over per annum, entrant must bank with Standard Bank. ·         Royal Tyres ·         Sumitomo Rubber South Africa (Pty) Ltd ·         Natal Joint Municipal Pension Fund   Manufacturing Sector Broadly defined as the physical or chemical transformation of materials or compounds into new products.             ·         Sky Tents ·         Argento Trading ·         Joekels Tea Packers ·         Beauty and Brushez Artistry ·         Natal Razor and Wire ·         Sumitomo Rubber SA ·         SA Adhesives ·         Aberdare Cables ·         ND Engineering ·         Studio39 Jewellery Design ·         LHL Engineering   Transport/Logistics Sector Business activities concerned with transport via land, railway, water, pipelines, or air, and activities of travel agencies, post and telecommunications, courier activities, as well as storage and warehousing activities. ·         Grindrod Limited ·         Dynamic Shipping Services ·         Linza Kahle ·         AML Distributions   Franchising Sector A business that provides products or services under the branding and rules stipulated by a parent company. ·         ActionCOACH Marlene Powell ·         Pedros Flame Grilled Chicken ·         RE/MAX Coast and Country   Family-Owned/Managed Businesses Businesses where the majority ownership/management remains within a family and where more than one generation contributes to the success of the business. ·         Asha Law Attorneys and Conveyancers ·         Royal Tyres ·         Heads and Tails Exotics ·         Global Impex S.A ·         Miktek Scientific ·         Steelco ·         Dromex ·         Cafe Monroe ·         Gebodo Projects ·         Drakewoods Group ·         Felix Risk Training Consultants   Agricultural and Agro-Processing Sector Businesses that are primarily engaged in farming activities, but also includes commercial hunting, game propagation, forestry, logging and fishing. The beneficiation of primary materials and intermediate goods from agricultural, fisheries and forestry-based sectors is included. ·         Heartland Foods ·         Dreamcelsius Group Africa ·         Agrikool ·         GreenHills Laboratory   Education, Business and Financial Services sector This sector includes insurance and pension funding; legal; accounting; education and general business activities.     ·         The Busy Bookkeeper & Partners ·         Jacquie Bhana Consulting ·         Morar Incorporated ·         Arvind Magan and Associates Inc. ·         Inspired Financial Management Solutions ·         Bosse Events ·         Powerpoint Lifestyles ·         Dolphin Coast Solar Solutions ·         Fem Build   Community Upliftment and Improvement   Businesses or social enterprises that have made a significant positive impact on the community and region they operate in. This could include charitable efforts or developing your local community to make KZN a better place to live and work.   ·         Sibaya Community Trust ·         Innovate Durban ·         Grasshopper Soccer Durban ·         Phakamani Empowerment ·         SmartXchange ·         Phoenix Group ·         Do More Foundation ·         TAFTA ·         SA Home Loans ·         Use It Waste Beneficiation (RF) NPC ·         Natal Joint Municipal Pension Fund   Renewable Efficiency – Green initiatives This category includes renewable energy, low-carbon transport, energy-efficient buildings, clean technologies, improved waste management, improved freshwater provision, etc. ·         Triplo4 Sustainable Solutions ·         Circular Energy ·         LiteBruim Group ·         SAMAC Engineering Solutions   Employee Wellness Businesses that go the extra mile to engage their staff members through in-house training, flexible working, personal development, workplace wellbeing activity and teambuilding. ·         Beekman Group ·         SRF Flexipak SA ·         Powerpoint Lifestyles   Partnership Award The winning project will reflect the importance of teamwork and effective inter-agency collaboration. ·         Tidy Towns Shelly Beach to Margate ·         Do More Foundation ·         Phakamani Empowerment   Leader of the Year The Standard Bank KZN Top Business Leader of the Year award is an honorary award given to a businessperson who has demonstrated exemplary business achievement, industry influence and is a true inspiration to others. The winner of this award will be announced at the gala dinner.   KZN Top Brand Voting for the KZN Top Brand is still open and is awarded based only on the results of a SMS voting system. In order to vote for your favourite Standard Bank KZN Top Business Brand 2024, SMS the letters KZN and your chosen top brand’s name to 45633. A cost of R1.50 per SMS will be incurred (Ts and Cs apply). Furthermore, one lucky voter could win one a one-night stay for two people at the Radisson Blu Hotel Durban Umhlanga. Voting for the Standard Bank KZN Top Brand award closes on 5 July at 10 pm. All the winners will be announced at the gala dinner on the 17 July. #PartneringForGrowth   For more information Contact Gayle Adlam 0836530465 or 0312671977 gayle@mweb.co.za www.topbusiness.com       Media enquiries Nkosinathi Msiza 083 577 7585 Nkosinathi.Msiza@standardbank.co.za Media Partners

Are you bored out of your mind at work? Is spending the better part of your waking hours just not inspiring you? There can be nothing more soul destroying than feeling absolutely bored at work. I am not talking about exhilaration every minute of the day, because there are aspects of work that are routine. At work, boredom has a bad reputation, mostly due to its connection with poor behaviours including ‘cyberloafing’ (non-work-related internet browsing, including watching movies, staying active on social media), using company wifi systems – through to chronic fatigue. Some have also suggested that due to its known negative impact on productivity, being bored at work can be even more dangerous than burnout and has been found to be one of the top reasons people look for a new job. Boredom is the feeling of being uninterested in what you are doing, or some call it ‘mentally idle’.   We generally tend to be more familiar with the concept of burnout, which is a state of mental and physical exhaustion caused by one’s professional life. Burnout is known to be a result of chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.   In spite of the aforementioned, there is another concept beyond boredom, called ‘boreout’ at work, which is chronic boredom and studies have shown that it can cause depression, anxiety, stress, insomnia and higher turnover, and is likened to burnout and workaholisam. Boreout is an emotional state characterised by feeling unstimulated, unfocused and restless, to the point where people feel that work has absolutely no meaning.   Two Sides to the Problem If you are feeling any of these conditions, i.e. boredom, burnout or boreout, do you expect your company or your manager to give you work that is fulfilling OR do you feel that YOU need to change the way you operate?   What if you are the manager, and you are faced with a number of employees who just don’t feel that their work is inspiring? How do you deal with a world of work that needs to change and even you are not prepared for this?   So, there are two sides to this problem – one is the manager’s challenge, and one is the employee’s challenge. Following the Covid 19 epidemic, employee burnout has become top of mind for employers on the heels of the great resignation or great reshuffle or changed working arrangements. Recent research reports indicate high levels of burnout and distress amongst employees, with 74% of human resource leaders in the United States committing to make mental health a top priority. Back home in South Africa, mental health has also become centre stage for businesses. But what if burnout isn’t the top problem at work we should be worrying about? What if it is burnout’s opposite state – boredom or boreout, that’s the real threat to wellbeing?   Boredom is brought on by a combination of factors including a lack of stimulation, i.e. we find our work uninteresting and unengaging. Or perhaps people don’t have enough work to do – too much leisure time can also bring on boredom. It’s also compounded by a mismatch between expectations and reality.  Expectations have grown that life would be, at least some of the time, amusing and interesting – and so did the disappointment when they weren’t.   It’s time for ‘boreout’ to join the workplace mental health conversation in much the same way burnout, presentism, and work/life balance have become primary topics.   So how can we combat boredom at work – both for the benefit of the company and the employee? Even if an employee’s role doesn’t directly save lives or change the world, they need to feel that their work has a purpose aligned with their values and skills. Leaders should also spot opportunities to create more challenging work to increase mental engagement. This can take the form of joining new committees or task forces or perhaps being asked to help solve a complex problem someone would otherwise not be involved in.   Break Up Tedious Tasks  Tasks do not have to be completed all in one sitting. Scheduling tedious tasks for a few hours in the morning, and then returning to finish the tedious tasks at the end of the day can help break up the boredom.   Cultivate psychological safety so employees can speak up – encourage people to have difficult conversations.   Admitting you’re bored or unengaged at work is taboo in many organisations, but it shouldn’t be. Instead, speaking up signals to managers that someone is unhappy or under-utilised, and gives them time to correct. Managers can help identify new areas within the business for someone to support or other novel experiences to provide a change. They can also encourage employees to pursue outside interests that benefit both employee and employer, such as mentoring, public speaking, or taking on a new course.   Encourage Job Sharing or Job Crafting One quick fix is taking on more varied tasks, and a way to do that is via job sharing or job crafting. Job crafting is when someone proactively redesigns their job to better align with their interests, while still ensuring the fundamental requirements of the role are still performed. For example, someone interested in developing their programming skills could increase the amount of time they work with online applications. Job sharing is when two people share the same job within a company, working on a part-time basis. Someone looking to combat boredom at work could theoretically work two different jobs on a part-time basis to introduce more novelty and task-switching into their day.   Another fix is to set aside time on the clock for passion projects. Google is probably the most well-known company that does this, with their philosophy that employees should set aside 20% of their time to explore or work on innovative projects.   Mental Health Support Addressing and nurturing mental health can be the antidote to issues of stress, monotony and eventual burnout.   This is a topic that is not explored well enough in our organisations and yet would go a long way to increasing productivity and employee wellbeing.   If you need any assistance with these very real challenges, feel free to contact Jacquie who has had good success with coaching and mentoring employees and managers.   Contact Jacquie Bhana if you would like coaching to become a high-performance employee and leader of a high-performance team.   C: +27 83 386 8343 E: Jacquie.bhana@mbhana.co.za   W: www.jacquiebhana.co.za

Financial advisors play a vital role in shaping financial futures. By creating tailored blueprints for individuals and businesses based on their goals, income, and financial situation, their expertise helps to navigate the complexities of growing and managing wealth. However, the cornerstone of effective financial advice is accurate data. “This is where SearchWorks steps in,” says Sameer Kumandan, managing director of South Africa’s largest, forward-thinking data aggregation platform, “with comprehensive verification search tools to empower advisors with everything they need to ensure informed decision-making.”   Why accurate data matters “Inaccurate data throws a wrench into the financial advisor’s toolkit. It can lead to bad financial advice for clients, expose them to fraud, waste valuable advisor time, and ultimately erode client trust,” explains Kumandan. SearchWorks addresses these challenges by providing advisors with a robust suite of verification tools, including:   Client verification: Confirming a potential client’s identity, employment status, and financial history is essential. SearchWorks offers a host of critical searches like credit checks, Astute consumer reports, and FAIS/DoFA checks to verify an individual/entity’s financial standing and compliance.   Asset verification: Understanding a client’s financial landscape requires accurate information about their assets. SearchWorks provides property searches, vehicle ownership checks, and property valuations to ensure a clear picture of a client’s holdings.   Beneficiary verification: Estate planning hinges on locating beneficiaries. SearchWorks’ CSI Trace and Lineage Reports assist in finding beneficiaries and completing a client’s needs analysis effectively.   The impact of SearchWorks on financial advisor effectiveness By leveraging SearchWorks’ verification tools, financial advisors can protect themselves and their clients against fraud. Fraudulent insurance claims and identity theft pose significant risks and SearchWorks’ KYC (Know Your Client) and KYB (Know Your Business) checks, along with director searches, trust information verification, Anti-Money laundering checks as well as PEP (Politically exposed persons) and Sanctions checks, help to mitigate these risks.   Armed with SearchWorks, financial advisors can provide sound financial advice with confidence, as accurate data equips advisors with the ability to tailor financial plans to a client’s specific needs and risk tolerance. In this respect, income estimators and credit information provide valuable insights into a client’s financial health and having access to accurate, reliable data also helps to build and maintain client trust. Given that financial decisions are deeply personal when advisors present well-researched plans based on verified data, this fosters trust and strengthens client relationships.   Case Study:  reuniting beneficiaries with unclaimed funds For example, where a financial planner struggles to locate beneficiaries named in a deceased client’s will, they can easily use SearchWorks’ CSI Trace to find the beneficiaries’ current contact details and facilitate a smooth distribution of the estate. This is just one of many instances where SearchWorks can prove invaluable in the resolution of situations that were previously time-consuming and complex.   SearchWorks:  your trusted partner in data verification Financial advisors can feel more secure in their work, knowing that SearchWorks provides an innovative platform that offers reliable data and real-time results. SearchWorks prioritises data accuracy, which gives advisors the ability to make informed decisions based on trustworthy information.   With SearchWorks, advisors receive search results within seconds, which makes for swift and efficient client onboarding and allows financial advisors to proceed with immediate plan development. All of this is offered in a user-friendly platform that simplifies data verification through a number of categorised search functionalities, which can be used to greatly streamline the financial planning process.   Trust and success all boil down to data accuracy Verified data is critical to allow financial planners to work effectively and to the best benefit of their clients. SearchWorks empowers financial advisors to double-check client information, mitigate fraud, and ultimately, build stronger, more trusting relationships with their clients. “By leveraging SearchWorks, advisors can ensure their clients make informed decisions and achieve their financial goals with confidence,” concludes Kumandan.   T: +27 (0)86 034 0000 E: info@searchworks.co.za   W: www.searchworks.co.za

Bringing about the creation of an efficient South African business ecosystem has been at the heart of The Africa Marketing Initiative’s (TAMI) purpose and vision. Business ecosystems are essential for the development of thriving micro and macro economies, and in particular for the creation of growth and opportunity for organisations within the SME sector. A business ecosystem is typically a network of business partners that combine their resources to support the creation and delivery of products and services into new markets. Business partners within an ecosystem include professional functional foundation suppliers, distributors, customers, competitors, supply chain experts, government agencies, and professional networkers.   A business ecosystem is a purposeful business arrangement between two or more entities to support the creation of shared collective value for the benefit to a common group of service providers and customers.   South African Community of SMEs TAMI is a South African Chamber of Commerce United Kingdom (SACC UK) and KZN Growth Coalition initiative, with a desired intention to make it easy for foreign organisations to communicate and gain access to business linkages and business knowledge in South Africa, and to create a local South African community of small and medium enterprises (SME) wishing to identify and service customers in foreign markets.   Leading the strategy in the creation of TAMI has been Growth Coalition CEO and business mogul Moses Tembe, SACC UK Chairman Sharon Constançon, and SACC UK South Africa Chapter Leader David White. The process of linking together service providers and network partners to ensure the efficiency of TAMI, as a central business ecosystem, has taken time to establish itself, and for it to mature to the point where it is now capable of gaining support from professional functional area specialists, and in developing trade and networking partners.   Sharon and David opted to keep TAMI under wraps during its initial creation. Sharon shares that there were many dots to join to make sure each of the business ecosystem components were suitably established, to ensure that each foreign business would gain value through using the TAMI portal, and so that local South African SME entrepreneurs and business leaders could benefit considerably through joining the TAMI Circle network, and being exposed to international networks, business knowledge and influencers, and trade and investment opportunities.   Networking Link The SACC UK is the central United Kingdom networking link for TAMI, who over the past years have brought together businesses and business leaders to create a forum and meeting point for organisations interested in trade intelligence and networking opportunity within the UK and South Africa. TAMI also has other international networking support partners including the Commonwealth Entrepreneur Club and Invest Africa, and South African based service providers such as Innovate Durban, SmartXchange, Standard Bank, DRG, Vega School, and others.   In South Africa TAMI has gathered appropriate service providers in each of the functional foundation disciplines such as human resources, financial governance, legal compliance, operational support, black economic empowerment strategy, supply chain management, forex, recruitment, and other.   Build Better Businesses A core component of TAMI’s business ecosystem and network facilitation process is to enable SMEs to ‘build better businesses’ through following the BusinessFit governance framework. Growth in any business needs to beå planned and managed in such a way that new opportunities for growth do not stifle cash flow, capacity availability, and applied quality assurance effectiveness.   TAMI engaged in a supply relationship with SME mentoring specialist company BusinessFit, who provide a structured approach to building confidence and efficiencies within growing SMEs. BusinessFit thus helps SMEs to establish solid business principles and an engaging organisational staffing culture to drive quality assurance and predictable outcomes.   BusinessFit helps SME entrepreneurs and business leaders build sustainable organisations through the creation of a bespoke Business Blueprint, aimed at ensuring components such as leadership, functional foundation effectiveness, measurements and metrics, and engagement are considered and addressed as critical success factors.   BusinessFit has established itself as a pivotal entity in South Africa, committed to enhancing the business sector through application of a scientific business development approach, tailored for entrepreneurs and business leaders within the SME sector.   As we look toward the future, TAMI’s objective is to extend its reach and deepen its impact across the African continent, the United Kingdom, and Commonwealth countries. TAMI’s impact on the South African economy, society, the daily lives of business executives, and its continued evolution will likely shape the future of effective business ecosystems supporting the growth and development of foreign organisations entering South Africa, and South African SMEs trading in new markets and across borders.   For more information  W: www.tami.org.za

With so many tent options available, the question of which is best for your function or purpose is often asked. The answer is simple, frame tents are best suited to glamorous weddings, concerts, festivals, large corporate functions and parties.   Using a frame tent for your function takes it up to the level of effortlessly stylish as the tent is timelessly elegant. They are particularly useful where there is no option for shelter as they are stable and weatherproof. These tents have a large capacity and can hold thousands of people (depending on the size of the tent).   They are manufactured with steel poles to fit the frame of the tent and do not require internal and central poles for support. In fact, all the support is engineered expertly on the sides, ground and the roof of the tent to provide the best degree of stability and durability. The advantage of having no internal poles is maximised space. There are also no restrictions on the usage of your space. The structure of the tent also means no pegs are required to hold the tent in place. This means it can be erected anywhere including concrete and decks. These are sometimes called clear span tents because they leave a clear space within the tent.   Frame tents can comfortably accommodate opaque or clear panels, windows, draping throughout (including the ceiling), chandelier lighting and clear ceilings. The options are endless and very attractive. A full clear PVC tent wall will bring a magical outdoor landscape into your decor while alternating clear and opaque can also look just as attractive. A night function with a clear ceiling can offer guests a panoramic view of the night sky which will definitely set a lovely tone for any event.   Advantages of Frame Tents The lack of centre poles means you are not restricted to a floor plan or decor. These tents are very stable and can be used on any terrain and over large surface areas. The ground surface will not be damaged. These are ideal for long-term use at festivals and trade shows. It can also be placed next to a building comfortably to create a seamless extension and enlarge your space. They are lightweight, waterproof and fire resistant.   Sky Tents manufactures aluminium frame tents of the highest quality at the most reasonable prices. They are an established and leading tent manufacturer with years of experience producing high- quality aluminium frame tents for sale in South Africa and across Africa including Zanzibar, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, Lesotho and Angola.   For more information contact: T: +27 (0)31 700 2863 C: +27 (0)76 929 2609 E: sales1@skytentsa.co.za   W: www.skytentsa.co.za

Recognising and addressing dependency in your leadership style is the first step towards transformation. Picture this: You’re in a leadership role, striving to inspire and drive your team towards success. Yet, something feels off. Decisions take too long, team morale seems low, and innovation is stifled. You might find yourself frequently second-guessing decisions, seeking approval from superiors, or relying heavily on a few trusted team members. This causes a form of dependency in the leadership style which often manifests as a need for constant validation and guidance from others. These behaviours can undermine your confidence and affect your team’s dynamics.   WHAT IT IS The state of relying on or needing someone or something for aid, support, or the like causes an unconscious need or dependency to assure or confirm confidence. The core trait to create autonomous leadership is self-reliance and self-trust.   While often seen as a negative trait, it serves several underlying purposes. Understanding these purposes can provide insight into why such behaviours develop and how they can be addressed effectively. Here are some examples: Seeking validation and approval Purpose: To ensure that decisions are sound and to gain approval from superiors and peers. Insight: Some leaders may seek validation to feel secure in their decisions and to avoid the fear of failure or criticism. Reducing anxiety and uncertainty Purpose: To manage anxiety and uncertainty by relying on others for guidance and support. Insight: Dependency can provide a sense of security and reduce the stress associated with making independent decisions. Compensating for inexperience or lack of confidence Purpose: To compensate for a lack of experience, knowledge, or confidence in their leadership abilities. Insight: New or inexperienced leaders may rely on more seasoned colleagues to guide them through complex decisions. Creating a sense of inclusion and collaboration Purpose: To foster a sense of inclusion and collaboration within the team by seeking input and feedback. Insight: Dependency can be a way to ensure that team members feel valued and heard, although it can sometimes go too far. Ensuring thoroughness and avoiding mistakes Purpose: To ensure that decisions are well-thought-out and to avoid mistakes by gathering diverse perspectives. Insight: Leaders may believe that involving others extensively will lead to more thorough and accurate decision-making. Avoiding responsibility and blame Purpose: To avoid sole responsibility and potential blame for decisions that may lead to negative outcomes. Insight: By involving others in the decision-making process, leaders can share the responsibility and mitigate personal risk.   These behaviours stem from an underlying fear of making mistakes and a lack of confidence in your leadership abilities. The consequences can be far-reaching: Slow Decision-Making: Constantly seeking approval can lead to delays, inefficiencies, and missed opportunities. Decreased Team Morale: Micromanagement and lack of trust can demotivate your team, causing frustration and disengagement. Stifled Innovation:  Over-reliance on a few individuals can limit fresh ideas and hinder the development of a robust, collaborative team culture.   WHAT’S NEXT? While the purposes of dependency may stem from understandable motivations, it’s crucial for leaders to develop a balance between seeking support and maintaining autonomy. Here are some strategies to help you become a more confident and effective leader: Develop self-confidence Engage in leadership training programs focused on building self-confidence and decision-making skills. Reflect on past successes and learn from mistakes to build a more resilient sense of self-efficacy. Encourage independent decision-making Start delegating responsibilities and trust your team to handle them. Create a supportive environment where mistakes are viewed as learning opportunities. Build a strong support network Seek mentorship from experienced leaders who can provide guidance without fostering dependency. Encourage peer support while maintaining personal accountability for decisions. Enhance emotional intelligence Participate in workshops and training on emotional intelligence to better manage anxiety and stress. Practice mindfulness and self-reflection to understand and regulate your emotional responses. Foster open communication and trust Cultivate open and transparent communication with your team to build trust and collaboration. Involve team members in decision-making processes in a way that empowers them rather than fosters dependency.   By recognising the underlying purposes of dependency and implementing strategies to address it, you can transform your approach, fostering a more dynamic, empowered, and effective leadership style. This not only enhances your own capabilities but also contributes to a more resilient and motivated team.   Ready to unlock your potential? Start your journey towards exceptional leadership today. Your team – and your success – depend on it.   T: +27 (0)82 887 1600 E: anneme@trueawakenings.co.za   W: www.trueawakenings.co.za

Servant leadership is a paradox for some. Opposed to attracting and wielding power or an over-burdening ego, a servant leader strives to create merit through stewardship and community building. Success is therefore inevitable as the leader serves the team by recognising and encouraging the team’s abilities to achieve organisational goals.   A leader has the ability to cope with change and by entrenching a vision, establishes direction for a business. Through communicating the vision, the leader reaches agreement with the team and influences the team to overcome challenges. Pivotal to leadership is influence, a leader has the ability to influence a particular direction or the achievement of a set of objectives.   In contrast, a manager copes with complexity, through formalising plans, organising, designing and implementing the plan and thereafter monitoring the results against the plan. Managers use the authority intrinsic to their position to achieve compliance. Managers implement the vision and strategy provided by the leader through organising and coordinating the day-to-day activities of the business.   Source of Influence The source of influence held by the leader may be formal, for example, the position the person holds or line of authority in the organisation. Because management positions are formalised and carry authority, a person may assume a role of authority simply because of their position in the organisation, however it cannot be automatically assumed that the person is a leader.   Not all managers are leaders and vice versa. Non sanctioned leadership – the ability to influence people in the absence of position is equally important as sanctioned leadership. Leaders can emerge from within a team as well as be formally designated to lead a team. Informal leaders tend to be experienced and knowledgeable; team members gravitate to informal leaders for troubleshooting and guidance.   Informal leaders are powerful in the workplace and their power is based on knowledge, trust, friendliness, and shared interests with their colleagues and their reputation earned through delivering quality and ethical outcomes. People within the organisation recognise these qualities, rather than the lack of title of the informal leader. An informal leader exercises expert power defined as the ability to demonstrate expertise in a subject or situation, regardless of hierarchy.   If one were to consider the Generational theory, there are often a myriad of generations at play in the workplace who have varying influences and expectations. Different generations can be characterised by specific historical events that often form their values, perspectives, and behaviours. Studies show that Millennials prefer a teamwork approach over authoritative management style. A characteristic of millennials’ is their need to build relationships, Gen Zs are typically unafraid to point out inefficiencies, recommend improvements, and disengage where there is a slowness to change.   Characteristics of a Leader A leader should be ethical, have integrity, self-awareness, courage, respect, compassion, and resilience. A leader should be learning agile, show gratitude, and collaborate effectively. The significance of servant leadership rests in its transformative potential, fostering engaged work environments, cultivating trust and driving sustainable success.   A servant leader is altruistic and carries an attitude that places serving others first and above all their priorities. Rather than managing the results, a servant leader focuses on creating a healthy working environment in which the team can thrive, where evidence of high employee engagement, employee job satisfaction and increased motivation is intrinsic. When an employee has meaning and value in the workplace, there is a sense of security and fulfilment, which leads to increased productivity and ultimately reduces staff turnover. The ethos of servant leadership is ‘take care of the people and the people will take care of the results’. High performance teams and high-performance cultures are born out of servant leadership.   Servant leadership is a doctrine and set of practices that enhances lives in the workplace and is fundamental to building a meaningful workplace, which as a result builds a better organisation and through this attracts people who wish to perpetuate a meaningful workplace. The traditional leader focuses on influencing people to achieve strategy, goals, financial performance, and customer satisfaction, all paramount objectives but even more so profitability and delivering against shareholder objectives. However, a servant leader demonstrating empathy, humility and commitment focuses on bringing all this about through creating an environment where people are the nucleus, focusing on needs, mentoring and nurturing, development and opportunities, which will bring about profitability and deliver against business imperatives.   Ethical Leadership Research shows that servant leadership boosts profits and employee morale. This ethically driven style of leading people highlights where supporting the employee can build influence, authority, and collaboration. Ethical leadership is central to servant leadership, ethical behaviour where there is integrity in the way things are done and how people are treated is the responsibility of anyone who leads and through adhering to principles of transparency, openness, fairness, honesty and accountability sets an example for others to follow and in doing so cultivates a culture of ethical leadership across the organisation.   A servant leader focuses more on involving team members in the everyday decision-making processes of the business than a more authoritative, traditional leader would where decisions are made, and instructions delivered. Servant leadership skills facilitate the connection between co-workers at both the management and employee level, building unified teams. The servant leadership axiom accentuates the needs of people in the workplace where the importance of frequent honest feedback is understood by both individual and the team.   Through honest communication and creating an environment where opinions and views are openly shared and considered brings about trust not only in the leader but in the team and the team’s ability. Servant leadership pursues the development of leadership qualities in others.   Servant leadership strives to build a consciousness to those working around you and to create a community in employees as a way to achieve success in meeting organisational objectives. A community is a collection of closely knit individuals with common ground whether it be social, economic, or political interests.   In practise servant leadership can present a few challenges particularly where the business is accustomed to a more structured or hierarchical culture. A resistance to this transformational leadership can precipitate a challenge with navigating an innate power dynamic where the focus is on authority or position power.   A servant leader exhibits humility through considering the goals of the team above his or her own and this can be discerned by the team as irresolute and feeble. The transition to a new leadership style can take time where results are often not seen immediately, however where a business adopts a culture of open communication and consistently cultivating the values which realise the evidence of servant leadership, can only bring about success.   In closing, I include a poem I believe to be powerful in its explanation of the servant leader.   A Fixer A fixer has the illusion of being causal. A server knows he or she is being used in the service of something greater, essentially unknown…   We fix something specific. We serve always the something: wholeness and the mystery of life.   Fixing and helping are the work of the ego. Serving is the work of the soul.   When you help, you see life as weak. When you fix, you see life as broken. When you serve, you see life as whole. Fixing and helping may cure. Serving heals.   When I help, I feel satisfaction. When I serve, I feel gratitude. Fixing is a form of judgment.   Serving is a form of connection.   (Anonymous). For more information please contact Colette Tanner, T: +27 (0)31 767 0625 E: colette@drg.co.za  W: www.drg.co.za

Today, I had coffee with a very successful and prominent businessman who has been a mentor to me over the years. His credible influence has significantly shaped my business journey. I proposed that he be featured in the KZN Top Business Leaders for his contributions to the KZN economy. To my surprise, he seemed unaware of the significant role he has played not only in my business's development but also in the growth of many local businesses, ultimately impacting the success of various projects in the province. After a heartfelt conversation, he agreed to share his incredible business journey with us. You will indeed read about this particular individual in the KZN Top Business Leaders publication, view it on YouTube, and read it on our blogs. If you know a leader who has made and continues to make contributions to the KZN economy, please click on the nominate button to nominate them. Let's document their journey so that we in business, as well as our families and friends, can celebrate the success of our leaders together. I'll see you online. Kind regards Grant Adlam PS, I will reveal who the mystery business leader is at the launch event, as well as in the publication and on this blog. . The KZN Top Business Leaders Coffee Table Book Launch coinciding with the grand opening of IBV Prive in Umhlanga  this September is going to be an exciting event! "Who Would You Nominate for Recognition?"

In a thrilling development, Goscor Lift Trucks (GLT) proudly announces its continued sponsorship of racing sensation Arnold Neveling as he gears up for an exhilarating season in the 2024 Extreme SuperCars driven by Dunlop Championship. This collaboration coincides with the rebranding of GLT’s premier forklift brand now supplied under the iconic Bobcat brand. With Neveling behind the wheel of a sleek and powerful Bobcat-branded Audi R8 LMS GT3 EVO, the stage is set for an exciting season of high-octane racing across South Africa. Arnold Neveling (33), once more representing the Stradale Motorsport team, previously showcased his talent in Goscor-branded colours during the 2023 Global Touring Cars SupaCup Championship. Throughout the season, he secured multiple podium finishes, culminating in an impressive fourth-place position in the overall championship standings. Through this partnership, Arnold played a pivotal role in transforming the GLT brand’s presence on the racetrack. This partnership coincided with the company’s strategic corporate rebranding, injecting it with a rejuvenated and vibrant appearance that resonated the Goscor Group’s commitment to maximising customer uptime across its diverse industries. This strategic realignment was aligned with the Group’s extensive rebranding campaign in 2023. Cecil Oates, Managing Director of GLT, reaffirms the company’s commitment to motorsport excellence: “As we venture into the new year, GLT proudly announces its continued sponsorship in the thrilling realm of car racing. We understand the immense appeal of this championship, offering an unmatched platform to amplify our brand presence.” This year, Arnold, will be sporting the Bobcat-branded Audi R8 that is powered by Goscor Lift Trucks. “We are confident that Arnold will exemplify the spirit of ‘One Tough Animal®’ throughout the championship,” remarks Kasha Vorster, Marketing Manager for GLT.  She emphasises the alignment between Bobcat’s ethos and Arnold’s racing prowess: “Bobcat’s philosophy of empowering groundbreaking individuals perfectly resonates with our support for Arnold in the upcoming championship. Together, we embody the spirit of resilience and determination, setting new standards of excellence.  This alignment underscores GLT’s commitment to providing world-class equipment for the most demanding tasks, ensuring that ‘One Tough Animal®’ delivers the confidence and capability needed to overcome any challenge. Arnold Neveling, a seasoned competitor with a rich racing history, brings a wealth of experience to the track. From international karting victories to podium finishes in Formula cars, Arnold’s illustrious career showcases his undeniable talent and tenacity. As the excitement builds for the upcoming races, GLT reaffirms its unwavering support for Arnold and his pursuit of victory. “We are thrilled to stand by Arnold as he embarks on this thrilling journey. His unparalleled skills and expertise promise outstanding performances on the track, representing the essence of speed, precision, and excellence,” adds Oates. With GLT’s continued sponsorship, Arnold is poised to leave a lasting impression on the racing world, carrying the Bobcat legacy to new heights of success. March 14, 2024 | by digital@lkda.co.za

An organized office space is more than just a clean desk; it’s a cornerstone of productivity and efficiency. A well-organized workspace can help you focus better, reduce stress, and make you feel more in control of your tasks. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the best practices, essential tools, and key concepts for organizing your office space to maximize productivity. The Importance of a Clutter-Free Workspace A clutter-free workspace is essential for maintaining mental clarity and focus. Studies have shown that a tidy environment can significantly enhance productivity and reduce stress levels. By eliminating unnecessary items and organizing your essentials, you create a conducive environment for efficient work. Best Practices for Office Organization Implementing best practices in office organization can streamline your workflow and make daily tasks more manageable. Here are some tips: Filing Systems: Develop a systematic approach to file management. Use a combination of digital and physical filing systems to keep your documents organized and easily accessible. Labeling: Clearly label all files, drawers, storage boxes, and any documents you have uploaded to your cloud storage system. This simple practice can save you time and frustration when searching for specific items. Daily Decluttering: Spend a few minutes at the end of each day tidying up your workspace. This habit prevents clutter from accumulating and keeps your desk ready for the next day. Essential Tools for an Organized Office Investing in the right tools can make a significant difference in maintaining an organized office. Here are some must-have items: Desk Organizer: Keeps your essential items like pens, notepads, and office supplies neatly arranged. Filing Cabinets: Provides ample storage for important documents and helps keep your desk free from paper clutter. Digital Document Scanner: Converts physical documents into digital format, reducing the need for paper storage and making it easier to manage files electronically. For a digital document scanner on-the-go, there are many excellent apps that you can install on your phone that will serve this purpose. Ergonomics and Office Design Ergonomics plays a crucial role in creating a comfortable and productive workspace. Ensure your office furniture and equipment are ergonomically designed to support your posture and reduce strain. Consider adjustable chairs, desks, and monitor stands to customize your workspace for optimal comfort. Flexible Workspaces: Hot Desking Hot desking is a modern office trend that involves using any available desk rather than having assigned seating. This approach promotes flexibility, collaboration, and efficient use of office space. Implementing hot desking in your office can lead to a more dynamic and adaptable work environment. Organizing your office space is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating an environment that supports your work habits and enhances productivity. By following these best practices, investing in essential tools, and considering ergonomic design, you can transform your workspace into a powerhouse of efficiency. Start organizing today and experience the benefits of a well-structured office! Article by: Magdelene van der Walt - The Busy Bookkeeper

TOMY Takkies, a proudly African footwear brand under Bata South Africa, hits the big 6-0 this year, celebrating six decades of renowned versatility and timeless style.   Starting off as a brand catering to both men and women, TOMY has now firmly entrenched itself as a female-focused powerhouse in the South African market, prioritising authentic connections with consumers and a commitment to making a meaningful difference in their lives.   "TOMY has a deep history in southern Africa. Our journey began in 1964 when hard shoes dominated the market, offering little in terms of comfort and style,” shares Swastika Juggernath, Head of Sneaker Department at Bata South Africa.   “Our vision was to offer something different, and so the TOMY Original Canvas Sneaker was born – more comfortable, durable, and versatile."   TOMY’s iconic canvas black and white originals, known for their comfort and style, are now joined by a new, easy-to-clean PU collection and a more versatile fashion collection. This expanded TOMY offering empowers women across South Africa to express their individuality, complement their style, and embrace every occasion with confidence. From casual outings to formal gatherings, TOMYs remain a beloved fashion staple that can be worn with almost anything, making them the go-to footwear choice for women.   What truly sets TOMY Takkies apart? TOMY is a brand by women, for women. Starting as a team of mostly women, the brand's mission has always been to craft comfortable yet stylish sneakers tailored to the needs and desires of women. This dedication to women extends beyond footwear design to a commitment to making a tangible difference in communities.   Central to TOMY’s ethos is its continued support for women-centric initiatives. From the TOMY Women.Kind initiative, providing a platform for local, women-led businesses, to ongoing contributions from every TOMY sale to organisations supporting women across South Africa, the brand exemplifies its dedication to empowering women in every facet of life.   As Tomy Takkies celebrates 60 years of empowering women and leaving a lasting mark in the South African market, it invites consumers to join in the journey ahead.   Says Juggernath, "Get ready, because with TOMY’s renewed commitment to innovation, community, and empowerment, the next 60 years are going to be amazing!"   For more information about Tomy Takkies and its 60th-anniversary celebrations, please visit www.tomy.co.za or follow us on social media @TomyTakkies.

Annually, the Standard Bank KZN Top Brand award is much coveted, and much competition takes place over several weeks to take the crown. The accolade of Standard Bank KZN Top Brand is awarded by public SMS vote only. As such, this award is particularly exciting as employees, customers, friends and family are all encouraged to vote to ensure that their favourite brand comes out on top. This also means that the top brand rankings change daily. To vote SMS the letters KZN followed by the name of your selected brand to 45633 (R1.50/SMS One SMS = One Vote) You can also be entered in the Lucky Draw prize of night stay for 2 people at the Radisson Blu Umhlanga hotel. The current standings in the Standard Bank KZN Top Brand category are: 1.       Hollywoodbets 2.       Mi7 National Group 3.       Beekman Group 4.       Bluff Meat Supply 5.       Icebolethu Group 6.       Woodford Group 7.       Hirsch's 8.       Bata 9.       East Coast Radio 10.   TAFTA 11.   LHL Engineering 12.   Sky Tents 13.   Re/Max Coast and Country 14.   Thirsti 15.   Morar Incorporated 16.   Tyson Properties 17.   Goscor 18.   Cafe Monroe 19.   SA Home Loans 20.   Aquelle BUBBLING UNDER BB Bread Bell Equipment DRG Durban ICC Gagasi FM Gift of the Givers KZN Oils Mr Price Pedros Flame Grilled Chicken Royal Tyres Spar