The Zululand Chamber of Commerce and Industry celebrated women in an Empowerment Breakfast held at uMfolozi Casino under the powerful theme #SHENVESTS encouraging Women to invest in their business, career, health and family. W: www.zcci.org.za

This edition of Business Sense falls at the end of Women’s Month in South Africa. National Women’s Day on the 9 August commemorates the day in 1956 when Rahima Moosa, Lilian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph and Sophie Williams de Bruyn led thousands of women in the march to the Union Buildings to protest against apartheid pass laws. Each year we continue to celebrate the achievements of women from all walks of life as well as assess the success and failures in gender equality. As such we look forward to the KZN Top Business Women 2023 powered by DRG, BusinessFit and Mangwanani African Spa, which kicked off this month. The theme ‘Celebrate the Extraordinary’ gives recognition to all the participating women who have set strong examples and make a real impact in the workplace and in society. Many other organisations and companies such as the Zululand Chamber of Commerce, Icebolethu Group and Sappi have also recognised the month through different initiatives, which are featured. This edition also includes the Standard Bank KZN Top Business Awards 2023 supplement. We are delighted to feature Shadrach Karien, CEO of Mi7 National Group on the front page. The Mi7 National Group were the winners of the KZN Top Business Brand Award. And in the vein of recognition, the book entitled, ‘The Unsung Heroes’, which pays tribute to over 40 people, who have made an invaluable contribution to society but have flown under the radar was recently launched. Other articles from our editorial partners, which are aimed at building productive and compliant workplaces, include: · Does my company need to be B-BBEE compliant? · Fuelling vibrancy in an economy · Every business needs a roadmap to success · Business has a role in supporting mental health · Wheels in motion to upskill leadership · Do you know your customer? · Protecting your company assets BRICS has been top of mind in August and eThekwini hosted a trade and investment seminar for foreign delegates to promote economic collaboration and attract foreign investment to South Africa. Significantly, breaking ground was the R1.9-billion Giba Business Estate, which is the largest light industrial and logistics development (and investment) within Durban’s Outer West in more than three years. Further to South Africa’s economic recovery, SMEs hold the key, explains David White. In order to do so they need effective encouragement and opportunity from larger organisations and support and guidance from business mentoring companies. As said Oprah Winfrey, “When you undervalue what you do, the world will undervalue who you are. You get in life only what you have the courage to ask for.”

Join the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC for its Health Professional Business Forum meeting on the 07 September 2023 at The Auditorium at Lenmed-11 Riverhorse Road, Riverhorse Valley Business Estate, Queen Nandi Drive, from 14:00 -16:00. Presenters for the Session: 1. Keynote Speaker: Ms Navlika Ratangee, is currently the Managing Director of ICAS Southern Africa. A GIBS MBA graduate and Clinical psychologist with diverse experience in human capital management, behavioural risk, change management, managerial consulting, global management consulting, leadership, women in leadership, organisational resilience and organisational strategy. 2. Stephanie D. Pillay, Manager Consulting | Customer and Marketing | Digital Customer Deloitte & Touche The presentations for the Session: 1. How to Cope Post the Covid Pandemic and Building Mental Strength 2. Personal account of living and working with mental illness Date: Thursday, 07 September 2023 Time: 14:00 - 16:00 Venue: The Auditorium at Lenmed-11 Riverhorse Road, Riverhorse Valley Business Estate, Queen Nandi Drive CLICK HERE TO RSVP For further information, please contact Bharriey Pillay on pillayb@durbanchamber.co.za

Kim Dyason is a hands-on jeweller whose passion is engaging with clients and designing bespoke, unique pieces that are a timeless, wearable works of art. Her natural flair for jewellery design and a practical knowledge of manufacture has set her apart as a family jeweller. Kim helps make dreams a reality in what becomes a treasured heirloom to future generations. Following Covid, Jewellers by Design was born. This new branch will concentrate on mentoring other up and coming designers and jewellers from all walks of life. The twelve women featured on this page are the first of those that are being recognised in this year’s KZN Top Business Women powered by DRG, BusinessFit and Mangwanani African Spa initiative. We look forward to introducing the remainder of our 2023 participants in the October edition of Business Sense. For more information go to: www.kzntopbusiness.com/top-business-women-nominations .

The founder and CEO of Durban’s largest private-owned and independently-run hotel group speaks about the chain’s growth, its latest R800m mixed-use development in Umhlanga Ridge, prospects for tourism in Surf City post the floods and riots, and why his company doesn’t plan to expand beyond KZN. Welcome to the latest episode of The Property Pod , South Africa’s premier property investor podcast. It’s spring and that means it’s also Tourism Month in South Africa, so we are talking to hoteliers in the real estate sector this month. Our first guest for Tourism Month on the podcast is Saantha Naidu, a property entrepreneur who has expanded into the hotels business. He’s the CEO of Durban-based private group Coastlands Hotels & Resorts, as well as a development company, the Saantha Naidu Group, or SNG. We are talking tourism and hotel development. We also get his insights on the sector in Durban and KwaZulu-Natal. The region, which has historically had a strong domestic tourism industry, was hit by a triple whammy of Covid, the KZN riots in 2021 and the devasting floods last year. Is the outlook changing? Naidu shares his views. Highlights of his interview appear below. You can also listen to the full podcast above or download it from iono , Spotify or Apple Podcasts. MoneyWeb: By Suren Naidoo 5 Sep 2023

Lubin Ozoux, CEO of Sumitomo Rubber South Africa (SRSA), has been announced as one of 10 finalists in the 2023 Conscious Companies Awards, hosted by the Conscious Companies organisation in partnership with Joe Public and Primeserv. The finalists include some of the country's top business leaders and NGOs, with winners set to be revealed at a ceremony in Johannesburg on 7 September. Since inception in 2016, the Conscious Companies Awards have encouraged leaders to develop a much-needed ethical, honourable and responsible way of doing business, at a crucial time when true leadership around the globe is floundering and in a state of flux. The aim is to expand corporate consciousness where leaders guide their companies to prosper, perform and pursue profits while placing a premium on people, purpose, performance, community, culture and the environment beyond the bottom line. Ozoux’s strong belief in doing the right thing is ingrained in his DNA, which is critical in an industry that has direct implications on people’s lives. Through its tyres, SRSA is responsible for keeping millions of people safe on the roads. He says, “SRSA is a truly South African-focused organisation, made up of people who are passionate about what they do, and who use their skills and expertise to help drive the business forward. We operate in the road safety sphere, and as all South Africans know, we have many challenges to navigate while out on the road. This is why our people are committed to producing the best quality tyres that meet international standards, compliance and safety tests. As the CEO, it's my responsibility to remind not just myself daily, but my teams, of the purpose and inspiration behind what we do here.” Ozoux believes the key to excelling in industry and delivering consistent business results is derived from nurturing the talents of individuals and empowering them. “The philosophy of our parent company, Japanese listed company Sumitomo Rubber Industries Ltd (SRI) – passed down over 400 years – is to be a reliable and trusted global corporate group that enriches people’s lives through the creation of new value, while pursuing greater happiness for our employees, communities and society at large,” he says. Ozoux says the South African manufacturing sector is critical for ensuring the country’s future prosperity and driving employment in the country. SRSA employs 1,545 staff nationally, is one of four multinational tyre companies with manufacturing plants in South Africa and is a member of the South African Tyre Manufacturers Conference (SATMC). The company manufactures Dunlop, a global tyre brand with a history going back more than 130 years and distributes Sumitomo and Falken tyres. Its Ladysmith plant was founded in 1973 and celebrates its 50th year of manufacturing excellence this year, producing passenger car, sport utility vehicle, light truck and truck and bus radial tyres, which are sold in South Africa and exported across Africa and other countries. Brenda Kali, founder and chairperson of Conscious Companies, says, “The leaders who are the Top 10 finalists for the Conscious Companies Awards 2023 are exceptional in that they have all differentiated themselves with their selfless actions, behaviour and courage to serve, uplift, transform and bring about a different quality of being in the world of business. We celebrate these leaders and hope that they will inspire others to engage with conscious, ethical leadership.” Issued by  Sumitomo Dunlop - BIZCOMMUNITY

In today’s complex and ever evolving business landscape, the challenge for corporations, regardless of their size or sector, isn’t just about staying ahead of the competition. It’s about ensuring the holistic security and well-being of their assets—both human and material. That’s where Mi7 National Group steps in, embracing a multifaceted approach to security solutions in South Africa, an approach that has earned us the accolade of KZN’s Top Brand in the Standard Bank KZN Top Business Awards 2023. Let’s dispel a common myth right at the outset: security is not a ‘necessary evil’, or a grudge purchase that businesses make. It is an investment—an essential one—that safeguards a company’s future, reputation, and operational integrity. As we serve a broad spectrum of clients across South Africa, from high profile, blue-chip corporations to smaller, family-run businesses in sectors like retail, mining, and government, our experiences tell us that the need for robust, dynamic physical security systems has never been greater. Security Challenges We’re living in an age where security challenges are becoming increasingly complex, thanks to a multitude of factors ranging from socio-political volatility to advancements in technology. Gone are the days when static guards and CCTV cameras were the gold standard in security. Today, innovative technologies are driving unprecedented changes in how we think about and implement security measures. Take our Mi7 Surveillance Net as an example—a pioneering initiative that exemplifies our commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology for the purpose of public safety. But what does the future hold for physical security? If we look at the emerging trends, it’s clear that Artificial Intelligence (AI) will play a significant role. Imagine a security system smart enough to differentiate between a random passerby and a potential intruder, alerting security personnel in real-time. At Mi7 National Group, we’re not just imagining these scenarios; we’re actively investing in research and development to make them a reality. Our mission is not just to meet but to exceed customer expectations through customised security solutions built on a foundation of service excellence, diligence, honesty, and integrity. Meeting Expectations As we look further into the horizon, another unmistakable trend shaping the future of the security industry is the rising importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria. Historically, the concept of security may not have been naturally linked with sustainability or environmental stewardship. But times have changed. Today, stakeholders, including clients, employees, and investors, expect businesses to adopt a holistic perspective that balances profit making with responsibility toward the planet and its people. Companies are beginning to recognise that incorporating ESG criteria into their operations is not merely a branding exercise but an operational imperative. At Mi7 National Group, we’re actively aligning our business model and practices to meet these ESG expectations. Consider, for example, how advances in technology can contribute to environmental sustainability. From smart energy management in our operation centers to reducing carbon footprints via optimised patrol routes, every action can make a difference. The scope for responsible governance in deploying these technologies is vast. Security companies can ensure ethical sourcing of components, guaranteeing that their supply chains are free from exploitation or other social injustices. This extends to how we manage our data and respect privacy concerns, encapsulating governance and ethical behavior at all levels of operation. However, incorporating ESG criteria goes beyond merely ‘doing good’; it has a practical implication for risk management. A strong ESG profile mitigates potential social and governance risks that could otherwise compromise security. For instance, a security company with a high regard for social values will naturally instill this ethos into its workforce, reducing risks related to staff misconduct. At Mi7 National Group, our Level 1 BBB-EE certification isn’t just a plaque on the wall; it signifies our unwavering commitment to meeting these ESG criteria, ensuring we conduct our business in a manner that is both socially responsible and sustainable for the long term. Social Responsibility Yet, what truly sets us apart is our commitment to social responsibility, a commitment that extends beyond the realm of our core business functions. We understand that providing security means more than just installing alarms and deploying guards; it means contributing to the holistic wellness of the communities we serve. Through our extensive array of Community Service Initiatives (CSIs)—which include park rehabilitations, cleanup campaigns, educational upliftment programmes, and strategic partnerships with entities like SANBS, SPCA, and Love to Live—we strive to improve every facet of life within the KwaZulu-Natal province. This dual approach—to not only serve but also uplift the communities in which we operate—doesn’t just make us a business; it makes us a partner in the truest sense of the word. It makes us conscious of our social footprint, leading to initiatives that align with sustainability goals, diversity, and inclusion. We handpick our PSIRA-accredited personnel not only based on their skills but also on their personal demeanor, ethical behaviour, and moral values. In doing so, we ensure that we’re not just a company that does business in the community but a part of the community itself. The security landscape is shifting under the weight of technological advancements, societal changes, and new types of threats. In these turbulent times, businesses need more than just a vendor; they need a comprehensive partner who can navigate this complex terrain with them. With branches nationwide and decades of experience, Mi7 National Group stands ready not just to meet this need but to go above and beyond, setting new standards in what it means to be a security service provider in the modern age. In today’s world, where uncertainty often seems like the only constant, Mi7 National Group isn’t just offering security; we’re offering a promise for a safer, more secure tomorrow for both businesses and the communities they serve. And that’s a promise we intend to keep. E: info@mi7nationalgroup.co.za W: www.mi7national.co.za

Only 2% of business owners have a written plan and even fewer stick to it. In reality, failure to plan is a plan to fail. For many business owners, who are caught up in the day-to-day of their business, finding time to plan for your business can seem impossible. In addition, finding the time to reflect on what’s working and what isn’t can be extremely difficult. But what if you could step out of your business one day every three months, and get laser focused on what you need to do to grow your business? One day to plan for success is a small price to pay for what you can get. Invest in one day every 13 weeks and you can have a clear picture of where your business will be in 90 days’ time and a step-by-step plan to get you there. So, when last did you take the time out to invest in working ON your business and if you have done so, are you on track to achieving your 90-day goals set? Steps to take to achieve your 90 day plan Create a 90-day plan Take control and get organised Learn proven profit strategies: 1. Map out your next 90 days 2. Meet up with peer-to-peer business owners 3. Have access to a business coach or mentor 4. Learn from the strategies implemented in your businesses 5. Widen your sphere of contacts by networking with other business owners 6. Hear valuable lessons from others in business Have a clear focus on where your business will be after 90 days as well as a plan to get you there Use a Checklist Here is a checklist to help you to achieve your 90-day goals: 6 Step ScoreCARD – See QR Code to access this ScoreCARD 90 Day Goals – Personal goal – Business must achieve goal ActionPLAN –13-week cycles Test and Measure Tools (Show me the Money Honey) –Financial numbers –Marketing numbers Sales numbers –Weekly Focus Sheet (Discipline) –Financials (Money) Budget –Actuals –Growth tracker Default Diary (Time) Yes, it is a lot to consider, but what you put in you will get out. Achieving success is just that much easier when you have your goals and plans written down and actioned on. MemberSHIP Event To keep motivated you should also make the time to invest in attending at least one monthly community and education platform. An example is our monthly MemberSHIP event, where you will: Gain knowledge Make connections Develop strategies to advance your business This full day monthly event has three key focus areas: Community and education, where you will learn from local and international industry experts sharing valuable insights on advancing your business Prioritise accountability and results by featuring collaborative planning for the upcoming month A chance to learn from other like-minded business owners If you feel you are having to do business alone then this platform is an opportunity for you to connect with other driven business owners looking to forge powerful relationships. Contact me on https://linkshare.co.za/marlenepowell or call +27 (0)83 479 4471 Scan the 6 Steps Scorecard below or click on bit.ly/6stepscorecard to discover how well you’re doing in the 6 key areas of business success.

In the fast-changing world of entrepreneurship, small businesses often hit roadblocks that slow down their growth and success. From tight budgets and limited expertise to encountering barriers in accessing lucrative market opportunities; the struggle for small business owners is real. But, there’s a game-changer for those who want to supercharge their growth and have access to untapped opportunities. It’s called: Business Accelerators. Kyle Ballard, Head of Accelerators for the Durban Chemicals Cluster (DCC), a seasoned expert in the field and leader of several Accelerator initiatives, highlights five compelling reasons why SMEs should seriously consider joining a Business Accelerator: 1. Access to Established and Enthusiastic Customer Base Securing a strong customer base is often a challenge for SMEs. Joining a Business Accelerator opens doors to established networks of potential customers and partners. “Accelerators, like the DCC Accelerator, provide SMEs with direct access to senior decision-makers and industry stakeholders,” says Ballard. This direct engagement significantly enhances the possibility of forming strategic partnerships and securing mutually beneficial commercial opportunities with large customers who are actively looking for new, local suppliers that might otherwise be difficult to access. 2. Expert Mentorship and Tailored Guidance Navigating the complexities of business growth can be daunting. Business Accelerators connect SMEs with seasoned industry mentors who offer expert guidance and support. “Our mentors work closely with selected SMEs to align their products or services with customer demands and to streamline operations for efficient and sustainable growth,” Ballard explains. This mentorship ensures that SMEs receive tailored advice that is instrumental in their development journey and enables better delivery to customers. 3. Exposure to Capital and Investment Opportunities Access to funding is a common barrier to SMEs’ growth. Business Accelerators often facilitate introductions to potential investors, both from the public and private sectors. Additionally, some Accelerator programmes, like the DCC Accelerator, offer the chance to compete for cash prizes. “SMEs need capital to fuel their growth, and Accelerators can connect SMEs to various capital investment interventions and funding opportunities,” Ballard notes. 4. Integration into a Vibrant Community Business Accelerators cultivate a vibrant ecosystem where SMEs can interact, learn from one another, and collaborate on innovative projects. “Joining an Accelerator means becoming part of a community that shares experiences, resources, and opportunities,” Ballard highlights. This collaborative environment accelerates learning and propels growth through collective knowledge and support. 5. Industry Expertise and Sector- Aligned Empowerment One of the most significant advantages of Business Accelerators is the chance to connect with industry leaders and established stakeholders. “Accelerators provide SMEs with the opportunity to learn from the best and gain exposure to industry giants,” he states. “This exposure not only offers valuable insights but can also lead to strategic collaborations that can propel them to new heights.” The primary focus of the DCC Accelerator lies within the local chemicals manufacturing industry and has an exceptional track record of value addition within this particular domain. “Our specialisation speaks to the strategic advantage of aligning SMEs with an Accelerator specific to their company’s niche to optimise their potential and unlock targeted growth,” emphasises Ballard. Takalani Rathiyaya, who heads the Economic Development Programmes Department at eThekwini Municipality, believes that Business Accelerators play a pivotal role in driving economic growth by empowering SMEs and fostering mutually beneficial commercial opportunities between diverse industry stakeholders. “We hold a deep commitment to Accelerators such as the DCC Accelerator, as we have directly observed its transformative impact. It’s this very impact that drives us to continue to actively uphold our support for these initiatives, with a specific focus on empowering Black industrialists and catalysing economic transformation within the local chemicals sector,” states Rathiyaya. “Whether through the DCC Accelerator or similar initiatives, SMEs should leverage Accelerators if they are serious about taking their growth trajectory to the next level,” Ballard concludes. For more information or to submit an application to the DCC Accelerator, please visit http://www.durbanchemicalscluster.org.za/our-programmes/business-accelerator-2 before 30th September 2023 .

KZN Top Business Women 2023 powered by DRG and BusinessFit and supported by Mangwanani African Spa take great pleasure in announcing that nominations for this year’s initiative are officially open. Now in its fourth year, KZN Top Business Women recognises the achievements of women, who in their roles as leaders, executives and business owners, make an impact on business and on society. David White CEO DRG and BusinessFit SA said, “We are delighted to again support the KZN Top Business Women initiative. There is no doubt that women are exceptional contributors to the growth, development, and sustainability of KZN, and it is a joy and a privilege for DRG to help in profiling and celebrating the achievements of our many highly engaged women.” By nominating a woman, you are telling her that she is extraordinary and that she has a good story to share. By sharing the participating women’s stories, the initiative aims to: Inspire and uplift future generations of women to reach their own goals and be inspired to follow their own dreams and ambitions Bring awareness of the importance of the role of women in society and in the workplace Promote gender equity Grant Adlam CEO KZN Top Business said, “The theme of KZN Top Business Women 2023 is Celebrate the Extraordinary. Through this initiative we really want to raise the profile of the amazing women in KZN, celebrate their many brilliant achievements, and showcase their successes.” Each woman participating will be photographed, profiled through video, and included in a KZN Top Business Women Portfolio. The women’s profiles will be available online and across a range of social media platforms, which provide great marketing opportunities. The participants will also share aspects of their stories in three panel-based webinars, which will be streamed remotely. In addition, each woman will be made to feel special at a gala dinner to be held on the 2nd of November at the Elangeni Maharani Hotel. At this final event, six women will receive further recognition in the following categories: THE COURAGE TO REALISE A DREAM Honours a woman who has worked tirelessly to bring their vision to fruition. EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS AND DELIVERING BRILLIANT EXPERIENCES Honours a woman who has made a significant impact on their business through new ideas and pushes the boundaries of what is possible to deliver great results. OPERATING EFFECTIVELY AND PRODUCTIVELY For a female leader who provides the strategic direction for a private company or a publicly traded company FOSTERING A CULTURE OF EMPOWERMENT AND DIVERSITY Acknowledges an individual for their strong efforts and dedication to support women and maintain a diverse and inclusive culture or work environment MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE COMMUNITY For a woman who is dedicated to serving others while making an impact on social, economic, cultural or environmental issues. BEING A WOMAN EXTRAORDINAIRE An exemplary women leader who makes a significant impact in her chosen field Nominations of women from all stages of business and life representing all industries are accepted. Previous nominees have included women from diverse educational and cultural backgrounds. Among others, these have included entrepreneurs, professionals, executives, artists, journalists, not-for-profits, lawyers, doctors, and public officers. Kindly note that a woman may also nominate herself for inclusion should she wish to participate. To nominate someone and for more information visit: www.kzntopbusiness.com/topbusinesswomen

Anneme Coetzee is passionate about helping individuals to understand themselves so that they can achieve personal excellence. She began her career in the financial sector and within two years, was entrusted with managing blue-chip clients and overseeing multi-million rand accounts. As a respected Relationship Manager at Imperial Bank, Anneme worked with high level decision-makers and stakeholders. This exposure and experience has positioned her as a credible and well-informed professional coach. She has always believed that the more individuals understand about themselves, the better they can understand how they work with others. Anneme established the True Awakenings Coaching and Training Centre and her skills and expertise have enabled her to operate as a trusted mentor and coach to senior executives, entrepreneurs, consultants, supervisors and managers in the private and public sector. Anneme will be the facilitator of the three panel-based webinars where the participating women in the KZN Top Business Women initiative will share aspects of their stories. The dates for these webinars are the 12, 19 and 26 October at 6pm. For more information visit www.kzntopbusiness.com/savemy-spot

Dr Velo Govender, a social worker by profession, holds two positions. She is a private practitioner as an individual and family therapist. In addition, she is the human resources and marketing executive for JRV Spares & General, which is privately owned by her husband, Ricky Govender. Dr Govender is the chairperson of the Ubuntu Community Chest, one of the largest NGOs in KZN. In August 2023, Dr Govender, was featured in the Eastern Eye Magazine as one of South Africa’s 50 most influential personalities. The twelve women featured in the Sep edition of Business Sense, are the first of those that are being recognised in this year’s KZN Top Business Women powered by DRG, BusinessFit and Mangwanani African Spa initiative. We look forward to introducing the remainder of our 2023 participants in the October edition of Business Sense. For more information go to: www.kzntopbusiness.com/top-business-women-nominations .