Another trip with KZN Top Business had me on an outing to Pietermaritzburg on quite a chilly day. Durban has been quite the ‘hotspot’ of KZN for the past few weeks, so finally getting some of that beautiful chilly weather immediately made the day exciting. On our trip to Pietermaritzburg, we also had the chance to truly experience our review car as well, the Suzuki Grand Vitara ( See the full review here ). We made a quick stop at a coffee shop and got prepared for what would be another special day ahead. Our first stop was Capitol Caterers.   Once I entered Capitol Caterers, I immediately noticed how organised and pristine the entire place is. The place was completely stunning, with a gorgeous interior. What really shined though was the test kitchen which was truly a sight to behold. The modern kitchenware and appliances, beautiful interior decoration and the enthusiastic smiles of the students already made my day right then and there. With equipment set up, we were given a masterclass presentation by Merrill King, CEO of Capitol Caterers, that really let her culinary skills shine, and her dish looked really delicious. But when it comes to separating the art from the artist, looking at Merrill King reveals a truly great chef.   Merrill has an origin story that I least expected, being a farmer girl from the Midlands. Her early culinary journey started as a chef at the Royal Hotel. Merrill mentioned that she was put through intense training at this hotel. She was thrown into the deep end and put through the paces in order to become a high-class chef herself. However, Merrill mentions that Capitol Caterers aims to replicate that same amount of intense training for their students. This is done to fully prepare her students to get into any chef related role with ease, which is something that I appreciated. In fact, I had the opportunity to interview Merrill, and the way she talked about how she wants to help students succeed, even giving a chance to as many unemployed people as she could, truly resonated with me. Merrill exceeds in the kitchen, as well as at being a great person.   Our next stop was at Greenhill Laboratories. This would be my first time in a laboratory, so it was quite interesting for me. What lay inside the small office was a particular room that captured my interest. It had a feature wall with drawings of many different things such as animals and food items. According to the staff, everything on the wall was hand drawn, which I found fascinating. After some briefing, we took a short tour of the dairy labs.   These laboratories looked like something straight out of science fiction, however, this laboratory houses products for testing dairy products specifically. I learnt a lot about how food products are tested, especially from when farmers submit dairy products, all through to how they are tested in the laboratory. Times passed, and eventually we met the man of the hour: Dr Shaun Groenink.   Shaun first started his company back in March 2019 at the spare room of his home, before he eventually moved the business to the current location in Hilton. The business started after Shaun finished his long 11 years of studying biochemistry at university, earning his PhD in the process.  Shaun recalls his best piece of advice was that achievement is not the thesis you complete for the PhD, rather it is the journey; it is trial and error that earns you your PhD.   Shaun mentioned that Greenhill Laboratory commits to contributing back to the local community, and he highlighted this as a strong goal for the company. I found that to be quite inspiring when he talked about this aspect, in fact, community involvement is more important than on the surface. Even through major challenges such as Covid or the foot and mouth disease, Shaun encourages his staff by reminding them that what they do is for a good cause, that they save lives. To me, that highlights a leader that cares about his company, his objectives, and truly cares about their community. That by itself I found admirable about Dr Shaun and his team.   I have had the chance to meet many influential leaders; this time I met leaders that commit to helping the community. It felt refreshing to hear such high-profile voices talk about the importance of helping the community, and I do wish to see future business leaders follow a similar path. Merrill King, CEO and founder of Capitol Caterers; and Dr Shaun Groenink, CEO and founder of Greenhill Laboratories

At Plastimed, innovation isn’t just a buzzword — it’s part of who we are. And right now, something exciting is on the horizon. We’re preparing to introduce bold new concepts, smarter solutions, and forward-thinking packaging innovations designed to take your business to the next level. The future of packaging is evolving — and we’re evolving with it. Redesign. Rethink. Rise. The packaging industry is changing rapidly. Businesses need solutions that are not only functional, but efficient, sustainable, and built for modern markets. That’s why we’ve been working behind the scenes — developing fresh ideas and innovative products that meet today’s demands while preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities. This next phase for Plastimed represents: Forward-thinking packaging solutions Enhanced product innovation Smarter manufacturing processes Stronger support for local businesses A commitment to skills development and industry growth We are proudly South African, and we believe in building solutions that empower local industries while contributing to Africa’s growing manufacturing sector. We’re Looking Ahead — And Taking You With Us Innovation works best when it’s collaborative. As we step into this exciting new chapter, we want to hear from you. What would you like to see more of? Where can we support your business better? What challenges can we help you solve? Your feedback matters. In fact, it shapes what comes next. The Next Generation of Packaging Plastimed NextGen is about more than new products — it’s about progress. It’s about empowering businesses, supporting local manufacturing, and building solutions that drive growth across South Africa and beyond. Stay tuned. Watch this space. Big things are coming. Because at Plastimed, we don’t just follow industry trends — we help shape them. Something Game-Changing is Coming… The Future of Packaging is About to Land - Plastimed

President Cyril Ramaphosa used his 2026 State of the Nation Address to present an optimistic picture of South Africa’s economic recovery, arguing that the country has moved beyond years of stagnation and is now positioned for sustained growth. He cautioned, however, that reforms must continue and that economic gains must be shared more widely if recovery is to be durable. Ramaphosa said the economy is “growing again, and this growth is gathering pace,” pointing to four consecutive quarters of GDP expansion after more than a decade of weak performance. He highlighted improved fiscal stability, noting that government has achieved “two consecutive primary budget surpluses” and is now “on a clear path to stabilising our national debt.” These gains, he argued, are restoring confidence. “Our credit rating has improved, interest rates are coming down and inflation is at its lowest level in twenty years,” the President said. He added that the rand has strengthened and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange has “performed exceptionally well over the past year,” signalling improving investor sentiment after years of economic uncertainty. A central theme of the address was the role of structural reform in driving recovery. Ramaphosa credited Operation Vulindlela with “accelerating economic reform and opening the way for investment and competition,” particularly in sectors that had constrained growth. Chief among these is energy. Declaring the end of load shedding, he said government has “built a more dynamic and resilient energy system” and is now focused on long-term energy security, affordability and competitiveness. Green energy featured prominently as both a growth and industrialisation opportunity. Ramaphosa said regulatory reforms and private investment are reshaping the energy mix, with renewables expanding rapidly. “By 2030, more than 40 percent of our energy supply will come from cheap, clean, renewable energy sources,” he said, arguing that lower electricity costs will reduce pressure on households and improve business competitiveness. The President said South Africa is pivoting towards green growth, expanding support for the manufacturing of green products for global markets, “from fertiliser to jet fuel, chemicals to steel.” From March this year, government will introduce a 150 percent tax deduction for investment in new energy vehicles, alongside support for local battery production. International pledges under the Just Energy Transition Investment Plan now stand at approximately R250 billion, funding large-scale investment in manufacturing, infrastructure and skills. Infrastructure investment was positioned as the backbone of the growth strategy. Government has committed “more than R1 trillion in public investment over three years,” the largest infrastructure allocation in South Africa’s history. Ramaphosa emphasised that infrastructure is “much more than an investment in brick, mortar, concrete and steel,” describing it instead as “an investment in jobs, productivity and growth.” Major projects are underway in transport, water, energy and digital infrastructure, supported by new public-private partnership regulations and innovative funding tools such as infrastructure bonds. Logistics reform featured prominently, reflecting its importance to exports and industrial growth. Ramaphosa said performance at ports and freight rail is improving, with volumes steadily increasing. He announced further private sector participation in port terminals and rail corridors, noting that a new partnership at Durban’s Pier 2 Container Terminal will bring the port back to “world class standards.” Despite macroeconomic improvements, Ramaphosa acknowledged that economic hardship remains widespread. “For too many people, life remains hard. Jobs are scarce and opportunity is out of reach,” he said. While unemployment is “starting to decline,” job creation remains government’s most urgent challenge. Employment programmes have already created “over 2.5 million opportunities,” mainly for young people and women, and will be expanded and better coordinated to provide pathways into long-term work. Sector-specific growth strategies are intended to drive further job creation. Agriculture, Ramaphosa said, is expanding rapidly, with South Africa now the “second largest exporter of citrus fruit in the world.” However, he warned that the sector faces serious short-term risks. The outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal, has been declared a national disaster, effectively placing agriculture under a state of emergency. Government has committed to vaccinating the national herd and mobilising all necessary resources to contain the outbreak and protect the agricultural economy. Manufacturing support will focus on protecting jobs in vulnerable industries such as steel and automotive production, while positioning the economy for future growth in electric vehicles, green manufacturing and critical minerals. Mining was described as a “sunrise industry,” with ore reserves valued at “more than R40 trillion,” supported by renewed investment in exploration and beneficiation. The services sector continues to grow, particularly in digital technology, financial services and tourism. Ramaphosa said South Africa has attracted major investment in digital infrastructure, with 55 data centres already built and more than R50 billion in additional investment expected over the next three years. Tourism recorded 10.5 million visitors last year, with every 13 international arrivals supporting one job. Small and medium enterprises were identified as critical to reducing unemployment. Ramaphosa noted that if every SME employed just one additional person, “we would create 3 million new jobs.” Government will provide more than R2.5 billion in funding, expand credit guarantees and reduce regulatory barriers, particularly for women- and youth-owned businesses. Social protection remains a key pillar of economic stability. The Social Relief of Distress Grant, Ramaphosa said, has “kept millions of South Africans out of food poverty” and will be continued, though redesigned to better support livelihoods and productive activity. Concluding his economic message, the President stressed that growth must be inclusive. “We can only be strong when we are equal,” he said, arguing that recovery must translate into improved living standards. As growth accelerates, he added, “this rising tide must lift every South African.” Economy Takes Centre Stage in State of the Nation Address

By: Dylan Naidoo   The KwaZulu-Natal South Coast is quickly becoming a hotspot for property investment opportunities. The South Coast Property Outlook Report for 2026-2030, by Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate and RE/MAX Coast and Country, details that property is becoming popular amongst lifestyle buyers, retirees and long-term investors interested in the value proposition and future growth of the area. The areas of interest are mainly Pennington and Scottburgh, both coastal community areas offering affordable housing and redevelopment potential.   Statistics The report details that in Pennington alone, from the 355 active listings in 2025, the average price of property in the area was R1,437,174. This is significantly less than the KZN North Coast according to the report, boasting an average property price 2.8 times higher than Pennington (The reader should note that these statistics were not taken during the same timeframe, with Pennington’s statistics taken in November 2025 and KZN North Coast’s statistic taken in January 2026).    These statistics showcase how affordable the lifestyle of the KZN South Coast is compared to the north, considering the potential development of Pennington and the coastal destination makes it attractive to retirees and investors. In addition, the property is being bought up quickly in the area, as the report mentions that from September to December 2025, active listings in Pennington dropped by 43%, along with average asking prices rising to R1.5 million. The report further details that the majority of sellers are the older demographic, with 79% of full title sellers being 50 plus years old. The statistics are similar for sectional sellers at 80% for the same demographic. However, the demographic of buyers between 36-40 years old are at a rise in Pennington, for both the full and sectional title properties.   Drivers to Investment From these statistics, there is wide speculation for the property market at the KZN South Coast. The report mentions that due to factors such as an aging demographic as well as long term homeowners, the next three to five years could see an increase of new property listings. Along with these factors, there is also speculation of redevelopment in this area in the coming years. One of these developments is the need for estates that offer security, constant maintenance and community living.  Another aspect in focus for development is the rise of eco living. Essentially, these are properties more closely located near nature, which can be a very attractive aspect for some buyers. Predictions for 2026-2030 ●      Sales and transfers expected to increase by 5-7% annually with the sale of new estates. ●      The capital appreciation of estates is expected to grow 15-25% in the coming five years. ●      Older properties are expected to be redeveloped to meet contemporary standards. ●      The market risk is expected to be moderate   Benefits The coastal lifestyle is an attractive prospect for potential buyers, and an increase in market demand also creates numerous opportunities. This includes the new influx of buyers supporting more businesses, redevelopments allowing for more job opportunities as well as tourism.   The KZN South Coast provides a great prospect for property investors to have a look at. The number of advantages, as well as anticipated opportunities showcases an area filled with redevelopment potential and an attractive lifestyle for aspiring buyers. Pat Symcox: Owner, RE/MAX Coast and Country Contact Info Pat Symcox: Owner, RE/MAX Coast and Country linkedin.com/in/pat-symcox-34014918 remax-coastandcountry.co.za +27828880707 (Mobile) symmo@scottnet.co.za

By: Dusi Canoe Marathon With a bumper 75th edition of the Dusi Canoe Marathon expected in 2026, uMngeni-uThukela Water (UUW) has committed to the event as one of the headline sponsors ahead of the event from 19-21 February. The Dusi Canoe Marathon is the country’s premier canoeing race and is a proudly KwaZulu-Natal based event which plays an important role in garnering the support from the province’s only water board for the next three years. uMngeni-uThukela Water recognises the strategic importance of protecting and preserving the river systems that sustain livelihoods, drive economic activity, and support recreational sport. Our headline sponsorship of the Dusi reaffirms our commitment to water stewardship, environmental sustainability, community development, and active citizenship. By partnering with this event, UUW seeks not only to support a world-class sporting spectacle, but also to raise public awareness about the value of water and the responsibility we all share in safeguarding it for future generations. This partnership aligns directly with our responsibility to ensure sustainable water resource management while fostering social cohesion and youth development. It is through collaborations such as these that we can inspire a deeper appreciation of our rivers and encourage collective action to protect them. Speaking after the announcement of this important partnership, head of the Dusi Canoe Marathon organising committee Doug Gow is looking forward to the prospect of working together. “We are incredibly excited to have such significant support from uMngeni-uThukela Water,” Gow said. “To be able to have UUW at the forefront of our race and have their support is a huge advantage for us as a race, but also for us as a paddling community. “Water quality has been a huge talking point, and we are looking forward to working with UUW in creating an environment that is sustainable for everyone. “Canoeing plays an important role in bringing to light areas that need improvement and this partnership helps both communities to make things better for future generations.” The role the UUW plays in getting clean water to households around the province is a critical one and to be involved in an event like the Dusi helps them spread their message. “The Dusi is a sporting spectacle that is held on the same rivers that are the source of raw water, which we purify and supply to municipalities,” Umngeni-uThukela Water Spokesperson, Siyabonga Maphumulo said. “Therefore, our sponsorship of the event is about uniting communities through sport, promoting water stewardship and inspiring confidence in the state of our rivers”. Dusi Canoe Marathon

By: Dusi Canoe Marathon With a bumper 75th edition of the Dusi Canoe Marathon expected in 2026, uMngeni-uThukela Water (UUW) has committed to the event as one of the headline sponsors ahead of the event from 19-21 February. The Dusi Canoe Marathon is the country’s premier canoeing race and is a proudly KwaZulu-Natal based event which plays an important role in garnering the support from the province’s only water board for the next three years. uMngeni-uThukela Water recognises the strategic importance of protecting and preserving the river systems that sustain livelihoods, drive economic activity, and support recreational sport. Our headline sponsorship of the Dusi reaffirms our commitment to water stewardship, environmental sustainability, community development, and active citizenship. By partnering with this event, UUW seeks not only to support a world-class sporting spectacle, but also to raise public awareness about the value of water and the responsibility we all share in safeguarding it for future generations. This partnership aligns directly with our responsibility to ensure sustainable water resource management while fostering social cohesion and youth development. It is through collaborations such as these that we can inspire a deeper appreciation of our rivers and encourage collective action to protect them. Speaking after the announcement of this important partnership, head of the Dusi Canoe Marathon organising committee Doug Gow is looking forward to the prospect of working together. “We are incredibly excited to have such significant support from uMngeni-uThukela Water,” Gow said. “To be able to have UUW at the forefront of our race and have their support is a huge advantage for us as a race, but also for us as a paddling community. “Water quality has been a huge talking point, and we are looking forward to working with UUW in creating an environment that is sustainable for everyone. “Canoeing plays an important role in bringing to light areas that need improvement and this partnership helps both communities to make things better for future generations.” The role the UUW plays in getting clean water to households around the province is a critical one and to be involved in an event like the Dusi helps them spread their message. “The Dusi is a sporting spectacle that is held on the same rivers that are the source of raw water, which we purify and supply to municipalities,” Umngeni-uThukela Water Spokesperson, Siyabonga Maphumulo said. “Therefore, our sponsorship of the event is about uniting communities through sport, promoting water stewardship and inspiring confidence in the state of our rivers”. Dusi Canoe Marathon

By: eThekwini Municipality A high-level delegation, led by eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba, visited several catalytic project sites in the city in early February. The aim of the oversight visit was to address challenges related to regulatory approvals, bulk infrastructure provision, and the funding of key catalytic projects. Mayor Xaba, who is the chairperson of the eThekwini District Development Model (DDM) Political Hub was joined by the eThekwini DDM Champion and Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment Narend Singh. Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the progress of key catalytic sites that are set to redefine the City’s economic landscape. Key project milestones include: • The Giba Business Estate: This R1.2 billion investment is moving at full steam. The Municipality has already injected over R100 million into critical road infrastructure, which is scheduled for completion within the next two months. • Isibaya Precinct Development: Developed by DEVMCO, this mixed-use hub is nearing the finish line. After 10 years in development, it is set for a grand opening later this year. The precinct will feature an International Convention Centre, a 4 000-seater Playhouse, and a 200-bed facility. Positive updates were also provided for the Avoca Node, Cato Ridge Node, and the Malaba Canal Project. Mike Mabuyakhulu, co-chairperson of the eThekwini Presidential Working Group, stressed the importance of immediate intervention to secure R21 billion in total investment.  "The goal is to ensure the work of the Presidential Working Group is seamlessly integrated into the DDM framework. This ensures sustainability so that even as the Presidential Working Group phases out, the momentum of these projects continues uninterrupted," said Mabuyakhulu. Deputy Minister Singh echoed these sentiments, praising the "hands-on" approach of the current leadership.  "We are seeing a truly collaborative effort from government to create a conducive environment for investors. Today’s site visits proved that progress is happening on the ground, not just on paper,” he added. eThekwini Municipality

By: Dylan Naidoo   The KwaZulu-Natal South Coast is quickly becoming a hotspot for property investment opportunities. The South Coast Property Outlook Report for 2026-2030, by Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate and RE/MAX Coast and Country, details that property is becoming popular amongst lifestyle buyers, retirees and long-term investors interested in the value proposition and future growth of the area. The areas of interest are mainly Pennington and Scottburgh, both coastal community areas offering affordable housing and redevelopment potential.   Statistics The report details that in Pennington alone, from the 355 active listings in 2025, the average price of property in the area was R1,437,174. This is significantly less than the KZN North Coast according to the report, boasting an average property price 2.8 times higher than Pennington (The reader should note that these statistics were not taken during the same timeframe, with Pennington’s statistics taken in November 2025 and KZN North Coast’s statistic taken in January 2026).    These statistics showcase how affordable the lifestyle of the KZN South Coast is compared to the north, considering the potential development of Pennington and the coastal destination makes it attractive to retirees and investors. In addition, the property is being bought up quickly in the area, as the report mentions that from September to December 2025, active listings in Pennington dropped by 43%, along with average asking prices rising to R1.5 million. The report further details that the majority of sellers are the older demographic, with 79% of full title sellers being 50 plus years old. The statistics are similar for sectional sellers at 80% for the same demographic. However, the demographic of buyers between 36-40 years old are at a rise in Pennington, for both the full and sectional title properties.   Drivers to Investment From these statistics, there is wide speculation for the property market at the KZN South Coast. The report mentions that due to factors such as an aging demographic as well as long term homeowners, the next three to five years could see an increase of new property listings. Along with these factors, there is also speculation of redevelopment in this area in the coming years. One of these developments is the need for estates that offer security, constant maintenance and community living.  Another aspect in focus for development is the rise of eco living. Essentially, these are properties more closely located near nature, which can be a very attractive aspect for some buyers. Predictions for 2026-2030 ●      Sales and transfers expected to increase by 5-7% annually with the sale of new estates. ●      The capital appreciation of estates is expected to grow 15-25% in the coming five years. ●      Older properties are expected to be redeveloped to meet contemporary standards. ●      The market risk is expected to be moderate   Benefits The coastal lifestyle is an attractive prospect for potential buyers, and an increase in market demand also creates numerous opportunities. This includes the new influx of buyers supporting more businesses, redevelopments allowing for more job opportunities as well as tourism.   The KZN South Coast provides a great prospect for property investors to have a look at. The number of advantages, as well as anticipated opportunities showcases an area filled with redevelopment potential and an attractive lifestyle for aspiring buyers. Pat Symcox, Owner of RE/MAX Coast and Country

By Cindy (Beekman) Allan, Director, Beekman Group Across our industry, the presence and influence of women can be felt in every corner. At the Beekman Group, I’ve seen firsthand how the women in our teams shape the way we grow, the way we lead and the way we care for our staff and guests.  It’s still surreal at times. Nearly 30 years in, I could never have imagined the scale of growth we’d experience. Leading a company so rooted in family values is both a privilege and a responsibility. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together, and I carry a deep sense of accountability to our people and our legacy. Being a woman in this position adds another layer of meaning. It’s an opportunity to show that women can lead effectively in a family-founded business while bringing empathy, collaboration and trust. I believe these qualities shape a leadership style that is approachable, transparent and steady.  Creating a Culture of Opportunity and Trust We’ve worked hard to build a workplace culture  that uplifts and supports every employee, regardless of gender. Whether at our resorts or head office, care, consistency and mutual respect are at the heart of how we operate. From wellness campaigns and on-site lifestyle programmes to an aftercare facility for working parents, our support systems aren’t just perks. They’re part of our commitment to building an environment where people can truly thrive both personally and professionally. This has empowered women across the organisation to grow into leadership. Of our 1300 employees in South Africa, 60% are women. Across the Group, women hold 65% of all leadership roles, with Department and Resort Managers comprising over 50% women. This reflects a culture built on trust, growth and equal opportunity. Leading with Impact in Leisure and Hospitality One of the most fulfilling parts of my role is seeing how women across the Group lead with both competence and care. Their impact is visible in daily operations, in how they uplift others, and in how they navigate challenges. At Dolphin View Cabanas  in KwaZulu-Natal, Cynthia Mfeka  stands out. After losing both her sisters, she took on the care of their eight children all while continuing to lead with quiet strength. Her team describes her as someone who never complains and always shows up. Her colleagues, Petronella Ndlovu  and Abegail Mthembu , are equally inspiring. Petronella supports people in need through food initiatives and savings groups. Abegail, a community pastor, offers emotional and spiritual support to local families. These women lead by example and help shape a culture of care and accountability. Known affectionately as Aunty Vic , Victoria leads a large housekeeping team at Cayley Mountain Resort. Her leadership, grounded in trust, experience and empathy, has made her a pillar of strength and respect among her peers. Our women don’t just lead teams – they influence families and communities. Many have grown from entry-level roles into management over the years, and their insight into the guest journey is both lived and earned. One story that truly moved me comes from Kiara Lodge , where Selina Sello began her career as a cleaner in 1990. Today, her daughter Anna works in our Body Bliss Day Spa and has used her role to support her own daughter’s education. Stories like these remind us that investing in people means investing in generations. Across the Group, many women have stayed with us for ten, twenty or even over thirty years. Their loyalty speaks volumes and forms the backbone of our operations. Our Commitment to Empowering Women in the Workplace Empowerment isn’t a once-off initiative. It’s a daily commitment and a key part of our business model. Here‘s how we bring it to life: Skills development and leadership growth We offer structured training and mentorship to support long-term career paths. Recognition of loyalty and excellence Many of the women on our team have been with us for over a decade. We honour their commitment and celebrate their growth. Support for working families We understand the challenge of balancing work and family and offer support wherever we can. Empowerment beyond the workplace Many of our female leaders also uplift their communities through mentorship and outreach. We support and value their efforts both at work and at home. As a female director of the Beekman Group  and a member of the founding family, I feel a personal responsibility to lead with fairness, compassion and integrity. Empowerment is not a checkbox. It’s a mindset. A culture. A choice we make every day to create space for others to grow. Recognition That Reflects Real Impact This year, we were honoured with the PMR.africa   2025 Diamond Arrow Award  for companies doing the most to enhance the interests of women in the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast region. Personally, this recognition is both humbling and heartening. It tells me that the values we’ve embedded into our business – fairness, compassion and accountability – are making a difference. Professionally, it reaffirms the work that goes into building a culture where women don’t just belong, they thrive. This didn’t happen because of a single bold move. It’s the result of steady, consistent decisions: to lead with integrity, to promote from within, and to make room for talent to rise. We also won at the KZN Top Business Awards  for Employee Wellness  for the second consecutive year – another reflection of our people-first approach. Championing Women Leaders Every Day What continues to stand out most to me is the quality of leadership I see among the women across our Group. They drive performance, build trust within their teams and contribute meaningfully to our success. At the Beekman Group, we know that creating opportunities for growth means being intentional about how we build and support our teams. When people feel trusted and equipped, they’re more likely to thrive, and that is something we take seriously. If you are someone who values consistency, integrity and the chance to make a real impact, we welcome you to explore what it means to be part of our team .  The journey is meaningful, the work is rewarding, and the path forward is built on respect and shared purpose.

Radisson Blu Hotel Durban Umhlanga hosted a truly spectacular Women’s Day Brunch on Saturday, 9  August 2025, where over 280 remarkable women came together in celebration of strength, elegance,  and sisterhood. The venue was transformed into a vision of green as guests embraced this year’s dress  code, Shades of Green , creating a breathtaking sea of style and unity.  The day’s programme was masterfully guided by the vibrant MC, Nonto R, who set the tone for an  afternoon filled with laughter, connection, and empowerment. Guests were inspired by powerful  keynote talks from Sorisha Naidoo and Norma Mngoma, both of whom shared personal journeys and  insights that resonated deeply with the audience. Adding to the glamour, Amor Couture presented a  fabulous fashion show featuring The XVIII Victorian, bringing high fashion to the runway and leaving  guests in awe.  On arrival, guests were treated to a glass of bubbly from House of BNG, setting the tone for a  celebration of elegance and indulgence. A sumptuous brunch followed, accompanied by live  entertainment and plenty of photo-op moments throughout the day.  Reflecting on the event, Fara Hamid, Marketing Manager of Radisson Blu Hotel Durban Umhlanga,  shared: “My goal when hosting our Women’s Day event is always to inspire and uplift, while giving  women a few hours to step away from their busy daily lives. I want them to feel celebrated,  motivated, and surrounded by beauty, both in the space and in the company they share. Seeing so  many ladies embrace the theme and arrive in stunning Shades of Green made this year’s celebration  even more special.”  Every guest left with a beautifully curated gift bag, with some of our sponsors including Veaudry,  Umhlanga Laser and Aesthetics Spa, Source, Jockey, Catrice, Futurelife, Stanley, Hollard, Lelive, Aldo,  Edgars Beauty, Clarins, MAC, Oceans Mall, Durban Flying Dress, and Dr. Salome Booth. The event  décor was created by KP Set Design, photography by Incredible Capture, and venue lighting by  Chillifunk — all contributing to an unforgettable celebration. Radisson Blu Hotel Durban Umhlanga is proud to continue its tradition of hosting Women’s Day  events that blend elegance with empowerment — and looks forward to making this an annual  celebration where women can come together, connect, and be inspired.  In the spirit of giving back, 5% of ticket sales were donated to The Open-Door Crisis Centre, ensuring  that the day’s celebrations extended into meaningful community impact.  For more information on upcoming events and experiences at Radisson Blu Hotel Durban Umhlanga,  please visit our website or email info.durban.umhlanga@radissonblu.com

PARTNERSHIP The winning project reflects the importance of teamwork and effective inter-agency collaboration. WINNER Durban Direct is a coordinated multi- stakeholder initiative focused on enhancing KZN’s global air connectivity through King Shaka International Airport. Durban Direct is led by the KwaZulu- Natal Route Development Committee and exemplifies the power of public-private collaboration in unlocking economic potential. FINALISTS Ensure Next Generation Security is a security service provider with nearly 50 years of continuous service in the South African security sector. Their recent partnership with the eThekwini Municipality in the Inner-City Regeneration project (Ensure Ubuntu) is a testament to their deep- rooted commitment to revitalising our communities. Nos Media House , through its creative expertise and digital platforms, and Wearyourbrand aim to showcase how an SME agency and a grassroots NGO can co create value – demonstrating that strategic synergy, when rooted in mutual trust and shared objectives, can yield outsized impact. Adv Pria Hassan; Fikiswa Pupuma, EDTEA; Farah Goolam, Invest Durban; Russell Curtis, Invest Durban; huli Galelekile, TIKZN; Hamish Erskine, Dube TradePort; Xoli Shabalala, Dube TradePort and Oscar Sibisa, Standard Bank

Overview of Mobi Ventures and Their Life-Saving Solutions Angela Alderton from Business Sense sits down with Teresa Davie, the sales manager at Mobi Ventures, a key partner known for their expertise in security across South Africa. Theresa explains her role involves presenting Mobi Ventures' services to various clients nationwide. A significant focus is on their emergency response systems, which include mobile devices equipped with GPS and SOS buttons. These devices ensure 24/7 protection by alerting a control room that can dispatch appropriate help swiftly, even if the user can't communicate due to poor signal or personal incapacity. Key Features of Mobi Ventures' Devices Theresa highlights the device's robust features, such as water resistance and two-way communication, making it reliable in diverse situations. The system is designed to save time during emergencies by providing immediate access to personal profiles, ensuring quick and effective response from first responders. Additional Services and Divisions Mobi Ventures also offers vehicle tracking through Mobi Track 911, which includes crash detection and location tracking. Their Mobi Ambo Plan provides ambulance services, covering transportation costs even if the user lacks medical aid. Other divisions include CCTV systems and a localized security service, Mobi Response 911, in Westville. Commitment to Safety and Efficiency Theresa emphasizes their dedication to saving lives, supported by ongoing training and development led by Vernon, who brings expertise from medical and police backgrounds. Mobi Ventures stands out by owning their technology and operating a specialized control room, ensuring reliable and efficient service. Accessing Mobi Ventures' Services To access their services, users can search online for emergency response apps and subscribe to Mobi Claw, ensuring they receive top-tier emergency assistance across South Africa. There. Excellent. We'll find you on Google . Thank. You thanks Teresa. https://www.mobiventures.co.za/about-us Mobi Ventures' Innovative Emergency Response Systems