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The KZN Top Business Women 2025 Webinar, led by Lesedi Metsoamere, Executive Head of Private Wealth Banking for KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga, features twelve dynamic and influential businesswomen from KwaZulu-Natal. These outstanding leaders, included in the 40 KZN Top Business Women for 2025, discuss their journeys, challenges, and success strategies—providing both inspiration and practical advice on entrepreneurship, leadership, and community empowerment. Meet the Exceptional Women Sonali Menon Govender, Samantha Swanepoel, Shaleen Govender, Noeline Rajbally, Nontetho Smith, Masha Padayachi, Karen Hammond, Aneshree Naicker, Seshni Moodley, Thusie Pather, Mandisa Mazibuko, Seshme Holloway, Tracey Mclennan Key Takeaways Varied expertise: The panel covers a diverse array of industries such as law, ICT, hospitality, manufacturing, media, and logistics, showcasing a wide range of entrepreneurial experiences. Empowering programs: Many panelists have created mentorship, internship, and training initiatives aimed at supporting young professionals and empowering women. Personal resilience: These women openly share their experiences of overcoming personal loss, battling addiction, and breaking through gender barriers in male-dominated sectors. Community impact: Some are engaged in projects that assist vulnerable youth, support local artists, and create opportunities for women from disadvantaged backgrounds. Innovation emphasis: Leaders in law, technology, and business promote digital transformation, AI adoption, and global business expansion. Work-life alignment: Panelists emphasise the significance of balancing family, personal interests, and career objectives as the basis for enduring success. Call to action: Viewers are encouraged to find inspiration in these stories and to chase their goals with determination and intent. KZN Top Business Women 2025 Webinar

Durban is on the rise! The City has caught the attention of global retailer and e-commerce leader Alibaba Group, which is preparing to launch its African operations - with Durban chosen as the hub. This marks a major milestone for the City’s digital and economic development strategy. The announcement follows a high-level engagement between eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba and Alibaba’s international trade representatives at the company’s headquarters in Hangzhou, China. The discussions focused on positioning Durban as a key gateway for Africa’s participation in global e-commerce and digital trade. Durban’s strategic location — anchored by a world-class port, growing logistics infrastructure, and the King Shaka International Airport, played a central role in the City’s selection as Alibaba’s African launch hub. Mayor Xaba said the partnership puts Durban on the global map as Africa’s smart port city — connecting people, products, and innovation to the world. The collaboration is expected to create significant opportunities for local entrepreneurs, SMMEs, and start-ups, enabling them to access international markets through Alibaba’s online platform. In addition to trade access, the partnership will bring training, digital skills development, and entrepreneurship programmes, which all seek to support job creation and economic inclusion. The initiative is part of Durban’s broader internationalisation strategy, which includes strengthening ties with key Chinese cities. Durban recently signed a Letter of Intent with Xi’an, and maintains established relationships with Xiamen, Guangzhou, and Ningde. Mayor Xaba added that the engagement aligns with Durban’s vision of becoming a resilient, inclusive, and globally connected port city, capable of driving long-term economic growth and innovation. Durban has been chosen as the African hub for global retailer and e-commerce leader, Alibaba.

Durban, 16 October 2025 – Transnet CEO Michelle Phillips secured a major legal victory this week after the Durban High Court ruled in favour of the state-owned company’s plan to modernise a key section of South Africa’s busiest port. The ruling clears the path for International Container Terminal Services (ICTSI), a Filipino-based company, to proceed as the preferred bidder for the harbour upgrade and port management project. The project had faced significant delays after APM Terminals, a rival bidder owned by Danish shipping giant Maersk, filed an interdict challenging Transnet’s decision to award the contract to ICTSI. The legal dispute temporarily halted implementation, leaving a crucial infrastructure project in limbo. The court’s decision now allows Transnet to move forward with its plans, providing clarity and certainty for stakeholders involved. Phillips described the ruling as a “critical step forward” for the port and the broader South African economy. “This decision allows us to begin essential upgrades that will increase Durban’s capacity and efficiency, strengthening its role as a key gateway for trade in the region,” she said. The harbour upgrade project is expected to have far-reaching economic and operational benefits. Transnet has outlined plans to improve cargo handling systems, expand berthing facilities, and implement advanced terminal management technologies. These improvements aim to reduce congestion, streamline operations, and improve turnaround times for shipping companies, making Durban more competitive as a regional and international trading hub. The legal challenge by APM Terminals highlighted the highly competitive nature of port contracts and the importance of transparency and due process in awarding infrastructure projects. ICTSI, the awarded bidder, has extensive experience in terminal management across Asia, Europe, and the Americas, and its appointment is expected to bring international best practices to Durban’s operations. Economic analysts have noted that the port upgrades could stimulate job creation, attract additional investment, and support South Africa’s broader trade objectives. With Durban handling the bulk of the country’s container traffic, efficient port operations are crucial for supply chain reliability and for maintaining South Africa’s position in global trade networks. With the high court’s ruling, Transnet and ICTSI can now proceed with implementing the upgrades, signalling renewed momentum for one of the nation’s most strategically important infrastructure projects. Stakeholders, from shipping companies to local businesses, are watching closely as the improvements promise to unlock new trade opportunities and enhance South Africa’s competitive edge in global logistics.

AFRISAM CONCRETE SUPPORTS COMPLEX WATER TOWER PROJECT IN GAUTENG AfriSam is playing a pivotal role in the construction of one of Gauteng’s largest and most technically complex water towers, supplying specially designed readymix concrete to meet both structural and seismic performance requirements. Located near Main Reef Road south of Johannesburg, the 43 metre high water tower will store 3,2 mega litres of water to support the new Goudrand mega city development.   With construction led by M&D Construction and engineering design by SCIP Engineering Group, the project has demanded highly customised concrete solutions from AfriSam. The structure is located in a seismically active zone and required additional reinforcement in the lower section of the shaft to withstand ground acceleration above 0,1g. This called for increased steel density and a concrete mix that could deliver strength, flowability and controlled heat of hydration.   AfriSam’s Product Technical Team Leader, Mduduzi Ndlovu, explains that the concrete mix was developed with a high proportion of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) to reduce the heat generated during curing. “The base mix comprised 70% ground granulated blastfurnace slag (GGBS) and 30% AfriSam High Strength Cement, reducing the ordinary Portland cement (OPC) content to just 20%,” says Ndlovu. “Despite the low OPC content, the mix exceeded expectations - achieving the target strength of 51 MPa was achieved in only 28 days in relation to the designed 56 day requirement. ”   The construction process placed high demands on the readymix in terms of both slump control and delivery precision. With over 210 kg of rebar per cubic metre in some sections, AfriSam developed a high slump pump mix for vertical pours, while limiting slump to 130 mm for slanted sections to avoid concrete sliding off shuttering.   Sheldon Temlett, Contracts Manager at M&D Construction, highlights the importance of this mix performance. “With such dense steel and complex geometry, AfriSam’s mix gave us the workability we needed without compromising quality. Their team worked closely with us to adjust slump levels and plan deliveries around our 12 m³/hour pour rate.”   AfriSam Territory Manager Toni Williams adds that logistics were carefully aligned with construction progress to avoid delays or idle time on site. “Coordination was key to supporting M&D’s controlled rise rate of 1 metre per hour, especially as the concrete had to partially set before each formwork lift could proceed.”   Construction of the Main Reef water tower began in September 2024 and is scheduled for completion in April 2026. Once commissioned, it will provide essential water infrastructure to approximately 20,000 homes in the Goudrand housing development - a major project spearheaded by the Gauteng Department of Housing, the City of Johannesburg and Blue Print Housing.    Contact information On behalf of AfriSam www.afrisam.com Facebook : @AfriSamSA Twitter : @AfriSam LinkedIn : AfriSam   From Coralynne & Associates communicate@coralynne.co.za Twitter : @Coralynne_Assoc LinkedIn : Coral-Lynn Fraser-Campbell

Johannesburg, 16 October 2025 - Sappi has once again earned a place on the prestigious Forbes magazine and Statista World’s Best Employers list for 2025 (#289 globally and #5 in South Africa) as well as the World’s Top Companies for Women list for 2025 (#144 globally and #2 in South Africa). These recognitions reaffirm Sappi’s continued commitment to creating an inclusive, engaging and purpose-driven workplace - one where people feel valued, empowered and inspired to grow. The dual recognition highlights the company’s strong international standing, as well as its leadership within the local business landscape and across its sector. The World’s Best Employers list, compiled annually by Forbes magazine in partnership with Statista, draws on independent surveys from more than 300,000 employees across over 50 countries. Participants evaluate their employers on factors such as trust, leadership, career growth, diversity, and work-life balance, as well as willingness to recommend their employer to others. For the Top Companies for Women list, Forbes magazine and Statista independently survey over 120,000 women working for multinational corporations in more than 36 countries. Participants evaluated their employers on both general workplace practices as well as on gender-specific issues. In addition other companies were scored on public perceptions of their actions and attitude towards gender issues. Finally a leadership score was calculated based on women in executive and board positions. Commenting on the recognition for the global group, Steve Binnie, CEO Sappi Limited said: ”Such recognition is a testimony to our employees across the globe. Their actions, their attitude and their positive culture reflect our efforts to nurture a workplace that attracts exceptional talent, fosters innovation and strengthens its contribution to a thriving, sustainable world. Graeme Wild, CEO of Sappi Southern Africa, said: “This achievement is a celebration of our people - their dedication, their pride and their belief in what Sappi stands for. To be recognised among the world’s best and ranked second and fifth in South Africa is a tremendous honour. It validates our ongoing investment in leadership, inclusion, wellbeing and skills development, ensuring that Sappi remains a place where people thrive and contribute to something greater than themselves.” As Sappi approaches its 90th anniversary in 2026, this recognition reaffirms that the company’s journey - from a traditional forestry and paper organisation to a purpose-driven, diversified woodfibre business, is deeply rooted in the strength and passion of its people and their diversity. Sappi remains committed to unlocking the power of renewable resources and building a workplace that continues to inspire pride for generations to come. To read more about the lists, click here: https://www.forbes.com/lists/worlds-best-employers/ https://www.forbes.com/lists/top-companies-women/

Lesedi Metsoamere serves as the regional executive for Private Wealth Banking at Absa Group, overseeing both the KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalangaprovinces. Her professional career in banking began when she was just 19 years old, while still completing her studies. Reflecting on her beginnings, she said, “There was a financial institution recruiting from our university, looking for students to join and work. That’s when I actually started working.” From the outset, Lesedi was drawn to the world of finance. However, her early career revolved around client experience and relationship building. “I think that’s where the bug bit in terms of what I wanted to do,” she shared. “It was the satisfaction of making a client’s day that really started me off.” Over the years, Lesedi worked across various areas of banking, including client relationships, wealth and investment management. Her journey into leadership began at a previous employer, where she spent six years managing private banking divisions before joining Absa two and a half years ago. “I look after a team of about 45 people,” she said proudly. “We are here to really just make our clients’ dreams come true.” Helping people in general is Lesedi’s passion. “I believe it is essential to demonstrate genuine empathy towards customers, both personally and through your team, to ensure a positive and consistent customer experience.” Helping people in general is Lesedi’s passion. “I believe it is essential to demonstrate genuine empathy towards customers, both personally and through your team, to ensure a positive and consistent customer experience.” Driven by Excellence and Purpose Ambition and a desire to lead have always been central to Lesedi’s character. “Growing up, my biggest dream was always to be at the top of anything. I always wanted to excel,” she admitted. “I love being in the boardroom and making decisions – not just for the team but for our clients as well.” Her leadership philosophy is grounded in purpose. “For me, it’s really about how you lead an organisation with impact,” she said. “When people look back, I want them to say I’ve changed their lives in a positive way.” A strong advocate for women in business, Lesedi is deeply committed to mentoring young professionals. “One thing that’s quite important to me is creating space for women to be successful,” she explained. “I’ve been very intentional about mentoring young women who are still coming up within the financial services industry.” She recalled with pride helping one of her mentees secure her dream job. “We started from scratch, fixing her CV, doing mock interviews, and she got the job. It was such a fulfilling feeling.” Lesedi continues to mentor and coach others, sharing her story and her insights on leadership, confidence, and self-presentation. “I lift people as I rise,” she said. “That’s very important to me.” Lesedi would like to know that when she moves on in her career, people are better off than before. Inspired by Her Mother’s Journey Lesedi draws immense inspiration from her mother, whose resilience and determination shaped her outlook. “My mother grew up in Alex and didn’t have money to go to university,” Lesedi shared. “She started working in a restaurant, mopping floors and washing dishes, then later became a waitress.” Through saving her tips, her mother put herself through school, becoming a teacher of higher-grade mathematics and biology. She left the teaching profession after what she believed had been an impactful career. She later retrained as a computer programmer and went on to lead the successful implementation of computer systems across various institutions, primarily within the banking sector. “I don’t know how she did that,” Lesedi admitted. “She showed us that excellence is the expectation. When you are born of a woman like that, you can’t be anything but excellent and have to set the standard for generations to come.” evident across the family. “One sister is a biochemist and our youngest sister has just been admitted as an attorney,” she said. “We are all driven to excel because of the woman who raised us.” Creating Impact Beyond the Numbers While Lesedi’s role is grounded in financial performance, her focus extends to meaningful impact. “I love numbers, but I also have a heart,” she remarked. “Numbers give us the data, but it’s about how we use that information to be most impactful.” She also leads Absa’s national Young Professionals segment, which is a committee supporting the transition of students into the professional world. “We introduced 12 months of free banking for final-year students,” she explained. In addition, the programme offers education on money matters. “It’s been fulfilling to see young doctors, accountants, and lawyers grow with us over time.” Lesedi acknowledges that her journey has not been without challenges. “There’s no substitute for hard work,” she stated. “You have to put in the hours.” As a young black woman in leadership, she has faced bias and doubt. “Sometimes you have to over-deliver to prove you belong at the table,” she said. “Being young, being a woman, being black – these are all factors, but delivery silences them.” While Lesedi is often the only woman in the room, she believes that women bring a unique strength to leadership. “They call us emotional beings, but our emotions are our superpower. They allow us to lead with empathy and impact.” Lesedi encourages others to take charge of their own careers and work hard. “Nobody else is responsible for your career but you,” she advised. “Put your hand up for opportunities and let your results speak for you.” She added, “I’ve rarely applied for roles in the traditional way. I go directly to the head of the department and say, ‘I am the person for this job – what do I need to do to get it?’” Balancing Ambition and Wellbeing Despite her demanding role, Lesedi understands the importance of rest. “There’s no such thing as perfect balance, we live in a service environment,” she said with a smile. “Some days are 90-10, some 60-40, others 50-50.” She makes time to recharge by enjoying the ocean. “I love the beach. I take walks, spend time in the water, and just breathe. You have to take a break – otherwise your body will take it for you.” As she looks to the future, Lesedi remains focused on her ultimate goal. “C-suite,” she said simply. “Whether it’s as CEO of a major corporate or my own company, that’s the big chair I want and I’m going to achieve it.”

We are excited to invite you to the second session of our empowering webinar series, hosted by the dynamic Lesedi Metsoamere. This session highlights the second series of brilliant, brave, and bold women who are making an impact in their respective fields. Meet the Exceptional Women Sonali Menon Govender, Samantha Swanepoel, Shaleen Govender, Noeline Rajbally, Nontetho Smith, Masha Padayachi, Karen Hammond, Aneshree Naicker, Seshni Moodley, Thusie Pather, Mandisa Mazibuko, Seshme Holloway, Tracey Mclennan These accomplished leaders will share insights, experiences, and practical strategies to inspire both personal and professional growth. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions, engage in meaningful discussions, and leave motivated to take action. Bonus: Win a One-Night Getaway for Two All registered attendees also stand a chance to win a one-night stay for two at the Radisson Blu Durban Umhlanga Hotel. Registration is simple and ensures we can contact the lucky winner. The draw will take place live on the night of the Final Event and winners will be contacted. How to Register Secure your spot and enter the draw by registering online here: Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from extraordinary women, gain actionable insights, and possibly enjoy a luxurious mini getaway.

The KZN Top Business Women 2025 journey is officially underway! Our first webinar in the series is done and dusted — and what an inspiring and empowering session it was. This first event in the series set the tone for what promises to be an exciting journey of celebration, connection, and growth. Guided by the dynamic Advocate Pria Hassan, the conversation brought together stories of courage, leadership, and purpose from women who continue to break boundaries and inspire others to reach higher. We were honoured to introduce the first group of 12 phenomenal women in this year’s collection: ✨ Veetha Sewkuran ✨ Janice Chetty ✨ Lorraine Dyer ✨ Linah Marijeni ✨ Carla Da Silva ✨ Minehle Dlamini ✨ Nhlanhla Litabe ✨ Rashika Reddy ✨ Emily Elliott ✨ Dr Wendy Dhlomo ✨ Susan Abro ✨ Beverley Ebrahim Each woman shared valuable insights from her journey — stories that reminded us that leadership is not just about achievement, but also about resilience, collaboration, and the willingness to lift others as you rise. A heartfelt thank-you to all the incredible ladies who joined the session and shared their experiences so openly. Your authenticity, wisdom, and energy made this first webinar truly memorable. For anyone who missed the live webinar, you can watch the full session on YouTube here: As the KZN Top Business Women 2025 series continues, we look forward to more powerful conversations, inspiring lessons, and opportunities to connect with women who are redefining leadership in KwaZulu-Natal and beyond. 💻 Visit www.kzntopbusiness.com for updates and upcoming webinars. #KZNTopBusinessWomen #Leadership #Empowerment #Inspiration #ABSA #MorarIncorporated #WOAGroup #DRGOutsourcing

In February 2023, South Africa was placed on the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) “grey list” after the global watchdog found shortcomings in how the country implemented anti money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) standards. Since then, government, regulators, and the private sector have worked to strengthen compliance with the Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FIC Act). So much so that in June 2025, the FATF acknowledged the significant progress that had been made on the various action items proposed when the grey listing was announced over two years ago. While getting South Africa off the grey list is a whole-of government effort, the private sector must also play a part. Accountable institutions have a responsibility to comply on the ground by ensuring robust customer due diligence (Customer Due Diligence / Know Your Client) processes, applying enhanced due diligence for higher-risk customers, setting up transaction monitoring systems, keeping comprehensive records and investing in proper staff training.  HR and FIC Compliance Human Resource (HR) teams in accountable institutions play a critical role in ensuring compliance with FICA. While compliance is often viewed as a legal or risk department function, HR must create an organisation-wide culture of accountability. Additionally, HR has a responsibility to ensure the right people are hired, vetted, and continuously monitored to prevent compliance risks. To illustrate the importance of this, consider a traditional mining company. While a mining company is not explicitly listed in Schedule 1 categories of accountable institutions, there are many aspects of mining operations that can trigger FIC relevance. For example, HR must recognise that senior management can influence the movement of funds and contract approvals, among other things. As such, screening new hires thoroughly is essential. This includes running identity and background checks, verifying beneficial ownership, checking for sanctions, and assessing links to politically exposed persons (PEPs). It’s important to remember that risks don’t only occur at hiring; someone’s exposure or status may change, which makes continuous monitoring a must. But comprehensive screening processes can be complex for various reasons. Successful screening requires accurate, up to-date data and often this data is incomplete or inconsistent. In addition, because screening involves personal and sensitive data, HR has a responsibility to ensure that any checks align with privacy laws. Finally, when dealing with large workforces, the scale of screening/monitoring can be costly and time-consuming, especially when done manually. With VOCA from SW360, HR and people teams can automate critical compliance processes, which reduces manual effort and mitigates the risks associated with financial crimes. An integrated compliance solution, VOCA enables real-time identity verification, automated risk assessments, and ongoing monitoring, making compliance and due diligence simple. As fraudsters become more sophisticated, HR professionals need all the help they can get in navigating the complexities of compliance. With automated processes, HR professionals can dramatically reduce fraud risks during the hiring process and beyond. For more information contact T: + 27 (0)86 034 0000 E: info@searchworks.co.za W: www.searchworks.co.za

BusinessFit SA shares its scientific approach to helping SMEs build better businesses by defining what constitutes a “great business idea” and establishing sustainable governance frameworks to support the growth and development of each enterprise. This methodology is welcomed support for entrepreneurs, who are already catalysts for positive change, utilising creative problem-solving and effective risk management traits. Central to the BusinessFit methodology is the recognition that a “great business idea” is the only component of a business framework that is not duplicatable. Although entrepreneurs may obtain business ideas from others, “authenticity and self-propelled leadership” are critical defining and energising enablers of the enterprise’s vision, making a “great idea” a defining, executable, and viable business proposition. BusinessFit provides “structure, support and confidence” to these great business ideas, which is central to the purpose behind BusinessFit’s five-stage Quality Assurance process and Strategic Blueprint technology. Defining a Great Business Idea In the BusinessFit context, a great business idea must align with four critical business considerations: 1. Value creation to the economy, society, and environment through products and/or services 2. Business logic, which paves the way for a business-minded approach 3. Purpose, Passion and Will, driving the idea to fruition 4. An executable plan, based on market conditions, internal processes and controls, and legitimacy Value creation is paramount, requiring the business idea to create value for society, communities, and the economy, while ensuring the environment and nature are not exploited or damaged. Furthermore, the value-adding idea must meet internal economic measures, broadly referred to as “business logic”. This logic ensures that once established and implemented, the business idea returns value through “profit” to the business and its shareholders. Ongoing profit and shareholder value creation require a well articulated and purposeful strategy, an executable plan, appropriate structures, and alignment with measurement indicators. Energy, Momentum, and Leadership A great business idea begins in a latent mental state of potential energy within the entrepreneur. To propel the business forward, this idea requires conversion to a manifest flow of actions and activities that enable kinetic energy (energy of motion). Professor King of the King Commission of Governance suggests the leader must “blow life” into the enterprise to overcome inertia and guide its purpose, direction, and value creation. The creation and conversion of these energies by leaders and staff members is referred to as “purpose, passion and will”. Without this momentum, the idea cannot be mobilised. This inspiration can derive from a deep-seated internal sense of purpose, care for humanity, admiration for the actions of others, or a reaction to injustices or a desire to improve current conditions. Leadership is vital for ensuring success. It encompasses both the initial vision (the great business idea) and the confidence-building and driving components, such as: ■ Drawing together experience and expertise to know how to create and deliver the intended product or service ■ Ensuring access to appropriate resources (staffing skills, raw materials, capital, etc.) ■ Building networks to engage with potential clients, suppliers, and service advisory specialists ■ Establishing a well-diversified and competent governing body to support and guide decision making. These confidence-driving aspects of leadership do not necessarily need to be fulfilled by the business idea originator but can be drawn into the enterprise’s framework as needed. In summary, a great idea not only adds economic, social, and environmental value and returns profit, but it also must have defined steps and processes for its route to market and be supported by leadership that brings its purpose, potential, and intention to life. The Business Framework and Functional Alignment Beyond the initial idea and leadership, the enterprise requires a business framework to ensure the best chances of success and sustainability. Although the policies, processes, and applications of the framework are unique to each enterprise, the broad critical focus areas are the same. Leaders are responsible for building confidence that the enterprise vision meets the quality assurance expectations of its specific target market, while staffing and systems guide the journey toward success and sustainability. The great business idea requires an aligned functional framework encompassing all necessary functional areas to create, maintain quality assurances, and distribute products/services effectively. The functional activities include areas such as: ■ Human resources ■ Marketing and sales ■ Finance ■ Operations ■ Legal ■ Procurement ■ Supply chain ■ Technologies ■ Other Every business shares similar functional components, though the detail, quality assurance, and urgency differ based on the specific product/service, market condition, delivery expectation, and technical production requirements. Governance, Conformance, and Measurements Measurements are critical and common across every business. Outside of its core product or service creation, a business’s focus is to be productive, adding value to the economy, society, and environment, while ensuring: ■ An ethical culture is established ■ Conformance responsibilities are maintained ■ Stakeholder expectations are met or exceeded ■ Creation of an effective governance framework ■ Legitimacy and being regarded as a good corporate citizen It is standard practice for enterprises to be constantly aware of their internal focus on sustainability through ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) and the effect of external sustainability influences on the business’s financial and other functional foundation activities. Conformance is a major factor in confirming compliance and legitimacy, requiring effectiveness, consistency, and discipline in adherence to laws, regulations, and adopted standards, as well as the establishment and monitoring of systems and internal controls. Workforce Engagement and Enterprise Energy Energy is a priority within any enterprise; just as an uninspired workforce will not innovate or rise above challenges, a flat battery will not turn a motor. To drive business momentum (kinetic energy) and growth, an inspired workforce is essential. Purpose in actively attracting the right people into the business creates a highly engaged workforce, resulting in a sense of belonging, commitment, and strong will to support enterprise imperatives. This is achieved through: ■ Recognising individual competencies and preferences ■ Implementing appropriate behaviour enhancing reward structures ■ Aligning enterprise and individual cultures proactively ■ Defining individual and team contribution expectations ■ Defining business processes and customer expectation awareness through staff inductions and team meetings ■ Encouraging the value of engaging diverse but like- minded contributors Everyone in the business needs to know the direction of the business, be aware of potential risks and growth opportunities, understand “what good looks like,” and ultimately know how their contribution blends with others to meet governance, stakeholder, and sustainability expectations. Enterprise Maturity Levels The final aspect in the journey from great business idea to success and sustainability is recognising existing and anticipated maturity levels. Maturity levels influence behaviour and decision-making and are critical considerations as the business grows. Enterprise maturity is observed in three specific focus areas: leadership, functional framework, and culture. While high functioning enterprises can exist at low, medium, or high maturity levels, their management principles, processes, and staffing engagement must align to suit the enterprise’s capabilities and purpose. Maturity levels often manifest as follows: 1. Lower Maturity (Start-ups, smaller family-owned/ managed enterprises): Often characterised by centralised decision-making, where the “boss” directs activities and creates norms in the business 2. Scaling Businesses (Medium Maturity): Often prefer a highly structured organisation where the leader, board, or governing body can direct activities and implement controls to ensure customer satisfaction and financial measures are reached 3. Higher Maturity: Achieved when staff and teams begin to work together synergistically, focusing together on meeting customer, governance, stakeholder, and sustainability expectations. This level is highly innovative, with leadership, the functional foundation, and enterprise culture focused expressly on continuous improvement, customer satisfaction, building a positive reputation, and ensuring the enterprise is regarded as an effective and ethical corporate citizen. The great business idea and enterprise vision remain the only unique aspect of every enterprise. It is the critical component in creating effective enterprises that meet and exceed customer and stakeholder expectations and help solve community, national, and global challenges. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to immerse themselves in their great business ideas – focusing on products and services that support economic development, social upliftment, and environmental protection – and engage mentors to help build the necessary business frameworks. A great business idea is just a thought until you act on it, give it energy, and guide it to create something valuable. BusinessFit SA Contact David White T: +27 (0)31 767 0625 E: david@businessfitsa.co.za W: www.businessfitsa.co.za

Aletta Rochat, has made history as the first African elected International President of Toastmasters International, a global organisation that helps people build confidence, communication, and leadership skills. Rochat was inaugurated at the organisation’s annual International Convention in Philadelphia, USA, held from 20 – 23 August 2025. In her opening address, she shared a message of hope and resilience: “Our success is not determined by our circumstances, it is determined by our belief in what is possible.” Her election is a proud moment for Africa. Rochat’s journey with Toastmasters began in 2008, when she joined a local club to further develop her speaking and leadership skills. She quickly found a supportive community that encouraged her to step forward, take on leadership roles, and inspire others. Over the years, Rochat has trained and mentored people across the world, written books on public speaking, and built an international coaching business - all while staying deeply connected to her Cape Town roots. “I am proud to represent the incredible talent we have in Africa,” Rochat said. “Toastmasters taught me to say ‘yes’ to opportunities. When you grow, you are able to help others do the same.” Toastmasters International has over 280,000 members across 149 countries. These clubs provide a safe and supportive environment where people gain essential communication and leadership skills that ripple out into workplaces, families, and communities. Rochat’s achievement demonstrates how local voices can rise to inspire the world - and how Africa continues to produce leaders of global significance.   DISCOVER THE POWER OF TOASTMASTERS IN KZN Toastmasters offers a welcoming supportive environment where people from all walks of life, students, professionals, entrepreneurs, and retirees, can enhance public speaking and leadership skills. Clubs meet online and in person globally, providing a safe space to conquer stage fright, refine communication, and build confidence. Joining a Toastmasters club connects you with a supportive community encouraging growth. Each club has a unique atmosphere, perfect for nervous beginners or seasoned speakers. Meetings spark inspiration through impromptu speaking practice, ideal for mastering challenges like job interviews, and constructive feedback in a warm setting. Toastmasters is more than skill-building; it’s about forming meaningful connections within a dynamic community. Grow alongside others passionate about self-improvement, gaining tools to express yourself clearly and lead confidently. The flexible environment empowers you to unlock your potential at your own pace, with every step celebrated. If you’re ready to elevate your communication skills, boost your confidence, and connect with a vibrant community, Toastmasters is the place to start. Take the first step toward discovering the power of your voice and the joy of personal growth. You are worth it, choose you today. For more information about Toastmasters or about how to join a club, please contact: Nontobeko Mhlongo, Division Director E: dvdd@toastmasters74.org T: +27 (0)61 335 1275 W: www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club

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