Visitors to the KwaZulu-Natal Industrial Technology Exhibition (KITE) 2025, taking place from 22 to 24 July at the Durban Exhibition Centre, are in for a powerful dose of practical insight and forward-thinking discussion at the free-to-attend SAIMechE Seminar Theatre. Curated in collaboration with the South African Institution of Mechanical Engineering (SAIMechE), the seminar sessions run across all three show days and cover the latest trends shaping the industrial and manufacturing sectors. “With topics spanning artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, Industry 4.0, sustainability, safety compliance, and digital transformation, the sessions are tailored to give engineers, plant managers, technical teams, and decision-makers immediate takeaways to apply in their operations. Whether you’re navigating compliance or exploring smart factory upgrades, these sessions provide practical, peer-led content you won’t find anywhere else in KwaZulu-Natal,” says Charlene Hefer, Portfolio Director at Specialised Exhibitions — a division of Montgomery Group. Seminar highlights* include: Tuesday, 22 July 2025 10:00–10:30 — The application of industrial-scale monitoring, data analytics and AI to commercial datacentres. Speaker: Nirmal Narotam, PAS Automation Services SA. 10:45–11:15 — Leading in Industry 4.0 with IoT and AI. Speaker: Rolf Ritter, Bossard Central Europe. 11:30–12:00 — Forging the future —  technology-driven transformation for design and engineering. Speaker: Wayne Vickery, Modena Design Centres Durban. 12:15-12:45 — Exploring how different sectors, such as manufacturing, are leveraging AI to boost productivity.  Speaker: Pragasen Moodley, Director — Sage Africa & Middle East region. 13:30-14:00 — Smart connected motor starting solution for industry application and improving, process, efficiency and deliverables in one easy to access tool.  Speaker: Rockwell Automation. 14:15-14:45 — Transforming traditional manufacturing into dynamic, data-driven ecosystems.  Speaker: Ricardo Pillay, Fluidlink & Asset Performance Manager — Engen. Wednesday, 23 July 2025 09:30–12:30 — ECSA Training. The Society for Automation, Instrumentation, Mechatronics & Computer Engineering (SAIMC) will be running an ECSA registration workshop in the SAIMechE Seminar Theatre. This workshop provides engineers, technologists and technicians with the tools they need to register professionally, stay compliant and lead industrial innovation. SAIMC CEO, Johan Maartens, will guide attendees through the process of completing their Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) registration forms — an essential step for professionals in automation, instrumentation and related fields. Visit the SAIMC at Stand G9 to find out more about membership, and what services SAIMC provides. 13:30 – 14:00: From silos to synergy: Building a collaborative C-Suite with smart HR tech.  Speaker: Washington Mashanda, Sales Director HR & Payroll — Africa & Middle East at Sage. Thursday, 24 July 2025 10:00–10:30 — LEGAL: Am I doing engineering work? Speaker: Johan Maartens, SAIMC. 10:45–11:15 — An introduction to the South African Institution of Mechanical Engineering (SAIMechE). Speaker: Avinash Maharaj, SAIMechE. 11:30–12:00 — Digital technology in the safety industry —  a help or a hindrance? Speaker: Chris Coetzee, OHSS Consulting. 12:15-12:45 — Driving sustainable innovations.  Speaker: Tasneem Dajee, Senior Solutions Engineer — Sage.   *Programme subject to change. “From strategic technology integration to data-driven safety and green innovation, the SAIMechE Seminar Theatre at KITE 2025 delivers knowledge that can power up your business and give you the edge in a competitive landscape,” says Hefer. Visitors are encouraged to pre-register for free on the KITE website — www.kznindustrial.co.za  — to avoid queues at the expo. The website is also a valuable source of updated information on the seminar sessions. To book a stand or a sponsorship package at KITE 2025, speak to Steven Burmeister — steven.burmeister@montgomerygroup.com

As we navigate the complexities of 2025, one question continues to rise to the surface: How are today’s leaders balancing the relentless rise of technology with the timeless need for human connection? We’re surrounded by rapid advances - AI, automation, digital platforms, and data-driven systems are transforming how we work, make decisions, and even interact. But amidst the algorithms and efficiencies, people are still people.They still crave meaning, connection, and leadership with heart . 🔹 It's not just about adopting the latest tools — it's about staying anchored in your values . 🔹 It's not just about scaling faster — it's about building trust and belonging . 🔹 It's not just about data — it's about understanding people  and leading them with empathy and intention. Yes, tech can increase productivity, streamline processes, and unlock new levels of innovation — but it cannot replace authenticity , emotional intelligence , or purpose . Whether you’re leading a startup, managing a global enterprise, or driving change in your community, the challenge remains the same: How do you lead with heart in a high-tech world? The answer may not be in choosing between tech and humanity, but in fusing them together , intentionally. Because the future belongs to leaders who can combine insight with intuition.Those who can leverage AI but lead with empathy .Those who stay curious, stay real, and never lose sight of the people behind the processes. In a world racing toward automation, your authenticity might just be your greatest competitive advantage.

The KZN Top Business Brand Award, brought to you by Standard Bank and Women of Africa Group and in association with East Coast Radio, is back and this year’s competition is fiercer than ever! We are seeing a growing number of contenders in the running with the votes flying in each day. The current standing is as follows: Royal Tyres SA Home Loans The Association for the Aged (TAFTA) Beekman Group Hirsch Tyson Properties Avemel Logistics aQuelle Your Pass To Travel SupaHot Geysers Meondo Holdings Cleaning Division Imperial Armour Bluff Meat Supply SearchWorks360 Hulamin Hollywoodbets Woodford Group Icebolethu Group Cox Yeats Attorneys Construction for Africa BUBBLING UNDER (in alphabetical order) DRG Dromex Jonsson Workwear  Mi7 National Group Mobi Claw Morar Incorporated Pedros Flame Grilled Chicken Sky Tents The Top Brand category is awarded by public vote only. So, have you voted yet? Time is ticking and voting closes on 13 July! Make sure your voice counts in helping crown the next KZN Top Business Brand 2025. Cast your vote today at www.kzntopbusiness.com The KZN Top Business Brand Award, brought to you by Standard Bank and Women of Africa Group and in association with East Coast Radio

By Richard Hoal , Partner, Cox Yeats We see more and more critical infrastructure failures and deterioration, both within local and metropolitan Municipalities. Raw sewerage in the streets is a common sight, potholes prevail, and stormwater drainage fails repeatedly.  It is commonplace that despite residents paying rates and making multiple complaints to authorities, the situation does not improve. Citizens have various constitutional rights, including the freedom of movement and access to essential services, as well as to approach a Court when a right in the Bill of Rights has been infringed. Can citizens or local resident associations take the local or national Government to Court to obtain Court Orders compelling them to effectively deal with the situation? This question came before the High Court in Umtata in a judgment handed down earlier this month. A local residents' association brought an application against the Department of Transport, directing them to repair the surface and undertake all the necessary work to restore a main road to good condition.   The Court accepted that the resident association had legal standing to bring the application. The applicant put up extensive evidence of complaints being lodged with councillors and the local municipality, with no tangible results. The Court considered the effect of the inaccessible road on the applicants’ daily lives, their ability to shop, access to banking services and get to work, learners’ ability to get to school, access to medical facilities as well as the impact of poorly positioned drainage pipes causing flooding and an additional slippery road surface causing danger. The respondents argued that they had a significant scope of responsibility and that the maintenance costs of a paved road network was approximately R1.8 million per kilometre. given their budget limitations annually, the Department had to engage with Municipalities to prioritise road maintenance based on the needs of each respective community.  The Department had to acknowledge the need for road upgrades that the applicants had requested and contended that considerable progress had been made with the budget approved and contractors appointed. The Court accepted that it was the respondents’ responsibility and constitutional role, and accepted, although the Municipalities had an interest in the matter, it was not required for the Municipalities to be joined to the proceedings. The Court accepted that the applicants had clearly demonstrated their rights were being infringed upon, as well as the deplorable state of the road, and that they had no other remedy available. The Court issued an Order that the Department was directed to repair, resurface and restore the main road within 120 days of the date of the Order, and ordered that the respondents pay the cost of the application. Conclusion: This case serves as a reminder that the Courts will intervene where the State fails to discharge its constitutional obligations and where citizens or local associations can show extensive complaints and requests for assistance which have remained unanswered.   It is not sufficient for the State to point to budget limitations as an exclusive answer to its failure to implement important and necessary infrastructural maintenance or upgrades.  Citizens can be confident in taking a more active approach to holding local and national governments responsible for fulfilling their constitutional mandates to effect repairs to ageing and failing infrastructure.

Wynand Laatz, the operations director of Mobile Venches, confidently leads Mobi Claw911, a premier vehicle tracking and ambulance service. They effectively collaborate with ER 24 and Rescue Support Services for emergency responses, notably during recent floods in Durban. Skilled volunteers are integral to high-risk rescue operations. During the floods, unexpected areas were impacted, including a significant incident where a woman's car was swept away. Despite the challenges, the rescue team, alongside ER 24 and Durban Fire Rescue, successfully located the vehicle, providing closure to the family. The company expertly manages medical emergencies nationwide, such as a mountain rescue involving helicopters. Their app, tailored for the South African market, empowers users to send alerts with a single button, instantly providing their GPS location to a 24/7 control room. If the user is unable to respond, emergency contacts are promptly notified, and resources are dispatched without delay. Wynand underscores the critical importance of rapid response and highlights the company's strategic partnerships with security and medical entities to ensure seamless operations. Wynand Laatz

KwaZulu-Natal’s leading business recognition platform, the KZN Top Business Awards , has officially released the shortlist of nominees for 2025. Presented by Standard Bank , in partnership with the Women of Africa Group  and supported by East Coast Radio , the KZN Top Business Awards continue to recognise businesses that demonstrate excellence, resilience, and positive impact across KwaZulu-Natal. These awards shine a spotlight on organisations that are building a stronger province—economically and socially. The judging panel was impressed by the quality of entries received across all categories, which reflect the strength and diversity of KZN’s economy. Below are the shortlisted companies across key industry sectors: Categories and Shortlisted Nominees The awards span a diverse range of sectors, reflecting the rich economic landscape of the province: Manufacturing Recognising companies that excel in transforming raw materials into finished products, contributing to both domestic and international markets: Hulamin Siyaka Imperial Armour Plastimed Evopharm Arena Trims SLG Joekels Tea aQuellé Transport & Logistics Celebrating operational excellence in transportation, courier services, warehousing, and travel services: The Courier Guy Durban Your Pass to Travel Avemel Logistics Franchising Acknowledging businesses operating under established brand systems that demonstrate consistency, scalability, and innovation: Meondo Holdings (Pty) Ltd Chas Everitt (Pinetown, Malvern, Chatsworth, Westville, Izinga & Pietermaritzburg) Drakewoods Group Family-Owned or Managed Businesses Highlighting businesses where family involvement plays a central role in operations and decision-making: Beekman Group Miktek Scientific Imperial Armour Fordoun Hotel and Spa Bluff Meat Supply Siyaka Benita Ardenbaum Attorneys Enlightment Foods Agriculture Recognising the importance of primary production and agri-processing in the regional economy: GreenHills Laboratories BioAge Luhnyezi Farming Business, Financial, Legal & Education Services Celebrating professional service providers committed to excellence and impact in their respective fields: Benita Ardenbaum Attorneys NJMPF Tyson Properties Searchworks BConsult Royal Tyres Community Upliftment & Improvement Awarding businesses and social enterprises that have made a significant contribution to community development and social change: Innovate Durban Black City Media Ocean Driven Media SLG Mobi Ventures aQuellé SA Suburbs Wallace and Green Renewable Efficiency – Green Initiatives Recognising innovation in sustainability, clean energy, and environmentally responsible practices: Brahman Hills aQuellé Wallace and Green Employee Wellness Honouring businesses that invest in staff development, wellbeing, and workplace culture: Beekman Group Hulamin SRF Flexipak SA Meondo Holdings (Pty) Ltd Partnerships Highlighting effective collaborations and joint initiatives that lead to measurable results: Ensure Ubuntu Durban Direct Nos Media Standard Bank Client of the Year Awards SME Category Recognising high-performing small and medium-sized enterprises that are clients of Standard Bank: Arena Trims Construction for Africa Enlightment Foods Black City Media Wallace and Green Larger Enterprise Category Acknowledging impactful and well-established organisations partnered with Standard Bank: NJMPF Avemel Group Searchworks Looking Ahead Finalists in each category will be officially announced next week, and the overall winners will be revealed during the KZN Top Business Awards 2025 Gala Event  later this month. Voting for the KZN Top Brand 2025  category remains open, with thousands of votes already cast by members of the public. The latest standings will be released on Later next week , and everyone is encouraged to participate in celebrating the brands they love.

The KZN Top Business Awards, brought to you by Standard Bank and Women of Africa Group and in association with East Coast Radio, is currently underway and much interest is being shown! The KZN Top Business Awards 2025 shortlist was revealed this afternoon, marking a significant milestone in the annual celebration of excellence within the KwaZulu-Natal business community. The announcement of the shortlist has generated excitement and discussion across various media platforms, with many businesses taking to social media to express their gratitude for being recognized. The awards ceremony, which will take place later this month, promises to be an inspiring event, celebrating the achievements of those who have demonstrated resilience and creativity in navigating the challenges of the business world. Overall, the unveiling of the KZN Top Business Awards 2025 shortlist not only highlights the achievements of individual businesses but also underscores the collective strength and potential of the KwaZulu-Natal region as a thriving hub for commerce and innovation. Click on the YouTube link where the announcement is fully revealed. KZN Top Business Award 2025 Shortlist

Property conversions – office blocks to apartment blocks, retail centres to medical facilities or workshops into for-hire storage or warehouses – are the name of the property game of late. “Not only does the auction platform unlock liquidity in the marketplace for private investors or state owned enterprises with large property portfolios that no longer match their future business strategies but it also provides an invaluable foundation for future development and re-development,” says  High Street Auction Co director, Greg Dart.   Some of the almost 40 properties that will come under the High Street Auction Co hammer on July 17 could be ripe for re-invention, Dart believes.  Repurpose rather than rebuild Dart notes that the commercial property market is still oversupplied with market forces now driving the need for retrofitting office spaces. “There is a need for capital allocation for asset repurposing. Converting underperforming office stock into alternative uses will ultimately remove obsolete inventory and tighten the market,” he observes.  The consensus at High Street is that, in many instances, it is better to repurpose a  building  than build from scratch. Innovating so that existing buildings’ lives can be extended saves on costs, time and energy and contributes towards sustainability. Construction time can be reduced and challenges such as zoning and building restrictions diminished.  Relooking at retail  At present, both shoppers and investors favour convenience and neighbourhood retail centres anchored by grocery or pharmacy tenants for their stable footfall, essential service appeal, and resilience to economic volatility rather than large regional malls.  However, according to Dart, it doesn’t stop there.  Many retail brands and landlords are now adopting hybrid models, using physical stores as both showrooms and distribution points, enhancing their ability to meet the demands of consumers shopping online. Some properties are being converted or upgraded to cater for this as well as for other commercial tenants such as medical practitioners and professional services.  Dart believes that the Sunward Palms in Sunward Park, Gauteng, where there is already provision for the inclusion of medical facilities and which will be auctioned on July 17, is an example.   “This fully tenanted 6232m² property is ideally suited for a proposed medical day hospital development as it is perfectly positioned to complement the existing anchor tenant, Virgin Active,  plus nearby medical facilities including the Netcare Sunward Park Hospital,” he explains.  Accommodating change  Another segment of the commercial property space that is evolving is the hospitality sector. Its recovery is seeing the entrance of new operators who are converting older properties to better service new tourism requirements or even re-using these properties as medical facilities, retirement centres or residential estates.  One such venue, known as Dozi's Back to the Roots Venue at Hartebeespoort in the North West province, will feature in the July 17 auction  as will properties in Dullstroom. These include the quaint Cpirit Market Place with its retail offering housed in repurposed black shipping containers, seven charming Cpirit Country Haven Self-Catering Cottages and the Cpirit Village View Guesthouse.   Rethinking residential However, the most talked about trend right now is the conversion of commercial properties into residential and student accommodation. Latest trends favour mixed-use developments that minimise travel costs and congestion.  Dart attributes the rise in mixed-use developments to urban migration, lifestyle integration and a continued remote work culture. The growth of live-work-play precincts reflect both the diversification of income streams (residential, retail, office) and their strong appeal to tenants seeking lifestyle and flexibility. He acknowledges that there is a compelling case for investment in commercial to residential conversions – especially those with an affordable housing component. In fact, many local governments are actively seeking opportunities to partner with developers to leverage inner-city residential projects to address growing social housing backlogs and urban decay in city centres. An example of what can be achieved was a property in Salt River that was sold by High Street to big precinct developer Divercity for R30-million. This morphed into Divercity’s R280-million inaugural Cape Town development (known as 9 Hopkins) which broke ground last year and will bring around 400 affordable rental apartments to Salt River. Ends

As South Africa enters the high-risk winter fire season, Sappi Southern Africa reflects not only on the serious threats that fires pose to forests, communities and livelihoods — but on the discipline and readiness it takes to confront them. This July marks one year since the tragic loss of seven firefighters during a devastating blaze in KwaZulu-Natal — a painful reminder of the real stakes that lie behind every incident report, red flag warning, and firebreak. Their legacy drives a renewed resolve across the industry to invest in people, protocols and partnerships that turn risk into readiness. Firefighting is not seasonal at Sappi — it is a year-round commitment, and every year the Regional Sappi Fire Readiness Competitions are held– this year hosted at Richmond in KZN and Ndubazi in Mpumalanga-  to showcase the power of applied training under pressure.  These events bring together our forestry frontline firefighters to sharpen their skills and test their strength in a spirit of camaraderie. Far from mere competition, this is where technique meets teamwork — echoing the very principles that underpin our safety culture, including the Stop and Think Before You Act initiative.  We believe that it’s through readiness that resilience is built. The events drew teams from across the company’s forestry management units, competing in scenarios that mirrored real-life operational demands: hose laying under time constraints, pump start-ups under fault conditions, mobile unit deployment, defensive fire line cutting, and rapid ascent fitness drills simulating steep terrain. Judges assessed response time, technique, stamina, and team command and coordination — the same variables that determine success on the fire-line. “These competitions are not just an internal benchmark; they’re part of how we maintain operational discipline and stress-test our capacity,” says Duane Roothman, Vice President of Sappi Forests. “We build muscle memory for the critical minutes that matter most. From proto-team drills to equipment protocols, our model is based on accountability, simulation and real-time readiness.” Sappi’s commitment to year-round fire preparedness is embedded in its integrated fire management programme, implemented across its forestry regions spanning over 400,000 hectares in Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal. Each district maintains updated suppression plans and undergoes annual readiness audits, including FITPA-aligned training verification, PPE and tool checks, vehicle compliance assessments, and command structure simulations. Training extends to all forestry personnel and contractors, covering everything from basic firefighting and proto-team leadership to health and safety compliance, fire boss responsibilities and defensive driving. Weekly fitness routines for firefighting teams — including timed runs over varied terrain — ensure operational readiness under strain. In addition, Sappi conducts full fire simulations with incident command centre activation and designated radio channels, replicating live-fire decision-making and coordination. Further strengthening this approach is Sappi’s active membership in local Fire Protection Associations (FPAs) and local farmer networks. These partnerships ensure mutual support on early detection, resource sharing, and aerial response — critical during peak fire alerts or multi-front suppression scenarios. Compliance with the National Veld and Forest Fire Act is ensured through regular firebreak maintenance and inter-agency coordination. “Preparedness doesn’t start when the smoke is visible,” adds Roothman. “It starts with data, drills, dialogue — and a firm understanding that every prevention effort is a value multiplier for our people and assets.” While National Wildland Firefighter Day is officially recognised in the United States on 02 July, its spirit resonates strongly here in South Africa — particularly within our forestry communities, where this time of year coincides with our own peak fire season.  We use this moment to acknowledge the extraordinary dedication of our firefighting teams, contractors, and partners — not only as a gesture of solidarity with the global fire management community, but as a reaffirmation of our local commitment to year-round readiness, prevention, and collaboration. "We may not observe the same calendar date nationally, but the urgency and principle remain the same. July in South Africa is fire season — and it demands a level of preparedness that goes beyond compliance. It’s about protecting landscapes, livelihoods, and life itself," comments Roothman. This moment offers a powerful opportunity to highlight best practice, share innovation, and honour those who quite literally walk toward the fire — wherever they are in the world.   ENDS

The voting deadline has been extended to 12 pm on Sunday, the 13th. The KZN Top Business Brand Award, brought to you by Standard Bank and Women of Africa Group and in association with East Coast Radio, is currently underway and much interest is being shown! The main category entries for this year's awards are now officially closed, marking the end of a significant phase in our event. However, there is still an exciting opportunity for you to participate and make your voice heard! You can still cast your vote for the esteemed Top Brand in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), a title that recognises excellence and innovation in branding within the region. This is your chance to support your favorite brands and help them gain the recognition they deserve. Engaging in this voting process not only empowers you as a consumer but also contributes to the vibrant business landscape of KZN. Your vote can truly make a difference in highlighting the brands that resonate with you and your community. To participate in this important voting process, simply click the link provided below! By doing so, you will be directed to the voting platform where you can select your preferred brand. Remember, every vote counts, and your input is vital in determining which brand will take home the coveted title of Top Brand in KZN this year! Click here to cast your vote The grand announcement of the winner is on 17 July, so mark your calendars! Here are the current top 20 : SA Homeloans Hirschs Royals Tyres Tafta Tyson Property aQuellé Beekman Group SearchWorks360 East Coast Radio Your Pass to travel Imperial Armour Bluff Meat Supply Bell Equipment Limited Cox Yeats Attorneys Icebolethu Group Hollywood Bets Hulamin Mi7 National Group Woodford Group Construction For Africa BUBBLING UNDER (in alpherbetical order) DRG Dromex Fordoun Hotel & Spa Johnsons Workwear Mobi Claw Morar Incorporated Pedros Flame Grilled Chicken Sky Tents Spar Supertech

At the Beekman Group, we see leisure as more than a break from routine. It is a lifestyle choice, a step toward balance and a way to invest in your well-being and future. For over 50 years, we have developed and managed destinations that help people slow down, reconnect and experience something truly rewarding. Today, we continue to grow that vision by offering individuals, families and businesses the opportunity to invest in leisure. Our properties deliver both personal enjoyment and long-term value through a model built on trust, care and quality. Whether you are planning your next luxury getaway or looking to grow your investment portfolio with secure, income-generating property, the Beekman Group offers a uniquely rewarding approach to both. Investing for a Future and Lifestyle That Works for You Your investment can do more than simply grow in value. It should offer flexibility, create opportunities for you, bring joy to others and deliver consistent returns. Our Sectional Title  ownership model offers more than just property. It offers flexibility, peace of mind and meaningful returns. When you purchase a Sectional Title unit in one of our resorts , you own a luxury property, which becomes part of a professionally managed rental pool. While you are not using it, your unit is made available to other guests for holiday exchanges and rental stays. Our experienced team takes care of every detail. Marketing, bookings, guest services, maintenance and housekeeping are all managed on your behalf through the Beekman Managed Portfolio . This means your investment works for you behind the scenes, with none of the hassle that usually comes with property ownership. You can earn up to 12% annually, all while enjoying your own stays during your allocated weeks.  We also know that travel is about variety. That is why we have partnered with international exchange programmes that give you the freedom to swap your holiday time for stays at over 130+ resorts locally and more than 3 200+ resorts internationally . These partner resorts meet the same high-quality standards as our own, giving you access to new destinations without compromising on comfort or service. Where Work Meets Leisure: The Menlyn Mix Opportunity As the way we live and work continues to evolve, so does the way we invest in our future. That vision comes to life in our latest development, Menlyn Mix . Located in the heart of Menlyn Maine, one of Pretoria’s most dynamic and sought-after precincts, Menlyn Mix reimagines what a modern resort can offer. This innovative development features beautifully designed apartments created for professionals, consultants and corporate teams who need flexible spaces that support both focus and downtime. Owners can enjoy their units during key business travel periods and make them available for short-term rental when not in use. With rooftop entertainment areas, executive lock-out suites and on-site business amenities, Menlyn Mix offers a seamless blend of comfort, performance and convenience. This is more than just a place to stay. It is a smart investment. With projected returns of up to 12%  annually, Menlyn Mix is already attracting strong interest from both local and international investors looking for secure, high-performing investment property in Pretoria. Menlyn Mix reflects the future of work and leisure. It offers professional functionality with all the ease and enjoyment of a leisure destination. It is designed for people who value flexibility, quality and consistent return on investment. The Beekman Group Continues to Lead in Leisure and Delivering Results At the Beekman Group, we are proud to lead the way in leisure investment opportunities across South Africa and beyond. Our focus is not just on developing property, but on creating lasting value through spaces that support real lives and real dreams. Investing in leisure means choosing a lifestyle that offers more. More time to enjoy with loved ones, more freedom to explore and more balance between ambition and rest. Our model is built to deliver not only strong returns, but the kind of flexibility and ease that fits into the life you’re building. Visit the Beekman Managed Portfolio  and discover   how investing in leisure can work for your lifestyle.

The competition for the KZN Top Brand Award is intensifying. Ensure your involvement in this thrilling event. The excitement is palpable as votes continue to pour in, altering the rankings on a daily basis. We are enthusiastic to witness numerous esteemed KZN brands vying for the top position. The voting deadline has been extended to 6 PM on Sunday, the 16th. Click here to cast your vote The grand announcement of the winner is on 17 July, so mark your calendars! Here are the current top 20 : SA Homeloans Hirschs Royals Tyres Tafta Tyson Property aQuellé Beekman Group SearchWorks360 East Coast Radio Your Pass to travel Imperial Armour Bluff Meat Supply Bell Equipment Limited Cox Yeats Attorneys Icebolethu Group Hollywood Bets Hulamin Mi7 National Group Woodford Group Construction For Africa BUBBLING UNDER (in alpherbetical order) DRG Dromex Fordoun Hotel & Spa Johnsons Workwear Mobi Claw Morar Incorporated Pedros Flame Grilled Chicken Sky Tents Spar Supertech Explore our latest list of the top 20 brands, along with the Bubbling Under  category. Continue voting for your favorite brand—it might make it to the top 20 next week! This event is an exhilarating and competitive challenge, so keep the votes flowing! Every vote counts! The rankings are constantly shifting, so your favorite brand could rise to the top. We're enjoying every second of this thrilling Battle of the Brands in KZN ! Wendy (Roving Reporter) KZN Business Sense Battle of the Brands in KZN !