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  • Join the KZN Business Discussion on Trusts with Alan Hockey & Brian Payne

    KZN TOP BUSINESS DISCUSSION: with Alan Hockey & Brian Payne on types of trusts & what to expect. There are four categories of trusts which trustees might find themselves responsible for Testamentary / Will Trusts, Inter-vivos Trusts where the beneficiaries are living abroad, Dormant / Unused Trust & Trusts housing Public Benefit Activities, for example, School. These trusts all have subtle differences and need to be understood as part of the trustees’ decision on the way forward. Register now & participate in the discussion. KZN TOP BUSINESS DISCUSSION with Alan Hockey & Brian Payne on types of trusts & what to expect. #TypesofTrusts #WillTrust #TestamentaryTrust #InterVivosTrusts #DormantTrusts #Lems #goodtoknow #KZN #legal

  • State Tenders and Unlawful Disqualifications: What Contractors Must Know

    Richard Hoal, partner and Khanya Mgebisa, associate, Cox Yeats Public sector projects often represent significant opportunities for contractors across the country. Whether in infrastructure, transport, or housing, state tenders continue to shape much of the construction and engineering landscape in South Africa. But with those opportunities come risks, particularly when the procurement process is flawed, or a contractor is unfairly excluded. It is not uncommon for contractors to suspect that a tender was improperly awarded: that the process was riddled with irregularities, the evaluation criteria were misapplied, or their bid was disqualified for reasons that were neither lawful nor rational. In those moments, acting promptly is paramount. This article outlines what contractors must know about responding to questionable tender outcomes, the importance of following internal procedures, and the urgency with which review proceedings must be brought to prevent the contract from becoming untouchable. S tart with the Internal Remedies—But Do Not Wait Forever Most state-owned entities and government departments have internal processes for challenging tender decisions. Whether styled as a bid appeal, reconsideration request, or internal review, this procedure must be the first port of call. Contractors may request written reasons and relevant records, such as bid evaluation minutes, scoring sheets, and adjudication reports, within a limited period, usually 14 days. These internal procedures serve an important purpose. They give the state entity an opportunity to correct its decision or to provide clarity. But they can also delay the timeline for approaching the court and potentially obtaining an urgent hearing. Contractors who treat this process as a waiting game—hoping for a detailed response—often find themselves in trouble when the entity does not reply at all. The position is that silence or delay on the part of the state entity does not pause the obligation to act. The courts have consistently held that an unreasonable delay in launching review proceedings may bar a challenge altogether. Urgent Interdict Proceedings Must Be Brought Before the Contract Is Implemented In applying for an urgent interdict to prevent the implementation of a tender, it is not enough to rely on your right to review a tender award. The risk lies in waiting too long to enforce that right. In many instances, by the time the aggrieved bidder has prepared a review application, the successful bidder has already been issued a letter of award, concluded a contract, and moved onto site. At that stage, courts are far less willing to interfere. South African courts have been clear on this point. In the Constitutional Court case of National Treasury v Opposition to Urban Tolling Alliance 2012 (6) SA 223 (CC), the court explained that: “The prima facie right a claimant must establish is not merely the right to approach a court in order to review an administrative decision. It is a right to which, if not protected by an interdict, irreparable harm would ensue.” In short, it is not enough to argue that the award was unlawful. One must show that unless the court intervenes now, irreversible harm will result. The purpose of an interdict is to prevent future harm, not to undo actions that have already taken place. It is common for judges not to grant interim relief precisely because the successful bidder had already begun work on site, given that by that stage, the harm was no longer imminent or irreversible. The decision had already been implemented. The opportunity to stop it had passed. T he Balance of Convenience Will Rarely Favour Delay Even where the court accepts that there may have been irregularities, it will still weigh the balance of convenience before granting any relief. In the context of public infrastructure, state entities are likely to argue that any interdict halting the project would disrupt delivery, increase costs, and harm the public interest. Where the project timeline is relatively short, but a review process could take a year or longer, the court will be reluctant to freeze the process unless there is a compelling reason to do so. Delays, in other words, shift the balance against the contractor. Practical Guidance for Aggrieved Bidders A contractor facing a situation where its bid has been rejected under questionable circumstances should take the following steps: 1. Immediately request reasons and supporting documentation from the state entity. Be precise and document the request and information required. 2. Follow the internal appeal or bid review process—but do not allow silence or delay to lead to inaction. 3. Seek legal advice urgently. Even if the internal process is pending, it may be necessary to prepare for court. 4. Bring review proceedings before implementation begins. Once work on site has started, the prospects of obtaining interim relief drop significantly. 5. Act with urgency. Courts have the discretion to refuse to entertain reviews brought after undue delay, regardless of the merits. Closing Thoughts There is often a narrow window within which a contractor can challenge an unlawful or procedurally unfair tender decision. That window closes quickly, sometimes within days, especially once the implementation phase has begun. While many contractors are understandably reluctant to rush to court, the reality is that delay can result in the loss of any effective remedy. The key is to act with clarity, urgency, and legal precision, before it becomes too late to do anything at all. For contractors who find themselves in this difficult position, it may be worth considering early legal advice to preserve the right to challenge a flawed procurement process before the ground shifts irreversibly. Lerato Ramango National Marketing and Brand Manager Cox Yeats Lramango@coxyeats.co.za www.coxyeats.co.za Richard Hoal, partner Khanya Mgebisa, associate

  • Extraordinary Starts Within: How The Beekman Group Equips Its People to Deliver Holiday Magic

    Winners of the 2024 KZN Top Business Award for Employee Wellness At The Beekman Group, creating unforgettable holiday experiences doesn’t begin at check-in. It starts behind the scenes, with the people who bring our brand to life every single day. For over 50 years, we’ve grown into one of Southern Africa’s most respected names in hospitality and leisure property development. And throughout that journey, one principle has held true: if we want to deliver extraordinary holidays, we must first build extraordinary teams. People Are the Strategy Our vision , “Making Extraordinary Holidays THE Standard”, is ambitious by design. Achieving it demands more than great resorts; it requires deeply engaged, well-equipped people who are inspired to lead, solve, innovate and serve with purpose. That’s why our investment in people lies at the heart of everything we do. From frontline resort teams and dynamic call centre service teams to leadership at head office, we empower our employees with the tools, training and culture they need to thrive in their roles and careers. “Our development approach is about more than skills. It’s about equipping every person with the mindset, support and purpose to consistently deliver the extraordinary.”– Hannelie Millar, Training and Development Manager Development That Drives Experience At The Beekman Group, employee growth is intentional. Our training and development function operates as a critical engine of business performance, directly linked to service excellence, guest satisfaction and company-wide resilience. Our approach focuses on four integrated key areas: ·         Induction and Onboarding:  Setting the tone early with a values-driven welcome to the Beekman WAY. ·         Role Development:  Continuous training that keeps skills relevant, sharp and aligned to business needs. ·         Employee Culture and Engagement: Cultivating collaboration, motivation and a strong sense of purpose across teams. ·         Quality Assurance:  Embedding consistency and excellence at every guest touchpoint. Together, these elements ensure that learning is not an event, but a lifestyle woven into daily operations and championed by every leader. Culture That Keeps Talent and Guests, Coming Back Our commitment to people isn’t just about building capability. It’s about culture. Over 60%  of our employees have been with us for five years or more, which is an incredible testament to a workplace where people feel developed, valued and supported. This loyalty fuels consistency, innovation and a spirit of hospitality that our guests notice and love. Employee wellness is equally key. From work-life balance, study assistance and internal promotions to physical wellness initiatives and emotional support, we care deeply for the people who care for our guests. Our service and culture charter, the Beekman WAY , acts as a living guide for how we work, connect and grow together. Across the Group, Beekman WAY Ambassadors help embed these values into our everyday actions, helping to shape a company culture that’s as extraordinary as the experiences we create. A Legacy of Leadership in People Development Winning the 2024 KZN Top Business Award for Employee Wellness  is an honour. But more importantly, it’s confirmation that our strategy is working. When people thrive, performance naturally follows. As a proudly family-run business operating across four countries, we’re deeply proud of the culture we’ve cultivated, one where careers grow, ideas matter, and every team member is empowered to help us deliver on our promise of exceptional holidays. Because at The Beekman Group, extraordinary isn’t a moment, it’s a mindset. And it starts within. To learn more about how we build careers and a culture of excellence, explore Working at The Beekman Group . Beekman WAY Ambassadors Beekman Group 2024 Staff Cookoff Champions

  • COX YEATS EARNS PRESTIGIOUS RECOGNITION

    Cox Yeats has once again solidified its position as one of South Africa’s leading law firms with notable rankings in the 2025 edition of Legal 500, a globally respected guide to the legal profession. Shipping & Transport Practice Recognised for Excellence The firm’s Shipping and Transport team has been lauded for its cohesive and highly specialised approach to complex maritime matters. The editorial commentary describes the group as “a well-oiled machine” under the leadership of Andrew Clark, who has been recognised as a Leading Individual for his deep expertise in marine insurance and maritime litigation. Clark is praised for his ability to navigate intricate legal challenges with clarity and composure, with clients remarking on his willingness to share knowledge and manage sensitive matters with professionalism. Also honoured is Tamryn Simpson, named a Next Generation Partner, who brings exceptional insight into charter party disputes, marine insurance claims, and international trade issues. Simpson is known for her accessibility and proactive communication style, earning praise from clients for her reliability and responsiveness. Slindokuhle Ngwenya has been named a Leading Associate for her extensive experience in contentious matters on behalf of cargo owners, shipowners, and insurers. Her growing reputation reflects her ability to handle demurrage disputes, ship arrests, and logistics claims with confidence and attention to detail. The team also includes Aideen Ross, who contributes significantly to cases involving maritime casualties and liability issues, underscoring the strength and depth of the firm’s shipping practice. Construction Practice Applauded for Industry Insight The firm’s Construction, Engineering & Infrastructure practice has also earned recognition, praised for its “extensive knowledge of the construction industry.” With an impressive client base that includes multinational construction companies and financial institutions, the team continues to handle high-value arbitrations, front-end project structuring, and construction-related disputes. The practice is jointly led by Richard Hoal and Peter Barnard, both of whom are long-standing authorities in the field. Barnard’s expertise in dispute resolution complements Hoal’s focus on contractual matters and insurance issues, forming a balanced leadership dynamic. Key contributors to the team’s success include Claudelle Pretorius, known for her work in representing contractors and developers in arbitration proceedings, Mohamed Mota and David Vlcek, each recognised for their strategic insight and sectorspecific knowledge. A Testament to Client-Focused Excellence The 2025 Legal 500 guide reflects the results of months of rigorous research, client interviews, and peer feedback. Cox Yeats’ inclusion across these rankings is a testament to its consistent delivery of legal solutions that combine technical excellence with a collaborative, client-first approach. Clients interviewed by Legal 500 commented on the firm’s “collaborative, customer-focused approach” and noted that Cox Yeats offers “top quality South African shipping law advice” and “extensive background knowledge of the construction industry. ” This recognition underscores Cox Yeats’ continued investment in talent, innovation, and client service across South Africa and beyond. Lerato Ramango, National Marketing and Brand Manager E: Lramango@coxyeats.co.za W: www.coxyeats.co.za COX YEATS EARNS PRESTIGIOUS RECOGNITION

  • Mobile Panic Alert App and Panic Button - Emergency Response - MOBI-CLAW 911

    Angela Alderton from Business Sense interviews Mobi Ventures on effective emergency preparedness, highlighting essential planning, contact management, and Mobi Ventures' innovative solutions. Key Takeaways Planning is Crucial: Proper preparation and role-playing can reduce panic during emergencies . Maintain Emergency Contacts: Store ambulance and police numbers in your phone, using "ICE" for emergency contacts . Important Documentation: Keep emergency numbers and vehicle registration in your wallet for quick access . Medical Awareness: Carry your medical aid card to ensure proper medical attention when needed . Innovative Emergency Solutions: Mobi Ventures offers a comprehensive app and panic device for national emergency assistance, featuring GPS and two-way communication . Discreet Activation: The panic device can be activated subtly during criminal threats, enhancing safety . Easy Sign-Up: Interested users can sign up on the Mobi Ventures website for their services . T: +27 (0)31 109 1888 E: care@mobiventures.co.za  W: www.mobiventures.co.za Mobile Panic Alert App and Panic Button - Emergency Response - MOBI-CLAW 911

  • KZN Top Business Awards 2025-

    Pria Hassan, CEO of Women of Africa, discusses her co-sponsorship of the KZN Top Business Awards 2025 Powered by Standard Bank & WOA Group, highlighting the event's role in promoting conscious leadership, business visibility, and networking opportunities that empower companies and inspire excellence. ### Key Takeaways - Pria Hassan co-sponsors of the KZN Top Business Awards 2025 to support business integrity and recognition. - The awards provide visibility, market access, and credibility for participating businesses. - Participation fosters awareness and strategic planning for long-term success. - Awards celebrate milestones, inspire collaboration, and share impactful business stories. - Businesses of all sizes are encouraged to apply, with support available for new entrants. ## Pria Hassan co-sponsors KZN Top Business Awards 2025   KZN Top Business Awards 2025 KZN Top Business Awards aim to showcase remarkable business stories, inspire teamwork, and highlight significant milestones in the local business community.

  • Collaborative Approaches to Overcoming Disaster Management Challenges in KZN

    Angela Alderton interviews Inanda Bezuidenhout from Momentum Peak Sure about climate challenges, municipal accountability, and the need for better collaboration in disaster management, particularly after recent flooding in KZN. ### Key Takeaways - The recent flooding in KZN highlights severe municipal infrastructure issues and inadequate disaster management plans. - There is a disconnect between planning and implementation within municipalities, leading to repeated disasters. - Insurance companies could play a key role in supporting risk management alongside municipalities. - Community involvement in local maintenance can help mitigate risks from natural disasters. - Proper accountability and transparency from municipalities are essential for effective disaster response. - Addressing climate change and disaster preparedness is a long-term commitment requiring collaborative efforts. - Personal safety and preparedness are critical during natural disasters, emphasizing the importance of community awareness. Angela Alderton interviews Inanda Bezuidenhout from Momentum Peak Sure about climate challenges, municipal accountability, and the need for better collaboration in disaster management, particularly after recent flooding in KZN.

  • SAPPI : Unveiling our Sustainability Report: Highlights from a year of progress

    Durban, 16 April 2025    Sappi Southern Africa launches 2024 Corporate Citizenship Report.   Gaining momentum on our sustainability journey              Sappi Southern Africa is proud to unveil its latest Corporate Citizenship Report, themed ‘Gaining Momentum’, reflecting the strides made in its sustainability journey. The report showcases impactful initiatives, success stories, and partnerships that highlight Sappi’s unwavering commitment to the 9 prioritised Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), advancing a Just Transition and promoting inclusive economic growth and environmental stewardship.   As a vital contributor to the South African economy and an anchor tenant in rural communities, Sappi’s sustainability efforts span multiple dimensions.     Highlights include:   Pioneering climate action : Through climate-smart forestry and responsible land management, Sappi has achieved remarkable progress in biodiversity enhancement, surpassing its strategic target with a 13% improvement in Important Conservation Areas (ICAs).   Conserving biodiversity : Protecting 38,320 hectares of grasslands, wetlands, and forests, supporting critical biodiversity, including endangered species like the Long-toed Tree Frog.   Empowering communities : Initiatives like Sappi Khulisa have uplifted over 4,000 small-scale growers, contributing over ZAR332.6 million to rural communities in 2024 alone. The Sappi Enterprise Supplier Development (ESD) programme ensured a procurement spend with SMEs amounting to over ZAR372 million and sustaining 1,502 jobs.   Driving renewable energy : With 53% of energy sourced from renewables, and innovations like a 175 GWh renewable energy partnership and the Ngodwana Energy biomass project, Sappi continues to lead in advancing SDG7: Affordable and Clean Energy.   Championing education : Through Early Childhood Development programmes, digital literacy, and vocational training, Sappi addresses inequalities in the education system, empowering youth with tools to thrive in a green economy, aligned with SDG4: Quality Education.   Promoting circularity : By transforming woodfibre into versatile, biodegradable products and reducing landfill waste by 44% over five years, Sappi is advancing SDG12: Responsible Consumption and Production.   This year’s report marks a significant milestone, as it is the last published under the leadership of Alex Thiel, outgoing CEO of Sappi Southern Africa. Reflecting on his tenure, Thiel shared, "Leading Sappi Southern Africa has been an extraordinary privilege. The achievements in this report are a testament to our team’s resilience, innovation, and commitment. I hand over the reins to Graeme Wild, confident in the bright future ahead."   Newly appointed CEO Graeme Wild, poised to steer Sappi Southern Africa into its next chapter, expressed his vision for continued progress: "With the foundation laid by Alex, we aim to build greater momentum, harnessing the value of trees to create sustainable products that drive the circular economy. Together, as OneSappi, we will champion excellence and collaboration to ensure lasting impact."   The Corporate Citizenship Report reflects Sappi’s legacy of leadership and collaboration, driven by innovative solutions and partnerships with organisations like WWF-SA, National Business Initiative, and academic institutions. From enabling rural development to producing world-class, eco-certified goods, Sappi continues to exemplify sustainable innovation in South Africa.   Download the Corporate Citizenship Report to explore how Sappi is driving resilience, equity, and shared value:  2024SSACorpCitizenshipReport SAPPI SA Sustainability Report 2025 Newly appointed CEO of Sappi Southern Africa Graeme Wild (right) accepting the symbolic baton from outgoing CEO Alex Thiel at a staff event. Sanele Mkhize, Managing Director of KZN transport company Exodec 384 (standing second from the left) is just one of the SMEs benefiting from the successful Sappi ESD programme   Our investment in Early Childhood Development (ECD) programmes  ensures a strong foundation for lifelong learning and development By conserving biodiversity ,  we protect endangered species like the Long-toed Tree Frog.

  • One Day Course: Improving Workplace Well-Being with Mental Health Awareness

    The importance of mental health in the workplace is increasingly recognised, with proposals for manager training to enhance employee support, reduce stigma, and ultimately improve business performance. ### Key Takeaways - One in four people in South Africa suffer from depression; many do not seek help due to stigma and lack of support. - Mental health issues cost South African businesses approximately R2 billion annually in lost productivity. - Prioritising employee mental health can lead to increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, and lower healthcare costs. - Training managers in mental health awareness is crucial for fostering a supportive work environment and early intervention. - The fourth bottom line suggests that investing in mental health positively affects financial performance alongside traditional business metrics. - A one-day training programme for managers will be held on 30 April 2025, focusing on mental health challenges in the workplace. Jacquie Bhana is hosting a one-day course on mental health awareness aimed at fostering a supportive work environment.

  • Celebrating Achievements in the KwaZulu-Natal Business Landscape

    We're super excited to highlight the amazing achievements and unfolding stories in the KwaZulu-Natal business scene. We kick things off with the exciting announcement that entries are now open for the KZN Top Business Awards 2025 – an opportunity for local businesses to be recognised for their innovation, impact, and excellence. Are you ready to be celebrated? Read more We feature Brian Howarth, the chairman of Magnet Electrical and the proud recipient of the Standard Bank KZN Top Business Leader of the Year Award 2024. Our editorial partners have much insight to provide:   Read more ■ LabourNet’s KZN regional manager, Johan van Deventer, discusses the company’s refreshed branding and peoplefocused approach . Sameer Kumandan, MD of SearchWorks, shares how their tech is boosting integrity in the financial services sector .   Read more ■ Cox Yeats Attorneys continues to lead the legal space with new accolades in the 2025 Legal 500 ranking Read more ■ On page 6 we explore the exciting launch of Westown – the new City of the West, a visionary hub for urban living, business, and leisure. Russell Curtis highlights the significant infrastructure investment drive in eThekwini   Read more ■ We also preview the KZN Industrial Technology Exhibition (KITE) – a key event for industry innovation happening in July   Read more ■ Turn to page 8 for a look at Legal Entity Management Systems and their focus on effectively managing trusts.  Read more ■ Heather Flack, Flair Accounting, advises entrepreneurs on how to approach new business ventures. Inanda Bezuidenhout, Consult Peak Sure, discusses insurance strategies for asset protection especially in relation to climate change.   Read more ■ Chris Tyson brings us up to speed with the latest KZN property news Read more ■ On page 11, learn how Mobi Ventures has transformed emergency response with their pioneering Mobi-Claw911 service, now a leader in rapidresponse solutions. Read more ■ Don’t miss the Pietermaritzburg & Midlands Chamber of Commerce Family Business Conference coming up on 22 May Read more ■ Then on page 14, Jacquie Bhana emphasises the growing importance of mental health in the workplace – and the critical role of manager training. Read more ■ Colette Tanner, COO of DRG Outsourcing, shares practical insights on navigating employee probation Read more We hope this issue inspires, informs, and empowers you as we continue to celebrate the best of business in KwaZulu-Natal. Click on the image to read the eBook. View eBook

  • Celebrating Achievements in the KwaZulu-Natal Business Landscape

    We're super excited to highlight the amazing achievements and unfolding stories in the KwaZulu-Natal business scene. We kick things off with the exciting announcement that entries are now open for the KZN Top Business Awards 2025 – an opportunity for local businesses to be recognised for their innovation, impact, and excellence. Are you ready to be celebrated? Read more We feature Brian Howarth, the chairman of Magnet Electrical and the proud recipient of the Standard Bank KZN Top Business Leader of the Year Award 2024. Our editorial partners have much insight to provide:   Read more ■ LabourNet’s KZN regional manager, Johan van Deventer, discusses the company’s refreshed branding and peoplefocused approach . Sameer Kumandan, MD of SearchWorks, shares how their tech is boosting integrity in the financial services sector . Read more ■ Cox Yeats Attorneys continues to lead the legal space with new accolades in the 2025 Legal 500 ranking Read more ■ On page 6 we explore the exciting launch of Westown – the new City of the West, a visionary hub for urban living, business, and leisure. Russell Curtis highlights the significant infrastructure investment drive in eThekwini Read more ■ We also preview the KZN Industrial Technology Exhibition (KITE) – a key event for industry innovation happening in July Read more ■ Turn to page 8 for a look at Legal Entity Management Systems and their focus on effectively managing trusts. Read more ■ Heather Flack, Flair Accounting, advises entrepreneurs on how to approach new business ventures. Inanda Bezuidenhout, Consult Peak Sure, discusses insurance strategies for asset protection especially in relation to climate change. Read more ■ Chris Tyson brings us up to speed with the latest KZN property news Read more ■ On page 11, learn how Mobi Ventures has transformed emergency response with their pioneering Mobi-Claw911 service, now a leader in rapidresponse solutions. Read more ■ Don’t miss the Pietermaritzburg & Midlands Chamber of Commerce Family Business Conference coming up on 22 May Read more ■ Then on page 14, Jacquie Bhana emphasises the growing importance of mental health in the workplace – and the critical role of manager training. Read more ■ Colette Tanner, COO of DRG Outsourcing, shares practical insights on navigating employee probation Read more We hope this issue inspires, informs, and empowers you as we continue to celebrate the best of business in KwaZulu-Natal.  Brian Howarth, the chairman of Magnet Electrical

  • FROM INNOVATION TO LEADERSHIP IN EMERGENCY RESPONSE

    Founded in 2016, Mobi Ventures revolutionised the emergency response industry with the launch of Mobi-Claw911, a cutting-edge ‘taxi e-hailing’ service for rapid, coordinated emergency assistance. This innovation quickly gained traction, becoming the leading solution for individuals facing medical, security, and fire-related emergencies. The company’s commitment to going beyond the standard panic app by integrating it with a state-of-the-art control room and a robust boots-on-theground operation, which has saved countless lives over the past nine years. The success of Mobi-Claw911 paved the way for Mobi Ventures to evolve into a comprehensive emergency solutions provider. Recognising the increasing demand for integrated security and medical response services, the company expanded its offerings to include vehicle tracking and recovery, AI-powered CCTV surveillance, ambulance management plans, and armed response services. Today, Mobi Ventures stands as a one-stop emergency response powerhouse, providing tailored solutions for individuals, families, businesses, and entire communities. At the heart of its operations is a dedicated team of experts, including former police officers, military personnel, and experienced medical professionals. This wealth of real-world experience ensures that every emergency is managed with precision, and an unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and assets. Mobi Ventures collaborates with private and state crime-fighting units, medical professionals, fire services, and community organisations, reinforcing its position as an industry leader in emergency response. The Visionaries Mike Myers, the chief executive officer, is the visionary behind Mobi-Claw911. As a former police officer and past chairman of the Westville Community Policing Forum (CPF), he identified a crucial gap in emergency response; people often lacked the right contact information during critical moments. Determined to address this challenge, Mike dedicated over four years to developing Mobi-Claw911 before its launch. His vision led to the establishment of Mobi Ventures as a fully integrated emergency solutions provider. Paul Stone, the chief operations officer, played a pivotal role in the crime-reduction efforts of Westville through his operational leadership in the CPF from 2014 to 2018. His expertise in security operations and communitydriven safety initiatives was instrumental in shaping Mobi-Claw911’s operational framework. Today, Paul oversees the corporate and operational structures of Mobi Ventures, ensuring seamless execution and continued innovation. Wynand Laatz, the operations director is a fourth-generation ex-policeman with a decade of operational experience. His role as the head of incident management ensures that Mobi Ventures maintains strong connections with on-the-ground personnel. Having worked in emergency medical services, Wynand brings invaluable medical expertise to the team, enhancing the company’s ability to manage lifethreatening situations effectively. With over ten years of experience in the emergency response industry, Teresa Davie leads the sales division at Mobi Ventures. Her background in administration, sales, and EMS coordination, combined with her exceptional people skills, makes her an invaluable asset in expanding the company’s reach. Comprehensive Emergency Solutions Mobi-Claw911 remains the flagship service, providing nationwide emergency response through an intuitive smartphone app and a dedicated remote panic device. The system instantly identifies the user’s location, allowing professional operators to dispatch the appropriate emergency responders within seconds. To complement its emergency response services, Mobi Ventures introduced Mobi-AmboPLAN, a partnership with ER24 designed to eliminate delays in ambulance dispatch. This service ensures rapid medical intervention, even for individuals without medical aid, covering on-scene stabilisation and emergency transportation to hospital for lifeand limb-threatening injuries. Mobi-Trak911 extends Mobi Ventures’ protective capabilities to vehicle tracking and recovery. This VSS-certified service is recognised by major insurance companies and offers affordable, tailored solutions for individuals and fleet operators. For advanced security needs, Mobi-Detect911 provides AIpowered CCTV monitoring. This state-of-the-art surveillance solution features real-time license plate recognition, intrusion alerts, human and vehicle detection, fire hazard identification, unattended baggage detection, and posture threat analysis. Mobi-Response911 is a specialised armed response service operating in Westville and Cowies Hill. This division offers 24/7 alarm monitoring, incident management, neighbourhood watch integration, and crime prevention operations. Additional services include estate security, retail and commercial property guarding, and event security. Industry Achievements Mobi Ventures has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation in emergency response. Since launching in 2016, the company has achieved several milestones: ■ Developed and implemented its own Incident Management System in 2017 ■ Partnered with ER24 in 2018 to introduce the MobiAmboPLAN ■ Opened its first state-of-theart control room in 2021, laying the foundation for further service diversification ■ Expanded its offerings by launching Mobi-Trak911 in 2022, Mobi-Detect911 in 2023, and Mobi-Response911 in 2024 ■ Introduced Mobi-Claw911 Rescue Support Services in 2024, a volunteer rescue support team assisting with disaster management Diverse Client Base Mobi Ventures caters to a broad demographic, ensuring safety and security for individuals, families, businesses, and entire communities. The primary users of MobiClaw911 are women aged 35 to 55, individuals over 55, and families seeking comprehensive protection. Additionally, the service is experiencing growth in the corporate market, particularly among executive management and representatives. Mobi-AmboPLAN is popular among family members of Mobi-Claw911 clients, domestic workers, schools, and businesses providing emergency medical coverage for employees. Mobi-Trak911 serves individual car owners, particularly existing Mobi-Claw911 clients, as well as small company fleets. Mobi-Detect911 is utilised by individual businesses, business community precinct projects, schools, and larger security initiatives. Mobi-Response911, currently operating in Westville and Cowies Hill, serves residential properties, business premises, gated estates, retail outlets, commercial properties, and event organisers requiring security solutions. Future Vision Mobi Ventures is focused on growing its national presence, particularly with Mobi-Claw911, Mobi-Trak911, and MobiAmboPLAN. The company sees significant growth potential in the corporate market and aims to drive adoption among businesses and schools. Locally, Mobi-Response911 is set to grow beyond Westville and Cowies Hill into neighbouring areas. The guarding division is expected to expand into Pinetown, particularly in retail and commercial sectors. Additionally, Mobi Ventures is exploring the possibility of acquiring smaller businesses within its operational space, as well as franchising or licensing specific brands in other regions of South Africa. Mobi Ventures aims to continue to redefine the landscape of emergency assistance, ensuring South Africans receive immediate professional support when they need it most. T: +27 (0)31 109 1888 E: care@mobiventures.co.za W: www.mobiventures.co.za Mike Myers, chief executive officer, Mobi Ventures

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