Top Business, a content marketing company that’s been a driving force in the industry since 1999, has truly made its mark over the past 25 years. The company has continually evolved to stay at the top, solidifying its role as a dynamic leader in the marketing world. Specialising in crafting and distributing tailored content, KZN Top Business helps brands enhance their visibility, build stronger connections, and improve client retention with impactful marketing campaigns. At the heart of everything KZN Top Business does is the KwaZulu-Natal Top Business Portfolio, the company’s flagship offering. This initiative has continued to thrive and expand, thanks to a mix of strategic moves, including a: ■ Multimedia website that ranks high on search engines, ensuring top visibility for businesses. ■ Detailed A5 handbook, loaded with valuable insights, available in both print and eBook format.  ■ Robust social media presence that boosts brand interaction and audience engagement.  ■ Growing library of engaging, informative, and entertaining videos. The KZN Business Sense publication stands out in the market, offering a unique blend of communication tools to promote businesses. It combines print, online presence, social media, and targeted email campaigns to ensure businesses get maximum exposure. The bi-monthly printed tabloid is widely distributed at key spots like King Shaka International Airport and business chambers, while the electronic copy reaches a huge audience of 80,000 businesspeople. Articles are also shared on social media, keeping the content alive and visible. One of KZN Top Business’s key offerings is its pressroom services. Clients’ articles and news are featured across a range of platforms, from websites to social media pages, ensuring long-lasting visibility thanks to SEO optimisation and republishing across networks like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. For exclusive benefits, platinum members get perks like a three-month complimentary gold membership to the IBV Privé Private Wealth Club, offering access to a world of services and networking opportunities. More exciting, exclusive offerings are in the pipeline. Looking forward, 2025 brings exciting plans, including the launch of the Top Business Family Portfolio, which will celebrate the success of family[1]run businesses in KwaZulu[1]Natal. Family businesses make up around 84% of South Africa’s businesses, and the new publication will shine a spotlight on their invaluable contributions. Businesses like Supertech Group, LHL Engineering, Beekman Group, Hirsch’s, and Royal Tyres are just a few shining examples. There’s also an exciting calendar of events for 2025. The KZN Top Business Awards, a major highlight in the local business scene, will be held in July, with entries opening in March. The KZN Top Business Women initiative, which recognises the achievements of women in business, will culminate in a prestigious gala dinner in November. Plus, KZN Top Business continues to host webinars and conferences, creating platforms for knowledge-sharing and industry insights. CEO Grant Adlam sums it up best: “Innovation, excellence, and collaboration are at the core of everything we do at KZN Top Business. We are committed to helping businesses grow their visibility and strengthen connections within the local and broader business communities. The future is bright, and we’re excited for what’s ahead.” KZN Top Business’s commitment to innovation and growth ensures its continued impact on the local business landscape, helping companies thrive now and in the years to come. < For more information visit www.kzntopbusiness.com or contact Grant Adlam on 0832629529 or adlam@icon.co.za Or Angela Alderton on 066 206 5654 or ange@kznleaders.co.za KWAZULU-NATAL Grant Adlam

Reliable and affordable low-cost medical cover for employees is already available, and corporate South Africa has been slow to embrace these innovative products, says Dr Reinder Nauta, the Managing Director of healthcare administrator and managed care organisation National HealthCare Group . Dr Reinder Nauta, the Managing Director of healthcare administrator and managed care organisation National HealthCare Group . Nauta was responding to the decision by the Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF), the representative organisation for the healthcare funding industry, to ask the North Gauteng High Court to compel the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) to allow medical aids to offer cheap versions of their products covering essential primary healthcare services. The court heard the BHF application on 28 January and reserved judgment, but the CMS – the government-appointed regulator for the private healthcare funding industry – said the solution to the problem lay in the hands of BHF members. It said it had rejected the low-cost benefit products proposed by medical aids because they did not offer members adequate financial risk protection and did not address South Africa’s disease burden. Nauta, National Healthcare’s Executive Chairman who took over as Managing Director in February, says the company has proved that it is possible to offer comprehensive primary care for as little as R149 a month. “Medical aid premiums have just risen by an average of 10.7% , more than twice the rate of inflation. Employers and individuals are struggling under the burden of more expensive monthly premiums and medical aids are losing members who can no longer afford their products,” he says. “The greatest need in these challenging times is for efficient, quality health cover that will not only stand businesses in good stead by reducing absenteeism and strengthening the bottom line, but also build morale, loyalty and good labour relations.” Nauta added that the reported  informal agreement in the government of national unity to drop sections of the National Health Insurance law that could collapse medical aids should be an added spur to introduce low-cost benefit products. A new ministerial advisory council will be tasked with determining how NHI funding would work, and Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Minister Maropene Ramokgopa told the media  last week. “The NHI is agreed upon, but the implementation part of it … is what will be ironed out. But we agreed we can't cut the private sector out; we have to find a way of collaborating with them." Nauta said medical aids had been living under a cloud of doubt about their future but that had now gone. “Now they can focus on growth, and the low-cost market is the obvious place to look for it.” National HealthCare was launched in 2018 with backing of Patrice Motsepe’s African Rainbow Capital, and Invenfin, the venture capital arm of Remgro. It provides the lower-cost and emerging markets with easy access to affordable and reliable medical services through a network of more than 12,000 doctors, pharmacies and other service providers. Three products with different levels of cover are provided to tens of thousands of people through their employers – including 4,000 staff at the quick-service restaurant chain Hungry Lion, one of the first companies to sign up with National Healthcare. “Each member has unlimited, instant access to telemedicine via a WhatsApp chat with qualified nurses or doctors,” says Nauta. “Where needed, members will be referred to a network of more than 3,400 private doctors for an in-person consultation. In addition, employees can also access more than 8,000 other healthcare providers, including 3,500 pharmacies throughout South Africa.” Individuals can get cover by signing up for MediClub , an insurance product, either directly or through a distributor such as TymeBank, Genric and Old Mutual. Nauta says some of them have never belonged to a medical aid, while others want to add an affordable day-to-day healthcare insurance product to their existing hospital plan. “Consultations begin with a WhatsApp conversation with a professional nurse. When you tell the nurse what you are experiencing, you will get immediate professional advice, over-the-counter medication will be organised for you if you need it, and a doctor’s appointment will be arranged where necessary,” he says. Having recently concluded a successful capital raise from its shareholders, Nauta says National HealthCare’s priorities in 2025 are to accelerate the growth of its distribution partnerships, which also include numerous brokers, and to invest in its technological platforms. NMG Consulting principal actuary Gary Scott says the market for affordable private health insurance is potentially enormous. “The latest StatsSA Quarterly Labour Force Survey  says there are 16.9 million people in employment,” Scott says. “Private health insurance is of interest to all these individuals and their employers, as medical aids are at this stage restricted, hence the court case. We believe this novel, affordable approach – supported by an innovative use of technology – is the game-changer South Africa needs.” Adrian Basson, the CEO of Hungry Lion, says the company plans to open 150 additional stores and reach 10,000 employees in 2025. “Every one of these team members will be covered by private medical insurance from National Healthcare,” he says. “It’s an enormous comfort for us, as an employer, to know the healthcare needs of our people are being taken care of in such an affordable and efficient way,” concludes Basson. ENDS. Please note Dr Nauta is available for interviews to discuss further. Editorial Contact: Mercia Swart

Join the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC for its Durban Port Business Forum Meeting on the  20 February 2025 from 11:00-13:00. When the Red Sea crisis began in October 2023 , it fundamentally changed shipping in a way not seen since the construction of the Suez and Panama Canals. Shipping essentially went back to a time when safety over long ocean voyages was the priority rather than cargo maximisation or route optimisation. Shipping lines and vessel operators, along with insurers and maritime authorities, had to adjust very quickly.Naturally, with a change of this magnitude completed in such a short space of time, there were players who adapted quickly and took full advantage, while others were more constrained by various factors and potentially forwent the opportunity entirely.It is estimated that approximately 12% of global trade passes through the Suez Canal, so it is certainly a significant opportunity . This session will unpack and quantify the impact on South Africa—highlighting specific sub-sectors of shipping—as well as examining whether diversions around the Cape of Good Hope will continue in the short to medium term. Speaker  or the Session: Lance Pullan,  has been in the maritime industry for 21 years, having begun his career with Maersk Line in 2004 as a graduate trainee. He has held various roles at all levels across several shipping lines and is currently the Managing Director of the Sharaf Group of Companies in South Africa. Lance is highly committed to developing the maritime sector in South Africa and has served as a Board Member of the eThekwini Maritime Cluster (EMC). He also has a keen interest in technology, particularly in making markets more efficient , and founded a market data start-up, Linernet, to support the maritime industry in Southern Africa. Durban Port Business Forum - 20 February 2025 Date: Thursday, 20 February 2025   Time:  11:00 - 13:00 Venue:   FNB KZN Regional Offices (FNB Acacia House, 2 Kikembe Drive, Umhlanga Rocks)  NB: This will be a hybrid session. For further information, please contact Bharriey Pillay on   pillayb@durbanchamber.co.za

Logistics at the Heart of Success In the fast-paced world of building materials, efficiency is everything. Few companies understand this better than AML Distributions, a proudly South African enterprise that has grown into an industry powerhouse since its founding in 2009. It all began when visionary entrepreneur Raksha Laghari identified a crucial gap between industry needs and supplier offerings. What started as a bold idea has since evolved into one of the country’s most formidable distribution networks, bridging the divide between manufacturers and customers with unparalleled efficiency. AML Distributions is not just about delivering building materials—it’s about driving an industry forward. Committed to exclusively supplying locally manufactured products, the company has positioned itself as a champion of South African industry. With a clear vision to become the largest independent distributor of locally sourced building materials, AML is laying the foundation for a stronger, more self-reliant economy. At the heart of AML’s operations is its exclusive distribution of AfriSam cement across KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape. Over the past decade, the company has cemented, both figuratively and literally, its place as the second-largest locally sold cement brand in KZN. But AML isn’t stopping there; its rapid expansion is a testament to its commitment to growth and service excellence. One of the key drivers of this success is AML Logistics, the company’s dedicated haulage division. With a state-of-the-art fleet of 57 long-distance superlink trucks, featuring top-tier Mercedes, Volvo, and Scania vehicles, AML ensures that deliveries are executed with precision and reliability. And with plans to double this fleet in the coming year, the company is setting new benchmarks in logistics efficiency. But what truly sets AML apart is its customer-first philosophy. Flexibility, efficiency, and tailor-made solutions are the pillars of its service, ensuring that clients receive the right materials, at the right time, in the right place. Operating 24/7, 365 days a year, AML’s professional team is always ready to meet customer needs, reinforcing the company’s unwavering dedication to service excellence. In an industry where timing and reliability can make or break a project, AML Distributions is proving that logistics isn’t just a function of the business, it is the business. With bold expansion plans, a relentless commitment to quality, and a deep-rooted belief in local industry, AML is paving the way for a brighter, stronger future in building materials distribution. Watch this space because AML Distributions is just getting started. Telephone 031 462 7401/2 E-mail info@amldistributions.com Website www.amldistrbitutions.com

Raksha Laghari, director, co-founder, and CEO of AML Group, has built a thriving business empire. With ventures ranging from cement distribution to mining and logistics, her story is one of hard work, vision, and an unyielding commitment to growth. Raksha Laghari, the founder, owner and CEO of AML Distributions leads the largest cement and building materials distribution company in South Africa Raksha’s journey with AML started off as a cement wholesaling and distribution company dealing with local giants like Afrisam and PPC. But she explains, “We quickly branched off into other locally produced hardware and construction materials.” This expansion included collaborations with brands such as Marley Roofing, Etex Building Systems, and Corobrik.   Over time, AML diversified its portfolio to include a logistics division. What began with just two trucks has grown into a premium fleet of over 50. “Today, our logistics division is extremely crucial to our core business because you can’t get materials to customers without a truck,” she states proudly.   The expansion didn’t stop there. AML also entered the mining industry, with a focus on dolerite production in Northern Natal, supplying construction projects across the region. Raksha beams with pride as she describes their success: “We are one of the few suppliers of dolerite in the area.” AML has further diversified into the ready-mix concrete business, a sector where they have earned a reputation for premium quality.   Testament to Growth Perhaps the most significant testament to AML’s growth is its venture into construction and real estate. The company has firmly established itself across multiple sectors, with Raksha at the helm, guiding the business through its various stages of development.   Raksha’s academic background has played a pivotal role in her business success. With a BA Law degree from the University of Natal and further studies in Dublin, where she qualified as a legal executive, she attributes much of her journey to the skills gained from her education. “I have this firm belief that if you can read and comprehend, you can do anything,” she says. “As long as you can understand what is before you in an educated manner, you will probably be able to equip yourself with the skill set required for any endeavour.”   This philosophy has guided her through the many challenges of building a business from scratch. Raksha is quick to point out that she didn’t come from a privileged financial position. “We didn’t start with money behind us,” she explains. “The journey has been about finding a vision, realising our goals, and adapting our strategies to forge ahead.”   “In the beginning, I didn’t have the vision I see myself living today,” she admits. “But once one vision was accomplished, a new one emerged, and with it, new challenges. That’s how AML has grown.”   For Raksha, AML is not just a business. “I don’t see AML as just a company,” she explains. “I often talk about my AML family because I’m highly motivated by them. I want to keep them all employed, growing, and happy.” Her leadership style is rooted in the belief that success comes from empowering the people around her, a lesson she credits to her first employer, Niall Sharon. “Niall taught me to grow the people around you and make them feel important,” she recalls.   This sense of responsibility also stems from her relationship with her father, who was her first role model. “He never held me back from asking questions,” Raksha reflects. “We would often talk about bank documents and legal jargon when I was just 10 years old. Watching him overcome challenges inspired me to follow in his footsteps.”   Growing a Legacy Raksha’s determination to leave a legacy behind has always been at the forefront of her mind. “Whether it’s a small or big legacy.  I wasn’t sure at the outset,” she confesses. “But as the business grew, the legacy grew with it.”   Operating in male-dominated industries like construction, logistics, and mining, Raksha has faced her share of challenges. “There are very few women in these sectors in South Africa,” she acknowledges. “In the early days, it was harder to be taken seriously. But with time, perseverance, and knowledge, you make inroads.”   Raksha’s commitment to understanding every aspect of her business has been a key factor in overcoming these challenges. “Elon Musk once said you don’t need to know everything to build a business—you just need to employ people who do. But I’ve never agreed with that statement,” she asserts. “You need to have the fundamental knowledge to operate your business, and once you understand that you can bring in professionals to help you grow.”   One of her greatest achievements, she believes, is becoming one of the few female miners in South Africa. “The mining industry was completely new to me two years ago,” she admits. “But I’ve learned every aspect of that business—from managing the workforce to the machinery we use. I’ve made mistakes, but I’ve also learned from them.”   The Next Vision Looking to the future, Raksha asks, “Why do we need to import nails from China when we have the resources to produce them locally?” My next vision is to support South African companies and invest in local production to reduce our reliance on imports.”   Raksha’s advice to young women entering the business world is grounded in realism. “Be prepared for hard work, sleepless nights, and equipping yourself with new skills,” she advises. “It’s all about you in the beginning days, and no matter how much effort you put in, you’ll probably feel like it’s never enough. But if you persevere, you will eventually see the fruits of your labour.”   She encourages women to embrace failure as part of the journey. “The people who stand forward in this race are the ones who understand that one failure is just a stepping stone to another success.”   Raksha’s journey with AML is not over. “I feel like I’m just getting started,” she admits. “There’s so much more I want to do in South Africa, for South Africa.” With a clear vision and an unwavering commitment to her family, community, and business, Raksha is undoubtedly shaping a lasting legacy.   W: www.amldistributions.com

Raksha Laghari, founder and CEO of AML Distributions, transitioned from law to entrepreneurship during the 2008 recession, successfully building a leading distribution and logistics business in South Africa focused on hardware materials and mining, with future plans to expand into property and development. - Raksha Laghari pivoted from a legal career to entrepreneurship due to the 2008 recession, identifying opportunities in South Africa’s cement market. - Through importing and distributing cement and other hardware materials, AML Distributions became a key player in fast-moving hardware product distribution in South Africa. - The company operates a logistics fleet of over fifty trucks and expanded into mining by acquiring aggregate and ready-mix operations. - Raksha views entering the mining sector as her proudest achievement despite initial challenges. - Her long-term vision for AML is transitioning from trading to wealth creation by venturing into property and development. - Raksha emphasizes hard work as the cornerstone of entrepreneurial success and focuses on team motivation by sharing challenges. - She believes in identifying and working with existing opportunities rather than creating them.

KwaZulu-Natal Industrial Technology Exhibition 2025 Where decision makers meet Now in its fifth decade of bringing together the providers of industrial technology solutions with KZN’s industry professionals, the KwaZulu-Natal Industrial Technology Exhibition (KITE) is the ideal growth aid for local businesses. KZN is primed for increased industrialisation and the cyber arena will play no small part in this development as organisations more readily and enthusiastically adopt the Internet of Things (IoT) and move forward through 4IR (Fourth Industrial Revolution) towards a future that is powered by the 5IR (Fifth Industrial Revolution). KITE 2023 was a major success, with 4330 visitors attending the event from 18 to 20 July. Over 100 exhibitors pulled out all the stops to provide the KZN market with the very best in industrial technology. The on-stand demonstrations and seminar sessions at the free-to-attend SAIMechE Seminar Theatre were a major drawcard, and the LEEASA Conference once again provided the lifting fraternity with superb content on challenges and trends within the industry. For the first time, this year the SAIMC hosted an ECSA Registration Workshop, which was packed to capacity. Another first for KITE was the addition of the New Products and Innovation Awards — co-hosted by SACEEC (South African Capital Equipment Export Council) and judged by Eric Bruggeman, CEO of SACEEC — the awards recognise excellence and innovation in both local and international industrial technology product design.

The KZN Top Business is proud to announce that we are now in our 26th year of publishing, a significant milestone that highlights our commitment to showcasing the vibrant business community of KwaZulu-Natal. Over the years, we have seen an overwhelming response from our readers and business owners alike, which has led to an unprecedented demand for our publication. In fact, we have sold out of our second print run, a clear indication of the value and relevance our resource holds for those engaged in the region's economic activities. This high demand has prompted us to undertake an updated reprint, ensuring that those who missed out on the initial copies will have the opportunity to secure their own. This invaluable resource serves as a comprehensive showcase of the top businesses in KZN, offering insights into various industries and highlighting the innovative companies that drive economic growth in the region. The KZN Top Business Portfolio not only features detailed profiles of leading enterprises but also includes expert commentary and analysis that provides context for the current business climate. Readers will find a wealth of information that can assist them in making informed decisions, whether they are entrepreneurs, investors, or simply individuals interested in the dynamics of the local market. Don't hesitate—act now to enrich your knowledge and engage with the thriving business community of KZN. KZN Top Business Portfolio 2025

After unexpectedly becoming CEO of a South African firm following the founder’s sudden death, the author navigated the crisis amid pandemic-related challenges using emotional intelligence, crisis management strategies, strong support networks, and a resilient, hopeful mindset. Key Takeaways - The sudden death of the founder created a leadership crisis in a firm already struggling with pandemic-related challenges like high staff turnover and low cash reserves. - The author, despite being the youngest and only female executive, stepped into the CEO role unexpectedly and led over 100 employees. - Her MBA thesis on crisis management informed strategies such as stakeholder management, business model adaptation, and leveraging emotional intelligence. - Small milestones and celebrations provided motivation and progress during uncertain times. - A strong support network, including personal and professional relationships, was critical to overcoming challenges. - The journey highlights the importance of resilience, maintaining hope, and growing through adversity. Jennifer Reddy Navigating Crisis: For more information: www.morar.co.za

7 FEBRUARY 2024 The Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC welcomes the State of the Nation Address 2025 delivered by President Cyril Ramaphosa. We acknowledge this is the first State of the Nation Address since the formation of the Government of National Unity. In our opinion, the State of the Nation Address 2025 addressed critical issues but failed to provide tangible action plans and timelines against the reforms. As organised business, we would like to highlight the following: Economic Growth The Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC acknowledges President Cyril Ramaphosa’s commitment towards economic growth, lifting it to above 3%. For it to be realised, we need to address issues such as poor governance and policy uncertainty. Consequence management and merit-based appointments must be a priority in addressing service delivery challenges in South Africa. Furthermore, we need tangible reforms that will promote favourable business conditions which will attract and retain investment in South Africa. As organised business, we remain committed to working with government to ensure we reverse the economic decline in South Africa. Municipalities The Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC was pleased to note the SONA placed great emphasis on the rehabilitation of municipalities. This is a step in the right direction; we need a clear action plan on how the challenges in eThekwini Municipality will be addressed. With the Presidential eThekwini Working Group established, we believe we can fast-track the implementation of key reforms in eThekwini. Whilst we have been collaborating with all spheres of government to tackle the issues in Durban, businesses still suffer from poor service delivery, which includes water shortages, unstable supply of electricity and inefficient waste removal services. We need to completely eradicate the issues that continue to plague businesses. Infrastructure The Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC welcomes President Cyril Ramaphosa’s commitment to spend over R940 billion on infrastructure over the next three years. Government needs to focus on the revitalisation and maintenance of infrastructure. Much of the issues we are experiencing are simply due to ageing infrastructure and the lack of maintenance. It is important government justifies the development of new infrastructure versus maintaining existing infrastructure. Failure to do so, will simply lead to further budget constraints, impacting business conditions adversely. We need clarity and timelines for all projects, we need to see a financial model to see how we can work together as the business community we are ready to work and collaborate however we need clarity. Load Shedding Load Shedding coupled with high tariffs significantly affect businesses, particularly when electricity is driving production. Unstable energy supply makes businesses less competitive, especially in a global economy. It reduces the country’s competitiveness in terms of exports and makes it less attractive as an investment destination. Whilst we acknowledge the reforms highlighted in the SONA to address the country’s energy crisis, we need to fast-track the process with clear timelines and deliverables. Amid uncertainty businesses are not able to ‘put the risk of load shedding behind’- the question remains unanswered, when will load shedding end? Transnet The Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC acknowledges Transnet’s performance has stabilized and is on a positive trajectory. Transnet’s resurgence symbolizes a triumph of collaboration and resolve. The interventions have not only averted immediate disaster but are also paving the way for a resilient, future-ready logistics system. Durban has returned stronger, armed with lessons to face storms yet to come. Business and Transnet continue to work together to ensure port operations support the needs of port users. As organised business, we commit to having robust discussions with Transnet. Zanele Khomo Chief Growth Officer and Executive Director Board Member, at The Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC For more info, contact the Durban Chamber on 031 335 1000 or info@durbanchamber.co.za Our website is www.durbanchamber.co.za _______________________________________________________________________________________ NOTE TO EDITORS: Comment attribution: Mr Prasheen Maharaj, President The Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC Media contacts: Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC Ms Zanele Khomo Chief Growth Officer T: +27 31 335 1000 E: khomoz@durbanchamber.co.za

Chris Tyson, CEO of national real estate agency, Tyson Properties, today welcomed another 25 basis point cut by the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC)  after its first meeting for the year. Confident that further rates cuts are still to follow despite a slight uptick in the inflation rate to 3% in December (which remains below the SARB’s benchmark 4.5%) and global economic policy uncertainty in the wake of US President Donald Trump’s re-election, Tyson is confident that this latest cut is good news for the property market.  Interest rate cuts by the SARB are beginning to add up to some meaningful relief for South African home owners. As a result, Tyson Properties is positioning itself for a more buoyant market during 2025 and expects a recovery in key regions such as Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, while the Cape property market continues to perform. Although Tyson believes that the SARB will continue along the ultra-cautious trajectory that saw repeated decisions to maintain the  repo rate unchanged at a 15-year high of 8.25% until September 2024, he believes there is a strong chance that the interest rate might ultimately drop to around 7%. This will give both buyers and sellers waiting out the 2024 interest rate plateau more confidence to enter the property market, he says. Over the long-term - and should the interest rate decline continue as expected - Tyson envisages that the residential property market will move from a buyer's market to a normal market within two years.  Even if the SARB begins to hold rates once more at a lower point, he says that this should provide the property market with some stability and predictability which would entice those contemplating longer term investments to look to buying properties.   Ends.     Regards   Nicola Chaning-Pearce Tel: +27 82 458 0280 Chris Tyson, CEO of national real estate agency, Tyson Properties

HEATHER FLACK is the very proud owner of Flair Accounting, an accounting practice based in Morningside, which is celebrating 20 years in business. She says that when thinking about her achievements in business and community, the first one is that they made it to 20 years, which she never thought they would. “I distinctly remembered been told that most businesses don’t survive their first three years and if we could just get past that point …, and here we are, on the cusp of a twentieth birthday.” Heather added that she would say the greatest achievement to date is being recognised by Standard Bank Top Women and ranked as one of South Africa’s Top Gender Empowerment Companies in the financial sector for 2022/2023. As far as their community service goes, this is something that has been exceptionally important to Heather and the company over the years. Flair Accounting has always been involved in outreach projects, and Heather has sat on various boards for various charities, mostly women based. One of those being HOLAH (Home of Love and Hope), which is a baby house for children in crisis here in Durban, and Makaranga Charitable Trust is another. DRIVEN TO ACHIEVE “When thinking about what has inspired her over the years, Heather would have to say the ability to defy the answer no. “I think being told I couldn’t achieve something, or I couldn’t do something, inspired me even more to go harder, faster to really drive to achieve it. And not just that, I am really inspired by our country, I love the people of this country and I am very passionate about helping business owners in South Africa.” One of the challenges that Heather had to face, was being 23 when she started the business. Trying to get people to take her seriously at the time and have faith in her ability and her service was her greatest challenge. Heather said, “I had to get creative, often offering to do the work for free and see where it went from there. I’ve always just found that the biggest challenge that businesses face, is that people want value for what they are paying for. But mostly, people want to deal with people, not with a machine, not with a corporation and not with a business, but with the people.” BUILT A BRAND When thinking of what the future holds for Flair Accounting, Heather thinks that she is very proud of the fact that they have built a brand far greater than the individual that is her, over the last twenty years. She says that through those twenty years so many amazing women have come through their doors, have grown as individuals, have moved onto greater places, and achieved wonderful things. At the same time, she says, they have helped many businesses to steer their ships the right way, to look at all aspects of finance. When looking at the future, Heather says that needs to remain the core goal, to serve the businesses who have put their trust in them. NOTHING GOOD COMES EASY “The advice I would give to younger women is work hard. Nothing good comes easy. If you put in the time, if you put in the effort, if you do the yards, if you show up every day no matter what, you will achieve your dreams. You will aspire to great things. Never ever lose faith in yourself. There’s that famous saying that when a door closes a window opens, but it is up to us to look for the window.” A GREAT GIFT Heather is very happily married, and she has four children. They keep her very busy, but she says that they are a great gift in her life. She would say to unwind, that family is first and foremost in her life. They spend a lot of time outdoors, on the beach out in the sun, enjoying all the wonderful things that our country has to offer. In closing, Heather said, ‘I would like to thank Grant and the KZN Top Business team for this amazing nomination and opportunity. I am very honoured to know that my dream to change the world one business at a time has been recognised by our greater stakeholders and I thank you very much for the opportunity.”