Janine De Jesus has forged a remarkable career in South Africa’s real estate industry, starting at 21 as a Principal. Co-founding Lance Klusener Exclusives and Friends, her journey is marked by personal challenges and professional triumphs. Inspired by her father, Janine describes real estate as a passion that captivates you. Beyond property sales, her true calling lies in developing people and growing companies, embracing leadership roles to transform the industry. She introduced NQF qualifications to professionalize real estate, becoming a life coach and motivational speaker. Janine's leadership, alongside Lance Klusener, empowers others, especially athletes transitioning to new careers. Her journey is fueled by resilience, overcoming personal losses, including her parents' deaths, and a malicious cyberbullying campaign. These experiences taught her to stand firm and advocate against cyberbullying, particularly among youth. For Janine, standing in one’s truth is vital, emphasizing the importance of women supporting each other. Her resilience inspires others, evident when a woman asked how she survived her challenges. Janine’s drive to inspire extends to mentoring women in business, advising them to believe in themselves and embrace hard work. Her community involvement includes fundraising for poverty relief. Recognized for her communication and leadership, Janine dreams of building the largest real estate brand in South Africa. Her philosophy centres on authenticity and balance, cherishing time with her family.

Madeleine Pretorius, the dynamic CEO and founder of Skills4Africa Training Industries, is dedicated to empowering individuals through education and training. With a background in social sciences and psychology, and expertise in fields such as human resources and leadership, she leads Skills4Africa to offer unique learning experiences that impact the youth and others through projects like “Sikhona”, “Youth in Communities”, and “Passport To Work”. Her ventures, The Gentlemen’s Club Finishing School and Princesses to Queens Finishing School, aim to create job opportunities and stimulate the economy by providing practical work experience. As a mental and holistic wellness coach, Madeleine combines education with her 24K mentorship program to guide individuals towards success in all areas of life. Her commitment to accessible education led to the development of over 300 courses, ranging from basic qualifications to advanced fields, with a focus on affordability and ease of access. Despite challenges, including a move to the South Coast during the pandemic, Madeleine persevered, launching a successful training card initiative to provide affordable online courses. Her efforts have earned her numerous accolades, including the Brand Ambassador Influential Women of South Africa award and the International Commonwealth Award for Business Excellence. Madeleine’s journey underscores the importance of lifelong learning and self-improvement, and she advises young women to believe in their dreams and continue learning. Despite her busy schedule, she remains committed to balancing work and personal life, with plans to focus more on self-care. Madeleine’s vision for Skills4Africa is to continue changing lives by providing skills and education, one person at a time, with plans to expand the company’s reach through franchising. Her work is a testament to the transformative power of education and the impact it can have on communities.

Kim Woods, co-owner at Tyson Properties, has dedicated nearly three decades to the real estate industry, covering a territory from the Umbilo River to the Umhlanga River. Her dream of a successful real estate business is realized, working alongside her children—her son as co-owner and her daughter in marketing. Kim's journey to real estate was not straightforward, having explored various careers before finding her passion in property. Her love for the industry is driven by a passion for people, enjoying the diversity and constant learning it offers. Kim values her team as an extension of her family, fostering a culture of mentorship through an intern program. As a leader, she supports her team both professionally and personally, inspired by her own early mentorship. Kim's greatest achievements include raising her children and witnessing her team members' growth. She advises newcomers to fully commit to the real estate profession. Despite challenges like her son’s kidney disease, Kim maintains a positive attitude and cherishes family time. With no plans to retire, she intends to continue her work as long as her health permits.

Carmen Reddy currently co-hosts East Coast Breakfast on East Coast Radio, airing weekdays from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. “I’ve always been a bit of a jack-of-all-trades,” she remarks, reflecting on her diverse career that has spanned radio, journalism, and television. Born in Durban, Carmen moved to Gauteng with her family at a young age and completed her secondary education at Sutherland High School in Pretoria. She pursued an undergraduate degree and honours degree in journalism at the University of Pretoria. Her passion for radio was ignited during this time, as she explains, “The radio bug bit me when I worked at our community campus radio station, and I’ve been doing it ever since.” Following her academic years, Carmen took on the role of news editor at a local radio station in Pretoria before relocating to Johannesburg. There, she established herself in the media industry, working at prominent news organisations including the SABC and 702, where she not only read the news but also reported as a journalist. “It was quite an experience working in Johannesburg,” she says, recalling her time in the city.

Amanda Swana, Managing Director and Founder of Powerpoint Lifestyles, reflects on her remarkable journey from childhood in the Eastern Cape to business leadership, entrepreneurship, and personal growth. Born in the Eastern Cape, Amanda recounts the pivotal decision her mother made when Amanda was just eight years old. “My mother made the hard decision to relocate us to KwaZulu-Natal for schooling purposes,” she says. This move was driven by the belief that the educational opportunities in the Eastern Cape at that time were not suitable for the family. Amanda completed her high school education at Durban Academy, located on the Bluff in Durban. She then pursued her tertiary studies, obtaining a Bachelor of Social Science from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Her academic journey did not end there, as she went on to complete her master’s degree at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. “It was during this time that I also pursued business and entrepreneurship,” Amanda shares.

The KZN Top Business Leaders Coffee Table book has achieved remarkable success, with numerous requests for additional copies. Initially, I had to announce that we were sold out before the official release, as all copies were claimed the same day we sent out the email. Fortunately, there was an overrun in the printing process, resulting in exactly 33 additional copies available. These are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so please visit our website to secure your copy before they are gone. Here is your 30% discount code: 7659Leaders# . Simply copy and paste it into the "Enter a promo code" field in your cart before checking out. ORDER HERE As you know, once they are gone, they are gone, and as you are already known, it is a collector's item—a true keepsake. Photos from the Grand Opening of the IBV Privè and the launch of "KZN Top Business Leaders" Powered by IBV WEALTH KZN Top Business Facebook page , with more to come. This is the link  to the highlights on the KZN Top Business YouTube Channel .

This holiday season let’s come together to make a difference in the lives of our students. Food security in South Africa, especially for students, is significantly impacted by inflation. Students do not have the finances to purchase nourishing meals on a daily basis as a result of the rising cost of living. Research has found that students who are undernourished are prone to poor academic performance. The UKZN Food Security Programme requires your generous support. Your donation will help students achieve their full potential and contribute to nation-building.

If you’ve ever been tempted to sneak a nap in your car at lunchtime and you need a fun excuse to catch some shut-eye, the answer might lie in a brand-new  bot .    Globally, an  estimated 32.8% of adults  don’t get enough sleep, and  South Africans are among the world’s most sleep-deprived populations , consistently going to bed later and waking up earlier than any other nation. The gruelling long hours we spend at work don’t help either and workplace burnout keeps rising. Now, there’s a  bot  to help!    In a creative response to this growing sleep deprivation crisis, South Africa’s first and only modular mattress company,  Sloom , has launched what it considers a public service – the  NapBot  – which could help sleep-deprived South Africans to catch up on much-needed rest.    The WhatsApp bot – which is turning heads and raising eyebrows – provides legitimate-sounding excuses in four languages, allowing users to sneak in a much-needed power nap during their day. Users simply message “I need a nap” to the  NapBot , and they receive a fun voice note excuse in their choice of English, Afrikaans, isiZulu or isiXhosa. These carefully crafted messages can be played directly to supervisors or forwarded via WhatsApp as proof that they need to step out, providing a clever cover for a rejuvenating nap break.    “When we discovered the extent of sleep deprivation in South Africa, we knew we had to think outside the box,” says Rudo Kemp, founder and CEO of  Sloom . “The  NapBot  might seem playful, but it addresses a  serious health crisis . We’re essentially giving people a fun way to take the refreshing rest they desperately need.”    Sleep coach Barry Bridges – who has worked with athletes, business executives, DJs and music producers around the world – says a nap will give you a boost when you hit that inevitable slump during the day. “Some people try to use naps to catch up on sleep, which you can't really do, but naps can help your brain recover throughout the day, which is really important.”    In addition, he says, we  naturally need a sleep in the afternoon , and might feel lethargic, so a quick nap between 1pm and 3pm can make a huge difference to your ability to power through the afternoon.    But  Sloom  isn’t just providing excuses – they’re backing up their commitment to better sleep. Every  NapBot  user receives a R1,000 coupon code for a Sloom mattress. Their modular mattress also comes with a 100-night trial, which allows sleepers to test the modular comfort at home, risk-free.    “Sleep deprivation isn’t just about feeling tired – it’s affecting our nation’s productivity, mental health and overall well-being,” Kemp explains. “While the  NapBot  adds a light-hearted twist to a serious issue, our ultimate goal is to spark a national conversation about the importance of quality sleep.”    The initiative represents a bold move in addressing South Africa’s sleep deficit, combining social awareness with practical solutions. Whether it leads to more South Africans taking power naps or simply highlights the importance of proper rest, Sloom’s  NapBot  is already making waves in the fight against sleep deprivation.    For more information about the NapBot or to try it yourself, WhatsApp “I need a nap” to  087 073 6676  to receive your first excuse voice note.

Goscor Lift Trucks (GLT), a leading provider of forklift and materials handling solutions, has reinforced its commitment to supporting the cross-border growth of C. Steinweg Bridge Terminals, with the delivery of a fleet of Bobcat forklifts. This strategic expansion builds on the strong, trust-based partnership that GLT and Steinweg have developed over the years, aimed at driving efficiency and long-term success for Steinweg’s Southern African operations. After careful assessment of Steinweg’s operational requirements, GLT worked closely with Steinweg to develop custom-tailored rental agreements specifically designed for their operations.   Christiaan Venter, Group Asset Manager at Steinweg, explains “this innovative approach unlocks substantial growth potential, by removing the need for upfront capital investment in cross-border expansions. Through our partnership with GLT, we’ve secured dependable, high-performance equipment perfectly suited to our diverse cargo handling needs.”   “The partnership we share with Steinweg exemplifies our customer-centric approach,” says Patrick Barber, Business Development Director at Goscor Lift Trucks. “We are dedicated to understanding our clients’ unique needs, and for Steinweg, that meant structuring a flexible rental solution to suit their operational growth goals in Africa. Providing high-quality, dependable equipment that aligns with their cargo handling demands enables them to focus on what they do best, while we handle the rest.”   The recent delivery of D30S-7 3-ton diesel forklifts to Steinweg’s terminal in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, underscores GLT’s ability to supply robust, specialised equipment designed to optimise warehousing, cargo handling, and packing processes. These forklifts will support Steinweg’s regional expansion by enhancing operational efficiency and handling capacity across the terminal. GLT has been a trusted materials handling partner for Steinweg for a number of years, with the relationship evolving to meet the increasing demands of Steinweg’s dynamic operations.   The latest delivery brings a range of electric and diesel Bobcat forklifts to the region. Additionally, we have supplied Crown Reach Trucks and bespoke reach stackers this year to enhance operations in South Africa, Namibia, Zambia, and now Tanzania.   Barber emphasises the importance of strategic partnerships in delivering long-term value. “For GLT, our partnerships are built on more than just equipment supply. It’s about offering tailored solutions, flexible financing options, and reliable service support to help our clients meet their business goals. With Steinweg, we’re proud to collaborate on custom solutions that enable efficient cargo management, ultimately contributing to their operational success across the region.”   Venter praises the impact of the partnership: “Working with GLT allows us to focus on growth and service quality across our terminals. Their dedication to providing tailored support and high-performance equipment aligns perfectly with our own values and goals, enabling us to serve our clients effectively and expand into new markets.”   GLT’s unique approach to servicing diverse client needs includes full-service maintenance support, ensuring that Steinweg’s equipment operates at peak performance. As part of the Bud Group, GLT’s capabilities extend across various regions and industries, offering Steinweg access to a wide array of solutions that support their diverse cargo operations, from tobacco to general cargo.   “Each client’s requirements are unique, and we strive to deliver solutions that reflect that,” Barber adds. “For Steinweg, that means providing not only the right equipment but also the right support structure.”   Looking ahead, Steinweg remains optimistic about the growth prospects facilitated by their partnership with GLT. Venter concludes, “We’re excited to integrate GLT’s equipment across our operations and have full confidence in their service quality. I believe every company should have its own winning recipe, and ours includes GLT, among other elements.”

Latest interest rate cut an opportunity for good financial planning Tyson Properties CEO, Chris Tyson, welcomed a second interest rate cut by 25 bps to 7.75% but noted that homeowners still need to remain cautious going into 2025.   Although Tyson - and most of the country’s economists - expect the Reserve Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) to continue to cut rates during the first half of next year with at least another 0.5 bps to be shaved off the prime lending rate, he believes that consumers must learn from past mistakes by decreasing their debt and either saving the difference or continuing to repay the same amount on their home loans in order to rapidly reduce  what is probably their largest monthly expenditure.    “Rather than your repayments being predominantly interest with a small amount credited to the capital borrowed, homeowners can increase that balance and score by paying off their bond in a shorter timeframe. The benefit of this saving is that it cannot attract tax as it is simply a future cost reduction and not income,” he says.   Based on the fact that most have been paying 11.5% interest on their bonds before the SARB lowered the repo rate (the rate at which it lends money to the commercial banks) to 8% in September and now 7.75% in December, this latest reduction takes a further R171 off home loans worth R1 million and R344 off R2 million bonds. Although these are small amounts, they will ultimately add up to more meaningful figures next year.   “We have been given a good indication by the South African Reserve Bank that the interest rates we have seen over the past two years are the ceiling. Always budget around the maximum interest rate and not the current interest rate. That way, if it comes down, and you do not decide to continue paying a higher amount on your bond, you have spare money to do other things,” he advises.   Although he believes that what now appears to be a downward interest rate cycle provides a much needed boost for the property market, he says it is still too soon to tell exactly what impact this will have.   “It remains a buyers’ market. 2024 has been a tough market for most areas and, in particular, the Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal markets. This second interest rate cut, however,  bodes well for a good 2025 for the whole country as we are coming off a very low base,” he explains.   Nevertheless, Tyson recommends caution as, although this latest interest rate cuts come off an inflation rate which is now below the Reserve Bank’s 4.5% midpoint target range, a number of uncertainties remain - including hints by the central bank that it might lower its inflation range to below 3%.   South Africa unfortunately remains vulnerable to external pressures including the resurgent dollar on the back of Trump’s re-election and rising petrol prices due to ongoing conflict in the Middle East. These, inevitably, have a knock on effect when it comes to household expenditure.   As a result, going into 2025, Tyson advises buyers to carefully consider their choices, taking location in relation to travelling distances and even facilities that allow them to work from home into account. Homes with solar power and water collection facilities can also lower utility bills which will rise in the new year.   “Tragically, too many people buy expensive houses when rates are low and are forced to sell their properties and lose money when the rates increase. Buying a property must be a medium to long-term commitment given the costs associated with entering and leaving the market,” he concludes.

What an unforgettable night! The atmosphere was electric, filled with a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation that seemed to pulse through the air. It was one of those exclusive events that few knew about, intended for the crème de la crème of our society. The moment the invitation was extended, it became the talk of the town, and once word got out, we reached full capacity and were nearly 250% oversubscribed. Such was the demand that individuals from various sectors and industries clamored to be part of this remarkable gathering. It's been hailed as the event of the year, and rightfully so—what an incredible occasion it turned out to be. We celebrated our esteemed KZN leaders at the grand opening of the IBV Privè Lounge, a luxurious venue that epitomizes sophistication and elegance. The ambiance was enhanced by exquisite decor, soft lighting, and the gentle hum of live music, creating a perfect backdrop for this momentous celebration. This night was not only a tribute to the leaders but also a significant milestone as we marked the 25th anniversary of the KZN Top Business Portfolio. This illustrious publication has been a beacon of excellence in showcasing the achievements of local businesses and their leaders, and we were thrilled to commemorate this legacy. As part of the evening's festivities, we launched the highly anticipated coffee table book "KZN Top Business Leaders," which serves as a tribute to the remarkable individuals who have shaped the economic landscape of KZN and South Africa at large. This beautifully crafted book honors 100 influential business figures, detailing their journeys, accomplishments, and the profound impact they have made on their industries and communities. Each page is a testament to their hard work, innovation, and dedication, providing readers with insights into the minds of these trailblazers. The launch was met with enthusiastic applause, as attendees recognized the significance of celebrating such pivotal contributions to our economy and society.

UKZN student Ms Samkelo Londeka Ndwandwe recently received a prestigious bursary from Huawei, marking a significant milestone in her academic journey. This has alleviated her financial burdens, allowing her to focus on her studies and pursue her dreams in the rapidly evolving field of Computer Science and Information Technology.   ‘This financial assistance has certainly alleviated the burden of worrying about how I would continue studying,’ said Ndwandwe. ‘I’ve gained financial stability that allows me to focus fully on my academics. As the old adage goes, when you concentrate your efforts on just two or three things in life, greatness follows. By completing my education, I am confident that other opportunities will arise, enabling me to grow both personally and professionally.’   Coming from a low-income background, Ndwandwe's family experiences played a significant role in shaping her aspirations. ‘My family's struggles and sacrifices have instilled in me a strong work ethic and determination to succeed. These experiences have influenced my decision to pursue my studies, with the hope of creating a better future for myself and giving back to my community.’   While she initially envisioned a career in Medicine or Engineering, her interest in coding and systems grew throughout high school. This newfound passion led her to UKZN, where she is currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science and Information Technology. Her coursework, though challenging, has been exhilarating, and she credits UKZN for providing a solid foundation in computer systems. ‘My transition from high school to university coursework was a major challenge,’ she said, ‘but I relied on time management, mentorship and support from peers to overcome these obstacles.’   Ndwandwe’s resilience and perseverance have shaped her academic path, and she remains committed to her goals. In addition to her coursework, she is teaching herself various programming languages and exploring their unique features. ‘Although I’m not engaged in research yet, I’ve been fascinated by discovering the strengths of different programming languages and how they are suited for specific purposes,’ she said.   Beyond her academic pursuits, she enjoys extracurricular activities – coding and a recently rekindled love for sports in the form of the UKZN baseball team. Looking ahead, she plans to further her studies by obtaining an honours degree before embarking on a career as a software developer.   Ndwandwe’s advice to fellow students is rooted in her own experiences: ‘Stay determined – challenges will come, but your perseverance will pay off. Seek support – don’t hesitate to reach out for help when needed. Believe in yourself – trust in your abilities and keep pushing towards your goals.   The Huawei bursary has provided Ndwandwe with the opportunity to realise her academic potential and pursue her ambitions, reinforcing the importance of bursaries in enabling students from disadvantaged backgrounds to achieve their educational goals and create brighter futures for themselves and their communities.