Even as a teenager, Maria was finding her feet in business. She sold Lip-Ice at school and worked at a local video store—simple ventures, but ones that taught her responsibility and the basics of thinking like a business owner.
Born and raised as an only child in the small town of Lichtenburg, Leander grew up in a household where dedication and discipline were the cornerstones. His parents, both government teachers, worked tirelessly to provide him with the best opportunities within their means. From them, he learned the value of perseverance and financial prudence—lessons that would serve as the bedrock of his entrepreneurial ambitions.
“I dance a lot,” she reflects, her words underscored by a profound sense of joy. In fact, she dances for at least three hours a day, most days of the week. For her, it’s not just about the movement but the emotional release it brings. “I’m happy…truly happy,” Lyndall shares. “I go through life with a smile, despite the challenges, and people know this about me. It’s because I dance.”
“I was brave and started a gift shop there, not knowing anyone,”
In the quaint town of Brits, nestled among the rolling hills, lies a fabric emporium steeped in history and tradition. Founded in 1982 by the indomitable Rabia, affectionately known as Ruby, along with her brother and father, Ruby’s Fabrics is a testament to creativity, entrepreneurship, and familial bonds. Ruby, with her innate talent and flair for sewing and design, transformed humble fabrics into exquisite garments coveted by all who beheld them.
Lana Joubert, the visionary owner of Lana Joubert Makeover Specialist, Oh My Blouse Boutique, and Die Atelier – Workshop Studio, traces her entrepreneurial journey from childhood dreams to a flourishing business empire. From early days styling her Great Gran’s hair and experimenting with Barbie dolls, Lana’s passion for transformation and creativity became evident. Raised by a determined single mother, Lana imbibed the spirit of independence, realizing that women can achieve anything. This mindset, nurtured in her formative years, laid the foundation for her entrepreneurial endeavours.
Before venturing into real estate, Henk had a full-time career in rugby, playing for teams such as the Bulls, Lions, Ep Kings, and Pumas. His sports background instilled essential life lessons about teamwork and the value of hard work, principles he applies to his business.
The countdown has begun for Africa’s second Organic and Natural Products Expo Africa. This flagship event, organised by South African Trade Promotions (SATP), takes place at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg from the 14th to the 16th of September. As excitement mounts, exhibitors are eagerly unveiling their plans for this year’s event, which aims to build on the successes of its inaugural edition.
Nico Brandt was born 10 April 1968. As a child he used to assist his Mom in the kitchen and thinks that this might be where his love for food originated from. He grew up with two siblings in Randfontein where he completed his SHS education.
Denis Ackulay also referred to as “Chief Denis” was born on the 21st of July the year he was born in however is Top Secret. He playfully ensures us that his birthday celebration always extends to the 22nd of July and that he prefers to stay the same age for many years to come.
by Marinda Sauerman
Jacquelene Swanepoel describes herself as a business woman, entrepreneur, working mom and wife. Her business community, however, describes her as a quiet woman that has the dynamic presence of a giant. The few times that Jacquelene speaks, everyone listens to every single word she has to say.
Steph Jansen van Vuuren was born and raised in Klerksdorp (a mining town in North West). This is where he was introduced to the pageant and modelling world. He entered his first pageant at the age of 15 and from then on, modelling became a significant part of his life.
At 47 she dances for four hours daily on weekdays with her students. Tanya Jacobs has been teaching various forms of dancing at her interactive studio in Hartbeespoort for the past 30 years. By Carla van der Spuy
I was born in KwaMashu township in Kwazulu-Natal as Mqondisi Ngubane, or “MQ.” I was named by my grandmother who envisioned me as a “Mqondisi,” an isiXhosa word meaning “director”. This turned out to be prophetic – my name heralded my future – it was as if it was known from my birth that my destiny was to become a director.
Annelie Dillman’s story starts a little more than 40 years ago, when her dad, a keen amateur photographer, converted his darkroom into a baby room for her.
Melissa-Jo Sharpe received her BSc Dietetics cum laude at the North West University. Her interest in Dietetics started out more as a result of her own journey to understand and recover from a teenage eating disorder.
“I am in the business of empowering people”
This sophisticated woman with love and empathy for people, hails from Swaziland.
That’s when the real entrepreneurs rise.
The ones who don’t give up when the numbers aren’t pretty. The ones who get out of their seat, put on their shoes, and go knock on doors. The ones who don’t wait for business to find them — because they know, it won’t.
Our facility is designed to offer both comfort and care. Each of our 16 residents has their own private bedroom and en-suite bathroom, allowing them the dignity of personal space while living in a safe, supportive environment. This setup helps residents feel at home, encouraging independence within a caring community.
For many years, the North West has offered one thing that bigger cities can’t: affordability. Families, students, and first-time buyers are starting to realise that they can get more house for their money here. You can still find spacious homes with gardens, in quiet suburbs, for prices that would barely get you a bachelor flat in Sandton.
Some say it’s technology — the constant comparison, the easy distractions, the endless options. Others blame stress: the pressure to hustle, the rising cost of living, the burnout. And then there’s the quiet truth nobody likes to admit — sometimes people grow apart, silently, in the same house.
Many children are misdiagnosed at first, told it’s just eczema or a fungal infection. But with psoriasis, proper diagnosis is key — as well as emotional support.
Cash flow. We all know it’s essential. We all hear the saying: “Cash is king.”
Being a mom is more than biology. It’s in the gentle way you guide your younger sibling. It’s in how you show up for your friends, your nieces and nephews, your partner, how you comfort, protect, and give selflessly when no one is watching. It’s in the nurturing role you take at work, at home, or in your community.
Physical cash provides a tangible way to manage personal finances. When people use cash, they are often more conscious of their spending, helping to prevent impulsive purchases. Studies suggest that using physical money creates a psychological awareness of expenditure that digital transactions lack, making it a useful tool for those trying to stick to a budget.
The Isle of Man’s relationship with South Africa is built on more than financial transactions—it is built on relationships, trust, and shared ambitions.
My motivation is deeply rooted in seeing tangible changes in my clients’ lives—hearing their stories, witnessing their journeys from financial distress to stability, and knowing my work truly matters. Additionally, my faith, family support, especially from my husband and daughter Amanda, and a strong commitment to personal growth through constant learning and networking, continually fuel my passion and resilience. The birth of my baby, small Dawie, at the age of 43, was one of the biggest miracles of my life, and I would be nothing without the grace of God. I am by no means perfect—but I deeply love my creator and my family.
CEO, CONNIE MATLEJOANE, LAUNCHES LERUO FOUNDATION TO EMPOWER SOUTH AFRICA’S WOMEN AND YOUTH ENTREPRENEURS As
Though initially disappointed, he took this as an opportunity to create something tailored to local conditions. He assembled a team of experts and advisors, funding the research entirely on his own. The development and validation of the system took nearly four years, culminating in the registration of the PlantSap® trademark and concept in 2021.
We offer a delicious selection of salads, platters, ready-made meals, cakes, tarts, and puddings.
Fresh, Fast, Flavorful – Ready to Enjoy!
57 Ludorf street, Brits (Next to British license plates)
Whatsapp or call : 072 659 9021
Humans are inherently visual beings. Studies show that people form opinions about others within the first 7 seconds of meeting them, and in many cases, this initial judgment is based solely on appearance. A high-quality headshot, sets you up for success and ensure that your first impression is a positive and memorable one.
At Rain Debt, we handle the tough conversations so you don’t have to. Partner with us to recover your debts quickly and professionally.
012 110 4240 | info@raindebt.co.za | www.raindebtsolutions.com
