Today, her career has come full circle. The industries she operates in now, logistics, distribution, industrial operations, and sectors linked to construction and supply, connect directly back to those early experiences of physical work, structure, and production.
A South African entrepreneur just did. Meet GNASH, SA’s first plastic-free, biodegradable, tooth-friendly functional gum.
StatsSA confirms that though the sector has not fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels, South Africa’s tourism sector continues to grow, with total arrivals reaching 8.92 million in 2024, marking an impressive 5.1% increase compared to 2023. The sector now contributes 8.8% to GDP and supports 1.68 million jobs, according to World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) estimates. This positive momentum underscores the resilience of the sector, despite global economic pressures. The sector’s contribution to the economy eclipses that of the mining industry, which was once the mainstay of South Africa’s economy. Yet the sector is often unfairly overlooked despite its significant economic contribution. The growth of tourism has the potential to serve as a powerful driver of SME development across many sectors.
“For too long, South Africans have watched global food moments go viral online without being able to experience them locally,” says Gareth Brough, Co-Founder of The Clout Group. “Our mission has always been to close that gap. Partnering with Baglio’s ensures that this flavour, and the original Dodo Dubai Chocolate behind it, becomes a long-term summer staple for South Africans, not just a fleeting trend.”
“After years in Johannesburg and a corporate career, life shifted post Covid. We decided to leave the city and establish ourselves in Hartbeespoort, closer to the rest of my family and away from the constant bustle of big-city life. My dad owned the former Ennis Nursery property for several years, and about two years ago he mentioned wanting to sell it. I asked if I could first try to turn it around. I knew there was real potential on the site; it simply needed work to unlock it.
The innovatively designed dual 1kg independent mini-drums each support integrated washing and drying, making them ideal for the delicate care of baby clothes, premium underwear, and other specialized laundry scenarios. These mini-drums have obtained authoritative maternal and infant certifications, as well as medical-grade certifications for healthy underwear washing.
When a company scales rapidly, it can gain a strong foothold in the market. Growing fast often means reaching new customers before competitors have the chance to react. It also allows a brand to build recognition and loyalty while riding the momentum of success. Investors tend to notice companies that expand quickly, which can open doors to fresh capital and partnerships. For start-ups and small businesses, these benefits can be life-changing. In South Africa’s competitive environment, where market share is often hard-won, moving quickly can help a company establish itself as an industry leader.
“Do it. Your children are watching. Show them that women can nurture and lead, build and bloom. Because when they see you doing it, they’ll know they can too.”
Supporting SMMEs should not sit only with one division or a social impact mandate. It should sit across the business, as a priority for operations, procurement and product teams. One of the most impactful shifts a company can make is to pay small businesses on time.
The strength of WhatsApp lies in its ability to collapse friction. Instead of forcing customers to navigate multiple apps, websites, or phone calls, everything can flow through one trusted channel. Research, decision-making, payment, fulfilment, and after-sales support can all live in a single WhatsApp conversation.
“You have to go deeper here,” Kyle said. “Superficial products do not survive. People see through it. You need real connection.”
Then there is the issue of blurred boundaries. When your lounge is your office, it becomes difficult to switch off. Emails creep into dinner time. WhatsApp messages ping long after sunset. Lunch breaks become shorter and harder to protect. Over time, this lack of structure can lead to burnout, a slow but real fatigue that creeps in unnoticed.
This message has been echoed at multiple business leadership events and conferences we have recently attended where one truth stood out: leadership is no longer merely a corporate function but rather a societal responsibility.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Nurturing Bonds vs. Risky Affairs Love is a powerful force, and its influence extends into
