MASTER INVESTOR
From humble beginnings to a visionary leader Siyabonga was born in Durban and raised in Umlazi township , an environment that shaped his character and ambitions . He fondly recalls walking several kilometres to school as a child , a journey that instilled in him a strong work ethic and determination .
His father , a building contractor for Murray and Roberts in the early 1960 ’ s , often took him along to various jobs , sowing the seeds of his future in the construction and property sectors . His mother , an educator and school principal , that eventually ended taking charge of infrastructure development for the KZN provincial department of Education . She emphasised the value of education , providing a nurturing environment that encouraged exploration and ambition .
His education journey began at Ngilosi Primary School and continued at Uthongathi NEST School , the first multiracial institution sanctioned by the apartheid government . Here , Siyabonga witnessed firsthand the power of diversity and collaboration . The pivotal moment in his youth came on 11 February 1990 , when Nelson Mandela was released from prison — a day that marked not only a political shift but also inspired Siyabonga to pursue his dreams with renewed vigour .
After completing his matric , he enrolled at the University of Cape Town , where he pursued a BSc ( honours ) in Construction Management . This choice was not merely academic ; it was a strategic decision influenced by his early experiences and the realization that he wanted to play a significant role in the built environment . He thrived as a student leader , balancing academics with sports and honing the leadership skills that would serve him well in his future endeavours .
16 REI MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2024