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n Pay and Shoprite . In 2007 , while studying for my MBA at Wits , I invested in a mining supply manufacturer , which I sold to a US conglomerate a year later . In 2012 , I focused on growing the Fresherbreath chain of dental practices . In 2017 , I launched Myobrace in South Africa , expanding to Namibia , Botswana , Zambia and Zimbabwe . Now , we distribute Myobrace in five Southern African countries .
WHAT HAVE BEEN THE BIGGEST OBSTACLES IN YOUR LIFE AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THEM ?
Growing up , I saw my father make deals on a handshake and believed trust was essential in business . However , I learned that where integrity is lacking , no law can compensate . My failed businesses shared a common issue : partners lacking integrity or a strong work ethic . Now , I avoid partnerships and trust cautiously . Early success brought challenges I was not prepared for . I have since learned the value of mentors who share their experiences . Life and business coaching are crucial for any budding entrepreneur . Initially , I pushed for rapid growth , which only fed my ego . I have learned that sustainable growth builds character . Slow and steady growth wins the race ; it is about hard work , perseverance , consistency and humility .
WHAT HAVE BEEN THE BIGGEST OPPORTUNITIES IN YOUR LIFE AND WHAT DID THEY ALLOW YOU TO DO ?
Serving on major Boards gave me governance experience and insight into managing big businesses . Partnering with Myobrace in South Africa enabled expansion across Africa , offering affordable preventative dental treatment . It also allowed me to build a global network of dentists to guide my PhD research on linking medical symptoms to dental sources .
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE PHILOSOPHY ?
Live every day as if it is your last , be good to people and deal with honesty and integrity .
WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU WERE EVER GIVEN AND WHO GAVE IT ?
“ It ’ s my life ,” Mark J Lamberti says . It may seem selfish , but ultimately , it is a statement of both responsibility and accountability and the first step on the leadership journey . This experience taught me that only when you own your life can you instil the values necessary to achieve big .
WHAT IS THE BEST BIT OF ADVICE YOU HAVE FOR STUDENTS ?
Keep searching for your passion , even if you discover it later in life . Follow your passion , and the money will follow you . Madiba became president in his 70s while Obama was in his 40s . You are never too young or too old . Success is inevitable at the right time when it is meant for you . As we have often heard , “ If you love what you do , you never have to work a day in your life ”.
WHEN DID YOU JOIN PPS AND WHAT INITIALLY ATTRACTED YOU TO JOIN ?
I discovered PPS in my final year of study and was drawn to its exclusivity and Profit- Share . Fifteen years later , I joined the PPS Board as a South African Dental Association representative , strengthening ties with the dental industry . Now in my third term on the Board , this has been a very fulfilling journey .
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