What’s your one top tip for doing a deal?
Ensure that you deal with credible parties who’ve done detailed feasibility studies. I always remind myself “No deal is better than a bad deal”.
What was your first job?
I was a junior assistant lecturer in mathematical statistics and was determined to be an academic. However, it didn’t last long since I was desperate to buy a car and couldn’t afford one.
How much was your first pay cheque, and how did you spend it?
I earned R825 and paid for accommodation, with no money left for a car (even a second-hand one!). Luckily, I lived within walking distance of the university.
What is the one thing you wish somebody had told you when you were starting out?
Life is not always fair, don’t be disappointed, learn from every experience. You only live once, so enjoy every moment.
If you could fix only one thing in South Africa, what would it be?
Poverty. As a country we should find better ways to create job opportunities, prioritise education and stimulate economic development.
What’s the worst investment mistake you’ve made?
Buying shares in the construction sector at the wrong time and waiting too long to sell them.
What’s the best investment you’ve ever made? And how much of it was due to luck?
I’m keen to say my first car but I know it’s most probably the wrong answer. It was second-hand and at the time the best investment, only because I had never owned a car and really wanted one. On a more serious note, the best investment I or anyone can make is in education. Nobody can take it away from you.
What is the hardest life lesson you’ve learnt?
Never take anything for granted, including your health. Always appreciate what you have and be grateful.
What is something you would go back and tell your younger self that would impress them?
Passion, hard work and determination will go a long way in achieving your goals. You must enjoy what you are doing and be honest with yourself and think about your purpose and how you will make a difference.
Was there ever a point at which you wanted to trade it all in for a different career?
I don’t think so. I love what I do but certainly had some disappointments and considered a change.
If you were President Cyril Ramaphosa, what would you change, or do, tomorrow?
Deal with corruption as a matter of urgency, be prepared to make tough calls and show zero tolerance for crime. We live in a beautiful country with special people, we should protect what we have.
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