Our People, Our Stories
Zanele’s story on… what it takes to be human in business
Zanele started her career as a cleaner at Durban municipality, where she forged a significant connection that would later play a crucial role in her professional journey. When she took over as cleaner from a previous employee, people started noticing a difference. Not only was everyone happy with her work but they learnt they could call on Zanele whenever they had a problem, that they could rely on her to rescue them in any situation requiring her help. Aurelia (now Innovate Durban’s CEO) overheard Zanele discussing with her colleague her need to drop out of university due to financial difficulties. Aurelia graciously offered to help by providing Zanele with additional cleaning work on weekends.
Zanele had been praying for an opportunity like this, little did she know the REAL opportunity was still coming. Aurelia had been singing her praises long before and let her in on a bigger plan: she wanted Zanele to join Innovate Durban as the first employee. A cleaner at first, with the view to grow her within the business. It would require a year of patience until the opportunity would come to life, but Zanele persevered. When that day came, she was unsure of how to respond, could this new opportunity be true? It took three phone calls later and Zanele realised that the dream was now in fact real, she literally dropped everything and the very next day, made the move to her new professional home at Innovate Durban.
“One day I arrived at work and Aurelia took me over to a table full of papers. I asked what this was and she explained it was the designs for the office. I replied how nice it was but inside I wasn’t quite sure what it even was! To me it was just drawings, I had never seen such a thing before!”
The office was just 300m2, and only took Zanele two hours to clean. She wasn’t doing much with the rest of her hours and had a dream: to learn how to use a computer. Aurelia had the same intentions for Zanele and brought her dream to life. Innovate Durban’s first employee, she has been an invaluable asset to the company since her start as a Cleaner seven years ago. She has consistently grown within the organisation, progressing from Cleaner to Cleaner/Admin Assistant, Office Administrator, and now Office, Project, and Program administrator. Zanele is effectively the face of Innovate Durban, having an innate ability to forge memorable connections in how she makes people feel seen. She is that person who greets you by name even if she hasn’t met you yet, the one who remembers how you like to take your tea or coffee, where you are from and your story. She sees people, not numbers nor titles.
“I just have my matric with no other qualifications so I am self taught. Whatever I do I try by all means to impress people in a good way through dedication and learning. I am a very observant person, I remember all the little things that matter the most. I can tell when someone walks in, how their experience will be, and I try to help them make it a positive one.”
Zanele holds herself to the highest standards, and emphasises the importance of people treating one another as equals. Someone not to underestimate, the longer you work with her, the more the wise ones notice that she is one to keep close, one that will have your best interests at heart. Quietly strong, she has the ability to work through challenges that come her way, recognising that a smaller organisation requires comradery not complete autonomy.
Zanele believes that one’s longevity in an organisation is deeply impacted by their ability to adapt to the environment and culture they find themselves in. This is why establishing a fit from both an employer and an employee perspective is important to get right from as early as interview stage. Second to organisational-talent fit is one’s attitude, an inherent factor contributing to an employees experience.
“You need to create a space for yourself that is safe. To remember that what brings us here is work and the issues we address and resolve remain here – there is no place for personal grudges. Make room to first protect yourself and then others – I sometimes still have it the wrong way around, forgetting to care for myself while caring for others.”
Understanding, direct, fair, and driven by faith, Zanele is the one you pick first for your team, her loyalty is unwavering, it’s easy to see what Aurelia saw in her all those years ago. She reminds us of how the smallest human gestures, like genuinely asking how someone is, can go a long way in recreating happiness for others in our day to day experiences. Crossing paths with her is a forever humbling encounter.
Erika’s story on… what good tribes are made of
After completing her diploma in Secretarial Skills, Erika soon after launched her career in the corporate sector. She quickly rose through the corporate ranks, becoming the Executive Assistant to a Sales & Marketing Director at just twenty-three years old. This experience acted as a catalyst for her executive career, focusing exclusively on supporting Executives and CEOs.
“I was the youngest, and least experienced out of everyone interviewed for the position. During the interview I was given a piece of advice I’ll never forget, I was told to never sell myself short. I was given the job, at a higher salary than I asked for, and six months into the role, I was asked to apply for an even higher position. My career took off because someone believed in me more than I believed in myself.”
Erika also had an interest in mentorship, counselling, and life coaching. To pursue this itch, she completed a certification in Emotional Intelligence Training & Coaching and volunteered after working hours at Lifeline, a non-profit organisation that provides free, 24-hour telephone crisis support services. After almost two decades dedicated to her craft as an employee, Erika was faced with retrenchment. A single mom with two daughters about to begin their high school journey, she warmed to the idea of being more present in their lives, and to have more work flexibility. She found herself in a position that allowed her to pursue something she had always been intrigued by: entrepreneurship. She also launched a side business offering Business Support Services. This business, now known as The Office Cog, provides ad hoc tasks and ongoing administrative support, allowing clients to focus on their core business. She helps clients with tasks they dislike, don’t know how to do, or simply lack the time for.
“In the executive assistant space you have to be good at discipline with regards to time management, attention to detail, and above all, setting boundaries because you have to be really wise in how you prioritise your work. Building strong relationships is everything and I work hard to nurture these. One day you may need something and the people you can lean on will be those who you have fostered strong relationships with.”
Through a referral, Erika was brought into Innovate Durban to upskill a key staff member who was rising through the ranks and in need of business support skills. From assisting in the growth of this colleague from cleaner to receptionist and admin support, Erika continued to impart her skills on the Innovate Durban business. From leading workshops with interns on business etiquette to becoming Aurelia, the CEO’s, right hand women/executive assistant, to a key contributor in team building initiatives and innovation events, Erika is ingrained in the Innovate Durban business.
“It was such a special time for me when I started work at Innovate Durban, mentoring someone who had such potential. I was only meant to step in for a short time and now I have become so attached to the business. I love the people and culture at Innovate Durban, they are passionate and hard working.”
Having been in a position of self doubt and needing her tribe around her to push her forward, Erika strongly believes that we can all do anything we put our mind to if we are mindful not to let our perception of ourselves or circumstances dictate otherwise. Second to that, she encourages us to see the bigger picture and how often sweating the small things become insignificant in the wider context of our lives. She reserves her focus and energy for what really matters: relationships with the people.
Intentional about whom she surrounds herself with, she fondly describes Innovate Durban as an inclusive, forward-thinking environment that encourages individuals to become the best versions of themselves, both personally and as integral members of the organisation. Empathetic, trustworthy, loyal, authentic, faith driven, and a believer that opportunity is rife if only we open our eyes to see what’s in front of us, how fortunate they are to have Erika to epitomise such a culture.
Holden’s story on… stepping out of one’s shell to achieve personal growth
When leaving school, Holden was not clear on the exact path he would take in his career. He went on to assume an entry level job in retail which funded his next move to study a degree in Financial Accounting at the University of South Africa. Later coming across an advertisement for an intern role at Innovate Durban, Holden applied without hesitation and within twenty minutes he was accepted. He now knew what fate felt like. For many the year 2020 was a difficult and turbulent one, but for Holden it was the onset of his career in the innovation space at Innovate Durban. This opportunity would later prove to be a lasting and valuable experience.
“As an intern I worked in pretty much every area of the business and since then, there are so many people and moments along the way that have impacted my journey to today. The most memorable is seeing the impact that our facilities and function has on people’s lives, that’s what really stands out for me above all else. Purpose is the key word: this gives you a sense of purpose.”
While working as a Finance Intern, Holden identified an opportunity to streamline the financial audit process, showcasing his ability to identify inefficiencies and propose innovative solutions. From intern to Junior then Senior Financial Coordinator, today Holden is the Partnership & Finance Coordinator, leaning into his biggest talent (finance) and biggest passion (partnerships). As the second-longest-serving employee with five years of tenure, Holden continues to rise through the ranks and emerge as a key player in his domain.
“I would welcome any future Innovate Durban employee and tell them about how wonderful this place is. I would also warn them that it is a fast paced environment and it’s important to keep a cool head. I’ve certainly grown in every aspect during my time here, the relationships built here are essential in all we achieve. Be authentic, be yourself.”
With two separate domains, Finance and Partnerships under his guidance, Holden has developed an aptitude for balancing competing priorities and ensuring that both areas receive the attention they need. He highlights that while technical skills are crucial for his role, effective communication with both colleagues and external stakeholders is equally essential. Being introverted means he has had to learn and work on this skill continuously to overcome his natural tendencies and grow professionally. Holden goes on to emphasise the importance of establishing a healthy work-life balance early on in our careers. This means not neglecting our personal passions while building our professional paths.
“I’ve always had a talent for maths and numbers but I have a big passion for writing. I have a dream to one day write my own fiction novels and I get to use my creative writing skills in my role when writing proposals. Being able to see the big picture of what we are trying to accomplish and articulate that in how we tell that story.”
Making the transition from wanting to get work done right, versus wanting to accomplish something meaningful, Holden reflects and suggests to those considering a role like his, to focus less on deadlines and more on empathising with the beneficiaries of your work. Having recently concluded a proposal that led to a seven year agreement, there is no doubt that Holden is mastering the craft of writing with purpose and will continue to deliver results that leave us wanting for more.
While his work in finance and business development may not seem directly impactful at first, his contributions within a business like Innovate Durban clearly demonstrate the essential role he plays in driving positive change. Not one to confine his contributions within his role, Holden has become a go-to problem solver, no matter the context or domain, always finding creative and effective solutions. Thoughtful, imaginative, ambitious, dedicated and authentic with the innate ability to flex both his analytical and creative muscles, Holden is a rare find in any professional setting. His deepest desire? To achieve interstellar travel in his lifetime – now THAT’S wild ambition!
Melanie’s story on… learning and prioritising self worth
Melanie was a naturally introverted child, often preferring the company of books to people. Yet, she had a deep fascination with others and a strong desire to understand their behaviour and motivations. Her initial dream was to become a Clinical Psychologist. She went on to complete her BA (Hons.) degree in Psychology & Criminology and later, her MBA as well as a diploma in Human Resources, amongst other accolades qualifying her as a Psychometrist (HPCSA), Specialist Wellness Counsellor (ASCHP), and Career Development Practitioner (SACDA). This was no mean feat as Melanie took the challenging path of pursuing these academic achievements while working full-time. From early on it was clear that she was an exceptionally dedicated and determined professional.
“I was supposed to be like every psychology student and go on to study a Masters in Psychology. However, I realised that while I knew a lot about psychology, I lacked a deeper understanding of business when engaging with clients. I decided to be different and chose to pursue a masters in Business (MBA).”
Melanie’s early exposure to the corporate world led her to recognise the valuable role of psychology in the workplace, particularly within the HR department. She went on to assume an HR role in the realms of Organisation Development at one of South Africa’s leading financial institutions. With her MBA under her wing, she became adept at understanding both employees and clients, and her professional contributions helped her achieve significant credibility. She later moved into consulting across a range of clients and then found herself back in the academic space, this time as a lecturer. In her new position, Melanie developed an additional skill set in lecturing, which is more of a one-way communication style compared to her previous experience in facilitation, which involves a more interactive and guiding approach. During her time in the private higher education sector, she became proficient in both styles. Today Melanie is a Learning & Development Specialist for Innovate Durban with a focus on capacity building and skills development. She has the privilege of crafting, leading, and coordinating training programs in design thinking, digital literacy, problem-solving, and critical reasoning for the organisation’s beneficiaries.
“I get so excited to meet the youth we work with. They arrive so eager to learn. Sometimes in a corporate environment when you offer training, many employees do not appreciate it – certainly not on the same level as these individuals. It is such a great space at Innovate Durban to use my learnings to make a meaningful impact.”
Melanie urges us to take ownership of our learning and professional development, rather than relying solely on our employers. By understanding our strengths, aptitudes, and interests, we can make informed career decisions and navigate our professional journeys effectively. She emphasises the importance of self-awareness in career decision-making, reminding us that it’s okay to admit our limitations and seek help when necessary. Furthermore, she highlights the importance of learning from everyone we encounter in our professional lives, including those who may not align with our personal preferences. These interactions can teach us valuable lessons in conflict management and emotional intelligence.
“I really love and deeply value learning, I always have. When I am not learning I don’t feel good. There are always opportunities to learn but the catch is in knowing what you are genuinely interested in. I have also met so many awesome people along the way. You learn from people regardless of their positions or background or whether you gel. Many times you may not realise you are learning but subconscious learning is at play that you may apply in later roles.”
Melanie acknowledges her family as instrumental in her career through their unwavering and ongoing support. She believes the universe always has our back and that the rejection we experience is merely redirection. Complex, energised, empathic, loyal, curious and known to never give up, Melanie is driven to leave this world in a better place than she found it in. She reminds us how our net worth is not equal to our self worth and to stay focused on the latter because our intrinsic value lies in being authentically YOU!
Tamisha’s story on… a passionate pursuit beyond the ivory tower
“I believe we all have a higher purpose, something we are meant to be doing with our lives. Mine is to contribute in helping people improve their lives, especially those in marginalised communities. I love playing a part in understanding their true needs as opposed to imposing solutions that they have had no say in.”
Tamisha’s love for research began during her undergraduate studies in Urban & Regional Planning at Durban University of Technology. She earned an Honors degree, completing a major research project as part of her dissertation. Encouraged by the enjoyment she found in the research process and engaging with people through interviews, Tamisha shifted her focus to a career in research.
Having heard about the Youth Innovation Challenge amongst fellow scholars, Tamisha was somewhat familiar with the Innovate Durban business. However, it wasn’t until she began preparing for her interview, that she discovered an unexpected connection. She learned about Innovate Durbans work in the Cato Manor community, and being close to home, this resonated deeply with her. Needless to say her interview landed her the internship which later transformed into a permanent seat at the Innovate Durban table. From basic research activities such as data collection and transcripts to playing a pivotal role in the research proposal, design, process, fieldwork, and descriptive analysis and report writing, Tamisha has taken to growth like a sponge! Intern turned valued expert employee, today Tamisha assumes the role of Research Analyst at Innovate Durban.
“I’ve developed a lot, especially within the role. When I first started I didn’t really have much knowledge about what a research role entailed. As I went through the research process under the guidance of my Research lead, I picked up a lot of valuable skills. Before this experience I wasn’t really confident with public speaking but I have since had the opportunity to facilitate sessions with the Cato Manor community, to conduct interviews, and to present research findings. Over time I grew into my role.”
Her direct lead, Patrick, a life long researcher and mentor is forever opening professional doors for her as she finds her unique place in the profession. Of all the knowledge and practical experience Tamisha has gained since entering the professional world of research, interacting with community members has been the most profound. She shares that their stories are truly inspiring, helping us understand our own experiences in a whole new light. She cites the Township Development Program as a stand out highlight in her experience thus far where she has been involved in the Community of Practice that is driving positive impact in this underserved community.
“I really enjoy the community development part of my job. It’s like having a purpose within the job that you do, knowing that you are reaching people that at some point you are actually helping.”
Tamisha has integrated her urban planning and research skills into a role that positively impacts underserved communities. She demonstrates that the role of a researcher is far from being confined to an ivory tower. In her field, effective researchers are on the ground, interacting directly with the very people they aim to help. Her advice to those considering a career in research is to ensure they pursue it in a sector that resonates with them. She encourages them to look at the bigger picture and ask themselves if they are truly passionate about the path they are taking.
“Don’t take life too seriously. Things aren’t always black and white—there are grey areas. You need to consider different perspectives because you can’t know everything, and you need diverse input. Stop doubting yourself. In most cases, you have a good grasp of what you’re talking about, but confidence is what’s missing.”
Tamisha continues to be inspired by the leaders around her, from women in leadership such as Aurelia, the CEO and driving force behind Innovate Durban, to the women in her family who embody what it means to be diligent go-getters that never let anything stand in their way. Confident, hard working, somewhat introverted, a deep thinker with an aptitude for critical thinking, Tamisha is wise beyond her years, it’s really hard to fathom she is only two years into a role that she has embraced so naturally with both head and heart.
Miliswa’s story on… feeding the soul
Growing up, Miliswa aspired to a career in science, eventually honing her ambitions toward becoming an architect. However, she has found unexpected fulfilment and success in the field of marketing and events – a path she never anticipated taking. Despite her strong grades in technical drawing, Miliswa’s initial career path was derailed when she was not accepted into the architecture program. She went on to study GeoInformatics at the University of Stellenbosch where unfortunately, her studies were cut short in her second year when she sadly lost her mother and had to return home to care for her younger sister. Determined to create a stable life for herself and her sister, Miliswa chose not to return to the Western Cape to finish her studies. Instead, she resumed her life in KwaZulu-Natal and went on to complete a short course in drafting.
“Because of how my whole career started off, there are times where I do sit back and reflect. I am a strong believer in faith and living up to the standards that my mother left for me. I have learnt when things go bad or fall apart, we have to do all we can to move forward because sitting with it wont help.”
Her first stint in the working world was a serendipitous one, and unbeknown to her at the time, would ultimately lead her down the marketing path. Aware that drafting jobs were very scarce, Miliswa was willing to take any opportunity that came her way until she could make it into the drafting field. After interviewing for a receptionist position, Miliswa unexpectedly received a counter job offer at the same firm, for a yet-to-be-advertised role. Her proficiency in AutoCAD, developed during her studies, impressed the interviewer and secured her the position of Design Administrator, her initial sidestep into an alternative industry.
After getting through one of the toughest years in her life, navigating a personally challenging year, whilst building a new life supporting herself and her sister on a modest salary, Miliswa was afforded her next career opportunity as a Social Media Marketer. From design to marketing, she ventured yet again into the unfamiliar. A role that proved to offer immense growth on her career journey, getting thrown into the deep end, having to find a way to swim through rebranding, establishing a media presence, developing a website, managing events, running traditional media marketing campaigns, and more. This experience gave Miliswa the confidence that she could in fact do ‘this marketing thing’.
“The only reason I gave the Social Media Marketing role a shot was because they were looking for someone to help them build a brand presence. During my time in design, I developed an interest in the obsession my colleagues had for a brand’s colours, fonts, spacing – I didn’t realise it then but I was dabbling into branding and aspects of marketing.”
Miliswa continued her growth trajectory in her next move to a bigger and more corporate organisation who now recognised the experience she had worked hard to accumulate. She took the opportunity to hone her skills in the specialised area of Product Marketing. Later struck by ill health and after spending six weeks in hospital, on return to work, she received a phone call that brought Miliswa a meaningful offer, Marketing & Events Specialist at Innovate Durban. The opportunity to apply her skills to help young people in KZN from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue their ideas and hopefully recreate employment for others? She was sold! Miliswa has found a whole new sense of meaning in the work she is now involved in.
“We all have to work for a living, but it always makes it all the more worthwhile if you work while giving back or making a difference to someone’s life. I see how this company resonates with my values and who I am as a person. Now I can see how my efforts can pay off for others and the wider community in need.”
Miliswa’s innate creativity in problem solving and curiosity in understanding human behaviour, allows her to go way beyond surface level demographics of market targeting. She delves deeper into how to bring people closer to solving the core challenges they strive to address. Using analytics to understand the impact of her work through numbers brings tangibility to her efforts within her role. She certainly debunks the stereotypical marketing associations of glamour, exposing how unaware we often are of what really goes on behind the scenes in the dazzling events or marketing messages we encounter. She advises those pursuing a career in marketing to stay ahead of the curve by specialising in a subsector of this broad discipline. Coupled with taking on any experience offered, paid or not, because experience supersedes the exchange for the short term money and time.
Miliswa’s goal has always been to feel whole in her soul with all she takes on both in her personal and professional life. Her choices are made based on those that bring colour to her life. What a beautiful state to find oneself in!
Jason's story on… the wonder in bringing ideas to life
Jason’s lifelong fascination with using his imagination to build things began with his early experiences playing with Lego as a child, little did he know how this would shape his future career. Throughout high school, Jason was unsure about his career path. To explore his options, he interned at a 3D printing company, where he discovered his true passion. Surrounded by engineers, Jason quickly became familiar with the world of robotics engineering and quickly mastered the skills – his curiosity knew no bounds. David, the owner, was known for his kindness and humility. Clearly enjoying seeing others grow, he was patient and allowed Jason to learn through making mistakes, playing a crucial role in his professional development. Since then, like any creative professional, Jason has never stopped questioning and exploring.
“I fumbled in there only to find these engineers just got me and I just got them. There are people that enjoy what I enjoy? Seeing the structured application of ideas into physical tangible things felt like my experience with Lego all over again, the building blocks were just a little different.”
As Lab Manager at Innovate Durban, Jason plays a pivotal role in the Startup & Support Program, assisting innovators in developing their prototypes. In this field, you’re essentially exploring the intersection of technology and art, investigating how technology can be used to create new forms of expression. Starting out as Fabrication Manager taking ownership of the physical product creation from 3D printing to laser cutting, Jason immediately felt the fast paced environment that is part and parcel of the Innovate Durban environment. Jason’s dream of doing more of what he loved became a reality. He explains that the skills needed for his profession are actually more accessible than beneficiaries may realise. Today, his mission is to demonstrate to these innovators that they are more than capable of bringing their ideas into reality, all it takes is a computer, internet, and a little know-how, all of which is accessible at Innovate Durban.
“I am the teacher and this is the learning environment. I get to see ideas coming to life. They are so invested at that point and I get to see the best part, them realising it. I appreciate that and find it really rewarding. I have seen it happen time and time again from innovators from the most unexpected places from Cato Manor and Kokstad to Richmond and eDumbe.”
With advancements in AI, the gap is narrowing, making technology more accessible to a wider range of people. This transition allows Jason to step back from the day-to-day execution and focus on the broader picture, overseeing the overall operation and mission at play for Innovate Durban. Jason started by teaching himself, then transitioned to teaching others. Now, he’s teaching others how to teach, a role that has evolved into managing people rather than machines. As a hobbyist who stumbled into the innovation space, he’s learnt that his current role is less about formal qualifications and more about being approachable and conversation ready, creating a less intimidating environment. Described by fellow colleagues as having labrador energy, Jason is always ready to embrace new ideas with boundless enthusiasm to take the necessary steps to bring them to fruition. He sees a future where most people are able to 3D model an idea just as easily as it is to send a text message.
“I have stepped up in my time here learning to become a better communicator so that I can transpose skills. I never really planned out my career, I went where it was fun to be, and this is where I have ended up, I enjoy being able to empower people. Witnessing the wonder and curiosity in people’s eyes as they see the seamless transition from digital to physical is truly motivating.”
On his professional journey, Jason initially believed that the goal was to learn as much as possible. However, he has since realised that everyone has their limits and it’s more effective to focus on your strengths and to be aware of your weaknesses. Building connections with people who excel in areas where you’re lacking is crucial. Jason’s experiences have not only been professionally enriching but have also redefined his personal aspirations. Meeting beneficiaries who possess abundant happiness despite limited material possessions has taught him that material wealth is secondary to personal fulfilment. Who knew that something seemingly so technologically driven could have such a profound impact on his personal growth as a human being.
Patrick’s story on… making your mark through the impact of your work
When Patrick embarked on his studies at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, little did he know at the time that one day he would look back on his tenure with abundant accolades: he completed his BSC Degree in Geography & Environmental Management (Cum Lade); followed by his BSC Honours in Environmental Science (Cum Lade), and then went on to his Research Masters in Environmental Science (Summa Cum Lade) and is now in the final stages of his PhD in Development Studies. It’s no understatement to say that Patrick has earned his stripes!
Patrick credits Prof Cathy Sutherland, his MSc and PhD supervisor, as a significant influence in his academic success and ongoing professional journey. Her trust in him and exposure to a variety of projects were instrumental. Together, they’ve collaborated on numerous research projects: a Water Research Commission Project demonstrating the value of ecological infrastructure in the uMgneni Catchment, several social assessments and the Palmiet Catchment Rehabilitation Project, amongst others. His involvement in the LIRA 2030 Project, focusing on transformative climate adaptation, was the first time he truly stepped out from under his mentor’s shadow and truly shone. This was the beginning of Patrick’s quest to build his own name in the sector. With his PhD focussing on water governance in Durban over the past 170 years, it has become more than just an academic pursuit, also leading him down the path of numerous related consulting projects. Along with his vast experience and accolades, including being a Contributing Author on the IPCC’s Special Report on the Ocean, Coast, and Cryosphere, Patrick has been brought into projects in various roles from External Evaluator, Chairman of an Advisory Group, Social & Governance Expert, and the like. One particular role stands out on a more personal level: Patrick was able to step in as a Water and Climate Governance Expert for a Presidential Climate Commission project after the Durban floods in 2022.
“With four retaining walls in my house collapsing, requiring us to evacuate during the flood, my personal experience of the Durban floods later became a defining moment for me. Being part of the Minister Of Environmental Affairs engagement to meet with experts and communities affected by the April 2022 flood, I heard so many stories told with such raw emotion from vulnerable community members, I realised how I was able to bounce back from the experience where others were simply unable to. I knew I wanted to use the work I was doing to drive a positive impact.
With invaluable consulting and research experience under his wing, Patrick set forth on a new venture and joined Innovate Durban as Research & Impact Lead. His research projects now include The State of Innovation in KZN Report, Funding Mapping, a Toolkit for Innovators, and various thought leadership initiatives. As if that wasn’t enough, Patrick has also led a project that developed a water innovation network between South Africa and the UK with Innovate UK, contributing in a consulting capacity. His impact work includes the Monitoring & Evaluation that demonstrates the value that Innovate Durban’s work has on the wider community they serve. He is also developing a Theory of Change for the organisation. Despite the vast lessons learnt while dipping his toes into the innovation and entrepreneurial space in his current role, Patrick believes his most valuable learnings have come from the people he works alongside.
“My previous work was more on the consulting side of things where you are more of a lone wolf. Managing dynamics and working closely with a team is where I have really grown particularly in terms of leadership. This has also meant learning to have a voice in terms of thought leadership.”
Patrick advocates for a work ethic focused on producing high-quality results, which often yields long-term rewards. Meticulous, analytical, creative, determined, and a continuous learner, Patrick brings all these traits into his research role. He advises those considering a research career not to assume that researchers are all-knowing but to focus on a specific topic or sector.
“I am always trying to learn more, understand more, question things, and logically explain things. Research is not just about watching a video or reviewing content but good research follows an iterative process requiring a lot of curiosity, thought and reflection.”
In the future, we can anticipate more academic publications from Patrick as he continues to expand his research contributions in the field of entrepreneurship and innovation. His goal is clear: to continue to have a positive impact on society through his work with people and their environment. It’s safe to say that Patrick will follow his own “’make it your own”
advice, leaving his mark in his own unique way in his professional journey.
Susanne’s story on… sprinkling impact in our encounters
“Growing up I had a lot of ideas from the sublime to the ridiculous, wanting to be in business, a ballerina, a paediatrician, a ninja, and my journey has not been a straight road to get to where I’ve ended up today. Each organisation I have worked with has strengthened different aspects of the professional I have become.”
Susanne studied Public Relations Management and whilst doing so, embarked on her in-service training at TAFTA (The Association For The Aged), an organisation that would be fortunate enough to be graced by her services on two future occasions in her upcoming career. Her first professional stint out of university was that of PR Practitioner for The Sharks, KwaZulu Natal’s provincial rugby team. During her time there, she learned a valuable mantra that has guided her career: “Don’t play the game, play the ref.” She explains how in different environments you need to constantly adapt and understand what is required to get you further given the ecosystem you are playing in – be it in the smaller team or the wider organisation. To understand not just your domain but also the people who are making the rules.
Susanne returned to TAFTA now as an employee, rising from Corporate Fundraiser to Manager and eventually becoming Divisional Manager for Income Development and Public Relations. Just under a decade dedicated to these roles, Susanne left the comforts of TAFTA and later assumed the role of Business Development Manager at TREE (Training and Resources in Early Education). Susanne then joined Innovate Durban as the Business Development & Fundraising Lead. She quickly developed a passion for the programs supporting innovators from an ideation and business perspective, and became Program Lead. By this time, Susanne saw an opportunity to use her skills learnt in the last few years by returning to Tafta and later rejoined Innovate Durban, where she now leads the Innovation & Commercialisation department. Marketing, fundraising, and working directly with beneficiaries with regards to innovation is what really excites Susanne and she is only getting started in her newly assumed role.
“The majority of my work has been in the nonprofit sector. What appeals to me is the impact aspect of the work and I think that is why I have remained in this sector for so long. Working directly with the beneficiaries, listening and sharing, I just love this part of my work, it’s that closeness in contact that keeps me going.”
Susanne’s experiences have enabled her to work with a diverse range of beneficiaries, including learners at TREE, the elderly at TAFTA, and young innovators at Innovate Durban, thereby forging a strong connection to her work. She now draws on her years of experience from PR to fundraising to networking and partnerships, applying her skillset in how she works with innovators to take them to market ready stage. Susanne is dedicated to providing innovators with the capacity, skills, and networks they need to succeed. Her ultimate goal is to empower them to progress independently, beyond the support of the program. Susanne explains how being ‘destination challenged’ can hinder our progress and prevent us from taking the crucial first step: simply starting. Further to that, she cautions us to be mindful of doing work that keeps us busy versus work that is meaningful. Monetary, time based and output focussed goals can easily deter us from the potential of impactful work.
“I am always excited to learn new things, I love consuming knowledge. I have learnt to speak less and listen more, you learn so much from others. There is never a time where I feel like I am not learning, I want to be a lifelong learner.”
Susanne derives her fulfilment from the profound personal connections she nurtured with her parents during her childhood and with her husband in adulthood, as well as through her professional relationships with beneficiaries who inspire her daily. It is said that those who encounter this kind, calm, genuine, empathetic, out the box thinker, will be sprinkled with a little bit of her magic in every encounter.
Lucrisha’s story on… crafting change through ecosystem building
“Give me any opportunity to engage in social outreach or support startups, and I’ll be there. I actively seek these opportunities out wherever I can. Empowering others to become entrepreneurs has been a constant theme in my life. I’m always trying to turn everyone around me into an entrepreneur.”
Lucrisha was born into a life of frequent travel due to her fathers occupation which required regular relocation. Her maternal grandmother raised her in a small village with scarce water and electricity, with some of her primary education lessons taught in a shed, Lucrisha’s beginnings were humble. While some may see the difficulty in living in a constant state of change, she describes her childhood as uniquely fortunate due to the skills she was able to master as well as the exposure she gained. Her ability to adapt, embrace diversity, and thrive in ever-shifting circumstances became her defining strength – admired by many but mastered by few.
Exploring the remote regions of KwaZulu Natal with her father, Lucrisha encountered the roadside crafters and began to grasp the true scope of their story and struggles: the distances they would travel to sell their goods, the challenges they faced in transporting their products, and the limited opportunities available to them beyond these roadside sales. Lucrisha, although just a child at the time, was deeply impacted by their reality and couldn’t help but wonder what she could do to make things easier for them. Her father was always discovering innovative ways to help rural farmers maximize their crop yields, urging them to plant sustainable and profitable crops. He went so far as to personally cover the costs of transporting seeds and any other resources needed to improve their farms. Watching him, her journey into social entrepreneurship was ignited, a flame that would be rekindled once she had laid the foundations for her professional path.
After completing school, and despite her family’s financial struggles, Lucrisha went on to study her BA in Communications while balancing two jobs. Sadly the passing of her father followed.
“At the tender age of twenty six I was now the head of the family. But I had inherited an entrepreneurial spirit from both my parents, and my grandmother. Nothing knocked them down or set them back, they always sought out opportunities even in the darkest times. This has been my guiding light in many difficult situations.”
Lucrisha embarked on a period of travel and self-discovery, backpacking across the UK. After supporting her travels with various jobs, from fruit picker to salmon processor, she settled into her newfound home on the west coast of Scotland and went on to forge her professional career as Marketing Executive at a publishing house. Working from the ground up, eventually heading up their marketing department over the coming years, the inner social entrepreneur was still very much alive in Lucrisha as she engaged with local businesses.
On her return to South Africa, she explored her entrepreneurial itch and opened up a bistro in Cape Town whilst at the same time continuing her career in the media publishing space. Her professional career exposed her to SME and corporate networks, resulting in her fostering connections therein. Despite her career’s upward trajectory, her personal life was turbulent, marked by significant hardship at home.
“We always evolve from these hard times we experience in our lives. It makes us resilient and helps us realise that regardless of how dark those days may become, people (often those you least expect) will step up to help get you through.”
Lucrisha came out the other side with a zest to pursue her passion: helping small businesses and entrepreneurs to grow. Circling back to that initial moment when she was struck by the concept of social entrepreneurship, Lucrisha went on to open up Africrafters: supporting designers and manufacturers of indigenous and contemporary African Inspired arts and crafts to connect with wider local and international markets. Adjusting her business approach to suit these unique business owners who had no access nor familiarity with technology was a challenge that spoke to Lucrisha’s creativity. It also spoke to her strategic ability to join the dots in a way that deeply signified her purpose. Culturally au fait with the crafters and able to speak in their mother tongue, Lucrisha was perfectly placed to meaningfully connect and empower.
“You have to be humble enough to understand that while we want to come in with our ideas, when we walk away, these communities are still subjected to their norms and culturally set way of life and order. We need to be cognisant of this when we are engaging if we really want to create lasting and meaningful impact.”
The setback of Covid-19 sadly threatened the survival of the craft hub business with the brutal backlash the tourism industry experienced during this time. Despite feeling like she was back to square one, nothing could take away from the rich experience she had gained on her journey up to this point. It just so happened that all this had prepared her for what was to follow next. The Partnership & Engagement Lead position at Innovate Durban came calling and today Lucrisha is fulfilling her passion, giving back and seeing entrepreneurs grow, day in and day out. She generously shares her ten rules to live by:
- Embrace Challenges as Learning Opportunities
- Trust Your Instincts
- Focus on Building Relationships
- Keep Pushing Beyond Comfort Zones
- Prioritize Your Well-being
- Don’t Be Afraid to Dream Big
- Learn to Adapt and Be Flexible
- Be Patient and Stay Persistent
- Value Every Experience
- Embrace Your Unique Journey
Resilient, tenacious, resourceful, strategic, and a true visionary, Lucrisha is a powerful force for change with her unwavering commitment to create tangible impact within KwaZulu Natal and beyond. How? Through the building of a resilient framework for partnerships that foster lasting transformation and she is uniquely qualified to make this a reality! Lucrisha describes her experience at Innovate Durban as “living the dream.” Isn’t it ironic how in fact, it is Lucrisha who is the one who is making others dreams come true through the very nature of her work. She reminds us that when we live out the truth in what we do, we allow others to see the potential in themselves.
Chelsea’s story on… finding one’s creative voice
While her peers were busy with, well, whatever eleven-year-olds do, Chelsea was discovering the world of design, a place she would call home, a digital sanctuary where her imagination could stretch without limits. Thanks to a call from her church needing help with design work, without hesitation Chelsea was chomping at the bit. Diving deep into this newfound discipline, she quickly familiarised herself with design tools such as Canva, and the rest is history. Chelsea was destined to carve out a career in the realm of digital design.
“I could never sit still, I always wanted to be busy with my hands, creating and building things. I’ve always been interested in technology, understanding how things work and trying to figure out how to customise things. I was forever taking my parents phones and playing with their settings, I was that kid!”
Looking back on her quirks growing up, Chelsea realises that the signs were there, now reflected in what she does today: creating designs, coding, building apps, and the like. Her family played a big part in the direction she chose for her career not only in their unwavering support and encouragement but they literally provided her with a constant stream of inspiration to hone her craft. From birthday invitations to helping them fix their tech issues, she was immersed in real-world design challenges, turning everyday tasks into opportunities to learn and refine her abilities. We are reminded that opportunity is all around us and the smallest of opportunities can play the biggest role in shaping our skill sets and passions, often manifesting later in life in the most unexpected ways.
It was only when Chelsea came across Vega’s stand at a school career day that she realised there was a profession that encapsulated all the things she loved to do. The intricacies of creativity, coding, and animation really captured her attention and desire to learn and explore the design discipline further.
“I realised I can actually do something I enjoy, I can be creative and free in a profession and not bogged down with the more traditional work that I initially assumed working life would look like.”
Having been exposed to the Innovate Durban business in her earlier years, blessed with the opportunity to volunteer there whilst completing her studies, she was able to further her work experience in the social upliftment and innovation space. She was captivated by the business and how it provided innovators with the ability to access intel and resources to bring their business ideas to life. Following the completion of her Bachelor’s degree in Design Design, Chelsea transitioned into the role of Digital Designer at Innovate Durban.
Still early on in her professional journey, Chelsea is clear on her areas for growth in this season of her career. She is focussed on learning more about how to handle herself in the workspace, and as a designer, her goal is to find the balance between client and target audience needs and how one achieves the much sought after equilibrium between adhering to brand guidelines whilst exploring creative expression. She leaves us with some wisdom gathered in her experience thus far:
“Stick to the design process but don’t limit yourself in creativity. If your idea seems crazy, just keep going with it, eventually it will all make sense. You have to have the passion because without it, you won’t be able to persevere in the more difficult moments when you really need to push through to get to that moment of clarity.”
Chelsea is deeply guided by her faith to direct her on her journey. Where does she go for creative inspiration? Bollywood movies of course! The vibrance, drama and ability to bring out the fun side in life really fills Chelsea’s cup of inspiration, taking her to another world and leaving her feeling full of creativity. Chelsea attributes her inspiring path as testament to the supportive presence of her parents, sister, Jesus, along with the playful warmth of her canine companions.
Gifted with a supportive Innovate Durban team showing her the ropes as she transitions into the working world, she is surrounded by strong mentors supporting her journey. Energetic, bubbly, creative, helpful and a busy person who always needs something to do, Chelsea returns the goodwill with her positive and productive presence. She weaves her creative magic throughout the business, transforming presentations and fueling marketing and social media with visually captivating storytelling. Her journey thus far suggests she’s a rising star, and one whose future contributions will be significant.