CATEGORY : BUSINESS & ENTREPRENEURSHIP

WOSA 1 - TANISHA JOGI JEEWA

Previous role: MEISA Regional Tax Advisor (Senior) at FedEx in 2021.

Recent appointment: Acting Africa Tax Manager (AMEA) at FedEx in May 2023.

International experience: Contributed to International Group Tax team based in the Netherlands.

Managerial role: Managed tax efforts for 16 legal entities across 16 countries in the Africa region.

Oversight: Sole responsibility for tax management in the SSA/Africa region.

Team management: Led 3 direct reports within the tax management structure.

Recognition: Consistently recognized as a strong performer with multiple FedEx Bravo Zulu Awards and Bravo Bucks Award for exceptional tax performance.

Awards: Received the 2021/22 AMEA FedEx Prestige Award and the FedEx Integration Award in 2022.

WOSA 6 - NIKITA PILLAY

Diverse HR and IR Experience: Nikita boasts 18 years of Human Resource and Industrial Relations expertise, culminating in her discovering a more diverse and challenging HR environment.

Career Growth Commitment: Demonstrated dedication to career advancement by working her way up to the position of HR & Compliance Best-Practice Specialist at DRG Outsourcing.

Continuous Learning: Proactively pursued education, completing studies in IODSA Director’s Training and Business Law, showcasing her commitment to professional development.

Global Recognition: Achieved international recognition as a Personal Development Analyst, an honour bestowed upon only about 6000 analysts worldwide.

Global Ambassadorship: Recently recognized as a Global Ambassador for the Common-Wealth Entrepreneurs Club in the UK, reflecting her influence in the entrepreneurial sphere.

Published Author: Recently authored and published a book on Human Resources and Labor Law Compliance, with significant support and inspiration from DRG.

Philanthropic Passion: Founded Sibanye Africa, a charity organization closely aligned with DRG, focused on aiding underprivileged children and orphanages – a cause dear to her heart.

Awarded and Acknowledged: Selected as one of the Top 21 KZN Women in Business in the 2019 Awards, hosted by KZN Top Business.

Business Achievement: DRG, under her leadership, clinched 1st place in its category in the prestigious KZN Top Business Awards 2023.

 

CATEGORY : HEALTH & MEDICINE

WOSA 2 - JUANITA RAGBEER

Mental Health Advocate: Juanita, based in Durban, is dedicated to promoting mental health and well-being through her private practice.

Global Reach: Serving clients nationally and internationally through both in-person and online sessions.

Expertise: Specializes in stress management, trauma counselling, anxiety, couples counselling, grief/bereavement, and post-partum depression among other areas.

Licensed Professional: Registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) since 2012 as a registered counsellor, achieving Cum Laude on her board exam.

Motivational Speaker: Conducts workshops and teambuilding sessions for corporate clients, leveraging her expertise to inspire positive change.

Media Presence: Interviewed on multiple radio stations to discuss pertinent and current mental health topics, aiming to destigmatize the subject.

Passionate Advocate: Strives to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health, driven by a genuine passion for psychology.

Accolades and Recognition: Finalist for the Forty under 40 awards in South Africa (2023) and previously honoured as a Forty under Forty CEO’s Africa (2023) recipient.

Commitment: Views psychology not just as a career, but as a personal passion, dedicating herself to making a meaningful impact.

 

WOSA 12 - PADDY CHETTIAR

Decades of Dedication: Paddy Chettiar has been immersed in the field of nephrology for over 4 decades, a passion that continues to burn brightly.

World-Changing Vision: Paddy Chettiar is committed to making a positive impact on the world, one community and individual at a time.

Community-Centric Approach: Recognizing the need for change on a grassroots level, Paddy aims to bring transformation to communities personally and individually.

Lifesaving Mission: Addressing the premature loss of lives due to insufficient funding and limited medical care for those facing chronic diseases, Paddy has chosen to take proactive steps.

Self-Funded Health Initiatives: Undertakes health and wellness endeavours on a personal level, often at her own cost, to fill the gaps in medical care.

Diverse Outreach: Engages with various settings including senior citizens clubs, marketplaces, and Health days, ensuring a broad reach.

Dedicated Ambassadorship: Paddy has served as an ambassador for esteemed organizations like the KZN Kidney Association (NGO), South African Nursing Association, and Renal Care Society.

Sought-After Speaker: Sharing insights on both international and local platforms, Paddy has participated in renal and nursing events, contributing to the betterment of the field.

Fulfilling Mission: Finding satisfaction in sharing knowledge, experiences, and advocating for better healthcare, Paddy's contributions have been both far-reaching and meaningful.

 

CATEGORY : EDUCATION

WOSA 3 - KALAYVENI MOODLEY

Roots and Ambitions: Born in Chatsworth and raised in Phoenix, I am one of six siblings in a middle-class family. Driven by my father's belief in education's power, I embraced his mantra that "Education opens ALL doors of success."

Educational Journey: Graduated from Earlington Secondary in 1985, I pursued tertiary education focusing on Mathematics and Sciences in the field of Education. Currently, I am an Honor’s Student in Education Management.

Dedication to Teaching: With an impressive 35 years of experience in education, I've actively pursued my passion for teaching and fostering knowledge.

Leadership Role: Previously held the position of Departmental Head in Mathematics and Sciences, showcasing my commitment to academic excellence.

Diverse Skill Set: Acquired certifications in sports coaching and self-defence, complementing my teaching expertise with a range of skills.

Event Coordination: Played a pivotal role in convening and coordinating various school events and extra-curricular activities, spanning from district to provincial levels.

Recognized Judge: Honoured to have served as a Judge at the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists in Pretoria, as well as for Life Science's Talk at the regional level.

Curriculum Development: Contributed significantly as a curriculum developer for the bridging course in Paramedics and First Aid at the University of Johannesburg. This involved designing modules for Mathematics, Literacy, and Communication and shaping assessment tasks.

Assessment Authority: Demonstrated expertise by serving as a senior marker in both Life Sciences and Mathematical Literacy.

Continuous Growth: Driven by an unwavering commitment to education, I continue to evolve as a dedicated educator with ongoing academic pursuits.

 

Continuous Learning: Pursued further education with certificate courses, including Total Quality Management and courses from the South African Paint Manufacturer’s Association.

Empowerment Advocate: Firmly believe in the strength that education brings to women. Motivate and support other women on their educational paths.

Assistance for the Visually Impaired: In India, volunteered as a reader and writer for blind students. Recorded textbook content and assisted with exams.

Transition to South Africa: Moved to South Africa and embraced the principle of Ubuntu, continuing community service.

Teaching and Community Involvement: Taught Grades 8-12 at St Augustine School in Pietermaritzburg and joined the industry. Taught Hindi to young students through Ved Dharma Sabha, contributing to community service.

Relocation to Port Elizabeth: Moved to Port Elizabeth in 2004 and began teaching at Nelson Mandela University.

Supporting Diverse Students: Worked with students from various backgrounds, addressing their challenges with patience and dedication.

Commitment During COVID: Successfully transitioned to online teaching during the pandemic, demonstrating unwavering dedication to helping students.

Temple Involvement: Actively participates in temple activities, further contributing to the community's well-being.

 

Poetic Journey: Meet Kemera Moodly, a 31-year-old poet who has been expressing her thoughts through writing since childhood.

Published Works: Over the years, Kemera's journey of putting pen to paper has resulted in the publication of five books spanning from 2013 to 2022.

Charitable Contributions: Through her latest anthology of poetry, titled "Tomorrow’s Light," Kemera has managed to raise around R36,000 in sales. Impressively, she has donated 100% of this sum to the Denis Hurley Centre, a non-profit organization dedicated to aiding the homeless community in Durban’s CBD.

Therapeutic Outlet: Throughout her educational journey, Kemera often felt like an outsider, grappling with misunderstanding and solitude. Writing became her therapeutic refuge, offering an avenue to express her innermost thoughts and feelings.

Human Resources Professional: Based in the South African port city of Durban, Kemera's professional life revolves around her role as a Human Resources professional.

Educational Background: Kemera holds a degree from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, with a specialization in Industrial Psychology.

Heartfelt Expression: Journalist Greg Ardé describes Kemera's writing as "tender, vivid, and imaginative," reflecting its emotional depth and artistic quality.

Diverse Themes: Kemera's writing delves into a wide range of issues, touching on matters that resonate deeply with her and her readers.

Passionate Advocate: Her poetic journey not only serves as personal catharsis but also makes a positive impact through charitable giving and thought-provoking literature.

 

Roots and Inspiration: Born in Chatsworth, Durban, Lucelle attended Arena Park Secondary School where her art teacher, Mr. Alan Munsamy, ignited her passion for art. His influence led her to pursue art professionally and academically.

Early Recognition: Graduated as 'Designer of the Year' from ML Sultan Technikon, where she studied Fashion Design. Earned numerous awards including the 'Smirnoff International Fashion Award' and the 'Top Billing Golden Scissors Award'.

Adapting in Changing Times: Transitioned into the job market during a transformative period in South Africa's history, navigating through shifts in systems and institutions. Worked as a visual display artist for fashion and décor brands.

Life-Long Learning: Committed to continuous education, pursued Bachelors, Honours, Masters Degrees, and currently completing her PhD in visual art from Unisa.

Multi-Faceted Artist: Based in Johannesburg, Lucelle spent 14 years as an art and design lecturer while continually developing her art practice, including digital drawing and motion graphics.

Research and Art Fusion: Lucelle’s research interests encompass the intersection of education and art-making processes. I delve into 'Convergences of human experience with digital interfaces' and 'Raw data as a transmutable art material within the human narrative'.

Diverse Art Approach: My artistic concepts blend traditional and digital methods. I strive to create immersive sensory experiences using projection mapping, sound, and movement.

Upcoming Exhibition: My forthcoming exhibition, 'Afterisms: Excentric Data-Fluid Narratives', explores Indian South African Identity formations. It reflects on fragmented histories, divided geographies, and the psychological impact of 'difference'.

Reflecting on Contemporary Condition: 'Afterisms' delves into the aftermath of postcolonial and post-apartheid identities, offering an ethno-cultural exploration of our current state.

 

Experience: Educator at St Martin de Porres School for the Deaf in Port Shepstone for 21 years.

Education: Completed Matric, obtained a National Professional Diploma in Education from Unisa in 2001, and an Advanced Diploma in Education from the University of Witwatersrand in 2005.

Achievements: Won Miss Deaf KZN after entering modelling competitions and training to boost confidence.

Persistence: Overcame challenges, competing with hearing teachers on equal terms, and proving her abilities.

Exploration: Travelled extensively across South Africa, and internationally to Dubai, Turkey, Poland, Ireland, and Kenya.

Personal Growth: Learned to drive, obtained a driver's license, purchased cars, including off-road vehicles.

Homes: Proud owner of a primary and secondary home, both offering daily views of sunrise and sunset.

Animal Lover: Devotes care and affection to 4 cherished fur babies.

Advocacy: Ambassador for KwaZulu-Natal Blind and Deaf Society and Talk Sign Campaign KZN.

Advocacy Efforts: Active in Talk Sign Awareness, promoting sign language understanding.

Community Engagement: Participated in local school assemblies to spread awareness about Sign Language as a valid language.

Teaching SASL: Conducts South African Sign Language (SASL) Awareness classes for organizations like South African Police Station (SAPS), municipalities, and banks.

 

WOSA 8 - TRACY MCKAY

Birth and Background: Born in 1970, grew up on the Bluff.

Active Youth: Highly active in sports during school years, participating in swimming, hockey, athletics, and softball.

Ocean Connection: Developed a love for the ocean as a nipper with Dolphins Lifesaving club at Brighton Beach during primary school.

Health Challenge: Diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2003 while living in the UK at age 33.

Treatment Journey: Underwent aggressive radiation and chemotherapy treatments for 6 weeks starting in March 2004.

Remission Success: Treatment went well, currently in remission from cervical cancer.

Physical Setback: Developed a walking impairment about a year and a half after treatment due to a degenerative condition.

Life Change: Realized the condition would eventually require a wheelchair, prompting a move back to South Africa in 2007.

Initial Struggle: Faced fear and uncertainty upon diagnosis, wondering how to move forward with the challenge.

Positive Transformation: Through soul searching and determination, embraced the need for change and a positive mindset shift.

Taking Charge: Realized the need to be the agent of change and decided to embrace life fully as a disabled person.

Overcoming Obstacles: Took action to adapt, thrive, and prosper despite the physical limitations.

 

Emerging Afro Soul Talent: Hailing from Durban, Inanda, South Africa, an aspiring singer-songwriter is making waves in Afro soul music.

Empowering Vision: Founder of Drumroll Entertainment, an entertainment venture focused on empowering artists living with disabilities. Through events, the aim is to boost confidence and empowerment within the disability community.

Unyielding Pursuit of Dreams: Despite personal challenges, she relentlessly chases her dream of a music career, showcasing remarkable determination.

Triumphs and Achievements: In 2021, she secured the top spot in a singing competition for disabled individuals held at Durban Exhibition Centre, demonstrating her vocal prowess.

Independence and Success: In March 2022, she independently recorded her single "Ngiyakukhumbula," produced by Scelo Gowane from SG Music. The song soared to No. 1 on Syathuthukka FM's Top 10 Chart.

Notable Appearances: Featured on Metro FM's Osiko unsigned artist show, she's gaining recognition beyond local stages.

Stage Persona: Performing under the stage name Pinky_1st lady, she's actively working on her EP and has recently shared the spotlight with Big Zulu at the We Can Arts Festival.

Recognition and Awards: Nominated for the Best Singer Award at the Inanda Youth Talent Awards, she secured the title of Best Artist, underscoring her talent and impact.

Multifaceted Talent: Beyond singing, she's also an accomplished contemporary dancer, showcasing her versatility and artistic range.

Ambitious Dreams: Her aspirations go beyond music, envisioning a future as a radio presenter and deep house DJ, showcasing her dynamic interests and dreams.

 

WOSA 17 - SANAM MAHOMED

A Voice for Positivity: In the midst of global challenges, she recognize that many are facing difficulties, whether from natural disasters, political issues, financial struggles, or personal problems. “Although I may be just one individual, I believe in the power of my voice to bring smiles to people's faces.”

Artistic Expression: As an artist, Sanam has had the privilege of performing on various stages, including religious and commercial events. The feedback she receives from those who have enjoyed her performances brings her great joy and reassurance that her art has the ability to uplift others.

Gift of Joy: Witnessing the happiness her music brings to people's lives feels like a gift from a higher source, reminding her of the positive impact she can make through her artistic endeavours.

Personal Struggle: Presently, Sanam isfacing a personal challenge as she has been diagnosed with renal failure and is actively searching for a kidney donor. Despite this trying time, she remains determined to continue sharing joy through her art and charitable efforts.

Social Engagement: Engaging in social activities is important to her. She strives to help those less fortunate by collecting household items and food for distribution to those in need. This is a way for her to contribute positively to her community.

Enduring Legacy: Sanam’s deepest desire is to leave a lasting impact. “When my time in this world eventually comes to an end, I hope to be remembered for the joy I brought to others' lives, a legacy that I hold close to my heart.”

 

My personal statement: "What you perceive is exactly who I am." This means I am transparent, with no hidden motives.

Consistency: I remain consistent in my interactions, whether we meet for the first time or reconnect years later.

Family: Happily married to Mervin, blessed with four wonderful children who support her endeavours.

Professional Role: Specialized billing consultant in a full-time capacity.

Belief in Purpose: Firmly believe in the importance of everyone’s purpose and the value of offering assistance.

Community Involvement: Leading a neighbourhood watch and serving as vice chair of the local Community Policing Forum (CPF).

Empowerment: Engaging with legitimate groups to empower residents and promote self-reliance.

Educational Focus: Aiming to foster independence by prioritizing education, thus reducing reliance on external entities.

Guiding Principle: "Education is Key" underscores my belief in education's transformative power.

 

Diverse Initiatives: Through Daughters Of Africa, Sulosh and her organization address poverty cycles, providing health products, implementing CSI projects, and facilitating various programs.

COVID-19 Response: Actively supported vulnerable communities during the pandemic, distributing health packs and food parcels for free.

People-Centric Approach: Guided by the ethos of "People first," initiating projects tailored to communities' needs for maximum impact.

Peace, Unity, and Ubuntu: Emphasizes peace, unity, and the Ubuntu philosophy ("I Am because You are") as the foundation of every program, fostering unity in diversity.

Impressive Qualifications: Holds a Public Relations Diploma, Diploma in HIV Care & Counselling from UNISA, and studied Project Management at Wits University.

Extensive Experience: Managed and implemented CSI projects, Government relations, and media liaison for SAB.

Influential Connections: Enjoyed close relationships with Nelson Mandela and King Goodwill Zwelintini, the king of the Zulu Nation.

Humanitarian Collaborations: Collaborated with various corporates and NGOs, setting up organizations, cancer support groups, and community centres.

Holistic Healer: Certified Usui Reiki Master & Teacher, Angel Therapy Practitioner, Certified Hypnotherapist, and 21st Century Energy Healer.

Cancer Warrior and Advocate: Actively served as a cancer warrior for Roche, leading cancer and diabetic campaigns for Transnet's innovative Phelophepa Health Train.

Global Engagement: Vice Chairperson of ACT Foundation SA, contributing to global charity initiatives.

Daughters of Africa Impact: A community-driven organization that empowers vulnerable individuals, works to close the poverty gap, and creates a better life for all.

 

CATEGORY : SPORT

WOSA 14 – BAVEESHA NARAN
 

Baveesha Naran is a beacon of inspiration, breaking barriers, and empowering others through her journey of resilience and passion.

Highlight: Baveesha Naran, a remarkable change maker and spokesperson for Vitiligo, hails from South Africa. She is an embodiment of strength and positivity.41 years old female,born on December 26,1981 in Benoni South Africa

 Roles and Achievements: Vitiligo spokesperson,Change maker,Motivational speaker,Entrepreneur,Chairperson,Photographer,Videographer,Mountain biker,Lover of life

Background and Education: Completed a qualification in BSC Information Technology in 2002,Pursued a 17-year career as an Airspace Specialist and Transitioned to focus on her NPO, Love Authentic

Love Authentic: Founded in 2015 to support individuals dealing with Vitiligo,Advocates a healthier lifestyle through sporting activities,Introduced Baveesha to mountain biking, igniting her passion and purpose

Mountain Biking Journey: Engaged in mountain biking for a decade,Progressed and thrived in the sport,Conquered numerous extreme mountain bike challenges,Embarked on a cross-continent cycling adventure across Africa, covering Namibia, Botswana, South Africa, Eswatini, and Mozambique over 39 days, totaling 2500km

Future Goals: Set to participate in the ABSA Cape Epic, a challenging 7-day stage race in Cape Town, under the #sheuntamed program with ABSA,Aims to inspire more females and the Indian community to embrace this incredible sport

WOSA  13- SAROJ & KRIYA ODAYAR
 

SAROJ: While describing myself might not be my strong suit, I'd love to share the incredible journey we've had in the realm of darts.I initiated my darts journey back in 2009, and my daughter Krya joined me in 2013.

Starting and Progressing: Our journey embarked from the South African national darts tournament, starting at section 5, the foundational level.Our team's journey has been one of advancement; we now proudly stand in section 1.

Success in Ladies Doubles: Our involvement in the open ladies doubles, a straightforward elimination contest, has been truly rewarding:

Highlight: Our initial triumph was secured in 2019.We followed up with another victory in 2022.This year marks our third consecutive victory, underscoring our commitment to the sport.

Changing Perceptions of Darts: Despite being often characterized as a bar sport with limited recognition, perceptions around darts have gradually shifted over time.The evolving narrative is steadily raising awareness about darts, pushing beyond its traditional associations.

Widespread Participation: This year's tournament has witnessed an impressive participation, with more than 350 ladies from across the nation enthusiastically entering the competition.

KRIYA: While I might not be the best person to describe myself, I can certainly share our journey in the world of darts.My journey in darts began in 2009, while my daughter Krya started in 2013.

Starting and Progressing: Our darts journey commenced at the South African national darts tournament, specifically in section 5 which marks the starting point.Over time, our team has made impressive strides, now competing in section 1.

Success in Ladies Doubles: Participating in the open ladies doubles, which follows a straight knockout format, has led to significant achievements:

Highlight: Our initial victory was in 2019.We secured a second win in 2022.This year marks our third consecutive victory.

Changing Perceptions of Darts: Despite being often regarded as a bar sport with limited awareness, the perception of darts has been gradually evolving over the years.The changing narrative is gradually bringing darts into the spotlight, moving beyond its traditional associations.

Widespread Participation: This year's tournament has garnered a remarkable participation, with more than 350 ladies from across the country entering the competition.



CATEGORY : YOUTH ICON

WOSA 10- ZUHAIRA HOOSEN

Achievements and Contributions:  At just 16 years old, Zuhaira Hoosen emerged as an entrepreneur, launching a successful furniture brand that now holds the top position on Takealot.com,a furniture brand that has claimed the top spot on Takealot.com, showcasing remarkable achievement at a young age.

Notable Qualities and Appointments:  Transformed a youthful fascination with design and woodwork into an innovative enterprise, seamlessly merging artistic vision and functionality and demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation, reshaping the furniture industry through a trailblazing approach.

Highlight: Serves as a profound source of inspiration for young business leaders globally, illustrating the potential of youthful vision and determination.

WOSA 15 – DIA SINGH

Dia's journey is an inspiration, demonstrating her commitment to excellence, leadership, and making a positive impact.

Achievements and Contributions: Exceptional St. Dominics Newcastle student, set to complete Grade 12 in 2023.

Notable Qualities and Appointments: Diligent and principled, appointed Head Girl for 2023, known for trendsetting.

Engagement in Science Expo and Academic Excellence: Active Science Expo participant; interviewed on eNCA and radio; Taiwan Science Fair recognition.

Recognition and Awards: Dubai International Science Fair runner-up; Top 50 Trailblazing Women; Gold Winner at International Science Fair; media features.

Excellence in Academics and Personal Endeavors: Consistently high academic performance, added AP Maths and Business Studies as self-study.

Additional Achievements and Recognition: 65% bursary recipient; Top 2 prize at University I-Gym idea generator; multiple golds at International Science Fairs; musical achievement.

Personal Traits and Impact: Positive, motivated, respected by peers and staff; poised for success in chosen career.