Page 111 - KZN Top Business LEADERS-eBook

MZUVELE MTHETHWA

zuvele Mthethwa, the managing direc- BRING OUT THE BEST what we are trying to achieve and how their
tor of East Coast Radio, was born in contributions matter.”
uMkhomazi, on the KwaZulu-Natal Discussing his motivation, Mzuvele says, “People
MSouth Coast. Growing up there, he often default to their professional achievements “Recognition is also vital. People like to be acknow-
developed a deep appreciation for the community when asked about their ‘why.’ For me, my career at ledged when they perform well. It’s about catching
and the culture around him. East Coast Radio has been rewarding, but my ‘why’ people doing the right things and celebrating those
extends beyond professional success. I strive to moments. Moreover, motivation is sustained when
Reflecting on his early life, Mzuvele recalls, “Those be a leader who can bring out the best in others, leaders are authentic and lead by example. Positivity
years were incredibly formative for me. I come from create opportunities for growth, and foster an and a winning mindset start at the top, and I strive
a humble background, and my parents instilled in me environment where everyone feels valued. I want to embody those qualities every day.”
values of perseverance and dedication, which have to see my team members thrive and develop, just
carried me through my career.” as I have over the years.” ACTS OF KINDNESS

After completing school, Mzuvele enrolled at Mzuvele emphasises, “On a personal level, becom- Mzuvele is inspired by the culture at East Coast Radio,
the then Natal Technikon but did not complete ing a husband and a father are among my proudest describing it as “equal parts a corporate company,
his qualification. “It was a tough decision at the achievements. The growth I’ve experienced as a a movie set with creative energies, and a nursery
time, but life had other plans for me,” he explained. family man has profoundly influenced how I lead school for young professionals starting their careers.”
In 1998, he got his first job at an audit firm in and interact with my team.” He adds, “This is a melting pot of diverse characters
Amanzimtoti as a junior bookkeeper. “My first that we knit together to form a unit and a business.”
taste of the corporate world was both challenging “Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to
and exciting. The experience I gained there was meet many remarkable people who have shared In addition, Mzuvele shares, “I’m inspired by acts of
invaluable, teaching me the foundations of finance, valuable lessons,” Mzuvele says. “But one piece of kindness, whether it’s letting someone merge in
the importance of precision, and how to manage advice has always stood out to me. It came from traffic or seeing a colleague go out of their way to
financial records accurately.” my former boss, who recruited me to East Coast help another. Doing good, even in small ways, has a
Radio. He told me, ‘Maintain the highest standards ripple effect. It makes a difference and inspires others
In this role, Mzuvele worked in a competitive en- of integrity and morals; it will go a long way in to do the same. I believe that if we all did a little bit
vironment that offered many learning opportunities. helping you achieve success in your professional better every day, the world would be a much better
“I remember working late hours and constantly career.’ I’ve always believed that if you are honest, place. At East Coast Radio, I see this spirit in action
striving to prove myself. That experience shaped transparent, and ethical in your dealings, success daily. Our people genuinely care about each other,
my work ethic and gave me a foundation in finance,” will naturally follow.” and that’s a source of constant inspiration for me.”
he explained.
“Every business faces challenges,” Mzuvele acknow- Mzuvele’s vision is to see the East Coast Radio brand
His career took a turn in 2004 when Mzuvele joined ledges, “but the Covid-19 pandemic was an unpre- continue to grow, to reach more people, and to
East Coast Radio as a debt collector. For nearly 20 cedented test. We faced significant revenue losses, remain a trusted voice in the community. “I want
years, Mzuvele dedicated himself to the finance and keeping the operations running was a constant us to use our influence to support other businesses
department where he moved up the ladder, becom- struggle. During that period, our focus was on in the region. My goal is to have a positive impact,
ing a finance officer, and was promoted to finance keeping our team safe and ensuring that they were whether that means changing the narrative around
manager in 2012. He held that position until the end supported. We had to think creatively about how our province, putting a smile on someone’s face, or
of 2023, when he was appointed managing director, to maintain our service to listeners and clients. Our making a difference, no matter how small.”
a role Mzuvele is honoured to hold. resilience as a team and our commitment to each
other helped us pull through.” When asked about a motto, Mzuvele smiles, “I
Mzuvele shares, “Being part of East Coast Radio consider myself a simple man, and my motto is
for nearly two decades has been an incredible “Motivating a team is one of the most critical roles equally simple: ‘Do better’. In everything you do,
journey. I have witnessed the organisation adapt to of a leader,” Mzuvele explains. “It’s not just about strive to be better than you were yesterday. Whether
changes in the media landscape, embrace digital setting targets and expecting results; it’s about it’s in business or in life, continuous improvement is
transformation, and continuously innovate to stay inspiring people to give their best. One of the key. Small, consistent efforts can lead to significant
relevant. Our team has always been passionate, and ways to do this is by constantly communicating change over time. That’s the philosophy I live by, and
that energy is infectious.” the company’s goals. People need to understand I encourage my team to do the same.”
109