Page 189 - KZN Top Business LEADERS-eBook

MOSES TEMBE

oses Tembe, chairman of Bellamont is important to have the courage and belief to pursue INSPIRING OTHERS
Investments, attributes much of his big dreams. He says, “Accept no limits and maintain
success to a belief in the power of a forward-thinking mentality, hard work, service to Moses’s approach is undoubtedly shaped by his
Mcommunity impact and a sincere mankind and godliness constitute a bedrock upon faith, which he regards as an essential component of
dedication to God, family, and his fellow citizens. In which sustainable success must be built.” his personal and professional philosophy. “Proverbs
a world often dominated by profit-driven motives, and Psalms remain the major inspirational sword I
In addition, Moses acknowledges that the path he use to conquer,” he says, finding solace and strength
Moses stands out as an entrepreneur guided by
has chosen is not without its challenges, particularly in the teachings that emphasise hard work, humility,
the principles of service and giving back.
the balancing act of being a capitalist “without real and kindness. For Moses, success is not simply
Moses’s career journey is rooted in humble capital”. He notes, “One would have accomplished about wealth or recognition but about building a
beginnings. After matriculating from Menzi High more if financial institutions focused more on the legacy rooted in values that inspire others to uplift
School in Umlazi in 1979, he pursued a bachelor’s opportunity and its viability and less on balance themselves and their communities.
in public administration and political science at the sheets and equity.” For Moses, access to finance and
University of South Africa, followed by a course in capital is a challenge that emerging entrepreneurs His message to fellow entrepreneurs and leaders
is profound. He says, “The more you make service
financial management, which was managed by the continue to face, as these remain a significant
University of Cape Town. barrier in South Africa. Moses believes passionately to people your primary business, the more
likely you will be noticed, and opportunities will
that a change in the financial landscape is critical for
Whilst studying, Moses worked as a Clerk of the come to you.” This belief is embedded in his core
budding entrepreneurs to achieve their potential.
Court from 1980 to 1983. He then moved to the values, evident in the ways he has managed his
KwaZulu Development Corporation and became GIVING BACK businesses, approached new opportunities, and
the chief credit controller. interacted with the communities he serves. It is
Throughout his career, Moses has prioritised giving a philosophy that recognises the importance of
DIVERSIFIED APPROACH back to his community, practising what he calls each individual’s role in contributing to the larger
his “80/20 principle” – 80% work and 20% time society, a vision that Moses has diligently worked
In 1990, Moses took the leap into full-time entre-
invested in improving the environment in which he toward through his many leadership roles and
preneurship, a decision that would eventually
operates. His extensive record of pro-bono service is business ventures.
lead him to found Bellamont Investments and the
a testament to this commitment. Moses has served
Bellamont Group of Companies. This group, built on in numerous roles, including secretary general of This philosophy has also opened numerous
six pillars – Property Development and Construction doors for him and allowed him to build lasting
KwaZulu-Natal NAFCOC, president of the Durban
(Afrostructures), Industrial Holdings includes Geochem Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and board relationships across industries. In the past, he has
brand and IFS facilities management, Energy and had the opportunity of serving on listed companies
member of the South African Chamber of Commerce
Telecommunications, Mining, Gaming, and Asset United Kingdom and of the KZN National Business in the capacity of chairperson of Phumelela Gaming
Management – has managed to thrive even in tough and as board member for KZN Tsogo Sun, Mr Price
Initiative. Additionally, he currently co-chairs the
economic times. and Santova Logistics.
KZN Growth Coalition, a partnership dedicated to
Moses’s diversified approach with Bellamont has fostering economic growth and development in the In summary, Moses exemplifies a form of entre-
allowed his businesses to weather economic region. Further, his contributions to initiatives like the preneurship that is seldom seen but greatly
downturns and industry-specific challenges. Durban Infrastructure Development Trust and the needed. By leveraging his resources and net-
However, he reflects on this approach with mixed eThekwini Greater Foundation reflect a commitment works, he continues to make a difference in KZN
feelings. “I sometimes regret that I never had the to not only growing businesses but also nurturing and beyond. He remains steadfast in his pursuit
courage and ambition to focus on one industry and communities. This is especially relevant in KwaZulu- of a prosperous and equitable South Africa,
make a big name of it,” he admits. With this hindsight, Natal, the province to which he is personally setting an example for future generations. His
he now advises young entrepreneurs to stay committed. Moses envisions a KwaZulu-Natal that is story reminds us that when business and service
committed to their mission and to avoid becoming “all-round successful”, and he is determined to work intersect, not only does an entrepreneur thrive,
overly distracted by diversification. He added that it with various stakeholders to see this vision realised. but so too does the community around him.
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