Page 16 - DUT CONNECT Summer 2024

Trailblazers in Healthcare:
DUT Alumni Nicolas and Ricardo Lognath of Omninela Medical
The Durban University of Technology (DUT) is proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of its alumni, Nicolas and Ricardo Lognath, the dynamic duo behind Omninela Medical. Their entrepreneurial journey has been marked by innovation, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to transforming healthcare in South Africa.
A Double Triumph
In 2024, the Lognath brothers achieved the extraordinary feat of winning both the National Youth Development Agency South African Youth Award in the Young Entrepreneur Category and the DUT Alumni Institutional Award. These accolades underscore their dedication to revolutionising healthcare through Omninela Medical, which has become a beacon of excellence in the industry.
“These awards are milestones in our personal and professional journey,” they shared. “They validate our vision and efforts to create sustainable solutions in healthcare, bridging the gap between innovation and social impact.”
Driving Innovation in Healthcare
Omninela Medical is synonymous with cutting-edge innovation. With a robust e-commerce platform hosting over 10 000 products from more than 400 brands, the company has redefined customer experience through streamlined processes, personalised marketing, and efficient supply chain management. Their groundbreaking medical aid claims portal simplifies approvals, offering a seamless experience for patients and providers alike.
Their commitment to operational excellence is evident in their ability to reduce delivery times to just one day, achieving an impressive 99% on-time delivery rate for over 14 000 orders.
Overcoming Challenges with Vision
Navigating the competitive healthcare sector was no small task. The Lognath brothers overcame regulatory and operational
hurdles by building a team dedicated to compliance and efficiency. Strategic partnerships with global brands such as Nestlé and B. Braun further bolstered their credibility, enabling them to deliver unmatched value in the market.
“Every challenge has been a lesson in resilience and adaptability,” they reflected.“Our focus has always been on customer-centric solutions and fostering a culture of excellence.”
Mentorship and Community Impact
Acknowledging the pivotal role of mentorship in their success, the Lognath brothers emphasise the importance of collaboration. “We don’t believe in the idea of being ‘self-made’.The guidance and support from mentors and partners have been instrumental in shaping Omninela Medical.”
In giving back, Omninela Medical actively inspires future healthcare leaders through initiatives that promote innovation and education, ensuring their legacy extends beyond business success.
Looking Ahead
With ambitious plans to expand operations across South Africa, the Lognath brothers aim to address critical healthcare gaps, particularly in underserved communities. By leveraging advanced technologies such as AI-driven healthcare insights and fostering collaborations with government and private sectors, Omninela Medical is poised to reshape the future of healthcare. As they continue to scale new heights, Nicolas and Ricardo Lognath embody the spirit of DUT alumni—visionary leaders creating meaningful change.
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