Famous South African Business People

David Charles Howard Bale was an English entrepreneur, environmentalist, and animal welfare activist. Throughout his career, he demonstrated a strong commitment to environmental causes and animal rights. Bale's entrepreneurial spirit led him to engage in various business ventures, where he applied his principles of sustainability and compassion for animals. As an advocate for environmental protection and animal welfare, he worked tirelessly to raise awareness and promote positive change in these areas, leaving a lasting impact on those who shared his passion for the planet and its creatures.

Johann Rupert is a prominent South African businessman with a successful career in the luxury goods industry. He serves as the chairman of Richemont, a Swiss-based luxury-goods company, and Remgro, a South Africa-based company. Additionally, he has been the CEO of Compagnie Financiere Richemont since April 2010. With a keen business acumen, Rupert has led these companies to great success, contributing to his recognition as one of the wealthiest individuals in South Africa, according to the 2023 Forbes list.

Sol Kerzner was a prominent South African accountant and business magnate known for founding the Southern Sun Hotel Group, Sun International, and Kerzner International. He played a significant role in establishing South Africa's largest hotel groups and was actively involved in the resort industry. Kerzner served as the founder, chairman, and CEO of Kerzner International, overseeing various political and business controversies throughout his career. His contributions to the hospitality and tourism sectors left a lasting impact on the industry.

Tokyo Sexwale is a prominent South African businessman, politician, and anti-apartheid activist. He gained recognition for his role in the fight against apartheid, which led to his imprisonment on Robben Island alongside Nelson Mandela. Following the historic 1994 general election, Sexwale transitioned into politics and served as the Premier of Gauteng Province. Throughout his career, he has been dedicated to promoting democracy, social justice, and economic development in South Africa, solidifying his reputation as a respected leader and advocate for change.

Mark Shuttleworth is a successful entrepreneur known for founding and leading Canonical, the company responsible for the Ubuntu operating system. He made history as the first South African to travel to space as a space tourist in 2002. Shuttleworth is also recognized for his substantial wealth, as reported by the Sunday Times Rich List in 2020. He resides on the Isle of Man and holds dual citizenship from South Africa and the United Kingdom.

Arlene Dickinson is a prominent South African Canadian businesswoman, investor, author, and television personality known for her role on the CBC business reality show Dragons' Den. As the general partner of District Ventures Capital and CEO of Venturepark, she has established herself as a successful entrepreneur. Her accolades include Calgary Business Owner of the Year, PROFIT magazine's Top 100 Women Business Owners, the Pinnacle Award for Entrepreneurial Excellence, Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards, and Canada's Most Powerful Women Top 100. Described as a self-made multi-millionaire, Dickinson's professional achievements reflect her expertise and influence in the business world.

Nickolas F. Oppenheimer is a prominent South African billionaire businessman known for his significant roles in the diamond industry. He served as the chairman of the renowned De Beers diamond mining company and its subsidiary, the Diamond Trading Company. Additionally, he held the position of deputy chairman at Anglo American, a multinational mining company. Nicky Oppenheimer's professional achievements have established him as one of the most influential figures in the African business landscape, with a reputation for his expertise and success in the mining sector.

Ernest Oppenheimer was a prominent figure in the diamond and gold mining industry, known for his entrepreneurial spirit and financial acumen. He successfully controlled De Beers, a major player in the diamond market, and established the Anglo American Corporation of South Africa. Through his leadership, he made significant contributions to the growth and development of the mining sector in South Africa. Oppenheimer's legacy as a philanthropist and business leader continues to be recognized for his strategic vision and impact on the industry.

Ivan Glasenberg is a prominent business executive known for his leadership as the former CEO of Glencore, a major player in commodity trading and mining. With a tenure from 2002 to 2021, he oversaw significant growth and operations of the company. Holding citizenship in South Africa, Australia, and Switzerland, Glasenberg's influence extends beyond Glencore as he sits on the board of Minara Resources Ltd. His career is marked by strategic vision, financial acumen, and a deep understanding of the global commodities industry.

Anton Rupert was a prominent South African businessman known for founding the Rembrandt Group in Stellenbosch. Throughout his career, Rupert made significant contributions to the business world and the conservation efforts in South Africa. He was recognized for his leadership and innovation in establishing and growing successful business ventures. His legacy continues as the Rembrandt Group remains headquartered in Stellenbosch. Rupert's impact on the business community and dedication to conservation efforts have left a lasting impression on both industries.

Hazel Crane was a prominent socialite and businesswoman in South Africa. She was well-known for her influential presence in high society circles and her successful business ventures. Crane also made a mark as a posthumous memoirist, leaving behind a legacy of her experiences and insights. Tragically, her life was cut short when she was assassinated near her mansion home in Johannesburg while on her way to testify against an alleged organized crime boss in a murder trial.

Mzi Godfrey Khumalo is a prominent South African businessman and mining entrepreneur known for his significant contributions to the mining industry. With a focus on developing and expanding mining operations, Khumalo has played a key role in the growth and success of various mining ventures. His strategic vision and leadership have led to the establishment of successful mining projects, showcasing his expertise in the sector. Khumalo's entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to driving innovation in mining have earned him recognition as a respected figure in the industry.

Bridgette Radebe is a prominent South African businesswoman with a background in mining. Starting her career as a miner in the 1980s, she later founded Mmakau Mining, a successful firm specializing in platinum, gold, and chrome production. Radebe holds key positions in various organizations, including the South African Mining Development Association and the New Africa Mining Fund. She is known for advocating for changes in the mining industry towards more inclusive and sustainable practices. Radebe's contributions have been recognized with awards and prestigious appointments, showcasing her influence on the global business landscape.

Muhammad bin Laden was a prominent figure in the construction industry, known for founding the Saudi Binladin Group. He achieved immense success as a Saudi billionaire business magnate and became one of the wealthiest individuals in Saudi Arabia. Through his entrepreneurial endeavors and leadership in the business world, he solidified the reputation and prestige of the bin Laden family. His contributions to the construction sector and his establishment of a successful business empire have left a lasting impact on the industry.

Craig Tiley is a South African tennis executive and retired U.S. college tennis coach. He is currently serving as the CEO of Tennis Australia and Director of the Australian Open. In his coaching career, Tiley achieved significant success by leading the Illinois Fighting Illini men's tennis team to victory in the NCAA Division I national championship in 2003, as well as the ITA National Team Indoor Championships in 2003 and 2004. Tiley's leadership and expertise have made him a prominent figure in the world of tennis administration.

Candice Pool is a renowned jewelry designer and the founder of 'Finn Jewelry', where she serves as the creative director. Starting her career as a bartender, she transitioned into the world of jewelry out of her passion for the craft. Under her leadership, 'Finn Jewelry' has established a strong presence in the industry, offering a diverse range of collections including bridal, classic, and Western designs. Pool's creations have gained popularity among supermodels, celebrities, and movie stars, reflecting her success as an entrepreneur in the field.

Ivan Semwanga was a prominent Ugandan-born South African socialite and a key member of the Rich Gang group. Known for their humanitarian and philanthropic efforts, the group aimed to support underprivileged youths, particularly Ugandans in South Africa. Ivan, along with other group members, actively participated in various events in both countries and invested in educational institutions in South Africa. His professional life was marked by a commitment to giving back to the community and uplifting disadvantaged individuals through their collective initiatives.