Thought Leaders Archives

Playing QE up and down proves contrarians win some of

19th August 201316th July 2013

I’m always delighted to give a wider audience to the product of excellent thought processes. Like this article from Roy Topol, a gent who predicted the demise of 1Time while the shares were still surging. Here he offers a rational analysis of what to expect during the next leg in the Quantitative Easing saga. By … Read more

Lament from a white father – Jim Wallis on the Zimmerman verdict

24th July 201316th July 2013

America has been rocked by the Not Guilty verdict handed down in the murder trial of a white adult George Zimmerman (30) who stalked, shot and killed a black adolescent Trayvon Marton (17). In this superb commentary for his blog God’s Politics, President of Sojourners Jim Wallis asks uncomfortable questions around racial profiling.

The three decisions that made Nelson Mandela the greatest Leader of our Age

23rd September 201513th July 2013

As South Africa prepares for the loss of its icon, here’s a timely reminder why we’re so emotional about being forced to say goodbye. Academic, author and strategic management guru Dr Paul Schoemaker wrote this brilliant piece after a recent visit here. With stark reminder’s of Madiba’s pivotal words, and precious legacy to his nation. … Read more

My obituary: What will others say about you after you’ve gone?

24th July 201328th June 2013

I first came across the idea of learning about self-reflection through writing your own obituary in the late Stephen Covey’s life changing Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. In this piece, Richard Wright has a go at his own. Once you’ve had a look, am sure you’ll agree that writing talent like his deserves the widest possible exposure.

Mooi River’s well paid Councillors fiddle while the town slowly dies

24th July 201317th May 2013

Mooi River is home to a man who reminds me what politics is supposed to be about – selfless leaders fearlessly serving the people. Ken Denysschen is the sole DA representative on the Mpofana City Council. He provides insight into how dysfunctional some small municipalities like his have become. Brace yourself.

Power of social media – Oosthuizen’s online endorsement boosts Sawagat

18th July 20143rd May 2013

Greetings from La Guardia Airport, New York. I’m waiting for the flight to Omaha where the Berkshire Hathaway AGM is to be held tomorrow. While checking emails, picked up this note from Dr Thomas Oosthuizen. You may recall his recent blog on a start-up KNZ restaurant. His note warmed my heart. Yours too?

Starting a business – sometimes helps to think less, do more

25th July 201322nd April 2013

The late, great Bill Lynch (World Entrepreneur of the Year 2006) liked advising prospective business owners to follow Nike and Just Do It. This superb blog by Dr Thomas Oosthuizen reaches a similar conclusion. Intellectual, direct and so very smart, Oosthuizen is SA’s branding Tzar. After reading this you’ll agree with me that he also knows a bit about starting businesses.

Sean Act II

25th July 201316th April 2013

Act Two – Play it again Sam or

dare I follow my heart this time?

IT entrepreneur Sean O’Connell and I have corresponded over the years. As Sean prepares for the future a year after selling his business to JSE hot stock EOH, I asked him to share his throughts as he reflects on lessons learnt and the way ahead. His response is inspirational, a masterclass for any would-be entrepreneur.

Disruptors Cell C, 8ta make the fall of Vodacom, MTN shares inevitable

22nd December 20133rd December 2012

I’m a fan of independently-minded First Avenue, investment managers who revealed why the unsecured lending bubble is unsustainable. Now they’ve exposed smoke and mirrors inflating the MTN and Vodacom bottom line. Here’s the executive summary of Nadim Mohamed’s report with a link to the full version. – AH Executive summary of SA Mobile Telecoms – … Read more

AKC’s career lessons

25th July 201314th November 2012

Seven career lessons former MXiT leader Alan Knott-Craig says he’s learnt already

I consider both Alan Knott-Craigs to be friends. Senior, the country’s cell visionary and founding CEO of Vodacom. A man who returned after a heart-attack instilled sabattical and is now running Cell-C (and soon, if sense prevails, Telkom). We’ve shared some deep moments. I was privileged to be asked to speak at the launch of his book. And he has been quick to offer support during my difficult periods.