The paradox called Themba Baloyi – a lesson in the power of humility

By Alec Hogg

Life is full of paradoxes. I interviewed one of them yesterday. Themba Baloyi is the son of a teacher and a man with multiple wives. He was sent to extended family in a village in northern KZN to attend a small rural school with basic facilities. In many ways he typifies what politicians describe as “disadvantaged” – those of our nation who need to be uplifted for any chance at a meaningful life.

Yet the grown-up Themba Baloyi has an MBA from Henley, 11 Comrades Medals (including a Silver), operates at board level within one of the country’s most admired corporations, and is credited with having had the idea, and perseverance, to create the revolutionary Discovery Insure. This year he was invited to join the elite group of Young Global Leaders at the World Economic Forum. And the lad raised in the hamlet of Annieville near Newcastle is still only 38.

What made Themba so different from thousands of others? The interview provided some pointers. But for me the key was his mentors. A grandmother who raised him to be revere education; a boss who recognised the talent and encouraged him to nurture it elsewhere; an entrepreneurial giant who took the time to engage, to encourage, to challenge. What gave Themba the edge was his humility – he trusted them, asked for guidance and listened. And when he followed these simple processes, magic happened. We learn so much more by listening rather than talking. And by appreciating that there is much we don’t know.


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