LeadUP Podcast | Podcast Guru

Details

Alumni and friends of the University of Pretoria (UP) share their stories and leadership lessons on this podcast by the leading contact university in Africa. Prominent UP alumni from across disciplines – from business and law to medicine and the arts – share details about where their journey has taken them after their time at Tuks, and what they’ve learned along the way. LeadUP is a project of the Alumni Relations Office of the University of Pretoria. You can find out more about us or get in touch at up.ac.za/leadup.

Recent Episodes

Michelle Mokone, entrepreneur, on building a global business from local roots

Michelle Mokone is the co-founder of Mo’s Crib, a homeware brand that works with large international retailers like Woolworths and Target. She is also the Head and Co-founder of The Sole Sneaker Laundry. She holds a BCom (Hons) in Agricultural Economics from the University of Pretoria and a Master's in International and Trade Law from the World Trade Institute of the University of Bern. On this episode, she speaks to us about: her love for UP and her hustle as a student;how she got into entre...

41 MIN

Karishma Ramdev, aesthetic doctor, on authentically enhancing beauty

Dr Karishma Ramdev is an aesthetic doctor, entrepreneur, and content creator who is redefining beauty and confidence. She built her brand, Charisma by Karishma, at the intersection of science and art. She’s previously worked on the COVID-19 frontlines, competed in Miss South Africa, and built a global platform – all while advocating for self-confidence and living openly with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). On this episode, she speaks to us about: Getting into pageant competitions like Miss ...

33 MIN

Christopher Williams, Director of CJ Distribution, on growing a wholesale distribution business

Christopher Williams is the Director of CJ Distribution, the logistics engine behind retail giant Dis-Chem. A UP Pharmacy graduate, he stepped into the wholesale space at a time when many were stepping away from it. On this episode, he speaks to us about: Why he went into pharmacy, and not farming.Launching a wholesaler during a difficult period for pharmacies.How to grow a business well, from a small start to a national footprint.Building the Local Choice Franchise pharmacy brand. His r...

43 MIN

Viwe Mkizwana, jazz musician, on making his passion his career

Viwe Mkizwana is an award-winning bassist, composer, arranger, musical director and educator. He has performed around the world, plays with the likes of the Gauteng Philharmonic Orchestra and MIAGI Orchestra, and has released three albums. He has picked up SAMA nominations, a Mzantsi Jazz Award, and two Naledi Awards. He continues to push the boundaries of African jazz. On this episode, he speaks to us about: How he fell in love with jazz music.Convincing his family that going into a cr...

26 MIN

Izak Smit, CEO of PPS, on how to lead an impactful company

Izak Smit is the Group Chief Executive Officer at PPS, one of South Africa’s last remaining mutual insurance companies. He completed a BCom Honours in Economics at UP and holds a Diploma in Strategy and Innovation from the University of Oxford. He is a proud Tuks alum and sits on the Faculty Advisory Board of the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences (EMS). On this episode, he speaks to us about: Why he believes that he already has his dream job.How to build and strengthen culture in a ...

30 MIN