Latest news with #Vivian
IOL News
10 hours ago
- Business
- IOL News
Vivian Reddy: a self-made entrepreneur's journey without a degree
Businessman Vivian Reddy is a Co-Developer of Oceans Umhlanga Mixed-Use Development Image: Supplied IN A WORLD where degrees often seem like the only way to success, Vivian Reddy, a Durban-born businessman and the founder of the Edison Power Group, rose to success with pure determination. Without any formal educational background, the now 72-year-old carved his own path to achievement. His story challenges conventional definitions of success and proves that the absence of a degree does not mean the absence of potential. 'I did not have a university degree when I started. My education to this day is only a diploma in electrical contracting management. Most of my education came from the real world, from mentors, from trial and error, and from hard lessons," said Vivian. 'While I always respected formal education and encouraged others to pursue it, I knew that my path would be carved through grit, experience, and self-education. In many ways, that taught me resilience and resourcefulness early on.' Reddy said he knew who he was meant to be from an early age - a man with purpose. 'From a young age, I was drawn to the idea of creating something of my own, of being in control of my destiny. Bringing in the Box Scouts organisation shaped my thoughts. 'The defining moment came when I saw the socio-economic challenges in our comm unities and realised that entrepreneurship could be a powerful tool for both personal growth and upliftment of others. I wanted to build a business that not only created value, but created opportunity.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ He said his background influenced his approach to business. 'I come from humble beginnings. I understood what it meant to go without, and that gave me both drive and empathy. It influenced me to be a businessperson who values people whether staff, clients, or community. It also instilled in me a hunger to rise above limitations, and a responsibility to help others do the same.' His first entrepreneurial venture was an electrical contracting business. 'I started it with virtually nothing but R500 and a beat up bakkie - no inheritance, no wealthy backers, just belief and hard work. It was not easy, but I secured small contracts, delivered with excellence, and gradually built trust. It taught me that reliability and integrity are the most valuable currencies in business. 'Today, Edison Power is one of the largest electrical businesses in Africa. In business, failure is a tough but necessary teacher. I once lost a major contract due to underestimating cash flow pressures. It nearly broke me. But it taught me the importance of financial discipline, strategic foresight, and surrounding yourself with capable people. Every setback carries a seed of wisdom if you're willing to look for it.' Reddy said when choosing an unconventional career, setbacks were bound to happen. 'Setbacks are part of the journey. I have learned to treat rejection not as defeat, but as redirection. One mistake I made early on was trying to do everything myself. I learned that empowering a good team is not just smart, it is essential. Today, I thrive on collaboration and trust in the strength of those around me. What is important is to never give up. 'A prime example is my R5 billion Oceans Development. Despite several setbacks, like two contractors being liquidated and contractual delays due to the Covid-19 uprising, I still overcame all that to create the largest new mixed used development in South Africa.' He said when you choose a path to walk, you should always see it through. 'There were moments when the challenges felt overwhelming. But what kept me going was a sense of purpose. I wasn't just building a business for myself; I was building hope for others. Knowing that people were depending on me gave me the strength to push forward. What's important in life is to persevere and never ever give up.' Reddy said he owed his success to being disciplined, grateful, and focused, which everyone who was choosing a path less walked, should remember. 'I start each day early, with time for reflection and planning. I also make a conscious effort to stay connected to people because relationships are the foundation of lasting success. I believe in showing up, being present, and delivering consistently. 'Start with purpose, stay humble, and be relentless in your pursuit. Don't fear failure. It is part of the journey. Build something that adds value, stay true to your word, and never forget to uplift others as you rise. Success is sweeter when it's shared.' He hopes his legacy reflects that business can be a force for good. 'That it is possible to achieve great success while creating opportunity, empowering communities, and giving back. I want to be remembered not just as a businessman, but as someone who made a meaningful difference. When it's time for me to leave this earth, I want to leave with a good conscience knowing I did my best to make South Africa a better place,' said Reddy. THE POST
Daily Express
13 hours ago
- General
- Daily Express
Sandakan Day Memorial: Bonds forged from adversity: Chief Minister
Published on: Saturday, August 16, 2025 Published on: Sat, Aug 16, 2025 By: Mardinah Jikur Text Size: Vivian and others at the Sandakan Day Memorial. SANDAKAN: The Sandakan Day Memorial will stand as a living bridge to forge understanding, friendship and trust between Sabah, Australia and Britain, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. He said this year marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, yet for many families, especially those who have journeyed here from Australia, the United Kingdom and beyond, the memories of loved ones lost in Sandakan remain vividly alive. 'Our gathering this morning goes beyond mere remembrance. It's a tribute with purpose. Sandakan isn't just a site of tragedy. It's where the human spirit shone brightly amidst cruelty. 'It is a place where bonds were forged from adversity, where the noble actions of local Sabahans shone alongside the struggles of Allied soldiers. Here and now, we reaffirm our dedication to peace, unity and memory,' he said in his speech read out by Sandakan Member of Parliament Vivian Wong Shir Yee during the Sandakan Day Memorial held at the Sandakan Memorial Park, Friday. Hajiji said the Sandakan Death Marches and the horrors of the prisoner-of-war camps have been etched into history, not only because of the atrocities but also due to moments of shared humanity, as the quiet acts of kindness and persistent hope of those who clung to the idea of freedom against all odds. 'To the families of the fallen, your presence here means everything. Your loved ones, whether soldiers or Sabahans who risked everything to save them, are not forgotten. We honour their strength, their sacrifice, and their profound humanity. 'In Sabah, you will always find a sanctuary to remember them. Sandakan is sacred ground for you, too. As Chief Minister of Sabah, I assure you that this legacy will be preserved, ensuring it is honoured and passed on to future generations,' he added. Australian High Commissioner to Malaysia Danielle Heinecke, British High Commissioner to Malaysia Ajay Sharma and New Zealand High Commissioner to Malaysia Michael Wehi Mailetonga Walsh were in attendance, along with senior officials from the Australian High Commission and the United States Embassy. Sandakan Day is held each year on Aug 15. 15.08.2025 Earlier, on Thursday, a welcoming dinner of the event was held at Sabah Hotel and graced by Vivian, representing Hajiji. Also launched was the Sandakan Death Marches Trail Map. Garry Rose and Georgia Rose of Australia made a special performance with Sandakan song as well as Japanese students (Yakusoku Tabi Group) with their special performance. In his speech, Hajiji said it is important to strengthen historical education in schools so that every child knows the story of Sandakan's heroes. 'We need to preserve our historical sites and natural heritage as living memorials, promote unity across all communities, inspired by the shared legacy of sacrifice.' he added. Sandakan was once the capital of British North Borneo — a city of promise, prosperity and diversity. Known as Elopura, the 'Beautiful Town,' it was a hub of commerce and culture. But war changed everything. Yet from the ashes of destruction, Sandakan rose again. 'Today, we are known as The Nature City, a place where heritage and biodiversity coexist, and where people of all backgrounds live in harmony,' he said. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Daily Express
a day ago
- General
- Daily Express
Sandakan Day Memorial strengthens international bonds
Published on: Friday, August 15, 2025 Published on: Fri, Aug 15, 2025 Text Size: Vivian delivers Hajiji's speech at the event. - Pic by CMD SANDAKAN: The Sandakan Day Memorial will continue to serve as a bridge for understanding, friendship and trust between Sabah, Australia, and Britain, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. Speaking at the memorial held at the Sandakan Memorial Park today, Hajiji assured that this legacy would be preserved and passed on to future generations. Sandakan MP Vivian Wong noted that this year marked the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, yet for many families from Australia, the United Kingdom, and beyond, the memories of loved ones lost in Sandakan remained vivid. He said the gathering was more than remembrance, describing Sandakan as a place where the human spirit shone amid adversity and where bonds were forged between Allied soldiers and local Sabahans. Hajiji reflected on the Sandakan Death Marches and prisoner-of-war camps, saying their history was remembered not only for the suffering but also for moments of shared humanity and hope. He paid tribute to the quiet heroes among local Sabahans who risked or gave their lives to shelter and assist Allied soldiers, saying their bravery endures in stories passed down through generations. The ceremony was attended by British High Commissioner to Malaysia Ajay Sharma, New Zealand High Commissioner to Malaysia Michael Wehi Mailetonga Walsh, senior officials from the Australian High Commission and the United States Embassy, as well as state and local authorities. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
Daily Express
4 days ago
- Business
- Daily Express
MP: Sandakan risks losing economic spillovers
Published on: Tuesday, August 12, 2025 Published on: Tue, Aug 12, 2025 By: Winnie Kasmir Text Size: Vivian also called for the construction of an integrated border checkpoint between Sandakan and Kalimantan to speed up cross-border trade and strengthen the East Coast's role as a key logistics hub within the Bimp-Eaga growth zone. Kuala Lumpur: Sandakan MP Vivian Wong warned that Malaysia risks missing out on economic spillovers from rapid development in Kalimantan and the growth of international shipping routes if action is not taken soon. 'Sandakan's potential is already clear. The government must act now,' she said, when debating the 13th Malaysia Plan in parliament. Advertisement Vivian also said the development imbalance in Sabah has persisted for too long, despite the East Coast being home to nearly half the state's population. 'Sandakan, as the second-largest city in Sabah, has a unique strategic advantage, it has both an international port and airport, rich natural resources, and is located at the heart of the East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) economic corridor,' she said. She proposed that Sandakan be declared a Special Economic Zone to attract investments in downstream and manufacturing industries, which would in turn create more quality job opportunities for locals. Vivian also called for the construction of an integrated border checkpoint between Sandakan and Kalimantan to speed up cross-border trade and strengthen the East Coast's role as a key logistics hub within the Bimp-Eaga growth zone. 'This could place the East Coast of Sabah as a key development focus in the regional growth map and reinforce Malaysia's position in Asean,' she said. She also highlighted the green and blue economy potential in Sandakan, given its abundant marine resources and reputation as a world-class ecotourism destination. 'Sandakan has the potential to become the country's centre for fisheries, cruise tourism and green trade. But to realise this, infrastructure development must be prioritised.' Among her proposals were the construction of a dedicated tourist terminal to nearby islands such as Pulau Berhala and Pulau Selingan, the opening of direct international flight routes from Sandakan to Hong Kong, Guangzhou or Singapore, and upgrading of the Sandakan Airport. On maritime development, Vivian urged that Sandakan be developed as a 'Makassar Strait Transshipment Hub,' in line with its strategic location along a key shipping route between China and Australia. 'The LKIM fisheries complex must be equipped with proper landing jetties, cold storage facilities, and a stable supply of subsidised diesel. 'In addition, dredging works must be carried out at the Sandakan Port and Berhala Strait to allow large vessels to dock,' she said. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
New Straits Times
5 days ago
- Sport
- New Straits Times
Vivian hopes for Hoo-ray from younger brother
KUALA LUMPUR: Doubles star Vivian Hoo's World Championships adventure ended in January with her retirement. Now, her family legacy is being continued by her younger brother, Hoo Pang Ron. Pang Ron will compete in the mixed doubles at the World Championships in Paris from Aug 25–31. Vivian, 35, a two-time Commonwealth Games champion, hopes her 27-year-old brother can achieve his goals. Pang Ron, who made his World Championships debut with Cheah Yee See in 2021, will partner Cheng Su Yin in his second world appearance. They are seeded 13th in Paris. Vivian played in the World Championships seven times with various partners. "I'm definitely happy to see my brother continue the legacy. But I don't compare my achievements with his because everyone has their own journey. "For me, as long as he can make his own breakthroughs and reach his personal goals, that's already a big achievement," she said. Vivian won gold medals at the 2010 Commonwealth Games (New Delhi) and 2013 SEA Games in Myanmar with Woon Khe Wei, and the pair's career-high world ranking was No. 9. She also won a second Commonwealth Games gold with Chow Mei Kuan in 2018, Gold Coast, Australia. World No. 16 Pang Ron-Su Yin, however, are going through a rough patch, and Vivian hopes that they can bounce back at the World Championships. The Pang Ron-Su Yin combination, formed in October 2023 by national coach Nova Widianto, finished second at the China Masters last November, but have struggled since then. They only reached the last eight at the Indonesia Masters in January and Orleans Masters in March. The 22-year-old Su Yin has been struggling to cope with the pressure of the rigorous World Tour. "Recently they've been quite down because of their performance. I just hope they can find their form again and give it their best," said Vivian. "I think it's normal, and everyone will go through this process. I am hoping to see them overcome it and come back stronger in Paris."
