SANDILE SHABALALA

Which historical figure do you most identify with?

Steve Biko.

What book are you reading at the moment? by John Kotter.

What is your most treasured possession? My family.

Which phrase or word do you most overuse? Actually.

What’s the worst airport you’ve been in? Polokwane — the décor leaves much to be desired.

What’s the most interesting thing about you that people don’t know?

That I was an identical twin — my brother passed away.

Which talent would you most like to have?

I’d like to be able to play the piano. Actually, to be a great pianist.

What is the one investment you wish you had made earlier?

The Telkom IPO.

Is there such a thing as enough money and, if so, how much is it? Everything is relative. The important things in life are not about money.

When and where were you happiest? The day I married the love of my life. What do you consider the most overrated virtue?

Public service when politicians are not committed to serving the people.

A Sense of Urgency

What is your biggest indulgence? Wine gums, I can’t stop eating them once I start.

How do you deal with stress? What are your top tips for handling stress? Exercise regularly. Listen to people and keep calm in difficult situations.

Who is your favourite hero of fiction? Neo, in the Matrix.

Tell us about a hidden gem in SA that not many people know about?

A family restaurant called Kookaburra in Lyttleton, Pretoria.

Nominate your 8th wonder of the world. The Blyde River Canyon in Mpumalanga.

What’s your one top tip for doing a deal? Great relationships and mutual respect lead to better business outcomes.

On what occasion do you lie? Again, this is relative. In a life and death situation I may lie to stay alive.

Which living person do you most admire? Bill Gates for his commitment to giving back to communities across the world.