Fairview cluster joins drive to foster thriving business environment
A collective approach in addressing environmental issues of common interest in Fairview has led to businesses establishing a geographic cluster with the aim of fostering a thriving working environment.
This is the ninth cluster to be established by businesses in the metro under the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber banner.
The others are the Beachfront, Baakens Valley, Deal Party, Perseverance, Neave/Korsten, North End, Struandale and Kariega clusters, established over the last 18 months.
To start the process of defining their vision and determining their strategic priorities, the Fairview Cluster has established an interim committee consisting of Nico Claassen (Wirk), Gideon Smith (S4 Integration), Eugene Le Grange (Netwide), Derika Le Grange (Netwide), Belinda Samuels (NTT/Dimension Data), Wikus Loots (Maritime Motors), and the Business Chamber’s board cluster lead Paola Horak (Grindstone Properties), chief executive Denise van Huyssteen and chief operating officer Ashwin Daya.
The interim structure is made up of volunteers from businesses in the area and is supported by the executive leadership of the chamber to guide them in developing a legal framework to ensure the cluster is fully compliant.
One of the companies at the forefront of establishing a cluster in the area is S4 Integration, which has consulted widely with other businesses as part of a recruitment drive.
S4 Integration marketing manager Gideon Smith said the group had made substantial investments in the Fairview area, which was still evolving as a relatively young business hub.
“Aligning ourselves with the chamber’s strategy to revive the metro as a conducive place to do business, our primary objective is to actively contribute to the development of the Fairview area, emphasising cleanliness, safety and community pride.
“We are dedicated to fostering a thriving environment and by joining forces with other local businesses, our goal is to transform Fairview into a pristine, crime-free zone that residents and businesses alike can take pride in,” Smith said.
He said some of the challenges in the area included a lack of road and general maintenance, and illegal dumping.
“There are likely more or less visible issues. However, we feel that an initial focus on the low-hanging fruit will already make a huge difference in how the area is perceived and this will be a driver for further initiatives to better the area.
“We also believe that if we set the example, others will follow,” he said.
Van Huyssteen said: “What makes Nelson Mandela Baybased businesses unique is their willingness to collaborate for the greater good of the local economy and to take action.
“As a business community, we have hope in the future — we know this is the Bay of opportunity.
“It starts with all of us believing in its potential and taking action to drive things forward in the right direction.”