Kgotatso “KG” Montjane: Breaking Barriers on the Global Stage

Kgotatso “KG” Montjane is a remarkable figure in the world of wheelchair tennis and a symbol of resilience and determination. Born in Sebeghe, Limpopo, South Africa, KG was born with a congenital disorder called Amniotic Band Syndrome, which resulted in the amputation of her left leg below the knee at the age of 12. Despite this challenge, she pursued her passion for sports, and her journey to becoming one of the world’s top wheelchair tennis players is nothing short of inspirational.

KG’s introduction to wheelchair tennis came when she was 19 years old, a relatively late start for an athlete. However, she quickly made up for lost time, displaying natural talent and an incredible work ethic. She began competing internationally in 2008, and within a few years, she was a force to be reckoned with on the court.

IN 2024, MONTJANE SECURED HER PLACE IN HISTORY BY WINNING THE WIMBLEDON DOUBLES TITLE, A VICTORY THAT WAS BOTH DEEPLY EMOTIONAL AND PROFESSIONALLY SIGNIFICANT

Her career is marked by numerous achievements. KG is a multiple Grand Slam semifinalist and the first African woman to compete in the Wimbledon wheelchair singles and doubles finals, a milestone she achieved in 2021. That same year, she reached the finals at both Wimbledon and the Australian Open, further establishing her as one of the top players globally.

In 2024, KG secured her place in history by winning the Wimbledon doubles title, a victory that was both deeply emotional and professionally significant. “Realizing I had won Wimbledon was an indescribable moment,” she shared. “When that final point was secured, a flood of emotions washed over me—relief, joy, disbelief, and gratitude. It felt like all the hard work, the sacrifices, and the challenges had paid off in the most spectacular way.”

Winning Wimbledon, often considered the pinnacle of tennis, was a dream come true for KG. “Personally, it is a validation of years of dedication and resilience. Professionally, it places me among the elite in wheelchair tennis, something I have wanted since the start of my career. It’s a dream come true, and it means everything.”

A victory like KG’s is never achieved in isolation. She credits her success to a strong support system. “My team at the Amputee Agency has been instrumental in refining my game and helping me stay focused. My family has been my rock, providing unwavering support through every challenge, and my sponsors have also played crucial roles by believing in me and supporting me financially and emotionally.”

As she looks ahead to the 2024 Paralympics in Paris, KG is focused and determined. “Winning Wimbledon turned my career upside down, propelling me into the spotlight,” she reflects. “The goal for the Paralympics in Paris are intensifying. The experience I gained from Wimbledon is my driving momentum to Paris.”

KG’s success is a beacon of hope for South Africans and aspiring wheelchair tennis players globally. “It shows that with determination and support, boundaries can be pushed, and records can be broken. It’s about breaking barriers and rewriting narratives.”

Looking to the future, KG aspires to continue pushing the envelope in wheelchair tennis, mentor young athletes, and advocate for better support systems for disabled sports. “I am looking into setting up foundations that provide infrastructure development to disadvantaged communities, especially children with disabilities, ensuring the next generation has the opportunities they need to succeed.”

Lyneth Zungu: Shaping the Future of Business Education

Meet Lyneth Zungu, who heads up the MBA program at Henley Business School Africa, which has just been rated by employers as the number one MBA business school in South Africa for the seventh year in a row. Her remarkable journey from the bustling streets of Tembisa to thriving in Ekurhuleni to leading one of Africa’s top MBA programmes is a testament to her resilience, faith, and the power of education.

Growing up in Tembisa, Lyneth was surrounded by both the advantages and the harsh realities of a volatile life. “There’s a lot to love about Tembisa; it’s diverse, dynamic, and multicultural, filled with energy and spirit,” she recalls. “But like many who grow up there, I faced the challenges of crime, drugs, alcohol abuse, and peer pressure. I drew my strength from my family and faith. My family is my rock, and my parents are my role models. They encouraged me, guided me, and supported me,” she shares. Her mentor, a teacher, instilled in her the importance of education, where her father’s unwavering support gave her the confidence she needed.

Lyneth’s greatest personal achievement, she says, has been getting an education. After earning her Bachelor of Commerce in Business Administration from the University of Johannesburg, she enrolled in the MBA programme at Henley Business School. “There were many who challenged and questioned my ability to succeed,” she reflects. “The challenges of life are real, and I also faced unexpected career opportunities during COVID-19, which presented real limitations in obtaining career advancement. But through the unending support of my family and friends, I completed my masters with a great gift,” she reveals.

Under Lyneth’s leadership, the Henley MBA programme has continued to flourish. “This programme is one of the fastest-growing executive education programmes in South Africa and is highly ranked globally. The transformation that I have seen at Henley’s International Centre is exciting,” Lyneth notes. Henley is now internationally recognised with campuses in South Africa and the UK, along with the introduction of a global MBA, makes it a standout choice for aspiring business leaders.

UNDER LYNETH’S LEADERSHIP, THE HENLEY MBA PROGRAMME HAS CONTINUED TO FLOURISH

Lyneth’s focus has also been on enhancing the executive power of the MBA, emphasising that it teaches students to think beyond the challenges of the classroom and create Africa’s solutions—innovative, entrepreneurial solutions. “We urgently need management and leadership skills to help solve Africa’s many challenges,” she asserts.

When she’s not inspiring the next generation of African leaders, Lyneth dedicates time to work with children and families in need. “I take our two kids along every second Saturday. It’s a good way to get the boys off their phones and reconnect with each other,” she says. As the embark on their next adventure—golf—Lyneth chooses to balance the diligent work ethic she has ingrained while nurturing family ties.

Keri Rudolph: Revolutionising Wellness

Keri Rudolph is the dynamic founder of The IV Bar, a groundbreaking wellness brand that has revolutionized the concept of intravenous (IV) vitamin therapy. Keri’s journey into the wellness industry began after years in the corporate world. The turning point came after her divorce, when she sought more flexibility to care for her three young children. Feeling the strain of her circumstances, Keri sought relief through the immediate benefits were undeniable—she felt rejuvenated, more energetic, and better equipped to handle life’s challenges. However, the experience of her own wellness journey was cumbersome, uncomfortable, and time-consuming.

This stark contrast between the benefits and the experience planted the seed for what would eventually become The IV Bar. Keri envisioned a space where people could receive the benefits of IV therapy in a stimulating environment, and her vision became inspiration for something new. The IV Bar would create a “third space”—a place that wasn’t home or work—where clients could experience the restorative version of The IV Bar: a comfortable, inviting environment where they would find help in comfort. This vision led to the creation of The IV Bar, a service that would offer registered treatment, and would provide evidence-based solutions.

Keri has also expanded her vision of The IV Bar to South Africa to incorporate the service on a large scale, and Keri has invested significantly in enabling the community and its needs. The IV Bar has combined everything from the sharing of safety and a beautiful lounge environment, as has the IV Bar grown steadily.

Since its inception, The IV Bar has grown steadily, with new branches opening each month.

Keri’s entrepreneurial journey is deeply personal. As a single mother with three children, she understands the challenges of balancing work and family life. Her advice to other female entrepreneurs is empowering. “You know how women think you do, and you’re better than you give yourself credit for. So, rise above the noise, hold your head high, and stop flying under the radar.”