MEA Business Awards 2 0 2 4
News The MEA Business Awards encompass the entirety of the Middle East and Africa regions, and as such are our most diverse and wide-ranging campaign. The team at MEA Markets work diligently for months in order to compile a comprehensive list of winners, where only the most deserving companies and businesspeople are selected for recognition. With our years of experience researching both the Middle East and African economic markets, we can successfully reflect the true nature and key attributes of this sprawling business landscape through the MEA Business Awards. While individual MEA economies often perform at drastically different rates, the overall outlook in the region is positive, with most countries being expected to forge a path to growth in the near future. Despite ongoing turbulence across the global economy, the Middle East has continued to show strength in the face of these challenges – diversifying its business markets, embracing digital transformation, and investing in public service sectors such as Healthcare, Education, and Tourism. GCC countries in particular have striven to reduce their reliance on the dominant Oil sector by implementing government policies and funding initiatives to drive growth in other segments. Thanks in part to the success of these ambitious strategies, the GCC has now emerged as one of the fastest growing tourist destinations in the world. MEA Markets is excited to announce that the prestigious MEA Business Awards will be returning to our platform once again in 2024! This ever-popular programme is now entering its eighth consecutive year, and with each iteration we strive to make the latest version even better than the last! AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them. The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility.
News Contents 4. Simon Dippenaar & Associates Inc: Family & Divorce Law Firm of the Year 2024 – South Africa 6. Ensol (T) Limited: Best Solar Energy EPC Company 2024 – Tanzania 8. Kansai Plascon Uganda: Best Paints & Coatings Brand – East Africa 10. Kaizania: Best BusinessTransformation & Efficiency Consultancy 2024 – South Africa 12 Azanko Advisory: Most Innovative Management Consultancy 2024 – South Africa & MEA Markets Business Growth Acceleration Excellence Award 2024 13. Qudah Law Firm LLP: Best Full-Service Business Law Firm 2024 – MENA & MEA Markets Excellence Award in Digital Transformation 2024 14. A.E. Prognosys Solutions Limited: Regulatory Reporting Provider of the Year 2024 – EMEA 15. Saudi Business Links: Best Local Market Entry Advisory Firm 2024 – Saudi Arabia 16. Aspirata Auditing Testing and Certification (Pty) Ltd: Most Pioneering Food Safety & Quality Assurance Company 2024 & MEA Markets Excellence Award for Auditing Services 2024 17. market-i Research Services & Consultancy FZ LLC: Best Boutique Research Consultancy Firm 2024 – UAE 12. 16. 7.
MEA | MEA Business Awards 2024 Family & Divorce Law Firm of the Year 2024 – South Africa Cape Town’s Simon Dippenaar & Associates Inc (SD Law) is a general legal practice comprising attorneys, notaries, and conveyancers. Delivering a comprehensive range of legal services under one roof, SD Law’s speciality is family and divorce law, but its expertise also extends to evictions, rental housing, liquor licensing, commercial law, bail, and even criminal defence in the case of first offences. Regardless of the nature of a case, SD Law always affords its clients personalised attention, total discretion, and an unwavering commitment to securing the best possible outcomes. Renowned in local circles for its client-centric approach, dignity, and compassion, Simon Dippenaar & Associates has remained true to these cornerstones for more than a decade, even with the legal, political, and social landscapes around it shifting dramatically. Priding itself on delivering exemplary solutions to legal problems as quickly as possible, the firm favours a method of high emotional intelligence and low confrontation. It is, however, unafraid to pull out all the stops should circumstances call for a more forceful advance. A firm passionate about upholding the law and serving its community, SD Law is led from the front by the eponymous Simon Dippenaar, an experienced lawyer who effortlessly strikes the balance between delivering an excellent service to clients and taking care of the needs of his high-performing team. Known for encouraging the development of staff on both a personal and a professional level, as well as for prioritising their health and wellbeing, Simon recognises that a team only performs at its best when all members feel valued and heard. “We are passionate about upskilling people with initiative and the motivation to forge ahead in the field of law. We aim to optimise their work experience and maximise their potential for future success.” Unlike many law firms, SD Law nurtures a collaborative atmosphere as opposed to a competitive one. This unique approach, which manifests through the likes of regular standups where everyone learns from one another, results in the high standards SD Law is known for across the board. For Simon, these high standards are “a natural outcome of a culture of positivity and productivity.” Moreover, by holding each other accountable, team members ensure standards never slip. Exploring this reputation in more detail, SD Law is as acclaimed for its ability to stay on top of both domestic and international legal developments as it is for delivering its signature, client-first service. Whether it is the daily briefings held concerning emerging case law and legislative change or the time allocated to reviewing legal news, press coverage, commentary, and external trends which reach beyond the legal sphere, SD Law strives to stay a few paces ahead at all times, which is essential in a country as dynamic as South Africa. An incredibly beautiful country with a deeply troubled history, South Africa has worked hard over the past few decades to make considerable societal progress, but a number of factors still hinder it in its mission. For instance, having held national elections last year, the country has a coalition government for the first time since abolishing apartheid. Causes contributing to shifting electoral sentiment include the rising cost of living, high unemployment levels and a complex social landscape, resulting in a nation as divided as its government. This is not to say that progress has not been made, and the robust legal framework and rights-based Constitution enjoyed today are testaments to this evolution. As a result, Simon tells us, “It is a privilege to practise law in this environment. Our laws protect the vulnerable and ensure the human rights violations of the past cannot be repeated.” Despite this framework, much still needs to be done, and as long as South Africa struggles with high levels of gender-based violence, poverty, and corruption, SD Law’s team will not rest. “Law firms like SD Law play a critical role in defending the rule of law and upholding the rights of ordinary citizens. We are proud to represent the people of South Africa and to play a part in building a fairer and more prosperous society.”
5 Family & Divorce Law Firm of the Year 2024 – South Africa All of these political changes have certainly not made this any easier, and delays to many of the bills due to be passed have had negative consequences for the firm and resulted in some disparity. For example, although the Divorce Act has been revised to afford equal rights and benefits to all persons, the corresponding amendment to the Marriage Act has been delayed until next year. Exacerbating this is the fact that fewer people are getting married, and topics such as the duty of support in life partnerships are still hotly debated. In a similar vein, South Africa, like many countries all over the world, is attempting to wrap its head around the legal implications of such technologies as AI and cryptocurrency. What makes this undertaking more difficult is that the country’s legislative framework is not as robust as that of other nations, and it is forced to rely on existing data protection and privacy laws to come to an understanding for the time being. As these developments play out, SD Law strives to safeguard all its clients against the risks of AI. As the above demonstrates, SD Law is a beacon of trust, compassion, and knowledge in an environment fraught with competition, hawkishness, and general belligerence. Other firms may deploy vicious tactics in an attempt to cripple a client’s opponent – a common theme in divorce settlements – but this can lead to hurt, fractured families, and years of mending. Offering ‘divorce with dignity’ is just one example of the win-win case resolutions sought by the team across the practice, facilitating quicker recovery. Thanks to this distinction, it is no surprise that SD Law is entering 2025 having experienced a landmark previous year. “We extended and renovated our premises to provide clients and our team with state-of-the-art technological resources,” Simon explains, “all set against a backdrop of ease and comfort to make our office a quiet, productive place to work and a reassuring place in which to discuss difficult matters as a client.” Having settled into this environment, the firm is now laser focused on its plans for the rest of the year. Many of these future plans are geared towards expansion, something SD Law is committed to not only in its home base of Cape Town, but also in Johannesburg and Durban, where its correspondent offices are located. Giving back to the communities in these three locations is also paramount, as evidenced by the significant proportion of case work SD Law carries out pro bono. Although South African law requires attorneys to perform at least 24 hours of pro bono work annually, the firm consistently exceeds this amount. Rightfully recognised as the Family & Divorce Law Firm of the Year 2024 – South Africa, Simon Dippenaar & Associates Inc is not only the best family and divorce attorney in Cape Town, it is one of the best legal practices in the entire country. From helping its clients grapple with the changes in wider society to intervening in matters of eviction, helping landlords and tenants resolve differences, this law firm carries out its duties masterfully, making it a credit to its nation. Contact: Simon Dippenaar Company: Simon Dippenaar & Associates Inc Web Address: https://www.sdlaw.co.za/
MEA | MEA Business Awards 2024 The growth of the renewable energy sector is gaining traction at a faster rate than ever, driven by growing concerns about climate change, an increasing interest in energy security, the rapid advancements in renewable technologies. ENSOL, a Tanzanian-owned company, is spearheading the change to renewable energy in East Africa. Leveraging its expertise as an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractor, ENSOL has been recently awarded in the MEA Business Awards 2024. ounded in 2001, ENSOL is a trusted provider of premium solar energy solutions. Driven by a team of highly skilled and experienced professionals, the company takes immense pride in fulfilling its promise of optimal performance, long-term sustainability, and client satisfaction across all of its operations. On a mission to provide energy solutions that enhance quality of life and promote environmental sustainability, ENSOL is committed to advancing renewable energy initiatives for a greener future. With more than two decades of industry experience, ENSOL has established a reputation of great credibility; the company is registered with Tanzania’s Contractors Registration Board, is regulated by the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority, as well as a corporate member of both the Tanzania Renewable Energy Association and the Alliance for Rural Electrification. Over the years, ENSOL has transformed the lives of thousands by delivering solar energy solutions to rural health clinics, schools, businesses, and water pumping stations, undertaking projects that support irrigation, community drinking water, and animal watering needs to foster sustainable development in undeserved areas. What’s more, the company has also successfully executed numerous Commercial and Industrial solar projects across Tanzania, which include grid-tied systems and Battery Energy Storage Systems. As the demand for renewable energy rises, ENSOL is focused on expanding its reach across Africa. In addition to completing projects for rural communities, Commercial, and Industrial use in Tanzania, the company is also actively undertaking renewable energy projects in Burundi, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo in efforts to contribute towards clean energy adoption across the region. Dedicated to empowering industries via stellar solar solutions, ENSOL delivers tailored solutions to a diverse range of sectors, including homes, healthcare, education, manufacturing and production, agriculture, and the business sector. By collaborating with government agencies, private companies, and communities, the company has successfully demonstrated the true value of adopting solar energy in both off-grid and on-grid areas. Best Solar Energy EPC Company 2024 – Tanzania F With the knowledge that each client brings their own unique energy needs, ENSOL provides fully customised solutions that are tailormade to reflect their specific project objectives. The company is renowned for its client-centric approach, opting to guide its clients entirely through each stage of the project, from the initial conceptualisation to commissioning. This approach further solidifies ENSOL as a trusted company, acting as a partner to its client throughout their transition to renewable energy. ENSOL offers a wide array of products and services aimed at promoting the shift towards a sustainable future. The company’s grid-tied PV systems, designed for commercial and industrial applications, are ideal for businesses aiming to cut costs and prioritise sustainability. The systems offer clients significantly lower energy bills, reliable performance with utility grid support, and a reduced carbon footprint, making it a sustainable option for businesses shifting towards environmentally conscious operations. The company also provides hybrid PV systems, dependable energy solutions for homes, businesses, and commercial operations. The product’s hybrid component offers uninterrupted power supply and reliable backup during outages, increased energy independence, and critical operation support for clients utilising consistent power for essentials. Additionally, ENSOL’s solar water pumping systems are designed to meet the diverse needs of its clientele, supporting irrigation, community drinking water, and animal watering. This system is perfect for agricultural communities and rural development, utilising the sun to ensure consistent supply of water throughout the region. The company also offers solar water heating systems, which are ideal for the home, hotels, hospitals, and individuals transitioning to eco-conscious living. Geared towards municipalities and private entities striving to establish sustainable infrastructure, ENSOL offers solar street lighting systems that reduce operational costs, require little maintenance, and enhance public safety with reliable lighting for streets, parking lots, and outdoor spaces. Durable and easy to operate, the company’s lighting systems are not only aiding the environment but also contributing towards safer and happier communities. Once integrated, ENSOL’s systems require minimal upkeep, however consistent, proper maintenance is imperative to mitigate the risk of failure. ENSOL’s experienced team provides clients with preventative maintenance to ensure the longevity of their systems, as well as corrective maintenance with swift repairs to issues. In addition to its myriads of renewable energy solutions, ENSOL also provides expert Energy Assessment Services to help clients take control of their energy usage. The service is designed to optimise energy efficiency, with ENSOL’s team conducting detailed electrical system surveys using advanced tools and software to identify areas for improvement and enhancement. Through this top-tier service, ENSOL promises to deliver a comprehensive energy audit report that provides insight into energy usage, efficiency recommendations to reduce energy costs and improve performance, and seamless integration with various renewable energy systems. Since its inception, ENSOL has completed thousands of projects on its mission of promoting renewable energy. Some of the company’s more notable projects include the installation of a 120kWp grid-tie, selfconsumption solar PV plant in Kibaha for the application of a small milk factory; a 23kWp hybrid solar PV system for Ipuli Hospital in Tabora; a 48kWp micro-grid PV plant with backup to provide rural housing electrification in the Mpale Village of Korogwe, Tanga; and a 50kWp gridtied, self-consumption PV plant for a hospital in Mwanza. From agriculture to healthcare, ENSOL strives to innovate industries with sustainable solutions that not only have a substantial impact on the environment, but also on the operational costs and efficiencies of its clientele. The company has demonstrated an unfaltering commitment to championing the region’s transition towards renewable energy solutions, acting as a trusted partner to its clientele in order to facilitate a seamless integration that displays the truly advantageous nature of renewable energy. The MEA Business Awards are held each year by MEA Markets magazine to highlight and celebrate the trailblazer and pioneers currently leading their industries across the Middle East and Africa regions. For its
7 Best Solar Energy EPC Company 2024 – Tanzania dedication to facilitating a greener future, and the ways in which it has shaped many industries for the better, ENSOL has been awarded the title of Best Solar Energy EPC Company 2024 – Tanzania. Contact: Hamisi Mikate Company: Ensol (T) Limited Web Address: https://ensol.co.tz/
MEA | MEA Business Awards 2024 With more than 130 years of industry experience behind it, is no surprise that Kansai Plascon (formerly Plascon South Africa) is the biggest coatings company operating in Africa today, present in 22 countries across the continent. The brand’s Ugandan manufacturing base, Kansai Plascon Uganda, demonstrates both its standing and its dedication to excellence in the East Africa region. At the heart of its operation in this setting is a state-of-the-art production facility in Namanve, where 600 team members oversee the production of approximately 250,000 litres of its products every day. Launched in East Africa in 2016 before acquiring a local paint business the following year, Kansai Plascon has some of the best and brightest minds in the industry at its disposal, not to mention the more than a century of independent experience that the Plascon brand had in this market prior to merging with Kansai Paint, an industry giant that is discussed further below, in 2011. On the back of this combined expertise, what has arisen is a multifaceted, far-reaching operation showcasing the best of the best when it comes to coatings. Following in the trailblazing footsteps of the wider Kansai Plascon brand, Kansai Plascon Uganda is its namesake country’s definitive paints and coatings company, leading the industry as a result of its national distribution efforts and a comprehensive product selection spanning both budget and premium items. Leveraging its Namanve production facility and a second, more specialised plant in the 2nd Street industrial area, the company’s Ugandan division is a beacon of manufacturing prowess in the country. Although the manufacturing capabilities of Kansai Plascon Uganda are incredibly impressive, they far from capture the essence of this storied brand, which instead prizes itself on delivering quality and innovation at every turn. This is reflected right across its unrivalled range of paints and coatings, where there is something available for every customer’s unique requirements. Be it Plascon WeatherGuard for exterior walls or anti-mosquito paint for interior use, the company truly shines in the decorative segment of this market. These products only scratch the surface of the broad scope of Kansai Plascon’s offerings, with automotive paints such as Plascryl and a number of wood finish and manufacturing paints also available. In total, more than 40 different product classes exist across the company, and the wide range of colours means sees visions brought to life in just a few coats. It is for this reason that these products are staples in the garages and basements of discerning property and vehicle owners, as well as decorators, right across Africa. Diving deeper into how Kansai Plascon Uganda has achieved a staggering 70% market share, the brand’s distinction begins at the start of a product’s lifecycle – the R&D phase. Employing ongoing recruitment and training drives, the company affords its dedicated team unfettered access to cutting-edge facilities, which they utilise to excel in the product development and technological services fields. The wider organisation’s other entities in South Africa and Japan have also proven invaluable in sparking this innovation. Moreover, since it is a part of Kansai Paint, which is Japan’s largest paint manufacturer and one of the top ten paint companies in the world, Kansai Plascon is able to leverage industry-leading insights when it comes to the likes of colour technology, synthetic resin, and dispersion technologies. With these tools at its disposal, the team in Uganda have made huge leaps in innovation themselves, as seen through the likes of its aforementioned anti-mosquito paint and its effective wood protection and waterproofing solutions. “In recent years, we’ve also taken steps to address counterfeiting through innovative packaging and have continuously improved both our product formulations and colour selections. These efforts not only enhance our market position but also strengthen our bond with customers who trust us to deliver quality and reliability.” The unique bond that Kansai Plascon shares with its customers is further on display through the Plascon 360 Partnership Pledge, which sees encompassing and tailored service solutions inclusive of coatings specifics and maintenance service coordination delivered to customers for their properties. A true partnership, the company’s dedicated team are fully involved at every stage of a project, ensuring that the right coating systems are used to complement both the building itself and the environment in which it is situated. Initiatives like this are just some of the ways that Kansai Plascon is working towards its vision of becoming of Africa’s leading paints and coatings company, inspiring confidence in its customers and enabling them to achieve a consistent sense of quality across their projects, wherever in the continent they may be. Despite already operating in 22 nations across Africa, it is the brand’s ongoing mission to continue expanding its presence, without sacrificing on its industry-high standards of service and product quality. Adhering to its internal culture – which is built around the core values of integrity, customer focus, accountability, respect, entrepreneurship, and innovation – has proven key in the brand achieving this mission, as well as helping to build stakeholder trust and allowing staff to understand what is expected of them. It is the dedication of these staff that truly sets the brand apart, and every member of this team is well aware of the importance of their role when it comes to delivering the best paints at the best price. “We believe in empowering our staff to take ownership of decisions, harnessing their individual strengths and fostering collaboration. It is this collective effort that has propelled us to where we are today – an industry leader recognised for both innovation and quality.” Clearly then, when it comes to Kansai Plascon Uganda, everything can be traced back to the two definitive areas of quality and innovation. A common thread across both this Ugandan operation specifically and the wider companies behind it, continuous evolution has seen the brand set the bar for others to follow across Best Paints & Coatings Brand – East Africa
9 Best Paints & Coatings Brand – East Africa the MEA region. For this, we champion Kansai Plascon Uganda in our MEA Business Awards 2024 and wish it the best of luck as it continues to pioneer in this space, hopefully for many years to come. Contact: Daniel Adrian Kayongo Company: Kansai Plascon Uganda Web Address: https://plascon.africa/uganda/
MEA | MEA Business Awards 2024 As the business landscape continues to shift and evolve at a rapid pace, more and more businesses are seeking out ways to improve their processes to deliver the best value to customers. Sharing the guiding principles of value delivery, collaboration, adaptability, and efficiency, the Agile and Lean methodologies have risen in popularity as successful approaches for effectively managing projects and optimising workflows. Below, we take a look at Kaizania, an award-winning consultancy firm masterfully blending the methodologies to assist its clients in achieving operational excellence. n order to succeed in today’s competitive climate, businesses must be both efficient and adaptable to remain relevant. In the past, many companies would feel forced to choose between Lean and Agile frameworks to boost their business, though now most realise that the modern combination of both frameworks will achieve this goal. Lean methodologies originated in the regimented field of manufacturing, with an emphasis on waste reduction and process optimisation, whereas Agile methodologies emerged from the software development sector and opt to prioritise adaptability through iterative. Once distinct, the lines between software development and manufacturing are blurring and melding together, making flexibility and efficiency equally crucial components of success. By combining the two methodologies, businesses can develop a tailored approach based on their specific challenges and goals, helping them to deliver with a focus on both the customer and the company objectives. Based in Sandton, Johannesburg, Kaizania is a leading consultancy firm specialising in providing its clients with Lean and Agile transformations that stand the test of time. We speak with Germaine Hendrikz, Head of Agile at Kaizania, to learn more about the consultancy’s terrific transformation techniques as Kaizania is named in the MEA Business Awards 2024. “At Kaizania, we believe in driving success through a holistic approach to improvement at every stage of your “New Way of Working” journey,” Germaine tells us. “What sets us apart is our unique application of Agile and Lean principles to address the challenges our clients face.” As a consulting firm, Kaizania has an expert understanding of exactly what enables a business to thrive in this landscape and takes a Best Business Transformation & Efficiency Consultancy 2024 – South Africa I client-centric approach to its operations. The consultancy prioritises people and interactions over processes and tools, opting for customer collaboration over contract negotiation. Not only does this allow Kaizania to build trusting and long-lasting relationships with clientele that span across sectors, but also enables the company to stand out in the market for delivering top-tier solutions with a humanised approach. “Our end-to-end improvement mindset integrates people, processes, and technology,” says Germaine, “ensuring that every step forward delivers meaningful, measurable outcomes for both our clients and their customers. Whether you’re just starting with Agile training or looking to advance your journey, Kaizania offers solutions tailored to your needs.” Kaizania offers an extensive range of coaching, assessments, transformation, and educational services geared towards increasing the operational efficiency and success of any client’s business. When conducting its top-tier business transformation and coaching consulting services, Kaizania will first begin with identifying the challenges its client’s organisation faces. Then, the consultancy will utilise these challenges to develop effective business models that weave value delivery throughout the business. Assessing the specific needs of its client, Kaizania constructs specialised teams to aid in perfecting the flow of work and value throughout the organisation. The consultancy recognises that change is not easy for any organisation, and has tailored its approach to reflect this, ensuring that any failure in its approach comes swiftly and at low cost. This enables the client to apply the lessons learned from these failures into the more successful areas of the organisation that delivers immediate value. “Our proven six-step transformation approach starts with aligning leadership on the desired outcomes, fostering an understanding of Agile values and instilling a Lean-Agile mindset,” Germaine explains. “This is followed by organising cross-functional teams, training key roles, and pre-planning coordination, leading up to the final step – launching teams to deliver against aligned goals within three months.” From undertaking projects and aiding with product delivery, to formulating strategies and overseeing their execution, Kaizania works tirelessly to develop value-based outcome approaches that guarantee results for its clientele. Whilst business transformations can be a necessary process, they can also cause disturbance within an organisation. Kaizania takes an agile approach that ensures its client can shift focus with minimum disruption to their mission of meeting customer needs, maintaining quality, and encouraging employee engagement. “Our consulting is anchored in a “being Agile” philosophy, focusing on instilling a Lean-Agile mindset that promotes continuous improvement, flexibility, and responsiveness to change,” says Germaine. “We emphasise leadership that supports Agile transformation by focusing on leadership styles that drive sustainable results. Our expert coaches guide you through adopting Agile and Lean practices: streamlining processes, eliminating waste, and optimising value delivery. We help evolve your methods, from introducing Agile ways of working to scaling these practices across teams and departments.” In addition to consulting and transformation services, Kaizania also provides a variety of training courses for individuals and organisations looking to achieve business excellence. Each of these courses follow the Training from the Back of the Room framework, an approach based on neuroscience that makes learning fun, interactive, and memorable. Training from the Back of Room, or TBR, is an approach to training that focuses on engaging learners and creating a dynamic learning environment. The technology emphasises the use of visuals, activities, and discussions to enhance the learning experience. The courses offer insight and techniques for those looking to adopt Agile and Lean methodologies into their operations and vary in skill level, meaning that individuals of all capabilities can easily enter the field. Kaizania’s extensive range of courses revolve around Agile Project Management, education on Scrum frameworks, including advanced Scrum Master courses, and SAFe DevOps. “These learning opportunities comprise of internationally recognised Agile certification courses,” says Germaine, “in association with our
11 Best Business Transformation & Efficiency Consultancy 2024 – South Africa partners Scaled Agile Inc., IC Agile, and Scrum Alliance to provide best in class accredited certification courses. In addition, we provide customised workshop offerings with clear learning outcomes to assist individuals, teams, and organisations with bridging the gap between theory and practice.” For its excellence in the field, Kaizania has received a number of glowing testimonials that detail the ways in which its stellar services and educational courses have transformed their businesses. “The team at Kaizania is fabulous,” says Mark, from Old Mutual Limited. “Brigitte was amazing; she made a difficult course easy, made it interactive, and encouraged us to learn with very nice examples.” “BMW Financial Services has made massive strides in such a short period,” writes Rosa, IT Systems Analysist at BMW Financial Services. “We have achieved global recognition within the BMW group for our ability to deliver quality results in record time. At times, we have delivered results so fast that our business partners have gone from having long ‘to-do’ lists for us to not being able to keep up with us. Thanks, Kaizania!” “If you feel stuck and need inspiration, this Agile Planning course could be your answer!” exclaims Naadhire, IT Support Analysist at Allan Gray. “The structure, insights, tools, and invaluable learnings can be implemented in any workplace, regardless of structure.” “I thoroughly enjoyed each day – even though the material is challenging, the trainer never lost my attention,” adds Suzie, PDLC Customer Experience Lead at Vodacom. “The Absa Risk Reporting program has taken off,” reports Magda, from the Absa Group. “We have grown from four teams to 15 in a matter of months. Over the same time, we have ramped up to over 80% completion. Teams are energised and the business is on track for delivery ahead of schedule. Thank you to the team from Kaizania, our progress would not have been possible without you!” Since its inception, Kaizania has been dedicated to empowering businesses in their transition to become value-focused enterprises. The consultancy has perfected a blend of Agile-Lean methodologies that optimise operational efficiency, and now strives to educate business owners via specialist consulting and educational services. Kaizania has proven itself to be a trusted partner for organisations looking to grow and enhance their operations, prioritising the needs of the organisation without disrupting its ability to cater to clientele. Where many companies are utilising one sole framework in their business management, impeded by the limitations of this approach, Kaizania is storming the market with a highly specialised framework that enables it to tailor its approach across clients and sectors. For this forward-thinking approach, combining innovative frameworks to deliver operational excellence, Kaizania has been recognised in the MEA Business Awards 2024 as the Best Business Transformation and Efficiency Consultancy 2024 – South Africa. Contact: Germaine Hendrikz Company: Kaizania Web Address: https://kaizania.co.za/
MEA | MEA Business Awards 2024 12 Most Innovative Management Consultancy 2024 – South Africa & MEA Markets Business Growth Acceleration Excellence Award 2024 Since being founded in 2013, Azanko Advisory, which is based in both South Africa and the UAE, has been setting the gold standard in the field of management consultancy as a result of its global best practices, industry-leading technology, and best-in-class expertise. Thanks to this awardwinning combination, the businesses of the firm’s clients are able to consistently achieve unprecedented performance and growth, setting the stage for the next generation of market leaders across industry. ffording companies in the MEA region and beyond services spanning strategic advisory, executive coaching, financial advisory, AI adoption, transformation, business process re-engineering, data analytics and project management, Azanko Advisory has positioned itself as one of the best management consultancy firms operating in this landscape today. This statement is corroborated by its diverse client base, with the banking, education, engineering, healthcare, mining, real estate, and retail sectors all being represented. Regardless of location, industry, or the services they are providing, the team here pride themselves on delivering exceptional value and exceeding the expectations of clients spanning 4 continents. Far from just an empty promise, these claims are reinforced by returns that far exceed the fees charged by the firm – with up to ten times the return on investment even achieved on occasion – which is something that can be attributed to the company’s innovative nature, outside-the-box-thinking, tailored strategies, and collaborative mindset. “In an era where accountability can be scarce, we stand out by ensuring our actions align with our words, which has been a large contributor to our success.” For the team here, client service is just as important as the attributes listed above, and in the field of management consultancy, great client service can only be attained by pioneering from the sector’s forefront. Through the dedicated research time provided to all senior staff, as well as being thought leaders in business success, Azanko Advisory is able to stay up to date on all industry trends, a quest it is aided in further by having offices in the strategic locations of Johannesburg and Dubai, both of which are undisputed leaders in the MEA region. Mirroring the pioneering nature of its locations, Azanko Advisory is in an enviable position to navigate the ever-evolving regulations present across this industry. CEO Zubair Kharva gives us the example of changing tax legislation to emphasise the firm’s forward-looking approach, with swift action allowing the team to significantly decrease their tax liability and instead direct funds to growing and expanding the business, benefiting clients in the process. Such projects make Azanko Advisory a strategic partner, not just a consultancy. Exploring this further, Zubair explains: “By blending visionary thinking with an unwavering commitment to promises, we solve today’s challenges and shape tomorrow’s opportunities. We don’t just advise; we empower you to succeed through solutions that are as innovative as they are impactful.” He continues: “With Azanko, you’re not just hiring advisors, you’re gaining a partner who’s as invested in your success as you are.” This can be attributed to the innovative culture nurtured across the business, where difference is celebrated. Underpinned by the four generations of expertise leveraged across the company, the past year was an incredibly successful one for Azanko Advisory, with 2024 seeing the grand opening of the aforementioned Dubai office, which has been profitable from the off and signed new clients from all over the world. This has all been reflected in the firm’s financial forecast, with revenue and profits for this current financial year expected to be up more than 15% from the previous year, continuing a trend that has been in effect now for more than 5 years. Zubair tells us, “We have obtained an 82% revenue growth rate over the past four years and a 60% average increase in net profits.” What makes this all the more impressive is that the growth being achieved by the firm is sustainable, with its commitment to CSR on display across its modern, state-of-the-art offices. All of this is just the beginning for this strategic business advisory however, which is continuing to grow and innovative as we move further into 2025 and beyond. Today a beacon of bespoke transformation and change management advisory, this firm is the ultimate international consulting partner for growth throughout the world, making it a worthy winner of these two awards. Moreover, having built and self-funded this remarkable business from the ground up, this award is as much a reflection of CEO Zubair Kharva as it is Azanko Advisory itself. Contact: Zubair Kharva FCMA, CGMA (CIMA) Contact Email: [email protected] Company: Azanko Advisory Web Address: www.azanko.com A
MEA | MEA Business Awards 2024 13 Based in Jordan and working out of Amman, its capital city, Qudah Law Firm LLP is an expert when it comes to corporate and commercial law – as well as the areas related to it – on both a domestic and an international level. The firm is driven by a team of educated, qualified lawyers with experience spanning the laws and traditions of Jordan and other Middle Eastern jurisdictions, and its portfolio includes representations across the MEA region and as far out as Europe and North America. With a deep understanding of legal practice and the ability to provide its highly effective legal services in a number of languages, including Arabic and English, the multifaceted distinction of Qudah Law Firm can be attributed to the practical and transparent approach that exists at the heart of the business. First and foremost, this can be seen through a commitment to deliver the right legal advice to every client for their unique case, something it strives to do swiftly and without ever compromising on its principles or standards. From here, the three core values – or cornerstones – of Qudah Law Firm come into play, with these encompassing a pledge to always put the needs of its clients first, stressing the importance of integrity, and recognising that the firm is a service provider above all else. Since clients put their trust in the firm to identify and manage their legal proceedings, its team promise to do all they can to ensure positive outcomes. They do this in a number of ways, from keeping clients well informed to taking a holistic approach to their needs. More than being reactive, Qudah Law Firm understands how it important it is to be proactive in this sector, and it is for this reason that its lawyers are at the forefront of shaping legal trends, particularly when it comes to corporate and commercial law. Many members of this team have also worked in executive positions for some of the leading businesses in the region, meaning that they have unique insights into what businesses require when it comes to their legal interests and objectives. This level of detailed expertise is priceless. This is not to say, however, that Qudah Law Firm does not price its quality services at a reasonable cost for clients, and this is just one of the things that they love about working with the firm. Another thing that regularly comes up in the glowing feedback received by the firm is a recognition of its forward-thinking approach, embodied by its wholly dedicated team of researchers and developers. By anticipating the trends of the future market and studying the current landscape in detail, the firm is able to stay one step ahead. One area where this can be seen in full effect is technology enablement, especially concerning the likes of Web 3.0, NFTs, AI, and other such innovations. The rapidly increasing popularity of these technologies means that they need policing with comprehensive legal solutions, and Qudah Law Firm is seeking to use its frontrunner position to do exactly this for both its new and existing clients. In delivering robust solutions for both current and future challenges, this is a legal firm that more than has its finger on the pulse. With a deep understanding of this technology, it is no surprise that Qudah Law Firm has also integrated these advancements into its own service suite, as seen through both its AI-driven legal research tools and robust blockchain solutions. Designed to streamline processes and improve the delivery of its service, this has helped pave the way for the expansion of the firm’s international litigation services, meaning it can now represent clients in cross-border disputes across several jurisdictions, fortifying its presence even further. Remarkably, this is just the beginning of a planned expansion, with Mohammad Mufleh El-Qudah, managing partner at Qudah Law Firm, telling us that him and his team are exploring the possibility of partnerships with technology companies and like-minded legal experts alike, allowing them to paint a more complete picture of these new technologies and their legal implications, both now and in the future. As this mission is realised, the firm is sure to continue cementing its legacy as a leading MEA enterprise. A terrific corporate law firm specialising in regulatory compliance and digital technology alike, Qudah Law Firm LLP delivers expert legal solutions for businesses in its home region and beyond, making it more than worthy of being recognised with these two awards. Contact: Mohammad Mufleh El-Qudah Company: Qudah Law Firm LLP Web Address: http://qudahlawfirm.com/index Best Full-Service Business Law Firm 2024 – MENA & MEA Markets Excellence Award in Digital Transformation 2024
MEA | MEA Business Awards 2024 14 Jul23190 Oct24262 Regulatory Reporting Provider of the Year 2024 – EMEA An industry-leading regulatory technology firm, Cyprus’ A.E. Prognosys Solutions Limited benefits the financial services industry of the EMEA region immeasurably by helping it to simplify and streamline regulatory reports, particularly concerning the likes of compliance, risk, and tax. These best-in-class solutions see clients hit their targets faster whilst also improving both the quality and consistency of their outputs, demonstrating the reasons for the firm having netted itself this well-deserved award. Operating at the intersection of technology, regulation, and compliance since 2004, A.E. Prognosys Solutions goes above and beyond the requirements of a third-party vendor, instead serving as an extension of its clients’ regulatory reporting or IT teams. This is something that the firm prides itself on, and it is achieved as a result of the business embodying such values as proactivity, professionalism, knowledge, and quality at every turn – underpinning these with a relentless clientcentric approach. For Managing Director Elias Afxentiou and his team, the tremendous success that A.E. Prognosys Solutions continues to experience in today’s dynamic technology landscape is a direct result of the honesty and trust it fosters. It may not be the biggest or the most technologically advanced, but the encompassing client knowledge it has and the trust this brings more than make up for it. Doing everything within its power to exceed expectations, the company has secured a string of satisfied clients across the EMEA region. “When our competitors work on a project, they try to meet the client’s requirements as their measure of success. When A.E. Prognosys Solutions works on a project, the client’s requirements are merely the baseline we set, and our goal is to exceed it by as much as possible within the project’s constraints.” Simply put, the sustained realisation of this impressive feat is down to the team at the centre of A.E. Prognosys Solutions, as well as the business’ ‘family’ culture. People enjoy working here, but this is not to say that they are not entirely focused on the tasks at hand, including meeting both the company’s deadlines and those of its clients. With this team and culture in tow, the business is able to maintain the highest standards when it comes to product and service quality, all whilst leaving enough time for an end-of-the-week get-together. Exploring the multifaceted impact this team have on the business, clients are not only drawn to the firm as a result of its client-first ethos, they also flock to its services as a result of this team’s commitment to constantly improve them, through a meticulous process of learning and adapting. From the dedicated analysts who closely follow regulatory reporting trends to the technology-focused individuals who experiment with new equipment, this is an operation that always looks to the future – so that it may continue to deliver maximum value. This forward-thinking philosophy has been on full display over the past few years in particular, with the firm implementing an internal and external restructuring so that it may pioneer in new markets. Strategic partnerships are also a big part of this. Be it strong links with Beirut’s Fusion Compliance Technologies in the Middle East or Athens’ Infonet Systems Integration in Central or Eastern Europe, these relationships are helping to see this award-winning company – and its clients – through seemingly endless industry changes. As Elias himself puts it: “The only constant in our industry is continuous change.” This is especially true when it comes to regulation, with Elias explaining to us that the sector has been inundated with regulatory changes in recent memory, with even more set to come in 2025. Although these shifts bring with them their fair share of challenges, they also set the wheels in motion for exciting new developments, and solutions to many of these issues are already being worked on by Elias and co. as we take our first steps into 2025. “Overall, the execution of our expansion plans over the past few years have started materialising and we are now very well positioned and growing steadily,” says Elias in closing. “We believe that 2025 will be a year of reconciliation and stabilisation before we start planning our next moves.” Whatever these next moves may be, we wish A.E. Prognosys Solutions Limited all the best and recognise its continuing distinction in this sphere by crowning it as the Regulatory Reporting Provider of the Year 2024 – EMEA. Company: A.E. Prognosys Solutions Limited Web Address: https://www.prognosys.com.cy/
Jul23121 MEA | MEA Business Awards 2024 15 AIS-Oct24003 Best Local Market Entry Advisory Firm 2024 – Saudi Arabia Serving as the gateway to all that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has to offer, Saudi Business Links (SBL) was established in 2014 as an independent and privately owned entity to unlock a world of endless opportunities for businesses looking to expand their operations into Saudi Arabia, in alignment with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals. By supporting foreign investment and fostering local talent, SBL plays a crucial role in helping shape the future of the Saudi economy, contributing to its diversification, sustainability, and growth. Business Links’ founding – the Kingdom is diversifying its economy. From hosting major sports events like Formula 1 and the recent awarding of hosting the World Cup in 2034 to signing stars like Ronaldo and Benzema, sport is a key focus. Similar investments in tourism, culture, industry, retail, finance, and healthcare are helping drive non-oil revenue growth as part of the Vision 2030 programme. Boasting an expansive partner and affiliate network spread across Saudi Arabia, Saudi Business Links is the perfect partner for discerning businesses seeking to get their unique voices heard in the competitive business landscape of today. Fully understanding the ins and outs of a client’s operation before recounting this personal story with the intended audience in mind, the firm is always just as excited as the client to share the journey, products, and services of their unique brand. This is something reflected in SBL’s mission, which is to ensure that every endeavour into the Saudi Arabian market is safe, successful, and reinforced with accurate data and analysis. As touched on at the beginning, this testing and analysis of key market segments is both a vital part of this operation and a cornerstone of the firm’s strategy. With such a solid business strategy to boot, the firm is working towards its overarching vision of becoming a recognised pioneer in the field of local market entry advisory. From the minute it commenced operations, SBL has proven itself as a go-to provider for this service, and one only has to glance at its portfolio of past clients – which comprises start-ups and multinational businesses alike – to see that its proficiency lends itself to a variety of projects across a number of different sectors. When combined with its commitments to delivering the best actionable insights and achieving maximum exposure for every client, it is easy to see why SBL is trusted by a multitude of leading businesses. Clients particularly enjoy the wealth of partnership models available to them through the firm, which leverages its local market knowledge and a deep understanding of the region’s specific requirements to ensure maximum compliance and empower its partners as they traverse this ever-evolving landscape. Moreover, not only will clients of the firm gain untapped access to this expertise when they choose to partner with SBL, but they will also be afforded a range of government incentives only available to Saudi Arabian entities. In 2025, Saudi Business Links will expand its operations by opening its first international office in the United Kingdom to promote investment opportunities into Saudi Arabia while also supporting Saudi entities entering the UK market post-Brexit. This expansion follows the Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) acquisition of Newcastle United Football Club, marking a new era for Saudi investments abroad. Domestically, SBL will strengthen its presence with three new branches in Tabuk, Madinah, and AlUla, serving as hubs for localized engagement and expertise. SBL will play a key role in facilitating high-profile investment advisory services, ensuring Saudi businesses confidently navigate international markets. With the online registration process having recently been made simpler by the government, there has never been a better time for businesses to capitalise on a market in the midst of tremendous growth and diversification, with no signs of slowing down. Offering flexible consultation fees based on individual projects – not to mention a free consultation call – Saudi Business Links ticks all of the boxes that business owners should be looking for when it comes to a market entry advisor, something reflected through this award. Contact: Ali Alwabel Company: Saudi Business Links Web Address: https://www.sbl.com.sa/ In recent years, Saudi Arabia has become one of the most competitive emerging markets, known for its innovation and investment across diverse sectors. With a 700% increase in patent applications over the past decade – coinciding with Saudi
flippingbook.comRkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NTY1MjM3