Jewish Achiever judges celebrate leadership, inspire future generations

Being a judge for the Jewish Achiever Awards in partnership with Investec is no mean feat. It takes time, effort, and energy from 35 extraordinarily busy lives. So, why do the judges do it? 

Romeo Kumalo, the chief executive of LLH Capital and chairperson of Kalon Venture Partners, describes judging the entrepreneurship category as a privilege. “It’s about celebrating the spirit of innovation and resilience that drives the community forward. Each year, I’m inspired by the extraordinary entrepreneurs who are shaping the future and I feel honoured to play a small role in recognising and encouraging their journey.” 

Brand Mama Heidi Brauer, a brand builder and strategist, says the judging experience is rewarding and reciprocal. “Taking the time to be a judge for the Jewish Achiever Awards is about three things: learning, inspiring, and uplifting. 

“As we meet and hear each nominee’s story, these three elements apply to me as well. Getting to know the nominees allows my fellow judges and I to give back while also enriching one another. It’s like throwing a pebble in a river, the ripples go far further than you can imagine,” Brauer said. 

Business leader and social entrepreneur Dawn Nathan-Jones has long supported the Jewish Achiever Awards. She notes the importance of celebrating leadership within the community. “During my tenure as chief executive of Europcar, I initiated the Women in Leadership Award, and today, I continue to serve as a judge. This platform gives recognition to women who have excelled in leadership, and now, more than ever, it’s vital to recognise Jewish women leaders so that their stories inspire the next generation,” Nathan-Jones says. 

Africrest Properties’ Justin Blend, the judge of the Rising Star category, says he is inspired by young achievers. “To serve as a judge in the under-30 category is a true honour. The ambition and vision of this generation gives me so much hope for the future. I find it inspiring to witness their achievements and ambition.” 

Jonti Brozin, the founder of Forever Youth Capital, focuses his career on the promise of South Africa’s emerging leaders. “Engaging with the next generation of leaders fills me with optimism. It reminds me how world-class young South Africans are. Especially in times of uncertainty, their ability to hear the music beneath the noise, to uncover possibilities where others see challenges, is a powerful source of hope and action.” 

Results-driven tech executive Avi Mishan, a former winner of the Jewish Achiever Entrepreneur Award, says judging these awards speaks to the value of mentorship and encouragement. “I enjoy seeing young entrepreneurs in our community taking risks; showing real entrepreneurial spirit; and coming up with innovative ideas that create value and solve problems. Being a judge gives me the opportunity to give back; ask questions that might shape their journey; and recognise what they have achieved while motivating them to keep pushing forward and succeed.” 

Dan Stillerman, one of the Rising Star judges, says he believes his journey with the Jewish Achiever Awards has come full circle. “In the early years of starting my business, I was nominated for the Young Entrepreneur Award, and today, I have the privilege of serving as a judge for the Rising Star Award. It’s a source of pride and gratitude to witness the incredible diversity, talent, ambition, and charisma of young Jewish South Africans who are carrying our community and country into the future.” 

For Jade Kirkel, herself a young entrepreneur and the co-founder of a sneaker business, Jewish Achiever Awards judging day is one of her favourite of the year. “Sitting in a room with these rising stars, listening to their stories, and getting a front-row seat to the future of our community, it feels like being part of something bigger and it reminds me how much talent there is in our community. I walk away every year more inspired than when I walked in.” 

Judging for the Jewish Achiever Awards in partnership with Investec will take place this year on 28 September.