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Citadel

Meet the panel | Disruptors. Doers. Dreamers: The multigenerational trailblazers in entrepreneurship

Robert Koen

Robert is the Managing Director of Amazon for Sub-Saharan Africa, where he leads strategic growth and regional operations. With a career rooted in resilience – starting from delivering newspapers as a child – Robert brings a deep appreciation for hard work and long-term thinking. He champions a learning mindset, believing curiosity and adaptability are key to success. Passionate about entrepreneurship, he advocates for simplifying regulations to empower small businesses in South Africa. Outside of work, Robert is an avid photographer. His leadership style blends strategic foresight with empathy, making him a respected voice in both business and community development.

Mpho Mohaswa

Chemical engineer Mpho Mohaswa founded Precious and Pearl Brands to preserve the authenticity of traditional ginger beer. Her brand, Ghemere, is inspired by family traditions and the spirit of ubuntu. She empowers working-class individuals to earn extra income by selling her products, especially during tough economic times. Mpho is proud of the hope and jobs her business continues to create.

Rolene Strauss

Rolene Strauss is a South African beauty queen, medical doctor, and philanthropist. She won Miss South Africa in 2014 and was later crowned Miss World 2014, becoming the third South African to hold the title. Strauss is passionate about health and empowerment. She chairs The Strauss Foundation, a non-profit organisation focused on education and leadership. Known for her advocacy in women’s development, she has travelled globally fulfilling her Miss World duties.