The Billionaire Club of South Africa: Visionaries Transforming Business and Industry

1. Pinagare Mogodi

In the ever-evolving landscape of South African business, Pinagare Mogodi stands as a force of nature—an entrepreneur who has rewritten the rules of success in mining, construction, and logistics. As the Founder and Managing Director of MAB Group (Matsapa-A-Botshelo), Mogodi has built an empire that generates over R200 million in monthly revenue from coal exports alone, with new chrome ventures adding an additional R75 million in monthly profits. Beyond mining, MAB Group is spearheading construction and development projects valued at over R4 billion, cementing its place as one of the most influential privately held companies in Africa.

But Mogodi’s journey to success wasn’t handed to him—it was earned through resilience, strategy, and an unshakable vision.

From Humble Beginnings to Billion-Rand Success

Born and raised in South Africa, Mogodi’s story is one of persistence and raw ambition. Raised by a single mother who worked tirelessly to support him and his sister, he understood early on the importance of hard work, financial independence, and building something bigger than himself.

His entrepreneurial spark ignited while still in university, where he laid the foundation for what would later become MAB Group. The company started as a small construction and logistics firm, but Mogodi quickly identified mining and exports as the true game- changers. With a keen business acumen and a risk-taking mindset, he navigated industry challenges to secure multi-billion-rand contracts, positioning MAB as a leading coal and chrome exporter on the global stage.

MAB Group: Dominating the Mining & Export Industry

Today, MAB Group is a powerhouse in mining, logistics, and construction, with major operations that include:

⬛ Coal Export Operations: Over R200 million in monthly revenue, supplying global markets with high-grade RB1 and RB3 coal.

⬛ New Chrome Mining & Processing: A state-of-the-art chrome wash plant producing 50,000 tonnes per month, generating an additional R75 million in monthly profits.

⬛ Massive Infrastructure & Construction Projects: Managing projects worth over R4 billion, developing critical infrastructure that fuels South Africa’s economic growth.

⬛ Trucking & Logistics: A vast fleet of over 400 contracted trucks, ensuring efficient movement from mines to ports for international shipment.

Mogodi’s business philosophy is simple: control the value chain, eliminate reliance on third parties, and ensure quality from extraction to export. This hands-on approach has allowed MAB Group to thrive, even in volatile market conditions.

“I Won’t List MAB Group – I Want to Own My Vision”

Unlike many entrepreneurs who go public for quick capital, Mogodi is adamant about keeping MAB Group private.

“I built MAB Group from the ground up with a vision that aligns with my values. Listing it would mean losing control, allowing outside investors to prioritize profits over purpose. I refuse to compromise on what I’ve built,” says Mogodi.

Instead of going public, he is partnering with select funding institutions that share MAB’s long-term vision, ensuring sustainable growth without sacrificing independence.

A Call for Due Diligence in South African Exports

While MAB Group has soared, Mogodi warns against “chance-takers” in the South African coal and chrome export industry.

“I’ve seen too many companies enter the space with bad intentions, cutting corners, and ruining deals for those who play by the rules. I urge all stakeholders to conduct thorough due diligence before signing contracts, because not everyone in this business operates with integrity.”

Legacy, Philanthropy, and the Future of MAB Group

Mogodi’s legacy extends beyond business. He is deeply invested in philanthropy, funding:

• Housing projects for orphans and the elderly.
• Education initiatives, including scholarships and school development programs.
• Job creation programs within mining and construction, uplifting communities.

Looking ahead, Mogodi’s vision for MAB Group includes:

• Expanding coal and chrome exports to every global market, increasing tonnage.
• Developing new mining operations to secure long-term supply.
• Scaling logistics and infrastructure to streamline exports and reduce costs.
• Continuing construction and development projects that shape South Africa’s future.

A Billionaire’s Blueprint for Success

Pinagare Mogodi’s journey is more than a success story—it’s a blueprint for anyone with ambition, resilience, and a refusal to settle. His story proves that with vision, strategy, and an unbreakable work ethic, anything is possible.

As South Africa enters a new era of economic growth, one thing is certain: Mogodi and MAB Group are leading the charge, reshaping industries, and redefining African entrepreneurship on a global scale.

2. Johann Rupert

Johann Rupert was born on June 1, 1950, in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa. He is the eldest son of Anton Rupert, a renowned South African entrepreneur who founded the Rembrandt Group, initially focused on tobacco manufacturing. Johann was educated at Paul Roos Gymnasium in Stellenbosch and later attended the University of Stellenbosch, where he studied economics and company law. After completing his studies, Rupert moved to New York to gain international experience, working at Chase Manhattan Bank and Lazard Freres. This exposure significantly influenced his future entrepreneurial endeavors.

Upon returning to South Africa in 1979, Rupert founded Rand Merchant Bank, marking his entry into the finance sector. He quickly established himself as a visionary leader, demonstrating exceptional business acumen. However, his most significant contribution came in 1988 when he separated the international assets of the Rembrandt Group to form Compagnie Financière Richemont. Richemont swiftly expanded its portfolio, acquiring and managing several high-end luxury brands such as Cartier, Montblanc, Dunhill, and Chloe, firmly placing Rupert in the global luxury market.

Johann Rupert is known for his strategic foresight, particularly his ability to identify emerging trends within the luxury goods industry. Under his leadership, Richemont weathered economic downturns and capitalized on growth opportunities in Asian markets, particularly China. Rupert’s keen insight into luxury consumer behavior enabled the company to thrive, significantly increasing its global market share and profitability.

Beyond his business pursuits, Rupert is deeply committed to philanthropy. His charitable initiatives primarily focus on conservation, education, and the arts. Rupert has actively supported the preservation of South Africa’s rich biodiversity through various conservation programs. He is also renowned for his involvement with cultural preservation, funding numerous arts and heritage projects, thus contributing significantly to South Africa’s cultural landscape. Rupert remains one of Africa’s most influential business leaders, regularly contributing to discussions on global economic and social issues.

3. Nicky Oppenheimer

Nicholas Frank Oppenheimer, popularly known as Nicky Oppenheimer, was born on June 8, 1945, into the influential Oppenheimer family in Johannesburg, South Africa. He attended Harrow School in England and later Christ Church, Oxford, where he studied Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE). Nicky’s father, Harry Oppenheimer, and her grandfather, Sir Ernest Oppenheimer, were pivotal figures in the diamond mining industry, most notably through their De Beers and Anglo American Corporation leadership.

Nicky began his professional journey by joining Anglo American in 1968. His career progression within the family-owned enterprises was remarkable, culminating in his appointment as the chairman of De Beers in 1998. His tenure was marked by transformative changes within the diamond industry, including pioneering initiatives to ensure ethical diamond mining practices. Oppenheimer focused on corporate responsibility and sustainability, addressing critical issues such as conflict diamonds and ethical sourcing. His efforts enhanced the global reputation of De Beers, reinforcing consumer confidence and market stability.

In 2012, in a landmark decision, Nicky Oppenheimer sold the family’s 40% stake in De Beers to Anglo American for approximately $5.1 billion, effectively ending nearly a century-long Oppenheimer control. Post-De Beers, Oppenheimer redirected his focus toward philanthropy, establishing the Brenthurst Foundation. This initiative seeks to enhance African economic growth and stability through policy recommendations and research.

Nicky Oppenheimer’s passion extends significantly toward environmental conservation and sustainable development. He and his family actively support various African conservation initiatives, notably, preserving wildlife habitats and promoting biodiversity. His investments in education have further contributed significantly toward building intellectual capacity within South Africa, enhancing both social development and economic growth.

4. Patrice Motsepe

Patrice Tlhopane Motsepe was born on January 28, 1962, in Soweto, Johannesburg, during the apartheid era in South Africa. Raised in modest circumstances, Motsepe’s parents were school teachers who instilled in him a strong work ethic and dedication to education. Motsepe completed his Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Swaziland before graduating from the University of Witwatersrand with a law degree. His legal career initially specialized in mining law, providing him valuable insights into the industry he would later revolutionize.

Motsepe founded African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) in 1997, marking his entry into the mining industry. His entrepreneurial vision transformed ARM from a small-scale operation into a globally recognized mining enterprise, focusing primarily on gold, platinum, coal, and base metals. Motsepe’s strategic partnerships with global mining giants and government entities propelled ARM’s growth, significantly boosting its profitability and market value.

Patrice Motsepe’s remarkable journey as an entrepreneur and industry leader is underscored by his groundbreaking achievements. Notably, in 2008, he became the first Black African to appear on Forbes’ list of billionaires. Beyond his business success, Motsepe has dedicated significant resources toward philanthropy through the Motsepe Foundation, supporting projects in education, healthcare, agriculture, and community development.

Motsepe’s influence extends beyond mining and philanthropy, notably into sports and community development. His acquisition of the Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club and subsequent leadership role within the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has highlighted his commitment to promoting unity and social cohesion across Africa through sports. Motsepe’s impactful presence within various sectors exemplifies his dedication to fostering sustainable socio-economic progress.

5. Koos Bekker

Jacobus Petrus Bekker, better known as Koos Bekker, was born on December 14, 1952, in Potchefstroom, South Africa. Bekker’s entrepreneurial journey is marked by his transformative role at Naspers, a media and internet group. He studied law at Stellenbosch University and later pursued an MBA at Columbia Business School in the United States. His international education deeply influenced his business approach, combining South African resilience with global strategies.

Bekker joined Naspers in 1985 and quickly climbed its ranks, becoming CEO in 1997. During his tenure, he famously waived a fixed salary, instead opting for shares in the company. This decision proved visionary when Naspers made a pivotal investment in the Chinese Internet company Tencent in 2001. Under Bekker’s strategic guidance, this investment exponentially increased Naspers’ market capitalization, transforming it into one of Africa’s largest publicly traded companies. Bekker’s foresight and calculated risk-taking solidified his reputation as one of South Africa’s most successful entrepreneurs. He stepped down as CEO in 2014 but remains active as chairman, continuing to influence Naspers’ strategic direction.

Bekker is also actively involved in conservation and sustainable agriculture through his Babylonstoren estate in the Western Cape, exemplifying his commitment to preserving South African heritage and biodiversity.

6. Michiel le Roux

Michiel Scholtz du Pré le Roux was born on May 20, 1949, in South Africa. He is the visionary founder behind Capitec Bank, established in 2001, which significantly transformed South Africa’s financial services industry. Initially trained as an attorney, le Roux transitioned into banking and quickly identified opportunities within the underserved low- and middle-income market segments.

Le Roux’s innovative approach at Capitec emphasized simplicity, affordability, and transparency, distinguishing it from traditional banking models. Capitec’s revolutionary service model rapidly attracted millions of customers, positioning it among the top financial institutions in South Africa. Under his leadership, the bank became renowned for customer-centric services, significantly improving financial inclusion across the country. Although le Roux retired from active management, he remains influential as a board member, continuously advocating for responsible banking and consumer empowerment.

7. Christoffel Wiese

Christoffel F. Hendrik Wiese was born on September 10, 1941, in Upington, South Africa. Wiese’s entrepreneurial career is primarily anchored in retail, and he has significantly impacted the South African and African retail landscapes. He graduated from Stellenbosch University and subsequently took control of Pepkor, a retail company founded by his family.

Wiese expanded Pepkor across Africa, building a substantial retail empire. He later became a key shareholder and chairman of Shoprite Holdings, Africa’s largest grocery retailer, further cementing his influence. His ability to identify emerging markets and consumer trends drove exponential growth across diverse retail formats. Despite facing significant setbacks, notably from the Steinhoff accounting scandal, Wiese remains resilient, continuing to play an advisory role and maintaining substantial influence in the retail industry.

8. Elon Musk

Elon Musk, born on June 28, 1971, in Pretoria, South Africa, is globally celebrated as an entrepreneur and innovator. Musk left South Africa at 17, first moving to Canada and then the U.S., where he founded groundbreaking companies, including SpaceX, Tesla, Neuralink, and The Boring Company.

Musk’s revolutionary vision transformed industries from automotive to space exploration. Tesla’s electric vehicles fundamentally changed the automotive sector, pushing global adoption of sustainable energy solutions. SpaceX redefined space travel, significantly reducing launch costs and achieving numerous milestones, such as reusable rockets. Musk remains deeply committed to innovation and sustainability, regularly influencing global technology and policy discourse.

9. Ivan Glasenberg

Ivan Glasenberg was born in January 1957 in Johannesburg, South Africa. He is widely recognized for his role as CEO of Glencore, a multinational commodity trading and mining company, from 2002 until 2021. Glasenberg studied accounting at the University of Witwatersrand before completing an MBA at the University of Southern California.

Under Glasenberg’s leadership, Glencore evolved into a global powerhouse through strategic acquisitions and mergers, most notably merging with mining giant Xstrata. His aggressive, direct negotiation style expanded Glencore’s global footprint, making it one of the largest players in the commodities market worldwide. Glasenberg significantly influenced global resource trading, securing Glencore’s position as a critical player in international markets.

10. Stephen Saad

Stephen Bradley Saad was born in June 1964 in Durban, South Africa. He co-founded Aspen Pharmacare in 1997, now Africa’s largest pharmaceutical manufacturer. Saad’s strategic leadership and ambitious global expansion transformed Aspen from a small domestic company into an international pharmaceutical giant.

Under Saad’s leadership, Aspen specializes in producing high-quality generic medications, making healthcare more accessible globally, particularly in emerging markets. Saad’s commitment to public health and affordable healthcare solutions has significantly impacted communities worldwide, earning him widespread recognition. Beyond business, Saad actively supports various philanthropic initiatives focused on healthcare and education in South Africa and other developing regions.