Al-Qalam 
The Chamber will present a Lifetime Achiever Award to Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of Gift of the Givers, in recognition of his exceptional humanitarian work, writes an Al-Qalam Reporter.
The Minara Chamber of Commerce has announced the finalists for the Minara Business Recognition Awards 2025, marking a special 25th anniversary milestone of the Chamber, celebrating business and community excellence.
The finalists represent South Africa’s diverse talent, innovation, and leadership across multiple industries. Winners will be announced at the main Gala Dinner event taking place on Friday, October 24, 2025 at the NMJ Conference Centre, Durban.
Chamber spokesperson Amina Haniff said: “This prestigious event will bring together the nation’s leading business minds, entrepreneurs, professionals, and community champions for an unforgettable evening of recognition, inspiration, and celebration.
“Marking its 25th milestone year, the Minara Chamber continues its tradition of recognising individuals and organisations who exemplify entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and meaningful contributions to both economic development and societal well-being,” Haniff said.
She added that the 2025 finalists “represent a dynamic cross-section of industries, reflecting the breadth of talent and enterprise within our community.”
Finalists have been named in the following categories:
Business Entity of the Year – Large: Gorimas, HBZ Bank, Farm Fresh Chickens
Business Entity of the Year – Medium: Valternative Energy, Africa Flavours Distributors (Pty) Ltd, Iqlaas Foods
Business Entity of the Year – Start-up: Racket Rescue, Plastimed, Krypton Web
Businessperson of the Year: Fathima Gany, Ismail Simjee, Abdul Gani Rahman
Businesswoman of the Year: Amina Abrahams, Salma Mahomed
Young Achiever of the Year: Rishaad Joosab, Zaid Paruk
Community Builder of the Year: Hafsa Carrim, Hoosein Saloojee, Shamsudeen Moola
Professional Achiever of the Year: Aziz Tayob, Ebrahim Asmal, Mumtaz Peerbhay
The Chamber said it was especially honoured to present the 2025 Lifetime Achiever Award to Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of Gift of the Givers, in recognition of his exceptional humanitarian work and visionary leadership that continues to inspire South Africans and global citizens alike.
According to the Chamber, this year’s awards received a record number of high-calibre nominations, a testament to the enduring strength, talent, and innovation within South Africa’s business and professional communities.”
Following a rigorous adjudication process, winners will be announced at the Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner where the keynote speaker will be business leader and renowned CEO, Lincoln Mali.
The Minara Chamber has also extended its sincere gratitude to its Platinum sponsor, Standard Bank, and supporting partners Adams & Adams, Bryte Takaful, IBV Group, and AMKA Group.
“The prestigious event will bring together the nation’s leading business minds, entrepreneurs, professionals, and community champions for an unforgettable evening of recognition, inspiration, and celebration,” Haniff said.
