What is God?

I have my doubts. Where is God in all of the major wars in the world?

What happens when you die?

Nothing. We return to ash – and that’s why I am making the most of this life.

What would you do with your last 24 hours?

I would finalise my financial and administrative affairs so there are no complications, and then once that is done, I would make my way into the wilderness.

What’s on your gravestone?

I won’t have one. My ashes will be scattered on the lands of Shamwari where there is water, fire and light.

What do you think about most?

My work, which is my hobby and my life.

What skill would you like but you don’t have?

To read a lot quicker, and gain more knowledge through that.

What is one surprising thing about you?

I am an avid historian.

Describe your current state of mind?

Frustrated

What moves you emotionally?

Poverty, hardship, lost opportunities, and the death of a friend.

Describe your life in one word?

Satisfied

How do you think others describe you?

A lunatic, a capitalist and very driven.

How do you describe yourself?

Goal driven, must achieve, can’t resist a deal and a family man.

How would you like to be remembered?

As someone who has added value to the environment and to people’s lives.

What don’t you like about yourself?

My arthritis.

Describe what do you do?

I lead and motivate by example. I would never ask someone to do something that I have not done.

What does money mean to you?

A measurement of success. In Cricket, you measure success with runs, and in rugby and golf, it’s the score.

What advice would you give to an 18-year-old starting out in your career?

Work hard. There are no short cuts.

What advice would you give to a broken hearted 18-year old?

Turn the page – your life is in front of you.

What do you still want to achieve?

There are still so many exciting opportunities for Mantis in our quest to achieve worldwide brand recognition.

What would you do if you couldn’t work?

I would die! Actually, I would travel more, especially within South Africa. And I would write a book!

What is your greatest wish?

To be healthy.

Any regrets?

I have failed in business before and I should be much more successful in business than I am.

What do you think about South Africa today?

It is like a child growing up, a number of growing pains. Our only hope is if democracy survives.

What do you think about the state of the world today?

If we do not address the population issue and abuse of the environment, it will implode.