Ambition and desire to become great
Businessman and socialite Zareef Minty has done it all at the age of 21. He tells Clinton Moodley about his new book and how he juggles his busy schedule
Tell us about your new book? Empire was released last month. It is about teaching people how to network, self-brand and commercialise themselves, which, to me, is essential in the growth of the general standard of our country and its people.
What inspired the book?
Ever since I was a young boy I wanted to write a book. I used to walk into bookstores and think to myself that one day I would have my book on their shelves, and that dream has finally come true. I want to spread my message to the masses through my book.
One of the best
memories while writing the book?
It had to be recording my life experiences that inspired me to achieve, to do and become more.
You are a law student, one of Mail & Guardian’s Top 200 Young South Africans and GQ’s best dressed. What is your secret to success?
There has to be belief in my ability and talents. If there was doubt then I would have stopped myself from taking a lot of risks that ultimately led me to grow. I think hard work and vision is vital. Ambition coupled with the desire to become great is the most important.
What got you started as a motivational speaker?
I always had a fear of public speaking but that all changed when I took part in speech contests and debating events at school. I attended more than 100 motivational talks and I always felt great afterwards. There are a lot of youth who are struggling with huge challenges like unemployment, inequality of education and some are not motivated enough to realise their dreams. I am excited to begin the Empire school tour in 2016, where we will be speaking to more than 400 schools all over South Africa, Botswana and Namibia.
How do you juggle
everything from business, study and now to writing?
Time-management skills are essential. I follow a super strict diary and plan out every aspect of my life. I plan short-term and longterm goals, study and social time so that there is a balance to everything. Time management is everything if you want to be successful.
Who are your icons?
I don’t have icons, I have mentors. Some of them include advocate Barry Roux, advocate Dali Mpofu, DJ Sbu, Gayton Mckenzie (motivational speaker), and Kenny Kunene (SecretaryGeneral of the Patriotic Alliance). I believe one should be mentored and inspired by many people. I am inspired by brilliant and innovative minds like Steve Jobs. However, I count myself as my biggest inspiration as the Zareef I want to become.
One quote you live by?
“You lose 100 percent of the shots you don’t take.”
Most embarrassing moment?
When Vuzu (DStv youth channel) asked me to do an interview with them at a fashion show and at the last minute while I was in front of the camera they told me that I can’t be on because of my ANC golf shirt. It was awkward.
How do you unwind
after a long day?
A gym session and a hot shower does the trick. I also enjoy reading the Wall Street Journal and maybe catch up on some TV series, like Power and The Fixer.
What is next for Zareef Minty?
I have plans to write a second book and open up my own marketing/public relations/artist development agency. I also want to create a formal clothing brand with my friend Michael Gossayn. Sunday pastime? I love playing golf and polo, spending my time with family and planning for the week ahead.