Sim Tshabalala: Ahead of the pack

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In the South African Sunday Times on March 17 there was a not-so-flattering cartoon of Standard Bank Group’s chief executive, Sim Tshabalala.

In it, Tshabalala is in an aeroplane. To his right, there are a number of parachutes emblazoned with “VSP” – or voluntary severance package – and to his left is an open plane door. Above him is a bright blue sign, which reads: “Your fearless next.” Tshabaalala appears to be coaxing others in the plane to take a leap.

The slogan relates to a campaign launched by Standard Bank in July last year, inviting entrepreneurs to submit business plans in return for support and cash to amake their dreams a reality.