Some people have it all: the house, the car, the family and a fortune growing in a bank account or two. Nevertheless, not all our fortunate few were privileged enough to be born into wealth; some had to work hard for every cent.

GijimaAST executive chairman Robert Gumede and Microsoft South Africa managing director Pfungwa Serima are just two examples of captains of industry who have overcome a history of poverty, oppression and strife. Both men have displayed the strength of character and a desire to succeed that makes their futures worth watching.