Brothers Paul and Saul Berman have been recognised for their decades-long contributions to construction and property development with the Investec Business Leadership Award at the 2026 Investec Jewish Achiever Awards. Their journey to success was marked by early hardships, including the loss of their father and financial struggles. Despite these challenges, the brothers developed a strong bond and determination that has driven their business partnership. They attribute their success to their resilience and trust in each other.
The brothers' childhood experiences have significantly shaped their approach to business. After their father, a property developer and attorney, passed away when Paul was five and Saul was two-and-a-half, their mother struggled to raise them under one roof. As a result, they spent part of their childhood apart. However, their bond remained strong, and they have credited this relationship with helping them navigate the challenges of their business careers. Paul and Saul have used their experiences to fuel their determination to succeed.
The brothers' careers initially took different paths. Paul studied law, while Saul pursued construction, developing his technical expertise despite struggling with dyslexia. In 1994, Saul invited Paul to join his business after securing a contract to upgrade Cape Town International Airport ahead of the 1995 Rugby World Cup. Their complementary skills transformed the company, with turnover increasing from R3.5 million to R35 million in their first year together. This growth marked the beginning of their successful business partnership.
Over the following decades, the Berman brothers expanded into property development, constructing thousands of homes across the Western Cape. Saul's dyslexia has shaped his outlook on education and the value of practical skills. He believes that dyslexic people have a unique ability to think creatively and visualise solutions. This perspective has influenced their efforts to transform technical education in South Africa. The brothers aim to introduce practical subjects into schools, allowing pupils to consider vocational pathways from Grade 9.
The Berman brothers are committed to giving back to their community. Paul has spent decades involved in Jewish welfare and has reflected on the challenges facing Jewish communities worldwide. He emphasised the importance of standing proudly as Jews in the face of rising antisemitism. The brothers' commitment to community responsibility is closely connected to their business leadership, requiring courage and compassion to make a positive impact.
The brothers' foundation aims to create employment opportunities for young people completing their training. Saul outlined their vision to build the biggest educational foundation in the history of South Africa, providing support for pupils with different abilities. He called for support to change the South African landscape and create a brighter future for the next generation. The occasion was made more meaningful by the presence of their sons, who represent the future of their family and business.
The Berman brothers' achievements serve as a testament to the power of resilience and determination. Despite their success, they remain focused on the future, with Paul stating that they are "ordinary brothers doing extraordinary things." Saul echoed this sentiment, saying, "We're just beginning." Their partnership with Investec has spanned over three decades, and they have expressed gratitude to their families, colleagues, and Investec for their support.
Key points
- The Berman brothers' commitment to transforming technical education in South Africa through their foundation.
- The brothers' resilience and determination have driven their business success despite early hardships.
- The importance of community responsibility and giving back, as emphasised by Paul and Saul Berman.
Reporting sources
- Bermans’ grit fuelled by painful childhoods · Jewish Report
