Dawn Nathan-Jones: A Life of Learning, Earning, and Returning

Dawn Nathan-Jones, a renowned entrepreneur, has been driven by purpose throughout her life. She divides her life into three parts: "learning, earning, and returning". Currently in her season of returning, Nathan-Jones focuses on empowering South Africa's next generation of entrepreneurs. Her journey began with humble beginnings in Durban, where she developed a passion for business at a young age. She started selling products at 15, which inspired her to pursue a career in business.

Nathan-Jones' career took off in 1980 when she helped pioneer Imperial Car Rental, a start-up that would eventually become a global company with Europcar. At just 21, she was given the opportunity to lead the company, and by 23, she had become a director. Her mentor, Carol Scott, played a significant role in her early professional education. Nathan-Jones' experience at Imperial Car Rental was instrumental in shaping her entrepreneurial skills and philosophy.

Under Nathan-Jones' leadership, Imperial Car Rental transitioned to Europcar in 2009, a process that took two years to negotiate. She spearheaded the transition, ensuring that not a single customer was lost during the process. Her focus on customer service and collaboration with operators worldwide was key to the transition's success. Nathan-Jones' philosophy is to view other businesses as opportunities to collaborate rather than competitors.

After stepping down from Europcar in 2016, Nathan-Jones moved to Cape Town with her son, intending to slow down. However, she soon found herself thrust into the spotlight as a judge on Shark Tank South Africa. The experience inspired her to give back to young entrepreneurs in South Africa, who have passion and talent but lack leadership and business knowledge. She partnered with Lesley Waterkeyn to support aspiring entrepreneurs.

Nathan-Jones later founded the Entrepreneurs' Network organisation, which connects people in similar stages of their businesses. The organisation serves a few hundred people, mainly from townships, and provides a platform for peer-to-peer learning. Nathan-Jones is committed to the sustainability of taking entrepreneurs from incubation to a lifetime of learning. Her work has given her hope for South Africa's future.

Nathan-Jones has received numerous accolades for her work, including the Investec Business Icon Award. She has also initiated the Europcar Women in Leadership category at the Jewish Achiever Awards. As the vice-chair of the Cape South African Jewish Board of Deputies, Nathan-Jones continues to make a significant impact in her community. Her work with young entrepreneurs and start-ups is particularly close to her heart.

Reflecting on her legacy, Nathan-Jones hopes to be remembered as someone who inspired others to reach greatness. Her dedication to giving back to her community and empowering young entrepreneurs is a testament to her character. The Investec Business Icon Award is a recognition of her achievements, but Nathan-Jones is quick to dedicate it to the thousands of people she has worked with throughout her career.

Key points

• Nathan-Jones' philosophy is to view other businesses as opportunities to collaborate rather than competitors.
• She has received numerous accolades for her work, including the Investec Business Icon Award.
• Nathan-Jones is committed to giving back to her community and empowering young entrepreneurs in South Africa.