What was your first job?/Where did you start?

I was brought up in a very entrepreneurial home, so my first job was working part-time in our family business as a CV typist every day after primary school, which paid for my first international holiday. My first real salary-paying job was directly after university as an Assistant Brand Manager at Unilever in the Management Trainee Programme. I missed my Marketing Honours year-end dinner, but I cracked the nod for the job, so it’s all good, right?!

What made you want to build a career in your profession?

One could say I was almost a professional first year student for some time, because I was very unsure of what I wanted to study, which led me to changing degrees a few times. I began with a general BSc, and then studied Actuarial Science, but after completely killing my social life, I resorted to aptitude tests which directed me towards a career in Marketing. It was close enough to my dream in the arts, so I decided to choose the path of certainty, but still pursue my passion on the side.

Describe a day in your life at present

I’m not much of a morning person, so my day begins with snoozing my alarm – an extra five minutes always helps. Music helps me get through traffic on my way to work, but after the 8 to 5 rat race is over, I enjoy the rest of my day by creating new experiences and memories by reinforcing strong relationships, catching up with family and friends, indulging in different cuisines, and taking the time to relax and reflect on the past, present and future.

What do you enjoy the most about your work?

Besides managing a brand South Africans love, I have been involved in a few CSI initiatives, with the NutriDay Schools Programme being my favourite. We distribute free curriculum-aligned educational material to schools focusing on a healthy mind, healthy body and healthy world. Since the programme launched in 2012, we have empowered over 3200 schools, 112 000 teachers, 2.4 million learners and 3.4 million parents. Seeing the gratitude in their eyes fills my soul with joy.

How do you unwind behind the scenes?

Ultimately dining out and socializing with family and friends. I escape reality with motivational talks and music – sometimes singing along quite loudly or playing my saxophone. I also give the treadmill a run for its money and the sauna relaxes and recharges me.

Who would you most like to meet - dead or alive - and why?

I would have loved to meet the father of our nation, Nelson Mandela. He is a hero whose humility, selflessness, dignity, forgiveness, love and courage is incomparable. A quote that stands out for me is “A winner is a dreamer who never gives up.”

What has been one of the most important lessons you have learnt?

I’ve learnt to be content with life, with little or much. The sudden passing away of my uncle has taught me to appreciate and seize every moment because you never know what could happen next. Start every day with a smile because you’re still alive.

What is your secret indulgence and your three ‘can’t live without’ items?

Hmmm…is it still secret then? A daily dose of social media, doing a bit of shopping and when in a boring meeting, my mind wanders to the next place I’d love to travel to. Shhhh!
Only three, excluding my cell phone? It’s impossible to imagine my life without family, red meat and my brightly coloured clothing.

Who is your alter-ego?

Wow, this is a toughie, because I have so many. As a part-time MC, I embrace South African culture and accents immensely, so when I’m not Wesley, my craziness is impersonated in my version of Raj, the Durban Indian and Bala and Peru (many Indians should be familiar with these uncles of comedy); Gatiep the Cape Coloured; Sipho and Precious the Zulu; and then other no-name brands – the Sandton White Boy; the Afrikaner boytjie; the Chinese man; the Durban Coloured tannie; and of course, the Indian national.

Which car would best personify you, and why?

Definitely a luxury sports car – Maserati. It’s synonymous with style and achievement. I live life in the fast lane (within speed limits) and won’t let anything get in my way. Life, just like a car, isn’t meant to be driven – it has to be enjoyed.

What is your favourite TV series?

I actually don’t watch TV, but I’ve acted on Generations previously. I hope that’s not why it’s no longer on the circuit. If I had to choose, it would be anything to make me laugh – Friends tops the charts.

Who is someone you truly look up to, and which qualities do you most admire about them?

My parents. They have taught me invaluable life lessons such as being kind, respectful, celebrating family, living for others, taking risks, but most importantly, providing a firm foundation for my life by raising me in a home with strong Christian values and putting God first in everything.