The senior management team — known as HelmCo — holds the majority of the stake, allowing them to actively participate in decision-making processes while driving the strategy, vision and long-term growth of the company.

Along with Helm CEO Dawood Patel, other significant shareholders include Awande Capital founder and former Trudon CEO Thabo Seopa, as well as company founder Gustav Praekelt, after whom the company was named before its rebranding to Helm.

According to Helm, one of the reasons for the rebrand was to mark the new ownership structure, which also saw Praekelt's role shift to a non-executive capacity. Although he is no longer involved in the business on an operational level, the Ownership Plan brings to life his long-standing vision of a staff-owned company.

Praekelt says, "We've always wanted to be a different type of business — one owned by the very people who contribute to its strategy and success daily. Our employees have been a part of our past and present and will remain a more significant part of our future."

One of the standout aspects of the Employee Ownership Plan is the recognition and reward it bestows upon those who have contributed to Helm strategically and those who have served the business loyally for an extended period.

Helm says that most of the people in the programme have been with the company for over five years, with some beginning their journeys as far back as 2010. The plan strengthens the bond between employees and the company and encourages shared responsibility for Helm's success.

Dawood Patel, CEO of Helm, says that by giving key team members a direct stake in the business, Helm fosters a culture of ownership and accountability.

"This shared sense of ownership will lead to enhanced collaboration, increased innovation and improved productivity across all company levels. By empowering employees with equity, we encourage long-term thinking that ultimately drives growth and stability," adds Patel.

Helm says that having staff participate in the ownership of the company has engaged its employees meaningfully while also contributing to the country's transformational goals through diverse shareholding.

Helm concludes that the new ownership structure ensures that its workforce is not merely a group of employees but an integral part of its vision, its journey and its future.

For more information, visit www.helm.africa. You can also follow Helm on Facebook, X or on Instagram.