Rugby strongman makes waves in business circles

lesego.makgatho@inl.co.za

An outdoor tools manufacturer with a large footprint in Africa has teamed up with a popular local personality as its first-ever African brand ambassador, Tendai “Beast” Mtawarira because throughout his illustrious career he has displayed all the characteristics of resilience and strength that they associate with their brand.

In the short clip, Beast is featured running through the woods and clearly enjoying being the strongman that the ad depicts.

The retired Springbok, Mtawarira (TM), is currently overseas but he found the time for a Q & A with the Sunday Independent.

SI: Although the clip is quite short, did

you enjoy acting the part of being a strong man and would you consider venturing into films in future?

TM: Hahaha, it was certainly a new experience for me. I’m usually used to just expressing myself on the rugby field, so being in front of the camera and working on set was a unique experience. I would definitely do it again, I wouldn’t say I’m a natural but I had a fun time.

SI: What have you been focusing on since you retired after the Rugby World Cup win and what are your plans for the future?

TM: I have been quite busy since retiring, probably busier than when I was playing. I am currently the CEO of Umlindi Security so it has been an interesting journey moving from the field to the boardroom. I have also taken a keen liking to guest speaking and motivational speaking, it is a big passion of mine.

My other big passion is my foundation, The Beast Foundation. The work we are doing to give young sportsmen and women opportunities is something that really resonates with my heart. I didn’t have a lot of opportunities as a youngster so to be able to give back to the dreams of many youngsters is very fulfilling.

SI: In your book written with Andy Capostagno, what is the strongest message that you want to convey to your fans in particular? And would you consider working on another book?

TM: When I wrote my book, I wanted to give my supporters and fans some insight into my journey. I didn’t have it easy. I left Zimbabwe with a backpack, some boots and a couple of hundred dollars with the motivation to chase my dreams. I hope my story will inspire many people out there who may not have opportunities or resources. With hard work and determination, anything is possible.

SI: From anchoring the scrum for the Sharks and Springboks in many clashes to moving to the boardroom, talk us through the switch from being a player to joining the Sharks board of directors. How important was this move for you and how did you manage to fit in?

TM: It was a very different challenge moving from being a player to the Boardroom. When you are a player you mostly focus on yourself and the team, trying to put in the performances to help win matches. When you are a CEO, there are many dynamics to consider such as management, conflict resolution and always making sure you lead by example, all the time.

I not only have the careers of people under my watch, but their livelihood and families too. It is a big responsibility but one that I am enjoying too. The transition was an important one for me because I have always been interested in business, so being able to stimulate that area of my interests is quite rewarding.

SI: As many young boys look up to you and have followed your illustrious career, what is the one thing you would like to see improve in South African sports and in rugby in particular to ensure integration? Most importantly, how do we cultivate sports in our townships?

TM: More Opportunities. There is so much talent in South Africa and on the continent but so much of that talent gets lost due to lack of opportunities and resources. The more young kids in the townships see people like Siya Kolisi defying the odds, the more it will inspire and motivate them to take on sports and to chase their dreams.

SI: What is it about the Husqvarna brand that resonated with you so much that you agreed to become its ambassador?

TM: When I was first approached to be the Husqvarna ambassador, I thought that they were just about power tools for cutting down trees. But the company is part of an environmental sustainability drive that addresses issues such as climate change, air and water quality, biodiversity, as well as the mental and physical wellbeing of people.