ODU Committee 2023 nominee
Bulelani Calana
White House 2000
The first time I heard of Bishops was in 1995, when I was invited to write the entrance exam under the Hamilton Mvelase Scholarship Fund. Little did I know then, that a few months later I would be starting a journey which would have a hugely positive influence over the rest of my life. As part of the ODU Committee I would like to give back to others, who like me, were supported and encouraged to develop and grow. More than that, I want to ensure that the ODU can become an inclusive union where all feel at home. I believe in creating welcoming cultural spaces for people to engage and, wherever possible, support and encourage each other. |
I am currently the Founding Director at Greenhorn Innovations. Our company’s mission is to be the sales and distribution partner of choice for businesses and/or brands (i.e. both new and existing), giving them access to markets which they couldn’t reach otherwise. This giving and growing mindset is exactly what I would bring into the new ODU committee. I understand the nature of ‘community’ and have experience with the working of foundations and charities that give back, particularly in my role as Chairperson & Donor Relations Lead for the Kuyasa Foundation NPC.
I am a former General Manager of the Cluver and Jack Cider Company, who produce a delicious craft apple cider that is widely available across South Africa, with a global footprint that is ever growing. Prior to this, I held a number of middle-to-senior management positions at Peninsula Beverages. Prior to that I was at J.Melnick and Company, with my last role being National Account Manager.
I have enjoyed tremendous growth in both my life and career, and have always attributed this to my ability to work within a team, a strong sense of discipline as well as strong leadership skills. These traits were nurtured and honed during my time at Bishops, which played a big role in moulding me into the person that I am today.