From ostrich farming to telecoms carrier services at paratus

Danie Malan was born into a farming family and moved to George, South Africa, at a young age to assist his father with ostrich farming. Approached by a doctor in Miami to help with the incubation of ostrich eggs and rearing of chicks, Danie jumped at the chance and went abroad. After a couple of years, his father asked him to come back to help on the farm in Namibia, and that’s when he realised his roots are where his heart is. As Danie says: “Born a Namibian, always a Namibian.”

In 2000 Danie decided to hang up his ‘vellies’ and joined Telkom Ericsson and then in 2007 moved over to ITN which was then driven by Barney Harmse, the CEO of Paratus Group. Now, 14 years later, Danie has never looked back and says, “When I started with ITN, we were only seven or eight strong and today, renamed Paratus, we are at 185 staff members in Namibia and 450 employees in the Paratus group overall. If we can keep the foundation and keep our core people together, the passion is limitless.”

Danie is a man who revels in the fact that he is backed by a disruptive company so that he may seize every opportunity to secure important deals, create solutions for his customers and increase connectivity services in the region.

“What I enjoy in my work environment is that every day presents a new challenge, and ideally one where we can give a client a solution. It takes time but when that day arrives and you seal the deal, you and your team realise the hard work has paid off. Knowing we have the back-up is what makes one proud because talk is cheap”, says Danie.

“One of the projects I am particularly proud of is when Paratus began to sell capacity between Namibia and SA. This was a game-changer because it triggered the opportunity to grow the Paratus carrier business in all territories across southern Africa.”

Danie’s attitude ensures his happiness and gratitude for everything that impacts his life. He has enormous faith and is passionate about being the best person he can be, and this is evident in how he looks after all people in his life, from his wife to his family, to his work, to his colleagues and his friends.

“Having a balanced approach to life empowers me and I think it’s important to balance humility with confidence, otherwise you could be seen as arrogant.”

Characteristics

· Balanced and happy

· Motivated at work and in life in general – motivated to enjoy life to the full

· Grateful for every obstacle and achievement

· He is committed to everything he does

· He is solid, dependable and supportive

· Enjoys hunting

· Loves fishing and the great outdoors

· Avid golfer

· Overriding attitude in life is one of gratitude

· Loves closing deals – believes in himself