True to every great work, one wouldn’t be mistaken to opine that it is Brian Mpono’s origins that inform his attitude and approach to life and work – which is anchored on service. Inspired by the basic principles of faith, his focus on serving is reflected in relationships nurtured and actions taken whether it be driving c-suite executives around the exhilarating Umhlanga precinct or sitting down for a conversation at a relaxed café in the restful upper highway town of Hillcrest. I had the pleasure of experiencing the man considered the sheikh of Durban on a balmy Friday morning in the middle of a KwaZulu Natal winter in exactly this fashion. As we begin the conversation on his role as CEO of the positively wave-making Oceans Umhlanga Development, he expresses, “you can’t confine me – I feel that this limits God’s grace. I don’t work 9 to 5, I serve”.
Donning elegantly patterned isiagu (Igbo attire) that reflects both his state of mind and grounded mission as a proudly African citizen of the world, I instantly warm up to this Durbanite of Xhosa descent who oozes earnestness, calm and self-assuredness.
The Oceans Mall property straddles the lines of aggressive community development and high-end luxury and is one third of the mixed-use Oceans Umhlanga Development project (which includes the Radisson BLU Dbn and Oceans Residences). It is an invitation to Durbanites especially to envision greater and realise the city’s massive potential. Its preparedness to step out of the proverbial shadows, court international investment, and soar in its full might is confirmed.
Regarding his perspective on luxury in Africa, Mpono expresses that “[w]e are at a point in time where there is this slow embrace of [textiles and crafts] made by the peoples of the mother continent, and shining a light on the colourful beauty of African cultures, say Nigeria – that is now developing into luxury.” The proliferation of African artists and designers on digital platforms and growth of pan African focused fashion shows across the world bears testament to this. He says however that “the challenge is that We, the [proprietors] of Africa, must be more vocal.”
Mpono’s confidence in the status of Durban as a top tier tourism destination and the Oceans uMhlanga Development mixed-use precinct (comprising Oceans Mall, Radisson BLU Dbn and Oceans Residential) as a seedbed for both local and foreign investment, and his authentic way with people of various backgrounds and persuasions are wonders to behold. One moment he’s facilitating FaceTime calls between the legendary Dapper Dan and Maxhosa’s Laduma Ngxokolo, and the next he’s breaking bread with local business leaders, American diplomats and Emiratis – all with the same savoir-faire and ease.
He praises the enabling environment that has been created by the city, which has ensured that catalytic projects such as the Oceans Umhlanga mixed-use Development can be realised. The intent for bringing the dream to fruition is to show the people of Durban what the city is worth by attracting international audiences – this is what brings it all together.
Recently, Brian hosted leading New York State senator, Janes Sanders Jr., and chef Melba Wilson owner of one of New York City’s premier establishments, Melba’s Restaurant) who knowledge of the city of Durban has been enriched simply through the hospitality given by Mpono during the week of Nelson Mandela Day as well as the reSUREnce Conference convened by Reverend Dennic Dillon and African Global Networks. “We’re building the future we want to live in tomorrow today,” he enthuses.
