Kaylan Govender is a person who many would describe as a motivated, passionate and dynamic individual. Govender lives by the word “creativity” which he says allows him to do new and exciting things by engaging himself in a way that takes him one step closer to reaching his full potential. Describing himself as a foodie, Govender said he loves trying new restaurants, different types of food and new flavours. Today, he joins the Tongaat and Verulam Tabloid on the couch to unpack how creativity has played an instrumental role in his success as well as dive into the personal traits that build his character.
Tongaat and Verulam Tabloid (TVT): Tell us a bit about yourself:
Kaylan Govender (KG): My name is Kaylan Govender, I am a 23 year old entrepreneur and the owner of Creative Coalition which is a Verulam-based company specialising in event planning, gifting ideas and not forgetting making traditional designer sweetmeats. I attended Mountview Secondary School and matriculated in 2016.
TVT: What is it about baking, decor and gifting that caught your attention?
KG: I grew up in a home where baking and creativity was everything. I am a big fan of making traditional Indian delights so I started off by experimenting on new recipes while trying to perfect and recreate old ones. With my creative, young spirited mind and thoughts, I also created many decor set-ups for small gatherings and gifting ideas as well.
TVT: How did you overcome the confines of the Covid-19 lockdown?
KG: When the world shut down in March 2020 and everyone was bored at home for weeks, instead of learning new dance moves, I decided to visit the inner baker and my creative side. During the pandemic, I wanted to make people feel special and for them to remember all the important people and events in their lives. So while doing a simple balloon arch in a client’s lounge brought smiles to their faces, it also filled my heart with happiness and that is all I am about.
TVT: What does the word ‘passion’ mean to you and how is it rooted in your personality?
KG: Passion means a strong amorous feeling or desire. Passion is an emotion to be acted upon. Without action, passion yields no worthwhile results. Passion is the fuel in the fire of action. When you have passion for something, you love it even when you hate it. I have a passion for baking and creating different type of gifting ideas. The end results are always so perfect and unusual which motivates me to continue to do what I am doing.
TVT: On a more personal note, tell us where you grew up and what it was like in your neighbourhood?
KG: I grew up in a town called Verulam. A beautiful urban area and a really nice place to live. My neighbourhood has very friendly people and they’re all like family. The green environment, comfortable weather, fresh air, scenic beauty and the simple life of people make it an ideal place.
TVT: Who are your role models and why?
KG: Nelson Mandela, who would think that this aged, grey haired man, jailed for 27 years, would one day walk free and unite the country of South Africa. Nelson Mandela’s staunch efforts against apartheid, racism and social injustice rightly radiate far beyond the continent of Africa. He is a global icon, among other things because he showed that hatred cannot be overcome by hatred but by empathy. He also believed in the youth and their future and by me starting my own business as young as I am he is indeed an inspiration to me as a youngster.
TVT: Where do you see yourself in five years?
KG: Five years may seem like a while away, but a lot is going to change in five years, let alone the next few months. I see myself as becoming more skilled, more efficient and professional. I tend to work constantly on gaining new customers which increases my revenue and recognition. I also intend to expand my business by obtaining support of major companies by supplying them with sweetmeats.
TVT: What are your thoughts on the progress you’ve made thus far?
KG: It was not an easy decision to take my venture to the next step but through God’s grace and the support of family, friends and my guardian angel, I was able to take the leap and to this day. I am proud to say that I have their continued support. We all think we are responsible for our own success, but I could not have done it without all of them having trust and belief in my work.
TVT: Lastly, what is your message to the youth of South Africa, especially considering the high unemployment rates among young people?
KG: Youth unemployment has been inordinately high for many years in South Africa and it is one of the country’s major socio-economic challenges. So if you are talented and have an idea of what you want to do, then go for it. It all starts with a first step. A few new steps each day and you are on your way towards achieving your dream. There will be failures, but you will learn that failure is only an excuse. One step back means two steps forward, believe in that and you are on your way to success. Each step is a stepping stone leading the way to the path of success. Every pro was once an amateur. Every expert was once a beginner. So dream big and start now. Always remember to make the choice, to take the chance and watch how your life will change as I have done. To see a smile on my client’s faces is priceless.
