By Liad Hadar, Director at Hadar Incorporated, Specialist Property Law Firm
This article first appeared in Asset Magazine’s October 2023 edition

“South Africa is a land of infinite potential, where the strength of its people and the richness of its diversity converge to create a tapestry of greatness waiting to be fully unveiled.” – Unknown*

In the heart of South Africa, a country brimming with diversity and promise, I find myself reflecting on a journey that began when I was just five years old. I arrived on these beautiful shores and was embraced by this land and its people, who raised me to be as South African as can be.

Today, as the Director of Hadar Incorporated – Property Law Specialists, I believe it’s my duty to give back to this incredible nation and contribute to the solution for its myriad challenges.

South Africa has an indomitable spirit, a resilient essence that has weathered the most intense storms of history. South Africa has been a place where people from all corners of the world have come together to build a nation founded on unity, diversity, and the pursuit of a better future. My personal journey is a testament to this unique spirit, as I was welcomed with open arms and integrated into the vibrant tapestry of South African life.

Welcome to Africa

Growing up here, I quickly learned that my story was not unique. South Africa is a melting pot of cultures, traditions, and backgrounds. It’s a nation that thrives on its rich diversity, where people of all walks of life contribute to the mosaic that makes this country so unique. My experiences as an immigrant have taught me that unity in diversity is not just a slogan but a way of life for South Africans.

As a young immigrant, I was nurtured by this nation. Unbeknownst to me at the time, the values of Ubuntu – the belief in a common humanity and interconnectedness – were instilled in me from an early age.

I had the privilege of attending Wendywood Primary School, a wonderful government primary school. The school was the epitome of diversity and my friends and classmates from school, with whom I share a lifelong bond, were from vastly different backgrounds.

I learned that my success was intricately linked to the well-being of my fellow South Africans. This profound sense of community and responsibility never left me, and it became the cornerstone of my approach to life and business.

Even in later life, the diversity has never stopped intriguing and energising me.

My local barber is a Turkish immigrant, infatuated with the Springboks and has travelled the world to watch them at World Cups! The team I represented at club soccer level, Highlands Park FC, was filled with players from different countries, an African Union of sorts, who became the closest of teammates. As an aside, the extent of my township slang vocabulary thanks to this experience is unmatched!

From Then to Now

Fast forward to today, and I find myself at the helm of Hadar Incorporated. My journey as a legal professional in South Africa has allowed me to witness firsthand the transformative power of the property and legal industries.

I’ve learned firsthand that property ownership is not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about providing homes, meeting places, outlets for basic (and luxury) goods, securing livelihoods, and building communities. Property in South African is experiential and it is warm and welcoming.

Owning a law firm has also exposed me to the pure need for job opportunities for the ever- increasing number of law graduates in the country and for numerous support staff.

Considering myself a modern Team leader, I have also learned just how important it is for Team members to feel a sense of community and fairness in the workplace. A workplace that empowers, encourages and uplifts – not simply exploiting or using its people as mere assets.

What Next?

As we all know and like to remind ourselves at every braai or other gathering, South Africa faces its fair share of challenges, from economic disparities to social inequalities. However, I firmly believe that our challenges can be overcome, and the potential of this nation can be fully realized.

My commitment to South Africa goes beyond my professional responsibilities. It’s a personal mission to be part of the solution and contribute to the betterment of this country and its people.

One of the ways I aim to give back is by creating employment opportunities for deserving individuals. South Africa has a talented workforce and genuinely good people. I believe in providing them with the platform and opportunities they deserve. By fostering a work environment that values diversity, inclusivity, and empowerment, we can empower individuals to thrive and contribute to the growth of our nation.

I am also passionate about supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs. I love buying homemade scones from the hustler on the street corner or a flash disk from a young musician selling his music on the busiest intersection in Sandton – corner of Rivonia Road and Grayston Drive!

Dream Big Be Brave

Every evening before bed, the last thing that I tell my young sons is to “dream big, be brave” and I believe that this applies to South Africa as a country too. Its potential is so vast, and I firmly believe that we all have a role to play in unlocking it.

It’s a country that has given me more than I could have ever imagined, and I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences it has provided me. Giving back to South Africa is not a choice; it’s a calling, a responsibility that I embrace wholeheartedly.

As an immigrant who has become as South African as can be, I stand alongside my fellow citizens, united in our determination to overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our nation. Together, we can build a South Africa that lives up to its potential – a land of opportunity, equality and prosperity for all.

My personal journey has shaped my perspective and instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility towards this incredible nation. I believe that we can collectively contribute to South Africa’s journey towards its full potential. South Africa’s diversity is its strength, and together, we can build a brighter future for all!

*The above quote was computer generated- it just felt right for this article!