Genius: How to Thrive at the Edge of Chaos

by Bruce Whitfield

South Africa and its fraught political economy provide a fascinating case study into how it takes a particular brand of genius to thrive in a difficult domestic environment and to take the ideas and the businesses that deliver them from local to global. Genius tells the stories of some of the extraordinary individuals, companies and industries whose ideas, products and raw materials solve problems and add value across the globe.

Greatness comes from acting on purpose, and there is a generation of South Africans solving problems for the future. Learn how Pratley beat Armstrong to the moon, how a former Eskom quantity surveyor capitalised on Britain’s obsession with meerkats to create the UK’s most visible price comparison website, how to take a Mediterranean-style food concept to the Mediterranean, and how a device designed to beat diamond smuggling made it from the set of a popular US hospital drama into emergency rooms and pathology labs across the US.

Genius examines what it takes to thrive in an increasingly complex, fast-paced and divisive global environment. These are lessons for anyone looking to succeed anywhere against the odds.

Genres: Business, South Africa, Nonfiction

273 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 2, 2022

Reviews

[Ed Stoddard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whitfield, a well-known South African broadcaster whose "Money Show" is simply the best radio programme out there devoted to financial matters, brings a welcome dose of optimism to the South African business and economic narrative in this readable book, tempered by some reality checks. The bottom line is that he sees the "genius" of the many South Africans who have turned their ideas into global cash spinners, and he has brought their stories and personalties to life. The problem is that many of South Africa's best and brightest are departing for greener pastures as the ANC oversees a failing state that has been subjected to looting.

[Rirhandzu Rissenga · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book explores the innovative ideas of South Africans that have gained global recognition. It was fascinating to delve into the achievements of brilliant minds and business visionaries who have successfully taken their creations beyond the country’s borders. The book also serves as a refreshing reminder of the positive contributions and inventions that have emerged from South Africa. In a time when we are often overwhelmed by negative news, this perspective felt like a much needed breath of fresh air.

I was familiar with some of the resources South Africa exports, but I gained new insights as the author broke down the specifics. From mining, with its various exported minerals, to agricultural products, South African wine, soft drinks, and beer, the book provided a detailed look at these industries. The exploration of different sectors demonstrated thorough research, and the author’s background clearly added depth, particularly with interviews featuring some of the brilliant minds highlighted on his show.

The title of the book is somewhat misleading. It suggests a focus on “how to take smart ideas global,” which led me to expect insights into opportunities available globally for South Africans. Instead, the book reflects on the past successes of individuals and companies that have already made their mark in markets like the UK, USA, and other parts of the world. With that said, it’s still a valuable read for anyone looking to understand the impressive capabilities and potential within South Africa.

[Ingrid · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chapter 11 starts with a quote by Alexander Fleming - "The u prepared mind cannot see the outstretched hand of opportunity"

And how true of the many stories of South African business success stories in Bruce Whitfield's new book - GENIUS, How to take Smart Ideas Global

13 of the 16 chapters focus on individual industries and the numerous success stories and nuggets of wisdom from business leaders in South Africa, especially concentrating on how they went on to be integrated in the global business market. Having being exposed to international aspects of the Mining, chemical, water and so many other industries at AECI since starting there, it was so interesting reading about the forerunners to our company and its many international endeavours.

I really regret not being able to have time to see Bruce speak to Adrian Gore at the @gibsbusinessschool launch of this book as having read it, that conversation must have been fascinating.

We hear of the bad in South Africa daily and, although Bruce is mindful to not play the fool and ignore our shared realities, it is good to hear of the many positive stories we have to share, especially given the adversities South African companies, especially the startups, have to face.

If you are an entrepreneur, a director, a manager or an employee, actually if you are South African, you will enjoy the upbeat and realistic view on success being very possible in the South African business world.

As the masterful Dr Seuss said, "Sometimes the questions are complicated, and the answers are simple"

So very true...

[NovelShongololo · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book represents a great collection of South African companies that have made it in the international arena from a variety of industries and provides a brief outline of their local start and their beginnings dip into the global stage. However, due to its organisations of industries rather than strategies to break into international markets - it misses its promise to provide the How of its subtitle of How to take smart ideas globally. Read this book if you are looking for a book to expose you to South African innovations of the past rather than any concrete advice/ tactics to reach international shores with your business.

[Scotty B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent story of the successes coming out of South Africa. The innovation, the perseverance and the hidden secrets that are an inspiration. Highly recommended, Nandos is my favorite export! Thank you Bruce!

[Joel 'Archie' · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would read this again, what a great read. Learned a lot from this, well done to all these Sputh Africans doing great things in the world of business