By Michael Andisile Mayalo
Dr Iqbal Survé is much like a pagoda, standing tall and resilient amidst the pressures and storms surrounding him. Reflecting on my journey to China, I recall the profound beauty of the pagodas—intricate, enduring structures that symbolise strength, wisdom, and layers of meaning. From their grand designs to their purpose, pagodas have long stood as testaments to resilience and spiritual fortitude. Similarly, Dr Survé embodies a complex strength like the pagodas I saw abroad with his layered expertise, strong values, and unwavering commitment to progress.
Pagodas come in many forms, each with different levels of purpose and significance. Some stand for centuries, weathering natural disasters, political change, and cultural shifts, yet they remain steadfast symbols of their people’s enduring values. Dr Survé, too, has a layered character, each facet representing different strengths that come together to create a profound impact. Like these towers, he stands firm against criticism, embodying a resilience that both intrigues and inspires those around him.
To understand this analogy, one must consider what it means to be a modern-day "pagoda" today. It’s not just about standing tall and unshaken but about having layers of purpose and strength from within. Pagodas are often sacred places of peace, wisdom, and sanctuary. They do not yield to the winds but allow the breeze to pass around them, adapting rather than breaking. Similarly, Dr Survé does not yield easily to criticism or controversy. His approach is adaptive yet consistent, grounded in his convictions and values, making him one of South Africa’s most enduring figures in business and philanthropy.
Dr Survé’s journey mirrors the resilience of the ancient pagodas, built to last and withstand the test of time. From his early years as a medical doctor to his evolution into a prominent businessman and philanthropist, each phase of his career adds another layer to his character. Like the levels of a pagoda, these experiences have given him a unique perspective on life, success, and leadership. This diversity in his background provides him with a broad foundation, enabling him to weather the criticisms and challenges that inevitably come with a life lived in the public eye.
However, his character goes beyond resilience. Like the meticulous construction of a pagoda, Dr Survé’s strength is in his dedication to detail and purpose. His professional achievements, including his work with the Independent Media Group, his involvement in technology, and his philanthropy efforts, all reflect a commitment to bettering South Africa and the African continent. Each venture he undertakes is built with a clear purpose and vision, as carefully thought out as the design of a pagoda, meant to serve and inspire generations.
Dr. Survé’s resilience is perhaps most evident in his response to challenges and attacks. Critics have come at him from various angles over the years, questioning his business decisions and his motives. Yet, much like a pagoda that stands through storms and tumult, he has remained steadfast, responding with a calm and considered approach. Rather than being deterred, he views criticism as an opportunity for growth and reflection. This quality—of standing firm yet open to improvement—is something rare and admirable, especially in the fast-paced, often unforgiving world of business.
Beyond his personal and professional resilience, Dr. Survé’s pagoda-like character also extends to his role as a symbol of hope and aspiration. He stands tall for himself and those who look to him as a source of inspiration. From humble beginnings to his rise as a prominent figure in South Africa, his life story is a beacon of hope for those who aspire to make a difference. In a world where opportunities can be limited and socio-economic divides often dictate people’s lives, Dr. Survé’s success story is a reminder that one can overcome even the greatest obstacles with dedication, resilience, and vision.
But as with any towering figure, being a symbol comes with challenges. Like a pagoda that must balance its weight delicately over its foundation, Dr. Survé’s work requires him to balance numerous responsibilities and expectations. He must navigate complex social and economic terrains while staying true to his principles. He must also deal with people's high expectations of him as a leader and philanthropist. Each level of responsibility adds weight, but his foundation—rooted in his values and experiences—supports him as he reaches new heights.
What makes Dr Survé truly unique is that, like the ancient pagodas, he represents more than just himself. He stands for values: resilience, vision, commitment, and the desire to uplift others. He is a testament to the idea that true strength comes not from force but conviction, a sense of purpose, and a willingness to grow and adapt. His character challenges the common notion of success in today’s society, urging us to consider success not merely as a personal achievement but as something that can benefit others.
Comparing Dr Iqbal Survé to a pagoda is not merely a metaphor but a reflection of his layered strength and purpose. Like a pagoda, he stands tall amidst the turbulence, unshaken yet open to growth. His life and career are examples of resilience, and his layered personality gives him the strength to withstand criticism and continue his mission. Just as pagodas inspire awe and admiration, Dr Survé’s journey and achievements remind us of the power of resilience, purpose, and unwavering conviction. As he continues to build his legacy, one only hopes he will inspire more people to stand tall with the same dignity, resilience, and commitment to the greater good.
Mayalo is an independent writer, analyst, and commentator