A Shared Future For Humanity: Insights from Dr Iqbal Survé's book launch
Dr Iqbal Survé said the book reflects a collective journey rather than a personal one, shaped by the many people who supported him along the way. He said it was important to acknowledge those contributions openly, which led to the inclusion of a chapter titled Gratitude.
Image: Leon Lestrade / Independent Newspapers
Chairperson of the Sekunjalo Group, Dr Iqbal Survé, launched the second leg of his book tour at the Radisson Blu in Umhlanga on Tuesday.
The book, titled A Shared Future For Humanity, explores Survé’s life, his business journey, and his reflections on shared values, humanity, and the challenges facing South Africa and the world. The book also delves into the Survé family’s business ventures, philanthropic work, and international initiatives.
The launch was attended by prominent business leaders and political figures, including former President Jacob Zuma, MK Party MP Brian Molefe, and businessman Vivian Reddy, who praised Survé’s achievements and contributions to business and society.
Speaking at the launch, Survé stated that the book was written to share his personal journey and acknowledge those who influenced him.
"This is not an autobiography. It’s really about the journey and saying thank you," he said.
He emphasised that the book reflects on shared humanity, equality, and opportunity.
"We are all the same, just a little difference in skin tone, maybe some have more money than others, maybe people speak different languages, different histories, different religions, cultures if you want, but we're actually all the same," Survé said.
"We all have ambitions, we all want to care about our families, we all want opportunities for our children, our community. We all want safety, we all want to feel, you know, that there's life, yet there's so much division. So the book really is about that message, it's a shared humanity."
Former President Jacob Zuma said he attended the launch to acknowledge Survé’s achievements and the impact of his work.
“I just wanted to come and see you, having done a good thing to put a story, part of your life, as a businessman, as a person who did a lot of things,” Zuma said.
He praised Survé for persevering despite challenges and for creating a platform that highlighted stories and achievements that might otherwise have gone untold. Zuma added that Survé had succeeded in building a legacy under difficult circumstances and had helped to “dilute the wrong things that are said”.
"I want to thank you for doing so because you, in a sense, changed the manner of reporting in South Africa, and began to tell the stories as they are supposed to be told. And I'm happy," Zuma said.
"I wanted to come to see you, to see the book, and I'm going to read it, and also see you having succeeded under very serious situations."
Reddy praised Survé for his resilience and the way he has navigated challenges throughout his life.
"Your own journey from medicine to entrepreneurship, from activism to institution building, sits at the centre of this narrative," Reddy said.
He added that Survé’s story highlights the importance of responsibility and courage.
"You understand something that many never grasp. That influence brings scrutiny, that leadership brings criticism. And that progress often demands resilience in the face of misunderstanding. Yet you continue to act, to build, to contribute. This takes courage," he added.
IOL News