Shabir Chohan

Shabir Chohan chief executive officer of Al Baraka Bank reflects on his roots with pride. He noted that his family is deeply connected to the Chohan surname through the family business, Chohan Spice that was founded by his grandfather nearly 70 years ago. Shabir was involved in the family business from an early age, however, his ambitions extended beyond the spice industry. “During my schooling, I had a dream to become a chartered accountant. I can’t say exactly why – perhaps it was the financial statements I used to read from my father’s companies listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. But I was driven.”

After completing his schooling, Shabir attended the University of KwaZulu-Natal (Howard College) to pursue his dream of accountancy. “In those days, apartheid meant Indians weren’t allowed to study at Howard College, and we had to go to Durban- Westville,” he explains. However, he successfully applied for a special course which allowed him to attend Howard College. Reflecting on this time, Shabir says, “When I finished my fourth year in 1986, I topped the class. It was a proud moment.” This achievement, he notes, set the scene for future successes in his life.

Upon qualifying, Shabir joined the firm Coopers and Lybrand (now PwC). He fondly recalls the iconic “Glass Building” on Field Street in Durban, where the firm was based. After passing his board exams, he followed the path of many young professionals of the era, taking up a two-year stint with Coopers and Lybrand in London. “Working in London was invaluable,” Shabir shares, noting the international exposure and experience it provided.

When Shabir returned to South Africa, he rejoined Coopers and Lybrand before moving on to the Banco Group, a prominent clothing business at the time. This period in the 1990s saw Shabir honing his skills in the corporate sector. His career took a pivotal turn when, at 30, he was headhunted by the Ithala Development Finance Corporation. He joined in 1996, just two years after South Africa’s first democratic elections. “It was a big leap – I was appointed as finance executive and based in Umlazi,” he recounts. Four years later, he became the chief executive officer.

While challenges have been a constant presence throughout Shabir’s career, they were particularly apparent during his time at Ithala. “There were a lot of pressures from provincial government, and I wasn’t even the first choice for the CEO role. But we persevered,” he reflects. Significantly the role exposed him to the needs and potential of KwaZulu-Natal.

SOCIETAL GOOD
In his current role, Shabir is focused on providing strategic direction and fostering a thriving organisational culture. He explained, “I want Al Baraka Bank to grow and be known not just as an Islamic bank for Muslims but as a bank accessible to all.” Shabir is passionate about the role Al Baraka can play in job creation and broader societal good. “I want to see this type of banking grow because it has unique attributes. But beyond that, I also want to help create jobs and contribute to a better South Africa,” he asserts.

One of Shabir’s proudest achievements is transforming Al Baraka Bank. When he joined the bank in 2004, it faced various challenges. “There were expectations from stakeholders, directors, regulators, staff, and customers,” he recalls. He immediately convened a strategy discussion with all stakeholders to identify the issues and formulate a practical plan. “It was clear that we needed a new path for the bank, one that played to our strengths but also addressed weaknesses. And over the last 20 years, I believe we have achieved quite a lot.”

At Al Baraka, his proactive approach to overcoming challenges has involved collaborative strategy sessions and a firm commitment to implementing the plans. “It’s one thing to have a strategy; it’s another to follow through on it. I focused on execution, and I think that’s made a difference over the years,” he adds. The best advice Shabir has received speaks to this goal: “People often aim for perfection, but it’s better to focus on progress.”

A TANGIBLE IMPACT
In order to achieve progress and to overcome business obstacles, Shabir believes in keeping his team motivated through communication. “People might say I have too many meetings, but I think they are essential. It’s not just about meeting; it’s about listening and creating a collaborative environment,” he explains. His approach aims to foster teamwork and remove silos within the organisation. “Our success is only possible if we work as a team,” he affirms. Shabir added, “The Zulu proverb, ‘If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together,’ has always resonated with me.”

Shabir draws inspiration from individuals who make a tangible impact, like Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of Gift of the Givers. “His commitment to serving humanity, with humility and purpose, is incredibly inspiring. He’s an example of the difference one person can make, regardless of background or religion.”

For KwaZulu-Natal, Shabir envisions a prosperous future driven by the province’s unique strengths. “When I travel, I see the greenery, the people, the hospitality. We’ve got the weather, the environment, and the major ports. Our province has tremendous potential,” he says. Shabir hopes to see local citizens take an active role in shaping the future. “We can’t wait for politicians; it’s up to us to make KZN the leading province.”

Reflecting on a motto that guides his life, Shabir shares, “It’s not your aptitude but your attitude that determines your altitude.” This lesson has driven him to go beyond his job description, actively participating in and contributing to all aspects of his work. “The right attitude can open doors you never even knew existed,” he says.

For Shabir, leadership is about leaving a legacy of service, unity, and continuous improvement for KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa at large. “I’m committed to making a difference,” he concludes, as he sets his sights on creating opportunities and strengthening communities.