Michelle Isaac

Michelle Isaac, founder and director of MGM HR Services, has built a successful career in human resources and compliance, specialising in B-BBEE (Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment), employment equity, and skills development. From retail to ICT, construction to manufacturing, MGM HR Services operates across diverse sectors, making an impact in KwaZulu-Natal and beyond. Through her business, Michelle has facilitated large-scale initiatives in skills development and small medium and micro enterprise support, helping companies meet their compliance targets while uplifting individuals and communities.

While Michelle’s biggest dream was to have a career, be independent and have financial stability, her path to success wasn’t without challenges. From a university dropout to an entrepreneur, Michelle’s story is one of perseverance, adaptation, and the pursuit of growth.

Michelle’s journey began with uncertainty. After matriculating in 2000, she struggled to find her footing in university, dropping out after two years due to a lack of focus. “I just couldn’t discipline myself to study,” she reflects. Feeling lost, she took a retail job that quickly made her realise it wasn’t where she wanted to be. “It took just one year for me to realise that wasn’t the life I wanted.”

With her family’s support, Michelle returned to her studies, enrolling in human resources (HR) at Durban University of Technology. Determined to succeed, she juggled day and night classes, completing her diploma and a BTech in HR Management. This decision set the foundation for her success, landing her an internship at the Spar Distribution Centre in KwaZulu-Natal. It was here that her human resources career began.

“I started as an HR intern at Spar Distribution Centre and through that opportunity I was able to move on to other companies working my way up to HR officer, case management officer, HR business partner, and eventually HR manager,” she recalls. The experience was invaluable, though not without its difficulties. “It was tough seeing people get fired and handling disciplinary hearings, but I learned to manage it. That’s the nature of HR—policy, procedure, and following the rules.”

After several years as an HR manager, Michelle found herself at a crossroads. “I was no longer enjoying what I was doing, and I needed a change. Luckily, with my husband’s support, we agreed that I could try consulting.”

Significant Risk
It wasn’t a planned move, she admits. “I always thought I’d be employed by someone, but I didn’t realise my perfect employer would be myself!” Starting her consultancy was a significant risk. “I had no contacts, nothing. I resigned, took a few steps back, and started from scratch.”

Despite the challenges, Michelle discovered her passion for being in business, serving clients, and building an effective team. “Once I started hiring staff, the business took off. It’s been an amazing journey. What I really enjoy now is providing excellent service to clients and seeing my team grow and develop.”

With Michelle at the helm, MGM HR Services has grown rapidly. Her background in HR, payroll, and labour relations has been a valuable asset in providing value- added services to clients, many of whom have come to rely on her expertise and dedication.

Michelle added, “There’s always something changing in B-BBEE, skills development and equity. It’s a constantly shifting environment. We partner with the right people and build good relationships so that we’re able to help each other which is something I find comfort in — being able to create a close network.”

Michelle’s achievements are numerous, but she remains grounded, always striving for more. “Since 2017, we’ve grown exponentially without needing to advertise. It’s all been word-of-mouth; thanks to the service we provide. In Michelle’s words, “We’ve facilitated R343 million in skills development expenditure and directed R69 million towards small businesses. We’ve placed over 4,800 learners into learnership programmes and 197 youth into the Yes Youth programme, helping them gain the work experience they need to start their careers. We’ve been able to direct R25 million towards causes like school fees, bursaries, crèches and rural development to help previously disadvantaged individuals.” MGM HR Services ensures that their clients meet their objectives, and that expenditure is safeguarded in terms of compliance.

Michelle’s commitment to personal growth is reflected in how she approaches her business. “I’ve always been focused on building processes and systems, which has made it easier to manage the workload as the business grew. My team appreciates that everything is streamlined, which allows us to provide top-tier service to our clients.”

Michelle also credits her success to business figures such as Margaret Hirsch and Vivian Reddy, who have inspired her with their straightforward approaches and willingness to share their knowledge. “I love learning about the experiences of successful people. It helps me when I’m struggling. I think back to how they overcame their challenges.”

When asked about the advice she would give to young women, Michelle stresses the importance of self- investment and perseverance. “If you don’t know what you want to do, at least know what you don’t want to do, and start there. Invest in yourself — your education, your skills. That investment will bring you many rewards.”

Looking to the Future
While Michelle has achieved much, she remains open to whatever the future holds. “I never planned to be in business, so now I just wake up, show up, and do my best. I support my team, and I stay open to new opportunities and challenges.” For Michelle, growth never stops. “I always remind myself not to get stuck in a comfort zone. Comfort kills growth, so I’m always pushing myself and my team to do better.”

In her spare time, Michelle finds balance by spending time at the beach with her husband and son or relaxing at home. “We’re homebodies, but we love the beach. I also enjoy reading, yoga and walking to stay active. Health is important to me,” she concludes.