How Durban man turned childhood dreams into a thriving business in Dubai
It was the day he was knighted by the Royal Order of Constantine the Great and Saint Helen that Sashin Govender knew his work mattered.
And so his story came full circle, from growing up in Durban to building a successful business that led to the honour.
“It was a moment that made me pause and think about the journey,” the 31-year-old, who grew up in Durban, said.
“But I always knew I wanted to build something of my own.”
Govender said that from a young age he showed an interest in starting a business.
“I was always thinking about ideas and how things worked,” he said.
He often pointed to chess as an influence on how he thinks and works.
“Chess teaches you to think ahead and live with the consequences of your decisions,” he said.
By his early twenties, Govender had already built and exited several small businesses.
Those early ventures gave him both financial stability and practical experience.
Rather than seeking public attention, he focused on building systems that could grow over time.
That focus led to the creation of CredibilityX.
CredibilityX is a media and reputation company based in Dubai.
The company works with media outlets and partner agencies to help businesses and individuals gain visibility.
According to company information, CredibilityX has access to more than 1,400 publications worldwide and works with partners in over 90 countries.
The business operates by securing media access at scale rather than relying on traditional pitching models, he said.
Govender described the approach as structured and systems-driven.
“We don’t sell hype,” he said.
“We focus on access and consistency.”
CredibilityX has worked with companies across sectors including technology, finance, blockchain and professional services.
In 2025, the company was named Best Web3 Media Agency at the Middle Eastern Blockchain Awards in Dubai.
The award recognised its work in branding and media strategy within the digital asset sector.
CredibilityX operates within a wider group known as the TMS Ecosystem.
The ecosystem includes more than 20 businesses across media, education, technology and financial services.
Govender is also an international speaker.
He has spoken in more than 90 countries and addressed audiences across six continents.
His talks focus on entrepreneurship, branding, leadership and mindset.
Some of his speaking engagements have taken place at large venues, including AT&T Stadium in Texas.
In 2019, Govender received a knighthood from the Royal Order of Constantine the Great and Saint Helen.
The recognition was awarded for his work in entrepreneurship, innovation and philanthropy.
Govender is currently based in Dubai.
From there, he continues to oversee his businesses and international speaking work.
Despite his global reach, he keeps a low public profile.
His work is most visible through the systems and platforms he has built.
For Govender, the journey from Durban to international business unfolded over time.
And while the knighthood marked a milestone, it remains one part of a longer career still in progress.
IOL Entertainment