IN A WORLD where degrees often seem like the only way to success, Vivian Reddy, a Durban-born businessman and the founder of the Edison Power Group, rose to success with pure determination. 

Without any formal educational background, the now 72-year-old carved his own path to achievement. His story challenges conventional definitions of success and proves that the absence of a degree does not mean the absence of potential.

“I did not have a university degree when I started. My education to this day is only a diploma in electrical contracting management. Most of my education came from the real world, from mentors, from trial and error, and from hard lessons,” said Vivian.  

“While I always respected formal education and encouraged others to pursue it, I knew that my path would be carved through grit, experience, and self-education. In many ways, that taught me resilience and resourcefulness early on.”

Reddy said he knew who he was meant to be from an early age – a man with purpose. “From a young age, I was drawn to the idea of creating something of my own, of being in control of my destiny.

Bringing in the Box Scouts organisation shaped my thoughts.

“The defining moment came when I saw the socio-economic challenges in our comm

unities and realised that entrepreneurship could be a powerful tool for both personal growth and upliftment of others. I wanted to build a business that not only created value, but created opportunity.”

He said his background influenced his approach to business.

“I come from humble beginnings. I understood what it meant to go without, and that gave me both drive and empathy. It influenced me to be a businessperson who values people whether staff, clients, or community. It also instilled in me a hunger to rise above limitations, and a responsibility to help others do the same.”

His first entrepreneurial venture was an electrical contracting business. 

“I started it with virtually nothing but R500 and a beat up bakkie – no inheritance, no wealthy backers, just belief and hard work. It was not easy, but I secured small contracts, delivered with excellence, and gradually built trust. It taught me that reliability and integrity are the most valuable currencies in business.

“Today, Edison Power is one of the largest electrical businesses in Africa. In business, failure is a tough but necessary teacher. I once lost a major contract due to underestimating cash flow pressures. It nearly broke me. But it taught me the importance of financial discipline, strategic foresight, and surrounding yourself with capable people. Every setback carries a seed of wisdom if you’re willing to look for it.”

Reddy said when choosing an unconventional career, setbacks were bound to happen.

“Setbacks are part of the journey. I have learned to treat rejection not as defeat, but as redirection. One mistake I made early on was trying to do everything myself. I learned that empowering a good team is not just smart, it is essential. Today, I thrive on collaboration and trust in the strength of those around me. What is important is to never give up. 

“A prime example is my R5 billion Oceans Development. Despite several setbacks, like two contractors being liquidated and contractual delays due to the Covid-19 uprising, I still overcame all that to create the largest new mixed used development in South Africa.”

He said when you choose a path to walk, you should always see it through. 

“There were moments when the challenges felt overwhelming. But what kept me going was a sense of purpose. I wasn’t just building a business for myself; I was building hope for others. Knowing that people were depending on me gave me the strength to push forward. What’s important in life is to persevere and never ever give up.”

Reddy said he owed his success to being disciplined, grateful, and focused, which everyone who was choosing a path less walked, should remember.  

“I start each day early, with time for reflection and planning. I also make a conscious effort to stay connected to people because relationships are the foundation of lasting success. I believe in showing up, being present, and delivering consistently.

“Start with purpose, stay humble, and be relentless in your pursuit. Don’t fear failure. It is part of the journey. Build something that adds value, stay true to your word, and never forget to uplift others as you rise. Success is sweeter when it’s shared.”

He hopes his legacy reflects that business can be a force for good.

“That it is possible to achieve great success while creating opportunity, empowering communities, and giving back. I want to be remembered not just as a businessman, but as someone who made a meaningful difference. When it’s time for me to leave this earth, I want to leave with a good conscience knowing I did my best to make South Africa a better place,” said Reddy. 

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