From early mornings with his kids to managing daily security operations, Vernon van der Westhuizen balances family life with the demands of a 24/7 industry. With a strong belief in community partnerships and attention to detail, he’s built a career grounded in commitment and consistency.
Vernon van der Westhuizen, Managing Director at Bloemsec, entered the security industry eight years ago through a business relationship with the Thomas family, who later offered him shares in the company. “We met through other business dealings and developed a relationship over time. After a few meetings, they offered me shares. I took up the offer and haven’t looked back since,” he said.
Van der Westhuizen says the motivation behind his work comes from protecting people, not just property. “Most people think we’re here to protect their belongings, but the real value lies in keeping families safe,” he said. “That’s the core of our job.”
Having worked in Bloemfontein’s business environment for over a decade, he says the most important lesson he has learned is the value of strong local networks. “If you can build a close-knit network and invest in those relationships, you’re already a long way toward succeeding in business,” he said.
When asked about how he defines success, Van der Westhuizen draws a line between personal and professional goals. “On a personal level, success means that my wife and children will one day be able to continue the business and say I gave it everything. Professionally, success is when the business supports your life – not the other way around. That only happens if you have the right people in the right positions.”
Van der Westhuizen describes his professional path as shaped more by determination than by external support. “I didn’t come from a family with financial backing or inherited wealth,” he said. “Hard work was the key to progressing in business.”
A typical day for him begins at 05:00, preparing lunchboxes and doing the school drop-off before heading to the office. “In our industry, you manage each day as it comes. Issues emerge that require your attention, and the day usually dictates where your focus goes,” he explained. Afternoons are spent at the hockey field with his children, and evenings are kept for family time.
His advice to those looking to enter the security sector is direct: “Start at the bottom. This industry demands attention to detail. It operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You need to be prepared for that level of commitment.”
Balancing business and personal life, he credits his wife of 21 years as a key support figure. “She takes care of family responsibilities when work requires my attention. We also have excellent staff, which makes it easier to manage both sides.”
Community engagement is also a practical component of Bloemsec’s operations. “We work with neighbourhood associations, community groups, and watch programmes. The community serves as our eyes and ears on the ground.”
Van der Westhuizen originally aspired to be a professional golfer. “That was the childhood dream,” he said. “Today, I’m a business owner and a father.” He also has a few personal hobbies people may not expect: He’s an avid padel player, collects Lego, and enjoys food culture.
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Text: JUSTINE FORTUIN / Photograph: SUPPLIED
