Young entrepreneur Zareef Minty shares the different loves that define his life including the thrill of entrepreneurship and the joy of his recent marriage.
He reflects on how these passions drive him to succeed and live life to the fullest.
The power of love can be explored in many forms – whether it’s the devotion that fuels a thriving business, the bond shared with a life partner or the passion that drives us to pursue our dreams. Meyersdal’s Zareef Minty embodies this perfect blend of ambition and affection. Recently married and at the centre of a rapidly growing business, he’s carving out a unique path that balances the love for his work with the joy of his personal life.
A foundation of love and support
Minty grew up in the North West province, in a small town called Klerksdorp. For the young businessman, the biggest issue with Klerksdorp is that it epitomises the concept of a system.
He highlights: ‘People are born, they go to school, get a job, get married, have kids and die.
‘My family life was good and I had the emotional support of my family behind me. I ensured I worked hard to get out of the system. I would travel most weekends to Johannesburg to network and meet potential mentors.’
Love played a foundational role in Minty’s upbringing and deeply influenced the person he is today. ‘Growing up, my family placed a strong emphasis on mutual respect and support, which taught me the importance of building meaningful connections with others. My parents led by example, always encouraging open communication and showing unconditional love even during challenging times,’ he shares.
One specific example that stands out for this entrepreneur is how his family celebrated his small achievements just as much as the big ones. Whether it was excelling in school or showing kindness to someone, they always made him feel valued and supported. ‘This instilled in me a strong sense of self-worth and a belief in the power of uplifting others,’ emphasises Minty.
‘That foundation of love and support shaped how I approach my personal and professional life today. I strive to lead with empathy, foster collaborative environments and build relationships based on trust and values that I attribute to the love I experienced growing up,’ he added.
Joys of newly wed life
Minty recently tied the knot with Taskeen, his rock, partner and the love of his life. ‘She brings out the best in me, not only as a person but also as a leader and entrepreneur,’ says Minty.
He highlights how having his wife by his side is one of the greatest blessings he could ever ask for. ‘She has this incredible way of grounding me when life feels overwhelming and pushing me forward when I need motivation.’
One of the things that Minty loves most about Taskeen is her unwavering support. No matter what challenges come their way, she’s always there with encouragement, thoughtful advice and a sense of calm that keeps the entrepreneur steady. ‘Her belief in me is what gives me the strength to take on big dreams, knowing she’ll be there through it all,’ says Minty.
He adds: ‘Our partnership extends beyond love. It’s also deeply rooted in shared values and goals. We work together, dream together and grow together, both in our personal lives and in business.
‘Taskeen has a sharp mind and a creative energy that constantly inspires me, whether it’s brainstorming new ideas or approaching a challenge from a fresh perspective.’
What Minty cherishes most is the way they laugh and enjoy life together. In the midst of busy schedules and big ambitions, Taskeen reminds him to pause, appreciate the moment and celebrate even the smallest victories.
‘She’s not just my partner; she’s my best friend and my greatest source of joy. With Taskeen, I feel like I can conquer anything. She’s my biggest cheerleader and my greatest inspiration, and I’m endlessly grateful for the love and partnership we share,’ expresses Minty.
Love comes in many forms
For Minty, gratitude isn’t just a feeling – it’s a way of life. He truly believes that everything begins with an attitude of thankfulness. ‘Gratitude fuels my passion, keeps me grounded and inspires every step of my journey. When I start each day with gratitude, I’m reminded of how far I’ve come and all the blessings I already have.’
This way of life has been the driving force behind the entrepreneurs’ resilience and positivity. ‘In both my personal and professional life, I make it a habit to reflect on the moments, big and small, that bring joy and fulfilment,’ says Minty.
Among the many things, Minty has a love for Padel. It has become one of his greatest passions and a much-needed escape from the fast-paced life he lives.
‘It’s more than just a sport for me. It’s a way to stay active, clear my mind and connect with people who share the same love for the game. Playing Padel has also taught Minty a lot about discipline and balance. ‘The sport demands quick thinking, adaptability and endurance – qualities I strive to carry into my personal and professional life. It’s my go-to for recharging after a busy week, and every game leaves me feeling refreshed and motivated.’
Additionally, Minty shares a profound love for the Chelsea Football Club. The football club has been a part of his life for as long as he can remember. ‘I started supporting the Blues when I was just 10 years old, and now, 20 years later, my passion for the club has only grown stronger. It’s not just about watching football for me – it’s about being part of something bigger, a global family of fans who share the same unwavering love for the team,’ expresses the Chelsea fan.
Supporting Chelsea has taught Minty valuable lessons in loyalty and patience. ‘Football isn’t always about winning; it’s about sticking with your team through the highs and lows. Whether we’re lifting trophies or facing tough seasons, my love for Chelsea never wavers,’ he adds.
The heartbeat of his journey
‘Mentorship is one of the most fulfilling and transformative aspects of my life,’ says Minty. ‘I have a deep passion for mentoring the youth, helping them uncover their potential and guiding them toward achieving their goals.
‘There’s something incredibly rewarding about seeing someone grow, gain confidence and take bold steps because of the advice or encouragement I’ve shared. I believe that mentorship is a ripple effect when you empower one person, they carry that strength forward and impact others.’
But mentorship isn’t a one-way street for the zealous entrepreneur. As much as he loves mentoring, he also values being mentored by some of the most successful business leaders in the world.
‘Mentorship is about giving and receiving, it’s about being part of a larger network of learning and development. It’s a way to leave a legacy while continuously evolving, and I’m grateful for the role it plays in my life,’ he adds.
Minty also loves giving back. For him, giving back isn’t just an act of kindness it’s a responsibility and a privilege. He believes that success is most meaningful when it’s used to uplift others.
‘Ultimately, giving back is a way to show gratitude for the journey I’ve been on and to honour those who’ve helped me along the way. It’s about leaving the world better than I found it and ensuring that the next generation has the tools, resources and support to thrive.’
Travelling also happens to be one of Minty’s greatest passions, and it holds a special place in his life for many reasons.
‘It’s more than just visiting new places, it’s about expanding my perspective and experiencing the world in ways that fuel both my personal and professional growth. One of the things I love most about travelling is how it opens my mind to new business ideas.
‘I’ve found inspiration in the bustling markets of Dubai, the tech hubs of Silicon Valley, and even in small, quiet towns where entrepreneurs are solving problems in unique ways.’
Minty adds: ‘At the same time, travelling gives me the chance to switch off, recharge, and refocus. Life can be incredibly demanding, and sometimes the best way to gain clarity is by stepping away from the routine. It’s in the moments of stillness and exploration that I often find my best ideas and deepest motivation.’
Follow your heart
In a world where so much is fleeting, his journey is proof that when you pour love into what you do, it’s not just about building a business – it’s about building a legacy. Minty is a shining example of how passion, purpose and love can drive both personal and professional success and his story underscores the power of love as a guiding force in life.