09/07/2026
What if the biggest opportunity of your career wasn't in the obvious place?
For many people, success means chasing opportunities where everyone else is looking. But for Jeff Zidel, success came from doing the exact opposite.
In the latest episode of the ORT Jet Business Show on 101.9 Chai FM, Jeff shares the remarkable story of how a willingness to take a different road shaped more than five decades of success in retail property and entrepreneurship.
While many developers focused on major cities and established markets, Jeff saw potential where others didn't. Those early morning drives to Lesotho weren't just long journeys, they were the beginning of an extraordinary chapter that would see him develop 10 shopping centres in a market many had overlooked.
His story didn't stop there.
Jeff went on to help grow Nando's from just four restaurants to 120 locations, co-founded Resilient, one of South Africa's leading listed property funds, and represented Africa on the World Board of the International Council of Shopping Centres. Yet throughout the conversation, one thing becomes abundantly clear: his greatest strength wasn't luck or timing, it was his ability to recognise opportunity where others saw obstacles.
One of the most powerful moments from the interview came when Jeff shared a lesson that has guided him throughout his career:
"The low-hanging fruit has always been there. You just have to be willing to leave the office to find it."
His philosophy is refreshingly simple:
✔ Build meaningful partnerships.
✔ Never burn bridges.
✔ Stay focused on your goals.
✔ Embrace change.
✔ Don't waste energy worrying about things you can't control.
These aren't just principles for business—they're lessons for life.
Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or simply looking for inspiration to take your next step, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.
🎥 Watch the full episode and let us know your biggest takeaway.
💬 We'd love to hear from you: What's one opportunity you've discovered because you were willing to go where others wouldn't?
David Zinzan Zidel
