Through My Eyes

So twelve years ago Wim Sak arrived in Durban on a business trip and, while discussing the sweet trade, he was introduced to the "Monaco of South Africa" - the North Coast.

Wim told me later that he really fell in love with our piece of paradise. He was shown a few sugarcane farms still under cultivation but he saw the potential straight away, he returned to Belgium and announced to his family and friends that he was moving Southway down South to the far off, bottom edge of Africa.

With him, Wim brought, his beautiful wife Olivia and a few powerful investors. People he knew would benefit from this once in a lifetime development opportunity.

Palm Lakes Estate took its first breath in 2005 and things were going really well. Wim's natural forceful nature allowed him to negotiate and conclude deals with local authority and government officials - it was miraculous to see how this Belgian 'Giant' could sway the towers of power in his favour.

He was soon meeting influential South African investors and the first homes were slowly coming out of the ground. At this time the Sak family was also growing with the birth of their daughter Amelie. Things were perfect.

And then came the Big Bang of 2008. Locally it meant that banks clamped down on credit, which meant that buying property was out of reach for people that were perfect candidates for Palm Lakes Estate living. And so the great uphill trek begun, not just for the Palm Lakes Estate but also for the entire building industry.

We all suffered and some were even on the brink of financial ruin, however this did not stop this beautiful Belgian couple, and with the firm support of their investors and the banks, they made a formidable team that produced solutions to every problem they faced.

Today the Palm Lakes Estate is one of the best selling estates in KZN. Reasonably priced and perfectly positioned just minutes from the international airport and from first class shopping centres. With their own school, clubhouse and a growing community of happy homeowners, Wim and Olivia can take a step back and enjoy the fruits of their labour while they look back on the incredible success that this development is today.

Wim and Olivia have displayed a level of generosity and humanity towards everyone that came in contact with them. They continue to support local communities and initiatives. They continue to give open heartedly to those in need.

Thank you Wim and Olivia for giving me the opportunity to share your vision and your success. Thank you for your friendship and your continued love. I wish you both all the recognition and continued realisations of your dreams.