Growing up on a Karoo farm that has been in his family since 1875 gave Roelof Lategan the opportunity to roam freely in the veld and enjoy a fulfilling life close to nature – moulding him perfectly for his role as a financial entrepreneur, CEO and sole shareholder of Aquarius Capital. “I’m simply not a corporate animal,” he says in no uncertain terms.

Nothing makes him happier than being able to assist a wide range of clients to obtain the corporate financing and funding advice they need to succeed, which translates into a positive contribution to the welfare of South Africa. “To make a difference in this country, to create and help retain jobs, has always – and will continue to be – our vision,” he emphasises.

Lategan’s philanthropic inclination goes beyond just helping clients – he also assists with the school fees and various other needs of his Karoo farm workers’ children, giving them the opportunity for a brighter future.

After completing his studies at the University of Pretoria and shortly after finishing his articles at a local auditing firm, he decided to go solo and established Aquarius Capital and he has never looked back. Lategan has more than 25 years’ experience in the highly specialised field of corporate financing and a long list of successful transactions in many industries under his belt, and he has grown Aquarius Capital into a successful company that focuses on transactions of between R30 million and R1 billion. “I prefer that development – job creation or expansion – forms part of the transaction,” he adds. “This way there is a higher probability of sustainable success and contribution to society as a whole.”

Personal and professional services remain his compass. “I have concluded many transactions and have vast experience in this field. For every meeting with a client, I avail myself within a day or two, anywhere in the country. You simply cannot leave a client who has a funding need of R500 million in the hands of just anyone. In addition, great care is taken to keep all information strictly confidential.

“We ‘play’ hard, but we play according to the rules; we are ethical. I believe we are making a difference. We do what we undertake to do – and stick to our agreements. The fact that Aquarius Capital has been in existence for over 20 years is proof of a sustainable business plan. Our varied and sought-after clients and long list of successful transactions are personal highlights.” While South Africa, like all emerging countries, has its fair share of problems, Lategan firmly believes it has the potential to overcome them. He is here to stay, committed to continue doing his bit to make South Africa a powerhouse on the African continent – and a better place for all.