Began work as an independent research consultant – focused on developing theories and models, specifically related to South Africa’s economic transformation. Key projects included – industrial models for Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment; transition of the Motor-Industry Development Plan – models and recommendations; Incentives for Localisation; port expansion theories for Durban & Richards Bay and Feasibility Assessments for Special Economic Zones (including the Dube Tradeport).
Impact Through Purpose
We believe that true success is measured by the positive impact we create – increased value for our corporate clients, and improved wellbeing for the communities we serve. We strive to create value, uplift communities, drive meaningful change, and leave the world better than we found it.
Collaboration & Connection
We value authentic relationships built on trust, respect, and shared purpose. We believe that the greatest outcomes arise from collective effort and diverse perspectives.
Courageous Leadership
We lead with integrity, authenticity, and fearless commitment to doing what is right. We empower others to see challenges as opportunities and embrace change with optimism.
Insight-Driven Action
We believe in the power of knowledge and understanding. We make decisions and recommendations based on research, experience, and thoughtful reflection, ensuring meaningful and lasting impact.
Sustainability & Stewardship
We care deeply about the planet and its people. We are committed to solutions that create value for both business and society, leaving a legacy of sustainability and shared prosperity.
Visionary Thinking
We embrace curiosity, innovation, and bold ideas. We challenge conventional thinking and push boundaries to create new opportunities for growth and progress.
Integrity Above All
We stand by our principles, act with honesty, and do what is right—even when it’s difficult.
Empowering Others
We believe in the power of people and their potential. We invest in developing leaders, uplifting voices, and helping others achieve their goals.
OurPurpose
We catalyse projects that accelerate systemic change, driving a more equitable and sustainable socio-economic landscape for all. 
empowers those daring to reshape the global economy. Whether you're revolutionising systems from within, by building socially conscious businesses that redefine industry standards, or disrupting the status quo entirely, we're here to fuel your vision.
empowers those daring to reshape the global economy. Whether you're revolutionising systems from within, by building socially conscious businesses that redefine industry standards, or disrupting the status quo entirely, we're here to fuel your vision.
OurHistory
Launched Advisory Services focused on enabling the Construction and Manufacturing sectors. Launched Local Supplier Development Offering – with a focus on supply chain expansion, diversification, and inclusion – through targeted development initiatives.
Launched KD STRATEGIES Brand. Launched an industrial cluster and capacitation initiative – particularly for the clothing and textile industry.
Launched our B-BBEE Strategy Advisory Offering – specifically targeting multinationals, laying the foundation for the “Future Focused” business growth model.
Launched our Integrated Sustainability Offering – specifically supporting Corporates to reimagine their “Social Licence to Operate” and “Corporate Social Investment” initiatives as a mechanism of enhancing Company and/or Project Value through intelligent design and the separation of activities. Launched numerous Corporate Foundations on behalf of our clients.
Incorporated KD STRATEGIES as a private company. Launched Public-Private Partnership and Green Economy Support initiatives – with emphasis on models for localisation and local economic development, particularly in the Renewable Energy and Waste Management sectors.
Launched Socio-Economic Scoping offering – focused on strategic community-level research, supporting the development process of large scale infrastructure projects – laying the foundation for the current “Emerging Dynamics” service suite.
Launched Local Economic Development Due Diligence offering – focused on transaction support in the Financial Services, Mining and Renewable Energy industries.
Partnered with Women Energy Connect NPC – to establish a platform connecting women and under-represented individuals in the Energy Sector. Launched the first annual Mentorship Programme.
Launched Bid-Preparation Support Services – supporting the Renewable Energy Industry in developing, preparing and submitting competitive bids for REIPPP and associated initiatives. Expanded offering to include projects outside of the Renewable Energy Industry.
Awarded the Accenture/Business Engage Gender Mainstreaming Awards in the “Inclusive Leadership” and “Positive Role Model” categories.
KD STRATEGIES received the MEA Markets African Excellence Aware for Most Transformative Business; and South African National Development Initiative’s (SANEDI) Women in Energy Award.
KD STRATEGIES received the MEA Markets African Excellence Award for Most Impactful Strategic & Operational Support Company.
About OurFounder
Kalnisha Singh is a Development Economist, Strategic Industrial and Economic Transformation Specialist.
Kalnisha started her career in the fields of industrial and economic efficiency – advising on the design of policy and incentives; as well leading teams that implemented industrial development models in South Africa, and abroad.
Her career currently spans the impact, transformation and sustainability segments – consulting to and implementing projects on behalf of the Financial, Mining, Renewable Energy Sectors and other key sectors in the South African economy.
Kalnisha is passionate about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion – with a particular interest in discussing concepts of (African) identity, intrinsic bias and gender mainstreaming. She is also vocal about her position on rethinking economic models that serve Africa, as well as the benefits of transformative thought to drive development outcomes.
- 2003: Nelson Mandela Economic Scholarship
- 2016: Independent News Young Independents’ Top 100 Influencers.
- 2022: CSRNews Top 12 leaders in CSI
- 2022: Accenture/Business Engage Gender Mainstreaming Awards – Positive Role Model
- 2022: Accenture/Business Engage Gender Mainstreaming Awards – Inclusive Leader
- 2023: MEA Markets African Excellence Awards – Most Transformative Business
- 2023: South African National Energy Development Initiative – Women In Energy Award
- 2024: MEA Markets African Excellence Awards – Most Impactful Strategic & Operational Support Company 2024
Find Us Here
2nd Floor, West Tower,
Nelson Mandela Square,
Maude Street, Sandton,
South Africa
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