Marlon Parker, co-founder of Reconstructed Living Lab (RLabs) has been named Business Leader of the Year at the recent GQ Men of the Year Awards, held in Johannesburg on Sunday December 8.
GQ Men of Year Awards recognises the most outstanding individuals in a given year — those who invest their influence in positively shaping the social landscapes around them, including business leaders, sportsmen and media personalities.
RLabs is a global social enterprise that has impacted more than 10 million people across 25 countries in its 15 years of existence. Mr Parker and his wife Rene founded RLabs in 2009, through which they have transformed the lives of individuals and communities.
“I was quite stunned with this award. Thank you to GQ and thank you to Old Mutual for nominating me. But also to my beautiful wife and to our amazing team at RLabs, who have put their blood sweat, and tears into building a movement that we believe can change lives,” he said shortly after winning the accolade.
Mr Parker the reward is a reminder not to despise the days of small beginnings.
“At RLabs, our focus has never been on accolades but on the transformative power of seeing lives changed. This recognition serves as a reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness and hope, whether acknowledged or not, can create an impact far greater than we could ever imagine.
“Who would have thought a small act of kindness and teaching young people digital skills in 2009 will fifteen years later lead to a global movement impacting millions of lives across 24 countries. Therefore, we never despise small beginnings,” he said.
Mr Parker’s business and leadership journey has not been without several derailments and bumps in the road.
“One of the toughest lessons I’ve learned is to not let the disappointments of today become the barriers of tomorrow. A pivotal moment was when we were evicted from one of our spaces during the pandemic in 2020, despite having been there for over 11 years and keeping our rent up to date.
“It was an unexpected and challenging experience, but instead of letting anger and frustration consume us, we chose to see it as a lesson.
“That moment inspired us to focus on building our own assets, ensuring that we would never be in a vulnerable position like that again. It taught me resilience, the importance of ownership, and how to turn setbacks into opportunities for growth,” he explained.
Mr Parker said while he is honoured to receive the award, it would not have been possible without the contributions of many others.
“The real heroes are the individuals who have profoundly shaped my journey and whose shoulders I’ve been fortunate to stand on. Their impact and contributions are the foundation of this recognition.
“I was deeply inspired by remarkable individuals like Dr Roger Petersen and Dr Jenny Petersen, who taught me the true essence of leadership: serving others. Their example shaped my understanding that the greatest act of business is service to others and faith in God.
“Another inspiration is my mother, Norma Parenzee. While raising me on the Cape Flats, she showed me the true meaning of hope. It is her resilience and unwavering belief in a better future that inspired me to see the potential even in difficult circumstances.
“Their lessons instilled in me the belief that the greatest act of business is service to others, creating opportunities for transformation and growth,” he said.
Becoming a businessman was is not a path Mr Parker sought out deliberately.
“Becoming a businessman or leader wasn’t something I dreamed of or aspired to growing up. It’s a journey I found myself on by God’s grace,” he said, adding that he first became aware of his ability to change lives through a simple act of kindness.
“Our very existence is to make a difference in someone else’s life. My first experience of this was when my grandmother asked me to share some of our food with someone who had none. Although we had very little ourselves, she taught me a profound lesson: it’s not about how much you have, but about being willing to use what you have to make a difference.
“That moment showed me that it’s not the size of the action, but the willingness to act that can create meaningful change in the lives of others,” he said.
So what can young aspiring entrepreneurs and change-makers take away from his accolade and journey?
“Focus on your journey and build something that is greater than yourself, something rooted in purpose and driven by impact. Let your path be guided by perseverance, focus, and a commitment to leading with love.
“No matter where you come from or what challenges you face, know that anything is possible when you believe in your vision, stay resilient, and remain true to your purpose,” Mr Parker added.
