Qualifications
- MPhil in Development Finance, University of Stellenbosch, Cape Town, SA
- Post Graduate Diploma in Development Finance, University of Stellenbosch, Cape Town, SA
- Executive MBA, Quantic School of Business & Technology, Washington DC, USA
- Diploma in Business Management, Damelin Management School, Cape Town, SA
- Executive Development Programme, University of Stellenbosch, Cape Town, SA
- Bachelor of Social Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, SA
Year Appointed
2026
Committee Memberships
- Projects Committee
- Human Capital and Social & Ethics Committee
Other Directorships/Trusteeships
- CEO & Director of UCT Foods Services (Pty)t/a Food and Connect, South Africa
- Director of Fresh Harvest International (Pty) Ltd, South Africa
- Director of Fine Food Initiative NPC
Skills, Expertise and Experience
Mr Nazeem Sterras brings more than two decades of executive leadership experience across the agribusiness sector, spanning both the private and public spheres. His career includes senior roles with organisations such as Food and Connect, the Western Cape Fine Food Initiative (WCFFI), ECI Africa and Capespan, as well as advisory and implementation work with institutions including the Dubai government’s Dubai Future Foundation, US Department of Commerce, the Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism, the Department of Agriculture, CBI and the International Trade Centre.
Widely regarded as an expert in market access and enterprise development, Mr Sterras has spent over a decade providing technical advisory support to SMMEs, with a focus on market entry strategies, international trade compliance, certifications, food safety standards and buyer requirements across key global markets, including the UK, EU, Middle East, China and Africa. He played a pivotal role in designing and implementing Capespan’s BEE land reform strategy under the internationally acclaimed Thandi Initiative, later adopted by the IFC and World Bank, and has led large-scale agricultural and agro-processing projects, including the Halal Industrial Park feasibility study.
Mr Sterras has served extensively on boards, advisory panels and investment committees, contributing strategic oversight to both public and private initiatives. His appointment to the Casidra Board of Directors adds deep expertise in agribusiness strategy, transformation, project governance and inclusive economic development.