There’s no substitute for doing the right thing

“One of the most important things I’ve learnt is that there are two paths in life. The first is the quick, easy way, with benefits that seldom last. The second takes longer and is often difficult, but it’s the right way.”

Two major forces have shaped Udesh Singh’s journey, helping him become one of Medihelp’s most respected brokers. The first was a car accident that unexpectedly set him on a new path. “I was working as a tradesman at the time,” he recalls. “I injured my neck and back quite badly, and because I didn’t have medical aid, I was nearly taken to a state hospital. Fortunately, my brother arrived at the scene and, thanks to his generosity, I was taken to a private hospital. The experience made me realise how important it is to have medical aid.”

When a family member in the industry later offered to help him establish himself as a broker, Udesh didn’t hesitate to seize the opportunity.

A humble start

Getting started was no easy feat. Udesh had no contacts and no car, which meant relying on taxis to get to meetings. But he had an invaluable supporter: his friend, the late Dr KC Daveraj, who lent him his car, let him use his home as an office, and even introduced him to one of his patients, who became Udesh’s very first client.

Within a year, Udesh had built a base of more than 700 clients – many of whom had been referred by his community and, significantly, Divine Life, an NGO where he had volunteered for many years.

Guided by purpose

Divine Life became the second defining influence in Udesh’s life, instilling in him the belief that there is no substitute for doing the right thing. “Divine Life taught me that work isn’t just about money. We do things selflessly, not because we expect gratitude, but out of love and a passion for helping others.”

That principle continues to guide him today. When a tornado struck Tongaat, KwaZulu-Natal, destroying several homes and buildings, Udesh and friends Pradeep Ramlall and Satchi Naidoo stepped in to help rebuild houses. The project was run by Hindasa, another NGO Udesh supports as a volunteer.

The heart of his success

It’s not only his selflessness that has led to Udesh’s success, however. He says although sales was never his strong suit, he is very much a people person. And he’s a good listener. “If you’re patient and you take the time to listen, you come to understand people. And when you understand them, you can tailor solutions that truly meet their needs.”

His attention to detail and commitment to service excellence have built his reputation as a broker. “When I started out, I had a simple model: focus on just 10 clients and give them the best possible service. Those 10 would refer 10 more, who would do the same – and that’s how my business would grow.” The plan worked out, and today, Udesh enjoys a thriving book.

The value of support

Udesh credits Medihelp for playing a key role in his growth. “Medihelp was the first scheme to offer me a contract, which is why I’ll always be loyal. But it isn’t about blind loyalty – I have seen this scheme support its members in a way few other schemes do. That’s what earned my trust and commitment.”

That commitment drives him to keep giving his clients his very best, while continuing his community work and support for projects that are close to his heart.

Words of wisdom

Udesh’s advice for aspiring brokers?

“This is a tough industry. It’s hard to build a book and even harder to maintain it, but if you stay the course, the rewards are worth it. That’s how you build a career with real meaning.”

If you’d like to get in touch with Udesh, you can email him at admin@sudacinfo.co.za.

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Written for Medihelp by Lisa Witepski