Riyaadh Vally’s journey as a dispute resolution official has been anything but a series of unfortunate events. In fact, his path has been marked by a mix of resilience, creativity, and a knack for finding solutions, no matter how complex the situation – all qualities that would have served him well as a character in his favourite book series, A Series of Unfortunate Events. Growing up in Benoni, Riyaadh learned from his mother the value of hard work and thinking beyond the immediate challenges, or, as she would say, “thinking further than his nose.” These early lessons would prove invaluable as he pursued a career in law, a field where foresight and perseverance are essential.
After completing his studies at the University of Johannesburg, Riyaadh found himself drawn to labour law, captivated by the way it allowed him to untangle complex disputes and fight for fairness in the workplace. The ever-changing nature of labour law keeps him engaged, constantly challenging him to adapt and think creatively. Joining the Consolidated Employers’ Organisation felt like a natural fit; the organisation’s wide-ranging support for employers across industries aligns perfectly with his approach to tackling diverse and complex issues.
Friends and colleagues would describe Riyaadh as calm under pressure, a trait that lets him break down complicated issues to their core elements, helping him simplify and solve them efficiently. His ability to “think outside the box” reflects the same resourcefulness that defines his favourite characters in A Series of Unfortunate Events. But unlike the unfortunate Baudelaire orphans, Riyaadh has had a knack for turning tricky situations into positive outcomes.
Riyaadh’s proudest accomplishment is earning his master’s degree in labour law, a testament to his commitment to mastering his field and providing quality support to employers. Outside of work, he enjoys the simple things – spending time with his pets, playing pool with friends, and enjoying a good cheddar melt steak at Spur. His vision for the future is a warm one: a large table surrounded by family, good food, and the comfort of home.
For Riyaadh, every challenge in labour law is just another “unfortunate event” to overcome – and with his calm demeanour, dedication, and unique problem-solving skills, he’s well-equipped to navigate each one.