Shawn Classen: A Visionary Leader Driving Innovation and Sustainability in the Solar Energy Sector

Africa's 10 Most Empowering Business Leaders to Follow in 2025

Shawn Classen is the Managing Director of K2 Solar Mounting Solutions Pty LTD, Southern Africa, where he leads the company’s strategic vision and drives innovation in the renewable energy sector. With a focus on sustainable growth and operational excellence, Shawn is committed to empowering his team and impacting the future of solar energy.

From Humble Beginnings to Global Leadership 

Shawn began in Cape Town with 4 a.m. newspaper deliveries at 11 years old. This early exposure to hard work laid the foundation for a career defined by ambition and dedication. Between the ages of 16 and 19, he balanced jobs in the fashion industry while doing his military service in the SA Navy Submarine Unit.

After completing his service, Shawn headed up the Sports section, while later joining a young team in the opening of a flagship store in Cape Town’s Waterfront. While studying Retail Business Management, he discovered a newfound passion for IT. This led to a position with a retail chain of IT stores, where he quickly rose from sales to buyer in 3 months. As his career progressed, he moved to a rival company to take on store development and construction, eventually becoming General Manager by 24.

Shawn then shifted into IT distribution, serving as Regional Manager for the Western, Northern, and Eastern Cape. He recognised the need for alternative building methods in Africa during this time. As this was more of a hobby, his passion led him to teach cost-effective construction techniques across specific African sectors, dealing with the construction mafia, fighting with banks and realising it was time to pass his passion on. Though still in its infancy, his initiative has remained successful, with many homes still standing strong today lead by Barry Lewis.

In 2011, Shawn’s path diverged into the electrical industry, where he became a partner in an electrical business. His expertise soon brought him to an electrical wholesaler, where he was part of their lighting team. His work in solar power followed, securing an exclusive contract for a world-class solar mounting system.

“From delivering newspapers at 11 to leading solar solutions all over Africa, every step has been driven by purpose.”

Overcoming Challenges with Adaptability and Resilience  

Shawn Classen’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2017 when he started K2 Solar Mounting Solutions in South Africa’s emerging solar market. Establishing a foothold in a nascent industry requires perseverance, quality-focused operations, and strong relationships. “We had to prove our value,” Shawn recalls, that word-of-mouth became crucial for building the company’s reputation.

The arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges, disrupting supply chains and daily operations. Shawn responded with strategic adaptability, diversifying suppliers, introducing flexible work arrangements, and maintaining open lines of communication with his team and customers. “Adaptability was key to staying afloat,” he explains.  Keep your customers at the centre of your business.

As the business expanded, scaling operations while preserving quality demanded significant investment in staff training and technology upgrades. Amid these professional demands, Shawn faced personal challenges, balancing work and personal life. He credits his practice of hand-to-hand combat training with keeping him active and mentally refreshed. “It became my way to contribute to the community,” he shares.

Building a cohesive, motivated team has been another cornerstone of Shawn’s success. He created a high-performing workforce by fostering trust, prioritising open communication, and encouraging staff development. Today, Shawn leads his team at  K2 Solar Mounting Solutions across South Africa, Madagascar, and Mauritius. His work, alongside Alexa Nagel and his Mentor, Kai Schuebel and the international sales team. He mentions that he has been privileged to have an inspiring CEO like Katharina Davids, whose support in helping him grow the business has been essential. She has taken the company from one entity to being strong in 130 countries.

Reflecting on the company’s growth, Shawn credits the collective effort of his team and their shared commitment to innovation and sustainability. “It’s a story of growth, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence,” he reflects. From overcoming early skepticism to navigating global disruptions, Shawn continues to shape the future of solar energy, driving K2’s mission to deliver sustainable solutions across Africa and beyond.  Their focus lies in producing products that are fast and efficient to install, supported by their digital platform, which changes the way solar PV installations are planned.

“Through resilience, we didn’t just survive — we thrived.” 

Guiding Principles for Leadership and Growth 

Shawn’s career has been shaped by a deep commitment to helping his team grow and succeed. His approach to leadership is grounded in the belief that true leaders guide and support their staff rather than micromanage them. This philosophy fosters a positive work environment, encouraging innovation and boosting productivity.

“I trust my team and give them the freedom to make decisions,” Shawn says. This trust empowers his staff, building their confidence and encouraging independent, creative thinking.

Shawn views himself as a mentor, offering guidance when necessary and allowing his team to learn from their own experiences. This balance between support and independence is crucial in developing self-reliance and skills within his team.

A strong advocate for continuous learning, Shawn prioritizes professional development, encouraging his team to attend events and training sessions. “By investing in their growth, I ensure they stay motivated and updated with the latest knowledge and skills,” he explains.  This is important when talking to various stakeholders in the trade, helping to understand their role in the customer’s business.

Open communication is a cornerstone of Shawn’s leadership style. He listens to his team’s ideas and feedback, creating a collaborative environment where everyone feels valued. He also upholds the principle of recognising and celebrating achievements. “It boosts morale and reinforces the positive behaviours we strive for,” he notes.

In line with his values, Shawn organizes annual team retreats to reflect on the previous year, build camaraderie, and plan for future challenges.

“Leadership is not about being in charge. It’s about taking care of the people in your charge.” – Simon Sinek.

Driving Vision, Quality, and Responsibility 

As Managing Director at K2 Solar Mounting Solutions, Shawn leads the company’s strategic vision in Southern Africa, keeping it aligned with the CEO’s Vision and ensuring its mission and long-term goals are met. “It’s about steering the company toward success while staying true to our principles.”

He manages daily operations, optimizes processes, and ensures quality in a competitive market. “We compete by prioritizing quality over inferior alternatives,” he says. Financially, Shawn oversees budgeting, cash flow, and investments to ensure stability and growth.

Shawn builds a skilled team, fosters an inclusive work environment, and nurtures client relationships to drive satisfaction and business growth. He stays ahead of industry trends, embracing innovation to maintain a competitive edge. “Innovation ensures we stay competitive in a constantly evolving market.”

He prioritises compliance, risk management, and sustainability, safeguarding the company’s reputation while promoting eco-friendly practices.

“Small mistakes could cost lives.”

Fostering Motivation and Alignment through Support and Communication 

Shawn leads by fostering open communication, encouraging transparency about challenges, and ensuring team members feel heard. “Regular check-ins help everyone feel supported and valued,” he explains. By maintaining empathy, he acknowledges his team’s struggles and offers flexible arrangements or mental health resources when needed.

Shawn keeps his team focused by setting achievable goals and breaking down larger tasks into smaller milestones to create a sense of accomplishment. “Celebrating even minor achievements boosts morale and reminds everyone of their contributions,” he notes. He prioritizes collaboration, creating opportunities for in-person or virtual team-building to strengthen bonds and improve morale.

He also emphasises continuous growth, offering training and development to motivate the team. Shawn encourages work-life balance, recognizing that well-rested employees are more productive. “A positive attitude can inspire your team to adopt a similar mindset,” he adds.

“It’s about celebrating growth and building a supportive, collaborative environment.”

Balancing Passion, Leadership, and Well-Being 

Shawn has learned to balance the demands of being Managing Director of K2 Solar Mounting Solutions with his personal life and passions. Early in his career, long hours often meant sacrificing personal time, but he now prioritizes a balance that allows him to thrive professionally and personally.

  • Set Clear Boundaries: Shawn starts his day with a 5:00 AM beach walk and physical exercise, which helps him stay fit and energized. “A good morning routine sets the tone for the day,” he says. He also fasts until 2 PM, keeping his mornings simple with a shake.
  • Prioritize Self-Care: Hand-to-hand combat training, which empowers women against violence, helps Shawn stay active and passionate about a cause. “It keeps me physically and mentally sharp,” he explains. He also mentions that acupuncture is a great way to manage stress and deal with underlying health issues not always so visible.
  • Delegate and Trust Your Team: Shawn believes in building a solid team and values open communication. “If you think you are always right, you failed in building the right team,” he says.
  • Schedule Downtime: Shawn focuses on family and personal hobbies after work. “By integrating my passion for working with my hands into my life, I’ve maintained a healthy work-life balance,” he adds.
  • Stay Organized: Shawn uses tools like calendars and Trello to manage his tasks. He also reviews emails and plans his day over a quiet coffee. He remains involved with projects while trusting his team to handle the details.
  • Learn to Say No: By recognising his limits, Shawn avoids overcommitting. “Leadership is about leading with confidence but also nurturing the passions that keep you grounded,” he says.
  • Seek Support: Shawn relies on his team, mentors, and family for support. “I provide support when needed, ensuring we meet our goals,” he says.

“Yesterday was yesterday; today is a new chance to grow and lead with integrity.”

Shaping a Sustainable Future Through Solar Energy and Community Impact 

Shawn believes his solar energy work contributes to the global shift towards renewable energy. Reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable development helps create a cleaner, healthier environment for future generations. “We are not just shaping the present; we are paving the way for a brighter future,” he says.

We boost local economies through teaching skills, supporting businesses, improving living standards, and providing growth opportunities. Shawn emphasizes the importance of training, as it empowers communities and enhances education, healthcare, and quality of life.

Shawn’s focus on sustainability also raises awareness and educates the public about environmental stewardship. His commitment to corporate social responsibility, including community initiatives, sets a positive example for others to follow, fostering a culture of giving back that future generations can build upon.

“Impacting today to secure a better tomorrow.”

Supporting the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs 

Shawn has always been deeply committed to guiding and mentoring young entrepreneurs, offering insights to help them navigate common pitfalls. While he’s never formally presented in this space, his passion for nurturing future leaders has always been a critical focus. “I’ve always been there to support and mentor,” he says.

One of Shawn’s most significant sources of inspiration is Ronel Van Vollenhoven, a remarkable entrepreneur and his life partner. “She’s not just a Stylist, but a two-time survivor of cancer and a warrior,” he reflects. Having battled cancer twice and completed the grueling Comrades Marathon, Ronel embodies resilience and determination.

Shawn has helped her grow her team and launch new ventures, always working quietly behind the scenes. While he takes no credit for her success, he admires her ability to listen, learn, and trust her team. With a dream to empower others, Ronel is poised to be a future leader, passing on her skills and creating new success stories.

“Success is about inspiring others to start their own journey.”

Adapting and Innovating for Leadership in Renewable Energy 

Shawn emphasizes the importance of staying agile in the rapidly evolving renewable energy sector. “Watch the world, follow trends, and adapt your business model to stay mobile,” he advises. Staying curious and open to new technologies is essential, along with embracing innovation to drive progress.

Networking is equally vital. “Visit international fairs at least once and see what new offerings you can bring into your business,” he suggests. Strong relationships with peers, mentors, and stakeholders enable the exchange of knowledge and resources, fueling mutual growth.

Shawn underscores the significance of leading by example. “Your leadership will inspire others to follow suit,” he says, urging aspiring leaders to demonstrate commitment, integrity, and passion for renewable energy. A customer-centric focus is critical, alongside investing in team development. “Your team is your greatest asset,” he adds, sharing that at 50, he has embarked on further studies alongside his Operations Manager, not for himself, but to empower the next generation of business leaders.

“Never too late to start — it’s about empowering the future.”

Building the Foundation for Effective Leadership

Shawn emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adaptability in preparing for leadership roles. “Stay updated with the latest trends and technologies,” he advises, suggesting young professionals engage in online courses and industry workshops to stay competitive.

He highlights the value of mentorship: “Find mentors who can provide guidance and offer insights into leadership.” He adds that gaining diverse experience is crucial, encouraging professionals to work across departments to develop a comprehensive understanding of the business.

Shawn stresses the need for emotional intelligence and communication skills. “Leadership is not just about technical skills,” he notes, advising young professionals to improve their ability to navigate conflicts and communicate effectively.

“Step forward, and learn from mistakes — that’s how you grow.”

Conclusion 

Shawn Classen’s journey with K2 Solar Mounting Solutions is a testament to resilience and transformative power. From overcoming scepticism in a nascent market to navigating the chaos of a global pandemic, his leadership has turned challenges into opportunities, driving the company’s remarkable growth in Africa and its surrounds. He remembers the words of a previous colleague saying, “Is he starting a business in Mounting Structures? “ But Shawn says, “ When you are working for a visionary company like K2 Solar Mountings, a company continuously improving quality through innovation, he knew there was a future in Africa.” He is happy that he followed his heart.

Under Shawn’s guidance, K2 Solar has become a leader in solar mounting solutions and a symbol of sustainability and progress in Africa. As the company continues to expand its global footprint, Shawn remains committed to empowering teams, advancing renewable energy, and inspiring the next generation of innovators.