At NAVIC, we pride ourselves on empowering our partners to excel in their fields, using our technology to solve real-world problems. One long-term partner who exemplifies this success is Convergent Security, whose journey with NAVIC in the Eastern Cape has transformed how security and crime prevention is handled in the region. Owner, Brett Barlow’s strategic approach, his trust in the NAVIC platform, and deep commitment to his community have not only helped him achieve strong business growth but also contributed significantly to community safety.
From Humble Beginnings to a Household Name
Brett’s journey began with a simple but bold strategy: to make NAVIC a household name in the Eastern Cape. “I looked at all the platforms, and NAVIC just did what I needed,” says Brett, explaining why he chose to partner with us. “I wasn’t interested in putting my company’s name front and centre. My goal was to make NAVIC the go-to tool for security solutions in the region.”
Instead of building his own brand in isolation, Brett focused on integrating NAVIC deeply into the community. Whether it’s local security companies, private businesses, or even farmers in rural areas, the name NAVIC is synonymous with security across the Eastern Cape. “Everyone talks about NAVIC here—whether they’re flagging vehicles, tracking movements, or checking for suspicious activity. It’s become part of our everyday language,” Brett explains. His approach has paid off, as NAVIC has become an indispensable tool for crime prevention in the region.
Defining Moments: The Power of NAVIC in Action
Many people see ANPR only as a means to lower vehicle crime, looking exclusively at how many stolen vehicles can be recovered. But a powerful ANPR platform forms an integral part of a community’s safety and security, preventing hijackings, taking drugs and firearms off the streets, reducing poaching and playing an important role in preventing human trafficking.
In the Eastern Cape, Storms River Bridge and Van Staden’s Bridge are notorious suicide hotspots with many lives lost over the years. Convergent Security have provided NAVIC cameras that form a vital part of the Suicide Watch initiative and Brett and his team are incredibly proud to have already been part of nine interventions.
This demonstrates the core of Brett’s strategy: empowering South Africans to stay safe with the use of the best technology available and a team who are invested in the communities they serve.
Unrivalled Growth and Success
Convergent Security’s strategic partnership with NAVIC has enabled Brett to scale his business substantially. “We’re doubling our camera installations each year,” Brett says, explaining his ambitious plan to grow the number of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras across the province. “In five years, I see us doubling the around 600 cameras we have now as more organisations realise the power of the NAVIC solution.”
His achievements go beyond just numbers. Brett and his team have played pivotal roles in solving major crimes across the province. From truck hijackings to ATM card scams, the Eastern Cape has seen a surge in crime, and NAVIC has been at the forefront of the fight against it. “Port Elizabeth is now the truck hijacking capital of South Africa, but we’ve had huge successes recovering stolen goods and even identifying hijackers before they leave the scene,” Brett recounts.
One such example was a recent hijacking in Addo, where the NAVIC system flagged a suspicious vehicle within minutes of the crime. Working closely with law enforcement, Brett’s team was able to track the hijackers, who were arrested before they could even unload the stolen goods. “The power of NAVIC is in its real-time data and the way it connects law enforcement and communities. It’s a game-changer,” he says.
Building for the Future
For Brett, the key to his success lies in trust, relationships, and knowing the community. His approach is simple but powerful: take the ego out of the equation and let NAVIC be the hero. “We’re all working towards the same goal—keeping people safe. With NAVIC, we’ve found a way to do that efficiently and effectively.”
Looking ahead, Brett’s plans remain ambitious. His focus is on continuing to grow organically while strengthening the NAVIC brand even further in the region. “The more people trust NAVIC, the safer our communities will be. It’s that simple.”
Brett’s journey is a testament to what’s possible when a clear vision meets the right tools. His success isn’t just his own; it’s a NAVIC success story. Together, we’re building safer communities, one camera at a time. Brett’s trust in NAVIC, combined with his strategic approach and commitment to local knowledge, has made the Eastern Cape a safer place—and his journey is far from over.
To all our partners, Convergent Security’s story is proof that NAVIC is more than just a technology provider. We’re here to support you, solve problems together, and celebrate your successes. Let’s keep working towards making safety and security a reality for all.