The Future of Sustainability 2024 | Conference Programme

FUTURE OF SUSTAINABILITY PROGRAMME 2024

Day 1 - 19 March 2024

08:00 - 09:00 Registration and Refreshments

08:45 - 09:00 Moderators welcome | Carol Tshabalala, Award-Winning Sports Broadcaster

09:00 - 09:05 Organiser’s welcome | Clay Tsapi, Project Manager, Topco Media

09:05 - 09:15 Opening Keynote Address |Karyn Harrington, Vice President, Public Affairs Communications and Sustainability, Coca-Cola Africa

09:15 - 09:25 Keynote Address | Dr Achieng Ojwang, Executive Director, United Nations Global Compact Network South Africa

09:25 - 09:45 Ministerial Address | Unlocking the Potential of Smallholder Farmers: Support, Investment, and Market Access

Smallholder farmers in South Africa play a vital role in global food security and rural livelihoods.However, they often face numerous challenges that hinder their productivity, income, and overall well-being. This keynote delves into innovative approaches aimed at unleashing the potential of smallholder farmers by bolstering their access to essential support systems, strategic investments, and enhanced market opportunities.

Speaker: Hon. Thokozile Didiza, Minister, Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

SUSTAINABLE FINANCE | Green Intra-continental Trading Solutions

09:45 - 10:30 Panel Discussion | The Importance of Sustainability for Business and Incorporating Effective Measurement

This comprehensive discussion explores the nuanced dimensions of sustainability integration, emphasising a holistic approach that extends beyond environmental sustainability.

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Panellists:

● Lee Swan, Head of Sustainability, Alexforbes

● George Wilson, Head of Institutional Trade Finance, Investec

● Kurt Roelandt, Director, Envision Advisory Services

10:30 - 10:50

Hosted by Old Mutual Insure

Driving Relevant Climate Adaptation through Sustainable Finance Efforts

This topic delves into the intersection of sustainable finance, climate resilience, and inclusive economic development. Through a comprehensive case study, it explores how sustainable finance initiatives can be leveraged to build climate-resilient infrastructure, support vulnerable communities, and foster inclusive economic growth. By examining successful examples and best practices, this discussion highlights the transformative potential of sustainable finance in addressing climate change while ensuring that no one is left behind.

Speaker: Thabile Nyaba, Chief Risk & Sustainability Officer (CRSO), Old Mutual Insure

11:00 - 11:30

11:30 - 12:10

Networking coffee break

Panel Discussion |Renewable Energy Solutions: What are Africa’s Best Options for Financing The Just Energy Transition?

In this session we explore where Africa stands in terms of leading on renewable energy solutions. What are the best options for Africa? What does this transition look like for Africa? Finally, what does Africa's energy market project with regards to the Green Deal and how can we address the elephant in the room, securing funding for this transition? Diverse energy solutions like gas, green-hydrogen, tech, coal, and solar will be discussed to establish which solution will best meet the current socio-economic context of Africa.

Moderator: Blessing Manale, Head: Communications and Outreach, South African Presidential Climate Commission

Panellists:

● Simphiwe Ngwenya, Programme Manager - Mitigation, South African Presidential Climate Commission

● Des Muller, Managing Director, NuEnergy Developments

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● Dr Stanley Semelane, Head Stakeholder Relations: ESG and Sustainability, Sasol

● Dhevan Pillay, CEO, LTM Energy

12:10 - 12:50 Panel Discussion | Innovative Sustainability Policies to Promote a Conducive Environment to Operate

Examine the crucial role of policies in creating an enabling environment for trade and business in South Africa. This topic delves into the dynamic realm of policy innovation, exploring how forward-thinking strategies can catalyse economic growth, enhance trade relations, and create an environment conducive to business prosperity in South Africa.

Panellists:

● Khwezikazi Windvoel, Municipal and Project Finance Manager, South African Presidential Climate Commission

● Dr Sibongile Mazibuko, Deputy Director: Green Economy, The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition

● Vuyiswa Ramokgopa, Chairperson, Rise Mzansi

12:50 - 13:05

Hosted by The SPAR Group Ltd

Case Study |Navigating Tomorrow's Business Landscape: The Crucial Connection between Future Business and Sustainability

In a rapidly evolving global landscape, businesses are confronted with unprecedented challenges and opportunities This case study delves into thought leadership insights that unravel the intricate relationship between the future of business and sustainability thinking. At the heart of this exploration lies the ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) framework, a powerful lens through which businesses can align their strategies with broader societal and environmental goals.

Speaker: Kevin O’Brien, Group Sustainability Executive, The SPAR Group Ltd

13:05 - 13:20

Hosted by OMI Solutions

Case Study | Forging Sustainable Futures: Community Collaboration in Mine Restoration and Beyond

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13:20 - 14:10

This case study emphasises the pivotal role of mine restoration in addressing environmental impacts of mining while contributing to sustainable development. Focused on Sustainable Development Goal 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all ages, the session underscores the integral connection between community well-being and environmental stewardship. Successful mine rehabilitation and the attainment of biodiversity net gain are contingent on collaborative efforts with communities, highlighting the importance of ongoing consultation to address changing needs. The sustainability of livelihood projects hinges on adapting to evolving community requirements through continuous engagement and cooperative ideation for enduring biodiversity net gains.

Speaker: Robyn Sally Mellett, CEO & Founder, OMI Solutions

LUNCH BREAK | Fuel Up and Connect

THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY | Ensuring Renewability & Innovation

14:10 - 14:30

Hosted by Nestlé

14:30 - 15:10

Fireside Chat | Cocoa Communities Thrive: Exploring Nestlé's Income Accelerator Program and its Impact on Cocoa-Farming Families

Nestlé's Income Accelerator Program is not only transforming the lives of cocoa-farming families but also driving sustainable development and creating shared value across cocoa-growing regions in Africa. By addressing key challenges and unlocking opportunities for growth, the program embodies Nestlé's commitment to responsible sourcing, social impact, and building a brighter future for cocoa communities worldwide.

Speaker: Zumi Njongwe, Business Executive Director: Confectionery, Nestlé East and Southern Africa Region

Panel Discussion | Packaging Revolution: Transformative Pathways in Packaging for a Circular Tomorrow

Explore how various industries are transforming packaging practices to align with circular economy principles. Gain valuable insights into leading companies' strategies, challenges, and collaborative efforts in achieving closed-loop systems for diverse sectors, including food packaging, glass and bottling, fabric, and metals.

Panellists:

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● Patricia Pillay, Chief Executive Officer, Polyco

● Roan Snyman, Expert Analyst: Circular Economy, SA Plastics Pact, GreenCape

● Miles Kubheka, CEO, Wakanda Food Accelerator

SUSTAINABLE INVESTMENT | Green-Conscious Growth

15:10 - 15:30

Fireside Chat|The Importance of Sustainable Sourcing and Why it is Crucial for Business Growth

This discussion sheds light on the strategic importance of sustainable procurement and how it catalyses the growth of local businesses and ensures a sustainable approach to product sourcing. Our expert panellists will unveil the multifaceted benefits of tracing the value chain locally, examining how this approach not only supports the environment but also becomes a driver for community development and economic resilience.

Panellists:

● Eustace Mashimbye, CEO, Proudly South African

● Sanele Zulu, CEO and Co-Founder, Green Youth Network

15:30 - 16:00 FAST TRACK NETWORKING

16:00

16:00 - 18:00

Moderator’s closing remarks | Carol Tshabalala, Award-Winning Sports Broadcaster

Networking Cocktail Function

DAY 1 END

Day 2 - 20 March 2024

08:00 - 09:00 Registration and Refreshments

09:10 - 09:20 Moderators welcome |Leanne Manas, South African Award-winning Journalist and TV Presenter

09:20 - 09:30 CCBSA Opening Keynote Address | Nozicelo Ngcobo, Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability Director, Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa

09:30 - 09:45 Ministerial Address | Charting the Future: The National Water and Sanitation Master Plan as a Blueprint for Sustainable Development

Explore the groundbreaking National Water and Sanitation Master Plan (NW&SMP) and its pivotal role in guiding South Africa's water sector towards sustainable development. This keynote will delve into the significance of this unprecedented initiative led by the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), providing a comprehensive overview of its objectives and the strategic vision it sets forth for the nation

Speaker: Hon. Senzo Mchunu, Minister, Department of Water and Sanitation

ECO-TECH | Innovations for the Future

09:45 - 10:05 Fireside Chat | Empowering Sustainable Job Creation: Unleashing the Potential of AI Automation for SMMEs

Dive into the transformative realm of employment sustainability focusing on how Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) can strategically leverage AI as a progressive enabling tool.

Speaker: Ayanda Ngcebetsha, Data and AI Director, Microsoft South Africa

10:05 - 10:45 Fireside Chat | Waste to Wealth: Waste management in South Africa and the transition to a circular economy

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This panel discussion delves into the exciting future of recycling, spotlighting companies at the forefront of innovation in recycling practices Explore groundbreaking initiatives where recycled materials are creatively repurposed into diverse products, ranging from construction materials to consumer goods.

Panellists:

● Belinda Booker, Recycling Enterprise Development Handover and Support, Petco

● Tshepo Mazibuko, CEO, K1 Recycling

● Luyanda Hlatshwayo, African Reclaimers Organisation

10:45 - 11:10 Fireside Chat | Accelerating Business performance on ESG

Moderator: Rethabile Mbokodi, Programme Manager, UN Global Compact Network South Africa

Panellists:

● Johan Thyse, Vice President: Sustainability and Reporting, Sasol

● Carina Wessels: Executive for Governance, Legal, Compliance and Sustainability, Alexander Forbes

11:10 - 11:40

Networking Coffee Break

FUTURE-PROOF LEADERSHIP | Cultivating Organisational Change

11:40 - 12:20 Panel Discussion|Healthy Watersheds: A Vision for the Future

This panel delves into the imperative of navigating sustainable water practices and the evolving landscape that shapes the future of water management. Experts will discuss innovative strategies, technological advancements, and collaborative efforts aimed at ensuring water sustainability.

Panellists:

● Samir Rendera-Rees, WWF Nedbank Green Trust and Corporate Relations Manager

● Dr Shafick Adams, Executive Manager, Water Research Commission

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● Zoe Norton, Branch Lead: Gauteng, Water Institute Southern Africa

12:20 - 13:00

Panel Discussion | The Future of Monitoring and Reporting: Achieving Profitability With Transparent Sustainability

Discover how to effectively measure and report your firm's sustainability against frameworks while maintaining profitability. Learn from experts about relevant regulations and available solutions for achieving reporting goals. Understand the impact of recently published IFRS global sustainability and reporting standards to align with best practices.

Moderator: Prajna Khanna, Global Head of Sustainability and Vice President, Prosus Group and Naspers Limited

Panellists:

● Shameela Soobramoney, CEO, National Business Initiative

● Loshni Naidoo, Chief Sustainability Officer, JSE

● Carina Wessels, Executive: Governance, Legal, Compliance and Sustainability, Alexforbes

13:00 - 14:00 Lunch

THE BUSINESS OF BIODIVERSITY | Regenerative Land Innovations

14:05 - 14:25 Case Study |Sustainable Certification: A Practical Guide to Future Proofing your Business

Explore the path to becoming a certified Sustainable Entity in a fronting society and harness the certification's potential to strengthen your market position and foster trust with stakeholders. Gain valuable insights from ECOCERT, a renowned international certification brand, on achieving sustainability goals for your business.

Speaker: Henno van Deventer, Sustainability Auditor, ECOCERT

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14:25 - 15:00

15:00 - 15:40

Panel Discussion | Holding Leaders Accountable: A Multi-Generational Perspective on Combating Corruption in Sustainable Impact Investment

According to Deloitte Global “2021 Millennial and Gen Z Survey”, Millennials and Gen Z are driving accountability and sustainability demands, urging businesses to address social and environmental issues. In response, this session highlights the challenges faced by impact investors in achieving genuine impact. Ensuring that the promised impact of funding is achieved is crucial, and Africa's role is questioned in leading, not just complying with global standards.

Panellists:

● Ashleigh Theophanides, Chief Sustainability Officer, Deloitte Africa

● Sharan Thirbennie Lal, Alexforbes Representative at the United Nations Global Compact SDG Innovation Accelerator for Young Professionals

● Caroline Berns, Compliance Officer - Leadership & Culture, Ericsson

Panel Discussion| Future-Smart Mining: What is the Mining Industry’s Role in the Race to Net Zero?

Uncover the mining industry's pivotal role in the race to achieve a net-zero future, and the path to developing sustainable mining practices to minimise environmental impact and support the clean energy transition How will future innovations and technologies in mining build transparency of the value chain and empower communities to take action.

Panellists:

● Agesan Rajagopaul, Partner, McKinsey & Company

● Rajen Govender, Managing Director, Weir Minerals

● Busisipho Siyobi, Head of Programme: Natural Resource Governance, Good Governance Africa

● Maria Combrink, Principal Consultant Data & Governance, ERM and Deputy Chair, WiMSA

15:40 - 16:10

Fireside Chat| Sustainable Mobility: Driving The Green Transition with EVs

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As Africa approaches 2030, EVs are increasingly driving into the spotlight. Delve into thought-provoking questions, exploring the merits of EVs and contemplating the potential of green hydrogen solutions. Uncover the path to a cleaner and more sustainable future for transportation.

Moderator: George Mienie, CEO, AutoTraderSA

Speakers:

● Reando Potgieter, Operations Director, Aeversa

● Yusuf Norath, National Franchise Operations Manager, Takealot.com

16:10 - 16:30 Moderator’s closing remarks | Leanne Manas, South African Award-winning Journalist and TV Presenter DAY