Nedbank Top Empowerment 2024 | Souvenir Programme by Topco Media

AFRICA RISING

Navigating the Path of Inclusive Transformation

Your guide to all things #NedbankTopEmpowerment Discover the innovative solutions, exhibitors & inspiring speakers shaping the future of empowerment.

Topco Media’s Ralf Fletcher extends his welcome to our delegates

Meet Your Moderator

Get to know your Nedbank Top Empowerment conference co-host

Foreword A few words from Jason Quinn: Chief Executive, Nedbank

Meet our esteemed speakers, visionaries & thought leaders

Don’t miss a panel or fireside chat

Our Sponsors & Partners

See our phenomenal sponsors and partners of 2024

The Nedbank Indalo Fund is a pioneering approach to concessionary financing that is designed to foster systemic growth and impact in the green economy. Our commitment to environmental stewardship has taken a practical turn as we have provided financial backing to innovative green projects across South Africa. The fund is dedicated to empowering small sustainable enterprises by providing financial support paired with strategic mentorship. In partnership with Indalo Inclusive, we aim to maximise social and environmental impact to drive significant change. Visit nedbank.co.za for more information.

It is my utmost pleasure to welcome you to the Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference 2024! As we gather under the theme “Africa Rising: Navigating the Path of Inclusive Transformation,” we celebrate a remarkable milestone - 30 years of democracy in South Africa. This achievement is a testament to our collective resilience, growth, and unwavering commitment to building an inclusive and equitable society.

Over the past three decades, we have made significant strides in economic empowerment, social justice, and inclusive growth. The Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference has been at the forefront of this progress, driving meaningful change and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.

For over 20 years, Topco has been at the forefront of monitoring transformation in South Africa. It all began with a conversation between our founder, my father, Richard Fletcher, and our current President, Cyril Ramaphosa. Two decades ago, the President challenged us to identify and celebrate the Top 300 black empowered companies. Now, more than ever, we must echo the words of Ubuntu, “together we can”, and recognise that quality education is synonymous with freedom. It is time for us to reevaluate the future we envision for our country - we must transition from democratic freedom to economic freedom.

As we look to the future, we recognise that our journey is far from over. The path ahead requires continuous effort, creative solutions, and collective action. Today, we come together as leaders,

visionaries, and change-makers to share insights, forge partnerships, and develop strategies that will propel Africa forward. We have prepared a stellar lineup of passionate speakers who have dedicated themselves to transformation and will inspire and enlighten you.

I would like to express my heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to our partners who brilliantly navigate the path of inclusive transformation. Your unwavering dedication to transformation has paved the way for the success of this momentous event. I extend my sincerest thanks to our Platinum partner, Nedbank, as well as Merchants, Sanlam, NTT DATA, Sanofi, Fasset Seta, SE Holdings, Hloba Clothing, BEE 123, Secondment, Orzoflash Pty Ltd, GRIPP Advisory, TicketCore, Aurik Enterprise Development and Tractor Outdoor. Without your invaluable support, this event would not be possible.

A special mention to our strategic partners Primedia Out of Home, Good Governance Africa, Association of BBBEE Professionals, BPESA, YFM, Mail and Guardian, Channel Africa, Tractor, Simodisa Start-Up, and Business Tech Africa. Thank you for all of your support.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our partners, speakers, and delegates for joining us in this critical conversation on navigating the path of inclusive transformation. Together, we can navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead, ensuring that the promise of an empowered and inclusive Africa is realised.

Enjoy the conference and enjoy making new connections.

Discover the latest trends, success stories, and thought leadership in our 23rd edition of Impumelelo Top Empowerment

elcome to the Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference. This year’s theme, “Africa Rising: Navigating the Path of Inclusive Transformation,” provides an opportunity to reflect on the complexities that exist both locally and abroad as we transform from the inequities of the past and foster and strengthen the partnerships we need to create an equitable future.

This year’s theme is particularly meaningful, as Africa is a strategic focus for investment given its growth potential. However, we remain determined to ensure that this growth transforms, for the better, the lives of our continent’s people. Of the more than 1 billion people in Africa, about 60% are under the age of 30, with the population across the continent projected to exceed that of China by 2025. This shared home, our continent, has not only vast untapped natural resources and agricultural opportunities that can make Africa one of the key breadbaskets of the world, but we also have significant opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, mining, agriculture and financial services.

On the trading front, the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA), ratified by South Africa earlier this year, is one of the broadest trade agreements signed since the World Trade Organisation was established in 1994. While we have made significant strides in economic development and social justice, we still face substantial challenges in closing the gaps of inequality and unemployment and in providing opportunities for wealth creation to more people. As such, conferences such as the

Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference serve as necessary opportunities to collaborate and innovate. By bringing together thought leaders, policymakers and industry experts, this conference will generate actionable strategies and plans to drive and achieve meaningful change. Now is the time to accelerate our progress towards creating a more equitable society for all. This year’s theme also resonates strongly with our vision at Nedbank, which is centred on purpose led, inclusive transformation. We use our financial expertise to do good, and this underpins all that we do. We believe that true transformation can be achieved only through joining hands.

Nedbank’s commitment to our purpose is steadfast. We direct significant resources to financing projects that promote renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and green infrastructure – facilitating a Just Transition towards a low-carbon economy. Through innovative products and digital banking solutions, we strive to make financial services accessible to all segments of society, empowering individuals and small businesses to participate fully in the economy.

As we gather at the 2024 Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference, let’s celebrate our successes, confront our challenges head-on, and seize the potential that lies ahead. Together, we can chart a course for a more inclusive and prosperous South Africa and indeed a better sustainable future for the continent as a whole. n

Jason Quinn Nedbank Chief Executive

YOUR CONFERENCE MODERATOR

Leanne Manas: Your Partner in Empowerment

From Oprah Winfrey to Nelson Mandela, Leanne has interviewed an impressive range of public figures, heads of state, thought-leaders and local and international celebrities. She has also been at the forefront of bringing South Africans some of the biggest News stories over the last 2 decades

“Whatever I do, I do with passion.”

She is instantly recognisable as the face of Morning Television as anchor of Morning Live, a hard-hitting news broadcast that she has been hosting since 2004. She has been the face of the Vast majority of Breaking news events in an ever changing South Africa, most Notably the death of Nelson Mandela, the dramatic resignation of Jacob Zuma as RSA President and the death of the Mother of the nation Winnie Madikizela Mandela.

Leanne Manas

South African Award Winning Journalist & TV Presenter

Leanne Manas

@leannemanas

@LeanneManas

SPEAKERS

MEET OUR TITANS OF

TRANSFORMATION

Meet our esteemed speakers, visionaries, & thought leaders who will inspire and empower you with their expertise and insights, shaping the future of Africa’s inclusive transformation.

Mfundo Nkuhlu Chief Operating Officer: Nedbank

Jason Quinn Chief Executive: Nedbank

Martha Murorua Managing Director: Nedbank Namibia

Kershini Govender Executive Head: Transformation & Strategy: Nedbank

Ray Naicker Group Chief Information Officer: Nedbank

Thandiwe Vilakazi Chairperson: Nedbank LGBTQI+ Forum

Phumzile Langeni Independent Non-Executive Director: Nedbank

Linda Makalima Independent Non-Executive Director: Nedbank

Khensani Nobanda Group Executive: Group Marketing & Corporate Affairs: Nedbank Brought to you by

“Africa

Nedbank’s purpose-led transformation journey

By Khensani Nobanda, Group Executive: Group Marketing and Corporate Affairs, Nedbank

Nedbank’s purpose-led transformation journey spanning more than three decades is a testament to our commitment to fostering inclusivity and driving growth. We have played our part in creating a more equitable society and aligned our business strategy with the country’s national development targets.

As South Africa has made the journey of transforming from the inequities of the past, Nedbank has partnered as a corporate committed to a more just and equitable future. In line with this approach Nedbank was among 115 leading corporations that signed a pledge in 2023 to support the government in driving economic recovery. We remain committed to using our financial expertise to do good for individuals, businesses and society.

Our success cannot exist in isolation from the communities in which we operate. We strive to unlock capital through preferential procurement, enterprise and supplier development, and socioeconomic development through investments in education, entrepreneurship and agriculture.

Among key milestones for Nedbank was the adoption of the Financial Sector Charter in 2004, aimed at increasing the economic involvement of black South Africans. By 2006, we had made substantial strides, achieving 47% black representation on our board and appointing Reuel Khoza as our first black chairperson. By 2018, we achieved Level 1 B-BBEE contributor status; we have retained Level 1 status for each consecutive year since.

Our revised corporate social investment strategy launched in 2021 places a strong emphasis on supporting the green economy. Nedbank’s contributions to the green economy represent a diverse and impactful range of initiatives, including launching a Green Economy Fund with an initial R10 million to support 100 start-ups in critical sectors, raising R2.7 billion through green bonds for renewable

energy and sustainability-linked projects. In 2023, Nedbank’s corporate social investment strategy invested over R153 million across the green economy, education and community development, among others.

Throughout our journey, we have consistently prioritised the development of small, medium, and micro enterprises. This supports business growth and is also a catalyst for job creation.

In recent years, Nedbank has continued to build on its transformation legacy. In 2024, we launched new initiatives including investments in renewable energy projects and introducing a new digital banking platform. These efforts improve financial inclusion and access to financial services for underserved communities. Additionally, in collaboration with local NGOs, our youth empowerment programmes and community development projects aim to uplift underprivileged areas by providing essential services and support.

Nedbank’s journey of transformation goes beyond reaching targets; it’s about making a profound and meaningful impact, changing people’s lives be they clients, creating shareholder value, or society at large. As we look to the next 30 years of democracy, we remain committed to this vision, ensuring every South African can thrive in a changing economic landscape. This is not just our responsibility but a privilege as a key player in South Africa’s financial sector.

CONFERENCE 2024

SPEAKERS

Andee Uren Executive Head: Workforce Planning, Optimisation & Engagement: Nedbank

Sydwell Shikweni Vice President Transformation: Merchants

Ray-Ann Sedres Chief Transformation Officer: Sanlam

Ayanda Mafuleka CEO: Financial Accounting Services Seta (FASSET)

Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman Chairman & Founder: Gift of the Givers

to you

Natalie Musonda Director: Diversity, Inclusion and Sustainability: NTT DATA

Amanda Daly Senior Director Careers & Development: NTT DATA MEA

Kirsty Phaal Senior Vice President Human Resources: NTT DATA

Prudence Selani External Affairs Head: Sanofi

Diana Tjiposa Deputy Director, Trade Policy & External Relations, Ministry of Industrialisation: Trade and SME Development, Namibia

Rebone Seleoane Head of People & Culture Africa Zone: Sanofi

Zain Patel Managing Director: Merchants

“Africa Rising: Navigating the Path of Inclusive Transformation”

Board Member & Technical Director: Association of B-BBEE Professionals & Managing Director, MSCT BEE

Shameela Soobramoney CEO: National Business Initiative (NBI)

Dr. Mathews Phosa Celebrated SA Leader, Prominent Business Man & Attorney

Prof. Bonang Mohale Chancellor, University of the Free State, Professor of Practice, JHB Business School (JBS) & Chairman, Bidvest Group Limited & World Economic Forum

Stanley Grau

Services

Yolandi Venter Board Member and Training and Professionalisation Director, Association of B-BBEE Professionals & CEO of the B4i Economic Empowerment

Mbali Phewa Head of Transformation: Santam

Hapiloe Sello CEO: SANParks

Charmaine Houvet Government Affairs Director: Cisco Africa

Buhlebokukholwa Sibanyoni Founder & Managing Director: Azanyah Trade Hub & Chairperson, SMME Chamber of Commerce

Pepe Marais Founding Partner & Group Chief Creative Officer of brand & communications group, Joe Public United

Lavina Ramkissoon Advisor to African Union and Ministers of ICT & Founder of hu da ta

Rachel Malatji Executive Manager: Compliance,B-BBEE Commission

CONFERENCE 2024

SPEAKERS

CEO: Unconventional CA

Hiten Keshave

Masechaba Tekana Senior Principal: DE&I & Leadership Development, EMEA: Korn Ferry

Mziwabantu Dayimani Acting CEO: National Empowerment Fund

Hana Yoshimoto Education Chief: UNICEF South Africa

Dr. Sibongile Vilakazi CEO: Ntsikelelo Business Solutions

Futhi Mtoba CA(SA) Co-Founder: TEACH South Africa, Co-Convenor: WECONA & Business Leader

Keitumetse Lekaba Managing Director: I Am An Entrepreneur (IAAE)

Ravi Naidoo CEO: Youth Employment Service (YES)

Revel Harris Managing Director: Modern Community Foundation

Chrissy Dube Programme Head: Governance Insights & Analytics, Good Governance Africa

Neville Gabriel CEO: The Other Foundation

Nobandla Gobodo Managing Director: SANGE SA

“Africa Rising: Navigating the Path of Inclusive Transformation”

Join the #TopEmpowerment and be part of the movement shaping economic transformation! Whether it’s through our Conferences, Awards, or Publications, we celebrate trailblazing leaders and organisations making an impact.

Scan the QR code with us on social media and stay updated on the latest news, insights, and success stories.

Thembiso Magajana CEO: Social Coding SA

Mpumi Maesela CEO: SE Holdings

Genevieve Coward Marketing & Revenue Growth Executive: Primedia Out of Home

Yuneal Padayachy Chief Support Officer BEE Chamber

SPONSOR SPONSORS & PARTNERS

PLATINUM SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR SILVER SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR

“Africa

Rising: Navigating the Path of Inclusive Transformation”

STRATEGIC PARTNER

STRATEGIC PARTNER MEDIA PARTNER

STRATEGIC PARTNER

MEDIA PARTNER MEDIA PARTNER

LIFESTYLE PARTNER

We extend our gratitude to our valued sponsors and partners who share our vision for inclusive transformation and empower Africa’s growth through their support and collaboration. THANK YOU

PARTNER

Dimension Data becomes NTT DATA

Rebranding as NTT DATA in April 2024, we combine our local focus with global expertise to deliver even greater value to our clients.

After an incredible 40-year journey as Dimension Data, we are thrilled to announce our transformation into NTT DATA. As of April 2024, we step into this new chapter with enthusiasm and purpose.

From our roots in South Africa, Dimension Data has grown into an award-winning IT powerhouse. Our footprint extended across Africa, the Middle East and beyond.

In 2010, we joined forces with the NTT Group. Now, over a decade later, we proudly embrace the NTT DATA brand, bidding farewell to the iconic Dimension Data green and welcoming the NTT DATA blue.

As NTT DATA, we combine the strengths of our heritage and experience with a global reach.

Our rebranding signifies continuity and a dawn of even greater achievements. We maintain our local focus while enhancing our global expertise.

Sustainability remains at the core of our strategya principle ingrained in every decision we make.

Join us as we continue to innovate, transform and create lasting impact.

As Alan Turnley-Jones, our Chief Executive Officer, puts it, Sustainability is now at the heart of Dimension Data’s strategy. We are very proud of what we have achieved so far, but it is just the beginning.

Transforming Healthcare, Together

At Sanofi, we believe that true transformation begins with embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Our mission is to reflect the rich diversity of our communities, unleash the full potential of our people, and create a more inclusive world. Our innovative research and groundbreaking treatments are designed to address the unique needs of diverse populations, ensuring that everyone has access to the best possible care.

Partnerships play a crucial role in driving this transformation. By collaborating with healthcare providers, research institutions, local manufacturers, and community organizations, we can amplify our impact and accelerate the development of solutions that benefit all.

We are driven by one purpose: to chase the miracles of science to improve lives and are on course to transform the practice of medicine through breakthrough science, making a positive impact on our people and the communities we serve.

Join our journey to transform healthcare. Together, we can make a difference.

Enterprise Development

Building reliable and capable businesses that deliver to corporate clients, communities and the country.

Beyond compliance, turn business development into a competitive advantage.

Aurik’s customised solutions deliver from strategy right through to implementation and reporting, with proven expertise in:

• Enriching and strengthening your localisation strategy

• Delivering on your supply chain needs and goals

• Creating local impact that leads growth and prosperity

• Reducing dependency by supporting market access

• Cost eﬀective, impactful management of grant and loan funds

Get in touch to learn more www.auriked.co.za +27 11 447 5575

ADVERTORIAL: FASSET

Join FASSET in building a lasting legacy in the finance

and accounting services sector

FASSET is the Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority, a Schedule 2a skills development entity mandated by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation. FASSET delivers skills development interventions towards transforming the finance and accounting services sector.

ADVERTORIAL: FASSET

These are some of the funding interventions your FASSET facilitates towards fast-tracking transformation within the finance and accounting sector.

1.Learner Employment Grant

The LEG incentivises employers to place learners in a learnership and retain them for the required duration of the learnership. This can only be claimed by registered non-levy payers (NLPs) and levy payers with approved WSP/ATR in the finance and accounting sector.

2.Professional Body Programmes for Employed Learners

FASSET funds various professional body programmes towards attaining a professional body designation, and the programme supports the employees of organisations within the finance and accounting sector.

4.Training Incentive Grant

FASSET incentivises employers within the finance and accounting sector who have trained their employees on training topics that address the FASSET Sector Skills Plans.

3.Internships

FASSET incentivises employers to place unemployed youth in an internship programme and retain them for at least 12-24 months.

5.Employed skills programme

FASSET funds employers within the FAS sector by helping them enhance the skills of their employees, allowing them to stay current and effectively adapt to the constantly changing business environment.

Finances is not a dirty word. Let’s start talking about it, Mzansi.

Sure, it’s not an easy topic to talk about. It can be uncomfortable, emotional even, but avoiding conversations about it certainly won’t make it easier. If we’re not sharing our ﬁnancial experiences – both the good and the bad – we’re all the more likely to keep making poor ﬁnancial decisions. That’s precisely why Sanlam is on a mission to inspire South Africans to talk more openly and honestly about money.

So, start today. Talk to your kids, your parents, your partner, your siblings, your friends, and if you want to live a life of confidence, talk to a Sanlam financial adviser. Learn more at livewithconfidence.co.za

Ticketing Your Event with

Corporate wear serves as a brand touchpoint that creates a lasting impression on customers and boosts staff brand ambassadorship. And yet, uniforms can feel like an unnecessary expense – and at times, a headache. Hloba Clothing can help.

Hloba has a reliable track record of building lasting relationships with trust and honesty at the foundation. Our clients are our main focus as we partner with them to build custom processes and solutions that meet their specific needs. We understand that different businesses require different kinds of support. And our responsive approaches to our clients’ needs ensure that we align ourselves with their vision and enhance their strengths.

SERVICES:

• Design and planning of a wide range of garments and accessories;

• Diverse manufacturing capabilities based in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa;

• Community employment through our subsidiary company;

• Uniform fittings for the right fit;

• Warehousing with local and international distribution footprint;

• Easy-to-use online ordering portal;

• BBBEE Level 1 compliance.

E: info@hloba.co.za | T: +27 31 700 5550 Unit 1D, Westgate Industrial Park, Stockville Road, Mariannhill, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa @hlobaclothing @hloba-clothing

BOUTIQUE ADVISORY AND CONSULTING FIRM

We aim to improve the governance, risk, and interna l control environment at our clients

HIGHLY QUALIFIED AND PROFESSIONAL TEAM

LOW COST STRUCTURES AND HIGH ROI FOR OUR CLIENTS

PERFORMANCE-BASED CULTURE ROOTED WITH STRONG CORPORATE VALUES

GOVERNANCE

We provide advisory solutions to an organisation’s governance challenges that direct and monitor operations of a company in a manner that will demonstrate accountability, leadership and direction.

We identify, analyse, and evaluate the impact of uncertainty as well as monitor risk mitigation efforts aimed at minimising the effects of loss on our client’s operations. RISK

INTERNAL CONTROL

We partner with management, boards and outside counsel to assist organisations to effectively manage risks and achieve compliance requirements.

Tractor Outdoor is a leading national out-of-home (OOH) media company in South Africa, specialising in connecting brands with consumers through an extensive network of traditional and digital OOH platforms.

With one of the country's largest digital OOH networks, we help people, places, and businesses grow stronger. Committed to sustainability, we actively invest in community development, making a positive impact on the environment and localcommunities.

EQUITY MANAGEMENT

B-BBEE & EE

THE BEST B-BBEE & EMPLOYMENT

SOFTWARE

We empower HR and Transformation personnel with the tools to navigate B-BBEE and Employment Equity regulatory complexities with ease.

Management Software

Design & Execution of Scorecard Programs Advisory Services

Finances is not a dirty word. Let’s start talking about it, Mzansi.