#NedbankTopEmpowerment #TopEmpowerment2023 #NedbankTE2023 #Nedbank #TopcoMedia C P DACCREDITEDEVEN T Association ofB-BBEEProfessionals
Impumelelo Top Empowerment was endorsed by former President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela & President Cyril Ramaphosa in it’s first edition in 2001
Your guide to all things #NedbankTopEmpowerment. Check out our CEO, moderators, partners and more in this official Nedbank Top Empowerment Souvenir Programme.
And
16 Our Honourable Dignitaries
Our honorable dignitaries joining us throughout the 2-day conference.
Our Sponsors & Partners
We thank our sponsors and partners for their contributions in bringing you the 2023 Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference
Please note that this programme is subject to change without any notice, and printed prior to the actual event. Scan the QR code for the online Nedbank Top Empowerment Programme.
Get With
Keep up-to-date with all the sessions and topics throughout the conference.
Letter From The CEO An introduction by the CEO of Topco Media, Ralf Fletcher. 04
Sponsor’s Foreword CEO
Nedbank,
06
of
Mike Brown’s Foreword. 08
The Programme
Meet The Moderators Get to know the hosts of the show, Leanne Manas & Siphesihle Vazi
12
18 The
Speaker Board
Government officials, business leaders & more. Have a look at all the speakers we have lined up just for you. 24
TABLE OF CONTENTS
we are live!
DEAR ESTEEMED GUESTS,
I am delighted to extend a warm welcome to the 22nd annual Nedbank Top Empowerment Summit, hosted by Topco Media.
Reflecting on our journey, it fills me with pride to recall the inaugural summit held in Midrand back in 2001. Little did we know then that our esteemed President, Cyril Ramaphosa, would go on to become such a significant statesman for our nation. It was during this time that our first Top Empowerment publication, appropriately named Impumelelo, came into existence.
I would like to express my heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to our partners who have demonstrated exceptional commitment during these challenging times. 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 our Gold partner, PepsiCo, along with Merchants, SALGA, Methano Group, IDC, Mint Group, FM&P Seta, Estudy, Afrocentric Group, Mandate Molefi, BEE 123, Energy & Water Sector Education Training Authority (EW SETA), and TSL Solutions. Without your invaluable support, this event would not be possible.
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 “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, the areas we must prioritise, and the aspects that require improvement.
At Topco, we have curated a diverse lineup of passionate speakers who have dedicated themselves to transformation. However, we must grant ourselves the freedom to embrace new perspectives and redefine our measures of success. “We find ourselves at a crucial juncture in history.” On the evening of July 20th,
we will host the prestigious Top Empowerment Awards. These events play a pivotal role in shaping our evolution as we honour outstanding entrepreneurs and top empowered companies. The landscape of achievement is constantly evolving, and boundaries continue to be shattered. As a country and as global citizens, we face numerous challenges, including gender-based violence, social issues, bias, and racism. It is imperative that we engage in open discussions and collaborate to find solutions, fostering harmony in our nation. Undoubtedly, South Africa boasts remarkable individuals and a resilient spirit. However, to amplify that spirit, we must unite and work towards a common goal. This is the essence of our collective future in transformation and empowerment.
We must transition from democratic freedom to economic freedom. A revolution in small businesses is needed to propel our economy and society forward, ensuring inclusivity for all. Rest assured, we have prepared a stellar lineup of speakers who will inspire and enlighten you. Embrace the next two days, challenge the speakers with your insightful questions, and seize the opportunity to connect with fellow delegates, both in-person and online.
Wishing you a memorable and enriching experience.
4 | Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference 2023 WELCOME NOTE
Think bigger than your next business move.
Think
Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference 2023 | 5 33313 Nedbank Ltd Reg No 1951/000009/06. Licensed financial services and registered credit provider (NCRCP16). | T&Cs apply.
a proactive business partnership
goes beyond traditional banking solutions
the value
piece
business.
specialised experts
better financial
our
to
Banking
that
to see
in every
of your
Our
help you make
decisions and
dynamic approach
funding drives transformation and sustainability. Think bigger. Think Nedbank Commercial Banking. Commercial
Nedbank has been a proud partner and sponsor of the Top Empowerment Conference since 2016. Reflecting on the success of the previous conferences, I believe that we are at an inflection point in our country and that the 2023 Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference comes at an important time in the history of South Africa.
Our country is facing a period of stagnant economic growth and high levels of inflation and interest rates. While global growth is also slower, many of the issues causing our economic challenges are of our own making, in particular the ongoing energy crisis and very high levels of loadshedding as well as the deteriorating general infrastructure (especially rail, road, port and water) and high levels of crime and corruption. Collectively these result in GDP growth that is lower than population growth and unacceptably high levels of unemployment.
Alongside growth, transformation continues to be a golden key that can unlock an economy that benefits and serves all South Africans – and this can be accomplished only through government, the private sector, labour and civil society taking collective responsibility and action. Considering the challenges that we are experiencing as a country; nothing could be more urgent than giving our people hope for a better future. It is in moments of crisis that we are inspired to be patriotic, to unite and to find solutions to achieve our common goal of having an inclusive, growing and sustainable economy.
This year’s theme, ‘Unlocking Africa’s economic potential through purpose-led transformation’, shows the ambition and desire we have to turn the trajectory of our economy around by being purposeful and intentional in how transformation is implemented. As a purpose-led organisation that is inspired to use its financial expertise to do good for individuals, families, businesses and society, Nedbank is committed to helping create a more transformed South Africa by aligning its business objectives with national strategic priorities aimed at creating a sustainable growing economy that benefits all. Over the years the Top Empowerment Conference has
provided Nedbank with the platform to lead and participate in crucial conversations that have the potential to unlock the desired transformation for an inclusive and growing economy. I am delighted to see that in 2023 Nedbank has extended its association with the conference by becoming the platinum sponsor of the event, which is now known as the Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference.
With the carefully curated two-day conference agenda led and facilitated by subject matter experts in all facets of transformation, I am confident that critical dialogues and practical solutions will be shared and discussed with the end goal of shaping the future of transformation in our country. On behalf of the organisers, stakeholders and partners of the 2023 Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference, I would like to extend a warm welcome to you and the organisations represented here today.
Thank you for being part of creating the solutions that we need to take this country forward.
6 | Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference 2023 FOREWARD
CEO | Nedbank
Nedbank Ltd Reg No 1951/000009/06. Licensed financial services and registered credit provider (NCRCP16). 40 B 38 B 36 B 34 B 32 B 2024 2026 2028 2030 2032 34352 ENVIRONMENTAL FINANCE IMPACT AWARDS LENDER OF THE YEAR 2022 Sustainable growth through proven ESG expertise.
Scan the QR code to read the full 2-day conference schedule. Don’t miss a beat!
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10 | Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference 2023
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MEET YOUR CO-HOSTS
She has also been at the forefront of bringing South Africans some of the biggest News stories over the last 2 decades.
Leanne Manas
Leanne Manas
@ leannemanas @LeanneManas
he engages crowds during functions.
Vazi is also renowned for playing Mlungisi on The Queen, so if his face looks familiar, you might have spotted him on the TV show.
Siphesihle Vazi
Siphesihle
Vazi
@siphesihlevazi @SiphesihleVazi
12 | Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference 2023 THE CO-HOSTS
South African Award Winning Journalist & TV Presenter
South African TV Presenter
youth employment.
10 projects funded
Finding the gold in green
> >
875 jobs to be created
1 000 skills to be developed
By supporting 10 projects, we will create more than 875 jobs and develop over 1 000 skills in the green economy.
As we lead the change towards a low-carbon, resource-efficient economy, we are committed to maximising social impact through our Green Economy CSI strategy by investing millions into developing jobs and emerging enterprises in four key sectors: agriculture, energy, water and waste. Our strategy is anchored on two key ambitions – to grow entrepreneurship and, through skills development, create employment within the green economy. Our commitment to the green economy empowers communities alongside being a catalyst for a renewed South Africa.
#Greenisthenewgold
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Some saw renewable energy. We saw
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OUR DIGNITARIES
The panel of honorable dignitaries speaking throughout the 2-day conference.
16 | Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference 2023
SIXOLILE NGCOBO Senior Advisor: Gender Equality & Sustainable Development, Commission for Gender Equality of South Africa
JOSEPH NDABA
4IR Commissioner, Presidential Commission on the Fourth Industrial Commission & CEO of MDIHub
TSHEDISO MATONA B-BBEE Commissioner of South Africa
ANTONY PHILLIPSON British High Commissioner to South Africa
MALEBO MABITJE-THOMPSON DDG, The Dtic Industrial Division South Africa
DR BERNICE SWARTS Deputy Minister Public Works & Infrastructure South Africa
MMAMOLOKO KUBAYI Minister of Human Settlements, South Africa
HON. MEMBERS
Brainfood
for business.
Take a journey away from short termism and start looking at a better future. Meet the interesting people changing Africa –and the way we work, think and live.
LISTEN NOW
THE SPEAKERS
MEET OUR SPEAKERS
Our list of esteemed speakers lined up for you at this year’s Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference.
18 | Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference 2023
KHENSANI NOBANDA Group Executive: Marketing & Corporate Affairs, Nedbank
MFUNDO NKUHLU Chief Operating Officer, Nedbank
DR. ALISTAIR MOKOENA Country Director, Google
CRAIG BARNES Chairperson: LGBTQIA+ Forum, Nedbank
KERSHINI GOVENDER Executive Head: Transformation & Strategy, Nedbank Group
SYDWELL SHIKWENI Vice President Transformation, Merchants
DR. TERENCE SIBIYA Group Managing Executive, Nedbank Africa Region
MARTHA MURORUA Managing Director, Nedbank Namibia
DR FELLENG YENDE Chief Executive Officer, FP&M SETA
HAVE YOU SPOTTED OUR BILLBOARDS?
With more locations in: Sandton Pretoria
King Shaka International Airport
Corner of Hope St & Mill St, Gardens, Cape Town
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NENE MOLEFI CEO, Mandate Molefi
KUTLWANO CHABA Chief Digital Officer, SALGA
THOBILE MHLONGO Senior Manager, Municipal Learning And Development, SALGA
PINDIWE GIDA Chief Officer: Human Capital & Corporate Services, SALGA
RONELLE NAIDOO Head of Sales, Mint Group
PRASHINA MOHANGI Senior Advisor: Built Environment & Planning Business Unit, SALGA
GERHARD VISSER Co-Founder and CEO, eSTUDY
SIBONGILE MOYO (PhD) Managing Director, Nedbank Zimbabwe
LINDA MAKALIMA Independent Non-Executive Director & Chairperson of Group Transformation Social and Ethics Committee, Nedbank
MATHEWS PHOSA Celebrated SA Leader, Prominent Business Man & Attorney
NICO MOLOTO Corporate Affairs Director, PepsiCo South Africa
LUCRETIA KHUMALO Divisional Executive: Client Support and Growth, IDC
DERICK APPIA-KUBI Transformation Director, PepsiCo South Africa
DIALE TILO Executive Director, Kgodiso Development Fund
GIVEN SHIVAMBU Procurement Packaging Director & MSO, PepsiCo South Africa
LUNGILE DLAMINI Supplier Development Lead, PepsiCo South Africa
SEREME MAPHAKA CEO, Methano Group
LEMOGANG PITSOE CEO, African Exploration Mining and Finance Corporation (SOC) Ltd
FARANA BOODHRAM Chief Executive Officer, Avita Mining Innovations
S’THEMBISO DLAMINI CEO, Gauteng Tourism Authority
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YAVI MADURAI Founder: African Prosperity Fund, South Africa
TEBOGO MAKOE Executive Director: Human Capital and Transformation, AfroCentric Group
LUZUKO TENA Social Media Director, Essence Mediacom
TAOLO MODISI Non- Executive Director, Botswana Insurance Fund Managers
KHULI CHANA Founder, Khuli Chana Foundation
CAS COOVADIA CEO, BUSA
BONGUMUSA MAKHATHINI CEO, Primedia Outdoor
LESEGO CHARLIE Head of Corporate Communications, Visa, Sub-Saharan Africa
RAVI NAIDOO Chief Executive Officer: Youth Employment Service (YES) South Africa
DIMAKATSO MASITENG Head of Information Technology, National Youth Development Agency
CAROLINE NELSON Country Manager, H&M South Africa
SEREME MAPHAKA CEO, Methano Group
ZAKHELE MGOBHOZI Founder & Managing Director, Modern Centric Holdings
ZENGEZIWE MSIMANG Chief Engagement Officer, Harambe Youth Employment
ASHA SINGH Social Media Manager & Content Creator
RENALDO SCHWARP Award-Winning Journalist, Filmmaker & Mixed Media Specialist
KATLEGO THULARE Brand Specialist & Author
MARK FRANKEL Chief Executive Officer, Black Umbrellas
TAELO MOJAPELO Chief Executive Officer, bp Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd (bpSA)
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OUR SPONSORS & PARTNERS
We thank each and every one of our sponsors and partners for their contribution to this year’s Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference
24 | Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference 2023 THE SPONSORS
METHANO GROUP Silver Sponsor IDC Silver Sponsor FPM SETA Bronze Sponsor eSTUDY Bronze Sponsor MINT GROUP Silver Sponsor AFROCENTRIC GROUP Bonze Sponsor MANDATE MOLEFI Bronze Sponsor BEE123 Showcase Exhibitor EW SETA Showcase Exhibitor TSL TELECOMS Lifestyle Sponsor NEDBANK Platinum Sponsor PEPSICO Gold Partner MERCHANTS Silver Sponsor SALGA Silver Sponsor GAUTENG Host City Partner ABP Accreditation Partner BLACK UMBRELLAS Partner THE STAR Media Partner BRITISH CHAMBER OF BUSINESS IN SOUTHERN AFRICA Partner PRIMEDIA OUTDOOR Media Partner BPESA Partner SIMODISA START-UP Partner WIMSA Partner
SALGA INSPIRES SERVICE
DELIVERY BY BEING A CATALYST FOR CONTINUOUS
IMPROVEMENT
We capacitate our talent to transform local government in fulfilling its developmental mandate to improve quality of life for all South Africans
www.salga.org.za
26 | Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference 2023
www.afrocentric.za.com
28 | Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference 2023
By making transformation an imperative, AfroCentric is able to realise its ambition of enabling access to quality and a ordable healthcare- ensuring a healthy population required for economic growth and sustainability.
INSPIRING HUMANS TO BRING THEIR WHOLE SELVES TO WORK EVERYDAY ALWAYS FOR THE HUMAN WITH THE HUMAN
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EWSETA KNOWS THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF SKILLS DEVELOPMENT
Our cutting-edge SAQA registered programmes are designed to unlock the full potential of individuals wanting a successful career in the energy and water sector, enabling them to adapt, innovate, and lead.
Your trusted training and development authority equips the sector to excel. Don’t settle for mediocrity. Embrace the power of skills development with EWSETA.
UNLEASH INNOVATION, UNLOCK POTENTIAL.
. PRETORIA (HEADQUATERS) 210 Amarand Avenue, Pegasus Building 1, Menlyn Maine, Pretoria 0181 South Africa Tel: +27 (0)12 443 6454 E-mail: info@methanogroup.com CAPE TOWN Dock Road Junction, Cnr Dock and Stanley Road, Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa Tel: +27 (0)21 403 6425 E-mail: info@methanogroup.com ENGINEERING, PROCUREMENT & CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT (EPCM) SERVICES DELIVERING EXCELLENCE & SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS Out commitment to quality, safety, and sustainability, coupled with out collaborative approach sets us apart as a trusted partner in achieving project success
Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference 2023 | 33
RAKSHA NAIDOO CEO of The Particle Group, WiMSA Chairperson
THE TITANS OF TRANSFORMATION
Our Advisory Board Members Pioneering a New Era of Inclusion
Africa is a dynamic continent that boasts some of the world’s most rapidly growing economies. With a burgeoning middle-class and a vibrant, youthful population, Africa holds immense economic potential. However, harnessing this potential requires embracing a fresh paradigm in business, where purpose and sustainability take centre stage.
Get in touch
Don’t want to miss out? See how you can be a part of transforming Africa at the 2024 conference.
to our Nedbank Top Empowerment representatives Lee-Anne & Justine to find out more.
CAS COOVADIA CEO, BUSA GERALD MWANDIAMBIRA CEO, SA Savings Institute
KERSHINI GOVENDER Executive Head: Transformation & Strategy, Nedbank SIBONGILE MAZIBUKO Deputy Director, The Department of Trade,
SYDWELL SHIKWENI Transformation Director, Merchants
Chat
For more information visit nedbankprivatewealth.co.za Connecting your wealth to the different sides of you. Nedbank Private Wealth includes the following entities: Nedbank Ltd Reg No 1951/000009/06 (NCRCP16) (FSP9363); Nedgroup Private Wealth (Pty) Ltd Reg No 1997/009637/01 (FSP828); Nedgroup Private Wealth Stockbrokers (Pty) Ltd Reg No 1996/015589/07 (NCRCP59) (FSP50399), a member of JSE Ltd.
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