MTN Global Leadership 2025

Towards Africa's Progress

Thomas Nkuna

Amandla ilizwe iAfrika (1957)

Oil on canvas

MTN Art Collection

Copyright held by the artist

About the Collection

The MTN Art Collection consists of nearly 1 400 artworks produced by South African and other African artists from the pre-colonial to contemporary eras. Since its official launch in November 1998, the mandate, still implemented today, was for this appreciating company asset to be utilised in driving educational support for the arts and culture sector. This approach was built on the understanding that art has an important role to play in driving social cohesion, fostering nation building and educating the youth on cultural and heritage development. Under the auspices of the MTN SA Foundation, and strategic public and internal partnerships, it has for the last 24 years contributed towards enhancing teaching and learning in South Africa while raising the profile of MTN as a socially invested and caring corporate citizen.

Allina Ndebele

Nqakamatshe and his Muti Magics (1998)

Tapestry

MTN Art Collection

Copyright held by the artist

Allina Ndebele

Nqakamatshe and his Muti Magics (1998)

Tapestry

MTN Art Collection

Copyright held by the artist

Read INSIDE

SAFETY

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12

MTN

MORE ABOUT SA

18 Fascinating facts about South Africa

SA LANGUAGE 101

20 South African expressions you need to know

YOUR EXPERIENCE OFFICERS

22 Taking employee experience to a new level

SA CULTURE

24 United in diversity

SA FOOD CULTURE

26 A taste of SA

MEET OUR CHEFS

28 Chef Benny Masekwameng

30 Chef Nti

THANK YOU!

32 Helping us lead through values

from Ralph

It’s time to have a heart-to-heart...

Three years ago, we experienced a profound and dramatic change to what we knew as “normal” and “to be expected”. Life as we knew it was upended, it was disrupted and we had to adjust. For some, fear and hopelessness set in, and for others they had to deal with loss, and the pain of that loss still remains today. I know you share with me deep sympathy and empathy to those that suffered during the pandemic. As the MTN Group, we responded to the pandemic and related challenges by seeking guidance from our purpose and being guided by our values. We stepped into the gaps where leadership was needed, and focused on ensuring we made real and impactful contributions for our staff, the communities we serve as well as the nationstates we operate in.

This ability to be a caring organisation and have impact is largely due to you, our leaders, as you managed to keep yourselves and your teams motivated.

It required a great deal of empathy and heart to keep encouraging people to believe in a shared vision, purpose and value system. We all know that in order for an enterprise to succeed, be sustainable and have real impact in society, it requires that its people are purpose-led and values-driven. Our values will always be the bedrock of who we are, what we do and the social and economic impact we will make into the future.

It is for this reason, that the theme for our Group Leadership Gathering 2023 is Leading through Values.

The conference discussions and engagements will focus on the proposed values we are looking to have refreshed, with a clear understanding that these very values will be key for our success over the next decade and possibly beyond. I’m really looking forward to your individual and collective contributions on the values refresh and how these come to life.

I also would like you to think practically about how these values have meaning for all our people, and create resonance with personal values. In a world where we will continue to see change, disruption and shocks, a values-driven culture will make us stand out as a company.

Looking forward to your full engagement and contribution at the conference!

Best regards,

Ralph Mupita, Group President & CEO

Ralph

One of the most powerful forms of leadership is servant leadership.

Former South African President, Nelson Mandela, would speak of how leading from behind and supporting the unit was an intelligent way to put those whose interests you seek to reinforce, in a position where they can enjoy the fruits of victory.

from Paul

Welcome to GLG 2023! We hope that you fully enjoy the experience, that you gain a greater depth of knowledge and most importantly that you empower your teams with the insights gleaned, so that they may Live Inspired!

Regards,

Our 2023 Global Leadership Gathering (GLG) will be the first in-person event in two years. As leaders, many of us have encountered new and unexpected challenges as a result of the pandemic.

However, understanding that confronting our fears head-on and placing the best interests of our people first, enabled us to rise above the challenges and bring a sense of normalcy and hope to our organisation.

Throughout this year’s conference, you will hear, see and experience the theme of embracing values and putting these into action. Integrity, being a visionary leader and showing compassion are some of the topics that will be explored in depth.

It is an exciting time at MTN, as we are now officially halfway to realising the goals of our Ambition 2025 strategy. Our success or failure in this regard will largely be determined by the culture, values and shared purpose we have as an organisation.

We are cognisant of the fact that without our leaders, a lot of the doing that we champion wouldn’t be a reality. So, we thank you for leading by example, having an excellent work ethic and showing up ready to join your teams in making a difference in the lives of MTNers and in the communities we serve.

Paul

Paul Norman, Group Chief Human Resources Officer

Y’ello leaders,

As the GLG conference kicks off, I would like to take a moment to welcome you to the birthplace of MTN – South Africa (also known as Mzansi).

In 1994, at the dawn of democracy, MTN was born.

Ours was to be a story of excellence, creativity and diligence that saw our beloved Y’ello brand soaring to unimaginable heights.

Today, in 2023, it is my immense pleasure to share some of our outstanding milestones. In taking a snapshot of what we have achieved, it is as Winston Churchill said, we do this not to only dwell on past glories, but rather understanding that success is walking from failure to failure. Throughout our journey, we’ve placed emphasis on doing with intention, to uplift not only ourselves but our communities, and our milestones are reflective of exactly that.

Did you know that in 1995 MTN offered free calls to emergency services for the first time in South Africa? Our efforts to innovate didn’t stop there as in 1998, MTN International was established. We also offered South Africa’s first two-way PC-to-cellphone messaging app as a free and international service.

It would take four years for us to bring General Packet Radio Services (GPRS) to the country, making us the first operator to do so. Then in 2003, MTN took its technological progression to the next level by making South Africa’s first video call, using its new 3G-enabled network.

More than 20 years later and more milestones have been achieved with 5G, as MTN meets its vision of connecting people in all corners of the country. We remain invested in technology and maintain high standards for our infrastructure.

Charles Molapisi, MTN SA CEO

Heita from SA

Our ambition is to ensure that connectivity is competitive and a reality for all citizens.

As the GLG conference progresses, I urge you to continue doing with consistency and believing in your own leadership. You have contributed to our collective success and we look forward to reaching greater heights together.

Regards, Charles

Some background to THE CITY OF GOLD

A very brief history of Johannesburg

The area around Johannesburg has been inhabited for at least 500 000 years, with its earliest residents being Stone Age hunter-gatherers living off the natural resources of the bushveld.

There are numerous iron furnace sites across Johannesburg, which were used by Tswana-speaking people at least 500 years ago.

Johannesburg’s big boom was kicked off by the discovery of gold on the Witwatersrand in 1886, which led to a frenzied gold rush. The early prospectors’ and miners’ tented settlements laid the foundation for what would become Johannesburg.

In 1887, the city of Johannesburg was officially founded as a town under the Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek.

During apartheid, Johannesburg was the home to significant resistance and protest activity, perhaps most notably the 16 June Soweto Uprising in 1976.

And finally, celebrating our own milestone, in 1994, MTN was founded in Johannesburg.

Our Journey

MTN was launched in 1994 as a leading provider of communication services, offering cellular network access and business solutions. After building up a successful operation in South Africa, achieving a market share of some 38%, the group began our expansion into the rest of Africa in 1998.

We were the first South African cell phone network operator to do so. The objective of this expansion was to take advantage of the market opportunities on the continent, given its underdeveloped telecommunications infrastructure and the transferability of MTN's skills into other African countries.

Since then, MTN has grown by investing in sophisticated communications infrastructure, developing new technologies and leveraging the talent of our diverse workforce to now better serve communities in Africa and the Middle East. MTN is officially Africa’s largest mobile network operator.

TIMELINE

• MTN was founded in 1994. That year, it rolled out South Africa’s first GSM payphones, which could carry both voice and data.

• In 1995, M-Cell became a public company, with 25% of MTN Holdings and 60% of M-Tel. Also that year, MTN offered free calls to emergency services for the first time in South Africa.

• In 1996, MTN acquired South Africa’s biggest service provider in M-Tel. MTN also launched the prepaid solution PayAsYouGo and made SMSs available to its customers.

• In 1997, MTN acquired the service provider Transtel Cellular.

• In 1998, MTN International was established. MTN

Specialising in providing voice, data, fintech solutions, digital, enterprise, wholesale and API services to more than 285 million customers in 19 markets.

GROWTH PLATFORMS

MTN is playing a key role in the advancement of mobile financial services by offering in-store payments, prepaid services, mobile wallets and microloans/ micro-insurance.

MTN is playing a key role in the advancement of its growth platforms mobile financial services by offering in-store payments,prepaid services, mobile wallets and microloans/micro-insurance.

These consist of fintech solutions such as MoMo – officially dubbed MTN Mobile Money, which is a platform that offers consumers and businesses a wide range of innovative digital financial services – digital services including Ayoba, a world-class messaging platform, enterprise services and NaaS (Network as a Service).

also offered South Africa’s first two-way PC-to-cellphone messaging app as a free and international service.

• In 2001, MTN became a tier-one internet service provider (ISP), trading as MTN Network Solutions. It also acquired ISP Citec to enhance its data service offering to the business sector.

• In 2002, MTN was the first operator in South Africa to offer General Packet Radio Services (GPRS).

• In 2003, MTN made South Africa’s first video call, using its new 3G-enabled network.

• In 2008, MTN sponsored South Africa’s oldest knock-out football tournament, which became MTN 8.

• In 2007, MTN introduced online banking services.

• In 2009, MTN launched mobile money in Benin, Ghana, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Uganda and Yemen.

• In 2010, MTN was the only African global sponsor of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

• In 2013, MTN partnered with Rocket Internet, a world-leading internet incubator, to enhance the internet in Africa and the Middle East.

• In 2015, MTN acquired the multimedia and telecoms company Smart Village as it started rolling out fibre across South Africa.

• In 2017, MTN South Africa became a sponsor of

the iconic Springboks, the country’s national rugby union team.

• In 2018, MTN partnered with KaiOS Technologies, China Mobile and UNISOC to launch Africa’s first 3G smart feature phone.

• In 2018, Supersonic, an ISP, was founded in Johannesburg by MTN Group to provide fibre internet services.

• In 2021, SuperSonic introduced “Air Fibre” – a 5G-based mobile data service. With more than 19 000 employees and operations across various African and Middle Eastern countries, MTN continues to break boundaries in digital progression.

Dr Bishop Jessica Mbangeni

A call to leadership

In the Nguni and Sotho cultures, praise singers have held pride of place for their colourful use of poetry, song and talk. Called imbongi, in Zulu and Xhosa, this name can literally be translated to praise singer, or the one who gives thanks.

In the past, Kings and Queens, important visitors and guests to the palace or royal grounds would be announced by the imbongi, who would speak of the guest’s ancestry, their clan names and their personal achievements. The element of poetry would be pronounced through the comparison of the guests to nature and significant cultural objects.

To this day imbongi are considered valuable additions to presidential events, ceremonies and cultural happenings. Dr Jessica Mbangeni, is one such imbongi who was invited to share her praises at special events such as the GLG conference. Dr Mbangeni’s opening welcome looked at MTN’s role in Africa, comparing it to ‘regional and global gold’ which has made a priceless contribution to the lives of many.

Dr Mbangeni goes on to praise Group CEO and

President Ralph Mupita and MTN South Africa CEO Charles Molapisi while appreciating the 19 markets that make up the group’s Opcos.

It may come as no surprise to those who know a thing or two about African folklore, or for that matter, to those who have witnessed an animated Jessica Mbangeni in full flight as she recites her poetry to awestruck audiences. Running through the veins of this multi-talented imbongi is nothing short of spirituality.

To her, it is a calling, a way of life beyond the stage or court performance. She is the embodiment of spirituality as she shares experiences with people she engages with, both personally, at theatres or through her social media interactions.

In a very real sense, she is a modern griot with her roots firmly stuck in the rich, dark African soil, yet with branches and leaves flowing all over the Diaspora and the universe. This, taking into account her travels not only in South Africa and the Mother Continent, makes her a fascinating addition to the arts scene.

For her, humans can play a more active role in changing society by moving away from the mentality of being oppressed and seek to be their own liberators.

“We need to come together as humanity and embrace our diversity. Strangely, it is incidences such as COVID-19 that bring people together.’’

However, in her many crafts, she is immediately recognisable as the thundering praise-singer who stands equally to men if not taller in a genre they generally regard as belonging to the man-folk. Under the wing of her grandmother, she learnt the art of being an imbongi and stood out among many similar artists in the South African society.

5

Top Safety Tips for Travellers

Safety is an important concern for most travellers when they’re visiting a foreign country. That’s why we’ve put together some important tips to help you stay safe during your time in South Africa.

1Know which areas to avoid: Areas that attract high numbers of tourists tend to be safe, while locations such as the inner city and townships should usually be avoided when travelling alone. There’s a lot to see in SA’s townships, but rather visit these areas as part of a tour group.

2Don’t go walking after dark: While well-lit precincts like Melrose Arch are perfectly safe to walk around in after dark, travellers should generally avoid walking outside at night, especially alone. Even during the day, rather opt for an Uber or metered taxi if you don’t have your own vehicle.

3Don’t show off your money in public: From wearing flashy Rolexes to carrying visibly large amounts of cash, if you make it obvious that you have money, you may make yourself an attractive target for criminals.

4Lock your doors: Whether it’s at your accommodation or while driving your rental vehicle, make sure to keep your doors locked at all times. Rather be safe than sorry.

5Be vigilant: Don’t leave valuables lying around on outdoor restaurant tables and be aware of your surroundings if you’re outside talking on your smartphone – opportunistic crimes such as snatching phones are not uncommon. Be wary of individuals attempting to help you while drawing cash at an ATM.

Emergency Contacts

Your GLG Experience Officer is your first point of contact

Key national phone numbers:

National Emergency Response – 10111

Cell Phone Emergency – 112 Ambulance – 10177

A smart city in the heart

of Johannesburg

Melrose Arch is urban dynamism, day and night. The street-based layout favours pedestrians, combining modernism and green design innovation in extraordinary ways, all contributing to the 24/7 buzz. Set amid hundreds of trees and extensive greenery, Melrose Arch encompasses cosmopolitan apartments, two luxury hotels, an events venue, over 20 restaurants and coffee shops, boutique retail complemented by major national chains, top-class office buildings, as well as a luxury health club and medical suites. Along with a bustling cafe culture, it offers an international high street fashion experience, alfresco style, leading to a shopping galleria boasting over 100 of the country’s top retailers to redefine what shopping can be in South Africa.

As the country’s only “smart city”, Melrose Arch is capable of fully independent functionality given its own fibre-optic network and on-site power backup. Protected by a team of 90 private security personnel with 24-hour CCTV surveillance through 600 cameras, Melrose Arch is also independently safe. Innovation is reflected in the precinct design, the distinct mix of retail stores and restaurants, Green Star-rated buildings across the precinct and ongoing new initiatives to enhance the Melrose Arch experience.

DID YOU KNOW?

Officially opened in the year 2000, Melrose Arch was designed to resemble a traditional European village, with cobblestone streets, landscaped gardens, and a central piazza.

MELROSE ARCH HIGHLIGHTS

The huge number of retail stores, eateries, amenities and things to do across the Melrose Arch precinct can be a bit overwhelming, so we’ve chosen a few highlights worth checking out!

RESTAURANTS

Cuisino – This relaxed wine bar and lounge is the most authentic wine tasting venue in Johannesburg. It offers the finest local and international wines in a sophisticated, social atmosphere.

11 The High Street

+27 (0)10 020 3699

The Grillhouse Melrose Arch – The Grillhouse is a carnivore’s delight, serving up perfectly grilled steaks, South African specialities including ostrich and an extensive drinks menu.

The Piazza, HL20 & HL21

+27 (0)10 446 1911

Mezepoli – Freshness, simplicity and a light touch define the Mezepoli philosophy. With the best in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and Asian flavours, there’s something for everyone’s palate.

The Piazza, SL26

+27 (0)11 684 1162

Mr George – Serving everything from burgers and steaks to sushi, Mr George is the perfect spot for a relaxed lunch or dinner with friends and colleagues.

3 The High Street

+27 (0)11 684 2999

PAUL – A family-owned artisanal patisserie and restaurant with a proud French heritage dating back to 1889, PAUL is a goto for great coffee, delicious pastries and light lunches.

Corner The High Street & Crescent Drive

+27 (0)87 351 6091

ART & CULTURE

The Melrose Gallery – A must-visit cultural site at Melrose Arch, the gallery houses an impressive collection of pan-African art and hosts regular artist exhibitions.

10 The High Street

+27 (0)83 777 6644

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Moove Motion Fitness – For those looking to work up a sweat, Moove Melrose Arch offers a fully equipped gym with cutting-edge equipment and personal trainers.

11 The High Street

+27 (0)10 595 2262

BOUTIQUE RETAIL

David Tlale – Innovation doesn’t even begin to describe the designs of David Tlale, arguably South Africa’s most famous fashion designer. Even if you’re not planning on buying anything, this high-fashion outlet is worth the visit.

Slip Street, Shop H68EF

+27 (0)83 583 2635

The Vault – Whether you’re looking for a luxury timepiece, or just out to admire the mechanical genius of some of the world’s finest watch brands, The Vault’s knowledgeable staff are on hand to assist.

The High Street, Shop 11

+27 (0)11 684 2023

+27 (0) 11 684 0000

Retail Trading Hours

Monday - Saturday: 09h00 - 18h00

Sundays/Public Holidays: 09h00 - 16h00

The Gauteng province isn’t just the economic engine that drives South Africa. It also offers many popular tourist attractions that are worth a visit.

Gauteng SITES TO SEE

The Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg tells the story of South Africa’s journey to democracy and the end of the apartheid system of racial segregation.

Constitution Hill in the heart of Johannesburg is a former prison complex that now houses the Constitutional Court of South Africa, as well as several museums that detail the country’s political history.

Maropeng and the Sterkfontein Caves at the Cradle of Humankind are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is one of the most important palaeoanthropological sites in the world, providing insights into early hominin evolution and the prehistoric ancestors of modern man.

Pretoria is the administrative capital of South Africa and certainly worth the brief trip from Johannesburg. The Union Buildings , the official seat of the South

African government, and the Voortrekker Monument , which tells the story of the Afrikaner people, are regular tourist attractions.

Soweto is South Africa’s largest township and was home to many important figures in its history, including Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Various tour guides operate in the area, providing insights into the history of the antiapartheid struggle and local culture. There’s also a prime bungee jumping site for the adventurous.

Gold Reef City amusement park in Johannesburg offers a variety of rides and attractions, as well as a chance to learn about the history of gold mining in the area.

For those looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle, the Magaliesberg mountain range runs through Gauteng and is ideal for hiking, camping and other outdoor activities.

Notable NATIONAL ATTRACTIONS

Other must-visit sites across South Africa

The Drakensberg Mountains are a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing and horse riding. The numerous nature reserves include a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the highest peak in Southern Africa. Famous San rock art sites dot the landscape.

Located in Mpumalanga province, the Blyde River Canyon is one of the largest canyons in the world. Visitors can take a boat trip on the river or hike to the top of the canyon for views of unrivalled scenic beauty.

The Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa and offers the chance to see diverse wildlife in their habitat, including the “Big Five” – lion, elephant, leopard, Cape buffalo and rhinoceros.

Table Mountain in Cape Town is South Africa’s most iconic landmark and one of the world’s New 7 Wonders of Nature. Offering stunning views of Cape Town and surrounds, it is a mustsee site for any visitor to South Africa.

The Robben Island UNESCO World Heritage Site, located off the coast of Cape Town, housed political prisoners such as Nelson Mandela during the apartheid era. Visitors can take a ferry to the island and tour the prison.

A time to SHINE

The partnership with Kudos came naturally, as recognition is a strategic tool that leaders of all levels should use to support employees, themselves and their organisational goals. Studies have shown that when managers regularly provide recognition, every measure of morale, productivity, performance, customer satisfaction and employee retention soars.

The MTN Shine recognition platform ties specific valuesaligned behaviours to every recognition message. When a team sees the values recognised in their actions, they have a sense of contributing to the broader organisational goals in a meaningful way.

With MTN Shine, recognition is always directly connected to corporate values. Leaders can demonstrate their commitment to those values and shared goals by recognising when they see them in practice. Values are the guiding principles that shape culture and inform the behaviour and performance of employees.

MTN’s core values have been developed by a core group of people that truly know the organisation’s personality and what type of company they want it to be. They have been the ones who have been there to live them in the long term.

These culture champions have set the tone, using our core values to lead by example, drive performance and make critical decisions.

We’re celebrating our latest batch of champions who live and breathe the following values:

Can Do: Having a can-do spirit. Getting it done. Integrity: Delivering on promises. Doing what is right. Being truthful and trustworthy.

At MTN, leadership is put into action through a pivotal Kudo platform: MTN Shine. In creating an environment for value-based leadership to thrive, it has always been important for MTN to embody these values through peer-to-peer recognition.

Innovation : Doing things differently. Being original. Thinking out of the box and being solution focused.

Leadership : Providing visionary leadership and guidance. Being accountable, dependable and inspirational.

Relationships : Working together and sharing ideas. Being caring, passionate, respectful and friendly.

OUR TOP 10 OPCOs

MTN Shine eSwatini

MTN Shine Ghana

MTN Shine Afghanistan

MTN Shine Botswana

MTN Shine Benin

MTN Shine Congo-Brazzaville

MTN Shine South Sudan

MTN Shine Uganda

MTN Shine SA

MTN Shine Nigeria

TOP 10 KUDOS RECEIVERS

Sindisiwe Mhlongo – SA

Cesaire Tossa – Benin

Samsideen Kamar – Nigeria

Bongumusa Nzimande – SA

Godwin Ogbe – Nigeria

Olumuyiwa Durowoju – Nigeria

Osiaga Aliu – Nigeria

Mubarak Alli – Nigeria

Olurotimi Balogun – Nigeria

Chima Paul – Nigeria

TOP 10 KUDOS SENDERS

Martial Seri – Cote d’Ivoire

Oludupe Onaadepo – Nigeria

Inyang Osazuwa – Nigeria

Sharon Singh – SA

Ayesha Ijomanta – Nigeria

Mpho Phatswane – SA

Oputuboye Briggs – Nigeria

Fozia Raschid – SA

Anastasia Ehidiamhen – Nigeria

Nhlanhla Ngubeni – SA

Some lesser-known facts about South Africa – all of which are worth exploring!

Fascinating facts about South Africa

South Africa is the only country in the world with three capital cities: Pretoria (administrative), Cape Town (legislative) and Bloemfontein (judicial).

South Africa is the site of the world’s largest known meteorite impact crater, the Vredefort Dome, which is over 300 km in diameter.

South Africa is the only country in the world where the “Big Five” game animals can be found: lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant and Cape buffalo.

South Africa is home to one of the largest and most diverse floral kingdoms in the world, with over 20 000 different plant species.

South Africa has the world’s third-largest population of cheetahs, after Namibia and Iran.

South Africa’s Western Cape has the longest wine route in the world, stretching over 1 850 km.

Ensuring a safe and

fulfilling experience

We’re delighted to have so many members of the MTN family visit us for the 2023 Global Leadership Gathering. As such, we aim to ensure the safety of every delegate visiting us during this year’s event.

Please take a moment to read the following points concerning your safety during the event:

• Adhere strictly to all security advisory communications that are issued by the GLG coordinating team to limit any exposure to security risks.

• Adequate travel insurance encompassing medical emergency cover should be confirmed for all delegates prior to departure.

• Do not carry large sums of cash.

• Familiarise yourself with your destination, as well as the layout of the city and important routes before leaving your hotel.

• Pay attention to any suspicious persons or packages in and around the hotel or GLG venue. Report suspicious activity to security immediately.

• Always carry a charged smartphone programmed with useful numbers – e.g. your hotel, local colleagues, police or embassy.

• When out and about, keep a safe distance from

large, unpredictable crowds and avoid commotions on the street.

• If walking in the street, walk against the flow of traffic and keep your luggage in your outside hand.

• Do not use “pool” car services or ride-share. Use only MTN-approved service providers before and during the GLG if you need assistance with travel, transport, medical and security arrangements or emergencies.

• Avoid non-essential movements.

• Avoid all political gatherings and protestrelated activities.

• Delegates are advised to carry proof of identity at all times, especially when outside the GLG venue or hotel. In the event of a serious incident, report to security immediately.

• Ensure you receive a briefing on the current security situation and prevailing threats prior to travel.

• In case of any emergency or need for evacuation, please follow all instructions issued by the GLG coordinating team or event organisers.

braai – a South African barbeque, usually using charcoal or wood and providing an ideal excuse for a party or gathering with friends

eish – a slang word used to express surprise, disappointment or frustration, similar to “oh my goodness” in English; often used when people make mistakes or are sharing bad news

e.g. Eish, I think it’s time for a new pair of glasses. I just sat on mine.

hayibo – an exclamation that indicates surprise or disbelief, similar to “no way” in English

e.g. Hayibo, I can’t believe he just did that!

howzit – a common informal greeting that usually means “hi”, but can also mean “how are you?”

e.g. Howzit, my friend! Are you well today?

just now/now now – when someone tells you they’ll do something “just now”, they usually mean they’ll do it in a little while (or even hours later), while someone who plans on doing something “now now” usually means they’ll do it almost immediately

South African expressions you need to know Hayibo! Eish!

e.g. John just sent me an urgent order, so I’m going to get that done now now. The other quote can wait for a bit – I’ll

Every country has its own, slightly different, way of saying and doing things, and South Africa is no exception. We’ve put together a Mzansi language survival guide to help you separate the hayibos from the howzits.

lekker – meaning “nice” or “good”, lekker can be used to describe everything from how you are feeling to a delicious plate of food

e.g. I had such a lekker time visiting my friends on holiday. We went to a few lekker restaurants as well.

load shedding – evoking fear and frustration, this unfortunate phenomenon takes place when the national electrical grid is constrained, requiring rotating blackouts across the country

Mzansi – an informal name for South Africa, meaning “south” in isiXhosa

robot – according to most South Africans, we don’t have mere “traffic lights”; instead, “robots” with green, yellow and red lights control the flow of traffic at our intersections

e.g. Just take a left at the next set of robots and you’ll be right at the hotel.

shame – used to express sympathy or empathy, similar to “I’m sorry to hear that”

e.g. Shame, what’s going on with your son? I heard you took him to the doctor yesterday.

sharp (also sharp-sharp) – an almost universal expression that can mean everything from agreement to enthusiasm, and is even a greeting; it can mean “thank you”, “okay”, “sure”, “yes”, “good” or “goodbye” e.g. Q: How are you doing today? A: I’m sharp-sharp.

ubuntu – a universally African term that expresses a sense of community, as well as care and concern for others

yebo – Zulu word for “yes”, used informally by South Africans of all backgrounds

yoh – as all South Africans will know, “yoh” usually has a hidden exclamation point built into it and it is usually used to express surprise or shock; however, it can also indicate excitement, so context is key e.g. Yoh, it’s unbelievably hot today, isn’t it?

YOUR EXPERIENCE OFFICERS

Taking employee experience to a new level

Nombulelo Mathibela

Lerato Nosenga

Aaliyah Osborne

Ignitious Chauke

Mohau Modisana

Nandisile Nkosi

Anele Dube

Andile Mhlongo

Bekezela Thoka

Dylan Mathebula

Mbali Mlalazi

Shatadi Seabela

Robert Reddiar

Siphesihle Ndlovu

Puseletso Ivy Sebaeng

Philelo Nesamvuni

Thubelihle Buthelezi

Tshegofatso Mangweni

Thubelihle Ndlovu

Zizipho Momoza

Tshepo Dikgale

Zuko Mila

Nomfundo Mkhize

diversity United in

During this year’s Global Leadership Gathering, various aspects of South Africa’s rich cultural heritage are proudly on display. From the thunderous welcome of a seasoned isiXhosa praise singer to the brightly coloured, intricate patterns adorning the dresses of cultural ambassadors, we offer a taste of all things South African – including the cuisine, thanks to our celebrity chefs.

Visitors are often amazed by our country’s diversity of cultures – maybe expecting us to be simply Black or White – but the reality is much more nuanced and colourful than that. And while ethnicity, culture and language are intimately linked, South Africans have been mixing cultures and traditions for generations. That said, we highlight a few distinctive groups in South Africa’s cultural landscape below.

From their namesake province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa’s largest ethnic group is the Zulu nation, known for their brightly coloured beadwork and traditional headdresses – the wide-crowned isicholo worn by married women and the umqhele for men, which is made from animal fur. While not exclusive to the Zulu people, annual Nguni stick-fighting contests are held to commemorate the great King Shaka.

The Xhosa people of the Eastern Cape are known for their brightly coloured, elaborate dresses and matching headscarves among women, while the men wear wraparound skirts that run from the waist to their feet. A long scarf over one shoulder also serves as a cloak when it gets cold. The ancient rite of ilwaluko, symbolising a boy’s transition into adulthood, was famously and controversially explored in the 2017 film Inxeba (The Wound)

As evidenced by having 11 official languages, South Africa is home to a diverse array of cultures and ethnic groups. Our unique history has influenced the way we speak, dress, cook, sing, dance and create art. These differences make our country the Rainbow Nation that it is – and there’s nowhere else quite like it.

Heritage Day

Our culture is so important to us as South Africans that we have an annual public holiday on 24 September named Heritage Day. This occasion is used to celebrate our individual cultures as well as how we come together as a united nation, despite our different backgrounds. The day is usually marked by people wearing the traditional dress of their cultural group to celebrate and show pride in their heritage. In more recent years, Heritage Day has been unofficially dubbed Braai Day, in celebration of the one pastime that brings together South Africans of every persuasion – the humble braai (barbeque).

The Ndebele are known for their brightly coloured and patterned houses – largely brought to the wider world through renowned artist Esther Mahlangu. Women of the Ndebele tribe wear brightly coloured skirts and blankets, while the men wear more subdued breast-plates and animal skin headbands.

SA TODAY

There are many more unique cultures spread across South Africa, all of which are worth exploring – so if you were looking for any excuses to return and explore our beautiful country, make one of those a cultural tour of SA.

Looking towards more contemporary culture, South Africa’s struggle against apartheid has unquestionably had an influence, particularly within our townships. From new forms of music –such as Afrojazz, kwaito and now amapiano – to art, dance and everything in-between, the people of Mzansi have always been poets, creators and influencers, using art as an outlet for self-expression.

And while we’ve all got our own unique backgrounds, modern South Africans from across the cultural spectrum share a number of common interests. We’re a soccer-mad, rugby-crazed, braai-loving nation of seasoned weather observers and eclectic music lovers. We like long walks (i.e. holidays) on the beach, dancing to great tunes and cosying up every day after work with our favourite soap opera.

So don’t be fooled – South Africa’s a lot like many other countries today… just refreshingly different.

Cultural Icons from Mzansi

Charlize Theron – Oscar-winning Hollywood actress

Miriam Makeba – international African music pioneer

Ladysmith Black Mambazo – Grammywinning traditional music ensemble

Hugh Masekela – the father of South African jazz

Trevor Noah – award-winning comedian and television host

A taste SA

of

No matter our background, South Africans are passionate about our food! With a fusion cuisine inspired by various cultures and traditions, what we eat reflects the diversity of our nation. Be sure to try these 10 distinctly South African dishes…

01

Bobotie is a traditional Cape Malay dish made with minced beef, spices and raisins, topped with a custard-like mixture and baked.

02 Biltong is a type of dried meat, similar to jerky, that is made from beef, game meats or ostrich. It’s the ultimate South African snack.

03

Chakalaka is a spicy vegetable relish that is often served with pap (a stiff or crumbly maize porridge) and meat dishes.

04

Potjiekos is a traditional stew cooked in a three-legged pot over an open fire, usually made with meat, vegetables and spices.

05

Bunny chow is the ultimate street food, consisting of a hollowed-out quarter loaf of bread filled with curry, and often accompanied by traditional Indian condiments.

06

Pap and vleis is a staple dish, being a combination of maize porridge and grilled red meat.

07

Boerewors is a traditional sausage made from a mixture of beef and pork (beef-only variations are available), and is often served with pap and chakalaka.

08

Umngqusho is a dish made from samp (dehulled maize), potato and beans. A traditional Xhosa dish, it is often served with meat and was a favourite of Nelson Mandela.

09

Milk tart is a traditional, creamy yet light dessert made from a mixture of milk, sugar, cinnamon and eggs, with a pastry crust.

10

Malva pudding is a sweet traditional dessert made with apricot jam. This delicious spongy pudding is often served with custard or ice cream.

Food touches the soul and what we cook and eat tells people who we are. All countries have their own food traditions, and South Africa is no different. Fittingly for the Rainbow Nation, one of these culinary traditions embraces our diversity and love of vibrancy – namely the legendary 7 colours meal.

Bringing

your plate colour to

WHAT IS IT?

A 7 colours meal – typically eaten on Sundays with one’s family – usually consists of seven different dishes, each representing one of the seven colours of the rainbow (though not quite matching the exact spectrum). The dishes usually consist of a combination of traditional African and European dishes, and may include:

Yellow: A vegetable dish such as mashed butternut Red: A dish such as chakalaka (a spicy vegetable relish) or even a stew

Green: A vegetable dish like spinach or green beans

Purple: Usually pickled beetroot

Orange: A vegetable dish like carrots or pumpkin Brown: Usually your meat dish, often in the form of a stew, or gravy

White: A light-coloured dish such as rice, pap (maize porridge), cabbage or coleslaw

This mouth-watering combination of dishes comes together to create the ultimate comfort food occasion, which is best enjoyed with good company and not much to do on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Many African restaurants provide a delicious 7 colours Sunday experience without the extensive preparation and washing-up required to indulge in this South African favourite.

But be warned – once you’ve experienced the ultimate Sunday kos experience, there’s no going back!

Chef Benny Masekwameng

Affable, easy-going, yet possessing an impressive wealth of professional culinary expertise, Chef Benny is the quintessential people’s person, a master of his craft who acknowledges his roots even as he continues to impress even his most exclusive and discerning patrons. Chef Benny has been a near permanent fixture on SA’s TV screens, as a judge on both MasterChef South Africa and Ultimate Braai Master SA .

CHEF BENNY'S BEEF BOBOTIE

Serves 4-6 people

Ingredients

• 3 slices of bread

• 1 cup + ½ cup milk, divided

• 2 Tbs olive oil

• 2 large onions, roughly chopped

• 4 tsp medium curry powder

• 1 tsp dried herbs (oregano, basil, parsley, etc.)

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• ½ tsp ground turmeric

• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

• 1 ½ kg beef mince

• ½ cup fruit chutney

• 1 Tbs apricot jam

• zest and juice of one medium lemon, *divided

• 4 tsp tomato paste

• salt and pepper

• 2 large eggs

• 4 bay leaves

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C.

2. Soak the bread in 1 cup of milk.

3. Heat the olive oil in a wide pan set over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the onions, and cook until soft.

4. Add the curry powder, mixed herbs, ground cumin, turmeric, and garlic, and stirring constantly,

allow to cook for a minute or two until the garlic is soft.

5. Add the beef mince, and cook, stirring frequently to break up any big chunks, until browned.

6. Once the beef is browned, remove the pan from the heat, and stir in the chutney, apricot jam, all the lemon zest, half the lemon juice, tomato paste, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well, give it a taste, and add more lemon juice, salt and pepper as desired.

7. Squeeze the milk from the bread, reserving the milk for later, and smooshing and tearing the bread into small pieces. Mix the bread into the beef mixture, and spread evenly into an ovenproof dish.

8. Strain the milk that has come from the bread, and add the remaining ½ cup of milk. Beat in the eggs, and season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper to taste. Pour this over the meat, and decoratively scatter the bay leaves on top.

9. Bake, uncovered, at 180°C for 45 minutes, or until golden brown.

Chef Nti

Multi-talented TV chef, MC, author and entrepreneur, Nthabiseng Nti Ramaboa

– aka Chef Nti celebrate, innovate and share South African flavours and culinary culture. Her personal brand, rooted in her heritage but global in its approach, is inspired by the authentic South African cooking she grew up with; her dishes bring a true reflection of her adventurous spirit and her love for homegrown flavours.

SPINACH AND FETA CROQUETTES SERVED WITH USHATINI SAUCE

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked maize meal

• bunch of Swiss chard, washed and finely chopped

• ½ onion finely chopped

• 1 tsp crushed garlic

• ½ cup crumbled feta

• handful of maize meal, seasoned with salt and pepper for coating oil for frying

salt and freshly ground pepper

Method

Cook the maize meal according to packet instructions till medium yet smooth consistency. Let it cool slightly.

In a pan heat oil, sauté garlic and onion till fragrant. In batches, wilt the spinach and season with salt and pepper and set aside to cool slightly.

3. Spoon a tablespoon of the cooked pap in your hand and flatten.

4. Place ½ teaspoon of the spinach mixture followed by the same quantity feta cheese and roll into a ball.

You should get about 16 to 20 medium size balls.

Roll the croquette in the seasoned maize meal and deep fry in hot oil till golden brown. Drain excess oil on a paper towel and serve warm with ushatini sauce. Enjoy!

Ushatini Tomato Relish

Ingredients

• 15 roma tomatoes

• 3 large onions

• 2 habanero chillis, seeds removed (optional)

• 3 whole orange peppers

• 3 garlic cloves

• 6 Tbs sherry vinegar

• olive oil for frying

Method

1. In a food processor blend all ingredients (except the sherry vinegar) together until smooth.

2. Add oil to a saucepan and keep at medium heat.

3. Add tomato mix into the hot pan, simmer on the stove at a low heat until all is cooked, about 5 minutes.

4. Season the relish, wait for the mixture to cool down.

5. Blend the mixture in the food processor again until a smooth, orange and velvety consistency with no lumps.

6. Return the tomato mix to the saucepan and simmer it on the stove again for 10 minutes and finish with sherry vinegar.

7. Enjoy with pasta, use as pizza base or as a dip for your favourite snack. It's so fresh you will enjoy it easily with anything.

Chef Nti’s modern take on papa le morogo (spinach), with a proudly South African grain.

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