FMCG AND PHARMACEUTICALS
A LEGACY OF VISIBLY CHAMPIONING ALLYSHIP FOR WOMEN Velaphi Ratshefola, Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa This outgoing Managing Director of CocaCola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA) can easily be counted as a leader with the most awards for championing women’s equality in corporate South Africa. What sets Velaphi Ratshefola apart in the realm of innovative and forward-thinking leadership is his unwavering commitment to allyship of marginalised groups, which has contributed to driving strategic growth within this global FastMoving Consumer Goods (FMCG) company in South Africa. As a visionary Chairperson of Non-Alcoholic Ready to Drink (NARTD), Ratshefola has not only led his organisation but also established CCBSA as a key player in the beverage sector. Ratshefola’s professional journey commenced as a Public Prosecutor, with degrees from North-West University and the University of Cape Town. He has used his position to advance the agenda of inclusive economies by advocating for a diverse and supportive workplace and value chain. One of Velaphi’s most notable achievements is the successful execution of collaboration-centric initiatives. His reputation as an outcome-focused Executive Leader is richly deserved, underpinned by his exceptional business acumen and adept negotiation skills. In 2023, he was awarded the 22nd Lifetime Achievement Award at the Top Empowerment Awards, and prior to that in 2021, he received the Standard Bank Top Women Award for the third consecutive year, specifically in the category of Top Gender Empowered Company: Top Male Driving Gender Empowerment. This recognition is testament to his vision to leverage economic inclusion to foster gender equity and consistent and effective advocacy for collaboration in corporate spaces. Velaphi’s unwavering commitment to gender equality and supportive practices may have borne substantial fruit, as evident in the 52% representation of women in leadership positions at CCBSA. In summary, Velaphi’s professional journey demonstrates the importance of leader-led DEI strategic goals and collaboration in corporate environments. It illustrates how a steadfast commitment to diversity and inclusivity can not only drive organisational success and growth but may also earn well-deserved recognition in the global corporate arena.
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DEI in the Global South | Edition 1
