DAY 1 | 31 JULY 2025
Empowerment Through Bold Transformation
08:00 – 08:55 Registration & Refreshments
09:00 - 09:05 MODERATORS WELCOME | Gugulethu Mfuphi, Senior Anchor on CNBC Africa and Presenter on Kaya FM*
09:05 - 09:10 ORGANISERS WELCOME| Ralf Fletcher, Chief Executive Officer, Topco Media*
09:10 - 09:20 NEDBANK ADDRESS|Khensani Nobanda, Group Executive: Group Marketing and Corporate Affairs, Nedbank*
09:20 - 09:30 HOST CITY ADDRESS|Panyaza Lesufi, Premier of Gauteng*
09:30 - 09:40 MINISTER ADDRESS |Building Confidence, Unlocking Potential: A Results-Driven Approach to the Transformation Fund
The Transformation Fund is more than just financial capital, it is a catalyst for meaningful, lasting economic change. By fostering transparency, optimising investment, and actively addressing concerns, we can unlock South Africa’s full economic potential Through this keynote, Hon Minister Tau will invite key stakeholders to collaborate,contribute, and drive the success of this transformative initiative
Speaker: Hon Parks Tau, Minister, Department of Trade, Industry and Competition*
09:40 - 09:50 MINISTER ADDRESS |Building for the Future: Housing as a Catalyst for Economic Inclusion
Housing is a critical tool for economic transformation, job creation and social mobility. This keynote will explore how integrated housing developments can drive inclusive economic growth by creating employment opportunities, support for small businesses and uplift historically disadvantaged communities
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Speaker: Hon. Thembisile Simelane, Minister, Department of Human Settlements
The Future of Transformation: Creating Pathways to Shared Economic Success
09:50 - 10:25
10:25 - 11:05 Hosted by Merchants
PANEL DISCUSSION| The Changing Landscape of BBBEE: Policies, Frameworks, and the Road Ahead
This panel explores the progression of BBBEE policies and frameworks, highlighting key milestones, recent legislative updates, and their implications for businesses. It will delve into the shift from compliance to meaningful transformation, the role of businesses in driving sustainable growth, and what the future holds for BBBEE in shaping an inclusive economy.
Panelists:
● Tshediso Matona, B-BBEE Commissioner, South Africa*
● Dr. Stuart Theobald, Founder & Chairman, Krutham*
● Bongiwe Kunene, Managing Director, Banking Association South Africa*
● Neo Dongwana, Independent Non-Executive Director, Nedbank*
PANEL DISCUSSION | Impact Sourcing as a Catalyst for Youth Empowerment and Economic Transformation
Youth unemployment isn’t just an economic issue, it’s a ticking time bomb threatening social stability, economic progress, and long-term prosperity Impact sourcing presents a scalable, sustainable solution, not as a short-term fix, but as a fundamental shift in hiring practices that prioritises potential over privilege By intentionally employing young people from underserved communities and equipping them with future-fit skills, businesses can unlock untapped talent while driving meaningful social and economic change
Moderator: Dr. Sydwell Shikweni, Vice President Transformation, Merchants*
Panelists:
● Zondwa Mandela, Chairman, Mandela Legacy Foundation*
● Ravi Naidoo, CEO, Youth Employment Service (YES)
● Nadia Naidu, Vice President Human Resources, Merchants*
11:05 - 11:15
Fast Track Networking
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RISE & GRIND | Coffee Break
11:15 - 11:35
11:35 - 11:50
Hosted by Vaxowave
11:50 - 12:30
Hosted by iMe
12:30 - 13:10
Hosted by Sanlam
POWERTALK|The Future of Work: Leveraging Tech for Inclusive and Scalable Growth
As digital transformation accelerates across Africa, so does the urgency to equip the workforce with future-fit skills. This session explores how inclusive skilling models, remote and hybrid work structures and tech-driven innovation are creating new pathways for youth employment, entrepreneurship and economic mobility. From microcredentials to digital hubs, discover how South Africa and the continent is reimagining work not just for today, but for a sustainable, inclusive tomorrow.
Speaker: Kume Luvhani, Co-Founder, Vaxowave*
PANEL DISCUSSION| E-Commerce & Beyond: How SMEs Can Compete and Win in the Digital Economy
In a world where digital-first businesses are thriving, how can SMEs not just survive, but scale and compete? From social commerce and AI-driven marketing to seamless logistics and cross-border trade, the digital economy offers unprecedented opportunities but also new challenges This panel explores strategies and tools that can help SMEs harness the power of e-commerce, fintech, and emerging technologies to reach new customers, optimise operations, and future-proof their businesses
Panelists:
● Mbuso Khoza, Chief Technology Officer, iME*
● Talitha Boodhram, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, MiDesk Global*
● Kevin Trethewey, Enterprise AI:Head of Software Engineering, SandTech*
PANEL DISCUSSION |From Learning to Earning: Empowering Women and Youth Through Lifelong Education
As the lines between education, entrepreneurship and employment continue to blur, traditional learning models must evolve to meet the real-world needs of youth and women. This discussion explores innovative approaches that connect
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education to income-generating opportunities from skills-based training and mentorship to entrepreneurial incubation and digital literacy. By rethinking how learning translates into economic participation, we can create inclusive pathways that empower women and youth to thrive in a rapidly changing economy.
Moderator: Ray-Ann Sedres, Chief Transformation Officer, Sanlam*
Speakers:
● Kebalepile Matlhako, Transformation, ESD and ESG Consultant, BEE Chamber*
● Abel Sakhau, Chief Sustainability Officer, Sanlam*
● Mbali Phewa, Head of Transformation, Santam*
13:10 - 14:05
Pioneering the Next Wave of Transformation
14:05 - 14:20 CASE STUDY |The Power of Purpose: Leveraging Brand Influence to Inspire Social Change
Branding holds immense power in shaping perceptions and influencing behaviour When leveraged effectively, the right messaging can not only raise awareness about critical social issues but also inspire action and drive lasting transformation
Speaker: Senior Executive, Nedbank*
14:20 - 15:00 PANEL DISCUSSION |Ensuring Black-Owned SMEs Have a Seat at the Procurement Table
This panel will explore how black-owned SMEs can enhance their competitiveness in procurement markets by building capacity, understanding tendering requirements, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Experts will discuss practical strategies for overcoming common challenges, the importance of developing the necessary skills and knowledge, and how businesses can position themselves as reliable, qualified suppliers in both public and private sector tenders.
Speakers:
● Tanya van Meelis, Acting Deputy Director General:Transformation and *=Invitedspeaker/notconfirmedorcommittedasyet
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Competition Policy, Department of Trade, Industry and Competition*
● Keegan Moodley, Founder and CEO, GROW Impact South Africa*
● Senior Representative, Industrial Development Corporation(IDC)*
15:00 - 15:40 PANEL DISCUSSION | A New Era of Leadership: Elevating Youth Voices for Impact
Young leaders are no longer waiting for a seat at the table because they are building their own. From entrepreneurship and activism to corporate innovation and policy influence, youth are shaping the future with bold ideas and fresh perspectives. This discussion will focus on the role of mentorship, inclusive leadership, and cross-generational collaboration in creating a more dynamic and forward-thinking society. Discover how businesses, governments, and communities can support and amplify youth leadership?
● Asanda Luwaca, Executive Chairperson, National Youth Development Agency(NYDA)*
● Matoti Buthelezi, Chairman and Founder, National Executive Economic Collective(NEXEC)*
● Nico Pampier, Human Rights and Education Activist & UN Youth Representative*
● Ray Naicker, Chief Information Officer, Nedbank*
15:40 - 15:55 FIRESIDE CHAT |Missing Middle: Filling the Funding Gap for Growing SMMEs
A growing number of South African SMMEs find themselves in the “missing middle” too large to qualify for microfinance and too small or risky to meet the stringent requirements of commercial banks. This funding gap presents a critical bottleneck to scaling high potential businesses, especially those led by historically disadvantaged entrepreneurs. This session will unpack the structural reasons behind this disconnect and explore innovative models for bridging the gap.
Speaker: Senior Representative, Nedbank*
15:55 - 16:00
Moderators Closing Remarks: Gugulethu Mfuphi, Senior Anchor on CNBC Africa and Presenter on Kaya FM*
Conclusion : Day 1
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(SANAS)
● Nomvula Tsatsi, Director, Department Of Trade, Industry & Competition*
● Yolandi Venter, Board Member and Training and Professionalisation Director, Association of B-BBEE Professionals & CEO of the B4i Economic Empowerment Division, within The B4i Project*
● Isaac Matshego, Economist, Nedbank*
10:15 - 10:30 Fast Track Networking
10:30 - 11:00
11:00 - 11:15 A NEDBANK CASE STUDY | Nedbank’s Journey of Consistent Empowerment Excellence
With seven consecutive years at Level 1, Nedbank has set the benchmark for transformative sustainable implementation of the BBBEE codes This session offers an in-depth look at the strategies, systems and culture that have enabled long term empowerment success Gain insights into how Nedbank continues to embed transformation into its core business operations, navigate evolving compliance landscapes and deliver impact that extends beyond scorecards to real economic inclusion.
Kershini Govender, Executive Head: Transformation & Strategy, Nedbank*
11:15 - 11:55
Hosted by SALGA PANEL DISCUSSION |Closing the Divide: Skills Development for High-Demand Careers
This panel explores the progress, challenges, and innovations in equipping previously disadvantaged South Africans with the skills needed for high-demand sectors like technology, engineering, and healthcare Government sector experts will discuss how targeted training, strategic partnerships, and policy alignment can bridge the skills gap and empower individuals to thrive in these transformative fields
Speakers:
● Pindiwe Gida, Chief Officer: Human Capital & Corporate Services, SALGA*
● Diana Mbatha, Senior Manager: Organisation Effectiveness, SALGA*
● Maureen Makgolane, Senior Manager: Remuneration HIRS and Analytics, SALGA*
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12:45 - 13:05
Hosted by Diversifi POWER TALK |Leading by Inclusion: Transforming Company Culture to Elevate Women Leaders
Creating a truly inclusive workplace goes beyond policies, it requires a cultural transformation that actively supports and elevates women in leadership Discover how organisations can foster an environment where women not only advance but also thrive as leaders From addressing unconscious bias to implementing mentorship programmes and redefining leadership expectations, learn practical strategies for embedding inclusion into company culture
Speaker: Erosha Govender, Chief Executive Officer, Diversifi*
13:05 - 14:00 LUNCH BREAK Inclusion as a Driver of Transformation: Building Equitable Communities
14:00 - 14:20 FIRESIDE CHAT|Creating a Financial Sector That Reflects South Africa’s Diversity
Explore the critical role of financial institutions in driving meaningful transformation, going beyond compliance to create real impact This session will focus on strategies for increasing black ownership, supporting black professionals in leadership roles, and directing investment toward historically underserved communities. By aligning financial services with the country’s transformation goals, we can build a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive sector that contributes to long-term economic growth.
Speakers:
● Priya Naidoo, Group Executive: Strategy, Nedbank*
● Dr. Duncan Pieterse, Director-General, National Treasury*
14:20 - 14:50 PANEL DISCUSSION | Making Disability Inclusion a Business Imperative
This session explores how organisations can move beyond compliance and token initiatives to fully integrate disability inclusion into their operations, workforce planning and leadership culture. By embedding accessibility, inclusive hiring practices and workplace accommodations into the fabric of their business, companies can unlock new talent, drive innovation and create a more equitable and competitive marketplace Experts and industry leaders will share practical approaches, success stories and key strategies for making disability inclusion a sustainable and impactful business priority
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Speakers:
● Nkosinathi Ndlovu, CEO, South African Disability Development Organisation*
● Prof. Kwazi Majola, Associate Professor, University of Limpopo*
● Ntungu Masindi, Head of Transformation, Nedbank*
● Lesa Bradshaw, Founder, Bradshaw LeRoux Consulting*
14:5
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PANEL DISCUSSION | Gender Equality in the Workplace: Policies that Drive Empowerment and Inclusion
This panel discussion will explore the essential policies and practices that organisations need to implement to foster gender equality in the workplace Despite the progress made over the years, women still face significant barriers to career advancement, leadership positions, and fair compensation This session will examine the strategies, frameworks, and best practices that businesses can adopt to ensure women have equal opportunities in every aspect of their professional lives
Speakers:
● Dr. Simamkele Dlakavu, Post-Doctoral Research Fellow based at the Centre for Women and Gender Studies, Nelson Mandela University*
● Thoko Mpumlwana, Chairperson, South African Women in Dialogue*
● Fatima Collins, Regional Head, Women of Sibanye-Stillwater*
15:20 - 16:00 PANEL DISCUSSION | The Role of Mentorship in Shaping Youth Careers in Underserved Communities
Mentorship plays a crucial role in shaping the career trajectories of young people, particularly in underserved areas where opportunities may be limited This topic focuses on how mentorship can bridge the gap for youth, helping them navigate their career paths, develop essential skills and build the confidence needed to thrive in competitive industries
Speakers:
● Sanele Zulu, CEO and Co-Founder, Green Youth Network*
● Saskia Laka, B-BBEE Transformation & Stakeholder Management, Thai Summit Group*
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