{"id":1318,"date":"2018-04-20T10:49:43","date_gmt":"2018-04-20T10:49:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/?page_id=1318"},"modified":"2025-06-11T10:30:18","modified_gmt":"2025-06-11T08:30:18","slug":"home-2","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/","title":{"rendered":"Home"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-1 fusion-flex-container fusion-parallax-none hundred-percent-fullwidth hundred-percent-height hundred-percent-height-center-content non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"background-color: rgba(255,255,255,0);background-image: url(&quot;https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/2.png&quot;);background-position: center center;background-repeat: no-repeat;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#eae9e9;border-style:solid;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start fusion-flex-align-content-center\" style=\"width:calc( 100% + 0px ) !important;max-width:calc( 100% + 0px ) !important;margin-left: calc(-0px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-0px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-0 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-separator fusion-no-small-visibility fusion-full-width-sep\" style=\"align-self: center;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;margin-top:150px;width:100%;\"><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-1\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h2 class=\"fusion-responsive-typography-calculated\" style=\"--fontsize: 33; line-height: 1; text-align: center;\" data-fontsize=\"33\" data-lineheight=\"33px\"><span style=\"font-size: 47px; color: #000000;\" data-fusion-font=\"true\"><b style=\"line-height: 46px; font-size: 41px; color: #ffffff;\" data-fusion-font=\"true\">REFLECTING ON SOUTH AFRICA&#8217;S JOURNEY:<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n<h2 class=\"fusion-responsive-typography-calculated\" style=\"text-align: center; --fontsize: 33; line-height: 1;\" data-fontsize=\"33\" data-lineheight=\"33px\"><span style=\"font-size: 47px; color: #000000;\" data-fusion-font=\"true\"><b style=\"line-height: 46px; font-size: 41px; color: #ffffff;\" data-fusion-font=\"true\">30 YEARS OF DEMOCRACY AND BEYOND<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"\" style=\"text-align: center; --fontsize: 26; line-height: 1.5; --minfontsize: 26;\" data-fontsize=\"26\" data-lineheight=\"39px\"><b style=\"color: #ffffff;\">JUNE 25 2024 | 9AM &#8211; 1PM<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-separator fusion-full-width-sep\" style=\"align-self: center;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;margin-top:15px;width:100%;\"><\/div><div style=\"text-align:center;\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-button.button-1 {border-radius:2px;}<\/style><a class=\"fusion-button button-flat fusion-button-default-size button-default button-1 fusion-button-default-span fusion-button-default-type\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/live\/yTaUjpvrtYE\"><span class=\"fusion-button-text\">WATCH THE ONLINE CONFERENCE<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-0{width:100% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 0px;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 0px;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-0{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 0px;margin-left : 0px;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-0{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 0px;margin-left : 0px;}}<\/style><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-flex-container.fusion-builder-row-1{ padding-top : 0px;margin-top : 0px;padding-right : 0px;padding-bottom : 0px;margin-bottom : 0px;padding-left : 0px;}<\/style><\/div><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-2 fusion-flex-container nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"background-color: rgba(255,255,255,0);background-position: center center;background-repeat: no-repeat;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#eae9e9;border-style:solid;\" id=\"about\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-stretch\" style=\"max-width:1216.8px;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-1 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column fusion-flex-align-self-flex-start fusion-column-no-min-height\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-2\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h1 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>ABOUT<\/strong><\/h1>\n<hr \/>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-1{width:100% !important;margin-top : 50px;margin-bottom : 30px;}.fusion-builder-column-1 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 1.92%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 1.92%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-1{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-1 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-1{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-1 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-2 fusion_builder_column_1_2 1_2 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-center fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-3\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><p>South Africa&#8217;s post-apartheid journey has seen the country make significant strides in creating a more equal society, yet the country remains challenged by corruption, unemployment, poor education and poverty.<\/p>\n<p>Now, after seven rounds of national elections, does the country have what it takes to embark on a more positive trajectory? Decisive, ethical leadership and collective action are vital in moving the country forward towards a just and inclusive society.<\/p>\n<p>But this requires building an economically stable South Africa. After the 29 May elections, we must ask: How can this be done?<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-2{width:50% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-2 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 3.84%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 3.84%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-2{width:50% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-2 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 3.84%;margin-left : 3.84%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-2{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-2 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-3 fusion_builder_column_1_2 1_2 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-video fusion-youtube\" style=\"max-width:600px;max-height:360px;\"><div class=\"video-shortcode\"><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/yTaUjpvrtYE?wmode=transparent&autoplay=0\" width=\"600\" height=\"360\" allowfullscreen allow=\"autoplay; fullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-3{width:50% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-3 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 3.84%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 3.84%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-3{width:50% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-3 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 3.84%;margin-left : 3.84%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-3{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-3 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-4 fusion_builder_column_4_5 4_5 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-4{width:80% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-4 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 2.4%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 2.4%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-4{width:80% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-4 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 2.4%;margin-left : 2.4%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-4{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-column-4 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-flex-container.fusion-builder-row-2{ padding-top : 0px;margin-top : 0px;padding-right : 0px;padding-bottom : 50px;margin-bottom : 0px;padding-left : 0px;}<\/style><\/div><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-3 fusion-flex-container nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"background-color: rgba(255,255,255,0);background-position: center center;background-repeat: no-repeat;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#eae9e9;border-style:solid;\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start\" style=\"max-width:1216.8px;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-5 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-4\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>EVENT REVIEW<\/strong><\/h3>\n<hr \/>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-5{width:100% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 0px;}.fusion-builder-column-5 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 1.92%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 1.92%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-5{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-5 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-5{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-5 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-6 fusion_builder_column_1_5 1_5 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-5\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h5 style=\"text-align: center;\">2015<\/h5>\n<\/div><div style=\"text-align:center;\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-button.button-2 {border-radius:2px;}<\/style><a class=\"fusion-button button-flat fusion-button-default-size button-default button-2 fusion-button-span-yes fusion-button-default-type\" target=\"_self\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.2015\"><span class=\"fusion-button-text\">VIEW<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-6{width:20% !important;margin-top : 40px;margin-bottom : 0px;}.fusion-builder-column-6 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 9.6%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 9.6%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-6{width:20% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-6 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 9.6%;margin-left : 9.6%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-6{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-6 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-7 fusion_builder_column_1_5 1_5 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-6\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h5 style=\"text-align: center;\">2016<\/h5>\n<\/div><div style=\"text-align:center;\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-button.button-3 {border-radius:2px;}<\/style><a class=\"fusion-button button-flat fusion-button-default-size button-default button-3 fusion-button-span-yes fusion-button-default-type\" target=\"_self\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.2016\"><span class=\"fusion-button-text\">VIEW<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-7{width:20% !important;margin-top : 40px;margin-bottom : 0px;}.fusion-builder-column-7 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 9.6%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 9.6%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-7{width:20% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-7 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 9.6%;margin-left : 9.6%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-7{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-7 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-8 fusion_builder_column_1_5 1_5 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-7\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h5 style=\"text-align: center;\">2017<\/h5>\n<\/div><div style=\"text-align:center;\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-button.button-4 {border-radius:2px;}<\/style><a class=\"fusion-button button-flat fusion-button-default-size button-default button-4 fusion-button-span-yes fusion-button-default-type\" target=\"_self\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.2017\"><span class=\"fusion-button-text\">VIEW<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-8{width:20% !important;margin-top : 40px;margin-bottom : 0px;}.fusion-builder-column-8 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 9.6%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 9.6%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-8{width:20% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-8 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 9.6%;margin-left : 9.6%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-8{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-8 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-9 fusion_builder_column_1_5 1_5 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-8\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h5 style=\"text-align: center;\">2018<\/h5>\n<\/div><div style=\"text-align:center;\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-button.button-5 {border-radius:2px;}<\/style><a class=\"fusion-button button-flat fusion-button-default-size button-default button-5 fusion-button-span-yes fusion-button-default-type\" target=\"_self\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.2018\"><span class=\"fusion-button-text\">VIEW<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-9{width:20% !important;margin-top : 40px;margin-bottom : 0px;}.fusion-builder-column-9 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 9.6%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 9.6%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-9{width:20% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-9 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 9.6%;margin-left : 9.6%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-9{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-9 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-10 fusion_builder_column_1_5 1_5 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-9\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h5 style=\"text-align: center;\">2019<\/h5>\n<\/div><div style=\"text-align:center;\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-button.button-6 {border-radius:2px;}<\/style><a class=\"fusion-button button-flat fusion-button-default-size button-default button-6 fusion-button-span-yes fusion-button-default-type\" target=\"_self\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.2019\"><span class=\"fusion-button-text\">VIEW<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-10{width:20% !important;margin-top : 40px;margin-bottom : 0px;}.fusion-builder-column-10 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 9.6%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 9.6%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-10{width:20% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-10 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 9.6%;margin-left : 9.6%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-10{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-10 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-11 fusion_builder_column_1_5 1_5 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-10\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h5 style=\"text-align: center;\">2020<\/h5>\n<\/div><div style=\"text-align:center;\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-button.button-7 {border-radius:2px;}<\/style><a class=\"fusion-button button-flat fusion-button-default-size button-default button-7 fusion-button-span-yes fusion-button-default-type\" target=\"_self\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.2020\"><span class=\"fusion-button-text\">VIEW<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-11{width:20% !important;margin-top : 40px;margin-bottom : 0px;}.fusion-builder-column-11 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 9.6%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 9.6%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-11{width:20% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-11 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 9.6%;margin-left : 9.6%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-11{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-11 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-12 fusion_builder_column_1_5 1_5 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-11\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h5 style=\"text-align: center;\">2021<\/h5>\n<\/div><div style=\"text-align:center;\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-button.button-8 {border-radius:2px;}<\/style><a class=\"fusion-button button-flat fusion-button-default-size button-default button-8 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fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-13 fusion_builder_column_1_5 1_5 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-12\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h5 style=\"text-align: center;\">2022<\/h5>\n<\/div><div style=\"text-align:center;\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-button.button-9 {border-radius:2px;}<\/style><a class=\"fusion-button button-flat fusion-button-default-size button-default button-9 fusion-button-span-yes fusion-button-default-type\" target=\"_self\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.2022\"><span class=\"fusion-button-text\">VIEW<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-13{width:20% !important;margin-top : 40px;margin-bottom : 0px;}.fusion-builder-column-13 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 9.6%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 9.6%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-13{width:20% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-13 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 9.6%;margin-left : 9.6%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-13{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-13 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-14 fusion_builder_column_1_5 1_5 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left 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!important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 9.6%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-14{width:20% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-14 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 9.6%;margin-left : 9.6%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-14{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-14 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-15 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-1 2015\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-1\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-1 .modal-header, .modal-1 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-1\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The Directors Event 2015<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">\n<h3><strong>The Directors Event: SA\u2019s biggest board meeting<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>The time for collaboration and frank discussion between South Africa\u2019s most influential leaders in business, government and civil society has never been as pressing in order to chart a new path for the country, asserted Nicolaas Kruger, CEO of MMI Holdings at the inaugural The Directors Event.<\/p>\n<p>Held in association with the Sunday Times Top 100 Companies Award, MMI Holdings, the Institute of Directors and Mancosa Graduate School of Business, The Directors Event attracted influential leaders from all spheres of society.<\/p>\n<p>The event, which took place in Sandton on Tuesday, 23 June 2015, has been pegged as South Africa\u2019s biggest board meeting. Certainly the calibre of panellists met board member criteria.<\/p>\n<p>According to Kruger, South Africa needs faster growth and to become a more equitable society. \u201cTo achieve this requires mobilising all our resources, visionary and values-based leadership, policy certainty, a positive attitude and greater collaboration both locally, regionally and internationally,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cCollectively we need to rise to the challenge and direct our energies to those inflexion points that make the most impact. As leaders we are accountable to our broader society. While there is a great deal of work to be done, South Africa has extraordinary potential.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Dr Reuel Khoza, former chairman and non-executive director of Nedbank, then addressed delegates on the important role of the chairman and the chairman\u2019s report.<\/p>\n<p>Chairman, he said, don\u2019t operate in a vacuum, but in context, as do their organisations. They need to be vision led, purpose driven and harbingers of the future \u2013 destiny is not a matter of chance, it\u2019s a matter of choice.<\/p>\n<p>The role of the chairman, he stated, was to identify, reflect and report on corporate performance. \u201cThe chairman is the ultimate corporate flag bearer,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n<p>Today\u2019s chairs face a plethora of challenges: they\u2019re expected to have an in-depth knowledge of the company and the markets in which they compete; they should draw on their own experiences and insights to guide management teams; and even though ultimate executive control lies with the CEO, he or she has ultimate responsibility for the direction and performance of the corporation.<\/p>\n<p>An engaged chairman should enhance the organisation and have the ability to establish a productive board atmosphere. He or she, added Khoza, is the custodian of the corporation\u2019s moral compass and as such, can\u2019t afford to ignore corrosive forces.<\/p>\n<p>He concluded with a quote from Baltasar Gracian: \u201cWithout courage, wisdom bears no fruit.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The event was broken up into four \u2018meetings\u2019 each focusing on different issues: governance, accountability and reputation management; leadership and talent management; infrastructure development; and economy and entrepreneurship.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Governance accountability and reputation management<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>The first panel discussion examined our adherence \u2013 or lack thereof \u2013 to the principles of accountability in both the public and private sector and how failure impacts reputation.<\/p>\n<p>The panel consisted of Public Protector, Advocate Thuli Madonsela; PWC Senior Partner for Africa, Suresh Kana; the Institute of Director\u2019s Executive for the Centre of Corporate Governance, Parmi Natesan; Brand South Africa chairman, Chichi Maponya and chairman and non-executive director of companies, Dr Len Konar.<\/p>\n<p>Good governance is a little like health:\u00a0 you don\u2019t realise how important it is until you lose it, said Bruce Whitfield, the host of the panel discussion as he opened the session.<\/p>\n<p>Increased pressure on earnings and a tough economic climate has seen many businesses resort to short term reporting \u2013 and short term benefits, which can ultimately lead to long term damage. \u201cIt\u2019s hard to build up trust with stakeholders once you\u2019ve lost it,\u201d reminded Kana, adding that short cuts are not a sustainable solution and that boards have an important role to play in ensuring that a company\u2019s reputation is maintained.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIt takes 20 years to build a corporate reputation &#8211; but just five minutes to ruin it, which is why it\u2019s so important for businesses to take corporate governance seriously,\u201d said Konar. He said that corporate governance principles \u2013 particularly in the public sector \u2013 were not well applied which was why it is so critically important that all organisations have a credible, representative and skilled board in place.<\/p>\n<p>Boards have a particularly important role to play by ensuring that organisations adhere to the principles of good governance. The Minister of Public Enterprises is well aware of the need to ensure that boards in the public sector are made up of individuals with the right skills and that conflict of interest is avoided, revealed Madonsela.<\/p>\n<p>Not only do board members need to set the tone and demand delivery from executives, but they should also have sufficient industry knowledge to advise their executive and management teams, agreed the panel.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cGovernance applies to all entities, irrespective of whether they are public or private,\u201d pointed out Natesan, adding that the Institute of Directors has guidelines in place to assist companies implement better governance. She said that as a result of an increased focus on independence, many directors don\u2019t have sufficient industry knowledge to be able to adequately advise either the board or management teams.<\/p>\n<p>Maponya argued that the private sector was over governed with too many statutory requirements. In response Madonsela said the ideal would be for business to take responsibility for doing the right thing and come to the party under the UN Global Compact. This is a strategic policy initiative for businesses that are committed to aligning their operations and strategies with ten universally accepted principles in the areas of human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption. \u201cHowever, in addition to obeying the rules and ensuring good governance, companies still need a purpose driven approach. If an organisation\u2019s secretariat is neither competent, nor honest, the board is going to be misled.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Business mogul Johan Rupert has been quoted as saying it has become increasingly difficult to defend South Africa to potential international investors. Maponya, in her role as chairman of Brand South Africa, agreed this was a concern but pointed out that we should not only focus on the negatives. \u201cNot everything is in crisis. It\u2019s a work in progress and we all need to be part of the solution. Brand South Africa is trying to champion an economic Codesa but at the end of the day it\u2019s South Africans themselves who lack confidence in their own country.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Madonsela agreed that South African companies are struggling to convince global investors that South Africa is a good investment destination. \u201cWe know we\u2019re still a viable investment destination and until very recently one of our areas of pride was that the rule of law was paramount.\u201d However, she added that the recent diplomatic crisis caused by government\u2019s failure to stop Sudanese president Omar Al-Bashir from leaving the country despite an interim court order barring him from leaving, would raise questions about the rule of law amongst investors. South Africa, she said, would now have to work hard to ensure it did not appear to be eroding its reputation as a country which abided by the rule of law.<\/p>\n<p>The panel agreed that South Africa needs to acknowledge its weaknesses rather than deny them. Transparency is required in everything from the country\u2019s cashflow situation to running a due diligence on Eskom. \u201cWe need the truth and we need credible, seasoned boards at the helm of public entities,\u201d insisted Konar.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Leadership and talent management<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Estimations indicate that there are currently as many as 830\u00a0000 unoccupied positions requiring high-skilled workers across a range of occupations in South Africa. \u201cHow do we create leadership that shares their talent and avoid some of the epic leadership failures from our recent past,\u201d asked host, Iman Rapetti of her panel including Johnson JJ Njeke, chairman of MMI Holdings; Professor Adam Habib, vice-chancellor and principal of Wits University; Gill Connellan, chairperson of the Association for Skills Development South Africa; Sdumo Dlamini, president of Cosatu; and Glen Nwaila, Geology Superintendant at Sibanye Gold.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWe need to move away from the rhetoric, add a healthy dose of pragmatism, a goal and a plan of how we\u2019re going to get around the obstacles around leadership and talent management,\u201d suggested Habib.<\/p>\n<p>The problem, said Njeke, is that too many organisations parachute people into positions they\u2019re not ready for, instead of nurturing them.<\/p>\n<p>We need to transform the way we identify potential talent out of the youth market, maintained Connellan. In addition, she said many of the structures in place gave rise to serial learnership job hoppers. Organisations need to put strategies in place which embrace people and enable growth and opportunity. Furthermore, leadership needs to be able to recognise and selflessly develop talent, she said, pointing out that a talent development strategy would achieve this. \u201cHowever, business appears to be afraid of putting people on show and sending them on training.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Individual development plans are one of the mechanisms many corporates use to enable employee growth but as Nwaila pointed out, they often end up being little more than pieces of paper. \u201cDevelopment plans need to be used for the right reasons rather than just compliance purposes,\u201d he said, adding that all companies have the ability to attract the necessary skills.<\/p>\n<p>Dlamini noted that there is a great deal of talent coming from the SME sector which could ultimately create a larger base of taxpaying South Africans.<\/p>\n<p>The panel cited a number of South African leaders they admire, including the founders of First Rand (Njeke); Trevor Manuel (Connellan); and the leaders of Sibanye Gold and Capitec Bank (Nwaila).<\/p>\n<p>\u201cDifferent organisations require different types of leaders \u2013 too often we think that a leader has to meet certain criteria but ultimately it depends on where the organisation is in terms of its development,\u201d pointed out Habib, adding that it is leaders who go against the grain and who have a plan that are often successful.<\/p>\n<p>He said companies had the ability to be successful locally: \u201cTake Old Mutual and Sanlam, for example. Sanlam went local, Old Mutual went international. Today Sanlam is the company to look out for. Goldfields decided to leave South Africa and split its local assets. Today it is those local assets that are performing better than the offshore assets.\u201d\u201d<\/p>\n<p>President Zuma came in for robust criticism from some of the panellists. \u201cOne of the attributes of a successful leader is to have a good value system in place and an image that young people can aspire to,\u201d asserted Njeke.<\/p>\n<p>Added Habib: \u201cZuma is the worst example of a leader; his goal was an inclusive economy and to get business, labour and the state to work together. He hasn\u2019t achieved that. The economic plan is incoherent and nobody is collaborating.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Dlamini, however, had a different view, arguing that nobody had the right to undermine the voice of the majority. While Zuma has been under attack from the first day he took office, he was still around years later, making him a good leader, he said.<\/p>\n<p>Habib countered this argument saying 15 million people voted for the ANC \u2013 not for Jacob Zuma. \u201cHe was chosen by 400 people. Majorities do make mistakes. The majority voted Hitler into power in Germany and Al-Bashir into power in Sudan. Just because the majority voted doesn\u2019t mean you suspend your thinking. At some point somebody has to stand up and say enough is enough.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe problem within government currently is that there is a culture of protectionism whereas we need a culture of humble leaders who eschew ego,\u201d added Connellan.<\/p>\n<p>The panel was divided on what qualities constitute a good leader mentioning, amongst others, characteristics such as decisiveness, humility and consistency. \u201cDifferent organisations require different types of leaders \u2013 too often we think that a leader has to meet certain criteria but ultimately it depends on where the organisation is in terms of its development,\u201d pointed out Habib.<\/p>\n<p>Many leaders fail when they think they\u2019re bigger than the organisation itself, added Dlamini, forgetting that they\u2019ve been given a mandate.\u00a0 Leaders need to know when to step down: \u201cI want to see CEOs coming in, saying what they want to achieve and then leaving once they\u2019ve achieved their goals.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Habib pointed out that racialised networks continue to challenge people to connect to opportunities. We need to learn how to break out of our traditional networks and make linkages with other networks.<\/p>\n<p>With regard to talent retention strategies, Habib said, \u201cThere will always be somebody willing to pay more: what keeps people in their jobs is a sense of belonging, being valued, company culture, being treated fairly and feeling that you are making a difference.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Njeke pointed out that while South Africa appears bent on producing high numbers of university graduates, there are a number of lower level skills required \u2013 and we don\u2019t have sufficient numbers of those skills. \u201cWe import welders, for goodness sake,\u201d he expostulated. \u201cHow difficult can it be to train welders?\u201d<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Infrastructure development<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>There are numerous challenges around infrastructural development including speed of delivery, job creation and the spectre of corruption. Infrastructure development is high on the government agenda based on the need to achieve real economic growth.<\/p>\n<p>Hosting this session was Nikiwe Bikitsha which included panellists, Chris Yelland, MD of EE Publishing; Sisa Njikelana, chairperson of the SA Independent Power Producers Association; Lungelo Gumede, co-founder of Headboy Industries; and Adre Smit, consultant senior policy advisor at ASISA.<\/p>\n<p>Energy is a critical issue in any conversation around infrastructural development and Njikelana admitted that there was a huge opportunity for independent power producers who are predicted to play a significant role in the country\u2019s future generating capacity.<\/p>\n<p>The panel revealed that government are looking for an injection of equity into Eskom. Yelland warned against incessant Eskom tariff hikes arguing that little consideration had been given to affordability both to the economy and the man in the street. \u201cE-tolls should have taught us that you can\u2019t stuff high tariffs that people can\u2019t afford down their throats.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>He suggested that government should focus less on being an implementer and more on being a facilitator citing the renewable energy programme \u2013 a programme facilitated by government \u2013 as being a great success.<\/p>\n<p>Gumede said he could almost forgive government for its poor track record in terms of execution as this was the first time such a huge infrastructural reform programme was being implemented. However, he argued that the learning curve is just too long. \u201cWe have to learn how to learn much faster,\u201d he insisted.<\/p>\n<p>Yelland agreed, adding that we also have to learn from our recent past. \u201cThere is only one utility that has not restructured and modernised and that\u2019s Eskom. It hasn\u2019t listed, it has no access to outside management, vision or external capital. It\u2019s time to put ideology aside and modernise Eskom.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Smit revealed that government were \u201cputting their hand out\u201d and looking for more private sector involvement. \u201cFrom ASISA\u2019s perspective we are trying to get the private sector involved in the debate because clearly, government\u2019s budgets are stretched. The challenge, however, is how we physically engage, particularly as there is a traditional lack of trust between government and business. We need policy certainty or we won\u2019t get investors.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The panel agreed that there are opportunities in intra-African trade. Gumede warned that South Africa is perceived as Africa rather than an individual country to investors. \u201cWe need investors and we need them to regard perceived risks as even lower than they really are. However, all too often what is reported in international media is an international insight rather than an African insight. It\u2019s time we started telling our own stories so that investors understand what is happening on the ground.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The panel concluded by saying that the National Development Plan is a good one but that it needs execution to get projects up and running. \u201cWe need more partnerships and more engagement,\u201d said Smit. Furthermore, government must not be overly optimistic and needs to be honest and transparent about its shortcomings, said Gumede. \u00a0Njikelana concluded by saying there were opportunities for multiple ownership of projects but that he blamed those with the political will who failed to take ownership of infrastructural projects.<\/p>\n<p>The last word went to Yelland: \u201cIt\u2019s time to get down to executing and while trust is an inhibiting factor, we need to be less ideological and more practical in our approach. We need real ownership of the revenue stream. Ultimately, we need to start doing things differently.\u201d<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Economy and entrepreneurship<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Economic growth relies on job creation. The development of smaller businesses is key to solving many of South Africa\u2019s economic woes. But to achieve that we need an enabling environment, one that minimises red tape and legislation, encourages a culture of savings, and has a well-developed venture capital industry, said Andile Khumalo, host of the final panel discussion at The Directors Event.<\/p>\n<p>Panellists included Sanisha Packirisamy, an economist from Momentum Asset Management; Ian Fuhr, CEO of Sorbet; Jabu Mabuza, chairman of Telkom; and Leon Campher, CEO of ASISA.<\/p>\n<p>Packirisamy said that in order to create the nine million jobs required by the NDP, significantly more economic activity is required, adding that 90% of these new jobs would need to come from the SME sector. \u201cRevenue is under pressure which means that government is not going to be able to create more jobs,\u201d she revealed, adding that faster economic growth does not necessarily translate to more jobs.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cOf critical importance is that we normalise industrial relations \u2013 many companies are uncomfortable with the labour situation and stringent labour regulations in South Africa, and as a result are moving offshore. We need structural reforms in this area to make us more competitive. In addition, we need to rein in our labour costs and stick to our expenditure limits. It\u2019s about aiming for quick fixes in a low growth market,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe only way to confront the challenges of inequality and poverty is to ensure economic growth,\u201d stated Mabuza. \u201cAnd while we\u2019ve had jobless growth, it hasn\u2019t been inclusive. We need predictable legislation and a more enabling environment \u2013 one that is conducive to the creation of small businesses and entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurs are those individuals who see the gap between needs and opportunities \u2013 and we need more of them.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>A key element of entrepreneurship is mentorship, maintained Fuhr, adding that the mentorship groundswell needs to become a tidal wave going forward. He outlined the characteristics of an entrepreneur as somebody with intuition (intuitively knowing that something will work even without the empirical evidence); courage (it\u2019s important to always keep your head); perseverance (being in business is about being in it for the long haul); and the ability to serve people (if you serve people you will ultimately make money). \u201cDon\u2019t go into business just to make money,\u201d he asserted.<\/p>\n<p>Campher maintained that while South Africa was still in a reasonable shape economically, it was headed in the wrong direction. \u201cWe need to agree on the priorities emanating from the NDP plan \u2013 energy, infrastructure, education and water \u2013 and act on them,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n<p>In terms of employment, he argued that many graduates were unable to find jobs because they had inappropriate majors. He pointed out that the country needs more artisans and welders, for example. He suggested deploying retired people with experience into industries where their knowledge could be passed on and where their skills could be utilised.<\/p>\n<p>Mabuza argued that business leaders don\u2019t wake up in the morning pondering the challenge of job creation. \u201cWe wake up thinking of ways to make money,\u201d he insisted. \u201cA consequence of making money is that we will employ more people. The bottom line is that executives make decisions in the best interests of their organisation. Sometimes we also have to make tough decisions \u2013 like retrenching people.\u201d He revealed that Telkom set up a R100 million enterprise development fund to set some retrenched Telkom employees up as entrepreneurs.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>The Directors Event: an exercise in nation building<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>\u201cThis event has been a focused exercise in nation building,\u201d said Nicolaas Kruger, CEO of MMI Holdings Limited. \u201cWe need visionary, value-based leadership, a positive attitude, inclusive collaboration and to be prepared to change the way we do things if we want to create a better future for our country.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cMMI has been proud to be associated with the inaugural Director\u2019s Event and we trust that these proceedings are only the start of the conversation towards collaboratively charting a new path of economic prosperity for all South Africans,\u201d he concluded.<\/div><div class=\"modal-footer\"><a class=\"fusion-button button-default button-medium button default medium\" data-dismiss=\"modal\">Close<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-2 2016\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-2 .modal-header, .modal-2 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-2\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The Directors Event 2016<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">\n<p>Business, government and NGO leaders gathered for the second annual Sunday Times Top 100 Companies Directors Event in Sandton recently to confront and debate several of the country\u2019s most pressing issues including innovation, healthcare, education and global competitiveness, in an effort to find lasting solutions to these challenges.<\/p>\n<p>The Directors Event, dubbed \u2019SA\u2019s biggest board meeting\u2019, sponsorsed by financial services group MMI Holdings in association with the Institute of Directors Southern Africa, University of Stellenbosch Business School \u00a0Executive Development and law firm Hogan Lovells.<\/p>\n<p>A challenging environment both globally and locally needed to be taken into account, said Nicolaas Kruger, Group CEO at MMI Holdings when he welcomed delegates. He said initiating and participating in meaningful conversation and action to drive nation building through engagement, collaboration, and values-based leadership was important. The only certainty in this day and age is change, he argued, making the solutions put forward at The Directors Event more important than ever before and making action to drive nation-building a necessity.<\/p>\n<p>South Africa needs to face and address its issues directly, agreed Wiphold founder and director, Gloria Serobe in her Chairman\u2019s Report. Drastic steps are required to effectively deal with the macro-economic environment and government needs to implement austerity measures. She added that the country needs inclusive growth, driven by partnerships between business and government in targeted sectors such as agriculture, tourism and financial services.<\/p>\n<p>South Africa is lagging in terms of its global competitiveness, said Caroline Galvan, Lead Economist and Editor of the World Economic Forum\u2019s Africa Competitiveness Report, when she addressed delegates on South Africa\u2019s competitiveness ranking. Not surprisingly, South Africa performs poorly in terms of its human capital deficit, restrictive labour regulations and inefficient government bureaucracy. Galvan emphasised that the country\u2019s goal to become a knowledge-driven economy is a crucial challenge. Key to improving its competitiveness ranking is to focus on finding solutions where they are most needed.<\/p>\n<p>Subhead: Facilitating innovation that pays<\/p>\n<p>The first panel discussion focused on how innovation could be used to drive the economy forward. Yusuf Randera-Rees, CEO and co-founder of The Awethu Project; Matsi Modise, MD of SiMODiSA; Dr Rethabile Melamu, Acting Chief Director of Sector and Industry Development in the Gauteng Provincial Government; Justin Stanford, co-founding partner of 4Di Capital; and Boris Urban, Professor and Chair in Entrepreneurship of the Lamberti Foundation at Wits Business School. The panel was hosted by Andile Khumalo, Power FM 98.7 business presenter, and it thrashed out the inherent challenges facing entrepreneurship and small businesses in South Africa.<\/p>\n<p>Talent in South Africa is fundamentally under-utilised and the current models of entrepreneurship development simply don\u2019t work, said Randera-Rees. Added to this, the entrepreneur ecosystem is fragmented, said Modise, and the country needs to advocate and lobby for more entrepreneurs in business.<\/p>\n<p>Government, particularly at a provincial level, has recognised the need to bridge the gap between entrepreneurs, funding and training. The result is the establishment of The Innovation Hub in Pretoria to incubate entrepreneurs with good ideas, said Melamu. The hub provides opportunities for government to partner with the private sector to provide mentorship and support to budding entrepreneurs.<\/p>\n<p>Recognising the diversity of entrepreneurs will help to drive innovation but \u2013 and this was a consistent theme throughout this discussion \u2013 South Africa needs to create an enabling environment which removes as many barriers to doing business as possible. \u201cThe sooner we realise that only individuals can create businesses and ensure that legislators provide the right environment with appropriate incentives, the quicker natural entrepreneurs will emerge,\u201d insisted Urban.<\/p>\n<p>Entrepreneurship needs to focus on more than just the idea. While a good idea is important, strong execution of that idea is even more important, said Stanford.<\/p>\n<p>Subhead: Aiding wellness with quality healthcare<\/p>\n<p>The second panel focused its discussion on South Africa\u2019s healthcare system which requires a concerted effort on the part of business and government to address its challenges. Hosted by Talk Radio 702 \u00a0business presenter Bruce Whitfield, this panel comprised Precious Matsoso, Director General at the Department of Health; Christine du Preez, Director of the Hlokomela Clinic, Dylan Garnett, CEO of Metropolitan Health; Prakash Devchand, Chairman and CEO of Lenmed Health; and Simon Hlungwani, President of the Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa.<\/p>\n<p>Challenges facing the sector include significant staff shortages, existing staff rotating through facilities, the loss of nurses to Middle Eastern countries and a lack of incoming talent. The challenges facing the sector are so enormous it\u2019s hard to know where to begin in addressing them, admitted Garnett.<\/p>\n<p>These issues all contribute negatively on both the quality and cost of healthcare. Alarmingly, the panel of experts agreed there was little indication of any improvement in the coming years. \u201cIf we don\u2019t rectify the lack of trained nurses and specialists, the healthcare system will suffer a meltdown within the next five years,\u201d predicted Devchand.<\/p>\n<p>These concerns, said Hlungwani, are present in both the private and public healthcare systems, but a lack of trust between the public and private sectors is making it harder to find solutions.<\/p>\n<p>However, Matsoso believes there are many innovative ideas being used in the private sector and these need to be implemented in the public sector too. A holistic approach is needed, Du Preez added, and public-private partnerships present numerous opportunities.<\/p>\n<p>Subhead: Developing the youth through education<\/p>\n<p>Education joins healthcare as one of the primary challenges facing South Africa today. Putting forward possible solutions to the deepening crisis was Fasiha Hassan, Secretary General of the Wits SRC; Mary Metcalfe, Visiting Adjunct Professor at the Wits School of Governance; Robyn Beere, Director of Inclusive Education South Africa; Dr Felicity Coughlan, Director of Independent Institute of Education; Debbie Sch\u04d3fer, Western Cape MEC for Education; and Panyaza Lesufi, Gauteng MEC for Education. Broadcasting news anchor Iman Rappetti led the discussion.<\/p>\n<p>Ultimately, pointed out Sch\u04d3fer, money determines what interventions can be put in place. The province has implemented numerous programmes including a feeding scheme and additional resources in previously disadvantaged areas where it could. Change, argued Lesufi, doesn\u2019t happen overnight. The task of amalgamating the education that the rich and poor receive will take some time to resolve.<\/p>\n<p>Research indicates that 75 to 80% of South African schools are unable to provide the education that children require, said Beere. Even more disheartening than schools that fail to cater to children\u2019s needs, said Coughlan, is the replication of the middle class. \u201cSocial capital is virtually impossible to escape, as the middle class replicates itself &#8211; meaning that no matter what degree an individual might do or how well they do, unless they behave a certain way, these individuals will be unlikely to get a job,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n<p>Structural inequalities of the system mean that poor students are the ones who fail and suffer the most, Hassan pointed out. In order to address these inequalities changes need to be made at a foundation phase level. \u201cEducation needs to provide young people with skills that make them adaptable, open thinkers who contribute to society as a whole,\u201d Metcalfe said.<\/p>\n<p>Subhead: Driving global competitiveness<\/p>\n<p>Growing the economy to remain competitive globally continues to be a top priority for business and government. In the current volatile economic climate, becoming more competitive has never been as critical.<\/p>\n<p>The panel members for this discussion included Caroline Galvan, editor of the Africa Competitiveness Report; Nontombi Marule, Director of Innovation and Technology at the Department of Trade and Industry; Dion Shango, CEO of PwC Southern Africa; Richard Poplak, co-author of <em>Continental Shift: A Journey Through Africa\u2019s Changing Fortunes;<\/em> and Muhammad Seedat, founder and MD of Smartrac. Broadcaster Bronwyn Nielsen hosted the meeting.<\/p>\n<p>A key issue of competitiveness is talent and this is an area where South Africa lags significantly, said Galvan.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cSouth Africa has to mobilise the youth in the right direction, and entrepreneurship is an effective tool to do so,\u201d advised Seedat. \u201cIt\u2019s not about creating jobs, but rather about creating an enabling environment for individuals to create businesses.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>South Africa needs to focus on three factors going forward, said Marule. With stringent SMME strategies, improving the agility of programmes and implementing long-term planning, South Africa should be able to improve its competitiveness.<\/p>\n<p>What holds the country back from moving up the WEF\u2019s index though, argued Poplak, is a lack of leadership \u2013 and until that can be resolved, it will impact negatively on the country\u2019s competitiveness.<\/p>\n<p>While many of the issues raised at this year\u2019s Directors Event gave little cause for optimism, it\u2019s not all doom and gloom for South Africa, insisted Dion Shango, CEO of PwC Southern Africa. The country has a formidable economy and if we all focus on fixing the right issues without getting distracted, progress can be made. \u201cThe country has all the tools it needs to make it work, it\u2019s now a case of putting them into action,\u201d Poplak concluded.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"modal-footer\"><a class=\"fusion-button button-default button-medium button default medium\" data-dismiss=\"modal\">Close<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-3 2017\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-3 .modal-header, .modal-3 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-3\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The Directors Event 2017<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">\n<h3>Addressing SA\u2019s many challenges<\/h3>\n<p>Protecting South Africa\u2019s economy, navigating the risks of geopolitical uncertainty and South Africa\u2019s challenges around youth education and employment were the main themes discussed at the third annual Sunday Times Top 100 Companies Directors Event held last week in Sandton. The event was brought to you by MMI Holdings, in association with the IoDSA, Hogan Lovells, Johnnie Walker, USB Executive Development, Aluwani Capital Partners and Times Media Events. The event commenced with a welcome from the MC and Head: Group Communication and CSI, Dan Moyane, who pointed out that this time one year ago, the world was a different place \u2013 before Brexit and before Donald Trump become the US president, and before political uncertainty in South Africa became the new norm. He was followed by Ron Derby, editor of the Sunday Times Business Times. \u201cWe\u2019re in recessionary times, both in terms of the economy and in our government,\u201d he said. He added that South Africa, over the past decade, has seen a collapse in government, and the future of the country must be renegotiated.<\/p>\n<p>Nicolaas Kruger, Group CEO of MMI Holdings Limited discussed the tough environment facing South Africans, saying that the country\u2019s problems need to be acknowledged before solutions can be found. He said South Africans have more in common than not, and that we should face our challenges together. Recapping last year\u2019s Director\u2019s Event, Jeremy Maggs, eNCA news anchor and contributor for Financial Mail, recalled the four key themes that were covered in 2016: South Africa\u2019s lag in global competitiveness; the need to build an enabling environment for small businesses and entrepreneurs; the healthcare sector facing a crisis; and the declining standards of education. Fast forward 12 months later and South Africa faces the negative impacts of political instability and its first economic downgrades. As a result, there has been little to no improvement, and in many areas a backward slide in terms of each of the four themes highlighted at last year\u2019s event.<\/p>\n<p>South Africa\u2019s constitution is what has made democracy a success, said Bonang Mohale, Chairman of Shell SA and the Deputy Chairman of Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA), at what has been dubbed South Africa\u2019s biggest board meeting. The constitution has been the line that separates the country\u2019s best from its worst, good from evil, right from wrong and freedom of speech from hate speech. However, both the constitution and South Africa\u2019s democratic values are at risk and under attack, he said, adding the country has lost credibility in the eyes of the world. The country\u2019s tipping point, he said, is corruption and will be what determines whether it operates according to state capture, or as a democracy which serves all its citizens. Our state entities, he added, have to work well, or we will lose everything. It is the responsibility of businesses in South Africa to protect its reputation and to fight against what he termed \u201cstate capture becoming corporate capture\u201d, where common thieves masquerade as business people, destroying rather than creating value.<\/p>\n<p>BLSA has developed the \u2018State of Integrity Six Pack\u2019, a series of six guidelines which could reverse the vicious cycle towards the downward trajectory that South Africa finds itself on. The first of the six points is to launch a judicial enquiry into state capture. Next, Mohale said the nuclear programme must be shelved; the public sector must be professionalised and depoliticised; best practice procedures must be adapted by the state; and state entities including the judiciary, police, NPA and Hawks must have new leadership and become independent of political influence. Finally, the funding of political parties must be transparent. Business is the answer to South Africa\u2019s problems and not the enemy as it is currently being portrayed, Mohale concluded. Mcebisi Jonas, the former Deputy Minister of Finance delivered the event\u2019s keynote address during which he presented a SWOT analysis of South Africa. The South African economy is in a period of low growth and has entered a recession, he pointed out, even though mining and agriculture have shown growth. In the case of mining, this growth is a result of global economic growth while agriculture\u2019s recovery is a result of the end of the drought rather than an economic recovery.<\/p>\n<p>The trade sector has contracted by 5.9 percent and people are spending less on goods and services such as food, clothing, restaurants and hotels. There is less money in circulation, said Jonas and the low growth is not cyclical, but structural, with the economy growing by just one percent since 1990, whilst the whole of emerging Asia has grown by seven percent over the same period. Despite having the necessary infrastructure, he said South Africa\u2019s poor growth was the result of an over-dependence on unreliable sources of foreign investment, resulting in a greater susceptibility to global market shocks. From a structural point of view, said Jonas, South Africa does not invest in sufficient fixed capital \u2013 which forms just 18 percent of the GDP, in comparison to China\u2019s 37 percent of GDP. Foreign investors are choosing to invest in other developing markets rather than South Africa as a result of policy uncertainty which is damaging the mining industry and causing widespread social and political instability.<\/p>\n<p>Simple asset redistribution will only increase unemployment and inequality, he argued, in much the same way as BEE policies have made only a handful of black business people wealthy. \u201cWe need to have a different conversation about how to create real economic participation for all,\u201d he said, adding this would mean more incubation programmes for black entrepreneurs, and the creation of jobs for the low income, low skilled section of the population. Government\u2019s abilities to affect change are constrained by the deep levels of state capture and corruption within the system, he said, adding that corruption in state owned enterprises had significantly raised the cost of utilities. \u201cThe money we use to sustain our inefficiencies could be better used elsewhere,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n<p>A priority was to ensure that South Africa rid itself of corruption, starting with better management of the fiscus, insisted Jonas. \u201cIt makes no sense to focus less on growing the economy and more on public spending,\u201d he added. Jonas also said South Africa\u2019s recent downgrade to junk status posed a major challenge and needed to be reversed. Growing populism happens when low levels of trust exist, he said, adding that the country needed to resist the populist rhetoric of calls to destroy \u2018white monopoly capital\u2019. This, he said, divides South Africans and puts business into the role of the enemy. Populism, said Jonas, denies risks and takes the focus off the issues which need to be addressed, appealing to desperate politicians. He said South Africa could find itself on a path to economic destruction, similar to what has occurred in Venezuela and Zimbabwe. On the upside, he said the South African constitution was a strength and is what differentiates the country from others like Zimbabwe, and safeguards it from absolute collapse. Other factors in its favour include an extensive infrastructure and a sophisticated business sector. Jonas said a diversified economy is the answer to many of South Africa\u2019s problems, together with expanded trade into the rest of Africa.<\/p>\n<h4>PROTECTING SA&#8217;S ECONOMY<\/h4>\n<p>Protecting South Africa\u2019s economy and finding short-term solutions for long-term goals was the topic of the first panel discussion. Panellists included Mohale Ralebitso, founder and CEO of Itataise Investments; Mpho Sedibe, Managing Director of MOPSY Strategic Advisors; Dr Iraj Abedian, Chairman and Chief Executive of Pan African Investment and Research; Lungisa Fuzile, the former Director General of the Department of National Treasury; and Sibusiso Mabuza, Chief Executive Officer of Aluwani Capital Partners. A functioning government depends on existing businesses to be able to make money legitimately, said Fuzile. The priority, he said, should be about expanding existing businesses and supporting the establishment of new businesses. High unemployment levels, he continued, reflect the fact that there are just not enough jobs around. Those impacted most detrimentally by a lack of jobs are the youth. A growing economy would ensure job creation.<\/p>\n<p>One of the biggest impediments to solving the unemployment crisis, said Abedian, is a lack of economic literacy, adding that people need to be economically literate in order to understand what the engines of job creation are. He said the conversation needed to move beyond slogans such as \u201cwhite monopoly capital\u201d and \u201cradical economic transformation\u201d in order to deal with the real issues. Black economic empowerment (BEE) has not been done properly, said Sedibe, with the result that the value chain has not been enhanced, and BEE has not created jobs. \u201cWhile people are not as economically literate as we would like, they\u2019re also not idiots. They\u2019re experiencing high levels of frustration and this is creating social instability,\u201d she said. BEE is not the problem, insisted Fuzile, but it is how we are going about it and the fact that we have allowed some people to take advantage of it. BEE should not only be benefiting a select few, he cautioned.<\/p>\n<p>We need a Truth and Reconciliation Committee to establish how South Africa got to this point, suggested Ralebitso. No sooner had we ushered apartheid out than we got locked into a new \u2013 equally damaging status quo and we\u2019ve continued to make the same mistakes for the past 20 years. \u201cMany of the issues we face haven\u2019t changed. We should not have needed BEE to protect the economy.\u201d Going forward, he said, we need to protect and grow our economy. We need co-operation, and open and honest dialogue. Criminality needs to be recognised for what it is. South Africa needs to get its investment grade rating back, while policy uncertainty and barriers to growth need to be removed. The public and private sector need to work together to ensure sustainable growth takes place, said Mabuza. We waited too long to turn the situation around and business leaders were only taking a stand now that it was hurting their pockets. Members of the audience made a number of observations: South Africa was producing people who were not interested in the greater good, but only in self-enrichment and how do we ensure accountability going forward from elected leadership. In their concluding statements, Mabuza said business had a crucial role to play in terms of ensuring that meaningful transformation took place. Ralebitso said business needed to be held more accountable, and Abedian pointed out that businesses needed to be future fit if they hoped to be sustainable and competitive.<\/p>\n<h4>GEOPOLITICAL UNCERTAINTY<\/h4>\n<p>The second panel discussion focused on navigating the risks around geopolitical uncertainty. Panellists included Dr Johan van Zyl, co-founder of African Rainbow Capital; Dr Kingsley Makhubela, CEO of Brand South Africa; Innocent Dutiro, CEO: Africa &amp; Asia of MMI Holdings Limited; and Karima Brown, Independent Political Analyst. Dutiro pointed out that living in a global economy it\u2019s important that we understand our value. Globalisation, he added, has introduced certain complexities and technology has made it harder to hide. Given this new connected world, protectionism does not work. High unemployment was coupled with a skills shortage because graduates don\u2019t have appropriate skills to meet the needs of businesses. The main driver of geopolitical risk is inequality, said Brown, adding that business and industry was partly responsible: in their quest to keep costs down they were deliberately not employing older people with skills because they were more expensive than younger employees. \u201cThis is a spectacular fail on the part of business leadership,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n<p>Profit equates to risk, said Van Zyl. \u201cWhat we forget today is that money goes to where there are profits to be made.\u201d Discussing South Africa as an investment destination, Kingsley said Brand South Africa focused on selling the country. \u201cGovernments come and go,\u201d he pointed out. The prevailing narrative around radical economic transformation was essentially aimed at ensuring institutional compliance with the wishes of President Zuma and his friends, said Brown. She cautioned that while nobody should be comfortable with the idea of state capture, any change needed to be done within the boundaries of legality. South Africa\u2019s economy is a dichotomy: 20% of it is first world while the bottom 10% is as bad as the Republic of Congo. In the past 24 years South Africa has not addressed the issue of education sufficiently, said Dutiro. \u201cUntil we do that, anything else we do will be based on shaky foundations,\u201d he said, adding that we need a better allocation of resources. We need to better understand our strengths and then build on them.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>One of the problems facing South Africa is the trade challenge: our largest trading partners are located in other continents. A member of the audience pointed out that it was the responsibility of employers to upskill employees and make them more marketable. South Africa needs to think more broadly about the skills required for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, said Makhubela, and how the country could compete with the rest of the world. Furthermore, he said we need to figure out how to leapfrog developed countries in terms of disruptive technologies. We need to choose our battles given our available resources, said Van Zyl. \u201cWe have a competitive advantage in Africa, now we just need to compete better on the continent.\u201d Taking the geopolitical risks and uncertainty in the rest of the world into account \u2013 US uncertainty around Trump; Brexit; a nervous Europe; and disarray in emerging markets \u2013 South Africa is not that badly off, he maintained. In the broader context South Africa is not alone and we have something positive to sell. The best way to mitigate risk right now is to decide on the tough conversations that are required between all parties, said Brown. We need to go back to the table and rebuild trust in order to find a compromise that everybody can agree on. There are ways to navigate risks and uncertainty, agreed the panel. Van Zyl said instead of focusing on the negatives, the country has great people, a free and powerful press, and strong financial services intuitions in its favour. We need to fix our economy or the money will disappear, he warned. Ultimately, it\u2019s about dealing with an imperfect situation to the best of our collective ability.<\/p>\n<h4>YOUTH EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT \u2013 BRIDGING THE GAP IN DIGITAL TIMES<\/h4>\n<p>The final panel discussion focused on youth education and employment and how to bridge the gap in digital times. The panel consisted of Barrie Bramley, partner at Calidascope; Debbie Goodman-Bhyat, CEO at Jack Hammer Executive Headhunters; Maryana Iskander, CEO at Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator; Sizwe Nxasana, chairman at NSFAS and Sifiso Learning Group; Hlomela Bucwa, youth activist and former SRC president at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University; and Gwebinkundla Qonde, director general at the Department of Higher Education. The panel agreed that the country\u2019s education system did not adequately prepare school leavers or graduates for the world of work. In a slow economy, said Nxasana, even those with skills are not guaranteed of a job. He agreed the education system was lacking and said it needed to be revised to address the skills shortages. A different attitude towards risk taking, entrepreneurship and a mindset that created jobs rather than looked for jobs needs to be created, he said.<\/p>\n<p>Both government and business had failed to address the crisis in education adequately, said Bucwa. \u201cInstitutions of higher education may have opened their doors further but there are still barriers to success: if students don\u2019t have adequate support at university they\u2019re not going to succeed. They need to be able to afford books, for instance,\u201d she said. The curriculum needs to be redesigned to address the skills shortage, agreed Qonde. He said the Department of Higher Education was cognisant of the need to maximise quality teaching and learning. \u201cWe need to innovate to ensure that the skills coming out of the system are usable and productive.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Most people find jobs through their networks, pointed out Iskander. Job seekers without networks often find it hard to find employment. \u201cSometimes, all they need is information,\u201d she pointed out. Referring to a survey conducted in association with the University of Johannesburg, she said it costs the average young person R938 a month to look for a job \u2013 primarily for transport and data costs. Adding to the challenge for many job seekers is the fact that many employers don\u2019t think matric or a degree is a good predictor of performance so put additional barriers in place like numeracy tests \u2013 even for jobs that don\u2019t require numeracy skills. The Fourth Industrial Revolution would shrink the job pool even further, said Goodman-Bhyat. \u201cBusiness leaders are trying to ensure their survival and will be replacing every kind of repetitive job with technology. This will impact on internships and learnerships. Educational institutions are moving far too slowly in terms of adapting the skills they teach and cultivating creativity and entrepreneurialism.\u201d Youth who don\u2019t study beyond matric are ill-equipped for the job market, said Nxasana, adding that they should be leaving school better prepared for the fourth industrial revolution. The academic component of education need to be overhauled to include higher order thinking skills and technical education needs to be strengthened, he said.<\/p>\n<p>Qonde agreed that community training colleges need to be teaching marketable skills rather than only basic reading and writing skills. \u201cWe need less of the rhetoric and work on what works,\u201d he said. A member of the audience suggested that teachers should be incentivised to be more competitive and effective. Qonde agreed that teachers should be held accountable for the work they do. Partnerships are the only way to achieve large scale solutions, pointed out Iskander, adding that for many young people it is only by working that they can acquire further education. The youth need to prepare themselves for a lack of employment structure as they will increasingly be their own employers.\u201d Gender inequality continues to be an issue. While more than half of university graduates are women, revealed Nxasana, the corporate environment continues to be male dominated. A member of the audience pointed out the dire shortage of artisans and said the quality of artisan skills coming out of colleges was inadequate. In response, his company was training its own artisans.<\/p>\n<h4>PARTNER COMMENTS<\/h4>\n<p>The Institute of Directors in Southern Africa (IoDSA) supported the Directors Event as part of its mandate to enhance director competence, professionalise the practice of directorship, and make available standards and guidelines for governance. \u201cDialogue of this nature is important among business leaders and decision makers and should be done more regularly in the boardrooms of South Africa,\u201d said IoDSA CEO, Angela Cherrington. \u201cWe hope that some tangible initiatives will emanate from these discussions to ensure that the dialogue turns into action.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe protection of South Africa\u2019s economy, geopolitics and youth education, are exactly the types of conversations needed to better equip us as directors to redefine and realign our own company strategies to focus on improving South Africa\u2019s future,\u201d said Brigitte Schwartz, marketing director at USB Executive Development (USB-ED).<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe well-attended Directors Event 2017 again provided a platform for open and frank discussions on critical aspects affecting the South African economy,\u201d said Partner and head of mining at Hogan Lovells, Warren Beech. \u201cThe opening sessions succinctly identified the enormous challenges facing all South Africans generally, and the specific threats to the South African business sector. That said, South Africans are resilient and provided that the business sector stands up, South Africa will be able to address the various challenges, and get through this turbulent and extremely unsettling period\u201d.<\/p>\n<p>There is much work to be done if South Africa is to alleviate the current pressure on both its citizens and its economy. Governments focus needs to change and attention must be given to creating security and sustainability in terms of policies, as well as a major effort to eliminate corruption and state capture<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"modal-footer\"><a class=\"fusion-button button-default button-medium button default medium\" data-dismiss=\"modal\">Close<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-4 2018\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-4\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-4 .modal-header, .modal-4 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-4\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The Directors Event 2018<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">\n<h3>Business heeds the call \u2018Thuma Mina\u2019 and says Count Us In<\/h3>\n<p>The overriding theme of this year\u2019s The Directors Event, \u2018SA\u2019s biggest board meeting\u2019 held in Sandton, Johannesburg on 8 June, was the response by business to President Cyril Ramaphosa\u2019s \u2018Thuma Mina\u2019 (Send Me) call.<\/p>\n<p>This was the fourth edition of the event which has become an annual platform for dialogue and debate between keynote speakers, panellists and delegates on some of the challenges facing the country. This year, the spotlight was on technology solutions to grow a more inclusive economy, solutions to alleviate youth unemployment and promote entrepreneurialism as well as the impact of politics on the economy.<\/p>\n<h4>A NEW SENSE OF OPTIMISM<\/h4>\n<p>There is no doubt that President Ramaphosa has inspired a new sense of optimism. This optimism is in large part the result of a visible effort to undo the previous administration\u2019s patronage network. President Ramaphosa\u2019s overhaul of the boards of state owned enterprises (SOEs) to ensure good governance is restored to these critical institutions as well as his determination to attract investment back into the country to grow the economy is the first step towards restoring faith in government.<\/p>\n<p>This past year was always going to be a watershed year for SA as the impact of former President Zuma\u2019s poorly managed presidency began to be felt more strongly, said Sunday Times Business Times editor, Ron Derby. It now needed to get back to work and take advantage of a window of opportunity to effect a turnaround.<\/p>\n<p>Key will be how the government addresses the challenges facing the country, insisted Derby, including fiscal stability in SOEs; policy certainty around the mining charter; economic growth; and policy solutions for the health and education sectors.<\/p>\n<h4>GOVERNMENT CALLS ON BUSINESS TO GET INVOLVED<\/h4>\n<p>However, as several speakers attested \u2013 including Minister of Finance, Nhlanhla Nene, Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA) chairman, Dr Jabu Mabuza and newly appointed deputy CEO of MMI Holdings Limited, Jeanette Marais \u2013 government cannot hope to ignite economic growth and alleviate unemployment without the aid of the private sector.<\/p>\n<p>Having emerged from a period where South Africans had lost confidence in the leadership of the country, with scarce resources being mismanaged, misallocated and misappropriated; low economic growth marked by persistently high unemployment, and low levels of foreign direct investment, it is time for all South Africans to heed President Ramaphosa\u2019s call and lend a hand. As such, said Marais, South Africans must start to act in a way that will build confidence in the country bearing in mind that business can only prosper in a prosperous society.<\/p>\n<p>In many ways, she pointed out, the economy runs on confidence as it is confidence that encourages consumers to make purchases, convinces investors to place their money in the country, encourages growth and creates jobs. Marais argues that it\u2019s as much the responsibility of the private sector to pitch in and ensure that the new dawn is not a false dawn, as it is the responsibility of the public sector. Just as government has to address its challenges, so too must the private sector address and fight corruption, fraud and collusion. Inclusive growth, she pointed out, can only be achieved if the country as a whole, comes together to find practical ways to create jobs, drive investment and speed up real transformation.<\/p>\n<p>The president\u2019s task to rebuild the economy is both formidable and enormous, agreed Mabuza. He implored every business leader attending the conference to think carefully about what they could do to drive economic growth and transformation. In addition, he called for business and government to work together on scalable projects and to come up with practical and workable solutions to address the lack of capacity in the public sector.<\/p>\n<p>Businesses, reminded Mabuza, don\u2019t operate in isolation and it is everybody\u2019s duty to ensure a more equitable society because equitable societies do better in the long run in almost every measure.<\/p>\n<p>Without a sustained increase in economic growth, unemployment cannot be addressed. Government will play its part to deliver on reforms, strengthen good governance at SOEs and maintain a stable fiscus, said Nene, as well as address structural challenges such as high costs around broadband, transportation and regulation to make it easier for small firms to enter the market and compete against large players.<\/p>\n<h4>UNEMPLOYMENT<\/h4>\n<p>A key element within the South African economy \u2013 and one of the major themes discussed throughout the conference \u2013 involves addressing unemployment, particularly among the youth, to allow more people to play a meaningful role in the formal economy. The Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative which launched earlier this year with the aim of providing more than one million young South Africans between the ages of 18 and 35 with paid work experience over the next three years is a positive first step, but on its own is not enough.<\/p>\n<p>Speakers from both the public and private sectors acknowledged that addressing SA\u2019s high rate of unemployment is an urgent imperative. Job creation, said Marais, requires multiple approaches from all sectors of society, particularly when one considers recent research from Accenture which revealed that 35% of all jobs in SA are currently at risk of total automation and that machines can perform three quarters of the activities that make up these white and blue-collar jobs.<\/p>\n<p>Addressing the country\u2019s unemployment problem, said Dr Tashmia Ismail-Saville, CEO of YES, will require creativity and disruption, and the creation of new economic spaces to literally invent jobs. Rather than focusing on high growth unicorn type model to provide employment she suggested focusing instead on growing the number of SMEs that each employ a small number of people because ultimately, the majority of jobs, should come from this sector.<\/p>\n<p>To support these small and medium sized enterprises a suggestion was made to develop a database of SMEs and their products or services on offer.<\/p>\n<p>SKILLS DEVELOPMENT<br \/>\nIn addition to youth unemployment there is a growing adult unemployment problem which requires interventions to be put in place in order to reskill people, said Professor Barry Dwolatzky, Director of the Jo\u2019burg Centre for Software Engineering at Wits University. A university degree is no longer a guarantee of a job and while he conceded that there is much wrong with universities including the fact that they compete for scarce resources and the best students, and operate in silos, he argued that where they succeed is in creating deep thinkers who are capable of delivering solutions.<\/p>\n<p>There is little doubt that there is a need for both current and future workforces to be prepared to compete in the future digital workspace. As more routine jobs become redundant we need cool headed dialogue on this issue, insisted Mabuza, referencing the fact that coal workers had marched to halt renewable energy projects fearing that their jobs would be jeopardised.<\/p>\n<h4>EDUCATIONAL CRISIS<\/h4>\n<p>In addition to the need to reskill the existing labour force, SA\u2019s poor educational outcomes and lack of sufficiently trained teachers were frequently referenced during the course of the conference. SA\u2019s track record on educating the future generation is woeful, said Marais, referring to alarming statistics proving her point including the fact that only six percent of matriculants this year will achieve a reasonable mathematics mark of 60% while only half will pass matric. It\u2019s no surprise that 75% of the country\u2019s unemployed are the youth given the 80% illiteracy rate for Grade 4 learners.<\/p>\n<p>Perhaps not unsurprisingly, most unemployed youth don\u2019t have a matric certificate, revealed Ismail-Saville and are educationally, culturally and geographically distant from opportunities given SA\u2019s industrial concentration. Without a matric certificate they are automatically excluded from any bursary schemes, with the result that the majority are thus constrained from making a meaningful contribution to the formal economy.<\/p>\n<p>The recent World Bank Systematic Country Diagnostic for South Africa identifies a focus on children and young adults as critical, said Marais. She suggested a holistic approach that will transform the entire education system, with an emphasis on literacy and numeracy, as well as the upskilling of teachers, focusing on these factors from the foundation phase and not solely at matric level.<\/p>\n<p>SA cannot keep supplying commercial solutions to its educational crisis, argued Barbara Mallinson, founder and CEO of Obami, given that brick and mortar structures are expensive and that we don\u2019t have enough suitably qualified teachers. Technology has the ability to address many of these challenges through online learning platforms and qualitative facilitators which will allow both SA and the continent to scale educational and skills development solutions.<\/p>\n<p>Education and unemployment are two of the most crucial areas in which South Africans must come together to build confidence, argued Marais, adding that the greatest asset of a country is not its land or infrastructure, but rather its people. Investing in people and building human capital is the best investment a country can make, she insisted.<\/p>\n<h4>TECHNOLOGY<\/h4>\n<p>Technology, agreed many of the speakers at the 2018 The Directors Event, has the potential to unlock economic growth but, perhaps even more importantly, to allow for inclusive growth through the deployment of large scale infrastructure advancements that place ICT at their core. It has the potential to deliver transformative solutions to unemployment, for example because it cuts across multiple barriers and allows a technically sound enterprise to indirectly have a spider effect on job creation, said Zachariah George, co-founder and chief investment officer of Startupbootcamp Africa.<\/p>\n<p>During his keynote address, Nene revealed that reducing costs in the ICT sector by half could increase GDP growth by 0.3 percentage points per year and create 200 000 jobs over the next decade.<\/p>\n<p>All indications are that government is prepared to play its part. Minister of Science and Technology, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane acknowledged that government needs to fast-track the migration to digital in order to free up spectrum. A lack of spectrum has been blamed by network operators for the high costs of data.<\/p>\n<p>However, government is limited in what it can achieve given its constrained fiscus. Rolling out ICT infrastructure is an example of one area where government will not be investing and where private sector investment has played a significant role. Under discussion was the fact that private sector organisations have tended to prioritise rolling out ICT infrastructure in urban rather than rural areas. This has resulted in a digital divide between urban and rural areas which threatens to further exacerbate the class divide.<\/p>\n<p>There was widespread recognition amongst speakers that priority needs to be given to connecting low income communities as well as lowering the cost of communication and connectivity, given that connectivity provides a myriad of social benefits. While the argument was tendered that network providers are raking in huge profits, business leaders countered this vehemently, arguing that input costs currently are unnecessarily high as a result of a lack of spectrum.<\/p>\n<p>SA does have the ability to deliver world class technologies and these technologies can deliver economic opportunities and create employment, as evidenced by the success of the drone technology sector, as just one example. SA, it was pointed out, is currently at the forefront of drone regulations globally.<\/p>\n<h4>POLICY CERTAINTY<\/h4>\n<p>Another theme that emerged from the conference was the need for policy certainty. Investors require policy certainty now more than ever, and SA\u2019s policy responses are inadequate, particularly around the mining charter, said Derby. And these inadequate policy responses are dissuading much needed foreign investors, insisted Peter Major, Director Mining at Cadiz Corporate Solutions.<\/p>\n<p>Mabuza agreed on the need for policy certainty, revealing that one of the challenges faced by Telkom recently was a decision of which business entity to buy fibre from. One of the contenders employed 600 people but Telkom would get low empowerment credits if it bought from them. Another contender involved a black businesswoman who imports fibre from China \u2013 and employs no-one \u2013 but the company would get full points if it procured from them. These kinds of issues, said Mabuza, needed to be addressed.<\/p>\n<p>One of the failings of the ruling party, said economic strategist, Thabi Leoka, was the ANC\u2019s tendency to formulate policy without committing to implementing it. Business Leadership South Africa COO, Busiswe Mavuso, concurred and said she was not convinced that the current administration understood the urgency of the situation and was putting any meaningful reforms on hold until after the 2019 elections, prioritising political decision making over what was best for SA and its economy.<\/p>\n<p>During a panel discussion on politics and the economy, it was agreed that coming in midterm for President Ramaphosa is a challenge given that he does not have sufficient support from within his own party. Political analyst and author, Ralph Mathekga, urged the president to \u2018avoid unnecessary adventures\u2019 and rather just \u2018close the tap at Transnet\u2019 and \u2018plug the holes\u2019 in the run-up to the 2019 elections.<\/p>\n<p>Conceding that the country had been through a challenging phase, Enoch Godongwana, chairperson of the ANC\u2019s sub-committee on Economic Transformation, said government\u2019s priority now was to rebuild trust in the ruling party, strengthen the balance sheet of SEOs and end corruption in order to rebuild the economy and take the country forward.<\/p>\n<h4>TRUST DEFICIT<\/h4>\n<p>In addition, it appears as if there is still a significant trust deficit between the public and private sectors and a perception amongst government that if a solution is privately supplied it is not a quality offering, revealed Mallinson. Mallinson founded Obami, a digital-solutions teaching company which offered its online teaching and learning solution to government for free \u2013 and had been turned down.<\/p>\n<p>This trust deficit manifests in other ways too. In the ICT space, revealed SEACOM CEO, Suveer Ramdhani, government \u2013 in the form of regulator ICASA \u2013 and business have been at a stalemate for far too long.<\/p>\n<p>A frequent call from business leaders at this year\u2019s conference was that government, for its part, needs to understand the impact and consequences of decisions made from a political perspective that restrict businesses from being globally competitive. The disconnect needs to be addressed and both the public and private sector need to collaborate in order to find workable and sustainable solutions which promote inclusive growth.<\/p>\n<h4>BUSINESS UNDER PRESSURE TO DEMONSTRATE VALUE<\/h4>\n<p>Another theme emanating from the 2018 event was the fact that businesses are under increasing pressure to demonstrate their value to society. This trend is not unique to SA, pointed out Mabuza, explaining that every business\u2019s license to operate is dependent on its ability to demonstrate its value. This is why, he said, SA businesses need to give due consideration to the creation of social value and find ways to work together to get both the country\u2019s economy and society on a sustainable trajectory. He implored business leaders to provide SA with the solutions it requires to take it forward.<\/p>\n<p>Delegates at the conference were encouraged to play a part in creating the country they want to see, by contributing to skills education and as Mabuza so succinctly put it, to consider bursaries as an advance payment for more stable future.<\/p>\n<p>Arena Holdings owners of Sunday Times, Business Day and Financial Mail, together with headline sponsor MMI Holdings heeded this call and together have contributed R450 000 as well as a percentage of ticket sales from The Directors Event to the YES initiative.<\/p>\n<p>The risks facing SA remain significant as indicated by Statistics SA\u2019s announcement that real GDP fell by 2.2% in the first quarter of 2018. These results, said Nene, will mean a downward revision of optimistic predictions for growth in 2018. The message is clear: while SA may have been dragged back from the precipice, there is no room for complacency.<\/p>\n<p>Both government and business need to heed the calls made at The Directors Event to show leadership and to ensure the public and private sector collaborate meaningfully and constructively to find sustainable solutions to SA\u2019s most urgent and pressing challenges.<\/p>\n<p>To achieve this, they will have to bridge the distrust that currently divides them. Furthermore, we need less empty talk and more constructive engagement. Government entities need to stop operating in silos and instead work together along with the private sector if SA is to realise President Ramaphosa\u2019s new dawn.<\/p>\n<p>The message from this year\u2019s The Directors Event is that if the public and private sector can work together to catalyse investments into the economy, SA will be able to find sustainable solutions to its most pressing challenges and grow the economy.<\/p>\n<p>The conference was bought to you by the Sunday Times Top 100 Companies and JSI listed MMI Holdings, in partnership with the Institute of Directors Southern Africa (IoDSA), Mancosa (GSB) and Greymatter &amp; Finch.<\/p>\n<p>Nontokozo Madonsela, Chief Marketing Officer of MMI Holdings commented that The Directors Event is an opportunity to discuss how we as business can lend a hand in fixing some of the country\u2019s pressing problems. \u201cWe want to be counted in to help shape a much better future for all of us. MMI believes this platform enables constructive conversations between the public and private sectors as a starting point to create solutions together.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe value of an event such as this is that it creates a platform to discuss difficult issues in SA \u2013 the fact that it includes public, private and entrepreneurial members with different insights is a boon. Moreover, it provides a rare opportunity to see them interact and air their views. The value of The Directors Event in particular is that it provides insights into what people are doing in the entrepreneurial space in terms of initiatives, ideas and approaches. My clients shared the same view \u2013 as bleak as some of the information was, the overall feeling generated was that of hope, enthusiasm and a renewed excitement for South Africa,\u201d said Adriana De Roock, MD, Greymatter &amp; Finch.<\/p>\n<p>The IoDSA\u2019s Vusani Ndlovu believes that it is imperative that conversations around the boardroom table do not revolve only around the financial performance of an organisation. \u201cThe solutions to complex problems might just be contained in suggestions by stakeholders. It is also important to ensure that those involved in boardroom discussions should hail from a variety of backgrounds, upbringings, and lifestyles. South Africa \u2013 now more than ever \u2013 needs directors that don\u2019t sit on boards, but that serve for the greater good.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"modal-footer\"><a class=\"fusion-button button-default button-medium button default medium\" data-dismiss=\"modal\">Close<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-5 2019\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-5\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-5 .modal-header, .modal-5 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-5\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The Directors Event 2019<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">\n<p><b>SA\u2019S BIGGEST BOARD MEETING CALLS FOR MORE ACCOUNTABILITY FROM LEADERS<\/b><\/p>\n<p>SA\u2019s biggest board meeting, an annual event which seeks solutions to some of the country\u2019s many challenges, took place recently in Sandton. The Directors Event is presented in association with the prestigious Sunday Times Top 100 Companies Awards, the Institute of Directors (IodSA), and futured by BCX.<\/p>\n<p>Welcoming this year\u2019s board members, Sunday Times editor, Bongani Siqoko said The Directors Event provided an ideal platform to debate the many challenges facing the country including poverty and growing inequality as it grapples with the after-effects of years of sustained corruption. It\u2019s only through co-operation between the public and private sectors that SA can grow, he said.<\/p>\n<p>However, more than just dialogue between the public and private sectors, The Directors Event needs to result in concrete action plans mapping out how SA can grow beyond the 2019 elections, urged Jonas Bogoshi, CEO at BCX. A subsidiary of Telkom, BCX provides end to end digital solutions.<\/p>\n<p>Acknowledging the critical importance of innovation in an increasingly digital age, Bogoshi announced the establishment of the BCX Digital Innovation Award in conjunction with the Sunday Times Top Companies awards. Two awards will be made at this year\u2019s Sunday Times Top Companies awards to be held later this year including the Disruptor award and the Incremental Innovation award. For more information on these awards visit www.bcx.co.za<\/p>\n<p><b>The chairman\u2019s report<\/b><\/p>\n<p>This year\u2019s chairman\u2019s report was delivered by Phuti Mahanyele-Dabengwa, Executive Chairperson of Sigma Capital and a trustee of the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation (previously known as the Shanduka Foundation).<\/p>\n<p>Emphasising the importance of education, Mahanyele-Dabengwa said the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation had prioritised educational initiatives and to date had made significant contributions to effect real change in education. The foundation works in around 450 schools and has helped numerous students to access tertiary education.<\/p>\n<p>Referencing the Ninja generation (no income, no jobs and no assets), she said the reality was that neither the public nor private sectors would be able to absorb all school leavers, which made the creation of an entrepreneurial culture so vital.<\/p>\n<p>While the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation has adopted a number of meaningful models, Mahanyele-Dabengwa urged board members to become involved in education initiatives and to make their own meaningful difference.<\/p>\n<p><b>It matters who becomes president<\/b><\/p>\n<p>This year\u2019s keynote address was delivered by Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng who questioned how SA had jettisoned its value system to the extent that corruption was allowed to flourish and resulted in a degeneration of the country\u2019s debt levels.<\/p>\n<p>Mogoeng said SA\u2019s election process was fundamentally flawed. \u201cIt matters who becomes president of the country, who becomes a premier, a cabinet minister or a mayor,\u201d he argued.<\/p>\n<p>He questioned how we choose leaders and who qualifies to be a leader. Leaders should not be chosen from the ranks of those who have resources or for their connections but rather because they have the necessary skills to address the many problems facing the country, he insisted.<\/p>\n<p>It is the president who appoints heads of state owned enterprises, and those heads who in turn determine who they are surrounded with. Just one rotten apple, said Mogoeng, taints the whole. \u201cWe owe it to ourselves and to prosperity to only appoint the best to positions of responsibility.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>He said candidates for leadership positions should be required to meet stringent requirements before even being considered and should be subjected to much greater public scrutiny. \u201cWe need to be asking the hard questions of our potential leaders so that we get the best to lead us, not only those who have the means,\u201d he said, adding that once voted into power these leaders should feel accountable to their voters.<\/p>\n<p>Mogoeng called for a reflection on how political parties are funded, particularly during elections. Political parties may need to be funded by tax payers, he suggested, so that the public would be accounted to. The current system encourages favours in return, he noted, adding that \u201cmoney speaks\u201d.<\/p>\n<p>SA needs public servants who are not perceived to be beholden to anybody. And while the country has an abundance of good plans in place, too few are implemented. We need to appoint implementers, he said.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWe thought once democracy was in place that the rest would fall into place,\u201d Mogoeng said, adding that as a country we have lost our self-respect, integrity and ability to be accountable.<\/p>\n<p>Mogoeng called on South Africans to focus on what could unite us rather than what divides us and to find solutions to the issues that divide us. We need to have the hard conversations, he said, and reject greed, embrace generosity, be a mobilised and very active civil society, pursue good governance and servant leadership.<\/p>\n<p><b>Securing SA\u2019s future through youth employment and entrepreneurship<\/b><\/p>\n<p>The Directors Event grappled with the issue of youth employment and the promotion of entrepreneurship in order to better secure South Africa\u2019s future. While unemployment drives inequality, the reality currently is that when it comes to youth unemployment we have to run just to stay in the same place, pointed out panel moderator Thabiso Tema.<\/p>\n<p>There are a number of initiatives in place to address the issue of youth employment. The Youth Employment Service (YES), as an example, is a business-driven initiative in partnership with government and labour, which aims to create one million jobs for the youth. A registered not for profit organisation, it focuses on previously disadvantaged youth and provides work experience for one year, allowing each participant to demonstrate their abilities, establish their work ethic and prove their worth.<\/p>\n<p>YES CEO Dr Tashmia Ismail-Saville explained that YES advocated for a policy change to the codes of good practice to reward businesses for employing youth. It delivers appropriate training content to the youth via a zero-rated mobile phone.<\/p>\n<p>Big Brands Media designs and implements programmes that support the development of the youth through various initiatives aimed at instilling a culture of responsibility and unlocking opportunities. CEO Lebogang Ramodike explained that the organisation addresses issues on the ground through master classes and working groups. It works with organisations such as the Girl Child network to help girls from social grant backgrounds as well as traditional and community leaders.<\/p>\n<p>The Entrepreneurship and Cooperative Development, Services SETA, meanwhile, does not implement training and development but instead works as a bridge between training and the world of work. It offers a number of initiatives within its programme of action including offering business advisory services, funding and enabling access to reliable services.<\/p>\n<p>One way to deal with youth unemployment is to promote entrepreneurship, said Liesel K\u00f6stlich, Executive Manager of Entrepreneurship and Cooperative Development at, Services SETA. Employment, she said, can be a pathway to entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial competence can be taught.<\/p>\n<p>She conceded that not everybody has the appetite or aptitude for entrepreneurship, but given a viable concept and a going concern they were more likely to succeed. K\u00f6stlich said the Services SETA was aware that entrepreneurs needed different things at different stages of their life cycles, including business incubation sites that provide real and ongoing support and more support for youth with viable business concepts.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThere are successes and failures and we need to measure impact and root cause, and solve for the root cause. Critically, we need to do all this fast and at speed,\u201d said K\u00f6stlich.<\/p>\n<p>While SETA\u2019s are in the process of researching the gap between available skills and what skills are required, she urged corporates to proactively engage with their communities and local schools with regard to the qualifications they need.<\/p>\n<p>An impediment to success as an entrepreneur is a lack of work experience. It\u2019s hard to start a business if you\u2019ve never worked in a business before, conceded Ismail-Saville. Exacerbating the situation is the fact that 56% of youth don\u2019t have a matric certificate and have low confidence in their abilities as a result.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe psychology of running a business is even more important than technical knowledge such as financial management,\u201d she said. YES\u2019s solution to this problem has been to build an app which helps prospective entrepreneurs to navigate the world of work and how to run a business.<\/p>\n<p>Big businesses are frequently accused of not doing enough to address the youth unemployment problem. Chief operating officer of Nedbank, Mfundo Nkuhlu, said the single biggest impediment to the youth is lack of previous experience. The bank has partnered with YES to provide youth work experiences, acknowledging that the next generation of the work force must have the requisite skills.<\/p>\n<p>Admitting that there is no silver bullet to the growing problem of youth unemployment, Nkuhlu said any solution needs to be medium to long term. At the same time the education system needs to be reformed and the curriculum amended to better prepare the workforce of the future.<\/p>\n<p>Is SA focusing sufficiently on the transition of the youth from dependence to employment, questioned Gcina Mtengwane, a lecturer at the University of the Free State. He argued that many internship programmes leave participants feeling disempowered and called for a standard structure which matched intent to outcomes.<\/p>\n<p>Despite the numerous initiatives in place to address the plight of the unemployed, more can be done, including better information provided to work seekers and a platform to connect work seekers to employers, he said.<\/p>\n<p><b>Digital Transformation: Will inclusive technology innovation develop SA\u2019s economy? <\/b><\/p>\n<p>There has been much talk in recent years on digital transformation but to what extent is this <span style=\"color: var(--body_typography-color); font-family: var(--body_typography-font-family); font-size: var(--body_typography-font-size); font-style: var(--body_typography-font-style,normal); font-weight: var(--body_typography-font-weight); letter-spacing: var(--body_typography-letter-spacing);\">transformation accessible to all South Africans \u2013 and is it even good for us &#8211; was a question posed to <\/span><span style=\"color: var(--body_typography-color); font-family: var(--body_typography-font-family); font-size: var(--body_typography-font-size); font-style: var(--body_typography-font-style,normal); font-weight: var(--body_typography-font-weight); letter-spacing: var(--body_typography-letter-spacing);\">a panel of experts at The Director\u2019s Event.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>The speed with which society is transforming from a digital perspective is perhaps the most<\/p>\n<p>significant element, impacting and affecting even those living in the most rural areas, pointed out<span style=\"color: var(--body_typography-color); font-family: var(--body_typography-font-family); font-size: var(--body_typography-font-size); font-style: var(--body_typography-font-style,normal); font-weight: var(--body_typography-font-weight); letter-spacing: var(--body_typography-letter-spacing);\">Tembinkosi Bonakele, Commissioner of the Competition Commission South Africa.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Not only has competition disrupted numerous industries and sectors but from a competition perspective, he said, it\u2019s leading to situations where the winner takes all \u2013 or at least takes the most \u2013 and the losers completely miss out. By way of illustration he pointed out that the largest firms in the US in the early 2000s were all oil giants. Their positions have been usurped in recent years by digital companies. Bonakele pointed out that the biggest penalties awarded in the EU have all been against protecting monopoly positions from incoming challengers.<\/p>\n<p>While he considered digital disruption good for competition, Bonakele said the caveat was that Internet access and access to technology and infrastructure needs to be equal and equitable. SA, however, is plagued by inequitable access to technology which perpetuates inequality.<\/p>\n<p>From a corporate perspective, Vish Rajpal, chief of IT Solutions at BCX, said learning would be the key differentiator going forward. \u201cFor all employees, irrespective of age, their ability to learn, relearn and unlearn, will be indicative of their value to the organisation,\u201d he said, that adding that those who can\u2019t do that will become a hindrance to their organisations.<\/p>\n<p>There is increasing compelling evidence indicating that the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is good for business, said Prof Brian Armstrong, Adjunct Professor at the Wits University Graduate School of Business Administration. Digitally transformed companies, he said, deliver better customer experiences; are more likely to survive given that they tend to outperform their competitors; deliver more shareholder returns; and deliver more revenue and profit than less digitally orientated companies.<\/p>\n<p>However, while digitalisation is good for business, it\u2019s also affecting society profoundly, explained Armstrong. The waves of change are coming faster than society is able to adjust leading to increased alienation and dysfunction; it is changing the nature of work and making a growing number of people redundant; while issues around trust and privacy is causing significant stress in society. Digital illiteracy, he added, is disempowering. In spite of this, Armstrong said technology is a means to reducing inequality.<\/p>\n<p>Digital technology is changing the mechanism whereby challenges are being addressed and solved, <span style=\"color: var(--body_typography-color); font-family: var(--body_typography-font-family); font-size: var(--body_typography-font-size); font-style: var(--body_typography-font-style,normal); font-weight: var(--body_typography-font-weight); letter-spacing: var(--body_typography-letter-spacing);\">said Nyari Samushonga, MD at WeThinkCode, a company which partners with businesses to provide <\/span><span style=\"color: var(--body_typography-color); font-family: var(--body_typography-font-family); font-size: var(--body_typography-font-size); font-style: var(--body_typography-font-style,normal); font-weight: var(--body_typography-font-weight); letter-spacing: var(--body_typography-letter-spacing);\">digital skills. She said digital literacy within organisations was imperative. The challenge in the SA <\/span><span style=\"color: var(--body_typography-color); font-family: var(--body_typography-font-family); font-size: var(--body_typography-font-size); font-style: var(--body_typography-font-style,normal); font-weight: var(--body_typography-font-weight); letter-spacing: var(--body_typography-letter-spacing);\">context, however, is how to successfully implement digital education given the country\u2019s struggles <\/span><span style=\"color: var(--body_typography-color); font-family: var(--body_typography-font-family); font-size: var(--body_typography-font-size); font-style: var(--body_typography-font-style,normal); font-weight: var(--body_typography-font-weight); letter-spacing: var(--body_typography-letter-spacing);\">to implement traditional education.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Samushonga called on company management and even board members to take responsibility for better understanding technology. \u201cThey need to educate themselves and become literate in terms of technology so that they can adopt responsible practices,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n<p>Digital technologies are not neutral, commented Garth Williams, Research Specialist: Intelligence at the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA). They create big changes and significant disruption. He argued that the term Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) was a recent construct of the World Economic Forum, and was influenced by political systems and commercial constructs.<\/p>\n<p>The TIA is a fairly recent agency of government, established in 2010, which uses grant funding to develop technologies towards commercialisation. In addition to a profit motive, the agency focuses on making a positive societal impact.<\/p>\n<p>He said SA needed to be intentional in terms of its adoption of digital technologies and think about the social consequences of any technology beyond a profit motive. \u201cThere are 4.2 million people in SA who spend their days collecting water, firewood and dung,\u201d he pointed out.<\/p>\n<p>Earlier this year the Department of Science and Technology, in partnership with the World Economic Forum\u2019s Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Network, established an Affiliate Centre to prepare SA for the 4IR. The centre aims to bring together business leaders, governments, start-ups, civil society, academia and international organisations to co-design and pilot innovative new approaches to policy and governance in the 4IR. The centre, explained Williams, intends to connect disparate initiatives and entrepreneurs to local hubs where they can better grapple with the challenges of the 4IR.<\/p>\n<p>One of the results of a more digital world is the availability of increased data on consumers. Bonakele pointed out that the fact that many companies rely on this data to provide them with a competitive edge over their competitors is problematic.<\/p>\n<p>A possible solution to this is the democratization of data and engendering a school of thought that there is more value in co-creation and sharing of information in order to create new business value and improve lives, suggested Rajpal.<\/p>\n<p><b>Politics and the economy<\/b><\/p>\n<p>SA\u2019s politics, the economy and what to expect post the 2019 elections came under the spotlight <span style=\"color: var(--body_typography-color); font-family: var(--body_typography-font-family); font-size: var(--body_typography-font-size); font-style: var(--body_typography-font-style,normal); font-weight: var(--body_typography-font-weight); letter-spacing: var(--body_typography-letter-spacing);\">during a panel discussion moderated by Siki Mgabadeli. A high-level panel of experts agreed that SA is currently in a state of crisis: a crisis of politics, economics and confidence which is hampering any potential for economic recovery.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Providing context to SA\u2019s current situation, Professor Andr\u00e9 Duvenhage, Political Science Professor at North-West University said the country was in a very challenging situation, particularly given the general state of decay within local government, municipalities and state-owned enterprises. This state of decay is having dire consequences for service delivery. Factional in-fighting within the ruling governing party, the ANC, is exacerbating the situation.<\/p>\n<p>The ANC\u2019s struggle narrative no longer works and needs to be adjusted, he said, calling for the country to make a fresh start and develop a new paradigm to take SA forward. He said President Cyril Ramaphosa needs to consolidate his position as it appears the so-called Zuma faction still have significant influence given the individuals appointed to head up various portfolio committees.<\/p>\n<p>SA has the ability to achieve a so-called \u2018high road\u2019, he said, but only if all stakeholders played their part in acting in the best interests of the country and implemented policies and took action.<\/p>\n<p>Despite the criticism President Cyril Ramaphosa received for his vision during his recent State of the Nation address, that vision was necessary, said Cas Coovadia, managing director of the Banking Association of South Africa.<\/p>\n<p>He agreed with Duvenhage that the country is in crisis, pointing out that both agriculture and mining \u2013 sectors which traditionally are creators of jobs \u2013 saw decreases in the last quarter. According to the Auditor-General\u2019s latest report into the performance of municipalities, more municipalities have regressed in terms of their performance and are now classified as \u2018dysfunctional\u2019.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThis has been the longest continual trend of poor business confidence since 1947,\u201d said Coovadia. <span style=\"color: var(--body_typography-color); font-family: var(--body_typography-font-family); font-size: var(--body_typography-font-size); font-style: var(--body_typography-font-style,normal); font-weight: var(--body_typography-font-weight); letter-spacing: var(--body_typography-letter-spacing);\">As patriotic citizens, he urged all South Africans to stop skirting around the issue of the crisis the country finds itself in. This is a society in turmoil which seems to have lost its values and become immunized to what\u2019s happening, he said.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Coovadia called on leaders to recognise this crisis situation and make some hard trade-offs and compromises. It\u2019s got to be all about growing the economy now which requires a president to lead as the president, with the best interest of the country first and foremost.<\/p>\n<p>Responding to a question regarding whether the country was putting too much pressure on President Ramaphosa to deliver the new dawn that he promised, Coovadia said the president had the legitimate vote of the people. His priorities need to be dealing with the critical issues, surrounding himself with the right people, rising above party politics and acting in the national interest. SA, said, Coovadia, no longer has the luxury of time to keep spinning the wheels pointlessly.<\/p>\n<p>Tshediso Matona, Secretary of Planning at the National Planning Commission, agreed that it was time to press the reset button given the very difficult space the country is currently in. There is widespread acknowledgement that the country is at a precipice and the only way it can go forward is if business and civil society come to the table and partner with government. The president\u2019s SONA identified the right issues to be addressed, he maintained.<\/p>\n<p>If there was a world cup of planning, SA would win hands down, commented Mgabadeli. But how does the country go from being really good at planning to being really good at implementing, an area in which it has traditionally not excelled, she asked.<\/p>\n<p>In many ways government is broken, conceded Matona. It doesn\u2019t have the money to pay for much needed infrastructure required to underpin the growth of the economy. Given the state of government the burden would fall on the private sector to work together in very practical ways. He said he was pleased the National Development Plan, a plan which had the support of all political parties, had been re-asserted, and said there was interest in seeing the National Economic Development &amp; Labour Council (Nedlac) reinvigorated to fulfill its mandate.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cUntil we address the political crisis we\u2019re unlikely to fix the confidence and policy crisis,\u201d pointed out chief economist at Alexander Forbes Investments, Isaah Mhlanga. And until these issues are addressed the private sector, which requires assurances that its investments are safe, will shy away from investing in the country.<\/p>\n<p>He said those in the political sphere were not sufficiently appreciative of the extent to which their internal dynamics impacted the economy and neither did the country have the right people with the right skills in the right jobs at a governmental level. \u201cWe need people who can show vision and who can implement that vision,\u201d he said, adding that a lack of accountability at all levels of government was of significant concern.<\/p>\n<p>Policy certainty was required in order to boost confidence, as was the establishment of efficient and inclusive infrastructure, insisted Mhlanga. He said the country\u2019s energy crisis needed to be addressed, spectrum needs to be licensed, the education sector reformed and the role of women elevated in society. \u201cIt seems as though our leadership don\u2019t recognise the engines of an efficient economy. Why haven\u2019t we addressed the crisis at Eskom yet and what\u2019s holding up the licensing of spectrum?\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The public sector needs to become a more attractive working environment if it is to attract skills but this will only happen if the political crisis is addressed and an environment conducive to growth and accountability is created rather than one where corruption and malfeasance is allowed to thrive, agreed Mhlanga and Coovadia.<\/p>\n<p>Political contestation within the ruling party is the biggest obstacle to addressing the political crisis, said political analyst, Dumisani Hlophe. This contestation, he explained, is not based on policy or ideological differences, but rather on the fight for control of the party. While political contestations are not uncommon, they needed to be appropriately managed, he said. \u201cI don\u2019t think the current leadership appreciates the chaos this contestation creates.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>He disputed the idea that the president was an isolated individual within the ANC, arguing that the president is a product of the party and won\u2019t act independently.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"fusion-responsive-typography-calculated\" style=\"--fontsize: 26; line-height: 1.5; --minfontsize: 26;\" data-fontsize=\"26\" data-lineheight=\"39px\"><\/h3>\n<\/div><div class=\"modal-footer\"><a class=\"fusion-button button-default button-medium button default medium\" data-dismiss=\"modal\">Close<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-6 2020\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-6\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-6 .modal-header, .modal-6 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-6\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The Directors Event 2020<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">\n<p><strong>BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE NEW NORMAL<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>South Africa has entered a decade where SA\u2019s longstanding challenges have been exacerbated by the Covid-19 crisis. In addition to the financial and social strains of the pandemic, SA still needs to overcome historic hurdles that put us on the back foot during the lockdown. These include the slow pace of government reforms; the skills-readiness of our workforce to gain employment in Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) jobs; the devastating effects of rapid climate change in a country already gripped by drought; and an energy crisis that is straining our economy.<\/p>\n<p>The 6<sup>th<\/sup> annual Director\u2019s Event, presented by the Sunday Times Top 100 Companies and futured by BCX, took place online recently, where these issues were debated and brainstormed, and potential solutions recommended.<\/p>\n<p>Sunday Times editor, S\u2019thembiso Msomi said President Ramaphosa needs to be brave in forging ahead with actions to establish SA as an economy that investors can once again trust. However, to achieve that will take commitment, hard work, and the co-operation of both the public and private sectors.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>SA is poised for a future where our fundamental industries will be revolutionized, and it is imperative that we harness this innovation,\u201d said Mandisa Ntloko-Petersen, chief marketing officer at BCX, adding that those companies that embrace innovation will thrive rather than merely survive.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Chairperson\u2019s report for 2020<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Delivering the chairman\u2019s report for 2020, Wendy Lucas-Bull, chairman of Absa Group Limited discussed what it takes to do business successfully in SA and what is required to drive our economy forward. To address SA\u2019s downward spiral requires drastic changes in the composition and efficacy of government spending. What matters most now is a clear response plan that all stakeholders can support and a relentless focus on its implementation underpinned by a credible accountability framework.<\/p>\n<p>The journey towards an economic recovery, she said, will require a socio-economic compact between government, organised business, labour and civil society. In the short-term, there are a number of low hanging fruits which could help to arrest the current downward spiral, including reforming state owned entities into efficient economic growth drivers; ensure a stable supply of electricity in a liberalised market; a review of regulatory frameworks to facilitate digital migration and release much needed spectrum; amending SA\u2019s visa regulations; and easing regulatory red tape for small businesses. In the medium to long term, unemployment needs to be addressed and the state\u2019s capabilities bolstered while infrastructure projects with multiplier impacts need to be prioritised.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Saving Eskom a collective effort<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Delivering the keynote address, Andre de Ruyter, the group CEO of Eskom said if the power utility fails it will have dire consequences on SA. He acknowledged concerns around rising electricity tariffs but said that there was no avoiding the fact that electricity would be costing more in future.<\/p>\n<p>Eskom has identified a number of priorities to put the business on a more sustainable footing, including a focus on maintenance, the quantity and quality of coal, reducing its headcount, addressing its debt challenge, restructuring and recovering a culture of excellence. He concluded by saying he alone could not fix Eskom and that it would require a collective effort.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How to revive an economy in ICU<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The first panel discussion focused on strategies to revive the economy and included Professor Ruth Hall, professor of Poverty, Land and Agrarian Studies at the University of Western Cape; independent energy expert Ted Blom; and Tebele Luthuli, MD of Business Against Crime.<\/p>\n<p>The big issues emanating from the discussions were that the Covid-19 pandemic had become a humanitarian and food crisis, exaggerating structural inequalities. A basic income grant was one suggested solution. The high cost of doing business in SA \u2013 exacerbated by the growing cost of electricity &#8211; needs to be addressed, and the power grid needs to be opened up to households to self-generate. Other solutions include reform of labour regulations and better capacitation of the NPA, Hawks and SARS in order to create a more capable state.<\/p>\n<p>The biggest takeaway from this discussion, said Ntloko-Petersen, is the need for collaboration. \u201cThere is no question that an economic recovery will require a collective effort combined with effective policy and a sustainable energy supply,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Managing climate change to become self-sufficient<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The second panel discussion focused on how SA needs to manage climate change in order to become self-sufficient. The panel included Tasneem Essop, executive director of Climate Action Network International; Dr Inga Jacobs-Mata, country representative for the International Water Management Institute, Southern Africa; Kekeletso Tsiloane, the founder of Ramtsilo Manufacturing &amp; Construction; Shamini Harrington, vice president of climate change at Sasol; and David Nicholls, chairman of the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (NECSA).<\/p>\n<p>The main take-outs were that SA cannot afford not to be concerned about climate change given that it\u2019s not just an environmental issue but also an economic and social issue. We need to implement an inclusive process to enable a just energy transition. A climate change programme done right will lead to better development and better growth. However, while there has been progress in terms of policy evolution and development there is a lack of technical capacity to implement, as well as a disconnect between climate change and development goals. The argument for nuclear energy as the only viable alternative to coal was not accepted by all the panellists, many of whom called for a bigger focus on renewable energies.<\/p>\n<p><strong>4IR and jobs<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The final panel discussion of the day put the spotlight on how the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) will create jobs and grow the SA economy. The panel included Professor Brian Armstrong, adjunct professor at the Wits Business School; Dr Michael Gastrow, director for Science in Society at the Human Sciences Research Council\u2019s Impact Centre; Gur Geva, the founder and CEO of iiDENTIFii; and Shaheen Vawda, chief sales officer at BCX.<\/p>\n<p>The big take-outs from this discussion include the fact that SA does not have the luxury of time and needs to urgently embrace 4IR technologies in order to harness potential opportunities and become globally competitive. However, SA\u2019s IT infrastructure has room for improvement. We urgently need to ensure that the youth and those in marginalised areas have access to affordable data and we need to build science and technology skills for the 4IR. Connectivity is the biggest challenge facing the country, and is something that risks growing the current digital divide.<\/p>\n<p>From a business perspective, digital transformation is a journey rather than a destination, and one that can\u2019t be focused on cost cutting but instead needs to be focused on top line growth.<\/p>\n<p>Tangible areas to create jobs going forward are to build labour consuming platforms (like Uber and AirBnB); build more globally traded resources; and create a vibrant hub for the application of emerging technologies in an emerging market context \u2013 and then scale them up for export.<\/p>\n<p>The Institute of Directors South Africa (IoDSA) has partnered with The Director\u2019s Event since its inception. An event of this nature is even more important in a difficult year, said IoDSA CEO, Parmi Natesan. \u201cIt is in times of crisis that companies need their directors more than ever to steer them through choppy waters. It\u2019s also in times of crisis that we realise how inter-connected business, society and the environment are \u2013 having either a positive or negative impact. Certainly, there is no question that business has an impact on our social and environmental capital.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>She added that boards need to be directing their companies to survive and thrive. However, this can only be achieved if the legitimate needs and expectations of stakeholders are taken into account.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"modal-footer\"><a class=\"fusion-button button-default button-medium button default medium\" data-dismiss=\"modal\">Close<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-7 2021\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-7\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-7 .modal-header, .modal-7 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-7\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The Directors Event 2021<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\"><b>RE-IMAGINING SA\u2019S FUTURE<\/b><\/p>\n<p>The seventh annual Directors Event, billed the largest boardroom meeting in SA, was held on 11 June 2021 in partnership with BCX and in association with the Institute of Directors in South Africa. The event is an opportunity for leaders in the private and public sectors to come together to debate, brainstorm and recommend solutions to steer the country forward.<\/p>\n<p>The recurring themes that emanated during the meeting and subsequent panel discussions were the need for accountable, transparent and bold leadership as the country plots a new course for its future; a call for better collaboration and co-operation between the public and private sectors; and the need for reform in re-imagining the future for SA.<\/p>\n<p>Welcoming delegates to the Director\u2019s Event, Sunday Times editor S\u2019thembiso Msomi pointed out that change has become our new normal and that to survive, requires us to adapt while thriving requires that we start to think differently.<\/p>\n<p>He said a new course for the country needs to be plotted, one that leaves no one behind. The pandemic has highlighted the fragile links between the formal and informal sectors. Whether it\u2019s maintaining food security and sustainability, supporting tourism and hospitality, making it easier for international trade and foreign investment, ensuring a reliable and efficient energy grid, re-thinking education and skills development in a 4IR world or re-thinking and restructuring our over-stretched healthcare system, Msomi called for the public and private sectors to actively \u2013 and creatively \u2013 engage.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cDespite SA\u2019s numerous challenges, we have a great deal to be optimistic about,\u201d he said, adding that while our diversity brings challenges it also fuels innovation.<\/p>\n<p>Jonas Bogoshi, CEO of BCX \u2013 the headline partner of the event \u2013 pointed out that the effects of the pandemic will continue to be felt for some time to come in SA. He was concerned, he said, about our readiness for the next pandemic, our ability to provide sufficient levels of healthcare, high levels of unemployment, and the impact that corruption has had on our collective psyche and moral fibre.<\/p>\n<p>According to the 2021 Edelman Trust Barometer there is widespread mistrust of societal leaders. Business, however, is emerging as the only area where people still have trust and which still has competence and credibility. Increased trust in business leaders such as CEOs comes with certain expectations, said Bogoshi, adding that business leaders need to step in where government has struggled to solve societal problems. The call for CEOs to no longer just be accountable to shareholders but to society can no longer be ignored. For the sake of SA\u2019s future their response can\u2019t be timid or half-hearted but instead needs to be swift and determined.<\/p>\n<p><b>Chairman\u2019s Report<\/b><\/p>\n<p>There is an urgent need to strengthen SA\u2019s democracy and build confidence. To achieve this requires that leaders are both conscious and conscientious in re-imagining their role to ensure that they are accountable and transparent, said Tsakani Maluleke, the auditor-general (AG) of South Africa, during the delivery of the Chairman\u2019s Report.<\/p>\n<p>The pandemic has brought into sharp focus the impact of alarming inequality and growing unemployment against a backdrop of weak capabilities on the part of government. \u201cOur shared experiences over the past 14 months have highlighted the urgency with which we must work collectively and cohesively to design and implement solutions that are both effective and sustainable,\u201d she urged, adding that at a minimum, those trusted with leadership positons meet their responsibilities.<\/p>\n<p>The only way to inspire confidence, strengthen our democracy and deliver lasting value and benefits to citizens is for leaders to be accountable, responsible and practice effective oversight, she said.<\/p>\n<p>To provide oversight is the primary role of the office of the AG. As the supreme audit institution of SA it is mandated by the constitution to strengthen the country\u2019s democracy by enabling oversight, accountability and governance in the public sector through auditing, in the process building public confidence.<\/p>\n<p>The AG\u2019s annual audit reports focus on three key areas: the reliable and credible performance information for predetermined objectives; fair representation and the absence of significant misstatements in financial statements; and compliance with key laws and regulations that relate to financial performance management.<\/p>\n<p>Audit reports typically flag three kinds of problems in government spending, explained Maluleke: unauthorised expenditure which is classified as spending that goes over budget or was not used for its intended purpose; irregular expenditure which is spending that was incurred with complying with the applicable legislation; and fruitless and wasteful expenditure which is classified as pointless spending that could have been avoided.<\/p>\n<p>After several years of reporting no meaningful improvements in audit outcomes, ongoing irregular expenditure and lamenting the lack of consequence management, the powers of the AG were strengthened in 2019 when President Ramaphosa signed into law amendments to the Public Audit Act which enabled the AG to not only report on audit outcomes, but also to enforce accountability. In other words, explained Maluleke, the AG\u2019s office can now step in when accounting officers from public institutions fail to enforce accountability.<\/p>\n<p>This means that in addition to providing corrective recommendations aimed at addressing wrongdoing that significantly impacts on public resources and service delivery, the AG can take remedial action which is legally binding should the recommendation be ignored. It also has the power to issue a certificate of debt in the names of those charged with overseeing public resources should the remedial action not be complied with and can refer wrongdoing found during an audit for investigation by relevant public bodies such as the public protector, the Hawks, NPA and the police.<\/p>\n<p>In the last cycle of audit reports, the AG identified 75 material irregularities valued at losses of R6.9 billion on aggregate. Citizens, said Maluleke, are impatient that oversight has been sacrificed for so long which is manifesting in a growing level of dissatisfaction in the form of service delivery protests. The AG\u2019s office, she said, was determined not to abandon its responsibilities and would continue to focus on oversight to ensure elected office bearers were held accountable where public finances are concerned.<\/p>\n<p><b>Keynote Address<\/b><\/p>\n<p>Herman Warren, The Economist Corporate Network&#8217;s director for Africa, delivered the keynote address during which he said the Covid-19 pandemic shone a light on deficiencies and inequalities both within and across nations. In too many instances, those paying the heaviest price are the least capacitated to shoulder the burden, including hourly workers, those without the option to work remotely and those without access to adequate healthcare.<\/p>\n<p>Middle income countries such as SA &#8211; home to 75% of the world\u2019s population, 62% of the poor and just 33% of global GDP \u2013 have been particularly hard hit by the pandemic, he pointed out. In SA poor governance and decision making has resulted in a lack of adequate water and sanitation, insufficient power generation, lack of access to affordable ICT infrastructure and services, high unemployment and limited fiscal space to respond with the same largesse as wealthier nations.<\/p>\n<p>The US, for example, has passed trillions of dollars in aid packages. Between March 2020 and March 2021 it passed $5 trillion in aid packages, equal to around 25% of GDP with a further $4 trillion proposed by the Biden administration as part of an effort to build back better. \u201cThese injections are raising concerns about inflation and the potential need to increase interest rates, which could scupper fragile recoveries and unsettle the global financial system,\u201d said Warren.<\/p>\n<p>The Economist Intelligence Unit, he revealed, has forecasted that the recent and sharp rise in inflation in the US is short term in nature and that low interest rates will remain a feature over the near-to-medium term. \u201cNonetheless, the inflation outlook is an area to keep an eye on,\u201d said Warren.<\/p>\n<p>Pointing out that Sub-Saharan Africa will have the weakest recovery amongst the sub regions of the global economy, Warren said that faster and sustainable economic recovery will not be assured until &#8211; and unless &#8211; we tackle the virus with variants underscoring the reality that no-one is safe until we all are.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cNo-one has a crystal ball: as leaders we deal with uncertainty, complexity, volatility, we consult stakeholders, distil risks and opportunities, develop scenarios, apply probabilities where appropriate and make calls with varying degrees of conviction and confidence,\u201d he said, adding that the pandemic has reinforced the importance of doing the basics right, as well as addressing the hard things consistently.<\/p>\n<p>Warren called on leaders to reflect on what is urgent or likely to be within their domains of influence and responsibility. \u201cWhat is the writing on your wall indicating; what should you be doing in the spaces you occupy and are charged with improving to address the most important issues at hand or with the potential to materialise?\u201d<\/p>\n<p>His message was that leaders should never take themselves too seriously \u2013 humility is a virtue, after all \u2013 but to take what they do seriously. \u201cLet\u2019s hold ourselves to a higher standard and expect in a constructive fashion no less from others including suppliers, staff, politicians and so on.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>In the expectation of further curved balls, he said what matters is not just what we do during a crisis but what we do before it. \u201cI would argue the pre-crisis actions matter most,\u201d he concluded.<\/p>\n<p><b>How to drive a healthy economy during a pandemic<\/b><\/p>\n<p>The Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown had a very negative impact on SA\u2019s GDP. Certainly the lived experience for most South Africans doesn\u2019t reflect much optimism, pointed out Bruce Whitfield, the moderator of the first panel discussion which focused on how to re-invigorate the economy amidst an ongoing pandemic.<\/p>\n<p>Tourism was one of the worst hit sectors and continues to struggle without international visitors or conferences. Despite the resumption of domestic travel, accommodation occupancy rates remain low which is not sustainable, revealed CEO of the Tourism Business Council, Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa.<\/p>\n<p>Tourism makes a valuable contribution to the economy with every 12 tourists to SA creating one job opportunity. There is currently much work being done to get government to understand the role of tourism and sorting out legacy issues like e-visas. \u201cFor the tourism sector to grow requires the holistic support of government in order to remove constraints,\u201d said Tshivhengwa.<\/p>\n<p>The industry was encouraged by the announcement that 51% of South African Airways had been sold to a private consortium given the airlines role in providing international visitor\u2019s access to SA.<\/p>\n<p>The agricultural sector, on the other hand, weathered the pandemic significantly more successfully. Certainly, said Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist at the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa, the sector is in a stronger position than it was five years ago thanks to favourable weather conditions and investments which have played to its advantage. However, although the sector expects further growth this year it won\u2019t be an economic panacea. In the same way that the tourism sector requires a holistic response from government, so too does the agricultural sector, he said, adding that SA needs to decide on a national focus and concentrate on areas which have potential such as agro processing and expanding agricultural land space.<\/p>\n<p>The agricultural sector continues to face challenges around inclusion, said Sihlobo, revealing that blended finance instruments will accelerate inclusive growth. He said we need to be focusing attention on how much land is available on government\u2019s balance sheet and ensuring that this land is not made available on a lease basis given that this removes the incentive to make land improvements. \u201cThis is not the road to economic growth,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n<p>Other glimmers of hope have come from president Ramaphosa\u2019s announcement that businesses are now permitted to generate and even sell-on electricity up to 100MW without a licence. In the face of a national grid which is collapsing this announcement is very welcome and will make a difference within the next 18 months, said Zwelakhe Gila, an energy specialist and co-founder of Chommie Co.<\/p>\n<p>However, it\u2019s unfortunate that we had to hit the bottom before we made any progress on energy reform, he added. Load shedding is costing the economy around R500 million per stage and is halving our total production capabilities which is why the Independent Power Producer Programme and the ability for businesses to self-generate power is so important given that it will lessen the country\u2019s reliance on Eskom.<\/p>\n<p>The pandemic has accelerated the rate of change and taught important lessons. We need to use these lessons to ignite change and encourage a new way of doing things, said Professor Mills Soko, professor in International Business &amp; Strategy at Wits Business School.<\/p>\n<p>In particular it has highlighted the importance of leadership, he said, adding that we need to be pragmatic in terms of how we deal with problems and find new ways of doing things. Although the changing structure of the economy has created new job opportunities, Soko questioned whether new entrants to the jobs market were equipped with the necessary skills to take advantage of these opportunities.<\/p>\n<p>Pointing out that SA needs employment at scale, he said public-private partnerships and a local manufacturing capability will be crucial to SA\u2019s economic recovery.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWe\u2019ve witnessed a seismic change in the past 15 months. Now we need a fundamental shift in policy thinking and bold and visionary leadership that can make big decisions and help us define the new normal,\u201d he concluded.<\/p>\n<p><b>A skills and unemployment crisis \u2013 can tech turn our fortunes around?<\/b><\/p>\n<p>The second panel discussion, moderated by Nozipho Tshabalala, focused on SA\u2019s skills and unemployment crisis and the extent to which technology can potentially turn our fortunes around.<\/p>\n<p>The Covid-19 pandemic has rapidly accelerated the pace of digital transformation in SA. The dramatic shift into the online space has widened the disparity between the haves and the have-nots, noted Tshabalala, adding that Stats SA data reveals that more than a third of those between the ages of 15 and 24 are not in education, training or employment of any sort and more than 20 million South Africans under the age of 35 are unemployed. Does a transition to a tech-driven future provide an opportunity?<\/p>\n<p>SA has a fairly sophisticated economy on the one hand but only a small percentage of the population can access this sophisticated economy, pointed out Professor Jonathan Jansen, distinguished professor of Education at Stellenbosch University. \u201cWhen lockdown hit only about 20% of schools could transition fairly seamlessly to online. The rest didn\u2019t. Our research shows enormous learning losses have occurred.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The elephant in the room, said Jansen, was how to create affordable access to quality education for the majority of learners because it is only once we have achieved that, that we will be able to transform the base of our economy through full participation in the opportunities that technology offers.<\/p>\n<p>SA needs to fundamentally transform its economy, reduce inequality and become more efficient. Fixing a flawed basic education system and making it more relevant to the world of work is a key component of this transformation, said Ann Bernstein, CEO of the Centre for Development and Enterprise South Africa. We need to think fundamentally about reforming basic education to create a better performing system. Technology, she argued, is not the solution so we should stop looking for short-cuts. If necessary we need to import the necessary teaching skills.<\/p>\n<p>Seliki Tlhabane, chief director for MST and Curriculum Enhancement at the Department of Basic Education said the three basic skills \u2013 reading, writing and arithmetic \u2013 had been expanded to include life orientation but learners also need digital skills in order to be able to function effectively in society.<\/p>\n<p>Conceding that education systems have a responsibility to supply the world of work with relevant skills, he said the introduction of coding and robotics was government\u2019s way of acknowledging the changing nature of work.<\/p>\n<p>He agreed with Bernstein that SA should import teaching skills where there are shortages \u2013 but only for a defined period of time. Government has prioritised budget allocations towards education and is busy reviewing mechanisms to ensure schools are better resourced. \u201cThere is no silver bullet and it won\u2019t be a quick fix, but government is seriously committed to addressing the gaps,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n<p>However, as Jansen was quick to point out, a government that can\u2019t fix 2000 pit latrine toilets in the Eastern Cape is not going to be able to provide the platform to develop 4IR skills for learners. \u201cLet\u2019s be honest with each other: a school that still has pit latrines can\u2019t even begin to think of 4IR,\u201d said Jansen.<\/p>\n<p>Public private partnerships will be required to provide these schools with basic infrastructure. He said SA was already importing teaching skills. \u201cThe best maths and science teachers in Soweto and Thoyandou, for example, are from Zimbabwe and India. Why do we only want them here for a defined period of time? Let\u2019s keep them here and open our borders to get the best teachers here. The reality is that we\u2019re not going to be able to rebuild South African schools in a short period of time. However, building a strong economy relies on a strong skills base.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Riaz Moola, CEO of HyperionDev, has been closely involved in supporting universities to transition to online instruction. The company is also assisting universities to launch cost-effective and more accessible short courses.<\/p>\n<p>Working and studying remotely has meant that people have become somewhat isolated. For younger people, it means that they need to be re-taught how to connect and collaborate with others and how to network, pointed out Vikela Rankin, the founder of Value Ed and Elevate. \u201cTheir sense of self-worth is not being heightened and they have higher levels of anxiety.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Agreeing that digital offers a huge potential, he cautioned that access and scale will be a critical ingredient. \u201cRather than a brilliant teacher teaching 20 learners, they should be teaching 20 000 learners,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n<p>A technology driven world has the potential to create more jobs if we focus on creating the right skills, maintained Hope Lukoto, the chief human resource officer at BCX. The fourth industrial revolution (4IR) is happening regardless of SA\u2019s readiness. Technology is becoming disruptive with digital permeating everything we do. A McKinsey study predicts that by 2030 as many of 14% of the global workforce will have to change jobs or acquire new skills.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cGiven SA\u2019s high rate of unemployment we can\u2019t afford not to focus on technology. We have to get comfortable with technology and get fluent in it. At the same we need to start thinking differently about careers and jobs and focus more on outputs. Data science, for example can be applied throughout the value chain. Automation will not displace skills but will require different skills such as design thinking, innovation, curiosity, critical thinking and problem solving,\u201d said Lukoto.<\/p>\n<p><b>Better managing our healthcare resources<\/b><\/p>\n<p>The final panel discussion, moderated by Andile Khumalo, put the focus on how we can better manage our healthcare resources in SA. There is no question that SA\u2019s healthcare system is in a less than optimal state characterised by insufficient capacity, a shortage of healthcare skills and crumbling infrastructure. The pandemic has highlighted the disparities between the public and private healthcare sectors.<\/p>\n<p>The immediate challenge for the healthcare system is to gain control of the Covid-19 pandemic which relies on citizens practicing the recommended safety guidelines such as social distancing, mask wearing and sanitising until they are vaccinated, said Dr Nicholas Crisp, deputy director general: National Health Insurance at the National Department of Health.<\/p>\n<p>SA\u2019s healthcare system is in a mess, he said, adding that the public and private split is not sustainable. \u201cWe need a massive revolution in the healthcare space so that resources are more equitably split,\u201d he said, adding that government\u2019s proposed National Health Insurance (NHI) Act, which aims to provide universal healthcare, will go some way towards pooling all available resources and undo some of the structural problems facing the sector.<\/p>\n<p>Conceding that a few lessons have been learnt during the pandemic including the value of a digital planning system and how the procurement of medicines could potentially be restructured, he said the sharing of capacity and resources between the public and private sector has been encouraging.<\/p>\n<p>The pandemic has highlighted the need for better management of the limited resources available in the healthcare sector, agreed Dr Memela Makiwane, chairperson of the Council for Medical Schemes, adding that one way to achieve this is stop the current fragmented approach to healthcare. For its part the Council for Medical Schemes is encouraging smaller medical schemes to consolidate in order to achieve economies of scale. This has resulted in 140 schemes consolidating into 76 schemes.<\/p>\n<p>Despite \u2018noise\u2019 objecting to NHI, Makiwane said nobody was fundamentally opposed to NHI. He pointed to the UK as an example of a country which had successfully implemented universal healthcare coverage.<\/p>\n<p>A lack of adequate planning, poor human resource management and failing infrastructure are just some of the challenges facing the healthcare sector currently. \u201cThe problem currently is not insufficient beds but rather a lack of experienced doctors and nurses,\u201d said Dr Angelique Coetzee, chairperson of The South African Medical Association. \u201cWe have nurses working in ICU\u2019s or high care without sufficient experience \u2013 yet we have a moratorium on new appointments.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Coetzee said trust between the public and private sectors needs to be restored, public hospital CEOs need to have the power to maintain infrastructure, and the sector should not be employing non healthcare professionals who don\u2019t understand the environment into positions of responsibility. The problem, she said, is that the foundations of our healthcare system are flawed. \u201cIt\u2019s time to start over and build back better,\u201d she advised.<\/p>\n<p>Simon Hlungwani, president of the Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (DENOSA) agreed that human resources is one of the biggest challenges facing the healthcare sector. \u201cWe don\u2019t need people who are not fit for purpose,\u201d he argued.<\/p>\n<p>Poor planning, he said, has resulted in insufficient healthcare providers being trained. The World Health Organisation recommends that developing nations increase their intake of doctors and nurses by 8-10%. SA, on the other hand, is reducing the number of nurses it is training and the shortage of nursing skills is being exacerbated by the pandemic and the vaccination rollout. Nurses undergo four years of training, followed by a year of community service, so it is vital that our future human resources needs are carefully considered as there is no quick fix. Despite this shortage, many nurses complete their training only to be told there is no budget to employ them. \u201cPlanning is poor and myopic and doesn\u2019t consider the longer term,\u201d said Hlungwani.<\/p>\n<p>Going forward, he said, we need a more resilient healthcare system and one that is fit for purpose. To achieve that will require partnership and collaboration.<\/p>\n<p>The panellists agreed that all citizens need to be encouraged to get registered for the vaccine and to get vaccinated. \u201cVaccinating everybody is for the public good and is essential for our economic recovery because a healthy economy requires a healthy population,\u201d said Hlungwani.<\/div><div class=\"modal-footer\"><a class=\"fusion-button button-default button-medium button default medium\" data-dismiss=\"modal\">Close<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-8 2022\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-8\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-8 .modal-header, .modal-8 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-8\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The Directors Event 2022<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\"><b>REIGNITING THE SPIRIT OF UBUNTU<\/b><\/p>\n<p>The past two years have been challenging ones for SA with the Covid-19 pandemic highlighting and exacerbating the stark economic divide between the haves and have-nots. The post-pandemic period has been characterised by constrained supply chains, rising interest rates, growing inflation and soaring commodity prices, all of which have been worsened by the war in Ukraine. As a result initial projections around how quickly the economy would recover have had to be revised. At the same time there is a growing recognition that rebuilding the economy requires a greater focus on social responsibility.<\/p>\n<p>This year, the annual Sunday Times Directors Event, in partnership with BCX, was focused on reigniting the sense of Ubuntu. Not in its eighth year, The Directors Event, dubbed SA\u2019s largest board meeting, has become an important platform for dialogue and debate.<\/p>\n<p>Welcoming delegates to the event, Sunday Times editor S\u2019thembiso Msomi pointed out that The Directors Event brings together the public and private sectors, as well as civil society, to discuss and debate the most effective path to SA\u2019s economic recovery as it focuses on the major issues of the day including climate change, rising food and fuel prices, fragile supply chains and growing inequality.<\/p>\n<p>Jonas Bogoshi, CEO of BCX said The Directors Event is a platform for leaders to listen and reflect. Critically, it\u2019s also an opportunity to ask a fundamental question: what can we do to make things better? \u201cThe Fourth Industrial Revolution is real and is impacting how we live, learn and work,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n<p>While most successful, developed countries have succeeded despite constraints and challenges, he said SA tends to focus too much on the challenges and constraints. Change and progress needs to be a given and there should be nothing stopping us from developing solutions at scale.<\/p>\n<p><b>Keynote address<\/b><\/p>\n<p>The inspirational Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, founder and chairman of Gift of the Givers delivered this year\u2019s keynote address. Previously a medical practitioner in private practice, he said he was instructed to establish the organisation 30 years ago by a spiritual teacher in Turkey.<\/p>\n<p>Today, Gift of the Givers is the largest and most comprehensive disaster response organisation globally. It provides assistance unconditionally, assisting the needy, irrespective of race, religion, colour, class, political affiliation or geographic location.<\/p>\n<p>Since its establishment it has been responsible for delivering life-saving goods and on-the-ground support in more than 43 countries around the world including Bosnia, Zimbabwe, Somalia, Yemen, Malawi, Palestine, Syria, Ukraine and SA.<\/p>\n<p>Locally, it provided support in Knysna in the aftermath of the 2017 fires both to people affected by the fires as well as to save bee populations in the area; in Sutherland to save Merino sheep; it drilled boreholes in Beaufort West and Makhanda (Grahamstown) to provide communities with water; provided support in Cape Town as the city approached day zero in terms of its water supplies; and throughout the country during the Covid pandemic. Amongst other initiatives, Gift of the Givers also provided support in KwaZulu-Natal after the July 2021 civil unrest and after the April 2022 flooding.<\/p>\n<p>Explaining that most corporate social responsibility initiatives \u201cdon\u2019t have a clue\u201d and \u201cdon\u2019t address the real issues\u201d, Sooliman said it was only once CEOs started dealing directly with Gift of the Givers that things really started to happen for the better.<\/p>\n<p>Food insecurity has become a very real problem, he insisted. \u201cRight now in the Eastern Cape children are dying of hunger,\u201d he said, adding that when people have no dignity and are hungry, they lose all hope.<\/p>\n<p>If leaders want to make a real difference then they need to give people hope. This requires that businesses and the economy grows in order to create and support more jobs for more people.<\/p>\n<p>He reminded the audience that SA does not belong to the government but rather to its citizens. Therefore, \u201cit\u2019s our responsibility to fix SA.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Ubuntu, he added, is about everybody doing their bit to save SA. \u201cWe lost too much through state capture and corruption which means we now all need to step in until SA has been rebuilt,\u201d he concluded.<\/p>\n<p><b>Keynote analysis<\/b><\/p>\n<p>Political analyst and director of Political Futures Consultancy, Daniel Silke delivered the keynote analysis. Irrespective of whether you live in SA or another part of the world, the macro environment has become increasingly difficult, said Silke.<\/p>\n<p>Supply chain disruptions will remain a challenge for some time to come, he predicted, but also offers opportunities. The war in Ukraine is exacerbating challenges created by the Covid pandemic and has global ramifications. The World Bank recently cut the global GDP forecast to 2.9% from 4.1%.<\/p>\n<p>Silke predicted a frozen conflict in Ukraine and a potential for the conflict to escalate given Russia\u2019s desire for expansion. The global economy and world order will be impacted, inflation will spike and rising food prices will hit poorer countries the hardest. While Europe will be the hardest hit, commodity exporters like SA will fare better.<\/p>\n<p>The unilateral world we\u2019ve become accustomed to is giving way to competing blocks and a potential redrawing of the world\u2019s borders, he said.<\/p>\n<p>SA is currently faced with a moral dilemma with the ruling ANC aligning itself with Russia and Ukraine despite the fact that it has far more trade and economic ties to the West. \u201cSA is caught between its economic ties to the West and an emotional and ideological connection to Russia,\u201d he said, adding that SA needs to bear in mind that it needs foreign direct investment from all countries. As such, neutrality, might be an advantage in the long term.<\/p>\n<p>While SA\u2019s tax windfall as a result of the commodity boom was welcome, it\u2019s not likely to be sustainable, said Silke. \u201cTellingly, while commodity values have risen, volumes have not, primarily due to logistical constraints.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>SA\u2019s biggest challenge, he maintained, is its disgruntled and largely unemployed youth population. Only 25% of SA\u2019s youth population believe the country is going the right way.<\/p>\n<p>To attract investment it is critical that SA creates an environment which enables businesses to grow and prosper. The country only just made it into the top 10 of Deloitte\u2019s 2022 Africa Investment Attractiveness Index released this month. The survey identified C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire, Ghana and Nigeria as the three most attractive African investment destinations.<\/p>\n<p>As global supply chains slow down even further SA needs to look at the opportunities offered by the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) and put the right building blocks in place \u2013 an enabling environment and an ethical government &#8211; in order to grow the economy and ensure an improved GDP, said Silke.<\/p>\n<p>He ended his presentation with the following advice for SA: As Winston Churchill said, \u2018Never let a good crisis go to waste\u2019; from a foreign policy perspective, SA needs to be careful of not finding itself on the wrong side of history; it\u2019s time for action from a beleaguered government and corporate SA; and finally that business and government need to work together.<\/p>\n<p><b>Fixing the economy to improve livelihoods<\/b><\/p>\n<p>The first panel discussion, moderated by Gugulethu Mfuphi, focused on fixing the economy to improve livelihoods.<\/p>\n<p>For the first time president Cyril Ramaphosa admitted during his February 2022 state of the nation address that government is not the creator of jobs in SA and that the business sector is the key enabler of employment. He said he was committed to reducing red tape to encourage investment and the development of the small business sector. This could be a silver lining for job creation \u2013 if it materialises. Challenges, however remain, including skills shortages, an inadequate and struggling education system and a social welfare system that is supporting a growing number of people and requires ongoing government funding. In this environment, how can business step up to deliver real social impact?<\/p>\n<p>Chief economist at Econometrix, Dr Azar Jammine said he was concerned about the impact of the global environment on SA given the rise in the country\u2019s borrowings and high debt levels. As liquidity is withdrawn from the global economy and interest rates increase, the global economy could be faced with a significant downturn exacerbated by the war in Ukraine.<\/p>\n<p>In this environment, SA is not the worst off, he revealed, explaining that a struggling local economy and low demand may ironically help to mitigate against some of the global risks.<\/p>\n<p>Nontobeko Hlele, a researcher for the SA Office of the Tricontinental Institute for Social Research said unemployment is a massive problem in SA that is not receiving the attention it deserves. It is not ideal that so many people have no stake \u2013 or hope \u2013 in the country. She disagreed with the president\u2019s comment that government is not a job creator, pointing out government employs teachers, nurses and doctors. It also needed to employ people to fix our infrastructure including roads and bridges. \u201cGive those jobs to the unemployed,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n<p>Hlele called on government to invest in the economy, particularly in infrastructure. \u201cIf government is not investing in the economy, why should foreigners be investing,\u201d she questioned.<\/p>\n<p>She also called on business to work more closely with government, particularly the Department of Higher Education, to ensure that tertiary education institutions are teaching the skills that businesses actually need.<\/p>\n<p>CEO of the Small Business Institute, John Dludlu, said SA is in a crisis situation as far as the SME sector was concerned. B-BBEE legislation has led to a rise in \u2018tendertrepeneurs\u2019 and politically connected people which is stifling genuine black entrepreneurs, he said. Explaining that the pandemic saw an upsurge in company\u2019s being registered, he said these are not true entrepreneurs but rather opportunists. SA urgently needs to create a more enabling environment for small businesses to thrive, and for SMEs to be treated as the rock stars of the economy that they are, he said.<\/p>\n<p>From an education perspective, Dludlu said SA does not get an appropriate return on its investment in education. \u201cWe need to assess what has gone wrong in the past 28 years and why we are not getting better education outcomes.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>To address the socioeconomic issues facing SA we need to grow the entrepreneurial sector and small businesses, agreed Hendrik Malan, CEO of research and consulting firm Frost &amp; Sullivan Africa. Critically, everybody needs to have a stake in SA\u2019s future.<\/p>\n<p>He believes the war in Ukraine has opened up opportunities for SA and Africa. To realise these opportunities will require making better use of arable land, a move away from extractive economies to focus on beneficiating to a greater extent, as well as taking advantage of modern technologies to tap into the global economy.<\/p>\n<p>Jan Bouwer, chief of Digital Platform Solutions at BCX agreed that there were huge opportunities in the IT space. \u201cTechnology can help us to fast-track innovations,\u201d he said, pointing out that there are opportunities for South Africans to provide global services to multinational companies. However, this requires that we build up our skills base.<\/p>\n<p>He called on government to embrace technology in order to reduce the red tape facing businesses and to make it easier to do business in SA.<\/p>\n<p>SA is no longer the gateway into Africa and in a slow growth economy, capital is becoming more cautions, said Bouwer. He agreed with Malan that SA needs to take advantage of opportunities in Africa to create economies of scale and larger markets.<\/p>\n<p>Eustace Mashimbye, CEO of Proudly SA agreed that it is important for SA to embrace technology in order to remain competitive. In particular, he said, it\u2019s important not to divorce localisation from competitiveness.<\/p>\n<p><b>Feeding the nation<\/b><\/p>\n<p>The second panel discussion, moderated by Uveka Rangappa, focused on feeding the nation. Approximately 2.3 million households reported child hunger in 2021. Currently, more than 40% of South Africans are affected by hunger. Climate change is likely to exacerbate this situation. Unpredictable and extreme weather patterns \u2013 floods, droughts and wildfires \u2013 are playing havoc with agricultural supply chains which is impacting food security. The war in Ukraine, meanwhile, has resulted in skyrocketing fuel and food prices.<\/p>\n<p>The challenge for SA is how to mitigate climate change, manage water resources more effectively, execute a just energy transition and support agriculture to ensure food security so that no South African goes to be hungry.<\/p>\n<p>Dr Jaisheila Rajput, founder and CEO of Tomorrow Matters Now, a green economy consultancy, revealed that hunger has worsened since the onset of the pandemic making it more urgent than ever that SA doubles down on securing food supply chains and makes sure that these supply chains are resilient. She called for a structural and systemic approach to link various initiatives and activities that currently operate in isolation.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cFood waste and food loss, for example, mostly happens upstream of the consumer. We need better education, identify where the loss is occurring and ensure surplus food is donated to hungry people. To achieve this requires an enabling environment, and a practical and tangible approach,\u201d said Rajput.<\/p>\n<p>Professor Mark Swilling, co-director of the Centre for Sustainability Transitions at the University of Stellenbosch, explained that SA produces enough food. The problem is that the available food supplies are not evenly distributed. Affordability and accessibility have become a growing issue with the result that close to 40% of South Africans suffer from nutrient deficiencies.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cOur food system is embedded in an environmentally unsustainable global food system. We urgently need to transition away from an industrialised food system towards more ecologically friendly agricultural methods,\u201d argued Swilling.<\/p>\n<p>The war in Ukraine has revealed the weaknesses inherent in the current global food system and the fact that the world is dependent on fewer and fewer food exporting countries.<\/p>\n<p>From a health perspective, SA is dealing with two distinct groups of people: those who don\u2019t have enough food and, at the other end of the scale, those who eat too much and end up suffering from obesity, said pro-vice chancellor: climate, sustainability and inequality at the University of the Witwatersrand, professor Imraan Valodia.<\/p>\n<p>He said the current food supply system is broken. When it is under pressure \u2013 as it currently is \u2013 food prices will rise. Valodia agreed with Swilling that it\u2019s time to rethink the whole food production system.<\/p>\n<p>SA\u2019s food security crisis predates both the war in Ukraine and the Covid-19 pandemic, pointed out Andy du Plessis, MD of FoodForward SA, an organisation which recovers quality edible surplus food from the consumer goods supply chain and distributes it to community organisations that serve the poor.<\/p>\n<p>He agreed that the pandemic has exacerbated the situation and explained that when people can\u2019t afford healthy food, they resort to less healthy food options. Civil society, he explained, has taken it upon itself to address hunger because government has failed to take action. He agreed with Rajput that government needs to implement regulation to regulate food donations to ensure less food is wasted.<\/p>\n<p>Professor Francois Engelbrecht, director and professor of Climatology, Global Change Institute at the University of Witwatersrand, said the climate risks for the sub-Saharan African region will be increasing in the years ahead. He warned that the region is likely to become warmer and drier with the risk of extended droughts lasting for up to six years. An increase in the frequency and duration of droughts will put even more pressure on food security as sustained droughts will make it more challenging for farmers, he said.<\/p>\n<p>Even though Africa accounts for only a fraction global carbon emissions, it is in the continent\u2019s interest to curb its emissions given that it will suffer the biggest risks from climate change and a rise in the earth\u2019s temperature, he warned.<\/p>\n<p><b>New ways of tackling inequality<\/b><\/p>\n<p>The third \u2013 and final \u2013 panel discussion, moderated by Nompumelelo Runji, put the spotlight on new ways of tackling inequality. The World Bank ranks SA as the most unequal country in the world with one of the highest Gini coefficients \u2013 a measure of income distribution that highlights the stark gap between the country\u2019s richest and poorest \u2013 globally. SA\u2019s level of inequality is worsened by slow GDP growth, increased household debt, political polarisation and increased levels of poverty.<\/p>\n<p>The big question put to the panel was what actions need to be taken to improve the circumstances of those most affected by poverty? And how should the public and private sectors work together to remove SA from its classification in the \u2018fragile five\u2019 of emerging economies?<\/p>\n<p>High levels of inequality are underpinned by inherited lack of opportunity, explained Precious Zikhali, senior economist in the Poverty and Equity Global Practice at the World Bank. She correlated poor economic opportunity to poor access to credit and jobs and pointed out that women and the youth are disproportionately affected by unemployment. Women also experience a substantial wage gap compared to men. Despite a high rate of social spending by government this does not mitigate against extreme inequality, she said.<\/p>\n<p>Phelisa Nkomo, development economist and chairperson of Oxfam South Africa agreed that these were all significant issues. She added food insecurity and poor access to land to the list of issues exacerbating inequality. Government\u2019s social security net is a fragile initiative, she said, adding that nobody can survive on social grants alone.<\/p>\n<p>Pointing out that two million people lost their jobs during the pandemic, Nkomo pointed out that a staggering 40% of black South Africans don\u2019t lead productive lives. \u201cWe\u2019re building a society which is perpetually dependant on the fiscus to support it which is not sustainable.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>She argued that the macroeconomic tools at government\u2019s disposal are not being effectively utilised. SA has lost industrial capacity it could ill afford to lose. Rather than exporting raw commodities, she said we need to focus on beneficiating. High rates of crime are a sign of social instability and a lack of political willingness to address the issue. For too long SA has been addressing the symptoms rather than the roots of the problem with policy responses that are not addressing the core issues.<\/p>\n<p>SA\u2019s GEAR policy (Growth, Employment and Redistribution: A macroeconomic strategy for South Africa) was a mistake from the outset, said Cosatu spokesperson Sizwe Pamla. Government expected the private sector to address the unemployment problem which it has not. The ruling ANC party inherited an unequal system but have not had the political will to address the problem and do what needs to be done, he argued, adding that government has made poor choices and has not sufficiently used the levers available to it.<\/p>\n<p>Pamla criticised government\u2019s procurement policy which gives tenders to entities that are already large in size rather than developing rural and township economies. He also criticised banks and development finance institutions which, he said, have not supported SMEs or done enough.<\/p>\n<p>He argued that while Nedlac was a good platform, it needed to be based on principles of solidarity.<\/p>\n<p>Professor Murray Leibbrandt, MRF chair in Poverty and Inequality Research and director of the Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit at UCT says high rates of inequality and high unemployment limits our productivity as a country. He agreed that SA is not addressing the problem adequately and said that SA urgently needs to move towards a social compact that breaks down structural impediments. Achieving this, he argues, requires mutual accountability, including business holding government to account.<\/p>\n<p>Tackling inequality, said Leibbrandt, needs to start with a vision and credible leadership focused on creating an inclusive economy. This requires seeing the productive potential of all people. \u201cWe have the solutions but we need political will to implement them.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Busisiwe Memela-Khambula, CEO of the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) revealed that the organisation is effectively disbursing R200 billion to the most vulnerable in the country, including the elderly, the disabled and children.<\/p>\n<p>Of concern is that a growing number of people are falling into the social security net. A total of four million people have matric but have never worked and one million people have degrees but have never worked. She agreed with previous speakers that people need to be provided with hope. This will require a co-ordinated approach between government and business to create opportunities for employment.<\/p>\n<p>One of the over-arching take-outs from this year\u2019s Sunday Times Director\u2019s Event is that while SA faces numerous significant challenges currently, its recovery will be dependent on leaders in both the public and private sectors charting a bold and brave new path for the country.<\/div><div class=\"modal-footer\"><a class=\"fusion-button button-default button-medium button default medium\" data-dismiss=\"modal\">Close<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-9 2023\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-9\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-9 .modal-header, .modal-9 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-9\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The Directors Event 2023<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\"><b>SUSTAINABLE BUSINESSES SHAPING THE FUTURE OF SA<\/b><\/p>\n<p>The mandate for businesses to operate responsibly is nothing new. What is new is a sustainability focus which is linked to realising tangible environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals. The 2023 <em>Sunday Times<\/em> Directors Event, sponsored by BCX for the fifth consecutive year, unpacked how South African businesses are really preforming when it comes to sustainability and where we go from here.<\/p>\n<p>An annual event, dubbed SA\u2019s biggest board meeting, The Directors Event puts the spotlight on burning issues facing the business sector and suggests possible solutions to the country\u2019s most pressing problems. Sunday<\/p>\n<p>Welcoming delegates to the ninth edition of The Directors Event, Sunday Times editor S\u2019thembisizo Msomi said that in a country gripped by energy and infrastructure issues and a governing party pervaded by corruption, it is up to the private sector to navigate the political potholes and work to keep the lights on.<\/p>\n<p>In his opening remarks, Jonas Bogoshi, CEO of BCX said that while most companies had adopted and implemented an ESG framework, there remain vocal critics of ESG who argue that, amongst others, ESG is nothing more than a woke movement out of control, that ESG measurement encourages greenwashing and that a focus on ESG has a tendency to distort markets and results in a misallocation of capital. Critics of ESG also point to the fact that ESG does not take into account the development status of districts, regions and countries and has a disproportionately negative impact on emerging economics.<\/p>\n<p>Conceding that none of these criticisms are entirely incorrect, Bogoshi pointed out that the key focus of business is to meet customer requirements, generate profits and create value for shareholders. However, in emerging economies in particular, businesses have the added responsibility of lifting people out of poverty. Sustainability and ESG, he said, are not an either\/or decision but is about ethical imperatives and ensuring a long-term future for the business, communities and stakeholders.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe actions that we take today will create either positive or negative results for future generations. Ultimately, we need to decide what kind of legacy we want to leave,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Future proofing SA with econometric modelling<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The keynote address was delivered by Dr Pali Lehohla, the former statistician-general of SA and currently a director at Economic Modelling Academy, an organisation that teaches high-level skills in economic modelling.<\/p>\n<p>Lehohla discussed a number of issues including the skills gap, the high rate of unemployment, the role of small and medium-sized businesses to address the unemployment crisis, why young people hold the key to unlocking SA\u2019s potential and the importance of adopting sustainable and responsible business models.<\/p>\n<p>SA\u2019s problems, he said, can be tracked back to a number of macro-economic issues which in turn rely on statistics and data. The country\u2019s long-term performance when it comes to educational outcomes suggests that high unemployment, particularly amongst the youth, is an irreversible trend. Data also suggests that closing the skills gap will not be possible. Both metrics have been worsening in recent years. Poor educational outcomes add to high youth unemployment.<\/p>\n<p>By all indications SA is a failing state, he said. In the belly of the looting state machinery reside the poor who eke out an honest living, expecting ironically, that they are protected. But sadly, their supposed protector is accused number one.<\/p>\n<p>The government\u2019s policies &#8211; which typically follow a macro-economic populism &#8211; are not sustainable, he argued, adding that government does not act decisively and appears increasingly incapacitated.<\/p>\n<p>Explaining why econometric modelling matters, Lehohla said that since the dawn of democracy, SA has applied a range of evolutionary approaches, all of which have had major material defects. Government, however, does not have the tools to predict the country\u2019s future.<\/p>\n<p>Inclusive development requires a capability approach. Key to resolving high inequality in SA is increasing GDP growth levels above 5%. However, this will not be achieved under the current policy regime. The country also lacks the tools to drive the social impact that is so urgently required to alleviate poverty. Government does not talk about impact, said Lehohla, because they don\u2019t have the tools to do so which is a big problem.<\/p>\n<p>To grow GDP requires micro reforms, trade and industry reforms, macro reforms and social policy reforms \u2013 which, he said, combined could grow GDP above 5%. Lehohla urged SA to deploy econometric modelling and to implement the proposals made by businesses to re-ignite growth and future-proof the economy and get SA out of its current rut.<\/p>\n<p>If we don\u2019t implement the right tools SA will continue to be fighting fires, he said, concluding his address by saying that there is currently an absence of intellect in how we do business in SA because we are not using foresight sufficiently.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Social impact means business for SA<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The first panel discussion, moderated by Gugulethu Mfuphi, focused on social impact and what it means for business. Business is frequently criticised for not focusing sufficiently on the social aspect of ESG.<\/p>\n<p>South Africans may be feeling isolated, but there remains strength in social impact. As businesses we need to make this connection if we are going to take sustainable next steps. We need to effect change, close the skills gaps, crack down on unacceptably high unemployment by opening the doors to the youth and collaborate and trade more with small and medium-sized businesses. Critically, we need to grow a skills base within the youth segment because we can\u2019t afford to leave the youth behind if we want to be sustainable. Ultimately, it\u2019s about managing our country as a sustainable business of great potential.<\/p>\n<p>Professor Lauren Graham, associate professor and director at the Centre for Social Development in Africa at the University of Johannesburg, pointed out that at a micro level there are pockets of excellence at all levels of society. We need to highlight those pockets of excellence, she said.<\/p>\n<p>Government has many leverage points which it is not making sufficient use of. Small and medium-sized businesses often don\u2019t have human resources departments and are not aware of government initiatives they can take advantage of. We could, for example, take better advantage of the skills development levy, she suggested. Critically, we need to make it easier for the youth to access skills development initiatives.<\/p>\n<p>Importantly, most private sector businesses genuinely want to make a difference, said Graham, adding that it is important to grow awareness of available policy mechanisms. \u201cWe need to scale wide and scale up and help to shift policies.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Brent Lindeque, editor and chief of Good Things Guy, agreed that businesses do care and want to make a positive difference. \u201cDoing good is good for business,\u201d he said, adding that when we assist other South Africans to rise, we all rise together.<\/p>\n<p>He commended NGOs for the being the backbone of SA, revealing that they are doing a huge amount of good work for disadvantaged communities.<\/p>\n<p>All too often the terms CSI, ESG and sustainability are used interchangeably, he pointed out, adding that it is often difficult to measure the impact of sustainability initiatives.<\/p>\n<p>Arguing that education is key to creating a better SA, he referenced The Unlimited\u2019s early childhood development centres which have helped more than 1m children in the last decade to be ready to start school.<\/p>\n<p>Dr Mmaki Jantjies, group executive responsible for Innovation and Transformation at Telkom SA said a public-private partnership focused on skills development \u2013 the Telkom Centres of the Excellence \u2013 have been hugely successful and seen thousands of graduates completing their tertiary studies with honours, masters and Phd\u2019s.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIf we hope to make an impact at scale, we need to prioritise public-private partnerships,\u201d said Jantjies, adding that Telkom has been very purposeful about its sustainability journey. Telkom has made significant investments in thousands of SMMEs through the Telkom Future Makers Programme, partnering with skills development organisations and providing funding.<\/p>\n<p>Nazrana Sultan is head of strategy and business planning at Digital Frontiers, an online education business which offers programmes that support the acceleration of global initiatives in digital finance services and financial inclusion, gender equality and inclusive digital economies.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWe believe that 20% of the world\u2019s future jobs will be dedicated to solving the world\u2019s biggest problems which is why we have a mission to co-create future skills and redefine capabilities while connecting ecosystems that establish opportunities for work for good,\u201d said Sultan, adding that the company aims to create both an impact positive and build skills capacity.<\/p>\n<p>Carmel Kistasamy, head of Global Development Organisations for Pan-Africa at Absa Group said that in the private sector the narrative has changed around public-private collaborations. \u201cFrom an Absa perspective, we are focusing on empowering communities. The Absa Young Africa Works Programme, for example, is a collaboration between Absa Bank Ghana and the Mastercard Foundation to deliver resources such as funding, training, access to industry experts and access to players along the value chain to help scale up micro, small and medium scale businesses.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Since its inception, she revealed, the programme has created 16\u00a0000 jobs in Ghana. Key to its success have been successful partnerships.<\/p>\n<p>Financial inclusion is a key focus of Absa. Ready to Work is a platform that the bank created to bridge the gap between job seekers and recruiters. It helps job seekers become work ready and to date has supported 30\u00a0000 individuals.<\/p>\n<p><strong>SA re-energised<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The second panel discussion, moderated by Alishia Seckam, analysed the dynamics that shape the reality of SA\u2019s energy and infrastructure crisis, unpacking possible solutions to rebuild the epicentres of crumbling infrastructure, how to rewire the national energy grid and how to secure a sustainable economic future for all.<\/p>\n<p>Perhaps top of mind in any discussion around the energy crisis facing SA is whether the newly appointed minister of electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa is up to the task he has been set? Busisiwe Mavuso, CEO of Business Leadership SA pointed out that Eskom reports to a total of seven different ministries. She questioned why the minister of electricity has to ask for permission to visit power stations from minister Pravin Gordhan.<\/p>\n<p>Her biggest concern, however, was that there is no clear mandate and no clear plan around resolving the energy crisis. \u201cWe need to take the least cost route \u2013 but is Karpowership really the least cost route,\u201d she asked.<\/p>\n<p>As crime and corruption at Eskom continue to cripple the state-owned power utility, Mavuso questioned whether it can be salvaged when there does not appear to be the political will to fix it. \u201cThe energy crisis is not about capacity. The problem is that the decisions that need to be made at Eskom are being made at Luthuli House and people who don\u2019t have the requisite experience are making the decisions. We have a leadership crisis, not a capacity issue,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n<p>Pointing to deteriorating business confidence metrics, Mavuso said SA will fail to attract investment if there is poor business confidence. \u201cCapital is like water \u2013 it follows the path of least resistance and increasingly, investors are moving away from SA and looking to East Africa. We must not forget that capital has many addresses and currently, SA is not looking attractive.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Poor business confidence is not being helped by a growing risk metric. \u201cSA cannot ignore international treaties and agreements without eroding investor confidence. We can\u2019t be a signatory to the ICC and then invite somebody like Russian president Putin to visit the country with impunity. Right now, investors are very worried about South Africa,\u201d said Mavuso.<\/p>\n<p>She urged government to get around to fixing the 20% of things that will impact 80% of the economy: energy, crime, transport and logistics.<\/p>\n<p>Steven Kaplan is the 2023 president of the South African Institution for Civil Engineering (SAICE). SAICE published its fourth Infrastructure Report Card in late 2022, rating the overall condition of SA\u2019s public infrastructure aD, the lowest rating since the report card was launched in 2006. A score of D positions the country\u2019s public infrastructure at risk of failure.<\/p>\n<p>Factors influencing the gradings include poor end user behaviour including theft, vandalism and non-payment for services, inadequate infrastructure management and maintenance, poorly conducted maintenance, and lack of capacity, explained Kaplan. \u201cSA\u2019s social infrastructure is failing as exhibited by the water issues currently being experienced in Hammanskraal.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Responding to a question as to whether SA under-estimates what it will take to fix Eskom, Kaplan said, \u201cThe minister of electricity has suggested a number of quick-fix solutions but if all that is needed is to put experienced engineers into power stations, why did we not do that a long time ago? Ultimately, it all comes down to capacitation and a lack of appreciation of the need for experienced engineers.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Large energy projects require public-private partnerships. However, to attract investment they need to be bankable, pointed out Kaplan. \u201cThere has to be a culture of payment so that investors are assured of getting a return.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>A lack of industrial vision is SA\u2019s biggest problem, maintained Jacob Maroga, director of Erinite Energy and a former CEO of Eskom. China has realised its vision of becoming the largest provider of solar products globally. SA, he said, needs a similar overarching vision.<\/p>\n<p>The only credible plan to resolving the energy crisis, said Maroga, is fixing the crisis at power stations and improving the performance of each station. The reason the coal feed deteriorated, he claimed, is because too much focus was given to renewables and no attention was given to fixing existing power stations.<\/p>\n<p>He added that SA has no choice but to fix Eskom and to trust in the power utility because the alternative &#8211; a parallel energy system \u2013 is misdirected. \u201cWe can\u2019t afford to abandon Eskom. Neither can we afford to transition away from coal too early or too chaotically,\u201d he said, adding that countries that have transitioned away from coal have done it systematically and slowly.<\/p>\n<p>Maroga said the incentives in place for independent power producers was good but SA needs to realise that the private sector builds for its own bottom line and not the public good. \u201cWe need an assertive state that doesn\u2019t rely on external funding to enable its energy system,\u201d he insisted. <strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>The hum of tech-savvy businesses and communities<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The third and final panel discussion, moderated by Faith Mangope, focused on the use of smart technologies to help shape the future sustainability of SA, focusing specifically on the economic resilience that is enabled by homegrown innovation. But what exactly do sustainable businesses really mean on the ground for South African companies?<\/p>\n<p>Arnold Netshambidi is CEO of Phambano Technology Development Centre, an NGO that provides sustainable technology-related solutions to civil society organisations across Southern Africa. During the Covid-19 pandemic the organisation was providing training to civil society organisations to enable their people to work from home.<\/p>\n<p>It won\u2019t be easy to resolve the digital skills gap, particularly for civil society organisations who lack sufficient resources, he said. \u201cThe private sector has the capacity. The challenge is to bring the private sector and civil society organisations together.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Khethiwe Nkuna, responsible business executive at Accenture in Africa said the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) has the potential to resolve some of Africa\u2019s biggest challenges. However, to realise its benefits we need an intentional, collaborative effort to ensure the private sector works with civil society organisations, she said.<\/p>\n<p>Accenture is committed to making a difference through social impact programmes, empowering individuals and improving lives. Accenture\u2019s Skills to Succeed initiative empowers people through skills development, entrepreneurship and job opportunities to participate in a more economically inclusive world. The business has worked with a handful of NGOs over the past five years, resulting in small pockets of excellence. Despite an obsession with quality and making a sustainable impact, Nkuna conceded that what the company is not getting right is scaling. \u201cWe recognise that we need to be more proactive and use data analytics and predictive software to predict the digital skills that we will need in the future.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The challenge for many businesses is that as soon as they have upskilled their people, they stand the risk of losing them to international opportunities. Nkuna said that it is important to embed purpose into every aspect of your business if you want to attract \u2013 and retain \u2013 millennials to your business. At the same time, businesses need to clearly articulate how young people will progress, develop and flourish within the business. \u201cWe need to think differently about how we manage talent,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n<p>Increasingly, SME\u2019s are shifting away from conventional ways of doing business to incorporate digital channels, said Joseph Ndaba, the 4IR Commissioner at the Presidential Commission on the Fourth Industrial Commission.<\/p>\n<p>However, many small businesses struggle to know how to use these new digital technologies. \u201cDespite the many benefits technology offers the country, we continue to have a legacy culture when it comes to technology. Blockchain technologies, for example, will stop the practice of \u2018brown envelopes\u2019, so they are not being encouraged by government,\u201d he revealed, adding that government is also not creating an enabling space to implement digital technologies.<\/p>\n<p>There is a perception, even amongst community leaders, that 4IR will destroy jobs. The result is that many people fear both technology and the 4IR. Ndaba said we need to change this narrative and educate people about the potential of artificial intelligence, including the job opportunities that will come out of it and other modern technologies.<\/p>\n<p>Zweli Vilakazi, chief financial officer at BCX said that the high penetration of mobile phones in SA &#8211; many of them smartphones \u2013 and an extensive fixed network, provides an opportunity for small business owners to access the cloud and digital technologies. Cloud also offers cybersecurity features. \u201cMany of the barriers to entry for small businesses have been reduced by mobile technologies and digital platforms,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n<p>There has been a shift in recent years with a growing number of young women looking to the technology sector for career opportunities. We need to understand the potential for technology to provide communities with greater access to services. The business sector \u2013 particularly the ICT business sector \u2013 needs to reach out more to communities, he said.<\/p>\n<p>Vilakazi added that the private sector has a keen interest in ensuring SA succeeds as a country and as an economy.<\/p>\n<p>Concluding the event, master of ceremonies Gugulethu Mfuphi said this year\u2019s Directors Event raised a number of P\u2019s: policy to drive change; the need for partnerships; profits to enable these changes; and people, with skills highlighted as a major concern. Encouragingly, while many of SA\u2019s challenges appear insurmountable, there are resolutions to many of the pressing problems we face.<\/div><div class=\"modal-footer\"><a class=\"fusion-button button-default button-medium button default medium\" data-dismiss=\"modal\">Close<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-15{width:100% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-15 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 1.92%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 1.92%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-15{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-15 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-15{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-15 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-flex-container.fusion-builder-row-3{ padding-top : 0px;margin-top : 0px;padding-right : 0px;padding-bottom : 100px;margin-bottom : 0px;padding-left : 0px;}<\/style><\/div><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-4 fusion-flex-container fusion-parallax-fixed nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"background-color: rgba(255,255,255,0.75);background-image: url(&quot;https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/The-Directors-Event-2018-47-1024x498.jpg&quot;);background-position: center bottom;background-repeat: no-repeat;background-blend-mode: overlay;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#eae9e9;border-style:solid;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;background-attachment:fixed;\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start\" style=\"max-width:calc( 1170px + 0px );margin-left: calc(-0px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-0px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-16 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 30px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-counters-box counters-box row fusion-clearfix fusion-columns-3 counterstyle\"><div class=\"fusion-counter-box fusion-column col-counter-box counter-box-wrapper col-lg-4 col-md-4 col-sm-4 fusion-counter-box-icon-top\" data-animationOffset=\"100%\"><div class=\"counter-box-container\" style=\"border: 1px solid #e31f2b;\"><div class=\"content-box-percentage content-box-counter\" style=\"color:#000000;font-size:50px;line-height:normal;\"><i class=\"counter-box-icon fontawesome-icon fa-calendar-alt fas\" style=\"font-size:70px;\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><span class=\"display-counter\" data-value=\"9\" data-direction=\"up\" data-decimals=\"0\">0<\/span><\/div><div class=\"counter-box-content\" style=\"color:#000000;font-size:20px;\">Board Meetings<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-counter-box fusion-column col-counter-box counter-box-wrapper col-lg-4 col-md-4 col-sm-4 fusion-counter-box-icon-top\" data-animationOffset=\"100%\"><div class=\"counter-box-container\" style=\"border: 1px solid #e31f2b;\"><div class=\"content-box-percentage content-box-counter\" style=\"color:#000000;font-size:50px;line-height:normal;\"><i class=\"counter-box-icon fontawesome-icon fa-user-circle far\" style=\"font-size:70px;\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><span class=\"display-counter\" data-value=\"193\" data-direction=\"up\" data-decimals=\"0\">0<\/span><\/div><div class=\"counter-box-content\" style=\"color:#000000;font-size:20px;\">Board Members<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-counter-box fusion-column col-counter-box counter-box-wrapper col-lg-4 col-md-4 col-sm-4 fusion-counter-box-icon-top\" data-animationOffset=\"100%\"><div class=\"counter-box-container\" style=\"border: 1px solid #e31f2b;\"><div class=\"content-box-percentage content-box-counter\" style=\"color:#000000;font-size:50px;line-height:normal;\"><i class=\"counter-box-icon fontawesome-icon fa-user fas\" style=\"font-size:70px;\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><span class=\"display-counter\" data-value=\"6194\" data-direction=\"up\" data-decimals=\"0\">0<\/span><\/div><div class=\"counter-box-content\" style=\"color:#000000;font-size:20px;\">Delegates<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-16{width:100% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-16 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 30px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 0px;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 0px;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-16{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-16 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 0px;margin-left : 0px;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-16{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-16 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 0px;margin-left : 0px;}}<\/style><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-flex-container.fusion-builder-row-4{ padding-top : 50px;margin-top : 0px;padding-right : 0px;padding-bottom : 50px;margin-bottom : 100px;padding-left : 0px;}<\/style><\/div><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-5 fusion-flex-container nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"background-color: rgba(255,255,255,0);background-position: center center;background-repeat: no-repeat;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#eae9e9;border-style:solid;\" id=\"agenda\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start\" style=\"max-width:calc( 1170px + 0px );margin-left: calc(-0px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-0px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-17 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-center fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-14\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h1 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>AGENDA<\/strong><\/h1>\n<hr \/>\n<\/div><style>\nli {\n color:#000; \n}\n.rowspeaker {\n  width:100%;\n  margin-top:0px;\n}\n.leftcolumn{\n  width:10%;\n  min-width:100px;\n  float:left;\n  display:block;\n  padding:5px;\n}\n.rightcolumn {\n  width:90%;\n  float:left;\n  display:block;\n  padding:5px;\n  margin-top:16px;\n}\n.leftcolumn img {\n  width:80px;\n  border-radius:2px;\n}\n.speakername {\n  font-size:17px;\n  font-weight:700;\n  margin:0px !important;\n  padding:0px !important;\n  color:#000;\n}\n.speakerdetails {\n  font-size:17px;\n  font-weight:500;  \n  margin:0px !important;\n  padding:0px !important;\n  color:#000;\n}\ntable {\n  border-collapse: collapse;\n  border-spacing: 0;\n  width: 100%;\n}\n\nth, td {\n  text-align: left;\n  padding: 8px;\n  vertical-align:top;\n}\n\n\n@media only screen and (max-width: 600px) {\n  .rightcolumn {\n    width: 60% ;\n    float: left;\n    display: block;\n    padding: 5px;\n    margin-top: 0px;\n}\n  .speakerdetails {\n  font-family:Arial;\n  font-size:15px;\n  font-weight:500;  \n  margin:0px !important;\n  padding:0px !important;\n  color:#000;\n}\n  }\n<\/style><div class=\"fusion-separator fusion-full-width-sep\" style=\"align-self: center;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;margin-top:30px;width:100%;\"><\/div><div class=\"fusion-separator fusion-full-width-sep\" style=\"align-self: center;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;margin-top:30px;width:100%;\"><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-accordian  #accordion-1318-1 .panel-title a .fa-fusion-box{ color: #ffffff;}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-1318-1 .panel-title a .fa-fusion-box:before{ font-size: 13px; width: 13px;}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-1318-1 .panel-title a{font-size:17px;}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-1318-1 .fa-fusion-box { background-color: #333333;border-color: #333333;}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-1318-1 .panel-title a:hover, #accordion-1318-1 .fusion-toggle-boxed-mode:hover .panel-title a { color: #e31f2b;}.fusion-accordian  #accordion-1318-1 .panel-title .active .fa-fusion-box,.fusion-accordian  #accordion-1318-1 .panel-title a:hover .fa-fusion-box { background-color: #e31f2b!important;border-color: #e31f2b!important;}<\/style><div class=\"accordian fusion-accordian\"><div class=\"panel-group\" id=\"accordion-1318-1\" role=\"tablist\"><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-selected=\"false\" aria-controls=\"fa40e329fe1a039a1\" role=\"tab\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordion-1318-1\" data-target=\"#fa40e329fe1a039a1\" href=\"#fa40e329fe1a039a1\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">WELCOME<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"fa40e329fe1a039a1\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">\n<div class=\"rowspeaker\">\n<div class=\"leftcolumn\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Gugulethu-Mfuphi.png\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"rightcolumn\">\n<p class=\"speakername\">Gugulethu Mfuphi<\/p>\n<p class=\"speakerdetails\">Master of Ceremonies<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"rowspeaker\">\n<div class=\"leftcolumn\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Speaker-image-resize_Sthembiso-Msomi_001.png\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"rightcolumn\">\n<p class=\"speakername\">S\u2019thembiso Msomi<\/p>\n<p class=\"speakerdetails\">Editor, Sunday Times<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-selected=\"false\" aria-controls=\"10d5f0f7098079e47\" role=\"tab\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordion-1318-1\" data-target=\"#10d5f0f7098079e47\" href=\"#10d5f0f7098079e47\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">OPENING REMARKS<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"10d5f0f7098079e47\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">\n<div class=\"rowspeaker\">\n<div class=\"leftcolumn\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Welcome-speaker-Cheryl-Jane-Kujenga.jpg\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"rightcolumn\">\n<p class=\"speakername\">Cheryl-Jane Kujenga<\/p>\n<p class=\"speakerdetails\">Chief Financial Officer, BCX<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-selected=\"false\" aria-controls=\"13bad21d2393e4d2d\" role=\"tab\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordion-1318-1\" data-target=\"#13bad21d2393e4d2d\" href=\"#13bad21d2393e4d2d\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">KEYNOTE ADDRESS: HOW COURAGEOUS LEADERSHIP CAN IMPACT SA BEYOND 2024<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"13bad21d2393e4d2d\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">\n<div class=\"rowspeaker\">\n<div class=\"leftcolumn\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"rowspeaker\">\n<div class=\"leftcolumn\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Dr-Mteto-Nyati.jpg\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"rightcolumn\">\n<p class=\"speakername\">Dr Mteto Nyati<\/p>\n<p class=\"speakerdetails\">Chairman, Eskom Holdings SOC Limited<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-selected=\"false\" aria-controls=\"69276a7c5e1960a5c\" role=\"tab\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordion-1318-1\" data-target=\"#69276a7c5e1960a5c\" href=\"#69276a7c5e1960a5c\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">PANEL: AI\u2019S PLACE IN SA<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"69276a7c5e1960a5c\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">Humanizing AI in South Africa for economic growth involves prioritizing human well-being, inclusivity, and sustainable development.<br \/>\nStrategies include investing in skills development and education for AI interaction, implementing ethical frameworks, engaging communities, creating job opportunities, using AI for social impact, ensuring data privacy, fostering collaboration, and improving digital infrastructure.<\/p>\n<p>These efforts aim to leverage AI for job creation, innovation, and improved quality of life while ensuring equitable distribution of benefits.<\/p>\n<div class=\"rowspeaker\">\n<div class=\"leftcolumn\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Gugulethu-Mfuphi.png\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"rightcolumn\">\n<p class=\"speakername\">Gugulethu Mfuphi<\/p>\n<p class=\"speakerdetails\">Moderator<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"rowspeaker\">\n<div class=\"leftcolumn\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-1-Stefan-Steffen-.png\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"rightcolumn\">\n<p class=\"speakername\">Stefan Steffen<\/p>\n<p class=\"speakerdetails\">Executive: Data Insights and Intelligence, BCX<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"rowspeaker\">\n<div class=\"leftcolumn\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-1-Deshen-Moodley.png\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"rightcolumn\">\n<p class=\"speakername\">Prof Deshen Moodley<\/p>\n<p class=\"speakerdetails\">DSI\/NRF-UCT SARChI Chair in Artificial Intelligence (AI) Systems and Associate Professor, Department of Computer Science, AI Research Unit University of Cape Town; Co-Director: Centre for Artificial Intelligence Research<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"rowspeaker\">\n<div class=\"leftcolumn\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-1-Vuyani-Jarana.png\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"rightcolumn\">\n<p class=\"speakername\">Vuyani Jarana<\/p>\n<p class=\"speakerdetails\">Founder and CEO, Ilitha Telecommunications<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-selected=\"false\" aria-controls=\"45ca7924973bab21a\" role=\"tab\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordion-1318-1\" data-target=\"#45ca7924973bab21a\" href=\"#45ca7924973bab21a\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">PANEL: IS IT TIME TO REDEFINE PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS?<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"45ca7924973bab21a\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">Building a better working South Africa through collaboration and partnerships between government, the private sector, and businesses requires concerted effort and commitment.<\/p>\n<p>Open communication, policy alignment, and innovation are essential in establishing meaningful public-private partnerships particularly when prioritising social welfare, job creation and economic growth.<\/p>\n<div class=\"rowspeaker\">\n<div class=\"leftcolumn\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Alishia-Secka.png\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"rightcolumn\">\n<p class=\"speakername\">Alishia Seckam<\/p>\n<p class=\"speakerdetails\">Moderator<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"rowspeaker\">\n<div class=\"leftcolumn\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-2-Kganki-Matabane.png\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"rightcolumn\">\n<p class=\"speakername\">Kganki Matabane<\/p>\n<p class=\"speakerdetails\">CEO, Black Business Council SA<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"rowspeaker\">\n<div class=\"leftcolumn\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-2-Ravi-Naidoo.png\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"rightcolumn\">\n<p class=\"speakername\">Ravi Naidoo<\/p>\n<p class=\"speakerdetails\">Commissioner, National Planning Commission<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"rowspeaker\">\n<div class=\"leftcolumn\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-2-Peter-Attard-Montalto-.jpg\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"rightcolumn\">\n<p class=\"speakername\">Peter Attard Montalto<\/p>\n<p class=\"speakerdetails\">Managing Director, Krutham<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"rowspeaker\">\n<div class=\"leftcolumn\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Martin-L.-Kingston.jpg\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"rightcolumn\">\n<p class=\"speakername\">Martin L. Kingston<\/p>\n<p class=\"speakerdetails\">Executive Chairman, Rothschild &#038; Co South Africa<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-selected=\"false\" aria-controls=\"27465b1c9dc9a25c8\" role=\"tab\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordion-1318-1\" data-target=\"#27465b1c9dc9a25c8\" href=\"#27465b1c9dc9a25c8\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">PANEL: UNPACKING THE CHALLENGE OF POVERTY ALLEVIATION.<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"27465b1c9dc9a25c8\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">To effectively combat poverty in South Africa and foster inclusivity, a holistic approach is essential. This entails promoting economic growth and job creation, investing in education and skills development, and enhancing\u00a0social protection programs.<\/p>\n<p>Additionally, prioritizing infrastructure development, implementing land reform policies, and empowering marginalized groups are critical steps.<\/p>\n<div>\n<div class=\"rowspeaker\">\n<div class=\"leftcolumn\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Nastassia-Arendse.png\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"rightcolumn\">\n<p class=\"speakername\">Nastassia Arendse<\/p>\n<p class=\"speakerdetails\">Moderator<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"rowspeaker\">\n<div class=\"leftcolumn\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-3-Phelisa-Nkomo.png\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"rightcolumn\">\n<p class=\"speakername\">Phelisa Nkomo<\/p>\n<p class=\"speakerdetails\">Executive Director, Tocoblox Development Consultancy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"rowspeaker\">\n<div class=\"leftcolumn\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-3-Makhiba-Mollo.png\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"rightcolumn\">\n<p class=\"speakername\">Makhiba Mollo<\/p>\n<p class=\"speakerdetails\">Commissioner, National Planning Commission<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"rowspeaker\">\n<div class=\"leftcolumn\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-3-Rachel-Bukasa.png\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"rightcolumn\">\n<p class=\"speakername\">Rachel Bukasa<\/p>\n<p class=\"speakerdetails\">Executive Director, Blacksash<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"rowspeaker\">\n<div class=\"leftcolumn\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-3-Bonga-Mukhanya-2.png\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"rightcolumn\">\n<p class=\"speakername\">Bonga Makhanya<\/p>\n<p class=\"speakerdetails\">Executive Chairman, SA Youth Economic Council<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel panel-default\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-selected=\"false\" aria-controls=\"6aac40e77c8fd8c43\" role=\"tab\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordion-1318-1\" data-target=\"#6aac40e77c8fd8c43\" href=\"#6aac40e77c8fd8c43\"><span class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><span class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">CLOSING <\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"6aac40e77c8fd8c43\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse \"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content fusion-clearfix\">\n<div class=\"rowspeaker\">\n<div class=\"leftcolumn\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Gugulethu-Mfuphi.png\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"rightcolumn\">\n<p class=\"speakername\">Gugulethu Mfuphi<\/p>\n<p class=\"speakerdetails\">Master of Ceremonies<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-17{width:100% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 0px;}.fusion-builder-column-17 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 0px;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 0px;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-17{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-17 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 0px;margin-left : 0px;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-17{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-17 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 0px;margin-left : 0px;}}<\/style><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-flex-container.fusion-builder-row-5{ padding-top : 0px;margin-top : 0px;padding-right : 0px;padding-bottom : 100px;margin-bottom : 0px;padding-left : 0px;}<\/style><\/div><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-6 fusion-flex-container nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"background-color: rgba(255,255,255,0);background-position: center center;background-repeat: no-repeat;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#eae9e9;border-style:solid;\" id=\"speakers\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start\" style=\"max-width:1216.8px;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-18 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-center fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-15\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h1 class=\"fusion-responsive-typography-calculated\" style=\"text-align: center; --fontsize: 48; line-height: 1;\" data-fontsize=\"48\" data-lineheight=\"48px\"><strong>2024 PARTICIPANTS<\/strong><\/h1>\n<hr \/>\n<\/div><style>\n.speakername {\n  font-size:20px;\n  margin-bottom:0px;\n  padding:0px;\n  line-height:28px;\n  font-weight:300;\n}\n.speakerdesignation {\n  font-size:14px;\n  margin:0px !important;\n  padding:0px !important;\n}\n.speakercompany {\n  font-size:14px;\n  margin:0px !important;\n  padding:0px !important;\n}\n\n<\/style><div class=\"fusion-separator fusion-full-width-sep\" style=\"align-self: center;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;margin-top:25px;width:100%;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-18{width:100% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 0px;}.fusion-builder-column-18 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 1.92%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 1.92%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-18{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-18 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-18{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-18 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-19 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 10px 10px 10px 10px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-1 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" title=\"Gugulethu Mfuphi\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Gugulethu-Mfuphi.png\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-3801\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Gugulethu-Mfuphi-200x200.png 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Gugulethu-Mfuphi.png 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-16\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><p><a class=\"fusion-modal-text-link\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.a\"><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakername\"><b>Gugulethu Mfuphi<\/b><\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">MC and Moderator<\/span><br \/>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-10 a\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-10\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-10 .modal-header, .modal-10 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-10\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Gugulethu Mfuphi<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">\n<p>Gugulethu is an award-winning broadcaster and a well-versed orator, with plenty of experience in front of the cameras, behind the microphone and addressing many diverse audiences. This skill, together with her sound grasp of the financial markets, economic data and current affairs and the impact this has on the business community, makes her the perfect candidate to speak to industry analysts, political leaders, and c-suite executives from across the African continent.<\/p>\n<p>She is currently the presenter of Kaya FM\u2019s prime time, award-winning business show, Kaya Bizz. She has served as a conference chair, moderator and programme director at various industry gatherings that impact the business and investment landscape, including facilitating the second annual South Africa Investment Conference in 2019, hosted by President Cyril Ramaphosa.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-19{width:25% !important;margin-top : 15px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-19 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 10px !important;padding-right : 10px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 10px !important;padding-left : 10px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-19{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-19 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-19{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-19 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-20 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 10px 10px 10px 10px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-2 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" title=\"Speaker image resize_Sthembiso Msomi_001\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Speaker-image-resize_Sthembiso-Msomi_001.png\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-3201\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Speaker-image-resize_Sthembiso-Msomi_001-200x200.png 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Speaker-image-resize_Sthembiso-Msomi_001.png 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-17\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><p><a class=\"fusion-modal-text-link\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.d\"><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakername\"><b>S\u2019thembiso Msomi<\/b><\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">Editor<\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakercompany\">Sunday Times<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-11 d\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-11\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-11 .modal-header, .modal-11 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-11\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">S\u2019thembiso Msomi<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">S\u2019thembiso Msomi is the editor of the Sunday Times. Msomi has 24 years of journalism experience and has been editor of Sowetan for the past two years. Prior to that, Msomi was deputy editor of the Sunday Times. He was previously also political editor of the Sunday Times and City Press. He is the author of the unauthorised biography of DA leader, Mmusi Maimane.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-20{width:25% !important;margin-top : 15px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-20 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 10px !important;padding-right : 10px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 10px !important;padding-left : 10px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-20{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-20 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-20{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-20 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-21 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 10px 10px 10px 10px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-3 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" title=\"Welcome speaker Cheryl-Jane Kujenga\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Welcome-speaker-Cheryl-Jane-Kujenga.jpg\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-3891\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Welcome-speaker-Cheryl-Jane-Kujenga-200x200.jpg 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Welcome-speaker-Cheryl-Jane-Kujenga.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-18\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><p><a class=\"fusion-modal-text-link\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.e\"><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakername\"><b>Cheryl-Jane Kujenga<\/b><\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">Chief Financial Officer<\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakercompany\">BCX Group<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-12 e\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-12\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-12 .modal-header, .modal-12 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-12\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Cheryl-Jane Kujenga <\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">Cheryl-Jane Kujenga is an experienced financial leader with an illustrious career spanning over 22 years, distinguished by her proficiency in financial management, strategic development, and operational management in mergers and acquisitions. Her expertise spans diverse sectors, including pharmaceuticals, healthcare, financial services, and professional services, where she has held pivotal senior executive roles within multi-national organisations.<\/p>\n<p>Currently serving as the Chief Financial Officer at BCX, Cheryl-Jane brings a wealth of experience to shape and optimise BCX\u2019s financial strategies and operations. Her leadership is instrumental in propelling the organisation to new heights in the dynamic landscape of information and communication technology.<\/p>\n<p>In 2020, Cheryl-Jane assumed the role of Group CFO at Ascendis Health, showcasing her versatility by later taking on the responsibility of Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) within the same organisation. Prior to this, she served as the Group CFO for the Adcorp Group, where her exceptional performance led to her nomination and appointment as the Interim CEO by the Board for a notable eight-month period.<\/p>\n<p>Cheryl-Jane&#8217;s career highlights also include a significant nine-year tenure as a Partner at Ernst &amp; Young, where she solidified her reputation as a financial and strategic expert. Her journey at Ernst &amp; Young culminated in her serving as the Strategic Growth Markets Leader for Africa, demonstrating her ability to navigate complex landscapes and drive growth initiatives.<\/p>\n<p>Educationally, Cheryl-Jane holds an Executive Master\u2019s in Business Administration from the University of Cape Town and a Bachelor of Accounting Science (BCompt Honours) from the University of South Africa. Her professional qualifications from the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants Zimbabwe (ICAZ) further attest to her commitment to excellence and adherence to the highest standards in the field.<\/p>\n<p>Cheryl-Jane Kujenga\u2019 s leadership, coupled with her extensive experience and educational background, positions her as a transformative force in the financial landscape. As BCX&#8217;s Chief Financial Officer, she continues to drive financial excellence and strategic innovation, contributing to the sustained success of the organisation.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-21{width:25% !important;margin-top : 15px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-21 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 10px !important;padding-right : 10px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 10px !important;padding-left : 10px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-21{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-21 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-21{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-21 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-22 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 10px 10px 10px 10px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-4 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" title=\"Dr Mteto Nyati\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Dr-Mteto-Nyati.jpg\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-3836\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Dr-Mteto-Nyati-200x200.jpg 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Dr-Mteto-Nyati.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-19\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><p><a class=\"fusion-modal-text-link\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.b\"><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakername\"><b>Dr Mteto Nyati<\/b><\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">Chairman<\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakercompany\"> Eskom Holdings SOC Limited<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-13 b\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-13\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-13 .modal-header, .modal-13 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-13\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Dr Mteto Nyati<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">Mteto is the executive chairman of BSG, a homegrown consulting and technology company that specialises in strategy execution. In BSG he holds a 40% shareholding through his investment vehicle, Wazo Investments.<\/p>\n<p>Mteto is also the chairman of Eskom. Previously he was the Group Chief Executive of Altron and Chief Executive Officer of MTN South Africa.<\/p>\n<p>Mteto is author of the number one bestseller, Betting on a Darkie, a book about his life as a shopkeeper\u2019s son, family man and business leader at local and multinational corporates.<\/p>\n<p>He mentors and coaches senior executives including CEOs as well as up and coming business professionals.<\/p>\n<p>In 2021, the University of Johannesburg\u2019s College of Business and Economics awarded Mteto an honorary doctorate in IT Management. He is a Yale University World Fellow.<\/p>\n<p>He holds a BSc in Mechanical Engineering from the University of KwaZulu Natal.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-22{width:25% !important;margin-top : 15px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-22 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 10px !important;padding-right : 10px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 10px !important;padding-left : 10px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-22{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-22 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-22{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-22 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-23 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 10px 10px 10px 10px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-5 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" title=\"Panel #1 Stefan Steffen\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-1-Stefan-Steffen-.png\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-3864\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-1-Stefan-Steffen--200x200.png 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-1-Stefan-Steffen-.png 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-20\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><p><a class=\"fusion-modal-text-link\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.k\"><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakername\"><b>Stefan Steffen<\/b><\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">Executive: Data Insights and Intelligence<\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakercompany\"> BCX<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-14 k\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-14\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-14 .modal-header, .modal-14 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-14\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Stefan Steffen<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">Stefan is an experienced Data and AI leader with a demonstrated history of leading specialist and operational teams in the financial services and information technology industries. As an actuary he has a strong bias towards strategic business engagement underpinned by analytical insight. He has experience across the data disciplines, but his strength lies in unlocking business value through actionable insight.<\/p>\n<p>Stefan is excited to be leading the Data Advisory for BCX. They are a team of data managers, data engineers and data scientists that develop advanced analytics and artificial intelligence solutions for the market. They also serve the Telkom Group as Data and AI Centre of Excellence.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-23{width:25% !important;margin-top : 15px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-23 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 10px !important;padding-right : 10px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 10px !important;padding-left : 10px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-23{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-23 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-23{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-23 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-24 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 10px 10px 10px 10px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-6 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" title=\"Panel #1 Deshen Moodley\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-1-Deshen-Moodley.png\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-3856\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-1-Deshen-Moodley-200x200.png 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-1-Deshen-Moodley.png 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-21\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><p><a class=\"fusion-modal-text-link\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.c\"><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakername\"><b>Prof Deshen Moodley<\/b><\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">DSI\/NRF-UCT SARChI Chair in Artificial Intelligence (AI) Systems<\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">University of Cape Town<\/span><br \/>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-15 c\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-15\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-15 .modal-header, .modal-15 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-15\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Prof Deshen Moodley<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">Deshen Moodley is the DSI\/NRF-UCT SARChI Chair in Artificial Intelligence (AI) Systems, an Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Cape Town, and the Co-Director and Co-Founder of South Africa\u2019s National Centre for Artificial Intelligence Research (CAIR). He leads the Adaptive and Cognitive Systems Lab in the AI Research Unit at UCT. His research explores adaptation and cognition in AI systems. In particular he explores different artificial intelligence techniques to create human centred AI systems where the human user works interactively and cooperatively with the AI system. He has explored AI systems across diverse domains, including the health, energy, finance and earth observation domains. He is currently researching the design of human centred AI systems for scientific knowledge discovery and interactive decision making.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-24{width:25% !important;margin-top : 15px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-24 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 10px !important;padding-right : 10px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 10px !important;padding-left : 10px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-24{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-24 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-24{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-24 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-25 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 10px 10px 10px 10px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-7 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" title=\"Panel #1 Vuyani Jarana\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-1-Vuyani-Jarana.png\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-3885\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-1-Vuyani-Jarana-200x200.png 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-1-Vuyani-Jarana.png 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-22\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><p><a class=\"fusion-modal-text-link\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.n\"><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakername\"><b>Vuyani Jarana<\/b><\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">Founder and CEO<\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">Ilitha Telecommunications<\/span><br \/>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-16 n\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-16\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-16 .modal-header, .modal-16 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-16\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Vuyani Jarana<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">Vuyani is a seasoned business transformation leader with over 25 years of ICT experience, most of which he spent within the Vodacom Group where he held various positions including a Group Chief Operating Officer and a Chief Executive Officer for Vodacom Business.<\/p>\n<p>He is the Ex-CEO of South Africa Airways. Vuyani has extensive experience in doing business in the African continent. As a development activist he always looks at most appropriate ways to apply digital technologies to address some of the most challenging and stubborn social issues facing the African continent.<\/p>\n<p>He is a founder and Chief Executive Officer of Ilitha Telecommunications , a company with a mission to provide superfast affordable broadband to peri-urban and rural communities. He is the chairperson of the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC) a lead development agency charged with the responsibility to drive economic growth in the province.<\/p>\n<p>He is also the Chairperson of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) a key research institution driving the countries scientific, industrial and technology innovation.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-25{width:25% !important;margin-top : 15px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-25 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 10px !important;padding-right : 10px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 10px !important;padding-left : 10px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-25{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-25 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-25{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-25 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-26 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 10px 10px 10px 10px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-8 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" title=\"Panel #2 Kganki Matabane\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-2-Kganki-Matabane.png\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-3857\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-2-Kganki-Matabane-200x200.png 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-2-Kganki-Matabane.png 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-23\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><p><a class=\"fusion-modal-text-link\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.i\"><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakername\"><b>Kganki Matabane<\/b><\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">CEO<\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">Black Business Council SA<\/span><br \/>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-17 i\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-17\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-17 .modal-header, .modal-17 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-17\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Kganki Matabane<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">I am a highly experienced business executive with more than 25 years\u2019 operations and strategy execution experience operating in the African continent covering the telecommunications, power utilities, rail logistics, mining, policy and advocacy sectors.<\/p>\n<p>I am currently the Chief Executive Officer of the Black Business Council, an umbrella body of black business in South Africa. I also occupied the position of Chief Operating Officer and Executive Director at Sentech SOC Ltd. I have experience in doing business in more than 10 countries in the African continent. I started my career as an interim teacher\/educator and I am a highly accomplished public and private sector business professional who managed Profit and Loss, have served as both Executive and Non-Executive Director. I served with diligence and continues to serve as a member of board committees such as EXCO, Audit, Finance and Risk, Social and Ethics, Transformation as well as Human Resources and Remuneration committees. I also serve as a Co-Executive Sponsor: Business for South Africa (B4SA) and at National Economic Development and Labour Council (Nedlac) where we worked on the post covid-19 Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan for South Africa, amongst other matters of national interest.<\/p>\n<p>Innovative and results driven, I have a proven track record of providing innovative leadership and demonstrable pedigree in business operations and strategy, providing cost effective business solutions.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-26{width:25% !important;margin-top : 15px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-26 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 10px !important;padding-right : 10px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 10px !important;padding-left : 10px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-26{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-26 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-26{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-26 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-27 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 10px 10px 10px 10px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-9 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" title=\"Panel #2 Ravi Naidoo\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-2-Ravi-Naidoo.png\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-3853\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-2-Ravi-Naidoo-200x200.png 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-2-Ravi-Naidoo.png 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-24\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><p><a class=\"fusion-modal-text-link\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.g\"><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakername\"><b>Ravi Naidoo<\/b><\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">Commissioner<\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">National Planning Commission <\/span><br \/>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-18 g\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-18\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-18 .modal-header, .modal-18 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-18\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Ravi Naidoo<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">Ravindra Naidoo is the Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Employment Service (YES), an initiative of organized business, with over 1900 corporate partners. Previously, from 1996-2005, he was the Executive Director of NALEDI, the trade union-aligned thinktank. From 2005-2008, he served as the Coordinator of the SA government\u2019s Directors-General Economic Cluster, reporting to Cabinet. From 2008-2012, he was Group Executive at the Development Bank of southern Africa.<\/p>\n<p>He also served as Executive Director for Economic Development for the City of Johannesburg (2014-2016), as well serving as non-executive on impact investment funds (where he currently is an Investment Committee Chairperson). Some of his successes include the establishment of the SA National Green Fund (at the DBSA), being the manager of the multi-stakeholder \u201cHealth Roadmap\u201d that culminated in government\u2019s AIDS turnaround strategy (that saw average life expectancy rise from 49 to 62 years), and the restructuring of the Unemployment Insurance Fund to include coverage for the first time of over 600,000 domestic workers. Other significant roles over the years include the Statistics Council, UIF Board, EXCO of HRDC-SA Council, Wits University Research Committee, and Advisor to Harvard Alumni Entrepreneurs. He holds a master\u2019s degree from the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-27{width:25% !important;margin-top : 15px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-27 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 10px !important;padding-right : 10px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 10px !important;padding-left : 10px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-27{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-27 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-27{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-27 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-28 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 10px 10px 10px 10px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-10 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" title=\"Panel #2 Peter Attard Montalto\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-2-Peter-Attard-Montalto-1-1.jpg\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-3888\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-2-Peter-Attard-Montalto-1-1-200x200.jpg 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-2-Peter-Attard-Montalto-1-1.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-25\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><p><a class=\"fusion-modal-text-link\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.p\"><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakername\"><b>Peter Attard Montalto<\/b><\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">Managing Director<\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">Krutham<\/span><br \/>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-19 p\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-19\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-19 .modal-header, .modal-19 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-19\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Peter Attard Montalto<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">Peter Attard Montalto is a Managing Director of Krutham (formerly known as Intellidex) \u2013 a South Africa headquartered research-led consulting company that operates at the intersection of finance, policy and the political economy. He leads their work on the political economy, capital markets and the Just Energy Transition. He has been analysing South Africa for 17 years and is a well-known, respected commentator and analyst of its economy, politics, policy, SOEs, and markets. He has a broad experience covering other emerging markets over his career including eastern Europe, sub-Saharan Africa and the middle east. He has dealt with a broad range of asset managers, banks and corporate clients and now also advises governments, organised business and multilateral finance institutions. Peter is an expert in the political economy of reform and infrastructure (including energy, logistics and climate) and is a trusted advisor to a large number of financiers, investors and corporates in South Africa. Peter has been deeply involved with organised businesses efforts to drive reform in recent years including on energy and logistics. Peter was previously Head of Emerging Europe Middle East and Africa Economics at Japanese Bank Nomura and before that was at Lehman Brothers. He studied economics and mathematics at St John\u2019s College at the University of Cambridge. Peter is a Trustee of the Early Childhood Development charity Breadline Africa and runs their endowment fund. He is an avid collector of South African wine and art.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-28{width:25% !important;margin-top : 15px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-28 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 10px !important;padding-right : 10px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 10px !important;padding-left : 10px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-28{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-28 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-28{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-28 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-29 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 10px 10px 10px 10px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-11 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" title=\"Martin L. Kingston\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Martin-L.-Kingston.jpg\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-3896\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Martin-L.-Kingston-200x200.jpg 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Martin-L.-Kingston.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-26\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><p><a class=\"fusion-modal-text-link\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.r\"><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakername\"><b>Martin L. Kingston<\/b><\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">Executive Chairman<\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">Rothschild &amp; Co South Africa<\/span><br \/>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-20 r\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-20\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-20 .modal-header, .modal-20 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-20\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Martin L. Kingston<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">Martin Kingston is currently the Executive Chairman, Rothschild &amp; Co South Africa (Pty) Ltd and Partner of the <span style=\"color: var(--body_typography-color); font-family: var(--body_typography-font-family); font-size: var(--body_typography-font-size); font-style: var(--body_typography-font-style,normal); font-weight: var(--body_typography-font-weight); letter-spacing: var(--body_typography-letter-spacing);\">Rothschild &amp; Co Group with responsibility for Africa. Prior to joining Rothschild &amp; Co in 2007, Martin worked at <\/span><span style=\"color: var(--body_typography-color); font-family: var(--body_typography-font-family); font-size: var(--body_typography-font-size); font-style: var(--body_typography-font-style,normal); font-weight: var(--body_typography-font-weight); letter-spacing: var(--body_typography-letter-spacing);\">Morgan Grenfell, advancing to Executive Chairman and Head of Global Banking, Deutsche Bank, South Africa.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Martin has over four decades of global experience in Investment Banking and Capital Markets across a number <span style=\"color: var(--body_typography-color); font-family: var(--body_typography-font-family); font-size: var(--body_typography-font-size); font-style: var(--body_typography-font-style,normal); font-weight: var(--body_typography-font-weight); letter-spacing: var(--body_typography-letter-spacing);\">of key economic sectors with a particular focus on Corporate Finance in the private and public sector. His <\/span><span style=\"color: var(--body_typography-color); font-family: var(--body_typography-font-family); font-size: var(--body_typography-font-size); font-style: var(--body_typography-font-style,normal); font-weight: var(--body_typography-font-weight); letter-spacing: var(--body_typography-letter-spacing);\">geographical experience includes responsibility for activities in Latin America; the former Soviet Union; Africa <\/span><span style=\"color: var(--body_typography-color); font-family: var(--body_typography-font-family); font-size: var(--body_typography-font-size); font-style: var(--body_typography-font-style,normal); font-weight: var(--body_typography-font-weight); letter-spacing: var(--body_typography-letter-spacing);\">(with a particular focus on South Africa and Southern Africa) and the UK. In addition, he has advised on several <\/span><span style=\"color: var(--body_typography-color); font-family: var(--body_typography-font-family); font-size: var(--body_typography-font-size); font-style: var(--body_typography-font-style,normal); font-weight: var(--body_typography-font-weight); letter-spacing: var(--body_typography-letter-spacing);\">transactions in North America, Australasia, the Far East, the Indian sub-continent and Western Europe.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Outside of investment banking, Martin has been and continues to be extensively involved in organised business <span style=\"color: var(--body_typography-color); font-family: var(--body_typography-font-family); font-size: var(--body_typography-font-size); font-style: var(--body_typography-font-style,normal); font-weight: var(--body_typography-font-weight); letter-spacing: var(--body_typography-letter-spacing);\">and its interface with Government. In this capacity Martin is currently the Chair of Steering Committee of <\/span><span style=\"color: var(--body_typography-color); font-family: var(--body_typography-font-family); font-size: var(--body_typography-font-size); font-style: var(--body_typography-font-style,normal); font-weight: var(--body_typography-font-weight); letter-spacing: var(--body_typography-letter-spacing);\">Business for SA, Chair of the Resource Mobilisation Fund and a Board Member of the Localisation Support <\/span><span style=\"color: var(--body_typography-color); font-family: var(--body_typography-font-family); font-size: var(--body_typography-font-size); font-style: var(--body_typography-font-style,normal); font-weight: var(--body_typography-font-weight); letter-spacing: var(--body_typography-letter-spacing);\">Fund and was special adviser to the Solidarity Fund, established to address South Africa\u2019s response to Covid19. <\/span><span style=\"color: var(--body_typography-color); font-family: var(--body_typography-font-family); font-size: var(--body_typography-font-size); font-style: var(--body_typography-font-style,normal); font-weight: var(--body_typography-font-weight); letter-spacing: var(--body_typography-letter-spacing);\">Martin previously served on the Boards of Business Unity South Africa, the Financial Sector Charter Council, <\/span><span style=\"color: var(--body_typography-color); font-family: var(--body_typography-font-family); font-size: var(--body_typography-font-size); font-style: var(--body_typography-font-style,normal); font-weight: var(--body_typography-font-weight); letter-spacing: var(--body_typography-letter-spacing);\">where he chaired the Co-ordinating Committee and the International Bankers Association, which he chaired<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-29{width:25% !important;margin-top : 15px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-29 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 10px !important;padding-right : 10px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 10px !important;padding-left : 10px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-29{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-29 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-29{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-29 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-30 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 10px 10px 10px 10px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-12 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" title=\"Panel #3 Phelisa Nkomo\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-3-Phelisa-Nkomo.png\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-3855\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-3-Phelisa-Nkomo-200x200.png 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-3-Phelisa-Nkomo.png 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-27\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><p><a class=\"fusion-modal-text-link\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.h\"><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakername\"><b>Phelisa Nkomo<\/b><\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">Executive Director<\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">Tocoblox Development Consultancy<\/span><br \/>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-21 h\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-21\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-21 .modal-header, .modal-21 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-21\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Phelisa Nkomo<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">Ms Nkomo is a development economist, gender equity &amp; inclusion expert, seasoned social scientist with extensive experience on ESG.<\/p>\n<p>She has held various portfolios throughout her professional career, spanning from being an economic advisor, public policy advocacy work, legislative development, public-private sector collaboration, grant -making and founder of women\u2019s economic rights groups. (Women\u2019s Economic Assembly and Gender Based Violence and Femicide Response Fund).<\/p>\n<p>Ms Nkomo has demonstrated her commitment to economic inclusion by starting initiatives that stimulate local economies and facilitate circulation of capital in several rural communities focusing on micro honey production in Partnership South Africa Women in Dialogue and agricultural hub in partnership with U Can Grow.<\/p>\n<p>She has honours degree in Economics and two incomplete Masters in Economics from University of Western Cape &amp; Masters in Development Finance from the University of Stellenbosch. She has recently been admitted as Research Fellow at University of Johannesburg.<\/p>\n<p>Ms Nkomo is a strategic thinker whose opinion is often sought for media analysis &amp; public speaking in conferences on Macroeconomics policy in South Africa, Africa &amp; globally , Economic Inclusion, Gender Equity, Rural Development, labour market policies and Industrial Development.<\/p>\n<p>Ms Nkomo is a futuristic structured thinker, yet flexible and solution orientated. Her philosophy is that nothing is insurmountable in life.<\/p>\n<p>She subscribes to collaborative, ethical, transformative leadership as well as diversity and inclusion. She is an optimist who is driven by qualitative impact.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-30{width:25% !important;margin-top : 15px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-30 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 10px !important;padding-right : 10px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 10px !important;padding-left : 10px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-30{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-30 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-30{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-30 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-31 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 10px 10px 10px 10px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-13 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" title=\"Panel #3 Makhiba Mollo\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-3-Makhiba-Mollo.png\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-3854\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-3-Makhiba-Mollo-200x200.png 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-3-Makhiba-Mollo.png 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-28\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><p><a class=\"fusion-modal-text-link\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.q\"><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakername\"><b>Makhiba Mollo<\/b><\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">Commissioner<\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\"> National Planning Commission <\/span><br \/>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-22 q\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-22\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-22 .modal-header, .modal-22 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-22\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Makhiba Mollo<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">\n<p>Ms Makhiba is a member of the Institute of Directors (IOD) South Africa. She holds a political science degree from the University of Cape Town, a UN certificate in Environmental and Social risk analysis, a post graduate management diploma in Corporate Governance (Monash University) and a postgraduate certificate in international trade and African political economy at the Thabo Mbeki leadership Institute, UNISA.<\/p>\n<p>She works for Africa&#8217;s largest asset manager, the Public Investment Corporation (PIC) and has spent 10 years at Africa&#8217;s largest stock exchange (JSE) working on the pioneering SRI Index. She have over 15 years\u2019 experience of sustainability and governance in the finance industry, from both an issuer regulator and asset management perspective.<\/p>\n<p>She has have been part of organizing the JSE inaugural international Ringing A Bell for Gender equity event on International Woman\u2019s Day, 2016.<\/p>\n<p>As a blind person, I can attest to the fact that vision can be realised, in line with the African Unions (AU) Agenda 2063 and the United Nations (UN) Sustainable development Goals (SDG\u2019s) (you don&#8217;t need eyes to see, you need vision, Maxwell Frazer).<\/p>\n<p>She is currently pursuing an Excellence in Leadership programme through GIBS.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-31{width:25% !important;margin-top : 15px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-31 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 10px !important;padding-right : 10px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 10px !important;padding-left : 10px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-31{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-31 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-31{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-31 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-32 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 10px 10px 10px 10px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-14 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" title=\"Panel #3 Rachel Bukasa\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-3-Rachel-Bukasa.png\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-3875\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-3-Rachel-Bukasa-200x200.png 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-3-Rachel-Bukasa.png 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-29\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><p><a class=\"fusion-modal-text-link\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.j\"><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakername\"><b>Rachel Bukasa<\/b><\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">Executive Director<\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\"> Blacksash<\/span><br \/>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-23 j\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-23\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-23 .modal-header, .modal-23 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-23\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Rachel Bukasa<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">Rachel Bukasa is a respected leader in the fields of law and human rights. She studied at the University of Cape Town, earning degrees in Law and a Master\u2019s in International Law and Human Rights.<\/p>\n<p>Rachel started her career at the University of Cape Town&#8217;s Refugee Law Clinic, and her early roles included working as an intern at the United Nations, helping with refugee resettlement. She then worked as a lawyer at Bisset Boehmke McBlain Attorneys, focusing on business-related law.<\/p>\n<p>Transitioning to the non-profit sector, Rachel took on leadership roles that leveraged her legal skills and strategic acumen. She served as the Executive Director at Cape Town Refugee Centre and now holds the same position at Black Sash since 2021, where she focuses on improving the organization\u2019s impact and fundraising. In these roles, she led diverse teams and handled complex projects that spanned multiple countries. Her exemplary contributions in these fields have earned her recognition, including an invitation to the prestigious International Visitor Leadership Program by the U.S. government in 2024, highlighting her influence and achievements globally.<\/p>\n<p>Rachel is known for her ability to plan strategically, communicate effectively in several languages, and lead organizations to meet their goals. Her work focuses on making a difference in society by protecting human rights and improving how organizations operate. Rachel Bukasa is a key figure in her field, known for her commitment to justice and effective leadership.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-32{width:25% !important;margin-top : 15px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-32 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 10px !important;padding-right : 10px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 10px !important;padding-left : 10px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-32{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-32 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-32{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-32 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-33 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 10px 10px 10px 10px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-15 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" title=\"Panel #3 Bonga Mukhanya (2)\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-3-Bonga-Mukhanya-2.png\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-3882\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-3-Bonga-Mukhanya-2-200x200.png 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Panel-3-Bonga-Mukhanya-2.png 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-30\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><p><a class=\"fusion-modal-text-link\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.m\"><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakername\"><b>Bonga Makhanya<\/b><\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">Executive Chairman<\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\"> SA Youth Economic Council<br \/>\n<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-24 m\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-24 .modal-header, .modal-24 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-24\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Bonga Makhanya <\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">Bonga Makhanya is the Executive Chairman of South African Youth Economic Council, youth led advocacy and lobby group.<\/p>\n<p>The South African Youth Economic Council has done extensive work with various JSE listed companies, lobbying for the integration of youth in strategic sectors of the economy namely in mining, energy, transport, agriculture, ICT etc. and has worked with Department of Mineral Resources and Energy on the Just Energy Transition through creation of various policy conferences and imbizo`s to formulate a strategy on created broader youth participation in the energy sector and in the JET. Other stakeholders include the Presidential Climate Commission, whom we have worked with well on this JET.<\/p>\n<p>BCom (Economic Sciences)Graduate from WITS University and currently enrolled for Postgraduate Studies at Wits University in BCom (Economics) Honours program.<\/p>\n<p>Activist, Academic writer and public intellectual that focuses on policy and economic analysis in the public domain. Regular columnist for News24, City Press, Eyewitness News and IOL. Regulatory offer economic analysis and economic options on tv stations such as Newzroom Africa, SABC News, eNCA<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-33{width:25% !important;margin-top : 15px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-33 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 10px !important;padding-right : 10px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 10px !important;padding-left : 10px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-33{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-33 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-33{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-33 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-34 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 10px 10px 10px 10px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-16 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" title=\"Alishia Seckam\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/Alishia-Seckam.jpg\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-3601\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/Alishia-Seckam-200x200.jpg 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/Alishia-Seckam.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-31\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><p><a class=\"fusion-modal-text-link\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.aw\"><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakername\"><b>Alishia Seckam<\/b><\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">Moderator<\/span><br \/>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-25 aw\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-25\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-25 .modal-header, .modal-25 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-25\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Alishia Seckam<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">With over 15 years\u2019 experience Alishia is a skilled financial journalist, broadcast anchor, moderator, MC and media trainer. Having been the face of Business Day TV\u2019s flagship markets and business new shows, she\u2019s been in regular conversation with industry leaders, CEOs and political figures; and at the forefront of the biggest economic, business and investment news stories.<\/p>\n<p>While being in front of the camera is her forte, she brings both her knowledge and conversational skills to all events she hosts with authority. Alishia has been the MC and moderated discussions at live conferences, events and webinars for various companies including Discovery, Sanlam, Momentum Metropolitan, Deloitte and Standard Bank.<\/p>\n<p>Asishia has anchored for Business Day TV and CNBC Africa; presented the Africa news report for Sky News and interned at CNN International. Some of her career highlights include facilitating discussions at the annual World Economic Forum in Davos and at the World Economic Forum in Africa.<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-34{width:25% !important;margin-top : 15px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-34 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 10px !important;padding-right : 10px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 10px !important;padding-left : 10px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-34{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-34 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-34{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-34 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-35 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 10px 10px 10px 10px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-17 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" title=\"Nastassia Arendse\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Nastassia-Arendse.png\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-3807\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Nastassia-Arendse-200x200.png 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Nastassia-Arendse.png 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-32\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><p><a class=\"fusion-modal-text-link\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.ax\"><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakername\"><b>Nastassia Arendse<\/b><\/span><br \/>\n<span class=\"speakerdesignation\">Moderator<\/span><br \/>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-26 ax\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-26\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-26 .modal-header, .modal-26 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-26\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Nastassia Arendse<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">Nastassia Arendse is a business news anchor at the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), helping viewers navigate the world of stocks and investing. Every day she sits down with the top names in finance and economics to analyse the essential stories for the business day ahead, bringing insight into global and local markets.<\/p>\n<p>Having made her debut on radio as a traffic reporter for YFM (99.2 FM), Nastassia has been in the broadcasting industry for 14 years and has worked in television and radio. As a television anchor, she presented Closing Bell East Africa and Open Exchange on the international business channel CNBC Africa. She has also hosted business shows on Business Day Tv, SAfm and Classic FM.<\/p>\n<p>As an experienced reporter, she has covered global commodity markets for the financial media company, Moneyweb, writing features that track changes and trends worldwide in the commodity space. The beat focused on how prospects for the global economy, interest rates and currencies influence investor decisions concerning gold, precious metals, fixed income, and equities.<\/p>\n<p>She represents a new breed of journalists that have managed to break the mould of the profession and explore different avenues in the media and public sphere.<\/p>\n<p>She is a TEDx alumnus, and you can watch her Ted Talk titled \u201cLiving from the Inside Out\u201d here: <a href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/2EcS9wq\">https:\/\/bit.ly\/2EcS9wq<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-35{width:25% !important;margin-top : 15px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-35 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 10px !important;padding-right : 10px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 10px !important;padding-left : 10px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-35{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-35 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-35{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-35 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-flex-container.fusion-builder-row-6{ padding-top : 0px;margin-top : 0px;padding-right : 0px;padding-bottom : 100px;margin-bottom : 0px;padding-left : 0px;}<\/style><\/div><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-7 fusion-flex-container nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"background-color: rgba(255,255,255,0);background-position: center top;background-repeat: no-repeat;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#eae9e9;border-style:solid;\" id=\"partners\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-stretch fusion-flex-justify-content-center\" style=\"max-width:1216.8px;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-36 fusion_builder_column_1_2 1_2 fusion-flex-column fusion-flex-align-self-flex-start fusion-column-no-min-height\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-center fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-33\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h1 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>HEADLINE PARTNER<\/strong><\/h1>\n<hr \/>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-34\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><div class=\"mobilespacertrev\"><\/div>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-separator fusion-full-width-sep\" style=\"align-self: center;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;margin-top:15px;width:100%;\"><\/div><div class=\"fusion-modal modal fade modal-27 bcxmodal\" tabindex=\"-1\" role=\"dialog\" aria-labelledby=\"modal-heading-27\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.modal-27 .modal-header, .modal-27 .modal-footer{border-color:#ebebeb;}<\/style><div class=\"modal-dialog modal-lg\"><div class=\"modal-content fusion-modal-content\" style=\"background-color:#f6f6f6\"><div class=\"modal-header\"><button class=\"close\" type=\"button\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/button><h3 class=\"modal-title\" id=\"modal-heading-27\" data-dismiss=\"modal\" aria-hidden=\"true\">BCX<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"modal-body fusion-clearfix\">\n<div id=\"partner1\">\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 col-md-12\">\n<p>At BCX, we pride ourselves in being a leading South African end-to-end digital partner for corporates and enterprises across the African continent. As a wholly owned subsidiary of the Telkom Group, we were established through the strategic alliance of one of South Africa\u2019s ICT experts and a leading provider of telecommunications infrastructure, merging to create the number 1 digital partner of choice for clients within our chosen markets.<\/p>\n<p>BCX drives business results by helping our clients place their customer at the heart of their organisations. Enabled by our technological capabilities such as converged communications, cloud services, industry solutions, cyber security and digital edge, BCX will innovate solutions to deliver exceptional value through better experiences along the value chain.<\/p>\n<p>To do this we combine local market understanding and deep industry expertise with some of the world\u2019s most advanced Information and Communication Technology, together with a tireless commitment to make your unique digital journey as seamless as possible. In our endeavour to maintain our position as a digital market leader in Financial Services, Mining, Retail, Healthcare and Public Sector, we continue to leverage and invest in ecosystem for scale, access, and innovation.<\/p>\n<p>Headquartered in Centurion, Pretoria, BCX permanently employs circa 7 500 people, with an ongoing commitment to attracting and building talent for the future. Operating where our clients operate, our global footprint spans over South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, Tanzania, UAE, UK and Zambia.<\/p>\n<p>Visit us on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bcx.co.za\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">www.bcx.co.za<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><div class=\"modal-footer\"><a class=\"fusion-button button-default button-medium button default medium\" data-dismiss=\"modal\">Close<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><a class=\"fusion-modal-text-link\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.bcxmodal\" href=\"#\">\n<div align=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" style=\"text-align: center;\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/bcx.jpg\" \/><\/div>\n<\/a><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-36{width:50% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-36 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 3.84%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 3.84%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-36{width:50% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-36 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 3.84%;margin-left : 3.84%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-36{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-36 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-flex-container.fusion-builder-row-7{ padding-top : 0px;margin-top : 0px;padding-right : 0px;padding-bottom : 30px;margin-bottom : 0px;padding-left : 0px;}<\/style><\/div><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-8 fusion-flex-container nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"background-color: rgba(255,255,255,0);background-position: center center;background-repeat: no-repeat;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#eae9e9;border-style:solid;\" id=\"gallery\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start\" style=\"max-width:1216.8px;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-37 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-35\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h1 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>GALLERY<\/strong><\/h1>\n<hr \/>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-37{width:100% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-37 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 1.92%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 1.92%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-37{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-37 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-37{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-37 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-38 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column fusion-column-inner-bg-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"border-width: 1px 1px 1px 1px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-18 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1707\" title=\"CAMB5359\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/CAMB5359-scaled.jpg\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-4051\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/CAMB5359-200x133.jpg 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/CAMB5359-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/CAMB5359-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/CAMB5359-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/CAMB5359-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/CAMB5359-scaled.jpg 2560w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-36\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h5 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">2024 Gallery<\/span><\/h5>\n<\/div><\/div><span class=\"fusion-column-inner-bg hover-type-none\"><a href=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/gallery\/2024-2\/\"><span class=\"fusion-column-inner-bg-image\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;\"><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-38{width:25% !important;margin-top : 40px;margin-bottom : 0px;}.fusion-builder-column-38 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-38 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:7.68%;margin-left:7.68%; }@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-38{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-38 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-38 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:7.68%;margin-left:7.68%; }}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-38{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-38 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-38 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:1.92%;margin-left:1.92%; }}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-39 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column fusion-column-inner-bg-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"border-width: 1px 1px 1px 1px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-19 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1710\" title=\"CAMB0174\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/CAMB0174.jpg\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-3753\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/CAMB0174-200x134.jpg 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/CAMB0174-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/CAMB0174-600x401.jpg 600w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/CAMB0174-800x534.jpg 800w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/CAMB0174-1200x802.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/CAMB0174.jpg 2560w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-37\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h5 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">2023 Gallery<\/span><\/h5>\n<\/div><\/div><span class=\"fusion-column-inner-bg hover-type-none\"><a href=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/gallery\/2023-2\/\"><span class=\"fusion-column-inner-bg-image\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;\"><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-39{width:25% !important;margin-top : 40px;margin-bottom : 0px;}.fusion-builder-column-39 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-39 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:7.68%;margin-left:7.68%; }@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-39{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-39 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-39 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:7.68%;margin-left:7.68%; }}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-39{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-39 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-39 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:1.92%;margin-left:1.92%; }}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-40 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column fusion-column-inner-bg-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"border-width: 1px 1px 1px 1px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-20 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" title=\"THE DIRECTORS EVENT 8153\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/THE-DIRECTORS-EVENT-8153-1024x681.jpg\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-3522\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/THE-DIRECTORS-EVENT-8153-200x133.jpg 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/THE-DIRECTORS-EVENT-8153-400x266.jpg 400w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/THE-DIRECTORS-EVENT-8153-600x399.jpg 600w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/THE-DIRECTORS-EVENT-8153-800x532.jpg 800w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/THE-DIRECTORS-EVENT-8153-1200x798.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-38\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h5 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">2022 Gallery<\/span><\/h5>\n<\/div><\/div><span class=\"fusion-column-inner-bg hover-type-none\"><a href=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/gallery\/2022-2\/\"><span class=\"fusion-column-inner-bg-image\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;\"><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-40{width:25% !important;margin-top : 40px;margin-bottom : 0px;}.fusion-builder-column-40 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-40 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:7.68%;margin-left:7.68%; }@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-40{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-40 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-40 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:7.68%;margin-left:7.68%; }}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-40{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-40 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-40 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:1.92%;margin-left:1.92%; }}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-41 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column fusion-column-inner-bg-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"border-width: 1px 1px 1px 1px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-21 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1710\" title=\"THE DIRECTORS EVENT DISK 2 0347_compressed\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/THE-DIRECTORS-EVENT-DISK-2-0347_compressed-scaled.jpg\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-3305\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/THE-DIRECTORS-EVENT-DISK-2-0347_compressed-200x134.jpg 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/THE-DIRECTORS-EVENT-DISK-2-0347_compressed-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/THE-DIRECTORS-EVENT-DISK-2-0347_compressed-600x401.jpg 600w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/THE-DIRECTORS-EVENT-DISK-2-0347_compressed-800x534.jpg 800w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/THE-DIRECTORS-EVENT-DISK-2-0347_compressed-1200x802.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/THE-DIRECTORS-EVENT-DISK-2-0347_compressed-scaled.jpg 2560w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-39\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h5 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">2021 Gallery<\/span><\/h5>\n<\/div><\/div><span class=\"fusion-column-inner-bg hover-type-none\"><a href=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/gallery\/2021-2\/\"><span class=\"fusion-column-inner-bg-image\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;\"><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-41{width:25% !important;margin-top : 40px;margin-bottom : 0px;}.fusion-builder-column-41 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-41 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:7.68%;margin-left:7.68%; }@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-41{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-41 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-41 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:7.68%;margin-left:7.68%; }}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-41{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-41 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-41 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:1.92%;margin-left:1.92%; }}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-42 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column fusion-column-inner-bg-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"border-width: 1px 1px 1px 1px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-22 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" title=\"The Directors Event\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/The-Directors-Event.png\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-3138\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/The-Directors-Event-200x133.png 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/The-Directors-Event-400x267.png 400w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/The-Directors-Event-600x400.png 600w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/The-Directors-Event-800x534.png 800w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/The-Directors-Event.png 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-40\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h5 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">2020 Gallery<\/span><\/h5>\n<\/div><\/div><span class=\"fusion-column-inner-bg hover-type-none\"><a href=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/gallery\/2020-2\/\"><span class=\"fusion-column-inner-bg-image\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;\"><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-42{width:25% !important;margin-top : 40px;margin-bottom : 0px;}.fusion-builder-column-42 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-42 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:7.68%;margin-left:7.68%; }@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-42{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-42 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-42 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:7.68%;margin-left:7.68%; }}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-42{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-42 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-42 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:1.92%;margin-left:1.92%; }}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-43 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column fusion-column-inner-bg-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"border-width: 1px 1px 1px 1px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-23 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" alt=\"Photo from The Directors Event in South Africa\" title=\"Photo from The Directors Event in South Africa\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/TDE-2019-Gallery.jpg\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-2914\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/TDE-2019-Gallery-200x133.jpg 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/TDE-2019-Gallery-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/TDE-2019-Gallery-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/TDE-2019-Gallery-800x534.jpg 800w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/TDE-2019-Gallery.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-41\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h5 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">2019 Gallery<\/span><\/h5>\n<\/div><\/div><span class=\"fusion-column-inner-bg hover-type-none\"><a href=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/gallery\/2019-2\/\"><span class=\"fusion-column-inner-bg-image\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;\"><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-43{width:25% !important;margin-top : 40px;margin-bottom : 0px;}.fusion-builder-column-43 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-43 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:7.68%;margin-left:7.68%; }@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-43{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-43 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-43 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:7.68%;margin-left:7.68%; }}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-43{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-43 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-43 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:1.92%;margin-left:1.92%; }}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-44 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column fusion-column-inner-bg-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"border-width: 1px 1px 1px 1px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-24 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" alt=\"Photo from The Directors Event in 2018\" title=\"Photo from The Directors Event in 2018\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2018-85-1024x683.jpg\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-2452\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2018-85-200x133.jpg 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2018-85-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2018-85-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2018-85-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2018-85-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2018-85.jpg 1620w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-42\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h5 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">2018 Gallery<\/span><\/h5>\n<\/div><\/div><span class=\"fusion-column-inner-bg hover-type-none\"><a href=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/gallery\/2018-2\/\"><span class=\"fusion-column-inner-bg-image\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;\"><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-44{width:25% !important;margin-top : 40px;margin-bottom : 0px;}.fusion-builder-column-44 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-44 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:7.68%;margin-left:7.68%; }@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-44{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-44 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-44 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:7.68%;margin-left:7.68%; }}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-44{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-44 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-44 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:1.92%;margin-left:1.92%; }}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-45 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column fusion-column-inner-bg-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"border-width: 1px 1px 1px 1px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-25 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" alt=\"Photo from The Directors Event in 2017\" title=\"Photo from The Directors Event in 2017\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2017-78-600x400.jpg\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-2502\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2017-78-200x133.jpg 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2017-78-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2017-78-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2017-78-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2017-78-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2017-78.jpg 1620w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-43\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h5 style=\"text-align: center;\">2017 Gallery<\/h5>\n<\/div><\/div><span class=\"fusion-column-inner-bg hover-type-none\"><a href=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/gallery\/2017-2\/\"><span class=\"fusion-column-inner-bg-image\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;\"><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-45{width:25% !important;margin-top : 40px;margin-bottom : 0px;}.fusion-builder-column-45 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-45 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:7.68%;margin-left:7.68%; }@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-45{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-45 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-45 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:7.68%;margin-left:7.68%; }}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-45{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-45 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-45 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:1.92%;margin-left:1.92%; }}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-46 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column fusion-column-inner-bg-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"border-width: 1px 1px 1px 1px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-26 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" alt=\"Photo from The Directors Event in 2016\" title=\"Photo from The Directors Event in 2016\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2016-25-600x400.jpg\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-2285\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2016-25-200x133.jpg 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2016-25-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2016-25-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2016-25-800x534.jpg 800w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2016-25-1200x801.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2016-25.jpg 1618w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-44\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h5 style=\"text-align: center;\">2016 Gallery<\/h5>\n<\/div><\/div><span class=\"fusion-column-inner-bg hover-type-none\"><a href=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/gallery\/2016-2\/\"><span class=\"fusion-column-inner-bg-image\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;\"><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-46{width:25% !important;margin-top : 40px;margin-bottom : 0px;}.fusion-builder-column-46 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-46 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:7.68%;margin-left:7.68%; }@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-46{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-46 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-46 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:7.68%;margin-left:7.68%; }}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-46{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-46 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-46 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:1.92%;margin-left:1.92%; }}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-47 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column fusion-column-inner-bg-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"border-width: 1px 1px 1px 1px;border-color:#d3d3d3;border-style:solid;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div ><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-27 hover-type-none\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" alt=\"Photo from The Directors Event in 2015 \" title=\"Photo from The Directors Event in 2015\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2015-35-600x400.jpg\" class=\"img-responsive wp-image-2349\" srcset=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2015-35-200x133.jpg 200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2015-35-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2015-35-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2015-35-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2015-35-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/The-Directors-Event-2015-35.jpg 1620w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-45\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h5 style=\"text-align: center;\">2015 Gallery<\/h5>\n<\/div><\/div><span class=\"fusion-column-inner-bg hover-type-none\"><a href=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/events\/the-directors-event\/gallery\/2015-2\/\"><span class=\"fusion-column-inner-bg-image\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;\"><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-47{width:25% !important;margin-top : 40px;margin-bottom : 0px;}.fusion-builder-column-47 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-47 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:7.68%;margin-left:7.68%; }@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-47{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-47 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-47 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:7.68%;margin-left:7.68%; }}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-47{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-47 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}.fusion-flex-container .fusion-row .fusion-builder-column-47 > .fusion-column-inner-bg { margin-right:1.92%;margin-left:1.92%; }}<\/style><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-flex-container.fusion-builder-row-8{ padding-top : 0px;margin-top : 0px;padding-right : 0px;padding-bottom : 100px;margin-bottom : 0px;padding-left : 0px;}<\/style><\/div><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-9 fusion-flex-container nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"background-color: rgba(0,0,0,0.11);background-image:linear-gradient(180deg, rgba(0,0,0,0.11) 0%,rgba(0,0,0,0.11) 100%);background-position: center center;background-repeat: no-repeat;background-blend-mode: overlay;border-width: 0px 0px 0px 0px;border-color:#eae9e9;border-style:solid;\" id=\"contact\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-stretch\" style=\"max-width:1216.8px;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-48 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column fusion-flex-align-self-flex-start fusion-column-no-min-height\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-46\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h1 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>CONTACT US<\/strong><\/span><\/h1>\n<hr \/>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-48{width:100% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-48 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 1.92%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 1.92%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-48{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-48 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-48{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-48 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-49 fusion_builder_column_1_3 1_3 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-47\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h4 class=\"\" style=\"--fontsize: 22; line-height: 1.3; --minfontsize: 22; text-align: center;\" data-fontsize=\"18\" data-lineheight=\"28.6px\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>EVENT ENQUIRIES<\/b><\/span><br \/><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Morgan-Fey Darnbrough<\/span><br \/><span style=\"color: #000000;\">011 280 5012<\/span><br \/><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><a style=\"color: #000000;\" href=\"mailtodarnbroughm@arena.africa\">darnbroughm@arena.africa<\/a><\/span><\/h4>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-49{width:33.333333333333% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-column-49 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 5.76%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 5.76%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-49{width:33.333333333333% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-49 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 5.76%;margin-left : 5.76%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-49{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-49 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-50 fusion_builder_column_1_3 1_3 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-48\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h4 class=\"fusion-responsive-typography-calculated\" style=\"--fontsize: 22; line-height: 1.3; --minfontsize: 22; text-align: center;\" data-fontsize=\"22\" data-lineheight=\"28.6px\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>JOIN THE CONVERSATION<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-builder-row-inner fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-stretch\" style=\"width:104% !important;max-width:104% !important;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-0 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_5 1_5 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-0{width:20% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 9.6%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 9.6%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-0{width:20% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 9.6%;margin-left : 9.6%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-0{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-0 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-1 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_5 1_5 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><a class=\"fb-icon-element-1 fb-icon-element fontawesome-icon fa-facebook-f fab circle-yes fusion-link\" style=\"font-size:22.88px;line-height:43.76px;height:45.76px;width:45.76px;border-width:1px;align-self:center;\" href=\"https:\/\/facebook.com\/ArenaEventsSouthAfrica\/\" aria-label=\"Link to https:\/\/facebook.com\/ArenaEventsSouthAfrica\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><\/a><style>a.fb-icon-element.fontawesome-icon.fb-icon-element-1{ color: #000000; background-color: #ffffff; border-color: #ffffff;}a.fb-icon-element.fontawesome-icon.fb-icon-element-1:hover { color: #000000; background-color: #ffffff; border-color: #ffffff;}<\/style><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-1{width:20% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-1 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 9.6%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 9.6%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-1{width:20% !important;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-1 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 9.6%;margin-left : 9.6%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-1{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-1 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-2 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_5 1_5 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><a class=\"fb-icon-element-2 fb-icon-element fontawesome-icon xnewiconxnewicon circle-yes fusion-link\" style=\"font-size:22.88px;line-height:43.76px;height:45.76px;width:45.76px;border-width:1px;align-self:center;\" href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/arenaeventsza?lang=en\" aria-label=\"Link to https:\/\/twitter.com\/arenaeventsza?lang=en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><\/a><style>a.fb-icon-element.fontawesome-icon.fb-icon-element-2{ color: #000000; background-color: #ffffff; border-color: #ffffff;}a.fb-icon-element.fontawesome-icon.fb-icon-element-2:hover { color: #000000; background-color: #ffffff; border-color: #ffffff;}<\/style><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-2{width:20% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-2 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 9.6%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 9.6%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-2{width:20% !important;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-2 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 9.6%;margin-left : 9.6%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-2{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-2 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-3 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_5 1_5 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><a class=\"fb-icon-element-3 fb-icon-element fontawesome-icon fa-linkedin-in fab circle-yes fusion-link\" style=\"font-size:22.88px;line-height:43.76px;height:45.76px;width:45.76px;border-width:1px;align-self:center;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/arenaevents\/\" aria-label=\"Link to https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/arenaevents\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><\/a><style>a.fb-icon-element.fontawesome-icon.fb-icon-element-3{ color: #000000; background-color: #ffffff; border-color: #ffffff;}a.fb-icon-element.fontawesome-icon.fb-icon-element-3:hover { color: #000000; background-color: #ffffff; border-color: #ffffff;}<\/style><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-3{width:20% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-3 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 9.6%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 9.6%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-3{width:20% !important;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-3 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 9.6%;margin-left : 9.6%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-3{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-3 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-4 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_5 1_5 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-4{width:20% !important;margin-top : 0px;margin-bottom : 20px;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-4 > .fusion-column-wrapper {padding-top : 0px !important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 9.6%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 9.6%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-4{width:20% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-4 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 9.6%;margin-left : 9.6%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-nested-column-4{width:100% !important;order : 0;}.fusion-builder-nested-column-4 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 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fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-49\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h4 class=\"\" style=\"--fontsize: 22; line-height: 1.3; --minfontsize: 22; text-align: center;\" data-fontsize=\"18\" data-lineheight=\"28.6px\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>GET THE LATEST NEWS<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<\/div><div style=\"text-align:center;\"><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-button.button-11 {border-radius:2px;}<\/style><a class=\"fusion-button button-flat fusion-button-default-size button-default button-11 fusion-button-default-span fusion-button-default-type\" target=\"_self\" href=\"#\" data-toggle=\"modal\" data-target=\".fusion-modal.Modal2\"><span class=\"fusion-button-text\">subscribe<\/span><\/a><\/div><div 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!important;}.fusion-builder-column-52 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-53 fusion_builder_column_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-51\" style=\"transform:translate3d(0,0,0);\"><h6><span style=\"color: #333333;\">Brought to you by<br \/>\n<\/span><\/h6>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-separator fusion-full-width-sep\" style=\"align-self: center;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;margin-top:15px;width:100%;\"><\/div><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-builder-row-inner fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-stretch 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fusion-flex-column\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\" style=\"background-position:left top;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:cover;-moz-background-size:cover;-o-background-size:cover;background-size:cover;border-width: 1px 1px 1px 1px;border-color:#d1d1d1;border-style:solid;box-shadow:1px 1px 28px -8px #d1d1d1;;padding: 0px 0px 0px 0px;\"><div style=\"text-align:center;\"><span class=\" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-30 hover-type-none\" style=\"margin-top:20px;margin-right:20px;margin-bottom:20px;margin-left:20px;\"><a class=\"fusion-no-lightbox\" href=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/arenaevents.africa\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/Arena-Events-Logo-200x75-1.jpg\" class=\"img-responsive\"\/><\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body 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!important;padding-right : 0px !important;margin-right : 7.68%;padding-bottom : 0px !important;padding-left : 0px !important;margin-left : 7.68%;}@media only screen and (max-width:1024px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-54{width:25% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-54 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 7.68%;margin-left : 7.68%;}}@media only screen and (max-width:640px) {.fusion-body .fusion-builder-column-54{width:100% !important;}.fusion-builder-column-54 > .fusion-column-wrapper {margin-right : 1.92%;margin-left : 1.92%;}}<\/style><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">.fusion-body .fusion-flex-container.fusion-builder-row-10{ padding-top : 0px;margin-top : 0px;padding-right : 0px;padding-bottom : 51px;margin-bottom : 0px;padding-left : 0px;}<\/style><\/div><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"100-width.php","meta":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v19.11 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>The Directors Event in South Africa - Sponsored by BCX<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"South Africa has made progress towards equality post-apartheid, but still faces challenges like corruption, unemployment, poor education, and poverty. 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After seven national elections, the need for decisive, ethical leadership and collective action is clear to foster a just and inclusive society. 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