A B-BBEE Verification is based on the evidence presented. Therefore, when entering into an agreement with a Beneficiary, a contract must incorporate all evidential requirements. Although parties do not enter into an agreement with the mindset that things will go wrong, the mitigation of risk must drive such an agreement. Consequently, generic Beneficiary contracts do not apply to all. It is vital that an organisation highlights all the benefits in the agreement as well as how evidence is presented for a B-BBEE Verification at the date of signature. Challenges often occur when an organisation identifies benefits by default, following the signing of a contract. One may not synchronise the date of agreement to suit a benefit later revealed but rather confirm the substance of past events. B-BBEE Verification Services are available to members in understanding evidence requirements for all B-BBEE initiatives.

The rule of thumb in claiming B-BBEE points is to follow the money directly to the end Beneficiary. Therefore, incorporating a third party between an organisation and a Beneficiary will not warrant a claim. The valid B-BBEE credentials of the end Beneficiary will be needed in order to validate the claim as well as confirmation from the end Beneficiary that the benefit has flowed to them. Technical Compliance Services are available to advise how members in relation to Third Party interventions.

Statistics South A f rica is the source used to determine the Net Profit After Tax (NPAT) for calculating the targets for Enterprise Development, Supplier Development and Socio-Economic Development. The latest s tatistics were published at the end of September 2023. The statistics in this version will be for the 2nd quarter of 2023. Any B-BBEE Verification from hereon would most commonly apply the latest Industry Norm published by Statistics South Africa. For example, if a B-BBEE Verification takes place in November 2023, the latest published stats to be used would be those posted at the end of September 2023. Technical Compliance Services are available to advise members on how to calculate targets for Enterprise Development, Supplier Development and Socio-Economic Development.

Feroza Petersen | 24 October 2023 THE recent announcement by Sekunjalo subsidiary, African Equity Empowerment Investments (AEEI), to re-purchase eligible shareholders’ shares and de-list from the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) signals a dire warning to the JSE about the consequences of its actions that could, if not heeded, see the bourse hoist by its own petard. On Monday, October 9, AEEI stated that its decision was prompted by the recent unbundling of the Group's investment in Ayo Technology Solutions Limited (AYO) and the proposed sale of a 30% stake in British Telecom South Africa (BTSA) by Kilomix, an AEEI wholly owned subsidiary, for R290 million. It also cited strained relationships with the JSE as another reason for its decision. In a statement, AEEI said: “AEEI’s Net Asset Value (NAV) will be significantly reduced because of these proposed transactions. Further, with the current operating environment and illiquidity of the shares, along with the strained relationship between the JSE and Sekunjalo companies listed on the JSE, the board has determined that the remaining portfolio no longer warrants the costs and administrative burden associated to a listing relative to any benefits a publicly traded entity on the JSE, can bring.” As one of the first black-owned and managed companies to list on the JSE post 1994, where it demonstrated what could be achieved in the new South Africa, AEEI’s decision is a setback to democracy and economic freedom. AEEI, then Sekunjalo Investments, was established in 1998, and was co-founded by Dr Iqbal Survé and three of his long-term comrades. At the heart of Sekunjalo was the principle of putting people before profits and developing talent as a means of raising the lives of previously disadvantaged South Africans. A year later, in 1999, the company listed on the JSE, making 36-year-old Survé the youngest CEO of a listed diversified conglomerate. From its inception, Sekunjalo only purchased controlling stakes in companies, hoping to empower black workers. To better reflect the underlying businesses and investments of the Group going forward and to differentiate from the private holding company, Sekunjalo Investments changed its name to African Equity Empowerment Investments (AEEI) in 2015. From an initial value of R250 000, today AEEI’s market value is R545.13 million. AEEI’s Market Capitalisation peaked in **November 2017 at a massive R2.65 billion. It has a diverse investment portfolio including fishing and brands, technology, events and tourism, health, and beauty and biotherapeutics and several strategic local and international investments. Support for B-BBEE and SMMEs is integral to its investment philosophy. The recent decision to de-list from the JSE, therefore marks a dark day for Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) companies in South Africa. This move raises questions about the hurdles that these entities face in either listing or remaining on the JSE, still the domain of predominantly white-owned and managed entities. While the company has faced several hurdles and regulatory challenges in its tenure on the JSE, AEEI's dedication to empowerment and excellence cannot be questioned, earning them much recognition over the years. AEEI has always been a symbol of transformation and empowerment, with a strong commitment to addressing racial inequality and driving economic inclusion in South Africa. Over the years, the company has received several awards and accolades for its dedication to empowerment, including recognition as a B-BBEE leader in the country. The company secured the first position in the Empowerdex Top 100 Empowered Companies Award of 2016 and led in the Empowerdex Top 100 Empowered Management Award of the same year. AEEI's exceptional financial performance earned it a spot among the top 10 listed companies in the Financial Mail's Top 100 JSE Companies in 2015 and 2016. The company's commitment to transparency and governance was also recognised when it was rated first by Integrated Reporting & Assurance Services South Africa (IRAS) in its sector for the Highest Sustainability Data Transparency Index (SDTI). IRAS is a highly impactful niche/boutique advisory and assurance services provider. AEEI's overall performance was impressive, securing the third place among 311 JSE-listed companies by IRAS. The number of companies listed on the bourse has dropped by more than half over the past 30 years, to less than 300, with over 20 companies delisting from the exchange in 2022 alone. This was revealed in African Rainbow Capital Investments’ (ARC) latest annual report, released on 6 October. ARC also stated that it will consider whether there is value in remaining listed on the JSE. While AEEI's decision to de-list is undoubtedly a setback for the B-BBEE sector, South Africa's broader transformation goals, and the overall economy, it also highlights the need for a deeper dialogue between regulators, the JSE, and B-BBEE entities. Whilst the JSE has done much over the past few years to reform its listing rules, it is not enough to stem the ever-increasing tide of companies abandoning ship. Has the JSE missed a trick in not making the right kind of reforms to encourage the stimulation and growth of post-apartheid black-owned and managed companies that could not only bolster the capital markets, but shore up an ailing local economy? Instead, nearly 30-years into our democracy and liberation from apartheid, the JSE seems to be on a self-determined collision course to its demise. Finding a balanced approach that ensures regulatory reliability, while addressing the unique challenges faced by B-BBEE companies, is essential for fostering inclusive economic growth in South Africa and it’s time that the JSE wakes up. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.iol.co.za/sundayindependent/news/aeei-proposed-de-listing-a-dark-day-for-bbbee-empowerment-fbdcd1e6-dd29-418b-bcf5-04691be3a50f

Darren Parker | 23 October 2023 The Department of Transport is advocating for the infusion of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) into the economy through the alignment of the integrated transport sector codes with the amended generic codes of good practice published by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition. Speaking at the 2023 Road Freight SME Summit, in Johannesburg, on October 20, DoT integrated transport planning deputy director-general Rirhandza Mashava said the integration process should be completed by the end of the current financial year. The amended integrated transport sector codes that the charter council was working on should facilitate empowerment and the development of competitive value chain optimisation scorecards for all the eight transport subsectors, namely the aviation; bus; forwarding and clearing; maritime; rail; road freight; and taxi and public sector subsectors, she noted. The process began in earnest when Transport Minister Lydia Sindiswe Chikunga introduced the Transport Sector Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) Charter Council on May 11 with a mandate to ensure the development of a progressive legislative framework that empowers SMEs in the transport sector. “The appointment of council members will assist us to rapidly implement BBBEE as a critical enabler of economic growth and social transformation,” Chikunga said at the time. Mashava said the appointment of the council came against the backdrop of making an eight-year commitment to accelerate inclusive programmes and to ensure a visible change in the lives of those who still felt disadvantaged and excluded from meaningful economic participation. “For a more equitable outcome to be realized in the economy, inclusive growth will imply equitable distribution of productive assets. That means radically reduced sources of inequality and social fragility based on ownership patterns,” she said. Mashava noted that the mandate for the charter council to amend the sector codes in consultation with all the major stakeholders in the transport sector was to ensure that there was active and meaningful economic activity in rural areas in townships. “This mandate is not just a compliance or tick box exercise, but it is aimed at ensuring that the legislative framework to be crafted will make both social and economic sense. The work of the department through the charter council is to ensure that the development and empowerment of SMEs in the transport sector does not remain an empty narrative with no clear strategic direction or leadership,” she stated. Mashava noted that there was a significant surge in the participation of SMEs in the road freight sector. “SMEs entering the sector bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, challenging the status quo and driving positive change. New entrants often possess a deep understanding of the niche market and are agile enough to adapt quickly to changing consumer demands. Their presence introduces healthy competition, stimulating existing freight companies to enhance the efficiency, service quality and price structures,” she said. She said that SMEs created job opportunities, supported local suppliers, and contributed to overall economic development. Moreover, since SMEs tended to have a closer connection to their communities, Mashava said they often prioritised the hiring of local talent, thereby reducing unemployment rates and improving the standard of living. “While the entrance of SMEs in the road freight sector brings about numerous advantages, it is crucial to acknowledge the challenges they may face. These challenges include limited access to capital, regulation complexities, and intense competition. As a society, we must address these obstacles by providing financial support, simplifying regulatory procedures and offering training and mentorship programmes to foster their growth and ensure the long-term sustainability,” Mashava said. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/updated-transport-sector-bbbee-codes-key-for-sme-integration-2023-10-20

Bongani Mdakane | 23 October 2023 A Johannesburg-based boutique impact investment firm has financed a BEE consortium led by former deputy minister of finance Mcebisi Jonas to acquire a minority BEE stake in Apex South Africa Maia Capital Partners, a Johannesburg-based boutique impact investment firm has financed a BEE consortium led by former deputy minister of finance Mcebisi Jonas to acquire a minority BEE stake in Apex South Africa, a local subsidiary of the fast-growing Apex Group. The other member of the consortium is erstwhile commissioner of the National Planning Commission Noluthando Gosa. Apex Group is a global financial services provider providing financial, fund and corporate services in over 39 countries. The deal was concluded for an undisclosed amount. The company employs 12 000 people across 94 offices worldwide, which include Cape Town and Johannesburg, with a client retention rate of 99% and having assets of around $130-billion. The Apex Group acquired Maitland in 2022 and as part of their growth strategy and plans to relocate its global fund administration services from current locations to various global service centres by creating a global fund administration back-office hub in South Africa. Dinao Lerutla, co-founder and managing partner of Maia Capital said: “This transaction not only showcases Maia’s ability and expertise in delivering bespoke financial solutions to its clients, but also its capabilities and expertise in niche sectors, which have the potential to directly influence South Africa’s economic growth.” Jonas is chairperson of MTN, Africa’s biggest telecoms operator with more than 200 million subscribers. He had to resign from the board of asset management company Sygnia, owned by businesswoman Magda Wierzycka, following the deal with Apex, to avoid conflict of interest. Jonas said: “We look forward to working with Peter Hughes (Apex Group founder and CEO) and the Apex Group, as we jointly drive meaningful growth and development in the South African financial services sector.” His views were shared by Gosa, who said: “What attracted us to Apex Group is its support for South African talent, demonstrated by Peter’s vision to make the South African business a hub from which to service its clients globally, which will have a positive impact for much needed jobs in our country.” Sunday World reported three weeks ago that Maia Capital Partners had entered into a partnership with Nedbank Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) to invest in Green Climate Ventures (GCV) to promote digital access and energy infrastructure. The R125-million transaction deal has been invested through the Maia Debt Impact Fund 1 – Maia’s maiden impact fund, which began investing in projects and companies in December 2021. The investment by Maia Capital forms part of a R1.5-billion preference share facility facilitated by the Nedbank CIB and provided to GCV. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://sundayworld.co.za/business/black-owned-investment-firm-finances-jonas-stake-in-apex/

Busisiwe Mavuso | 23 October 2023 While business has the trust and resources the government has control over the levers of economic power. Business may be facing a plethora of economic challenges in an uncertain economic environment, but youth employment arguably poses the biggest risk to social stability and will only be mitigated by business partnering with the government in a concerted effort to reverse the statistics. With two out of three youths unemployed, the lack of opportunities to become productive members of society is an enormous challenge, and we can’t make it government’s problem alone. First, it is not in a financial position to address it. Second, business is the only social partner with a disproportionate share of resources and commands the lion’s share of trust in the country. The extent of the trust gap between the government and business is reflected in the 2023 Edelman Trust Barometer. SA’s 40 percentage point gap is the widest of the 28 countries in the index, which shows that 62% of respondents trust business over government, and a mere 22% trust government over business. Government has policy-making power; business the trust factor The government has control over the levers of economic power through its ability to implement policies that facilitate growth and job creation. But business has the trust and resources to unlock the country’s economic potential. Also, business has the most to lose if this systemic risk isn’t addressed. The good news is that partnerships with government in crucial areas that require structural change are bearing fruit and thus confirm that public-private sector partnerships offer a way out of the economic stagnation plaguing the country and all stakeholders. We have a precedent of how all stakeholders successfully put aside their differences and worked together during the Covid-19 pandemic in supporting the vaccination drive. More recently we have the example of business and government coming together yet again to address the most pressing priorities we face as a country — energy, logistics and crime. With respect to youth unemployment, much work has already been done on building a platform that offers young people earning opportunities and current initiatives, many between government and business, are gaining traction and achieving significant success. But these must now be scaled up and accelerated. As national pathway manager in the Presidential Youth Employment Intervention, the Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator is co-ordinating SA’s efforts to transition youths from learning to earning. To gain the momentum that is needed this not-for-profit social enterprise has outlined a five-point plan to generate 1-million livelihood opportunities for economically excluded youth by the end of 2026. It will require an enhanced effort between business and government to generate these earning opportunities through public employment programmes, business-led activity and inclusive hiring. When addressing youth unemployment the most critical change needed is that businesses stop seeing inclusive hiring as merely a corporate social initiative. The government, business and labour also need to work together to facilitate youth earning opportunities in sunrise industries and in the formal and informal sectors. To do so, business needs to be open-minded and explore the youth employment infrastructure that is already in place. Addressing youth employment relies on an enabling policy environment At a macroeconomic level economic growth is the key to addressing youth employment, and that relies on the government creating an enabling environment for investments that build the capacity to generate the earning opportunities that will alleviate youth unemployment. However, the broad policy environment is still less than ideal, lacking the clarity and certainty business needs to operate and invest effectively and sustainably. For instance, the visa process for expatriates is difficult to understand and tends to change depending on the circumstances. The government could resolve this by introducing a point-based system that prioritises the critical skills business needs to access to meet the shortages in specific job categories. Why is getting the policy environment right an imperative in addressing youth unemployment? The World Economic Forum Global Risk Report puts SA in the top three countries facing the biggest risks of social erosion because of their lack of social cohesion. Business has the most to lose if these risks, including youth unemployment, are not overcome, otherwise we could have our own version of an Arab Spring, along the lines of the KwaZulu-Natal riots in July 2021, which were in effect an attack on the country’s supply chains and an experience we never want to go through again. With the economy not functioning as needed we need to develop sustainable solutions that facilitate the economic participation of young people, who might otherwise render the country unstable. Building functioning network industries must be the top business priority For Business Leadership SA the immediate imperative is getting the network industries working, because the economy cannot work effectively without these. Out of the four network industries in the country three are dysfunctional, namely energy, transport and water. This is a looming crisis. The fourth, technology, is the only one contributing positively to the economy. Operation Vulindlela was established to modernise and transform these network industries and is a great example of how business, labour, and the government have come together to address crucial economic challenges. It has enabled businesses to support vital economic initiatives by providing the resources they have at their disposal and government does not. But there is still a long way to go before we have the necessary infrastructure and enabling policy environment that allows business to do what it needs to do. Good policies increase business confidence, which drives local private sector and foreign investment. That provides the necessary momentum to achieve growth rates of at least 3% a year, and ideally the 5% we need to create the jobs required to make a dent in the unemployment rate and youth employment. If we get our house in order we won’t have to have investment conferences to attract investors; they will invest on their own account. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.businesslive.co.za/bd/opinion/2023-10-23-busisiwe-mavuso-business-has-most-to-lose-if-youth-unemployment-is-not-addressed/

Sunday World | 23 October 2023 Had SA maintained our growth trajectory of the first 15 years, today the economy would be 20% larger at about $488-billion, not the current $406-billion, and would have retained its number one spot with Nigeria and Egypt at $477-billion. The gross domestic product (GDP)growth would be about 7% and not the current less than 1%, and GDP per capita would be about $8 400 not the current less than $7 000. The unemployment rate would be about 16%, and not the current 32.9%. Maybe our economy would not have entered a recession. Our credit rating would not have been below investment grade at BB-. The Financial Action Task Force would not have grey-listed us, and we would not have had the highest inequality and the small and midsized enterprises failure rate in the world. As we prepare for 30 years of democracy next year, it is useful to reflect on what we would be had we stayed true to the ideals of the Freedom Charter and the constitution. Associate Professor at the Wits School of Governance William Gumede opines that “25 years ago, citizens hoped a post-apartheid SA would be a fresh start”. Today, political and business leaders stand accused of money laundering and bribery. When Nelson Mandela was elected the first black president of SA on April 27, 1994, many hoped SA, which had overcome apartheid, would become a moral beacon to the world. The Zondo commission revealed systemic corruption by some members of the ANC. This is a reminder that fraud and corruption still permeate the highest levels of government. Transparency International’s most recent Corruption Perceptions Index scored South Africa at 43 out of 100, noting the country “continues to stagnate” along with other African countries in the fight against corruption. State capture is a type of systemic political corruption in which private interests significantly influence a state’s decision-making process to their own advantage. Unite 4 Mzansi, an initiative led by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants and business leaders, commissioned the Stellenbosch University’s Centre for Complex Systems in Transition to analyse, in much more depth, the extent to which corruption had pervaded the country. In May 2017, a group of academics convened by Mark Swilling and including Ivor Chipkin, Lumkile Mondi, Haroon Bhorat and others, published the “Betrayal of the Promise” report – the first major study of state capture in South Africa. It helped galvanise civil society opposition to the unconstitutional developments in the country. The analysis was further developed in the book, Shadow State: The Politics of State Capture written by Chipkin and Swilling. The 2017 book, “How to Steal a City “details state capture within the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality during former president Jacob Zuma’s administration. Soon after Zuma took office, Moscow attempted to make inroads into Africa, all the while capitalising on a South African leader who had extensive Soviet bloc connections. Finally, amid the countrywide debate surrounding the future electricity need, the Russian state nuclear cooperation, Rosatom, offered to provide nuclear reactors, despite it making little economic sense for the Russian company to intervene. Corruption costs the GDP at least R27-billion annually as well as the loss of 76 000 jobs that would otherwise have been created, according to the then minister of economic development Ebrahim Patel. “Collusion increases the costs of doing business, stunts the dynamism and competitiveness that is needed and has a negative impact on growth and jobs,” Patel said. The power crisis is costing the economy $50-million a day in lost generation, according to the government. Eskom is costing an average of R900-million ($55-million) a month in corruption, with the company burdened with debt and unable to produce enough power for the country’s energy needs. Since the end of apartheid, the government has inherited a country with a critical shortage of low-income housing. Other instances of corruption included bribery to pass shoddy work, corruption in the waiting list system, housing subsidy fraud and B-BBEE fronting. The Covid-19 pandemic created an environment that was ripe for embezzlement, false claims, kickbacks and other forms of corruption. The pandemic has led to a wave of corruption-related incidents perpetrated by high-level government officials from all over the world. Corruption is endemic in SA. It undermines democracy and public trust in government and business. Professor Mohale is chairman of Bidvest Group Limited, ArcelorMittal and author of the two bestselling books, Lift as You Rise and Behold The Turtle ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://sundayworld.co.za/business/graft-derailed-better-life-promise/

SA News | 20 October 2023 The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has launched a state-of-the-art Panel Beating and Apprenticeship Training Workshop, which is set to benefit graduates, informal businesses and entrepreneurs. Addressing the launch on Friday in Johannesburg, Department of Roads and Transport Director of Fleet Maintenance Unit at g-FleeT Management Sifiso Mhlongo explained that the new Panel Beating Workshop will offer full cycle panel beating services for all g-FleeT vehicles involved in accidents. G-FleeT Management is a Trading Entity of the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport and is a provider of vehicle leasing and fleet management services for the public sector in South Africa whose clients include National, Gauteng Provincial and local government departments. Historically, accident repairs have been outsourced through the RT46 Transversal Contract by the National Treasury of South Africa. “Accident repairs are one of the major cost drivers for g-FleeT. Therefore, the main objective of the New Panel Beating Workshop is to assist g-FleeT to be in total control of a major part of its value chain, which impacts on the quality of fleet, turnaround times, customer satisfaction and g-FleeT’s self-sustainability,” Mhlongo said. The anticipated benefits of the workshop include improved cost control, quality of repairs, skills development for qualified artisans and experienced staff as well as satisfied clients and self-sustainability of the entity. “The Panel Beating facility would be manufacturer approved, and this would enable all repairs to be carried out at the manufacturer’s strict criteria and standard, with a plan to obtain industry Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), South African Motor Body Repairers' Association (SAMBRA) and Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services SETA (MERSETA) accreditation. “It also has a built-in Training Facility for technical training and skills development, which would help g-FleeT contribute to the development of technical skills categorized as critical and scarce in the country. “The Entity plans to operationalise the panel beating workshop, gradually build up internal capacity, and consider adopting a hybrid approach for in-sourcing and outsourcing of accident repairs,” he said. G-FleeT has partnered with the Automotive Industry Development Centre (AIDC) to operationalise the Panel Beating Workshop, as the entity does not have the necessary skills internally. “AIDC is a subsidiary of the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency, which is an agency of the Gauteng Department of Economic Development. They specialize in both Automotive Hub establishment and Technical Skills Development, which made them a strategic fit for the operationalization of the Panel Beating Workshop, with an In-house Training Facility,” Mhlongo said. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/gauteng-launches-auto-body-workshop-its-fleet-management-entity

Ina Opperman | 22 October 2023 SMEs will get help with business strategy and skills development, as well as improved access to funding for businesses. MTN Is planning to offer substantial support to SMEs through its MTN Xlerator, MTN South Africa’s enterprise supplier development (ESD) programme that plans to increase its procurement spend by R4 billion over two years with 51% black-owned SMMEs. According to MTN SA CEO Charles Molapisi, the programme plans to double the number of SMMEs on its supplier. MTN chose SME financing fintech, Payabill, as one of the finance partners for its Xlerator programme. Payabill provides simple access to funding to South African SMEs and will feature alongside other selected lenders and banks in MTN’s programme. SMEs hate banks’ onerous credit requirements For Payabill, MTN is another partner to achieve its objectives in giving South Africa’s SMEs a chance to compete and grow. Managing cash flow is a real challenge for SMEs across sectors and Payabill was founded to assist those businesses that do not have sufficient funds to buy stock, assets or services from suppliers who demand cash up front. The startup targets SMEs with annual revenue of between R500 000 and R30 million, offering them working and other capital to grow their businesses. It offers various forms of finance including local and international trade finance, as well as asset finance. “Small businesses are neglected by banks and other lenders due to high perceived credit risk and associated costs of assessment and collection. SMEs see these lenders as having onerous credit requirements to keep them out. Payabill is welcoming, quick and easy to deal with and can provide funding in hours due to its bespoke credit methodology,” said Payabill CEO, Eli Michal. Who qualifies? The MTN ESD programme is open to SMMEs that have been in operation for at least six months, are at least 51% black-owned, achieve an annual turnover of up to R500 million and have daily operations that black managers in key positions manage “MTN Xlerator is a symbol of our unwavering commitment to progress, innovation and empowerment. We believe in the enormous, unearthed potential within South Africa,” said Molapisi. “At MTN, we believe in the evolution of empowerment and our goal is to transition from a transaction-based supply chain to a values-based one, ensuring everyone enjoys the benefits of a connected world while building a better tomorrow.” Payabill ‘takes risks where it matters’ Michal said Payabill takes risks where it matters: At the coalface of South Africa’s businesses by helping smaller businesses that have little security and struggle to get funding. “We pay suppliers when sales are not yet guaranteed and take risks where no one else would consider it. We want to help those businesses locked out of the market at a time when local businesses need all the support they can get.” ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.citizen.co.za/business/personal-finance/mtn-xlerator-programme-support-smes-smmes/

Mimi Mfundisi | 19 October 2023 YES has teamed up with the LeadHERship program to provide young individuals with a pathway to brighter futures. YES LeadHERship product, Lindiwe Mabesa (21)from Soweto, had ambitions of becoming an advocate for those seeking justice. So, it came as no surprise that, after matriculating in 2019, she pursued a Diploma in Law at the University of South Africa. She is currently studying towards an LLB at the same institution. She also has a YouTube channel where she provides law students with tips on how to navigate university life. YES LEADHERSHIP YOUTH PROGRAMME Mabesa, recruited into the programme in January 2022, is one of 50 young South African women who were part of the second cohort of Pizza Hut’s LeadHERship programme. The programme, in partnership with the government’s Youth Employment Service (YES), places young women aged between 18 and 24 from marginalised communities in a 12-month work experience programme which are fully funded by Pizza Hut. The first cohort of 109 young women completed their programme in February 2023. Mabesa is one of 35 beneficiaries who have gone on to secure full-time employment. Several others have been offered work on fixed-term and freelance contracts. A day after completing the programme in February, she assumed her role as a legal administration assistant at an intellectual property law firm. "It [the programme] really helped me get experience and get my foot at the doors of these amazing opportunities, we all know getting a job requires experience. This programme is an opportunity for the youth of South Africa to get the experience they need,” she said". Graduates who are part of the 2023 cohort have been placed with organisations that are making an impact on communities. Some are joining the Youth Content Collective, which helps young black creatives harness their potential and become micro-entrepreneurs. Others are collaborating with Click Learning, which deploys online English literacy programs in underprivileged primary schools across South Africa. A third group are gaining valuable experience across various sectors, including arts, entertainment, recreation, and education, through the Youth@work initiative. The key to the LeadHERship initiative is that it goes beyond simply providing internships, said Lee-Ann Cullingworth, Pizza Hut marketing director. "We want to change young women’s lives. We are actively empowering them by teaching them social and work readiness skills, which exponentially increases their chances of long-term employability,” she said. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.sapeople.com/start-up-africa/yes-partners-with-leadhership-to-create-opportunities/

Pranisha Salikram | 19 October 2023 For women, pursuing a business education can open doors to countless possibilities and pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future As we celebrate Women’s Month in South Africa, it is essential to reflect on the incredible women who have been trailblazers in breaking barriers and attaining leadership positions across various industries. Women have defied societal norms, shattered glass ceilings, and proven time and again that they are a force to be reckoned with. However, despite these achievements, there is still much work to be done, especially in furthering women’s employability and leadership opportunities. This is where business education plays a pivotal role. Transformational power Education has always been a powerful catalyst for change - and tertiary education in particular has the potential to transform not only individual lives, but entire communities and societies which are for the most part traditionally patriarchal. For women in South Africa, pursuing a business education at a reputable institution can open doors to countless possibilities and pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future. A business school environment offers much more than just academic learning. It is a melting pot of diverse perspectives, ideas and experiences. By immersing themselves in such an environment, students can develop their skills, expand their networks, and grow as leaders. This exposure to a multitude of viewpoints helps cultivate empathy, emotional intelligence, and adaptability – crucial qualities for successful leaders in the modern world. Fostering potential Women have consistently demonstrated their ability to lead with empathy, resilience and a collaborative spirit. Tertiary education institutions must recognise this potential and actively work to foster an environment where these qualities are nurtured. One of the primary benefits of tertiary study is the development of leadership skills. Business schools must offer a range of programmes, workshops, and extracurricular activities that focus on leadership development. These opportunities provide students with the tools they need to navigate complex business landscapes and tackle challenges head-on. A responsibility lies with all education platforms to encourage women to take on leadership roles within the campus community – thereby providing practical experience and building confidence. By having women at the helm of student organisations and other initiatives, business schools set a strong example for gender equality and inspire future leaders to rise and excel. Breaking societal norms Women pursuing careers in traditionally male-dominated fields or climbing the corporate ladder have often faced unique challenges due to entrenched gender biases. Business schools play a critical role in dismantling these stereotypes and fostering an inclusive atmosphere. Through a commitment to diversity and gender equality, business schools demonstrate their belief in the potential of all students, regardless of their gender. By actively promoting female representation within their faculty and leadership, these institutions not only set an example but also create a supportive environment where women can thrive. Collaborations with corporations and organisations that prioritise gender diversity empower women to access internships, mentorship programmes, and networking opportunities that can significantly boost their employability prospects. Employability The value of tertiary study becomes evident when considering the immense impact it has on employability. The business world seeks leaders with advanced skills, critical thinking abilities, and a global perspective. Business schools equip students with precisely these attributes. Tertiary study at a reputable business school enhances employability in several ways: Skill development Business programmes provide a comprehensive foundation in essential skills such as problem-solving, communication, and strategic thinking. Networking opportunities Business schools offer a vast network of alumni, industry connections, and corporate partnerships that can lead to internships, job opportunities and mentorship. Experiential learning Through internships, consulting projects, and real-world simulations, students gain practical experience that sets them apart in the job market. Confidence and leadership Business schools empower students to step into leadership roles; making them more attractive to potential employers seeking dynamic leaders. Global outlook In an interconnected world, businesses seek leaders with a global mindset. Business schools often offer international exchange programmes and global immersion experiences. As we celebrate the accomplishments of women in leadership during Women’s Month, we must also acknowledge the work ahead. Empowering women in the business world requires a collective effort from educational institutions, corporations and society as a whole. A business education at a reputable school can be a transformative experience for women seeking to break barriers and unleash their leadership potential. By embracing diversity, fostering inclusive environments, and equipping students with the skills needed to excel, business schools play a pivotal role in advancing gender equality and creating a brighter future for all. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.iol.co.za/business-report/careers/women-and-the-empowerment-of-employability-4e1c297a-cf73-461d-ba06-5341e50ed6f3