Africa Rising Leadership Summit & Awards Ignites Movement for Transformative Leadership.

The first-ever Africa Rising Leadership Summit & Awards took place on March 27-28, 2025, at the prestigious Inanda Club Sandton, bringing together some of Africa’s most forward-thinking leaders. Under the theme “The Path Forward – Empowering Africa’s Future through Leadership in the Age of Digital Transformation,” the event sparked insightful conversations and collaborations to redefine leadership in a rapidly changing world.

The two-day summit was hosted by Dr. Nompumelelo Nkosi-Ntombela and featured an outstanding lineup of speakers who shared powerful insights on innovation, adaptability and purpose-driven leadership. Among them were Nonkululeko Gobodo, Dr. Charles Cotter, Kutlwano Ngwarati, Max Moyo, Akhona Qenqge and Gugu Mkhize, whose keynote addresses inspired attendees to embrace leadership transformation.

Panel discussions was led by Africa Rising Leadership Founder & CEO, Nomazibulo Tshanga who explored critical topics shaping Africa’s future. Experts such as Dr. Tshidi Gule, Dr. Jerry Gule, Antoinette Roberts and Boniwe Dunster discussed the importance of reskilling leaders for the digital age, while Simo-Sihle Mvinjelwa, Palesa Moeketsane and Devandre Lawrence highlighted the power of transformative leadership. Onke Dumeko moderated a thought-provoking session on AI-driven leadership with insights from Esther Munyi and Fikile Mdiniso emphasizing the need to balance technology with ethical leadership.

The final day was moderated by Kaya FM’s Gugulethu Mfuphi who featured engaging discussions on “The Future of Leadership in an AI-Driven World” with Belinda Knight, Themba Chakela, Nomvula Nxumalo and Francois de Wet. Other speakers were including Ipeleng Mkhari, Zizipho Nyanga and Lucky Litelu who explored the role of entrepreneurship in the digital era. The summit concluded with inspiring talks from Sylvester Chauke, Zwelethu Bashman and Batandwa Damoyi who were focusing on driving transformation and leadership excellence.

“Our vision for the Africa Rising Summit & Awards is to make leadership more accessible and impactful for young professionals, entrepreneurs and executives. The overwhelming response to this inaugural event, along with the powerful messages from our speakers and panelists has been truly inspiring. It was also a privilege to celebrate the incredible leaders shaping Africa’s future,” said Nomazibulo Tshanga, Founder & CEO of Africa Rising Leadership.

Celebrating Leadership Excellence: Africa Rising Leadership Awards 2025

The summit concluded with a spectacular awards ceremony  hosted by Unathi Ncunyana who was honouring individuals making a significant impact in Africa’s leadership landscape.

Award Winners:

-Digital Entrepreneur of the Year: Mamela Luthuli (Founder & CEO – TakeNote IT) & Zibusiso Mkhwanazi (Executive Chairman – Avatar & M & N)

– Digital Transformation Leader of the Year: Lynette Magasa (CEO – Boniswa Group)

– Emerging Women Leaders: Gugu Mkhize (CEO – INSETA) & Buhle Hanise (Head of Business Restructuring – BDO South Africa)

– Top Entrepreneur of The Year: Thandeka Mngomezulu (Founder & CEO – TotalServe)

– Impactful Leader of The Year: Akhona Qengqe (CEO – KFC Africa)

– Emerging Leader: Godiragetse Fareed Mogajane (CEO Delivery – Ka Speed)

– Impactful Woman Leader: Nomvula Nomie Nxumalo (Executive Head People & Transformation – MiWay)

– Lifetime Achievement Award: Ipeleng Nonkululeko Mkhari

The Africa Rising Leadership Summit & Awards marks the beginning of a transformative movement, dedicated to empowering and cultivating the next generation of African leaders.

For more information, please visit :

https://linktr.ee/africarisingleadership

 

South African Tourism Launches New Global Marketing Campaign.

South African Tourism is excited to launch its new global brand campaign, “South Africa Awaits – Come Find Your Joy!” This campaign celebrates South Africa’s lively culture and amazing experiences, inviting travellers to discover the joy of visiting the country.

“Our new campaign invites people to find their inner child and experience the excitement of exploring. The campaign’s main video shows the true feeling of South Africa, where every moment can bring joy.” says Thembisle Sehloho, Chief Marketing Officer of South African Tourism.

A Story About South Africa

The campaign’s video is more than just pretty pictures. It’s a story about what makes South Africa unique.

Created with Avatar by a top South African creative agency, the campaign was led by Phil Ireland the Chief Creative Officer.  “We wanted to make something that people would feel and not just see. We showed South Africa through a child’s eyes, capturing the pure joy and wonder of our country.” says Ireland.

The video takes viewers from the busy streets of Johannesburg to the beautiful Cape winelands. It features famous South African artists like musician Zakes Bantwini and chef Wandile Mabaso, showing the country’s creative spirit.The music in the video is by Vusi Mahlasela. “I love my country, and this ad shows how amazing South Africa is and it shows the beauty of our country with the warm welcome visitors receive.” says Mahlasela.

More Than Just Tourism

This campaign is not just about bringing tourists, it’s about showing South Africa as a top destination for fun, culture, and adventure. It also supports South African Tourism’s goal of boosting the economy through tourism.

“We want to tell the real story of South Africa by showing our people, traditions, and art, we’re offering a special travel experience.” says Sehloho.

The campaign also helps South Africa reach its goal of attracting 15 million visitors by 2030, as part of the government’s plan for growth.

Find Your Joy in South Africa

“South Africa Awaits – Come Find Your Joy!” will be shown around the world in the coming weeks. It encourages people to experience South Africa’s music, culture, nature and food.

“This campaign lets us share South Africa’s vibrant story and we want people to experience the heart of our country.” says Ireland.

“The world is ready to find joy again and South Africa is ready to offer it. Now is the perfect time to visit.” says Sehloho.

Travis Scott’s Circus Maximus Tour Comes to South Africa – Presented by Castle Lite Unlocks

Castle Lite is once again raising the bar in live entertainment by bringing global hip-hop sensation Travis Scott to South Africa on the 11th October 2025 as part of his highly anticipated Circus Maximus Tour. Over the years, Castle Lite has unlocked unforgettable experiences with international superstars such as Drake, Wiz Khalifa, Post Malone and now the legacy continues with one of the biggest names in music today.

For Castle Lite Unlocks 2025, fans can expect an unparalleled concert experience at South Africa’s premier outdoor music venue FNB Stadium. The event promises breath taking performances, cutting-edge production, and an electrifying atmosphere that will redefine live entertainment.

“We are thrilled to be back, re-energised, intentional, and ready to deliver something truly special. UNLOCKS 2025 will feature exclusive VIP experiences, exciting prizes and most importantly the unforgettable moments our fans deserve”, says Colleen Duvenage, Brand Director of Castle Lite.

Tickets for Travis Scott’s Circus Maximus Tour—presented by Castle Lite Unlocks—go on sale this Friday, March 28, at 9 AM via Ticketmaster and Big Concerts.

Stay tuned to Castle Lite’s social media pages for exclusive access to limited Castle Lite Experience tickets and other exciting surprises.

Visit www.castlelite.co.za for details.

 

MTN Ends Sponsorship of the Springboks After Eight Successful Years.

After eight years of collaboration, MTN and the Springboks are ending their sponsorship agreement. During this time, the Springboks won back-to-back Rugby World Cups in 2019 and 2023 bringing joy to fans across South Africa.

MTN SA CEO Charles Molapisi described the partnership as an incredible and rewarding experience. When MTN became the lead sponsor in 2017, South African rugby faced challenges, but the team has since grown stronger.

“For us, this was about more than just branding. We wanted to bring rugby back to the people and support the spirit of Ubuntu. We are proud to have played a role in the success of SA Rugby,” said Molapisi. He thanked SA Rugby for trusting MTN as a sponsor and expressed pride in being part of the team’s journey. The partnership helped grow the sport by taking it beyond major stadiums to smaller towns and rural areas.

SA Rugby President Mark Alexander also expressed his gratitude to MTN, especially for their support during difficult times for the sport. “MTN believed in us when we needed support the most. Together, we have enjoyed what will be remembered as a golden era of rugby in South Africa,” he said.

During the partnership, MTN invested R30 million in grassroots rugby development. The company also helped expand the fan base through initiatives such as the BokSquad and Bozza, bringing supporters closer to the team. Molapisi thanked the fans for their passion and support, emphasising that rugby in South Africa will continue to grow.

MTN is now shifting its sponsorship strategy to support a broader range of sports in South Africa. The company will continue its investment in football through the MTN8 sponsorship. “Rugby has demonstrated how sport can unite and inspire our nation. With the continued support of companies like MTN and organisations such as SA Rugby, we believe South Africa will keep producing champions,” Molapisi concluded.

Don’t miss the beat this lockdown with Huawei Music

Music was one of those things that lifted our spirits and helped carry us through the lows of 2020. And with a new year now upon us, music will continue to be our companion throughout 2021. As your favourite artists release their brand new hits, or if you just want to re-listen to some of your old favourites, you will be blasting your speakers and singing and dancing along to these amazing tunes.

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