Let's talk: Shaping tomorrow
Every decision we make today directly impacts the world that future generations will inherit. Our actions – or lack thereof – are writing the story of tomorrow, with far-reaching consequences for economic inequality, job scarcity, poverty, and climate change. These challenges are not just abstract concepts; they are urgent imperatives that will define the future of South Africa and the world.
As we stand at this critical juncture, are our current efforts bold enough to address these challenges for the benefit of future generations?
In the 10th episode of Critical Conversations, we bring together today’s leaders with tomorrow’s visionaries to create a future that is not reactive, but actively shaped by our collective commitment to solving these pressing issues. By bridging generational gaps, our speakers foster inclusivity and collaboration, allowing fresh perspectives to shape a legacy of positive change.
Guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, we measure our progress and assess whether we are on track to secure the sustainable future we owe to future generations. Are we accelerating fast enough toward achieving Net Zero? Remember, every step we take – or fail to take – carries immense consequences for those who follow.
At Sanlam Investments, we recognise that shaping tomorrow requires action today. As we prepare for a future where 85% of 2030’s jobs are yet to be created, our investments aim to address the key issues facing our world, ensuring that the future is not something we passively await but actively build – with intention, vision, and accountability.
Join the conversation and #BeTheImpact
Innovative, courageous conversations start here!
We’ve created Critical Conversations to tackle the dynamics of sustainability and impact investing. It highlights the need for educated and authentic conversations that explore the right ideas, with the right people, to continue to move the best solutions forward.
If you missed the last Critical Conversations event and would like to be invited to the next episode, CLICK HERE.
Meet our panel.
MC: Lerato Mbele
Business and News Presenter
Lerato is a business and news presenter well known for raising Africa’s profile in world news and current affairs. Lerato has spoken at and moderated televised debates for the World Economic Forum on Africa, the World Bank and IMF annual meetings, African Development Bank summits, the UN Climate Change Summit COP-17 and has hosted the televised presidential debates for the Nigerian Economic Summit Group.
Lerato is a previous business presenter for BBC World Television and was the host of Africa Business Report. Before that, Lerato was a senior business anchor for CNBC and SA’s national public broadcaster. She is a recipient of the Charlotte Maxeke Women in Media Award in recognition of her achievements on the African Continent.
Nhlanhla Nene
Chairman: Thebe Investment Corporation
A former South African Minister and Deputy Minister of Finance, Nhlanhla Nene, has spent over 20 years serving at executive board level across a wide range of industries.
Highly regarded in both the private and public sectors, Nene has also served as the Chairperson of the Pan African Arise Bank and MC Mining; as well as a Non-Executive Director at South African-based Grobank. He was instrumental in driving growth in Thebe Investment Corporation’s Food & Agriculture business unit and was Chairperson of its single largest controlled investment, Empact Group.
Nene holds a BCom Honours in Economics, an advanced diploma in Economic Policy from the University of the Western Cape, and a certificate in Macro and Microeconomics from the University of London, along with other professional certifications. He continues to play a significant role in steering community projects in Kranskop, KwaZulu-Natal, where he was born.
Dr Vuyane Mhlomi
Co-Founder and CEO: Quro Medical
Dr Vuyane Mhlomi is transforming healthcare delivery in Southern Africa through Quro Medical, leveraging technology and innovative business models to enhance access to quality healthcare.
In addition, he is a part-time lecturer at the Gordon Institute of Business Science, Founder of the Emergent Health Care Group, a Trustee at the Bongani Mayosi Foundation and a Non-Executive Director at Percept.
His commitment to developing future leaders is evident in his work with mentorship initiatives, such as the MH Foundation.
Recognised globally for his contributions, including receiving the Board of Healthcare Funders Titanium Young Achievers Award, Dr Mhlomi’s influence extends beyond borders.
He holds an MBA from Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford, a Doctorate in Philosophy from New College at the University of Oxford and an MBChB from the University of Cape Town, where he graduated with a distinction in Pre-Clinical and Clinical Sciences and first-class honours.
Tshego Dichabe
Chief Executive Officer: Aeon Investment Management
Tshego Dichabe is a dynamic leader in South Africa’s asset management industry, known for her innovative approach and passion for mentorship. She is the CEO of Aeon Investment Management, which manages R23 billion in assets, and has over 10 years of experience in the financial services industry, including roles at PPS Investments and Sanlam Personal Finance.
A fellow of the fifth class of the Young Africa Leadership Initiative, which is affiliated with the Africa Leadership Initiative as part of the Aspen Global Leadership Network, Dichabe is also one of the 2024 Mail & Guardian 200 Young South Africans.
She holds both undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications from the University of the Free State and completed the Oxford Leading Strategic Projects Programme at the Saïd Business School, University of Oxford. In her personal capacity, she provides mentorship through a self‐created programme established in 2020 called ‘Vision 2:10’, which supports selected mentees in achieving their professional aspirations.
Ayanda Vabaza-Mvandaba CA(SA)
Award-Winning Entrepreneur
Ayanda Vabaza-Mvandaba is an accomplished entrepreneur and social impact leader with a diverse portfolio of ventures. As the Founder of Kwandiso Consulting, she is dedicated to serving SMMEs and fostering growth within the township economy.
With executive and non-executive board positions in various organisations, Mvandaba is the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Partner of Drink Nil, a leading e-commerce retailer specialising in non-alcoholic beverages.
Her entrepreneurial spirit extends to the Mvandaba family office and the Mvandaba group of companies, where she serves as Co-Founder, overseeing business interests across various industries.
Passionate about education and social change, Mvandaba is committed to uplifting individuals and communities. She is the managing partner of Youth Bridge, a Christel House South Africa initiative that empowers young people striving for economic mobility. Furthermore, she Co-Founded the Langa Siphe Foundation and established the Ayanda Vabaza-Mvandaba Bursary Fund.
She holds a Bachelor of Accounting with Honours from Stellenbosch University and is a Chartered Accountant [CA(SA)].
Dr Craig Wing
Future Strategist: Whattheforesight
Dr Craig Wing is a leading futurist, specialising in emergent futures thinking, scenario planning and the adaptation of disruptive technologies. He developed the ‘Future Fitness Score’, a unique framework designed to help organisations assess their readiness for future challenges.
By integrating concepts from military strategy and psychology, he equips leaders to navigate the complexities of an evolving business landscape. Dr Wing believes in the importance of fostering innovative cultures, leveraging AI and embracing new business models to thrive in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Dr Wing holds a PhD in Electrical Engineering from the University of Johannesburg, an MBA from Babson College, USA, and both an MSc and BSc from the University of the Witwatersrand. He also completed a leadership programme at the African Leadership Institute at Oxford University.
At Sanlam Investments, we’re not just asset managers, we’re agents of change, adapting to our clients’ needs and bringing financial independence to all South Africans. By boosting literacy, creating jobs, reducing our footprint, and enabling dignified retirements, we transcend wealth creation. Our sustainable solutions protect the planet, empower communities, and secure a prosperous future for generations to come. Sustainability lies at the heart of what we do.
With just under R1 trillion in assets under management spanning both our retail and institutional ventures, Sanlam Investments is South Africa’s premier black-owned asset managers, driven by a steadfast commitment to sustainability.
Our investments live through our people, communities and our planet; sustainable investments that are rooted in meaningful impact, building a better future for tomorrow.
“To address the most pressing issues in our country and the continent today — unemployment, inequality, and climate change — we need investments in areas or projects that tackle these issues. It is time for us to have real discussions and commit to creating impact. ”
Carl Roothman, CEO: Sanlam Investment Group
