Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) hosts inaugural corporate affairs symposium
Date: 2024-10-23
The Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) recently hosted its first Corporate Affairs Symposium, a one-day event proudly presented by Sanlam and Santam. The symposium aimed to deepen the critical importance of corporate affairs in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, while also providing a platform for corporate affairs professionals to explore effective strategies and address pressing issues they encounter.
During the
event the Group President and CEO of MTN, Ralph Mupita delivered a
thought-provoking keynote address emphasizing the necessity for corporate
affairs executives to adapt to an ever-changing environment. He highlighted key
areas of focus, including geopolitics, digital financial inclusion, reputation
management, and impactful corporate social investment (CSI) initiatives. Mupita
asserted that cultivating informed perspectives in these domains is essential
for enhancing the influence of corporate affairs executives in today’s dynamic
business climate.
Mupita
remarked, “In a world where corporate responsibility is paramount, corporate
affairs executives must be at the forefront, adapting strategies that respond
to both local and global challenges.”
The Chief Executive
Officer of Business Leadership South Africa, Busisiwe Mavuso, also shared her
perspectives during the symposium. She emphasized the critical role that large
businesses play in fostering trust within society by prioritizing the interests
of the South African populace. Mavuso stated, “As Business Leadership South
Africa, we have the responsibility to ensure that the confidence bestowed upon
us by South Africans is placed in the hands of those who can effectively
safeguard the interests of our country. Enhancing the nation’s economy will
rely on a collaborative effort within the business community.”
Moreover, her
emphasis on collaboration echoed the sentiments of Sana-Ullah Bray, Group
Executive of Human Capital at Sanlam, who remarked on the integral nature of
corporate affairs to any organization’s business strategy. Mr. Bray highlighted
the importance of bridging the gap between the public and private sectors to
foster business growth while achieving social goals. He stated, “Through
engagements such as the Corporate Affairs Symposium, we can explore solutions
that foster financial inclusion and empower young South Africans to become
economically active. This is the fundamental right of every citizen.”
As the first of
its kind, the Corporate Affairs Symposium at the JSE sets the stage for ongoing
conversations about the importance of corporate affairs in shaping a
sustainable future for South Africa’s business environment.
By: Kanto Okanta
