Why we need authentic public-private partnerships to build South Africa’s future
For decades, PPPs were often structured around a simple exchange: government identifies a need, the private sector provides a solution, a contract is signed, and both parties move forward separately.
Employees who feel valued, inspired, and empowered: How Durban ICC won a Future of HR award
By Koketso Mamabolo “At the Durban ICC, we believe that our people are our greatest asset,” said Lindiwe Rakharebe, the Chief Executive Officer of the 2025 winner of the Future of HR Employer of Choice: Public Sector Organisation, sponsored by SALGA. The Durban International Convention Centre (ICC) is no stranger to accolades. This is another feather in the cap of an organisation whose clients consider it to be among the best in the world. It has been voted one of Africa’s leading meeting and conference centres by the World Travel Awards many times over the last 28 years and the best in Africa five times in a row by the World MICE Awards. However, this time, the five-star rated convention centre, established by the eThekwini Municipality to drive economic activity, was recognised for how it serves its own people. “This award is a tribute to the dedication and professionalism of our staff, who continue to embody the spirit of service excellence that defines our brand.“ READ: Why businesses enter awards The Durban ICC’s approach to work-life balance focuses on professional excellence which is supported by personal fulfillment. Depending on the requirements of a particular role, employees can split their time between working remotely and on-site, with added flexibility for personal responsibilities. The time-in-lieu system for staff who work overtime during peak periods or events is another way of reducing stress and maintaining productivity by giving employees time to rest. Special leave is also available for personal milestones, studying, and volunteer work. To boost morale, collaboration and creativity the Durban ICC has ‘play-and-work’ programmes which integrate fun into the workplace. Annual team-building events are used to build cohesion and fun, lighthearted competitions help connect executives and management with employees. They also host recognition ceremonies for employee achievements and combine team-building with CSI through volunteering drives and community outreach initiatives. A work force that is heard and supported The Durban ICC describes its human resources department as people-centred with accessibility and psychological safety top of mind. The Workplace Forum meets quarterly and includes management, employee representatives, and organised labour. Their Team Talk Sessions are designed to allow employees to engage with management and foster a culture of inclusion and transparency. Their human capital strategy focuses on talent sustainability, performance optimisation, and leadership development. They do talent reviews and skills audits and employees receive individual development plans, mentorship and exposure to cross-functional projects, rotational assignments and leadership opportunities. As part of their succession planning they implement leadership readiness programmes, do bench strength analyses and critical role mapping. Employees receive project leadership incentives, role expansion rewards, and are compensated for filling higher level roles. “Being recognised as an Employer of Choice is not just about policies or programmes — it is about creating a culture where every employee feels valued, inspired, and empowered to make a difference.” The Future of HR Awards celebrates the organisations setting the standard for the future of work. Businesses that are redefining workplace culture, attracting and retaining top talent, embracing innovation, and creating high-performing environments where people and businesses can thrive. Entries for 2026 are now open. Showcase your impact, tell your story, and give our judges a clear view of what makes your organisation, or you, exceptional. To know everything about putting forward a compelling HR Awards submission together, please contact our Awards Manager, Quarnita at quarnita.jumat@topco.co.za
How to network and do business at a conference
Business conferences are wonderful platforms for attending sessions and listening to influential speakers who are thought leaders, industry experts, successful entrepreneurs and visionary business leaders.
Final call: Just 2 weeks left to enter the 2026 Future of HR Awards
With just two weeks left, HR leaders and organisations across Africa have until 16 September 2026 to enter the 2026 Future of HR Awards, celebrating the people, technology and culture initiatives redefining human capital management across the continent.
Only six percent of South Africans can afford to retire comfortably
According to industry estimates, only around 6% of South Africans can afford to retire comfortably, leaving the vast majority dependent on family support, continued employment or state assistance.
How to protect your brand from copycats
Before adopting a new brand, organisations should conduct comprehensive trade mark searches to ensure that similar marks have not already been registered.
What the World Bank has to say about South Africa’s Special Economic Zones
When implemented and managed properly, Special Economic Zones (SEZs) can be a powerful tool for industrial development.
Future of HR Conference 2026 returns to help HR Leaders solve the problems they can’t ignore
The Future of HR Conference 2026, powered by SALGA, returns to Johannesburg on 14–15 October at the Indaba Hotel, Fourways, bringing together South Africa’s leading HR executives, business leaders and innovators for two days of practical, challenging conversations about how work, organisations and people need to evolve.
“We need to master statecraft” – Turning promises into progress at the Public Sector Leaders Summit
With unemployment sitting at 33.6% and service delivery dominating headlines as local elections draw closer, what the country is doing for residents at the most basic level was bound to guide much of the discourse.
Turning B-BBEE compliance into real business value
“At The BEE Chamber, we support businesses in navigating these requirements pragmatically. Our role is not to advocate for every aspect of the legislation, but to help companies interpret and implement it in ways that minimise risk while unlocking real commercial opportunities.”