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Topco Media launches ESG: The Future of Sustainability in time for Environment Month

ESG magazine

With the foreword written by Executive Director at the Presidential Climate Commission, Dorah Modise, this important 8th edition of ESG: The Future of Sustainability publication focuses on where we are in terms of the environment, society and governance – locally and globally – where we would like to be, and why we need a “whole of society “ approach to get there.  The foreword is followed by an opinion piece by the Deputy Minister of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), Honourable Narend Singh. Inside the publication, you’ll find a range of significant contributions from a number of sustainability Thought Leaders, including Dr Morné du Plessis, CEO of WWF; André Nepgen, CEO of Discovery Green;; Kalnisha Singh, Development Economist and Director of KD Strategies; and Devina Naidoo, Senior Policy Advisor: International Sustainable Development and Trade, DFFE.  There is an all important selection of articles falling under the three sections of ESG. The Environment pillar explores e-transport; e-waste; micro plastics; sustainable agriculture and sustainable mining; as well as the importance of green buildings.  The Social segment asks the all-important question “How do you measure the ‘S’ in ESG?” – and no discussion on the social component would be complete without articles on training and skills development; workplace wellness; and mentorship as well as why people-centred businesses are the most powerful.  Governance is the third vital pillar for sustainability and in this section we bring you up to date on the important happenings in South Africa regarding the P20 and G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group. Since 1994, the King Reports have encouraged organisations to aspire to higher ethical standards than mere compliance to legal requirements. In October 2025, the Institute of Directors launched the fifth iteration of the King Codes of Good Governance – see the article to find out its significance for the country. Having just endured a weather event of such magnitude in the Western and Eastern Cape that it was declared a national disaster, the case for sustainability and mitigation of climate change grows stronger with each passing year. Read the 8th edition of ESG: The Future Of Sustainability here. For more information on the Future Of Sustainability, visit futureofsustainability.co.za or contact our Head of Brand, Twaambo Judy Chileshe at: twaambo.chileshe@topco.co.za

The Standard Bank EmpowHER series is back for 2026. Kicking off in Cape Town this month

EmpowHER

The Standard Bank Top Women EmpowHER Regional Series returns for 2026, and we’re kicking off another powerful year of connection, inspiration, and opportunity in Cape Town. Join us on 25 June 2026 at the Radisson Collection Hotel, Waterfront Cape Town, as women from across industries come together to learn, network, share ideas, and celebrate what’s possible when women support women. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, executive, professional, student, or aspiring business owner, EmpowHER is designed to equip you with fresh insights, meaningful connections, and the motivation to take your next step with confidence. What to expect The EmpowHER Pitching Den returns Entrepreneurs will once again have the opportunity to pitch their businesses live through the EmpowHER Pitching Den. This year, the stakes are even higher. The winner from each regional event will receive R50,000 and advance to pitch at the National Standard Bank Top Women Conference taking place on 8–9 September 2026 at the Sandton Convention Centre. The three regional winners will then continue their journey to the 23rd annual Standard Bank Top Women Awards on 3 December 2026 in Johannesburg, where one entrepreneur will be crowned the overall winner and take home the trophy and a R100,000 cash prize. Step into the spotlight and apply to pitch your business now. Save your seat Cape Town is the first stop of the 2026 EmpowHER series, setting the tone for another year of inspiration, opportunity, and connection. Whether you’re coming to learn, grow your network, explore new ideas, or be inspired by the women shaping South Africa’s future, this is where the journey begins. We can’t wait to welcome you. Join us on 25 June 2026 and be part of a community that is building the future – together. Get In Touch Secure your place in the room here. For partnership and sponsorship opportunities, enquire now: marketing@topco.co.za

How mentorship can elevate organisations

Mentorship

Mentorship is a time-honoured practice that transcends generations and industries. It is a relationship where experienced individuals guide and nurture the growth of those seeking to learn and excel in their respective fields.

The Northern Cape’s untapped mining potential

Mining

By Jessie Taylor The Northern Cape is increasingly being positioned as South Africa’s next major mining hub, with the province holding untapped potential capable of reshaping the national economic landscape. Long known for its vast mineral wealth and iconic diamond history, the Northern Cape is now entering a new phase defined by diversification, beneficiation and large-scale investment. Recent insights from the Minerals Council South Africa highlight the province’s strategic importance, with its acting chief economist noting that the Northern Cape could unlock significant revenue through a revitalised and expanded mining sector. As South Africa seeks new growth drivers in a competitive global economy, the province’s resource base, combined with infrastructure development and renewable energy capacity, positions it as a compelling frontier for investment. A province rich in mineral opportunity The Northern Cape is widely recognised as one of the most resource-rich regions in the country. It is home to extensive deposits of manganese, iron ore and other critical minerals that are increasingly in demand globally.  From the historic diamond fields of Kimberley to large-scale iron ore operations such as Beeshoek, mining has long been central to the region’s identity and economic activity. In addition, the Kalahari Manganese Field is one of the largest known manganese reserves globally. Mining remains one of the most important economic drivers in the Northern Cape, alongside agriculture. The sector contributes significantly to employment, exports and regional development, forming a backbone of economic activity in many towns across the province. As a key pillar of the provincial government’s development strategy, mining is central to efforts aimed at industrialisation and job creation. The provincial leadership has identified mining as one of the most critical sectors underpinning economic growth, supported by infrastructure development and transport corridors designed to unlock further investment. Mining in the Northern Cape is deeply interconnected with other sectors, including logistics, manufacturing and energy. This interconnectedness creates opportunities for broader economic spillovers, enabling the province to move beyond primary extraction towards a more diversified and resilient economy. Infrastructure and investment driving growth A key factor underpinning the Northern Cape’s emergence as a mining hub is the scale of infrastructure investment currently underway or in planning. Major projects, including transport corridors, port development and special economic zones, are expected to significantly enhance the province’s ability to support large-scale mining operations. Plans for developments such as the Boegoebaai deep-water port and the Upington special economic zone are particularly noteworthy. These initiatives aim to improve export capacity and logistics efficiency, enabling minerals to reach global markets more competitively. At the same time, the province’s leadership is actively positioning the Northern Cape as an attractive destination for both local and international investors. With over R100 billion in anticipated investment across sectors – including mining, energy and manufacturing – the region is poised for accelerated industrialisation. One of the Northern Cape’s most distinctive advantages is its leadership in renewable energy. The province hosts a significant share of South Africa’s solar and wind energy projects, producing more renewable energy than it consumes. This abundance of clean energy presents a unique opportunity for the mining sector. As global demand grows for sustainably produced minerals, the ability to power mining operations with renewable energy enhances the province’s competitiveness and aligns with international environmental standards. With its rich mineral endowment, expanding infrastructure, renewable energy leadership and strategic vision, the province has all the ingredients required to become South Africa’s next mining hub. Crucially, the focus is not only on expanding mining activity, but on building an integrated, future-ready economy that maximises value, creates jobs and drives sustainable development. As investment gathers pace and policy alignment strengthens, the Northern Cape is increasingly emerging as a beacon of opportunity within South Africa’s broader economic landscape. Northern Cape economic snapshot The Northern Cape is South Africa’s largest province by land area, offering substantial space for industrial expansion and mining development. Sources: Mining Weekly  |  Infrastructure News  |  Minerals Council South Africa  |  Statistics South Africa  |  Kalahari Manganese Field

Why new leaders often produce old outcomes

Leaders

Many leaders know what leadership should look like. Far fewer have developed the self-awareness required to respond consciously and consistently across different situations and contexts.