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Category: Topco Press Release

The next phase of transformation: Where policy, power and progress collide

Transformation

As South Africa’s transformation landscape continues to evolve, the Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference 2026 returns with a clear intention: to move the conversation beyond compliance and toward measurable, meaningful impact. Taking place this June in commemoration of Youth Day, the conference will once again convene the policymakers, executives, transformation leaders and innovators tasked not only with shaping policy, but with delivering outcomes in an increasingly complex environment. The Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference 2026 is made possible through the support of Nedbank as Platinum Partner, alongside Sanlam and SALGA as Gold Sponsors. Further support is provided by Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa Ltd as Silver Sponsor, Central Energy Fund, MCPM, INSETA, Prescient Investment Management, Mashudu Tinyiko Consulting, Sourceworx, Association of B-BBEE Professionals (ABP) and ASI Financial Services as Bronze Sponsors, as well as Isanti Glass as Bronze Partner. Additional organisations contributing to the programme and conference experience include Greysun as Networking Lounge Sponsor, alongside Showcase Sponsors Dataal Africa, Maribe, 21st Century Funeral Services, Labournet, LEAP + LAB17, Avo Vision, Diversifi, Moore Holding Group, Save the Children, KEI Solutions and Care More Foundation. Afrizan People Intelligence will also participate as an Exhibition partner. Event coverage will be led by SABC, our Platinum Media Partner, alongside strategic and media partners: Glynt, Primedia OOH, Mail & Guardian, Briefly News, Sunday World, BEE Online, Good Governance Africa and BPESA. Our lifestyle partners include: Nespresso, Jenna Clifford Designs, Isanti Glass, GQ Tissues, BICS and Mvula Drops. The 2026 programme reflects a decisive shift in focus. Transformation is no longer viewed purely as a regulatory exercise, but increasingly as an economic imperative tied directly to competitiveness, investment readiness and long-term resilience. Discussions throughout the two-day conference will examine how organisations can recalibrate their strategies by prioritising high-impact interventions, embedding inclusion into decision-making structures, and ensuring that empowerment initiatives deliver measurable value in rapidly evolving economic conditions. Conversations will further interrogate how empowerment financing, infrastructure investment and ESG strategies can be leveraged not only to meet compliance requirements, but to unlock broader participation, industrial growth and sustainable economic opportunity. From supplier development funding to large-scale infrastructure delivery, the emphasis is shifting toward how capital can be structured and deployed to support measurable transformation outcomes at scale. A strong focus will also be placed on collaboration as a driver of economic inclusion. With youth unemployment remaining one of South Africa’s most urgent challenges, the programme explores how aligned partnerships between the public and private sectors can unlock funding, support entrepreneurship and create pathways into meaningful employment. Set against the backdrop of South Africa’s evolving socio-economic landscape, the 2026 conference represents both a moment of reflection and a call to action. It is a platform designed for leaders who recognise that the next phase of transformation will require sharper execution, deeper collaboration and a renewed focus on measurable outcomes. The conference will also feature the live unveiling of the 25th anniversary edition of Impumelelo: Top Empowerment Companies, marking a significant milestone in documenting  South Africa’s transformation journey while reflecting on the road ahead. For leaders navigating increasing complexity across transformation, ESG, inclusion and economic development, the Nedbank Top Empowerment Conference remains a critical platform where strategy meets accountability and where the future of inclusive growth is actively shaped. For tickets and registration: https://qkt.io/TopEmpowerment2026 For remaining sponsorship opportunities across the conference and publication, contact: marketing@topco.co.za

Step into the spotlight with a compelling business pitch – 3 tips 

EmpowHER

By Shumirai Chimombe The challenges that women entrepreneurs encounter along their business journeys are all too familiar and well known. They range from securing funding, growing their client base, to finding a supportive network of fellow women entrepreneurs and mentors to encourage them and lift them up. It is also helpful to receive constructive feedback from successful business people who will ask the right questions about your business and your offering, helping you fine tune your ideas and grow as a business owner.  This is where creating and delivering a compelling business pitch comes in.  A business pitch is a brief presentation that an entrepreneur gives to an audience of potential stakeholders who may take an interest in your business. These can include potential funders, investors,  partners, or clients. Also known as an ‘elevator pitch’, it requires you to develop a presentation that is concise and goes straight to the point, that captivates your audience, and successfully outlines and communicates the key elements of your business idea, product or service. Pitching dens have risen in popularity at networking events such as conferences and they have become one of the best opportunities for start-ups and small businesses to state their case to funders to support their ideas. They are also a great platform to promote your product or service to a wider audience.  To get your business idea to the right people, there are some tips to keep in mind: Network, network: The thought of putting yourself on the spot and speaking to a roomful of influential people can be very daunting. Especially if you are not used to public speaking, and it’s easier to stay out of the limelight. So it’s important to understand that networking is an essential part of being a businesswoman. It opens up opportunities for you to meet and learn from like-minded entrepreneurs, while creating new and potentially lucrative connections. Finding the courage to showcase yourself and your idea could turn out to be one of the most valuable undertakings you can do for your business.  Craft a compelling and authentic story: The bottom line is that you are selling a product, service or solution that addresses a problem that you have identified in the market.  The pitch needs to outline the key elements of your idea with the aim of getting buy-in from potential funders, partners or clients. It needs to succinctly cover what your company does and what differentiates you. It is your opportunity to impress by giving you the chance to make a positive and lasting impression on your audience , increasing your chances of securing interest and support.  Elevate your communication skills: A well-prepared business pitch enables you to effectively communicate your value proposition. Therefore it is important to work on your verbal presentation and refine it as much as possible. Boost your confidence by practising with your friends and colleagues to give feedback on your delivery. It is also essential to be very well prepared to be able to give credible answers to questions from your audience. The more professional and confident the pitch, the more likely it will receive a positive response.  The EmpowHER Cape Town Pitching Den – one last chance to be seen Applications for the 2026 Standard Bank Top Women EmpowHER Cape Town Pitching Den close on Friday 12 June – and this is your final chance to put your business forward. The EmpowHER Pitching Den gives women entrepreneurs the opportunity to pitch their businesses live in front of industry leaders, decision-makers, and a powerful network of business professionals. Selected winners from each regional event (Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg) will receive R50,000 and advance to the national Standard Women Conference, taking place on 8–9 September 2026 at the Sandton Convention Centre. They will then proceed to attend the 23rd annual Standard Bank Top Women Awards in Johannesburg on 3 December 2026, where one entrepreneur will be crowned overall winner and receive the R100,000 cash prize. Whether you’re building, scaling, or ready to take your business to the next level, this is your opportunity to step into the spotlight and be seen. Words from last year’s Cape Town winner, Tina Long, Founder of Home Bao  I entered the pitching den because I wanted to share the Home Bao journey.  From rolling dumplings in my garage to building a proudly South African brand that celebrates Asian heritage. Competitions like this give entrepreneurs a platform to be heard, to learn, and to connect with people who believe in bold ideas. It was such a humbling experience being exposed to so many amazing entrepreneurs and hearing truly creative business ideas. Often, as entrepreneurs, we get so caught up in our own worlds that we forget what else is out there. The pitching den gave me the chance to make connections, and it was reassuring to see that other female entrepreneurs face the same struggles I do. It can be quite lonely at times, and this experience reminded me that I’m not alone on this journey. Honestly I feel proud and grateful for winning the pitching den.  Proud of how far Home Bao has come, and grateful for the support from my team, my family, and our customers. Winning this round feels like recognition that Home Bao is more than making delicious dumplings – they can carry culture, community, and impact. Apply now to enter the pitching den. Entries close on 12 June here. To experience the conference as a delegate and participate in the conversations, book your ticket here.

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