The CSI Legacy Conference 2024 united leading corporates, NGOs, and social investment champions in a powerful gathering aimed at addressing South Africa’s pressing challenges of poverty, unemployment, and inequality. The event, marked by insightful discussions and practical advice, highlighted the urgent need for collaborative action in building a more inclusive society.
Dr. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, in her unconventional and progressive keynote address, emphasised the need for a robust succession plan across all sectors, urging a renewed focus on leadership to ensure enduring socio-economic transformation. She highlighted that with stronger leadership and sustained commitment, progress in addressing South Africa’s inequalities would not only accelerate but become genuinely sustainable.
Old Mutual showcased its dedication to supporting the Department of Basic Education in strengthening learners’ literacy and numeracy capabilities, especially in mother-tongue education. Through the Old Mutual Foundation, Old Mutual takes its responsibility of empowering future generations seriously. By supporting early education of Indigenous languages, Old Mutual aims to provide young children with the tools they need to thrive from their earliest years, laying the groundwork for lifelong learning and development.
A key theme at the conference was the essential role of South Africa’s financial services sector in dismantling poverty, reducing unemployment, and promoting equity. Esteemed speakers Neptal Khoza, Dr Steven Zwane, and Kone Gugushe shared the sector’s vision for tackling these challenges. They stressed that financial institutions bear a unique responsibility to support inclusive economic growth, with initiatives that not only create jobs but uplift communities. By prioritising access to finance and fostering entrepreneurship, banks are empowering South Africans to build resilient livelihoods and bridge the economic divide.
The conference also provided valuable insights from state-owned enterprises on accessing funding for impactful projects. These practical sessions equipped social enterprises and NGOs with the information needed to secure resources that will propel positive change.
The event was a significant lead-up to the 2025 CSI Legacy Awards, where five remarkable winners will be recognised for their achievements in social investment. Our valued partner Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa pledged an additional R100,000 to the awards, with each of the five category winners set to receive R20,000 in support of their ongoing work.
Our heartfelt thanks go to our Master of Ceremonies, Craig Kensley, and facilitators Reana Rossow and Khaya Tyatya, and CEO Old Mutual Social Investment Cluster – Ndumiso Zulu for their engaging and insightful contributions throughout the day. We also extend special thanks to our partners, Old Mutual and Coca-Cola Beverages, whose steadfast support has been instrumental in the success of both the CSI Legacy Conference and Awards.
As we look forward to the 2025 CSI Legacy Awards, we are committed to forging impactful partnerships and finding innovative solutions to South Africa’s most critical social challenges.
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