What do SA's top empowered organisations thrive on? Five things to expect

Skill Development has been the most entered category in the last three years, at over 20%. This should give South Africans a great sense of comfort that the calls for change have been heard and organisations are enabling a skilled workforce.

"We are excited to be a finalist. Moyomuhle Social Solutions (MSS) has demonstrated a high level of growth which is proven by our revenue that has grown by 60% and 75% respectively in the past two years. At this rate, it can be projected that by the end of the 2016/2017 financial year, we will meet our targeted revenue figure," Sikhumbuzo Thabede, Managing Director, MSS. The organisation has been shortlisted for the Fast Growth Black-Owned SMME Award.

Maponya Inc. is a finalist in Diversity and Job Creation categories. “We are celebrating and showcasing the success of women excellence in leadership. Being able to change the lives of many of our people through our employees, Maponya is in the front line of making SA a better place by addressing inequalities of the past and investing in tomorrow’s leaders,” Baitseng Rangata, CEO, Maponya Inc.

"We are continuously looking out for new opportunities to grow the group by means of partnerships or startup and welcome ideas from like-minded, trustworthy individuals. Our main aim is to create more jobs for the people of South Africa. We want to work with our local partners to diversify our business and take advantage of the opportunities in the other segments of the maritime technology market”, Steve Nell, Managing Director, Marine Data Solutions, a finalist in Top Empowered Entrepreneur of 2016 Award. It is this type of approach and more that make top empowered organisations thrive.

Five things that attendees can expect:

1. Minister of Science and Technology, Naledi Pandor and Commissioner Zodwa Ntuli, will be guest speakers at the event.

2. To celebrate the legacy of 15 years, the event is themed “Out of Africa”, reconnecting with what the country has achieved together.

3. For the first time ever, we will be awarding media personalities. See the nominees: http://www.oliverawards.co.za/index.php/about/personality-awards

4. This year, we will honor organisations that have generated real impact in the transformation in the last 15 years through “The Legend of Empowerment” award.

5. The Vision 2030 Award is new in the stable, recognising private companies that have initiatives contributing to the NDP’s 2030 goal.
   

This event awards companies and individuals for their contribution and commitment to empowerment in South Africa, recognising the efforts of businesses, civil society, the public sector and truly outstanding individuals. Implementation of strategic B-BBEE policies, annual revenue, implementation of effective internal B-BBEE measurement mechanics and other areas of business are all taken into consideration in the selection of the winners of the respective categories. This event will celebrate the achievement and progress of business in South Africa.

For any information on the Oliver Empowerment Awards or the finalists, please contact Sheri Morgan at 086 000 9590 or az.oc.ocpot@nagrom.irehs