Top South African leaders were brought together at one of the biggest leadership celebrations, the Old Mutual Tomorrow’s Leaders Convention (OMTLC) 2016, that took place last week Friday, 11 March 2016 at Emperor’s Palace, Johannesburg.
Over 800 attendees were kept entertained, informed and challenged to think outside of the box by a host of well renowned and influential speakers. The purpose of the event was for millennial leaders to learn, network and build long-lasting relationships across sectors.
In his opening keynote address at the Old Mutual Tomorrow’s Leaders Convention (OMTLC), Jeff Radebe, Minister in the Presidency mentioned that investing in leadership is just as important today as it was when the Tomorrow’s Leaders Convention started nine years ago. The speakers that followed concurred: Investing in young leadership is key in developing a successful future for South Africa.
The jam-packed programme focused on various leadership topics ranging from self-development to social media and its influence, and other leadership affairs. During breaks, the delegates took advantage of what the master of ceremonies, Jeremy Maggs called “the biggest networking opportunity this year”. The networking that took place was as important as the advice and guidance given by the speakers.
During one of the five panel discussions, speakers discussed the role of women in business today. This discussion included top executives such as Max Hussman, CEO of Elegance Group and Ran Neu Ner, Co-CEO of The Creative Council. They asserted that the emotional and empathetic side of the female psyche, often perceived as a weakness, is actually a characterising strength that is increasingly contributing to the success of organisations.
Another thought provoking topic that surfaced at the event was the perseverance and motivation that drives young leaders to become successful.
The ultimate highlight of OMTLC 2016 was the Inspirational Under 30 Leaders Panel that comprised of incredible jetsetters such as Bonolo Mataboge, Founder of Afriblossom; Sandile Shezi, Founder of Global Forex Institute; and Bheki Kuneni, Mind Matrix Media Founder.
These young and hip speakers shared some of their personal stories and challenges, from major surgeries to starting out by selling peanuts. They overcame hardships and it continues to push them forward. “It’s a mind-set thing,” says Mataboge.
“I always tell people not to let their struggle become their identity. If you think of your struggle as the worst thing that could happen to you, it’s always going to hold you back,” she adds.
“This year was one of our best conventions yet! The high calibre speakers and fantastic networking opportunities made for an extremely exciting day. Platforms such as these, where dynamic young leaders can be celebrated, are of the utmost importance for the future of South Africa and the success stories are many. We look forward to following the successes of these young leaders and look forward to welcoming them back at the next Convention in 2017,” says Beverley Stone, event coordinator for the OMTLC.
For those who were unable to be a part of this year’s event, nominations for next year will be open soon. To find out more about the Old Mutual Tomorrow’s Leaders Convention 2017 visit http://tomorrowsleaders.co.za.