FOCUS A journey of unity
FOCUS A journey of unity and progress Tshêpo Mathabatha can look back on solid years of achievement at the helm of the Limpopo United Business Forum, notably the emergence of other women business leaders. Unifying the business community, advocating for their interests and driving economic growth remain key goals into the future. Uniting for progress Three years ago, the Limpopo United Business Forum (LUBF) embarked on a transformative journey under the leadership of Tshêpo Mathabatha. The mission was clear: to unify the business community, advocate for their interests and unlock Limpopo’s economic potential. Today, we celebrate the milestones, partnerships and the relentless spirit of our business leaders, especially women, who have demonstrated their capability in driving progress. Stakeholder engagement and opportunity sharing From the start, Mathabatha prioritised engagement and collaboration. The LUBF organised numerous stakeholder engagements, bringing together diverse portfolios to ensure business people were informed and prepared for upcoming opportunities. These sessions were crucial in sharing procurement plans and highlighting catalytic projects aimed at boosting Limpopo’s economy. This inclusive and transparent approach positioned Limpopo as a hub of economic activity and innovation. By facilitating these dialogues, we enabled our business community to anticipate changes, adapt swiftly and seize new opportunities. Tshêpo Mathabatha, President of the Limpopo United Business Forum. Women leaders at the helm One of the most inspiring aspects of our journey has been the emergence of women leaders within the LUBF. Under the inclusive leadership of Mathabatha, who is also the former Chairperson of the Limpopo branch of the Businesswomen’s Association of South Africa (BWASA Limpopo), women have taken on key roles within the Forum, driving initiatives and delivering exceptional results. Their contributions LIMPOPO BUSINESS 2024/25 46
PROFILE FOCUS le voice to have talk enriched to government. the organisation and demonstrated the vital role of women in economic development. onths engaged These with leaders the Minister have brought of Small unique usiness Development, perspectives, resilience Honorable and Khumbudzo creativity, proving tshaveni, that MEC diversity for LEDET, is a strength Honorable and that Thabo women are okoni, CEO more for than Musina-Makhado capable of steering SEZ, the Lehloonolo Masoga, economic and progress. the MEC for Public Works, course of onorable Dickson Masemola in his capacity as Corporate partnerships: catalysts for change he Chairperson of the Economic Transformation Our journey would not have been possible without nit of the ANC the unwavering in Limpopo. support of our corporate partners. Companies like Old Mutual have provided urvival and resources, opportunity expertise and a shared commitment Businesses to are making struggling a positive due impact to the on stagnant entrepreneurs. economy, Their a situation partnership that has enabled has now us to been implement exacerbated programmes by the unprecedented that empower countless pandemic. businesses. Old Mutual’s involvement has gone beyond Limpopo has lower than average household financial support. They have actively participated income and in our low engagements, ICT connectivity. offering mentorship Small and businesses guidance have to continue that is invaluable creating jobs to our to save members. the economy. This collaboration exemplifies the power of LUBF has intensified working together its programme towards a common of action goal and and has recently sets a benchmark engaged for corporate many relevant contributions to stakeholders. community The objective upliftment. is to assist SMMEs to gain access to Covid-19 relief programmes and A future of promise access business opportunities. Reflecting on the past three years, we are filled Intervention with is vital pride for and the optimism. survival of The businesses LUBF has made but it is also significant true that the strides new in economy unifying presents the business opportunities community, for small advocating businesses for to their create interests new and jobs and maintain driving economic current ones. growth. We have seen the LUBF’s role transformative is therefore power to ensure of collaboration, access to inclusive available programmes leadership and and strategic assist entrepreneurs partnerships. to Looking ahead, we are excited about the take their space in the new normal of digitisation, future. We remain committed to our mission, innovation and manufacturing. inspired by our progress and ready to tackle new The leadership challenges remain and committed opportunities. to uniting Together, the we will voice of business. continue ■ building a prosperous and inclusive economic landscape. The LUBF often holds seminars which are well attended by the local business community. Gratitude and recognition We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our stakeholders, partners and members who have supported us. Your dedication, trust and collaboration have been the foundation of our achievements. To our women leaders, your strength and vision are a beacon of hope and inspiration. To corporate partners like Old Mutual and Seedi Capital, your commitment has been instrumental in shaping a better future for our business community. Special recognition goes to our management committee members: Lesego Tshivhula (Secretary General), Joseph Mathebula (Treasurer General), Timothy Marobane (Deputy President) and Lerato Sekgobela (Deputy Secretary General). Additionally, we appreciate the invaluable contributions of our administrators, Abram Luruli and Ananda Thaba. In unity, we find strength. In collaboration, we find success. The Limpopo United Business Forum is more than an organisation; it is a movement, a family and a catalyst for change. Together, we will continue to forge a path of prosperity, empowerment and unity for all. ■ Contact details Address: 1st CONTACT Flr, Terminal DETAILS Bldg, Polokwane Airport, Gateway Drive, Tel: +27 Polokwane (79) 799 6109Tel: +27 15 296 0654 Administrator: Abram Luruli Administrator: Abram Luruli Cell: 084 451 9923 Email: Lubfreception@gmail.com Cell: 084 451 9923 Email: Lubfreception@gmail.com Facebook: Limpopo United Business Forum-LUBF
