The Inhlanyelo Hub board of directors, advisory board, and team members (Photo supplied by Nomsa Nkabinde)
Taking place on 4 and 5 September 2024, the Inhlanyelo Hub’s Strategic Planning Workshop was a pivotal event designed to steer the organisation toward its 2025 objectives. This gathering of the boards of directors, advisory board members, managers, and support staff from Inhlanyelo Hub Non-Profit Company (NPC) and Inhlanyelo Hub Investments (Pty) Ltd was instrumental in shaping a clear path for future success and sustainability.
The workshop began with a welcome from Professor Mathukhu Mogale, Chair of the Inhlanyelo Hub NPC Board of Directors, who set the tone for the event by outlining the day's objectives and agenda. Professor Raphael Mpofu, CEO of Inhlanyelo Hub, followed with an inspiring address, emphasising the workshop’s critical role in aligning strategic priorities, fostering innovation, and developing actionable plans for achieving their 2025 goals.
Day 1 highlights:
- Fireside Chat on Leveraging Technology for Financial Sustainability: Presented by Phindile Ranuga and moderated by Dylan Piatti, the chat explored the role of modern technology in driving financial sustainability and business success. The discussion delved into how Inhlanyelo Hub Investments (Pty) Ltd can integrate tech-driven solutions to meet business objectives while contributing to the financial resilience of Inhlanyelo Hub NPC.
- Presentation on Inhlanyelo Connect: Phindile Ranuga discussed how this forward-thinking initiative leverages technology to foster entrepreneurship, accelerate innovation, and build a sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem.
- Empowering Entrepreneurs with the Inhlanyelo DigiFranchise Platform: Mpho Sedibe highlighted the impact of this digitised franchising model, demonstrating its potential to empower new ventures, provide scalable opportunities, and enhance entrepreneurial success across sectors.
- Driving eCommerce Growth in Africa: Dylan Piatti led a session on strategic leadership, emphasising the opportunities for regional and continental eCommerce expansion. The conversation centered on positioning Inhlanyelo Hub as a leader in supporting African businesses to thrive in the digital economy.
The day concluded with a breakaway session where participants identified and prioritised key strategies for 2025. These priorities were integrated into a cohesive strategic framework, setting a strong foundation for action in the year ahead.
Day 2 highlights:
- Day two shifted focus toward aligning the strategic objectives of Inhlanyelo Hub NPC with those of Inhlanyelo Hub Investments (Pty) Ltd.
- Dr Tapiwa Muzata presented an in-depth session on achievements and challenges in the Hub’s journey thus far. He highlighted key milestones, including the success of recent programmes and partnerships, while also addressing challenges such as navigating funding constraints and scaling operations. Muzata underscored the importance of data-driven decision-making and resilience in overcoming hurdles, which will be crucial for achieving the Hub's 2025 goals. His thoughtful reflections served as a catalyst for the following strategic discussions.
- This was followed by a strategic plan review led by Professor Raphael Mpofu, where the team reflected on the roadmap for the next year, ensuring alignment with the broader mission and vision. Brennan Williams then presented the strategic roadmap, outlining key milestones, actionable goals, and the ambitious targets for 2025.
The workshop concluded with a collective commitment to innovation and collaboration, ensuring that all departments are unified in their approach toward sustainable growth and impactful outcomes. The strategic planning workshop was a crucial step toward ensuring that both Inhlanyelo Hub NPC and Inhlanyelo Hub Investments (Pty) Ltd are equipped to navigate future challenges and seize emerging opportunities, paving the way for long-term success.
Click here for more information on Inhlanyelo Hub and its programmes
* Submitted by Inhlanyelo Hub