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IOL News
8 hours ago
- Business
- IOL News
The learning board: continuous education as a governance imperative
The pace of change in technology, climate governance, geopolitical tensions, stakeholder expectations, and regulatory shifts demands more than static knowledge. It calls for a governance mindset that embraces learning as a strategic necessity. Image: AI Lab Nqobani Mzizi In today's dynamic environment, a board's effectiveness is measured not just by what its members know, but by how deliberately they continue to learn. Directors may be appointed for their experience, but without renewal, that experience quickly becomes outdated. Yet in many organisations, director education is reduced to a box-ticking exercise, limited to induction packs, technical updates or ad hoc compliance briefings. This is governance at its most passive. In truth, boards should embody the traits of a learning organisation: adaptive, inquisitive, self-aware and committed to continuous renewal. An informed board acknowledges that its fiduciary duties exist in a world of fast-moving risks and opportunities. The pace of change in technology, climate governance, geopolitical tensions, stakeholder expectations, and regulatory shifts demands more than static knowledge. It calls for a governance mindset that embraces learning as a strategic necessity. The proof is stark: a 2023 PwC South Africa Director Survey revealed that 68% of South African directors admit their boards are outmatched by technological disruption, yet a mere 31% invest in formal upskilling. Directors cannot rely solely on legacy knowledge or past achievements. The role has evolved, and so must those who occupy it. In 2022, boards spent less than 5% of their time discussing climate risks. The KZN floods that year cost R50 billion. The gap between governance and reality is unsustainable. Boards that fail to learn, fail to lead. The concept of a learning organisation, popularised by Peter Senge, rests on disciplines such as systems thinking, personal mastery, mental models and team learning. These principles are equally applicable to governance. Boards that model intellectual agility are better positioned to anticipate risk, adapt to change and shape resilient organisations. They do not wait for a crisis to revisit assumptions. They engage proactively, ask difficult questions and challenge entrenched thinking. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Yet becoming a board committed to continuous renewal does not happen by accident. It requires deliberate investment. Formal director development programmes are one part of the equation, but not the whole. Ongoing capacity building must be embedded into board culture and processes. It includes reflections after key decisions, cross-committee peer learning, exposure to external perspectives and periodic assessments of knowledge gaps. It also includes openness to uncomfortable truths, recognising when the board lacks diversity of thought or when market and strategy assumptions are no longer fit for purpose. One of the clearest signals of a board's commitment to growth is how it allocates time. Agendas dominated by compliance reviews and operational reports leave little space for strategic thinking or capacity building. A forward-looking board agenda should reserve time for horizon scanning, scenario planning and trend deep dives, from generative AI and cybersecurity to climate disclosures, social unrest and institutional reputation. The question is not whether these issues are important, but whether the board is equipped to govern them well. Governance frameworks codify this imperative. King IV in South Africa explicitly underscores the need for ongoing director development as integral to ethical and effective leadership. Principle 1 highlights the responsibility of the board to lead with competence and awareness, while Principle 7 calls on governing bodies to ensure that their composition, skills, experience and capacity align with the organisation's needs. Continuous learning is, therefore, not an optional extra, but a governance requirement rooted in accountability and future fitness. Importantly, this learning orientation must go beyond individual directors. It must shape the board as a collective. The best boards are not echo chambers of technical expertise, but dynamic forums of inquiry. They welcome diverse viewpoints, interrogate blind spots and evolve with the organisation they serve. Adaptive boards are also better stewards of succession, identifying gaps and mentoring future leaders with clarity and foresight. They understand that board continuity is not just about filling seats but about transferring wisdom. Some companies have introduced directors' retreats, not as ceremonial off-sites, but as serious opportunities for immersive engagement with new ideas. Others rotate committee chairs to foster cross-learning and reduce siloed thinking. A growing number of boards are also creating advisory panels with academics, technologists or emerging market experts who present independent insights and challenge institutional orthodoxy. Boards that operate as communities of growth also tend to approach self-evaluation differently. Rather than relying on template-based questionnaires, they view assessments as opportunities to identify development areas, improve dynamics and deepen collective performance. The value lies not only in the review itself, but in the courage to act on its findings. In an age of complexity and disruption, the evolving board is not a luxury. It is a governance necessity. It strengthens oversight not only through technical competence, but through curiosity, humility and responsiveness. It builds institutional capacity not merely to react, but to adapt and regenerate in the face of change. To lead well in this environment is to remain teachable. An adaptive board recognises that effective governance is not about knowing everything, but about cultivating a posture of inquiry, one that seeks out what matters most before the next disruption makes it urgent. Board effectiveness demands self-examination. Boards must ask: Are we building knowledge renewal into our board agenda, or treating it as an after thought? Do our development efforts build strategic agility, or simply refresh technical compliance? Are we actively drawing on diverse, independent perspectives to challenge blindspots? If our approach to knowledge renewal were visible to stakeholders, would it inspire confidence or concern? Ultimately, a board's legacy will rest not on its past expertise, but on the learning culture it fostered and how well it prepared the organisation for the future. Nqobani Mzizi is a Professional Accountant (SA), (IoDSA) and an Academic. Image: Supplied * Nqobani Mzizi is a Professional Accountant (SA), (IoDSA) and an Academic. ** The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL or Independent Media. BUSINESS REPORT
The Citizen
12 hours ago
- Business
- The Citizen
Retired Cape Town mom to buy daughter a car after claiming Lotto millions
'I want to enjoy my retirement fully now. No stress, just peace. That's my dream.' The winner of the Lotto draw from Saturday, 26 July 2025, has claimed her R30 211 138.30 jackpot. She purchased her winning ticket at a retail store in Cape Town with R80 and manually selected her lucky numbers. 'Retirement blessing' The winner, who just went into retirement, described her win as a 'retirement blessing' 'I still can't believe it. I keep looking at the numbers and thinking, 'is this really happening to me?'' she said. She expressed how she has been supporting her two daughters financially. She said that her biggest worry has been her youngest daughter's daily commute to work. 'She uses e-hailing every day because she doesn't have a car, and I worry about her safety constantly. Now, the first thing I'm doing is buying her a car. That will give me so much peace of mind,' she said. Charmaine Mabuza, CEO of Ithuba, congratulated the winner. 'We are thrilled that the winner wasted no time in claiming her winnings! To learn that she will finally be able to gift her daughter with a car that will help ensure a safer commute to work is heart-warming and will surely ease her anxiety,' said Mabuza. Beyond providing for her family, the Lotto winner plans to invest the bulk of her winnings and embrace a well-earned rest. 'I want to enjoy my retirement fully now. No stress, just peace. That's my dream.' ALSO READ: Have you checked your Lotto ticket? R30 million has been won What happens after winning? All Lotto winners receive an SMS from their banks containing a reference number and further instructions regarding what documents to take along when visiting the lottery operator, Ithuba. If a player wins less than R250 000, the money will be deposited directly into their account if they used a banking app to play. Players who win more than R250 000 will be referred to the Ithuba for a payout. Winners of more than R50,000 receive free financial and trauma counselling. All winnings are tax-free.
The South African
a day ago
- Entertainment
- The South African
Gayton McKenzie says LIV Golf South Africa early bird tickets selling FAST
LIV Golf over the weekend confirmed that Steyn City in Johannesburg will host the first-ever LIV Golf South Africa event from 20-22 March 2026. A multi-year commitment, the announcement represents a landmark moment for the league as it expands to the African continent for the first time, extending LIV Golf competition to five continents across the globe. Early bird tickets for LIV Golf South Africa are now available for purchase HERE, including a select number of Club 54 Hospitality Tickets and three-day Ground Passes to enjoy a festival of world-class golf, live music, and family-friendly experiences. A three-day early bird Ground Pass will cost you R2 193.17 down from R2 436.86, while Club 54 Hospitality Tickets will set you back R50 443.20. Free admission for children 12 and under. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult. Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has announced that tickets are selling fast. So fast in fact that over 10 200 were snapped up in the first 24 hours. The tournament will spotlight Stinger GC, the league's all-South African team, captained by 2010 Open champion Louis Oosthuizen and featuring fellow countrymen Dean Burmester, Branden Grace, and 2011 Masters champion, Charl Schwartzel. The team is expected to enjoy strong home support in March, as they compete for both individual and team titles in a field of 54 of the world's best players across three days in front of passionate local fans. In addition to home team Stinger GC, they'll be joined by a host of international stars including current 2025 season points leader Joaquin Niemann (Torque GC), Bryson DeChambeau (Crushers GC), Brooks Koepka (Smash GC), Phil Mickelson (HyFlyers GC), Jon Rahm (Legion XIII), Sergio Garcia (Fireballs GC), Cameron Smith (Ripper GC), Dustin Johnson (4Aces GC), and many more. The LIV Golf field is comprised of 18 major champions with a combined 28 major championships, bringing many of the sport's biggest stars to South Africa. The Club at Steyn City, located just north of Johannesburg, is known globally for its prestigious championship golf course designed by Nicklaus Design. With sweeping fairways, dramatic scenery, and a legacy of hosting professional tournaments, the course will provide the perfect setting for LIV Golf's debut in Africa and an exciting venue for broadcasters to showcase around the world. Post-play concerts and engaging fan experiences have become hallmark features of LIV Golf events, creating a unique festival atmosphere at every international stop. South Africa will be no exception, with marquee music entertainment to be announced in the event leadup. 'Bringing LIV Golf to South Africa is another significant moment in our journey,' said Ross Hallett, LIV Golf Executive Vice President, Head of Events. 'The country has a proud sporting heritage with passionate fans and world-class talent, and Steyn City will be an incredible host venue to celebrate this next chapter. We currently have events in Asia, Europe, Australasia, North America and today we add Africa, marking another exciting opportunity to showcase LIV Golf to a new audience and market. 'Our league is committed to driving the sport forward through competition, an innovative format, new investment opportunities, and collaborative partnerships that support progress throughout the communities we serve. We are incredibly grateful to have the support of the South African government and especially the Minister for Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie. Together, I know we will deliver a truly unforgettable experience to fans in Johannesburg, drive economic impact and tourism in the region, and showcase all that South Africa has to offer.' 'It's always special to compete at home, and I'm incredibly proud to bring LIV Golf to South Africa for the first time,' said Oosthuizen, captain of Stinger GC. 'For Branden, Charl, Dean and I to play in front of our fans, friends, and families will be an unforgettable experience. 'South African sports fans love their golf, and I am sure they will turn out in large numbers to support Stinger GC. South Africa has given so much to us, and now we get to give something back.' 'We are enormously proud to showcase Johannesburg and South Africa on the global stage, with our world-class lifestyle estate and golf course as shining examples of local excellence,' said Steven Louw, CEO of Steyn City Properties. 'We look forward to partnering with LIV Golf, Gauteng government and other stakeholders to share our country's exceptional golfing experience with the world, and to play a role in advancing the sport we are so passionate about.' 'This is a special moment to announce that the world's most dynamic and innovative new golfing format will make its historic debut in South Africa,' said Gayton McKenzie, South Africa's Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture. 'This will be a proud moment for our nation, showcasing our vibrant sports culture and world-class hospitality to a global audience. 'The all-South African Stinger GC team is also testament to our country's rich golfing heritage, and we need to get behind our boys as a country when they are here, so that they can win their nation's inaugural tournament. 'Visitors will truly feel that they are in Africa, with access to a Big 5 reserve with lions and elephants – Dinokeng – less than an hour's drive from Steyn City. No LIV event will be anything like this one and we are confident that the world's golf lovers will make travelling to ours, the world's most beautiful country, a must-do trip on their calendar. 'LIV will also help to popularise golf in South Africa, and I also look forward to using the big concerts each day as a platform to show off our amazing home-grown, internationally competitive entertainment. We take our hats off to LIV as an organisation for heeding the call to include Africa on their calendar if they wish to call themselves a truly global brand. This is what we want to see for other sports too, from Formula One to the Summer Olympics. 'We are excited to work with LIV Golf's team to deliver a festival of sport and culture that will inspire fans, boost tourism, and create lasting opportunities for our communities, because LIV has committed to reinvesting into the countries that welcome them.' More details on additional hospitality packages, grounds passes and entertainment for LIV Golf South Africa will be unveiled soon. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The Citizen
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Barnstormers Model Air Show set to thrill aviation fans on July 27
Barnstormers Model Air Show set to thrill aviation fans on July 27 A thrilling day of aviation excitement awaits at the Barnstormers Model Flying Club Air Show on July 27. This event is a must for aviation enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking for high-flying fun. Gates open at 08:00, with flying displays starting at 09:00. Spectators can enjoy an action-packed program featuring jets, warbirds, helicopters, home-built aircraft, and much more. ALSO READ: Don't miss the airshow by Barnstormers Model Flying Club today In addition to the flying thrills, visitors can explore a variety of food stalls, hobby exhibits, and a festive atmosphere suitable for all ages. Entry fees are R100 per vehicle, R50 per motorcycle, and R300 per bus. The event will be held at the Barnstormers airfield. All are welcome. For more information, visit or call 084 367 8090.
IOL News
2 days ago
- Sport
- IOL News
BT Academy coaches resign after Spain fiasco
BT Academy coaches Jesse Julius, Clayton Levendal, Keeno Damons and Jayvin Chrisholm have resigned after their harrowing experience being stranded in Spain without return flight tickets. Image: Facebook The soccer coaches of BT Academy, who were praised for their performance at a tournament in Spain and for supporting the players after they were left stranded without return flights, have officially resigned from the academy. A group of 38, including an under-14 team, an under-19 team, and a girls team, travelled to Spain to participate in the Donosti Cup 2025. The teams performed well and the trip went smoothly, until the final day. When it was time to return home, they discovered that their return flights had not been booked by the organisers, despite each person having paid R50 000 for what was meant to be an all-expenses-paid trip. In a statement reflecting on the ordeal, the four coaches wrote: 'To Brandon Timmy: we are nothing like you. You tried to break us. You failed to pay us. You abandoned us. But in the end, all you did was bring us closer together. We are coaches with integrity, honour, principles, and honesty. The very things you lack. "The brotherhood you tried to destroy is now stronger than ever: an unshakable force of unity forged through adversity. We won the hearts of the nation not through deception or silence, but through our courage to do what you didn't have the backbone to do - stand up, speak out, and protect the children and families you left behind. 'We are emotionally scarred, yes, but we are not broken. And we will not fail the children, the parents, or the people who believed in us, the way you failed them all.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ The coaches also thanked everyone who helped bring them home. 'We write to you as the coaches of the former BT Academy, not just to thank you, but to honour the nation that stood up when Brandon Timmy turned away. When we were left stranded in a foreign country, abandoned, unpaid, and emotionally broken, it wasn't Brandon Timmy that came to our rescue. It was you. The people of South Africa, and even strangers from across the globe, who opened their hearts, their hands, and their homes to bring us back. "From those who gave despite having little, to those who sent messages of hope and solidarity every day. You carried us when we were at our lowest. Because of the generous, fearless spirit of South Africans and our global allies, we rise, not with anger, but with resolve, dignity, and truth. This is not the end.' Soccer coach Keeno Damons, who had been with BT Academy for three years, confirmed they had all resigned and submitted formal resignation letters. 'You can't work for someone you can't trust. The fact that he did what he did to all of us, the coaches, the players and the parents. Reality is kicking in for me. Brandon, Jayvin and I had a good relationship. To just throw that away is not easy for me. I have so many questions. What was going through his mind when he did this? It's heartbreaking. I feel betrayed,' he said. The sister of one of the coaches who was allegedly dismissed by BT Academy while in Portugal for speaking out about what was happening, said he is still owed over R70 000. 'It all started when they landed in Spain, there was no transport. They were stuck at the airport for a while. Jesse found transport to take them to the (accommodation); he paid R70 000 and BT paid R40 000,' she said. She added that, along with the other coaches, her brother had also contributed towards food for the group, but he was yet to be reimbursed. 'I tried my best to keep them in good spirits. I'm ecstatic that he is back, these past few days felt like months. It still feels so unreal.' BT Academy did not respond to requests for comment by deadline. Cape Times
