Latest news with #WitsBusinessSchool
Mail & Guardian
3 days ago
- Business
- Mail & Guardian
Strategy, storytelling and digital transformation – Business education to bridge creativity and commerce
Gugulethu Tshimanga is pursuing a Master's Degree in Digital Business to bridge her communications expertise with digital transformation, innovation and business strategy. For Gugulethu Tshimanga, returning to university wasn't about perfect timing — it was about purpose. As the senior regional social media specialist for EMEA at Infobip, a global communications platform, she leads social media strategy across multiple markets. 'I'm a curious thinker, a collaborative leader and someone who genuinely values authenticity and meaningful connection,' she says. With more than a decade of experience in marketing and communications, Tshimanga has carved out a niche at the intersection of digital strategy, brand storytelling and innovation. In 2020, she completed her honours in Communication Theory at the University of Johannesburg, focusing on new media's transformative role in modern communication. Now enrolled in the master's in Digital Business at Wits Business School, she is building on her foundation in communications by expanding into innovation and strategic business thinking. 'I wanted to bridge my communications expertise with a solid understanding of digital transformation, innovation and business strategy.' Creating the moment 'I was ready to stretch beyond my comfort zone and invest in my long-term vision,' Tshimanga says of her decision to return to study. 'There is honestly no right time. Life doesn't pause. But my desire to grow outweighed my fear. That was my signal.' In a world increasingly shaped by automation, analytics and artificial intelligence, Tshimanga felt a responsibility to stay ahead of the curve. 'It was critical to equip myself with future-facing skills that blend creativity and commerce so that I can continue to lead with insight and drive digital growth in spaces where technology, people and purpose intersect.' She says the programme has expanded her toolkit and her mindset. Exposure to concepts like agile leadership and customer-centric design has deepened her ability to think strategically and act decisively. 'What's been most impactful is learning to connect strategic thinking with real-world application, which has enhanced my ability to lead teams, advise cross-functional stakeholders and make informed decisions rooted in both creativity and commercial insight.' A collaborative mindset Learning hasn't been limited to the classroom. Tshimanga says her fellow students — professionals from a wide range of industries — have played a critical role in her growth. 'Whether it's sharing insights on market trends, exploring joint ventures, or simply having a strong support system of ambitious individuals, the network I am cultivating will continue to grow with me throughout my career.' That spirit of collaboration has also transformed her leadership approach. She is passionate about building 'learning organisations' that embed innovation and knowledge-sharing into company culture. 'Effective leadership goes beyond directing tasks and involves inspiring teams, fostering collaboration and cultivating a culture of continuous learning and innovation,' she says. 'When people feel their ideas matter, they take ownership. That's when real creativity and collaboration thrive.' Leading with empathy She believes active listening and emotional intelligence are essential, especially in dynamic, cross-cultural teams where clear communication makes all the difference. 'Understanding diverse perspectives and motivations helps build trust and empowers individuals to contribute their best.' But the journey hasn't been without challenges. 'During the first few weeks of my qualification, I struggled with imposter syndrome and doubted my abilities,' she admits. 'I spoke openly about these feelings and practised self-affirmations, and before I knew it, I was thriving.' Balancing study, work and parenting has required discipline. 'There have been late nights, early mornings and missed family moments,' she says. 'But I've built routines, leaned on my support system, and kept my eyes on the bigger picture.' A future-ready leader That bigger picture? A leadership style rooted in authenticity, adaptability and shared success. 'It's been demanding, but also incredibly rewarding.' Her advice to others considering postgraduate study is clear: 'Approach your studies with a clear purpose and realistic expectations. Think temporary sacrifice for long-term rewards. And remember to stay connected to your support systems — they'll help you carry the weight.' And for those still on the fence? 'Growth begins the moment you choose courage over comfort.'
The South African
08-05-2025
- Business
- The South African
South Africa's gas supply crisis threatens 70 000 jobs
The African Energy Leadership Centre at Wits Business School, in collaboration with IGUA-SA, convened a symposium on 7 May to address the looming gas crisis. This crisis threatens 70,000 jobs and a significant portion of the country's GDP. According to BusinessTech, the crisis stems from declining natural gas production from Mozambique's Pande and Temane fields. Which currently supply most of South Africa's gas needs through an 850 km pipeline. Sasol, which operates these fields, has warned that production could drop significantly by 2026, creating a severe supply shortfall. Professor David Phaho, director of the African Energy Leadership Centre, warned of a looming 'gas cliff' that could wipe out more than 70 000 direct and indirect jobs. These jobs span sectors like manufacturing, petrochemicals, steel, and transport industries that rely heavily on gas for operations and cannot easily switch to alternatives. 'These sectors contribute between R300 billion and R500 billion to the economy each year—around 5% of South Africa's GDP,' Phaho said. According to Engineering News, Electricity and Energy Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has also warned that South Africa is heading toward a 'gas cliff,' and failure to act could trigger serious economic consequences. 'The gas cliff is not a distant event. It is imminent. But it is not inevitable. We have the analytical tools, institutional memory and public-private platforms to act,' Ramokgopa said. As an immediate measure, Phaho suggested importing liquefied natural gas (LNG) via ports such as Richards Bay, Durban, and Maputo to maintain supply. In the long term, he called for investment in regional exploration, pointing to discoveries in Namibia's Orange Basin. 'There's an opportunity for regional collaboration to ensure long-term energy security,' Phaho noted. Adding that Mozambique still holds the third-largest gas reserves in Africa. The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy is working on a Natural Gas Master Plan, and Sasol has pledged to extend current operations to mid-2027. However, business leaders warn that progress must be faster. Ensuring energy security will require clear policy frameworks, timely approvals, and efforts to aggregate LNG demand. 'The symposium was not just about recognising the problem—it was about gathering all stakeholders to craft a unified response,' Phaho said. A proposed 25-year 'gas pact' is now in development, aiming to guide investment and planning for the decades ahead. 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.
