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DISCLAIMER | EmpowaMen fosters open dialogue on issues impacting men, encouraging diverse perspectives in respectful conversation. Opinions expressed belong solely to participants and don’t reflect platform views. We acknowledge the complexities of men’s experiences and delve deeper into the root causes of harmful expectations surrounding masculinity. Our aim is to empower men to share their challenges and contribute to positive societal change, not to attack feminist movements or gender equality.

Empowamen is a platform that enables frank and honest conversations with men so that they can explore and discuss the issues facing them in today’s world, with a focus on bringing about change

partnership and exhibition opportunities

Elevate your brand, engage with influential male audiences. Partner with Empowamen to reach your marketing goals. Contact Kirsten at kirsten@empowaworx.co.za or call (011) 482-7256 to explore partnership packages and connect with 3,500 men of influence

International Men’s Day Summit Speakers.

Professor Shingai Mutambirwa

Professor Shingai Mutambirwa

Head of Department of Urology, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)

Prof. Shingai Mutambirwa, a distinguished urologist, heads the Department of Urology at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital and Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University in South Africa. He’s a founding member of the Prostate Cancer Foundation and leads various academic committees. With over 80 peer-reviewed articles and numerous memberships, he’s a prominent figure in urological research and academia.

Billy Selekane

Billy Selekane

Internationally Acclaimed Inspirational Keynote Speaker

Billy Selekane, a bestselling author and renowned inspirational keynote speaker, specializes in personal, team, and organizational effectiveness. As the Executive Chairman of Billy Selekane International, his influence spans across continents including Australia, Middle East, and the USA. Past President of PSASA, he’s a leading figure in professional speaking, passionate about inspiring human excellence.

Simphiwe Masiza

Simphiwe Masiza

Founder and Executive Producer: Empowamen

Mr Simphiwe Masiza is an accomplished entrepreneur, distinguished business leader, and the Chief Executive Officer of Empowaworx Group. Holding qualifications from WITS and GIBS, among other esteemed institutions, Masiza is proficient in project management, strategy, organizational development, organizational management, event management, reputation management, business management, governance, and executive leadership. As the founder and dedicated leader of Empowaworx, he is deeply passionate about driving the organization’s success.

Paul Nzimande

Paul Nzimande

Life Coach

A highly adaptable leader, previously with Ithala Limited from 2006 to 2014, held various senior and executive roles, successfully establishing and transforming departments within budget constraints. Notably, he served as Divisional Manager of Marketing, overseeing brand strategy, budgets, and staff. A champion of brand integrity, he advocates for purpose-driven brands, contributing to both business and community boards. Currently Deputy Chairperson of Umlazi Township Tourism, he actively promotes sustainable tourism. With a BA degree from the University of Zululand, he’s a vocal advocate on social media, radio, and co-authored a book with a motivational speaker. His debut book is forthcoming.

Thabo Motloung

Thabo Motloung

Lawyer and Business Leader
Timothy Maurice Webster

Timothy Maurice Webster

Behavioural Psychology Author. Podcaster- Brain and Brand

Bestselling Author of 4 Human and Brand behavior books and host of The Brain and Brand Show podcast for 6 years, ranked in top 20 in 17 Countries. He was a personal
leadership columnist for 10 years in the Business Report and hosted a TV show for CNBC Africa interviewing Africa’s Leading Female Executives for 3 years. Known as the CEO Whisperer for helping Csuite executives position themselves and publish their leadership vision. Timothy’s consults and advises executives, offering training for professionals seeking to grow their leadership in fluence by understanding how to apply Neuroscience and Behavioral Science research and insights to complex human leadership dilemmas. He thrives working with executives to grow influence between in-groups and out-groups, personal presence positioning in diverse, disruptive environments, solving the inclusion and gender problem with a counter-intuitive approach, demonstrating a quirk in the brain enabling executives to rally teams with the
unifying signature of brain science, all done with a delightful touch. Timothy strategically executes media delivery such as podcasts and video for executives with a proactive design approach, enabling leaders to reach their personal influence and legacy goals using creative behavioral science principles.

Dr David Molapo

Dr David Molapo

CEO & Founder: I Can Leadership Institute Africa; I CAN 4IR
Muzi Kuzwayo

Muzi Kuzwayo

Director, South Africa's Promise

Muzi Kuzwayo is the founder of Ignitive, the former CEO of TBWAHuntLascaris, a leading advertising agency, non-executive director of Spur Holdings and chairman of Project Literacy, an organisation dedicated to promoting literacy in South Africa. Muzi was also a director and shareholder of King James, an advertising agency, as well as a director of the Association of Communication Agencies, an industry body that represents advertising and communication agencies.

Muzi is a visiting professor at UCT’s Graduate School of Business and author of the best-selling books Marketing through Mud and Dust and There’s a Tsotsi in the Boardroom, and was a columnist for the newspapers The Saturday Star and The Argus, commenting on advertising and marketing. Six years ago he bought two Pick ‘n Pay franchise stores which he ran personally, giving him a complete understanding of building brands right through to retail. He also has extensive knowledge of the South African work force and the ability to align the interests of workers with those of shareholders.

Leslie Sedibe

Leslie Sedibe

CEO, Leslie Sedibe Inc. Attorneys
Tumisho Masha

Tumisho Masha

Veteran Actor
Lerato Makhetha

Lerato Makhetha

TV Presenter

Lerato Makhetha is a Chief Of Staff who has experience in various media platforms since 2004.

Lerato Makhetha is a distinguished South African artist, renowned for his multifaceted talents as a film and stage actor, music and television producer. Widely recognized for his compelling portrayal
of Ntando Sibeko on the acclaimed SABC 3 Soapie, Isidingo, Lerato has garnered acclaim both locally and internationally for his contributions to the arts and entertainment industry.

Born in the vibrant township of Soweto and honing his skills in the cultural melting pot of New York before returning to Johannesburg, Lerato’s artistic journey began early in life. At the age of 10, he
secured a coveted spot at the esteemed Drakensberg Boys’ Choir School, where he received rigorous classical training in piano and vocal performance, laying the foundation for his future success.

Continuing his artistic education at the National School of the Arts (NSA), Lerato delved into popular music, showcasing his talents in lead roles in notable musicals. His passion and dedication to music, film, and television blossomed during this period, setting the stage for a dynamic career ahead.

With over two decades of experience in the music industry, Lerato has evolved into a seasoned pianist, music producer, and collaborator with renowned artists such as HHP, Tuks Sengaga, JR, Unathi Msengana, and Kabomo. His musical journey culminated in the formation of the duo group Throwback, signing with Universal Music and earning accolades for their innovative sound.

Tebogo Edward Lerole

Tebogo Edward Lerole

Chairman, Act Now
Dr Mzamo Masito

Dr Mzamo Masito

Chief Opportunity Officer & Founder - African Men Care NPC
Dr Pepe Marais

Dr Pepe Marais

Co- founder & Group Chief Creative Officer, Joe Public
Nigel Jeche

Nigel Jeche

Chairperson, World Changers Mental Health Care Organization
Zenzele Shabalala

Zenzele Shabalala

DJ and Producer
Michael Benevolent Masina

Michael Benevolent Masina

Senior Intervention Specialist; Tears Foundation

Launched in 2019, EmpowaMen has become an important platform for men to share and confront the issues they face in today’s world – from ‘men are trash’ to perfection pressure.

With an audience of over 400 men, all with influence in their diverse industry sectors and communities, it was clear that EmpowaMen is a vital and much-needed platform.

During the national lockdown due to COVID-19, EmpowaMen created and hosted numerous digital conversations that were exceptionally well-attended – via Zoom as well as social media platforms.

With smaller gathering throughout the years, the EmpowaMen Annual Summit in February 2023 was a resounding success, with over 2,000 men and over 30 exceptional speakers; the prevailing feedback was that these types of conversations needed to continue.

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Empowamen Annual Summit 2023

We asked, ‘how can we bring about lasting and positive change in both men’s perception and their actions?’

The answer lies in open and extensive dialogue – a dedicated conversation that resonates far and wide.

The term redefining lends itself to a process – EmpowaMen is a platform that enables frank and honest conversations with men so that they can explore and discuss the issues facing them in today’s world, with a focus on bringing about change.

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Empowamen Annual Summit 2023

Issues impacting society are systemic – EmpowaMen conversations address numerous social issues through the lens of different aspects of life

our purpose

Together, we can forge a path towards a more inclusive and harmonious future.

community

Shifting the narrative from blame to collaboration, inviting men to actively contribute to sustainable solutions in tackling the social challenge of equality.

tools

Equipping men to transcend stereotypes and break free from the confines of the status quo, enabling them to embrace holistic greatness and embody their fullest potential.

fire

Igniting a fire within men to champion noble causes, boldly defend righteous ideals, and fearlessly embrace the multifaceted essence of manhood without reservation.

tools

Creating an inclusive platform that dares every individual identifying as male, regardless of their position in life, sexual preference, stature, or nature, to become proactive change agents within their homes, workplaces, and communities.

our speakers last year

Below you’ll see some our exceptional speakers from the 2023 EmpowaMen Annual Summit – you’ll quickly realise that each of our speakers, whose input was fundamentally impactful, can easily command a stage on their own. But they chose to participate in conversations to ensure each discussion was comprehensive and deep.

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By talking about it relentlessly, we can unravel the complexities, challenge stereotypes, and pave the way for men to embrace a holistic masculinity that meets the demands of the 21st century and contributes to a truly egalitarian society.

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themes

There are nine key focus areas that effectively address the redefinition of modern masculinity

family

MAN & FAMILY

In this focus area we explore how the role of men has changed and the importance of healthy relationships with partners and children, as well as taking responsibility for their part in the whole, by embracing holistic masculinity.

identity

MAN & IDENTITY

This focus area explores the concept of identity and how man’s perception of self shapes the man he becomes and his contribution to society.

health

MAN & HEALTH

Opening up dialogue about issues that affect men and why is an important part of holistic masculinity. We equip and empower men to take charge of their health in totality – physically and mentally.

wealth

MAN & WEALTH

This focus area explores wealth creation, entrepreneurship, business and other factors that contribute to financial stability.

spirituality

MAN & SPIRITUALITY

Awakening a consciousness of a reality beyond one’s immediate experience opens up a space for greater possibility; no matter how this consciousness is perceived or felt, it assists the holistic man in responding positively to the internal and external environments of his world.

violence

MAN & VIOLENCE

This focus areal explores ways in which man can understand and champion the crusade against violence in general, and GBV in particular.

MAN & THE LGBTQI COMMUNITY

MAN & THE LGBTQI COMMUNITY

This focus area provides insight into this integral yet marginalised part of society and aims to destigmatise LGBTQI people, leading towards a non-prejudicial attitude towards people based on their sexual orientation.

substance

MAN & SUBSTANCE ABUSE

This focus area explores the phenomenon and looks at ways in which men can stand together to create a society where alcohol and substance abuse is, if not eradicated, at least frowned upon and controlled.

future

MAN & THE FUTURE

In this focus area we look to the future and ways in which men who embrace and embody holistic masculinity can be agile and equipped to manage and positively respond to change.

disclaimer

EmpowaMen is a platform that fosters open dialogue and discussion on various issues affecting men and their environments. The opinions and statements expressed by participants in EmpowaMen discussions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of the platform. EmpowaMen is committed to providing a space for diverse perspectives and encourages constructive conversations that delve into the complexities of men’s experiences. Participants are encouraged to express their views responsibly and respectfully, acknowledging the diversity of opinions within the community.

programme

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Facilitator |
Sechaba Motsieloa – Co-founder EmpowaMen

Program Director |
Milton NkosiFormer BBC News Africa Bureaux Chief & Correspondent The Speaker’s Firm

MAIN STAGE

08:15 – 08:30 Welcome address |
Simphiwe Masiza, Co-founder EmpowaMen

08:30 – 08:45 Opening address |
Sponsor

08:45 – 09:15 Keynote Address |
Dr John Kani, Veteran Actor

09:15 – 10:15 Panel Discussion | Gender Based Violence
Facilitator: Lerato Makhetha – TV Presenter, One Gospel.
Bafana Khumalo – Co-Executive Director, Sonke Gender Justice.
Dr Dennis Matotoka – CEO, The Commission of Gender Equality.
Tebogo Edward Lerole – Chairman, Act Now.
Siv Ngesi – Comedian, Television Presenter, Actor, MC, Producer, Acclaimed Actor and GBV Activist.

10:15-10:45 Dialogue | Navigating the Complexities of Divorce |
Facilitator: Thabo Mdluli.
Thabo Motloung – Pupil Advocate and Business Leader, Tnt Group.
Dr David Molapo – CEO & Founder, I Can Leadership Institute Africa; I CAN 4IR.
Leslie Sedibe – CEO, Leslie Sedibe Inc. Attorneys

10:45 – 11:30 Health | Depression and Mental Health |
Facilitator: Paul Nzimande – Life Coach.
Timothy Maurice Webster – Behavioural Psychology Author, Podcaster- Brain and Brand.
Nigel Jeche – Chairperson, World Changers Mental Health Care Organization.
Zenzele Shabalala.

11:30 – 12:30 Panel Discussion | Future of a Boy Child |
Facilitator: Mr. Nkosinathi Moshoana.
Prof Bonang Mohale – Chancellor, University of the Free State.
Sizwe Nxasana – CEO & Founder, Sifiso Learning Group.
Thulani Gcabashe – Executive Chairman, Built Africa Holdings.
Sydney Mbhele – Group Chief Marketing & Corporate Affairs, Officer ABSA.

16:15 – 16:45 Closing Address  |

16:45 – 17:00 Sum Up | 

themed conversations

Delegates choose which conversation they would like to participate in.

13:30 – 14:45 Health | Sexual Health: Consent
Facilitator: Kirsten Alexander.
POWA.
Michael Benevolent Masina – Senior Intervention Specialist, Tears Foundation.

13:30 – 14:45 Health | Addiction
Facilitator: Abner Mariri – Author & Motivational Speaker.
National Gambling Board.
Dr Pepe Marais – Co- founder & Group Chief Creative Officer, Joe Public.

13:30 – 14:45 Panel Discussion | How Spirituality Impacts You as a Man
Facilitator: Felix Hlophe – Comedian; Radio Jock; Business Man, Gagasi FM.
Artist, Mbuso Khoza Institute.
Aubrey Matshiqi – Healer and Independent Political Analyst.
Apostle Kabelo Moroke – Overseer of Kairos Relationships of Churches.

13:30 – 14:45 A man’s place today
Facilitator: Eugene Khoza.
Muzi Kuzwayo – Director, South Africa’s Promise.
Tol Ass Mo – Media Personality.

masterclasses

15:00 – 16:15 Masterclass | Health | Sexual Health
Professor Shingai Mutambirwa – Head of Department of Urology, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU).
Dr Brian Monaisa – Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon.

15:00 – 16:15 Masterclass | Wealth Planning | Building a Legacy
Israel Noko – Group CEO & Founder, NPI Consulting.

15:00 – 16:15 Masterclass | Dad Rights
Tumisho Masha – Veteran Actor.
Gauteng Chief Justice, Department of Justice Gauteng.

15:00 – 16:15 Masterclass | Wealth | Man and identity (Does your net worth impact your self-worth)
Billy Selekane – Internationally Acclaimed Inspirational Keynote Speaker.

15:00 – 16:15 Masterclass | Tech| Navigating Tech as a Father 
Dr. Mzamo Masito – Chief Opportunity Officer and Founder, African Men Care NPC.

experiences

13:20 – 16:15 Self-care (Men’s Grooming) |
Sherina – Sorbet Man.
Clicks SA.
Marieke – Virgin Active.
Hazel – Legends Barbershop.
Thabang – The Sole.

13:20 – 16:15 Dressing for Success (Style Space) |
Mwelase Manzezulu – Master Suits SA.
Gugulethu Maqetuka – CEO, Suits.

13:20 – 16:15 Practical Finance (Financial products for modern men) |
ABSA.
Tanya Sibanda – Sanlam.
Nedbank.
African Bank.

13:20 – 16:15 Moving on up (Educational Space) |
GIBS.
Wits Business School.
Da Vinci Institute.

13:20 – 16:15 Counselling Room |
Anova – Health Care packs, Testing station & Counselors.
Bokang Jackson – Wits RHI.
World Changers Mental Health Care Organization – Providing Counselors.

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We will soon be launching our podcasts, so listen out for us and join the conversation!

media

EmpowaMen Summit 2024: Redefining masculinity and fostering positive change

It’s about diving deep into the tough conversations that are needed for real change to take place

Empowerment of men takes centre stage

Participants in these male empowerment forums are encouraged to heal themselves and society by engaging in topics and sharing the feelings they would normally internalise.

Unleashing potential of african male activists who are re-defining the present and future

THERE has not been a time in the history of black people in this country when so large a number of African men have been possessed by a spirit of self-reliance and determination.

Mute lyrics projecting women as objects of sexual pleasure for men

In our quest to detoxify masculinity there is a host of men, steeped in traditional ideas of manhood, who must be brought into the conversation.

team

Simphiwe Masiza

Simphiwe Masiza

Founder and Executive Producer

Mr Simphiwe Masiza is an accomplished entrepreneur, distinguished business leader, and the Chief Executive Officer of Empowaworx Group. Holding qualifications from WITS and GIBS, among other esteemed institutions, Masiza is proficient in project management, strategy, organizational development, organizational management, event management, reputation management, business management, governance, and executive leadership. As the founder and dedicated leader of Empowaworx, he is deeply passionate about driving the organization’s success.

jessey-matlou

Jessey Matlou

Events and Leadership Lead

With a BA in Media studies and Phycology, and a Certificate in Strategic Brand and Marketing Management, Jessey is an events specialist and strategist with over 15 years of experience, serves as the Speaker’s Management and Project Coordination lead at Empowaworx. Demonstrating passion and excellence in her role, Jessey contributes significantly to the success of the organization.

Joshua Mtanyelwa

Joshua Mtanyelwa

Lead Coordinator and Spokesperson

A born leader with a passion for developing people to reach their fullest potential, Joshua is a thought-leader and motivator that has spent much of his career focussing on mentoring and capacitating boys and men to realize their purpose in society. As seasoned facilitator and speaker, Joshua is the epitome of integrity.

Kirsten-Alexander

Kirsten Alexander

Senior Communications Specialist

Kirsten, with qualifications in Marketing Management, Creative Writing and Psychology is a seasoned communications professional and marketing strategist with over 25 years of experience. She plays a crucial role at Empowaworx in creative strategy, content creation, event ideation and marketing.

connect

PARTNER WITH US

We will be hosting 3,000 men of influence across all sectors of industry, influencing resources, people, policy, strategy – towards creating fundamental change to the narrative and behaviours attributed to toxic masculinity.

We have a number of different ways in which you can partner with us – to activate your brand within the context of EmpowaMen, showcasing your commitment to making a difference in this world, and highlighting that you are not afraid to have the tough conversations needed in today’s world.

Get in touch with Kirsten Alexander for more information about how you can partner with us – kirsten@empowamen.co.za

Call us

+27 (0) 11 482 7256
+27 (0) 11 482 7257

Visit us

364 Pine Avenue, Ferndale,
Randburg,
2196

 

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EMPOWAYOUTH

EmpowaYouth is a highly effective platform that brings real and relevant opportunities to where the youth are, across the nation. We know that our young people desire to be viable contributors to society and their communities – all they need is an opportunity. In addition to the EmpowaYouth Week, where we host 20,000 youth, with over 200 speakers, the EmpowaYouth Weekends that are activated nationally, this platform offers insight and trends within the context of semi-rural and peri-urban township youth, bespoke youth activations and campaigns and so much more. We know what the youth of our country want and need, and we know how to deliver it to them in a way that resonates with them – fundamentally transforming their lives. We have numerous case studies and testimonials from the young people we have impacted, which you can view here: https://shorturl.at/dfgmv

To date, EmpowaYouth has impacted over 60,000 youth around the country with real and relevant opportunities for jobs, training, and entrepreneurial funding through our dedicated partners. EmpowaYouth’s success lies in the fact that we bring opportunities to where the youth are, not just giving them inspiration and information, but connecting them to people, organisations and opportunities that will fundamentally transform their lives.
To find out more, visit the website: www.empowayouth.co.za

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EMPOWAWOMEN

The EmpowaWomen Summit aims to break barriers, shatter glass ceilings, and inspire change by providing a space for women leaders to connect, learn, and amplify their voices. The underrepresentation of women in key sectors not only hinders progress towards gender equality but also deprives these industries of the diverse perspectives and innovative ideas that women bring. By addressing the specific challenges faced by women in diverse industries, this summit seeks to foster a collective determination towards creating a more inclusive and equitable future.

With day one reaching 1,000 women leaders and focussing on leadership, our gala dinner will host 1,000 women, and day two is an exploration of 20 different industry sectors, enabling the 8,000 women in attendance to unpack their industries in terms of transformation, as well as network across industry sectors. Our speakers will inspire the audience and galvanize change. To get a sense of what can be expected, please view this short video from the 2023 Annual Leadership Summit, where we focussed on eight industry sectors with an audience of 1,000 women: https://n9.cl/rk3b6

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EMPOWAENTREPRENEURS FUNDING SUMMIT

The summit provides a unique platform for 1,500 vetted entrepreneurs to explore funding avenues such as Venture Capital, Angel Investment, Development Finance Institutions, Women-centric Funds, Impact Funds, and more. Through interactive exhibitions and dynamic pitching sessions, attending entrepreneurs will have unparalleled opportunities to secure funding for their ventures, from funders with a collective value of over R500 Billion. Beyond facilitating funding opportunities, the EmpowaEntrepreneur Funding Summit aims to enrich the entrepreneurial ecosystem, with over 200 speakers, all experts in their fields. Networking opportunities will empower entrepreneurs with the connections they need to propel their ventures forward, contributing to the overall vitality of the entrepreneurial landscape

The Speakers Firm

The Speakers Firm

The Speakers Firm represents the country’s leading thought engineers.
This includes professional key-note speakers, facilitators, motivational speakers, academics, coaches, consultants, best-selling authors, CEO’s and executives of multi-national corporations, internationally acclaimed thought leaders, entrepreneurs, celebrities, comedians, economists, and analysts. All are able to speak on topics across all industry sectors and within specific themes.
In short, we deliver. Whatever you need.
The Speaker’s Firm is your partner in creating a memorable event that is exceptionally valuable to all who attend and ensures high audience impact.
To explore our exceptional speakers, or to book a speaker, please visit www.thespeakersfirm.co.za