Dynamic young people join the board of Afribiz

Well-known broadcaster and businesswoman Phemelo Motene – along with prominent entrepreneur Zareef Minty – has been appointed to the board of Afribiz Invest – becoming the youngest to sit at the helm of the multibillion-rand company.

With expertise in infrastructure consulting, construction, logistics, plant, building supplies, information technology, energy, security, training, financial services as well as property development, Afribiz Invest has diverse business interests, with a track record in some massive flagship projects such as Rama City and the West Rand Mega Park. 

With Collen Mashawana now promoted to Afribiz Invest president, the board comprises of 11 members with four serving as executive directors.

After years as an SABC soapie Generations actor, Motene pursued a career as radio talk-show host – presenting The Weekend Breakfast on Radio 702 for three years before joining SAfm to present SAfm Life Happens.

Reflecting on her new appointment Motene has described her appointment to the board of Afribiz as “a welcome challenge”.

“I look forward to bringing additional value in my area of expertise to a dynamic team,” said Motene.

Minty is a Forbes 30 under 30 list-maker and lawyer.

Said Minty: “It’s an honour and privilege to be appointed to the board of Afribiz Invest.

“I really believe that I will add the necessary value to the board – it’s really exciting being the youngest board member.

“It’s great to see Afribiz Invest trusting the value and contribution brought by young people to the growth of the business.”

The two join a class of veteran businesspeople who sit on the board, who include Mashawana, leading businesswoman Pongo Pule, chair of the investment committee Nomfundo Fakudze and non-executive director Naushina Aboo. 

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Mashawana previously held the position of executive chair, where his main focus was building strategic growth and assisting government to meet its service delivery mandate in relation to infrastructure.

“I have been privileged to work alongside this exceptional team.

“As president, I will report directly to the board. 

“My new role will be that of strengthening Afribiz Invest’s vision ahead of its current growth and impending international expansion,” said Mashawana.

His remarks were made in the wake of Afribiz Invest’s recently announced plans for international expansion – starting in the United Arab Emirates.

“Afribiz Invest continues its aggressive growth in domestic environments despite global challenges – thus it would only make sense for us to leverage off what we already have and invest in international markets,” added Mashawana. 

Describing the new board appointees as “sharing the vision and ambitions of Afribiz Invest”, Mashawana said: “We believe in young people and strong women to lead us.

“We have to create an environment for them to be creative and grow our company with their innovation and expertise.”

• brians@citizen.co.za