The event saw key business people come together for a strategic conversation and included a presentation from renowned public speaker, Quinton Coetzee, who presented a back to basics presentation on thriving in tough times.
Coetzee used an analogy of how the San people operated in their natural environment as an example of how businesses can survive today.
“It would be surprising to many people to learn that the rules used in big businesses began in southern Africa thousands of years ago, with the San, who perfected the skills of survival and thriving,” he said.
Coetzee elaborated by explaining strategic points used by the San to hunt, gather and ensure a thriving environment over the years and these included the power of alliances, the need to know the marketplace and the importance of having the right attitude.
Theano Kosmas, founder and managing partner of Strategnos, explained the importance of hosting such events.
“The idea behind hosting this type of event is that we want people to take part in such conversations, meet one another and exchange ideas,” she said.
She added that a painting of a Himba man, based on a photograph by Colin Mead, would also be auctioned off at the event to raise funds for a bursary for a deserving student. The artwork was done by artist, Chrysoula Argyros, with permission from Mead .
The event took place at Moyo, at Zoo Lake, on 5 November and included guests such as Katy Katopodis and Koo Govender.
The Strategia: Strategic Conversation has been held since 2012 and this year also marked Strategnos’ 15th birthday.
Filler: Can modern day businesses adapt some of the strategies used by the San to hunt, gather and thrive? Share your views with us on the Sandton Chronicle Facebook Page.
