Tag: education

Africa’s Hospitality Growth: Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders

Africa’s hospitality sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by a rising middle class, youthful population, and growing appetite for travel. In this article, Andreas Lackner, VP Operations at Hilton, highlights how Hilton is expanding across the continent while investing in local communities, youth development, and inclusive leadership. From innovative training programs to empowering women entrepreneurs, Hilton is fostering the next generation of hospitality leaders across Africa.

Tapping into Africa’s Refugees: Economic Opportunity Hiding In Plain Sight 

This article by Reeta Roy, President and CEO of the Mastercard Foundation, highlights the untapped economic potential of Africa’s 45 million forcibly displaced people, including refugees. Drawing on inspiring examples such as Mesfin Getahun in Kenya’s Kakuma settlement, Roy argues that refugees are not just aid recipients, but dynamic entrepreneurs and contributors to local economies. In response, the Mastercard Foundation is committing $300 million in partnership with UNHCR to expand education, skills training, and dignified work opportunities for refugees across Africa, especially youth and women. The article calls for collaborative, long-term investment from governments, development funders, and the private sector to transform refugee settlements into engines of inclusive economic growth.

Making Capital Work for African Women: Closing the gender financing gap alongside the African Development Bank Group

This article explores the critical role of financial institutions in closing the gender financing gap in Africa, focusing on the partnership between Absa Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) and the African Development Bank Group (AfDB). It highlights the transformative impact of integrated financial and non-financial support for women entrepreneurs, illustrated by the success story of South African business leader Busisiwe Mdletshe. With reference to recent gender parity data and large-scale investment initiatives, the article emphasizes the importance of combining capital access with human development to achieve inclusive economic growth. The article outlines landmark financing packages aimed at supporting women-led SMEs and advocates for continued collaboration between development finance institutions and private sector banks to scale impact across the continent.

Club Med Partners with Nukakamma to Train South African Youth for Future Hospitality Careers

Club Med South Africa has partnered with the Nukakamma Talent Development Centre to train 160 disadvantaged South African youth for careers in hospitality, in anticipation of Club Med’s new resort opening on Durban’s north coast in 2026. The program includes classroom learning, hands-on training, and internships, with the support of global hospitality leaders such as Michelin-starred Chef Pascal Favre d’Anne. Beyond immediate employment at the new resort, the initiative opens doors to international opportunities at Club Med resorts worldwide. This collaboration represents a model public-private partnership aimed at creating lasting economic impact and empowering the next generation of hospitality professionals.

How one of South Africa’s most popular restaurant groups is creating opportunities, here and abroad

Tashas Group, one of South Africa’s leading restaurant brands, is creating global career opportunities by prioritizing employee growth and mentorship. With locations in South Africa, the UAE, and the UK, the company offers hands-on training, international expansion, and personal development programs, transforming entry-level staff into global leaders. Through a supportive environment and career progression, Tashas Group is proving that hospitality can be a powerful force for personal and professional transformation.

THE IMPERATIVE FOR EXPANDING PRIVATE TERTIARY EDUCATION

South Africa’s future economic growth hinges on expanding access to quality tertiary education. As public universities face growing pressure, private institutions like MANCOSA are stepping in to bridge the gap. With innovation, flexibility, and a focus on skills for the digital economy, private higher education is vital to unlocking the nation’s potential.

The deepfake crisis: The alarm has been sounded

Deepfakes have become a major cybersecurity threat, targeting businesses, governments, and individuals. As detection tools struggle to keep up, experts warn of the urgent need for AI-driven forensics, regulatory action, and heightened digital awareness to combat rising fraud and misinformation.

The Importance of Location in Real Estate

In real estate, location is everything. From access to quality schools and transport links to vibrant local businesses and green spaces, the right neighbourhood can significantly impact both your lifestyle and long-term property value. This article explores the key factors that define desirable locations and how informed decisions can lead to better property investments.

SOUTH AFRICA’S DIGITAL FUTURE HINDERED by RISING CYBER THREATS

The article discusses South Africa’s increasing vulnerability to cyber threats, particularly ransomware and digital extortion, which pose a significant challenge to the country’s ambition of becoming a leading digital economy. Despite strong digital infrastructure and growth in sectors like AI and fintech, South Africa’s cybersecurity efforts remain inadequate, with weak law enforcement and insufficient protections for critical infrastructure.