A Life-Changing Journey: My South Africa MBA Elective through an ESG Lens
When I spotted the South Africa Symposium on the international electives list for the MBA, I knew the time was ripe. The elective was centred on ESG, something I had little experience of working in professional services and investment banking, so I was excited to learn more about it and through the perspective of our South African friends.
The Elective Experience: Discovering the ESG Footprint
Social Responsibility: Narratives of Change
South Africa, with its rich historical tapestry and diverse cultures, also grapples with socio-economic inequalities. Through our discussions with economist and faculty members at the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), I gained deeper insights into the country's historical and present-day challenges.
My interactions with South Africa's entrepreneurial and corporate landscape further highlighted the magnitude of social responsibility. Businesses large and small are taking significant strides towards addressing racial inequality and uplifting black communities.
I had the privilege of meeting with representatives from notable South African corporations such as South African Breweries (SAB), Pick n Pay, and Raizcorp. These companies are spearheading remarkable initiatives such as business incubation projects, advisory services, and financial support to empower local businesses and individuals.
SAB, for instance, has been proactive in supporting local farmers and reducing environmental impact. Pick n Pay, a retail giant, is making significant contributions to the local economy by sourcing locally and creating job opportunities. Raizcorp, a business incubator, is providing aspiring entrepreneurs with much-needed guidance and resources.
In addition, I met remarkable individuals like Sihle Tshabalala and Marlon Parker, who are leading grassroots social change. Their efforts to widen the horizons of opportunity and provide equal access to education and entrepreneurship underscore the essence of social responsibility. These stories of transformation serve as a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of community and shared purpose.
These narratives of change, from both corporate and community-led initiatives, highlight the integral role of social responsibility in bridging the socio-economic divide. They demonstrate the power of collaboration and commitment in creating a more equitable society.
Governance: A Journey Towards Equality
The governance aspect of my South African journey revolved around understanding the intricate dynamics of racial inequality, the historical dominance of the white population, and the relentless fight of the black population for their rights. A key figure in this discourse was Herman Mashaba, the former mayor of Johannesburg and leader of a political party. His perspective on the enduring influence of South Africa's past, the struggles of its black population, and the crucial role of education in resolving socio-economic disparities provided a thought-provoking perspective on governance.
Mashaba's emphasis on the need for systemic changes, better access to quality education, and equal opportunities resonated deeply with me. It is clear that good governance plays a crucial role in fostering social cohesion, driving economic growth, and nurturing sustainable communities.
Environmental Stewardship: Lessons from the Wild
As for the environmental perspective, before I joined the elective I self-planned solo trip to Sabi Sands, close to Johannesburg. As a seasoned traveller who had explored the Amazon Forest and the Arctic Circle, my heart yearned for a new adventure so it was the perfect time.
There, the wildlife and the natural beauty were nothing short of mesmerising. Observing the African bush ecosystem, I was struck by the parallels between the animal world and business dynamics. Just as lion families patiently strategize for hours before hunting, businesses too must meticulously plan their strategies. The experience emphasised the importance of embedding sustainability into every facet of corporate planning and operations, reminding me of the intrinsic link between the survival of the natural world and the success of the business world.
Highlights
The South Africa Symposium was a rich tapestry of experiences, from reconnecting with friends at GIBS who we met through the Bayes London Symposium and exploring the cultural landmarks of Johannesburg and Cape Town, to engaging with local communities and industry leaders.
One unique experience we encountered was the widespread power outages, known as "load shedding," which saw us without electricity for up to 11 hours a day. This was a firsthand experience of the infrastructure challenges South Africa faces, largely due to historical planning that favoured the white population's factories and overlooked the needs of the majority black population.
A visit to Mandela's House, the Hector Pieterson museum, and the vibrant streets of Soweto was a poignant reminder of South Africa's struggle for freedom and equality. These sites, juxtaposed with the stark reality of illegal immigrants living in tin houses on the same streets as beautifully constructed brick homes, painted a stark picture of the socio-economic divide.
However, it was not all sombre. The joy of experiencing a sunset cruise in Cape Town, sampling brews at Africa's largest brewery, and tasting wines at local vineyards added a delightful dimension to our journey. Equally enriching was our visit to an organic farm, and the opportunity to interact directly with young black South Africans, providing us with a deeper, genuine insight into their lives and challenges.
Takeaways
Little did I know that this trip was going to become a turning point in my life, sowing seeds of change that would blossom in the years to come.
My primary takeaway from this journey revolved around the concept of expanding horizons - both personally and within the communities and individuals we encounter. The trip emphasised the vital function businesses play in propelling sustainable change and cultivating an inclusive atmosphere. It served as a potent reminder that irrespective of our surroundings - be it the untouched wilderness of the African bush or the sophisticated boardrooms of multinational corporations - the essentials for success remain unchanged: inclusivity, collaboration, mutual respect, and a clear, unswerving vision.
The 'Environment, Social, and Governance' (ESG) framework was a constant thread running through my experiences. The environmental aspect was evident in the preservation efforts of SAB and the organic farming practices I observed. The social component emerged through the initiatives of Sihle Tshabalala, Marlon Parker, Pick n Pay, and Raizcorp. Lastly, the governance aspect was underscored by Herman Mashaba's insights and the corporate ethics displayed by the businesses we interacted with.
The South Africa Symposium was not just an elective - it was a life-changing journey that expanded my perspectives, enriched my understanding of ESG, and reinforced my commitment to driving positive change. I left South Africa not just with memories, but with a renewed sense of purpose and a determination to contribute towards creating a better, more sustainable world.