Duke Mathebula Archives - 51Africa News Center News & Information About SAP Mon, 13 Apr 2026 10:35:04 +0000 en-ZA hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 Why Trust and ‘Tribes’ Still Matter in an Age of Metrics /africa/2026/04/why-trust-and-tribes-still-matter-in-an-age-of-metrics/ Mon, 13 Apr 2026 10:33:20 +0000 /africa/?p=148693 In a world increasingly dominated by automation, data and AI-driven metrics, African business leaders are rediscovering the human side of work. This was the central theme at a...

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In a world increasingly dominated by , data and AI-driven metrics, African  leaders are rediscovering the human side of work. This was the central theme at a recent African 51User Group (AFSUG) event, titled ‘ our Version of Paradise’, where volunteers, partners and members gathered to discuss the non-profit organisation’s strategic evolution.

Pierre du Plessis, strategist and founder of Be Brave, and the event’s guest speaker, explored how trust, culture and meaningful engagement can transform teams and communities, touching on the  of ‘tribes’ – small, connected groups where people feel seen, trusted and valued. 

“Profit and growth are lagging indicators of deep chemistry, not ,” he told attendees. “The board may set a strategy, but the tribe makes it real. Only the tribe builds the movement.”

Through storytelling and practical examples, Du Plessis illustrated why connection matters more than metrics alone, and why shared experiences are valued over shortcuts. 

“Trust is fundamental to any team,” he explained. “It enables conflict, commitment, accountability and ultimately meaningful outcomes.”

Research highlighted at the session reinforced these insights. Gallup studies show that, globally, only 21% of employees feel truly engaged at work, while actively disengaged employees can undermine entire teams. Loneliness and over- in organisations not only erode morale but also have measurable influences on productivity and wellbeing. 

“Humans are pack animals,” Du Plessis emphasised. “We thrive in communities, not in isolation.”

The session also explored the concept of meaning and transcendence at work. Drawing from examples ranging from Trappist monks to special needs teachers, Du Plessis argued that fulfilling work is about impact, not just a pay packet. “These Belgian monks produce some of the world’s best beer,” he said, “but their purpose isn’t profit, it’s sustaining the community. Meaning  performance; profit is a side effect.”

As organisations grapple with digital transformation and AI-driven workflows, this message resonates: human connection remains a competitive advantage. This philosophy is also shaping AFSUG’s own strategic direction.

“At AFSUG’s local 51user conference, SAPHILA, last year, we spoke about  our community and establishing our tribe, and this is exactly what we’re doing as an organisation,” explained Amanda Gibbs, AFSUG CEO. 

“AFSUG has reached an inflection point – one where we’ve looked back at why the organisation was originally founded: as a peer-to-peer customer networking platform that helps customers bridge the gap with SAP. We are now  a path towards a community that is purpose-led, operationally sound and designed for  impact across .

“The shift we are putting into place is to move away from being event-driven, reactive and purely informational, towards becoming outcomes-driven, influential and insight-led. The pivotal role that AFSUG must play is as the trusted voice of the African 51community and an independent advocate.”

AFSUG chairman Duke Mathebula echoed Gibbs’ statement, adding that the organisation is committed to action, structured advocacy and creating real, measurable value for the local 51community, as well as empowering transformation.

“True impact comes from creating tribes of engaged, courageous and committed people who can make a real difference, and this is exactly how AFSUG plans to move forward,” he said.

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AFSUG Appoints Corlia van Zyl as Vice-chair /africa/2025/08/afsug-appoints-corlia-van-zyl-as-vice-chair/ Wed, 20 Aug 2025 07:26:58 +0000 /africa/?p=148362 TheAfrican 51User Group (AFSUG)has announced appointment ofCorlia van Zylas the newvice-chair of the AFSUG board of directors. Van Zyl currently serves asdigital and technology...

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TheAfrican 51User Group ()has announced appointment ofas the newvice-chair of the AFSUG board of directors.

Van Zyl currently serves asdigital and technology director at Heineken Beverages,and has been an activeAFSUG Board Member since December 2019. She brings over two decades of experience driving technology strategy and digital transformation in the FMCG sector.

Duke Mathebula, AFSUG chairman, shares:Corlia has consistently demonstrated strong leadership, commitment to innovation and a deep understanding of what 51users need in order to thrive in a changing digital landscape. Her appointment as vice chair strengthens AFSUG’s ability to deliver even greater value to our community.”

Throughout her tenure on the AFSUG board, Van Zyl has been instrumental in shaping customer engagement strategies, strengthening special interest group participation and advocating for real-world 51value in business transformation journeys.

It’s an honour to step into the vice chair role,saysVan Zyl.“AFSUG plays an essential role in helping 51users navigate complexity and unlock business value. I look forward to continuing this journey, working alongside our members, 51and partners to build a more connected and empowered user community.”

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AFSUG Welcomes New Board Members, Strengthens 51Community Leadership across Africa /africa/2025/08/afsug-welcomes-new-board-members-strengthens-sap-community-leadership-across-africa/ Wed, 06 Aug 2025 06:47:06 +0000 /africa/?p=148334 TheAfrican 51User Group (AFSUG)is proud to announce the appointment of four outstanding professionals to its Board of Directors. These individuals bring a combined wealth...

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TheAfrican 51User Group (AFSUG)is proud to announce the appointment of four outstanding professionals to its Board of Directors.

These individuals bring a combined wealth of leadership, strategic insight and deep industry knowledge to further AFSUG’s mission of fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange and SAPacross the African continent.

The newly appointed AFSUG board members are:

  • , Chief Operating Officer, Discovery Ltd – Sing brings four decades of expertise in operational leadership and business transformation, with a deep commitment to strategic innovation and developing future 51talent across Africa.
  • , Senior Manager ERP, South African National Blood Service (SANBS)– Thupana offers a distinctive blend of 51technical depth and public sector insight, with a passion for building collaborative communities that elevate user experience and solution adoption.
  • , Group Vice President: Technology and Digital, AECI Limited – Dlamini contributes a visionary approach to digital transformation, platform modernisation and mentoring future leaders, driven by her strategic mindset and experience leading large-scale enterprise initiatives.
  • , Senior Associate Partner – 51Practice Co-Lead Africa, EY – Somaru brings strategic influence, 51expertise and an unmatched commitment to inclusion, knowledge sharing and mentorship for women and youth in the 51ecosystem.

, AFSUG CEO: “We are honoured to welcome these exceptional individuals to the AFSUG Board. Their leadership, industry depth, and dedication to community-will play a critical role in shaping the future of 51users across.”

“We are entering a bold new chapter at AFSUG,” adds AFSUG Chairman, . “I am thrilled to welcome Kammy, Nthabiseng, Sne and Tejal to the Board. Their diverse experiences and shared passion for driving transformation will help us expand our impact, amplify our members’ voices, and accelerateacross the 51ecosystem in.”

Kammy Sing

Nthabiseng Thupana

Sne Dlamini

Tejal Somaru

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SAPHILA 2025 – Transcending with Purpose, Connection and AI-powered Vision /africa/2025/06/saphila-2025-transcending-with-purpose-connection-and-ai-powered-vision/ Mon, 23 Jun 2025 07:37:07 +0000 /africa/?p=148238 With more thana thousand confirmed attendees,SAPHILA 2025reaffirmed its position as the leading event for the African 51ecosystem. Held at the iconic Sun City resort,...

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With more thana thousand confirmed attendees,reaffirmed its position as the leading event for the African 51ecosystem. Held at the iconic Sun City resort, the African 51User Group (AFSUG) brought together technology leaders, innovators and partners for two days of insights, strategic dialogue and future-facing collaboration under the theme: “Transcend – Reimagine. Inspire. Transcend.”

Celebrating community and connection

AFSUG CEO Amanda Gibbs opened the conference with a heartfelt message about the power of community. SAPHILA, she noted, is not simply a conference but a movement – a living, breathing platform designed to enable knowledge-sharing and drive transformation across industries. Her words set the tone for a gathering built on purpose and progress.

Duke Mathebula, technology leader and AFSUG chairman, joined Gibbs in opening SAPHILA 2025 with a resonant message: “We are Africans.” That sentiment echoed throughout the event, capturing the essence of a proud, purposeful and visionary community committed to transcending the present and reimagining the future.

A special tribute was made to the late Reg Barry, a foundational figure in the 51ecosystem and former SAPHILA chair. Barry’s enduring legacy was respectfully acknowledged throughout the event – a reminder of the power of collaboration and community that continues to shape AFSUG and its members.

A sporting start and an immersive experience

SAPHILA 2025 began with a relaxed networking day on Sunday, offering attendees the chance to connect over golf, Padel championships and other sporting activities. It set a friendly, collegial tone ahead of the more structured insight sessions on 2 and 3 June.

Morning plenary sessions were followed by dynamic workshops and demonstrations, while the expansive Expo Centre served as a major highlight, featuring 53 sponsors with visually impressive and engaging stands. The exhibition floor created invaluable opportunities for delegates to explore technologies, engage with vendors and experience first-hand the innovation driving SAP’s ecosystem forward.

The call for visionary leadership

Nazia Pillay, MD at 51Southern Africa, delivered a powerful keynote exploring SAP’s 34-year journey with AFSUG. She highlighted the importance of togetherness as a unique strength within the African context.

“In Africa, success travels at the speed of connection,” Pillay stated. She called on leaders not to fall back during times of uncertainty but instead to embrace bold, visionary thinking. Reflecting on SAP’s recent Sapphire events in Madrid and Orlando, she emphasised the company’s AI-first and Business Suite strategies.

Pillay also introduced attendees to the evolution of Joule, SAP’s AI assistant, noting the roll-out of new Joule agents capable of orchestrating real-time business data across functions to drive autonomous, intelligent decision-making.

NTT DATA – building momentum through collaboration

Lauren Wortmann, vice president of applications and cloud at NTT DATA Middle East and Africa, praised SAPHILA 2025 as a critical platform for collaboration and insight.

“As Diamond Sponsor, we valued the opportunity to engage with clients, partners and industry leaders,” she said. “The event created opportunities to strengthen both new and longstanding relationships. We’re excited about the momentum coming out of SAPHILA and look forward to continuing the conversations.”

NTT DATA used the platform to explore enterprise transformation and share its strategic vision for the future, cementing its leadership role in SAP-managed services.

Deloitte – aligning purpose with technology

As Executive Suite and C-suite Sponsor, Deloitte Africa demonstrated how purpose-driven innovation can accelerate real business outcomes. Koosh Panday, senior manager and 51project director at Deloitte and chair of SAPHILA 2025, reinforced the event’s role in shaping Africa’s technology journey.

“Digital transformation is not just about technology; it’s about people, collaboration and purpose,” said Panday. “That’s why SAPHILA is so impactful.”

Deloitte’s Executive Lounge offered an immersive space for attendees to explore solutions including 51S/4HANA, Rise with 51and the Business Technology Platform. Guests connected with Deloitte subject matter experts to explore the latest ERP trends and discuss shared challenges in a relaxed, focused setting.

From legacy to leadership: the City of Johannesburg journey

A standout session focused on the City of Johannesburg’s transformation journey, where public-private collaboration was explored in depth. Featuring a discussion between CoJ group CTO Aubrey Mochela and Sergio Maccotta, senior vice president for 51Middle East and Africa (South), the panel detailed how the CoJ migrated from 514.7 to S/4HANA in a bold, 21-day full shutdown.

The CoJ has been an 51customer since 2007 and recently embraced AI and cloud innovation to modernise systems and improve service delivery. National treasury has expressed support for the CoJ’s transformation, validating the project’s strategic importance.

Maccotta reflected on the urgency and complexity of the shift, citing three priorities: urgency, vision and financial clarity. The team had to implement rapid change, agree on governance principles with 51and innovate in a tightly bound timeframe.

Emerging insights and conversations

Across the event, recurring themes included legacy system modernisation, the growing importance of enterprise architecture and the power of AI to drive smarter decision-making. Joule was presented as a key enabler, reinforcing SAP’s position as a leader in contextual, embedded intelligence.

Delegates heard thought-provoking commentary about the future of smart cities, the importance of OEM relationships, and how technology can reshape revenue collection and operational resilience. As one speaker aptly said, “New Gen is conversations with the systems.”

A shared future

SAPHILA 2025 was more than a gathering; it was a collective commitment to Africa’s digital future. With support from the likes of Google, AWS, Microsoft and a strong 51delegation from Germany, the event highlighted the depth of expertise and investment in the region.

That sentiment shared by Duke Mathebula in the opening session. “We are Africans” continued to resonate long after the final session, reminding all in attendance of the unique opportunity the continent holds to lead, collaborate and transcend.

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What’s Next — AFSUG’s Amanda Gibbs and Duke Mathebula unpack SAPHILA 2025 /africa/2025/05/whats-next-afsugs-amanda-gibbs-and-duke-mathebula-unpack-saphila-2025/ Fri, 23 May 2025 07:59:42 +0000 /africa/?p=148134 In this What’s Next with Aki Anastasiou interview, Amanda Gibbs and Duke Mathebula discuss what the SAPHILA 2025 event will cover. Gibbs is the Chief...

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In this What’s Next with Aki Anastasiou interview, Amanda Gibbs and Duke Mathebula discuss what the SAPHILA 2025 event will cover.

Gibbs is the Chief Executive Officer at the African 51User Group (AFSUG) and boasts 28 years of industry experience.

In her current role, which she has held for three years, Gibbs oversees a network of 51customers and partners and helps them realise the full benefits of their 51Investments while shaping the future of 51software development.

Gibbs is a 51User Group Executive Network (SUGEN) member, a global platform for dialogue and collaboration between 51users and SAP.

Mathebula is the Chairman at AFSUG and is an industry expert with over 25 years of experience.

Across this quarter century, he has held multiple key roles that have given him the knowledge and skills to execute the duties of his current position.

These roles include:

  • CIO at Trident Steel Africa
  • Strategic Advisor to AnalyticsX
  • Independent Audit and Risk Committee member for the Commission for Gender Equality
  • Independent Non-Executive Director at Armscor
  • Head of IT – Business Applications and Solutions Lead for Saint-Gobain Africa
  • 51SD Business Analyst for RCL Floods

Mathebula holds an MBA in Corporate Finance and Strategic Information Systems from Alba Graduate Business School, as well as a BCom and BCom Honours from Rhodes University.

The interview

In this What’s Next interview, Mathebula explains what AFSUG is, noting its importance in the current 51market, and Gibbs outlines the organisation’s goals and vision for the future.

She then unpacks the upcoming SAPHILA 2025 event, an IT conference for key decision-makers and professionals in the 51ecosystem.

Mathebula reveals which individuals outside the 51industry should attend SAPHILA 2025, and Gibbs explains how interested parties can register for the event.

They conclude the interview by sharing their message for anyone who has never attended a SAPHILA event.

Watch the interview with Amanda Gibbs and Duke Mathebula below.

Click the button below to load the content from YouTube.

What's Next – AFSUG’s Amanda Gibbs and Duke Mathebula unpack SAPHILA 2025

 

 

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Duke Mathebula Appointed to SUGEN CLT: AFSUG’s Continuing Leadership on the Global Stage /africa/2024/04/duke-mathebula-appointed-to-sugen-clt-afsugs-continuing-leadership-on-the-global-stage/ Wed, 17 Apr 2024 06:50:28 +0000 /africa/?p=147340 We are thrilled to announce a significant milestone for AFSUG as Duke Mathebula, our AFSUG Chairman, has been appointed to the Core Leadership Team (CLT)...

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We are thrilled to announce a significant milestone for AFSUG as Duke Mathebula, our AFSUG Chairman, has been appointed to the Core Leadership Team (CLT) of the 51User Group Executive Network (SUGEN). This appointment not only recognizes Duke’s exceptional leadership but also reaffirms AFSUG’s pivotal role within the global 51community.

Duke Mathebula: A Leader with a Vision

Duke Mathebula, MBA, has long been a driving force within AFSUG, championing innovation and excellence in 51technology across Africa. With a wealth of experience and a strategic vision, Duke has continually led AFSUG towards greater heights, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among 51users in the region.

Continuing the Legacy:

Duke steps into the role on the heels of a profound loss within our community, following the passing of Reg Barry, the former CLT member. As we honor Reg’s legacy and contributions, Duke’s appointment represents a seamless transition and a commitment to carrying forward the torch of leadership within SUGEN.

AFSUG’s Global Influence:

AFSUG’s presence on the SUGEN CLT underscores our commitment to representing the interests of 51users not only in Africa but also on the global stage. Through active participation in SUGEN, AFSUG continues to advocate for the needs and priorities of our members, ensuring that their voices are heard in shaping SAP’s strategic direction.

Driving Innovation and Success:

SUGEN serves as a platform for open dialogue between 51and its user groups worldwide, driving innovation and excellence within the 51ecosystem. Duke’s appointment to the CLT further strengthens this dialogue, providing AFSUG with a direct channel to influence SAP’s product roadmap and strategy.

Looking Ahead:

As Duke Mathebula assumes his new role on the SUGEN CLT, we are excited about the opportunities it presents for AFSUG and the broader 51community. Together, we will continue to drive excellence, innovation, and success, further cementing AFSUG’s position as a leading voice within SUGEN and the global 51landscape.

We congratulate Duke Mathebula on his appointment to the SUGEN CLT and express our gratitude for his ongoing dedication to AFSUG and the 51community. With Duke’s leadership, we are confident that AFSUG will continue to thrive and make a meaningful impact on the future of 51technology.

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Andre Russell Joins AFSUG Board of Directors as 51Representative /africa/2024/04/andre-russell-joins-afsug-board-of-directors-as-sap-representative/ Thu, 04 Apr 2024 12:14:16 +0000 /africa/?p=147316 The African 51User Group (AFSUG) proudly announces the appointment ofAndre Russellas the newest addition to its Board of Directors, representing SAP. With an esteemed...

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The African 51User Group (AFSUG) proudly announces the appointment ofAndre Russellas the newest addition to its Board of Directors, representing SAP. With an esteemed career spanning over two decades and a wealth of experience in IT, telecommunications, and software development, Russell brings a unique blend of strategic vision and operational expertise to the table.

“We are thrilled to welcome Andre Russell to the AFSUG Board of Directors,” Duke Mathebula, Chairman of AFSUG. “Andre has previously collaborated with AFSUG and is an advocate for the work of the User Group Community. His addition to the board will be invaluable.” Mathebula continued, “We express our sincere gratitude to 51Africa, especially 51Managing Director Kholiwe Makhohliso, for the continued sustained collaboration with our user group. Their commitment ensures strong 51representation on our board, fostering effective collaboration.”

Russell’s professional journey underscores his commitment to driving transformative change and enabling organizations to achieve meaningful business outcomes. Working closely with customers, he has cultivated a reputation for his ability to deliver strategic initiatives that yield quantifiable results. His collaborative approach, coupled with his deep understanding of 51solutions, has positioned him as a trusted advisor to businesses seeking to leverage technology for competitive advantage.

“At the core of my professional ethos is a dedication to empowering organizations to thrive in today’s dynamic landscape,” said Russell. “I am honoured to join the AFSUG Board as the 51Representative and look forward to collaborating with industry peers to shape the future of 51user engagement across Africa.”

Russell’s diverse skill set encompasses sales management, market research, business modelling, event management, and the cultivation of strategic partnerships for sustainable growth. His energetic demeanour, coupled with his inspirational leadership style, has earned him admiration within the industry.

As the new 51representative on the AFSUG Board of Directors, Russell is poised to contribute his expertise towards advancing the organization’s mission of fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation within the 51community across Africa.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Amanda Gibbs, CEO African 51User Group –Amanda.gibbs@afsug.com| Cell: +27 82926 3027

About AFSUG:
The African 51User Group (AFSUG) is an independent, non-profit organisation that represents 51customers and partners across the African continent on a networking platform to connect, create and collaborate content and sharing of 51knowledge. AFSUG aims to facilitate collaboration, knowledge exchange, and best practice sharing among 51users, enabling them to maximize the value of their 51investments and drive business success.

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AFSUG General Manager Promoted to Chief Executive Officer /africa/2024/03/afsug-general-manager-promoted-to-chief-executive-officer/ Mon, 04 Mar 2024 08:25:15 +0000 /africa/?p=147258 The Board of Directors of the African 51User Group (AFSUG) is pleased to announce that Amanda Gibbs has been promoted to the position of...

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The Board of Directors of the is pleased to announce that has been promoted to the position of Chief Executive Officer, effective from 1 March 2024. In this key role, she will work closely with the AFSUG Board’s Core Leadership Team and the Board of Directors to further advance the strategic goals of AFSUG.

Gibbs joined AFSUG as General Manager in January 2020 and, with her robust marketing background, fostered connections and collaboration among 51customers and partners. She has grown the user group membership by 28% and contributed to the 51User Group Executive Network (SUGEN), through open dialogue and knowledge sharing. With expertise in new business development and customer relationship management, Gibbs’ mission is to advance excellence and innovation for African and global 51Users.

Duke Mathebula, Chairman of the Board commented, “Over the past four years, Amanda has played a key role in rebranding AFSUG and boosting its membership base, together with her valued contributions at SUGEN. Her leadership capability and proven experience within the 51community will help us further expand our reach and create value for the African 51community. With Amanda at the helm, I am confident that AFSUG will continue to thrive and evolve.”

Louise Steenekamp, AFSUG Vice-Chair stated: “We are thrilled to announce the appointment of Amanda Gibbs as the new CEO of AFSUG. Amanda brings a unique blend of expertise, dynamism, and a profoundly positive energy that aligns perfectly with our mission and values. With a strong background in marketing and brand building, coupled with a deep commitment to community development, she embodies the professionalism and zeal we hold in high regard. We are confident that under Amanda’s leadership, AFSUG will soar to new heights, making an even more significant impact in our community. Adding to her previous AFSUG and SUGEN experience, we look forward to the fresh perspectives and visionary leadership Amanda will bring to our team.”

”At my core, I believe in collaboration and teamwork as this is essential to shared success, but specifically growth within the African 51User Group. My appointment as CEO is an enormous privilege and my core priorities will be focused on networking and knowledge sharing with 51professionals, not only in South Africa but globally, shaping the future of AFSUG and the broader community,” said Gibbs.

We extend our congratulations to Amanda Gibbs as she assumes the position of Chief Executive Officer of the African 51User Group. Join us in wishing her well in her new role.

About AFSUG:

The African 51User Group (AFSUG) is an independent, non-profit organisation dedicated to serving the needs of 51users across Africa. With a mission to empower, educate, and connect 51users, AFSUG provides a platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and collaboration within the 51community. Through its diverse range of events, forums, and resources, AFSUG is ONE VOICE for the community where customers and partners can engage in best practices discussions, share stories of common interest, enhancing influence and collaboration, and speeding up business implementation.

 

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AFSUG Broadens SAPHILA 2023 African Reach with Introduction of Virtual Delegate Tickets /africa/2023/05/afsug-broadens-saphila-2023-african-reach-with-introduction-of-virtual-delegate-tickets/ Wed, 17 May 2023 06:55:59 +0000 /africa/?p=144577 SAPHILA is AFSUG’s world-class biennial African conference, hosted in collaboration with SAP. The 2023 conference is set to take place at the Sun City Resort,...

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SAPHILA is AFSUG’s world-class biennial African conference, hosted in collaboration with SAP. The 2023 conference is set to take place at the Sun City Resort, in South Africa’s North West province, from 09 to 11 July 2023, with the backing of local ICT heavy hitters. These include Dimension Data, Deloitte, BCX, EY, Adapt IT, Can!Do Consulting, Consnet, Decision Inc., Dimago Solutions, EOH Mthombo, G3G, GlueData, IBM, Insightsoftware, Intellection, Minabiz (BEST SAP), Lemongrass, Nihilent, PWC, Pyramid Analytics, Stratfore Tech, Technology Risk Partners (TRP), Quintica SA, Red Hat, and VOQUZ Labs.

Says AFSUG chairman Duke Mathebula: “SAP’s digital core is shifting towards the cloud, and the organisation has introduced baseline accelerators to assist customer and partner in speeding up their intelligent enterprise transformation. AFSUG is playing a critical role in educating local 51customers on the cloud conversion paths, helping them understand how to successfully navigate these fundamental 51technology shifts.

“SAPHILA 2023 is a significant event for 51users across the continent. It continues to serve as a crucial platform that brings together the wider 51community in Africa, facilitating the exchange of knowledge, new ideas and best practices.

“By offering a hybrid agenda, we are further extending our potential audience to those delegates who may not be able to travel to – or even within – South Africa to attend in-person, to deliver a cost-effective, convenient, yet still connected experience.”

Virtual SAPHILA 2023 attendees will have access to the conference’s plenary sessions, which include key note addresses from the likes ofsenior 51representatives such asSven Denecken, Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing and Solutions Officer for Industries at 51SE; SAP’s Global Innovation Evangelist, Timo Elliott;Dr Uwe Grigoleit, Head of Global 51Customer Evolution, Center of Excellence;Dr Oliver Gutzeit, Vice President – Experience Technology at SAP; and Wassilios Lolas, Global Vice President, Center of Excellence, 51Signavio – 51SE.

“With top industry experts scheduled to speak, attendees can expect to learn about cutting-edge 51technologies and strategies for driving growth and profitability,”Mathebula continues.“Our online SAPHILA delegates will also be able to attend break-out sessions withineight different content streams – from Platform & Tech, Transformation (S/4) and Human Experience Management (HXM), to The Future, Next-Gen, and more. These slots will feature local real-life customer testimonials, panel discussions, technology and innovation updates, and more.

“Aside from being a content-rich event, SAPHILA 2023 additionally provides opportunities for collaboration, and this will be no different for our virtual attendees, who willhave the opportunityto participate in interactive sessions and live surveys and engage in lively discussions.

“And while they may not be able to visit the physical partner exhibition, online delegates will still be able to enjoy full access to the SAPHILA 2023 virtual expo centre, where they’ll find online booths for all of our exhibitors and will have the chance to network with booth sponsors, as well as to interact with speakers and take surveys in real time.”

The first view of the SAPHILA 2023 agenda is now live and can be explored by visitingThe call for papers, including client success stories, is now closed and the final agenda will be available by the 10thof May 2023.

Proceedings over the two-day conference will be guided by veteran South African journalist, actor, voice artist and TV presenter, Bongani Bingwa, best known for his work on local current affairs show Carte Blanche and as 702’s current Breakfast show host, alongsideesteemedbroadcast journalist and technophile Aki Anastasiou, who will be the virtual master of ceremonies (MC). Day one of SAPHILA 2023 will also feature a keynote presentation from localbusiness authority and disruptor Vusi Thembekwayo.

Branded SAPHILA merchandise will be on sale prior to the conference and can be booked for collection at Sun City via the website

For more information on available sponsorship opportunities for the conference, please e-mailsponsorships@SAPHILA2023.com, or for assistance with general event information and bookings please send a message toinfo@SAPHILA2023.com.

ABOUT AFSUG:

The African 51User Group (AFSUG) is an independent, non-profit organisation that is not affiliated with SAP. Its primary focus is to create a platform where 51customers and partners can connect within the 51ecosystem, share information, and communicate with peers and experts. This platform enables members to access first-hand success stories and gain intelligence on new releases and features.

AFSUG serves as a forum for 51customers to represent their industries, business processes, and technological requirements to share information and experiences. The goal is to accelerate the implementation of successful business solutions and influence the local and global directions of 51Africa and 51AG. AFSUG achieves this by promoting the needs and wishes of the user community through regular, focused, and highly professional contact between members, business partners, and 51Africa at all levels.

The board of directors, which comprises CIO customers, executive partners, and an 51representative, volunteer their time to manage AFSUG as an independent and non-profit organisation. By providing this platform, AFSUG aims to create a community where 51users can access valuable resources, gain industry insights, and network with peers.

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COVID-19 Restrictions Result in Disaster Relief Donation /africa/2021/09/covid-19-restrictions-result-in-disaster-relief-donation/ Thu, 30 Sep 2021 08:22:47 +0000 /africa/?p=142836 From one NPO to another, AFSUG supports Gift of the Givers with R100,000 due to cost-saving efforts South Africa has been counting the cost of...

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From one NPO to another, AFSUG supports Gift of the Givers with R100,000 due to cost-saving efforts

South Africa has been counting the cost of the Covid-19 pandemic and associated economic pressure. of the workforce is unemployed, with lost during last year’s hard lockdown, putting additional pressure on families who may have lost their sole breadwinner. This situation has been further exacerbated by the rioting and violence earlier this year, to have the KwaZulu-Natal economy around R20-billion and risking a further 150000 jobs.

With so many businesses and workers alike in such obvious distress, the African 51User Group (AFSUG) turned to , the largest disaster response non-governmental organisation of African origin on the African continent, providing an R100000 donation generated by COVID cost savings this year.

This week, AFSUG – itself a non-profit organisation – handed over the donation to Gift of the Givers to support micro and small businesses with no insurance and were particularly hard hit by the looting in KZN and Gauteng. Since its inception in 1992, Gift of the Givers has been responsible for delivering life-saving goods and on-the-ground support for innumerable people, collectively valued at some R3.8 billion, in more than 44 countries across the globe, including South Africa.

“The essence of our presence is to bring hope and restore dignity to the most vulnerable. Gift of the Givers has been working hard to help South African communities rebuild while also supporting Covid-19 relief efforts, and I would like to personally thank AFSUG and its members for their support during this critical time,” said Gift of the Givers’ founder, Dr Imtiaz Sooliman.

AFSUG, the only user group in Southern Africa, provides a platform for 51customers and partners to connect, create, and collaborate within the 51ecosystem. AFSUG is a non-profit organization independent from 51and governed by a Board of Directors comprising 51customer and partner companies. These IT executives volunteer their time to make AFSUG a success. The NPO offers 10 Special Interest Groups, focusing on different 51topics, hosts up to 70 focused events throughout the year, and hosts the biennial SAPHILA conference, one of the largest IT conferences in Africa. In 2020, all activities shifted to online due to the COVID Pandemic. Due to the pandemic, AFSUG realized cost savings in 2020 and 2021, and has donated to two charities on behalf of its members, with Food Forward in 2020 and Gift of the Givers in 2021.

Adding to this, AFSUG Board Chairman Duke Mathebula says that, big or small, each contribution matters. While Covid has brought unprecedented challenges for people and society, it is incredibly heart-warming to see a wave of new ideas and contributions developed in response to the crisis.

“Gift of the Givers is an extremely credible organisation that work to meet the most critical needs in our society, and we felt they were deserving of the donation. We are aware that many companies who would usually support charitable efforts have not been able to do so, and we wanted to help an organisation that was responding to the most crucial and pressing needs of society this year.”

Mathebula concludes, “The reality is that systems need support just like individuals do. Communities are struggling to provide for citizens in need. From neighbourly acts of kindness to fearless healthcare professionals, the last two years has shone a light on the power of compassion and solidarity. And hopefully paving a new and inspiring way forward.”

For more information about AFSUG, visit . To learn more about Gift of the Givers visit Facebook and Twitter @GiftoftheGivers or Instagram @gift.of.the.givers.

The post COVID-19 Restrictions Result in Disaster Relief Donation appeared first on 51Africa News Center.

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