It’s been a challenging but exciting year for the WDBIH team! One of the year’s highlights is our return to being an active investment firm. While we paused briefly to develop our new strategy and manage our transition, we are now back in full force.
Not only are we back, but we will be entering a new space, impact investing with a Pan-African focus. This requires a fresh mindset as we venture into unfamiliar territory beyond South Africa’s borders. It has challenged us to think differently, and we believe we have prepared thoroughly for this new journey.
Not only are we back, but we will be entering a new space, impact investing with a Pan-African focus.
We plan to implement the new strategy in the new year. In light of these exciting plans, we have strengthened our team and we’re very pleased to welcome Keneilwe Mafanya as our new Investment Manager.
We have always wanted to work more closely with the WDB Trust, and I am pleased to say that our relationship has strengthened significantly this year. At the Staff Retreat that took place at the Kopanong Conference Centre in April, we were very intentional about reinforcing the alignment between WDBIH and the WDB Trust.
This was necessary because we share the same goals and mandate but operate at different levels: WDBIH is the investment arm, whilst the WDB Trust implements programmes in rural areas aimed at addressing poverty in partnership with local communities. It was important to come together and for everyone to understand our distinct roles while keeping our shared mission in mind: empowering women across our beautiful country.
The plight of the youth in South Africa is something very close to our hearts. We have scaled up our existing initiatives to increase our impact. Our youth mentorship programme has grown to include 30 young people. We continue to support young people through our university scholarships and graduate internship programmes, and we remain committed to our long-term partner, Primestars and their focus on youth entrepreneurship, as well as assisting learners with matric maths and science revision to ensure the best possible results.
We feel energised as a team and look forward to what the new year brings. Yes, the investment environment is demanding – it requires perseverance and resilience, and fortunately we have both in abundance because we are passionate about and love what we do.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank my team. You carry me, and I know that I can face anything because of your strength and support. To our board members, thank you for your guidance and steer. To our stakeholders and partners thank you for being with us as we embrace this exciting journey ahead.
I wish everyone a peaceful and restful festive season. May you give yourself space to pause and reflect, and make time for joy, laughter and renewal.
Merry Christmas to those who celebrate, and all the very best for 2025!
With Love,
Rose Mamabolo
Acting CEO and Chief Financial Officer
Note that our offices will be closed from Monday the 23rd of December 2024 and will re-open on Monday the 2nd of January 2025.
