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October 23, 2024Thulani Mlangeni, the newly elected chairperson of Mpumalanga’s Black Management Forum (BMF), has pledged to advance the inclusion of black professionals, particularly women and youth, in leadership roles across various sectors. Mlangeni, who was elected at the forum’s annual general meeting on September 28, aims to drive transformation and promote socio-economic equality in the region.
Mlangeni brings extensive experience to the role, working in the Ehlanzeni District Municipality’s Department of Economic Planning and Development and lecturing part-time at Tshwane University of Technology’s Mbombela Campus. He recently completed a master’s degree in finance and serves on the boards of Black Management Forum Investments and Cable Tapes Africa, keeping him closely connected to business and governance issues.
Committed to fostering an inclusive economy, Mlangeni plans to focus on creating opportunities for black professionals and entrepreneurs in sectors such as agriculture, fintech, and renewable energy. “Our mission is to support economic transformation in Mpumalanga by advocating for access to opportunities, funding, and growth markets,” he said.
The BMF, established in 1976, has a long-standing history of pushing for socio-economic transformation in South Africa. It also comprises youth professionals and student structures, which aim to address barriers faced by black professionals in corporate environments and influence affirmative action and Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) policies.
According to Mlangeni, the forum’s objectives include developing local businesses by encouraging transformation in both the private and public sectors. This will involve collaborating with local and national institutions to accelerate skill development and business growth, especially in industries with high potential. “By partnering with government and the private sector, we will create opportunities for black-owned businesses to thrive in previously restricted or underdeveloped industries, thereby positioning Mpumalanga as a hub for economic growth,” Mlangeni stated.
Mlangeni will work alongside a newly elected team comprising Lethabo Tema as deputy chairperson, Dr. Bridget Portia Mashaba as secretary, Samukelo Hlatshwayo as treasurer, and Joseph Mudau, who will lead the youth professionals structure. Together, they aim to strengthen the BMF’s impact and ensure meaningful progress toward inclusive leadership in Mpumalanga.