Conversation Starters.

A converstation hosted by Sphume Dlamini of AFSUG, Jesper Schleimann, AI Officer EAME at SAP and Jhani Coetzee, Epi-Use Labs

Rethinking the Future of Work, Volunteering and Community - Interview with Marko Stavrou - Enrepreneur | The Gen Z Guy | Founder and CEO of Genlink

SAP and smallholder farming. The role of ERP and smallholder farmers in global agricultural suppy chains. Tanja Reith SAP, Carsten Friedland MSG Global and Sphume Dlamini AFSUG.

Sphume Dlamini, our new AFSUG Podcast host interviews Anre Schmidthals, Business Delveopmetn Chief Expert at SAP.

In this sixth episode of Conversation Starters, we’re joined by Kholiwe Makhohliso, Managing Director of SAP Southern Africa. Kholiwe takes us through her incredible career journey, from growing up in Mount Ayliff village to holding leadership positions at Accenture, Oracle, Software AG, and SAP. She shares her passion for mentorship, skills development, and the transformation of the African workforce through innovative SAP programs like the Young Professional Program and Educate to Employ. Throughout the conversation, Kholiwe emphasizes the importance of building a digital skills hub in Africa and SAP's commitment to empowering the next generation of professionals.

The episode touches on Kholiwe’s personal interests, including her love for cycling and adventure, offering a holistic view of a leader who balances professional ambition with personal passion.

Timestamps:
0:07 – Introduction and Sponsorship
0:24 – Guest Introduction and Career Overview
2:10 – Career Progression from Auditor to SAP
4:47 – Understanding Customer Needs and Value Selling
6:53 – Impact of Audit Background on Technology and Risk
8:01 – SAP's Role in Transformation and Skills Development
12:12 – Opportunities for Young Professionals and Entrepreneurship
14:22 – Mentorship and Coaching for Young Professionals
15:21 – Engagement with Gen Z and Millennials
16:47 – Upskilling Workforce for AI and Future Skills
17:47 – SAP Southern Africa’s Role in the EMEA Region
20:51 – Cloud Acceleration and Customer Engagement
23:38 – Skills Development and Digital Skills Hub
24:19 – Future Opportunities and Partnerships
27:52 – Personal Interests and Hobbies
31:16 – Conclusion and Future Engagement

Follow Kholiwe Makhohliso - https://rb.gy/dw2vhe
Follow Louise Steenekamp - https://rb.gy/53byr6

Sponsored by:
AFSUG – Unifying Africa's SAP Community for a Digital Future