Since the launch of the National Business Awards in 2002, it has brought together hundreds of innovative private and public sector organisations and individuals every year.

The awards, launched by Topco Media, have seen top government decision-makers, iconic CEOs and business experts in attendance.

The awards draw together hundreds of thought leaders in the same venue to celebrate South Africa’s most inspiring top performers.

“The positive energy of such a unique gathering is infectious,” says Topco Media.

This year sees the first ancillary National Business Conference taking place, prior to the awards evening.

Topco Director, Karla Fletcher, explains the thinking behind it. “As a positivity-driven organisation, we realise that our responsibility is more than one of showcasing and awarding business excellence,” she said. “We have a responsibility and the networking capacity to foster the sharing of business insight and wisdom to provide a platform for economic leaders to share their secrets to success and their game-changing ideas”.

The Conference, held on 17 November, saw renowned businessman and politician, Dr Mathews Phosa, give a keynote address on “Rising through the obstacles”. He was joined by a distinguished line-up of top speakers including Greg Solomon, Jannie Venter, Asher Bohbot, Shirley Zinn and Lance Fanaroff.

The conference also incorporated a Fast Track Networking (FTN) session where delegates met to engage new partnerships and growth opportunities.

This session was sponsored by one of the fastest-growing and most innovative organisations in South Africa, the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA).

DBSA is instrumental in helping the Southern African region to become more integrated, energy-efficient and prosperous, and Topco was honoured to have their participation in the Conference.

To find out more about the National Business Conference, email angelique.edwards@topco.co.za. You can also follow @SABizAwards for the latest updates.