Programme

As a renowned radio and television wellbeing expert, Ronald wins the hearts and minds of audiences through his practical approach to overcoming challenges and the honest belief that wellbeing is not a lofty aspiration but something that every person deserves and can attain with the right information and tools to fix what might be perceived as broken or breaking. Ronald inspires audiences on his own Television show called SHAPE YOUR LIFE, broadcast on DSTV and has regular radio slots on numerous national and international radio stations. He is currently the driving force behind some of Africa’s largest digital health engagement platforms.

Radhi obtained an honours degree in Social Work at the University of Witwatersrand which was followed by 25 years in practice. She further obtained short courses to enhance her business and OD skills and knowledge. She worked in the UK in the Mental Health and Social Service setting. Her working experience in South Africa has primarily been in the field of EAP consultancy. Her work has been in various environments, including government, corporate and non-governmental organisation. She has developed skills in change management, organisational development processes, counselling, facilitation of various trainings and leadership coaching and training. In addition, business skills have been acquired through exposure to various business processes, including the development and implementation of strategies and individualised programmes for a broad based client group. She received her MBA through Henley Business College in 2012 and her coaching qualification in 2017. She has also been a part of EAPA South Africa for the last 15 years and has been a board member for the last 10 years. She is currently holds the EAPA-SA President position and was previously the Conference portfolio, Research & Development portfolio and before that held the Egoli Chairperson portfolio for 2 terms. Her commitment to the EAP field is both passionate and constant.

Yoliswa Makhasi is an activist beaurocrat who started her career in the public sector in 1996.  She currently serves as Director General of the Department of Public Service and Administration since March 2020 – her responsibilities include ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the Department amongst others. Previously, she was Head of the Department for Community Safety in the Gauteng Provincial Government since 2016. She is a qualified Coach, strategist, communicator, and an activist who has grown up in different ranks in the public service.

Her academic credentials include Masters in Philosophy (MPhil) in Coaching Management from University of Stellenbosch (2019); Masters Degree in Public Policy and Management from University of Manchester (UK) (2005); Bachelor of Arts Degree  from Vista University (PE). She has continuously improved her skills and has obtained a number of certificates mainly from Wits University & Gordon Business School (GIBS) on project management, leadership, financial management, government communications etc.

Yoliswa has worked in different roles within the development sector and public service from operations, management, and political/ strategic levels and has been exposed to different levels of decision-making, oversight, management and operations. Her key capabilities and competencies include policy development and analysis; strategic leadership, planning, monitoring and evaluation; project management, people management, stakeholder relations, partnerships and constituency building; risk management; corporate governance and communications.

Metropolitan Health Corporate, The fastest growing and largest wellness provider in the Public Sector, boasting more than 1.5 million lives across various industries.

With over 40 years of combined experience providing both the public and private sector with comprehensive occupational health and wellness solutions, we believe investing in the health of employees has a direct and positive effect on a company’s bottom line. We believe in making things happen, measuring what works and learning from what does not.

We are strategically positioned to engage and to guide our clients and potential clients towards integrated health and wellness efforts. By combining the latest insights in health outcome research, data analytics and consumer engagement, we improve organisational health and wellbeing, one person at a time.

www.mhwellness.co.za

Kelly Manzini was an EAPA SA Board Member from 2004 – 2017 and elected as President in 2017 where he co-authored the EAP Standards (SA). Kelly holds qualifications in behavioural sciences and postgraduate business studies, with over 25 years’ experience in designing and implementing EAP and wellness programmes, both for public service and JSE-listed corporates. Kelly served in multiple inter-ministerial committees during his 10 years in the Public Service. The former Senior Manager for Organisational Development for Edcon Group, Human Resources Executive for Clicks Group and CEO of Careways Group. Kelly designed and implemented successful business turnaround strategies for both Careways and Metropolitan Wellness. Kelly holds extensive experience and knowledge in delivering strategic plans aligned to business growth, performance and operations, including experience in human capital optimisation, customer relations and stakeholder management. A reputable scholarly and business publications contributor. A proud finisher of Ironman races, multiple Comrades Marathons and recently the London to Paris Tour de France cycling tour.

Dr Fakie holds an MBChB, MBA, Dip in Occupational Health, and PGDip Health Economics. With over 20 years of experience in healthcare, she has worked as an Occupational Medicine Practitioner and healthcare leader, with exposure to a diverse client base. She is passionate about employee health and wellness solutions.

Corporations play an important societal role in supporting good health and well-being amongst employees. However, the return on investment (ROI) for a holistic corporate wellness strategy is not well understood. It is necessary to educate corporate clients on the benefits of providing holistic wellness programmes, including an approach to crafting a wellness strategy as well as guidance on wellness programme implementation. 

Learning Objective 1: Understanding the health landscape in SA, incl mental health stats and transfer knowledge to corporate clients.

Learning Objective 2: Understanding the impact of ill health, including direct and indirect costs, within companies and be able to communicate this with clients.

Learning Objective 3: How to position a holistic corporate wellness strategy at clients.

Social Worker with 6 years’ experience. I hold a BA (SW) from the University of Venda. I also have a MA degree in EAP from UP. I hold a ND in Security Risk Management from UNISA. Currently I am awaiting a letter of graduation from UNISA for my Doctoral degree.

Gambling turns into a disorder when those who gamble lose control over their spending and the frequency of their gambling increases. Gambling is a disorder because if a person who gambles is not in control of their gambling habits, they end up becoming addicted. Thus, it progresses to gambling disorder. Gambling disorder is a mental, psychiatric, public health and behavioural disorder that affects not only those who gamble but also other spheres of their lives. in terms of DSM-5-TR, 2022, gambling disorder is a non-substance disorder that presents with similar symptoms like those of alcohol and substance abuse.

Control or lack thereof is the keyword in gambling disorder, because anyone with control over their gambling activities would not spend more than what they planned and intended to use and would certainly not be consumed with negative gambling feelings and emotions such as being distressed. 

Learning Objective 1: To explore and describe gambling disorder in the workplace as a phenomenon.

Learning Objective 2: To contextualise how gambling disorder manifests itself in the workplace.

Learning Objective 3: To examine the measures that security officers would like to see implemented in programmes that are aimed at addressing gambling disorders. Objective 4: To develop guidelines for occupational social workers.

Alvin Govender is a dynamic speaker and performance coach lauded for his captivating presentations and insightful perspectives. With real-world experience through business and leadership coaching, he provides practical tools for change and adaptability, inspiring resilience in audiences globally. Alvin’s sessions are both authentic and impactful, leaving lasting impressions.

With a strong psychology background and three years of hands-on experience with Positive Intelligence (PQ) principles, I offer deep insights into mental fitness. My passion for mental wellbeing and expertise in PQ techniques equip me to educate teams on how to enhance resilience, performance, and overall wellbeing.

Pearl is a passionate and creative problem-solver with a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Pretoria and a Corporate Communication qualification. Pearl is a mindful leader that has a private practice that allows her to remain grounded, relevant and intentional about the concept and evolution of human behaviour that is everchanging and adapting.

Dr. Hekkie van der Westhuizen is a people person and his mission is to play a significant role in developing the leaders in Southern Africa. This includes providing them with different perspectives to be better leaders of themselves and, in doing so, be better leaders of others.

As a pioneer in EAP in the Public Service in South Africa, Dr P A Bhoodram is recognised both Nationally and Internationally. He has more than 25 years of experience in the field . He received two International awards. Dr Bhoodram has served on National and International committees and presented at more than 25 conferences. 

As a renowned radio and television wellbeing expert, Ronald wins the hearts and minds of audiences through his practical approach to overcoming challenges and the honest belief that wellbeing is not a lofty aspiration but something that every person deserves and can attain with the right information and tools to fix what might be perceived as broken or breaking. Ronald inspires audiences on his own Television show called SHAPE YOUR LIFE, broadcast on DSTV and has regular radio slots on numerous national and international radio stations. He is currently the driving force behind some of Africa’s largest digital health engagement platforms.

As a renowned radio and television wellbeing expert, Ronald wins the hearts and minds of audiences through his practical approach to overcoming challenges and the honest belief that wellbeing is not a lofty aspiration but something that every person deserves and can attain with the right information and tools to fix what might be perceived as broken or breaking. Ronald inspires audiences on his own Television show called SHAPE YOUR LIFE, broadcast on DSTV and has regular radio slots on numerous national and international radio stations. He is currently the driving force behind some of Africa’s largest digital health engagement platforms.

Professor Dr. Saito is Immediate Past President of the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine and Past-President of the New England College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine. As assistant clinical professor at Dartmouth College, and on faculty at the University of Pennsylvania and Harvard University, Kenji enjoys training the next generation of leaders in Occupational Health, Safety, Well-being, Leadership and Organisational Development, Digital health, Innovations, Data analytics, Entrepreneurship, Medico-legal consultation and Bioethics. Growing up as a sushi chef in a small family business kindled Kenji’s entrepreneurial spirit where he is currently involved with several startups in digital well-being, culinary and lifestyle medicine platforms in the Boston, Las Vegas and Los Angeles area and with environmental remediation technology in the Miami area. He is also a consultant, advisor for employee health and wellness to several national and global companies in the Consumer Products, Marketing, Transportation, Manufacturing, Nutraceutical/Pharmaceutical industries, and worked with various Government and Regulatory Agencies like State Licensing Board, OSHA, NIOSH, EPA, ATSDR, DEP etc. As a physician, he continues to practice clinical occupational health, seeing pilots as a senior medical examiner for the FAA and as an attorney, he is barred in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. During his spare time, he enjoys serving as one of the founding board members for Kids’ Chance of Maine, Maine Medical Association and House of Delegate to the American Medical Association. Dr. Saito is currently the Global Chief Medical Director of Owens Corning and previously Sr. Director of Global Wellness at P&G.

Come to my session to learn how to ThriveForward with AI, Automation, and Robotics, and take the first step towards building a more resilient and healthy workplace! Discover how these cutting-edge technologies can be leveraged to enhance resilience and wellness in your workplace. We will explore practical applications, innovative strategies, and real-world examples that demonstrate the transformative power of AI, automation, and robotics in fostering a thriving work environment.

Learning Objective 1: Understand the role of AI, automation, and robotics in promoting workplace resilience and wellness.

Learning Objective 2: Learn practical strategies to integrate these technologies into your organizational framework.

Learning Objective 3: Gain insights into the future of work and how to prepare your organization for ongoing transformation.

Prof Rembuluwani Paul Mbedzi is the President of the South African Council for Social Service Profession (SACSSP). He also serves as the Head of Social Work Department (HOD) and Associate Professor at University of South Africa (UNISA). His research interests include amongst others, marriage and couple counselling, family functioning, divorce counselling and working with children. He co-authored several academic and scholarly books and published numerous articles in accredited journals.

Social service professionals are reminded of the SACSSPs motto: NON NOBIS – not for ourselves, which describes the true meaning of the commitment of every social worker and other social service professionals in the country. The SACSSP is the statutory body & autonomous body instituted by Law. Thus, all social workers employed as EAP professionals are required in terms of the law to register and be licensed to practice as provided for in the Social Service Professions Act 110 of 1978. Professionals will be reminded of the mandate of the council, roles and responsibilities as well as the professional code of ethics.

Learning Objective 1: To provide an overview of the SACSSP

Learning Objective 2: To explain the mandate, role and responsibilities and code of ethics of the SACSSP.

Learning Objective 3: To provide the message of support 

Safia has extensive experience in the field of employee wellbeing and has been a clinical affiliate for over 20 years. She has worked across different industries – both public and private. As a psychologist, she also shares her clinical expertise in the creation of solutions for clients at individual and organizational levels.

Brandon Morgan is an HPCA Board for Psychology registered research psychologist, psychometrist, and counsellor. He has published several peer-reviewed academic articles on burnout. Brandon specialises in psychometric test development and research investigating vocational interests, personality traits, and burnout.

Nthabeleng is a mental health professional with seven years of EAP experience. She began as an EAP Case Manager, advanced to Managerial Consultant and now serves as a Client Relationship Manager. A registered social worker, she is also a Licensed NLP Life and Executive Coach and Licensed Logotherapist.

A Registered Counsellor dedicated to enhancing the lives of everyday individuals, with a strong passion for promoting well-being and achieving work-life integration. Drawing from years of experience in both corporate environments and private practice, I employ a holistic approach to support my clients on their journey to wellbeing.

Dr Badul has vast amount of knowledge in the field Academically, published and presented her academic research at various platforms. Her experience ranges from programme implementation to co-ordination level. She has imparted knowledge and personal experience at all spheres of Government. Extremely passionate about the wellbeing and retention of Employees.

I am a life coach, author and a weekly columnist at The Star and Pretoria News. I hold a PhD degree. I sampled many professions in my life such as teaching, radio, safety manager, project manager and change management specialist.

Professional jealousy is a never-diminishing matter of interest in the corporate world. People’s careers are being destroyed by the demon of professional jealousy. This phenomenon has turned the workplace into an infernal tower. In this presentation an attempt is made to diagnose professional jealousy, deadly landmines will be identified and the suggested solutions will be given to delegates.

Learning Objective 1: Define professional jealousy.

Learning Objective 2: Behavioural indicators of professional jealousy.

Learning Objective 3: How to identify and manage professional jealousy.

As a renowned radio and television wellbeing expert, Ronald wins the hearts and minds of audiences through his practical approach to overcoming challenges and the honest belief that wellbeing is not a lofty aspiration but something that every person deserves and can attain with the right information and tools to fix what might be perceived as broken or breaking. Ronald inspires audiences on his own Television show called SHAPE YOUR LIFE, broadcast on DSTV and has regular radio slots on numerous national and international radio stations. He is currently the driving force behind some of Africa’s largest digital health engagement platforms.

As a renowned radio and television wellbeing expert, Ronald wins the hearts and minds of audiences through his practical approach to overcoming challenges and the honest belief that wellbeing is not a lofty aspiration but something that every person deserves and can attain with the right information and tools to fix what might be perceived as broken or breaking. Ronald inspires audiences on his own Television show called SHAPE YOUR LIFE, broadcast on DSTV and has regular radio slots on numerous national and international radio stations. He is currently the driving force behind some of Africa’s largest digital health engagement platforms.

A collaborative leader with dedication to partnering with coworkers to promote engaged, empowering work culture. Documented strengths in building and maintaining relationships with diverse range of stakeholders in dynamic, fast-paced settings. With over 20 years of demonstrated ability in delivering mission-critical results. Offering outstanding communication and cross-cultural team management skills.

In today’s rapidly evolving workplaces, the concept of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) has gained unprecedented attention. Businesses are recognising the importance of addressing unconscious bias to create an environment that promotes inclusivity and equity. This session aims to delve into the complexities of unconscious bias and provide actionable strategies for building inclusive workplaces with meaningful DEI policies. Khethiwe Nkuna will explore tools, practices, and uncover how organisations can effectively implement and enforce DEI policies, thereby fostering a culture of diversity and inclusivity.

Learning Objective 1: Explore DEI tools & practices for Identifying and Mitigating Unconscious Bias.

Learning Objective 2: Share Strategies for Implementing and Enforcing DEI Policies Effectively.

Learning Objective 3: Case Studies of Organisations that Have Successfully Addressed Unconscious Bias.

A clinical psychologist and top GIBS MBA graduate with diverse experience in human capital management, leadership and strategy. Navlika is an executive, lecturer, mentor, expert and author in the mental health field. A recipient of awards for diversity, empowerment, women in leadership and recognised as Africa’s top 10 leaders to follow in 2024 by CIO Views.

I am seasoned data analysis expert with 15 years of working with EA data. Part of my most recent studies involved exploring the place of AI in the world of work and how this is and will impact our work environments. This has challenged my thinking and led me to start questioning the place of AI in employee wellness data transformation. The big question that I have and would like to pose to the audience is: what are the challenges and changes that confront us and what can we do about it?

In “Thriving Forward: Data-Driven Insights and Initiatives for Mental Health Trends,” we will explore the latest mental health data and its workplace implications. This session highlights how organizations can use data-driven insights to identify and address mental health challenges. We will discuss creating a robust support ecosystem, including preventive measures, early intervention, ongoing support, and recovery strategies. Attendees will learn about effective initiatives such as flexible work arrangements, wellness programs, mental health training, and leadership engagement. Join us to discover how to foster a thriving, supportive workplace culture that prioritises mental wellbeing and organisational health.

Learning Objective 1: Understand Mental Health Trends: Gain insights into the latest data on mental health trends and their implications for the workplace. Utilize Data-Driven Insights: Learn how to leverage data and analytical tools to identify and address mental health challenges within an organisation.

Learning Objective 2: Develop a Support Ecosystem: Understand the components of a robust mental health support ecosystem, including preventive measures, early intervention, ongoing support, and recovery strategies.

Learning Objective 3: Implement Effective Initiatives: Discover specific Thrive Forward initiatives, such as flexible work arrangements, comprehensive wellness programs, mental health literacy training, and leadership engagement, to foster a supportive workplace culture. Enhance Organizational Health: Learn how to continuously improve mental health initiatives to create a resilient and thriving organizational environment.

Nomakhuhla Mpila, a seasoned specialist, excels in embedding wellness programs within corporate frameworks. With 18 years of addressing employee well-being, she has pioneered initiatives that enhances productivity and retention. Currently pursuing a PhD, her work focuses on innovative strategies for holistic employee support in the modern workplace.

Join us for “ThriveForward Initiatives: Embedding Employee Assistance and Wellness into the Organisational DNA,” where you’ll learn how to strategically integrate wellness programs into your HR processes and organisational strategy. Discover actionable insights, real-world case studies, and best practices to foster a resilient, healthy, and thriving workplace. This session is essential for EA and HR professionals and organisational leaders committed to enhancing employee well-being and driving performance. Do not miss this opportunity to transform your workplace into a supportive environment where employees not only survive but thrive!

Learning Objective 1:Identify and integrate key wellness initiatives within the Human Resource Value Chain components (recruitment, training, performance management, compensation, and employee relations), and align wellness Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) with the Balanced Score Card (BSC) framework to track and enhance organisational performance.

Learning Objective 2: Conduct needs assessments to tailor Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) to the specific wellness requirements of the workforce, and Set clear, measurable goals for wellness programs and continuously review and adjust based on feedback and performance data.

Learning Objective 3: Implement best practices to foster a culture of wellness and support within the organisation, ensuring employee well-being is a strategic priority.

Buyani Zwane is the founder and Managing Director of Breakthrough Development, a leadership and management consultancy that has been helping organisations find their true north and achieve great results for over two decades.
A master strategist with extensive experience in human resources (capital) management and leadership development, Buyani believes that all people are born capable, and with the right guidance, can transform and step into their greatness as individuals and as contributing team members. Having grown up in rural KwaZulu Natal he has navigated many different work environments, including leading Franklin Covey Southern Africa, represented in 14 Southern African countries and Indian Ocean Islands, and CEO at one of nation’s top financial services companies.

Mmapula is a member of the Public Sector Wellness Management Committee at Momentum Health Group. She has extensive experience in Employee Wellness and Organisational Development where she held various specialist and senior management roles, working with leaders in organisations to co-create positive work cultures. She is a certified coach accredited on various coaching tools. She holds a Master of Business Leadership and Master of Social Sciences in EAP.

With her tireless energy and over 20 years’ experience in the wellbeing industry, Rishaveri is passionate about positively impacting people’s lives.

A wife and mother of two perfect little girls, Rishaveri is blessed to be able to pursue her passions, whilst balancing a fulfilling work and family life.

Dr Pakeezah Rajab has worked on numerous projects in both educational and corporate environments, supporting the development and validation of assessments for use by the South African population – including aptitude, personality, values, career guidance and emotional intelligence. Her research interests include executive functioning, student and employee performance and assessment development.

Sanlam is a purpose-led organisation, with all our efforts centred on helping our clients live with confidence. We promote financial inclusion, transformation and empowerment through our broad product and financial advice offering, inclusive culture and partnership approach. We have a proven track record of delivering superior value to clients, employees, shareholders and broader society.

Romi Kaplan is a UK trained psychotherapist (Middlesex and Oxford University) with a background in humanitarian aid. She has specialised in trauma theory (NATAL, TAU) and PTSD (Harvard University), working with counsellors and non- profit workers in the humanitarian field. In 2019 she co-founded the Counselling Hub, Woodstock as a site that offers equal access to mental health services. With the advent of COVID 19 she recognised the need for a tool that health care workers (HCW) could access with a small demand on their time. To this end, the Counselling Hub has accessed international training in EmotionAid from the International Trauma Institute, a tool already being used to assist HCW. We are keen to share the protocol with other professionals for personal and professional use. Romi is a trained facilitator (CDRA) and loves engaging with other professionals in a learning environment.

Romi believes innovation in the mental health sector is essential and getting to know about our emotional wellbeing as a cardinal human endeavour. She currently gives workshops on Self Care and Vicarious Trauma for NGO workers

1. What is EmotionAid
2. Understanding the neuroscience of trauma, stress, anxiety and burnout
3. Learn a practical tool for self-regulation that reduces stress and enhances mind and body well-being.
4. Do the 5 Step Protocol together in real time.

Learning Objective 1: EmotionAid works in the moment to effectively reduce stress levels – It is based on the latest neurophysiological evidence on trauma.

Learning Objective 2: It empowers the individual or group to use the protocol themselves, it is not reliant on an expert.

Learning Objective 3: It can be used anywhere, anytime.

Dale A. Masi is Professor Emeritus, University of Maryland, where she founded and chaired the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Specialization. For five years on loan from the university, she directed the model EAP for the federal government and served in the Office of the Secretary of USDHHS. She is President and CEO of Masi Research Consultants, Inc., a company founded by IBM, specializing in Employee Assistance Program (EAP) design, training, and evaluation. She designed the first IBM EAP and has consulted for major corporations and government agencies including American Management Association, Pfizer, Merrill Lynch the Internal Revenue Service, and also served on the IBM Mental Health Advisory Board. She is the author of sixteen books and more than seventy articles. Dr. Masi holds a PhD from the Catholic University of America. She is a Fulbright Scholar and Fulbright Specialist and has lectured in 45 countries for the US State Department and other international organizations. She holds a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Employee Assistance Professional Association and The University of Maryland. She is an NASW Social Work Pioneer. She is listed in Who’s Who in America, Who’s Who of American Women, and Who’s Who in Finance and Industry. She is a member of the Cosmos Club.

Learning Objective 1: To show the development of EAPs throughout the world.

Learning Objective 2: To present the effect of the pandemic on the mental health of the world’s population in 60 countries.

Learning Objective 3: Explain the effect of technology on delivering the EAPs in 60 countries.

Radhi obtained an honours degree in Social Work at the University of Witwatersrand which was followed by 25 years in practice. She further obtained short courses to enhance her business and OD skills and knowledge. She worked in the UK in the Mental Health and Social Service setting. Her working experience in South Africa has primarily been in the field of EAP consultancy. Her work has been in various environments, including government, corporate and non-governmental organisation. She has developed skills in change management, organisational development processes, counselling, facilitation of various trainings and leadership coaching and training. In addition, business skills have been acquired through exposure to various business processes, including the development and implementation of strategies and individualised programmes for a broad based client group. She received her MBA through Henley Business College in 2012 and her coaching qualification in 2017. She has also been a part of EAPA South Africa for the last 15 years and has been a board member for the last 10 years. She is currently holds the EAPA-SA President position and was previously the Conference portfolio, Research & Development portfolio and before that held the Egoli Chairperson portfolio for 2 terms. Her commitment to the EAP field is both passionate and constant.