Highlights from IPM's Annual Excellence Awards 2023

In the realm of Human Resources, where every effort contributes to the success of individuals and organisations, celebrating excellence becomes a compass guiding us toward our true north. The IPM Annual Excellence Awards, a beacon for recognising outstanding contributions in the HR fraternity, recently concluded, leaving behind a trail of inspiration and applause.

The response to this year’s awards was nothing short of overwhelming, with nominations flooding in from dedicated HR professionals who are actively shaping the landscape of their field. To all those who submitted their exceptional entries, IPM extends its heartfelt gratitude, acknowledging the vital role each of them plays in pushing the boundaries of HR excellence.

On the grand evening of November 22, the stage was set for a celebration like no other. The crème de la crème of HR excellence, impeccably dressed, gathered for an unforgettable night of recognition and jubilation. The air buzzed with anticipation as attendees prepared to applaud the best in the industry.

The caliber of the submissions surpassed expectations, reflecting the unwavering commitment of the HR community. Each entry told a unique story of dedication, innovation, and positive impact on both the workforce and corporate success. The awards committee, led by the astute Phil Tshikotshi, played a pivotal role in meticulously reviewing and selecting the most deserving winners.

The evening was a spotlight on exceptional individuals, outstanding teams, and transformative initiatives that have left an indelible mark on the workplace environment. These champions have not only excelled in their roles but have also contributed significantly to the overall success of their organisations.

Now, let's take a moment to congratulate our distinguished winners and runners-up, whose names will resonate in the corridors of HR excellence:

Celebrating HR Excellence

CEO Special Recognition Award

Winner: Marie Sebueng (company)

Celebrating HR Excellence

Business Leader of the Year Award Winners

Gugu Mkhize (INSETA)
Ivan Mzimela (Spesnet Group)

Runner up
Thembi Changonda (Global Business Solutions)

Celebrating HR Excellence

Lifetime Achievement Award

Winners: Nene Molefi (Mandate Molefi HR Consultants)

Runner up
Alinda Nortje (Free To Grow)

Celebrating HR Excellence

HR Leader of the Year Award

Winners: Dineo Sekwele (Nutun)

Runner up
Norah Sehunoe (Santam)

Celebrating HR Excellence

Future HR Leader Award

Winners: Shalin Ledwaba (Bowmans Law)

Runner up
Thato Ndaba (Nashua) and Nhlanhla Mabuza (Lightstone)

Celebrating HR Excellence

HR Manager of the Year Award

Winners: Valisha Naidoo (Eskom)

Runner up
Lucille Pillay (Nutun)

Celebrating HR Excellence

Emerging HR Star Award

Winners: Bongi Khumalo (Nutun)

Runner up
Nonkululeko Masinga (Eskom)

Celebrating HR Excellence

HR Innovation of the Year Award

Winners: Devaan Parbhoo (Santam)

Runner up
Enrico Adinolfi (Nutum)

Celebrating HR Excellence

Excellence in L & D Award

Winners: Frans Kutumela (Santam)

Runner up
Precious Njamela (Zensar) and Frederick Stroebel (Sanlam)

Celebrating HR Excellence

Employee Engagement & Wellbeing Award

Winners: Bawinile Christinah Kubheka (MDDA)

Runner up
Natasha John (Eskom's Health and Wellness Team) and Gugu Mgagule (CEFA Group)

Celebrating HR Excellence

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Excellence Award

Winners: Zandile Njamela (Accenture)

Runner up
Candice Naidoo (Startek)

Celebrating HR Excellence

Talent Acquisition and Retention Award

Winners: Thembi Manyike (Santam)

Runner up
Nthabiseng Mokoena (Startek)

Celebrating HR Excellence

HR Student of the Year Award

Winners: Tholang Nkhatho (Nutun)

Runner up
Danyel Bosch (NorthWest University)

These stellar individuals, teams, and initiatives embody the spirit of HR excellence, reminding us all of the crucial role HR plays in fostering a positive work environment and driving organisational success. As we reflect on this year’s Annual Excellence Awards, let it serve as a reminder of the heights that can be reached when passion, dedication, and innovation converge in the field of Human Resources. Here’s to celebrating excellence and looking forward to another year of inspiring achievements in HR. Congratulations to all the winners and participants who continue to elevate the standards of HR excellence! We would also like to thank the awards committee for all their hard work:!

Our values are member centricity, integrity and advocacy.

The Institute of People Management (IPM)