 | H.E. Mahash Saeed Salem Mahash Al HameliAmbassador of the United Arab Emirates to the Republic of South AfricaAppointed in 2017, H.E. Mahash Al Hameli serves as the UAE’s Ambassador to South Africa and non-resident Ambassador to Botswana, Namibia, and Lesotho. He has played a key role in advancing UAE–Africa relations, fostering closer cooperation in diplomacy, trade, and investment across the region. Through his work, he continues to support initiatives that enhance economic partnerships and create opportunities for collaboration between the UAE and Southern Africa. |
 | Lorenzo JoorisGroup CEO, Creative ZoneLorenzo Jooris is the CEO of Creative Zone, the UAE's leading business set-up advisory firm. Lorenzo holds extensive experience in the Middle Eastern and South Asian markets and retains an expert opinion on SMEs' and start-up culture. Responsible for running all facets of the business, Lorenzo has been instrumental in driving the company's growth and has instilled a culture of innovation, trust, and care by empowering the team to deliver sustained outcomes. |
 | Buhlebokukholwa SibanyoniFounder & CEO of Azanyah Trade HubBuhlebokukholwa Sibanyoni is the CEO of Azanyah Trade Hub, under Azanyah Group, and a leading voice in global and African trade, investment, and social impact. She has led major projects for the UAE Embassy in South Africa since 2022, advancing bilateral economic partnerships, investment promotion, and national social initiatives. She also serves as Chairperson of MSME Chambers South Africa and Founder of My Aman NPC, driving grassroots programmes in education and menstrual health.
Previously, she held senior roles in the financial sector with Standard Bank, DeVere Acuma, and Austen Morris Associates. Internationally, she has served as Deputy President of the Global Forum of Women Entrepreneurs (GFWE) and as a Commissioner on the Global SDGs Youth Summit Advisory Board, appointed by former Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo. Buhle continues to shape SME policy as part of the African Union’s SME Development Partnership Platform and is recognised as a transformational leader across the AU and SADC regions.
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 | Jackie MathebulaChairman & Co-Founder, Aurik Enterprise Development Jackie Mathebula is the Chairperson and Co-Founder of Aurik Enterprise Development, part of the Aurik Group of Companies.
Aurik partners with entrepreneurs and businesses to drive revenue growth, profitability, and long-term sustainability through its proven “Asset of Value” model. The firm designs and delivers business acceleration programmes that help companies thrive in today’s technological, digital, and AI-driven economy. Its holistic 360° model covers strategy, marketing, operations, finance, HR, digitisation, and access to funding. Aurik also creates tailored programmes for governments, corporates, and SME-supporting organisations to drive localisation, growth, and supply chain development.
With over 30 years of leadership and entrepreneurial experience, Jackie has held executive, board, and ownership roles across sectors including manufacturing, mining, finance, consulting, and public service. He also serves as a director and trustee across multiple organisations. Jackie holds an MBA from the University of Pretoria and a Master of Management from the University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa. |
 | Thabo MaphosaSenior Business Setup Advisor, Creative ZoneThabo Maphosa is a seasoned Senior Business Consultant at Creative Zone in Dubai, where he leverages his extensive expertise in market entry strategy and execution. With a strong background in various sectors, he brings a unique perspective to his role. At Creative Zone, Thabo specialises in guiding clients through the complexities of business setup and growth in the UAE. His focus on strategic market entry, fiscal efficiency, and corporate structuring that ensures businesses not only thrive but also adapt to the ever-evolving landscape.
Thabo is dedicated to providing customized solutions that address the specific needs of entrepreneurs and investors. His client-focused approach and insightful guidance have empowered numerous clients to achieve their goals, paving the way for sustainable success. Thabo's passion for fostering innovation and creating impactful business relationships makes him a valuable asset to the Creative Zone community. |
