Opening up the conversation
The Joburg Indaba is a gathering of SA’s foremost mining players to discuss the issues of the industry going forward. “The defining characteristic of the Joburg Indaba is that we encourage open, honest, blunt conversations between different stakeholders with diverse perspectives within mining industry groups,” says Bernard Swanepoel, chairman of the Joburg Indaba.
“For example, we will have CEOs speaking very candidly among themselves and with other stakeholders, so the atmosphere is informal, but encourages straight talking aimed at trying to find a way forward.
“The Indaba promotes discussion of one theme in one venue at one time during which all conference participants are able to talk to each other frankly, which makes the Indaba interesting and lively, because all those in attendance participate.
“People are often caught off the cuff, but happy to bring in humour, which makes for an informative, enjoyable event.”
He contends that the relative intimacy of the Inanda club also promotes networking between members of government, labour and business; with those attending the Indaba being able to engage in candid discussions.
“Our belief is that these kinds of conversations are essential to break down barriers and build a future. Our aim is to try and make an ongoing contribution to achieving solutions to the challenges faced by both the mining industry and the country through promoting the creation of shared meaning.
“The more we are able to speak to each other and hear each other’s point of view the more likely we are to develop trust and find a solution that is mutually acceptable, which is applicable to all our relationships, whether personal, in business or politics.
“I have no doubt that the views of participants in the Joburg Indaba are modified through discussing, listening, debating and reflecting, which ultimately results in the finding of common ground and a shared understanding,” he says.