The BPESA Nelson Mandela Day Award recognises GBS companies going beyond token gestures to create real change in South African communities, honouring the spirit of the late statesman’s 67-minute call to service.

Four ways to make a difference

The award, which forms part of BPESA’s Annual GBS Alchemy Awards, will be presented across four categories designed to showcase different approaches to community upliftment:

• Best Community Empowerment Initiative
• Best Educational Support Programme
• Best Health and Wellbeing Campaign
• Best Environmental Sustainability Project

“Our new award is a call to action that honours Madiba’s unwavering belief in dignity, unity, and service,” says BPESA CEO Reshni Singh. “It shines a light on GBS companies that go beyond business to build hope and help shape a more inclusive, empowered and resilient South Africa.”

Beyond symbolic acts

Unlike traditional corporate social responsibility programmes, the award specifically targets initiatives that deliver measurable impact – from improving education and healthcare access to advancing environmental sustainability and community empowerment.

The focus on tangible results reflects Nelson Mandela’s own approach to social change, emphasising sustained action over symbolic gestures.

How to enter

GBS companies across South Africa can enter the competition through the awards portal. Submissions must include detailed proposals outlining their Mandela Day campaign’s concept, impact and sustainability plans.

Crucially, entries must also include video evidence of their 67-minute Mandela Day activity, along with proof of community benefits achieved.

The deadline for entries is 29 August 2025, with winners to be announced at the BPESA GBS and BPO Conference and Alchemy Awards on 5 November at Durban’s International Convention Centre.

“BPESA encourages all eligible GBS companies to share their stories of transformation and take their place among industry leaders driving inclusive, sustainable growth across South Africa,” Singh concludes.

The initiative comes as South Africa’s business sector faces increasing pressure to demonstrate meaningful social impact beyond traditional profit motives

About Business Process Enabling South Africa (BPESA)

Recognised as the national industry body for the GBS sector, the purpose of BPESA, a non-profit entity, is to promote trade and serve the interests of its members and numerous stakeholder groups involved in the development, growth, and sustainability of the Global Business Services (GBS) sector in South Africa.

BPESA is committed to fostering an environment conducive to the growth and success of the GBS sector, ensuring its members and stakeholders benefit from a thriving and sustainable industry. Website: www.bpesa.org.za

SOURCE: Weslander