Play to Win: Unlocking Growth and Opportunities for Your Business
The Smart Supplier Conference, held on Tuesday, 16 September 2025, ran under the theme “Play to Win: Unlocking Growth and Opportunities for Your Business.” With a full house and strong participation, the conference equipped SMMEs with practical tools and insights ahead of the Supplier MatchUp.
Sessions covered how to access opportunities through ESD programmes, win tenders and contracts, and leverage branding for growth. A lively panel of entrepreneurs shared real success stories, while interactive workshops and networking created space for meaningful supplier–buyer connections. Forward-looking talks on sustainability, technology, and digital culture helped SMMEs prepare to stay competitive.
Overall, the conference gave SMMEs actionable strategies, confidence, and connections to engage buyers more effectively at the MatchUp.
Smart Supplier Speakers
Nqaba Dontache
CEO, Thriving Network
Hetty The Entrepreneur
Monetisation Expert, The Monetisation Agency
Sinazo Vabaza Tundube
Founder and Operations Executive,
African Enterprise Network (AEN)
Lungile Dlamini
Lead: Transformation, Procurement & Enterprise Development, PepsiCo
Nicola Jackman
Founding Creative Director, The Joy Movement
Brigette Mashile
Founder, Roka Roko
Obakeng Senne
Head BB Procurement cluster, Absa Group
Melaney Oldenhof
Senior Business Development Associate,
B Lab Africa
Kgalaletso K Tlhoaele
Executive: Enterprise Development, Absa Group
Thandy Pino
Public Procurement Expert, Ntakha Consult
Elmarie Goosen
Founder, Clinic with Purpose
- TUESDAY, 16 SEPTEMBER 2025
Registration & Networking
Welcome from MC
Key Note Address
How Absa’s ESD Programmes are Fueling Small Business Growth
A deep dive into how Absa’s Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) programmes are transforming businesses and opening doors for suppliers.
Future-Proofing Your Business: Why Sustainability and Technology are Game-Changers
Essential insights on how sustainability practices and technology adoption are becoming non-negotiable requirements for modern suppliers.
Panel Discussion: Thriving Against the Odds – SMME Success Stories
Real stories from suppliers who’ve successfully navigated challenges, featuring both emerging and established businesses sharing practical insights.
Master Strategies for SMME Growth through Tenders and Contracts
Comprehensive guide to identifying, bidding for, and winning tenders and contracts. Includes tips for both first-time bidders and experienced suppliers looking to scale.
Play Together: Building Your Supplier Network for Mutual Growth
Interactive networking workshop designed to create lasting business connections:
- Structured networking activities to connect ED and SD suppliers
- Identifying collaboration and partnership opportunities
- Building a support network for ongoing business development
- Action planning: Setting goals and next steps for business growth
SUPPLIER MATCHUP SESSIONS
Cocktail
