This is Makhiba Mollo
There’s nothing conventional about Makhiba (Baloyi) Mollo. Her experience of providing strategic counsel on Responsible Investing to several key institutional bodies and multinational companies in South Africa, defines her as a credible pioneer for responsible innovation, shareholder activism and justice in strategic decisions.
Constructive narratives Sustainability Expert Solutions Strategist
“As a blind person, I can attest to the fact that vision can be realized, in line with the African Unions (AU) Agenda 2063 and the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s) (you don’t need eyes to see, you need vision, Maxwell Frazer).” – Makhiba Mollo
Her 17+ years’ experience in sustainability and corporate governance, 10 years advancing sustainability performance and reporting at public company regulator, JSE and 6 years advancing, assessing, and monitoring investee company environmental, social and governance performance at Africa largest asset manager – the Public Investment Corporation have validated her recent appointment into South Africa’s National Planning Commission (NPC) - an independent advisory body appointed by the President. The NPC comprises experts from the private sector, academia and other stakeholders focusing on SA’s medium- and longer-term requirements as defined in the National Development Plan.
Over and above her pragmatism, insights and capabilities in international and local governance sustainability frameworks and political risk analysis, Makhiba’s track-record as a ‘catalytic connector’ and her heart for ‘root-cause’ social-change defines her as a leader in the areas of people-centric sustainable value creation and socioeconomic transformation.
Amongst her proudest achievements are her public presentations on both work related and personal matters. One of her most memorable experiences was hosting a topical seminar on Marikana, a widely covered mining tragedy in South Africa in 2012. In 2016, she was part of the organizing team for JSE's first Ringing a Bell for Gender Equity event on International Women’s Day.
As an independent consultant looking for opportunities to leverage the boardroom capital she has built over the years, she would like her contribution to help build a case for leadership excellence in the African ESG value proposition of the future by creating a new and inclusive agenda for the socioeconomic benefit of Africa.
Catalytic Solutions
As a catalytic solutions strategist, Makhiba identifies and designs solutions that address complex challenges facing individuals, organizations, and communities. Her focus is on developing strategies that create a positive impact and drive sustainable change. Cultivating solutions in the field of sustainability and Environmental Social Governance (ESG) and Climate Change requires a multi-disciplinary approach that combines technical expertise, stakeholder engagement, and strategic thinking. By bringing together all these elements, as a sustainability advocate and expert Makhiba can drive change and promote more responsible and sustainable practices within organizations and society.​
“My aim as a solutions strategist is to assist organizations to integrate sustainability into their business strategy in a way that will enhance their reputation and create sustainable long-term value for stakeholders and society at large.” Makhiba Mollo
Just Sustainability
As someone who is reframing the sustainability agenda for Africa and pioneering for inclusion for marginalized counterparts in society, Makhiba’s focus is on promoting a sustainable and equitable future for all people in Africa, regardless of their background or circumstances.As a sustainability expert Makhiba’s mandate involves:
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Working with a range of stakeholders, including policymakers, community organizations and private sector actors, to identify key social economic and environmental challenges facing communities. This ensures we implement strategies that promote social inclusion, economic empowerment, and sustainability.
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Engaging with marginalized communities themselves, to ensure that their voices and perspectives are heard and incorporated into decision-making processes. This ensures solutions are tailored to the specific needs and circumstances of societies.
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Promoting economic empowerment by working with stakeholders to identify and promote sustainable economic opportunities that create jobs and generate income for marginalized communities.
“Equity and sutainability are two sides of the same coin. Without equity, sustainability efforts fall short. Without sustainability, equity efforts will be undermined.” Dr Jalonne L White-Newsome
Equity Advocate
Makhiba’s work in the sustainability space advocates and highlights the interconnectedness of equity and sustainability and emphasizes the importance of addressing these issues together to create a more just and sustainable world.
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Makhiba’s equity advocacy encompasses:
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Empathy: Deep understanding and empathy for the experiences of individuals and communities
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Knowledge: A sustainable value leader with deep understanding of sustainability issues, environmental and social challenges
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Cultural competence: Understanding and navigating differences to build meaningful relationships and partnerships
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Courage: Speaking out and taking action for effective environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues
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Collaboration: Working effectively with others, including individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives
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Analytical thinking and flexibility: Analyzing complex social, environmental and governance situations and developing evidence-based solutions to promote equity. Being able to adapt to changing circumstances and respond to emerging challenges and opportunities
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Perseverance: As an equity advocate Makhiba is persistent and committed to true sustainability goals, even in the face of setbacks and obstacles
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Responsibility: Takes responsibility for actions and the impact they have on society and works to minimize negative impacts and maximize a positive one
Makhiba Mollo Live
