Khuluma Ukhululeke - Business Strategy & Leadership Talk show.

Lwazi Manqele

Khuluma Ukhululeke — The Industry Torque Show delivers unfiltered conversations about innovation, business strategy, and leadership. Hosted by Lwazi Manqele, each episode explores entrepreneurship tips, CEO interviews, and bold ideas shaping the future of business. Whether you're a founder, leader, or interested in industry insights, join us for honest discussions on what it takes to build lasting success.

  1. Sep 30

    Securing the Future: How NUMSA Transformed 343 Workers' Lives at PUTCO

    In a landmark decision, NUMSA (National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa) has achieved a significant victory for workers at PUTCO, transitioning 343 employees from precarious contract positions to permanent employment. This episode delves into the details of this achievement and highlights the critical role of unions in advocating for workers' rights in South Africa. For many, the shift from a fixed-term contract to permanent employment may seem like a simple administrative change. However, for the workers involved, this transition represents a profound change in their lives and the lives of their families. With permanent contracts come job security, access to benefits such as medical aid, provident funds, and bonuses that were previously unattainable under casual employment conditions. The conversation features Frederick Mabasa, a sector coordinator for NUMSA, who outlines the challenges faced by these workers, particularly in light of the casualization trend that has permeated various sectors, including public transport. Mabasa explains that this issue became particularly pressing following an unprotected strike in 2022, where workers demanded fair compensation and bonuses. The aftermath saw many workers suspended or dismissed, leading to a protracted struggle for job security. Mabasa emphasizes that the fight was not just about securing permanent contracts for the 343 workers but also about setting a precedent for others in similar situations. He notes that this victory could inspire other sectors, particularly the vulnerable security and chemical industries, to take action against casualization practices. As the episode unfolds, listeners will learn about the legal frameworks that NUMSA relied upon, such as Section 198B of the Labor Relations Act, to advocate for these workers. The discussion also touches on the broader implications of high unemployment rates in South Africa, which often leave workers vulnerable to exploitation and weaken their bargaining power. The episode concludes with a hopeful outlook for the remaining 77 workers still seeking permanent contracts and a call to action for other unions and organizations to join the fight against casualization. This achievement serves as a reminder of the power of collective action and the importance of unions in safeguarding workers' rights. Join us as we explore this inspiring story of resilience and advocacy, and learn how NUMSA continues to champion the cause of workers across South Africa. Don't miss this episode that highlights the ongoing struggle for fair labor practices and the essential role of unions in creating a just workplace.

    Securing the Future: How NUMSA Transformed 343 Workers' Lives at PUTCO

  2. Jul 23

    Spearheading Bleisure on KZN's North Coast | Khuluma Ukhululeke

    Oceans Umhlanga Development CEO Brian Mpono unpacks KZN's R4.3bn "bleisure" economy, Oceans Umhlanga, and why the South Coast is investment's next frontier.

    Spearheading Bleisure on KZN's North Coast | Khuluma Ukhululeke

  3. Jun 27

    BRICS WILL CHANGE SA!

    In this exclusive interview, Adv. Mtho Xulu, President of the South African BRICS Business Council, shares his vision for South Africa's future within BRICS. Discover how BRICS plans to: • Increase exports and industrialisation • Support SMEs with improved trade finance • Expand electric vehicle manufacturing • Promote local supplier development • Strengthen Africa's position in global trade • Create jobs and opportunities for young South Africans The discussion also explores South Africa's preparations to chair BRICS in 2028 and what businesses, entrepreneurs, investors, and students should expect over the coming years. Guest: Adv. Mtho Xulu President, South African BRICS Business Council Interviewer: Lwazi Manqele Subscribe for more exclusive interviews on business, innovation, trade, entrepreneurship, and Africa's economic future. #BRICS #SouthAfrica #Business #Trade #Investment #Africa #Economy #Entrepreneurship #SMEs #Innovation #Export #Manufacturing #YouthDevelopment #LwaziManqele #NorthCoastRadio

    BRICS WILL CHANGE SA!

  4. Apr 2

    BIM Revolutionizing South Africa’s Built Environment: From Rural Bridges to Smart Villages

    South Africa’s infrastructure backlog is well documented. What is now emerging is a clear, investable pathway to close it profitably, sustainably and inclusively. BIM is not a technology trend — it is the new operating system for the built environment. For investors seeking alpha in African infrastructure, for academics shaping the next generation, for rural leaders building resilient communities and for young South Africans ready to shape the future: the data is standardised, the tools are proven and the opportunity is open. Interview conducted by Lwazi Manqele, Current Affairs Producer, North Coast Radio. Thabelo Netshivhungululu is Technical Manager | BIM Strategy & Innovation at Moderna.

    BIM Revolutionizing South Africa’s Built Environment: From Rural Bridges to Smart Villages

  5. Jan 2

    China's Vocational Blueprint: Empowering African Youth Skills in the G20 Era

    Discover how China's vocational blueprint—apprenticeships, Luban Workshops, tripartite contracts, and green tech training—aligns with G20 Johannesburg 2025 youth skills priorities, Africa Skills Multiplier for 1 million trainers, and inclusive growth from the historic African summit. In this exclusive podcast, North Coast Radio's Lwazi Manqele hosts Professor Liu Baocheng (Center for International Business Ethics, UIBE; CCTV commentator; MBA/MSc Seton Hall, PhD UIBE) on "Bridging Skills: Africa and China's Path to Youth Empowerment." Key Insights from G20 2025 Johannesburg Declaration & China-Africa Partnerships: China's high-quality development model mirrors G20 focus on future-ready education, AI, automation, and carbon neutrality—adapting apprenticeships for African technicians, digital operators, and engineers via respectful, context-specific programs.Sino-SA mining breakthroughs: Technology transfer, automation upskilling, and mutual mentorship in mineral beneficiation elevate youth from manual labor to high-value roles, boosting local value addition amid critical minerals push.Luban Workshops & empowerment: Tiered certifications, bilingual skills, and Belt & Road training in South Africa, Ethiopia, Kenya—transforming raw resources into sustainable prosperity, echoing Y20 "Building Bridges" and Compact with Africa.Post-G20 (Nov 22-23, 2025, Nasrec Expo Centre): Explore youth employment targets, AI for Africa Initiative, and China’s South-South leverage despite US boycott. Perfect for #G20Johannesburg2025, #YouthSkillsDevelopment, #ChinaAfricaPartnerships, #MineralBeneficiationSA, #LubanWorkshop, #AfricaIndustrialization, #VocationalTrainingAfrica, #G20YouthEmpowerment.

    China's Vocational Blueprint: Empowering African Youth Skills in the G20 Era

  6. 11/13/2025

    Unlocking Africa's Digital Future Insights from the ITU

    In this episode, we delve into the transformative impact of AI and digital technologies in Africa with a focus on the recent AI Expo. Mr Guillem Martinez Roura from the ITU discusses the organization's role in establishing technical standards, fostering capacity building, and promoting youth engagement in digital education. Join us as we explore the initiatives aimed at bridging the digital divide, empowering youth, and ensuring that African voices are heard in the global AI conversation.

    Unlocking Africa's Digital Future Insights from the ITU

  7. 10/25/2025

    Port of Gauteng White Paper Outlines R50 Billion Plan to Transform SA Logistics

    In this episode, we explore the intricate dynamics of logistics and transport in South Africa with logistics property industry developer Francois Nortje'. He shares insights on the development of the Port of Gauteng, the evolution of the N3 corridor, and the pressing need for reform in rail freight. Discover how these elements interconnect and their implications for the future of transportation and logistics in the region. Don’t miss this enlightening discussion!

    Port of Gauteng White Paper Outlines R50 Billion Plan to Transform SA Logistics

  8. 10/05/2025

    Navigating the Next Act: How Southern Africa’s Creative Industry Is Rewriting Its Own Script

    Under the soft glow of the Market Theatre’s historic stage lights, a powerful conversation is unfolding. For decades, the Southern African creative industry has dazzled audiences, yet behind the applause lies a quiet crisis — one of sustainability, structure, and economic neglect. This month, Mr. Lethlage Mochadibane, Project Manager of the Southern African Producers and Artistic Directors Conference (SAPAC), sat down with Trends Nexus to unpack the outcomes of the recent regional conference and to chart a future where creativity is treated not as leisure — but as labour, livelihood, and legacy.

    Navigating the Next Act: How Southern Africa’s Creative Industry Is Rewriting Its Own Script
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About

Khuluma Ukhululeke — The Industry Torque Show delivers unfiltered conversations about innovation, business strategy, and leadership. Hosted by Lwazi Manqele, each episode explores entrepreneurship tips, CEO interviews, and bold ideas shaping the future of business. Whether you're a founder, leader, or interested in industry insights, join us for honest discussions on what it takes to build lasting success.

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