At DaVinci Business School, we are constantly driven by our mission to co-create transformational societies, and our recent Inaugural Societal Regenerative Conference, held from 21 to 22 October 2024, stands as a shining example. Under the visionary leadership of Prof Ronnie Lessem, a Professor of Management at DaVinci Business School, this conference brought together thought leaders from around the globe to explore innovative solutions for societal healing, focusing on the Global South.
The theme of "Societal Healing and Societal Regeneration" couldn't be more timely as communities and ecosystems across the globe grapple with the effects of socio-economic challenges. With a hybrid format that allowed in-person and online participation, this no-fee event became a meeting point for scholars, changemakers, and community leaders dedicated to shaping a more equitable future.
As Mother Earth and its inhabitants continue to bear the weight of socio-economic dysfunction, this conference emerged as a gathering of hearts and minds committed to sparking integral healing for individuals, enterprises, and communities alike. The conference’s hybrid format allowed delegates from diverse backgrounds to participate in these rich discussions, with invited speakers joining in person at DaVinci House in Modderfontein, Johannesburg, while others connected virtually.
Day 1: Exploring Inclusive Knowledge Creation and Regenerative Practices
The conference opened with a powerful session on the reconstruction of society and the role of inclusive knowledge creation in Africa, featuring notable thought leaders like Dr Sandile Ndlungwane, Prof Bennie Anderson, and Prof Ronnie Lessem. The conversations set the tone for what was to come—deep reflections on how we can heal societal wounds through thoughtful innovation and knowledge-sharing. As Prof Anderson put it, "We are not simply educating leaders; we are actively co-creating solutions that promote sustainable and equitable transformation."
A highlight from the first day was the session on integral healing knowledge and Ubuntu wisdom, where Dr Aneeqa Malik discussed the power of Soulidarity and its potential to inspire interconnectedness and solidarity among communities. The day concluded with reflections on the intersection of technology and human-centeredness by Dr Rooksana Rajab, emphasizing how tech-driven solutions can and should align with the goal of fostering holistic societal healing.
Day 2: Shaping a New Future for Regenerative Enterprises
Day two expanded on the previous discussions, with a focus on healing sectors that are foundational to societal well-being, including healthcare and business sustainability. Dr Simon Abbott and Dr Claudia Sigamoney, our Head of Undergraduate Programmes, led a timely conversation on the state of the South African healthcare industry, pointing to digital innovations as a way to regenerate the sector. This was followed by a transformative exploration of business sustainability led by Dr Tony Bradley, a DaVinci Doctoral alumnus, who challenged delegates to reimagine enterprise as a cycle of regenerative practices, placing humanity at the centre of economic growth.
The closing session on the power of Communiversity, presented by DaVinci alumnus Chaka Isheneusu and Dr Chipo Ndudzo, another DaVinci Doctoral alumnus, left us with a powerful vision of how education can nurture graduates to become agents of societal transformation. Their message was clear: to heal society, we must equip our future leaders with the tools and mindset to drive meaningful change. Also in attendance were our Executive Dean: Research, Teaching, Learning (Prof HB Klopper), the Head of Postgraduate Programmes (Dr Willy Engelbrecht) and the Head of Postgraduate Research (Prof Paul Sigh).
A Future of Integral Healing and Transformation
As we wrapped up this groundbreaking conference, one thing was certain: the conversations and ideas shared over these two days were not the end but the beginning. The Societal Regenerative Conference has planted seeds for future collaborations and innovations aimed at bringing integral healing to societies, enterprises, and ecosystems across the globe.
As a no-fee conference, it was an open invitation to changemakers worldwide to participate in shaping a world where sustainability, healing, and transformation are at the heart of progress.
At DaVinci Business School, we don’t just talk about change—we co-create it. This conference was a testament to our commitment to growing agile, aligned, and engaged leaders who will bring about sustainable transformation.
Join us as we continue this journey of societal regeneration and healing, influencing the co-creation of realities that transcend boundaries and connect hearts.
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