Busi Mavuso: The Iron Lady Championing South Africa’s Biggest Businesses

In the high-stakes world of South African business, few names command as much respect as Busi Mavuso. As the CEO of Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA), she’s the driving force behind some of the country’s most powerful corporations—including Amazon, Absa, Woolworths, and Vodacom.

Dubbed the “Iron Lady of South African business,” Mavuso has spent years advocating for a stronger private sector, pushing for ethical governance, and holding both businesses and government accountable.

From Soweto to Corporate Powerhouse

Mavuso’s journey began in Soweto, where financial struggles forced her to enter the workforce early. Her first job? A R600-a-month internship at what would later become Absa Bank. Determined to become a chartered accountant, she studied through Unisa while working, finally achieving her dream 23 years after leaving school.

Her resilience paid off. Today, she holds a Master’s in Business Leadership, a postgraduate qualification from GIBS, and has served on the boards of Eskom, BUSA, and Resultant Finance.

A Fearless Advocate for Business

Mavuso is known for her no-nonsense approach. She’s clashed with government officials, most notably during a tense Eskom meeting where she refused to let corporate leaders take the blame for state failures.

But with South Africa’s new Government of National Unity (GNU), her tone has shifted. She now champions public-private partnerships as the key to economic revival.

Leading BLSA: A Voice for Corporate South Africa

Under her leadership, BLSA fights for policies that help businesses thrive while ensuring ethical standards. Its members—Standard Bank, Sasol, Naspers, and more—rely on her to shape national economic discussions.

Awards & Global Recognition

• 2020 Influencer of Influencers Award (Africa Brand Summit)
• Fortune-U.S. State Department Global Women’s Mentoring Program (2022)
• Daily Maverick’s Businessperson of the Year Runner-Up

Mavuso’s story is one of perseverance, leadership, and unwavering commitment to South Africa’s economic future.

{Source BusinessTech}

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