Johannesburg, 12 June 2025 – The South African Actuarial Development Programme (SAADP) opened its doors in Illovo, Sandton, for a Media Networking Event that brought together journalists from various media houses, actuarial industry professionals, students, alumni, as well as corporate partners. The gathering was more than just another formal evening – it was meant to reintroduce SAADP’s mission and remind the profession why transformation still matters.
Carrying the theme “Reinvigorating SAADP: Driving Transformation in the Actuarial Profession,” the event aimed to do a few things at once – raise the programme’s profile, strengthen ties with the media, as well as show that SAADP intends to remain a central player in shaping a more inclusive profession.
The line-up mixed the formal with the personal. There was a warm welcome from SAADP leadership, followed by an outline of the organisation’s renewed strategy. A panel discussion brought different perspectives to the table – voices included the Executive Director, board members, alumni who’ve walked the journey, and a programme development manager. Their conversation touched on ongoing challenges around transformation, progress in developing a pipeline of Black actuaries, and how SAADP could work more closely with the professional body going forward.
The media and guests weren’t just passive listeners. A live Q&A gave them the chance to push for detail, ask about real impact, as well as challenge how these stories could reach a wider audience. The evening also had lighter moments – music, art, and the kind of networking that happens naturally over food and conversation.
One of the clear messages from SAADP leaders was that support for the programme can’t come from one corner alone. They urged partners, sponsors, and mentors to step in where they can, and nudged the media to help carry forward the stories of students whose lives have been changed.
“Transformation in the actuarial profession is not a one-organisation mission; it requires the collective effort of industry, academia, and society. SAADP is proud to be at the forefront of this work, but we need the media and our partners to walk alongside us in making the profession more accessible and inclusive,” said Nthato Selebi, SAADP Executive Director, acknowledging both the progress made and the long road ahead.
The evening wrapped up with a call to action – a push to keep transformation on the agenda, celebrate the achievements of SAADP alumni, and secure the programme’s long-term future.
