CAPE TOWN - South African businessman and entrepreneur, Mthunzi Mdwaba, has broken barriers by becoming the first black person to be appointed as the global spokesman for employers at the International Organisation of Employers (IOE), which is the largest private sector organisation that is representing the interests of federations in 158 countries.
Mdwaba was elected at a Geneva, Switzerland meeting of the Management Board of IOE and was confirmed as the global Spokesman for Employers in the International Labour Organisation (ILO).
The ILO is the only tripartite organisation in the world and United Nations (UN) multi-lateral agency dealing with labour issues, particularly international labour standards, social protection and work opportunities for all.
The organisation in 1969, received the Nobel Peace Prize for improving peace among classes, pursuing decent work and justice for workers and also providing technical assistance to other developing nations.
Earlier this year, Mdwaba was also appointed as the first black Vice-President, IOE for the ILO since the formation of the ILO almost 100 years ago.
Having an illustrious career, Mdwaba is the CEO of TZoro IBC an Investment, Brokering & Consulting Firm of niche products, Chairman of the University of the Western Cape Boards, Chairman of the Productivity SA Board, as well as B20 Co-Chairman for the Task Force on Employment & Education globally.
"I am extremely honoured and humbled by the confidence shown to me by business people and employers from all corners of the world to represent South African interests at this level," said Mdwaba.
Mdwaba was born in the rural village of Coville, Herschel in the Eastern Cape and studied at the University of Witwatersrand in the mid-80's where he enrolled for a BA (Bachelor of Arts) majoring in African Politics and Industrial Society and LLB.
He diversified his academic career when he completed, The Graduate Institute of Management and Technology (GIMT) Leadership and Management Course.
"This is also a testimony to the rise and influence Africa has in international matters," Mdwaba concluded.