Sasol proudly participated in the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) Disability Indaba, hosted by Innovative Entrepreneurs NPC in collaboration with the French South African Chamber of Commerce & Industry. The Indaba sought to promote the inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in South Africa’s mainstream economy, attracting roleplayers from across all sectors of society, including media.
Dean Somerset, Manager: Group Brand and Sponsorship, addressed attendees on the company’s commitment to supporting inclusion through our sport sponsorship programme. Highlighting Sasol’s partnership with Wheelchair Basketball South Africa (WBSA), Somerset shared insights into how this partnership enabled societal change and created opportunity.
“For people with disabilities, sport is not just a platform for competition; it is a powerful tool for transformation and advocacy. It challenges stereotypes, promotes visibility, and fosters a sense of belonging,” said Somerset.
“For over 17 years, Sasol has been privileged to partner with Wheelchair Basketball South Africa (WBSA), a partnership that embodies our commitment to empowerment and equality – a partnership fuelled by a shared belief in the endless potential of wheelchair basketball.”
Wheelchair Basketball South Africa (WBSA) CEO Charles Saunders also attended the Indaba and emphasised the transformative power of sport. “Sport is more than physical activity; it is a beacon of hope and a bridge to opportunity for people living with disabilities. Platforms like the DE&I Disability Indaba are essential for amplifying the voices of the differently abled community and driving meaningful change.”
Arlene Wilson-Max, Founder of Innovative Entrepreneurs NPC, also echoed the same sentiment, “These Indabas create platforms for key industry leaders to hear the challenges that people living with disabilities face, while also highlighting the immense room for creating opportunities to empower them. It is through dialogue and collaboration that we can drive systemic change and foster a truly inclusive economy.” She said.
