Some Programme Directors manage an agenda. Ziyanda Potelwa leads conversations that shape industries.

An accomplished investment executive, corporate leader and executive moderator, Ziyanda brings more than a decade of experience working alongside board members, institutional investors, policymakers, entrepreneurs and senior business leaders. Her career has been built in boardrooms where strategic decisions are made, giving her the confidence, credibility and commercial insight to lead high-level conversations with authority and ease.

Having held senior investment and corporate banking roles at the Public Investment Corporation (PIC), Nedbank Corporate and Investment Banking, Standard Bank and IDF Capital, Ziyanda has advised on and executed complex debt and equity transactions valued in the billions. From infrastructure and property investment to development finance, entrepreneurship and economic transformation, she possesses an exceptional ability to navigate technically complex subject matter while keeping audiences engaged and conversations accessible.

Today, she serves as a Non-Executive Director of the Coega Development Corporation and Chairperson of its Capital Allocation Committee, where she provides strategic oversight on infrastructure investment, governance and long-term capital allocation. This ongoing executive leadership ensures her knowledge remains current, relevant and firmly connected to South Africa's evolving economic landscape.

What distinguishes Ziyanda on stage is her ability to combine executive presence with genuine curiosity. She doesn't simply introduce speakers or manage time; she facilitates conversations that encourage meaningful dialogue, thoughtful debate and valuable audience engagement. Whether moderating C-suite panel discussions, facilitating investor forums or leading national conferences, she creates an environment where ideas are explored with depth, clarity and purpose.

A skilled communicator with formal training in financial journalism and media studies, Ziyanda has developed a reputation for translating complex investment, governance and policy discussions into compelling conversations that resonate with both specialist and non-specialist audiences. Her measured delivery, thoughtful questioning and calm authority allow speakers to shine while ensuring delegates remain informed, engaged and inspired throughout every programme.

Fluent in English and isiXhosa, with conversational proficiency in Afrikaans, isiZulu and Setswana, Ziyanda connects effortlessly with audiences across South Africa's diverse business community. Her meticulous preparation, polished presentation style and ability to think strategically in the moment make her a trusted choice for conferences where professionalism and credibility are paramount.

Whether hosting an executive leadership summit, moderating policy discussions, facilitating investment conferences or directing prestigious corporate events, Ziyanda Potelwa delivers far more than seamless programme management. She creates the conditions for meaningful conversations, stronger audience engagement and memorable conference experiences.

Professional. Insightful. Composed. Ziyanda Potelwa is the Programme Director organisations trust when every conversation matters.