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Lesley Williams
Chief Executive Officer at Tshimologong Precinct
Professional Background
Lesley Williams is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of international experience in dialogue facilitation, change management, innovation, and stakeholder engagement. Her remarkable ability to create common ground between diverse stakeholders—including corporates, government entities, international development agencies, and entrepreneurs—has established her as a key figure in fostering collaborative opportunities across various sectors. Lesley has worked extensively in numerous industries such as academia, mining, banking, animation, and energy, showcasing her versatility and expertise.
One of the career highlights that underscore her profound influence was moderating a high-profile dialogue on Nelson Mandela’s legacy and the Future of Africa. This pivotal event took place in Washington DC in 2019, where she facilitated a conversation between former President Barack Obama and Graca Machel. This experience not only reflects Lesley’s capabilities as a dialogue facilitator but also her commitment to addressing crucial historical and contemporary issues that shape the African continent.
Currently, she serves as the Chief Executive Officer at Wits University’s Tshimologong Precinct, an innovation hub dedicated to promoting African digital innovation on a global scale. Lesley is also the founder of Lesley Donna Williams Consulting, a consultancy that embodies her vision to influence and drive change in various organizations. Additionally, in 2010, she launched the first Impact Hub in Africa in Johannesburg, which has grown to be a vital part of a global network of over 100 hubs that foster entrepreneurship and social innovation.
In 2015, driven by a profound desire to combat xenophobia in South Africa, Lesley convened the I AM AFRICA movement. This initiative aims to empower ordinary citizens to take an active role in transforming the continent, thereby promoting unity and collaboration among its diverse peoples.
Lesley’s influence also extends to her participation in international initiatives, as evidenced by her appointment as a TEDx speaker in 2020. Furthermore, she was selected for the inaugural class of the Obama Foundation Leaders Program: Africa in 2018, comprising 200 emerging leaders from across the continent. Her leadership skills were further recognized when she mentored the 2019 cohort, sharing her insights and experiences with budding leaders.
Education and Achievements
Lesley Williams has a commendable educational background that includes a Master’s in Philosophy from the University of Cape Town. She also studied Entrepreneurship at the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), equipping her with the necessary skills to approach challenges innovatively and effectively. Additionally, she holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Psychology from the University of Johannesburg, showcasing her understanding of human behavior and organizational dynamics.
In terms of recognition, Lesley has received numerous accolades throughout her career. In 2018, she was honored with the InspiringFifty award, an initiative by the Kingdom of the Netherlands that recognizes the 50 most inspiring women in the STEM fields in South Africa. Her contributions to business ethics and leadership were acknowledged in 2015 when she received the Unashamedly Ethical Award in the Business Category. Moreover, her early achievements were recognized in 2011 when she was featured on the Mail & Guardian’s list of Top 200 Young South Africans, shining a spotlight on her potential and impact in society. In 2009, Lesley was one of only 60 young global leaders selected for a BP Antarctica Expedition focusing on Climate Change, which further highlights her engagement with critical global issues.
Career Pathway and Interests
Lesley has held various significant positions throughout her career, which have all contributed to her growing expertise and leadership profile. She was a member of the 4IR Advisory Panel for the Gauteng Provincial Government, where she provided insights into the Fourth Industrial Revolution's implications for the region. Additionally, she served on the board of directors for the Impact Hub Network, contributing to the growth and success of social innovation initiatives internationally.
Lesley's consultancy work has allowed her to guide organizations in implementing innovative strategies and enhancing stakeholder engagement. As a former associate consultant at the Research Institute for Innovation and Sustainability (RIIS), she utilized her research and facilitation skills to foster innovative methodologies that drive sustainable development.
A notable role was Lesley’s tenure as the Africa Advisory Council Lead at the Impact Hub Network, where she played a pivotal part in enhancing the ecosystem for social enterprises. Her experience as a facilitator and mentor at the Obama Foundation speaks to her commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders, and her co-founding of Impact Hub Joburg reaffirms her dedication to fostering entrepreneurship in Africa.
Lesley’s journey showcases her belief in collaborative efforts to drive change and innovation in Africa and beyond. She continues to inspire others and pave the way for future leaders who seek to make a difference in their communities and industries.
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Clay offers competitive pricing in the personal CRM market. Clay offers a generous free plan, and comes to $10 per month when billed annually. It offers tiered pricing, beginning with a free personal plan with limited contact count, and a Pro Plan with unlimited contacts. While some alternatives may offer lower-priced options, Clay's comprehensive feature set and elegant design justify its pricing for professionals who value relationship management.
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