In a significant milestone for South Africa, Charmaine Mabuza, the Group CEO of ITHUBA, has emerged as a powerful force in the country’s business landscape. As the first black female CEO to be awarded the license to operate the National Lottery, Charmaine’s remarkable journey embodies the values of opportunity, resilience, and community upliftment. With her visionary leadership, ITHUBA Holdings has become a catalyst for change, empowering individuals and shaping a brighter future for South Africa.
Breaking Barriers: A Formidable CEO
Charmaine Mabuza’s groundbreaking role as the first black female CEO of the National Lottery in South Africa speaks volumes about her leadership and determination. Since being awarded the license in 2015, Charmaine has been at the forefront of driving innovation and responsiveness at ITHUBA Holdings, aligning the company’s objectives with the aspirations of society.
From Humble Beginnings to Inspiring Success
Raised in Empangeni, KwaZulu Natal, Charmaine’s entrepreneurial spirit was nurtured by her mother, who instilled in her the values of hard work, self-reliance, and consistency. Despite facing societal barriers, Charmaine’s unwavering drive to succeed propelled her forward. Her personal experiences have shaped ITHUBA’s culture, creating an organization deeply committed to helping fellow South Africans.
ITHUBA Holdings: Transforming Lives through the National Lottery
As the licensed operator of the National Lottery in South Africa, ITHUBA Holdings has played a transformative role in countless lives. Under Charmaine’s guidance, the company has enriched communities by creating opportunities for players to win life-changing cash prizes and become overnight millionaires. The National Lottery’s proceeds, managed by the National Lotteries Commission, are directed towards supporting various social causes.
Empowering the Future: Social Responsibility Initiatives
Beyond operating the National Lottery, ITHUBA Holdings demonstrates its commitment to social responsibility through various initiatives. The ITHUBA Bursary Programme provides educational opportunities for young people, empowering them to pursue higher education. Additionally, the company’s Enterprise and Supplier Development programs support the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises, fostering economic empowerment within communities.
Philanthropy: Supporting Education for a Better Future
Charmaine’s philanthropic efforts have culminated in the establishment of a foundation that provides financial assistance to students. By covering registration, accommodation, and travel costs, the foundation has supported the education of aspiring professionals, including doctors, chartered accountants, and ICT specialists. This commitment to education exemplifies Charmaine’s dedication to giving back and uplifting others.
Recognitions and Accolades
Charmaine Mabuza’s exceptional leadership has earned her numerous prestigious awards and accolades. She has been honored with the Vision 2030 Top Woman in Education Award, Forbes Africa Social Impact Award (2020), CEO of the Year, Outstanding Women Leadership Award at the Africa Leadership Awards 2021, and recognition as one of the Top 10 Influential Women in the global iGaming Business (IGB) list. These accolades underscore her remarkable contributions to education, social impact, and the business landscape.
Charmaine Mabuza’s journey serves as an inspiring testament to the power of opportunity, hard work, and feminine energy. As the CEO of ITHUBA Holdings, she has left an indelible mark on South Africa, transforming lives through the National Lottery and championing social responsibility. With her visionary leadership and commitment to community upliftment, Charmaine continues to build a legacy that will inspire generations to come, creating a brighter and more inclusive future for all.