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"LEAVE NO ONE BEHIND": The I AM ME Conference 2024 - A Journey of Discovery, Growth, and Empowerment for a Brighter Tomorrow


photo cred: moderncommunityfoundation



By Modern Centric Holdings

17 April 2024


The exclusive invite-only event, aimed at honouring and advocating for the LGBTQIAP+ community and individuals with disabilities with the Leave No One Behind theme, was held at the Marriott Hotel, Melrose Arch on April 15, 2024. Leading this significant event were Modern Centric Holdings and Modern Community Foundation, renowned for their steadfast commitment to promoting equity and inclusivity. Spearheading the event were Zakhele Mgobhozi, founder and group managing director of Modern Centric Holdings, and Revel Harris, co-founder and group managing director of Modern Community Foundation. The event wholeheartedly embraced all seventeen Sustainable Development Goals, resonating profoundly with the core principles of humanity under the guiding influence of the United Nations. 

Featuring a lineup of influential speakers, captivating performances, and engaging discussions, the conference was a day filled with activism and inspiration. Noteworthy speakers delivered impactful presentations, contributing to the success of the #IAMME2024 conference. The event commenced with an opening address by Mr Yu Yu, the UNPF national representative, setting a compelling tone for the day. Octavia Hendricks, head of wellness and spirituality at Modern Centric Holdings, shared a deep talk about the importance of mental wellness at work, highlighting the power of self-care and zen vibes with some soothing breathing exercises.

YuYu of UNfpa & MCH CEO ZAKHELE MGOBHOZI

Didi Hotane, head of marketing at Modern Centric Holdings, shed light on the issue of period poverty, sparking meaningful conversations with her insightful presentation. Reece Oakes, CEO of BCD Travel, urged attendees to embrace inclusivity and empathy in all aspects of their lives, emphasizing the importance of nurturing diverse and compassionate leaders. The conference garnered praise from dedicated Modern Centric Holdings employees Zama Gumede and Thando Mayekiso, who hailed it as the most exceptional #IAMME event to date.

Kgadi Mokoni, another committed employee of Modern Centric Holdings, encapsulated the conference's objective: "#IAMME2024 strives to cultivate an inclusive environment," evident in the diverse representation from various sectors, embodying a true celebration of diversity. The event featured an array of distinguished speakers and panelists who delivered insightful speeches and engaging dialogues, enriching the overall experience.


                                                Co-founder and MD of MCF and a guest at the #IAME2024 event

During a moving moment, Zakhele Mgobhozi and Revel Harris honored their mothers, acknowledging their enduring support that has fueled their advocacy efforts. Zakhele Mgobhozi recognized Gilian Ismail of BidTravel and Eric Petersen of the Document Warehouse for their noteworthy contributions to Modern Centric Holdings. The collaborative efforts of organizers, speakers, attendees, staff, hosts, and crew were instrumental in making the #IAMME2024 conference a resounding success, transforming it into a celebration of diversity and inclusivity.

As the #IAMME2024 conference concluded, participants departed with a renewed sense of purpose and unity, underscoring the importance of empathy, understanding, and collaborative action in driving meaningful change. Modern Centric Holdings and Modern Community Foundation eagerly anticipate the forthcoming #IAMME in 2025, poised to be even more impactful. The invaluable support of sponsors like BidTravel, CTICC, The Document Warehouse, and the Marriott Hotel was pivotal to the success of the #IAMME2024 conference.


                                                             Connie Tefu (NARYSEC) with Mr and Miss Gay Pretoria 2023 and Miss Drag SA

A heartfelt gratitude is extended to all who contributed to the success of the 2024 #IAMME conference. Let us continue to champion social justice and inclusivity as we celebrate diversity and individuality. By prioritizing the collective welfare, as articulated by Revel Harris, "we can advance towards a world where every individual can thrive and express their authentic selves without reservation or fear". #IAMME.


Watch the full conference :   https://youtu.be/kVoAC5N74b4?si=t7Y7NhXfusnEXy6-

#IAMME2024 #inclusivity #diversity #socialjustice #periodpoverty #periodpoverty #diverseleadership #moderncentric1million #unotheringtheother

For more information: 


EMAIL: info@mcfoundation.org.za

TEL: +27100037468

YouTube: Modern Centric - Modern Community Foundation
 
INSTAGRAM: @mcfoundationza   
TWITTER: @ModernCentricZa
  
FACEBOOK: @mcfoundationza

WEBSITE: www.mcfoundation.org.za "AND " moderncentricevents.co.za

LINKEDIN: Modern Community Foundation







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