An evening of founders, business recognition and meaningful connections.

Lebogang Mpete

Lebogang Mpete is an entrepreneur, digital creator and Founder of LeeLuxe Shoes, a growing South African fashion brand offering stylish heels in smaller sizes, including sizes 1 and 2, a market that has often been overlooked.

After starting her business with an investment of only R3,000, Lebogang has grown LeeLuxe Shoes into a recognised brand with a strong digital presence and a community of more than 500,000 followers across social media. Her journey demonstrates the power of consistency, authenticity, determination and understanding the needs of an underserved customer.

At the NGBC year end event, Lebogang will join us for an honest and inspiring conversation about building a brand from the ground up, using social media to support business growth, overcoming entrepreneurial challenges and believing in your vision before the rest of the world can see it.

Dr Musa Habimana

Dr Musa Habimana is a visionary founder and entrepreneur actively building, creating and making a meaningful impact within his industry. His entrepreneurial journey reflects the realities of building a brand, navigating challenges, learning from failure and recognising the value of every win.

As a speaker at the NGBC year end event, Dr Habimana brings an authentic founder’s perspective to the conversation. He will share insights into the journey behind the brand, the mindset required to build and grow, and the practical lessons that aspiring and young entrepreneurs need to understand as they pursue their own entrepreneurial paths.

Candice Engelbrecht

Candice is a speaker, advocate and Founder of the Be the Voice GBV Foundation, a platform dedicated to helping individuals reclaim their confidence, rewrite their stories and move boldly towards their purpose.

Known for her honesty, strength and impactful storytelling, Candice creates conversations that go beyond inspiration. She speaks with intention, truth and purpose, encouraging people to rediscover their voices despite the challenges they may have faced.

At the NGBC year end event, Candice will bring a powerful and authentic perspective to the stage, sharing insights on confidence, resilience, purpose and the importance of using one’s voice to create meaningful change.

Vunene Mabasa

Vunene Mabasa is a self taught, award winning beauty creative and special effects makeup artist recognised for her bold imagination, distinctive artistic expression and powerful storytelling through makeup. Her work continues to attract attention for its originality, precision and creativity within the beauty and creative arts industry.

In 2025, Vunene was named a winner in the Creative and Arts category at the Next Generation Business Connect Awards, recognising her growing contribution and impact within the industry.

At the NGBC year end event, Vunene will join us for an honest and inspiring conversation about creativity, building a name for yourself, trusting your vision and navigating entrepreneurship as a young creative in South Africa. Her story reflects what the forum represents: real conversations, real experiences and real founders.