co-founder and Director of Lesacon, is a
versatile professional with a passion for making an impact in the fields of technology, healthcare, and market research. After completing her studies in psychology at Stellenbosch University, she ventured to
Germany, where she excelled as a Project Manager at Kantar Health, overseeing
global clients in the pharmaceutical industry.
Driven by her entrepreneurial spirit, Helen co-founded PPI (PharmaPrice International), a
company specializing in project management and consultancy services for market
research, market access, and pricing & reimbursement. Her dedication to
serving the pharmaceutical sector remained steadfast. Helen's journey continued as she
joined Accenture as a Global Specialist in Life Sciences and Healthcare
Research, based in South Africa. Her expertise in these domains contributed to
Accenture's commitment to innovation in the healthcare sector.
Recognizing the transformative potential of
technology, Helen
collaborated with the European Space Agency (ESA) on a groundbreaking project
for the implementation of eHealth in Sub-Saharan Africa. This endeavour merged her passion for healthcare with
technological advancements, emphasizing her adaptability and commitment to
driving positive change.
In addition to her professional achievements, Helen holds qualifications as a Cognitive Behavioral
Therapist and has completed specialized certifications in Applied Artificial
Intelligence from IBM, Business Implications of AI from EIT Digital, and Computational
Social Science from UC Davis. Her well-rounded skill set enables her to
approach challenges from multiple angles.
With a keen sense of global affairs, economics,
and a talent for writing, Helen has been
published in esteemed publications such as Finweek and WhatsUpDoc, where she
shared her expertise and insights. Helen's diverse experiences and
expertise make her a dynamic and accomplished professional, dedicated to
leveraging her skills to bring about meaningful advancements in healthcare and
related industries.
co-founder and Managing Director at Lesacon,
is a highly experienced project and data manager with a focus on the energy, construction and ICT industries. With over 25 years of
expertise, he has led complex projects in nuclear energy and data management
systems for Vattenfall Europe Nuclear Energy, as well as contributed to
renewable energy initiatives in South Africa.
In Germany, Dirk successfully developed and
managed construction projects for
engineering and construction companies. He
holds a degree in Business Informatics and completed a certification as a
Senior Project Manager (IPMA). Additionally, he possesses a Professional Certificate
in IBM Applied AI and a Specialization in Software Product Management from the
University of Alberta.
Dirk's dedication to innovation and sustainable
solutions is evident in his accomplishments and he continues to drive progress in project management, data
management, and the renewable
energy fields. With
his extensive experience, acute eye for detail and
unwavering commitment, Dirk
consistently delivers outstanding results and makes a significant impact in his
professional endeavours.
an experienced associate partner with a diverse background.
Abe has showcased strong leadership skills during challenging times in
South Africa's political landscape. He also contributed by writing
articles on various topics such as politics, economics, social issues,
and the environment.
From a young age, he has been passionate about human asset development,
actively mentoring and coaching numerous young individuals in life
skills and talent development.
His current activities include successfully concluding a Bankable
Feasibility Study for a proposed bio-refinery plant aimed at
diversifying the struggling sugarcane industry by producing bio-MEG
(Mono-Ethylene-Glycols). Additionally, he is actively involved in the
Soweto Solar for Change project, focusing on waste-to-energy solutions
and circular economy initiatives. His work in this area includes
proposing solutions for waste minimization, zero waste programs,
community education, and awareness campaigns, all with the aim of
boosting GDP growth during the ongoing economic crisis. He is also
exploring the potential of tapping into methane gas for electricity
generation within the landfill economy.
Furthermore, he is dedicated to life-skills and entrepreneurship
development in township communities, with a strong emphasis on
environmental education and awareness.
In terms of specialization and previous activities, Abe as associate
partner brings expertise in Industrial Psychology, alternative energy,
economic circularity, bio-economy, and business development. He has a
history of political and civic activism, including serving in the South
African National Civic Organization (SANCO) and maintaining an active
political role until 2004. During 1994, Abe played a key role in
economic recovery and municipal reconfiguration within the government,
serving as an advisor in the Gauteng province Economic Development
Department. He chaired various committees responsible for mixed-energy
plans, renewable tariffs, and localization.
His experience also extends internationally, as Abe led a team
conducting a bankable feasibility study in the Inga dam in Mathadi
Bas-Congo in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Additionally, he serves
as a director in several major corporations spanning the construction
industry, mining, energy, built-environment, banking, and manufacturing
sectors.
