On 21 November 2025, the Insurance Institute of Gauteng (IIG) proudly hosted the graduation ceremony for The IIG Class of 2025, a milestone marking the culmination of a transformative year for all 29 participants. What began as a group of hopeful professionals on day one ended in a celebration of unity, personal growth, and shared accomplishment, with every student successfully completing the programme.
The ceremony followed shortly after the cohort’s final presentations earlier in the week, where each member had the opportunity to reflect deeply on their journey. These presentations offered a rare window into how the programme shaped their professional and personal development, highlighting themes of self-discovery, resilience, teamwork, and the courage to embrace challenge. For many, this moment of reflection underscored just how profoundly the Class of Programme guided them through the year’s highs and lows.
Addressing the graduates, IIG President Wilmine Prinsloo delivered a heartfelt and inspiring message. She reflected on what an exceptional year it had been for the Class, noting not only their personal and collective growth, but also the meaningful impact they had on the IIG’s fundraising efforts for Taking Care of Business. She applauded the cohort’s unwavering resilience, especially in a year marked by change, competing pressures, and uncertainty.
Prinsloo spoke proudly about how the Class stood strong, supported one another, and demonstrated the spirit of leadership the industry needs. She extended deep gratitude to the programme’s facilitators, Linda Coetzee and Jenna Coetzee, whose guidance and commitment have shaped the Class of Programme into one of the most impactful developmental journeys in the insurance industry.
The president also took a moment to acknowledge and thank the sponsors whose support made the year possible. These included Discovery Insure, Santam Insurance, Chubb, Leppard, Absa Insurance, Garrun Group, FPM, HDI, Fulcrum, National Salvage Brokers, and King Price. Their continued investment in developing emerging industry talent reflects a wider commitment to building a stronger and more united insurance community.
Adding to the atmosphere of inspiration, guest speakers from Santam, Fulcrum, Garrun Group, and Discovery Insure delivered powerful messages of encouragement. They shared insights on the evolving landscape of insurance, the importance of continuous learning, and the future opportunities awaiting the graduates. Their words echoed Prinsloo’s message of resilience, purpose, and the responsibility that comes with growth.
The ceremony also recognised exceptional achievements within the class. This year, three major awards were presented to students who stood out through dedication, leadership, and outstanding performance.
The Impact Award, presented to the student who made the most significant positive mark on the programme and their fellow classmates, was awarded to Mmakgosi Jane Matlhatse. Her presence, contributions, and support left a lasting impression on the group.
The Future Leader Award, reserved for a student who displayed outstanding leadership, especially during challenging moments, was awarded to Bongani Bright Mngomezulu. His ability to inspire, guide, and uplift those around him marked him as a leader with immense potential.
The Top Student Award, recognising the highest overall performance across all programme metrics, was awarded to Melissa Johnson. Her consistency, commitment, and excellence set a benchmark for the entire class.
Four additional students, Lezhan Mohammed, Rianka De Beer, Sinethemba Ndlovu and Siyabonga Makhoba, were specially acknowledged for their strong efforts and impressive performance throughout the programme, narrowly missing the top award but demonstrating dedication worthy of recognition.
As the event drew to a close, the atmosphere was filled with pride, excitement, and anticipation. The graduation of the IIG Class of 2025 not only celebrated individual achievements but also reaffirmed the power of collaboration, mentorship, and shared purpose. These graduates now step forward into the industry as confident, inspired, and empowered professionals, ready to carry the lessons of this year into their next chapter.
Temwa Nyirenda| Control Lead – Santam Broker Solutions
