As South Africa proudly holds the G20 presidency – the first African nation ever to do so – the global spotlight is shining on Mzansi. Amid this transformative moment, the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) is leveraging its unique purpose of difference‑making to ensure that the accountancy profession is not just noticed, but heard, led, and felt – beyond balance sheets, across schools, boardrooms and climate forums.
A first for Africa – Why the G20 Presidency matters
The G20 is a powerful forum of global economic cooperation, bringing together governments and central banks from 19 countries and the European Union (EU). Hosting the summit gives South Africa a once‑in‑a‑generation opportunity to shape international dialogue on issues such as education, sustainability, ethics and economic inclusion.
This year’s presidency isn’t just symbolic – it’s strategic. With the rest of the world’s attention on Africa, SAICA sees this as the perfect moment to share homegrown successes and reshape persistent narratives – from professional excellence to our role in social upliftment.
Youth, education and opportunity – Grounding G20 in local impact
Outreach programmes – especially the TEUF and the SAICA camps – embody SAICA’s belief in educational upliftment for capable learners across all streams. Over the past two decades, Thuthuka has supported more than 3,000 students through bursaries and academic support.
By spotlighting these initiatives through platforms such as ASA magazine and social platforms, SAICA links local transformation to international priorities. Education is a key G20 focus area, and SAICA is showing up – bringing classroom impact into global conversations.
Sustainability in practice – walking the talk
Sustainability has also grown into a central pillar for SAICA. We’ve elevated it beyond corporate reporting into an operational and educational cornerstone. Our offices now run without paper cups, plastic water bottles, with solar panels installed at some sites, and a dedicated sustainability department to guide members and stakeholders on ESG adoption.
SAICA embraced the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) sustainability disclosure standards in partnership with the IFRS Foundation and JSE – signalling our commitment to integrated, future-fit reporting. As the G20 presidency focuses heavily on climate and sustainable development, SAICA’s internal ethics and practices give us credibility to drive external impact.
Owning the narrative – South Africans, speak up
The question for South Africans – students, professionals, entrepreneurs and SMMEs – is this: What story do you want to tell?
This G20 moment allows us to challenge outdated narratives. It’s time to showcase community initiatives or to highlight how small businesses are stepping onto a global stage. The world is watching – so now is the time to speak up, with clarity, authenticity and optimism.
Through SAICA’s various platforms, we’re encouraging voices of all ages and backgrounds to share their experiences. Because influence isn’t just in policy – it’s in people.
Difference making starts with you
SAICA invites everyone – young learners, seasoned members, staff, stakeholders and small businesses – to join us in shaping a new narrative. Step forward. Share your story. Amplify our collective difference‑making, and help Africa own its role in the global arena.
Learn more about SAICA’s difference making initiatives here.
Author
Daphne Mphaga, SAICA Lead: Integrated Go-To-Market
