Catalysts of Change

Ria Pretorius is a Director at SNG Grant Thornton overseeing the Business Risk Services. She holds a CA (SA) and an M COMM in computer auditing. With over 30 years in Assurance and Advisory, she excels in enhancing business performance, helping clients maintain and improve efficient control environments. Her pragmatic, action-driven approach defines her leadership success. Ria is acclaimed for her outstanding work in Internal Audit services and Risk management, influencing the business and technology at both functional and strategic level across various industries. Her extensive career includes a leadership role in a top four audit firm, where she led teams of up to 100 people across multiple jurisdictions.

Shireen Chengadu is a distinguished C-Suite leader, combining expertise in business and academia. As a thought leader, author, and speaker, she specializes in leadership, gender studies, DEI, and business performance, with a current focus on emerging technologies. As Group CAO of Growth Ten, she oversees academics in private higher education institutions including Richfield and AAA School of Advertising. She recently launched Alt_Ed as CEO, furthering her commitment to innovative education. Her strategic insights, facilitation and mentorship extend across South Africa, eSwatini, Mauritius, Uk, UAE, US and Asia. Key achievements include: • Nominated for Finweek's 10 Women to Watch (2014) • Finalist for Top Businesswoman of the Year Award (2014) • Co-author of "Women Leadership in Emerging Markets" (Routledge NY, 2017) • Sole license holder for Dialogue in the Dark South Africa Shireen combines passion with purpose, advocating for lifelong learning and transformative leadership in business and education.

Mercy is an experienced IT Audit and Security professional with 12 years of experience across various industries, including mining, financial services, fintech, retail, and the public sector. Her core expertise covers IT audits, IT security, Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance, SOC compliance, and programme assurance. With a strong background in SAP Security, GRC implementations, and risk management, as well as proven leadership in management engagements, she brings deep expertise and strategic insight to effectively address complex audit and security challenges. Outside of work, Mercy has a passion for travel. She also enjoys engaging in community service, mentoring upcoming professionals, and exploring innovative technologies.