Thembi Manyike is the Head of Talent Acquisition, Culture and Employer Branding at Santam, where she leads with a conviction that inclusion is not a checkbox, but the foundation for innovation, growth, and social good. With over 15 years of experience in talent, transformation, and leadership, Thembi has built a reputation as a connector, innovator, and advocate for inclusive practices that create measurable impact.

Her career spans strategic transformation, employer branding, policy influence, and grassroots empowerment. She has spearheaded pioneering initiatives such as introducing Braille business cards at both Sanlam and Santam, collaborating with Deafinition to include sign language as a course at Santam, establishing the Give a Child a Chance programme for disabled and able-bodied learners, and leading Santam’s annual participation in the Disability Career Fair, later expanding it to Sanlam and MiWay.

As sponsor of Santam’s ADAPT Network (All Diverse Abilities Partnering Together), she has reshaped the conversation around disability inclusion, extending support to caregivers and families. Beyond corporate spaces, Thembi has been a mentor, advocate, and community builder through her engagements with the Black Management Forum, Radio Veritas, and various grassroots initiatives.

Her leadership is characterised by resilience, influence, and a deep sense of purpose: lifting others as she rises and ensuring that no one is left behind.