Wits Australia hosts its Second Gala Business Lunch
- Wits University
Join Wits Australia’s Gala Business Lunch in Sydney, uniting alumni, partners and leaders to celebrate impact and strengthen the global Wits community.
The Wits Australia, in partnership with Southern Crossings, Rovos Rail, South African Tourism, EC Pohl & Co, Skye Group, Allan Gray, and Sabi Sabi Collection, will host the Second Annual Gala Business Lunch at The Fullerton Hotel in Sydney on 28 November 2025. This prestigious gathering will bring together alumni, friends, partners, and industry leaders to celebrate shared achievements and strengthen the global Wits community, whose impact continues to grow across Australia and beyond.
Strengthening a Global Wits Community
Wits University’s legacy extends far beyond Johannesburg. With a large and active alumni base in Australia, the Wits Australia Foundation plays a vital role in fostering lifelong connections, supporting students through scholarships and bursaries, and promoting the university’s mission internationally. The Gala Business Lunch forms part of this commitment — a flagship event that blends networking, thought leadership, and philanthropy.
A Conversation about leadership and global influence
This year’s theme, “From Wits to the World: Journeys of Leadership and Impact in Australian Business,” brings together three prominent panelists whose careers span mining, conservation, finance, and corporate leadership. Moderated by Hein Vogel of Southern Crossings, the panel explores how the foundation laid at Wits helped shape their professional journeys and contributions to Australia’s business landscape.
Featured Panellists:
Tim Netscher - Chair of Gold Road Resources Limited, and a highly respected mining executive with decades of global leadership experience at BHP, Newmont, and Vale.
Dr Jenny Gray AM – CEO of Zoos Victoria, an engineer and executive who transformed Melbourne Zoo into a leading conservation organisation.
Dr Emmanuel “Manny” Pohl AM – Executive Chairman and CIO of ECP Asset Management, known for his extensive career in finance and his longstanding contributions to investment management in Australia.
Their discussion promises insights into leadership, innovation, professional resilience, and the shared values that have guided their careers since their days at Wits.
Event Details
Date: Friday, 28 November 2025
Time: Drinks: 12:00–12:30 PM | Lunch from 12:30–3:00 PM
Venue: The Fullerton Hotel, No. 1 Martin Place, Sydney
Dress Code: Business attire
Tickets
Book tickets here
Individual Tickets – $225 per person or Table of Ten – $2,250
Sponsorship Packages Available
To discuss sponsorship opportunities of the Second Annual Gala Business Lunch please contact Lawrence Jackson.
Ph. 0438 602 357 Email. Lawrence.Jackson@wits.ac.za
Donate
If you are unable to attend, but would like to make a donation, please click here.
Event Enquiries:
Melanie Hendra Events
on 0407 674 445
or melanie@melaniehendraevents.com
Click here for more information on this event.