Join Us Mpekweni Beach Resort in 2026!

Engage in Meaningful Discussions at Our District Conference

Invitation from District Governor Steve Shone

It gives me great pleasure to invite you to join us for the Rotary District 9370 Conference 2026, hosted at the breathtaking Mpekweni Beach Resort, beautifully nestled between East London and Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth).

Join us for a memorable weekend of connection, inspiration, and celebration — where Rotarians and guests come together to network with like-minded professionals, share best practices, and explore innovative ideas, all while honouring the strong traditions that make Rotary so special. Be inspired by our distinguished international speakers, enjoy the warm hospitality of the Sunshine Coast, and indulge in the vibrant flavours of the Eastern Cape. Bring your family along to experience a weekend filled with fellowship, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

Together, let’s celebrate the year that has been, and reignite our passion and purpose for the Rotary year ahead. I can’t wait to welcome you to Mpekweni — where inspiration meets the ocean breeze!

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Schedule Overview

Join us for an inspiring and memorable Rotary District 9370 Conference from Thursday, 30 April to Sunday, 3 May 2026.

Thursday Afternoon (30 April): Arrive and settle in
Thursday Evening (30 April): Welcome dinner
Friday (1 May): Full-day conference sessions
Friday Evening (1 May): ShweShwe Celebration
Saturday (2 May): Half-day conference
Saturday Evening (2 May): Black-Tie/Traditional Attire Gala Dinner
Sunday, 3 May: Breakfast and departures at your leisure

Limited leisure options such as river barge trips, game drives, and local excursions will be available for booking closer to the event date.

Exciting Conference Awaits

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Meet Our Speakers

Get ready to be inspired by a dynamic lineup of thought leaders, changemakers, and storytellers who are shaping the world around us. From extraordinary feats of human endurance to powerful conversations on inclusion and forward-thinking leadership, our speakers bring real-world experience, bold perspectives, and practical insight.

Each session is designed to challenge, equip, and ignite, offering you not just ideas, but tools to lead, serve, and grow within Rotary and beyond.

Step into the room. Lean into the conversation. This is where inspiration meets action.

Labour Law Expert | Business Strategist | Chairman of Global Business Solutions

JONATHAN GOLDBERG

Jonathan Goldberg is one of South Africa’s foremost authorities in labour law, human resources, and strategic leadership, with more than three decades of experience operating at the intersection of business, policy, and people. As Chairman of Global Business Solutions and a Visiting Professor at Rhodes Business School, he has advised boardrooms and national structures with distinction. A multi-award winner with an MBA cum laude, Jonathan is known for his ability to bring clarity to complexity—translating intricate systems into practical, actionable strategies that empower leaders to navigate uncertainty with confidence and integrity.

In this compelling fireside session, Jonathan shares powerful leadership insights drawn from an extraordinary conversation with Richard Branson, alongside fresh perspectives gained at a recent YPO conference in Australia—featuring global voices such as Nicole Kidman—and the rapidly evolving landscape of the AI revolution. With his signature ability to connect ideas across disciplines, he will challenge and equip leaders to think differently, act decisively, and lead with purpose in a world of constant change. Selected delegates will also receive autographed copies of his work, making this not only an inspiring session, but a lasting one.

Journalist | Disability Rights Advocate |

Founder of Beyond Access Consulting

THEMBELIHLE NGCAI

Thembelihle Ngcai is an award-winning journalist, Rotarian, and founder of Beyond Access Consulting, whose life and work are a powerful embodiment of purpose-driven leadership and systemic change. A Rhodes University journalism graduate and nationally recognised disability rights advocate, she has transformed her lived experience of spinal muscular atrophy into a platform for influence—shaping policy, challenging societal norms, and advancing inclusion across sectors. Named among News24’s “Young Mandelas of the Future,” she serves as Chairperson of Disabled Youth South Africa in the Eastern Cape and has addressed Parliament on inclusive policy, ensuring that the voices of persons with disabilities are not only heard, but actively shape the future of the country.

What sets Thembelihle apart is her ability to move beyond advocacy into actionable change—bridging the gap between lived experience and institutional reform. Through her work in policy development, public speaking, and consulting, she equips organisations with practical strategies to build environments where inclusion is not performative, but deeply embedded. Her message is both courageous and constructive: that true progress requires intentional design, authentic representation, and a commitment to ensuring that everyone—not just some—truly belongs.

Ultra-Endurance Adventurer | Author | Attorney | Inspirational Speaker

KIM VAN KETS

Kim van Kets is an extraordinary South African ultra-endurance athlete, author, and inspirational speaker whose life is a powerful testament to resilience, courage, and purposeful living. With a background in law and corporate leadership, she chose a path less travelled—one defined by challenge, growth, and impact. She is best known for her remarkable “Tri the Beloved Country” expedition, a self-powered 6,772 km journey around South Africa by foot, bicycle, and kayak, completed in just 148 days. This extraordinary feat not only tested the limits of physical endurance, but revealed the true power of mindset, discipline, and unwavering commitment.

In her compelling Adapt and Thrive keynote, Kim draws from these extreme experiences to unpack what it truly means to navigate uncertainty, embrace change, and rise stronger through adversity. With authenticity and practical wisdom, she challenges individuals, clubs, and communities to shift their thinking, build resilience, and move beyond perceived limits. Seamlessly complementing this, her Trust message invites a deeper reflection on the foundations of leadership and human connection—reminding us that trust, both in ourselves and others, is essential to thriving in an ever-changing world. Together, her insights offer not only inspiration, but a roadmap for meaningful and sustainable growth.

International Cricket Coach | Change-maker | Husband | Father | Mentor to an entire generation of cricketers

ADRIAN BIRRELL

Adrian Birrell is a quietly exceptional leader whose influence in cricket extends far beyond results on the field. A former Eastern Province cricketer, he found his true calling in coaching—where his ability to develop people, build culture, and inspire belief has defined a distinguished international career. From guiding Ireland to their historic 2007 World Cup success, to shaping young talent with England U19, contributing to the Proteas setup, and leading franchise teams to multiple T20 titles, Adrian’s track record speaks of consistency, vision, and excellence. Yet, it is his calm presence, relational leadership style, and unwavering focus on the person behind the player that truly set him apart.

Off the field, Adrian is a devoted husband and father, grounded in humility, integrity, and a deep sense of purpose. His impact is often felt most powerfully away from the spotlight—in the lives he has shaped, the confidence he has built, and the environments he has created for others to thrive. A quiet philanthropist at heart, he leads with authenticity and intention, reminding us that true success is not measured by accolades, but by the legacy we leave in people.

Multi-awarded Global Businesswoman | Broadcaster | MC/Commere | Singer | Humanitarian

BULI G

Buli G Ngomane is a celebrated South African media personality whose career spans over two decades in radio, television, live performance, and creative production. She first gained prominence as a radio presenter, including on iconic stations such as Algoa FM and 94.7 Highveld Stereo, where her dynamic voice and engaging style made her a beloved figure on the airwaves. Over the years, Buli G expanded her media footprint into television, hosting and producing content for national broadcasters such as SABC2 and SABC3, and composing music for short films that toured the global festival circuit. Alongside her broadcasting career, she has been a prolific presenter and MC at corporate and cultural events, delivering more than 400 speaking engagements that showcase her versatility and professional gravitas.

Beyond her work in media, Buli G is a respected businesswoman and cultural contributor. She founded Rhizome Creative, a company that champions the creative industries across South and East Africa, promoting locally produced films and supporting artistic initiatives. Her influence extends to arts governance as a board member of prominent organizations including the Mandela Bay Theatre Complex and the Creative Industries Coalition. In recent years she has also embraced reality television, appearing as a cast member on The Real Housewives of Gqeberha, where her charisma, experience, and high‑profile presence continue to engage audiences.

Join us at Rotary District 9370 Discon 2026!

Events

Get ready for an array of dynamic sessions featuring distinguished speakers and impactful workshops tailored to enrich your Rotary journey.

Networking

Connect with fellow Rotarians and community leaders through various activities that foster collaboration and friendships.

Accessibility

We prioritize making our conference accessible with special accommodations and support to ensure everyone can participate fully.