The Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (CHIETA) proudly hosted the 2024 CHIETA Chemical Industries Awards, celebrating the exceptional contributions of South Africa’s top chemical companies to skills development, collaboration, and innovation. These awards spotlight the industry’s efforts to drive impactful change and foster growth through groundbreaking initiatives.

Held on 27 November 2024 at The Venue, Houghton Hotel, Johannesburg, the prestigious event brought together key stakeholders, industry leaders, and innovators committed to reshaping South Africa’s chemical industry through forward-thinking partnerships and innovative solutions.

A Night Celebrating Innovation and Collaboration

With renowned Program Director Lesly Musina guiding the evening, the ceremony featured dynamic video showcases, top-tier musical performances by the Soulnote Band, and recognition of the companies leading the way in industry innovation and impactful collaboration.

Recognising Pioneers in the Chemical Industry

Top Levy Payers:

• Sasol South Africa Ltd (Petroleum Sector): Honoured for spearheading green hydrogen skills training initiatives, setting a new standard for clean energy innovation.
• Unilever South Africa (FMCG Sector): Celebrated for empowering women in STEM through scholarships and targeted training programs.
• Ardagh Glass Packaging (Glass Sector): Recognised for its sustainability-focused skills development programs, advancing eco-conscious practices.
• AECI Ltd (Specialty Chemicals Sector): Acknowledged for closing skills gaps through innovative apprenticeship models in chemical manufacturing
• Adcock Ingram: Awarded for comprehensive skills development initiatives, increasing access to artisan and technical training for underprivileged communities.
• African Explosives Limited (AEL): Honoured for its trailblazing safety training modules, setting a new benchmark in workplace safety education.
• Kansai Plascon: Acknowledged for mentorship programs fostering diversity and inclusion in the workforce.
• NECSA (South African Nuclear Energy Corporation): Recognised for excellence in nuclear-specific training and impactful youth development initiatives.
• Omnia Group: Honoured for its investment in advanced agricultural chemical skills programs, promoting sustainable food security solutions.

Medium and Small Enterprises:

• Creighton Products CC (FMCG Sector): Awarded for fostering entrepreneurial growth and supporting small-scale producers through collaborative efforts.
• Buckman Laboratories Pty Ltd (FMCG Sector): Celebrated for advancing workforce skills with cutting-edge digital training platforms.

CEO Special Awards recipients:

• PG Group (Glass Sector): Recognised for pioneering digital skills training and innovation in the chemical industry.
• Afrox (Base Chemicals Sector): Honoured for its leadership in workforce innovation and collaboration.

Event Highlights

Guests enjoyed a black-tie dinner, inspiring entertainment, and networking opportunities while celebrating the achievements of industry leaders. Awards were presented by CHIETA Board Members and CEO Mr. Yershen Pillay, reinforcing CHIETA’s commitment to fostering collaboration and innovation across the Industry.

The evening concluded with a high-energy performance by DJ Small Deep, group celebrations, and reflections on how the chemical industry can continue to innovate for impact.

Driving Innovation for Impact

The 2024 CHIETA Chemical Industries Awards underline CHIETA’s dedication to advancing collaboration and innovation as pillars of growth and competitiveness in South Africa’s chemical industries.

CHIETA CEO, Mr. Yershen Pillay, highlighted this commitment:
"These awards celebrate the innovative spirit and collaborative efforts of our industry partners. By working together and driving impactful solutions, we are shaping a sustainable and resilient future for South Africa’s chemical industry."