NKULULEKO NCANA | 19 June, 2011 03:31
You might think mining companies would want nothing to do with the ANC Youth League, given its demand for the country's mineral wealth to be nationalised.
Yet mining giants such as Anglo American were among the many companies that paid handsomely for spots in the business lounge during the league's national conference.
The league's powerhouse status was also demonstrated by the presence of major financial institutions, including Standard Bank and Old Mutual, at the conference.
Andile Ncontsa, whose Litha Communications was responsible for attracting companies to the business lounge, said many corporates wanted to interact with the league directly.
"It is very clear that business wants to hear first-hand what the youth have to say. It is a great opportunity as well for businesses to interact and network with leaders across the board," Ncontsa said.
Tickets to the business lounge, ranging from R50000 to R180000, were sold out.
Business leaders and conference guests visited the lounge to take short breaks or mingle with ministers and other ANC leaders, including President Jacob Zuma.
The lounge erupted in cheers on Friday night when Julius Malema walked in shortly after being endorsed for another term as the league's leader.
Pule Mabe, the league's treasurer, described the lounge as a resounding success.
"The response by the big corporates is a clear indication of the stature the youth league has out there," Mabe said.
