Futhi Mtoba’ s life story is a testament to excellence, empowerment, and tireless dedication to making a difference in the world. Her journey through the realms of business, community engagement, and corporate leadership in South Africa and globally has been nothing short of remarkable.

Futhi’ s professional odyssey commenced in the halls of W. L. Nkuhlu & Co, In Association with Hoek & Wielhelm in Mthatha. However, it was her pivotal move to Deloitte & Touche in 1988 that set the stage for her illustrious career.

Notably, she etched her name in history by becoming the first African black woman to rise to the esteemed rank of Partner at one of South Africa’ s Big Five accounting firms. This achievement signaled the beginning of a trailblazing career marked by numerous milestones.

Throughout her tenure at Deloitte, Futhi Mtoba continuously pushed boundaries and expanded horizons. Her legacy includes serving as a board member of Deloitte, a role she assumed as the first African black woman to hold such a position. Her leadership acumen soon propelled her to the roles of Deputy Chairman and, ultimately, Chairman of Deloitte in 2005 . Under her stewardship, Deloitte flourished and continued to thrive as a global powerhouse in the world of accounting and consultancy. Her tenure culminated in a well- deserved retirement on December 31 , 2014 , leaving behind a legacy of excellence that continues to inspire.

In the financial services sector, Futhi Mtoba’ s expertise shone brightly. Before taking the reins in Deloitte’ s Executive Office, she excelled as an audit partner in Deloitte’ s financial services division. Her oversight extended to major corporate treasuries, both domestic and international financial institutions, including the treasury of the significant parastatal organisation Eskom, and the hallowed halls of the South African Reserve Bank. Her extensive knowledge spanned a wide spectrum within financial institutions, encompassing banking, development finance, and treasury operations.

Yet, Futhi Mtoba’ s impact transcends the boardrooms and spreads across vital social causes. Her unwavering commitment to the empowerment of women, education, skills development, youth initiatives, and the fight against corruption is a cornerstone of her life’ s work. Her influence extends globally through active participation in a myriad of international platforms.

Amid  her  many  accomplishments,  Futhi  Mtoba’ s  achievements  have  been  duly  recognised  with  a  string  of prestigious awards:

2024 : Trailblazer Award, UCT Graduate School of Business ( GSB)

2023 : Young Leaders Connect ( YLC) – IDEAL Authentic Leader Recognition Award 2021 : ASASA Lifetime Achievement Award

2018 : Africa Economy Builder Awards – Most Outstanding Leadership Woman of the Year 2011 : Women of Substance by African Women Chartered Accountants ( AWCA)

2008 : TUKS Alumni Laureate Award by the University of Pretoria

2007 : International Achievement Award – National Association of Black Accountants USA ( NABA)

2006 : International Women’ s Forum ( SA) and Financial Mail – Recognized as one of 50 of South Africa’ s Most Influential Women

2005 :  Top  300  Empowerment  Publication  Awards;  Top  Black  Business  Personalities  of  the  year;  OWIT ( Organization of Women in International Trade USA) International Woman of the Year

2004 : Business Woman of the Year by Nedbank and Business Women’ s Association

2002 : Top 300 Empowerment Publication Awards; Top Black Business Personalities of the year

These accolades, each a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence, serve as a reflection of Futhi Mtoba’ s profound impact on society. Her relentless dedication to empowerment, ethics, and leadership continues to shine brightly, illuminating the path for future generations to follow.