Essential Reflections: Dr Reuel Khoza’s Book Launch at BDO South Africa
On 21 August 2025, distinguished business leader and thinker Dr Reuel Jethro Mbhayimbhayi Khoza launched his latest book, Essential Reflections, at the BDO South Africa offices in Illovo, Johannesburg. The evening, hosted in collaboration with UNISA Press, marked the unveiling of a work that brings together profound insights from one of South Africa’s most respected voices on leadership, ethics, and African humanism.
A Gathering of Eminent Voices
The launch drew a distinguished audience of leaders and intellectuals. Among those in attendance were President Thabo Mbeki, Chief Host Bonga Mokoena, Professor Paulus Zulu, and Professor Tinyiko Maluleke, alongside Dr Khoza’s contemporaries Gaby Magomola and Sizwe Nxasana.
Adding depth to the evening’s dialogue, a panel of discussants - Raisibe Morathi, Imogen Mkhize, Bonang Mohale, and Bheki Sibiya - engaged with the book’s themes under the skilful facilitation of Ndumiso Mngomezulu. Their contributions underscored the relevance of Essential Reflections to today’s pressing leadership challenges.
A Keynote of Reflection and Renewal
In his keynote address, Dr Khoza delivered a deeply resonant message on the values that underpin principled leadership. Speaking with characteristic clarity and moral conviction, he invited the audience to consider the “essential reflections” that shape leaders and societies:
- Gratitude as the heartbeat of ethical conduct
- Scholarship as society’s vigilant eye
- Ethics as the spine of governance
- Stewardship as the compass of responsibility
- Inclusiveness as the bridge to justice
“Gratitude is the best attitude; ingratitude the worst,” Dr Khoza reminded the audience - emphasising that leadership must be rooted not in entitlement, but in service and humility.
READ DR KHOZA'S SPEECH
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Introductions and Insights
Zava Nkondo, son the late Professor Muxe, collator and editor of Essential Reflections, gave a comprehensive and eloquent overview of the book – a worthy chip off the old block.
The evening was further enriched by Professor Tinyiko Maluleke, who formally introduced Essential Reflections and framed its contribution to African philosophical and leadership discourse. His remarks highlighted Dr Khoza’s unique ability to bridge the worlds of business, academia, and public life with wisdom that is both timeless and urgently relevant.
Prof Paulus Zulu of UKZN, a friend of more than forty years, attested to Reuel Khoza’s unwavering integrity, versatility and affable nature.
A Partnership in Purpose
The launch was made possible through the partnership of UNISA Press, publishers of Essential Reflections, and BDO South Africa, whose hosting of the event reflected their commitment to fostering thought leadership at the intersection of ethics and enterprise. Innocentia Swanepoel in the Sales and Marketing of UNISA press amply promoted the book at the launch and outlined their intent on it’s distribution.
About the Book
Essential Reflections is a compelling collection of Dr Khoza’s insights drawn from decades of experience as a corporate leader, thinker, and public intellectual. Through seventeen interwoven reflections, the book explores themes of ethical leadership, stewardship, inclusiveness, Pan-African vision, and the enduring power of conscience in governance and enterprise.
More than a personal testament, it is a guidebook for leaders, professionals, and citizens seeking to align purpose with principle.
Where to Get Your Copy
Essential Reflections is now available for purchase. A dedicated page here, where readers can explore more about the book and secure their copy directly.
About Dr. Reuel Khoza
Dr. Reuel Khoza is a distinguished business leader, author, and academic. He has served as the chair of several leading South African companies, including Eskom and Nedbank, and is known for his contributions to the discourse on ethical leadership and corporate governance. The best-selling Attuned Leadership, Let Africa Lead and The Power of Governance are amongst Dr Khoza’s previously published books. The Spirit of Leadership is his latest exploration of the intersection between business and spirituality, following his widely acclaimed works on leadership and governance.