THE TEAM
ATIC is led by a distinguished team of professionals committed to advancing Africa’s economic transformation. With expertise in trade, project development, infrastructure, and policy, facilitating partnerships that unlock investment, strengthen trade networks, and drive industrialisation. Through their endeavours, ATIC significantly contributes to positioning Africa as a competitive force in the global economy.
Ms Mandisa Booi –
Founder - Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Ms. Booi’s journey is marked by a profound understanding of the intricate forces that shape Africa’s economic landscape. From her formative roles within the African Union’s NEPAD and APRM to her work with institutions such as DFID and the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA), she has gained invaluable insights into the structural challenges that face our continent. Through this, she has nurtured a steadfast belief in Africa’s ability to transcend these obstacles and emerge as a guiding force for enduring growth and shared prosperity.
At the helm of ATIC, Ms. Booi’s leadership is guided by the principle that Africa’s future lies in unity and the collective action of its people. Under her stewardship, ATIC stands as a call to action—an institution born from the belief that Africans themselves must lead in forging enduring economic partnerships that uplift our nations. In her capacity as Chair of the Trade and Investment Working Group of the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance (South African Chapter), she has extended this vision to global platforms, affirming that Africa’s destiny is intrinsically linked to its relationship with the world.
Ms. Booi is also deeply committed to mentoring a new generation of leaders, men and women alike, who will continue the work of building a self reliant, dignifie , and prosperous continent. Her legacy, woven into the fabric of ATIC, will be one of visionary leadership, relentless pursuit of excellence, and unwavering faith in Africa’s limitless potential.
Through her work, Ms. Mandisa Booi is penning a new chapter in Africa’s story—a chapter that resonates with pride, resilience, and a future that is authentically African yet globally influential
Ms Belinda Aapies –
Construction Director
As Director of Construction at the Africa Trade and Investment Council (ATIC), Ms. Belinda Aapies stands at the forefront of one of Africa’s most crucial pillars of advancement: infrastructure. With over two decades of experience, she has committed her career to far more than the mere construction of buildings. Her mission is the upliftment of communities—creating environments where dignity, safety, and hope are tangible realities for the people of Africa. An unwavering dedication to economic inclusion and empowerment has defined Ms. Belinda’s journey in the construction sector. Through her pioneering work with Bella Casa Group (Pty) Ltd, she has relentlessly focused on delivering transformative housing solutions, particularly in underdeveloped regions across the African continent. Her work extends beyond physical construction; it is about ensuring that infrastructure serves as a catalyst for national progress and as a tool for societal well-being. In her role at ATIC, Ms. Belinda continues to champion economic inclusion and sustainable development. She ensures that Africa’s progress is measured by the strength of its communities and the opportunities created for future generations. Under her guidance, ATIC’s construction initiatives not only address today’s pressing needs but also forge the pathways that will sustain Africa’s growth and prosperity for years to come—making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
Mr Zwelethu Dlamini –
Investment Director
Mr. Zwelethu is responsible for driving strategic investment initiatives that align with the council’s mission to enhance trade and economic growth across the continent. He leads capital raising efforts, offering strategic financial solutions and advisory services to our diverse portfolio of clients. His role involves conducting in depth market and financial analyses to inform investment decisions, optimize financial structures, and identify emerging opportunities. His extensive experience includes senior roles at Principal Equity Partners and Lawsons Wealth, where he excelled in capital raising, financial structuring, and stakeholder engagement. He is adept at cultivating strategic relationships with investors, institutions, and government bodies, which is crucial for fostering collaboration and securing investment partnerships at ATIC. In addition to his investment responsibilities, Mr. Zwelethu promotes regional cooperation by facilitating the establishment of regional investment networks and harmonizing cross-border regulations. His efforts ensure efficient resource allocation and economic integration across African nations. Mr. Zwelethu commitment to advancing economic development and his comprehensive knowledge of financial markets make him a valuable asset to the ATIC team. His focus on enhancing access to affordable financial services and driving sustainable investment initiatives supports ATIC’s overarching goal of fostering long-term economic growth and prosperity across Africa.
Mammeli Manissa –
Creative Director
At ATIC, Ms Mammeli’s work centres on crafting a powerful and unified image of Africa, positioning the continent as a hub of potential and growth. Her approach is not just about presenting Africa to the world but about highlighting the incredible talent, resources, and opportunities that exist within the continent. Through her leadership, ATIC’s communications align with the mission of fostering intra African trade and investment while attracting meaningful global partnerships that benefit African nations. Ms. Mammeli’s deep passion for economic development and community upliftment is the driving force behind her work at ATIC. She significant y contributes to advancing ATIC’s mission of driving the continent’s economic and social rebranding through strategic communication and revolutionary solutions by focusing on marketing Africa’s emerging industries and championing projects that promote significant progress and impact. Her expertise in strategic storytelling and creative thinking enables ATIC to engage effectively with diverse audiences and stakeholders, both locally and internationally. Her vision for Africa is grounded in the belief that the continent’s future lies in its ability to tell its own stories—stories of resilience and new beginnings. Through her work at ATIC, Ms. Mammeli continues to shape a future where Africa’s rich culture, dynamic economies, and global potential are fully realized and celebrated.
Ms Babalwa Booi –
Project Manager
Ms. Babalwa serves as the Project Manager for the Africa Trade and Investment Council (ATIC), where her organizational prowess and strategic acumen are critical to driving the success of key initiatives. With an extensive background in project coordination, office management, and stakeholder engagement, Babalwa seamlessly integrates her skills to ensure the smooth execution of ATIC’s projects. As Project Manager, Babalwa is responsible for overseeing the entire project lifecycle, from initiation to completion. She excels in streamlining workflows, optimizing resources, and ensuring that project goals are met within the stipulated timelines. Her ability to manage multiple tasks and projects with precision ensures that ATIC’s strategic initiatives are executed flawlessly. Babalwa’s strategic orchestration is instrumental in fostering collaboration and driving operational excellence across teams. Her unwavering commitment to ATIC’s mission unites both internal teams and external stakeholders, propelling the organization towards continued success and meaningful engagement with partners. She thoroughly analyses and aligns projects with ATIC’s goals, ensuring that each initiative contributes to the organization’s overarching objectives.
Mr Kadiebwe Jean Paul -
Lead Engineer
At the helm of ATIC’s engineering division, Mr Kadiebwe Paul brings a notable depth of expertise and leadership, guiding the organisation’s most critical infrastructure projects with strategic foresight. As the Lead Engineer, Mr Paul is the cornerstone of our engineering team, overseeing the design, execution, and optimisation of complex civil and structural projects that progress and enhance development across Africa. With a career that spans over a decade in civil engineering, Mr Paul’s influence is evident in every project he touches. His understanding of modern engineering practices ensures that all projects meet the rigorous standards set by local and international codes. His leadership, characterised by foresight, respect for the craft, commitment to excellence, and dedication to innovation, assures the highest quality results. Under Mr Paul’s stewardship, the engineering department has consistently delivered solutions, from the initial concept and design stages to final construction and operational optimisation. His high critical thinking has enabled him to effectively manage multidisciplinary teams and complex engineering challenges. Mr Kadiebwe’s purpose extends beyond constructing physical structures; it’s about transforming the African landscape into a functional and inspiring foundation for progress. His work is dedicated to creating infrastructure that serves practical needs and embodies each nation’s unique pride. By incapacitating, advancing, and beautifying countries, Mr Paul aims to elevate the quality of life across the continent. His legacy is one of nation-building, contributing to Africa’s development whilst cultivating a deep sense of pride and optimism for future generations.
Ms Unathi Booi –
Concept Developer
Ms. Unathi Booi serves as the dynamic Concept Developer, in this pivotal role, she brings together her sharp intellect, research acumen, and creative prowess to drive ATIC’s strategic vision. Her capacity to interpret complex economic data and market trends allows her to shape unique concepts that respond to the continent’s evolving needs. Her work is anchored in an ever-evolving understanding of Africa’s challenges and opportunities, she has become the architect of concepts that inspire our working groups. Ms Unathi breathes life into the complexities of data and economic policy, collaborating them into narratives that magnify the potential that lies within our continent. Ms Unathi delves into the continent’s diverse economic patterns and challenges, uncovering insights that lay the foundation for actionable strategies. Through her concept development, ATIC is continually informed to explore Africa’s abounding markets and their sectors to knowledgeably direct it resources toward pioneering, inclusive growth. Ms Unathi remains deeply committed to uplifting the continent. With a profound understanding of the intricacies of global markets and the shifting dynamics of Africa’s role within them, she has demonstrated a valuable ability to bridge the realms of research, policy, and economic foresight. Her efforts are integral to shaping ATIC’s forward-looking initiatives. Ms Unathi’s rigorous research uncovers insights that reveal the stories beneath the numbers and the human potential behind the market trends to inform ATIC’s strategic direction.