Creating valued and valuable Property Managers
The WeconnectU Annual Industry Event
Friday
17th FEB
9:00 - 12:00
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Live online Zoom event
Game-changing insights are waiting for you at Engage '23
The industry is challenging, but it’s also exploding with opportunity. Are you ready to do what it takes to turn that potential into reality this year and engage in high gear?
What to expect:
Stand a chance to win amazing spot prizes and giveaways.
Network with industry stakeholders and peers.
Key strategies on how to bring the whole Team together.
New CMS features that will enable the whole team to be more pro-active.
How to make the change from post box to platform of value.
Get industry shaping statistics to benchmark your business.
Eye-opening discussions unpacking the SILVER LINING of the industry.
Ground-breaking talks to help you excel and be the change you want to see.
What you can do to be recognised – and paid – for the full value you deliver.
How you can empower and equip your team to overcome their biggest challenges and make 2023 the best year yet.
Join us on our mission to create more valuable and valued property managers.
3 non-verifiable CPD points are available for all event attendees.
ENGAGE HOST
Bruce Whitfield
Join ENGAGE'24 with Bruce Whitfield and a dynamic speaker panel for a exploration of luck, strategy, and grit. Learn to cultivate and exploit luck alongside strategic foresight gleaned from analysing industry successes. Gain insights into evolving investor and trustee expectations and strategies for growth in today's competitive landscape. This event offers an antidote to negative sentiments, aligning teams for success and unveiling opportunities hidden in plain sight.
Agenda
08:00-09:00
Registration and Refreshments(Coffee/Tea/Juice)
09:00 - 09:20
Introduction: The Purpose of ENGAGE Online
Bruce
Whitfield
Business Speaker
Schalk
van der Merwe
WeconnectU
Johann
van der Merwe
WeconnectU
Danie
van der Merwe
WeconnectU
09:00-09:20
Welcome and Intro: ENGAGE - Our Vision of Value
Johann
van der Merwe
WeconnectU
Schalk
van der Merwe
WeconnectU
09:20 - 09:50
Community Management Market Stats, Trends and Key Focus areas for Growth
Danie
van der Merwe
WeconnectU
Hendrik
Hoffman
Rise Property Solutions
Jonathan
Acutt
Acutts
Leroy
Coleman
Coleman Properties
Markus
Kaps
Propensure Property Management
09:20-10:00
Community Management: Your GAMEPLAN to win in 2024 and beyond
Community Manage is a team “sport”! You need a rock-solid Positioning Strategy that uses industry stats, trends, and market forces to align your People, Processes, Systems, and Partners to create the “WIN”.
Danie
van der Merwe
WeconnectU
09:50 - 10:15
Rental Portfolio Management : The Market Forces that are Shaping the Future of Rental Asset Management
Johann
van der Merwe
WeconnectU
Barry
Davies
Chas Everitt
Neale
Petersen
Real Estate Investor Magazine
10:00-10:05
Lucky Draw for Sponsor Prizes
10:05-10:25
Comfort Break
10:15 - 11:00
Community Management: How to close the Value Gap
Maritza
Botha
WeconnectU
Tobie
van der Merwe
WeconnectU
Hendrik
Hoffman
Rise Property Solutions
Jonathan
Acutt
Acutts
Leroy
Coleman
Coleman Properties
10:25-11:50
Bring the Team together
Part 1: How to optimise Team performance: Building a winning team to achieve the ultimate efficiency Part 2: How to integrate systems and workflows for greater efficiency: Unveiling essential GAMEPLAYS to achieve “The Win” Part 3: How to communicate your value: Lifting “The Cup”
Tobie
van der Merwe
WeconnectU
Maritza
Botha
WeconnectU
11:00 - 11:30
Building Blocks to Rental Asset Management
Johann
van der Merwe
WeconnectU
Allen
Usher
Property World
Ettiene
Nel
Rentl Asset Management
Loveness
Kuveya
Easy Property
CJ
Vogel
Jawitz
11:30 - 12:00
Navigating Regulation: PPRA's Tough Questions and Stakeholder Engagement
Dineo
Mphahlele
PPRA
Johlene
Wasserman
PPRA
Bruce
Whitfield
Business Speaker
Johann
van der Merwe
WeconnectU
Danie
van der Merwe
WeconnectU
11:50-12:00
Luck Draw for Sponsor Prizes
12:00 - 12:30
Defending Your Digital Frontier: Cybersecurity Risk Management Strategies
Maritza
Botha
WeconnectU
Jean
Joubert
WeconnectU
Eric
Lundberg
Red Shift Cyber Security
12:00-13:00
Lunch Break / Networking, Stakeholder Engagement, and Interviews
12:30 - 12:40
Closing Thoughts
Bruce
Whitfield
Business Speaker
Johann
van der Merwe
WeconnectU
Danie
van der Merwe
WeconnectU
Schalk
van der Merwe
WeconnectU
13:00-14:00
ENGAGE Activation Session: Business Owner and Management
Danie
van der Merwe
WeconnectU
Tobie
van der Merwe
WeconnectU
13:00-14:00
ENGAGE Activation Session: Community Manager
Maritza
Botha
WeconnectU
Alize
van Vuuren
WeconnectU
13:00-14:00
ENGAGE Activation Session: Finance Manager
Nisha
Singh
WeconnectU
Lin-Marie
Carstens
WeconnectU
14:00-14:30
Closing: Final Lucky Draw and Stakeholder Engagement
Panelists
Johann
van der Merwe
Managing Director
WeconnectU
Johann is the Managing Director of WeconnectU, a leading property management software solutions company. Johann has a history of working with one of the top ten multinational pharmaceutical firms where he was the Head of Marketing for Sub-Saharan Africa. In 2011, he decided to end his corporate career and join his family in the property management industry. In 2017, he started WeconnectU with his brother, Danie.
Bruce
Whitfield
Business Speaker
Award-winning Journalist
"Bruce Whitfield is a multi-award-winning journalist, best-selling author and sought-after speaker. Throughout his career, he has had unparalleled access to titans of industry; mavericks who are changing the game; and brilliant entrepreneurs who reimagine what is possible. This access has provided him with an exceptional perspective of how we can change the future. Today. With over 20 years of working in print, broadcast and digital media, he brings a unique brand of realistic optimism to the murky intersection where business, politics and society collide. Welcome, Bruce and thanks for joining us today… "
Danie
van der Merwe
Director, Solutions Management
WeconnectU
Danie is the Co-founder of WeconnectU, a leading property management software solutions company. Before the founding of WeconnectU, Danie gained his experience in the property sector while being the MD of PropConnect, a company specialising in the management of Sectional Title and Home Owners Associations. Danie believes success is largely determined by the impact and success one can create for others.
Schalk
van der Merwe
Director, Sales & Marketing
WeconnectU
Before joining WeconnectU, Schalk gained international experience working in property management in the UK. He returned to South Africa in 2006 and started his real estate career as a franchisee. He was responsible for the management of multiple franchises, which included the management of the residential and commercial property portfolios. Schalk has seen how digital transformation can be leveraged to create incredible customer experiences and how this will enable you to differentiate yourself from your competitors. Schalk believes that meeting the needs of the “always-connected” customer is essential and that it is inevitable that businesses must embrace technology to be relevant and profitable going forward.
Tobie
van der Merwe
Business Development Manager
WeconnectU
Tobie is a Business Development Manager at WeconnectU. Before joining WeconnectU, Tobie spent many years specialising in the field of Marketing and Sales in the Professional Services and Software as a Service (SaaS) industry. Besides a deep rooted passion for people, marketing and sales, Tobie believes that Property Professionals can become more valuable as solutions providers through a strategic approach to their business.
Maritza
Botha
Product Manager CMS
WeconnectU
Maritza heads up the CMS Customer Success team at WeconnectU. She has more than 14 years’ experience in the property management industry, including running a prominent managing agency in Cape Town with a portfolio of more than 10 000 units. Having been in the seat of a Portfolio Manager, Operations Manager and a shareholder of a managing agency, she has a deep understanding of the challenges the Property Manager faces on a daily basis. Maritza is positive, energetic and passionate, her mission is to support and assist the Property Manager on their journey to continuously expand their value to their stakeholders.
Jean
Joubert
Product Manager RAMS
WeconnectU
Neale
Petersen
Editor-in-Chief
Real Estate Investor Magazine
Neale Petersen is a seasoned entrepreneur, property investor, and mentor, boasting 17 years of leadership at the forefront of Real Estate Investor Magazine as Editor-in-Chief, REI's digital platform, and as a distinguished event facilitator and instructor at property gatherings. His rich experience at media giant Naspers and creative prowess in property investment have cemented his position as a leader in the real estate media field. Renowned for his insightful interviews with business icons including titans Christo Wiese, Jannie Mouton, former US President Donald Trump and Robert Kiyosaki, Neale is committed to empowering individuals to unlock their innate potential for business and investing success through ongoing education.
Dineo
Mphahlele
PPRA
I am an admitted attorney in possession of a Baccalaureus Procurationis (BPROC) Degree from the University of Johannesburg, I also hold a Postgraduate- Program in Strategic Management and Corporate Governance and completed a certificate in money laundering control. I obtained my Master of Laws (LLM) Degree in Corporate Law from the University of South Africa. I am employed at the Property Practitioner Regulatory Authority (formerly Estate Agency Affairs Board) I have vast experience in property regulatory environment. I am appointed an PPRA representative and coordinator for FIC compliance related matters.
Johlene
Wasserman
PPRA
Johlene Wasserman brings over eight years of expertise in dispute resolution, property law, and governance. Holding a Master of Laws in Dispute Resolution from the University of Cape Town, she's an admitted attorney, conveyancer, and accredited mediator. With a passion for the rule of law, she's dedicated to transforming South Africa's property industry.
Jonathan
Acutt
Managing Director
Acutts
Jonathan is the 6th generation Acutt to lead the family business. Now into his 10th year as Managing Director of the Acutts Real Estate group, he has lead the company into the future of real estate, prioritising cutting-edge technology to deliver top-tier services. Notable achievements include the award for Business Excellence in the Category of Property, Real Estate and Construction from the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the launch of the highly respected Acutts Property Management Division, as well as maintaining a workforce of over 150 property professionals dedicated to ethical, personalised service.
Allen
Usher
Founder
Property World
Allen, business owner of Property World, oversees a specialised residential Estate Agency founded in 1984. With a rich history in marketing select developments like Dainfern Estate and Steenberg Estate, Property World focuses on projects in Cape Town, including Century City, Burgundy Estate and Atlantic Beach Golf Estate. With over 100 years of combined experience, Property World maintains its dominance in the market, offering comprehensive services in buying, selling, and renting properties.
Markus
Kaps
Business Owner
Propensure Property Management
Markus Kaps, an industry veteran, transitioned his expertise into founding Propensure in 2013, a thriving property management business. Specialising in body corporate, sectional title, and homeowner association management in the Cape Town Metropolitan area, Propensure's success is attributed to Markus's hands-on approach and unwavering dedication. Since inception, Propensure has flourished, continually expanding its portfolio through exemplary service and commitment to excellence.
Leroy
Coleman
CFO
Coleman Properties
Leroy Coleman, the CFO of Coleman Properties, has been a trailblazer in the South African property market since 1995. With a steadfast commitment to enhancing clients' property assets and lifestyle, Coleman Properties offers expert property management, rentals, and sales services. Backed by advanced technology and infrastructure, the team ensures consistent satisfaction for both owners and tenants. With a vision centered on maximising property investments, Coleman Properties delivers personalised attention and tailored services to meet the unique needs of every client.
Barry
Davies
COO
Chas Everitt
With over three decades in the property business and 20 years as the Chief Operating Officer at Chas Everitt International Property Group, I am deeply committed to expanding our national family brand across all sectors of the South African residential property market. My expertise spans business, franchise sales, real estate, commercial and industrial property, and property marketing. Throughout my career, I've played pivotal roles in transforming the group into a national powerhouse, consulting on key operations and gaining hands-on experience in various roles within the industry.
Hendrik
Hoffman
Managing Director
Rise Property Solutions
After earning his BCom degree in Business Management from the University of Pretoria, Hendrik delved into the Sectional Title Industry. With over a decade of experience, he identified a need for improved transparency, efficiency, and service, leading to the establishment of Rise Property Solutions in 2018. Hendrik's expertise has garnered invitations to various radio shows as a guest speaker and he's created the largest Facebook Group in South Africa dedicated to Sectional Title Living, solidifying his status as a premier Managing Agent.
CJ
Vogel
Business Owner
Jawitz
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CJ Vogel is a dynamic figure in the Real Estate Industry, committed to surpassing client and staff expectations. Beginning in Brakpan in 2000, Vogel embraced the franchise model, joining Jawitz in 2007. With extensive experience in Rentals, Sales, and Body Corporate Management, Vogel has built an unparalleled network and reputation as a leader in the local market.
Loveness
Kuveya
General Manager
Easy Property
An enthusiastic and results-driven real estate professional with over 11 years of industry experience, specialising in residential property management, sectional title portfolio management, and property facilities management. Holding a degree in Economics, a postgraduate qualification in Property Development and Management from Witwatersrand University, and Paddocks certification in Sectional Title Management, I am currently pursuing a master's degree in Property Development and Management.
Ettiene
Nel
Managing Director
Rentl Asset Management
Ettiene Nel is the Managing Director of Rentl Asset Management. With his vast experience in Corporate Banking & Structured Investments, supported by his legal background in conveyancing, his passion is to fulfil the company’s Value Proposition and professionally manage a property portfolio to the benefit of the client. He sees the landlords as investors in the largest asset class in the world and believes that they must be treated accordingly. His message to the landlord is clear: “Hire a good rental asset manager, then sit Back and Relax” – Ettiene is in the industry since 2004 and his team is directly involved in managing properties to the value of approximately R2,6 billion.
Eric
Lundberg
Head of Customer Success
Red Shift Cyber Security
I have been working in various parts in the IT space for almost all of my career dealing with various products and services, over a wide range of clients in various industries. I look to give a trusting and long lasting relationship with all my clients to ensure a long lasting business and trusted adviser relationship with them. Specialties: Client relations, Training, Account management, Problem solving and Public speaking
Our Previous Events
Testimonials
"The atmosphere was fantastic.”
Engela Wissing
Vision Properties
“ENGAGE'23 made me feel more empowered as a property manager.”
Inger Allen
Intersect
"It was fantastic to be in a room of likeminded individuals.”
Leroy Coleman
Coleman Properties
“ENGAGE'23 Helped me better understand my value!”
Corli Calitz
Calitz Estates
FAQs
If I miss an event, will there be a recording available afterward?
No. This is an in-person event, so there will be no recordings made of the event. We will make the content that was shared available as downloadable resources after the event.
Who is invited to ENGAGE 2024?
Exclusively invited CMS clients will attend these regional events. We want to gather 200-300 Business Owners, Managers, Community Managers and Finance teams in each event.
Is it free to attend?
Yes. This is a free event. There are limited seats available per event, so bookings are essential. These events will include catering in the form of a lunch and coffee, drink and juice. There will also be spot prizes and giveaways.
Will the ENGAGE Exclusive Events be in-person events?
The ENGAGE Exclusive Events will be in-person events to be hosted in Pretoria, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Gqeberha, and Bloemfontein. These events will be invite-only events with limited seating available per event. Bookings are essential. The ENGAGE events will take place between the month of March and July.
What is the ENGAGE Exclusive Events?
ENGAGE Exclusive Events are WeconnectU’s CMS 2024 in-person events to be hosted in Pretoria, Johannesburg, Cape Town. Durban, Gqeberha, and Bloemfontein for CMS clients. We want to engage in-person. discuss industry insights, talk business best practice, share stories and unpack CMS product developments. There will also be break-away Activation Sessions to discuss practical applications for Business Owners. Community Managers and Finance staff.
What is Engage?
ENGAGE is WeconnectU's annual online event. Every year, we spotlight work efficiency trends, our product development, and insightful stories from WeconnectU customers and industry experts to help you reimagine the way you work.
Will Engage 2023 be only online?
This year’s main ENGAGE conference will be virtual. We are planning additional invite-only events in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Durban during the course of 2023.
Is it free to attend?
Yes. This is a free event. All you need is an internet connection, a cup of coffee, and you’re good to go.
If I miss a session or want to share it with colleagues after — can I get a recording?
Yes. Everyone who registers for the online event, regardless of which sessions they attended, will be able to watch all the sessions on-demand afterward. To qualify for 3 non-verifiable CPD points, attendance on the day is required.
Who’s invited to Engage 2023?
All WeconnectU clients, Property Managers and industry stakeholders are invited to attend.
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