Inclusive Society Institute CEO participates in landmark National Dialogue Convention: 15-16 August 2025

The Inclusive Society Institute’s Chief Executive Officer, Daryl Swanepoel, participated in the 1st National Convention of the National Dialogue, held from 15–16 August 2025 at the University of South Africa’s Muckleneuk Campus, Pretoria.

This historic convention, initiated following the President of the Republic’s call for all South Africans to engage in shaping the nation’s future, marked the formal kick-off of the National Dialogue, a 12-month, citizen-led process aimed at developing a shared 30-year vision for South Africa.

Purpose of the Convention

The convention served as an agenda-setting platform for the National Dialogue. It brought together representatives from 30 sectors of society, including civil society, labour, business, government and political parties, ensuring broad inclusivity.

Key objectives included:

• Launching the National Dialogue process and setting its guiding spirit.

• Introducing the citizen-led dialogue framework.

• Showcasing community-based and citizen-initiated model dialogues.

• Agreeing on organising principles and processes for ward-based and sectoral dialogues.

• Presenting the Eminent Persons Group and Steering Committee who will oversee the process.

Looking ahead

The National Dialogue Convention laid the groundwork for an extensive year-long process of public and sectoral dialogues across the country. Through these, South Africans from all walks of life will have the opportunity to reflect on the nation’s journey, confront difficult conversations and collaboratively imagine the path forward.

The Inclusive Society Institute remains deeply engaged in this process and will continue contributing to efforts aimed at strengthening democracy, inclusivity, and long-term nation-building.