With a black shareholding of more than 50%, and female ownership of over 30%, StorTech can proudly lay claim to being one of South Africa's most empowered IT companies.
This is a major advantage in the competitive technology industry, and clearly sets StorTech apart from other players - especially since the company's impeccable credentials mean that customers are able to score 22.5 out of a possible 25 points for preferential procurement when they partner with StorTech.
StorTech's successful efforts to transform are part of an overall turnaround strategy which was implemented in 2012. As part of this drive, the company boosted its overall rating, moving from a Level 3 Contributor to gain Level 2 status. The organisation also increased its BBBEEE points from 85 in 2013 to 96.6 in 2016.
The improvement was catalysed by Kutana Technologies' purchase of a stake in StorTech. Coupled with a shareholding already owned by Vodacom, this significantly increased black ownership in the company.
At the same time, a concerted effort has been made to address employment equity and skills development. The company has implemented a comprehensive skills development training programme, complemented by a mentoring initiative - a valuable support for employees with the added benefit of increasing capacity.
StorTech has also made training available for suppliers. This is crucial, as small business development is a priority for the economy. Of course, it also helps put preferential procurement into action, ensuring those brought on board are able to match StorTech's standards. The company therefore offers mentoring to SME owners, and puts a number of professional services at their disposal. Added to this, StorTech provides practical assistance by offering preferential payment terms. By settling invoices within 15 days, the company enables SME suppliers to sidestep one of the greatest challenges facing small businesses: cash flow issues. Going forward, there will be more emphasis on teaming with black women to increase their presence in the business landscape.
When it comes to CSI, StorTech is especially proud to have made a real difference to black youth. The company's focus is on health, welfare and education. It targets these areas by leveraging its key resource: technology. For instance, StorTech provided equipment for Botshabelo, a Midrand-based charity and place of safety accommodating 600 children, so that learners at the organisation's Urban Edu Centre are able to access quality education using laptops and tablets. It also supports the Botshabelo Uplifted Teacher Training Programme, providing free IT services to teachers so that they might hone their skills. The company's relationship with the Christ Church Christian Care Centre is another case in point, with StorTech having built two computer centres and donating groceries for children either orphaned, affected by HIV or hailing from child-headed households.
These initiatives show that StorTech is setting an example to the industry, while striving to make a difference in its own workplace.
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