In a world increasingly dominated by automation, data and AI-driven metrics, African business leaders are rediscovering the human side of work. This was the central theme at a recent African SAP User Group (AFSUG) event, titled ‘Building our Version of Paradise’, where volunteers, partners and members gathered to discuss the non-profit organisation’s strategic evolution.

Pierre du Plessis, strategist and founder of Be Brave, and the event’s guest speaker, explored how trust, culture and meaningful engagement can transform teams and communities, touching on the power of ‘tribes’ - small, connected groups where people feel seen, trusted and valued. 

“Profit and growth are lagging indicators of deep chemistry, not innovation,” he told attendees. “The board may set a strategy, but the tribe makes it real. Only the tribe builds the movement.”

Through storytelling and practical examples, Du Plessis illustrated why connection matters more than metrics alone, and why shared experiences are valued over shortcuts. 

“Trust is fundamental to any team,” he explained. “It enables conflict, commitment, accountability and ultimately meaningful outcomes.”

Research highlighted at the session reinforced these insights. Gallup studies show that, globally, only 21% of employees feel truly engaged at work, while actively disengaged employees can undermine entire teams. Loneliness and over-measurement in organisations not only erode morale but also have measurable influences on productivity and wellbeing. 

“Humans are pack animals,” Du Plessis emphasised. “We thrive in communities, not in isolation.”

The session also explored the concept of meaning and transcendence at work. Drawing from examples ranging from Trappist monks to special needs teachers, Du Plessis argued that fulfilling work is about impact, not just a pay packet. “These Belgian monks produce some of the world’s best beer,” he said, “but their purpose isn’t profit, it’s sustaining the community. Meaning drives performance; profit is a side effect.”

As organisations grapple with digital transformation and AI-driven workflows, this message resonates: human connection remains a competitive advantage. This philosophy is also shaping AFSUG’s own strategic direction.

“At AFSUG’s local SAP user conference, SAPHILA, last year, we spoke about building our community and establishing our tribe, and this is exactly what we’re doing as an organisation,” explained Amanda Gibbs, AFSUG CEO. 

“AFSUG has reached an inflection point – one where we’ve looked back at why the organisation was originally founded: as a peer-to-peer customer networking platform that helps customers bridge the gap with SAP. We are now building a path towards a community that is purpose-led, operationally sound and designed for sustainable impact across Africa.

“The shift we are putting into place is to move away from being event-driven, reactive and purely informational, towards becoming outcomes-driven, influential and insight-led. The pivotal role that AFSUG must play is as the trusted voice of the African SAP community and an independent advocate.”

AFSUG chairman Duke Mathebula echoed Gibbs’ statement, adding that the organisation is committed to action, structured advocacy and creating real, measurable value for the local SAP community, as well as empowering transformation.

“True impact comes from creating tribes of engaged, courageous and committed people who can make a real difference, and this is exactly how AFSUG plans to move forward,” he said. 

For more information on the African SAP User Group (AFSUG), or to become an AFSUG member, please visit https://afsug.com/membership-information/

The African SAP User Group (AFSUG) is an independent, non-profit organization that represents SAP customers and partners across Africa. AFSUG serves as a platform for learning, influence, and collaboration - connecting individuals, industries, and ideas to drive the successful use of SAP technology.