Leyonie Marais

Experienced Learning and Development Lead specializing in leadership development, employee engagement, culture, diversity, equity, and inclusion (CDE&I). Proven track record of driving organizational growth and employee engagement through impactful learning experiences and fostering inclusivity. Skilled in leading conversations with executives to align initiatives with organizational goals, staying abreast of industry trends to bring cutting-edge strategies to programs. Expertise in establishing, executing, and monitoring leadership development programs, facilitating sessions for mid to senior-level employees, and utilizing facilitation skills and adult learning techniques to empower individuals. Engaged in stakeholder engagement for LGBTQI+ and GBV programs, making a positive community impact. 

LEADERSHIP & Employee CULTURE SPECIALIST | MASSMART | Nov 2021 - present

• Facilitate Employee Engagement Listening Sessions across all levels of the group to identify culture gaps.
• Ensure that new employees successfully integrate into the company culture. Working with Human Capital to identify and implement a culture of belonging.
• Cultivate inclusive workplace culture aligned to the company's values.. 
• Lead CDEI conversations with Group Executives to promote a culture of continuous learning and ethical behavior, changing the tone at the top.
• Lead CDEI conversations to ensure all employees grow equally in our CDEI Journey.
• Lead diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives and fostering a sense of belonging among employees.
• Deliver Leadership & Culture development courses and workshops in alignment with the organization's goals.
• Maintain knowledge of industry trends in leadership development to ensure program relevance.
• Provide support for leadership development programs, including remediation and coaching sessions.
• Utilize expert facilitation skills to conduct leadership and professional development programs for mid to senior-level employees.
• Collaborate with CEO, CPO, and LDM to embed Leadership & Culture Strategy across the organization.
• Provide guidance as a Subject Matter Expert on all CDE&I matters, policies, and frameworks.
• Develop and deploy training based on cultural, gender, and community ethnographies.

cde&I chairperson | massmart | july 2022 – present 

• Coach and support the Vice President in advancing culture, gender, diversity, equity, and inclusion within the organization.
• Review current practices and policies, assess alignment with the CDEI framework, and implement necessary changes.
• Implement relevant instruments to advance culture, diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Develop policies and frameworks to eliminate harassment and gender-based violence in the workplace.
• Keynote Speaker at CDEI Events, Talk Shows and Master Classes
• Establish a standardized approach to panel interviews and develop training to mitigate bias.
• Develop, implement, and monitor outcome-driven CDEI metrics.
• Stay updated on culture, diversity, equity, and inclusion trends and best practices.
• Engage with local and global stakeholders on LGBTQI+ and GBV programs.
• Contribute to Group Transformation Committee and prepare board reports and presentations

COMMUNITY & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST | SISTERHOOD | july 2017 – present (VOLUNTEER)

• Provide tools and processes for managers to develop their own talent pipeline
• Facilitate workshops on gender equity, gender-based violence, harassment, diversity, equity, and inclusion at schools, universities, and corporates.
• Coach executives on GBV and harassment in the workplace, providing guidance and support.
• Conduct "Educate Our Boys" and "Educate Our Girls" workshops for fathers in the community.
• Provide leadership training to different corporates as a facilitator.
• Serve as a keynote speaker at universities, schools, corporates, and government organizations, advocating for gender equity.
• Allocate financial and sector-related funding to orphanages through sponsorships.
• Sitting Board Member at two orphanages, contributing to their strategic direction and development.

Bachelor of ARTS in PSYCHOLOGY |2022- 2026 | UNIVERSITY OF WITSWATERSRAND