On July 25, 2025, at the Gallagher Convention Centre, the Gautrain Management Agency received its Integrated Management System (IMS) certification - a powerful recognition of its dedication to quality, environmental responsibility, and occupational health and safety.
Below, Francois Labuschagne describes the event in his own words:
On 25 July 2025, I had the privilege of attending the Integrated Management System (IMS) certification handover ceremony for the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA) at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand. This momentous event marked the successful certification of GMA to ISO 9001 (Quality), ISO 14001 (Environmental), and ISO 45001 (Occupational Health and Safety) standards by DQS South Africa.
From the outset, it was clear that GMA’s journey was underpinned by a deep commitment to sustainability and continuous improvement. These principles were not just echoed in the programme - it was the thread that ran through every speech, every discussion, and every moment of the day.
GMA CEO Mr. Tshepo Kgobe captured this ethos beautifully. Sharing a personal story of commuting home using the Gautrain midibus service, he praised the punctuality, friendliness, and professionalism of his team. It was a subtle yet powerful message: leadership through example, service through excellence.
Mr. Kgobe also made it abundantly clear that this certification was not an executive achievement - it was a collective success. “It is GMA that has been certified,” he said, “not just its leadership.” He applauded his team's expertise, resilience, and ability to break the mould often associated with South African state-owned entities.
Teamwork was further highlighted by GMA’s Deputy Board Chairperson, Malebo Matolong, who underscored how collective effort, not individual performance, makes institutional excellence possible. During the panel discussion, Musa Miyen Sales Director of DQS outlined the audit process, highlighting how a risk-based and process-driven approach was used to evaluate GMA’s systems. It was a reminder of the rigour and integrity behind the certification.
One of the standout moments came from Ms. Mirriam Tenyane of Harmony and Help, GMA’s consulting partner, who acknowledged the strong leadership and management commitment demonstrated by GMA. She praised their strategic decision to pursue certification within a clear timeline - an approach fully aligned with clause 5.1 in various ISO standards like ISO 9001 (Quality Management), ISO 14001 (Environmental Management), and ISO 45001 (Occupational Health and Safety) which emphasises the crucial role of top management in driving and supporting the management system.
I was honoured to present GMA with their certification. I shared how proud I am to be South African and what it means for GMA to achieve IMS certification. I highlighted that their certification supports 16 out of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) - a phenomenal accomplishment worthy of celebration. I urged GMA to make noise about their achievement and proudly handed over a stylish and commemorative aluminium certificate, symbolising their contribution to sustainability and excellence.
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Francois believes that traditional business models, while once effective, have begun to show their limitations. The silos that previously fuelled growth now hinder the flow of creative ideas and collaboration. In response, Francois is committed to make bold and innovative moves. He is committed to directly engaging with clients and partners, and frequently invites questions, ideas, and collaboration. Whether it's international certifications, training solutions, or innovative concepts to transform industries, Francois is ready to help drive success and foster meaningful partnerships.
