At the heart of GM Investments lie the combined visions and efforts of Manisha Vallabh and Ave-Zameka Tambekile. Their union brings together a wealth of expertise, with over a decade of experience in regulatory compliance, governance, B-BBEE transformation, and business accounting.
Manisha, an admitted attorney in South Africa with an LLB degree, brings to the table a profound understanding of corporate compliance, especially in areas like data privacy, environmental, social and governance (ESG), and anti-bribery regulations. Her depth in regulatory compliance, combined with Zameka’s extensive experience in B-BBEE transformation and business accounting, creates a formidable foundation for GM Investments.
Recognizing the transformative potential of a female-led BEE Level 1 company in Southern Africa, they embarked on a mission to fill this niche. Their shared aspiration was to establish a company that not only stands out in delivering quality products and services but also champions ethical sourcing, female entrepreneurship, and a genuine commitment to positive socio-economic change in Africa.
Their combined credentials and fervor underscore the company’s commitment to fostering ethical business practices, ensuring product quality, and driving socio-economic transformation across the continent.
Our robust operations cater to a prestigious clientele, including government entities and leading corporates across Africa that require consistent and reliable commodity supplies.
Founded by two pioneering black women, GM Investments is not just a business; it’s a testament to breaking barriers. Our leadership focuses on sourcing from female-owned or managed businesses, ensuring that our operations have a positive ripple effect on communities and countries. Every sourcing decision is made with mindfulness towards its broader impact, reflecting our commitment to sustainable and responsible business practices.
Managing Director
A trailblazer in the realm of Regulatory Compliance and Ethics, Manisha Vallabh anchors GM Investments with an unparalleled depth of expertise. Her vast understanding of corporate compliance, encompassing data privacy, ESG, anti-bribery, and anti-corruption regulations, is foundational to the company’s ethos.
Educated with an LLB degree from UNISA and recognized as an admitted attorney in South Africa, Manisha’s career has seen her collaborate with industry giants like Standard Bank, Deloitte, and Tsebo Solutions Group. Of particular note is her tenure as the Regional Head of Compliance at Puma Energy. Here, she managed intricate compliance landscapes across 17 African countries in the oil and gas sector, tackling challenges unique to the commodities industry. This experience has endowed her with a keen insight into the nuances of the oil and gas trade, a critical asset for GM Investments.
Her accolades are testament to her prowess, with the CEO’s Award from TseboGroup standing out as a testament to her outstanding contribution. A tech entrepreneur at heart, Manisha also helms Taxi-Nam, showcasing her entrepreneurial versatility.
At GM Investments, Manisha’s vast experience in the oil and gas sector, especially her role at Puma Energy, translates into a strategic advantage. It equips her to navigate the complexities of the commodities market, ensuring GM Investments not only thrives but sets industry standards.
Her commitment to upholding ethical practices and her vision to uplift female entrepreneurs in the commodities sector underscore her leadership, steering GM Investments towards excellence and transformative industry impact.
Chairperson and Founder
Ave- Zameka Tambekile, the Founder and Chairperson at GM Investments, stands as a beacon of transformative leadership in the B-BBEE transformation landscape. With a rich tapestry of experience spanning over 15 years, Zameka’s commitment to transformation and strategic vision has been instrumental in shaping the trajectory of GM Investments.
Her transformative journey is rooted in her foundational role at KwaDlamini GL Consulting, a firm specializing in BBBEE transformation. Subsequent pivotal roles as the transformation manager for Tsebo Group and a BEE Senior Analyst for Siyakha Consulting have further honed her expertise in developing and implementing robust B-BBEE transformation strategies.
Zameka’s influence isn’t confined to the corporate realm. Her notable contributions to the Department of Trade and Industry’s B-BBEE working group played a key role in the drafting of the inaugural B-BBEE Codes of Good Practice. As Chairperson of the Petroleum & Liquid Fuels Charter Exco, she provides stewardship over Equity Equivalent Investment Programs for several multinationals, reaffirming her stature in the industry.
At GM Investments, Zameka’s role as the Chairperson is underscored by a deep-seated passion for impactful change. Beyond her role as Chairperson of GM Investments, she champions rural SMME organizations, ensuring they align with best industry practices and strategies.
Zameka’s fusion of extensive experience and her guiding hand at GM Investments solidify her position as a transformative powerhouse in the commodities sector.
Independent Expert Consultant
Seggie Kistasamy is a highly accomplished senior management professional with a significant footprint in the oil and gas industry, both internationally and domestically. His career is marked by an exceptional ability to manage teams across various functions, including operations, leadership, marketing, and business development. Known for being results-oriented and a decisive leader,
Kistasamy has a proven track record in not only establishing a lasting presence in new markets but also in identifying and capitalizing on growth opportunities. His skill in initiating strong business alliances has been instrumental in increasing revenue for the organizations he has been part of.
Kistasamy’s journey in the oil and gas sector has seen him at the helm of several significant roles. In his role as Managing Director at Total in Malawi, he spearheaded the company’s growth and market dominance, implementing strategies that significantly enhanced its market share and profitability. His strategic insight was further evident in his role at Total for Strategy Africa Middle East, where he focused on the development and execution of business strategies that bolstered the company’s position in these key markets.
In addition to his professional pursuits, he also contributes to the academic sphere as a sessional lecturer at Wits Business School, where he shares his rich industry experience and insights, nurturing the next generation of business leaders.
Seggie Kistasamy’s journey reflects a blend of strategic acumen and operational excellence, making him a distinguished figure in the oil and gas industry. His leadership and innovative approach have consistently propelled businesses forward, setting new standards in the sector. His extensive experience and strategic mindset will be invaluable in guiding GM Investments towards greater success and market leadership.