In April 2025, several leading South African companies implemented innovative team-building activities to enhance collaboration, creativity, and camaraderie among their employees. Here’s a look at how five top firms—PwC, Momentum, Nedbank, GIBS, and Capitec—leveraged unique challenges to strengthen their teams.

1. PwC: Minute to Win It – Speed Meets Strategy

PwC energized its teams with a “Minute to Win It” challenge, inspired by the popular game show. Employees engaged in a series of fast-paced, 60-second tasks that tested their agility, coordination, and problem-solving skills. These activities, ranging from stacking cups to balancing objects, required quick thinking and teamwork, fostering a lively and collaborative environment.

2. Momentum: Braai Food Truck Challenge – Culinary Creativity

Momentum embraced South Africa’s rich braai culture through a Food Truck Challenge. Teams were tasked with conceptualizing and constructing their own food truck facades using materials like cardboard and paint. Each group developed a unique menu, prepared dishes, and presented their creations to a panel of judges. This activity not only encouraged culinary innovation but also emphasized branding and marketing skills, as teams were evaluated on taste, presentation, and creativity. 

3. Nedbank: CSI Challenge – Solving Mysteries Together

Nedbank’s team-building event took inspiration from crime scene investigations. Employees assumed the roles of forensic detectives, working collaboratively to solve a fictional murder mystery. The challenge required participants to analyze clues, interrogate suspects, and piece together evidence, promoting critical thinking and effective communication. This immersive experience not only entertained but also reinforced the importance of teamwork in problem-solving scenarios. 

4. GIBS: VR Tech Challenge – Embracing the Future

The Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) introduced its staff to the cutting-edge world of virtual reality through the VR Tech Challenge. Participants donned VR headsets to navigate simulated environments, complete tasks, and overcome obstacles. This futuristic approach to team building highlighted the potential of emerging technologies in enhancing collaboration and adaptability in the workplace.

5. Capitec: Indiana Jones Adventure – Quest for Team Unity

Capitec Bank embarked on an adventurous team-building exercise themed around Indiana Jones. Employees participated in a series of challenges that mirrored the iconic explorer’s quests, including treasure hunts, obstacle courses, and puzzle-solving activities. 

This thematic approach fostered a sense of adventure and camaraderie, encouraging teams to work together to overcome challenges and achieve common goals.

These diverse team-building initiatives demonstrate how South African companies are investing in creative strategies to enhance employee engagement and cohesion. By tailoring activities to their organizational cultures and objectives, these firms have successfully fostered environments that promote collaboration, innovation, and mutual support.