South Africa is home to some of the continent’s largest and most successful companies. From the bustling financial hubs of Johannesburg to the innovative tech start-ups in Cape Town, businesses across the country are discovering the immense value of team building. 

But how exactly do these top companies use team building to enhance performance, foster collaboration, and achieve long-term success?

Let’s take a closer look at how some of South Africa’s corporate giants leverage team building to stay ahead of the curve.

1. Naspers – Fostering Innovation Through Collaboration

Naspers, one of the world’s largest technology investors, knows that great ideas often come from genuine, unfiltered collaboration. 

That’s why they regularly host innovation days and hackathons – fun, interactive events where team members from different departments come together to share ideas, solve problems, and create something new. Imagine the buzz of excitement as people step away from their usual tasks and challenge themselves in new ways.

Team building activities like escape rooms and design sprints not only break down silos but also remind employees that every voice matters when it comes to innovation.

2. Standard Bank – Strengthening Communication and Trust

In the world of finance, trust is everything. Standard Bank gets this and makes sure their teams do, too. Through team-building activities like trust falls, problem-solving games, and outdoor adventure challenges, the bank helps employees build relationships rooted in mutual respect and understanding.

Picture a group of colleagues working together to navigate a tricky ropes course – laughter, encouragement, and the occasional nervous moment – all reinforcing the idea that success depends on everyone pulling together.

3. Shoprite Group – Building Team Spirit in a High-Pressure Environment

Running Africa’s biggest retail network isn’t easy – but Shoprite knows the power of a united team. They use team-building workshops and recognition programs to keep morale high, even during busy periods.

Programs like ‘Shoprite Cares’ bring employees together to give back to their communities. The result? A sense of pride and belonging that transcends the daily grind and helps teams stay motivated through challenges.

4. Discovery Limited – Promoting a Wellness-Driven Team Culture

Discovery, a leader in health insurance and financial services, believes that healthy, happy employees make for stronger teams. Their team-building events often include wellness activities – think step challenges, outdoor fitness events, and even mindfulness retreats.

When colleagues jog side-by-side during a lunchtime fitness challenge or share a moment of quiet during a meditation session, they’re doing more than staying healthy. They’re building a supportive, energetic culture that helps everyone thrive.

5. Sasol – Enhancing Collaboration Across Departments

Sasol operates some of the world’s most complex energy and chemical projects – and they know success depends on seamless collaboration. Their team-building workshops use real-world scenarios to get people talking, thinking, and solving problems together.

Imagine the moment when a group cracks a tough challenge during a simulated crisis. That sense of collective achievement carries over into their day-to-day work, where teamwork is critical to success.

The Secret Behind Their Success

While each of these companies uses team building in unique ways, they all understand one simple truth: people work better together when they feel connected, trusted, and valued. The principles that drive their success include:

• Communication: Open conversations lead to better teamwork.

• Collaboration: Diverse perspectives spark innovative solutions.

• Trust: Team-building activities build strong, supportive relationships.

• Engagement: Shared experiences create a sense of belonging.

Ready to Build a Stronger Team?

At Beach and Bush Team Building, we’re passionate about helping teams find their groove. Whether you’re aiming to improve communication, boost morale, or just have some fun together, we’ve got activities designed to bring people closer.

Visit us at www.teambuilding.co.za to discover how we can help your team grow stronger – together.

Engage. Energise. Align.

Let’s build a team that stands the test of time – just like South Africa’s corporate giants.