Emerging librarians find their voice through Sabinet and LIASA Presidential Conference Grants
New grant initiative replaces traditional award. Give first-time conference attendees the opportunity to learn, connect, and grow within South Africa’s library and information sector.
Centurion — 28 October 2025: For three emerging library professionals, attending the LIASA Annual Conference 2025 was a transformative experience — one that reignited their passion for the profession and expanded their vision for the future.
Made possible through the LIASA–Sabinet Presidential Conference Grants. The opportunity gave first-time conference attendees a platform to connect, learn, and contribute to conversations shaping the future of the library and information services (LIS) profession.
LIASA–Sabinet Presidential Conference Grant Recipients
“Attending the LIASA Conference was an inspiring and transformative experience.” Said Hlayisanani Evans Khetiwa, Assistant Information Specialist at IIE Varsity College, Waterfall Campus. “Listening to my colleagues’ presentations motivated me to start writing my first article, which I’m now preparing for publication.”
For Maphefo Maake, Manager: Learning and Information Services at North-West University, the experience offered reflection and renewed purpose. “The conference provided valuable insights and best practices that I intend to share with my peers at NWU and apply in my work. It also gave me time to reflect on how I can contribute more meaningfully to my community and the profession.”
Nqobile Shabalala, Librarian at Ga-Rankuwa Public Library, described the experience as uplifting and affirming. “As a first-time attendee, it was an incredibly fulfilling experience. The energy, ideas, and collaboration were truly inspiring, and I’m grateful to LIASA and Sabinet for making it possible.”
What is the Presidential Conference Grant?
The Presidential Conference Grants covered accommodation and registration for three out-of-town delegates. It is designed specifically for LIS professionals who have not previously attended the annual conference. The grants aim to promote inclusivity, exposure, and sector-wide growth.
“The introduction of the Presidential Conference Grants highlights a new way of ensuring inclusivity and access. While reinforcing the vital role of the annual conference in professional growth,” said Ros Hattingh, Managing Director at Sabinet. “Through this sponsorship, Sabinet reaffirms its dedication to empowering professionals with the knowledge, networks, and inspiration needed to shape the future of the sector.”
Held from 30 September to 3 October 2025 at the Boardwalk Hotel in Gqeberha. The LIASA Annual Conference took place under the theme “Libraries as Innovation Hubs: Empowering Communities.”
By shifting from a traditional award to this developmental grant model, Sabinet and LIASA are ensuring that early-career professionals — the future leaders of the LIS community — gain access to national platforms where they can grow, share, and be heard.
Issued by: Sabinet
Media enquiries: info@sabinet.co.za +27 12 643 9500
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