Business Connexion held a memorial service on Tuesday 17 June 2014 at the Bryanston Catholic Church for late CEO Benjamin Mophatlane, who passed away on 11 June 2014.
In 1996, Mophatlane together with his twin brother Isaac co-founded what was then known as Business Connection, which merged with Seattle Solutions in 2001.
In an interview then, Mophatlane said, “We were savvy enough to take advantage of opportunities that came to us as a result of the political change in the country. We were able to leverage innovative new technology that was coming to the fore which provided the perfect combination of circumstances. But we were also clever enough to deliver.”
Business Connexion chairman Tony Ruiters gave a moving eulogy as he remembered when he first met the twins.
“I met Ben approximately 18 years ago, when I got a call from Nat Kekana who asked me to work with the twins in setting up their own IT company. When I first met Ben and Isaac I couldn’t tell them apart, they both had big smiles and big hugs and in order to tell them apart in meetings I sat in between them, one on the left and other on the right side.
“When this failed I just called them my brothers. Through giggles and lots of laughter I learned to tell them apart. Isaac giggled and laughed louder.
“Following many meetings, and overwhelmed by the Mophatlane charm, love and laughter, I agreed to work with them to start their own company. As we discussed the formation of the company, the twins were united in wanting to build a new South African company spanning the African continent,” adds Ruiters.
Memorial service patrons remembered Mophatlane as an inspirational leader, son, husband, father and brother who will be remembered for his undeniable entrepreneurial spirit, enthusiasm and exceptional personality. His colleagues remembered his deep humanity that shone through in the way he interacted with people, be it colleagues, staff, business associates, family and friends.
He has left behind a legacy that will make his children proud. He has made the impossible, possible and he will live in the memory of everyone who knew him.
“Ben ensured that everyone he met and encountered felt warm, happy and left with a smile. He led Business Connexion with his heart – gentle and compassionate, even when hard and harsh decisions had to be executed. He was dignified, considerate in thinking and resolute in execution. I salute you my brother, my comrade, my friend, my CEO and partner. I will miss you,” concludes Ruiters.
The second memorial service will take place today (Thursday 19 June 2014) from 12pm to 3pm at the Parish of St Pius, 660 Pienaar Street, Waterkloof, Pretoria.
The acting CEO, Vanessa Olver will speak on behalf of the Business Connexion Board, Executive and company, followed by Mathew Blewett, executive member, friend and business partner.
Mophatlane will be laid to rest on Saturday 21 June 2014 at 7am in Fafung, Brits.
