From Customer Centricity to AI Empowerment: Our Journey Together EAC Convener and Founder , Mbali Mkhize Twelve years ago, the Empowered Administrators Conference was born out of a vision to elevate the role of office professionals—shifting perceptions and unlocking potential in one of the most critical engines of organisational success. We began with a sharp focus on customer centricity, understanding that service excellence was the bedrock of professional value. As the workplace evolved, so did we. We expanded our mission to sharpen technology skills, enabling administrators to embrace digital tools that enhance efficiency and communication. From mastering productivity platforms to developing an agile mindset, our delegates became indispensable, tech-savvy assets in their workplaces. But technical skill alone isn’t enough. That’s why we infused our programme with strategies to enhance professionalism, emotional intelligence, and project management. We nurtured a generation of confident professionals who lead initiatives, build strong workplace cultures, and rise into roles once thought beyond their reach. In recent years, we have focused on the Fourth Industrial Revolution, a shift that redefined the skills landscape. We have tackled automation, digital transformation, and the reshaping of administrative functions. You have responded with agility, courage, and a commitment to continuous learning. And now, as we gather for our 13th conference, we enter a new frontier: Artificial Intelligence. AI is no longer a distant concept; it is here and transforming how we work. This year, we focus on helping office professionals adapt to AI, embrace it, and make it work for them. Whether using AI tools to streamline workflows, improve decision-making, or enhance creativity, the future belongs to those who are ready to lead with human and artificial intelligence. As the Founder, I am profoundly proud—not just of the skills our delegates have acquired but of who they’ve become. I’ve watched administrators rise into management roles, start businesses, return to study, and mentor others with confidence. You’ve grown not only as professionals but as people—with resilience, purpose, and power. This conference is more than an event—it’s a movement. And if you’re ready to grow, to lead, and to thrive in the AI era, then this is your time