A Day of Powerful Conversations and Inspiration
The Innovator Trust Women in Tech Experience (WIT2024) brought together some of South Africa’s most influential leaders and trailblazers in technology to discuss the transformative power of innovation, inclusion, and empowerment. The event was a powerful platform for conversations on the future of tech, particularly for women-led small businesses and underrepresented communities, as industry leaders shared their insights and visions for a tech-driven future.
Kicking off the event, a standout moment came from the incredible Nozipho Tshabalala, who served as the panel moderator. Tshabalala’s sharp questions and expert facilitation brought out the best in the panelists, sparking powerful conversations that left attendees feeling motivated and inspired. Her energy and expertise were key in steering discussions that revolved around the potential of technology and its impact on women in South Africa.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of such an impactful event,” said Tshabalala. “The conversations we had today were not just about technology but about the future of South African women in this ever-evolving field.”
Siyabulela Xuza: A Visionary in Energy and Innovation
The event’s keynote speaker, Siyabulela Xuza, founder and managing director of Galactic Energy Ventures, captivated the audience with his compelling message on how young Africans can lead the energy revolution. Xuza, a scientist, entrepreneur, and Harvard engineering graduate, highlighted the urgent need for innovation in the energy sector and its potential to drive change across the continent. His speech resonated with the attendees, urging them to not just think about innovation but to take action to shape the future.
“Let’s harness our collective potential to spark change. Innovation is not just a concept, it’s a call to action,” said Xuza, inspiring the audience to rise to the challenge of powering a brighter future for Africa.
The Impact of AI on Women – A Leapfrog Moment for South Africa
The panel discussion on the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its potential to empower women was another major highlight of the event. Moderated by an expert in AI, the panelists delved deep into how AI could be leveraged to scale businesses and uplift women in the digital era. The discussion centered on practical strategies for integrating AI into South African SMEs to boost productivity and enhance inclusivity.
Key voices on the panel included:
Vinolia Martin, Technology Executive: Client Services at Microsoft SA
Tamara Rasivhetshele, Executive Head: Enterprise Applications Solutions at Vodacom SA
Mandi Scott, CIO Digital, E-commerce, Group Personal & Private Banking at Standard Bank Group
Alufheli Swalivha, Director: Public Service ICT Stakeholder Management at the Department of Public Service and Administration
Nadia Veeran-Patel, Information Security Officer at LRMG
The panelists shared their expertise on the practical applications of AI and how it can revolutionize the way businesses operate. “AI can be a powerful tool for inclusion, helping South African SMEs compete in the global digital economy,” said Martin, one of the panelists.
For those who missed the discussion, the panel can be viewed on Innovator Trust’s YouTube channel for a deeper dive into how AI is shaping the future of business and women’s empowerment in South Africa.
A Woman’s Journey Beyond the C-Suite
One of the most inspiring sessions of the day featured top executives from various industries who discussed how technology is empowering women to make an impact far beyond the traditional boardroom. The panelists explored how tech-driven strategies can fuel personal growth, transform industries, and create meaningful change.
The panelists included:
- Charmaine Houvet, Director: Africa, Cisco
- Sazini Mojapelo, CEO: GBVF Response Fund
- Faith Burns, CIO: Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd
- Luna Nevhutalu, CEO: Sanlam Structured Investments
- Dr. Tamaryn Green-Nxumalo, Medical Doctor, Entrepreneur, Miss SA 2018
They discussed practical strategies that women-led SMEs can adopt to thrive in an increasingly tech-driven business landscape. “We are not just leaders in tech, we are leaders with purpose,” shared Houvet, inspiring the audience with the message that tech leadership is about more than just corporate success—it’s about leaving a lasting, positive impact on society.
TechTalks Beyond the City: Empowering Township and Rural Economies
Another standout discussion was focused on the unique opportunities and challenges faced by entrepreneurs in rural and township economies. The panel explored the resilience and innovation taking placein these underserved areas, where entrepreneurs are creating groundbreaking solutions that drive growth and foster transformation.
The conversation highlighted the importance of bridging the digital divide and ensuring that no community is left behind as South Africa embraces digital transformation. The panel featured:
- Buhle Vilakazi, Executive Head: SMEs at Vodacom
- Marilyn White Radebe, Executive Director: Soma Solutions
- Serisha Barrat, Serial Techpreneur and CEO of Lawyered Up LLC Powered by Vega
- Sonia Dibakwana, Managing Executive: Digital Enablement & Analytics at Vodacom
The panelists emphasized that tech has the potential to reshape rural economies by providing access to markets, information, and resources previously out of reach. “The future of tech in South Africa lies in ensuring that it reaches everyone, regardless of their location,” said Vilakazi.
A Future Driven by Women and Innovation
The Innovator Trust Women in Tech Experience 2024 proved to be an inspiring day of collaboration, insight, and forward-thinking discussions that showcased the power of women in tech and their role in shaping South Africa’s digital future. The event was a reminder that innovation and technology are not just tools—they are keys to unlocking a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
As the event concluded, it was clear that the future of tech is not just about technology itself, but about using that technology to drive empowerment, create opportunities, and foster growth for women and underrepresented communities across South Africa.
With the remarkable leadership displayed at WIT2024, the path forward looks bright for women in technology, entrepreneurship, and beyond.
