Founded by Vodacom over a decade ago, The Innovator Trust continues to play a key role in the growth of black-owned ICT businesses in South Africa. The Trust, which focuses on empowering Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), has supported countless entrepreneurs, driving transformation in the country’s business landscape.
Last week, the Innovator Trust hosted its 2025 Enterprise Development Graduation Ceremony at Vodacom World, recognising the achievements of entrepreneurs from its Hatch Incubator, IT Accelerator Programme (ITAP), and Youth Entrepreneurship Programme (YEP). The event highlighted the business acumen and resilience of South Africa’s ICT leaders, who are shaping the future of the industry through sustainable growth.
Since its launch, the Trust has helped guide over 200 entrepreneurs, providing mentorship, strategic support, and practical tools to scale their businesses. These entrepreneurs have demonstrated the power of strategic development, turning side hustles into scalable enterprises and contributing to the economic growth of South Africa.
Speaking at the graduation, Tashline Jooste, CEO Innovator Trust commented: “More than a decade has passed since Vodacom established the Innovator Trust to advance and support the transformation of SMMEs in the ICT sector. Since then, we’ve been developing our capacity and enhancing our systems to better support SMMEs. We know that every business needs an ecosystem of support that starts with incubation. What we’re witnessing a decade down the line is the rise of industry leaders who are building the future of South Africa’s digital economy. Everyone might see this as just a graduation ceremony, but for us, it’s a very real testament of what becomes possible when one offers targeted, relevant support to SMMES.”
Delivering the keynote address at the graduation earlier today, Lungile Manzini, Executive Head of Sustainable Development, Vodacom South Africa, highlighted the need for SMMEs to be driven by purpose. “There is power in purpose-driven SMEs. Small and medium enterprises are the heartbeat of our economies. In Africa alone, SMEs account for more than 80% of jobs and contribute significantly to GDP. But their real power lies in something even more profound: agility, their proximity to communities, and the freedom to innovate boldly. When you anchor your business in a clear, socially impactful purpose -not as charity, but as strategy – you do more than survive. You thrive, sustainably.”
Graduation highlights
A panel discussion led by Siya Sangweni highlighted challenges faced by SMMEs, such as cash flow and corporate payment delays, stressing the need for access to markets, skilled labour, and office space. The focus was on providing support beyond funding, showcasing the Innovator Trust’s tailored approach to SMME development.
The ceremony also culminated in the presentation of awards, including the Pinnacle Award, which went to Michael Cyster of Elec Data. Cyster expressed gratitude, stating, “I’ve never chased recognition, but to be acknowledged like this is indescribable. I’m so grateful to the Innovator Trust for recognising our hard work.”
Award winners:
- ED Top Achievers: Highest Actual Revenue for FY 2023/2024:
- Future Business Consulting – Loyiso Tyira (1st, ITAP)
- Bona Phandle Media – Kanya Nqelenga (2nd, ITAP)
- Synergy Trading & Projects – Mpumi Mahlangu (3rd, Hatch)
- ED Pinnacle Award for FY 2023/2024:
Synergy Trading & Projects – Mpumi Mahlangu (Hatch) - ED Top Achievers: Highest Actual Revenue for FY 2024/2025:
- Thamani Technologies & Systems – Dr Cleopas Sanangura (1st, ITAP)
- Enra Technologies – Raees Mukuddem (2nd, Hatch)
- Elec Data – Michael Cyster (3rd, ITAP)
- ED Pinnacle Award for FY 2024/2025:
Elec Data – Michael Cyster (ITAP) - YEP Top Achievers:
Eastern Cape: Inathi Lukuleni
Gauteng: Ayanda Nene
