Top ICT Achievers Recognised at 2025 Enterprise Development Graduation: Innovator Trust Celebrates Over a Decade of Impact

The 2025 Enterprise Development Graduation Ceremony, hosted by the Innovator Trust at Vodacom World, spotlighted South Africa’s rising ICT entrepreneurs and marked another milestone in a journey spanning over a decade. Founded by Vodacom, the Innovator Trust continues to drive transformation in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector by equipping black-owned SMMEs with the skills, resources, and mentorship needed to build sustainable businesses and create jobs.

Celebrating Purpose-Driven Innovation

Entrepreneurs from across the Hatch Incubator, IT Accelerator Programme (ITAP), and Youth Entrepreneurship Programme (YEP) were recognised for turning bold ideas into scalable enterprises. From township side hustles to tech-enabled companies generating millions in revenue, the graduates are living proof of the power of tailored enterprise development.

“In the decade since Vodacom created the Innovator Trust, we’ve seen these programmes grow from support structures into springboards for sector leaders. This isn’t just a graduation—it’s a celebration of what’s possible when SMMEs are nurtured with relevance, intention, and heart.”

said Tashline Jooste, CEO of the Innovator Trust

Delivering the keynote address, Lungile Manzini, Executive Head of Sustainable Development at Vodacom South Africa, called for a deeper alignment of entrepreneurship with purpose:

“There is power in purpose-driven SMEs. Their proximity to communities gives them the agility and insight to create real, lasting impact.”

From Insight to Impact

A panel discussion hosted by Siya Sangweni explored the realities of running SMMEs in South Africa—from delayed payments to the need for accessible infrastructure. Entrepreneurs echoed the need for support beyond funding, pointing to the Innovator Trust’s holistic model as a key factor in their success.

Later, applause filled the room as graduates stepped up to receive awards for excellence across multiple categories, including revenue growth, job creation, and innovation.

Pinnacle of Excellence: 2025 Award Winners

The most prestigious accolade of the day, the ED Pinnacle Award, was presented to Michael Cyster, Managing Director of Elec Data, who shared:

“I’ve never chased recognition, but to be acknowledged like this is indescribable. I’m grateful to the Innovator Trust for seeing the work we’ve put in.”

Other standout winners included:

• Dr. Cleopas Sanangura (Thamani Technologies) for highest revenue and employment creation
• Kanya Nqelenga (Bona Phandle Media) for both revenue and percentage growth
• Victor Ravele (Bileni Tech Solutions) for highest employment growth
• Ayanda Nene and Lutho Zozo for top business presentations in the Youth Entrepreneurship Programme

Cash prizes of up to R50,000 were awarded to assist with business scaling, reflecting the trust’s commitment to long-term value rather than short-term wins.

A Legacy of Building Boldly

Over the past ten years, the Innovator Trust has supported more than 200 black-owned ICT SMMEs, contributing to increased turnover, better business systems, confident leadership, and widespread job creation. As the 2025 graduation concludes, the message is clear: with the right support, South African entrepreneurs won’t just survive—they’ll thrive and lead.

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