Telkom SA SOC Limited, a leading South African telecommunications provider, proudly hosted the second annual Telkom Transformation and Innovation Awards, presented by Telkom FutureMakers.

The event took place on 27 November at the BCX offices in Centurion, celebrating the unwavering spirit of South African entrepreneurship under the theme: Igniting Tech Innovation for a Shared Digital Future.

For nearly 10 years, FutureMakers has been committed to empowering ICT social entrepreneurs by transforming their innovative digital ideas into commercially viable, scalable, and investable solutions that address social issues in their communities and broader markets.

Despite economic challenges, South Africa remains a hotbed of entrepreneurial activity, with many new businesses projecting growth in both employee numbers and revenue this year.

The Telkom Transformation and Innovation Awards, powered by Telkom FutureMakers, aimed to amplify these success stories. The event showcased the latest tech trends and solutions emerging from South Africa's vibrant startup ecosystem, providing a platform for entrepreneurs to connect, collaborate, and inspire.

"The entrepreneurial spirit in South Africa was truly remarkable," said Sello Mmakau, Telkom Chief Digital Officer. "Through the Telkom Transformation and Innovation Awards, we aimed to highlight the incredible work being done by local startups and entrepreneurs who were driving positive change and shaping the future of our nation."

The awards featured three segments, each dedicated to honouring different facets of innovation and transformation within Telkom and its extended ecosystem:

Segment 1 - Enterprise Development

• AI Innovation of the Year
• eCommerce Innovation of the Year
• EdTech Innovation of the Year
• FinTech Innovation of the Year
• HealthTech Innovation of the Year

Segment 2 - Supplier Development

• Top Performer Award
• Most Jobs Created
• Most Jobs Created
• Openserve – People’s Choice Awards
• Consumer Small Business – People’s Choice Awards

Segment 3 – Overall ESD Winners, Including Telkom Transformation Ambassadors and Ecosystem Partners

• Tech Woman of the Year
• Tech for Good Award
• Tech Trailblazer of the Year
• Recognition for all internal Telkom Transformation Ambassadors
• Partner Awards for ecosystem partners (including current suppliers who successfully improved B-BBEE plans)

Telkom, through its investment in FutureMakers, sought to diversify value chains, uplift township economies, democratize technology innovation, and provide access to venture capital in response to the government's call for economic transformation and job creation.

Congratulations to all the winners," added Mr Mmakau. "Your innovative solutions have set a new benchmark in the industry, demonstrating resilience, creativity, and a vision for a better future. We are incredibly proud of your achievements and look forward to the continued impact of your work in shaping South Africa's digital landscape."

At Telkom, we understand that the future is digital. By investing in our people and providing them with a platform to achieve their goals, we are building a stronger, more connected South Africa. The Transformation and Innovation Awards is a testament to this commitment, showcasing the power of entrepreneurship to drive positive change and build a brighter future for all.