Telkom is proud to announce the continued success and graduation of its inaugural cohort from the Telkom FutureMakers Township Innovation Incubator. This groundbreaking initiative is empowering Black-owned, township-based tech businesses, transforming innovative ideas into sustainable enterprises and creating vital job opportunities in South Africa's burgeoning ICT sector.

The Telkom FutureMakers programme is more than just an incubator; it's a commitment to fostering a self-sustaining entrepreneurial ecosystem within our communities," says Tshepo Petla, Head of Business Development at Telkom. We are investing in the talent and vision of South African entrepreneurs, providing them with the technical expertise, business acumen, and ongoing support needed to thrive and become future employers."

The 18-month incubator programme, which saw 13 businesses participate, has yielded remarkable results, showcasing the diverse and impactful solutions emerging from our townships. Among the standout graduates are:

• All RSA (Tyrone Gordon): Through revolutionising workwear with local power Tyrone Gordon's journey with FutureMakers saw him transition from a small-scale clothing manufacturer to the visionary behind All RSA. This innovative online platform leverages geo-location technology to connect businesses with locally-made workwear manufacturers, minimising transport costs and championing South African production. With technical expertise from Telkom SA Ltd subsidiary BCX, All RSA is building its network in KwaZulu-Natal, aiming to reduce the nation's reliance on imported workwear and create jobs, including for Gordon's own sons.
• Gamer’s Territory (Tshepiso Malema): Blending play with purpose Tshepiso Malema, founder of Gamer’s Territory, has transformed his passion for gaming into a powerful educational tool. Through the FutureMakers programme, Malema developed SgelaPlay, an African-focused educational game that enhances knowledge retention and problem-solving skills. Now working with the Department of Science and Innovation and schools, Gamer's Territory also offers computer literacy and coding, paving the way for a new era in educational gaming across Africa.
• Thuto (Nkosinathi Temba): Motivating Academic Success Through Digital Rewards Nkosinathi Temba's Thuto (www.thuto.io) is a testament to the power of positive reinforcement. This subscription-based digital rewards platform encourages academic achievement by allowing parents to fund "Thuto Coins" for their children's milestones. These coins, redeemable for airtime, data, or grocery vouchers, motivate learners and aim to reduce school dropout rates. With BCX's technical support, Thuto's pilot school has already seen a 7% improvement in student performance, and Temba, a recent winner of the Entrepreneurship World Cup’s Most Innovative Company Globally Award, aims to enrol 25,000 students by the end of 2025.
• Zaka Finance (Thabiso Mongane): Bridging the Financial Divide Thabiso Mongane, a former corporate banker, has come full circle with Zaka Finance. His neobank is designed to provide financial identities and services, particularly credit, to the unbanked and underserved – including small businesses, gig workers, and the informal sector. Zaka Finance gathers user data to establish risk profiles, bridging a crucial trust gap and bringing previously excluded businesses into the formal economy. This aligns perfectly with Telkom's vision of driving economic growth and creating job opportunities.

These entrepreneurs exemplify the spirit of innovation and resilience that Telkom FutureMakers seeks to cultivate," adds Petla. "Their journeys highlight the critical role of technology in addressing societal challenges and creating a more inclusive and prosperous South Africa. Our relationship with these companies extends beyond the programme's completion, as we continue to support their growth and impact."

Telkom remains committed to nurturing the next generation of ICT leaders and fostering a vibrant digital economy across South Africa.