TOP ICT ACHIEVERS RECOGNISED AT INNOVATOR TRUST’S 2025 ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT GRADUATION IN MIDRAND
- BEE NEWS
- Jun 17, 2025
- 2 min read
Midrand Reporter | 16 June 2025
The graduation served as a poignant reminder that when entrepreneurs are equipped with the right tools, support, and confidence, they build with purpose and build to last.
The Innovator Trust, established by Vodacom over a decade ago, aims to support the development of small, black-owned, information and communications technology (ICT) enterprises in South Africa.
It has successfully assisted black-owned small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in the ICT sector, positively impacting thousands of lives through its comprehensive programmes.This proud legacy reflects a commitment to strategic entrepreneurship, job creation, and the empowerment of innovative ideas.
As a result, on June 3, the Innovator Trust hosted the 2025 enterprise development graduation ceremony at Vodacom World in Midrand. The event celebrated entrepreneurs from the hatch incubator, IT accelerator programme (ITAP), and youth entrepreneurship programme (YEP).
From side hustles, to scalable businesses, the Innovator Trust has supported over 200 entrepreneurs at every growth stage, providing practical tools, experienced mentorship, and strategic guidance that yields tangible results.
Tashline Jooste, CEO of Innovator Trust, reflected on the trust’s, over a decade-long, journey. “We have been developing our capacity and enhancing our systems to better support SMMEs,” said Jooste. “Every business requires a supportive ecosystem, which begins with incubation.
“What we are witnessing, a decade later, is the rise of industry leaders who are shaping the future of South Africa’s digital economy. While some may view this as just a graduation ceremony, for us, it is a testament to what can be achieved through targeted, relevant support for SMMEs.”
Lungile Manzini, executive head of sustainable development at Vodacom South Africa, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the importance of purpose-driven SMMEs, while Siya Sangweni facilitated a dynamic panel discussion on the current state of the SMME landscape in South Africa. Entrepreneurs openly shared their experiences regarding challenges, such as cash flow issues and delays in corporate payments, emphasising the need for support beyond financial aid.
The atmosphere shifted from strategy to celebration as beneficiary graduates took to the stage, greeted by thunderous applause. One of the evening’s highlights was the Pinnacle Award, recognising the entrepreneur who excelled across all measures of business success. Michael Cyster was the winner of this prestigious category.
“I’ve never chased recognition, but to be acknowledged like this is indescribable,” said Cyster. “I’ve just put my head down and worked, and I’m so grateful to the Innovator Trust for seeing me and acknowledging the effort we put in.”
Graduates and runners-up received well-deserved recognition, with several categories awarding up to R50 000 in cash prizes to support their continued business growth.
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