South Africa’s 10 Most Visionary CEOs Leading Digital Innovation in 2025

Vol 04 | Issue 08 | 2025

South Africa’s

Most Visionary

10 CEO Leading s

Digital Innovation in 2025

IN FOCUS Leading Innovation with a Growth Mindset IN FOCUS Driving Innovation in Traditional Industries

Nkululeko Mhlaba CEO

Phungela

Pioneering Digital Transformation with Phungela

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NKULULEKO MHLABA

Driving the Future I

n today's fast-paced world, digital transformation is no longer a choice but a necessity. South African CEOs are at the forefront of this movement, driving innovation that is reshaping industries, improving customer experiences, and creating new growth opportunities. These leaders are not simply adopting technology, they are leveraging it to solve real-world challenges and prepare their businesses for the future.

At the heart of this transformation there is a group of visionary CEOs who understand that digital innovation goes beyond just implementing new tools. It is about using technology to enhance operational efficiency, streamline business models, and drive new revenue streams. These leaders are revolutionizing industries by embracing emerging technologies like cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT), which are becoming critical to staying competitive in the global market.

A key trend among these visionary leaders is their focus on creating a digitally inclusive environment.

Recognizing the potential of digital platforms to empower businesses, many CEOs are ensuring their companies not only modernize operations but also deliver value that extends to customers, employees, and communities. By utilizing digital solutions, these leaders are helping businesses reach new heights in productivity and customer engagement, creating personalized experiences and new avenues for growth.

Moreover, these CEOs are committed to narrowing the digital divide in South Africa. They are championing initiatives that promote digital literacy, expand access to technology, and ensure that the benefits of innovation

are accessible to underserved communities. Through their leadership, they are helping bridge the gap, providing opportunities for individuals who were previously excluded from the digital economy.

Sustainability also plays a crucial role in these leaders' digital strategies. They are focused not only on short-term innovation but on creating lasting value through responsible, sustainable practices. Whether it’s reducing carbon footprints or addressing societal challenges with data-driven solutions, these CEOs are ensuring their digital transformation efforts align with broader social and environmental goals.

Despite the benefits, the digital journey is not without its challenges. CEOs must balance the need for innovation with the responsibility of protecting data and ensuring privacy. The rise of cybersecurity threats is a constant concern, but these leaders are investing in cutting-edge solutions to safeguard their organizations and ensure resilience in a rapidly changing digital landscape.

The impact of these visionary CEOs extends beyond their companies. By driving digital transformation, they are contributing to the broader economic growth of South Africa, creating jobs, and promoting sustainability. Their leadership is laying the foundation for a brighter future, one where digital innovation fuels economic prosperity and inclusiveness.

In the pages of CIO Business World, we celebrate these transformative leaders who are paving the way for the next generation of businesses. Their commitment to digital innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity is not only reshaping their industries but also positioning South Africa as a key player in the global digital economy.

From the

Editor’s desk

C o v e r S t o r y

10 NKULULEKO MHLABA Pioneering Digital Transformation with Phungela

A r t i c l e s

26

Driving Innovation in Traditional Industries

34

Leading Innovation with a Growth Mindset

P r o f i l e s

18

Bernard Wanyama: Navigating the Tech Landscape

22 30

How Women Leaders are breaking the Glass-Ceiling Effect and Enabling Transformations in the Modern Industry

Kirsty Gordon: Kirsty Gordon's Impactful Legacy in Travel

38

The Role of Technology in Transforming South Africa's Construction and Mining Industries

April, 2025

Cover Story

NKULULEKO MHLABA Pioneering Digital Transformation with Phungela

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Nkululeko Mhlaba CEO

Phungela

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I

n the dynamic world of digital transformation and enterprise technology, few leaders exemplify innovation, resilience, and strategic foresight as profoundly as Nkululeko Mhlaba, CEO of Phungela. His journey from the banking sector to founding and leading one of South Africa's most innovative technology firms is a testament to his vision, determination, and commitment to reshaping the digital landscape. Through Phungela, he has not only navigated the complexities of the tech industry but has also laid the foundation for sustainable and inclusive digital growth in Africa and beyond.

and continuous innovation to stay ahead.

Despite these challenges, Nkululeko remained steadfast in his commitment to excellence and growth. Today, Phungela stands as a leading enterprise technology and digital solutions firm, playing a significant role in helping businesses navigate digital transformation, optimize operations, and achieve sustainable success.

The Journey to Leadership Nkululeko Mhlaba’s professional journey is a story of continuous learning, strategic decision-making, and perseverance. With a strong educational background, including a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Management from the University of Pannonia, Hungary along with a Diploma in Digital Marketing and Strategy from Dublin Business School, as well as certificates from Harvard Business School and the University of Johannesburg, he was well-equipped to embark on a career in the business and technology sectors. He is also pursuing a Master of Philosophy in Inclusive Innovation from the University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business.

His early career began in the banking industry, where he held key positions at reputed banks. These roles allowed him to develop essential leadership skills, work with high-performing teams, and drive business growth within a highly competitive industry.

His tenure in banking provided a solid foundation in finance, strategic management, and customer-centric solutions, which would later prove instrumental in his entrepreneurial journey. His true passion lay in technology and digital innovation, prompting him to take a bold step in 2020 by founding Phungela with just R2000 and a laptop.

Building Phungela from the ground up came with its fair share of challenges. Financial limitations, earning the trust of clients, and assembling a talented team were among the initial hurdles. The tech industry is constantly evolving, requiring adaptability, forward-thinking,

“

My journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, vision, and the belief that with the right mindset, anything is possible.

“

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Phungela’s Mission and Vision Phungela is headquartered in Sandton Johannesburg and regional offices throughout South Africa. It is an ISOcertified, award-winning enterprise technology and digital solutions firm dedicated to helping businesses harness the power of technology for growth. Phungela is an ISO 22301:2019 (Business Continuity Management) and 31000:2018 (Risk Management) certified entity. Phungela

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also has the following ISO Standards- ISO/IEC 27001:2022 – Information security, cybersecurity, and privacy protection — Information security management systems, ISO 9001:2015 – Quality management systems.

As a proudly BBBEE Level 1 company with 51% women ownership and 100% Black and Youth ownership, Phungela is committed to digital innovation while fostering economic empowerment and inclusivity.

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Strategy – Helping businesses develop and execute digital transformation strategies, including ICT roadmaps and digital transformation planning.

Technology – Delivering innovative digital solutions such as web development, software system integration, ERP systems, document management, cybersecurity, and cloud hosting.

Consulting – Providing expert advisory and implementation services in business process management, IT project management, IT audit and governance, and technical support.

Digital – Enhancing brand presence and engagement through digital marketing, PR and communication, and online brand management.

This holistic approach enables Phungela to stand out in the South African consulting industry, redefining how businesses integrate technology for efficiency, security, and long-term success.

A Vision for the Future

At its core, Phungela’s mission is to empower clients by delivering innovative and integrated technology solutions that enable them to become leaders in their industries. This is achieved through a combination of expertise, a collaborative company culture, and strategic partnerships with global technology leaders. The vision driving Phungela is to become the premier digital transformation firm in South Africa, recognized for delivering sustainable business value and shaping the future of technology across the continent. Phungela is on course to attain its goal of international expansion in Europe, Middle East, and America.

Nkululeko Mhlaba envisions Phungela as a multinational technology powerhouse with a global footprint, particularly across Africa, Europe, and emerging markets. His long-term goal is to position Phungela as a leader in enterprise technology, digital transformation, and innovation-driven solutions that impact millions of users worldwide. Beyond Phungela, he aspires to contribute to global technology policy, entrepreneurship ecosystems, and digital transformation strategies. By scaling inclusive innovations, supporting techdriven economic growth, and mentoring emerging entrepreneurs, he seeks to shape the future of digital transformation both in Africa and internationally.

A Unique Approach to Digital Transformation

Strategic Future Goals for Phungela

Phungela’s competitive edge lies in its four-legged value proposition, ensuring that businesses achieve comprehensive digital success.

Phungela’s roadmap for the future is ambitious and built on expansion,

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innovation, and sustainability. Some of the firm’s key goals include: •

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Expanding into international markets, particularly in Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, with a focus on enterprise technology and public sector digital transformation.

Establishing a Research & Development (R&D) division to drive innovation in enterprise architecture, cybersecurity, and digital transformation solutions.

Enhancing its presence in EdTech, providing scalable digital learning solutions for technical and vocational education training (TVET) institutions and universities.

Investing in AI-driven and cloud-based solutions to optimize operations for both public and private sector organizations.

Building a strong leadership pipeline to ensure sustainable long-term growth.

Strengthening partnerships with global technology providers, positioning Phungela as a trusted implementation partner for Oracle, Microsoft, and SAP-based solutions.

Expanding its cybersecurity division, solidifying Phungela’s role as a leader in ISO-certified digital risk management services.

Challenges in the African Digital Landscape South Africa and the broader African continent face unique challenges that must be addressed to ensure the successful adoption of digital innovation. Some of the key obstacles include: •

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Digital Skills and Literacy: A shortage of digital skills prevents many businesses from fully leveraging technology. Investment in upskilling initiatives is crucial.

Cybersecurity and Data Protection: The rise in cyber threats necessitates stronger cybersecurity frameworks, laws, and awareness programs.

Digital Trust and Adoption: Many businesses hesitate to embrace digital solutions due to concerns around cost, reliability, and security.

Localization and Inclusivity: Many digital platforms fail to cater to Africa’s diverse languages and economic realities, highlighting the need for mobile-first, costeffective solutions.

Phungela is committed to tackling these challenges by providing scalable, secure, and inclusive digital solutions that empower businesses and uplift communities across Africa.

Balancing Leadership and Personal Life

Advice for Emerging CEOs

As a successful leader, Nkululeko Mhlaba has developed an intentional and disciplined approach to balancing professional and personal commitments. He prioritizes:

For aspiring CEOs looking to make an impact in South Africa, Nkululeko offers the following advice:

• • • •

Delegation: A strong executive team allows him to focus on strategic decisions while delegating operational responsibilities.

Time Management: A structured schedule ensures time is allocated for business growth, personal development, and family.

Health & Fitness: A disciplined fitness routine contributes to mental clarity and overall well-being.

Faith & Reflection: Grounding himself through faith, meditation, and reading provides a strong sense of purpose and focus.

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Build with purpose and focus on solving real-world problems.

Develop resilience and adaptability in a dynamic business landscape.

Invest in people, mentorship, and strong partnerships.

Embrace digital transformation and position businesses as global players.

Uphold integrity, professionalism, and accountability.

Never stop learning and evolving as a leader.

The Future of Business in South Africa

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Looking ahead, Nkululeko sees South Africa’s business landscape shifting toward Everything-as-a-Service (XaaS), where organizations optimize operations through flexible, costeffective digital solutions.

Phungela aims to lead this transformation by offering inhouse software and valued partner solutions wrapped as a service, ensuring clients achieve operational efficiency with cutting-edge digital solutions.

Our vision is to become the premier digital transformation firm in South Africa, recognized for delivering sustainable business value and shaping the future of technology in the region.

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Through Phungela, Nkululeko Mhlaba is not only redefining the digital transformation space but also shaping the future of African enterprise technology, proving that with vision, resilience, and innovation, the possibilities are limitless.

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Driving Innovation in

Traditional Industries

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nnovation is often associated with tech startups and digital disruptors, but it is just as critical—if not more so—for traditional industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, logistics, healthcare, and construction. These sectors, long considered stable and slow-moving, are the backbone of global economies. Yet, to thrive in an everevolving world, they must adapt. The challenge, however, lies in changing systems and mindsets that have been in place for decades, often built on “this is how we’ve always done it.”

Many of these industries operate within deeply entrenched frameworks. They rely on legacy systems that are outdated but too expensive or risky to replace. The workforce may be accustomed to specific routines and could be resistant to adopting new ways. Moreover, regulatory constraints often limit flexibility, while narrow profit margins can discourage risk-taking and experimentation. Despite these hurdles, traditional industries are rich with untapped potential, especially as new technologies become more accessible and customer expectations continue to rise.

In today’s marketplace, innovation is no longer optional; it is essential for survival. Consumer demands are shifting rapidly—they want faster service, sustainable products, and personalized experiences. Traditional industries must respond. Agriculture is integrating drone technology and precision irrigation to increase efficiency. Manufacturing is transforming with automation, robotics, and AI that reduce errors and streamline processes. Logistics companies are using predictive analytics to optimize delivery routes, while healthcare providers are turning to telemedicine and wearable devices to offer better patient care. These changes are not just enhancements; they are lifelines that can redefine what these industries look like in the future.

The first step toward meaningful innovation is a shift in culture. It starts with leadership that values curiosity, learning, and experimentation. Organizations must foster an environment where employees feel safe proposing new ideas and aren’t penalized for failure. Innovation grows where there is a tolerance for risk and a mindset that embraces the unknown. Once the cultural foundation is in place, companies can begin integrating technology strategically. This doesn't mean a total overhaul from the start. It often begins with small but impactful changes—like moving to a cloud-based inventory system or using sensors for real-time monitoring. These upgrades may seem minor but can significantly improve efficiency and accuracy.

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Collaboration also plays a crucial role in modernizing traditional sectors. Many established companies are now partnering with innovative startups to bring fresh thinking and new capabilities into their ecosystem. These collaborations offer a low-risk way to test and adopt new ideas. At the same time, internal innovation should not be overlooked. Companies must empower their employees, especially those on the frontlines, to take initiative, experiment, and innovate. Intrapreneurship can drive powerful changes from within when team members feel supported in turning their insights into solutions.

Another crucial element is data. Traditional industries collect enormous amounts of information but often fail to use it effectively. Embracing data analytics can transform decision-making, from understanding customer preferences to improving supply chain operations. It’s about becoming smarter, not just faster.

There are already examples that prove transformation is possible. John Deere, once just a name in farm equipment, now builds AI and machine learning into its products, making farming more efficient. Shipping titan Maersk is leveraging blockchain to reduce paperwork and enhance transparency in global trade. General Electric, known for its industrial roots, has become a leader in industrial IoT. These companies show that tradition doesn’t have to hold back progress—it can be the springboard for innovation.

Ultimately, driving innovation in traditional industries is about evolution, not revolution. It’s not about abandoning what works, but about building on existing strengths with fresh ideas, new technologies, and an open mindset. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards—more agile operations, happier customers, and future-proofed business models—make it well worth the effort.

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Leading Innovation with a

GROWTH MINDSET 34 | April

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n today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, innovation isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a necessity. The key to driving meaningful innovation lies in something far more intrinsic than tools or tech: a growth mindset.

Popularized by psychologist Carol Dweck, a growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication, hard work, and continuous learning. Leaders who embrace this mindset empower their teams to experiment, learn from failure, and constantly push boundaries.

What Is a Growth Mindset in Leadership?

At its core, a growth mindset means welcoming challenges, persisting through obstacles, and viewing failure as a learning opportunity. Leaders with this mindset don't just focus on short-term wins—they invest in long-term potential. They believe their team’s talents can be cultivated and aren’t afraid to take calculated risks.

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When team members see leadership embracing vulnerability and growth, they’re more likely to adopt similar behaviors.

Creating a Culture of Innovation Leaders with a growth mindset don’t just change their own habits—they reshape the company culture. Here are some practical ways to create that environment: • • •

Compare this to a fixed mindset, where individuals believe their abilities are static. Leaders with a fixed mindset may resist change, fear failure, and stifle creativity—behaviors that are poison to innovation.

Why Growth Mindset Fuels Innovation Innovation thrives in an environment where people are encouraged to think differently, challenge the norm, and not fear failure. Here’s how a growth mindset helps lead that change: •

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Encourages experimentation: Leaders with a growth mindset understand that not every idea will succeed.

They allow room for testing, iteration, and learning.

Builds psychological safety: Employees are more likely to share bold ideas when they know their leaders won’t penalize them for mistakes.

Drives continuous improvement: A growth mindset values learning. Teams are encouraged to upskill, try new methods, and adapt quickly.

This approach doesn’t just boost morale—it directly impacts performance, creativity, and problem-solving capabilities.

Admitting when they don’t know something Asking for feedback Celebrating effort over perfection Reframing failures as valuable experiences

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Reward learning and experimentation, not just results.

Hold regular brainstorming sessions where all ideas are welcome, no matter how unconventional.

Implement feedback loops to ensure everyone has a voice in refining ideas and processes.

Encourage mentorship to share knowledge and foster collaborative growth.

By embedding these practices, organizations cultivate a culture that welcomes innovation at every level—not just the top.

Overcoming Challenges Shifting to a growth mindset isn't without challenges.

Resistance to change, deeply ingrained beliefs, and fear of the unknown can all be barriers. However, with clear communication, consistent modeling, and commitment to learning, leaders can guide their teams through the transition.

Conclusion Leading innovation with a growth mindset is about believing in potential—your own and that of your team. It’s not about having all the answers, but being willing to search for them. In a world that demands constant evolution, the most innovative leaders will be those who aren’t afraid to learn, adapt, and grow.

Leading by Example The most effective way to embed a growth mindset in an organization is for leaders to model it themselves. This means:

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A leader

is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.

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