An Evotel Production
Editor: Mathews Mpete
OUR FIRST FLAGSHIP STORE SET TO OPEN!
In our endeavour to increase the Evotel footprint across the country, the Fibre Network Operator (FNO) will open its first-ever physical store in Rustenburg, North West — a space where clients and agents can enjoy a seamless experience for payments and product enquiries.
There’s an English saying: When dealing with a crisis or stressful situation, only humans are able to truly reach out to other humans.
As much as the human touch is gradually losing ground to machines, the reality is that there remains a vital need for the human brain — and the human touch will always be a solution, despite robotics taking over many aspects of our world.
The rapidly growing fibre internet company has chosen the human-first approach and will open the doors to its very first flagship store in the heart of Rustenburg on Saturday, 31 May 2025.
Trust us — this marks a major milestone in Evotel’s mission to bring fibre closer to the people and allow face-to-face engagement with a wider audience of our clients.
Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, Evotel has earned a national reputation for providing highspeed, reliable fibre connectivity to numerous communities across all provinces — with the exception of Limpopo, Eastern Cape, and Western Cape.
There’s long been a need for a physical space where clients can interact directly with our agents, and this new store brings just that — a feel-good atmosphere where teething internet issues can be resolved in no time.
With its expansion into Rustenburg, Evotel is stepping into one of the city’s fastest-growing areas — better known as the Platinum City — and we’re doing it in style.
This strategic move, which aims to foster customer engagement by offering a tangible touchpoint for both existing and prospective clients, has been in the works for a while. It’s finally been given the green light.
The introduction of a physical store — which we’re incredibly excited about — underscores Evotel’s commitment to accessibility and customer service. It allows individuals to interact directly with the brand, inquire about services, and receive on-thespot assistance.
As we all know, we’re celebrating a decade of quality and unbeatable service, and Evotel continues to uphold its mission of providing “Fibre For Everyone”.
The company’s open-access model empowers customers to choose from a variety of Internet Service Providers (ISPs), ensuring flexibility and competitive pricing.
With offerings such as uncapped, unshaped, and unrestricted internet, Evotel caters to a wide range of needs — from casual browsing to high-demand streaming and gaming.
As our Chief Operations Officer, Andrew Cohoe, told SABC’s Channel Africa on Sunday, 11 May 2025, we go beyond connectivity. Evotel is deeply committed to community development.
Under the new leadership of Chief Executive, Alex Kleingeld, Evotel has invested in local economies by employing residents for fibre installation projects, creating job opportunities, and fostering skills development.
Additionally, through our Schools Programme, Evotel offers free fibre internet access to schools within its network coverage — supporting education and promoting digital inclusion. This initiative has earned us the trust and loyalty of many clients.
The launch of Evotel’s physical store represents a significant milestone in the company’s journey — a clear reflection of our dedication to customer satisfaction and community engagement.
We warmly invite you to join us on the day as we turn a new chapter in our company story.
Clients can expect product demonstrations — including ONT usage, insights into the sustainability of the network, and possible giveaways. Most importantly, you’ll gain clarity on our partnership with Internet Service Providers (ISPs), and how that relationship works for you.
As Evotel continues to expand its services and infrastructure, the new store will serve as a hub for innovation, support, and connection, embodying the company’s vision of a digitally empowered South Africa.
For more information about Evotel’s services and initiatives, visit our official website: evotel.co.za.
WE CREATE CAREERS, NOT JUST JOBS!
In a candid and inspiring studio interview on Radio 702’s Aubrey Masango Show, Evotel CEO
Alex Kleingeld offered a behind-the-scenes look at the often-unseen systems—and people— powering South Africa’s digital future.
While most of us simply ask “Do we have Wi-Fi?”, we rarely think about the intricate, people-driven infrastructure that enables that connection. Kleingeld pulls back the curtain to reveal a world of underground fibre cables, dedicated technicians, and 24/7 operations keeping the country connected.
Evotel, a Fibre Network Operator (FNO), is instrumental in building and maintaining the fibre networks that power homes and businesses.
Service disruptions, Kleingeld explains, are often caused by third-party interference—municipal work or construction accidents—which shows just how vital and fragile this infrastructure is. Why Fibre? Why Now?
So, what makes fibre such a game-changer?
According to Kleingeld, unlike mobile data or copper cables, fibre is reliable, fast, and consistent—regardless of the weather, user congestion, or time of day.
“Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or in backto-back Teams calls, fibre ensures zero buffering, no lag, and uninterrupted service,” he said.
From small business owners to large-scale enterprises, uptime matters:
“Downtime doesn’t just affect productivity—it affects livelihoods.”
Evotel boasts an impressive 99% uptime, thanks to proactive maintenance, smart monitoring systems, and an ever-responsive support team.
That kind of consistency isn’t luck. It’s designed, built, and maintained daily by teams of skilled, committed professionals.
It’s Not Just Tech – It’s People
One of the most powerful takeaways from the interview was Kleingeld’s passion for people and how fibre is changing lives. His own story—from selling fax machines door-to-door to leading a national fibre provider—is proof of where grit, consistency, and self-belief can take you.
“I’ve seen people rise from difficult circumstances to thriving careers—buying homes, supporting families, and changing their futures.”
Fibre, he says, isn’t just a job for engineers or coders. There are roles in sales, construction, technical services, and network operations.
“If you’re curious, hardworking, and resilient, there’s a place for you in this industry.”
For those intimidated by sales, he reframes the challenge:
“It’s about consistency, resilience, and mindset. You might face 99 rejections, but the 100th could be your breakthrough.”
He trains his teams not only to sell, but to believe in themselves—lessons that extend far beyond connectivity.
Connection
Is
More Than Speed
Kleingeld encourages consumers to be more discerning:
“Don’t just ask about speed. Ask about uptime, support, and how providers maintain their networks. Speed without stability is like a sports car without brakes.”
Whether you’re a parent considering future careers for your child, a small business owner, or someone frustrated with dodgy internet, this conversation had value for everyone—and reminded us that every connection has a human story behind it.
Leadership Grounded in People
Kleingeld’s leadership philosophy is simple but powerful: people first.
“If your people aren’t there, there’s no company. No accolades.”
Though he humbly accepted the EX Award for Top Sales Manager in South Africa, he immediately redirected credit:
“It’s your people who earn these accolades, really.”
He emphasises emotional intelligence and recognising employees as whole people—with families, dreams, and real struggles. Strong HR, in his view, is essential to morale and retention.
“Empathy matters. If you don’t feel something for the person next to you, what’s the point?”
But empathy doesn’t mean a lack of structure. “Sometimes, people need to know where the line is,” he added.
To build trust and transparency, Evotel hosts informal “company catch-ups” where leaders share updates and staff are invited to speak freely. “It fosters inclusion and clarity,” he said.
Giving Back with Purpose
Kleingeld also touched on culturally nuanced challenges, like the expectation for black professionals to support extended families—often referred to as “black tax.” He meets that responsibility with generosity and gratitude.
“I’ve always given, and it always finds its way back.”
Evotel’s CSI efforts reflect this ethos. Over 100 schools have been connected to fibre through Evotel, with 86 of those funded entirely by the company. It doesn’t stop at connectivity—Evotel sponsors soccer kits, event hydration, and even builds computer labs, like one recently completed in Krugersdorp.
“These aren’t random donations. We work with Community Champions who identify real needs. Dropping off a computer without connectivity? That’s useless.”
Balance Over Burnout
Kleingeld doesn’t romanticise burnout. Despite the hustle culture in entrepreneurship, he promotes sustainability:
“You need to switch off sometimes. Even if it’s just an hour with your family. You can’t pour from an empty cup.”
This message is especially relevant for young professionals pushing hard to succeed.
Culture That Keeps People
Evotel invests in career development through induction programmes, personality profiling, and IQ testing to help staff land in roles they can thrive in. If something isn’t working out, a compassionate, structured process follows—not a cold dismissal.
Retention, he says, comes down to culture. “Toxic cultures push people out, no matter the salary. Supportive, transparent, growth-driven ones? That’s where people stay.”
He recalled one former employee who started at Evotel and went on to build his own media company—Nelson Jonkoro’s JMedia, a testament to what a healthy environment can nurture.
Digital Inclusion in Under-Served Communities
Kleingeld is acutely aware of economic realities.
“Some families can’t even afford R300 a month. But connectivity is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity.”
He trains his teams to help people reframe the cost:
“You can skip a crate of beer this month and give your child access to education, to opportunity.”
Evotel targets communities like Uitenhage, Upington, Bloemfontein, Ladysmith, Vryheid, and Lenasia—areas full of potential that are often overlooked. “If kids don’t have internet, how will they grow?”
To make feedback easier, a new platform called “Talk to Us” is being launched. It will allow users to log complaints, suggest CSI opportunities, or request assistance.
Collaboration Across Generations
Kleingeld promotes intergenerational learning. When a seasoned “boomer” joined Evotel, younger staff didn’t initially take him seriously— until they saw his results.
His solution?
“Pair the older generation with the younger. You get energy and experience in one team. The result is synergy.”
The Long Game: Fibre in the Next 25 Years
Despite rising trends in mobile and satellite, Kleingeld is confident fibre will remain a backbone of digital infrastructure for decades.
“It’s stable. If you maintain it, it lasts. If you care for your customers, they stay for life.”
In the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), where rapid innovation is the norm, the reliability of fibre provides a foundation businesses can count on.
When asked about his dream collaborator, Kleingeld smiled:
“Jeff Bezos. His journey is an inspiration. I’d love to learn from someone like him.”
ACCESS TO INTERNET IS ACCESS TO EDUCATION
Following a timely resolution by the World Telecommunications Development Conference (WTDC) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to adopt a pledge for African countries to “connect every school to the internet, and every young person to information and communication technology services,” Evotel has stepped up to the challenge.
With over 100 schools across the country already connected to high-speed fibre internet through Evotel’s infrastructure, the Fibre Network Operator (FNO) is continuing its mission to empower communities that have historically been excluded from the digital world.
Without internet access, education in both government and private institutions — including tertiary establishments — would grind to a halt.
Recognising this, Evotel has extended connectivity to schools in Krugersdorp, Lenasia, Ennerdale, Randfontein, Newcastle, Ladysmith, Vryheid, Kathu, Upington, Postmasburg, Rustenburg, Middelburg, Witbank, Welkom, Virginia, and Odendaalsrus.
In doing so, Evotel now serves schools across six provinces: Free State, Mpumalanga, North West, Northern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Gauteng.
Encouragingly, many of the schools connected by Evotel have consistently produced strong matric results, a trend that the open-access fibre provider proudly acknowledges.
A flagship example is Krugersdorp High School, which received free, unlimited internet from Evotel in 2020.
In the five years since, the school has seen a remarkable transformation — reporting a 98.6% matric pass rate in 2024, one of the most improved performances in the Gauteng district.
Lauren Jooste-Coetsee, the school’s Marketing and Admissions Director, highlighted the school’s deep reliance on the Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) network.
“I wouldn’t even want to think about the repercussions of an internet outage,” she said.
In the Northern Cape, a teacher at High School Postmasburg, who requested anonymity, shared how the internet has unlocked more inclusive educational opportunities and helped staff and learners thrive in the digital age.
During a recent tour of the school, the Evotel team participated in an interactive classroom session showcasing how internet-enabled laptops are transforming teaching methods.
“Access to internet is access to education. This isn’t just for movies — though we do use them where appropriate to support learning,” the teacher said. “Online videos, music, and other content make it easier for learners to grasp concepts and stay engaged.”
From their official phone lines, email systems, computer labs, and interactive whiteboards, to internal communication platforms and security systems — schools rely heavily on Evotel’s fibre network. So far, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
Both Postmasburg and Krugersdorp schools have partially credited their improved pass rates to Evotel’s consistent and high-speed internet service.
In some subjects, teachers have even achieved 100% pass rates.
Elsewhere in the Northern Cape, schools like Postdene Primary and Laerskool Asmadia have recently been connected through Evotel’s partnerships with local Internet Service Providers (ISPs), bringing the total number of facilities benefiting from free fibre internet to around 200.
Evotel’s schools initiative, which began just before the COVID-19 pandemic, originally focused on urban schools. Today, it is making a measurable impact in rural areas like Northern Cape and Rustenburg.
At the top of the list is Krugersdorp High School, which now boasts three computer labs, a Computer Applications Technology (CAT) class, and a Robotics and Coding programme — a pioneering initiative driven by Evotel.
Every classroom features an interactive whiteboard, and all teachers are equipped with laptops, submitting marks and reports online.
According to Coetsee, the school has fully integrated Robotics and Coding into its daily curriculum for Grade 8 learners.
“Educators spend a lot of time online, which helps them guide students more effectively,” she explained.
“Learners build their own robotic models. It’s a time-consuming but rewarding process. Each student logs into their personal online profile and uses a government-designed learning platform — although it’s not yet rolled out to every school. Thanks to Evotel’s support, we’ve made it happen.”
While a national curriculum for Robotics has not yet been formalised, Krugersdorp High is fortunate to have external access through willing private sector partners. The school plans to start participating in district, provincial, and national competitions in 2025.
Currently, about 1,700 learners are engaged in Robotics across three classes, taught in rotation due to limited lab space.
The African Telecommunication Union, in a session held in Rwanda, suggested that strengthening school connectivity could also benefit surrounding communities — extending access beyond school premises.
Evotel’s efforts show how private companies can be part of the solution, closing the digital divide and creating equal access to information, opportunity, and — above all — education.
LIMIT HILL COMBINED REWIRED FOR THE FUTURE! SCHOOL
The standard of teaching and learning at Limit Hill Combined School in Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal has been amplified, with the entire Evotel-sponsored institution now fully rewired — right up to the last classroom, including the all-important computer lab.
This quintile 4 school, where parents pay an annual school fee of R2,000, has consistently excelled in technical subjects.
However, they had long struggled with limited internet access — until their pleas were heard three years ago and they were granted a free fibre internet connection.
Following the school’s outstanding performance in robotics and coding — where they placed second nationally in a Department of Basic Education competition held in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, in September 2024 — the need to rewire the entire school for full internet access became a top priority.
The brilliant foursome who represented the school in Gqeberha — Shaylyn George, Ikusaselihle Mvelase, Mahek Bajwa, and Silondiwe Makhombothi — designed a robot that alerts emergency services and police in the event of flood risks during heavy rain.
Gerard Fynn, Limit Hill’s Head of Department (HOD) for the Senior Phase, acknowledges that the extended network will have a major impact:
“It will help teaching and learning because it will grant teachers easier access to teaching materials and resources,” he said.
The school’s Robotics and Coding teacher, Sir Kevolin Chetty, had previously stressed the urgent need for reliable internet in each classroom. Now that the infrastructure is in place, robotics and coding are set to become cornerstones of the school’s curriculum.
Fynn confirmed that Rupresh, the installation contractor, has completed the fibre installation to the computer lab.
“We are so grateful to you guys at Evotel. Thanks so much for your support and generosity. We really appreciate what you’ve done.”
He added that they are currently in the process of installing dongles to each PC.
“The principal, management team, teachers, and learners are ecstatic about the connectivity.
This opens a whole new world to the learners in terms of resources. Our coding and robotics class is doing well. With the new connectivity, we’re now planning to expand the project and get it practically working in partnership with the local municipality.”
With free internet access, Limit Hill is no longer limited — the school can now access a wealth of e-books through platforms like Snaplify, an app that provides free school books for learners. Fynn emphasised that they are eager to bring these resources into their computer lab to further enhance such innovative initiatives.
In recognising Evotel’s contribution, the school principal, Mosawenkosi Mbhense, said this development will go a long way in uplifting the quality of teaching and learning at Limit Hill for many years to come.
Initially, only the administration block had access to unlimited internet. Today, thanks to Evotel, every class is connected — right to the very last room.
MARKETING’S DREAM FOR EVOTEL
Nadia Smith
Age: 30
Joined Evotel: 1 June 2022 – Present Current Role: Marketing Manage
Born and raised in Benoni, Nadia Smith had dreams of a creative career from a young age. As technology rapidly evolved in the early 2000s, she naturally gravitated towards digital spaces. Initially drawn to interior design, she soon discovered a flair for marketing — crafting words and visuals with the same playful curiosity as a child moulding clay.
After gaining hands-on experience at several small, family-run signage businesses, Nadia transitioned into the corporate world. She took a break for a few years to focus on raising her two children (and a small zoo’s worth of pets) during the Covid era, before returning to the professional space in June 2022.
At that time, Evotel was still a relatively small operation — but Nadia saw the potential and embraced the opportunity to grow alongside the company. Over the past three years, she has played an integral role in shaping Evotel’s marketing strategy, refining the brand identity, and launching bold campaigns.
“When I started at Evotel, we had a ‘Lekgotla’ during my first week. The then Head of Marketing asked me what my goal was within the company. I said, ‘I want your job. I want to be Head of Marketing one day.’”
Her ambition has always been clear:
“My goals were set from early on — have a family, become a departmental manager by 28, and eventually lead a team.”
Responsibilities as Marketing Manager:
In her current role, Nadia oversees all aspects of Evotel’s marketing initiatives — from strategic planning to execution.
She is responsible for developing and implementing marketing strategies, managing the overall brand identity, and ensuring consistent messaging across all platforms.
Her scope of work includes overseeing design direction, managing this monthly newsletter, and producing engaging content that aligns with the company’s tone and values.
Nadia also handles marketing budget planning and management, ensuring effective allocation of resources for campaigns, promotions, and events.
She coordinates closely with external suppliers, creative partners, and service providers to bring campaigns to life — from print production to digital assets. Her role also includes growing the company’s online presence, and directing social media strategy (including the now-thriving TikTok channel).
Outside of work, Nadia describes herself as a “busybody”, always juggling creative projects in the background.
That same energy has driven major achievements at Evotel — most notably, growing the company’s TikTok following to 15,000 and significantly expanding its social media presence.
“Evotel, for me, is a passion project. I’ve been deeply involved in shaping the brand and corporate identity — it’s something I take immense pride in. The company took a chance on me after a long career break, and I’ve given it my all ever since.”
She also speaks warmly of the people she works with.
“It doesn’t take long to feel part of the team here. My colleagues are incredible. I’ve built strong relationships, shared real moments — the highs and the lows — and truly experienced life with them.”
What’s next for Nadia and Evotel?
“You never really know what the future holds. But if it’s up to me? I want to see Evotel explode — in the best way. We’ve had viral moments, and those were amazing, but I want to see us innovate, grow, and disrupt the space. So, watch this space…”
PILLAR OF THE TEAM: LYNN TOPPER HONOURED
At Evotel, few individuals embody dedication, professionalism, and warmth quite like Lynn Topper.
Known affectionately by colleagues as “Ma’am Lynn,” she has long served as a cornerstone of the company’s front-facing operations — a respected figure many see as the gatekeeper to the business.
Her presence at the front desk is both welcoming and reassuring.
Whether it’s her courteous manner, calm tone, or the genuine care she shows each visitor, Lynn sets the tone for the entire organisation the moment someone steps off the lift.
In recognition of her outstanding service, Lynn was voted the Hazel Dube Employee of the Month for April by her peers — a reflection of the deep appreciation and respect she commands across the company.
Her calm leadership, unwavering professionalism, and commitment to excellence have made a lasting impression on all who work with her.
With a career spanning roles in the banking and insurance industries, Lynn brings a wealth of experience to her role at Evotel.
Her professional background includes client liaison, NaTIS management, and administration, and she has previously served as a proxy for Standard Bank in Gauteng.
She is also a graduate of the Standard Bank GIMT Team Leader Programme and holds a Bookkeeping certificate from Varsity College.
Lynn’s ability to manage the front desk with efficiency and care is invaluable.
From answering calls with poise to ensuring meetings run smoothly and bookings are coordinated flawlessly, her role is critical to the day-to-day functioning of the business.
She has also been instrumental in streamlining visitor management processes, helping to reduce congestion and create a more professional, seamless experience for clients and staff alike.
More than just a capable professional, Lynn is someone who notices when others need support.
Her ability to uplift colleagues on tough days and maintain a steady, compassionate presence in a fast-paced environment is part of what makes her so admired.
While she is modest about her accomplishments, preferring to let her work speak for itself, Lynn’s contributions do not go unnoticed.
Her absence is felt the moment she’s away, and her steady hand continues to guide and inspire her teammates.
Congratulations to Ma’am Lynn on this welldeserved recognition. Evotel is truly fortunate to have such a dedicated and inspiring individual at the heart of its operations.
