
EVOTEL AND RCCF RESTORE RUSTENBURG CEMETERY WITH CLEAN-UP INITIATIVE
ALBERT OOSTHUYSEN LAUNCHES ‘CYNK’




EVOTEL AND RCCF RESTORE RUSTENBURG CEMETERY WITH CLEAN-UP INITIATIVE
ALBERT OOSTHUYSEN LAUNCHES ‘CYNK’
Editor: Mathews Mpete
These are the words that will soon be part of your vocabulary, splashed across newspaper pages, television screens, and every social media platform – but most importantly, they’ll be on the leaflets delivered straight to your home!
What I mean by that is: you’ll be living with the names from these two companies, because they’re about to become household names.
This follows the announcement made by Group CEO, Albert Oosthuysen, on 11 July 2025 about the official launch of CYNK – a holding company of five brands that promises to turn the telecommunications industry on its head, bringing top names together under one umbrella.
Evotel has been on everyone’s shopping list. While some remain sceptical about signing up for various reasons, those who took the leap are now smiling broadly – thanks to a service that offers unbreakable, unlimited internet connectivity.
Internet access is no longer a luxury –it’s a necessity for every home. So, if you’re not with Evotel and you’re in our coverage area… who are you with?
For now, keep your eyes peeled for CYNK. 4-5 6-7
As we enter the third term of the 2025 school calendar, our partnerships with educational institutions will be receiving even more of our attention. We’re committed to pushing for another year of outstanding academic results.
Last year, Mandisa Shiceka School of Specialisation in Kagiso and Krugersdorp High School made us proud by achieving impressive pass rates – and we’re claiming just a little of that success too, thanks to our free internet support.
We’ve always been passionate advocates for education – and we’re not stopping any time soon.
In a move set to redefine the future of integrated business solutions in Africa, Albert Oosthuysen, Group CEO of Evotel and Net Nine Nine, has officially launched CYNK – a new holding company formed through the strategic merger of five highimpact enterprises across the technology and investment sectors.
CYNK, launched on Friday, 11 July 2025 in Sandton, Johannesburg, represents a bold new vision for business collaboration.
It brings together five distinct companies under one powerful brand to deliver unified solutions for a fast-changing world.
The launch was strategically timed to coincide with the 10-year anniversary of leading fibre network operator (FNO) Evotel, and the 5-year milestone of fast-growing internet service provider (ISP) Net Nine Nine.
Together, the two companies maintain a strong presence in eight provinces across the country.
Designed to break down silos and foster innovation, CYNK aims to synchronise all its companies into one dynamic entity.
It positions itself as a multidisciplinary powerhouse serving corporate clients, government sectors, and—most importantly— underserved communities across South Africa.
At the official launch, held before shareholders, board members, and staff, Oosthuysen reflected on the achievements of both Net Nine Nine and Evotel.
Discarding his prepared speech, he delivered a heartfelt thank-you to the staff whose hard work ensured the companies’ success.
“CYNK is more than a company,” he said. “It’s a shared vision that combines the strengths of all the businesses we’re building—an agile, scalable platform rooted in African innovation.”
The companies that make up the newly launched CYNK holding group are:
• Net Nine Nine – A leading South African ISP that leverages an innovative business model to deliver tangible change in underserved communities using fibre internet.
• Evotel – An open-access fibre network operator (FNO) providing infrastructure in cities across South Africa, serving both homes and \ businesses.
• Magnolia Fibre Tree – A closedaccess fibre network operator dedicated to delivering stable, reliable, and high-performance fibre infrastructure to residential suburbs nationwide.
• Internet for Education – An NPO dedicated to connecting learners to the world. Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and compete on a global stage.
• LinkLayer – An open-access, highspeed fibre network operator focused on building future-ready communities by serving both homes and businesses.
The Group CEO summarised his vision with a heartfelt remark:
“They say it takes a village to raise a child— well, this child took many villages to raise.”
He then officially declared:
“So today, I’d like to officially launch our holding company – CYNK.” The announcement was met with loud applause.
Oosthuysen added:
“Together, we’ve passed over 400 000 homes, connected more than 180 000 live customers, created jobs for over 600 local people, and connected over 200 schools, with many CSI projects under our belt. CYNK now includes Evotel, LinkLayer, Magnolia Fibre Tree, and Net Nine Nine.”
“We pushed hard in one direction, and then something else landed in our lap—something that aligned perfectly with our golden thread of care, love, and passion. That’s when I realised—we were all in sync. And so, when it came time to name this company, one name landed naturally: CYNK.”
He concluded by setting an ambitious goal:
“We look forward to reaching over two million homes and more than one million connected customers within the next three years.”
Among the VIP guests present were key partners and industry leaders, including Reflex CEO Paul Divall, Nokia MD Toni Pellegrino, Huawei Director of Integrated Systems Department Alex Yuan, and Edward Pitsi, CEO of Infinite Partners.
Oosthuysen credited partnering contractors for their critical role in CYNK’s success and in laying the groundwork for future endeavours.
“Everyone here shares a common thread— wanting to make a difference. I’m grateful for all the guidance we’ve received, and for the shared purpose of everyone who works here. With the foundation we’ve laid, there’s only greater things ahead.”
CYNK plans to create more job opportunities, with a strong focus on empowering young professionals, women, and previously disadvantaged communities.
The company’s Chief of Staff, Nicholas Thipe, added that CYNK is eyeing pan-African expansion, with countries such as Zimbabwe, Botswana, Eswatini, and others in the SADC region on their radar.
ABOUT CYNK:
We invest in businesses that are purposedriven and committed to making a lasting impact. We believe it’s possible to improve the world around us through small, meaningful changes. Our goal is to nurture potential, passion, and talent to uplift the greater collective and help raise the tide for all.
CYNK PARTNERS:
• Infinite Partners
• Myriad Capital
• KLT Holdings
• Buffet
World Leaders and Global Business Giants to Rely on Telecommunications AI, 4IR and 4IT and aiming for G20 Success.
It goes without saying that South Africa’s telecommunications capacity will be under intense scrutiny when the country hosts the 20th edition of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg from 22 to 23 November 2025.
This historic moment marks the first time the G20 Summit will be hosted on African soil.
The event is expected to cost the South African government an estimated R691 million, and will bring together leaders from all G20 member nations such as Argentina, Canda, Japan and Saudi Arabia.
Also in attendance will be two regional bodies: the European Union and the African Union.
However, not all heads of state and key figures are expected to attend in person.
For those joining virtually, South Africa’s connectivity infrastructure will be vital – requiring high-performance, uninterrupted fibre networks and telecommunications platforms to ensure seamless participation from global leaders and stakeholders.
Amid mixed expectations surrounding attendance, Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Mondli Gungubele, emphasised the importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a driver of policy, growth, and transformation across all G20 sectors.
“AI is not a sectoral issue. It is a cross-cutting force that requires coherence across policy spaces,” he said in a statement from his office.
“This is why one of our immediate responsibilities is to map areas where AI has a significant impact across G20 sectors, and pinpoint where targeted policy interventions are needed.”
He further stated:
“If the G20 is to lead, we must lead with unity of vision and a common purpose – for the betterment of humanity. We’ve already seen promising examples.”
In addition to virtual participation by heads of state, global business leaders, delegates, and media outlets – both locally and abroad – will rely on South Africa’s fibre infrastructure to remain actively involved in discussions, panels, and decisionmaking, as the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and Fourth Information Technology wave (4IT) take centre stage.
Highlighting the transformative power of AI, Gungubele noted:
“The Tourism Working Group has proposed a hackathon to drive AI solutions that enhance the travel experience, promote sustainability, and serve the public good.”
He continued:
“I am proud to announce that the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT), through its collaboration with the Western Cape Provincial Government and the National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa (NEMISA), has supported this initiative.”
“This demonstrates how AI can be applied practically and ethically – rooted in local realities, yet global in ambition. But to do this well, we need more than just good intentions.”
The Deputy Minister stressed the need for alignment and clarity in AI policymaking across all G20 outcomes.
“It is our duty, through this Task Force, to coordinate, track and advise – not to centralise control, but to guide and amplify the work already being done.”
“With this Task Force, the South African Presidency of the G20 has created a forum through which no AI-related matter – whether in tourism, health, education or climate – will fall through the cracks.”
Furthermore, the AI for Africa Initiative is expected to host a landmark AI for Africa Conference, showcasing innovative projects from all 54 African countries.
“With these initiatives, we’re not only aggregating efforts for visibility, but also connecting them to global partnerships and investments,” said Gungubele.
“At the recent 11th BRICS Communications Ministers’ Meeting in Brasilia, Brazil, I was excited to see our progressive declaration adopted unanimously.”
As South Africa approaches the final leg of its first full G20 presidency cycle, Gungubele stressed the importance of leaving behind durable frameworks, not just declarations.
“Let us be clear – we are not here simply to draft text. We are here to shape the architecture of responsible AI governance for a shared and just digital future.”
Evotel celebrated Mandela Day in Ennerdale this year by handing out 150 goodie bags filled with gloves and beanies – each in school colours – just in time for the new term starting on 22 July 2025.
It was a heartfelt day that left many residents with full hearts and a few teary eyes.
As Madiba would have loved, the day kicked off with the most heart-warming sight – small children singing their favourite songs with joy.
A young sight-impaired boy gave a powerful and energetic rendition of Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika, much to the delight of everyone attending the event at the government’s municipal offices.
With that sweet voice ushering everyone in with the national anthem, the tone was set for a day filled with connection and compassion.
An excited, out-of-work local chef, who was invited by Levona Steeneveld to prepare food for the children, admitted that events like this “put money in my pocket.”
He said:
“I get to feed so many kids.”
His soup was absolutely amazing – the perfect comfort on a chilly winter’s morning.
One of the pastors from the area, who preferred to remain anonymous, brought some children from his congregation to the handout.
“They don’t have much,” he said, “but they are deeply loved.”
The children’s bright eyes and big smiles said it all.
When asked why this Mandela Day initiative was brought specifically to Ennerdale, Steeneveld, who has long been involved in uplifting the community, explained:
“Ennerdale has battled with drug and alcohol abuse for many years. Being able to help those most affected – especially the children – is a meaningful way to break the cycle and work towards a better future.”
She continued:
“I’ve got thousands of kids in need. People come to me daily for food, clothes, stationery, and other basics. There’s a massive need in Ennerdale for companies to step in and help rebuild the area – to create safe, healthy spaces where children can thrive.”
Life in Ennerdale is tough – just like in many other parts of South Africa, where people face unemployment, limited education opportunities, and minimal support.
But despite the challenges, there’s strength in the community and an overwhelming sense of care for the next generation.
Mandela Day is intended to encourage all South Africans to dedicate 67 minutes of their time to helping others in need.
But for Steeneveld, those minutes stretch across every single day of the year.
“My 67 minutes are daily,” she quipped.
“These kids don’t just need support for one day – they need it constantly. But Mandela Day is still powerful. It draws attention to these issues, and it brings people in. When they see it for themselves, they realise just how big the need is.”
Evotel has been a consistent partner in Ennerdale for the past two years.
“Nadia Smith, Evotel’s Marketing Manager, understands the needs of the community because she’s actually been on the ground with us,” added Steeneveld.
“When we ask for help, they show up. That’s what makes a difference.”
Together, according to Smith, “We’re not just handing out goods – we’re planting seeds of change.”
If you or your company are looking for a meaningful way to make a difference, we urge you to reach out and support Steeneveld in her ongoing work in Ennerdale. Whether it’s donations of food, school supplies, clothing, funding, or your time – every bit helps.
It takes more than 67 minutes to uplift a community, but with more hands on deck, we can create lasting change and offer these children the future they deserve.
The Evotel-sponsored Rustenburg Crime Combating Forum (RCCF) took the bull by the horns on Saturday and Sunday, 28–29 June 2025, in a bold effort to expose and curb criminal activity unfolding within the platinum-rich province. One such hotspot? The Donkerhoek Cemetery, now identified as a hideout for lawbreakers.
This publication spent the weekend alongside these local heroes – armed with bush cutters, rakes, and spades – as they tackled the overgrown cemetery. The site had become so neglected that the grass stood taller than the highest tombstones, rendering the secluded burial ground nearly unrecognisable.
The RCCF team, with support from Evotel, aimed to restore visibility across the entire site.
While some areas were cleared, others remained choked with dense, towering vegetation –resembling a jungle due to years of unchecked overgrowth and lack of maintenance. This thick brush has become the perfect cover for criminal activity:
• A place to stash stolen goods
• A hideout from police
• And a haven for nyaope addicts, who strip copper and fibre cables – mistakenly believing them valuable, only to find them worthless.
Kobus Ferreira, RCCF Chairperson, explained that the forum has been visiting the gravesite regularly for the past seven years – specifically on the last Sunday of every month – to monitor activities and protect visiting families.
“We monitor families because the area is dangerous, known for criminal activity both day and night,” Ferreira said. “As part of the Community Policing Forum (CPF), it’s our responsibility to ensure that everyone is safe.”
“We came here to assist the municipality through support from Evotel. We enjoy doing this kind of community work. The grass was almost 50 metres long in places. Criminals prey on grieving families, forcefully robbing them of their belongings.”
Ferreira further highlighted that the fence surrounding the cemetery had been cut, most likely by the “malala pipe” (a local term for the homeless).
“People are getting attacked here. Just this year, someone ended up in ICU for a week after an incident. The elderly who come from Gauteng to visit their deceased loved ones need to be protected. These long grasses have become too dangerous to ignore.”
Meanwhile, Elizabeth van der Waldt, who regularly visits the grave of her late husband, confirmed the dangers.
“I’m afraid of being here alone. Afraid of being attacked or robbed,” she admitted, adding that she visits the cemetery twice a week.
“I usually come in the morning when there are workers present. I’d hate to be here alone. I’m grateful that Evotel and RCCF have taken this initiative. I’ll be joining them soon, now that I’m aware of this drive. Normally, I cut the grass around my husband’s grave myself.”
Van der Waldt explained that she parks her car some distance away, in a visible area, to avoid being ambushed.
“This place had become a jungle. It was bad.”
Thanks to the RCCF and support from Evotel, the cemetery is slowly being reclaimed – and the community is encouraged to get involved and support the clean-up drive.
Bonolo Moloi, the iME Mrs South Africa semi-finalist, has sounded a warning to all aspiring models: expect to see her back on stage in 2026, after narrowly missing a spot in the finals during a spectacular evening at the Theatre of Marcellus at Emperors Palace on 4 July 2025.
Despite wearing a disheartened expression following the announcement of the 30 finalists who will compete for the crown at Emperors Palace on 15 November, Moloi is already preparing herself for next year’s showpiece – confident that she will bring the
Evotel is thrilled to onboard PluxNet Fibre, a dynamic and community-driven South African ISP, to our expanding network. This collaboration strengthens our mutual commitment to delivering affordable, reliable, and high-speed fibre internet to households and businesses nationwide.
PluxNet Fibre is a privately held ISP based in Randpark Ridge, Gauteng, operating with a team of approximately 11–50 dedicated professionals.
With a clear mission to make highspeed internet accessible, affordable, and meaningful for everyday South Africans, PluxNet positions itself as a “community-centred ISP” driven by values such as teamwork, affordability, service delivery, and fun.
Founded on the principle of deep community integration, PluxNet focuses on not just providing connectivity but empowering local neighbourhoods—creating opportunities in education, remote work, business growth, and entertainment.
Their welcome message states: “we’re building stronger communities, one connection at a time.”
At its heart, PluxNet is powered by people— both its passionate team and the clients it serves. Their ethos is built on six core pillars:
1. Teamwork – fostering internal collaboration and a supportive client relationship
2. Community – delivering internet with a purpose, enriching neighbourhoods beyond connectivity
3. Service Delivery – ensuring fast installations, friendly support, and unwavering uptime
4. Affordability – offering competitive pricing without compromising quality
5. Fun & Energetic – injecting positivity into every customer interaction
6. Meaningful Connectivity – enabling users to stream, work, game, and stay connected with confidence
Their commitment to 99.99 % uptime, 24/7 support, and instant activation ensures clients can stay continuously engaged online.
Package Highlights:
PluxNet Fibre offers a range of packages designed for both residential and business users.
These packages are uncapped, unshaped, and include free routers, installation, and support. Importantly, PluxNet operates on a no-contract model—giving customers the flexibility to stay connected on their own terms.
PluxNet pricing on the Evotel network will be announced soon, with a strong focus on value, flexibility, and simplicity for all types of users.
Empowerment Through the Reseller Programme:
PluxNet takes community upliftment seriously via its Fibre Reseller Programme. Designed to stimulate local entrepreneurship and youth empowerment, it provides:
- Training, mentorship, and ongoing support for new resellers
- Job creation by empowering individuals to sell fibre within their communities
- Bridging the digital divide by extending connectivity to underserved areas
This initiative embodies PluxNet’s belief that “connectivity drives innovation, education, and economic growth.”
Strategic Fit with Evotel:
Integrating PluxNet Fibre into the Evotel network aligns perfectly with our strategic vision. Our collaborative infrastructure enables PluxNet to leverage Evotel’s backbone, extending fibre availability and choice across Gauteng and beyond.
Expanded reach for Evotel – by enabling PluxNet to reach more residential and SMB customers
Service differentiation – because PluxNet brings a strong community focus and flexible “no-contract” model
Enhanced customer experience – combining Evotel’s infrastructure with PluxNet’s servicefirst ethos ensures reliable, fast, and locally supported internet services
Just days ago, Evotel celebrated PluxNet joining the platform, sharing the news on Instagram: “PluxNet! Our newest ISP is live on the Evotel network. More options. More flexibility.”
This milestone social post underscores the excitement around this partnership— highlighting a fresh ISP option for Evotel users and reinforcing PluxNet’s brand of nolag connectivity.
This integration promises immediate perks for end-users:
- Greater choice with another reputable, uncapped ISP
- Flexible and competitive packages coming soon
- Fast, stable connections powered by Evotel’s infrastructure and PluxNet’s 99.99 % uptime guarantee
- Local support and community engagement—from reseller-driven installations to youth initiatives
For businesses, the synergy adds cloud PABX capabilities, high-speed symmetrical fibre and tools needed to support modern, distributed work environments.
Evotel & PluxNet: A Shared Vision for Progress
Together, Evotel and PluxNet Fibre are making strides toward a digitally empowered South Africa—one where connectivity is not just fast, but meaningful, affordable, and community-centric.
This onboarding is more than a technical integration—it reflects a shared belief in connectivity’s power to transform lives and communities.
We’re proud to welcome PluxNet as a full ISP partner on our network and look forward to delivering exceptional service to South Africa’s homes and businesses.
Stay tuned for the official PluxNet package pricing on the Evotel network—coming soon.
In the bustling offices of Evotel, a leading fibre network operator, Bonolo Mabela moves with purpose between workstations, solving technical issues with a smile that belies the complexity of his work.
As Evotel’s Facilities and IT Specialist, Mabela represents a new generation of IT professionals who bring both technical expertise and emotional intelligence to the corporate world.
“I love the energy here at Evotel,” Mabela says. “It’s brilliant – the perfect workplace culture. The way they treat employees, how they work hard but also know when to have fun… it’s exactly what I would have chosen.”
Mabela’s path to IT excellence began far from the corporate environment he now thrives in. Born in Lebowakgomo township, Limpopo, his life took a pivotal turn when his mother secured a job that allowed the family to relocate to Polokwane, opening doors to private education at Mitchell House College.
“That transition changed everything for me,” he reflects. “Life started moving upward from there.”
His entry into the IT field came through an unexpected detour. “I originally planned on pursuing Civil Engineering, but missed qualifying by just five marks,” Mabela reveals. What seemed like a setback became the gateway to his true calling.
After matriculating in 2016 and completing his studies at TUT Witbank Campus in 2023, Mabela began his career at Mass Tech, focusing on cloud development. He joined Evotel in 2024 as an intern and quickly worked his way up to his current role.
What makes Mabela’s story particularly compelling is his relationship with his manager, Ivan du Plessis. “Ivan is my first manager in the IT space, and he’s awesome,” Mabela enthuses. “We have a lot in common – including a love for superhero movies. He’s incredibly smart, with experience at Hyundai and expertise in cyber security. I’m learning everything I can from him.”
The admiration is more than casual – it’s part of a deliberate career strategy. “At Evotel, I want to duplicate him and be like him. Who knows – one day I might be the IT Manager here,” he says with a confident smile.
Mabela’s day begins at 8am with coffee and a walkthrough of the office to check in on colleagues, before logging into the system to address tickets. His expertise spans software development, hardware troubleshooting, cloud computing (for which he holds a certificate), and networking.
“Working for a telecommunications company means dealing with frustrated customers when networks go down. But it’s not something I can’t handle – it’s what I signed up for, and I’m enjoying it.”
Mabela’s holistic vision for IT is what truly sets him apart. “I want us to be more than just a fibre supplier – we should deliver life experiences to our customers and staff. I want everything to run smoothly, technology-wise.”
While firmly committed to IT, he’s also open to exploring logistics in the future – showcasing the kind of versatile thinking that defines modern tech leaders.
With a playful glint in his eye, Mabela concludes: “If Ivan isn’t careful, I’m gunning for his position as IT Manager.”
The humour is light, but the intent is serious –and judging by how far he’s come in just a few years, that goal may be well within reach.
In Bonolo Mabela, Evotel has not just an IT specialist, but a visionary – one who understands that true tech leadership lies in supporting people, enabling growth, and building a lasting impact.
In a workplace where excellence is the standard, it takes something truly special to stand out – and the Hazel Dube Employee of the Month Award is the most sought-after recognition at Evotel’s Kramerville offices in Sandton, Johannesburg.
For July 2025, we’re proud to announce that Shahil Darmalingam has been recognised by his colleagues as Evotel’s Employee of the Month, earning well-deserved acknowledgement –and bragging rights – for 30 full days across departments.
What sets Shahil apart is not just his consistent performance, but his remarkable adaptability.
Having successfully transitioned between departments, he’s demonstrated a level of versatility that few can match. This flexibility, coupled with his unwavering dedication, has made him an invaluable asset to the fibre network operator, which recently celebrated its 10-year anniversary.
Shahil’s dedication, adaptability, and strong work ethic have truly stood out for the cucumbercool team player – who, notably, was featured in this very magazine just last month as a standout employee at the ever-bustling Evotel office.
The way he has moved seamlessly between departments reflects both his commitment and capability.
For Shahil, this recognition means more than just a title – it’s validation of his collaborative approach and work ethic.
“It feels really good to be voted Employee of the Month for July, as it boosts your confidence and, in a way, your mental state – it motivates you to keep pushing yourself to do better,” Shahil shared upon receiving the honour.
While modest about the specific reasons behind his win, Shahil credits his success to teamwork and consistency.
“I’d like to think it’s because I help everyone where I can in the workplace when needed – and of course, because I work hard and make sure my tasks are completed.”
Perhaps most impressive is Shahil’s attitude toward professional development. Even with his current success, he remains focused on growth.
“Right now, yes, I do have the skills needed, but you can never stop learning new skills and growing.”
When asked what his colleagues can expect from him going forward, Shahil’s answer reflects his trademark reliability and drive:
“You can expect a committed employee, as always – someone willing to learn and help the company achieve its goals.”
His message to his colleagues is simple yet inspiring:
“I’d just like to thank everyone who voted for me – it means a lot. And remember, anything is possible… but it starts with you as a person.”
Shahil’s recognition serves as a timely reminder that dedication, adaptability, and a strong work ethic remain the cornerstones of professional success.
His willingness to uplift others while maintaining high personal standards exemplifies the collaborative spirit that keeps Evotel moving forward.
Please join us in congratulating Shahil Darmalingam on this well-deserved achievement!