Zandile Mkwanazi
Science, Tech, Energy, and Innovation
Nominee's Province:
Gauteng
Age:
Project Name/Description:
CEO – GirlCode
Zandile Mkwanazi is the CEO and co-founder of GirlCode, a social enterprise dedicated to empowering young girls and women through technology. “What drives my passion for the tech industry is the transformative potential it holds, particularly for empowering underrepresented groups like women,” she says. Mkwanazi shares that her tech journey began unexpectedly, but once ignited, her passion for building software and creating solutions using code became unstoppable. “Witnessing the lack of representation of women in tech events and hackathons fuelled my determination to create change. Seeing girls succeed and thrive in tech spaces inspires me daily, reminding me of the importance of creating a more diverse and inclusive industry where everyone has the opportunity to excel.” According to Mkwanazi, GirlCode has grown to become the largest women-led tech educational organisation in South Africa, impacting over 80 000 girls and women. She says their initiatives include hackathons, coding workshops, mentorship programmes and career days. “Technology,” states Mkwanazi, “has played a pivotal role in creating opportunities for the youth and opening up new industries like e-commerce.” She adds that the widespread adoption of digital technologies has transformed various sectors, leading to the emergence of new business models and job opportunities. “As South Africa celebrates 30 years of democracy, the impact of technology in creating opportunities for the youth and driving economic development is undeniable, laying the foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous future,” concludes Mkwanazi.
