Jordachelin Moodley
Science, Tech, Energy, and Innovation
Nominee's Province:
Kwazulu-natal
Age:
28
Project Name/Description:
Founder – Project Simunye | Tech Innovator | STEMI Advocate | Inclusive Education Researcher
Jordachelin Moodley is an award-winning leader and innovator at the intersection of technology, education, and social upliftment. With a career rooted in both corporate fintech and community development, he’s known for driving real-world change that empowers underserved communities across South Africa and beyond. A celebrated technologist and service engineer, Jordachelin works at Old Mutual South Africa, applying practical solutions in the banking and financial services sector. His work has earned him national and international recognition, including the Rotary Leadership Award for Youth Development, South African Youth Trailblazer Award, and selection as one of the Top 10 South Africans in Technology. Beyond the boardroom, he founded Project Simunye, a grassroots initiative focused on bridging the digital divide through digital and financial literacy for youth in underserved communities. The project has already reached thousands of young people, equipping them to engage with the digital economy and unlock new opportunities. Jordachelin is an active mentor in the KZN Science and Technology ecosystem. He’s led a dynamic STEMI movement, mentoring over 5,000 youth in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Innovation. His work is grounded in the African philosophy of Ubuntu—“I am because we are”—and a commitment to leadership that is compassionate, inclusive, and practical. He is currently leading research in AI-driven inclusive education and developing a mobile application to improve learning accessibility for students with barriers—a project gaining international attention. Jordachelin’s leadership is shaped by personal adversity, including serious health challenges and early struggles with imposter syndrome. These experiences have built a leadership style that is grounded, resilient, and people-focused. “I dream of an Africa where young people rise from classrooms and communities as confident leaders of the future—equipped, empowered, and unstoppable.”
