Liso Soldati
Youth in Business & Entrepreneurship
Nominee's Province:
Kwazulu-natal
Age:
33
Project Name/Description:
Founder of SOLDATI
From the quiet town of Kokstad in southern KwaZulu-Natal to the national stage of youth leadership and entrepreneurship, Liso Soldati has carved a unique path — one rooted in purpose, mentorship, and the power of storytelling. Soldati wears two impactful hats. As Program Manager at Enactus South Africa, he helps cultivate youth innovation and social enterprise. As the founder of SOLDATI, a creative studio launched in 2022, he empowers township entrepreneurs and small businesses to own their narratives through professional branding, digital content, and web design. “I joined Enactus as a student in 2013,” he recalls. “That was the first time I truly saw young people not just dreaming but actively building their visions.” That spark became a flame — one that would guide him through more than a decade of mentoring hundreds of students, many of whom have gone on to achieve major recognition, including features on Forbes 30 Under 30 and Mail & Guardian 200 Young South Africans. SOLDATI, which started as a freelance side hustle in 2020, has since evolved into a full-time venture. “We saw a gap,” Soldati says. “So many youth-led brands had powerful ideas but lacked the tools to present them well. I wanted to change that — help them show up professionally, with visuals and messaging that reflect their real value.” Today, SOLDATI supports entrepreneurs, artists, and grassroots movements with design that is intentional, clear, and memorable. “It’s never just content,” he adds. “Each project is someone’s legacy in the making.” Juggling a full-time job and running a business has come with challenges. “There were times I felt invisible while helping others shine,” he admits. “But I’ve learned that you can serve and lead at the same time. You don’t have to be loud to make a difference — just consistent.” What keeps him grounded is simple: “Seeing people grow. Watching dreams take shape. And believing in change by design, not coincidence.” His advice to other young people? “Start even when it’s not perfect. You don’t need funding — just a clear reason, steady action, and a strong sense of community. Everything else will follow.”
