Nafeesa Alibedi
Science, Tech, Energy, and Innovation
Nominee's Province:
Kwazulu-natal
Age:
33
Project Name/Description:
Founder and CEO of Creative Tech Solutions
Nafeesa Alibedi, a visionary tech entrepreneur from Ladysmith, Kwa-Zulu-Natal, is on a mission to ensure no young person is left behind in the digital age. As Founder and CEO of Creative Tech Solutions, based in Durban, Alibedi leads a company focused on digital skills development, artificial intelligence, and inclusive innovation. Her journey began with a moment that changed everything—a young girl in her hometown asked, “How can I become a scientist if I’ve never used a computer?” That question sparked the vision behind her organisation: to make tech education accessible in underserved areas. Since its founding in 2023, Creative Tech Solutions has trained over 500 individuals in coding, cybersecurity, data science, and digital marketing. The company develops low-data solutions for offline learning, making it easier to reach rural communities with limited internet access. Alibedi’s work extends beyond training—she mentors youth, builds strategic partnerships with schools and NGOs, and develops AI tools that address real-world challenges. A 2024 Mail & Guardian 200 Young South Africans honouree, she was also named among ITWeb’s Top 100 Influential Women in Tech (2025) and selected as a Ford Philanthropy Fellow. “Your background doesn’t define your potential—your purpose does,” says Alibedi. Her values—equity, resilience, integrity, and impact—guide her leadership and vision. With every initiative, Alibedi is not just building a business; she’s creating a movement. Her message to aspiring changemakers? “Start where you are. Use what you have. Believe in your impact.” Through Creative Tech Solutions, Nafeesa Alibedi is proving that when innovation meets purpose, it can transform lives—even in the most overlooked corners of South Africa.
