Our People, Our Stories
Aurelia’s story on… driving breakthroughs and inspiring change
“Whenever there is a personal life changing experience there is also a life changing professional experience, for me they always seem to go hand in hand. Whenever there is growth in one area of life, there is growth in the other too.”
Initially pursuing a degree in Accounting, Aurelia made a significant switch to major in Economics, a decision that proved to be highly beneficial. Not only did she discover a subject she genuinely enjoyed, but this change also led to her securing her first job. She entered the world of management consulting as a Trainee Junior Industrial Development Facilitator at a firm that offered specialised services to private companies, development agencies and governments in the field of manufacturing competitiveness and growth. Aurelia’s beginnings were certainly about starting from the bottom – you can’t get more junior than a Trainee Junior! Her studious work ethic kicked in immediately and afforded her a promotion within the first three months – an early sign of her overachiever tendencies. After three years of dedicated service, Aurelia made the courageous decision to leave what had become a toxic work environment, trusting that a more fulfilling opportunity would present itself.
“It’s a miracle story. I was very unhappy professionally. I went to work one day and just resigned, trusting in my faith that I would be guided into the next chapter of my life, where I was truly meant to be. When they called to say I got the job at eThekwini, I cried because I knew I had put everything into this next move.”
Aurelia’s professional and personal life appear to be intertwined by significant milestones. During the time she was planning her wedding, Aurelia also took a decisive step by applying for a job at eThekwini Municipality. Trusting her instincts, she chose not to pursue any other positions and, after a nearly month-long wait, she successfully secured a research role, starting her new chapter on her return from honeymoon. The stage was set, Aurelia went on to spend the next nine years (unknowingly), crafting her next major career move. Three years in, Aurelia was given the opportunity to manage a very special innovation project. Still a junior, tasked with managing the strategy for this project, without hesitation, Aurelia was all in! This marked the initial stages of what would eventually evolve into Innovate Durban. Although the final strategy was not approved by internal council, the recommendations were put forward and down the line, Aurelia followed up with a proposal for Innovate Durban to be set up as a NPO. And the rest is history! Today, Aurelia leads Innovate Durban as its CEO, driving innovation within the Durban region.
“There was zero budget and this is where relationships come in. Some of the partnerships we formed back then, are still key partners at Innovate Durban today, and I believe will continue to be long into the future.”
True to how Aurelia’s life story unfolds, the opening of Innovate Durban’s doors coincided with the arrival of her daughter, once again highlighting the parallel growth and transformation in both her professional and personal life. New to motherhood and new to the role of CEO. While she may have appeared to have limited experience to outsiders, she more than made up for it with her relentless enthusiasm, commitment, and high quality execution. Not your typical, well-seasoned CEO; Aurelia instead brought a unique blend of passion and unwavering dedication to the role.
“I felt out of my depth but the one thing I had going for me was that I was the Founder. Second to that, I had a lot of passion. I truly loved what I was doing and that’s what the board saw in me. Throughout my career I have been a sponge, absorbing all I can along the way, always learning. When I look back on how far I’ve come, I know that this journey is not just all me, its God’s hand and unwavering favour in my life.”
This is one leader who is not afraid to attribute her achievements to those who have supported and guided her throughout her journey, starting with her Christian faith, the unconditional love and belief from her parents, brother and her grandmother, the shining example of what it means to carry oneself with grace. Aurelia further reflects on the team effort constantly at play throughout her journey. From early days at eThekwini working tirelessly alongside her manager and mentor at the time, meeting with various stakeholders and putting a strategy together, Aurelia recognises the instrumental role they played in her professional development, pushing her to succeed every step of the way. From the initial task team transitioning Innovate Durban from concept to reality, to today working alongside her team of experts from researchers and community engagement specialists to professionals in business development, marketing, innovation and commercialisation, she considered herself privileged to be in the company she finds herself in. Not to forget Shirley, her mentor and coach, who serves as a valuable sounding board, helping her navigate the inevitable challenges and embracing her humanity without reservation. An achiever and implementer, give action oriented Aurelia passionate comrades and a goal and you can bet your life she will supersede your best projected milestone – not just because she is capable but because she cannot help but be personally invested in all she commits to.
“I’m big on authenticity and being true to yourself. I have never been afraid to be honest about my weaknesses and inexperience. I have learnt how important it is to be open to feedback, learning and advice. Whilst we work on our shortcomings, it is just as important to remember our strengths and to bring those to the fore.”
While Aurelia may very well hold the title of boss at work, she certainly isn’t the boss at home! Her daughter continues to fill her cup of inspiration in her pure conviction that her mother can achieve anything with her natural ability to show both strength and vulnerability, firmness and kindness, and above all, humanness. This, her daughter is forever keeping in check!
Today Aurelia is crystal clear on the vision for Innovate Durban with her eye on growing beyond borders both graphically and strategically. As the business takes on super growth, the golden thread in her story weaves into her personal life too as she weathers a storm of change and transition. The reminder from her father that only after the storm comes the rainbow, gives us a hunch that her next professional and personal life changing moments will be her most profound yet!
Erika’s story on… what good tribes are made of
After completing her diploma in Secretarial Skills, Erika soon after launched her career in the corporate sector. She quickly rose through the corporate ranks, becoming the Executive Assistant to a Sales & Marketing Director at just twenty-three years old. This experience acted as a catalyst for her executive career, focusing exclusively on supporting Executives and CEOs.
“I was the youngest, and least experienced out of everyone interviewed for the position. During the interview I was given a piece of advice I’ll never forget, I was told to never sell myself short. I was given the job, at a higher salary than I asked for, and six months into the role, I was asked to apply for an even higher position. My career took off because someone believed in me more than I believed in myself.”
Erika also had an interest in mentorship, counselling, and life coaching. To pursue this itch, she completed a certification in Emotional Intelligence Training & Coaching and volunteered after working hours at Lifeline, a non-profit organisation that provides free, 24-hour telephone crisis support services. After almost two decades dedicated to her craft as an employee, Erika was faced with retrenchment. A single mom with two daughters about to begin their high school journey, she warmed to the idea of being more present in their lives, and to have more work flexibility. She found herself in a position that allowed her to pursue something she had always been intrigued by: entrepreneurship. She also launched a side business offering Business Support Services. This business, now known as The Office Cog, provides ad hoc tasks and ongoing administrative support, allowing clients to focus on their core business. She helps clients with tasks they dislike, don’t know how to do, or simply lack the time for.
“In the executive assistant space you have to be good at discipline with regards to time management, attention to detail, and above all, setting boundaries because you have to be really wise in how you prioritise your work. Building strong relationships is everything and I work hard to nurture these. One day you may need something and the people you can lean on will be those who you have fostered strong relationships with.”
Through a referral, Erika was brought into Innovate Durban to upskill a key staff member who was rising through the ranks and in need of business support skills. From assisting in the growth of this colleague from cleaner to receptionist and admin support, Erika continued to impart her skills on the Innovate Durban business. From leading workshops with interns on business etiquette to becoming Aurelia, the CEO’s, right hand women/executive assistant, to a key contributor in team building initiatives and innovation events, Erika is ingrained in the Innovate Durban business.
“It was such a special time for me when I started work at Innovate Durban, mentoring someone who had such potential. I was only meant to step in for a short time and now I have become so attached to the business. I love the people and culture at Innovate Durban, they are passionate and hard working.”
Having been in a position of self doubt and needing her tribe around her to push her forward, Erika strongly believes that we can all do anything we put our mind to if we are mindful not to let our perception of ourselves or circumstances dictate otherwise. Second to that, she encourages us to see the bigger picture and how often sweating the small things become insignificant in the wider context of our lives. She reserves her focus and energy for what really matters: relationships with the people.
Intentional about whom she surrounds herself with, she fondly describes Innovate Durban as an inclusive, forward-thinking environment that encourages individuals to become the best versions of themselves, both personally and as integral members of the organisation. Empathetic, trustworthy, loyal, authentic, faith driven, and a believer that opportunity is rife if only we open our eyes to see what’s in front of us, how fortunate they are to have Erika to epitomise such a culture.
Holden’s story on… stepping out of one’s shell to achieve personal growth
When leaving school, Holden was not clear on the exact path he would take in his career. He went on to assume an entry level job in retail which funded his next move to study a degree in Financial Accounting at the University of South Africa. Later coming across an advertisement for an intern role at Innovate Durban, Holden applied without hesitation and within twenty minutes he was accepted. He now knew what fate felt like. For many the year 2020 was a difficult and turbulent one, but for Holden it was the onset of his career in the innovation space at Innovate Durban. This opportunity would later prove to be a lasting and valuable experience.
“As an intern I worked in pretty much every area of the business and since then, there are so many people and moments along the way that have impacted my journey to today. The most memorable is seeing the impact that our facilities and function has on people’s lives, that’s what really stands out for me above all else. Purpose is the key word: this gives you a sense of purpose.”
While working as a Finance Intern, Holden identified an opportunity to streamline the financial audit process, showcasing his ability to identify inefficiencies and propose innovative solutions. From intern to Junior then Senior Financial Coordinator, today Holden is the Partnership & Finance Coordinator, leaning into his biggest talent (finance) and biggest passion (partnerships). As the second-longest-serving employee with five years of tenure, Holden continues to rise through the ranks and emerge as a key player in his domain.
“I would welcome any future Innovate Durban employee and tell them about how wonderful this place is. I would also warn them that it is a fast paced environment and it’s important to keep a cool head. I’ve certainly grown in every aspect during my time here, the relationships built here are essential in all we achieve. Be authentic, be yourself.”
With two separate domains, Finance and Partnerships under his guidance, Holden has developed an aptitude for balancing competing priorities and ensuring that both areas receive the attention they need. He highlights that while technical skills are crucial for his role, effective communication with both colleagues and external stakeholders is equally essential. Being introverted means he has had to learn and work on this skill continuously to overcome his natural tendencies and grow professionally. Holden goes on to emphasise the importance of establishing a healthy work-life balance early on in our careers. This means not neglecting our personal passions while building our professional paths.
“I’ve always had a talent for maths and numbers but I have a big passion for writing. I have a dream to one day write my own fiction novels and I get to use my creative writing skills in my role when writing proposals. Being able to see the big picture of what we are trying to accomplish and articulate that in how we tell that story.”
Making the transition from wanting to get work done right, versus wanting to accomplish something meaningful, Holden reflects and suggests to those considering a role like his, to focus less on deadlines and more on empathising with the beneficiaries of your work. Having recently concluded a proposal that led to a seven year agreement, there is no doubt that Holden is mastering the craft of writing with purpose and will continue to deliver results that leave us wanting for more.
While his work in finance and business development may not seem directly impactful at first, his contributions within a business like Innovate Durban clearly demonstrate the essential role he plays in driving positive change. Not one to confine his contributions within his role, Holden has become a go-to problem solver, no matter the context or domain, always finding creative and effective solutions. Thoughtful, imaginative, ambitious, dedicated and authentic with the innate ability to flex both his analytical and creative muscles, Holden is a rare find in any professional setting. His deepest desire? To achieve interstellar travel in his lifetime – now THAT’S wild ambition!
Tamisha’s story on… a passionate pursuit beyond the ivory tower
“I believe we all have a higher purpose, something we are meant to be doing with our lives. Mine is to contribute in helping people improve their lives, especially those in marginalised communities. I love playing a part in understanding their true needs as opposed to imposing solutions that they have had no say in.”
Tamisha’s love for research began during her undergraduate studies in Urban & Regional Planning at Durban University of Technology. She earned an Honors degree, completing a major research project as part of her dissertation. Encouraged by the enjoyment she found in the research process and engaging with people through interviews, Tamisha shifted her focus to a career in research.
Having heard about the Youth Innovation Challenge amongst fellow scholars, Tamisha was somewhat familiar with the Innovate Durban business. However, it wasn’t until she began preparing for her interview, that she discovered an unexpected connection. She learned about Innovate Durbans work in the Cato Manor community, and being close to home, this resonated deeply with her. Needless to say her interview landed her the internship which later transformed into a permanent seat at the Innovate Durban table. From basic research activities such as data collection and transcripts to playing a pivotal role in the research proposal, design, process, fieldwork, and descriptive analysis and report writing, Tamisha has taken to growth like a sponge! Intern turned valued expert employee, today Tamisha assumes the role of Research Analyst at Innovate Durban.
“I’ve developed a lot, especially within the role. When I first started I didn’t really have much knowledge about what a research role entailed. As I went through the research process under the guidance of my Research lead, I picked up a lot of valuable skills. Before this experience I wasn’t really confident with public speaking but I have since had the opportunity to facilitate sessions with the Cato Manor community, to conduct interviews, and to present research findings. Over time I grew into my role.”
Her direct lead, Patrick, a life long researcher and mentor is forever opening professional doors for her as she finds her unique place in the profession. Of all the knowledge and practical experience Tamisha has gained since entering the professional world of research, interacting with community members has been the most profound. She shares that their stories are truly inspiring, helping us understand our own experiences in a whole new light. She cites the Township Development Program as a stand out highlight in her experience thus far where she has been involved in the Community of Practice that is driving positive impact in this underserved community.
“I really enjoy the community development part of my job. It’s like having a purpose within the job that you do, knowing that you are reaching people that at some point you are actually helping.”
Tamisha has integrated her urban planning and research skills into a role that positively impacts underserved communities. She demonstrates that the role of a researcher is far from being confined to an ivory tower. In her field, effective researchers are on the ground, interacting directly with the very people they aim to help. Her advice to those considering a career in research is to ensure they pursue it in a sector that resonates with them. She encourages them to look at the bigger picture and ask themselves if they are truly passionate about the path they are taking.
“Don’t take life too seriously. Things aren’t always black and white—there are grey areas. You need to consider different perspectives because you can’t know everything, and you need diverse input. Stop doubting yourself. In most cases, you have a good grasp of what you’re talking about, but confidence is what’s missing.”
Tamisha continues to be inspired by the leaders around her, from women in leadership such as Aurelia, the CEO and driving force behind Innovate Durban, to the women in her family who embody what it means to be diligent go-getters that never let anything stand in their way. Confident, hard working, somewhat introverted, a deep thinker with an aptitude for critical thinking, Tamisha is wise beyond her years, it’s really hard to fathom she is only two years into a role that she has embraced so naturally with both head and heart.
Patrick’s story on… making your mark through the impact of your work
When Patrick embarked on his studies at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, little did he know at the time that one day he would look back on his tenure with abundant accolades: he completed his BSC Degree in Geography & Environmental Management (Cum Lade); followed by his BSC Honours in Environmental Science (Cum Lade), and then went on to his Research Masters in Environmental Science (Summa Cum Lade) and is now in the final stages of his PhD in Development Studies. It’s no understatement to say that Patrick has earned his stripes!
Patrick credits Prof Cathy Sutherland, his MSc and PhD supervisor, as a significant influence in his academic success and ongoing professional journey. Her trust in him and exposure to a variety of projects were instrumental. Together, they’ve collaborated on numerous research projects: a Water Research Commission Project demonstrating the value of ecological infrastructure in the uMgneni Catchment, several social assessments and the Palmiet Catchment Rehabilitation Project, amongst others. His involvement in the LIRA 2030 Project, focusing on transformative climate adaptation, was the first time he truly stepped out from under his mentor’s shadow and truly shone. This was the beginning of Patrick’s quest to build his own name in the sector. With his PhD focussing on water governance in Durban over the past 170 years, it has become more than just an academic pursuit, also leading him down the path of numerous related consulting projects. Along with his vast experience and accolades, including being a Contributing Author on the IPCC’s Special Report on the Ocean, Coast, and Cryosphere, Patrick has been brought into projects in various roles from External Evaluator, Chairman of an Advisory Group, Social & Governance Expert, and the like. One particular role stands out on a more personal level: Patrick was able to step in as a Water and Climate Governance Expert for a Presidential Climate Commission project after the Durban floods in 2022.
“With four retaining walls in my house collapsing, requiring us to evacuate during the flood, my personal experience of the Durban floods later became a defining moment for me. Being part of the Minister Of Environmental Affairs engagement to meet with experts and communities affected by the April 2022 flood, I heard so many stories told with such raw emotion from vulnerable community members, I realised how I was able to bounce back from the experience where others were simply unable to. I knew I wanted to use the work I was doing to drive a positive impact.
With invaluable consulting and research experience under his wing, Patrick set forth on a new venture and joined Innovate Durban as Research & Impact Lead. His research projects now include The State of Innovation in KZN Report, Funding Mapping, a Toolkit for Innovators, and various thought leadership initiatives. As if that wasn’t enough, Patrick has also led a project that developed a water innovation network between South Africa and the UK with Innovate UK, contributing in a consulting capacity. His impact work includes the Monitoring & Evaluation that demonstrates the value that Innovate Durban’s work has on the wider community they serve. He is also developing a Theory of Change for the organisation. Despite the vast lessons learnt while dipping his toes into the innovation and entrepreneurial space in his current role, Patrick believes his most valuable learnings have come from the people he works alongside.
“My previous work was more on the consulting side of things where you are more of a lone wolf. Managing dynamics and working closely with a team is where I have really grown particularly in terms of leadership. This has also meant learning to have a voice in terms of thought leadership.”
Patrick advocates for a work ethic focused on producing high-quality results, which often yields long-term rewards. Meticulous, analytical, creative, determined, and a continuous learner, Patrick brings all these traits into his research role. He advises those considering a research career not to assume that researchers are all-knowing but to focus on a specific topic or sector.
“I am always trying to learn more, understand more, question things, and logically explain things. Research is not just about watching a video or reviewing content but good research follows an iterative process requiring a lot of curiosity, thought and reflection.”
In the future, we can anticipate more academic publications from Patrick as he continues to expand his research contributions in the field of entrepreneurship and innovation. His goal is clear: to continue to have a positive impact on society through his work with people and their environment. It’s safe to say that Patrick will follow his own “’make it your own”
advice, leaving his mark in his own unique way in his professional journey.
Susanne’s story on… sprinkling impact in our encounters
“Growing up I had a lot of ideas from the sublime to the ridiculous, wanting to be in business, a ballerina, a paediatrician, a ninja, and my journey has not been a straight road to get to where I’ve ended up today. Each organisation I have worked with has strengthened different aspects of the professional I have become.”
Susanne studied Public Relations Management and whilst doing so, embarked on her in-service training at TAFTA (The Association For The Aged), an organisation that would be fortunate enough to be graced by her services on two future occasions in her upcoming career. Her first professional stint out of university was that of PR Practitioner for The Sharks, KwaZulu Natal’s provincial rugby team. During her time there, she learned a valuable mantra that has guided her career: “Don’t play the game, play the ref.” She explains how in different environments you need to constantly adapt and understand what is required to get you further given the ecosystem you are playing in – be it in the smaller team or the wider organisation. To understand not just your domain but also the people who are making the rules.
Susanne returned to TAFTA now as an employee, rising from Corporate Fundraiser to Manager and eventually becoming Divisional Manager for Income Development and Public Relations. Just under a decade dedicated to these roles, Susanne left the comforts of TAFTA and later assumed the role of Business Development Manager at TREE (Training and Resources in Early Education). Susanne then joined Innovate Durban as the Business Development & Fundraising Lead. She quickly developed a passion for the programs supporting innovators from an ideation and business perspective, and became Program Lead. By this time, Susanne saw an opportunity to use her skills learnt in the last few years by returning to Tafta and later rejoined Innovate Durban, where she now leads the Innovation & Commercialisation department. Marketing, fundraising, and working directly with beneficiaries with regards to innovation is what really excites Susanne and she is only getting started in her newly assumed role.
“The majority of my work has been in the nonprofit sector. What appeals to me is the impact aspect of the work and I think that is why I have remained in this sector for so long. Working directly with the beneficiaries, listening and sharing, I just love this part of my work, it’s that closeness in contact that keeps me going.”
Susanne’s experiences have enabled her to work with a diverse range of beneficiaries, including learners at TREE, the elderly at TAFTA, and young innovators at Innovate Durban, thereby forging a strong connection to her work. She now draws on her years of experience from PR to fundraising to networking and partnerships, applying her skillset in how she works with innovators to take them to market ready stage. Susanne is dedicated to providing innovators with the capacity, skills, and networks they need to succeed. Her ultimate goal is to empower them to progress independently, beyond the support of the program. Susanne explains how being ‘destination challenged’ can hinder our progress and prevent us from taking the crucial first step: simply starting. Further to that, she cautions us to be mindful of doing work that keeps us busy versus work that is meaningful. Monetary, time based and output focussed goals can easily deter us from the potential of impactful work.
“I am always excited to learn new things, I love consuming knowledge. I have learnt to speak less and listen more, you learn so much from others. There is never a time where I feel like I am not learning, I want to be a lifelong learner.”
Susanne derives her fulfilment from the profound personal connections she nurtured with her parents during her childhood and with her husband in adulthood, as well as through her professional relationships with beneficiaries who inspire her daily. It is said that those who encounter this kind, calm, genuine, empathetic, out the box thinker, will be sprinkled with a little bit of her magic in every encounter.
Chelsea’s story on… finding one’s creative voice
While her peers were busy with, well, whatever eleven-year-olds do, Chelsea was discovering the world of design, a place she would call home, a digital sanctuary where her imagination could stretch without limits. Thanks to a call from her church needing help with design work, without hesitation Chelsea was chomping at the bit. Diving deep into this newfound discipline, she quickly familiarised herself with design tools such as Canva, and the rest is history. Chelsea was destined to carve out a career in the realm of digital design.
“I could never sit still, I always wanted to be busy with my hands, creating and building things. I’ve always been interested in technology, understanding how things work and trying to figure out how to customise things. I was forever taking my parents phones and playing with their settings, I was that kid!”
Looking back on her quirks growing up, Chelsea realises that the signs were there, now reflected in what she does today: creating designs, coding, building apps, and the like. Her family played a big part in the direction she chose for her career not only in their unwavering support and encouragement but they literally provided her with a constant stream of inspiration to hone her craft. From birthday invitations to helping them fix their tech issues, she was immersed in real-world design challenges, turning everyday tasks into opportunities to learn and refine her abilities. We are reminded that opportunity is all around us and the smallest of opportunities can play the biggest role in shaping our skill sets and passions, often manifesting later in life in the most unexpected ways.
It was only when Chelsea came across Vega’s stand at a school career day that she realised there was a profession that encapsulated all the things she loved to do. The intricacies of creativity, coding, and animation really captured her attention and desire to learn and explore the design discipline further.
“I realised I can actually do something I enjoy, I can be creative and free in a profession and not bogged down with the more traditional work that I initially assumed working life would look like.”
Having been exposed to the Innovate Durban business in her earlier years, blessed with the opportunity to volunteer there whilst completing her studies, she was able to further her work experience in the social upliftment and innovation space. She was captivated by the business and how it provided innovators with the ability to access intel and resources to bring their business ideas to life. Following the completion of her Bachelor’s degree in Design Design, Chelsea transitioned into the role of Digital Designer at Innovate Durban.
Still early on in her professional journey, Chelsea is clear on her areas for growth in this season of her career. She is focussed on learning more about how to handle herself in the workspace, and as a designer, her goal is to find the balance between client and target audience needs and how one achieves the much sought after equilibrium between adhering to brand guidelines whilst exploring creative expression. She leaves us with some wisdom gathered in her experience thus far:
“Stick to the design process but don’t limit yourself in creativity. If your idea seems crazy, just keep going with it, eventually it will all make sense. You have to have the passion because without it, you won’t be able to persevere in the more difficult moments when you really need to push through to get to that moment of clarity.”
Chelsea is deeply guided by her faith to direct her on her journey. Where does she go for creative inspiration? Bollywood movies of course! The vibrance, drama and ability to bring out the fun side in life really fills Chelsea’s cup of inspiration, taking her to another world and leaving her feeling full of creativity. Chelsea attributes her inspiring path as testament to the supportive presence of her parents, sister, Jesus, along with the playful warmth of her canine companions.
Gifted with a supportive Innovate Durban team showing her the ropes as she transitions into the working world, she is surrounded by strong mentors supporting her journey. Energetic, bubbly, creative, helpful and a busy person who always needs something to do, Chelsea returns the goodwill with her positive and productive presence. She weaves her creative magic throughout the business, transforming presentations and fueling marketing and social media with visually captivating storytelling. Her journey thus far suggests she’s a rising star, and one whose future contributions will be significant.
Amykelani’s story on… curiosity, growth and a passion for innovation
Amykelani understood from an early age that he would have to become the role model he longed for, having grown up with limited access to such figures. As a high achiever throughout his school years, it came as no surprise that he would further his academic pursuits. He went on to complete a Bachelor of Science (BSc) Degree in Geology & Environmental Management at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), eager to make his family proud and kick start a legacy for himself. As funding limitations halted further studies, he graciously accepted a Business Intelligence (BI) Internship at WesBank, a vehicle & asset finance solutions provider. This initiative through the FirstRand FirstJob programme formed part of the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative (PYEI) aimed at reducing the chronic unemployment challenge in the country. In his newfound role he was introduced to the disciplines of software development and systems analysis, equipping him with essential skills crucial for navigating a career within the rapidly advancing Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR)/Industry 4.0 (Digital Manufacturing).
Throughout his year-long internship which he completed during the global COVID-19 pandemic while working remotely from home, he diligently nurtured his network, which ultimately opened doors to his next career opportunity. In conversation with Professor Reinout Meijboom (Vice Dean: Research and Innovation, Professor of Chemistry at UJ), Amykelani was invited to his lab and offered the opportunity to work with him. As his associate, he would be working on the Digital Chemical Manufacturing in Africa Project (first Open Source Laboratory Automation Project in Africa) providing technical and production support to the Robotics & 3-D Printing Research Group at the Metacalaysis Laboratory.
“It was the first time I had come across 3D printing technology (additive manufacturing) and equipment like a CNC machine. This was when my passion for fabrication was fueled. Procuring a laser cutter for subtractive manufacturing to expand the Makerspace activities, I learnt how to design and model objects and bring them to life through 3D printing.”
Collaborating with students like Matthew Nel, a final year Master of Engineering (MEng) in Mechanical Engineering Science under the supervision of Prof. Andre Nel and co-supervision of Prof. Reinout Meijboom, Amykelani was exposed to a whole new world that before now he never even knew existed. Applying what he had learnt in his prior role at WesBank, he was able to integrate his software knowledge and now merge it with hardware to build intelligent artificial intelligence systems using robotics and automation tools (machine learning algorithms). Together with Prof. Reinout Meijboom and Matthew Nel, an experiment which had previously been conducted manually, was now transformed into an automated synthesis that could also be run remotely from anywhere in the world by a Chemist without any programming experience.
“I was seeing how a multidisciplinary approach could be adopted to achieve a common goal. THIS is innovation. I learnt the value in collaborating, co-creating and merging experiences to achieve a better outcome.”
This experience would set him up beautifully for the next opportunistic door that was about to open: Innovate Durban. What drew Amykelani to Innovate Durban was the opportunity to be immersed in an innovative environment, a perfect playground to expand his knowledge and skills in fabrication and the opportunity to meaningfully collaborate with innovators. Warmly welcomed into the Innovate Durban team and now exposed to a plethora of experts across varying domains, Amykelani has unprecedented opportunities for both contribution and growth.
Amykelani takes immense pride in the running of a smooth operation at the Innovate Durban innovation CoLab in Cato Manor, ensuring the inner workings provide a flawless experience for the innovators and their product prototype development and fabrication efforts. What makes his role all the more special is that he is essentially creating the tools innovators need to be able to interact with their users and collect much needed feedback essential for them to iterate and improve on their solutions.
“With innovation comes an iterative process. If things don’t work out the way you planned, you can always try again until you get to that final version. Meaning that anything is possible, you just need to be willing to learn more, think out of the box, and come up with new and better ways to optimise your solution.”
A real problem solver, analytical, empathetic, open-minded and a lifelong learner, Amykelani is a real asset to the team at Innovate Durban. Within the specialised field of fabrication, he contributes significantly, infusing the sector with fresh and collaborative energy. He strongly believes in creating societal impact by aligning his innovative work towards achieving the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Amykelani is on his way to becoming that role model he set out to be at the very start of his journey.
Pangomsa’s story on… a journey from rural roots to innovation catalyst
Pangomsa’s passion for the farming industry led her down the academic path of Agriculture in Agricultural Economics. Completing her Honours Degree in this domain, she made a leap from academics to research taking up a research internship at a science and technology park that assists in the coordination of innovation projects and entrepreneurial activities.
“I was just a graduate who was very new to this innovation space, I came from a rural background and adjusting to life in the city. I remember my mentor at the time telling me that there is nothing that will beat the attitude that I showed during this time.”
Although her primary role was in research, her increasing interest in its application within the innovation space led her to participate in entrepreneurial endeavors, allowing her to acquire significant expertise in this arena. Pangomsa was gifted with the opportunity to be in contact with several influential figures in the business of entrepreneurship, recalling specifically those in the Intellectual Property domain who assisted entrepreneurs on how to protect their inventions. It was at this time that Pangomsa started dreaming of one day becoming a guru in commercialisation. Extremely focussed, organised, action oriented and career driven, she was fuelled by sheer determination to achieve this goal she had set for herself.
Today she realises this dream as Commercialisation & Innovation Specialist at Innovate Durban. From invention (the realm of ideas) to innovation (the realm of reality), Pangomsa is at the heart of the transition in making ideas commercially viable in terms of market readiness and actual use. In her role, she reviews entrepreneurs’ ideas and inventions to assess their innovativeness and uniqueness in the context of existing market offerings, ensuring that potential overlaps or gaps are appropriately addressed. The role of Intellectual Property (IP) protection is a critical aspect of her work, especially in helping entrepreneurs understand how IP supports innovation by protecting new products, services, or processes. As she explains, meaningful commercialisation relies on offering something new or improved that can meet real needs or create new markets. Without a clear innovative edge, market success is difficult to achieve.
“I ensure that innovations are not left idle but are actively supported to realise their potential. This includes promoting their development, identifying commercial opportunities, and guiding the appropriate intellectual property (IP) strategies such as patents as one of the avenues to protect and commercialise their value.”
Pangomsa reminds us that her (and the team at Innovate Durban’s) work goes much deeper than what we may see at first glance in events and innovation programs. In reality, the team is involved in a lot of behind the scenes work that we may not be exposed to around strategy, requirements and management of each project from big thinking to the minute detail enabling entrepreneurs to realise the potential of their ideas.
“I am driven by achievement, and I care deeply about the goals we set. People sometimes describe me as sensitive when others don’t follow through on their commitments—but this stems from my passion for people and their work. I believe in ensuring that what we do is aligned with reason, purpose, and meaningful impact.”
A key trait we see in Pangomsa’s story from her humble beginnings in East London, is her ability to adapt, a trait seen as critical for anyone to survive the treacherous road that is entrepreneurship. This constant state of flux, where learning and growth are integral to the journey, is one she actively embraces – a magnetic force we trust will positively influence each entrepreneur she works with.
Her parting advice:
“Be open and do not define yourself by your background. When we approach opportunities without skepticism, we allow our curiosity to lead. We have to be purposeful in adopting this mindset to realise what may at first, just seem to be a far-fetched dream.”
Sabelo’s story on… a journey of resilience and a passion for empowering others
Born and raised in Pietermaritzburg, Sabelo’s early exposure to business and engaging audiences came from observing and mimicking his father’s door-to-door business, selling packs of vegetables. Although the travel and initial interactions were a hurdle, he soon discovered pleasure in connecting with others.
A conscientious young man aware of the negative influences outside of school, he took up hip hop dancing to ensure his time was spent pursuing more positive extracurricular activities. Both in and out of school, he seemed to capture the attention of those around him. He went on to win numerous hip hop dancing awards and was also chosen as the student that would represent his school at the East London Tourism launch event, a major undertaking, part of the National Tourism Careers Expo (NTCE). This opportunity exposed him to the professional demands and collaborative nature of such a large-scale impact driven initiative – something that he would reference much later in his career.
Early on there were signs that Sabelo had a way of capturing the minds and hearts of those around him. But he also encountered a stumbling block in his time at school. Unable to complete the requirements to pass a senior grade, he was faced with crippling disappointment. He decided not to return to school and his life hit pause. What he didn’t realise was the depths of the impressions he had made on others and his former teacher took it upon herself to find and visit Sabelo at home to remind him of his undenying potential. He was struck by her tenacity and the refusal to let him give up on himself. She succeeded and he went on to be the first on his father’s side of the family to complete Grade 12.
Driven by his awakened ambition, he aspired to continue this trajectory in honor of his father’s family and became the first in his lineage to attend university. Unfortunately his first application was rejected. Undeterred, he enrolled in a year-long software development course at a Pietermaritzburg Training Center, where once again his talent shone through, leading to a short-term job there. His perseverance paid off with a successful second university application. In his time there, onlookers took note and were impressed by his efforts, so much so that Toyota funded his final year, going on to complete his advanced diploma in Management Science.
“At this point, I had to ask myself what my real passion was. On reflection, I loved sales and helping people. I noticed that I tended to rely less on books and more on the actual doing so that both myself and those I help, can really learn through doing. I realised that my true passion lay in training others.”
Sabelo was now well positioned to enter the working world and Metro Minds, an accredited training company, was the first to welcome him into their internship program. We know by now that Sabelo has a flair for proving himself and it comes as no surprise that he was later asked to stay on in a more permanent capacity as a full time employee fulfilling the position of Training Coordinator.
“I soon noticed there was a barrier in the training. There was a clear language barrier as the facilitator only facilitated in English so there was a lack of understanding. I was able to assist in alleviating this unnecessary obstacle in the learning journey.”
Sabelo went on to help these students with the language barrier they experienced, also taking it upon himself to offer mentorship on weekends. Naturally curious and a lifelong learner, he was intrigued by all the other facets related to what a training coordinator role could entail. Innovate Durban sparked his interest with a position offering a full 360 in terms of learning program design, planning and coordinating right through to execution and impact creation.
“This place is so friendly, even from the day I was interviewed I was welcomed as if I was already part of the team. It was more of a conversation between friends trying to understand each other.”
Inspired by the impact and collaboration he observed as a scholar at East London’s Tourism Launch, he is now a key player at Innovate Durban, driving their efforts to build a vibrant and interconnected innovation ecosystem. In his first few days as part of the team, Sabelo quickly found his future mentor. A person whose direct feedback he highly values, believing it can accelerate his learning in his journey with the organisation. Coupled with his people friendly demeanour and his appreciation of respect in the workplace and in life, Sabelo has that magic formula for building strong relationships and enabling positive environments. Innovate Durban aptly fits his desire to use his training talent to empower entrepreneurs in less privileged contexts.
“In this environment you need to have patience, a deep understanding of the subject and the learner, and you need to have a plan and know how to implement it. The good results from your learners in the end, is all the motivation you need.”
A recurring theme in Sabelo’s journey is his ability to captivate those who have the opportunity to work alongside him, suggesting a promising and impactful future with Innovate Durban.
Andre’s story on… the human side of tech
Andre once aspired to be a chef, taking a culinary course in school that included mandatory drama classes which although reluctant, would serve him well in future. Realising the unattainable expense to further his studies in the culinary domain, Andre entered the working world straight out of school. He started from the bottom, in a minimum paying job but quickly started his assent through a few promotions over the coming months. He was also exposed to the harsh realities of what he saw as unethical work practice: colleagues who were getting less than minimum wage and disrespectful conduct and because of this made the decision to leave the business and the current trajectory he was on. Thanks to a friend, he stepped into a maternity cover role managing a growing fast food chain, which thankfully bridged his gap in employment. Here, Andre experienced firsthand the gruelling demands of hard work, enduring twelve-hour days, a mere two days off per month, and the immense responsibility of managing five stores.
“A friend asked me why I hadn’t considered going into tech. I had built a few PC’s, one of which was my gaming PC, not realising this was apparently a skill.”
Andre went forth with the seed that had been planted in his head and pursued classes in this field, working at a call centre after hours. Driven by his newfound career direction, he took every opportunity to spend time with the IT department to get exposure and hands-on experience. Then opportunity came knocking when a long time friend, Holden, informed him of an internship with Innovate Durban. Although no tech positions were on offer, with the skills he had gained to date, he secured a role in project management. From initially providing tech support to colleagues as needed, to assisting with the launch and management of webinars, Andre’s contributions led to his promotion as Digital & Programs Coordinator. In this expanded role, he now incorporates software and website development along with ongoing tech support, effectively carving out a unique position within the business.
“I’d often focus on the fact that I never had the skills, or experience, having never done something before but then I learnt to at least attempt it because then there is a chance to succeed. Be comfortable being afraid in new situations. When we fail, we learn, if we don’t even try, we have no opportunity to learn.”
Andre fondly recalls the profound impact Aurelia, Innovate Durban’s CEO, had on his professional growth. Her deliberate encouragement of his vast skills played a pivotal role in his seamless integration into the business and the subsequent emergence of his role, incorporating technology and digital solutions. He learnt what it felt like to have someone really invested in his growth. From early beginnings in a more administrative support role to today where Andre is involved in support for the vast array of programs, software prototyping for beneficiaries, digital literacy facilitation for the skills program and Innovate Durban/American Corner program, to in-house implementation of software applications and programs, website development and technical support at events – his immense growth in just two years is impressive.
“That drama class I was forced into, ended up giving me one of the greatest skills I have obtained. I am not afraid of public speaking. I can articulate my message to larger groups of people, and am comfortable in improvising when having to answer unexpected questions or anything that requires me to think on the fly confidently. But my biggest learning has been that that feeling of being uncomfortable in certain situations is actually growth and not something we should be resisting.”
The more challenging aspect of Andre’s role is how to technically problem solve within a budget constrained environment. But this self-taught, passionate, curious, outgoing, energetic, tech enthusiast, tackles each challenge with a positive attitude and a can-do spirit. He believes we should never shy away from asking questions, which is probably why he has an approachable demeanour that people find inviting and reassuring. He describes Innovate Durban as a sweetener in his career, doing what he loves to do for a living and making an impact while doing it. Andre believes that true success is not measured by wealth but rather by our ability to make a positive impact on others through acts of kindness. This is one tech-savvy individual that possesses an admirably high level of emotional intelligence – someone we could all benefit from having on our team!
Mikayla’s story on… finding empathy in business
Not everyone’s career unfolds according to plan. Sometimes life intervenes, redirecting our paths in ways we never anticipated, and those detours can lead us somewhere more meaningful than we ever imagined.
In grade seven, Mikayla stood in front of her class dressed as a lawyer, delivering an oral presentation on her future career. She’d researched thoroughly, presented confidently, and earned full marks. More importantly, she left that classroom with absolute certainty about her professional path. That certainty followed her through high school and into university… until life intervened. She was thrown with an unexpected curveball and financial realities shifted overnight. Mikayla had to make a difficult decision to drop out mid-degree, trading her law books for job applications. The grand plan dissolved into a more pressing need: earning a living.
“At first it was bittersweet because I had obviously lost something. I knew I would gain insight into what I actually wanted to do with my life. But at that point I had no idea. Up until then, I’d had tunnel vision for a career in law.”
The transition from student to the working world demanded more than a mindset shift. Mikayla entered the manufacturing sector, a typically cold, highly formalised environment where the focus on scale often overshadowed the individual. Working in HR within this context made the disconnect even more stark, but it also helped Mikayla recognise and own something fundamental about herself: she was an empath. That corporate coldness only strengthened her desire for a more human-centered workplace culture and with that realisation, an opportunity presented itself at Innovate Durban.
“Innovate Durban has the biggest heart. The empath in me was dying at my previous job, and now I’m in a place where I actually want to wake up every morning to go to work at a business whose CEO leads with compassion and consideration.”
As company administrator and the first point of contact at Innovate Durban, Mikayla works at what she describes as a vastly unique business: people-first, experience-driven, and built on selling a feeling. For Mikayla, it’s a place where she can live up to her potential in an environment fit for learning, growth, and contribution. The work comes with its challenges, but Mikayla explains that when your values align with the business’s values, the work becomes meaningful, the kind worth fighting for on the hard days. At Innovate Durban, that mission is improving lives through innovation and collaboration.
There’s a particular magic to Mikayla’s role: doing it well means staying invisible. No one notices the countless moving parts she’s coordinating, the details she’s anticipating, the crises she’s quietly preventing. She’s the person making sure all the pieces fit together seamlessly, so everyone else can do their best work without ever thinking about the logistics. She’s like the foundation of a building, entirely essential, holding everything up, yet unnoticed because it simply works. The lights stay on, the doors open, the systems work. It all seems effortless. Until you stop and realise: someone is making this happen. Someone is keeping this whole operation running smoothly. That someone is Mikayla.
Mikayla wears her heart on her sleeve. She’s fiery, caring, deeply empathetic, and when she cares about something – really cares – she becomes intensely focused, almost serious. Not to be underestimated, she’s a person with big feelings, through and through. In a role that is uniquely exposed to all facets of the business, her goal is clear: to continue to show up, deliver, and demonstrate what she’s capable of next. The initial path taken may not have gone to plan, but it brought her to exactly where she needed to be.
“I’ve ended up in such a wonderful and beautiful company. Sometimes I find myself waiting for the catch. What’s the catch? But there is none. It’s just how it is working here.”