The MTN Foundation is currently running its second edition of its MTN Women in Digital Business Challenge, pledging R1 million ($53,600) to empower female digital entrepreneurs in South Africa.
It is aiming to help women grow their tech businesses and make their mark in the male-dominated ICT industry.
Ten women have already been selected as finalists, each receiving R100,000 ($5,360) in prize money for working capital and business investments and the challenge will be running until December 2023. Included on the top ten list, are Ntumi Mokhasipe, Elizabeth Booi, Sibusisiwe Sithole, Aasiyah Adams, Evelyn Maruping, Neliswa Jilimba, Mamello Mofokeng, Mphele Yelane, Khathu Maphari, and Zandile Mboshane.
As much as women 50% of South Africa’s population is comprised of women, there is still a very low female representation in the ICT sector. The telecoms company is seeking to change this by fostering women’s talent and highlighting their potential for achievement in science, tech and business.
“We hope their success will inspire other women to start businesses or pursue tech careers,” said MTN Foundation Senior Manager Lesimola Selepe.
The challenge was open to female graduates of MTN’s small business accelerator program targeting ICT SMMEs. From initial applications, ten finalists were chosen after a competitive two-day pitching event last month.
Entering a four-month mentorship program to hone their skills, the top entrepreneurs will be receiving expert coaching on business growth, marketing strategies, financial management and more to set up their ventures for success.
Arthur Mukhuvha who is the MTN Foundation GM, mentioned that 40% of ICT SMMEs trained through their accelerator program are women-led. “This challenge allows us to measure our impact on sustainability, growth, product design and more for women business owners,” he explained. He added that the 2022 challenge showed women excelling in the demanding ICT space while also making positive societal contributions through tech education initiatives.
Through funding, mentoring and capacity building, MTN aims to unleash the potential of South Africa’s female digital pioneers. The Women in Digital Business Challenge shines a light on women as leaders driving social change through technology entrepreneurship.
