The EPF Tech Awards 2023, held on Saturday, November 11th, proved to be an extraordinary celebration of technological brilliance and innovation, marking a pivotal moment in the recognition of outstanding achievements in the South African tech industry. The event, organized by the Empire Partner Foundation (EPF), transformed into a vibrant night filled with electric energy and a sense of camaraderie among tech enthusiasts, professionals, and visionaries.
GRATITUDE TO SPONSORS AND PARTNERS
The EPF Tech Awards owes its success to the generous support of its sponsors, whose commitment to fostering innovation played a pivotal role. We extend heartfelt thanks to the National Youth Development Agency, Huawei, Unathisiyanda Logistic Solutions, EPF Tech Fund, the Department of Science and Innovation, Acorn Fintech, Mail and Guardian, 919 FM, ProfitShare Partners, Swiss Embassy, Paypoint, MICT SETA, and the EPF Choir for their invaluable contributions. Their commitment reflects a shared vision of propelling South Africa into the forefront of the global tech landscape.
In the spirit of fostering innovation, the EPF Tech Awards 2024 will introduce new categories that align with the dynamic tech landscape. These categories will be designed to capture emerging trends and recognize groundbreaking advancements in the industry.
THE EPF YOUTH CHOIR: A MUSICAL CELEBRATION OF COMMUNITY
The EPF Youth Choir enchanted the audience with their breathtaking performance, showcasing not only their musical prowess but also emphasizing a core philosophy of the EPF Tech Awards – it’s not just about teaching and developing, but about being an integral part of a community.
Their harmonious melodies resonated through the venue, creating an atmosphere of unity and togetherness. Beyond the enchanting notes, the EPF Youth Choir symbolized the community spirit fostered by the EPF Tech Awards. The choir members, drawn from diverse backgrounds, sang not just with skill but with a shared sense of purpose and camaraderie.
This musical interlude served as a reminder that the EPF Tech Awards go beyond individual accomplishments. They are a celebration of collective progress, a testament to the strength that comes from a community that learns, grows, and thrives together. The EPF Youth Choir, through their beautiful performance, embodied the ethos of collaboration and community building that lies at the heart of the EPF Tech Awards.
INSIGHTFUL GUEST SPEAKERS
The evening was enriched by the presence of our distinguished guest speakers, Jay Zhou, Managing Director of Huawei Cloud, and Dimakatso Masiteng. Jay Zhou’s insights into the future of technology and Huawei’s commitment to innovation resonated with the audience. Dimakatso Masiteng’s perspectives on the evolving role of technology in shaping our society were both enlightening and thought-provoking.
In 2024, the EPF Tech Awards will continue to attract influential guest speakers who are at the forefront of the global tech landscape. Their insights will provide attendees with a broader understanding of the global trends and opportunities within the tech industry.
CELEBRATING SOUTH AFRICAN TALENT
Founder of EPF, Nathan Mariemuthu, expressed gratitude to all attendees, sponsors, and participants for their dedication to advancing technology in South Africa. In his impassioned speech, Mariemuthu highlighted the importance of innovation, acknowledging the incredible talent that exists within the country. He emphasized the growth opportunities for the tech industry and commended individuals and organizations for making a significant impact.
CEO JOANNA GOVENDER’S ADDRESS: SHINING A SPOTLIGHT ON YOUTH TALENTS
The EPF Tech Fund CEO Joanna Govender, in a poignant address, shone a spotlight on the remarkable youth talents and tech initiatives that sculpted a brighter South Africa during the EPF Tech Awards event. The CEO acknowledged and applauded the trailblazers who not only shaped the future but also inspired countless others to follow in their footsteps.
The CEO expressed a keen awareness of the formidable challenges that startups encounter. During the event, it was highlighted that the EPF Tech Awards were not merely about recognition; they served as a vital platform for growth. Emerging tech enterprises were granted the opportunity to accelerate their development, received invaluable mentorship, and gained access to resources that were indispensable for their journey to flourish in an intensely competitive landscape.
As we look ahead to 2024, the EPF Tech Awards will redouble efforts to support and celebrate emerging talent. New initiatives will be introduced to provide mentorship, resources, and exposure for aspiring tech professionals and startups.
LOOKING AHEAD
As the curtain falls on the EPF Tech Awards 2023, Empire Partner Foundation looks forward to expanding the event in the coming years. The organization remains committed to showcasing and celebrating the immense talent in South Africa, fostering an environment where innovation thrives, and providing a platform for networking and collaboration within the tech ecosystem.
