On Friday, 10 September 2021, young technology entrepreneur Rivo Mhlari, together with Nedbank, hosted the sixth and final YouthX Live event for 2021. With the focus on technology and innovation, Mhlari gave insights on the current state of the Fourth Industrial Revolution in Africa, and trends and opportunities that are waiting for young people in the tech industry. As part of his masterclass, the 27-year-old co-founder and CEO of Rikatec shared his journey: he spoke about how he started his business at the age of 23, the importance of mentorship and networking, and how to turn an idea into a business and more.
The sixth instalment of YouthX Live had three segments (Money Talks, TalkX and Power Panel) and also featured other young leaders in the industry, including Chipo Mushwana, who is the Executive of Emerging Innovation at Nedbank; Alexandria Procter, co-founder of DigsConnect.com; and Sam Wright, e-sports host and shoutcaster. As part of the Power Panel, the speakers discussed their own entrepreneurial journeys, lessons and views on technology and innovation in South Africa.
Speaking on Africa’s previous and current landscape, Mhlari said that Africa has essentially missed the opportunities of the Second and Third Industrial Revolutions. ‘The continent is home to 16,3% of humanity but home to less than 1% of the world’s billion-dollar companies and only about 4% of global GDP. Africa cannot afford, nor does it have to miss the possibilities of the Fourth Industrial Revolution,’ he said. ‘Smart nations are being created – there’s investment in infrastructure, ensuring that people are getting connected. Although we’re moving at a slower pace, innovation hubs and technology labs are being built.’
YouthX is a programme launched in March 2021 and designed to unlock young people’s potential by giving them the opportunity to learn from other young changemakers like Mhlari, Sho Madjozi, Rich Mnisi, Theo Baloyi and more, who are well on their way to becoming leaders in their respective fields.
‘We are exceptionally delighted to have hosted such an informative and insightful final YouthX Live; Rivo is truly a changemaker and inspiration to the youth. We hope that young people have learnt and drawn inspiration not only from Rivo but all our changemakers over the past seven months. The past two years have been difficult for the country, especially for young people with high unemployment rates,’ said Nedbank’s Group Executive for Marketing and Corporate Affairs, Khensani Nobanda. ‘We have received a good response from the youth of South Africa through this programme and our hope is that they’re now even more inspired and ready to unlock their potential. We also urge those between the ages of 18 and 25 to enter their work for the 2021 YouthX Awards, for a chance to win life-changing prizes and opportunities that will help them in their businesses and careers,’ she said.