In a special 2019 series, Compelo is shining a spotlight on South Africa. Here, Dan Robinson profiles some of the emerging entrepreneurs in South Africa, who are helping to grow the economy of both country and African continent.

As the birthplace of Elon Musk, South Africa is associated with one of the world’s most prolific entrepreneurs as the SpaceX and Tesla founder continues to capture headlines. But look beyond the eccentric entrepreneur-turned-CEO and there’s a thriving eco-system packed with aspiring businessmen and women.

We take a look at some of the rainbow nation’s up-and-coming entrepreneurs.

South African entrepreneurs Rivo Mhlari

As co-founder and CEO of Rikatec, Rivoningo Mhlari has created technology that uses predictive analytics to keep vehicles on the road.Rikatec’s information management system provides real-time predictive maintenance for vehicle fleets, while monitoring driving habits, wear and tear, and breakdown detection.

Rivo initially set up the company, based in Randburg on the outskirts of Johannesburg, as a marketing consultancy to host events and advise small businesses on strategy.

He used the money he made to develop prototypes of the data analytics software that he had initially pitched to 11 manufacturers and insurance firms – only to have been rejected.

After making it a success in reducing operational costs for fleet managers, the 24-year-old was named in the Forbes 30 Under 30 list of young technology entrepreneurs for Africa in June 2018

He was also listed as one of ten young African technology entrepreneurs to look out for by IT News Africa the following month.