Discover The Driving Force Behind Digital Skills Africa

Preshantha is an experienced Admitted Attorney (LLB), University Kwa-Zulu Natal focused in Law. A seasoned Office Manager with a demonstrated history of working in the security and investigations industry. Skilled in Security Management, Legal Advice, Forensic Analysis, Management, and Counterintelligence.

Bonga is an experienced Business Executive with extensive knowledge, skills and experience of more than 19 years in Governance, Risk, Audit, Finance, Acquisitions and Mergers, Ethics Management, and Compliance. Bonga’s business and commercial experience span over 12 years in the Retail Industry having worked for the South African Retail giant Massmart, which was bought by global retailer Walmart. Bonga headed up the Group Finance Audit Function and central head-office audits within the Group Audit function and has led several Due Diligence reviews that included acquisitions of many businesses by Massmart during its growth phase.

Bonga subsequently founded Achemar, a professional audit and advisory consulting business established primarily to provide maximum value to its clients by leveraging the wealth of experience that she attained as an assurance provider and a Commercial Executive.

Passionate about technology transformation, tech start-ups and contributing towards making a positive impact in society, Clayton has 20 years of experience in technology and learning.

He currently serves as Director of Strategic Missions and Partnerships at Google Cloud. His previous roles include Managing Director and General Manager of Cisco SSA, where he was responsible for running Cisco's operations in Sub-Saharan Africa, spanning 31 countries. He has also served as a board member of Cisco Technology and Services, Cisco Systems South Africa and Cisco Capital.

Jezeiyn is an aspiring industry leader and corporate entrepreneur with a strong track record in social impact, digital transformation, and ESG across Africa and global markets. He has led key initiatives such as Digital Skills Africa, the Cisco Networking Academy, and digital transformation programs within the education sector, all aimed at empowering individuals with the skills of tomorrow. Previously, Jezeiyn worked at NTT Data, where he gained extensive experience in driving digital transformation, sustainability, and business innovation. Jezeiyn is focused on bridging the digital divide, fostering small business development, and equipping South Africa’s youth with the skills needed to thrive in the future of work. His corporate experience spans US, EMEA, and APJ markets, where he has engaged with Fortune 500 C-Suite executives to drive strategic ESG and social impact initiatives. Passionate about people and technology, Jezeiyn is dedicated to ensuring that social impact efforts translate into tangible economic opportunities. His expertise in ESG, specifically social impact, positions him as a key advocate for initiatives that drive long-term sustainability, inclusive growth, and economic progress in emerging markets.

Meet Liso, our creative force behind Digital Skills Africa’s social media presence! Liso’s professional journey commenced as an Architectural Technologist, where she honed her technical skills and cultivated adaptability in ever-changing environments. Fueled by a desire to explore new horizons, she made a strategic pivot into IT, leveraging her architectural background to bring a unique perspective to the world of technology.

Driven by a relentless pursuit of innovation and flair for strategic communication, Liso is now carving her path in the digital space as a Social Media Co-Ordinator, armed with a diverse skill set and a commitment to delivering impactful solutions in an ever changing professional environment.

A dedicated and adaptable individual with a passion for youth development, technology, and community upliftment. Committed to using modern tools and teamwork to create positive change, empower young people, and build stronger communities.

My name is Tare Katayi. I am a passionate and dedicated academy instructor with a commitment to fostering a love for learning and empowering students. My mission is to inspire curiosity, critical thinking and personal growth. My purpose is to leverage technology to make a positive impact in the world. I fundamentally believe that technology and education are equalisers and I am pursuing my technical certification in Cyber Security to teach my community, largely marginalised, how to safely access the internet. I currently hold a Cybersecurity Operations Associate Certification from Cisco and I am continually studying to become a Cyber Security Subject Matter Expert.