Back from left, Simamnkele Draai, Ongeziwe Mamane, Sade Prinsloo, Dr Mthokozisi Ntuli, Emihle Mgwatyu and Lebogang Lebeloane. Front, Tamara Muzondo, Katekani Mabunda, Dr Chuene Semono, Nicole Louw and Masesi Moloi.
The expo brought together the nation’s brightest young minds in entrepreneurship and social impact, and the Mandela University team showcased a dynamic blend of innovation, creativity, and social consciousness.
Circular Care: Emihle Mgwatyu and Tamara Muzondo; Naturally Nirvana: Katekani Mabunda and Nicole Louw; Soi Milan: Ezethu Sivuku and Ntsikelelo Gcelu
Leading their lineup was Naturally Nirvana, a sustainable, plant-based haircare brand led by Nicole Louw and Katekani Mabunda. With products designed for sensitive scalps and all hair types, the venture impressed judges with its commitment to eco-friendly beauty and commercial potential.
The mobile app Circular Care by Tamara Muzondo and Emihle Mgwatyu emerged as a promising solution in the Early-Stage Innovation category, putting the power of natural healing into users’ hands.
It also provides access to trusted home remedies while helping reduce pressure on public health facilities. Judges lauded the app’s potential to democratise health knowledge, with results expected later this month.
Rounding off their impressive showcase was Soi Milan, an edutech platform that reimagines exam preparation through interactive, game-based learning with team members Ezethu Sivuku and Ntsikelelo Gcelu.
The project made waves in the MTN Digital Innovation Challenge, earning a spot among the Top 15 national winners. The team walked away with R25,000 in seed funding, a Lenovo laptop, and branded gear to support the platform’s continued growth.
Dr Mthokozisi Ntuli, Sade Prinsloo and Dr Chuene Semono
Mentors fueling these student-led successes with their support were Dr Chuene Semono, Sade Prinsloo and Dr Mthokozisi Ntuli.
They helped shape each pitch, refine business models, and inspire the confidence that carried the team through the competition, demonstrating Ubuntu.