The finalists for the African ICT Achievers Awards, which recognise professionals and companies that are making a significant contribution in the ICT sector, were announced at a breakfast in Bryanston this morning.
More than 700 nominations were received from all over SA and in the rest of Africa. The entrants were nominated by peers in the ICT sector in recognition of the contributions they have made to the industry.
"The quality of the entries received for this year`s awards has raised not only the credibility of the awards, but also the importance of recognising individuals and companies that are making great strides in the ICT sector," says Jane Mosebi, MD of Forge Ahead BMI-T, which launched the awards in partnership with the Department of Communication.
The categories of finalists included: youth innovation, top black woman, top individual, public sector CIO, top teacher or educator, creative use of ICT in education, bridging the digital divide in Africa, e-government award, top black ICT company, top black ICT SMME, most progressive company of the year and best African-born company growing across its borders.
"This means everything to me," says Mandla Njokwane, finalist in the youth innovation category. "It shows there is a way forward to what I am doing. I can become something."
Njokwane taught himself to use a computer, and is helping children to become familiar with technology.
Blanche Mogorosi, State IT Agency program manager, is one of the finalists in the top black woman in ICT category, an award which Mosebi explains is important because there remain barriers to entry for black women in this industry.
"It is good that people are getting recognition," says Mogorosi. "It will act as motivation for others in future."
Panel interviews will take place over the next few weeks, and the winners will be announced on 8 November.
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