A new wave of skilled professionals and entrepreneurs – supported by the Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority (EWSETA), working with African Women in Energy and Power (AWEaP) and Wits Business School (WBS) – is shaping South Africa’s energy future. Among these emerging leaders is Khanyi Kumalo, Founder of Green Products Consulting and a graduate of the AWEaP Entrepreneurs Masterclass, who is driving change by integrating innovative solutions across industries to facilitate a sustainable energy landscape.
Through the EWSETA-supported programme, Kumalo has refined her business strategy and expanded her vision across several sectors in the green economy. Initially focused on renewable energy and green hydrogen, her business has evolved to include opportunities in waste-to-energy, hydro, gas and coal. “This programme pushed me beyond a linear way of thinking. I’ve learned how to apply my knowledge more broadly and strategically,” Kumalo says.
One of the key insights for her came from recognising the potential in the waste sector, an area she had not considered previously. Inspired by innovators and experts in the programme, Kumalo is preparing to launch a pilot project that will convert organic waste into bioenergy. She aims to develop the initiative in collaboration with municipalities and community stakeholders.
The masterclass also introduced her to financial modelling and market analysis, which enabled her to assess new opportunities with greater precision. More than adding to her technical knowledge, Kumalo credits the programme with giving her the confidence to reimagine the scope and impact of her enterprise.
EWSETA’s support of initiatives like this reflects its broader commitment to building an inclusive and skilled energy workforce. This encompasses bursaries for young women in STEM fields, mentorship opportunities and targeted leadership development programmes. All these initiatives are aligned with South Africa’s Just Energy Transition (JET), the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) and the National Development Plan (NDP).
“We need new voices and perspectives. Programmes like these ensure that more women, whether seasoned professionals or newcomers, can access the tools and networks they need to lead in the energy sector,” says Kumalo.
The AWEaP Entrepreneurs Masterclass forms part of the organisation’s wider JET Skills Development Programme, which has already supported 60 entrepreneurs and trained 30 utility professionals. “Khanyi's journey shows how targeted skills development can unlock innovation and economic opportunity. Our vision at EWSETA is to ensure South Africa’s energy transition is inclusive, and that women like Khanyi can become leaders in this transformation,” says Mpho Mookapele, CEO of EWSETA.
By empowering women with the relevant skills, knowledge and connections, EWSETA and its partners are actively responding to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s call to fast-track energy solutions and create meaningful opportunities for youth and emerging professionals. As Kumalo’s story illustrates, when entrepreneurs are empowered with the right skills and networks, they can become catalysts for change.
For more information visit: www.ewseta.org.za
