Rapelang Rabana
Rapelang Rabana is an internationally acclaimed technology entrepreneur and education advocate, recognised for her groundbreaking contributions to various sectors, including telecoms, education, and financial services. Before the age of 30, she graced the cover of Forbes Africa and was named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum. Her innovative spirit earned her the title of ‘Entrepreneur for the World’ by the World Entrepreneurship Forum and recognition as a ‘Fast Company Maverick’.
A graduate of the University of Cape Town, Rapelang holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Science with an Honours in Computer Science. Her entrepreneurial journey began with her first startup, Yeigo, which focused on mobile technology. She later served as the Chief Digital Officer at South Africa’s largest IT company, demonstrating her prowess as a digital native.
As the Founder of Rekindle Learning, Rapelang enables organisations to codify and share institutional knowledge, enhancing business performance in an evolving work environment. She is also the Co-CEO of Imagine Worldwide, a nonprofit operating in seven African countries that delivers tablet-based learning programs aimed at improving literacy and numeracy among young children.
In addition to her roles in education and technology, Rapelang is a Founding Partner at FFWD Innovation, where she accelerates innovation agendas within large corporations. In 2021, she co-founded Grindstone Ventures and the Norrsken Impact Accelerator, initiatives designed to support high-impact entrepreneurs across the continent.
Her contributions to the field have not gone unnoticed; she has received numerous accolades, including a spot on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list, the Choiseul 100 Africa, and the Oprah Magazine O Power List. Rapelang also serves on the boards of the African Leadership University, Standard Chartered Bank Botswana, and Imagine Worldwide, further solidifying her commitment to driving socio-economic change through technology and innovation. As a sought-after speaker, she continues to inspire organisations and individuals with her vision for a more adaptable and productive future.