My Entrepreneurial Journey in Digital Transformation

A Long-Standing Vision for Business

I have always had a vision for business, constantly thinking of ways to solve problems and create opportunities. Even before attending university, I was full of ideas, exploring ways to build something meaningful. After completing my matric, I pursued a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting at Rhodes University, ready to turn ideas into impact.

Discovering Digital Tools and Early Challenges

In my first year, Computer Science 112 (CS112) introduced me to HTML and CSS for the first time. It was my first exposure to computers and programming, and while it fascinated me, I struggled with it and eventually had to repeat the course. What I didn’t realize then was that this challenge would plant the seeds for my future as a digital entrepreneur.

During this time, I also discovered Microsoft Word and Excel, tools I had never encountered before. Over time, these skills became part of my expertise, and today, I help others use them effectively. Even though I didn’t excel in CS112, passing with less than 60%, my curiosity for web development and formulas never faded. I spent hours building offline static pages, not knowing then that these were foundational skills for future website development.

Resilience in the Face of Academic Struggles

However, my growing obsession with digital learning began to distract me from my core studies. By June 2016, I received a G7 warning for poor academic performance, and by December. I was placed on academic probation and faced exclusion if I didn’t complete my degree in 2017.

This became a turning point. I focused, completed my degree in 2017, and went on to earn a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in 2018 and an Honours in Economics in 2019. Today, I hold a Master’s degree in Economics with a specialization in Financial Markets. This journey taught me resilience, adaptability, and the power of perseverance.

My First Venture: Drivary

In 2020, I launched Drivary, a food delivery platform designed to connect customers with local restaurants and drivers. It served students and small businesses that couldn’t afford major platforms. Over two years, I refined its operations, but when I launched it fully in 2022, I faced significant challenges. I didn’t have my own delivery vehicle, relying on outsourced drivers, which led to inconsistent service. My lack of marketing skills also made customer acquisition difficult.

These challenges showed me that marketing was my biggest weakness. Determined to grow, I enrolled in a digital marketing course. During one project, the instructor said:

“If you know how to build websites, you can use digital marketing skills to offer services to businesses.”

That moment changed everything and Digital Optad was born.

The Birth and Growth of Digital Optad

I officially launched Digital Optad in 2022, offering website design and social media marketing. As I learned more, I expanded the company to include:

• AI-Powered Apps — Including chatbots, WhatsApp automation, and predictive analytics. You can also check the AI-Apps Division website.

• Google Business Profile Registration — Helping businesses increase visibility.

• Flyer & Post Design Services — For branding and social media content creation.

• Consultation Services — Guiding startups, SMEs, and student entrepreneurs on their digital journeys.

I introduced a cost-reduction payment model, allowing clients to pay small upfront fees and monthly installments, making professional digital solutions accessible to those with limited resources.

Lifelong Learning and Impact

For me, learning has never been about recognition but impact. I have completed numerous entrepreneurship programs in financial management, business development, leadership, digital marketing, and AI integration, giving me the tools to help others scale their businesses.

Leadership and Community Engagement

In 2020, I ran for SRC Treasurer, with a vision to use student entrepreneurship to generate university funds. Though I didn’t win, the experience sharpened my leadership and strategic thinking.

I served as Chairperson of the Rhodes University First Aid Club (RUFAC) in 2021, where I designed the club’s first-ever official logo, which was assessed, approved, and is still used today.

As a Sub-Warden and Senior Student at Winchester House, I co-authored the Winchester House Ranger Handbook with Asakhe Cuntsulana. The proposal was initially approved by Prof. Ferdi Botha (a former warden), and the final version was accepted by Dr. Yusuf Motara, the current warden. This handbook has been distributed to first-year students and parents since 2019. The Winchester Rangers Handbook is a comprehensive guide designed to help first-year students and returning residents at Winchester House adjust to residence life, understand university expectations, and embrace values of respect, brotherhood, and academic excellence. It introduces students to house rules, dining hall etiquette, academic guidance, and leadership principles, fostering personal growth and community involvement.

I am also honored to have received the Resident Merit Scholarship, awarded for positive contributions to residence life, Allan Webb Hall, and the Makhanda community.

Ethical Leadership & Social Impact

I believe leadership is about impact, not recognition. My leadership philosophy is built on:
✔ Empathy & Compassion — Helping entrepreneurs with limited resources access digital services.
✔ Integrity & Transparency — Offering clear pricing and honest solutions.
✔ Resilience & Adaptability — Learning from failure and using setbacks to grow.

My Recognitions and Achievements

🏆 Rhodes University & Allan Gray Centre for Leadership Ethics Top 120 Student Entrepreneurship Award (2024) — For innovation and impact in student entrepreneurship.
🏆 Investec Rhodes Top 100 Student Leadership Award (2019) — Recognizing academic and leadership excellence.
🏆 Outstanding Community Service Recognition — For contributions in mentorship, health awareness, and academic development.
🏆 LeadEx (Leadership Executive Consulting), Guiding Leaders, Students, and Professionals Toward Excellence
At LeadEx Consulting, I offer expert mentorship and consulting services designed to empower aspiring leaders, business professionals, and students at all levels. My goal is to help you excel academically, professionally, and personally with practical guidance and hands-on support.

Academic Support Services
Assisting with MBA, Commerce, and Business Modules — From undergraduate to Honours and Master’s level.

1. Document Structuring & Formatting — Including professional formatting, creating automated tables of content, correcting alignment, and proper indentation.
2. Accounting Support & Tutoring — Helping students grasp accounting concepts with clear, practical explanations.
3. Microsoft Excel Training — From beginner to advanced formulas, helping students and professionals master Excel for data analysis and reporting.

Why Trust Digital Optad Under My Leadership

I am a social entrepreneur committed to:
✔ Empowering startups, SMEs, and entrepreneurs with affordable digital solutions.
✔ Leading with transparency, empathy, and impact.
✔ Remaining resilient and adaptive, building sustainable businesses from lessons learned.

My Vision

I am committed to making digital tools accessible through affordability for all businesses, especially those with limited resources. Through Digital Optad, I will keep offering the latest quality digital solutions at cost-effective prices, while also empowering aspiring leaders and entrepreneurs who prioritize performance through guidance and mentoring. 

One idea can change a community, and I am committed to helping others turn their ideas into impact.