Primrose innovator secures top spot at youth awards
'Placing third at the CIPC Youth Awards remains one of my most unforgettable milestones. It was an incredible moment being recognised on a national platform for something I've poured time, energy and passion into.
'When I received the call confirming I was among the top three, I was overcome with emotion; tears of joy were the only way to express what I felt,' said Sibeko.
ALSO READ: Women of influence get recognition at 2025 Women Awards
The recognition was humbling and empowering.
'While it was gratifying to be acknowledged, it also reminded me that this is just the beginning. The journey to making IP protection more accessible, especially for young, under-resourced innovators, is far from over.
'The award gave me a renewed sense of responsibility to continue building, improving and advocating for real, impactful solutions.'
Sibeko's award-winning innovation, SG Maziyah Enterprise IP Vault, is a digital platform that bridges the gap in IP protection.
It provides a secure digital footprint from the moment an idea is uploaded, offering fast, reliable and tamper-proof evidence of innovation.
This system makes it significantly harder for others to steal or falsely claim ownership, especially during crucial stages, such as pitching to investors or forming partnerships.
While similar technologies exist, Sibeko's focus is on affordability, accessibility and usability for creators often excluded from traditional IP systems.
ALSO READ: Central Gauteng Athletics awards sportsmen and women
Some of the platform's advanced features remain under wraps as he finalises patent protection, but he promises exciting developments ahead.
'I chose to focus on IP and counterfeit goods because I've seen how many young and small-scale innovators lose their ideas simply due to a lack of resources or awareness.
'Often, those with more influence or funding take credit for innovations that aren't theirs, leaving the true creators unrecognised and unrewarded,' he explained.
'Meanwhile, counterfeit goods continue to saturate the market, damaging the credibility of genuine entrepreneurs and eroding trust in local products. I wanted to create something that not only safeguards original ideas but also restores faith in authentic innovation, especially for those often overlooked.'
One of the biggest challenges Sibeko faced was balancing advanced technology with user-friendliness.
'I aimed to build a powerful yet user-friendly and affordable tool for youth, informal entrepreneurs and small businesses. Limited funding also posed obstacles, slowing progress at times. But through strategic planning, research and assembling a committed team, we stayed focused and resilient.'
Sibeko believes platforms like the CIPC Youth Awards are essential to nurturing SA's young talent.
ALSO READ: Local players scoop awards in annual event
'They offer much-needed visibility, encouragement and validation, particularly for those who lack access to major networks or funding. These platforms don't just celebrate innovation; they open doors to mentorship, collaboration, and investment.'
'Being recognised nationally boosted my innovation and confidence. It reaffirmed that the problem I'm solving is real and that my solution can make a difference.'
Balancing entrepreneurship with academics hasn't been easy, but Sibeko has managed to excel in both areas. He was honoured with the 2022 NWU Silver Wings Student Award, became a two-time Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education semi-finalist, and was a top-six finalist in the 2024 Schneider Electric Battery Innovation Challenge.
'In 2023, I was also the only SA finalist in the Work Across Borders programme, an achievement I carry with pride,' he added.
The next phase for the SG Maziyah Enterprise IP Vault includes finalising the prototype and securing complete patent protection. A pilot phase will follow, targeting youth entrepreneurs and informal innovators.
ALSO READ: Caxton journos represent at national awards
'We're also exploring strategic partnerships with universities, innovation hubs and small business support institutions.
'We aim to embed IP Vault into existing entrepreneurship development programmes, making IP protection a foundational step in every innovator's journey.'
Sibeko urges aspiring innovators to educate themselves about IP protection early and take practical steps, even on a limited budget.
'Start by documenting your ideas thoroughly. Date everything. Avoid oversharing publicly or with people you don't trust. Use non-disclosure agreements where possible and explore affordable IP options like provisional patents or copyright registration.'
Based on his own experience, he adds, 'Don't wait for the perfect moment or big funding to start protecting your work. Use what you have, stay consistent and keep learning.
ALSO READ: Best of Ekurhuleni Readers Choice Awards 2024
'Surround yourself with people who support your vision because, with the right network and persistence, your idea can go far.
'My broader ambition is to build scalable, inclusive solutions that empower under-resourced innovators not only in SA but across the continent.
'Through IP Vault, I hope to enable creators to protect, own, and benefit from their ideas, without financial or legal barriers.'
'Ultimately, I want to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs who understand the value of their creativity and are equipped with the tools to protect and grow it.'
To those with ideas but few resources, he says, 'Don't give up. The journey isn't easy, and not everyone can be trusted with your innovation. That's why protection must come first.
'Reach out to the CIPC via their verified platforms or email and ask how to begin the IP registration process. It's a vital step to make sure your idea remains yours.'
His long-term dream is for SG Maziyah Enterprise IP Vault to become the go-to platform for accessible and affordable IP protection and ownership validation in SA.
Sibeko is working on launching the company's website and building an official online presence.
For now, those interested in learning more, collaborating or offering support can contact him on 072 881 9259 or [email protected], Instagram: @Sicelo674 and TikTok: @maziyah_gman
Sibeko is pursuing his qualification to become a chartered accountant and hopes to combine his financial expertise with his entrepreneurial journey to help others develop sustainable, market-ready innovations.
At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
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The Citizen
16-07-2025
- The Citizen
Primrose innovator secures top spot at youth awards
Twenty-two-year-old Sicelo Sibeko from Primrose recently came third in the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission) CIPC Youth Awards for his innovation that tackles intellectual property (IP) protection and counterfeit goods, a milestone he describes as unforgettable. 'Placing third at the CIPC Youth Awards remains one of my most unforgettable milestones. It was an incredible moment being recognised on a national platform for something I've poured time, energy and passion into. 'When I received the call confirming I was among the top three, I was overcome with emotion; tears of joy were the only way to express what I felt,' said Sibeko. ALSO READ: Women of influence get recognition at 2025 Women Awards The recognition was humbling and empowering. 'While it was gratifying to be acknowledged, it also reminded me that this is just the beginning. The journey to making IP protection more accessible, especially for young, under-resourced innovators, is far from over. 'The award gave me a renewed sense of responsibility to continue building, improving and advocating for real, impactful solutions.' Sibeko's award-winning innovation, SG Maziyah Enterprise IP Vault, is a digital platform that bridges the gap in IP protection. It provides a secure digital footprint from the moment an idea is uploaded, offering fast, reliable and tamper-proof evidence of innovation. This system makes it significantly harder for others to steal or falsely claim ownership, especially during crucial stages, such as pitching to investors or forming partnerships. While similar technologies exist, Sibeko's focus is on affordability, accessibility and usability for creators often excluded from traditional IP systems. ALSO READ: Central Gauteng Athletics awards sportsmen and women Some of the platform's advanced features remain under wraps as he finalises patent protection, but he promises exciting developments ahead. 'I chose to focus on IP and counterfeit goods because I've seen how many young and small-scale innovators lose their ideas simply due to a lack of resources or awareness. 'Often, those with more influence or funding take credit for innovations that aren't theirs, leaving the true creators unrecognised and unrewarded,' he explained. 'Meanwhile, counterfeit goods continue to saturate the market, damaging the credibility of genuine entrepreneurs and eroding trust in local products. I wanted to create something that not only safeguards original ideas but also restores faith in authentic innovation, especially for those often overlooked.' One of the biggest challenges Sibeko faced was balancing advanced technology with user-friendliness. 'I aimed to build a powerful yet user-friendly and affordable tool for youth, informal entrepreneurs and small businesses. Limited funding also posed obstacles, slowing progress at times. But through strategic planning, research and assembling a committed team, we stayed focused and resilient.' Sibeko believes platforms like the CIPC Youth Awards are essential to nurturing SA's young talent. ALSO READ: Local players scoop awards in annual event 'They offer much-needed visibility, encouragement and validation, particularly for those who lack access to major networks or funding. These platforms don't just celebrate innovation; they open doors to mentorship, collaboration, and investment.' 'Being recognised nationally boosted my innovation and confidence. It reaffirmed that the problem I'm solving is real and that my solution can make a difference.' Balancing entrepreneurship with academics hasn't been easy, but Sibeko has managed to excel in both areas. He was honoured with the 2022 NWU Silver Wings Student Award, became a two-time Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education semi-finalist, and was a top-six finalist in the 2024 Schneider Electric Battery Innovation Challenge. 'In 2023, I was also the only SA finalist in the Work Across Borders programme, an achievement I carry with pride,' he added. The next phase for the SG Maziyah Enterprise IP Vault includes finalising the prototype and securing complete patent protection. A pilot phase will follow, targeting youth entrepreneurs and informal innovators. ALSO READ: Caxton journos represent at national awards 'We're also exploring strategic partnerships with universities, innovation hubs and small business support institutions. 'We aim to embed IP Vault into existing entrepreneurship development programmes, making IP protection a foundational step in every innovator's journey.' Sibeko urges aspiring innovators to educate themselves about IP protection early and take practical steps, even on a limited budget. 'Start by documenting your ideas thoroughly. Date everything. Avoid oversharing publicly or with people you don't trust. Use non-disclosure agreements where possible and explore affordable IP options like provisional patents or copyright registration.' Based on his own experience, he adds, 'Don't wait for the perfect moment or big funding to start protecting your work. Use what you have, stay consistent and keep learning. ALSO READ: Best of Ekurhuleni Readers Choice Awards 2024 'Surround yourself with people who support your vision because, with the right network and persistence, your idea can go far. 'My broader ambition is to build scalable, inclusive solutions that empower under-resourced innovators not only in SA but across the continent. 'Through IP Vault, I hope to enable creators to protect, own, and benefit from their ideas, without financial or legal barriers.' 'Ultimately, I want to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs who understand the value of their creativity and are equipped with the tools to protect and grow it.' To those with ideas but few resources, he says, 'Don't give up. The journey isn't easy, and not everyone can be trusted with your innovation. That's why protection must come first. 'Reach out to the CIPC via their verified platforms or email and ask how to begin the IP registration process. It's a vital step to make sure your idea remains yours.' His long-term dream is for SG Maziyah Enterprise IP Vault to become the go-to platform for accessible and affordable IP protection and ownership validation in SA. Sibeko is working on launching the company's website and building an official online presence. For now, those interested in learning more, collaborating or offering support can contact him on 072 881 9259 or [email protected], Instagram: @Sicelo674 and TikTok: @maziyah_gman Sibeko is pursuing his qualification to become a chartered accountant and hopes to combine his financial expertise with his entrepreneurial journey to help others develop sustainable, market-ready innovations. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
IOL News
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Graduates turn to side hustles amid rising unemployment in South Africa
Trapped by unemployment, South African youth are turning hustle into survival. Image: SoraAI South Africa is grappling with a rising youth unemployment crisis, prompting a new generation of graduates to seek innovative ways to survive and succeed within a failing job market. Tired of waiting for jobs that may never come, young South Africans are creating their own opportunities in the informal economy through side hustles, freelancing, and micro-enterprises. For 25-year-old Asive Sibeko, the journey from IT graduate to food hustler was not part of the plan, but it was necessary. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading 'I wouldn't say it's something I've always wanted to do; it's just something I did to survive in the long run,' said Sibeko, who holds both a diploma and an advanced diploma in ICT. After her internship ended in late 2024, job applications yielded no success, pushing him to start a small food business in June 2024. 'I cook beef tripe and steamed bread; the response I've been getting from students has been quite positive.' Sibeko's story is far from unique. In communities across the country, qualified graduates are turning to hustle economies not by choice, but by circumstance. Asive Sibeko, a university graduate, runs a food hustle at res after struggling to find a job. Image: Wendy Dondolo 'The system wasn't built for the informal hustler' That's according to Masindi Evans, the founder of Mas-Skincare Solution and Masindi Shoe Laundry, who has used social media platforms to reach clients and grow his brand. 'Truth: We're producing graduates with no income, while informal traders make money with no degree,' Evans wrote in a Facebook post. 'The system is rich, the people are poor, the system wasn't built for the informal hustler, you have to bend it or go around it.' 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Justin Durandt, Managing Director at Key Recruitment, says his company phased out its graduate division years ago. 'The graduate market has become increasingly saturated, and employers' expectations have shifted, prioritising prior experience or job readiness, even for entry-level roles,' he said. Sisand Madywathi started a hair business after struggling to find a job. Image: Wendy Dondolo For many, the hustle is not just about survival, it's also about maintaining a sense of dignity and mental stability. Clinical psychologist Dr Reitumetse Mashego urges young people to find healthier coping mechanisms in the face of unemployment. 'Finding healthier coping strategies such as exercise and seeking mental health intervention (there are free services), Getting involved in some community initiatives or volunteering to showcase what they can do,' she said. Dr Mashego also advises families to offer more than just sympathy. 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Resilience Amidst Crisis: South Africa's youth turn to hustles to survive and Thrive
Trapped by unemployment, South African youth are turning hustle into surviva Image: File In the face of South Africa's escalating youth unemployment crisis, a new generation of graduates is redefining what it means to survive and thrive in a broken system. Tired of waiting for jobs that may never come, young South Africans are creating their own opportunities in the informal economy through side hustles, freelancing, and micro-enterprises. For 25-year-old Asive Sibeko, the journey from IT graduate to food hustler was not part of the plan, but it was necessary. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading 'I wouldn't say it's something I've always wanted to do; it's just something I did to survive in the long run,' said Sibeko, who holds both a diploma and an advanced diploma in ICT. After her internship ended in late 2024, job applications yielded no success, pushing him to start a small food business in June 2024. 'I cook beef tripe and steamed bread; the response I've been getting from students has been quite positive.' Sibeko's story is far from unique. In communities across the country, qualified graduates are turning to hustle economies not by choice, but by circumstance. Asive Sibeko, a university graduate, runs a food hustle at res after struggling to find a job. Image: Wendy Dondolo 'The system wasn't built for the informal hustler' That's according to Masindi Evans, the founder of Mas-Skincare Solution and Masindi Shoe Laundry, who has used social media platforms to reach clients and grow his brand. 'Truth: We're producing graduates with no income, while informal traders make money with no degree,' Evans wrote in a Facebook post. 'The system is rich, the people are poor, the system wasn't built for the informal hustler, you have to bend it or go around it.' He encourages youth to build community networks, teach each other, and use platforms like TikTok and WhatsApp to bypass gatekeeping and find customers directly. Sisanda Madywathi, a young woman who recently started a home-based hair business, echoed similar frustrations. 'I saw that if I don't sell anything, I'll never get money. I feel time is running out for me and my family is looking up to me,' she said, highlighting the emotional burden many young people carry. A growing number of graduates feel betrayed by the promise of education. While degrees open doors for some, many find that job specifications demand experience they simply don't have. 'I feel like the education system did not prepare me for the real job market,' said Sibeko. 'Most companies do require a lot of experience from fresh graduates which is very unfair, that is like the biggest reason why many graduates can't find work.' This 'experience trap' is compounded by a saturated job market. Justin Durandt, Managing Director at Key Recruitment, says his company phased out its graduate division years ago. 'The graduate market has become increasingly saturated, and employers' expectations have shifted, prioritising prior experience or job readiness, even for entry-level roles,' he said. Sisand Madywathi started a hair business after struggling to find a job. Image: Wendy Dondolo For many, the hustle is not just about survival, it's also about maintaining a sense of dignity and mental stability. Clinical psychologist Dr Reitumetse Mashego urges young people to find healthier coping mechanisms in the face of unemployment. 'Finding healthier coping strategies such as exercise and seeking mental health intervention (there are free services), Getting involved in some community initiatives or volunteering to showcase what they can do,' she said. Dr Mashego also advises families to offer more than just sympathy. 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