16-07-2025
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.
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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.
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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.
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'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.
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'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.
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'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.
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