WSU Students Break Into SA’s Top 30 Young Innovators

Walter Sisulu University celebrated another major entrepreneurship milestone on 21 November 2025 when three of its students ranked among South Africa’s Top 30 Emerging Entrepreneurs. The Young African Entrepreneurs Institute announced the results at its national finale, where one WSU innovator placed in the Top 3.

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What Happened?

Three Walter Sisulu University students advanced from the national Top 100 innovators into the elite Top 30 Emerging Entrepreneurs list. Their projects span agriculture, fashion, and renewable energy.

The standout achievement came from Mzwakhe Mbowane, founder of Bila Renewables, who secured 3rd place and a R20,000 prize.

The other finalists included:

• Ncedo Ntsabo – Qombe Organic Liquid Fertilizer
• Bonolo Motloung – Asake Wear

The awards marked another strong performance by WSU at the Young African Entrepreneurs Institute finale.

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Official Response

WSU leaders praised the students for raising the university’s national profile.

The university’s Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship Coordinator/Manager, part of the Student Government and Leadership Development (SGLD) division, received a Lifetime Achievement Award for exceptional service to youth entrepreneurship.

“This recognition shows the impact our students and leadership continue to make in South Africa’s innovation space,” a WSU representative said.

Community Impact

The three projects emphasized solutions in key sectors such as sustainable farming, local manufacturing, and clean energy. Students and youth groups across the Eastern Cape say the recognition motivates them to pursue business ideas and enter national competitions.

Local entrepreneurs also expressed hope that the spotlight will attract investment into student-led start-ups.