Theme: "Beyond Limits: The Power of Critical Thinking and Personal Growth"

TEDxJabavu 2025: Beyond Limits
TEDxJabavu is more than just an event—it’s a movement dedicated to sparking meaningful conversations, inspiring action, and challenging the way we think. Under this year’s theme, "Beyond Limits: The Power of Critical Thinking and Personal Growth," we bring together a diverse lineup of speakers, visionaries, and changemakers who are redefining boundaries in their fields.

From thought-provoking talks to immersive experiences, TEDxJabavu 2025 will explore how critical thinking and personal development shape the way we navigate life, solve problems, and drive innovation. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, student, creative, or leader, this event will challenge your perspectives and empower you with ideas worth spreading.

Join us for a day of inspiration, connection, and transformation as we push beyond limits and unlock new possibilities.

Johannesburg
Johannesburg
Johannesburg, Gauteng, 2000
South Africa

Boitumelo Makgoba

Founder of Fensti Data Technologies

Boitumelo Makgoba is a visionary leader in Data Science, AI, and Predictive Analytics, driving data-driven innovation and business transformation. As Founder & CEO of Fetsi Data Technologies, she leads AI strategies, data monetisation, and agritech initiatives. Through Fetsi Impact Hub, she empowers entry-level IT professionals and unemployed graduates with career pathways. She also champions agritech training, equipping farmers with climate-smart skills for economic resilience. Recognised among SA’s Top 10 Tech Leaders, Top 100 CIOs, and Top 50 Under 50 (UN Women), Boitumelo is committed to democratising knowledge and opportunity. At TEDxJabavu 2025, she will share her mission to empower IT professionals and agripreneurs through inclusive platforms that drive growth and social impact.

Celamusa Thusi

Founder of Eswatini Coding School

Celumusa Thusi is an accomplished IT specialist, entrepreneur, and technology advocate from Eswatini, with a deep commitment to driving innovation within the country's tech sector. He currently serves as the Managing Director of HOPEMAT Ltd., where he leads the development of secure payment systems, digital solutions, and custom software across various industries. As the founder of Swazi Smart Data, Celumusa is focused on providing impactful, digital-first solutions to enhance Eswatini's technology infrastructure, particularly in fintech, e-commerce, and software development. In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures, Celumusa serves as a board director at the Royal Science and Technology Park (RSTP), where he supports technological growth and fosters innovation. His leadership extends to mentoring and judging in key events, such as the MTN Hackathon, where he evaluates and encourages groundbreaking digital solutions.

Daniel Miller

Founder of Dan Miller Wellness

Dan Miller is an internationally renowned nutrition and fitness expert, dedicated to developing comprehensive health and wellness programs tailored for individuals from all walks of life, including busy executives and professional athletes. His mission centers on promoting vibrant longevity, aiming to prevent disease and disorder through sustainable lifestyle changes. In recognition of his impactful work, Dan was honored as Speaker of the Year by members of Vistage, the world's leading executive coaching organization. His engaging and interactive presentations have inspired thousands to achieve permanent, life-changing results Through his company, Dan Miller Wellness, he offers a range of resources, including speaking engagements, workplace wellness programs, and curated health products, all aimed at helping individuals lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Dr Suzan Sujay Johnson Cook

Faith Leader, Diplomat, Author, and International Religious Freedom Advocate.

Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook is a trailblazing faith leader, diplomat, and author. She served as the first African-American and first woman U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom. A former White House advisor to President Clinton, she was also the first female senior pastor in the American Baptist Churches USA and the first woman chaplain for the NYPD. She founded the Bronx Christian Fellowship and has taught at Harvard and New York Theological Seminary. A renowned speaker and author of multiple books, she advocates for faith, leadership, and human rights globally.

Joel Ellis

Leadership Coach, Speaker, and Personal Development Expert.

Joel Ellis is a leadership coach, speaker, and personal development expert with over 50 years of experience. As the founder of Foundations For Solid Success, he helps individuals and organizations unlock their full potential through strategic coaching and motivational speaking. Based in Bessemer, Alabama, Joel has a strong background in leadership, communication, and personal growth. He studied at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and has dedicated his career to inspiring transformation. His engaging approach equips people with the tools to achieve lasting success.

Reabetswe Makokwe

Founder and CEO of Pride Ornamental

Reabetswe Makokwe is a visionary entrepreneur, economist, and changemaker in African design and business. As the founder and CEO of Pride Ornamental, one of South Africa’s few black female-owned interior design firms, she blends aesthetics, functionality, and cultural storytelling. With a BCom in Economics and International Trade (cum laude) and an Honours in Economics, she integrates economic insight with creative innovation. Her leadership earned her the 2024 Global Recognition Award for Innovative Leadership in Interior Design, and she is a 2025 Woman of Stature Awards nominee for CEO and Entrepreneur of the Year. She is also a Forty Under 40 South Africa 2024 nominee and was named Most Promising Female Business Leader by the Consumer Excellence Awards. Beyond business, she founded The Proud Foundation, mentors young designers, and is spearheading the South African Black Interior Designers Association (SABIDA) to drive industry transformation.

Sammy Mhaule

Serial entrepreneur and Founder of The Kicks Brand

Sammy Mhaule is a visionary entrepreneur, mentor, and founder of KICKS®, a footwear brand with offices in the UK and South Africa. An award-winning business leader, he is passionate about brand-building and economic empowerment. Previously, he founded Skyrule Drinks South Africa, securing national retail listings. Starting as an ice cream vendor at 14 in Tembisa, Sammy’s journey reflects resilience and ambition. His latest venture, KICKS, is more than footwear—it’s about impact. For every pair sold, KICKS donates school shoes to children in need. A sought-after public speaker, he shares expertise in entrepreneurship, brand growth, and business strategy. Sammy also mentors at Startup School South Africa and Township Entrepreneurs Alliance (TEA), impacting over 10,000 entrepreneurs With multiple business awards, including Lloyds Bank Entrepreneur of the Year Finalist, he continues to inspire and uplift future leaders.