Cape Town’s Tshilidzi Tshitereke Wins R5,000 in TechFinancials Q&A Competition

From Solve 4 X to Success: Tshilidzi Tshitereke’s Journey in Tech to EPF winner’s club.

Cape Town-based tech enthusiast Tshilidzi has been crowned the first winner of the TechFinancials News Q&A Competition, sponsored by the Empire Partner Foundation (EPF).

She took home R5,000.00.

At just 23 years old, Tshilidzi is already making waves in the world of technology and innovation. A recent graduate of the Tshwane University of Technology with a degree in Computer Science, Tshilidzi is now undergoing graduate training at Kazang, a division of LESAKA Technologies. Her passion for technology and problem-solving has driven her to develop solutions aimed at optimising irrigation systems using artificial intelligence (AI).

The Hackathon Experience

Tshilidzi participated in a hackathon hosted by the Empire Partner Foundation (EPF), where she showcased her innovative idea for improving irrigation through AI. Although she did not win the competition, she was selected among the top ten participants.

“When I saw the competition on the EPF page, I was excited. I had already participated in an agri-tech hackathon before, so I took that experience and built on it,” she explained.

Recognising the challenges faced by farmers, Tshilidzi proposes a solution that would optimise water usage and reduce waste. “I looked at various technologies that could help sensors to measure soil moisture, AI to predict weather patterns, and drones for monitoring. The idea was to integrate these into a mobile app that allows farmers to make data-driven irrigation decisions.”

By utilising sensors placed in the soil, her system could detect moisture levels and signal when plants needed water. AI-powered weather forecasting would further refine the process, ensuring farmers didn’t irrigate their crops unnecessarily before rainfall, thereby conserving water and reducing costs.

A Passion for Innovation and Impact

Tshilidzi’s journey into technology wasn’t straightforward. Initially, she had no idea what computer science entailed – her mother chose the field for her. “During my first year, I struggled. I thought this wasn’t for me. But over time, I realized that computer science isn’t just about coding; it’s about developing ideas that solve real-world problems.”

Hailing from Venda, Tshilidzi understands firsthand the challenges faced by underserved communities. Her desire to create solutions that improve lives has become the driving force behind her work. “There are so many problems in my village that technology can help solve. I want to make a difference and provide solutions that will benefit not just my community but the country as a whole.”

The Future of Tshilidzi Idea

Water scarcity remains a critical issue in many parts of South Africa. In some areas, communities can go weeks without access to water. Tshilidzi believes her AI-driven irrigation system could help alleviate these challenges by ensuring more efficient water use.

“If farmers can reduce water wastage, it means more people in different communities will have access to water. At the same time, farmers can maximize their profits while maintaining sustainable agricultural practices. It’s a win-win for everyone.”

Beyond agriculture Tshilidzi is also passionate about financial inclusion. Her current role at Kazang focuses on empowering informal traders – such as spaza shop owners and taverns – with digital payment solutions. “We’re working to bring technology to small businesses in townships and villages, making financial transactions easier and more accessible.”

Inspiring the Next Generation

Tshilidzi story is one of resilience and innovation. Her journey from a student uncertain about her future in tech to an innovator solving real-world problems serves as an inspiration to many young people, especially those from underserved communities.

Through organizations like EPF and LESAKA technologies, young talents like Tshilidzi are given platforms to turn their ideas into impactful solutions. “I want to see more young people from villages and marginalized communities embracing technology to drive change,” she says.

As the world moves towards digital transformation, Tshilidzi work highlights the power of youth-driven innovation in shaping a better future.

• Zakes Sithole, Digital Media Producer at Empire Partner Foundation