Seven young South Africans – all under 30 – made the 2014 Forbes list of 30 most promising entrepreneurs in Africa. Out of the 800 nominations received by the prestigious American magazine, these South Africans stood head and shoulders above the rest, having fulfilled all the stringent criteria and high standards.

Yolande Stander spoke to these young bright minds.

Tebogo Ditshego

TEBOGO DITSHEGO

The 29-year-old founder and chief executive of Ditshego Media, a public relations company he started after gaining experience in media through working as a freelance journalist. “I’m honoured to have been listed. The decision to become an entrepreneur was motivated by our current challenges relating to unemployment, which is something that is felt globally. There is a need for more youngsters to start businesses. ”

• Go to www.ditshegomedia.co.za for more information.

Alex Fourie

ALEX FOURIE

At 19, Alex started iFix – an out-of-warranty Apple and Samsung service centre – and has grown the businesses to becoming the biggest centre of its kind in Africa. Now, at only 26, he employs 85 people and, through his eight branches, does about 6 000 device repairs every month.

“I feel very honoured and humbled to receive this prestigious award. ”

• Go to www.ifix.co.za for more information.