// Thabang Phala

I am a standout in the tech world, combining my skills as an IT consultant, facilitator, mentor, brand innovator, and advocate for human development. I am a founder and Chief Empowerment Officer (CEO) of the fastest growing cybersecurity organisation in Africa by the name of CyberM8 Initiative leading over 700+ members across the continent.

My journey in the professional world is marked by my leadership in founding BizM8 and LuminaLeap, where I serve as a managing director. My education in Business Informatics, Cybersecurity, and Web and Application Development lays a solid foundation for my vast experience, spanning over 15 years.

Throughout my career, I have made a lasting impact on a wide range of clients, from universities and government agencies to corporations and religious groups. I’m known for my personalized approach, making sure my advice and strategies align with each client’s specific needs.

As the co-founder and programme manager of the Abuti Rams Foundation through the Tsogo Road Safety Initiative, I have trained over 2 500 youth in 7 provinces in South Africa on road safety. I also host of the Abuti Rams Show on Athari TV, where I dive into the ins and outs of business in Africa, sharing valuable insights with my audience.

// Key Skills and Expertise

  • Cybersecurity Governance and Policy Alignment
  • Programme Facilitation, Assessing, and Moderation
  • Stakeholder Mapping/Management and Intergovernmental Relations
  • Framework and Policy Development
  • ICT and Digital Transformation Strategy
  • Youth Development, Mentorship, and Capacity Building
  • Public Awareness Campaigns and Advocacy
  • Digital Marketing
  • Web and Applications Development
  • Training and Facilitation
  • Keynote Speaking
  • Business Development
  • Entrepreneurship Training and Support
  • Programme Development and Project Management

// Professional Accreditations

  • Accredited Facilitator, ETDP SETA – Unit Standard 117871: Facilitate Learning Using a Variety of Given Methodologies (2025)
  • Accredited Assessor, ETDP SETA – Unit Standard 115753: Conduct Outcomes-Based Assessments (2025)
  • Accredited Moderator, ETDP SETA – Unit Standard 115759: Conduct Moderation of Outcomes-Based Assessments (2025)

// Recognitions and Awards

  • Finalist, Security Category – South African Under 40 Awards (2024) 
  • Winner, Active Citizen in Society Award – Junior Chamber International Tshwane (2017)
  • Winner, Education Category – Gauteng Premier Excellence Awards (2016)
  • Finalist, Entrepreneur of the Year – Under 35 Mavericks Awards (2015)
  • Alumni, DHL Tomorrow’s Leaders Convention (2013)

// Mentorship, Board and Advisory Experience

  • Technical & Business Mentor, eKasiLabs Programme, The Innovation Hub (2026 to date)
  • Member, MICT SETA 4IR Advisory Committee: Education Stream (2025 to date)
  • Member, Tshwane University of Technology Work Integrated Learning Advisory Council (2024 to date)
  • Member, Faculty of ICT Informatics Department: Academic Advisory Committee (2024 to date)
  • President, Agape Youth Movement NPC(2009 to 2019)
  • Member, Agape Youth Movement NPC Board (2009 to 2019)
  • Chairperson, Bakone Development Agency (2023 to date)
  • Founder and Chairman, Abuti Rams Foundation (2018 to date)

// Committee Experience

  • Advisor, School Safety and Social Cohesion Partnership with the Department of Basic Education (2016 – present)
  • Commissioner, Interfaith Action for Peace in Africa Youth Desk (2015)
  • Student Advisor, Tshwane University of Technology (2010 – 2011)

// My work is trusted by these organisations: