09/08/2026
TVET SUCCESS STORY: STUDENT ENTREPRENEUR SPOTLIGHT
We are incredibly proud to celebrate one of our outstanding Iqhayiya Campus students, Mandilve Twalo, founder of EzoXaba Group Pty Ltd, who has been shortlisted by the Mail & Guardian as one of the 200 Young South Africans to attend the event in Johannesburg today, 6 August 2026!
We asked Mandilive to share his thoughts on this exciting opportunity, his journey as a young entrepreneur, and his goals for the future. Here's what he had to say:
1. Recognition by Mail & Guardian: 200 Young South Africans 2026
Being shortlisted is a profound honour. It means that the work Iโve been doing โ both as a student at Port Elizabeth TVET College and as an entrepreneur from the Eastern Cape โ is being recognised on a national stage. For me, itโs not just personal validation; itโs a symbol of hope for other young artisans and entrepreneurs who come from similar backgrounds. It shows that our contributions matter and can inspire change.
2. Inspiration for Renewable Energy Entrepreneurship
My inspiration came from seeing the challenges communities face with unreliable electricity and rising energy costs. I realised that renewable energy โ solar farming, battery storage, and clean energy integration โ is not just about technology but about empowerment. I wanted to build solutions that are sustainable, affordable, and future-focused, aligning with the global shift toward clean energy and the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
3. About EzoXaba Group Pty Ltd
EzoXaba Group provides electrical installation, maintenance, solar energy solutions, and battery storage integration. What makes us unique is our focus on combining traditional electrical expertise with innovative renewable energy systems. We donโt just deliver services; we deliver solutions that prepare communities and businesses for a cleaner, more resilient future.
4. Contribution of Entrepreneurship to Nomination
My entrepreneurial journey has been about resilience, innovation, and community impact. From starting my company at 22 to representing the Eastern Cape in national competitions, each milestone has built credibility. This nomination reflects the recognition of those efforts โ not only building a business but also inspiring others to see entrepreneurship as a tool for transformation.
5. Community Impact
Our work has created opportunities for young artisans, provided affordable electrical services to community organisations, and encouraged a shift toward solar energy. Beyond business, I see my role as a mentor โ showing young people that entrepreneurship is possible, even when resources are limited. That impact, I believe, is as important as the services we provide.
6. Challenges and Lessons
The journey has not been easy. Navigating compliance, securing funding, and balancing studies with business responsibilities were major challenges. These experiences taught me perseverance, the importance of building networks, and the value of leadership rooted in service. Every obstacle became a lesson in resilience.
7. Role of Studies at Port Elizabeth TVET College
My studies gave me both technical knowledge and the discipline to approach problems systematically. Representing the college in competitions also sharpened my entrepreneurial mindset. Education has been the foundation that allowed me to merge theory with practice and build a business that is both innovative and grounded in technical expertise.
8. Advice to Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Start small but start. Donโt wait for perfect conditions. Use the resources you have, build networks, and learn continuously. Entrepreneurship is not about avoiding failure; itโs about learning from it and growing stronger. Believe in your vision, and donโt be afraid to take the first step.
9. Meaning for Eastern Cape Entrepreneurship
This recognition highlights the potential of the Eastern Cape as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. It sends a message to young people in the province: your ideas are valuable, your contributions matter, and you can compete nationally. I want them to see my journey as proof that their dreams are achievable.
10. Future and Legacy
Looking ahead, I plan to expand EzoXaba Group into mobile solar farms, integrate EV charging solutions, and specialise further in battery storage. My legacy will be about creating sustainable energy solutions while mentoring the next generation of artisans and entrepreneurs. I want to be remembered not just for building a business but for building opportunities and inspiring change.
Join us in congratulating him on this well-deserved milestone!
