Business Connexion (BCX) has honoured the legacy of its late CEO, Benjamin Mophatlane, by launching a foundation in his name.
Launched at the annual BCX CEO's dinner tonight - the eve of the My World of Tomorrow conference and exhibition - the Benjamin Mophatlane Foundation is a programme with a focus on bursaries, scholarships and young entrepreneurs in technology.
BCX chairman Tony Ruiters introduced the foundation, saying its mission is to enrich the future of Africa's youth.
The company notes Africa has the youngest population on the planet, "and there is no doubt that youth education is critical for the future of development on the African continent".
One beacon of hope for the future of Africa, believes BCX, lies in technology and its ability to revolutionise the quality of living for ordinary Africans.
"As technology becomes more universal, affordable and practical, the potential for innovation and solutions powered by connected technology increases exponentially.
"In this context, the aim of the foundation is to assist African youth to achieve their technology career goals through supporting tertiary education."
Lasting legacy
Mophatlane passed away in June after suffering a heart attack at the age of 41. News of the IT personality's death drew industry-wide shock, condolences and praise. He has been dubbed one of SA's greatest entrepreneurs.
Mophatlane's death came just as BCX was about to be snapped up by Telkom in a R2.67 billion deal. Mophatlane started what was to become a multibillion-rand international business and one of the leading ICT companies in SA with his twin brother Isaac in 1996, at the age of 23. He took over the reins when Peter Watt stepped down in 2007.
Isaac was appointed CEO in mid-July and took the helm on 1 August, leaving his position as head of sales and marketing at BCX and group executive of the Canoa division. Isaac has held various positions within the company over the past 18 years.
Ruiters said at the time of Isaac's appointment that Benjamin's legacy gave the company a strong foundation to build on.
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