Johannesburg, South Africa – September 9, 2024 – Darkies in Tech (DIT), a registered non-profit organisation, is excited to announce the launch of its new website, a milestone in its mission to develop and transform the South African startup ecosystem by unifying and supporting professionals of colour (POC) within the space. The website aims to provide a centralised platform for POC to connect, learn, and grow within the tech industry.
Darkies in Tech is dedicated to creating a future where professionals of colour have equitable access to knowledge, networks, and funding within the South African tech ecosystem. With a membership base of 450 POC founders, investors, and ecosystem builders, DIT is the largest vetted community of its kind in South Africa. The organisation's vision is to contribute significantly to a diverse and inclusive tech industry that reflects South Africa's rich demographic diversity.
Target Audience
DIT primarily serves South African POC tech founders and builders, but also supports POC investors and ecosystem builders who face similar challenges in navigating the local tech startup ecosystem. The organisation is sector-agnostic, welcoming eligible applicants who demonstrate commitment to their startup or scale-up ventures.
Impact and Achievements
Since its inception, Darkies in Tech has had a profound impact on the South African tech community. Collectively, DIT founders have created over 3,200 jobs and raised R5.9 billion in venture capital. The community also includes 23 major investment firms and funds represented at senior levels, making DIT the most impactful network for POC in the country. Events hosted by DIT have featured prominent guest speakers, such as Lyinoluwa Aboyeji, founder of two African unicorn companies, and Tesh Mbaabu, founder of Marketforce 360 & Chpter. Collaborations among DIT members have generated tens of millions of rands in value through investments, partnerships, and mentorships.
The launch of the DIT website marks a significant step forward in reducing barriers to entry for POC within the local tech ecosystem. The website will serve as a central hub where potential members can learn about the organisation and apply to join the community. The website’s main objective is to make it easier for POC to discover and connect with the community, thus supporting the broader mission of fostering diversity and inclusion in the tech industry.
Darkies in Tech provides a range of networking opportunities, including regular online and in-person events where members can exchange high-quality information and build valuable connections. All community members are admitted into an online community hosted on WhatsApp, with role-based and interest-based groups such as ‘Founders Only,’ ‘Women Only,’ ‘AI Fanatics,’ and more.
"The launch of our website marks a pivotal moment in our journey to create an inclusive and thriving tech ecosystem for professionals of colour in South Africa. This platform not only provides easier access to our community but also strengthens our mission to empower POC founders, investors, and ecosystem builders. We're excited to see the impact this will have in opening doors, creating opportunities, and fostering collaborations within the tech space." Says Founder of the DIT, Ntsako Mgiba
As Darkies in Tech continues to grow, the organisation is preparing to launch member programs in 2025 that will include benefits like software perks and exclusive dinners with investors. The DIT team is also exploring new partnerships to further enhance the support offered to its members.
The South African tech ecosystem presents significant challenges for POC, who often find themselves outside the trusted networks where knowledge, capital, and opportunities are freely circulated. Darkies in Tech addresses these challenges by creating a supportive community that empowers black tech founders and investors to succeed without constantly having to seek permission from the predominantly white tech ecosystem.
Join Us
The Darkies in Tech website went live on September 6, 2024. Visit www.darkiesintech.com to learn more about our mission, explore the community, and apply to join.
This PR campaign is powered and supported by ECAfrica, a tech startup and member of the DIT community, and is powered by JT Communication Solutions
For media inquiries, please contact media@jtcomms.co.za or call 011 788 7632 or 083 954 6133
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