Mususumeli Mathode (right), Digital Hub Business Development Programmes Coordinator, congratulates Nothile Ngema on winning Intervarsity prize
Kgabo Selepe| Kgabo.selepe@ul.ac.za
Nothile Ngema, a final-year medical student (MBChB) at the University of Limpopo (UL) and a native of Ezwenelisha, a small village in Mthubata, KwaZulu-Natal, has achieved a remarkable milestone by winning the prestigious Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) Business-Tech category
The EDHE initiative is renowned for its role in fostering entrepreneurial capacity among students, academics, and leaders across South Africa. Ngema’s triumph highlights not only her entrepreneurial talent but also her ability to overcome challenges and leverage innovation to make an impact.
Her journey began with the internal rounds of the competition, hosted by UL, where she emerged as one of 13 participants. She advanced to the regional rounds and eventually to the national finals, competing in the Existing Business-Tech category against five other formidable entrepreneurs.
Ngema’s business, e-Aggrandizer, was founded in 2019 as a solution to fund her education after she lost her bursary. The venture specialises in producing high-quality, non-animated videos in multiple languages, tailored to meet tight deadlines. Today, e-Aggrandizer has grown into a platform that not only showcases African innovation but also empowers small South African businesses to increase their visibility and reach.
Ngema’s services enable businesses to engage effectively with their audiences and expand their footprint in the global market. Her innovative approach has the potential to revolutionise how businesses communicate with their customers.
Reflecting on her victory, Ngema credited UL for its support and resources. “I wouldn’t have made it without the support of the Digital Hub and Reakgona Disability Centre,” she said. “This achievement is a testament to the opportunities UL provides, and it’s a reminder of how obstacles can be turned into untapped opportunities.”
Her entrepreneurial journey wasn’t without challenges. Competing against some of the best minds in the country, she navigated rigorous rounds and ultimately claimed victory.
For her exceptional efforts and innovative solution, Ngema was awarded a trophy and R20,000.
Ngema’s success story inspires a new generation of students to explore entrepreneurship as a viable path to success. Through her work, she has demonstrated that innovation, resilience, and community support can drive change, transform lives, and foster economic growth.