Most Influential South Africa Entrepreneurs & Leaders of 2025

By Sandy | | Posted in Inspiration & Human Stories | 129 Views

South Africa is home to bold thinkers, fearless builders, and visionary leaders who are shaping the future of business, technology, and social impact. From innovative entrepreneurs disrupting industries to purpose-driven leaders creating jobs, opportunity, and hope — these individuals are redefining what leadership looks like in 2025.This list celebrates the trailblazers whose ideas, resilience, and influence are inspiring a new generation of young South Africans to dream bigger, lead with purpose, and build solutions that matter. Cast your vote for the entrepreneurs and leaders you believe are transforming industries, uplifting communities, and driving South Africa forward.Your vote helps spotlight the visionaries shaping tomorrow.

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Patrice Motsepe – Billionaire investor and philanthropist

Patrice Motsepe is a South African billionaire investor, mining magnate, and philanthropist best known as the founder and chairman of African Rainbow Minerals. A pioneer of Black economic empowerment, he has played a significant role in transforming South Africa’s mining industry. Through the Motsepe Foundation, he has committed billions to education, health, and poverty alleviation initiatives across Africa, inspiring inclusive growth and social impact leadership.

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Elon Musk – SA-born tech titan behind Tesla & SpaceX

Elon Musk is a South Africa–born technology entrepreneur and global innovator behind companies such as Tesla and SpaceX. Known for pushing the boundaries of electric vehicles, space exploration, and artificial intelligence, he has reshaped multiple industries through bold vision and execution. Musk’s journey from Pretoria to the global stage continues to inspire South Africans to think big and pursue world-changing ideas.

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Khanyi Dhlomo – Ndalo Media founder & business icon

Khanyi Dhlomo is a South African media entrepreneur, founder of Ndalo Media, and one of the country’s most influential business icons. Through pioneering platforms such as Destiny and TRUELOVE, she has reshaped the media landscape by championing African excellence, women’s empowerment, and authentic storytelling, inspiring a new generation of purpose-driven leaders.

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Ipeleng Mkhari – Infrastructure entrepreneur & CEO

Ipeleng Mkhari is a South African infrastructure entrepreneur and CEO, best known as the co-founder of Motseng Investment Holdings. She has played a key role in driving transformation and Black economic participation in large-scale infrastructure, construction, and energy projects, earning recognition as one of Africa’s most respected business leaders and advocates for inclusive growth.

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Vusi Thembekwayo – Motivational leader & investor

Vusi Thembekwayo is a South African entrepreneur, investor, and globally recognised motivational leader. Known for his powerful insights on leadership, business strategy, and personal growth, he has inspired millions through speaking engagements, media, and investment ventures, encouraging young Africans to think boldly, act decisively, and pursue excellence.

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Basetsana Kumalo – Media personality & entrepreneur

Basetsana Kumalo is a South African media personality, entrepreneur, and former Miss South Africa. She has built a successful business career in media production, marketing, and publishing, while using her platform to advocate for women’s empowerment, leadership, and social impact, making her a respected figure in both business and public life.

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Siya Kolisi – Building the Kolisi Foundation empire

Siya Kolisi is a South African rugby icon and social impact leader who has leveraged his global success to build the Kolisi Foundation. Through the foundation, he focuses on education, food security, and gender-based violence awareness, using his influence to uplift communities and inspire young South Africans to lead with purpose beyond sport.

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DJ Zinhle – Mogul behind Era by DJ Zinhle

DJ Zinhle is a South African DJ, entrepreneur, and business mogul best known as the founder of Era by DJ Zinhle. She has successfully built a leading lifestyle brand while dominating the music industry, becoming a powerful example of how creativity, discipline, and business acumen can turn personal brands into thriving empires.

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Bonang Matheba – Founder of The House of BNG

Bonang Matheba is a South African media icon and entrepreneur, and the founder of The House of BNG, a luxury beverage brand. Renowned for her influence, business acumen, and global appeal, she has redefined celebrity entrepreneurship, inspiring young South Africans to build bold, premium African brands.

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Maps Maponyane – Actor, businessman, and fashion entrepreneur

Maps Maponyane is a South African media personality, actor, and entrepreneur known for his work in fashion, television, and lifestyle media. Beyond his on-screen presence, he has built successful business ventures and serves as a role model for young South Africans, inspiring ambition, creativity, and leadership.