Mpho Madisha

Energy and Mineral Resources

Introducing Mpho Madisha

Mpho, a South African national born on May 2, 1978, embodies a unique blend of expertise spanning engineering, business, and innovation. With a background in mechanical engineering at the University of Pretoria and a BEng degree accredited by ECSA, Madisha has honed his skills in various fields, from project management to nuclear energy systems design.

Madisha’s profession started at Eskom’s PBMR project where he was part of a team that was designing energy power systems. He went overseas to continued energy systems research with a Dutch energy company KEMA –ECN. For almost a decade he taught at the University of Pretoria’s Faculty of Engineering where he also earned a laureate award for Education Innovation. His professional journey includes roles that highlight his versatility and commitment to excellence. As a Business Development Manager at Whoosh, a Fintech startup, he spearheaded initiatives on smart utility metering solutions and student payment solutions, showcasing his prowess in driving innovation and fostering strategic partnerships.

Moreover, Madisha’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through his role as Founder and Director of Bluepile Engineering, where he ventured into the realm of additive manufacturing. His achievements in this domain, including recognition as a Leadership in Innovation Fellow at the Royal Academy of Engineering and winning prestigious awards like the Scale out for Impact (SOFI), underscore his capacity for innovation and business acumen.

Madisha’s contributions extend beyond the corporate sphere. As a Ministerial Committee Panel Member for the Department of Higher Education & Department of Science and Innovation, he led a comprehensive review of South Africa’s Higher Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation landscape. His hands-on approach and strategic insights culminated in a highly acclaimed report, demonstrating his ability to navigate complex initiatives and drive impactful outcomes.

Furthermore, Madisha’s commitment to education and community development is evident through his involvement in various initiatives, such as serving as the SGB Treasurer for Rietondale Primary School and establishing training structures for learners in critical subjects such as coding and rebotics.

With a rich tapestry of skills encompassing strategic planning, project management, and stakeholder engagement, Madisha is poised to make significant contributions to ActionSA’s vision for South Africa’s economic development. His unwavering dedication to excellence and passion for innovation make him an invaluable asset to any organisation or cause he supports.