Techmark Pod

Alvin Matewa

Techmark Pod, hosted by Alvin Matewa, is an unscripted weekly podcast exploring the dynamic intersection of technology and marketing in Africa. Each episode delivers raw, insightful discussions on the latest digital trends, innovative strategies, and industry insights designed to inspire and inform African businesses aiming to drive growth and innovation. Join us to discover how technology and marketing combine to shape Africa’s evolving business landscape.

  1. 1D AGO

    S3E4 : From Fine Artist to Tech Entrepreneur Solly Makofane’s Journey Into Building African Tech Solutions

    Most entrepreneurs fail to realize that the key to scalable success is building products rooted in deep understanding, not just copying what’s trendy. Sollly Tau Makofane, founder of gaavor.com a suite of cloud-based solutions for small and medium businesses shares how his journey from fine artist to tech innovator was driven by relentless customer-centricity and purposeful branding. He emphasizes that real solutions come from listening to actual problems, then tailoring software to fit those unique needs, rather than offering generic "one-size-fits-all" tools. This episode breaks down how Solly's approach to creating affordable, customizable software has disrupted traditional pricing models and established a sustainable, bootstrap-driven business. You'll discover the importance of simplifying technology for non-tech users senior business owners, for example and why that mindset is crucial for expanding tech adoption across Africa. Solly also reveals how he keeps costs low by leveraging cloud infrastructure intelligently, and the massive opportunity in building Africa-centric data centers what he calls the "new age real estate." You’ll learn how Solly navigates client acquisition through word-of-mouth, strategic partnerships, and a powerful focus on addressing real pain points. Plus, he discusses the role of AI in his solutions trained internally to safeguard company secrets and why localising data hosting is more than a trend; it’s an inevitable step toward sovereignty in African tech infrastructure. His insights demonstrate that success in tech isn't about competing with the West but leveraging local knowledge to create affordable, scalable solutions for millions of African businesses. Perfect for entrepreneurs, tech founders, and innovators eager to solve local problems with sustainable, affordable software this episode will challenge your assumptions about tech costs, solution design, and Africa’s potential to build world-class digital infrastructure. If you're ready to see AI, cloud, and software development through an African lens, this discussion is essential listening.

    51 min

  2. FEB 16

    S3E3: Why Human-Centered Design Is Critical for FinTech Success in Zimbabwe

    Join us in this episode as we delve into the crucial role of human-centered design in achieving FinTech success in Zimbabwe. Brian Chiware, a renowned business analyst and FinTech enthusiast, shares his insights on how tailoring solutions to local needs can overcome market challenges and enhance user experience. Discover practical strategies for designing impactful, user-focused products that resonate with Zimbabwe's unique market dynamics. Whether you're an entrepreneur, product developer, or tech strategist, this episode offers valuable lessons for creating solutions that truly meet the needs of local users. Tune in to learn how human-centered design can be the key to unlocking success in emerging markets.

    45 min

  3. FEB 9

    S3E2 : The Surprising Role of Digital Marketing in Conservation: Insights from Zambia’s Wildlife Campaign

    Most conservation campaigns don't leverage AI yet. Mirriam Nasilele reveals how digital tools and AI are transforming wildlife protection in Zambia, blending behavior change with cutting-edge marketing. In this eye-opening episode, Mirriam shares how she uses AI not just to analyze social media trends but to truly understand local cultures, craft resonant messages, and debunk myths around illegal bushmeat. Discover how a campaign built on behavioral insights is making illegal hunting less attractive, reducing demand, and saving wildlife all through targeted digital strategies. You'll learn concrete tactics like using AI for sentiment analysis, creating culturally relevant content, and harnessing social media influencers to change deep-rooted traditions. We break down the critical connection between marketing and behavioral change showing how awareness alone isn’t enough, but consistent messaging, empathy, and human-centered approaches lead to real impact. Miriam discusses the challenges of altering long-standing habits, why data-driven insights are vital, and her vision for future AI tools that could make conservation efforts smarter and more scalable across Africa. This episode isn’t just for marketers or conservationists—it's essential listening for anyone who wants to see how technology can solve real-world problems in Africa. If you believe in powerful stories, smart strategies, and the possibility of digital solutions driving societal change, hit play now. Miriam Nasilele is the Program Manager for Communications at Wildlife Crime Prevention, leading innovative campaigns that combine law enforcement support and digital marketing to protect Zambia’s wildlife.

    33 min

  4. FEB 2

    S3 E1 : Why Teaching Coding Without Computers Could Bridge Africa’s Digital Divide

    Unlock how innovative solutions like “Tangible coding”—a program created in South Africa—are transforming digital access for underserved communities worldwide. In a world where technology often seems out of reach for many, this episode reveals a groundbreaking approach that introduces coding concepts without the need for computers or internet, simply using physical puzzle pieces and mobile devices. Jackson Tshabalala shares how this grassroots initiative has empowered over 300,000 learners across Africa, Europe, and the Americas, illustrating that impactful tech solutions start with local context and simple ingenuity. Discover the strategic importance of localized innovation in Africa’s digital revolution. Jackson breaks down how the Tangible project evolved from an honors thesis at Nelson Mandela University into a global phenomenon—winning awards, forging international partnerships with AWS and UNESCO, and expanding into school and community settings. We explore real metrics: the project’s reach across 12 African countries and continents, and its role in bridging the digital divide where traditional infrastructure fails. This episode dives into core principles behind sustainable tech education: the role of computational and design thinking, soft skills development, and the power of human-centered AI integration. Jackson sheds light on how AI tools, when paired with community-focused programs, can augment entrepreneurial thinking for small businesses and startups. You’ll learn why understanding local needs and embedding soft skills early creates not just a tech-literate generation but a generation ready to lead Africa’s Fifth Industrial Revolution. Why does neglecting grassroots digital initiatives risk leaving millions behind? Because true inclusion demands solutions crafted for local realities—solutions like Tangible that resonate, adapt, and scale. This episode is perfect for future-focused entrepreneurs, policymakers, educators, and anyone interested in how Africa’s unique context is creating new models of tech innovation and shared value. Jackson Tshabalala is the Global Engagement Manager at Lever Foundation and an HMI Senior Fellow, recognized among South Africa’s Top 200 Young Leaders in 2023 for his work in youth empowerment through education and social impact initiatives. His journey exemplifies how targeted, locally-led innovation can disrupt global inequalities and drive economic growth—an inspiring blueprint for those shaping Africa’s digital future.

    44 min

  5. 11/17/2025 · BONUS

    S2E21: Navigating Change: From Customer Service to Strategic Leadership

    In this insightful episode of Techmark Pod, Alvin Matewa sits down with Yvonne Majata to explore her transformative journey from a customer service agent to a strategic leader. Yvonne shares her experiences in customer service, the impact of AI on the industry, and her passion for strategy formulation and customer experience training. Discover how she overcame personal challenges, embraced lifelong learning, and now empowers others through her work in strategy and mental wellness. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, growth, and the power of human connection.

    36 min

  6. 11/10/2025

    S2E20: Bridging Minds: AI, Neuroscience, and Education with Dr. Devon Jarvis

    Join us on Tech Mark Pod as we delve into the fascinating intersection of AI, neuroscience, and education with Dr. Devon Jarvis. Discover how his journey from economics to computer science has shaped his vision for the future of AI in South Africa. Explore the impact of AI on education, the ethical considerations of AI development, and the unique opportunities for innovation in the African context. Don't miss this engaging discussion on the challenges and triumphs of integrating cutting-edge technology with human understanding.

    43 min

  7. 11/03/2025

    S2E19: Shalmore Khuleya: Crafting Success in Sales and Strategy

    Join Alvin as he delve into the remarkable journey of Shalmore Khuleya, a seasoned sales leader and multi-award-winning strategist. With over 20 years of experience in driving market growth and innovation, Shalmore shares insights from his leadership roles across major FMCG companies, his academic pursuits, and his passion for nurturing future talent. Discover the strategies that have propelled him to success and the lessons learned along the way.

    40 min

  8. 10/27/2025

    S2E18: The Creative Director's Path: Advertising Insights from a Loeries Judge

    Join Alvin Matewa as he delves into the world of creativity with Balekane Mokoditoa, a seasoned creative director at FCB Africa. Discover the path to becoming a creative director, the role of AI in advertising, and the future of the industry. Balekane shares insights from his career, including his experiences judging the prestigious Loeries Awards and the evolving landscape of advertising in South Africa. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about creativity, innovation, and the power of human insight.

    46 min
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About

Techmark Pod, hosted by Alvin Matewa, is an unscripted weekly podcast exploring the dynamic intersection of technology and marketing in Africa. Each episode delivers raw, insightful discussions on the latest digital trends, innovative strategies, and industry insights designed to inspire and inform African businesses aiming to drive growth and innovation. Join us to discover how technology and marketing combine to shape Africa’s evolving business landscape.

Information

  • Creator
    Alvin Matewa
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    44
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Alvin Matewa
  • Show Website
    Techmark Pod