Darkies in Tech Launches New Website to Drive Inclusion and Empowerment in the South African Tech Ecosystem

Johannesburg, South Africa – 9 September 2024 – Darkies in Tech (DIT), a registered non-profit organisation, is proud to announce the launch of its new website, marking a milestone in its mission to develop and transform the South African startup ecosystem. The website aims to provide a centralised platform for Professionals of Colour (POC) to connect, learn, and grow within the tech industry, thereby advancing diversity and inclusion.

Empowering Professionals of Colour in Tech

Darkies in Tech is dedicated to creating a future where POC have equitable access to knowledge, networks, and funding within the local tech ecosystem. With a growing membership base of 450 POC founders, investors, and ecosystem builders, DIT stands as 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 the country's rich demographic diversity.

Target Audience and Community Support

DIT primarily serves South African POC tech founders and builders, but it also supports POC investors and ecosystem builders who encounter similar challenges in navigating the local tech startup ecosystem. The organisation is sector-agnostic, welcoming eligible applicants who are committed to their startup or scale-up ventures.

Impact and Achievements

Since its inception, Darkies in Tech has made 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.

The launch of the new DIT website is set to reduce barriers to entry for POC within the local tech ecosystem. By serving as a central hub where potential members can learn about the organisation and apply to join, the platform supports the broader mission of fostering diversity and inclusion in South Africa’s tech industry.

Fostering Collaboration and Growth

DIT hosts a variety 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,’ and ‘AI Fanatics.’

“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.”— Ntsako Mgiba, Founder of Darkies in Tech.

Looking Ahead: New Member Programs in 2025

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.

Addressing Challenges in the South African Tech Ecosystem

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 the Movement

The Darkies in Tech website went live on 6 September 2024. Visit www.darkiesintech.com to learn more about the organisation’s mission, explore the community, and apply to join.

Press Release Submitted By:

• Organisation: Darkies in Tech
• Contact Person: Ntsako Mgiba
• Contact Email: media@jtcomms.co.za
• Contact Number: 011 788 7632 / 083 954 6133
• Website: www.darkiesintech.com

Follow Darkies in Tech:

• LinkedIn: Darkies in Tech
• Twitter (X): @DarkiesInTech

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