Thandiwe Mlaba

South African fintech pioneer revolutionizing mobile payments for small businesses

Thandiwe Mlaba is the co-founder of Yoco, a South African fintech company that provides affordable payment solutions for small businesses. Launched in 2017, Yoco disrupted the traditional banking sector by enabling merchants to accept card payments via mobile devices, democratizing access to financial tools.

Mlaba’s innovation made a difference by addressing South Africa’s cash-heavy economy and high informal sector unemployment. Over 100,000 small businesses now use Yoco, boosting economic inclusion and reducing reliance on cash. Her work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).

As a Black female founder in a male-dominated industry, Mlaba challenges systemic barriers in tech and finance. Yoco’s success has attracted global investors like Google Ventures, proving Africa’s potential as a fintech innovation hub. Mlaba’s TED Talk 'How fintech is powering Africa's small businesses' highlights her vision.

Her achievements include being named one of Forbes Africa's 30 Under 30 in 2019. Yoco’s impact extends beyond South Africa, with plans to expand across the continent. Mlaba’s story exemplifies how technology can bridge economic divides and empower marginalized communities.