LIONESS WEEKENDER COVER STORY
Simsciex Technologies, a leading provider of comprehensive broadband infrastructure solutions in South Africa
Nomso Kana, the founder of Simsciex Technologies in South Africa, is a distinguished nuclear scientist, entrepreneur, and thought leader in the field of technology and innovation. With a passion for harnessing technology to drive positive change, Nomso established Simsciex Technologies in 2014 to pioneer cutting-edge solutions in broadband infrastructure, driving economic growth and development. Today the company has created jobs for 15 people. In addition to her role as founder, Nomso is a renowned expert in nuclear science, energy, policies, and connectivity. Her extensive expertise led to her appointment as a Commissioner for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) within the Presidency in 2019.
Nomso's leadership and expertise extend beyond Simsciex Technologies, as she serves on various boards in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector, sharing her insights and expertise to drive progress. A champion for gender equity, Nomso is actively involved in non-governmental organisations dedicated to women's economic development, empowering women to reach their full potential. Through her multifaceted career, Nomso demonstrates her commitment to driving positive change, fostering inclusivity, and advancing women's economic empowerment, making her a respected leader on both national and global stages.
Lioness Weekender spoke to the inspirational Nomso Kana about her entrepreneurial journey and her vision for harnessing technology to drive positive change in society.
What does your company do?
Scimsciex Technologies is a leading provider of comprehensive broadband infrastructure solutions, offering a wide range of both passive and active equipment for network infrastructure development. Our expertise extends to constructing last-mile networks that seamlessly connect to spare and metro builds, ensuring reliable and high-speed connectivity.
In addition to our infrastructure solutions, we also provide a range of data packages and WiFi services, empowering individuals, businesses, and communities to unlock their full potential in the digital age. Whether it's for personal use, business operations, or smart city initiatives, our data packages and WiFi services are designed to meet the diverse needs of our clients.
Our team of experts offers a comprehensive range of services, including ICT strategy, technology engineering, technical support, IT hardware and security, training, IoT solutions, ICT applications, and alternative energy solutions. This enables us to provide personalised guidance and support to help our clients navigate the complexities of digital transformation and achieve their goals.
What inspired you to start your company?
The inspiration to start my company was born in the lab, where I spent countless hours working on nuclear research projects. One day, I found myself needing to transport sensitive reports from one building to another - a distance of about a kilometre. As I made my way across campus, I realised that there had to be a better way to share confidential information. That's when it hit me: what if we had high-speed broadband access throughout the campus? It would revolutionise the way we worked, making it faster, more efficient, and more secure. At that moment, I knew I had to bring broadband access to our lab and beyond. And so, my company was born.
What makes your business, service or product special?
What makes us special is our unique position as a one-stop-shop for all ICT needs, providing unparalleled convenience and expertise under one roof. Additionally, our commitment to sustainability sets us apart, as we offer alternative energy solutions that significantly reduce carbon footprints and lower energy costs. This distinctive combination of comprehensive services and eco-friendly innovation makes Simsciex the trusted partner for forward-thinking businesses, organisations, and communities seeking to thrive in the digital age while making a positive impact on the planet. Our dedication to delivering exceptional quality, reliability, and sustainability is what truly makes us special and drives our mission to empower clients to succeed.
Tell us a little about your team
The Simsciex team is made up of passionate innovators and problem-solvers who believe in the power of technology to drive meaningful change. We’re a dedicated group working at the intersection of connectivity and sustainable development, always striving to bridge the digital divide and create opportunities for communities across South Africa. Our team brings together expertise in broadband, nuclear science, and infrastructure, allowing us to deliver impactful solutions with a deep commitment to empowering people through technology.
Share a little about your entrepreneurial journey. And, do you come from an entrepreneurial background?
I don't come from an entrepreneurial background, but I've always been driven to innovate and solve real-world problems. In 2014, I launched Simsciex while still working full-time in a lab, focusing on ICT entrepreneurship and broadband infrastructure. My goal was to make connectivity more affordable and accessible. As the business grew, I faced challenges like balancing my full-time job with running the company. In 2017, I took the leap to run the business full-time, navigating financial uncertainties and a monopolised ecosystem. Despite the obstacles, we secured our first major project, deploying fibre in Johannesburg, and learned valuable lessons along the way. Through this journey, I've developed a passion for entrepreneurship and a commitment to making a positive impact through technology
What are your future plans and aspirations for your company?
As we look to the future, our plans for Simsciex Technologies involves a strategic expansion into emerging technologies, with a focus on artificial intelligence and its applications. We've identified a significant gap in the market for AI solutions that are built on a solid foundation, and we're committed to addressing this need.
While our existing business continues to drive innovation in connectivity, our new venture will explore the convergence of AI, machine learning, and other cutting-edge technologies. By taking a thoughtful, foundational approach to AI, we aim to unlock new possibilities for innovation and drive meaningful impact across industries.
Our goal is to stay at the forefront of technological advancements, solidifying our position as a forward-thinking leader in the tech space. We're excited to embark on this new chapter and explore the vast potential of AI, while remaining true to our core values of innovation, sustainability, and excellence.
What gives you the most satisfaction being an entrepreneur?
What gives me the most satisfaction as an entrepreneur is seeing the impact of my work on people's lives. Knowing that my business is creating jobs, driving economic growth, and solving real-world problems is incredibly fulfilling. oI also find joy in the creative process of building something from scratch, overcoming challenges, and continuously learning and improving. But most importantly, I'm driven by the knowledge that I'm empowering others, especially women, to pursue their passions and make a meaningful difference in their communities. Seeing my business become a catalyst for positive change is the greatest reward I could ask for.
What's the biggest piece of advice you can give to other women looking to start-up?
The biggest piece of advice I can give to other women looking to start-up is to own your uniqueness and don't be afraid to stand out. Your distinct perspective, experiences, and voice are your greatest strengths in shaping innovative solutions and driving meaningful impact.
Believe in yourself, your vision, and your abilities. Surround yourself with supportive people who uplift and encourage you to pursue your passions.
Stay curious, keep learning, and be open to new opportunities and challenges. Invest in yourself and your education, and don't be afraid to take calculated risks.
Finally, go in and cement yourself in the spaces where you want to make a difference. Be bold, be fearless, and pave the way for others to follow. Remember, when you invest in a woman, she builds her community and creates a ripple effect of positive change.
To find out more about Simsciex Technologies, visit the company’s website and social media platforms:
Website: http://www.simsciex.co.za
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nomso.kana
Twitter: http://x.com/OnlyNomso
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/osmonf/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vb2UgjyhUiI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eYmIOKcfQv8
