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South Africa’s Power Players: Meet the Top 20 Business Influencers of 2025

Published

2 months ago

July 21, 2025

Chiraag

From digital disruptors to hometown heroes, these 20 South Africans are shaping the way we think about business, influence, and impact.

What does influence look like in South Africa’s business world in 2025? It’s not just boardrooms and balance sheets anymore; it’s TikTok explainers on financial freedom, podcasts about township innovation, masterclasses on personal growth, and Instagram reels that blend parenting with business strategy.

Favikon’s latest ranking of South Africa’s Top 20 Business Influencers doesn’t just celebrate online popularity; it spotlights impact. These are individuals who are using their platforms to lead, educate, challenge, and uplift.

Let’s meet the standout trailblazers rewriting the rules of success.

Also read: What SA’s Top Influencer Managers, Talent Agents, and PR Pros Are Earning in 2025

1. Theo Baloyi, The Soul of the Sneaker Revolution

Founder of Bathu, Theo Baloyi, is more than just a footwear mogul. His mission? Job creation through proudly African designs. With a tagline like “Walk Your Journey,” it’s no wonder he tops the list with a score of 8,640. Baloyi embodies what happens when purpose meets business savvy.

2. Cornet Thabiso Mamabolo, From Screen to Strategy

Actor-turned-entrepreneur Cornet Mamabolo is focused on generational wealth. He champions community-based initiatives and teaches young South Africans that real success involves creating opportunities for others too.

3. Emmanuel Tumelo Mabitsela, Forex Meets Philanthropy

Operating from Dubai but rooted in Mzansi, Mabitsela is shaking up the forex world with @fxgoat_. His mentorships and real-time trading sessions prove that financial education can be accessible, engaging, and life-changing.

4. Mohale Motaung, Style, Study & Strategy

Mohale blends academic grit with lifestyle flair. Known for his brand work and uplifting content, this dual-degree student shows that entrepreneurship and influence start with being unapologetically yourself.

5. Nqobile Ndlela, Glam Meets Grit

A two-time award-winning entrepreneur and Real Housewives of Durban star, Ndlela is living proof that women can dominate both the boardroom and the screen. Her motivational messages resonate with young women nationwide.

6. Mteto Nyati, Betting on Vision

With a career spanning 25 years, Nyati is a titan of tech and leadership. From his bestselling book, Betting on a Darkie, to his current role as Chairman of BSG, his focus on innovation and diversity continues to drive South Africa forward.

7. Gugu Khathi, A Woman of Influence

The powerhouse behind the “I Am A Woman of Influence” network, Gugu’s mission is simple: empower and uplift. Her posts are equal parts inspiration and action, especially for women navigating the business world.

8. Francois Greeff, Feeding Business with Purpose

Co-founder of Realbase and the brains behind Eat With Purpose, Greeff fuses entrepreneurship with philanthropy. His cookbook raises funds for children with cancer, while his podcast inspires everyday entrepreneurs.

9. Siyanda Calvin Ntenga, The Marathon Philanthropist

From the Bambelela Business Awards to his many social causes, Ntenga proves that giving back isn’t a side hustle, it’s part of the brand. He’s built a loyal following with his heartfelt posts and commitment to impact.

10. Mashudu Modau, The Ecosystem Builder

Modau is all about empowering South Africa’s “opportunity creators.” Through his podcast and partnerships, he’s championing shared learning and showing that ecosystems, not egos, build sustainable success.

Image 1: 200 Young South Africans

11. Herman Singh, Professor of Progress

Digital strategist, CEO, and academic, Singh’s LinkedIn is a masterclass in leadership, meritocracy, and technological transformation. His posts resonate with South Africans striving to upskill and lead ethically.

12. Ntando Zikalala, The Brand Builder

Zikalala’s voice as a brand strategist and podcast host is loud and clear: you can manage talent, raise a family, and still show up as your full, empowered self. She’s a regular at workshops that centre women in sport and business.

13. Nthabeleng Likotsi, The Banker Who Broke Barriers

South Africa’s first female bank owner, Likotsi, uses her platform to promote financial literacy, women’s empowerment, and Black economic freedom. As chair of YWBN, she’s giving MSMEs the tools to thrive.

14. Sibongile Marokana, Security with Soul

As CEO of Lerumo Lasechaba Security and founder of Afrikaufela, Marokana combines business with social upliftment. Her TikTok and Instagram audiences love her blend of gratitude, growth, and generosity.

15. Ashleigh Majola ka Tshabalala, Healing Meets Hustle

Also known as Candice Leigh, Tshabalala shares reflections on spirituality, tradition, and relationships. A civil engineer by trade, her content reminds us that career success and personal grounding can coexist.

16. Talifhani Banks, The Township Tech Architect

Through Spaza Eats and AnalyticsX, Banks is rewriting how we think about township economies. His digital-first, data-driven approach is transforming how local businesses scale and serve.

17. Bruce Whitfield, The Voice of Clarity

Known for distilling complex economic topics with humour and precision, Whitfield is the rare financial journalist who makes you want to keep listening. He’s interviewed over 50,000 people and still makes it feel personal.

18. Farah C. Fortune, Power with a Punchline

Director of African Star Communications, Fortune blends feminism, humour, and advocacy. She’s a TEDx speaker, charity founder (The Pad Run), and a vocal supporter of women’s rights, always with a side of wit.

19. Hykie Berg, Faith Meets Focus

Author, speaker, and actor Hykie Berg delivers personal transformation content with real grit. His journey from Ultimate Survivor to motivational speaker has inspired thousands seeking spiritual and emotional growth.

20. Babazile Nhlapo, Dropshipping Queen

Known as B.A Pusha, she’s helped over 3,000 people achieve financial independence through e-commerce. Her practical advice and relatable journey make her a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs navigating the digital hustle.

What Influence Really Means in SA Today

It’s clear from this list that influence in South Africa goes far beyond aesthetics. These individuals are not only successful; they are significant. Whether through education, innovation, or heart-led impact, they are laying bricks for a better, more inclusive economy.

And in true Mzansi style, they’re doing it with grit, grace, and a whole lot of hustle.