This week the Cape Chamber recognised innovators across various sectors of society

Many people forget that South Africa was once the cradle of human civilization.

Archaeological evidence retrieved in recent years shows that our earliest ancestors evolved right here, in the Western Cape, during an astonishing creative outburst linked to a ‘brain food’ seafood diet.

New tools, new weapons, and the first symbolic artwork emerged thanks to this period of unprecedented innovation. But the really good news is that 100,000 years later we’re still at it, right here in the Western Cape, where innovation remains a key trademark of success.

This week, the Cape Chamber recognised innovators across various sectors of society – academia, business, and public office. Our Innovation Awards, held on Tuesday night at the Cape Town City Hall, honoured men and women who continue to push boundaries in the pursuit of progress. In doing so, we aimed to draw attention to this most critical ingredient in human development – the ability to think ‘out of the box’.

It is also worth remembering that history is replete with examples of South African innovators, big and small. The likes of Elon Musk, Mark Shuttleworth, and Clive Calder have attracted global attention for their pioneering efforts in the business world.

There are also innovators whose influence goes beyond stock market success, who pioneer new ways of thinking about ourselves and the world. Nelson Mandela, Trevor Noah, Miriam Makeba – the list of these luminaries is as extensive as it is impressive.

And for every celebrated innovator, there are many more working tirelessly beneath the radar.

Innovation is as much about attitude as technical expertise; it is a mindset that focuses on solutions rather than problems. The more we innovate, the more we actively shape our future into what we hope to see – and be.

As one of our award nominees said: “Stop thinking of becoming an employee, and become an employer.”

In the coming weeks, we will share the stories of several home-grown innovators who continue to lead and inspire.

John Lawson
CEO of the Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry