The 4th edition of TCS Sustainathon™ South Africa focused on the theme of ‘Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security’ and witnessed participation from 350+ universities and colleges, each presenting innovative solutions
The winning team received ZAR 30,000 and gift vouchers along with certificates
JOHANNESBURG, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), a global leader in IT services, consulting, and business solutions, has announced the winners of the fourth annual South African edition of TCS SustainathonTM, a problem-solving competition that encourages students to innovate ideas for leveraging technology to solve real-world sustainability problems. Held in WITS University, Johannesburg, this initiative once again brought together the nation’s most innovative young minds to develop solutions for a few of the country’s most pressing environmental and social issues.
PowerLock team led by Phemelo Maile, Mnelisi Mabuza, and Mohlomi Mahlomola won the competition and the grand prize of ZAR 30,000.
With this year’s theme, “Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security”, participants were challenged to address the root causes of hunger and environmental degradation, particularly in underserved communities.
Langa Dube, Regional Director at TCS South Africa & Rest of Africa, says, “Congratulations to our winners and finalists who took part in this year’s Sustainathon. The creativity, determination and technical skill we have seen from these young innovators is truly inspiring. They are not only imagining a better future, but they are also actively building it, and that gives us great hope for a more sustainable South Africa.”
This edition of TCS Sustainathon saw a strong response, with more than 350 applications received across the country. The top 10 finalists showcased their groundbreaking solutions at the grand finale.
The 2nd prize was awarded to team Sustainoraise led by Madiba Tukiso, Pula Morema and Maake Daniel receiving 20,0000 ZAR. In 3rd place was team Alternative Phantom Badgers led by Zoe Hendricks, Amber Pillay, Taariq Smith, Emanuel Messiha and Wentzel du Toit who won 15,000 ZAR. All remaining finalists received prize money of ZAR 5,000 each, along with certificates and gift vouchers. The event presented participants with challenges designed to encourage sustainable agriculture and food security solutions.
TCS Sustainathon South Africa was held in partnership with the Tshwane University of Technology, University of the Witwatersrand and incubation partner Skills Lab.
This year’s theme “Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security” addressed critical issues facing South Africa and with the solutions that were presented by the students, the future of South Africa looks bright. Not only are they not viable but they hold potential to set an example for the world to see.
“This year’s theme challenged students to tackle one of the most pressing issues facing our continent,” says Dube. “The solutions we have seen are not just ideas on paper; they have the potential to make a real and lasting difference in people’s lives. We are proud to support the next generation of problem-solvers who are using technology for good.”
TCS has positioned itself as a key investor in South Africa’s green economy. By providing expert mentorship, cutting-edge resources, and a collaborative platform, TCS is helping participants turn their visions into reality. This commitment reflects the company’s broader strategy to drive sustainability and youth empowerment across the region.
“At TCS, we believe in empowering the next generation to take on the challenges of our time. Sustainathon gives students the tools, mentorship and platform to turn their vision into reality. This year’s participants have shown that the future of innovation in South Africa is in very capable hands,” added Dube.
Tata Consultancy Services Ltd (TCS)
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) (BSE: 532540, NSE: TCS) is a digital transformation and technology partner of choice for industry-leading organizations worldwide. Since its inception in 1968, TCS has upheld the highest standards of innovation, engineering excellence and customer service.
Rooted in the heritage of the Tata Group, TCS is focused on creating long term value for its clients, its investors, its employees, and the community at large. With a highly skilled workforce of over 6,00,000 employees in 55 countries and 202 service delivery centers across the world, the company has been recognized as a top employer in six continents. With the ability to rapidly apply and scale new technologies, the company has built long term partnerships with its clients – helping them emerge as perpetually adaptive enterprises. Many of these relationships have endured into decades and navigated every technology cycle, from mainframes in the 1970s to Artificial Intelligence today.
TCS sponsors 14 of the world’s most prestigious marathons and endurance events, including the TCS New York City Marathon, TCS London Marathon and TCS Sydney Marathon with a focus on promoting health, sustainability, and community empowerment.
TCS generated consolidated revenues of over US $30 billion in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025. For more information, visit www.tcs.com
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