Empire Partner Foundation, in collaboration with TechFinancials News, is proud to announce Nsungulo Maphophe from Pretoria as the July winner of the TFS Q&A Competition, hosted under EPF’s flagship youth innovation platform, Solve for X.
This month’s challenge asked: “How can we use innovation, AI, and tech to help South Africa tap into more solar and wind power?” Nsungulo’s winning response stood out for its visionary yet practical roadmap to a more sustainable, energy-resilient South Africa.
“South Africa’s extensive sunlight exposure and powerful coastal winds provide an ideal foundation to maximise solar and wind energy usage to solve power outages and climate change,” Nsungulo wrote.
His solution combined cutting-edge innovation with AI-driven enhancements to both existing and emerging energy systems. From AI-monitored solar panels and smart battery management, to floating solar farms and blockchain-powered community energy trading, his submission reflected both depth and originality.
“Our existing grid infrastructure can support a transition away from coal,” he noted. “These technologies reduce loadshedding and create new employment opportunities. South Africa could become Africa’s clean energy leader.”
At just 23, Nsungulo exemplifies the kind of forward-thinking leadership and technical creativity that the Solve for X initiative is designed to spotlight.
The TFS Q&A Competition is a monthly platform for young minds across South Africa to engage with real-world challenges through tech-driven thinking. Each month, a new question invites bold, practical solutions aimed at improving society through innovation.
Interested in being part of the movement?
Organizations and partners who sponsor the competition get to choose the question of the month, directly shaping the conversation and engaging young problem-solvers from across the country.
For media enquiries or to sponsor a future challenge, please contact:
[email protected]
www.empirepartnerfoundation.org
