With profound sorrow and gratitude, we of Class VIII: Mahube of the Africa Leadership Initiative South Africa, pay tribute to our dear colleague on her passing, Xoliswa Kakana — a beacon of excellence, a trailblazer for women in ICT and an exemplar of courage, intellect and leadership.
Xoliswa joined our ALI SA community as a Fellow of class VIII, and she brought to our circle not only her formidable academic credentials and professional experience, but the spirit of possibility, transformation, dignity and relentless integrity.
She was, by any measure, a pioneer. As Executive Chairperson and Group CEO of ICT-Works—a 100% Black, women-owned ICT company—she broke through barriers in a male-dominated industry, showing that with talent, vision and perseverance, excellence belongs to all.
Her academic journey alone tells a story of commitment and brilliance: a BSc in Mathematics and Applied Mathematics, a Masters in Electronic Engineering, an MBA from Henley College London, a Master’s in Technology Management & Innovation from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and a Masters in Public Administration from Harvard University.
Beyond her personal accolades, it was her legacy as a mentor, changemaker and spirit-carrier that resonated most deeply. She was founder and first Chairperson of the Women in ICT Forum; opening doors, creating space, sending young women into the tech world with confidence.
She brought the same energy into her role as Chairperson of Council at the University of Johannesburg, appointed in 2022—contributing to South Africa’s academic and innovation ecosystem with grace, intellect and dedication.
As Fellows, we remember Xoliswa not just for what she achieved, but for who she was: a sister, a mentor, a source of inspiration. Someone who reminded us that leadership is not a place at the table, but the courage to build new tables. Someone who carried the spirit of service, upliftment and transformation wherever she went.
Though Xoliswa was an extraordinary and accomplished person, the role she cherished the most, the one she carried with the most pride, was being a mother to her two cubs, Sandile and Lilitha. She was also a loving mom to the many other children she embraced and raised as her own.
To her family, her colleagues and to all of us in the ALI SA community: we mourn with you and we honour her memory. Let us carry forward her legacy of excellence, equity, boldness, empathy in our work, in our communities and in our lives.
Rest in power, dearest Xoliswa. Your light continues to guide us.
