A near-tragic incident involving his friend is what inspired Tumelo Mokoena, a first-year Engineering student at Stellenbosch University (SU), to start his entrepreneurial journey. Hailing from Johannesburg, Tumelo moved to Stellenbosch at the beginning of the 2024 academic year, unaware of the dangers that are not uncommon in a popular tourist-destination town like Stellenbosch. He was however determined to make a difference, which is why he entered his Safeguard Stellies idea to the Stellenbosch Network #IdeasForChange Social Innovation Challenge, for which he earned first place.
Tumelo came to Stellenbosch to pursue his B.Eng in Electrical and Electronic Engineering. A passionate tech enthusiast with a keen interest in innovations like SpaceX launches, he did not set out to become an entrepreneur. However, after a close friend was mugged and wounded, Tumelo noticed a sudden surge in crime, and that the current system was not able to reach victims in time. His leadership experiences – such as serving as Head Boy in high school and being President of the Tshwane South District RCL – motivated Tumelo to start thinking about solutions.
SafeGuard Stellies is a comprehensive, three-part safety solution comprised of a:
- Mobile App: For essential safety features, including a panic button, location tracker, and safety tips.
- Panic Bracelet: A discreet device that enableenables users to send alerts without having to reach for their phones.
- Drones: Equipped with live cameras, sirens, and lights.
Although the business is still in its ideation phase it has immense potential to improve safety in the town and beyond. As a finalist in the #IdeasForChange Social Innovation Challenge, Tumelo was awarded R20 000, which will allow him to start planning for the launch of his venture.
“Winning the #Ideasforchange Challenge was a major milestone,” says Tumelo. “It gave the project momentum, and the support from Stellenbosch Network has been incredibly encouraging.” The business is now on track to launch key components like the mobile app and panic bracelets, with plans to develop drone technology in the next phase.
As Tumelo looks ahead, he has big plans for SafeGuard Stellies. “Next, we’ll focus on building a strong team, expanding our online presence, and launching our products,” he shares. The goal is to generate revenue from the app and bracelets to fund drone development and secure the necessary operational licenses.
Partnerships with Stellenbosch University, the local municipality, and security networks will be key to scaling the business. “Our vision is to build an ‘Uber for Safety,’ not just for students, but for the broader Stellenbosch community,” he says.
Tumelo’s journey to this point has been shaped by invaluable lessons. One piece of advice that stands out came from a course he recently took, titled University Practice in Natural Science. It taught him that the most successful students are not always those with the highest marks but those with the resilience to push through obstacles. “That mindset has been my guiding principle,” he explains.
To connect with Tumelo, reach out to him at tumelomokoena050@gmail.com
