Connecting communities, transforming lives

Tekwecomm’s pioneering spirit, led by Managing Director Lilian Kistan, revolutionises the telecom industry with innovative solutions, community-driven growth and a passion for empowering individuals and families through technology and connection.

What inspired you to purchase Tekwecomm, and how has your vision for the company evolved over time?

The inspiration to purchase was predominately fuelled by the opportunity Tekwecomm represented. An opportunity to revolutionise the telecoms supplier industry in South Africa. At the time, the company was struggling to find its footing, but I saw an opportunity to turn it around and make it a powerhouse in the industry. My vision for the company has evolved significantly over time. Initially, I focused on stabilising the business and building a strong foundation. As the company grew, I began to focus on innovation and expansion through diversification, and we’re now at the precipice of nation expansion.

As a woman leading in the telecoms space, what challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?

As a woman in a male-dominated industry, I’ve faced numerous challenges, including scepticism and bias. However, I’ve overcome these challenges by being resilient, staying focused, and building a strong support network. I’ve also made it a point to mentor and empower other women in the industry, which has helped to create a more inclusive and diverse environment. Realising that the new Tekwecomm was my dream to birth and grow to maturity.

Can you elaborate on Tekwecomm’s approach to innovation and staying ahead in the industry?

We believe in staying ahead of the curve by embracing innovation and technology. We invest heavily in research and development, and we encourage our team members to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions to complex problems. We also partner with other companies and organisations to stay up to date on the latest trends and advancements in the industry. Harnessing the power of AI, to assist in shortening lead times and drive quicker turnaround times to the client has been our biggest success to speak of.

How has Tekwecomm’s partnership with Innovator Trust impacted the company’s growth and development?

Our partnership with Innovator Trust has been instrumental in our growth and development. The Innovator Trust has provided us with access to funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities that have helped us to scale our business and expand our reach. The partnership has also given us the opportunity to work with other innovative companies and organisations, which has helped us to stay ahead of the curve and identify new opportunities.

What advice would you give to SMMEs looking to scale their businesses and overcome challenges?

My advice to SMMEs would be to stay focused, stay adaptable, with an obligation to remain teachable, and stay committed to their vision. It’s also important to build a strong support network and to be open to learning from others. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and don’t be afraid to take calculated risks. And most importantly, never give up on your dreams.

How does Tekwecomm prioritise community growth and development, and what initiatives is the company involved in?

We believe in giving back to a community that has supported us. We’re involved in several initiatives that focus on our staff and their family’s education, internal skills development, and entrepreneurship. We also partner with other organisations to provide support to marginalised communities and to promote economic development.

What role do you believe vulnerability and empathy play in effective leadership, and how do you incorporate these values into your management style?

I believe that vulnerability and empathy are essential components of effective leadership. As a leader, you need to be willing to listen, to learn, and to adapt. You need to be able to put yourself in your team members’ shoes and understand their challenges and concerns. Understanding and incorporating servant leadership into my values set and management style makes me approachable, transparent, and open to feedback. I also make it a point to prioritise my team members’ well-being and to create a positive and inclusive work environment.

Looking ahead to Tekwecomm’s future expansion plans, what exciting developments can we expect to see from the company in the coming years?

In the coming years, we’re excited to expand our operations into Africa and to diversify our product and service offerings. We’re also looking at new technologies and innovations that will help us to stay ahead of the curve and to continue to deliver value to our customers. As a supplier to the tech industry, the rate of evolution is rapid and we are well position to continue to evolve.

What emerging trends do you see shaping the telecoms industry in the next five to 10 years, and how is Tekwecomm positioning itself to capitalise on these trends?

I see several emerging trends that will shape the telecoms industry in the next five to 10 years, including the growth beyond 5G, the increasing importance of cybersecurity, and the rise of the Internet of Things (IoT). Additionally, the advancements in satellite technology by companies like SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, are expected to revolutionise the way we access and use telecommunications services. With the potential for low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to provide global internet coverage, Tekwecomm is positioning itself to capitalise on these trends by investing in research and development, building strategic partnerships, and staying ahead of the curve in terms of technology and innovation. We’re also exploring opportunities to leverage satellite technology to expand our reach and offering to our customers.