Today we get under the skin of Unconventional Goddess Luyanda Mafungo, kick-ass single mom and rising African tech star. 

Each week we highlight and profile women who usually don’t get the spotlight, but should. They are inspiring, creative and super talented… and living life on their own unconventional terms.

This week we bring you an in-depth interview, slowly peeling back the layers of one of our profiled Unconventional Goddesses, Luyanda Mafungo, entrepreneur African tech startup, Sion Blaque, at the forefront of new technologies like AI, Robotics and Blockchain. She’s also a self-styled “change agent” with her unending commitment to her own personal growth and understanding of the world.

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1.Where do you live, work and play?

In the vibrant city of Jozi (Johannesburg), South Africa.

2. When you’re not working, what passions are you following?

I enjoy disappearing into a delightful, motivational read, I write and work on learning about how women can become empowered investing in the crypto and blockchain space and I do some yoga.

3. If you could be or do anything else – what?

I would be travelling the world with my son, giving empowerment workshops, inspiring men and women to live bold, vibrant and authentic lives, embracing their inner power and utilizing that to create a better place for generations to follow.  Reminding them that their past needs don’t define their potential to make a difference right here and right now.

4. What one word would you use to describe yourself?

A Phoenix, rising from the flames. 

5. If you could live in any other time, when might that be?

This is a deep question to consider… I ask myself when – in time – would I be most effective in casting vision and co-creating on this planet as an effective human being.  The answer to that is the present. From this position I can future-pace and influence positive outcomes – if I do so with conscious intent.

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6. What inspires you?

The legacy I am seeding for my son and future generations.

7. How did you know when you didn’t fit into the conventional mould?

I have always known that I wasn’t meant to be conventional and that my purpose would unfold when it was supposed to.

8. What is some unconventional wisdom you’d like to share with us? 

Your spiritual blueprint is a beautiful tapestry of Intelligence – unique to you, your purpose and your pre-destined contribution to this life and those around you. Created by a Hand that no human being has been able to decipher. Share your light with others in work and at play, illuminate every room you walk into with your authenticity and love for life.  That is the currency the world tends to forget about. Such power it holds to uplift humanity.

9. How did you come up with the idea for your business? (or what led you to your career?)

I’ve always been a quick study, learning on my various jobs. I had an interest in crypto currency and I went on to learn more about the blockchain. I could see the massive potential for the technology, especially in Africa and I wanted to contribute to the success of the continent, by utilising the incredible power and transparency of the blockchain.

During my career, I’ve seen how vital it is to use technology to uplift communities, especially lifting women out of poverty. This is what drives me in my business. It also helps is that I have a supportive family.

10. What do you think other people should know about your work?

We place a heavy emphasis on facilitating and executing change through applying our philosophy of “Tech with a Purpose”. We are gearing up to be positive change agents advocating the responsible utilisation of blockchain technology to empower our country and our continent at large.  

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11. If you could have dinner with 3 famous people from history, who would they be and why? 

• Martin Luther King –  I would like to know how he felt when he wrote “I Have a Dream” and what would he say to us today.
• Napoleon Hill – His books have inspired change in so many people.
• Queen Esther – Keen to hear her take on women in Leadership.

12. What would you do differently if you had a chance?

Participate in more women upliftment initiatives – on a global level.  And oh yes – to dance and travel more!

13. Describe a scene of your vision for the future.

• Our children have safe spaces within to which to play, thrive and learn, supported by adults that lock arms to enable this security from a financial and resource perspective. 
• We have structurally sound, hygienic, world class teaching and schooling facilities for South African children. 
• AI technology becomes affordable and incorporated into school curriculums that also cater for children with learning challenges  i.e Dyslexia, Autism (especially within disadvantaged communities).
• A health care system that has integrated blockchain technology for sound record keeping and management of data and medication. A health care system that has had a positive overhaul. Those working in State hospitals have their wellbeing considered and protected in order for them to better take care of the patients that they oversee. I would love to see a health system that we can be proud of.

14. Is there an achievement or contribution that you are most proud of? Why?

Mentoring young, aspirant women in the tech space. I felt that I positively influenced how they perceive themselves as women and leaders.

15. How would you like to be remembered?

By my son :  “My mom was quirky, badass, progressive, vibrant and loved me from the bosom of her soul. She has set me and her grandkids up for success and due to her conscious decision to change course, continuously upskill herself to live on purpose and pursue her dream … not only has she empowered me and thousands of families across the globe – she has positively influenced (in advance) future generations to come. She worked with her legacy in mind. We will carry on in the same vein to uplift humanity. Her love lives on.”

By the world: “A servant leader, a powerful and compassionate speaker, author and change agent with a heart to serve. Oh what a vibrant and inspirational life she lived.”