Emmanuel Bonoko

Age: 28 • Entrepreneur • Ebonoko Holdings PTY LTD, South Africa

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“I learnt a lot about what it takes to come through on the other side. Over the years I have also learnt to not be afraid or embarrassed to struggle.”

Emmanuel Bonoko started his business at age 19. He was named a Forbes 30 Under 30 most promising entrepreneur in Africa and KIA Young Business Achiever of the Year. He is passionate about helping young people in disadvantaged communities seize opportunities for themselves. Through his foundation, they have collected and donated over 16,000 books to charities, under-resourced schools, and prisons in South Africa. Read the rest of his story below.

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1. Many who know you would point out that you are a young, dynamic entrepreneur helping disadvantaged youth seize opportunities. Please tell us more about your current projects and why this is important to you.

Ebonoko Holdings PTY LTD is a marketing and consulting company that offers services including media relations, PR management, design and brand development, brand strategy, promotions and marketing, event hosting, and management.

Over the years, we have partnered with some of South Africa’s biggest corporates—Eskom Foundation, Shanduka Investment Group, Shell South Africa, Mogale City Municipality, Standard Bank, PBT Group, IDC, and more.

At 19, I founded the Ebonoko Foundation to serve others and promote leadership, youth empowerment, and entrepreneurship. One of our initiatives has been a book drive that collected and donated over 16,000 books to schools, charities, libraries, prisons, and community centres. We’ve also run mentorship programs, bursary campaigns, career expos, and seminars on business and leadership.

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2. Your journey in entrepreneurship began in 2012 and 2013 with the founding of Ebonoko Foundation and Ebonoko Holdings. Tell us about your journey from the early days to where your company is now.

I was born in Johannesburg and moved to Limpopo to live with my grandparents, who taught me to work hard and trust in God. Later, I moved to Pretoria with my parents to continue my studies. My parents taught me to believe in my greatness and strive beyond limitations.

Starting a business wasn’t easy. People often misunderstood my passion and ambition. My parents—now both late—supported me, especially my mother, who had a huge impact on my life.

I’ve learned what it takes to make it through challenges. I’ve also learned not to be afraid or embarrassed to struggle.

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3. What is the danger in hiring and scaling a startup too quickly without understanding customer needs? What should startups do to build sustainable businesses?

• Acquire knowledge about your industry.
• Find mentors with experience and a strong track record.
• Invest in yourself. Build relationships and develop your business acumen.
• Understand that entrepreneurship is tough. You’ll face situations you aren’t prepared for. That’s why mentorship is critical.

Oprah Winfrey says, “Surround yourself with people who are going to lift you higher.” Don’t try to go it alone—leverage the wisdom and experience of others.

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4. You’ve met incredible business mentors who have guided you. How did you make those connections? What strategies worked for you?

• Be clear and direct with your intentions.
• Mentorship doesn’t guarantee success—you must do your part.
• Not every famous person can be your mentor. Study their character and values first.
• Offer value to your mentors—mentorship is a two-way relationship.

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5. What do you want to see change in your community this year, and why?

I want to champion the needs of Black entrepreneurs and ensure they participate actively in the mainstream economy. We bring together small business support institutions, government agencies, and seasoned entrepreneurs to engage with and support emerging entrepreneurs. These initiatives offer practical solutions and business opportunities.

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6. What is your advice to emerging entrepreneurs?

• Small things count—keep working hard and learning.
• Never be ashamed to struggle. There’s nothing wrong with working hard to get where you want to be.
• Develop a personal identity—be known for your humility, ethics, and compassion.