In an exclusive interview with Maglazana Tech, Sabelo Sibanda, the founder of MLX Ventures, shares his remarkable journey from a self-described “recovering golfer” to a trailblazing entrepreneur in the tech industry.
From the Greens to the Tech Scene: Sabelo’s Early Days
Growing up in Port Elizabeth (PE), Sabelo Sibanda’s journey was anything but ordinary. A former student of NMMU, he was the “grey boy who never played rugby,” a nod to his unique path. Sibanda’s academic endeavors took him to Edinburgh Business School, laying a foundation that, although not immediately, would later significantly contribute to his business acumen.
The E-Commerce Epiphany
Sabelo’s entry into the tech world was almost serendipitous. A conversation with Fred Roed, founder of the Heavy Chef, ignited Sabelo’s interest in e-commerce. This led to the creation of a drop-shipping business, an endeavor that saw him learn PHP and build a site on Magento. His efforts didn’t go unnoticed – a nomination for a South African e-commerce award in the same year marked the beginning of his impactful journey in tech.
MLX Ventures: The Birth of a Tech Powerhouse
Fast forward to the present, Sabelo stands at the helm of MLX Ventures, a venture studio specializing in AI and blockchain applications. Unlike typical vanity projects, MLX Ventures is a manifestation of Sabelo’s passion for creation and his commitment to achieving product-market fit even before coding begins. His approach is innovative, ensuring that each project addresses a real market need, thereby enhancing the chances of success.
A Diverse Range of Innovations
Under Sabelo’s leadership, MLX Ventures has ventured into various sectors, particularly finance and AI. The company has developed a decentralized storage application on the Internet Computer and created autonomous agents that enhance the functionality of generative AI applications. These developments underscore the versatility and forward-thinking nature of Sabelo’s leadership.
The Unique Challenges and Triumphs
Sabelo candidly shares the challenges of deciding what to work on, given the plethora of opportunities in the tech space. His focus is on prioritizing projects with the highest potential for leverage and value addition. This strategic approach has been a new and exciting challenge for him.
Building a Team on Loyalty and Skill
Sabelo’s team at MLX Ventures is a testament to his leadership style, emphasizing loyalty and skill. With key team members who have been with him for over a decade, his approach underscores the importance of trust and expertise in building a successful venture.
Collaboration and Future Outlook
Sabelo invites collaboration across the spectrum, from corporates to fresh graduates, highlighting the importance of diverse thoughts in technology. As for the future, he envisions a transformative shift in the way we interact with AI and predictive technologies, expecting revolutionary interfaces that will redefine our interaction with technology.
Conclusion: A Visionary in the Tech World
Sabelo Sibanda’s journey from a golfer with a handicap of nine to a visionary tech entrepreneur is not just inspiring but also a testament to the dynamic nature of the tech industry. His leadership at MLX Ventures is paving the way for innovative solutions in AI and blockchain, making a significant impact in the tech world. As he aptly puts it, the potential for AI deployment is limitless, and under his guidance, MLX Ventures is set to explore these uncharted territories.
