#STORIES | 1 MIN READ

Siyabonga Tiwana & Skywalk Innovations

 

In the bustling landscape of technology startups, where innovation is the currency of success, Siyabonga Tiwana stands out as a beacon of resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. As the co-founder of Skywalk Innovations, a pioneering software engineering company, Siya has navigated the tumultuous waters of business ownership with unwavering determination and a commitment to excellence.

Siya’s journey towards success took an unexpected turn when he first encountered Black Umbrellas, a renowned organisation dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship and supporting emerging businesses. It was an interesting encounter prompted by a recommendation from one of his business associates. At that time, Siya was at the start-up stages of building Skywalk Innovations, a venture poised to redefine the landscape of technology products for companies worldwide.

Reflecting on his initial encounter with Black Umbrellas, Siya recalls being unaware of the organisation’s existence. Yet, the fascination of its programs, tailored to cater to the specific needs of budding entrepreneurs like himself, fuelled his interest. With aspirations to instil his business with credibility, acquire essential business acumen, and forge invaluable connections within the entrepreneurial ecosystem, Siya embarked on a journey that would profoundly shape the trajectory of Skywalk Innovations.

However, the road to success was not an easy one. Siya and his associates faced initial setbacks when their pitch to join Black Umbrellas’ programs was met with an unfavourable outcome. They felt humbled when they realised they did not know everything, which showed them the importance of asking for help from mentors and seeking guidance.

Undeterred by the initial setback, Siya embraced the opportunity to collaborate with Black Umbrellas, recognising it as a catalyst for growth and transformation. Through the organisation’s comprehensive programs, Siya gained invaluable insights into the intricacies of running a business, worked on his pitching skills, and acquired the essential tools to navigate the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurship.

The impact of Black Umbrellas on the early stages of Skywalk Innovations was nothing short of transformative. Siya attributes much of his company’s success to the solid foundation laid by the organisation’s programs, which equipped him with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a competitive market.

Fast forward eleven years, and Skywalk Innovations stands as a testament to Siya’s unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation. With a global footprint spanning nine countries across three continents, the company has emerged as a trailblazer in the realm of software engineering, serving clients ranging from dentists to personal trainers.

The growth trajectory of Skywalk Innovations is a testament to the profound impact of Black Umbrellas’ programs on Siya’s entrepreneurial journey. From humble beginnings to a medium-sized enterprise with nearly forty employees spread across multiple locations, Siya’s vision and determination have propelled his company to new heights.

When asked about the key takeaway from his experience with Black Umbrellas, Siya emphasizes the importance of laying a strong foundation for any endeavour. The organisation’s programs provided the building blocks upon which Skywalk Innovations was built, instilling in Siya the confidence and expertise needed to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship.