A diverse platform that helps progression for women in both senior and junior positions and relishes diversity of race and gender, is how Kume Luvhani, co-founder of Vaxowave, describes Wired4Women; a platform that provides space for diverse voices, perspectives, and ideas; tackling the drop-off of women in ICT and championing their rightful place in this ever-evolving field.
“Programmes like AMARA stand as evidence of the tangible impact we strive for. Inspiration can seem intangible, but its outcomes — greater confidence, innovation, and community — are what solidify Wired4Women’s credibility. It’s also about inclusivity. Empowerment is not a women-only conversation; men are incredible allies, deliberate voices, and critical sponsors. The journey toward equality requires both men and women working together.”
A successful entrepreneur, Luvhani is passionate about solving many problems simultaneously. Luvhani’s entrepreneurial journey began when she left a stable corporate finance position to co-found Vaxowave. Recognising the challenges organisations face in navigating cloud solutions, she partnered with a like-minded colleague to establish a company that leverages their experiences – both successes and failures, to provide cloud-agnostic solutions and services. Vaxowave stands as a testament to her commitment to innovation and meaningful impact in the technology space.
Passion, resilience, and a touch of boldness
As a chartered management accountant by training, Luvhani’s entry into the technology field was unexpected but fuelled by a deep passion and, as she puts it, “a little bit of craziness.” Inspired by her entrepreneurial parents, she embraced the challenge of coupling business acumen with technology to deliver practical, impactful solutions.
Throughout her career, Luvhani has honed the importance of simplifying complexity, building strong networks, and recognising the value of collaborating with people smarter than herself. She believes that entrepreneurship requires resilience, constant research, and a willingness to go beyond the ordinary. For Luvhani, success is not just about following a strategy but solving real problems. She finds repeat business, built on trust and a solid reputation, far more fulfilling than once-off wins.
Values that guide success
Authenticity and integrity are at the core of Luvhani’s leadership philosophy. Her decision to leave corporate life was rooted in a desire to stay true to herself, refusing to become a token figure or compromise her values. She leads with honesty and relatability, wearing her heart on her sleeve to foster trust with her team and clients.
Luvhani draws inspiration from those who continuously strive for excellence while maintaining emotional intelligence and a strong moral compass. She credits her success to the support of a community of mentors, peers, and team members who hold her accountable and keep her grounded.
Luvhani encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to stand out and take charge of their journeys. “Managers notice high performers,” she says. “Sponsors talk about their teams, so know what you want, ask the right questions, and believe in yourself. Building intentional relationships and seeking clarity in goals are critical steps for those looking to make their mark.”
For those already navigating the entrepreneurial path, Luvhani offers practical advice: “Success involves blood, sweat, and tears. Surround yourself with a strong support system, set boundaries, and prioritise your health. Compartmentalise your life to maintain focus and resilience.”
Luvhani’s entrepreneurial journey is a testament to the power of passion, courage, and staying true to one’s purpose. Through Wired4Women and Vaxowave, she continues to inspire others to embrace the challenges of entrepreneurship, solve real problems, and create meaningful, lasting impact in their fields.
