Our Team

With a passion for the role that innovation plays in both business and social progress, Davis keeps looking for ways to build a better world. He has a diverse background across consulting, corporate, government and start-ups, and has been based in both South Africa and the UK.

Imraan’s career in the space sector spans more than two decades. Over this time he has gained national and international experience which has enabled him to develop crucial networks in earth observations, science policy, business development and mining.

Thiru has extensive experience in programme and project management. This includes the  implementation of regional (SADC) and national innovation programmes, multi-partner stakeholder management, entrepreneurship, innovation support, social entrepreneurship, training, capacity-building and monitoring and evaluation.

As a Principal at RIIS, Sylvesters leads project teams in developing and delivering innovative solutions for clients across various sectors and geographies. With over ten years of experience in management consulting, Sylvesters has a particular focus on strategy, market research, and data analysis. Sylvester’s mission is to contribute to building a more inclusive and sustainable world, where all people can reach their fullest potential. I am passionate about learning, solving complex problems, and creating positive impact.

Over the past decade Kerryn has written for a diverse set of clients and audiences. She is experienced in writing in different formats, from both long- and short-form articles, thought leadership pieces across financial and economic sectors, and speeches, to broadcast positioning statements, newsletter development and social media strategies and content development.

During her time at RIIS Kerryn has led the development of RIIS corporate marketing and communications along with support on numerous projects across the RIIS client base. She has a special interest in the space sector and has supported and led the annual, pan-African initiative, Africa Earth Observation Challenge.

Prior to joining RIIS, Kerryn co-founded The African Common project, which facilitated and managed the Creative Commons iCommons global creator conference held in annually Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Dubrovnik, Croatia; and Sapporo, Japan. She also led the delivery of communications for two CSIR-hosted, innovation-focused Finnish-South Africa/Africa programmes. Kerryn holds a Bachelor of Journalism from Rhodes University.

Vish has a special interest in the integration and intersection of human processes within business structures. This is bolstered by his specialised studies in strategic thinking that utilises behavioural science and neurostrategy. At RIIS, Vish has led programmes across a number of strategic areas including entrepreneurship, energy, maritime and innovation.

Lindo’s work at RIIS has seen her immersion in human-centred design methodology within mining innovation projects, as well as working on programmes concerned with social development and innovation. Lindo has also led a multi-partner programme pertaining to entrepreneur development within the African space sector.

With an academic background in mechanical engineering, Nandi currently leads the Geographic Information Systems team at RIIS. Her involvement includes the conceptualisation, development and deployment of critical information mapping systems used to identify Covid-19 hotspots and industrial action events.

As well as working at RIIS, Thandeka is the co-founder of an NPO focused on entrenching science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics and innovation principles into youth in under privileged communities. A seasoned and published researcher, Thandeka’s focus at RIIS is on developing strategic research into the innovation landscape.

Yankho specializes in strategy, process improvement and policy development. With a strong research and problem-solving background, Yankho has a keen interest in how political and economic developments and trends play into business and the markets, both locally and regionally.

With a Masters' degree in Development Studies, Amy has strong experience in overseeing innovation programmes, with a keen interest in innovation and entrepreneurship-related activities.

Vuyolwethu brings a unique blend of geology, geophysics and geospatial analysis expertise to the innovation landscape. With experience spanning mining and energy sectors, and a growing focus on the space industry, she is skilled in translating complex data into strategic insights that support evidence-based decision-making. Her interdisciplinary approach is grounded in strong analytical capabilities, integrative thinking and a keen curiosity about how science and technology can drive sustainable development. She is passionate about using her technical expertise to help build sustainable communities and leave a positive, lasting impact on society and the planet.

Before joining RIIS, Paleesha worked in the chemicals and energy sector in a variety of departments including operations, business development, supply chain and sustainability. At RIIS she has been involved in developing networks and entrepreneurial sustainability within an industrial development zone, focusing on the marine, logistics and renewable energy sectors.

Mpho’s academic background includes a focus on GIS and remote sensing, with a special interest in earth observation through satellite imagery, and the environment. As a member of the Data 4.0 team, Mpho’s work has included modelling for the mining sector as well as undertaking research design, data collation and analysis so as to produce insight and advice for clients.

Jonathan has a strong interest in science, technology and entrepreneurship, all of which have been amplified after studying chemical engineering. At RIIS, Jonathan has applied his skill to projects such as mapping out a provincial innovation ecosystem, and focusing on the relationship and interdependency of government, industry and academia in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

Maheen has extensive experience in research and analytical problem solving, coupled with an enthusiasm for technology, innovation and entrepreneurship. His main interests are in the African space tech start-up ecosystem and the development of a sustainable Pan-African space economy.

Prior to joining RIIS, Kimehra was employed at a chartered accounting firm, where she worked with SMMEs around the Johannesburg Metropolitan Area. At RIIS, she is involved in impact-driven projects within the mining and minerals sector. Kimehra has an honours degree in corporate finance and investment, and is currently completing her masters degree.

Shameemah has an Honours degree in social sciences, specialising in environmental and geographical science from University of Cape Town. As an analyst at RIIS, she has provided research, development and collaboration support in developing training and socio-economic needs of community and SMMEs for mining modernisation in South Africa.

Tarryn's educational background is in commerce with her Master's degree focusing on the management of automation and robotics in mining. Tarryn is particularly interested in understanding how innovation can be best applied to promote community and socioeconomic development. She has worked on a number of modernisation, sustainability and climate-related projects at RIIS.

With an educational background in engineering and physics, Ashleigh is an enthusiastic learner who is passionate about understanding how the world works, from both a socioeconomic and scientific point of view, and then sharing this knowledge with others. She also has a keen interest in all things clean energy and has worked on several projects related to developing South Africa’s climate change and sustainability strategies around this area.

Zamani is a seasoned Data Analyst holding a Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering from Wits University. Zamani is passionate about optimising processes and developing efficient solutions to complex challenges. His background in both the mining and GIS industries equips him with unique insights into the difficulties encountered in mining operations. HIs goal is to support innovation in the mining sector, crafting more efficient and cost-effective solutions that will benefit both mining operations and society as a whole.