Building Belonging and
Equity in Tech

Darkies in Tech is a network for people of colour operating
in the South African tech ecosystem to belong, break barriers
and build a more equitable ecosystem.

apply to join

OUR Trusted ECOSYSTEM PARTNERS

Bridging the divide for tech founders, investors and ecosystems builders of colour

DIT is a network founded by people of colour with a vision for a more equitable ecosystem. We recognise the unique challenges people of colour face in the South African tech startup space, whether as founders, investors or ecosystem builders.

Our offering not only enables members to connect, but also to find a space where they can belong. They’re empowered not only to build their ventures, but to break through barriers and grow. Ultimately, they get to experience greater industry success whilst shaping the ecosystem into one they want to see in the world.

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The Values That
Shape How We Build
TOGETHER

Give before you take

We build with those who show up to serve. This community thrives when we each lead with generosity: offering time, insight, or support before asking for anything in return.

Show up as your whole self

We want the real you, not a filtered version of who you think we expect. Bring your story, your voice, your lived experience. That’s what makes this community work.

Engage with care

Challenge ideas, not people. We welcome robust debate, but always with respect, curiosity and a commitment to moving the conversation, and each other, forward.

Hold your views with openness

We admire people who are passionate about their perspectives and humble enough to shift them when presented with new insight.

Learn out loud

We’re all here to grow. Whether you’re figuring it out or further along the path, share what you’re learning so we can move forward together.

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timeline

DIT Milestones
& Timelines

2021

THE SPARK

DIT was born when founder Ntsako Mgiba created a humble WhatsApp group — a safe space for tech founders of colour to connect, share, and support each other.

2022

Building Foundations

The group grew so rapidly it hit WhatsApp’s limit,
prompting a migration to Slack. This year also marked the birth of the DIT Leadership Team, laying the groundwork for a stronger, more intentional community.

2023

Back to the
Roots

With WhatsApp Communities launching, DIT returned to its original home — but stronger and more connected. We also introduced branded merchandise, giving members a way to wear their identity with pride.

2024

Expanding Our Reach

Thanks to a partnership with The Delta, we launched our official community website, giving members a digital home. We also reignited our learning and connection culture with masterclasses, founder fireside chats, and First Fridays socials.

2025

A New Chapter of Growth

DIT transitioned into a paid network, marking a new era of commitment and intentionality. We launched our online community platform to centralize member benefits and collaboration, partnered with Gijima to deliver founder training and support, and amplified our voice nationally with a Youth Month radio campaign on Kaya FM.

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