WSU STUDENT MAKING WAVES IN THE WORLD OF SUSTAINABILITY AND INNOVATION

At just 22yearsold, Mzwakhe Mbowane, a second-year National Diploma in Management student at Walter Sisulu University’s Butterworth Campus is making waves in the world of sustainability and innovation.

Mbowane is the founder of Bila Renewables, a recycling company that tackles one of the most pressing environmental challenges like tyre waste.

Growing up in Zonkizizwe, Katlehong, Mbowane developed a passion for creating solutions that benefit both the environment and society.

This passion led him to establish Bila Renewables, a company focused on repurposing discarded tyres into rubber pavements and rubber tiles for flooring.

His project was selected as one of the top 15 finalists in the Total Energies Startupper of the Year competition in South Africa, a prestigious platform for young entrepreneurs.

The competition took place from September 24th to 26th at Total Energies' head offices in Johannesburg, with the finalists set to be announced on October 23rd.

“I am incredibly honored and thrilled to be nominated and make it to the top 15, this recognition means a lot to me and motivates me to continue striving for excellence. I am grateful for the support and encouragement from everyone around me, especially my mentors and entrepreneurship coordinator at Butterworth Campus. I am excited about the journey ahead,” he said.

The inspiration for Bila Renewables came from Mbowane's commitment to keeping the environment clean and his dedication to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

His work aligns with several key SDGs, including Gender Equality (SDG 5), Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9), Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11), Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12), and Climate Action (SDG 13).

“Chasing my dreams in the entrepreneurship industry, learning as much as i can about things can help me grow as an individual in the recycling industry. knowledge is the key to success,” he added.

Currently, Bila Renewables has completed the prototype stage of its flagship product, and Mbowane has ambitious goals for the future.

Mbowane hopes that in 2025, the company plans to begin collecting discarded tyres and reselling them to generate the financial resources needs to take shape so to invest in the machinery for full-scale production.

“If all goes according to plan, production of interlocking rubber tiles and customizable rubber pavers will commence in 2026—or even sooner if financial targets are met by 2025,” he added.

With a clear vision for the future and a commitment to environmental responsibility, he is well on his way to transforming the recycling industry and making a lasting impact on both the planet and society.

“Success is not just about reaching the top, but about the journey, the perseverance, and the passion that drives you forward. Keep pushing your limits, and the world will recognize your brilliance,” he concluded.

By Yolanda Palezweni