Zwelethemba’s finest IT Guru

Zukiswa Tyira is one of few Zwelethemba’s finest female IT specialists making her mark in a male dominated ICT sector. She started her lower primary at PJB Cona in 1989 and then moved to Alfred Stamper Primary to finish her higher primary schooling. In 1996, she went to Vusisizwe Secondary School, where she completed her secondary education as one of the best learners in the class of 2000. With his brother Loyiso already studying Computer Science at the University of Cape Town (UCT), Zukiswa was more determined and motivated to follow in his footsteps. After matric she was accepted for Bachelor of Commerce (BComm) at UCT. In her second year of study, she changed her major to Information Systems (IS). She adds: “My passion has always been with IT hence the change as the institution didn’t offer IT under BComm”.

Currently, Zukiswa works as a Business Analyst/Consultant positioned in a business intelligent department of an IT service management company, EOH. Part of her job entails coming up with business solutions for clients and also ensuring clients are always happy with their outcomes. “My job involves analyzing and trying to find causes to a problem, and then do recommendations as how we can use technology to solve the revenue problem” she added. Commenting on the current status of her industry, she circles intimidation and inequality as one of the huge obstacles facing the ICT sector, as males are still dominating than women. “Men seem to be given more technical or leading roles than us (women)” she points. According to Zukiswa, although the industry is slowly changing but it needs more women representation at all levels.

If she’s not juggling work and motherhood at the same time, she spares her time in projects that has to do with growth and development of the community. She added: “I love my community and giving back to it is something close to my heart” For young females with interest to study or start their own businesses in IT, she advises that they must have passion for technology followed by planning and action. “Young people must always learn to seek opportunities that will get them where they want to be in life – not settle for less” she says.