The Space Economy – South Africa’s Place in the Final Frontier

Co-founder, MaxIQ.Space | STEM Education & Space Innovation Leader

Judi Sandrock is a trailblazer in STEM education and space innovation, dedicated to preparing young scientists for Industry 4.0 by breaking down barriers to world-class learning opportunities. As the co-founder of MaxIQ.Space, she has been instrumental in developing and expanding Space STEM programs, including Africa’s first initiative of its kind, now operating on a global scale.

A specialist in STEM education and space experiments, Judi supplies kits and content for the ThinSat and xSat STEM satellite constellations, empowering students worldwide to engage in real-world space science. Her expertise extends to IoT, entrepreneurship development, innovation, and knowledge management, helping shape the future of education and industry.

Beyond STEM, Judi has played a key role in entrepreneurship and business development. She implemented the UKTI International Entrepreneur Programme, built the first Branson Centre of Entrepreneurship in Johannesburg, and spearheaded the rollout of 14 Anglo Zimele Small Business Hubs. Her book, The Art of Managing Knowledge – A Practitioner’s Guide, is widely used in South African universities.

With a background in Chemical Engineering, Marketing, Project Management (PMBoK), and an MBA from GIBS, Judi continues to drive impactful change in education, business, and space innovation.

Specialties: STEM & Student Space Projects | IoT | Entrepreneurship Development | Innovation | Knowledge Management | Business Optimization | Change & People Management | CSI Implementation

Trade & Investment Promotion Specialist I Space & Tech

Sibylle Pfeiffer is a dynamic leader in trade and investment promotion for the space and tech sectors in the Western Cape and South Africa. With a strategic and analytical mindset shaped by an INTJ personality type, Sibylle brings a thoughtful and innovative approach to fostering growth and collaboration within the industry.

She holds a BMus from Stellenbosch University, a Post-Graduate Diploma in Management from, as well as a Post-Graduate Diploma in Development Finance from the UCT Graduate School of Business. At present Sibylle is pursuing her interest in global space law and policy. Sibylle combines a deep understanding of global markets with a keen interest in how the world works human nature. Her background in classical music reflects her creative and insightful perspective, which influences her work in driving strategic investments and technological advancement.

Sibylle’s expertise lies in identifying opportunities, building strong industry relationships, and positioning South Africa as a key player and investment destination in the global space and tech economy.

Chairperson, NewSpace Systems | Satellite Industry Pioneer & Space Systems Leader

James Barrington-Brown is the founder and Chairperson of NewSpace Systems, a multinational leader in spacecraft subsystems and components. An electronics engineering graduate with over 30 years of experience in the commercial satellite industry, James established NewSpace Systems in 2013 with a vision to provide world-class, customised space solutions.

From its headquarters in Somerset West, Western Cape, NewSpace Systems employs 128 people (120 in South Africa), with 38% women and 57% from previously disadvantaged backgrounds. The company exports its space-grade components to 34 countries across six continents, supporting 17 national space agencies and major satellite constellation programs with over 500 satellites.

Under James’ leadership, NewSpace Systems has become a market leader in satellite guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) systems and communications products. Its ISO-certified cleanrooms are staffed by accredited, space-certified technicians who adhere to strict IPC/ESA space standards. The company expanded its production facilities threefold in 2022, with an additional 1,300m² of cleanrooms set to open by July 2025.

James champions a human-centered approach to manufacturing, combining advanced technology with skilled expertise. “Space-related manufacturing demands a nuanced approach,” says James. “Instead of replacing people with robots, we enhance human capabilities with tools like optical inspection systems, ensuring both precision and adaptability.”

With branches in the UK, New Zealand, and the US, NewSpace Systems is at the forefront of the global satellite industry, delivering customised solutions and supporting the next generation of space exploration.

Specialties: Satellite Systems | Space-Grade Manufacturing | Customised Space Solutions | GNC Systems | Aerospace Leadership | International Business Expansion

Founder & Executive Manager, Sakhikamva Foundation | Aviation & STEM Leader

Fatima Jakoet is a pioneering figure in the aviation industry and STEM education with over 20 years of experience. A qualified Senior First Officer at South African Airways (SAA), Fatima is the founder and executive manager of the Sakhikamva Foundation, which promotes aviation careers among underserved communities, inspiring the next generation of aerospace professionals.

Fatima holds an Executive MBA from Harvard Business School (Program for Leadership Development), an MBA from the University of Stellenbosch, and a Bachelor of Technology from the Cape University of Technology. She also earned a National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology and an Airline Transport License from BAE Systems Flight Training College.

In 2022, Fatima joined the Michelin Tyre Company South Africa board of directors, adding to her extensive leadership experience. She also founded STREAM Laboratory, an EduTech company focused on teacher training and technology-driven product development in education.

Her career began as a Forensic Toxicology and Narcotics Specialist at the National Health Laboratory Service and the South African Police Services Forensic team. Fatima serves as a director and trustee on multiple boards related to aviation and STEM fields, driving progress in both industries through her strategic vision and leadership.

Director of Technology Innovation, Parklands College & Christopher Robin Pre-Primary

Richard Knaggs is a visionary leader in educational technology, serving as the Director of Technology Innovation at Parklands College and Christopher Robin Pre-Primary. He oversees the ICT vision and innovation strategy, ensuring that cutting-edge technology is integrated into the school’s curriculum to provide students with the highest level of education in technology, robotics, and space.

Driven by a passion for technology and innovation, Richard has helped build a learning environment where students are equipped with the skills and mindset to thrive in an ever-evolving digital world. His mission is to empower students to discover their purpose and shape their futures while still at school.

Under his leadership, Parklands College has become a leader in technology-driven education, offering specialized programs in robotics, coding, and space science. Richard’s forward-thinking approach ensures that students gain hands-on experience and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for the future.