Stories of building SA’s most successful startups from Stellenbosch
Thu Aug 7, 16:00 - Thu Aug 7, 21:00
Workshack
ABOUT
Building one successful startup is tough enough, it’s therefore incredible to think that FireID (founded by Stellenbosch-born brothers, Malan and Phillip Joubert) has been involved in the founding of some of SA’s most successful startups: Pondering Panda, SnapScan, Journey Apps, Offerzen, Root, Mindjoy and Luno.
Malan joins us as he shares their journey and what they have learnt through a couple of successes and several failures.
PLUS:
- Join our founders pre event, where we will be doing masterclasses on early stage idea validation and landing your first customer.
- Join one of our breakout panels on Scaling AND
- Network with SA’s leading startup builders and innovators!
If you are building a tech startup in South Africa, you don’t want to miss this event!
Main Speaker: Malan Joubert, Founder of FireID
Date: 7 August 2025
Location: Workshack, Techno Park, Stellenbosch
Event Times: Pre-Event Activities: 16:00 - 18:00, Main Event: 18:00 - 21:00
AGENDA
PRE EVENT ACTIVITIES (16:00 - 18:00)
16:00 - The Founder Collab Presents: Early-Stage Idea Validation by Thijan Dippenaar
Gain valuable insights on how to validate your startup ideas and ensure you're solving real problems in the market.
16:30 - The Founder Collab Presents: Land Your First Customer by Renier Kriel
Learn proven strategies for landing your first customers and making your first sales, no matter your stage.
17:00 - Pitch Your Ideas & Ask Your Questions with The Founder Collab
This is your chance to get feedback on your startup ideas and ask questions to the experts. Be prepared to pitch and refine your ideas!
17:30 - Masterclass on Fundraising. This is your chance to hear what actually works in our market — and why.
MAIN EVENT (18:00 - 21:00)
18:00 - Arrivals & Networking
Arrive, network, and connect with fellow founders and entrepreneurs.
18:45 - Main Panel Discussion
Featuring Malan Joubert, Founder of FireID and Renier Kriel, co-founder of The Open Letter
19:45 - Networking & Drinks
Join us for a relaxed networking session with drinks, making valuable connections with key players in the local startup ecosystem.
20:00 - Breakout Panel (TBC)
A special session diving deeper into specific topics. Stay tuned for more details.
21:00 - Event Close
SPEAKERS
Malan Joubert - Founder of FireID
Malan Joubert is a software developer with a passion for robotics and a degree in Electronic Engineering from Stellenbosch University. As the CEO of FireID, a startup studio, Malan has helped incubate successful South African ventures like Pondering Panda, Journey Apps, SnapScan, OfferZen, Root, Luno and Mindjoy. With over a year spent in Silicon Valley, Malan brings a deep understanding of the startup culture, energy, and innovation that defines the Bay Area. Now, he’s dedicated to strengthening South Africa’s tech ecosystem. Outside of building startups, Malan enjoys running, reading, building robots, and paragliding.
Renier Kriel - Co-Founder and CEO of The Open Letter
Renier Kriel is an entrepreneur and digital expert with over 15 years of experience helping startups and businesses thrive through innovative digital solutions. He founded 4i, one of South Africa’s first digital agencies. Now, as the co-founder of The Open Letter, a newsletter for South African startups, Renier empowers entrepreneurs with insights and inspiration. He also co-hosts How Would You Build It?, a podcast sharing real-world business-building stories from experienced founders.
PICTURES
PARTNERS
Our Premium Events Partner :
Partners of The Open Letter:
GENERAL
Parking: Free parking is available for all attendees.
Right of Admission:
- Entrance is strictly for ticket holders only.
- No sales will be allowed at the door.
- Alcohol will be served only to guests over the age of 18.
- Please note that there are no refunds available.
General Information:
- Tickets are limited — don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn from and network with top industry leaders.
- Come ready to engage with like-minded professionals and gain valuable insights that can elevate your startup journey!