The Zulzi Journey: How They Built a Billion-Rand Startup in Africa

Join us for an exclusive fireside chat with Donald Valoyi, Founder & CEO of Zulzi, as we unpack the story behind one of South Africa’s most inspiring tech success stories and how a multi billion-rand startup was bullt

What started as a small idea has grown into a billion-rand on-demand delivery platform, transforming the way South Africans shop for groceries, essentials, and more. In this conversation, Donald will share the highs and lows of building Zulzi — from the early challenges of funding and scaling, to the breakthroughs that positioned Zulzi as a leader in Africa’s quick-commerce revolution.

Donald Valoyi is a South African tech entrepreneur and software engineer, best known as the founder and CEO of Zulzi, a leading on-demand delivery platform that has reshaped urban e-commerce and logistics in South Africa.

Born in Ntshuxi village near Giyani in Limpopo, Donald’s journey began with humble roots and a passion for technology. He studied a Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics from the University of the Witwatersrand.

Donald began his career as a software developer, working at companies such as Telkom, TIBCO, EOH, and ultimately First National Bank (FNB). He left FNB in 2014 to pursue entrepreneurship full-time.

Founded in 2013, Zulzi began as a student-focused marketplace for textbooks and electronics. In less than a year, Donald pivoted the company toward ondemand grocery, pharmaceutical, and alcohol deliveries, focusing on rapid, urban logistics.

Zulzi’s platform—entirely developed in-house—includes real-time tracking, automated order allocation, mobile apps, and analytics systems. Under Donald’s leadership, Zulzi has grown to operate multiple dark stores across major South African cities, delivering in under 30 minutes (and in some areas, under 15 minutes).

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a startup enthusiast, or someone curious about the future of Africa’s digital economy, this session will inspire and equip you with real lessons from the frontline of innovation.

Details:

Date: 2 October

Time: 5 PM

Venue: MTN Morningside Experience Centre