Imagine the future of Africa powered by seamless technology, where every digital interaction is an opportunity for growth and innovation. For Wiza Jalakasi, this isn’t just a futuristic dream—it’s his reality and mission.
With an unwavering passion for tech, Wiza spearheads efforts to build a digitally empowered Africa as the Director of Africa Market Development at EBANX. His journey is a testament to resilience, vision, and an unyielding drive to shape the future.
A Journey of Innovation and Leadership
Wiza Jalakasi’s story begins in Blantyre, Malawi, where a young boy’s curiosity for technology set the stage for an illustrious career. By the age of 11, Wiza was writing code, and at 16, he was already launching startups. This early start laid the groundwork for his relentless pursuit of tech-driven solutions.
His formal education at USIU Africa, where he graduated with honors in Information Systems Technology, further honed his skills and vision. His role as Google Student Ambassador showcased his knack for blending academic excellence with practical impact.
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Wiza’s Humble Beginnings to Global Impact
Wiza’s career trajectory is marked by significant milestones. His initial ventures, including MwTunes, demonstrated his ability to innovate ahead of the curve. But his tenure at Africa’s Talking truly highlighted his capabilities.
Wiza played a pivotal role in scaling operations across 15 African markets, leading the International Expansion Team and contributing to an impressive $8.6 million Series A round led by the World Bank’s International Finance Corporation.
Speaking on his rapid success at Africa’s Talking, where his strategic insights and relentless drive enabled the company to thrive across diverse markets, “Speed is everything.”
The Chipper Cash Revolution
At Chipper Cash, Wiza’s leadership in global merchant payments was transformative. He built merchant solutions that processed millions of dollars monthly, expanding the company’s reach and impact. His strategic acquisition of Zoona in Zambia and regulatory engagements in multiple countries underscored his ability to navigate complex financial landscapes and drive significant growth.
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Leading EBANX’s African Expansion
In 2023, Wiza embarked on a new adventure, becoming Director of Africa Market Development at EBANX. His mission: to lead the Brazilian fintech unicorn’s pan-African expansion. According to Paula Bellizia, President of Global Payments at EBANX, “Jalakasi will play a key role in expanding EBANX’s footprint in the African region, which is the next growth frontier for digital payments.”
Wiza’s extensive experience in solving local payments for international companies makes him an invaluable asset to EBANX’s ambitious plans. His vision aligns with EBANX’s goal to provide local payment solutions that drive financial inclusion and connect global merchants to Africa’s burgeoning digital market.
Wiza: The Visionary Leader
Wiza Jalakasi’s journey is a testament to his ability to navigate and shape Africa’s rapidly evolving tech landscape. His roles at Rally Cap Ventures and as a mentor at Google for Startups Accelerator Africa further exemplify his commitment to nurturing the next generation of tech entrepreneurs.
“Code is the new oil,” he asserts, underscoring the transformative power of technology. His work continues to inspire and drive Africa’s digital transformation, making him a pivotal figure in the continent’s tech ecosystem.
Wiza Jalakasi’s life and career vividly illustrate how passion, combined with skill and opportunity, can lead to extraordinary achievements. As he continues to break barriers and set new standards, Wiza remains a central figure in Africa’s tech landscape, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. With his leadership at EBANX, the future of digital payments and financial inclusion in Africa looks brighter.