The internet service provider (ISP) industry is uncharted waters for many black & female entrepreneurs, the industry has been largely dominated by white men. Having studied Information Communications Technology at CPUT, Lorna Mlonzi decided to venture into the ISP industry, establishing her business – Sky Internet.
Who is Lorna Mlonzi?
Lorna is a Gqeberha born Nyanga East raised passionate tech guru. She is adamant about developing townships and previously disadvantaged communities through access to the internet. “It is through the internet that I was able to access and take advantage of the opportunities now available to me and I want the same for kids who look like me or have similar backgrounds,” said the entrepreneur.
Whilst there are numerous ISP’s available, Sky Internet differentiates itself by prioritising previously disadvantaged communities and bringing the internet to the people at a fraction of the cost.
Getting to the people
Fibre & Wifi are relatively new concepts in black townships, this meant that Sky Internet had to first understand the market they were entering and cater to their specific needs. Lorna ecstatically lets us know that they have had really positive feedback from the communities and it was also an opportunity for them to learn and unlearn a few things.
“We’ve had to decode the technical jargon we use as techies in order to tap into the market. Things such as the difference between fibre internet and ADSL or LTE, 20 mbps to 20 megabytes per second, service provider and network operator amongst other things,” says the CEO.
Partnerships
For Lorna, there is power in collaborations and partnerships. She believes in fostering relationships with like-minded business people in order to maximise client satisfaction. Recently, Sky Internet has partnered with lifestyle establishments in Khayelitsha to give their patrons a taste of fast and reliable fibre internet services. The establishments include Rands Cape Town, The Milk Restaurant & Champagne Bar and Kwa – Ace eKitchen and Lounge. These partnerships will also enable these establishment to accommodate those who work from home and pop out for a meal or drink to continue with their responsibilities amidst load shedding.
Challenges
Lorna admits that there are many challenges in business, but believes in turning challenges into opportunities. “This is an opportunity for gatekeepers to learn that there’s nothing wrong with offering a woman and a woman of colour a seat at the table. They could learn a thing or two and collaborations are the future,” said Lorna.
For more information, you can get in touch with Sky Internet through their website www.skyinternet.co.za, email at info@skyinternet.co.za or whatsapp 078 074 5989. Additionally, they are on social media, Facebook: Sky Internet SA , Instagram: SkyInternetSA, Twitter: Sky Internet SA.
“Believe in yourself and the possibility of achieving anything you put your mind to.” – Lorna Mlonzi, Sky Internet Founder & CEO.
Also see: What age is it safe to give your kids internet access?
