At just 23, Lethabo Makua is rapidly emerging as one of South Africa’s boldest young business minds. As the Business Growth Lead at Beapo (Pty) Ltd, Makua drives expansion into new markets and crafts strategic solutions for sectors ranging from mining to energy. His work intersects innovation and relationship-building, positioning Beapo as a key player in Africa’s industrial transformation. Born in Polokwane and raised in KwaZulu-Natal, Makua’s leadership journey began early. A grade 10 Toastmasters win ignited his passion for public speaking and, by matric, he had hosted his first virtual leadership summit. He holds a BA in strategic brand communication from IIE Vega School and is an alumnus of the US-based Joseph Business School. He plans to pursue postgraduate study in marketing or business administration in 2026. Makua’s portfolio includes leading Beapo’s role in the Zoho Case Study Africa, coordinating with global partners under difficult conditions to showcase the company’s customer relations management-driven operational excellence. His adaptability and strategic mindset stood out, earning him industry credibility well beyond his years. He is also a mentor with the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation and a guest lecturer at Vega School, investing in future leaders with the same intentionality that defines his career. Guided by mentors from around the world, including business strategist Maleeka Hollaway and leadership coach Luke Quamina, Makua is cultivating a life of being effective globally — grounded in purpose, driven by vision.
A proud milestone includes involvement in the BEAPO x Zoho Case Study Africa. Watch the case study here. The project showcased BEAPO’s use of technology and CRM systems to improve operational efficiency across various sectors. A leading role was played in coordinating the case study — including supplier engagement, pre-production planning, logistics oversight and participation in the final video shoot.
I am deeply fortunate to be guided by five incredible mentors who have significantly shaped my leadership, values and purpose. Maleeka Hollaway, a Forbes-recognised entrepreneur and professor of business at the Savannah College of Art and Design in Atlanta, Georgia, mentors me on career decisions and academic growth. She has also written a reference for me on LinkedIn and appeared on my podcast. Dr JM Makua, my father and a higher education executive currently serving as acting deputy vice-chancellor at Mangosuthu University of Technology, has been my lifelong mentor. His example of principled leadership and vision helped shape my values and sense of purpose. Luke Quamina, a certified John Maxwell leadership coach and entrepreneur from Trinidad and Tobago, guides me in leading with integrity, character and global perspective. I have also hosted him on my podcast to share his wisdom with others. David Anthony Burrus, a relationship coach and entrepreneur based in Los Angeles, mentors me in relational intelligence — teaching me how to steward personal and professional relationships with wisdom.