Mpho Sam Nkambule is powering Africa’s transition to smart, sustainable infrastructure — one project, one principle, one innovation at a time. From Burgersfort to the continent’s biggest energy corridors, he leads electrical, control and instrumentation (EC&I) engineering across complex industrial developments. At 32, Mpho has worked on flagship projects including the Kamoa and Khoemacau copper mines and the Henkries Renewable Energy Project, delivering high-performance systems aligned with safety, quality and sustainability. Armed with a PhD in electrical engineering and an MBA (both cum laude) from the University of Johannesburg, Mpho combines technical expertise with strategic oversight. As a postdoctoral research fellow, he explores AI-driven energy optimisation and hybrid renewable systems, helping shape Africa’s clean-energy future. Named 2023 Engineer of the Year by the SA Institute of Electrical Engineers, Mpho believes growth begins where comfort ends, often repeating his guiding mantra: “Start before you’re ready.” Whether in control rooms or classrooms, Mpho’s legacy is measured not just in megawatts — but in the minds and missions he energises.
Several mentors and role models have profoundly influenced my journey, each playing a unique role in shaping my path and guiding me through different stages of my career and personal development. At the heart of it all, my parents have been my primary source of inspiration and support, instilling in me the values of hard work, humility and resilience from an early age. My wife has been a constant pillar of strength, intellectually and emotionally. Her achievements in engineering and academia motivate me daily, and her belief in my potential has helped me pursue my ambitions with confidence. My son reminds me of the legacy I want to leave behind — a future built on knowledge, compassion and purpose. Professionally, I have been fortunate to be mentored by individuals who have left a lasting impact: Hercu Smit, EC&I Director, has been instrumental in shaping my professional approach to engineering leadership. His technical expertise, strategic thinking and calm leadership in complex environments have set a benchmark for excellence in project execution and people management. Dr Ali Hasan has significantly influenced my academic and research journey, particularly in the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in renewable energy systems. His passion for innovation and intelligent system design has deepened my own interest in applying smart technologies to Africa’s energy challenges. Prof Thokozani Shongwe has guided me through my postgraduate research and professional development. His insight into AI, ML and strategic engineering applications, as well as his ability to align technical research with socio-economic impact, has broadened my perspective on the role of engineering in shaping sustainable development.