Nkahiseng Ralepeli

For Nkahiseng Ralepeli, 29, curiosity has always been a compass. Growing up in Pretoria and Bloemfontein, he never felt boxed into one career dream, which allowed him to explore law, technology and product innovation. He eventually found his passion at the intersection of finance, digital assets and social impact. Today, Nkahiseng leads Absa’s Stablecoin product development and Real World Asset tokenisation strategy in  African markets. He is spearheading solutions that bridge financial access, enhance efficiency and drive inclusion. His role reflects a career defined by growth and embracing complexity. A Rhodes scholar and Abe Bailey Bursary recipient,  Nkahiseng holds four degrees, including two master’s qualifications from the University of Oxford in civil law and public policy. His academic journey, paired with practical experience as a startup founder, product lead and technology strategist, has cemented him as a thought leader in blockchain, AI and inclusive tech. Recognised as a Top 5 African Debater and board member of the Cloud Security Alliance South Africa, Nkahiseng’s work extends beyond corporate halls. He mentors, writes, and builds initiatives that leverage technology to uplift underserved communities.

• LLB (undergraduate law), University of the Free State
• Postgraduate Diploma in International Arbitration, University of the Free State
• Masters in Civil Law (graduate course in law), University of Oxford
• Masters in Public Policy (graduate course), University of Oxford

• Abe Bailey Travel Bursary Recipient.
• Rhodes Scholar and Oxford Graduate.
• UFS Dux Scholar (Top 3).
• Golden Key International Honour Society member for multiple years.
• Dean’s List for Law for multiple years.
• Worlds Debater and Top 5 African Speaker and Debater.
• E4E Blockchain Fellow.
• Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellow.
• Board Member, Cloud Security Alliance South Africa.
• Startup Co-founder, Product Lead and Specialist for multiple startups across EMEA and the US.
• Published writings featured in multiple local and international publications.

I would say I have three buckets of mentors: The first are people my age — my peers. These are the folks who are aiming for success but keep me alive. They remind me that life is for the living. The second are people slightly older than me. They remind me that, while life is for the living, it’s important to be intentional about where you want to be. They show me what’s possible if you put your mind to it. They represent the kind of excellence I aspire to. The third are those far removed from me. These are the implicit mentors whom I may have heard speak, read their books, or perhaps spoken to briefly. They are a knowledge ground for me, offering information otherwise not easily accessible. They remind me that the impact I want is not achieved overnight, but through long nights, effort, intention and a deep desire to make an impact.