About Us
SCI Academy was founded with a deep commitment to addressing South Africa’s youth unemployment crisis and the shortcomings of our traditional education system. By bringing together seasoned entrepreneurs and innovative academics, we’ve created a dynamic blend of practical experience and essential knowledge transfer, tailored to equip you with the tools you need to succeed in today’s uncertain world.
Meet Our Leadership Team:
Mr. Zahid Shaik (CM.SA).MBA
Program Director
BUSINESS & CORPORATE BACKGROUND
Having benefitted from mentorship himself, Zahid's impressive corporate journey spans key leadership roles at top-tier companies such as PNP Group, Aspen Pharmaceuticals, Unilever, AMKA Cosmetics, Sime Darby Oils, Edcon, and Woolworths. Currently, he serves as the Managing Director of SocialPro Media, a trailblazing MARTECH company known for introducing disruptive and innovative technologies to the market.
ACADEMIA & MENTORSHIP
As one of South Africa's most respected business figures, Zahid’s mentorship portfolio is vast, including work with the Allan Gray Foundation, Standard Bank, and the National Mentorship Movement SA. A seasoned RPL assessor and mentor for the Marketing Association of South Africa (MASA), he has dedicated over 20 years to mentoring professionals, from entry-level interns to top C-suite executives. Zahid’s impact in higher education is significant, having shaped curricula at institutions like MANCOSA and AFDA. Recently, he proudly mentored his 10th chartered professional and is now focused on closing the gap in certified business mentors equipped to guide the next generation of entrepreneurs through today’s complex business landscape.
RESEARCH & ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Zahid’s extensive research across South Africa’s diverse entrepreneurial landscape has unearthed eye-opening insights into social capital transfer among various racial and cultural groups. His deep involvement with entrepreneurs gives him a unique perspective on the dynamics of new venture formation, risk-taking, and leadership. Zahid's work not only highlights his expertise but also his commitment to fostering entrepreneurial success by strategically enhancing social capital transfer.
Ryan Ramsamy
Founder
A visionary entrepreneur with a passion for youth development, Ryan Ramsamy has dedicated his career to creating platforms that empower the next generation of business leaders.
BUSINESS & CORPORATE BACKGROUND
Ryan’s corporate career showcases his innovative leadership across multiple industries. Starting at Distell Group, he played a key role in driving brand growth and market expansion. His trajectory continued as Managing Director of Talent Farm, where his forward-thinking talent acquisition strategies redefined industry standards and cemented the company's leadership.
Today, Ryan serves as Founder and Innovation Director of SocialPro, Under his visionary leadership, SocialPro continues to break new ground, securing Ryan’s status as a transformative force in the business world.
ACADEMIA & MENTORSHIP
Ryan Ramsamy is a renowned academic and business strategist with a profound influence on the marketing industry. Holding a Post Graduate Diploma from the IMM Graduate School of Marketing, his research has explored cutting-edge business models and entrepreneurial ecosystems in emerging markets.
Ryan’s passion for developing entrepreneurial talent is evident through his roles as a lecturer at esteemed institutions like IMM and Vega, where he has shaped the minds of future business leaders. He’s also a regular speaker at major events, including Ad-Tech’s Social Media Week South Africa, where he delivers impactful presentations on Advanced Digital Marketing and Trend Analysis.
Beyond academia, Ryan has played a crucial role in launching successful entrepreneurial ventures, blending practical experience with academic expertise. Now, as a member of the directorship at Social Capital Investments (SCI), he is set to apply his vast experience and influential network to drive the institution’s mission of grooming the next generation of business leaders.