UCT FACULTY OF SCIENCE INVITES YOU TO THE
2026 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI LECTURES
The UCT Faculty of Science Distinguished Alumni Lectures aim to highlight our outstanding alumni who are making significant contributions in their respective fields.
Distinguished Alumni - Rising Star
Frans Cronje
Founder & Director - DataProphet
Topic: The Journey to Serving AI for Manufacturing to the World.
Frans co-founded DataProphet and led the company until 2024. He now serves as a strategic advisor and leads key accounts. Recognized by Fast Company South Africa as a Top 20 industry leader under 30, Frans holds an MSc in Mathematical Statistics (with distinction) and a BBusSci (Hons) in Actuarial Science from the University of Cape Town. Before founding DataProphet, he worked at Bain & Company.
Distinguished Alumni
Dr. Jaisheila Rajput
Founder & CEO - TOMA-Now
Topic: Catalysing the Climate: From the Lab to the Boardroom.
Dr Jaisheila Rajput is a recognised Green Economy leader driving sustainable, industry-focused solutions across Africa and beyond. A recipient of the inaugural African Trailblazer of the Year (SAB Beyond Awards), she holds a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Cape Town and brings nearly two decades of experience across automotive, chemicals, and construction sectors globally. As Founder and CEO of TOMA-Now and co-Founder of SDG Lab Africa, she champions collaboration and innovation. She also serves on the Sustainable Seas Trust Advisory Board and is committed to advancing inclusive, sustainable economic models.