Not only did he take the first prize at the Africa Forty Under 40 Awards for his groundbreaking work in science, technology, and innovation, but this born-and-bred Capetonian from Montana on the Cape Flats will now represent South Africa on the global stage.
Jamie Thurston Wyngaard, a name that’s rapidly becoming synonymous with technological innovation and entrepreneurship, has taken yet another giant leap in his journey to impact the world- all this at just 34-years-old.
In February 2025, Wyngaard was awarded the prestigious Science, Technology & Innovation Award at the Africa Forty Under 40 Awards, recognizing his exceptional contributions to technological advancements, mobility, financial inclusion, and digital transformation.
This accolade represents his efforts in driving innovative solutions that not only address real-world challenges but also create opportunities for underserved communities across Africa.
As the co-founder and Chief Experience Officer (CXO) of Loop, Wyngaard has been at the forefront of revolutionizing the payments industry in South Africa.
Through his leadership, Loop has introduced disruptive solutions such as Chat-to-Pay, Tap-to-Pay, and the upcoming “pay with palm” system—an innovative biometric payment solution—that is changing the way people interact with transport systems, particularly within the minibus taxi industry.
These advancements are designed to simplify payments, enhance accessibility, and create a more inclusive financial ecosystem for people across the country.
Reflecting on his award, Wyngaard said, “Innovation is not just about technology; it’s about creating solutions that transform lives. This award is a recognition of the work we are doing at Loop to make mobility, financial access, and technology more inclusive across Africa.”
Speaking about his experience at the Africa Forty Under 40 Awards, he recalled feeling a sense of imposter syndrome as he stood alongside other nominees. “The way I felt being at the awards, I felt like the nomination alone was enough for me. Meeting all the other nominees made me realize there’s so much happening in Africa, and people are doing such incredible work,” he reflected.
“I thought, ‘I’m just a guy from Cape Town, from the Cape Flats. But when they called my name, I was really surprised and in that moment, I felt like, you know what? You can. You can. And Cape Town can. And Cape Flats can. South Africa can. We can do this.”
Wyngaard’s accomplishments don't stop at the Africa Forty Under 40 recognition.
His company, Loop, has also been honoured with numerous accolades, including the SAB Foundation Social Innovation Development Award (2023), Startup Club: Startup of the Year (2023), and multiple awards at the Global Startup Awards for Best Mobility & Logistics in Southern Africa (2024), to name just a few.
This is something which speaks to his deep commitment to bringing meaningful change to his community and beyond.
The bright eyed, full of life young man said he is now setting his sights on an even bigger stage after receiving the exciting news that he has been nominated for the 40 Under 40 Global Awards, set to take place in Dubai this April.
“I’m beyond excited to represent Cape Town and South Africa on the global stage,” Wyngaard said. “The nomination alone is an honour, but now it’s about pushing forward, continuing to innovate, and showing the world what we’re capable of.”
Wyngaard’s message is clear: “Your environment shouldn’t define you. You can achieve national recognition, African recognition, and even global recognition if you’re passionate about what you do. It’s about finding purpose in your work and staying committed to it. The opportunities will follow.”
tracy-lynn.ruiters@inl.co.za
Weekend Argus