The Innovation Squad

Sibusiso Nkabinde

CEO, SMS Subject Matter Expert, Consultant, Mentor, Aviator, Instructor

Sibusiso Nkabinde is a holder of an Advanced Certificate in Management Studies (MANCOSA, RSA), Executive Management Development (University of La Verne, USA), Core Board Leadership (GIBS, RSA) and has over two decades experience in the aviation industry experience covering:

• Aeronautical Information Management
• Aerodrome, Approach Procedural and Approach Radar Air Traffic Control
• Provision of Instruction (OJTI) and a Designated Examiner
• Air Traffic Services Management
• Executive Management in Search and Rescue, Training and Consulting
• Lecturing on Air Traffic Control Ergonomic Design and Human Performance Limitations
  

His input in the aviation industry includes past representation of South Africa on various CANSO Task Teams and Workgroups, and ICAO Meetings pertaining to the Eastern & Southern African Regional Coordination affairs and the South Atlantic Ocean Future Air Navigation Systems meetings pertaining to future harmonization and interoperability of Air Traffic Management Systems.
His life philosophy is that “Never do anything just because you can – there must be a purpose!”

Piet Alberts

Aviation Veteran, Safety Wisdom Coach

Piet Alberts is a valued member of the AV-INNOVATE team, specializing in Aviation SMS Advisory Services. His approach is grounded in collaboration, co-creation, and adaptability, all aimed at ensuring the best outcomes for our clients.

Piet Alberts believes strongly in the importance of aviation safety training to foster a strong Safety Culture. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce Degree and a Post Graduate Certificate in Education from the University of South Africa. He has also completed the IATA Diploma in Safety Management Systems, showcasing his commitment to expertise in the field.

Piet brings to the table an impressive 30 years of experience as an operational Air Traffic Controller. During his career, he handled Aerodrome Control, Approach Radar Control, and Approach Procedural Control in the South African Air Force and Air Traffic and Navigation Services Company.

In a significant role, Piet served as a CAA ATS Designated Examiner in the latter part of his career. In 2009, he stepped into the position of Manager: Air Traffic Services (Regional Airports), and during that time, he also shared his knowledge as a guest instructor for the SMS Course at the ATNS Aviation Training Academy.

Piet’s contributions were pivotal as the ATS Project Lead, overseeing key projects at ATNS. These included establishing controlled airspace at Grand Central ATSU, upgrading ATS from Aerodrome Control to Approach Procedural Control at Polokwane ATSU, introducing a standalone Ground Control Service at Wonderboom ATSU, relocating to the new Control Tower complex at Lanseria ATSU, and meticulously planning and implementing ATS services for Regional Airports for the 2010 Soccer World Cup.

Notably, Piet played a crucial role in planning the introduction of Approach Radar Control ATS for the Kruger ATSU. In 2022, he retired from ATNS, leaving behind a rich legacy of contributions to the aviation industry.

Nontsikelelo Kgoe

Collaborative Advisor and Empowerment coach: Safety Management Systems

Nontsikelelo Kgoe is an accomplished aviation professional with over 10 years of experience. She has a Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Administration from Regenesys Business School in Johannesburg, South Africa, and several certificates in aviation.

Nontsikelelo has worked in various roles in the aviation industry, including Safety and Security Manager at Skyriders, Safety and Security Manager at Rocketmine, and Flight Safety Specialist at South African Airways. She has core qualifications in safety management, risk management, crisis and change management, process improvement, project management, and planning.

Nontsikelelo has accomplished several achievements in her career, including attaining a Commercial Pilot License in a commendable duration of 18 months, collaborating effectively with the Human Factors Team at South African Airways, and playing an integral role within the FlySafair team, contributing to the airline’s notable achievement of securing the top position for on-time performance in the country.,

Khonzumusa Hlophe

Tech Partner. ATM/CNS revolutionary, CIO,  Aviation Infrastructure Evangelist

As a visionary CxO, my mission is to drive Africa’s technological evolution. With expertise in Digital Transformation, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and IoT, I harness the potential of smart devices and modern technologies to create innovative solutions for the continent’s diverse challenges.

By empowering businesses and communities through cutting-edge tech, I am committed to revolutionizing Africa’s technological landscape. Let’s collaborate and shape a brighter future for the region. Connect with me, and let’s ignite the power of technology together! 

My MTP is “Connecting Africans and Beyond” is a Subset of The No Country Left behind

Simphiwe Nkabinde

Web Administrator

As the Web Administrator at AV-Innovate, Simphiwe is dedicated to ensuring a seamless online experience for our valued visitors. With a passion for technology and a keen eye for detail, He works tirelessly behind the scenes to keep our website running smoothly and efficiently. His roles include Website maintenance & enhancements, content management and website optimization.