On the crisp morning of June 10, 2025, Rosebank buzzed with anticipation as Spaan, South Africa’s pioneering verification-led employment platform, officially launched its operations.

Hosted by acclaimed media personality Anele Mdoda, the event introduced a game-changing solution addressing the country’s urgent challenge of high unemployment and the lack of trustworthy, accessible hiring processes.

Spaan’s origin traces back to its founder and CEO, Afika Nontso, who made a bold life choice driven by a clear vision. Having worked in the IT sector, Afika grew increasingly frustrated with the persistent barriers many South Africans faced in securing legitimate jobs due to unreliable recruitment practices. Determined to make a difference, he left his stable IT career to create a platform that would restore fairness and trust in the hiring process.

This personal leap of faith laid the foundation for Spaan—a tool designed to empower job seekers through verified credentials and provide employers with confidence in their recruitment.

“In South Africa, the job market is riddled with mistrust and misinformation, which discourages many qualified candidates,” Afika explained at the launch. “Spaan’s purpose is to bring transparency and dignity back into employment by enabling every applicant to showcase verifiable proof of their skills and background.”

The platform’s comprehensive verification system includes identity confirmation, academic record validation, banking details, and criminal background checks—crucial safeguards that instill confidence for both candidates and employers.

Expanding Accessibility Across the Nation

Chief Marketing Officer Tlali Taoana highlighted Spaan’s commitment to overcoming digital exclusion. “With over 100,000 users already engaging through accessible channels like USSD (*120*77226#), WhatsApp, and a responsive website, Spaan ensures that even those without smartphones or reliable internet access can verify their profiles without data costs,” Tlali shared. “This inclusivity extends to informal workers in rural areas, domestic workers, and emerging young professionals.”

Collaboration and Collective Impact

The launch brought together key stakeholders from finance, telecommunications, and recruitment sectors, emphasising the platform’s wide-reaching potential.

“Verified candidate profiles reduce costly hiring mistakes and accelerate recruitment,” noted one partner. “Spaan not only streamlines business processes but opens doors to legitimate opportunities for job seekers.”

Special guest Dr Andile Nontso praised Spaan’s innovative blend of technology and social equity.

“Combining cutting-edge verification technology with broad accessibility is essential to tackle unemployment,” he said. “Spaan stands as a powerful example of how digital platforms can promote economic dignity and empowerment.”

Energising the Vision

Anele Mdoda’s engaging hosting brought warmth and energy to the event.

“This is more than just an app; it’s a beacon for thousands seeking fairness and opportunity,” Anele reflected. “Spaan is helping South Africans step confidently into the workforce with verified identities.”

Afika closed the event by sharing Spaan’s ambitious roadmap: “Beyond our current verification pillars, we’re working on integrations with academic institutions, AI-driven resume building, and closer employer partnerships. Our goal is to build a trusted, dignified employment ecosystem that benefits all South Africans.”

Why Spaan is a Game-Changer

Bridging the Digital Divide: Multi-channel access ensures inclusivity.

Trust Through Verification: Comprehensive identity and background checks restore confidence.

Supporting Informal & Formal Workers: Tailored for South Africa’s diverse labor market.

Empowering Job Seekers: Verified profiles combat fraud and exploitation.

Addressing Unemployment: Enhances employability in a challenging market.

The launch of Spaan marks a pivotal moment for South Africa’s employment landscape. By centering verification and accessibility, the platform dismantles long standing barriers, enabling job seekers to stand behind verified credentials and employers to hire with assurance.

As unemployment remains a pressing issue, Spaan’s innovative approach offers a fresh pathway toward dignity, fairness, and opportunity for all.