Innovating child safety: The Journey of Keletso Lekwakwe and PasswordKid

Keletso Lekwakwe from Hammanskraal is the co-founder and CEO of PasswordKid, a cybersecurity company specialising in secure password management solutions for Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres. At just 25 years old, Keletso has an impressive entrepreneurial track record. Growing up in Ramochana, a small township in the North West, he faced a challenging environment where role models were scarce and success stories were few. Most young people in his community aspired to be football players or miners. However, Keletso’s determination to study IT led him to earn a Bachelor of Science in Software Development.

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Inspiration Behind PasswordKid

Keletso’s journey into this sector was deeply influenced by his experience of caring for his younger brother, who was in crèche at the time. He often prioritised his brother’s safety over his aspirations, which sparked a desire to create a solution that provides parents with peace of mind regarding child pick-ups.

Enhancing Child Safety and Creating Jobs

PasswordKid’s mission is to ensure the safety and security of children during school pick-ups. The app allows parents to register a unique password or PIN that authorised individuals must provide during pick-up. School staff verify this information before releasing a child, effectively preventing unauthorised pick-ups and offering reassurance to parents.

The impact of PasswordKid extends beyond child safety; it has also created job opportunities within the communities it serves. Keletso expressed pride in being able to pay salaries, knowing that countless families have food on their tables because of his work. He stated, “Creating job opportunities and being able to pay salaries brings me immense fulfilment, alongside the safety of kids.”

Achievements and Lessons for Entrepreneurs

Keletso’s entrepreneurial journey has been classic, filled with both challenges and rewards. Winning several awards has been particularly meaningful, as each recognition brings a sense of motivation. The first award always holds a special place, but each subsequent achievement reinforces their commitment to pushing forward. Notably, Keletso won the Uber Tech for Safety Pitch Competition, which showcased innovators from across Southern Africa. He also earned first runner-up at the Ernst & Young Pitch Competition, competing with 92 entrepreneurs from eight countries.

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The R50,000 prize money from the TEA Kasi Pitching Challenge significantly improved PasswordKid’s operations, enabling the completion of their prototype, which now actively protects and secures over 8,000 children daily. Keletso learned through this experience that no business is too small and that, regardless of where you are, any business can thrive and remain highly competitive.

For aspiring entrepreneurs in the sector, Keletso advises, “Be trustworthy and remain innovative.” His journey illustrates that technology can create a safer environment, particularly in underserved communities, and demonstrates the power of perseverance and vision.