Charmaine Houvet is an accomplished and visionary leader with an illustrious career spanning over three decades in the dynamic and ever-evolving Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector. With an impressive track record in both the public, private, and academic spheres, and with her innovation-oriented mindset she has been a driving force behind technological advancements and policy changes, shaping the landscape of the industry. She is a tech diplomat, balancing the art of policy and innovation, overseeing Government Strategy for Africa.
A large part of her job is all about building strong relationships between Cisco and an ecosystem of stakeholders. As a trusted advisor to government heads, she has provided invaluable insights on strategic technology adoption and has played a pivotal role in crafting forward-thinking policies and regulations that drive innovation and digital transformation. Her role is a bridge-builder, connecting the dots between innovation and government policies, helping drive digital transformation across different countries. Whether it’s advocating for tech-friendly policies or navigating complex regulatory environments, she ensures that Cisco is positioned to grow and innovate while supporting governments leverage technology to improve people’s lives.
Notably, Charmaine served as a key member of the President Ramaphosa’s 4IR commission, where she played a central role in shaping the nation’s approach to harnessing emerging technologies for economic and societal progress.
Her passion for advancing the ICT sector, combined with her strong advocacy for women’s empowerment, has been a defining aspect of her journey. Recognized for her relentless efforts in the ICT sector, she is the recipient of several prestigious awards acknowledging her significant contributions to the industry’s growth and empowerment of women within it. Charmaine is an exceptional leader who has left an indelible mark on the ICT industry, advocating for connectivity, positive change, gender equality, and innovation.