South African technology leader, social innovator, and founder of Project Simunye, Jordachelin Moodley, credits the Durban University of Technology (DUT) with giving him the tools, discipline, and mindset to reshape the digital industry.
Raised in a community with limited access, Moodley transformed personal limitations into purpose by pursuing Information Technology at DUT. Today, he works in the fintech sector at Old Mutual South Africa, driving inclusive digital transformation in banking and financial services. A recognised national and international award recipient, Moodley bridges the gap between innovation and impact, ensuring technology becomes a doorway to opportunity for all, not a privilege for a few.
Growing up without reliable internet access, Moodley experienced firsthand how opportunity can be delayed simply because access is denied. “That frustration became fuel. When I enrolled at DUT, I was not chasing a qualification, I was chasing understanding. I wanted to learn how systems worked so I could one day help redesign them,” he explained.
At DUT, Moodley discovered more than code and systems. The institution shaped him to think critically, lead boldly, and serve intentionally. “What started as curiosity turned into purpose, purpose turned into impact, and the rest is history,” he added.
A typical day for Moodley begins with prayer, gratitude, and intention. He grounds himself in reflection, reminding himself that purpose must always lead performance. From there, his day shifts into impact mode. At Old Mutual, he engages in technology-driven initiatives that advance digital transformation and strengthen financial services systems. His mornings are often filled with collaboration, problem solving, and ensuring innovation aligns with customer value and business strategy.
Beyond his corporate role, Moodley leads Project Simunye, a movement mentoring youth through STEMI, which stands for science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and innovation, while advancing digital and financial literacy initiatives. Through this platform, he equips young people to become creators and innovators, not just consumers of technology.
“In my role at Old Mutual, I focus on ensuring digital fintech systems are secure, scalable, resilient, and inclusive. This involves working closely with technical teams, business stakeholders, and leadership to make systems trustworthy and efficient,” he explained. For Moodley, enabling financial inclusion is not just about infrastructure; it is about dignity, economic participation, and impacting thousands, sometimes millions, of lives.
Moodley credits DUT’s holistic approach for shaping his mindset. “DUT taught me to think beyond the textbook. It challenged me to approach problems with innovation, resilience, and strategic intent. The institution helped me bridge theory with real-world impact, see technology as a catalyst for transformation, and nurtured my leadership. Through collaboration, exposure to diverse perspectives, and practical learning, I gained the confidence to sit at decision-making tables and influence outcomes,” he said.
Most importantly, DUT instilled in him the belief that background does not determine destiny. The university gave him the tools, the discipline, and the mindset not just to participate in the industry, but to reshape it.
Moodley advises DUT students to build beyond the classroom. “Build your personal brand early. Your reputation, work ethic, and integrity will open doors your qualifications alone cannot. Network intentionally. Stay grounded in purpose. Degrees get you hired, purpose makes you impactful. The world needs purposeful innovators, and the world is yours,” he said.
He also emphasises the importance of exposure beyond academics. “DUT is not just a place to earn a qualification; it is a space to discover who you are becoming. Real growth happens in group projects, leadership opportunities, networking events, late-night study sessions, and stepping into rooms that challenge your confidence. Your qualification opens doors, but your character, relationships, and resilience determine how far you walk through them. Embrace discomfort. It is the birthplace of growth,” he added.
His greatest role models are his parents. “Their sacrifices, discipline, and unwavering belief in education laid the foundation for everything I have achieved. They may not stand on global stages, but they built the one that I now stand on,” he commented.
Looking ahead, Moodley aims to lead large-scale digital transformation initiatives across Africa, making financial services more inclusive, intelligent, and accessible. “Through Project Simunye, I want to scale our impact nationally and eventually globally by bridging the digital divide, expanding financial literacy, and creating sustainable pathways for youth in underserved communities. Personally, I strive for legacy over title. I want to build institutions, mentor future leaders, and invest in solutions that outlive me. My ultimate goal is not just to innovate; it is to institutionalise opportunity so that inclusion becomes the standard, not the exception,” he concluded.
Pictured: Jordachelin Moodley
Waheeda Peters
