By: Creamer media

Kale developed the Optima Process, a patented, waterless technology for coal separation. By eliminating water from mineral beneficiation, he has created a transformative solution for mining at a critical time. “I wanted to show that mining can be both productive and sustainable,” he explains. 

His breakthrough has earned him the Innovator of the Year® award at the 37th annual Business Partners Limited Entrepreneur of the Year® awards. 

Through proprietary technologies and unique equipment, Gravitas Minerals has expanded across the African continent, processing coal, iron ore, and manganese. These innovations improve efficiency, sustainability, and profitability, demonstrating that environmental responsibility is not a trade-off with business success. Kale is most proud of their results in processing chrome tailings. Without the use of any chemicals, the system is able to extract the chrome so well that the remainder can be sold as building sand.

Kale’s vision goes beyond technology. He invests in people through skills development internships with the Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA), local employment initiatives, and school partnerships promoting environmental education. For him, a sustainable industry means building sustainable talent. 

David Morobe, Executive General Manager for Impact Investing at Business Partners Limited, says, “Tebogo’s work doesn’t just challenge the debate of ‘profit versus planet’; it ends it. He has proven, with patented, scalable technology, that what is good for the environment can also be great for the bottom line. This is the kind of practical, world-changing innovation South Africa can offer the globe.”