SAICTA Honours Jacqui Muller as ICT Professional of the Year 2026
From the left is That’s Prof. Deborah Oluwadele, senior lecturer in the Department of Informatics at the University of Pretoria and award judge, Jacqui Muller, industry coordinator at Belgium Campus iTversity and awatd recipient, Nigel Tattersall, CEO of Belgium Campus iTversity, and Dr Jannie Zaaiman, CEO of SAICTA.
The South African ICT Association (SAICTA) is proud to announce Jacqui Muller as the recipient of the ICT Professional of the Year Award 2026, one of the flagship honours presented at the inaugural SAICTA ICT Excellence Awards Gala.
Selected from an exceptional field of nominees, Jacqui was recognised for her outstanding leadership, technical expertise, and long‑standing commitment to advancing South Africa’s digital ecosystem and practice Her career reflects a commitment to strengthening governance, driving innovation and fostering excellence across the country’s rapidly evolving digital economy.
Recognising Excellence in Professional Practice
The ICT Professional of the Year Award recognises an individual who has demonstrated exceptional professional achievement, ethical leadership, and a lasting impact on the ICT profession. The award celebrates professionals who not only excel in their respective fields but also contribute to the advancement, credibility and professionalisation of the broader ICT sector. The award celebrates professionals who:
- Uphold the highest standards of ICT governance and ethical practice.
- Demonstrate excellence in the application of ICT frameworks, methodologies, and innovation.
- Contribute meaningfully to organisational and national digital transformation.
- Serve as role models for emerging ICT professionals through mentorship, thought leadership, and community impact.
Throughout her career, Jacqui has consistently demonstrated these qualities. Her expertise in ICT governance, automation, risk management and the implementation of globally recognised ICT frameworks, has enabled organisational to strengthen resilience, improve operational effectiveness, and successfully navigate digital transformation initiatives. Equally significant is her commitment to mentoring future professionals and promoting best practice within the industry.
A Career Defined by Impact
In selecting Jacqui as the 2026 recipient, the judging panel recognised her ability to bridge strategic leadership with practical implementation. Her contributions extend beyond technical excellence – she is widely respected for her ability to translate complex ICT governance principles into practical, scalable solutions that support sustainable digital transformation.
Beyond her technical accomplishments, Jacqui is widely respected as a trusted advisor, mentor, and advocate for professional excellence. Her work continues to inspire professionals across the country, particularly those committed to building a more secure, ethical, and future‑ready ICT landscape.
A Milestone Moment for the ICT Community
The inaugural SAICTA ICT Excellence Awards Gala brought together innovators, entrepreneurs, academics, and industry leaders and practitioners to celebrate excellence across South Africa’s ICT sector. The awards form part of SAICTA’s broader commitment to advancing professional standards, recognising achievement and promoting the critical role ICT plays in national development and economic growth.
SAICTA CEO Dr Jannie Zaaiman emphasised the significance of the Awards in strengthening the sector’s identity and visibility, noting that recognition plays a vital role in building a thriving, future‑focused ICT community. “Jacqui Muller exemplifies the professionalism, integrity, and leadership that this award seeks to recognise. Her contribution extends far beyond organisational success; she has played a meaningful role in strengthening the standing of the ICT profession and inspiring the next generation of ICT practitioners. We are delighted to honour her as SAICTA’s ICT Professional of the Year for 2026.”
About SAICTA
The South African ICT Association (SAICTA) is a national professional body dedicated to advancing the ICT profession through advocacy, professional standards, skills development, and the recognition of excellence. Through initiatives such as the SAICTA ICT Excellence Awards, the Association celebrates the achievements of professionals, startups, women in tech, and young trailblazers who are shaping South Africa’s digital economy and technological advancement.
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