HERO
A Net Nine Nine Production
NET99 OFFERS FREEDOM IN THE DIGITAL AGE!
THE ‘EYES AND EARS’ OF NET99!
MEET THE GENTS ‘MADE-IN-MOGALE’!
WE BRING LIGHT TO CHILDREN’S HOME!
LIVING IN COLOUR OUTREACH UPLIFTS NEEDY!
NET99 OFFERS FREEDOM IN THE
DIGITAL AGE!
As the old adage goes: access to the internet is no longer a luxury but a fundamental pillar of economic participation, education, and social inclusion.
Yet for years, many South Africans have found themselves trapped in a telecommunications landscape dominated by high costs, rigid contracts, and limited flexibility, while those in townships and villages are stuck in limbo.
And, this is the commonly accepted truth, observation, and a piece of wisdom about life, which Net Nine Nine learned and resolved quickly.
In truth, in 2026, the conversation is no longer just about who provides internet but it is about how they provide it, and who truly benefits.
If companies like Net Nine Nine continue to challenge the status quo, the future of connectivity in South Africa may finally align with the ideals of accessibility, fairness, and freedom for all.
The promise of connectivity often came at a steep price, leaving township and village households and small businesses paying what felt like “an arm and a leg” just to stay online.
This is why the conversation around freedom in the telecommunications space has become so critical on this Freedom Month, April.
Freedom today is not only about access, it is about affordable, reliable, and fairly priced access.
Enter Net Nine Nine, a player that is increasingly positioning itself as part of a broader shift toward consumer empowerment.
What sets this shift apart is not just lower pricing, but a rethinking of what internet service should represent in a democratic society.
For too long, traditional fibre providers have operated within models that prioritised profit margins over people, locked-in contracts, escalating monthly fees, and opaque billing practices have created a system where the average consumer has little control.
In many cases, users paid premium prices for services that did not match their expectations - slow speeds, inconsistent uptime, and poor customer support, but with us.
The result? A digitally divided society where only a portion of the population could truly benefit from the opportunities of the online world because they could afford.
Affordable providers like Net Nine Nine are disrupting that narrative, lowering the cost of entry and simplifying access, helping to restore a sense of agency to consumers.
For entrepreneurs and small businesses, Net99’s more affordable accessible internet opens doors, allowing startups to operate from home, content creators to reach global audiences, and township-based enterprises to compete in digital markets.
In essence, affordable connectivity becomes an economic equaliser, benefitting students, too, as biggest beneficiaries.
Halala!.
Dr Nicholas Thipe
Dr Nicholas Thipe
THE ‘EYES AND EARS’ OF NET NINE NINE!
In the fast-moving world of internet fibre connectivity, where speed and uptime often dominate the conversation, it’s easy to overlook the human layer that keeps everything running smoothly.
At Net Nine Nine, that layer has a name: Stewards, and at the centre of this national operation stands Thato Matabo, a leader whose journey mirrors the very ethos of the team he leads under difficult conditions.
“I say what I think and I don’t pretend,” Matabo told this publication without mincing his words.
“It’s a philosophy shaped not just by personality, but by experience, one that has seen him rise from humble beginnings to leading a nationally coordinated department responsible for keeping customers connected across eight provinces.
Matabo’s story is one of resilience and growth, which started in Johannesburg where he originates, and he took a bold step early in his career, relocating to Qwaqwa in the Free State to take on a Team Leader role, which he admits wasn’t an easy transition.
Adapting to a new environment and culture while building a team from the ground up tested both his leadership and his resolve, but it was precisely this challenge that set the tone for what was to come.
“I had to do everything from scratch. It was hectic, but I enjoyed it because I am always looking for new challenges,” he reflects.
Five years later, Matabo has grown alongside Net Nine Nine, now overseeing a network of 57 Stewards across 26 areas, forming a crucial operational backbone for the company - the birth of stewardship.
The concept of stewardship didn’t happen by accident, it was born from vision.
According to Matabo, the idea was championed by company leadership, particularly a forward-thinking push to elevate customer experience beyond the ordinary.
“There was a vision to give clients a five-star feeling. And today, we are living and breathing that vision,” he said.
What emerged from that vision is a structured, people-driven system that blends technical expertise with community engagement, something few companies in the fibre space have managed to execute at scale.
While internally referred to as Field Operations Coordinators, the title doesn’t quite capture their full impact.
“To the public, they are Net Nine Nine heroes,” said Matabo.
Stewards are the first and last point of contact for many customers, as they guide clients through every step of their journey, from installation to troubleshooting, ensuring that no one is left behind in an increasingly digital world.
But, beyond technical support, their role is deeply relational.
WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A STEWARD!
They are embedded within communities, often living among the very people they serve because they understand local dynamics, speak the language, and build trust, something that cannot be replicated by call centres or remote support teams.
On any given day, a steward’s role is anything but routine.
They coordinate installations, ensure timelines are met, and maintain quality standards and they handle payment collections, manage reconnections, update multi-dwelling units (MDUs), and respond to support queries, all while acting as the eyes and ears of the company on the ground.
“They are the ground force which the office depends on,” Matabo explains.
This constant flow of responsibilities requires a rare blend of skills, technical know-how, customer service excellence, and community leadership.
In reality, based on the scope of work, not just anyone can step into this role.
Matabo is clear about what he looks for: individuals with both client relations experience and technical understanding, but more importantly, people who are champions within their communities.
This combination ensures that stewards are not only capable of doing the job, but are trusted by the people they serve.
In many organisations, there’s often a gap between strategy and execution and at Net99, stewards are the bridge that closes that gap.
“They translate abstract goals into daily actionable steps,” said Matabo.
Whether it’s meeting installation targets or resolving support issues, stewards bring corporate objectives to life in real time, manage logistics, coordinate with teams, and ensure that operations run smoothly, both online and within communities.
Their presence also extends into social spaces, from community meetings to digital platforms, reinforcing Net99’s commitment to accessibility and engagement.
It’s often said that stewards are the “eyes and ears” of the company, and for good reason, as they monitor on-the-ground realities, identify challenges early, and provide feedback that informs decisionmaking at higher levels.
“Stewards ensure that everything on the ground is well managed and executed, and will not ask for rewards or money for the work they do,” he explained.
It’s a simple but powerful message, reinforcing the integrity of the role and protecting customers from potential exploitation.
MEET THE GENTS ‘MADE-IN-MOGALE’!
FOUR VISIONARIES, ONE MOVEMENT
What began as a bold idea among four young visionaries in 2016 has transformed into one of Mogale City’s most celebrated cultural movements.
Directors Kagiso Selele, Tebogo Mokgomong, Itumeleng Tsime and Thabo Ngwenya have, over the past decade, built Made-in-Mogale Group into a dynamic events platform that continues to grow in both scale and impact.
Driven by a shared passion for community upliftment and local talent development, the founders set out to address a simple gap, the lack of large-scale, high-quality entertainment within Mogale City.
Their mission was clear: bring world-class experiences closer to home while empowering local creatives and entrepreneurs.
Annually, when South Africa commemorates Freedom Day on 27 April, the spirit of celebration will no longer be the same in Krugersdorp, music lovers will converge at Munsieville Stadium for the Made-in-Mogale Soul and Gospel Experience which was pioneered in 2026.
The event, hosted in collaboration with leading fibre network operator Net Nine Nine, has a rich blend of soul, gospel and R&B music.
Now marking its 10th year, the Made-in-Mogale brand has evolved from a grassroots concept into a cornerstone of the local cultural calendar.
“We realised that people in Mogale City often had to travel far to attend major festivals. So, we created something that speaks directly to our community,” explained Selele.
The choice of Munsieville Stadium is both symbolic and intentional.
The venue holds deep historical significance, having hosted the 2019 reburial ceremony of the Munsieville Pan Africanist Congress freedom fighters who were executed in 1964. Hosting the event on the eve of Freedom Day reinforces themes of unity, remembrance and celebration, values that resonate strongly with the festival’s soul and gospel focus.
This gospel and soul event is the founders’ creative vision, as they continue to expand, featuring four major events.
These include the Soul and Gospel Experience in April, a women-focused gathering in August, a flagship festival in October, and a summer music event in December. This steady growth reflects both strong leadership and increasing demand for locally driven experiences.
Beyond entertainment, Made in Mogale has positioned itself as a driver of local economic development.
By prioritising local artists, food vendors and small businesses, the initiative creates meaningful opportunities within the community.
“We make sure that local talent is represented and that local vendors are given a platform to showcase their work,” said Mokgomong.
Designed as family-friendly experiences, the events offer safe, inclusive spaces where residents can gather, relax and celebrate together. The inclusion of diverse elements — from live performances to social spaces and sports screenings — ensures broad appeal across different audiences.
As Made-in-Mogale celebrates its 10-year milestone, the founders remain committed to their original vision of building a platform that empowers, entertains and unites.
LIVING IN COLOUR
MHLABA TURNS PAIN INTO PURPOSE!
A three-day community outreach programme led by the non-profit organisation, Living In Colour, has brought meaningful relief and renewed hope to vulnerable children across different spheres of life.
This is following a series of successful engagements across the West Rand where Living in Colour, sponsored by Net Nine Nine, continued to bring laughter and smile to the needy.
Founded by 18-year-old Katlego Mhlaba, Living In Colour is an organisation rooted in resilience, advocacy and compassion.
Mhlaba, who lives with Muscular Dystrophy, a condition affecting muscle strength and mobility, has transformed personal adversity into a powerful mission to uplift others, particularly within the disabled community.
Despite facing discrimination and hardship from a young age, Mhlaba has channelled his experiences into building a platform that advocates for inclusion, dignity and support for those often overlooked.
His vision has steadily grown into a structured initiative making a tangible difference on the ground.
The organisation recently hosted a three-day Community Outreach and Awareness Programme from 15 to 17 April 2026, reaching multiple schools and community organisations in need.
The programme formed part of Living In Colour’s broader commitment to providing immediate relief while raising awareness about the challenges faced by disadvantaged groups.
The outreach began at West Rand School of the Disabled, followed by visits to Bosile and Tiro Ya Modimo, and concluded at Life Centre.
Across all sites, the initiative delivered essential items including food parcels, school supplies, hygiene products and basic necessities aimed at improving both learning conditions and household well-being.
The programme focused on supporting disadvantaged schools, community-based organisations and vulnerable families, including childheaded households, elderly caregivers and those affected by unemployment or disability.
Beneficiaries were identified in collaboration with local stakeholders such as community leaders, school management and social workers to ensure transparency and fairness.
Organisers confirmed that all visits were successfully executed, with strong community participation and positive feedback from recipients.
The initiative not only addressed immediate needs but also reinforced a sense of dignity and inclusion among beneficiaries.
OUTREACH UPLIFTS NEEDY!
Mhlaba alerted a selected bunch of West Rand School youngsters in their wheelchairs that the outside world is brutal, and having lived through it himself, he wanted to protect them from the negativity often directed at those with physical challenges.
“It’s not easy. People out there discriminate and disrespect us. My question is, why? And this is one that I’m still asking even today, why? My advise to you, keep your head held high,” said Mhlaba who studied at the same school.
“You know who you are. Your dreams are also dreams. Dreams that a normal person has, are the same dreams that you have. Your dreams starts today – I and who I am. You’re able and worth it.”
Beyond the distribution of goods, the outreach programme also served as a platform to strengthen partnerships with local organisations and encourage ongoing collaboration. By engaging directly with communities, Living In Colour continues to build trust while creating opportunities for sustainable impact.
The programme highlighted the urgent realities faced by many communities, including poverty, limited access to resources and the ongoing struggle for basic services.
While long-term solutions remain critical, initiatives such as this provide immediate relief that enables schools and families to function more effectively.
“I have also sat in the same chairs of this school. You too will progress and realise your dreams,” he added.
Living In Colour has emphasised that its mission goes beyond once-off interventions. The organisation aims to grow its network of partners and supporters to expand its reach and continue delivering impactful programmes.
For Mhlaba, the success of the outreach marks another step in a journey defined by courage and determination.
Through Living In Colour, he is not only raising awareness but actively changing lives, proving that even in the face of personal challenges, it is possible to inspire hope and drive meaningful change within communities.
NEW BLOOD, FOR NETWORK GROWTH!
Net Nine Nine continues to expand its footprint across South Africa, bringing high-speed fibre internet to communities nationwide.
The rapidly growing telecommunications company recently made its mark in Nelspruit, where it conducted a successful recruitment drive aimed at empowering local residents with employment opportunities.
Known for its reliable and affordable fibre solutions, Net Nine Nine is positioning itself as a leader in bridging the digital divide, particularly in underserved areas.
The recruitment initiative in Mbombela not only highlights the company’s growth but also its commitment to community development and job creation.
Local job seekers turned out in numbers, eager to become part of a company that is transforming the digital landscape.
By investing in people as much as infrastructure, Net Nine Nine is ensuring that its expansion benefits both customers and communities alike.
As demand for fast and stable internet continues to rise, the company’s presence in Mbombela marks another milestone in its mission to connect South Africans.
With ongoing rollouts and community-focused initiatives, Net Nine Nine is steadily cementing its reputation as a trusted name in the country’s telecommunications sector.
Mandla Msibi, former Mpumalanga Government’s Treasurer highlighted the importance of Net99 being in their area, and reckons it will benefit the community.
“We have prioritised graduates to be the ones trained by Net99, as this will surely change the lives of our employed youth,” said Msibi.
“Efforts put by our graduates must be rewarded with such opportunities, and their input in this development of laying down fibre cables here is important. The 70, or so, youth taken from this drive is not enough, but we appreciate Thipe’s effort (Nicholas Thipe, Net99 Chief-of-Staff).”
Net99 Mpumalanga Sites:
1. Rockdale
2. Kwa-Mhlanga
3. Mbombela
4. Sakhile
5. Botleng
6. Hendrina 7. Emzinoni
8. Kwa Guqa
9. Mhluzi
NET NINE NINE HEROES
DOUBELL’S LOVE FOR
WE BRING LIGHT TO CHILDREN’S HOME! LIGHTHOUSE CHILDREN’S HOME
A spirit of compassion and community upliftment came to life at Lighthouse Children’s Home at OosEinde, Rustenburg, where Net Nine Nine and KC Pinnacle donated 100 blankets to children housed at the centre, bringing warmth and hope to the facility.
The Net Nine Nine visit was met with excitement and heartfelt appreciation from both the children and friendly staff of the centre.
As the blankets were distributed, smiles lit up young faces when they returned from school in a sponsored kombi, an indication of how meaningful such gestures are, especially during the colder months, and lately climate change having made everyone guess.
The visiting team received a warm welcome and was taken on a guided tour of the home, offering a closer look at the environment that supports and nurtures 77 children on a daily basis - more like home.
A particularly moving part of the visit was time spent in the babies’ section, where the vulnerability of the youngest residents left a lasting impression.
Among them were twin toddlers who captured the hearts of visitors-symbolising both the fragility and resilience of the children cared for at the home.
Founded and led by Elsa Doubell, the Lighthouse Children’s Home is built on a deeply personal mission.
Doubell, the second oldest of seven siblings, grew up in a large family, an upbringing that sparked her lifelong passion for caring for children.
“I’ve always had lots of children around me growing up, and I developed a deep love for caring for them. I always said before I turned 50, I wanted to do something meaningful for children in need,” she shared.
Her journey began at the age of 22, when she started taking in vulnerable children and raising them in her own home.
Although she has two biological children, Doubell has cared for and raised nine others over the years.
Her vision became a reality in 2019 when she was able to purchase the first property that laid the foundation for what is now a fully operational children’s home.
Today, the facility employs approximately 33 staff members, who are structured into dedicated teams across the infants’ house, girls’ home and boys’ home.
This system ensures that each child receives focused attention and care in a safe and stable environment, despite the progress, the challenges remain significant.
Doubell emphasised that meeting basic daily needs continues to be the home’s biggest hurdle.
CHILDREN LIGHTS RUSTY!
“We have so much to worry about when it comes to essentials every day that sometimes things like keeping the children warm in winter are overlooked. That’s why we are incredibly grateful for these blankets, they will make a real difference,” she said.
She highlighted that ongoing needs include food, electricity, nappies and baby formula, critical resources required to maintain the wellbeing of the children.
While the home has infrastructure such as beds and shelter, sustaining daily operations depends heavily on external support.
The Lighthouse Children’s Home works closely with the Department of Social Development and receives children through the courts, many of whom have been abandoned or removed from abusive environments.
The home provides them with not only physical care, but also emotional support and a sense of belonging.
Community support plays a vital role in the home’s sustainability.
Each year on Nelson Mandela Day, the facility becomes a focal point for giving, as organisations and individuals donate food, clothing and other essentials in honour of Nelson Mandela’s legacy of service.
The recent donation by Net Nine Nine and KC Pinnacle stands as a reminder of the power of corporate and community partnerships. Beyond providing physical warmth, the blankets symbolise care, dignity and solidarity with the children of Lighthouse.
As Doubell continues her mission, her story reflects resilience, compassion and an unwavering commitment to giving vulnerable children a second chance, proving that with the right support, even the smallest acts of kindness can create lasting impact.
Be a Hero.
How to conduct a Speedtest
“Speed tests matter they ensure your internet is fast, reliable, and ready for what you need.”
Nthabiseng
Satisfied Clients
I switched to Net Nine Nine and it’s a huge upgrade from my previous WiFi. During heavy rain last week, my old internet always cut out, but Net Nine Nine stayed fast and stable. Really impressed. Thanks to Freedom.
Kwezulu K
The installation process was completed well and neatly by Andile Africander and his team. They were professional and respectful in their work.
Nomusa H
We are grateful to have you as our assistance agent Zamani Hadebe your had work is an attraction to as whole we love what we get from you quality time with your smile
Mthokozisi M
Uwusizo olukhulu Zamani maHadebe umsebenzi wakho uyawuthanda futhi uwukhuthalele qhubeka njalo nomoya wakho owodwa cc
Vuyiswa S
My experience with net nine nine was very heart-warming The person who was helping me is Jeff Netshiavha very calm and he was vry patient he explained everything to me nicely and made things easy i really appreciate you Thank you so much my brother.
Nkosana
I had a technical issue with the internet, but Mr. Mandla who was my assistant agent saved the day... I would pay for people like him. He helped me with the issue in less than 15 minutes so proud we still have people like him. Mr. Mandela as they say give that man a bell’s. You deserve it... I would recommend net 99 to other people because technical support was 100% supportive. He called me several times to see if the problem I had was sorted in less than a blink of an eye.
OUR GO TO MEN ON THE GROUND
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THABA-NCHU STEWARDS
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Rofhiwa Ratshilavhi CONTACT NUMBERS:
213 Utrecht Street, Vryheid, KwaZuluNatal, 3100
Reahola Shopping Centre, Shop 47B, Botshabelo, 9781
063 904 6471
robertn@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
087 245 0099
tshepo@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
Erf 16914 Tlou St, Boitekong, Rustenburg, 0309
Botleng Mall, ERF 10665, Cnr, Bronkhorstspruit
068 607 2886
portiam@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
068 632 2464
williamr@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
Emhluzi Mall 2/3/4 of erf 12941
Mhluzi Middelburg.
068 633 7385
williamr@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
Shop 22 Rex Henderson & Paul Ave, 5 Ways mall
079 848 1955
robertn@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
EMZINONI
6 Liebenberg Avenue, Gordan Centre, Bethal
CONTACT
068 649 2858 williamr@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
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Renbro shopping centre, 39 Old Warmbaths road,
KWA-GUQA
Maqhibini Dr, KwaGuqa, Emalahleni, 1073
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1122 Kgware road, Unit number 16
Gauteng 0208
31 Beukes St, Hendrina, Mpumalanga 1095
Shop M1, Mezzanine Level, Mall of Mthata
068 603 4533 williamr@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
Kagiso Mall Kagiso Dr, Krugersdorp
063 905 9556
tshepomo@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
Kensworth Centre
Moshoeshoe St, Rocklands, A Phakathi Drive and, Nkoane Rd
Welkom, Freestate
063 903 3639 tshepo@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
10115 Motloung Street, Kenzitown Freestate, 9869 07 Hoog Street, Bahlabani Centre, Thaba Nchu, 9780
068 636 0310 tshepo@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
341 Griffiths Mnxege highway, shop 319
The Elizabeth Centre 8 Pres Kruger
063 905 9556 elsie@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
068 620 7611
ronnym@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
079 848 1955
williamr@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
068 644 4427
elsie@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
068 610 2629
tshepo@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
087 245 0099
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068 932 1162
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