Hlumelo Biko
Hlumelo Biko | |
|---|---|
| Born | January 19, 1978 South Africa |
| Occupation(s) | Entrepreneur, investment banker |
| Years active | 1998–present |
| Known for | Co-founder and CEO of Circle Capital; vice-chairman of Baxter Theatre; board member of Endeavor |
Hlumelo Biko (born 19 January 1978) is a prominent South African entrepreneur and investment banker. He is the offspring of Steve Biko and Mamphela Ramphele.
Early life and education
When his mother, Ramphele, was five months pregnant with him, she discovered that Steve Biko, with whom she had a relationship, had died while in police custody. She chose the name Hlumelo, which translates to "the shoot of a tree" in the Xhosa language.
He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and politics from the University of Cape Town, followed by a Master of Science in International Business Government Relationships from Georgetown University.
Career
In 1998, Biko gained experience working at the World Bank based in Washington, D.C.
Together with Ramphele, he co-established Circle Capital in 2005, an investment firm where he took on the role of CEO. By 2008, Bespoke Magazine identified him as "the driving force behind a multi-million rand black empowerment enterprise... one of South Africa's most compelling empowerment initiatives." Despite this, Circle Capital's branch, Circle Food Group, encountered financial struggles, legal actions from suppliers and former staff over unpaid dues, and eventually ceased operations due to unfavorable market conditions.
Philanthropy
In addition to his 13-year tenure as a venture capitalist, he holds the position of vice-chairman at the Baxter Theatre and advocates for small and medium-sized enterprises through his board membership at Endeavor, where he mentors impactful South African entrepreneurs. He is also active in advancing educational opportunities via his involvement with Kommunity Group Projects, the University of Cape Town, and African Schools for Excellence.
Private life
In January 2018, Biko was detained on allegations of domestic assault; these charges were subsequently dismissed, and the couple proceeded with a divorce.