Tebogo Kale
Qualifications: B Tech Mineral Processing
Tebogo Kale, widely known in industry circles as “TheMineralsGuy”, is an engineer, inventor, and entrepreneur whose work is reshaping mineral beneficiation in South Africa and beyond. He is the inventor of the Optima Separator®, a breakthrough technology in fine mineral separation.
As the Founder and Chief Executive of Gravitas Minerals, Tebogo has built a company that thrives on innovation, sustainability, and resilience. Gravitas specializes in outcomes-based beneficiation systems for coal, chrome, iron ore, and ferrometals—transforming waste into value and reducing environmental liability for mining houses.
Tebogo also serves as Chairperson of the South African Coal Processing Society (SACPS), where he plays a pivotal role in advancing coal processing and energy generation standards.
This commitment reflects his belief that true innovation is not only about machines, but about empowering people and building the next generation of leaders.
Driven by a passion for engineering excellence and entrepreneurial problem-solving, Tebogo embodies the spirit of African innovation—proving that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand. His journey from engineer to inventor, mentor, and industry leader positions him as a pace-setting entrepreneur, dedicated to unlocking value where others see waste