Africa’s Tech Community Remembers Matthew Buckland
The African tech startup community is mourning the loss of Matthew Buckland, founder of Burn Media Group and Venture Burn, who passed away on April 23. His impact on the industry since founding Burn Media Group in 2010, which encompasses popular platforms such as Memeburn, Ventureburn, Gearburn, Motorburn, and Jobsburn, is profound. Buckland worked closely with founding editor-in-chief Mitch Atagana to establish Burn Media as a trusted source for technology news and analysis.
A Lasting Legacy in Technology
Throughout his career, Buckland held various influential positions, including serving as a board member of Silicon Cape, a nonprofit aimed at promoting technology innovation. He led Endeavor SA and was an advisory board member for Sweep South, a startup focused on home cleaning services. At the time of his death, he was an entrepreneur-in-residence at the Media Development Investment Fund (MDIF), a role through which he continued to influence the growth of tech startups in Africa.
Influence on Future Generations
Mitch Atagana, now the head of communications and public relations at Google SA, shared her sadness via Twitter, reminiscing about Buckland’s guidance on IPOs and startup valuations. She emphasized that his influence on the African technology landscape would endure, expressing that he helped elevate the dialogue around Africa’s position in the global tech arena.
A Humble Advocate for Entrepreneurs
Keet van Zyl, co-founder of Knife Capital, remarked on the significant void Buckland leaves in Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, noting his willingness to listen and appreciate various perspectives. An early investor in Knife Capital and a proactive supporter of portfolio development, Van Zyl lamented the loss of someone who was both a digital media entrepreneur and an advocate for emerging startups.
A Mentor and Philanthropist
Guillaume De Smedt, vice president of global community at Startup Grind, expressed sorrow over Buckland’s passing. Reflecting on his support for the startup ecosystem, De Smedt mentioned that Buckland and Venture Burn had served as valuable partners in their initiatives. The bond formed over the years highlighted his commitment to fostering innovation in Africa.
Tackling Challenges with Honesty
Aisha Pandor, co-founder and CEO of Sweep South, shared how Buckland generously offered his insights on startup growth and marketing. She emphasized his candid approach in discussing both successes and failures, underscoring how his experience contributed to creative problem-solving within the startup community. Pandor remarked on the shock of his untimely passing, noting he was actively contributing to conversations about the tech sector’s evolution in Africa.
A Committed Contributor to the Ecosystem
Venture capitalist Michael Jordaan and others echoed similar sentiments on social media, reflecting the impact Buckland had on the South African startup scene. Many highlighted his pioneering role in digital media and the valuable contributions he made to the advancement of Africa’s tech industry. Buckland is survived by his wife and two daughters, leaving behind a legacy of mentorship and innovation that will be cherished by many.
A memorial service for Buckland is scheduled for April 30 at 10 AM at Cape Point Vineyards in Noordhoek, Cape Town, allowing friends, family, and colleagues to honor his significant contributions to the tech community.
