Our Team

Edward Lawrence

Founding Partner
(Archmage)

Edward Lawrence is an entrepreneur focused on building and scaling digital infrastructure across Africa. He has earned recognition for advancing the continent’s Internet ecosystem through impactful, long-term ventures.

He is best known for his work with Workonline Communications and Yafibr, where he has driven connectivity, innovation, and access across underserved markets.

Lawrence also serves on multiple technology boards and supports initiatives in skills development and infrastructure, contributing to sustainable digital growth across Africa.

Mark Tipping

Founding Partner
(Wrangler)

A successful business director with 15 years of experience in various African countries, travelling extensively during this time having previously worked in both Europe and South America.

Mark has founded and operated businesses in multiple sub-Saharan countries in the technology and ecommerce sectors.

Mark works closely with founders with a focus on business planning and operational efficiency.

Rob Bergman

Chief Investment Officer
(Stable Manager)

Rob is a seasoned corporate finance and investment professional with nearly two decades of deal making experience. He has assessed and executed transactions in most African countries, as well as in the Middle East and Europe.

Rob’s long-term focus on capital raising and management buy-outs in digital infrastructure in Africa and other markets provides our partners with a competitive edge when they become part of Unicorn Factory’s eco-system.

Donna Murray

Junior Legal Advisor
(Steward)

Donna works as Junior Legal Advisor and joined Unicorn Factory after being admitted to the High Court of South Africa. She gained experience at Bailey Haynes Inc, the firm where she completed her articles, before joining Unicorn Factory.

Donna provides support to Unicorn Factory subsidiaries, and executes on daily legal and administrative group requirements.

Karien Thurtell

Operations Specialist
(Track Master)

Karien is a seasoned operations and project manager with a 20-year track record of successfully leading projects from inception to completion, driving operational excellence and elevating administrative standards. She is skilled in managing diverse teams, optimising workflows, implementing innovative solutions and mitigating risks.

She is committed to delivering high-quality results to Unicorn Factory subsidiaries, and assists with group operational requirements.

Jonathan Kaimowitz

Head Of Finance
(Track Master)

Jonathan is a finance professional with strong analytical skills driving financial accuracy and strategic decision-making. Educated at the University of Cape Town (Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting; Bachelor of Business Science).

Experience includes global roles at Cochrane and TecEx, developing expertise in project management, sales, negotiation, and pricing. Delivers precise financial reporting and effective fiscal strategies. Fluent in English and Afrikaans, enabling collaboration across diverse teams.

Haadiyah Edoo

Junior Accountant
(Track Master)

Haadiyah Edoo is a junior accountant at Unicorn Factory, contributing to financial accuracy and reporting processes. With a solid foundation in accounting principles, she supports day-to-day financial operations and analysis.

Her experience is complemented by strong attention to detail and a commitment to continuous learning, enabling effective collaboration and reliable support within finance teams.

Siyabonga Maseko CA(SA)

Deal Executive
(Jockey)

Siya works as a Deal Executive at Unicorn Factory Advisory Services, where he is actively engaged in capital-raising projects and business analysis for the team. He completed his articles at Nedbank, before joining their Corporate Finance division. Prior to joining Unicorn Factory Advisory Services, Siya worked in Capitec Bank's Strategic Projects team, contributing to the bank's strategic initiatives.

Siya's skills span across various domains including mergers and acquisitions and project management.