Meet Cirus Sumika

Background and Early Life

Cirus Sumika was born on October 28, 1998, in Entebbe, Kampala, Uganda. From a young age, he demonstrated a keen interest in technology and entrepreneurship. At the age of 12, while in Primary Six in 2010, Cirus began working at his mother’s shop at the Kasenyi Landing Site in Entebbe. There, he learned valuable lessons in customer service, sales, and business management. He continued working with his mother for over eight years, gaining practical experience that would shape his future endeavors.

By the age of 16, Cirus had opened his first bank account at the Bank of Africa, showcasing his financial prudence by saving his remaining pocket money at the end of each school term. His determination and ambition were further fueled by reading Forbes Magazine and learning from his role model, Mark Zuckerberg.

Education

Cirus Sumika’s educational journey began at Nkumba Christian Primary School from 2004 to 2011. He then attended St. Kizito S.S.S Kabowa from 2012 to 2017, where he held several leadership positions, including Class Captain (2012-2013), Assistant Time Keeper (2012-2014), Assistant Head Prefect (2014-2015), President of the Writers Club (2015-2016), President of the Debaters Club (2016), President of the Pro-Life Club (2016-2017), Head of the Laity for the St. Kizito Catholic Community (2016-2017) and Head Prefect (2016-2017)

He pursued higher education at Makerere University Business School from 2018 to 2021 (Bachelors of Business Computing). During his time at the university, he was elected as the Guild Representative Councilor (GRC) for two consecutive terms (2018-2019 and 2019-2020), both times unopposed. He also served as the President of the Students Information and Computing Association (SICA) from 2020 to 2021.

Career

Cirus Sumika’s professional journey began with internships that Provided foundational experiences in the business and tech sectors. He interned at KPMG in the Advisory department as an accounting clerk and later worked in the IT Department of Platinum Tours and Travels Agencies Ltd.

In 2019, during his first year at the university, Cirus founded a hostel booking system called My Hostel Place. This application aimed to digitize university accommodation bookings. However, the project was halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to the closure of hostels and educational institutions. However, Sumic IT Solutions Ltd had been registered as a holding Company there by pivoting from the accommodation sector to e-commerce, he launched Sumic Online with company in 2021, a B2B2C platform that forges unprecedented connections between businesses, suppliers, manufacturers, and consumers.

Currently, Cirus serves as the Chief Executive Officer at Sumic IT Solutions Ltd where his vision and leadership have propelled the company to notable achievements and recognitions in the East African tech landscape.

Leadership

Throughout his educational and professional journey, Cirus Sumika has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills. At St. Kizito S.S.S Kabowa, he held multiple leadership roles, fostering a spirit of community and excellence. His leadership continued at Makerere University Business School, where he served as Guild Representative Councilor and President of the ICT Association (SICA).

Other Responsibilities

In addition to his professional achievements, Cirus Sumika is dedicated to mentoring and advising aspiring entrepreneurs and startups. He is a partner of Black Leaders Worldwide, the world’s largest business club for black professionals. This organization focuses on creating opportunities through networking and collaboration, as well as advancing global black health and wealth.

Cirus Sumika serves as a mentor at the Stanford Entrepreneurship Program, where he guides aspiring entrepreneurs and refugees in Africa, fostering innovation and growth across diverse communities.

Cirus Sumika is a facilitator at the Link Space Career Academy, specializing in Finance Education and Technology. Every Wednesday, Cirus Sumika hosts sessions where online participants join to learn, engage, and interact with him.

Cirus is also an avid chess player, known for his strategic thinking and competitive spirit.

Awards & Nominations

Cirus Sumika’s contributions to the tech industry have earned him several nominations & accolades.

Awards

  • Startup of the year Overall
  • Startup of the year in Tech

The world’s leading business awards program, celebrating the finest achievements in entrepreneurship, innovation, and corporate responsibility

Nominations

  • Startup of the year Overall
  • Startup of the year in Tech
  • Best Newcomer 2023
  • Startup of the year 2023
  • Techprenuer of the year Under 30

The world’s leading business awards program, celebrating the finest achievements in entrepreneurship, innovation, and corporate responsibility

  • Modern Work Performer

The Modern Work Award opens up new opportunities to showcase your work and your company’s achievements towards modern ways of working. The award focuses on how you work and collaborate with each other within your company. 

  • Improve Prosperity in the Commonwealth

The Commonwealth Secretary-General’s Innovation for Sustainable Development Awards aim to recognise and celebrate the contribution that innovators in the public, private and voluntary sectors across the Commonwealth are making to progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

  • Founder of the year 2024
  • Youth Startup of the year 2024
  • Startup of the year 2024

Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 is a prestigious list that honors young African trailblazers across various fields, including business, technology, sports, and creative arts. Each year, Forbes Africa recognizes 30 of the most promising and influential young entrepreneurs, leaders, and change-makers under the age of 30 who are making significant contributions to their industries and communities.

These individuals are selected based on their innovation, impact, and potential to shape the future of Africa. Being named to the Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 list is a testament to one’s dedication, vision, and hard work, marking a milestone in their career and providing a platform for further growth and influence. Cirus Sumika was a successful candidate and nominee on the Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 2024 Edition.