Petra Rees is a social entrepreneur and impact investor dedicated to funding and growing African SMEs. She is a co-founder of Kai Connect, a fund management firm that designs and manages calatyctic capital including ESD funds on behalf of leading corporates.
Petra built, commercialised and exited several African ventures of her own, including an award winning 3D printing company, which was acquired with the intention to scale globally. This founder to funder perspective shapes how she structures funding, mentorship and post-investment support for the entrepreneurs she backs.
She is passionate about impact innovation and how exponential technologies such as 3D printing, AI and robotics can help Africa leapfrog towards a greener, more sustainable and more inclusive economy. Petra was recognised as a winner of the Inspiring50 for her work introducing more girls into STEM industries, is the South African Ambassador of Women in 3D Printing, and serves as a global board member of the World Robot Olympiad (WRO).
