About Us
Forging a Future in Chrome
INOVANOS is more than a name—it is a promise. We commit to a future where industrial activity not only respects the environment but also strengthens it. Our story reflects ambition, deep expertise, and a determination to do things differently. Above all, we strive to do things better.
OUR STORY
From a Powerful Vision to Reality
The Genesis of an Idea
INOVANOS (Pty) Ltd began with one clear idea: build a chrome mining operation that sets new standards for sustainability and technological progress. A team of visionary entrepreneurs—Yang Yongjian, B. Johnny Hamisi, and Lesego Makhoba—formed the company with this mission in mind. Each founder brought a unique skill set, yet they shared the belief that South Africa’s chrome sector held immense, unrealised potential.
Together, they saw opportunities to modernise outdated mining practices. Their combined commercial, legal, and operational experience gave INOVANOS a strong foundation. As a result, the company was created to redefine what responsible mining can achieve.
Strategic Foundations and Community Engagement
Our journey began with detailed geological research and deliberate site selection across South Africa’s renowned Bushveld Igneous Complex. This region holds the world’s largest chrome reserves, which made it the ideal environment for long-term growth.
We secured operational zones in Burgersfort (Limpopo), Kroondal, and Mooinooi (North West). These locations offered rich, high-grade chrome deposits. They also presented opportunities to uplift local communities and stimulate sustainable economic growth.
From the start, we prioritised transparent communication and genuine partnerships. We approached every permit and land agreement with respect for environmental laws, local stakeholders, and community interests. Because of this approach, our social licence to operate is not just a requirement—it is a responsibility we earn through consistent action and mutual trust.
Growth, Reputation, and a Proud South African Identity
Since launching full-scale operations, INOVANOS has built a strong reputation for reliability and product excellence. Our growth has been steady by design. We value long-term relationships with clients who expect quality chrome, ethical sourcing, and transparent business practices.
We have navigated the complexities of the global commodities market with agility and discipline. As a result, we remain a responsive and resilient organisation. Today, INOVANOS proudly stands as a South African company contributing to national prosperity. More importantly, we show the world that responsible mining is not only possible but also commercially successful.
OUR STORY
From a Powerful Vision to Reality
The Genesis of an Idea
INOVANOS (Pty) Ltd began with one clear idea: build a chrome mining operation that sets new standards for sustainability and technological progress. A team of visionary entrepreneurs—Yang Yongjian, B. Johnny Hamisi, and Lesego Makhoba—formed the company with this mission in mind. Each founder brought a unique skill set, yet they shared the belief that South Africa’s chrome sector held immense, unrealised potential.
Together, they saw opportunities to modernise outdated mining practices. Their combined commercial, legal, and operational experience gave INOVANOS a strong foundation. As a result, the company was created to redefine what responsible mining can achieve.
Strategic Foundations and Community Engagement
Our journey began with detailed geological research and deliberate site selection across South Africa’s renowned Bushveld Igneous Complex. This region holds the world’s largest chrome reserves, which made it the ideal environment for long-term growth.
We secured operational zones in Burgersfort (Limpopo), Kroondal, and Mooinooi (North West). These locations offered rich, high-grade chrome deposits. They also presented opportunities to uplift local communities and stimulate sustainable economic growth.
From the start, we prioritised transparent communication and genuine partnerships. We approached every permit and land agreement with respect for environmental laws, local stakeholders, and community interests. Because of this approach, our social licence to operate is not just a requirement—it is a responsibility we earn through consistent action and mutual trust.
Growth, Reputation, and a Proud South African Identity
Since launching full-scale operations, INOVANOS has built a strong reputation for reliability and product excellence. Our growth has been steady by design. We value long-term relationships with clients who expect quality chrome, ethical sourcing, and transparent business practices.
We have navigated the complexities of the global commodities market with agility and discipline. As a result, we remain a responsive and resilient organisation. Today, INOVANOS proudly stands as a South African company contributing to national prosperity. More importantly, we show the world that responsible mining is not only possible but also commercially successful.
Our Guiding Principles
Mission, Vision, and Values
Our Mission
We aim to lead the chrome mining industry with high-quality chrome concentrate, advanced technology, and sustainable practices. Our mission is to deliver measurable value to our customers, shareholders, employees, and host communities.
Our Vision
We strive to set new global benchmarks in operational excellence, environmental care, and social responsibility. Our goal is to become the preferred partner for stakeholders who share our vision for a better future.
Our Core Values
Our values form the bedrock of our corporate culture and serve as the compass that guides every decision we make:
Integrity
Our team conducts our business with unwavering honesty, transparency, and the highest ethical principles.
Innovation
We relentlessly pursue new technologies and creative solutions to enhance efficiency, safety, and our environmental impact.
Sustainability
Our team is profoundly committed to protecting the environment and ensuring the long-term social and economic well-being of our host communities.
Excellence
We strive for the highest possible standards in every aspect of our work, from extraction to customer service.
Safety
The health and well-being of our employees and contractors are our highest priority. We are unconditionally committed to creating a zero-harm workplace.
Collaboration
We believe in the exponential power of partnership, working together to achieve shared goals and create mutual success.
Leadership
The Architects of Our Vision
Our leadership team brings decades of international experience and a shared commitment to reshaping the global resources sector.
B. Johnny Hamisi
Chief Executive Officer
Johnny Hamisi leads INOVANOS with strong entrepreneurial drive, deep legal insight, and a long-standing passion for sustainable mining. He combines training in Mining Engineering with extensive experience across Africa’s resource industries. After recognising the slow pace of change in the sector, he co-founded INOVANOS to create a more innovative and responsible mining model. Today, he oversees the company’s strategic direction and promotes a culture of integrity and performance.
Lesego Makhoba
Operations Director
Lesego Makhoba brings profound technical knowledge and operational leadership from decades in South Africa’s chrome industry. His expertise spans extraction, processing, and site management. Known for discipline and excellence, he drives the efficiency and sustainability of our operations. His hands-on leadership ensures that our sites consistently meet high standards.
Yang Yongjian
Commercial Director
Yang Yongjian connects INOVANOS to the global chrome market. With experience in plant design, project development, and international sales, he has played a central role in building our advanced chrome washing plants. Today, he leads market development, global sales, and strategic partnerships. His extensive network across China and other key markets helps position INOVANOS as a trusted global supplier.