MBOMBELA – Rupert Taljaard’s latest innovation can win him a million rand, or book him a date with a noose.
Taljaard, a well-known Lowvelder who recently moved to the Cape, is a finalist in Cell C’s exciting new reality series, Hangman.
The series allows 10 innovators to compete for R1 million prize money. When it aired on October 9, viewers were in for unique entertainment.
From a group of 50 hopefuls, 40 were eliminated by means of a symbolical hanging – a hangman sketch was displayed on the studio screen before the floor gave way beneath them. After they literally dropped out of the competition, ten remained standing.
Each of them has come up with a patent.
One designed a women’s period cup, and another a mosquito repellent lamp.
Rupert’s patent is called Halt Lock, which is short for “Hardcore Automotive Locking Technology”. With the press of a remote button, Haltlock enables vehicle owners to lock the pinions that are pivotal to a vehicle changing gears. It makes it impossible to move a vehicle from its parked position. In so doing, theft of motor vehicles is prevented.
Between now and December 11, finalists will have to prove themselves through a series of challenges. In addition to having come up with innovations, they will have to flaunt their business skills to impress the judging panel and the public.
The panel is collectively known as “The Backers” and includes businesswoman Phuti Mahanyele, celebrity economist Iraj Abedan, Shell South Africa Energy Limited chairman Bonang Mohale and self-made billionaire Quinton van der Burgh.
The show allows viewers to partake in finalists’ journeys. This is done through a free cellphone application called Cell C Reality. The application allows viewers to purchase fictitious shares in their favourite innovation’s company. Those who do so will help drive the outcome of the competition.
“Although we do not yet know exactly how the winner will be chosen, we know that each person who supports Rupert on the application will contribute to his success. If the community backs him, he might win!” said Lani Lourens, who spoke on his behalf.
