The Sozo Story
Technology should be a tool that allows you to do something in a more efficient and engaging way. We don’t see virtual and augmented reality as gimmicks. We see them as opportunities to create new solutions to old problems. Our mission at Sozo is to engage and delight our customers, using immersive technology in creative ways.
“Sozo” is derived from the Japanese word for imagination. Sozo Labs is a place where imaginative ideas come to life. Our team of engineers are committed to developing innovative, world-class software. We believe in partnerships. We have always focused on building and maintaining strong bonds with each other, as well as with our customers.
We want to exhilarate, surprise, and create the unique value that only immersive technology can offer — and we’ll keep you in the loop every step of the way.
Meet Some Of The Team
Jason Haddock
CEO
If there were such a thing as the pun Olympics, Jason would be bringing home the gold for Sozo. The resident and cringe worthy master of the dad joke and pop culture reference, Jason keeps everybody focussed on the important stuff, while helping Sozo create a light-hearted environment where we work hard, have fun and laugh a lot (not that often at his dad jokes though).
Having vast experience in Augmented and Virtual Reality and having run global businesses, Jason ‘Captain’ Haddock steers the Sozo ship towards to new frontiers, while avoiding icebergs along the way. Jason is a 2x TEDx speaker, and an organiser of the TEDx Cape Town event.
Jason has been instrumental in developing a culture that never forgets about the human touch. Sozo is built on a foundation of trust and care.
James Joubert
Head of Software Development
Calm in the chaos and cool under pressure, our Head of Software Development is the Gandalf of code —wise and serene, but still working on the beard. With a brain wired like a high-spec neural net, he commands an encyclopedic knowledge of software applications and frameworks. Whether it’s debugging spaghetti code or designing a new game mechanic, he’s the one you want in your digital corner.
Outside the office, he’s a board game connoisseur with a collection that could rival a small game shop —strategy, bluffing, dice-rolling chaos? He’s played it, mastered it, and probably modded it. As if that weren’t enough, he moonlights as a snake-wrangler in his hometown, keeping an ever-growing family of pet snakes (don’t worry—they’re more interested in mice than men).
He’s built entire games from scratch and can recite obscure code functions like poetry. But what makes him a legend around here? His unshakable calm, encyclopedic brain, and a passion for play that keeps Sozo coding, slithering, and gaming forward.
What We Value
Embracing our Humanness
The human touch (Springsteen anyone?) is at the centre of everything we do. We are committed to not losing sight of our co-workers and our clients’ humanity. At Sozo Labs, people aren’t resources. Our software is developed by people, for people.
Curious Explorers
Working with rapidly advancing and novel technology involves a journey into the unknown. We use immersive tech to explore new ways to solve old problems. One of our missions is to be your guide on the quest to take the ring to Mordor. We are the Gandalf to your Frodo.
Commitment to Courage
It can be a daunting challenge to perform in a fast paced industry that is ever-changing and improving. Tackling certain obstacles and devising solutions early on requires equal parts foresight and bravery. Courage is seen in the way we solve problems and the way we adapt to change.
Creating Delight
Immersive technology has the power to transport us to entirely new realities. We are determined to use XR to not only solve problems, but to create awe and delight for anyone that uses our solutions. We want deep engagement from the users of our solutions.