Youth educated on business

Sinolwazi Youth Development Programme hosted the Young Entrepreneurs Skills and Funding Workshop 2024 at the Duduza Church Community Hall.
The workshop took place from January 15 to 17.
Vusi Nhlapo, chairperson of the group, said they invited individuals who are experts in their fields to equip the attendees.
Fred Jones, from the Eastern Gauteng Chamber of Commerce and Industry, taught the group the basics of managing a business.
“How do I manage my business? It must be clear who is leading, otherwise there will be chaos.
“Being a small business owner is not easy, but you must keep going,” he explained.
Jones encouraged the group to plan well.
“You must decide where and when to start. What do you need to start, do you need more people or can I start by myself?” he explained.
Jones also encouraged the attendees not to shy away from failure.
“Failing is not final. What can you learn from failing? It is a stepping stone. Through failure, you may learn what to do differently.
“Let your business be driven by passion, and give it your best shot,” he concluded.
Another businessman, Dr Rodney Ndala, told the attendees to focus on giving their customers the best.
“People don’t care much about the price. They care about the quality of the service.
“When you start the business, try doing everything for yourself. Do everything with as much care as possible.
“This will also allow you to learn the ins and outs of your business.
“When you bring other people on board, teach them everything you know before you let them work on what you have created,“ he explained.
Pule Motaung, from FNB, educated the attendees on the importance of business compliance.
“It may seem tedious, but having a tax number and using business accounts helps to keep track of your business.
“Little things are keeping you from receiving funding and other opportunities,” he said.
He encouraged them to toe the line to grow their businesses.
Mbuyiselo Mciwa Mabuya, one of the programme’s beneficiaries, said he felt more confident to start a business after attending the workshop.
“I learnt a lot because I didn’t know how to start, even though I have some ideas,” he added.
Hlonipho GoodHope Shabangu said he also felt well-equipped.
“Now I know how to start and how to draw up a business plan.
“There are many opportunities but they don’t benefit us because we don’t know how to access them.
“Now I feel I am in a better position to start something and be successful,” he explained.

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