Alberton businesses connect at monthly networking meet-up

Local entrepreneurs came together on May 22 for the second Alberton networking meet and greet.

It was a vibrant afternoon of connection, collaboration, and community-building.

The event, held from 12:00 to 14:00 at Café @ Creative in Brackenhurst’s Synergy Center, brought together 12 small and local business owners from Alberton and surrounding areas.

The initiative is spearheaded by Bianca Pearson, who launched the local chapter after seeing the success of a similar event in eManzimtoti in Kwazulu-Natal.

The branch was started by her father in August 2023 and now draws over 30 regular attendees.

Pearson shared that her motivation to launch the Alberton meet-up came from both personal and professional experience.

“The meeting business was started by my dad in eManzimtoti. He asked me if I’d like to open a second branch in Alberton,” she said.

“I already know a few businesses here, and I know that businesses are always looking for more leads. After Covid, there wasn’t much in-person networking anymore, and I thought why not bring people together face to face again?”

The meet-up began with business speed dating, where each attendee had a chance to introduce their business and engage in one-on-one conversations.

This was followed by a fun ‘Spin and Win’ game, where lucky names drawn at random won spot prizes.
Guests also enjoyed delicious refreshments while mingling with new contacts.

Pearson emphasised the importance of breaking out of digital isolation.

“Yes, online is great, but it’s not this. It’s not community. It’s not networking. It’s not a conversation,” she said.
“Getting out of your comfort zone and meeting people in person is so important for business owners today.”
The first Alberton event was held in April and saw five attendees.

This month’s turnout was more than doubled, a clear sign that local entrepreneurs are eager to engage offline and form meaningful business relationships.

Pearson personally promotes the event using Facebook, WhatsApp, and word of mouth.

“I go out and look for businesses myself. Then I connect with them and invite them through social media or direct messaging,” she said.

The event is expected to continue on a monthly basis, with more business owners showing interest each time.

For more information on how to join the next Alberton Networking Meet and Greet, contact Bianca Pearson on 084 254 7777.