EMERGING business owners showed up in their numbers at Umbilo Library with an aim to engage and network with established corporates and organisations. The recent workshop was designed to provide a transformative and engaging experience for young business entrepreneurs navigating South Africa’s evolving entrepreneurial landscape.

The entrepreneurs were afforded a chance to pitch their business ideas and to ask questions, while the companies provided tools and tips on how to either start a business or sustain and grow one.

Khaya Sithole, Umbilo Library manager, indicated that the platform was meant to inspire young people in business and to learn business skills.
“I firmly believe that this community needs entrepreneurial wisdom and knowledge. Libraries are not only about books, internet browsing, and newspapers. We have positioned the entity as a hub of linking people with information, ensuring that the in-person platforms we provide for the community and experts bridge the gap that exists in skills and opportunities,” Sithole said.

Founder of BizFarm, Atul Padalkar, highlighted that the world of business has evolved drastically, noting the shift to online and digital means of trade.
“Careers keep changing, and a lot of young people lack information regarding skills, job opportunities, and networking platforms. Growing entrepreneurs is a huge life-long journey. Business models evolve, and traditional ways of conducting business is practically dead,” Padalkar said. He advised the youth to consistently seek the right networking platforms.

Organisations, government departments, and corporations present at the workshop included eThekwini Municipality’s Compliance Unit, Department of Labour and Employment, Ward 33 councillor Fran Kristopher, National Youth Development Agency, Dube Trade Port and Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency.

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