In Tembisa business seminars are often held to help aspiring entrepreneurs to learn about different aspects of business.
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One of many challenges faced by the organisers of these events is finding a space where they can host them.
On May 5 entertainment facility Gatalenna positioned itself as a venue for entrepreneurship-related events.
The Ekasi Economic Development seminar saw young and old entrepreneurs flocking to the place on the day to listen to inspirational speakers.
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Sthembiso Garane from Ekurhuleni’s department of economic development said facilities like Gatalenna need to be promoted by both business and government.
“These facilities can be used by us as government and business.
“Business seminars are helpful if the aspiring entrepreneurs are going to utilise the information shared here,” said Garane.
“Business people in Tembisa are not active in big significant numbers. Initiatives like the Ekasi Economic Development seminar need to be supported because they are good.”
He said the future of entrepreneurship lies in the hands of young people and he said, as it stands, business in Tembisa is still in the hands of the old people and that needs to change.
Garane said the reason for the shortage of young people involved in business is their lack of education and exposure.
“We need new ideas, and young people must create industries that have never existed before,” said Garane.
Clement Ntefeng, a young entrepreneur who attended the seminar, said it is empowering and good to know that there are big businesses that care about African empowerment.
“It is easy to assume that our own empowerment is only cared for by us and yet big capital is willing to assist,” said Ntefeng.
Addressing the audience on qualities of a true entrepreneur, Shirley Moss from Ubuntu Mission said entrepreneurs must have a clear vision, passion, courage and faith.
“Have ability to see a daily gap, seek to add value in life and look at the world differently,” said Moss.
She said entrepreneurs must create and make an impact as entrepreneurs to build their legacy.
“You must have sticking power and persistence. If I gave up at every rejection I wouldn’t be where I am today,” said Moss.
Keynote speakers of the day were Makomane Ntabo of Ekurhuleni Peermont Chambers of Commerce Trust, Sthembiso Garane from the Ekurhuleni Department of Economic Development, Musa Shibambu of Musa G Holdings, Mosotho Mashoane of Beetrootpine, Shirley Moss of Ubuntu Mission and Bulelani Tembe, founder of Abiezer Trading Enterprises.
