Local entrepreneurs awarded in 2024 Township Economy Awards
A highlight of the evening was the presence of Thulani Ntshuntshe, CEO of Five Star Fire, and the first winner of the TEA Kasi Pitching Challenge.
The Township Entrepreneurs Alliance (TEA) proudly hosted the 2024 Township Economy Awards, a vibrant celebration of innovation, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of township entrepreneurs.
The awards spotlighted trailblazers driving economic growth and social impact within their communities while contributing to South Africa’s broader economic development.
The awards honored businesses and individuals excelling in innovation, entrepreneurship, and community development.
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The event emphasised the pivotal role of the township economy in fostering inclusive growth and sustainability.
The evening featured inspiring addresses from a distinguished lineup of speakers.
Deputy Minister of Small Business Development Jane Sithole set the stage with a powerful opening speech.
Lizzy Mogale, managing executive for insights and advisory at Nedbank, captivated the audience with her motivational insights, underscoring the importance of platforms like the Township Economy Awards.
City of Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza delivered a thought-provoking address, acknowledging the challenges faced by township businesses while highlighting their resilience and potential for growth.
A highlight of the evening was the presence of Thulani Ntshuntshe, CEO of Five Star Fire, and the first winner of the TEA Kasi Pitching Challenge.
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His journey from a budding entrepreneur to a success story exemplifies the transformative opportunities offered by the TEA platform.
Thulani also received the prestigious Chairman’s Award, celebrating his exceptional entrepreneurial spirit and contributions to the township economy.
The evening culminated in the announcement of the 2024 Township Economy Award winners across various categories:
• Agricultural Excellence Award: Agrishelves Group, Lindelani Xhanti
• Construction Champion Award: Protilagor Projects, Musa Mbatha
• Creative, Arts and Culture Award: Sir Alba Tutoring and Arts Academy, Albert Zitha
• Entrepreneur with Disability Award: Definitive Brand Culture (Pty) Ltd, Khwezi Mthembu
• Food and Beverage Award: Nosso-Sunflower Oil (Pty) Ltd, Calab Baloyi
• Green Economy Award: Enoch and Petros Innovative Creations, Mthimkhulu Qhayiyana
• Health and Wellness Award: The Blend Wellness, Gugulethu Masondo
• Manufacturing Excellence Award: Borotho Bakery Enterprise (Pty) Ltd, Refiloe Rantekoa
• Professional Services Award: Young Barber Shop, Le-more Jannetjies
• Retail Excellence Award: ANDURA (Pty) Ltd, Lindokuhle Mnisi
• Service Excellence Award: AMA X-RAYS, Aphiwe Madikizela
• Social and Community Impact Award: Siyoyisile Indlala Community Farm and Projects, Nthabiseng Mkhize
• Technology & Innovation Award: Kaymores Marketing Agency, Kissmart Tshabalala
• Transport Award: Delivery Ka Speed Pty Ltd, Godiragetse Mogajane
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Special Recognition Awards:
• Lifetime Achievement: Ritha Zwane, Dr. T Mazwai
• Chairman’s Award: Thulani Ntshuntshe
• Female Entrepreneur of the Year: AMA X-RAYS, Aphiwe Madikizela
• Male Entrepreneur of the Year: Delivery Ka Speed Pty Ltd
• Youth Entrepreneur of the Year: Delivery Ka Speed Pty Ltd
As the night drew to a close, TEA founder Bulelani Balabala expressed heartfelt gratitude to the event’s sponsors, the municipality, and, most importantly, the entrepreneurs whose efforts fuel the township economy.
“You can show someone how to rethink the space.
“Let us continue to transform, elevate, and inspire,” Bulelani said.
“Together, we celebrate the achievements of township entrepreneurs and look forward to even greater innovation and collaboration in the Township Economy Awards 2025.”
