On Saturday 6 May, I attended the Youth Leadership Indaba at the Faith Community Sanctuary church in Kagiso.
The indaba was organised by the I Will Succeed Foundation under the leadership of Dr Joe L Mabuela. Although it was dubbed a ‘Youth Leadership Indaba’, it was open to people of all ages.
The event was organised mainly for the Mogale City residents, and it was well-marketed, especially on social media. However, most of the people who attended came from other areas, such as Rustenburg. Where were the Mogale City residents? They missed out on a lot.
There were various speakers addressing different topics. Chris Mukoki, the Progress Ministry senior pastor, banker and former Boss of the Year, talked about how to draft a business plan. He touched on the sources of capital to start a business and what the bank looks for when someone applies for a loan to start a business. He also dished out some good advice, saying “Don’t start a business using pension money”.
Sbusiso Mfeka, a Baptist church minister, author, public speaker and brand ambassador, focused on branding. Mfeka, who is also a business coach, and has recently published a book entitled “The Making of a Brand”, talked about individual and organisational branding. The prolific speaker indicated that many people think individual branding is meant for celebrities and public figures. “This is not so”, he said.
There was also an interesting young man, named Prince Mazibuko, who was there to motivate the audience.
Mazibuko, aged 23, originates from KZN and was raised by his grandmother, who passed away while he was in Grade 8. His family was well-known in their area, due to their poverty. However, today he is a multi-millionaire – a real rags to riches story.
Entrepreneurs were also given space to exhibit their businesses at the event. The ambitious and enterprising Celeste “Rhasi” Ncana, a former professional nurse, was there to exhibit her Forever Living business. Ncana is living her dream life through this business.
Dr Mabuela’s book, “12 Success Factors”, was also on display.
One of the objectives of the I Will Succeed Foundation is to train and empower individuals to have an impact on, and influence, the world. Holding events such as the Youth Leadership Indaba helps to achieve these objectives. The Foundation is planning to organise more events throughout the year. I urge residents to attend these events in numbers.
