University of Mpumalanga entrepreneurs take part in Ireland Entrepreneurship Tour
The University of Mpumalanga Centre for Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator provides a platform for students to develop entrepreneurial skills and ideas.
Three students of the University of Mpumalanga (UMP) were selected to take part in the Ireland Entrepreneurship Tour, which took place in May.
Sandile Nhuvunga, Ndiwanga Murena Overcome Muravha and Mcolisi Austine Shongwe were chosen following their strong performance in the Technological Higher Education Network South Africa Entrepreneurship Training held in 2024.
The goal of the training was to equip students with sound business development skills and covered areas such as market research, financial planning and business model innovation.
Nhuvunga, a master’s candidate in development studies, described the Ireland tour as a milestone in his entrepreneurial journey – one that boosted both his confidence and credibility.
He said the international exposure gained during the trip would help him scale his business and sharpen his long-term vision.
Nhuvunga’s journey into entrepreneurship began somewhat unexpectedly. He had accompanied a friend to a pitching practice session at UMP’s Centre for Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator (UMPCFERI), simply intending to observe.
“While my intention was just to sit in, I ended up making meaningful contributions. That moment made me realise how even small ideas or encouragement can impact someone’s journey,” he said.
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Muravha, a final-year bachelor of science in agriculture student, has turned her love for nature into a business with a difference – a range of eco-friendly, plant-based sweet treats.
Her organic candy brand, which uses refillable jars and natural ingredients, is driven by a clear vision for sustainability and healthy living.
“My entrepreneurial journey was inspired by my childhood love of plants and gardening,” said Muravha. “I started volunteering as an usher at UMPCFERI events and was inspired by the innovation and energy around me. It made me realise that I could also bring something meaningful to the table.”
Muravha said her goal during the Ireland tour was to learn from international brands that prioritise sustainability and healthy ingredients – lessons she hopes to apply to strengthen her own product offering.
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Shongwe, also a master’s candidate in development studies, described the tour as a breakthrough moment in his entrepreneurial journey. “It’s a dream come true. It proves that hard work and resilience can take you far – even if you come from a rural background,” he said.
Shongwe is the founder of Speed of Green, a business that uses hydroponic technology to promote sustainable farming practices in rural communities.
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“I want to explore how global solutions can be adapted locally to uplift communities back home. This tour was a valuable opportunity to build networks and learn more about green technologies and innovation systems in Ireland,” he said.
His involvement with entrepreneurship at UMP began in 2022, when he came across the university’s Venture of Entrepreneurship platform.
“That experience opened my eyes to the real-world potential of innovation in business. Since then, the UMP has continued to offer opportunities that both challenge and empower us,” Shongwe added.
