LIMPOPO – In an exciting development for the Vhembe region, approximately 500 young entrepreneurs have been selected to participate in a new venture creation course.

This initiative is sponsored by the National Youth Development Agency (Nyda), Ompfuna Catering, and the Limpopo Economic Development Agency (Leda).

The announcement followed a youth seminar held on June 29 at the Hamutsha Community Hall.

Mpho Tshikalange of Ompfuna Catering, one of the seminar organisers, emphasised the seminar’s goal of equipping young people with essential business knowledge and training to help them launch their own enterprises.

“We often see young graduates struggling to find jobs despite having degrees and diplomas. We aim to encourage them to start their own businesses. We receive numerous calls from graduates seeking job placements and internships, but we cannot accommodate them all,” Tshikalange explained.

He expressed satisfaction with the seminar’s turnout and noted that the young entrepreneurs in attendance would be registering their cooperatives in various fields, including agriculture.

Dr Tshifhiwa Mulingwe, a well-known clergyman, was invited to motivate the young attendees. He urged them to remain focused and diligent in their pursuits, assuring them that hard work and determination would lead to success.

Maenetja Mojela, the interim head of training and development at Leda and a presenter at the seminar, highlighted the importance of enterprise development.

Her presentation covered critical aspects such as business support, training and development, financial assistance, and the role of industrial parks.

Local councilor Lutendo Phangami also addressed guests, emphasising the importance of empowering young people during these challenging economic times, particularly when youth unemployment is high.

One of the attendees, Vhuthuhawe Ramaruno, described the seminar as an eye-opener, providing valuable insights and business ideas.