Entrepreneurs share ideas at expo in eMbalenhle
The initiative was inspired by concerns over the decline of township businesses.
Small and medium enterprises from eMbalenhle gathered for a business exposition held on May 2 at Ext 4, with the aim of sharing ideas on how local businesses can grow and support one another.
According to organisers, the initiative was inspired by concerns over the decline of township businesses due to a lack of cooperation, networking opportunities and business knowledge.
One of the organisers, Bob Manana, said they conducted an analysis after noticing that the township economy was gradually fading.
“As we are working in Swallows, that is another obstacle that delays our business development, but by working together, we can help one another.
“Because we are doing different businesses, we must find a way to support one another and improve our products.
“What we also realised is that we do not have a place where we meet and share ideas, which is a major obstacle.
“What we noticed in this expo is that some businesses find it difficult to market their products.
The message that we are preaching is that we need to love what we are doing first before profit,” said Manana.
Among the exhibitors was Ntswaki Mofokeng (21), who manufactures and sells perfumes. She said after completing matric, she realised her dream was to become a businesswoman and decided to pursue entrepreneurship.
“I would encourage young women to start their own businesses as our country is faced with a high unemployment rate, especially among young people.
“As a young woman, entering this space was not easy, especially getting financing to start a business, but I began seeking information on how to start my perfume company.
“Manana and his team brought me into their business, where I worked and saved money to start my dream business,” said Mofokeng.
She added that the expo benefited her greatly as it gave her an opportunity to meet other entrepreneurs and learn from their experiences.
The entrepreneurs who attended the event agreed that such business expos should be held annually to strengthen collaboration, exchange business ideas and showcase local products and services.
