VANDERBIJLPARK.- The Networking Business Summit, organised by Vaal University of Technology (VUT) Public Relations (PR) Advanced Students, proved to be a resounding success.

The event, held at the Quest Conference Estate in Vanderbijlpark, primarily centered on business opportunities for young individuals entering the workforce. Distinguished speakers at the summit included representatives from the Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM), Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA), Seriti, Gauteng Enterprise Propeller (GEP), and the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA).

Each speaker emphasised the significance of seizing the opportunities presented to young people. Sello Manoto from GEP stressed the importance of young entrepreneurs starting businesses they can sustain, rather than simply following trends without adequate research. He advised them to establish essential systems such as Business Plans, Marketing, and Projections to ensure long-term success.

Lerato Mocoancoeng, the Program Director, consistently reminded the young entrepreneurs in attendance to believe in themselves and realise that ‘the sky is not the limit’. Ntema Sebayane from NYDA expressed the organisation’s commitment to facilitating youth development and encouraging active participation in the economy across all sectors of society.

The summit also featured award-winning businesswoman Keabecoe Moiloa from the Keabecoe Moiloa Foundation, a Non-Profit Organisation (NPO) based in Sharpeville. She motivated young people, encouraging them to pursue their aspirations, even if they encountered closed doors.

“As an organisation we facilitate youth development with all the sectors in the society. We embrace young people, and we want to enhance their participation in the economy.”

She stressed the importance of seeking opportunities for the community, particularly in Sharpeville, with the aim of helping people become better individuals.

“If the doors do not open, kick them. As an organisation we seek opportunities for the community in this area, particularly in Sharpeville. We want them to become better people.”

Overall, the summit was a resounding success, with active involvement from students who were eager to learn and engage in the program.