Young entrepreneurs in the Isipingo area were empowered during a business development seminar hosted by the city recently.
Led by the South Durban Basin ABM in partnership with the business support and supply chain management units, local businesses such as GUD and SAPREF shared useful information to help grow their businesses. Information on ensuring compliance with legislation and how to access opportunities were popular topics.
“Isipingo is a key industrial area for eThekwini and yet there is a high level of unemployment,” said programme manager, Zamangema Mngadi. “There are numerous emerging and struggling small businesses in Isipingo that with some support, guidance and education can be assisted to grow and flourish. This small business skills programme will create an enabling environment to enhance job creation opportunities that produce a quality living wage.
Isipingo youth have been neglected in terms of training, guidance, growth and empowerment. These young entrepreneurs are enthusiastic and will make a difference in the community and decrease the unemployment rate,” she said.
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The programme provided information on how to access finance, entrepreneurial skills development, forging partnerships, mentoring and coaching. The overall purpose was to promote development and sustainability of small businesses by creating awareness of development opportunities which will be outlined by various partners and stakeholders.
Thembisile Blose from Pilgrims Informal Settlement said that she found the workshop interesting as it gave her relevant information to open her own business. Bheki Fakazi, the programme director, said “We are showing youth the doors of opportunity, but it is up to them to open the doors and make the most of the opportunities available.”
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