DOWNSTREAM Aluminium Centre for Technology (DACT) has introduced its new Centre Manager to the community of Richards Bay. Lindiwe Radebe joined DACT in her new position at the start of March, bringing with her a wealth of experience in the development of small enterprises.

Radebe has spent 15 years advising and supporting small and medium businesses across various industries, and is excited to impart her knowledge at DACT.

Her career includes working at the Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda) as business advisor. She was acting Branch Manager at Seda Amajuba in Newcastle before relocating to Richards Bay. She holds an honours degree in Commerce from Regent Business School, a diploma in Financial Management from TVET College, and a certificate in Small Business Consultancy from North-West University.

Her passion for the advancement of small business is palpable: “I started working in the SMME industry in 2008 as a support staff but started advising business start-ups in 2015 as an Information Officer.”

This is a passion that has not dwindled over the years: “In my new capacity as Centre Manager, I look forward to assisting local businesses in finding their feet.”

Her short-term goals include restoring the centre to its former glory and ensuring the Casting Department is fully operational. In the long-term, Radebe hopes to introduce SMMEs to global markets for maximum exposure.

Radebe invites new SMMEs to make use of the six-month or three-year incubation programmes offered by DACT. Funding is crucial for DACT to help entrepreneurs realise their dreams, and Radebe extends an invitation to stakeholders to come on board.

“I am very pleased to be part of this amazing organisation. With my skills and with this great team, I am certain that DACT will push local SMMEs to greater heights,” she concluded.