As part of efforts to bolster Tshwane’s economic growth, a partnership between Standard Bank and the city has helped 300 people gain vital knowledge on the SMME sector. The Tshwane Idea Validation Bootcamp, which began last year, saw three winners being announced from different regions in the capital recently.
The purpose of the programme was to provide SMMEs with expert knowledge on how to run a business professionally. Out of the 300 individuals who participated in the two-day bootcamp, seven entrepreneurs – four of whom women – were selected to partake in an online training programme for four months. The bootcamp was managed by business development service provider Human Capital Learning Solutions.
The modules included marketing, finance, business models and strategies. After the course, the finalists underwent three rounds of virtual practice pitching to prepare them for the final, where they presented their business proposals.
Hopewell Langa of iLanga Biowaste and Processing took first place, Patricia Talana, who is the director of The Jades Mixed Fashion Arts and Trading came in second, and owner of Urban Groundwork Innovations, Kamogelo Nhlapo, took third place.
iLanga Biowaste and Processing designs unique waste management plans according to the needs of its clients. Langa said that thanks to the bootcamp, he was very optimistic about the future of his business.
“The high level of innovation displayed by young people highlighted the incredible entrepreneurial potential that we have in this country,” he said. “I would like to thank Standard Bank and the City of Tshwane for not only providing financial support but also empowering us as entrepreneurs with invaluable business knowledge.”
Benjamin Manasoe, who is an executive director at the metro, said it was the mandate of the city to promote a culture of entrepreneurship as well as celebrate the success of young people. “We remain steadfast in our journey of creating an inclusive economy that allows all members of society to make a positive contribution to the Tshwane economy, and we are grateful to Standard Bank for being committed to the same,” he also said.
Standard Bank Tshwane Central’s Private Banking Suite head Lee Mawela said that the selection criteria was imperative, as it informed the important role that SMMEs played in their communities in terms of empowerment.
“Standard Bank recognises the critical role SMMEs play in growing South Africa’s economy and creating jobs,” he said.
“We are delighted to be able to celebrate, support and contribute to the success of small businesses through initiatives like the bootcamp.”
