By: Zethu Gweva
To uplift the youth of Phumlani who want to start their businesses, Kholeka Bewula, 34, invited different government departments to encourage aspiring and developing business owners in her community.
The founder of Save a Girl Camp and chairperson of Nealabella Primary Co-Operative said, the idea of approaching the different government entities that provide funding for upcoming businesses came after several young people asked her how and where she got her capital to grow her business which manufacturers eggs.
Bewula added that she wanted to do something for the youth of her community who are interested in starting and still developing businesses.
“I decided to write to all the government departments for them to come to the youth of Phumlani and do presentations about the services they provide for young people who are interested in starting their businesses,” she said.
One of the residents that attended the event, Nontembeko James, said she learnt a lot from the presentations done by the government departments.
She added that now she is aware that no matter how old you are, the government has sections where even old people who want to establish their businesses can be assisted.
“I thought since it is youth month it was only going to focus on matters of the youth but we all benefit, young and old, it was very informative,” she said.
Another beneficiary Zandile Peni said the presentations taught her how the business industry works and the information she gained will come in handy as she just registered her business.
“I learnt a lot and the information I’ve gained will help my business going forward. I know where to go when I need assistance,” she said.
Eastern Cape Development Corporation Spokesperson Nobulali Mnyathaza said, seeing SMME that benefited from some of the government departments programs and serves going back to their community share information to inspire start-up and aspiring businesses to do the same as they are done is proof that SMME’s that are supported by government departments are cornerstones of the campaigns.
“We often use a language that may not be relatable to those we are targeting but the minute they see someone like them succeeding through those programs on offer it changes things completely,” she said.