Young Entrepreneurs Spark Change in Eswatini After Youth Business Seminar
By Phiwa Sikhondze
A fresh and invigorating wave of young entrepreneurs is poised to rejuvenate Eswatini’s business landscape, thanks to the successful conclusion of the annual Youth Business Seminar. Hosted from December 16 to 17, 2024, at the Siteki Town Council Hall, this seminar was a collaborative endeavor between Begin Your Dreams and SNG Grant Thornton, which generously provided E60,000 in funding that included seed capital and mentorship for prize winners.
The seminar was spearheaded by Bertha Sithole, the visionary founder of Begin Your Dreams, who focused on nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit of the nation’s youth. The event attracted 17 budding entrepreneurs, aged between 18 to 35 years, and included five newcomers eager to be part of this transformative initiative. Over two intensive days, participants engaged in interactive sessions honing their skills in essential areas such as business modeling, financial management, and effective elevator pitching.
Kicking off with a comprehensive discussion on the Business Model Canvas, attendees learned to strategically shape and refine their innovative ideas. This was complemented by an insightful workshop on financial management, where emerging entrepreneurs gained vital knowledge in bookkeeping, cash flow maneuvering, and budget planning—key areas that often challenge new businesses.
The high point of the seminar was the exhilarating pitch competition held on the final day. Participants showcased their entrepreneurial ideas before a panel of esteemed judges, including representatives from PINACO & CO, the Youth Enterprise Revolving Fund, and SNG Grant Thornton.
After a spirited round of pitches, the judges announced three standout winners, each awarded seed capital and mentorship:
1. Celumusa Motsa – Goat Skin Carpeting Business, E15,000 seed capital + six months of mentoring.
2. Nonjabuliso Dlamini – Sigayo, E10,000 seed capital + six months of mentoring.
3. Sibusiso Dlamini & Lwethu Simelane – Gaming Business, E5,000 seed capital + six months of mentoring.
4. Sandile Nkomi – Pre-Cast Business, benefited from six months of mentoring.
5. Senenile Maseko – Tailor Business, also received six months of mentoring.
Beyond just financial rewards, the seminar provided invaluable networking opportunities, connecting participants to essential financial organizations in Eswatini. As one excited attendee noted, “The hands-on approach, coupled with expert feedback during the pitch competition, has given me the confidence to take my business to the next level.”
Looking ahead, the organizers plan to monitor the progress of participants over the next 12 months, aiming to unfold a compelling impact story that showcases the growth and achievements of the 2023 cohort.
Eswatini’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship among youth is certainly on the right path, setting the stage for a dynamic future filled with innovation and business success.
Stay tuned to Africazine for more updates on this inspiring initiative and the broader business landscape in Africa!
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