ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CITY AWARDS 20 YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS THROUGH MAYORAL YOUTH IN BUSINESS CHALLENGE
In celebration of Youth Month and the remarkable achievements of young people, eThekwini Municipality continues to champion youth empowerment and economic participation through meaningful investment in young entrepreneurs.
As part of this commitment, the City's Youth Development Office awarded business support resources to 20 young entrepreneurs who successfully participated in the Mayoral Youth in Business Challenge.
The award ceremony was held today, 19 June, at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.
Through the programme, the top three participants received business resources valued at R30 000, R20 000, and R10 000 respectively, while the remaining beneficiaries each received resources to support the growth and sustainability of their businesses.
Siyabonga Mngadi of Izipho Zokuphila (Pty) Ltd secured first place. His business specialises in tracking devices.
Mngadi expressed his appreciation for the programme and the support received.
“The challenge has been very beneficial to my business. The resources awarded through the programme will assist me in sustaining and growing my enterprise,” said Mngadi.
Second place was awarded to Olwethu Radebe of Recycling Animal Waste (Pty) Ltd, while third place went to Nosihle Mthembu of Plumbing Construction.
The 20 beneficiaries represent a diverse range of sectors, including skills development, technology, cleaning services, construction, digital and film production, plumbing, manufacturing, catering, and agriculture.
Speaking at the awards ceremony, Chairperson of the Governance and Human Resources Committee, Councillor Nkosenhle Madlala, said the initiative demonstrates the City's ongoing commitment to empowering young people and supporting entrepreneurship.
“The resources awarded through this programme are intended to help young entrepreneurs sustain and grow their businesses. The initiative targets those already operating businesses but facing challenges that may hinder their growth and development. By supporting these entrepreneurs, we are investing in the future of our local economy and creating opportunities for sustainable livelihoods,” said Councillor Madlala.
He further announced that the Municipality has partnered with Gagasi FM to provide advertising airtime to the top three winners, giving them valuable exposure and marketing support to strengthen their brands and reach wider markets.
The eThekwini Youth Development Policy encourages businesses and institutions to actively support youth development and advancement through initiatives such as learnerships, entrepreneurship development programmes, mentorship opportunities, career development initiatives, and social responsibility programmes that begin at school level.
In line with this vision, the Youth Development Office implemented the Mayoral Youth in Business Challenge to empower young entrepreneurs operating within eThekwini Municipality.
In partnership with the City's Business Support Directorate, beneficiaries will be monitored and evaluated to ensure the effective implementation of the programme.
Where necessary, additional support, including market access opportunities, mentorship, and business development interventions, will be facilitated to enhance business growth and sustainability.
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate
