Youth in Business partnerships strengthen entrepreneurship in Soshanguve
The expo created a platform for local entrepreneurs to showcase their potential while building valuable relationships with government, business and higher education partners.
Entrepreneurs, students and graduates from Soshanguve showcased their products and services, pitched innovative business ideas and connected with organisations committed to supporting entrepreneurship at the recent Youth in Business (YiB) Soshanguve Business Expo.
The Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) joined Youth in Business, the City of Tshwane, the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, ABSA and other strategic partners to create opportunities that support entrepreneurship, business growth and sustainable community development.
Karabo Malapane, founder and CEO of the Youth in Business (YiB) Network, commended TUT for recognising the needs of young people in townships and committing to initiatives that create meaningful opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs.
The expo created a platform for local entrepreneurs to showcase their potential while building valuable relationships with government, business and higher education partners. It also reflected a shared commitment to strengthening entrepreneurship and creating economic growth opportunities in local communities.
Cllr Palesa Modise, Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community and Social Development Services in the City of Tshwane, engaged with entrepreneurs throughout the expo.
Ntsako Mogobe, Deputy Chief Whip of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, said initiatives such as the expo help entrepreneurs access economic opportunities.
“Partnerships help us build stronger communities and a stronger local economy,” said Mogobe.
One of the highlights of the event was the ABSA-sponsored business pitching competition, where young entrepreneurs presented innovative business ideas to a panel of judges. Winners received funding to help develop and grow their businesses.
Fashion with Collen, represented by Phiwe Mzizi, won first prize of R15 000. Kasi Eats, represented by Kgolaganyo Ngoepe, secured second prize of R10 000 while Engineering Solutions, represented by Lethabo Mahlangu, received third prize of R5 000.
Dr Eric Pule, Director of Advancement and Partnerships, said the Soshanguve Business Expo demonstrates how universities and strategic partners can work together to support community development and student success.
“We equip our students with knowledge and skills enabling them to return to their communities, create opportunities and contribute to economic growth,” he said.
The partnership reflects TUT’s commitment to being an entrepreneurial university that works alongside communities to inspire innovation, support business growth and contribute to sustainable development. The expo brought together students, alumni, entrepreneurs, industry and community members to strengthen entrepreneurship and innovation in Soshanguve.
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