Young entrepreneurs and community stakeholders have been urged to work together to create sustainable economic opportunities for young people in their communities.
The call was made by Herschell Minnies, director of Future Youth Developers, during the Youth Entrepreneurship Day held at the old swimming pool area in Kroonvale on 26 August. Held under the theme “Empower Today. Develop Tomorrow. Lead the Future,” the event focused on challenges faced by local entrepreneurs, including limited access to funding, business support, development opportunities and suitable trading spaces. Minnies said young people needed more than encouragement to establish and grow their businesses. He highlighted the importance of access to information, funding, mentorship, markets and practical business support. “How can we assist our young people to establish businesses, grow their ideas and turn them into sustainable sources of income?” Minnies asked, stressing that young entrepreneurs were ready to work when meaningful opportunities were made available.
He called for the initiative to extend beyond a once-off event, urging Local Economic Development (LED) and other stakeholders to monitor participating businesses, follow up on challenges identified and connect entrepreneurs with organisations that can provide assistance.
Minnies also proposed that Youth Entrepreneurship Day become an annual event, with the aim of attracting more stakeholders, resources and opportunities while reaching a greater number of young entrepreneurs. He further called on the municipality to consider providing permanent and suitable spaces where small businesses can operate, arguing that local economic development would remain difficult if entrepreneurs did not have sustainable places to trade.
The event highlighted the importance of partnerships between local government, non-profit organisations and private businesses in creating lasting economic opportunities. Minnies said stronger collaboration could help build a support system that empowers young people and local entrepreneurs to contribute meaningfully to the local economy.
Local small businesses showcased their products, services and talents. LED, SPU, ECDC and SEDFA greatly assisted the small businesses with information and registration. Certificates were handed over to participating entrepreneurs by Future Youth Developers.
“Empower Today. Develop Tomorrow. Lead the Future” was the message that underlined the day’s call for action and continued support for youth entrepreneurship.
