More than 160 out-of-school, unemployed or self-employed young women, between 18 and 35 years, are ready to be entrepreneurs.
After their graduation from the Youth Enterprise Development Programme, organised by Junior Achievement South Africa, a Mastercard-funded initiative, the women are empowered to start and develop business ventures of their own.
The 20-week programme taught the women business theory, market research, financial and business management, sales and marketing, computer literacy, business funding as well as management and other practical skills.
“Most entrepreneurs have ambition, determination and original ideas but many lack the expertise needed to make a successful business,” said Nelly Mofokeng, managing director of Junior Achievement.
According to 2017 Mastercard Index of Women Entrepreneurs, women account for only 19,1% of Mzansi business owners, and have a low rate of entrepreneurial activity.
“South Africa’s women are its biggest assets yet their full potential is not being respected,” said Mark Elliott, division president, Mastercard Southern Africa.
Lydia Makgoba (29) attended the programme in Diepsloot. She said she wanted to start a baby clothing manufacturing business and sell her brand locally and internationally. “The programme provided me with skills such as financial literacy to help me succeed.”
