CELEBRATING SUCCESS: 25 GRADUATES COMPLETE 3-MONTHS IDEATION PROGRAMME AT DUT CENTRE FOR SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP
On Friday, 21 June, the Durban Botanic Gardens was the venue for a celebration as 25 entrepreneurs graduated from the Durban University of Technology Centre for Social Entrepreneurship (DUTCSERI). These graduates successfully completed the Centre’s Ideation Programme, marking a significant milestone in their entrepreneurial journeys.
Centre director, Mr. Solomon Nyamurima, warmly welcomed the esteemed guests and congratulated the entrepreneurs on their achievement. “Today, we celebrate you for reaching this milestone. You’ve taken one step closer to your dreams. This intensive programme equipped you to validate your ideas, build your businesses, and prepare you to pitch for success,” said Nyamurima.
The ceremony was further enriched by the presence of successful CSERI Alumni who have made notable strides in the world of entrepreneurship. Among the guest speakers was Mr. Eddison Ngonidzashe Shumba, Founder and CEO of Timo, a mobility platform that allows users to hire a car based on the preferred driver’s language, appearance, and more. Shumba shared his inspiring journey, detailing how he navigated the challenges of entrepreneurship to build a thriving business.
Another speaker, Ms. Nothando Chisane, CEO and founder of Uthando Glow Skincare, touched the audience with her personal story. She revealed how her childhood struggles with skin problems motivated her to create her own skincare products using natural ingredients. Chisane credited the CSERI Ideation Programme with helping her grow her business, particularly in areas such as financial management, public speaking, and branding. “Being part of the incubation programme has been transformative. I used to struggle with pricing my products, but this programme rescued me, which is why my business is thriving,” she said.
Mr. Lee Maphumulo, CEO and Founder of KCI Group also shared his experiences. Having been part of the incubation in 2021, Maphumulo discussed how his passion for logistics deepened after being retrenched from his job. He emphasized the value of the knowledge and mentorship he received through the programme. “I had the capital and passion, but I lacked knowledge. This programme changed my life. The meetups, flowcharts, especially the Launch League flowcharts, have become my entrepreneur’s bible,” he noted.
One of the currents incubatee, Ms. Zamambo Sithole, who operates in the manufacturing industry, expressed her gratitude for the programme, which has helped her better understand her market. She shared her aspirations for the future growth of her business.
The event was a testament to the impact of the DUT Centre for Social Entrepreneurship in nurturing and guiding entrepreneurs. As the ceremony concluded, there was a shared sense of pride and anticipation for the future, as the Centre continues to support these graduates and others on their path to success.
- Nomvelo Mkhwanazi
- Photographer: Bheka Nxumalo
