DUT CSERI CELEBRATES THE GRADUATION OF 36 SMMES FROM INCUBATION PROGRAMME
On Wednesday, 21 August 2024, the Durban University of Technology’s Centre for Social Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator (DUT CSERI) hosted a graduation ceremony to celebrate 36 SMMEs who successfully completed the 12-month Incubation Programme. The event marked a significant milestone for the entrepreneurs, who have benefited from the Centre’s mentorship, resources, and development support.
Mr. Solomon Nyamurima, Director of DUT CSERI, opened the event by welcoming guests, stakeholders, and the graduates. He expressed gratitude to everyone for attending and acknowledged the efforts of the Centre’s dedicated staff. “I humbly welcome all of you to this event. If it wasn’t for you, it wouldn’t be possible for us. Thank you very much. On behalf of CSERI, I also want to acknowledge in absentia our Deputy Vice Chancellor in Research & Innovation, Prof. Nemavhola,” he said.
Mr. Nyamurima also congratulated the graduating SMMEs, highlighting their significant contributions. The 36 graduates have created over 40 jobs and sustained more than 130, with 70% of these businesses being women-owned and 60% youth-owned.
Miss Nonhlanhla Gumbi, Head of the DUT Procurement Department, also addressed the graduates, celebrating their accomplishments and emphasizing the importance of entrepreneurship in combating unemployment. “I congratulate you for coming this far. The best thing you can do, dear graduates, is to focus on your businesses and continue creating employment for yourselves and others,” she said. Miss Gumbi also thanked the Centre for Social Entrepreneurship for equipping the graduates with essential skills that align with DUT’s ENVISION2030 strategy.
Mr. Atul Padalkar from BizFarm delivered a motivational speech, acknowledging the challenges of starting and running a business. “A journey to graduation is not easy, but this is just a warm-up. Entrepreneurship is a continuous journey,” said Mr. Padalkar, who also donated free office space to graduates who operate their businesses from home.
First National Bank (FNB) Area Manager, Mr. Lucas Khanyile, and Ntombi Magcakini from ABSA shared their insights with the graduates, encouraging them to implement the lessons learned during the programme to ensure business growth. Mrs. Magcakini also highlighted ABSA’s offerings for women and youth-owned businesses, including access to funding, markets, and property security.
SEDA STP Manager, Mr. Sandile Longwe, urged the graduates to seize opportunities offered by SEDA and the Department of Small Business Development. “It is important for you to attend business seminars and conferences to further develop your businesses. You must also build a peer group and find a mentor who can guide you when challenges arise,” he advised. He also shared that SEDA regularly takes SMMEs to international exhibitions, including the recent Digi-Tech conference in Germany.
DUT CSERI alumni, Mr. Thokozani Ndwandwa, Founder of Nolanga Trading, shared his experience in the Incubation Programme, stating that it provided him with strong networks and essential knowledge for his business, which focuses on general building, electrical, and civil construction. Similarly, Miss Philisiwe Makhanya, Founder of Feel Fabulous, a beauty and wellness boutique, spoke about the transformative impact of the programme on her business. She shared that the programme helped her secure R90,000 in funding for business expansion and an additional R75,000 for equipment and uniforms.
The ceremony also recognized the winners of the “Pitch My Business” competition, held a week before the graduation. Ten entrepreneurs were awarded funding from the DUT Procurement Department, representing a range of industries. The top ten winners included African Pride by Sisanda, Luhnyezi Farming, Cleanfest, Pepita Trumpet, Ziyamedic Wear, Noccy’s Nails, Pams Bakery, Corelab, Siks Electrical and Security Systems, and Toks Logistics.
The 36 entrepreneurs graduating from the Incubation Programme have harnessed the power of mentorship, networking, and funding opportunities, emerging stronger and more skilled for future endeavours. DUT CSERI wishes them continued success in their entrepreneurial journeys.
- Story by Nomvelo Mkhwanazi
