The innobiz DUT Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (innobiz DUT) in collaboration with Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education ( EDHE) proudly launched the Student Women Economic Entrepreneurship Programme (SWEEP) at the Indumiso campus in Pietermaritzburg on Thursday, 11 July 2024.
This groundbreaking initiative aims to equip female student entrepreneurs with the skills and mindset needed to become leaders and change-makers. Campus Director Professor Mashupye Kgaphola warmly welcomed attendees and encouraged young women to take control of their futures by starting their own businesses. “Someone must first sell something in order for you to get or to be something,” Kgaphola emphasised, highlighting the importance of self-empowerment.
South Africa’s high unemployment persists, even among the educated, amid a challenging economic. Kgaphola explained that starting a business is the key to survival. DUT’s SWEEP programme is designed to address this issue by providing a supportive ecosystem for female entrepreneurs to thrive.
Centre Manager Nontokozo Ngcobo explained that SWEEP seeks to foster a business-minded approach among female students, addressing unique challenges they face in their entrepreneurial journeys. “The programme will continue to offer classes, mentorship, and guidance to help young entrepreneurs make a meaningful impact in their communities,” said Ngcobo.
EDHE Senior Student Engagement Officer Sandile Shabalala outlined SWEEP’s goals, emphasising the importance of entrepreneurship and entrepreneurship education. “Our vision is to empower all women students to become entrepreneurs, educating them about the benefits and connecting them with industry mentors for growth and development,” said Shabalala.
innobiz DUT SWEEP Chapter aimed to make a significant impact, uplifting numerous young female students and their businesses. Diva Mobedi, founder of Fashion by Leelah, is a testament to the programme’s success. “innobiz prepared me for the business world, groomed me, and supported me every step of the way,” Mobedi gratefully acknowledged.
SWEEP Coordinator Sindiswa Khuzwayo welcomed the newly formed SWEEP executives board, Chairperson Nonkanyiso Msomi, Co-Chairperson Esperance Namba, Secretary Syethemba Ngema, Event Management Officer Noluthando Zuma, PR Officer Nompumelelo Mpungose, and Treasurer Mbalenhle Ndlovu.
DUT’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement, and innobiz Board Chairperson, Professor Fulufhelo Nemavhola emphasised that demanding work is required to succeed as a businesswoman, he further explained that entrepreneurship is not limited to those who study business. He expressed his confidence by stating that “I am confident to say SWEEP will inspire many women to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.”
As the programme continues to grow and inspire, the impact will extend far beyond the campus boundaries, contributing to the economic growth and development of South Africa as a whole. The success stories of women like Diva Mobedi, Thembeka Madondo, Siyasanda Xaba, and Nompilo Zungu who shared their journey, are a testament to the power of empowerment and the limitless possibilities that arise when women are given the support and opportunities they deserve.
Pictured: The innobiz team and new board members of SWEEP with Campus Director Professor Mashupye Kgaphola and innobiz Board Chairperson Professor Fulufhelo Nemavhola at the SWEEP launch at the Indumiso campus.
Photography: Khulasande Tshayile
Sinamile Sithole
