The Centre for Social Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator (CSERI) at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) recently hosted a graduation celebration in honour of entrepreneurs who had been part of the incubation programme for the 2025/26 cohort. Having spent the past 12 months receiving comprehensive business development support and mentorship, 25 small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) crossed the graduation stage, which served as a proud testament to their resilience, commitment and growth.
The cohort reflected an encouraging representation of gender diversity, with 65% of the graduating businesses being female owned. Together, this class of entrepreneurs created 34 new jobs, sustained 43 existing positions and generated a combined turnover of R79 million in sales over the course of the programme.
The graduation ceremony commenced with a warm welcome from Programme Director Ms Snelisiwe Hlongwane, who set a celebratory and reflective tone as she greeted the graduates, guests and stakeholders in attendance.
CSERI Director Mr Solomon Nyamurima delivered a heartfelt congratulatory message to the graduating entrepreneurs, reminding them of the importance of collaboration, meaningful friendships and integrity as they continue their journeys beyond the incubation programme. He urged the graduates to collaborate, create friendships that have impact, work together and be honest with one another. Mr Nyamurima also expressed sincere gratitude to SEDFA and DUT for their continued support in enabling the centre to function, as well as to all stakeholders who have consistently shared their skills, resources and opportunities with the programme.
Mr Longwe, SEDFA Incubation Manager, extended his congratulations to the entrepreneurs for their bravery in taking the first step of starting a business and seeing it through. He stated that entrepreneurship is not child’s play and encouraged the graduates to applaud themselves for making it this far, noting that they are among the few who succeed in this journey.
DUT’s Professor Rendani Maladzhi, Chair in Smart and Sustainable Manufacturing Technologies, delivered an inspiring address in which he shared key principles for entrepreneurial success. He emphasised the importance of having a clear vision, cultivating resilience, leveraging available resources, giving back to the community and remaining committed to continuous learning and adaptability. He concluded by stating that this graduating class is a testament that at DUT, the institution is not only creating graduates but producing job creators.
CSERI alumna Ms Sibongile Mtsabe, founder of Sibocali Foods, motivated the graduating cohort by drawing on her own experience as a former programme participant. She encouraged the entrepreneurs to remain humble, seize every opportunity presented to them and generously share the knowledge they have gained during their time in the incubation programme. She advised them not to rush to become big businesses but to enjoy each and every step, reminding them that sustainable growth is built one deliberate step at a time.
Speaking on behalf of the graduating cohort, Akhona Mkhize reflected on the transformative impact the programme had on her business practices. She shared that a significant shift had taken place in how she manages her finances, noting that she now uses a dedicated business bank account rather than keeping cash at home. She added that a lot has changed and that they have learned the importance of maintaining a good track record for their businesses. She further stated that they now employ 10 full time staff members and 20 part time workers, which she attributed to the support received from the centre.
Ms Amahle Zuma of Power Cleaning Services echoed similar sentiments, highlighting how the programme had strengthened areas of the business that had previously been overlooked. She explained that the programme had taught them many valuable skills, including pitching and marketing, which their business had previously neglected, and that they are now beginning to see positive results.
The results of the Pitch My Business competition were announced by Ms Lungile Mbulazi of the Durban Chamber of Commerce, who served as one of the judges during the pitching event. The final standings were as follows: Honeylog Farming achieved first place, Chiyas Legacy achieved second place, Teefaya Bakery achieved third place, Stunkie Deluxe achieved fourth place and Manjula Group achieved fifth place.
In addition to the pitching placements, special recognition awards were presented to entrepreneurs who stood out for their dedication and impact. The Most Committed Entrepreneur awards were given to Bonanik Construction and Amambo Enterprise, while Power Cleaning Services was awarded Most Impactful Entrepreneur of the Year.
The event concluded with a group photograph of CSERI Director Mr Solomon Nyamurima, Marketing Officer Ms Snelisiwe Hlongwane, Business Development Officer Miss Brightness Nyawose and SEDFA Representative Ms Lulama Peter, who proudly posed with the graduating SMME class of 2025/26.
Photographer: Luvuyo Mntambo
Snelisiwe Hlongwane
