The Advancement and Alumni Relations Unit, in collaboration with innobiz DUT Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation and the Centre for Social Entrepreneurship recently hosted a groundbreaking event that promised to pave the way for future entrepreneurial achievements at the Riverside Hotel and Conference Centre. The DUT Alumni Business Breakfast Networking Session provided a vital platform for Durban University of Technology (DUT) alumni to connect, collaborate, and advance their business endeavours.
Zwakele Ngubane, the Director of Advancement and Alumni Relations at DUT, warmly welcomed the distinguished guests, also serving as the Programme Director. In his opening remarks, Ngubane emphasised the essential role of alumni engagement, and the significant impact networking and collaboration has on fostering business growth and innovation. He indicated that through such events and initiatives, DUT reaffirms its commitment to realising its ENVISION2030 strategy by being “People-Centred and Engaged” as well as being “Innovative and Entrepreneurial”.
The session featured three notable, DUT alumni guest speakers who shared their entrepreneurial journeys and insights. Ntobeko Mafu, the owner of Madam Clucks a Lot, a thriving poultry business, captivated the audience with her story of perseverance and ingenuity. She underscored the importance of hard work, strategic thinking, and passion in achieving business success. Mafu’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a successful entrepreneur served as a powerful inspiration to all attendees.
Ricardo Lognath, a pioneer in the online medical technology space with Omninela Medical, provided a compelling look into the future of healthcare. Recognised alongside his brother Nicolas Lognath in Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30, he highlighted the transformative potential of digital health solutions and the importance of innovation in the medical field. His insights into leveraging technology to improve healthcare accessibility and efficiency were particularly enlightening.
Sibusiso Nxumalo, known professionally as J Sbu, brought his charisma and energy to the event. As a well-known radio personality at East Coast Radio and founder of J Sbu Entertainment, he inspired attendees with his creative vision and entrepreneurial spirit. Nxumalo’s dynamic approach to blending entertainment with business offered valuable brand-building lessons and audience engagement lessons.
In addition to the guest speakers, Old Mutual, a leading financial services provider, offered expert financial advice to the attendees. Prashna Prithipal and Yegan Reddy shared their financial planning and business insurance guidance, which was invaluable, equipping entrepreneurs with the knowledge needed to secure and grow their enterprises.
A key highlight of the morning was the launch of the AlumBiz Fund by Alumni Relations Coordinator Ronelle Lyson. “This new initiative aims to provide financial assistance to DUT alumni starting businesses or with promising business ideas. The AlumBiz Fund is set to become a crucial support system for budding entrepreneurs, fostering innovation and economic growth within the DUT community,” she said. Lyson’s announcement was met with enthusiasm, signalling a promising future for alumni-driven ventures.
The inaugural DUT Alumni Business Breakfast Networking Session at the Riverside Hotel and Conference Centre was a resounding success. It underscored the strength and potential within the DUT alumni community, fostering a spirit of collaboration and innovation. As DUT continues to support its alumni through such initiatives, the university reaffirms its commitment to nurturing the next generation of game-changing leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs. This event marked the beginning of a series of impactful engagements that will undoubtedly shape the future of DUT and its alumni network.
Pictured: DUT Alumni who were in attendance at the event.
Ronelle Lyson
