The Durban University of Technology’s (DUT) Centre for Social Entrepreneurship and Rapid Incubator (CSERI) hosted a four-day Youth Entrepreneurship Bootcamp from 22 to 25 June 2026, bringing together 26 young entrepreneurs from Durban and surrounding areas in celebration of Youth Month.
The intensive programme formed part of CSERI’s ongoing commitment to nurturing youth led enterprises and strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem within the Greater Durban region.
Throughout the four-day bootcamp, participants engaged with entrepreneurship toolkits developed through Viridian and the UK South Africa Tech Hub Launch League. The programme covered key business fundamentals, entrepreneurship principles and financial literacy, while introducing practical tools such as the Lean Canvas methodology and business idea validation exercises.
The hands-on sessions enabled participants to refine, test and strengthen their business ideas, equipping them with the knowledge, skills and confidence to build sustainable businesses.
As the bootcamp progressed, the focus shifted from foundational business knowledge to funding readiness and pitching. A highlight of the third day was the “Let’s Talk Financing” session, during which participants learnt about the different funding opportunities available to entrepreneurs, the various types of funders in the market and what businesses need to prepare before seeking financial support.
By the end of the programme, participants had developed a solid understanding of entrepreneurship, business fundamentals, financial literacy, funding readiness and pitching. They also left with practical skills, valuable peer networks and renewed confidence to grow their businesses.
For many of the young entrepreneurs, the experience extended well beyond technical knowledge.
Makhosonke Mchunu reflected on how the bootcamp helped him reconnect with his purpose.
“I’m very grateful for the opportunity. It reminded me of who I am and why I am doing what I’m doing. The sessions taught me a lot about finances, which is where my business was struggling.”
For Thembisile Phoswa, the greatest value lay in the relationships formed throughout the programme.
“Being here gained me sisters and brothers because I got to meet people who are like minded, just like me. Now I have a family I can turn to whenever I need support. The networking opportunities meant a great deal to me,” she said.
Naledi Muthwa said the bootcamp gave her the confidence to take her business to the next level.
“I feel like I am now ready to run my business and showcase my products with pride and professionalism,” she said.
Boniswa Zondi described the experience as the motivation she needed after years of putting her business idea on hold.
“I’ve ignored my idea for four years, and being here reminded me that my idea can still work and assist others, just as I had originally planned. I’m now committed and feel empowered to pursue my business journey,” she said.
Closing the bootcamp, CSERI Director Mr Solomon Nyamurima congratulated participants on their commitment throughout the four day programme.
“Congratulations to everyone for making it this far. You are all amazing,” he said.
“The journey you have started is not easy, but with the right guidance and the right attitude, you will succeed. I would like to thank our colleagues from the UK South Africa Tech Hub Launch League. We would not have been able to do this without their support and the valuable tools they have shared, which are helping us make a meaningful impact on entrepreneurs.
“Age is just a number, so do not let it discourage you from pursuing your dreams. Always remember that you are the future of our country. Continue to thrive, create employment opportunities and invest your time in growing your business. I admire the courage, determination and entrepreneurial spirit in this room. Continue investing in yourselves, your businesses and your future.”
The Youth Entrepreneurship Bootcamp reflects CSERI’s broader mandate of supporting youth led innovation and small business growth within the Greater Durban region. It also reinforces the Centre’s role as a launchpad for the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Although the bootcamp has come to an end, for the 26 participants it marks the beginning of what promises to be an exciting entrepreneurial journey.
Pictured: CSERI Director Mr Solomon Nyamurima with participants of the Youth Entrepreneurship Bootcamp.
Photographer: Luvuyo Mntambo
Snelisiwe Hlongwane
