This is part of Investec’s Junior Innovators initiative, launched in 2012 in partnership with Junior Achievement South Africa. It aims to promote entrepreneurial skills development and thinking among Grade 10 and 11 pupils. It also seeks to recognise and develop pupils who have demonstrated entrepreneurial potential.
“This initiative is helping to foster a generation of entrepreneurs who will become active participants in the economy, and it is rewarding for Investec to have a hand in facilitating the development of such critical skills,” said Setlogane Manchidi, head of corporate social initiative at Investec.
“Every year we are impressed by the variety of relevant, interesting business ideas and we are excited by the potential.”
The overall winner of the Investec’s Junior Innovators initiative this year was 17-year-old Pearl Mchunu from New Forest High School who created an app called Trend Hut. She explained, “Trend Hut creates a hassle-free shopping experience for consumers. This app not only helps shoppers find and compare items from various stores, but it also provides a delivery service.”
Her innovative idea has won her a R60 000 bursary towards tertiary studies at a university of her choice, while taking her a step closer to her goal of becoming a successful businesswoman.
Patience Shandu’s Alcohol Detecting Steering Wheel and Nicole Rusere’s Carpet Alarm were awarded second and third place respectively. Pupil Kgomotso Kekana’s Taxi App won this year’s people’s choice award.
Details: www.investec.co.za
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