Township Entrepreneur’s Alliance (TEA) had its second annual township business innovation seminar on November 25.
Speaking for TEA, Mr Dumisani Basina said they brought in coaches to speak to the entrepreneurs.
“We discussed SWOT analysis where we looked at the companies’ internal strengths and weaknesses, as well as its external opportunities and threats. We discussed business funding and development,” said Mr Basina.
He said they had key note speakers like NYDA’s CEO Mr Khathu Ramukumba, motivational speaker Mr Billy Selekane and other distinguished entrepreneurs.
“We are happy with the turnout, especially the township entrepreneurs who exhibited in our stalls.”
When asked how this seminar differs from TEA’s monthly gatherings, he said they hold the small workshops on a monthly basis and that the workshop are a build-up to the bigger, annual seminar to be held each year.
“TEA is growing beyond our expectations. This year we have attracted more stake holders, more entrepreneurs and more media coverage. We had to use a bigger venue,” said Mr Basina.
He said TEA is worthwhile for both people in business and aspiring entrepreneurs.
Mr Basina said they have success stories citing, among others, Mr Thulane Ntshuntshe whose business benefited from TEA programmes.
He said Mr Ntshuntshe’s business won a prize with Raizcorp, a business incubator.
“That has contributed to the growth of his business. If you are running a business on the side you are welcome because TEA is not for full time business people only. We will give you the tools to help you grow your business,” said Mr Basina.
He said TEA’s vision is to have office space one day where entrepreneurs can have access to internet, boardrooms, printing, coaching and even business funding.
“To unemployed people I want to say come to TEA and what you will learn will help you identify a business gap in the society and hopefully you will fill it,” Mr Basina said.
The winner of the day’s business pitch was Ms Lorraine Marira Okonkwo, who runs Laureate le Beauty Training.
She will be interviewed on Cliff Central, enjoy a day’s mentorship with Mr York Zucchi, a pitch advert with Mr Sam Apata from Pitchalot, a Get Things Done CD from Bulelani Balabala and a motivational book from Mr Sibubiso Molimi.
