Bidvest Bank Sorbet-Preneur programme transforms lives in Morningside
Three women from historically disadvantaged backgrounds have won their own Sorbet stores, a prospect otherwise beyond their means.
In a remarkable celebration of entrepreneurship and empowerment, the second annual Bidvest Bank Sorbet-Preneur programme announced its three winners, each of whom will soon own and operate their own Sorbet franchise stores.
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The awards ceremony, held in Morningside, marked a life-changing moment for Nomalanga Mhlungu from Alexandra, Julia Simelane from Kyalami, and Zelma Matinise from Cape Town.
These three exceptional women, all employees of Sorbet, affectionately known as Sorbet Citizens, have been recognised for their entrepreneurial potential.
The Bidvest Bank Sorbet-Preneur programme, now in its second year, is a unique initiative that bridges the gap between talent and opportunity, specifically designed to uplift Sorbet employees by offering them a chance to step into business ownership.
The winners emerged from a competitive field of 13 finalists, who presented their business plans to a distinguished panel of business leaders.
Sorbet CEO Linda Sinclair noted that the calibre of this year’s applicants exceeded expectations, leading to an increase in the number of finalists.
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“The 2024 cohort will build on the success of last year’s winners, and we are thrilled to welcome three new franchise partners who have demonstrated exceptional entrepreneurial potential,” Sinclair said.
Hannah Sadiki, managing director of Bidvest Bank, expressed her excitement about the programme’s impact.
“It is a privilege to be part of an initiative that empowers young, aspiring entrepreneurs. These winners have shown incredible business acumen and entrepreneurial spirit, and they are now equipped with the skills and resources to build successful, sustainable businesses that will positively impact their communities.”
She added that the goal of Bidvest Bank Sorbet-Preneur is to provide career and life skills opportunities that enable individuals, especially women, to thrive in the beauty and grooming industry.
“This initiative is particularly special because it empowers our very own Sorbet Citizens, and we are excited to welcome these three women as franchise partners.”
Sadiki concluded by stating that by nurturing entrepreneurship, they aim to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and foster social inclusion in underrepresented communities.
“The lives of these three women are being transformed as they step into business ownership, an opportunity that might have been out of reach without this programme.”
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