Azure Janneker, on behalf of the SAB KickStart programme said the programme was one of the South African Breweries’ longest running initiatives. “It started in 1995 and is focused on developing and supporting sustainable youth-owned businesses, as well as high impact entrepreneurs who are able to make a contribution to South Africa’s job creation needs,” explained Janneker.
The South African Breweries awarded the top five winners a share of R1, 5 million in business grant funding. Overall winner, Millicent Nyembe of Nyembe Waste Management walked away with R500 000 worth of grant funding and a six-month business development support and mentorship.
The runners up included Chad Petersen, owner of Artisan Research Unit, who received R400 000; Tsholofelo Majeng, owner of Maiktronic CC, who received R300 000; Reamogetswe Tshabalala, owner of Pfuxaka Enzokuhle, received R200 000; and Jeffrey Mafalo, owner of Falo’s Wire and Steel, who received R100 000. All the runners up will also receive additional six months business development support as well as mentorship to assist them in efficiently employing the grant investment provided.
Monwabisi Fandeso, the South African Breweries corporate affairs and transformation director, said all the participants of the KickStart programme made an impressive contribution. “You are the story that will propel our country’s economy in the right direction,” said Fandeso to the top 17 winners who were present at the ceremony.
Noli Mboweni, the chief executive officer of investment company Vela International, was invited as a special guest speaker to address the finalists. She said, “In business, don’t be afraid to ask for a helping hand. Here is KickStart offering to hold your hand, take it.” She spoke about her journey to success, as well as her trials and tribulations. “We need to be deliberate in breaking the legacy of poverty,” said Mboweni. “It’s not about where we come from, but it is about where we are going.”
Details: www.facebook.com/SABKickStart
