Mdantsane entrepreneurs set up new support structure for businesses

‘ Youths who undergo development in the hub will go on to participate in sustainable employment opportunities

THE development of Mdantsane’s failing economy rests on the success of local, youthdriven, small businesses and projects.

It is this belief that inspired a group of 11 young entrepreneurs from the township to set up the Mdantsane Innovation Hub (MIH), a support structure for businesses.

MIH public relations executive Sinovuyo Apleni said Gideon Sam and his Imvula Foundation developed the hub to help structure the youth and create a ripple effect of development.

Sam was assisted by Luthando Gubevu (chairman), who shared the concept with other youths in his circle.

Apleni said MIH consisted of members who were in media, business management, graphic design, IT, infrastructure and renewable energy.

The purpose of MIH was to equip young people with skills and provide mentorship to help them create thriving businesses.

“We want to transform the lives of young entrepreneurs in the township through access and exposure to resources and information to enable them to contribute meaningfully to the growth of their communities and the economy of the Eastern Cape,” Apleni said.

MIH was officially launched at the Mdantsane Sun Hotel over the weekend, with an inaugural entrepreneurship summit and fashion show.

Apleni said the goal was to strengthen the township economy and that the hub would assist small businesses by connecting them with business incubations and mentorship programmes.

It would also provide assistance to pupils, such as career guidance and extra classes.

“Youths who undergo development in the hub will go on to participate in sustainable employment opportunities and projects that will be supported by ongoing training, enterprise development and learning programmes tailor-made to address their developmental needs,” Apleni said.

She said MIH had already made inroads with regards to forming credible partnerships, as it was on its way to securing an international deal with US-based company Kemba, which provides a technology training programme.

Apleni said MIH would be operating at Border Training premises in NU1 Mdantsane from next month.