The Raymond Ackerman Academy (RAA) is offering young and budding entrepreneurs from disadvantaged communities the chance to develop their skills and knowledge through its Entrepreneurial Development (RAA-ED) programme.
The six-month, full-time programme is offered at no cost to students thanks to sponsorship from the Ackerman Family Foundation, and is open to applicants aged 18-35 with a business idea or already running a business.
The RAA-ED programme aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills to secure meaningful employment, pursue bursaries for further study or develop viable business ventures.
The academy was established by Pick n Pay founder Raymond Ackerman, one of the country’s most successful entrepreneurs. His goal through RAA-ED is to give young people, especially those with financial or socio-economic challenges, the opportunity to develop themselves and make a difference in their communities.
The Raymond Ackerman Academy launched in January 2005 and, to date, around 2 000 students have successfully graduated through the programme. The programme is run through the University of Johannesburg’s Business School and is delivered online, making it accessible to students from anywhere in South Africa and the SADC region.
Practical workshops and additional life skills, such as resilience, are taught to help students apply their knowledge to their early-stage businesses. After graduating, students have the option to participate in a one-year mentoring programme.
Ian McCloy, Business Coach and Lead of the RAA-ED explained, the programme is practical, builds on existing skills and allows students to express themselves and their creativity. “The academy aims to assist individuals with creating their personal and entrepreneurial vision to further the country’s economic growth,” he added.
“Graduates have reported that the RAA-ED programme not only provides them with the knowledge and skills necessary for successful entrepreneurship, but also offers personal support and encouragement to help them pursue their goals.”
RAA graduate Pearl Muthivha (now 36) was introduced to the academy by a close friend. She ran a small ice-cream stall in Soweto, joined the programme in 2018 and said she studied very hard to become one of the top performers in her class. “RAA-ED inspired me to grow my business. I am currently securing an ice-cream stall at Maponya Mall and have managed to employ two new people for my business.
“The RAA prepared me for business and work life, but it also taught me how to navigate difficult issues I face. I had struggled with depression since early childhood, and after speaking to the course coordinators, I was linked to a therapist at the college, and I am now free of depression. Not only did the RAA help me understand my business model and assist in growing my business, but I am also now completing my final year of honours in communication science.”
Those who successfully complete the programme and graduate will receive short course certificates from the University of Johannesburg.
The closing date for 2023 applications is 10 February. Visit https://jbs.ac.za/jbsce-programmes/#slp or call 011 559 5583 or email adminraa@uj.ac.za for more information.
