The Economic Development, Tourism, and Agriculture Directorate of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) recently hosted a SMME workshop at the Kariega Town Hall.
The session was led by Portfolio Head, Councillor Bassie Kamana; Acting Executive Director, Wandisile Makwabe, and Yandisa Jubase from the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA). This workshop forms part of Small Business and Informal Trading Month and is aimed at engaging directly with small business entrepreneurs. It provides an open platform for SMMEs to voice their concerns, share challenges, and identify areas where they need support. Insights from this engagement will contribute to shaping the upcoming SMME Summit, set to take place later this month at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.
In his opening remarks, Councillor Kamana emphasised the critical role that SMMEs play in driving local economic growth, creating jobs, and uplifting communities. He reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to building an inclusive economy by supporting entrepreneurs and informal traders with better access to opportunities, infrastructure, and funding. Kamana encouraged participants to speak openly about their experiences and challenges, assuring them that their input would directly influence future policies and programmes. “This is your space,” he said. “Your voice matters, and it will shape how we work together to build a thriving SMME sector that truly reflects the resilience and innovation of our people.”
A diverse group of SMMEs representing multiple sectors actively contributed their insights and perspectives during the workshop. Their varied experiences and challenges provided valuable input to shape ongoing support initiatives.
Following this, the Automotive Industry Development Centre (AIDC) Eastern Cape delivered an in-depth presentation, outlining their wide range of programmes and support processes designed specifically to assist and empower SMMEs in the region. Their comprehensive overview highlighted practical opportunities for growth and development tailored to local entrepreneurs.
Executive Mayor, Councillor Babalwa Lobishe, commemorates Youth Day with a powerful message. “Youth Day is a tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of the young people who changed our nation’s path. This year’s theme, ‘Skills for the Changing World, Empowering Youth for Meaningful Economic Participation,’ calls on us to face today’s challenges head-on, from a rapidly evolving economy and rising unemployment to the digital revolution transforming the job market. To the youth of Nelson Mandela Bay: You are brilliant, capable, and powerful. You are not just the future; you are the present. This is your time, and we are with you.”
SMME owner, Khanyisile Mnyaka of Vulindaba Training/Productions shared, “I have been following the SMME programme, this being the second because we as artists are often undermined and go unseen. I have come to realise that there is a plan for us and our cries have been heard. I look forward to the Summit to be held on June 20. We also look forward to seeing you here, who have not been to the workshops and hopefully what was promised to us, happens.”
Youth Voices on Youth Month
A speaker, Zintle Mgandela shared, “Youth month to me means exploring the freedom. The freedom to explore who I am, what I love, and what I stand for. It’s also a call to other youth to do the same. This month is about growth, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. Because we know, it’s when I learn how to think critically, feel deeply, that I can be able to choose wisely.”
Vuyisa Ngqondi shared, “Youth Month makes me think of the influential role that young people have played in the history of our country – particularly their bravery and sacrifices in the fight against apartheid and the 1976 Soweto Uprising. To South Africa’s youth: this is your time. Make the most of your youth. Find the gift that lives inside of you, your talent, your passion, and carve your name. This is the season to invest in self-growth – mentally & emotionally. The sky is not the limit, you are!”
Esethu Madlwabinga shared, “June 16 marks a pivotal moment in South African history, honouring the bravery of the youth who led the 1976 Soweto Uprising. Their fight against injustice and demand for education and freedom reshaped our nation and laid the groundwork for democracy. Youth Month is a time to remember their sacrifice and recognize the power of young people to drive change. It calls on us to support, empower, and listen to today’s youth as we continue building the future they fought for.”
Ahlume Potelwa shared, “Youth Month holds deep meaning for me. I have the privilege of working in a space that, in the past, was not accessible to people like me. The bravery and sacrifices of the youth of 1976 opened doors that allow me to dream-and to actively pursue those dreams.”
Yolanda Mpayipheli, a speaker, said, “Youth month is a time of reflection! I encourage youth to take the time to look at what we have achieved over the year/s and celebrate it. Also remind ourselves that we are still in the period of growth and self discovery; we don’t know it all. You have the power to create the life you want, so go for it!”
One of the speakers, Chane Burrell, said, “Youth Day reminds me that young people have the power to change the world. We are brave, we are smart, and our voices matter. We are the dreamers, the doers, the leaders of tomorrow, starting today. Let’s learn from the past, take charge of the present, and build a future that reflects our hopes, values, and determination. Let’s learn, grow, and shine because the future belongs to us, and we are ready to lead it with courage and purpose.”
Nelao Langa from Momentum said, “Youth Month is about recognition and responsibility. Being young is not about age, but about the energy to dream, passion to act, ability to shape the future. It’s a call to rise, to find our voices, and to contribute meaningfully to our communities and our country. You are powerful, capable. You are the future. Be limitless! Remember every great leader, innovator, change-maker was once a young person with a vision. Stand tall. Speak up. Keep learning. Keep going. The world needs your ideas, voice, and courage.”
Chad Kramer, who is driven by a belief in the power of opportunity to combat youth delinquency, said, “To me, Youth Month is about seeking to liberate the minds of young people, encouraging them to strive for excellence, purpose and leadership.” He added, ” He remains dedicated to mentoring and uplifting young voices serving as a beacon of hope and transformation within his community.”
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