A programme to enrich aspiring entrepreneurs of the West Coast has started.
The Velddrif Entrepreneur programme was launched on Wednesday 2 February at the Noordhoek Community Hall.
With the town expanding over the years and unemployment being an issue, Dr Clive Coetzee of the Faculty of Military Science at the University of Stellenbosch seized the opportunity to launch this initiative in Velddrif.
“Given the vision of the faculty towards social impact, this initiative focuses on the triple challenges facing South Africa in particular poverty, inequality, and unemployment,” says Coetzee.
“The initiative strives to address these challenges within the previously disadvantaged Noordhoek community. To this end, it has been proven that entrepreneurship is one of the most powerful tools to address these challenges.”
The opening of the programme was attended by key role players and individuals who will be participating in the programme.
Michelle Nel and Shevaan Peters, both of the faculty, expressed their excitement at being part of such an initiative.
Experienced businessman Cecil Davids also encouraged the participants.
Johnny da Silva, chairperson of the Velddrif Business Chamber, told participants to grab this opportunity with both hands and use the tools made available to them to build and develop as entrepreneurs.
Ten participants over the age of 25 have been selected to take part in lectures, mentorships, business site visits and more to equip them with the necessary skills.
Coetzee says what makes this programme so effective is that the focus is placed on the practical.
She believes participants will reach soaring heights with this programme.
To find out more about the Velddrif Entrepreneur send an email to clivecoetzee@sun.ac.za.
