The KwaZulu-Natal Social Economy Development Programme – popularly known as the Champions Programme – held its Demo Day, marking the culmination of a transformative development journey for 22 inspirational social entrepreneurs.
Demo Day provided a dynamic platform for participants to showcase their social enterprises, highlight their growth, and engage directly with potential funders and strategic partners. The event concluded with the top three performing entrepreneurs receiving cash prizes sponsored by Absa bank.
Delivered by the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) through the Graduate School of Business and Leadership (GSB&L), the Champions Programme is fully funded by and run in collaboration with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA).
The seven-month Champions Programme empowers social entrepreneurs to build strong personal leadership while mastering design thinking, financial management, marketing, and strategic business modeling.
Delivering his keynote address, EDTEA’s Head of Department and UKZN alumnus, Dr Nkosenye Zulu, said such initiatives demonstrated the breadth of the partnership and its contribution to developing entrepreneurial capacity, strengthening research and promoting informed engagement on the economic development challenges facing KwaZulu-Natal.
Said Zulu: “The 22 entrepreneurs we celebrate today should not be viewed as the conclusion of the programme’s achievements but should be regarded as part of a growing network of social entrepreneurs who can inspire others, share experiences and contribute to the economic development of our province.”
He added that similar to the achievements of this Champions’ cohort, everyone must also consider what more can be done collectively to strengthen social entrepreneurship.
“To our academic partners, I encourage you to continue using the knowledge, research capabilities and expertise of our institutions to identify local economic opportunities and develop practical solutions to developmental challenges.”
After successfully showcasing their social enterprises in a range of sectors such as agriculture, education, healthcare, waste management, renewable energy, tourism, digital innovation, and community services, the winners were announced:
- Third was the Sibusisiwe Cancer Care Centre, a community-based organisation founded by retired nurse, Ms Busisiwe Sokhela. Operating within the Amajuba District, the organisation promotes cancer awareness, early detection and support for patients and families, particularly in rural communities.
- Second was Mr Sithembiso Mbatha of Mageba Yaks (Pty) Ltd, a community-based enterprise located in the Zondela community under the Ulundi Local Municipality that converts unwanted, invasive, and excess trees into quality charcoal.
- First was Mr Mduduzi Mafuleka of VumaZulu Cultural Village, a community-based cultural tourism enterprise based in the Mkuze Wamanzi area in KwaZulu-Natal.
Through tourism, VumaZulu Cultural Village helps preserve and share Zulu culture while creating income and livelihood opportunities for members of the local community.
Said Mafuleka: “Showcasing my enterprise in this way was not easy considering this was the first time I had been part of an entrepreneurship programme. I am very thankful to everyone involved in the Champions Programme as we have not received any support for the village so I will be investing the prize money back into the business.”
College of Law and Management Studies Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Head, Professor Ernest Khalema, said: “This kind of partnership demonstrates the value of bringing together government, academia and the private sector to create practical opportunities for entrepreneurs.”
Words: Thandiwe Jumo
Photograph: Hesper Cele