Johannesburg, South Africa – In a major step forward for economic development and entrepreneurship in South Africa, the Township Economic Commission SA “TECSA” (NPC) in collaboration with the School of Entrepreneurship (SOE) is excited to announce the official launch of the Township Entrepreneurship Bursary Scheme Programme.
This landmark initiative is set to take place on Tuesday, April 2nd, at 10:30 AM, at the renowned SUD Restaurant in Vilakazi Street, Orlando West, Soweto, marking a pivotal moment in the empowerment of township entrepreneurs across the nation.
Designed to tackle the pressing issue of unemployment and foster a culture of sustainable entrepreneurship, this programme is a beacon of hope for both aspiring and established entrepreneurs within the townships. The partnership aims to provide qualifying participants with access to the transformative 4LIFE Entrepreneurship programme, significantly subsidizing programme fees by 90%. This initiative not only opens doors to financial independence for beneficiaries but also promises to have a substantial impact on the township economy at large.
Mr. Bheki Twala, President of the Township Economic Commission SA “TECSA”, emphasized the programme’s foundational approach: “This is about laying a solid foundation, equipping township-based enterprises with the necessary knowledge and skills to seize business opportunities spurred by Economic Development Initiatives in our communities.”
Mr. Leon Lategan, CEO and Founder of the School of Entrepreneurship, reinforces the strategic significance of the collaboration with TECSA, as crucial for the economic upliftment of the township economy. As an Entrepreneur Activist, Lategan’s mission through the School of Entrepreneurship is to champion entrepreneurship as a key solution to South Africa’s unemployment crisis. “The success stories and testimonials of our students are a constant source of inspiration, driving us to further our mission,” stated Lategan.
Keynote Speakers:
Mr Bheki Twala: As the guiding force behind TECSA, Mr. Twala’s insights will be invaluable.
Mr Leon Lategan: (CEO and FOUNDER of The School of Entrepreneurship)
Renowned for his pivotal role in coaching over 30,000 entrepreneurs globally, and sharing platforms with global thought leaders, Lategan brings a wealth of experience and passion to the fore. With a track record of over 20 years as a successful entrepreneur himself, he has dedicated his life to helping thousands of aspiring and existing entrepreneurs, to make a lasting impact in the current and future economy of South Africa.
Main Keynote Speaker: DSBD
A representative from the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) will share visionary perspectives.
Event Program:
The event will encompass guest registrations, welcome addresses, impactful speeches, presentation by SOE, testimonials, pledges from corporate South Africa, and a networking session. An OPEN DAY Exhibition will also showcase entrepreneurial products and innovations.
Opportunities for Involvement
This initiative serves not only as a significant milestone in entrepreneurial education in townships, but also as an invitation for collaboration and sponsorships. Interested parties are encouraged to contribute to this transformative journey.
For More Information, Contact:
Salomi Mostert: salomi@schoolofentrepreneurship.co
Bheki Twala: workingforwolrdevents@gmail.com
About TECSA and SOE:
TECSA is a registered Non-Profit Company (NPC) that was established by Soweto Citizens and its businesspeople, led by Mr. Bheki Twala to mobilize and empower Township-based. Enterprises to exploit business opportunities emanating from Economic Development Initiatives in Townships.
The School of Entrepreneurship launched their 6th and 7th cohorts in 2024, and with a purpose to create over 10,000 new entrepreneurs in the next five years, SOE aims to significantly impact the unemployment rate through practical, accessible, and scalable programmes.
The Township Entrepreneurship Bursary Scheme Programme stands as a testament to the power of collective effort in fostering an environment of innovation, self-reliance, and economic growth. By nurturing a dynamic business ecosystem, this initiative aims to revolutionise townships across South Africa, setting a precedent for global community development and entrepreneurial success.
What some of our previous School of Entrepreneurship students say:
“Thank you for a platform that educates and equips me to start and scale my business”
“The school has provided me with invaluable resources and guidance to help me on my entrepreneurial journey and gave me the knowledge and tools to build a solid foundation for my business”
“Words are not enough to thank you for giving me this life-changing opportunity”
“The school of entrepreneurship has been my greatest investment as it brings you a higher level of understanding, deeper and broader than all the other courses I have done”
“The course was intense and greatly useful.This was an opportunity I had been yearning for but never imagined would come true”
For more information regarding the Township Entrepreneurship Bursary Scheme Programme, click here.
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